Checotah experiences water woes LADONNA RHODES tures with negative wind chills. STAFF WRITER The following day there were two more leaks at SW Old Man Winter had his way this past week as 3rd and SE 2nd. Checotah and the county experienced several water By Wednesday, Feb. 17 Checotah Water Authorities woes due to extremely cold temperatures. reported they had run out of water and shut down to It started with a major water line break on W. Gentry replenish until 10 a.m. on Feb. 18. by the laundry mat. Traffic was diverted and the city The City of Checotah announced the return of water crew along with the mayor, worked through the day by 11 a.m. on Feb. 18 but several residents in rural ar- and into the night to fix the big leak. The mayor stat- eas were still without water into the weekend. The city ed it had been difficult to get equipment due to stores has asked residents to conserve water until the water COURTESY PHOTO being closed because of inclement weather. It had also levels have increased. They also ask to report any wa- Some water line breaks looked more like geysers at Yellowstone during last been extremely hard working in the sub zero tempera- SEE WATER, PAGE A5 week’s snowstorm. Communities work Teenager found together during safe after going blizzard conditions missing a day LADONNA RHODES STAFF WRITER During a record-breaking snowstorm that closed Youth was son of woman who down local businesses and crippled motorists on icy has been missing since 2015 highways, the City of Checotah, with the help of the Red Cross, graciously provided food and shelter at the JERRY FINK Checotah Community Center from Friday, Feb. 12 MANAGING EDITOR until Friday, Feb. 19. A 13-year-old Stidham boy who went missing Mon- However, Checotah wasn’t the only community day evening was found safe at about 1:15 p.m. Tuesday reaching out to help those in need during the frigid on Texanna Road, according to Muscogee (Creek) Na- temperatures. Several other communities were doing tion spokesman Jason Salsman. the same with random acts of kindness that blanketed Ethan McIntosh, who lives on a farm about two miles neighbors, friends and family. northeast of Stidham, was found by MCN Lighthorse Associate District Judge Brendon Bridges and his COURTESY PHOTO | NATHAN JOHNSON police officers and Oklahoma Highway Patrol Troop- wife Erin Bridges, a Checotah Middle School teach- There’s nothing better than a cow selfie on a cold day. ers on Texanna Road. er offered rides to anyone who might need shelter at “EMSA is checking him out. He seems to be OK,” the warming station in Checotah. They also took hot Salsman said shortly after Ethan was found. pizza and soup that was donated by Mama Tigs Wood Texanna Road, also called S.H. 150, is about five Fired Pizza in Eufaula to the people staying at the shel- Go Fund Me set up miles north of Eufaula. Salsman said he wasn’t sure ter and for the city workers who had been out in the what part of Texanna Road the teen was found on. negative temperatures trying to fix broken water lines. Dozens of law enforcement officers, including Mayor Daniel Tarkington had voiced his concerns for Checotah family Lighthorse police, OHP and deputy sheriffs had been with the freezing temperatures due to it causing ma- A Go Fund Me Account has been set up for a searching since family members, including his father SEE TOGETHER, PAGE A3 Checotah family that has suffered inconceivable Thomas McIntosh, reported that the teenager had dis- loss since the beginning of this year. appeared while feeding cattle. Landon DeLuce, a 14-year-old student at A Kubota tractor the young had been using was PAGE A2SEE FAMILY, PAGE A3 SEE MISSING, PAGE A2SEE

Black History Month: “Soul Food” in America

ALMA HARPER made limited portions of these Okra is an important food used CLUB GARDENIA foods available on the slave ships in soul food dishes. Whether it’s Soul Food is a term used for an in order to keep the enslaved alive. stewed, fried or baked okra has ethnic cuisine, food traditional- Once in the Americas, the en- become one of the most used vege- ly prepared and eaten by African slaved Africans grew these crops tables used in Southern American Americans. It has been historical- on the plantations as food sources and soul food dishes. It has a deep ly associated with Black Culture. that would keep their energy up history, likely originating from It can be traced where blacks during the long days of hard labor. Ethiopia. Over the centuries the have been, combining the dishes A variety of rice was brought vegetable made its way through from various African tribal tra- to the Americas through the the Middle East, North Africa and ditions that were brought to the slave trade. Since rice is a staple even South Asia. It wasn’t until the Americas with Western Euro- in many African dishes, enslaved 18th century when okra made its pean/American ingredients and Africans adapted their cooking way to the Americans through the COURTESY PHOTO techniques. in the Americas with food items slave ships. Ladies from Freedom House volunteered over 36 community hours at the During the Middle Passage, that were most accessible, creating African slaves were given only Checotah Community Center that was used as a Warming Station during the slave traders intentionally took some of the most renowned soul the “leftover” and “undesirable” snowstorm this past week. several crops native to Africa and food staples. SEE HISTORY, PAGE A4 CHECOTAH NEWS

Grocery distribution moved to this Friday McIntosh County RWD #3 Annual Meeting Notice CHS Prom tickets on sale The Least of These Food Ministry moved its month- McIntosh County Rural Water District #3 will hold Checotah High School prom tickets are now on sale ly food distribution to this Friday, Feb. 26 at 2 p.m. at their Annual Board Meeting at 6 p.m. on Thursday, until March 11. Cost is $35. Tickets purchased from the Assembly of God in Checotah. March 4, 2021, at 115 N. Broadway, Checotah. SEE CHECOTAH NEWS, PAGE A2

A2 • McIntosh County Democrat Thursday, February 25, 2021 Partners retire off the front lines

LADONNA RHODES Jones had thought about this very mo- STAFF WRITER ment for the last couple years. Would Muskogee County Deputy Sheriff the department let him stay in the K-9 Bryan Jones and his K-9 partner Tibo, unit? Would Tibo have issues with Jones officially retired from their beat on the getting a new K-9 partner? Would the street on Friday, Feb. 12. They had been next one be near as good as Tibo? The partners in crime for over 10 years and questions were agonizing. their bond was more than just an every- “I finally decided the best decision day work schedule. It had crossed over for both of us was to retire off the front to being a family. lines with Tibo. It solved a lot of con- Jones, a 1981 Eufaula graduate who cerns and put some peace of mind in had been in law enforcement for 35 the hearts of JJ (Jocelyn, Jones’ wife) years had seen his fair share of drugs on and my family members as they knew the streets. Hence he would take Tibo Tibo always had my six.” and they would go into the school sys- Jones will continue to work as an in- tems to explain to students the effects of vestigator for an unnamed state agen- drugs on their brains and how it plays cy. Tibo though, who is now almost 12 a reward-motivation behavior response. years old gets to do whatever he wants. They literally become addicted to the He will get tons of attention and love feeling and so he believes the only way Partners in crime, Muskogee County Deputy Sheriff COURTESY PHOTOS and even his favorite treat, Frosty Paws. to keep kids off drugs is to get them to Bryan Jones and his K-9 Officer Tibo, retire from patrol. K-9 Officer Tibo Tibo has had quite a career. He’s made never start. the news a few times, been on a radio Jones, who has no children of his own, tion better than I ever could. He’s made Jones knows his partner too though show once and been in a dozen or so wishes he could save every child from a felony apprehensions, recovered drugs, and over the past eight months Tibo newspaper articles over the years. He’s life of addiction. and won multiple honorable mentions had started experiencing orthopedic is- the only K-9 I ever saw that knew he was “Tibo loves children and we enjoyed based on his fabulous abilities as a Law sues. a cop and was best entertained when in teaching students about the dangers of Enforcement K-9 Officer. Tibo has per- “I always said, when Tibo tells me the company of other cops. drugs, “Jones said. sonally met and helped me teach over it’s time, I’ll back him. A while back, His favorite times were squad meet- However, we have been in many dan- 15,000 kids in three states about sub- when we were getting ready to load ings or operations out in the field...the gerous situations and my K-9 partner stance abuse subsequently receiving a up for patrol, he made the decision to more cops around, the better for him. has saved my bacon on countless calls commendation for those efforts. Most turn towards the house instead of our “I’m going to miss not working with just by being there,” Jones said. “Tibo importantly he has a place in his heart patrol unit. This was literally agonizing him every day, but I’m thankful when I keys in on things I might not even no- for every single one of those young for him as he knew I was going out on get to come back home every night that tice and can deescalate a violent situa- on e s .” patrol without his protection.” he will be waiting for me.”

MISSING driving a Kubota tractor were heading the investi- to feed cattle. gation because of the re- CONTINUED FROM A1 “The family and indi- cent McGirt decision and found in the Deere’s viduals started looking jurisdictional issues. Chapel area of McIntosh first and then they no- The decision, issued by County, several miles tified McIntosh County the U.S. Supreme Court, southeast of where he officials and McIntosh requires certain investi- should have been, ac- County officials notified gations involving Native cording to Salsman. the Lighthorse police,” Americans be handled by Deere’s Chapel is about Salsman said. “When the the federal government six miles west of Eufaula authorities got on the and tribes. on S.H. 9. scene the family let us Ethan is the son of a Officers were aided in handle it. We teamed up woman who went miss- their search by police with the OHP and the ing five years ago. dogs and an OHP heli- OHP had a helicopter out His mother, Peggy Mc- copter. last night.” Guire, then 28, was last Salsman said Ethan was Lighthorse Police Chief seen on Nov. 16, 2015 af- reportedly last seen at Richard Phillips said his ter she dropped Ethan off STAFF PHOTOS about 5:45 p.m. Monday department and the FBI at school. MCN Lighthorse police on SH 9 in the Deere’s Chapel area, searching for missing Stidham youth.

Searchers waiting to look for Ethan McIntosh, 13, reported missing Monday afternoon.

Lawmen met at Stidham Baptist Church to begin search for missing teen. HISTORY CONTINUED FROM A1 Black History cuts of meat from their masters (while the slave owners got the meatiest cuts of ham, roasts, etc.). Month Seminar Soul food has a great connection to southern cuisine as a whole, as many dishes were created by Black cooks in A seminar on Black History the South. Notable recipes include foods Month will be held at 11 a.m., Sat- like okra, greens, yams and cornbread urday, Feb. 27, at Mt. Olive Star B. which celebrate the resourcefulness Church, Rev. Samuel Cunningham, of Black cooks who used their rations, Pastor. crops in their gardens and livestock they The church is 10 miles west of hunted to create most of their meals. Checotah. Bountiful dishes like fried chick- The seminar is sponsored by the en, cakes, pies and drinks were added Warrior School Restoration Orga- during the rise of sharecropping when nization, Alma Harper, president. resources became more plentiful. Black- Please wear masks and practice eyed peas also were cooked for supersti- social distancing. tious reasons during New Year’s Day as For more information call 918- a sign of wealth and good luck for the 689-5658. coming year.

Thursday, February 25, 2021 McIntosh County Democrat • A3 Pre-K gives back hope Disaster declaration

LADONNA RHODES request approved STAFF WRITER Jim and Yvonne Vogt consider themselves blessed though they for Oklahoma lost their home and everything in it in Kellyville on Tuesday, Feb. 16 Water, wastewater systems to be during the snowstorm that crip- included in technical assistance pled Oklahoma. Jim even lost his truck which had all his tools in it President Biden approved Governor Stitt’s request and was his livelihood. Little did to declare a federal disaster exists in all 77 Oklahoma they know their little granddaugh- counties due to the historic winter storm, clearing the ter’s Pre-K class was going to step way for federal aid to be directed to the state. up to give them “HOPE” in such FEMA is authorized to identify, mobilize and pro- a big way. vide at its discretion, equipment and resources neces- Zabrey Walker, the couple’s sary to alleviate the impacts of the emergency, which granddaughter, is in Ms. Lauren includes technical assistance for water system repairs. Edmond’s Pre-K class at Marshall “This federal assistance will go a long way to restor- Elementary. When the class and ing the communities across our state who were im- staff heard of the situation every- COURTESY PHOTOS pacted the most from these historic winter storms,” one sprang into action to help. Jim and Yvonne Vogt always supported their granddaughter Zabrey at her school functions. Little did said ORWA Deputy CEO, Jimmy Seago. “We are Edmond’s Pre-K class made they know her Pre-K class would give back hope when they needed the support. thankful for Governor Stitt and Oklahoma Secre- a short video clip that featured tary of Energy and Environment, Kenneth Wagner, her students reciting the word for recognizing the critical role water infrastructure “HOPE” and the quote from Anne has on rural America, and are grateful for President Frank “Where there’s hope, there’s Biden’s quick approval for the resources that will help life. It fills us with fresh courage restore our water systems.” and makes us strong again.” They seemed to know just what to say and do. “We knew above all the ash, 2 National Guardsmen there was still hope, so that’s what we put on the shirts for the fund- raiser,’” Edmond said. “The stu- injured in accident dents were so excited. They have Jim and Yvonne’s home burned to the ground on Feb. 16 during the snowstorm. already sold 50 shirts so far and Two Oklahoma Army non-life-threatening in- we hope to sell a lot more.” media account: “Thank you all so we will get there. Thank you from National Guardsmen juries. Zabrey’s mother Amber Walker, much for all the prayers, dona- the bottom of our hearts. God were injured during a The passenger in the who is a Checotah Intermediate tions, calls, and texts. You all are b l e s s .” two-vehicle collision on military vehicle was School teacher and the daugh- very appreciated. God is good. T-shirt orders can be placed Will Rogers Turnpike in treated for minor inju- ter-in-law to the Vogts, was so Our family can definitely feel the directly online by going to ww- northeastern Oklahoma, ries and released Mon- grateful for her coworkers helping love. It is going to take some time w.918designcompany.com/PreK- Monday, Feb. 15. day evening. The Soldier during such an overwhelming cir- to rebuild their home and all the GivesBack. Orders must be made Following the inci- who was driving at the cumstance for her husband Jake memories lost, but through our by March 7 and should be deliv- dent, both Soldiers were time of the incident re- and his extended family. faith and the love and support ered the week of March 15. transported by ambu- ceived more severe inju- The family wrote on their social from so many friends and family, lance to a hospital with SEE ACCIDENT, PAGE A4

The F.A.I.C. Fire Dept. also went out of their way this with stranded motorists, five of which were brought TOGETHER past week to help out RWD#9 customers who had no here, appreciated us having a place open. Plus city CONTINUED FROM A1 water for several days. The station opened their doors workers could get out of the elements, get warmed up, chinery to malfunction and stores to remain closed for customers to fill containers for personal use and for and then get back to getting waterlines fixed.” though items were needed for repairs. As the week their livestock until water was restored to the area. Cunningham also wanted to thank everyone for any- progressed several more water lines burst due to ex- City of Checotah Emergency Manager Marcus Cun- thing done –big or small. He especially wanted to say treme temperatures and had to be repaired. City ningham stated he was very pleased with all the help thank you to the Chamber of Commerce and Boomer- workers were more than grateful for a place to get out around the Checotah area. ang Diner. The Chamber bought hamburgers for every- of the negative wind chills and get warmed back up so “As a community we hadn’t been hit with a snow- one one day and Boomerang offered them at their cost. they could go out and finish the tasks. storm or negative temperatures like this in many years. “I’m honored to be a part of such a caring community, City workers weren’t the only ones to brave the ele- So I was very pleased to see how well we handled every- and even though these communities might be small to ments for the greater good. Laura Gragg, the elemen- thing, “Cunningham said. “We opened the Community some, as a team we are accomplishing some great, big tary principal at Canadian Public Schools and her Center to make it a “Warming Station” and up to nine things.” husband Jeremy Gragg, delivered snack foods, water individuals utilized the facility. The ladies from Free- and blankets to her students who live in low-income dom House have already volunteered 36 hours to help households. Jeremy, who is the middle school principal at the facility. The National Guard who assisted OHP at Eufaula Public Schools, knows far too well the pov- erty level of many in the surrounding areas. The Graggs stated that they just couldn’t stand the thought of their students being cold or hungry because some students didn’t even have heat and this was the least they could do. Another random act of kindness came from a local fire department in Brush Hill, the F.A.I.C. Fire Dept. Lieutenant Shawn Moore who knows a lot of the res- idents in the area discovered an elderly family with a handicap daughter was needing more firewood during the worse part of the snowstorm. So he started reaching out on social media to anyone who might have some to sell or share. That’s when Joshua Padilla from McAl- ester stepped up to the plate and donated a half rick of wood to the family through his business JP All Ameri- can outdoor contacting. Moore then called fellow fire- fighter Ross Blackwell who donated his time and truck, and the two of them drove over two hours to pick up, deliver and stack the wood to the more than grateful family at Pierce. When asked why they went out of their way Moore COURTESY PHOTO replied, “I’m a fire fighter out here in this area and we Shawn Moore, the Lieutenant at F.A.I.C. Fire Dept. and his father Jeffrey Moore, Chief at the F.A.I.C. Fire Dept. The station opened their doors for just did this out of the kindness of our hearts to help RWD#9 customers to fill water containers who were out of water for -sev people in need. A lot more people should just do that eral days in the Brush Hill/ Pierce area. Shawn along with firefighter Ross with everyone.” Blackwell also helped get firewood to a family in need.

To help Landon and his family please donate to relief FAMILY for Landon and Anthony DeLuce, Corey Murphy at CONTINUED FROM A1 gofundme.com. Checotah Public School first lost his mother and unborn sister in January. On Friday, Jan. 8, Shelby DeLuce, 29, was killed in a fatal two-vehicle crash on Old Taft Road near Hwy 64. Shelby, who was seven months pregnant, was a passenger in a Chevy Sonic that was struck by a Kia Rio when the driver failed to observe a stop sign. Shelby and her unborn daughter Luna Monroe were pronounced dead at the scene. Then during this past snowstorm Landon, along with his co-parent Corey Murphy (father of Luna) and his father Anthony DeLuce, lost his home in a tragic electrical fire. In this fire they lost everything - cloth- ing, electronics, food, dog supplies, etc. The worst part was losing tons of memories -Shelby’s clothes, jewelry and photos were irreplaceable. That’s when Checotah teacher Julia Comages stepped in and started a Go Fund Me account for the family to help ease the burden though the heartbreak will take even longer to heal. Currently, $6,685 has been raised of a $10,000 goal. Comages stated “Thank you all so much for your donations. The boys are so overwhelmed with the outpouring of kindness from everyone. This brought some light to the darkness they have been through.”

A4 • McIntosh County Democrat Thursday, February 25, 2021 Checotah, Eufaula see big sales tax revenue gains

The Oklahoma Tax Commission recently released 2021 2020 city sales tax collection figures that primarily rep- resents local tax receipts from November business. Dec 20/ Dec 20/ Change The monies they reported this period represent sales Jan 21 Tax collection Taxable sales Jan 21 Tax collection Taxable sales from 2020 from December 16 to 31 and estimated sales from Jan- City tax rate through Jan 15 through Jan 15 tax rate through Jan 15 through Jan 15 to 2021 Checotah 4% $420,991.00 $10,524,775.00 4% $352,505.91 $8,812,647.75 19% uary 1 to 15. Eufaula 3.5% $193,690.73 $5,534,020.86 3.5% $145,285.94 $4,151,026.86 33% Statewide, the disbursement of $166,192,753 in sales Hanna 4% $589.81 $14,745.25 4% $1,100.67 $27,516.75 -46% tax collections returned to the cities and towns reflect- Rentiesville 4% $75.72 $1,893.00 4% $112.75 $2,818.75 -33% ed an increase of $3,588,555 from the $162,604,198 Vernon 4% $77.20 $1,930.00 4% $67.84 $1,696.00 14% distributed to the cities and towns in February last Council Hill 2% $1,542.04 $77,102.00 2% $1,024.80 $51,240.00 50% year. The use tax disbursement to cities and towns was Henryetta 4% $273,789.11 $6,844,727.75 4% $221,314.19 $5,532,854.75 24% $34,935,528 according to the Oklahoma Tax Com- McAlester 3.75% $1,304,413.63 $34,784,363.47 3.75% $1,257,244.43 $33,526,518.13 4% mission. Muskogee 4% $2,385,872.78 $59,646,819.50 4% $2,237,793.72 $55,944,843.00 7% In county returns, the counties shared in a Stigler 3.5% $204,895.19 $5,854,148.29 3.5% $180,047.23 $5,144,206.57 14% $27,066,936 sales tax disbursement and a $6,146,640 Warner 4% $66,525.58 $1,663,139.50 4% $54,960.83 $1,374,020.75 21% use tax disbursement. County The chart to the right compares city sales taxes and McIntosh 2% $389,706.50 $19,485,325.00 2% $303,527.02 $15,176,351.00 28% taxable sales in area cities, towns and counties as well Muskogee 0.650% $497,380.70 $76,520,107.69 0.650% $454,529.34 $69,927,590.77 9% as a comparison for the same period in 2019. Taxable Okfuskee 2% $117,636.34 $5,881,817.00 2% $135,695.76 $6,784,788.00 -13% Sales are calculated by dividing the tax collected by Sequoyah 1.417% $413,434.65 $29,176,757.23 1.417% $326,414.97 $23,035,636.56 27% the tax rate and it shows a rough estimate of retail Tulsa 0.367% $3,695,944.69 $1,007,069,397.82 0.367% $3,719,086.88 $1,013,375,171.66 -1% sales activity. SOURCE: Oklahoma Tax Commission People urged to report winter storm damage Mission Thrift

State officials are calling for win- Through the online damage as- Jimmy Seago. “It is critical for us ter storm damage to be reported sessment survey, residents and to provide a thorough and ac- Store to reopen in order to qualify for additional business owners can report winter curate assessment of all damage federal funding. storm-specific impacts including: so we can qualify for the proper The Methodist Mission appointed time to shop. As Oklahoma begins assessing • Flooding from broken pipes level of federal assistance as we Board has voted to re- Thrift Store volunteers the damage caused by the histor- • Power surges that caused dam- look ahead when restoring and open the Mission Thrift will try to keep everyone ic winter storms, it is critical for age to furnaces, electrical systems, rebuilding our state’s water and Store two days a week safe during this pandem- businesses and individuals to re- or major appliances wastewater infrastructure.” from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. by ic and social distancing is port all winter storm damage so as • Number of days without water, The information required to appointment only, start- encouraged. Those who to qualify for individual assistance gas, or electricity submit a report includes: ing Tuesday, March 2. shop at the store are asked by meeting minimum damage • Number of days displaced by • Pictures and/or short video to help keep everyone amounts, according to The Okla- the winter storm clips of the damage. This must Days and Times: safe by wearing a mask homa Department Emergency • Injuries sustained as a result of have GPS coordinates, which the Six customers at a time before entering the store; Management and Homeland Se- the winter storm survey app does automatically. in each time slot having your temperature curity. Reporting damage helps • Full insurance policy for the ju- Tuesday & Wednesday taken and using sanitizer Damages may be reported on- ODEMHS document the overall risdiction, including the schedule 1:00 - 1:30 p.m. that will be available on line at damage.ok.gov. impact of the winter storm and of values and declarations page. 1:30 - 2:00 p.m. site. “Reporting damage as soon as helps support the case for further • For public works water main 2:00 - 2:30 p.m. Volunteers say they possible will greatly assist our assistance to help homeowners, breaks, submit a system data sheet 2:30 - 3:00 p.m. are excited to see their ability to request additional fed- renters and business owners re- showing when the break occurred friends/customers and eral assistance for the state as we cover. indicating a drop in water pres- Call 918-473-1999 to hope that they will be recover from this historic storm,” “Any and all damage sustained sure along with water line size es- leave your name and able to expand shopping said ODEMHS Director Mark from the storms must be report- timates. number and a return call days/times in the future. Gower. ed,” said ORWA Deputy CEO, will be given to set up an De-escalation training for public school staff passes Common Ed Legislation to provide de-escalation training to public lence de-escalation. dents, as well as helping staff to identify and address school educators and staff passed the House Common The training could include information about trau- symptomatic behaviors of trauma,” said Ranson. “This Education Committee on Tuesday with a vote of 13-0. ma-informed teaching, self-regulation practices for training goes beyond trauma-aware and helps districts House Bill 1027, authored by Rep. Trish Ranson, students and staff, and trauma-informed response pro- develop trauma-informed strategies.” D-Stillwater, requires the State Boards of Education tocols for addressing behavior with more productive This legislation came from a series of conversations and Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, in approaches. with educators, parents, and education policymakers collaboration with school district superintendents, to “Violence de-escalation training offers a proactive seeking to address the needs of students suffering from develop and offer training for school employees on vio- approach for teachers to make connections with stu- childhood trauma. “Our kids deal with a lot,” Ranson said. “Not only at school but at home as well. It is important our staff knows how to respond in a way that is most positive for everyone involved.” HB1027 is now available to be heard on the House floor. Ranson asks Oklahomans in support of de-esca- lation training in public schools to contact their area legislator in support of this legislation. Ranson’s office can be reached at (405)557-7411 or tr- [email protected].

ACCIDENT winter weather, so our Guardsmen do not have CONTINUED FROM A1 to risk their lives to save ries, which required him yours.” to remain in the hospital All reports indicate the overnight. driver of the other vehicle “This accident serves as was unharmed. an example of the risks The Guardsmen were that Oklahoma Guards- on the turnpike working men take when coming in partnership with the to the aid of their fel- Oklahoma Highway Pa- low Oklahomans before, trol as part of a Stranded during and after severe Motorist Assistance Re- weather events,” said Maj. covery Team (SMART) Gen. Michael Thompson, The team’s mission was to the adjutant general for rescue stranded motor- Oklahoma. ists from the historically Thompson has asked cold temperatures Okla- Oklahomans to help homa has experienced Oklahoma’s Soldiers and this month. Airmen by staying off the The collision is under roads. “We ask that ev- investigation by Oklaho- eryone stay off the roads ma Highway Patrol. for the remainder of this

Thursday, February 25, 2021 McIntosh County Democrat • A5 OBITUARIES

Edna Mae Jones Douglas Humphrey

Aug. 28, 1935 - Feb. 12, 2021 Sept. 19, 1942 - Feb. 16, 2021

Edna Mae Jones, 85 years old Checo- California; her grandchildren, Angela Douglas David Humphrey, who re- Van Buren, Arkansas; two sisters, Joan tah resident, passed away on Friday, Emerson and Anthony Emerson, Kelly sided near Lavaca, Arkansas, died Kay Clark of Checotah, Oklahoma and Feb. 12, 2021 in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Sasser and Jake Sasser, Christine Simp- Tuesday, Feb. 16, 2021, at his home. Brenda Jamison and husband Chuck of She was born on Wednesday, Aug. 28, son, Jeremy Hamilton, Jason Hamil- He was born Sept. 19, 1942, in Checo- Fort Smith, Arkansas; his grandchil- 1935 to George Edward and Maggie ton, Jesse Hamilton, David Jolley, Beth tah, Oklahoma, to the late J.G. (Shorty) dren, Bailey (Jordan) Proctor, Aman- “Toupan” Lowe in Bower, Oklahoma. Jolley, Anthony Young, Grace Turner, Humphrey and Ethel (Lewis) Hum- da and Meraiah Humphrey, Caitlyn Edna grew up in Bower and attended Brenda Shatswell and Matthew Shats- phrey. He was 78 years old. He was pre- (Kenny) Hildebrand, Meghan (Jeremy) Bower Schools until the family moved well as well as 20+ great grandchildren. ceded in death by a brother, Leo Hum- Cooper, Leah Peacock, and Paula Re- to Bixby, Okla. Edna is also survived by numerous phrey; and a nephew, Kelly Humphrey. demske; his great-grandchildren, El- Edna met David Jones and they were nieces, nephews, other extended family Doug was a retired carpenter and liot Proctor, Justin Harris, and Audree united in marriage on May 28, 1977 in and a lifetime of friends. postal worker. He served in the U.S. and Lucas Hildebrand. He also leaves Bixby, Oklahoma. They moved south- Viewing was from 11 a.m. until 4 Army and attended Union Baptist behind much loved nieces, nephews, east of Checotah in 2004. p.m. on Friday, Feb. 19, and on Sun- Church. cousins and friends. Edna was a diligent housewife and day, Feb., 21 with her family greeting Funeral services will be held at 1 Pallbearers will be David Humphrey, mother. She loved taking care of and friends from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. at Gar- p.m., Thursday, Feb. 25, at Union Bap- Mike Humphrey, Trent Humphrey, playing with her grandchildren. She rett Family Funeral Home. Services tist Church, with Rev. Kyle Horton Michael Peacock, Sam McCoy, Jeremy especially loved spoiling them and was celebrating the life of Edna were held at officiating. A graveside service, with Humphrey and Steve Crary. very good at it. She loved to shop and 11 a.m. on Monday, Feb. 22, 2021 at the military honors, will be held at 3:30 Honorary pallbearers will be Mike find those special deals. She enjoyed Serenity Chapel in the Garrett Family p.m. at Greenlawn Cemetery in Checo- Patterson, Rollie Hamilton, Bill Main- old Gospel music. Funeral Home. tah, Oklahoma, under the direction of er, and Ron Lachappelle. The favorite thing she loved to do Interment followed in Bixby Cem- Brotherton Brothers Funeral Home in The family visited with friends from was make scratchers. If you don’t know etery under the personal direction of Charleston. 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday evening, what a scratcher is, you will just have to John Garrett. He is survived by his wife, Barbara Feb. 24, at the funeral home. ask someone in the family. Her grandsons, Anthony Emerson, (Wooster) Humphrey; his children, Da- In lieu of flowers, the family asks do- Edna was preceded in death by her Jake Sasser, Justin Simpson, Corey vid Humphrey and wife Amy of Enid, nations to be made to Doug’s funeral parents; sons, Danny Shatswell, Bruce Simpson, and David Jolley served as Oklahoma, Shannon Crary and hus- expenses, attn: The Humphrey Family, Henry Shatswell, and Eddie Ray Shats- Casket Bearers. band Steve of Roberts, Montana, Mi- 7408 Shaver Rd. Lavaca, AR 72941. well. You may share online condolences chael Peacock and wife Tami of Hack- To place an online tribute, please She is lovingly survived by her hus- with Edna’s family at www.garrettfami- ett, Arkansas, and Gwen Redemske of visit www.brothertonbrothersfuneral- band David of Checotah; daughters, lyfuneralhome. Jacksonville, Illinois; a brother, Don- homes.com. Kathy Brown of Muskogee, Okla., Judy The family of Edna May Jones en- ald Joe Humphrey and wife Glenda of May Shatswell of Bixby, Okla., Bren- trusted her care, services and burial to da Kay Gilman and husband Scott of John & Kim Garrett and the dedicated Broken Arrow, Okla., Shiree Jones of staff of Garrett Family Funeral Home & Checotah, Okla., Charline Jolley of Cremation Service 311 SW 2nd Checo- Houston, Texas, and Peggy Turner of tah, OK 74426 (918) 473-2244. DEATH NOTICES

CHECOTAH - Jerry Thomas Feck, 80, farmer, passed away Monday, Feb. 82, passed away Jan. 31, 2021 in St. 15, 2021 in Muskogee, OK. Services are Francis Hospital in Muskogee, OK. pending at this time. Graveside service was Feb. 4 in Bower Leah Mae Layman Cemetery. PIERCE - Joe William Fry Sr., 66, passed away Monday, Feb. 15, 2021. A BRUSH HILL - Sharon Pope, 78, re- memorial service was held Feb. 23 at 2 June 8, 1939 - Feb. 10, 2021 tired cashier, passed away Thursday, p.m. at Faith Church in Checotah. In- Feb. 11, 2021. No services are planned terment Pierce Cemetery. at this time. DEWAR - Tristan Nicole Gaither, 17, PORUM - Caroline Sue (Doke) passed away Thursday, Feb. 18, 2021. A Leah Mae (Clark) Layman, 81 years Haskell whether he was working in the Wright , 71, pastor and school teacher, memorial service was held Feb. 24 at old Council Hill resident, passed away field, pasture or for the water district. passed away Feb. 13, 2021. A memorial 2 p.m. at Dewar First Baptist Church. on Feb. 10, 2021 in Muskogee, Oklaho- Neither one was afraid of work nor service was held at 1 p.m.on Tuesday, Interment Westlawn Cemetery in Hen- ma. She was born on June 8, 1939 to getting their hands dirty and generally Feb. 23 at the Porum Event Center. ryetta. Hobert and Geneva (Minger) Clark in worked from daylight until dark espe- Kismet, Kansas, Seward County. cially with the cattle. MUSKOGEE - Billy Haney, 87, for- CHECOTAH - Clark Gorman Leah grew up near Kismet, Kansas at Leah loved attending her grandkids merly of Warner, passed away Feb. 13, Reeves, 30, passed away on Thursday, the Panhandle Eastern Gas Plant where many events and activities: 4-H, live- 2021. A memorial service was held Feb. Feb. 18. 2021 at his home. A memorial her dad worked. She accepted the Lord stock shows, basketball and band. 24 at Cornerstone Funeral Home. In- service will be held Thursday, Feb. 25 at a young age. She attended Kismet Leah was preceded in death by her terment, Warner Memorial Cemetery. at 10:30 a.m. at the Checotah First Free schools graduating from Kismet High parents, her husband Haskell Lay- Will Baptist Church. Interment Green- School in 1957. man, brothers Harold “Bud” Clark, CHECOTAH - Edward Kloeckler, wood Cemetery Eufaula. She met Haskell Layman in college at James “Jim” Clark and sisters, Violet Panhandle A & M while working in the Eileen Stutsman, Mary (Clark) Graves, cafeteria and they were united in mar- Martha (Clark) Vanderburg, Dorothy riage on Dec. 22, 1962 in Liberal, Kan- (Clark) Collins and Carol Rae (Clark) sas. They lived in the Council Hill area Blair. for more than 50 years. She is lovingly survived by her daugh- Leah graduated from Panhandle ter, Brenda Miller and her husband Bil- A&M College in 1961 and Northeast- ly of Hitchita, Oklahoma; son, Gary ern State University in 1969 with a Layman and wife Rhonda of Dewey, Master’s Degree in Education. Oklahoma; grandsons, Brandon Miller Leah loved teaching school and did of Shawnee, Oklahoma and Blake Mill- for almost 30 years at Stigler, Dustin er of Tulsa, Oklahoma; granddaughter, and then Midway until her grandson Katy Layman of Dewey, Oklahoma. Brandon was born. Leah is also survived by brother- She taught Business (typing, short- in-law, Eugene Layman of Highlands hand and accounting), math and what- Ranch, Colo. and numerous nieces, ever else was needed. She also served nephews, other extended family and a as the librarian. She was most known lifetime of friends. for the typing bibs her students were Viewing was from 2-4 p.m. Sunday, required to wear to cover their hands Feb. 21, 2021 and 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Mon- and keys. She was a strict, business-like day, Feb. 22, 2021 at Garrett Family Fu- teacher, but most all her students agree neral Home, Checotah. they learned many lessons in her class. Services celebrating the life of Leah She loved to sew, crochet and quilt were held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, Feb. and made all her own clothes and 23, 2021 at Garrett’s Serenity Chapel, Brenda’s. Checotah. Committal prayers and in- In the summer, she had a big garden terment followed in Hillabee Cemetery and canned fruits and vegetables. under the personal direction of John She also loved her commitment to Garrett. COURTESY PHOTO | KARL RAY young people as a volunteer 4-H Lead- You may share online condolences City crews working on the main water line break ran into many obstacles with frigid temperatures and malfunc- er. She and Haskell traveled many miles with Leah’s family at www.garrettfam- tioning equipment. with 4-H kids and their families to ilyfuneralhome.com. The family of stock shows and other events and she Leah Mae Layman entrusted her care, WATER personal use and/or livestock starting at noon on Friday. enjoyed every trip. services and burial to John & Kim Gar- CONTINUED FROM A1 Leah and Haskell began teaching rett and the dedicated staff of Garrett Marcus Burkhalter stated that resi- school to be able to buy their own farm. Family Funeral Home & Cremation ter leaks in the city or county to 918- dents must have a name and account But they continued teaching until re- Service 311 SW 2nd Checotah, OK 473-5411 or 918-473-4555. number with the district to be allowed tirement. She worked side-by-side with 74426 (918) 473-2244. For residents with a current account to fill containers. This service will be with the Rural Water District #9, the continued from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. until wa- F.A.I.C. Station on Hwy 150 allowed ter was restored. those residents to fill containers for

A6 • McIntosh County Democrat Thursday, February 25, 2021 OPINION Hard times prepare us for the ride victim. ent form and miraculously becomes a vessel of honor. Secondly, there is a change in relationship with oth- Now this vessel can serve its purpose and understands ers, some experience a closer relationship with specif- that it took being under that kind of pressure to create ic individuals and have an increased connection with something not only beautiful, but useful and unique. those who have suffered. We learn true compassion As I look back over my life I see where I used to be because now we have been there. just a lump of clay, waiting to be molded into my pur- A third area of change can be the increase of the in- pose. Though I didn’t like the hard times or the pres- I truly believe it is the hard times that mold us and dividual’s own strength and awareness that they can sure from the Potter, He was molding and making me make us into who we are supposed to be and these face anything because they survived their previous into a vessel of purpose and honor. I understand now, hardships only make us stronger physically, emotion- trauma. Again the “what didn’t kill them made them what didn’t kill me only made me stronger. ally and spiritually, but only if we let them. Yes, hard stronger” philosophy is understood. It is what I like I can look back over all the hard times and under- times prepare us for the ride of life so later we can sit to call “the reality stage.” You survived “it.” Whatever stand that the process had a purpose. I had a purpose back and enjoy the long ride. the “it” was, whether abuse, addiction, divorce - you and I would fulfill that purpose because my God and The German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche stat- overcame “it.” my PTG would propel me toward my destiny. ed “That which does not kill us, makes us stronger.” A fourth aspect of PTG is a greater appreciation for As most of us have battled this unpredictable snow I believe he was right. There have been studies that life itself, from everything that was created to still hav- storm this month I’ve looked at several social media show how some trauma survivors with post-traumat- ing your own life. You learn that life really is a gift accounts that have told of their ups and downs during ic stress disorder (PTSD) have also reported positive and is a beautiful ride, even if you get bucked off a few this crazy weather. Some have shared beautiful pic- changes and enhanced personal development after a times. You just climb back into the saddle again and tures of the snow, wildlife and their surroundings. tragedy known as post traumatic growth (PTG). keep riding. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed seeing the farm animals, the Elizabeth Smart is a great example of PTG. Smart, The fifth area involves a greater awareness of your landscape and the frozen ponds. who was abducted from her home by a man and his religious domain, a spiritual awakening of sorts. I All of this reminds me of growing up on our farm wife when she was only 14 years old, was held captive call it finally finding your purpose. Even though an on Tiger Mountain and helping my dad with our for nine months. During that time she was tied up, individual may experience personal growth does not cattle. I remember once during another snow storm raped daily and threatened with death if she attempt- mean they did not suffer serious loss. when we had no electricity or water for twelve days. ed to escape. When she was rescued by police officers, In fact, I believe my experience with such great loss I lived six miles away from my parent’s house by then she was found on a public street only 18 miles away - an unborn child, an unsuccessful marriage and the but was helping my ailing father with chores. I had from her home after two witnesses recognized her death of my grandpa, then my father and then my driven my brand new car over downed trees on our abductors from an America’s Most Wanted episode. grandmother, most definitely changed my life forever. country roads scratching the paint job up to reach our Several years later in an interview she stated that her Though I spent years in heartache and pain, I finally 160 acres where the cattle were. We had to put out faith had sustained her through her ordeal and helped began to see a different picture and a purpose for all cubes and hay for the cows. We had to chop the ice on her heal. She wouldn’t allow the ugliness of the past to the pain. I really think death was the biggest thing that the ponds so they could drink for the day. Then you define the rest of her future and she went on to marry, defined my life. It made me question everything, but would get home and try to figure out how to clean up have a family, and be a child safety activist and com- then it made me rely on my faith that was bigger than with no water or electricity. It was a mess and I hated mentator for ABC News. I was. getting up early to feed the animals. I especially hated To better understand PTG one needs to know it Just like a potter who molds the clay in his hands, the snow and ice, but again what didn’t kill me just tends to happen in five general areas. I find that ap- it’s when the clay is experiencing pressure that it is made me stronger. Now I look back and know those propriate since the number five refers to the number forced into its place or purpose. Then and only then, it hard times also made me the woman I am today. of humanity and the grace of God. The fifth book of is formed and fashioned into what it was supposed to So, whatever the hard times you have endured in the Bible, Deuteronomy is even dedicated to God’s be from the beginning. the past, know they are molding you into who you are grace. So, it’s no surprise to me that the five areas of Our lives are a lot like that clay. At first we look like a supposed to be to give you a future. I pray that you PTG are first, individuals who face major life crises mess, a lump of useless dirt that serves no purpose and realize these things only made you stronger to be able often realize new opportunities can emerge from such offers nothing. But as that messy lump is heated and to climb back in that saddle and keep riding. struggles. You can’t let the tragedy define you as just a put under pressure, it slowly begins to take a differ- A blizzard of mental health needs

annually on health, with of Mental Health and CDC reports that Okla- less than 3 percent of Substance Abuse Ser- homa opioid overdoses that spending directed vices and the Oklahoma have increased by more toward public health and Health Care Authority. than 50% in the last 12 prevention. Furthermore, Also, twenty-eight months. Due to an in- they highlight that pub- members of the Oklaho- crease in the trauma as- lic health spending as a ma Legislature recently sociated with Adverse This cold snap is rais- mans in need of mental proportion of total health announced the formation Childhood Experiences ing awareness of home- health treatment last year spending has been de- of a bipartisan, bicameral (ACEs), the risk of child- lessness in Oklahoma did not receive help, ac- creasing since 2000 and legislative caucus to serve hood mental health con- - especially in northeast cording to Mental Health falling in inflation-ad- as a forum for legisla- ditions also has elevated, Oklahoma where a man America. A large part of justed terms since the tors to discuss bipartisan especially with pandem- froze to death overnight this comes from a lack Great Recession of 2008. solutions to the state’s on- ic isolation. In short, we last week. Officials and of support for state pro- The news is not all bad going mental health and face a blizzard of need. volunteers have been grams. though. addiction crisis. The cau- With these recent working around the clock This is not just an Okla- More Oklahomans will cus, co-chaired by Rep. changes in policy, and a to help those in need, homa problem. Trust now be able to receive Josh West, R-Grove, and new attitude from law- sometimes coming into a for America’s Health, mental health and ad- Sen. Julia Kirt, D-Okla- makers regarding men- debate about the best way a non-partisan public diction services thanks homa City, will convene tal health issues in our to assist. health policy, research to a recent federal waiv- monthly during legisla- state, I have hope that we Please do what you and advocacy organiza- er bringing more unity tive session to stay in- will begin to see positive can to support the pro- tion, released a report last to the treatment of be- formed on key mental changes. Please do your grams providing aid to year called “The Impact havioral health illnesses. health issues and discuss part and contact your the homeless as we con- of Chronic Underfund- Oklahoma is one of only ideas for improving care lawmakers to express tinue to face this weather, ing on America’s Public seven states to receive and systems in Oklaho- support for improved and also those battling Health System” with in- an Institution for Mental ma. preventative health fund- the pandemic facing the formation that will likely Diseases (IMD) waiver These lawmakers note ing and better policies to world. shock the general public, for serious mental ill- that one in five Okla- help Oklahomans in need Much of our homeless- though it is all too well ness and addiction from homans had a mental of mental health support ness crisis stems from the known in advocacy cir- the Centers for Medi- health condition prior to and treatment. crisis in mental health, cles. care & Medicaid Services COVID-19. An estimat- which affects people of all They detail that the (CMS). This will be a ed 40% of Oklahomans ages. United States spends an joint effort between the are experiencing anxiety Nearly 60% of Oklaho- estimated $3.6 trillion Oklahoma Department and depression, and the Capitol update

ing, I had a Zoom meet- is divided into six ser- able; these travel times ing to discuss one of my vice areas, and each ser- provide another barrier bills to make mental vice area is allowed only for people to overcome health more accessible one community mental before they access neces- across the state, including health center. sary mental health ser- in eastern Oklahoma. I Eastern and southeast- vices. met with numerous offi- ern Oklahoma is serviced Oklahoma has only two Winter weather shut out of committee is con- cials from various hospi- by a center in McAlester, stabilization units across down most of the state sidered dead for the legis- tals and clinics across our which does not have an the state, located in Tulsa One of my bills, House this week, but the House lative session. region, all of whom have adolescent stabilization and Oklahoma City. Ru- Bill 1637, which I am continued to meet as of- In preparation for the been wonderful to work unit. Unfortunately, this ral areas of the state also working to schedule for ten as possible to prepare upcoming deadline, I with while developing means that adults with have mental health needs committee next week, for next week’s deadline. have been meeting with this legislation. mental health needs have and would benefit greatly would help resolve this Thursday, Feb. 25 is stakeholders, finaliz- We discussed the need to travel more than two from these services. We issue by removing the the final day to pass any ing bills’ language and of mental health services hours one way to receive need both private and current restriction of House bill out of its com- amendments, and ensur- in Oklahoma. According necessary services, and state mental health com- only one center per ser- mittee. This is a vital first ing my bills are scheduled to rules implemented by adolescents have to travel munity centers in our vice area. I look forward step to having it heard on to be heard in committee the State Dept. of Men- four hours one way to ac- area to adequately meet to presenting this bill. the House floor because ahead of the deadline. tal Health and Substance cess services. the needs of Oklaho- While our legislative any bill that does not pass On Wednesday morn- Abuse Services, the state This is simply unaccept- mans. SEE CAPITOL, PAGE A8

Thursday, February 25, 2021 McIntosh County Democrat • A7 OPINION Thanks to all who helped us stay warm

AVERY FRIX some power companies ditions. I want to thank for helping respond to roads during this time STATE REPRESENTATIVE did rolling blackouts to them as well as our city citizens in need. and who conserved en- As I write this column, preserve supply. I hope and county road crews Muskogee crews were ergy. Oklahoma is enduring that everyone has sur- for all of their hard work. out over the last weekend I want to thank the City one of the coldest weath- vived OK. I also want to thank those fixing several water main of Checotah that opened er spells on record, and Throughout the storm, that supply our electricity breaks. I know residents the Community Center many areas are seeing I received regular updates and worked to keep our who had water restored as a warm shelter from large amounts of snow. from the Oklahoma De- power grid up and run- were extremely grateful Friday, Feb. 12 through We’ve had serious, even partment of Transporta- ning despite the increased for this effort. Friday, Feb. 19. Because fatal, wrecks on Inter- tion reporting their 24/7 demand on our systems. I Thank you to all of our of COVID, they had a states and state highways. efforts to keep the state’s also extend gratitude to residents who took the limit of 50 people and Some residents were highways cleared even in our police, fire and emer- advice of public safety of- could not allow pets or without electricity and some of the worst con- gency service personnel ficials and stayed off the SEE THANKS, PAGE A8 Avery Frix WARRANTS

Ake, Roger M. Coffey, David Hawthorne, Dangela Armond Mabry, Kyle Davin Sheline, Paul Jason Albright, Austin Michael Collins, Dennis Eugene Hernandez, Tomas Antonio Manley, Leatrice Simon, Arnold Allen, Edmond Monte Conner, Courtney Laveda Holt, Anna M. Manley, Pamela Smith, Jesse Johnny Allen, Justin Lee Cooper, Dylan J. Hueitt, Joseph Marr, Haelee Renae Smith, Joseph Almeida, Louis Ernest III Cowan, Gabrielle Rae Huffman, Curtis James Marshall, Cheryl Lee Smith, Steven Gregory Anderson, Gary Don Craker, Samantha Michell Hughes, John J. Mathis, Donna Marie Smith, Tanner Anderson, Teddy Bruce Crawford, Cheryl Hunt, Lucas Marvin McKillip, Bobbi Stafford, Richard Edward Arnold, Charles Wayne Crawley, Coby Vaughn Hunt, Meaghan Cathleen Miller, Kely Stinnett, Lisa Bahe, Mandy Gail Crosby, Kenneth Hurd, Kim Diann Moore, Rachel Sweatt/Pinckney, Richard Baker, Jerry Beal Cunningham, Alexandria Hutson, Catherine Lee Mosco, Michael Ray Jr. Sullivan, Jeffrey Ray Bash, Jessica Davis, Brandon Michael Jarvis, Jayson Murray, Hustle S. Talbert, Della Marie Battle, Pamela Kay Davis, Deidra Marie Jobe, Joseph Isac Murray, Jessie Lee Traylor, Lane Duval Baumann, Staci Raye Degraffenreed, Buffy Johnson, Andrianna Neshelle Nelson, Kimberly Faye Tyler, Stephanie Richelle Bear, Larissa Leann Deleon, Alberto Jones, Tana Samaria Newell, Clinton James Waldo, Gary Benson, Joseph Eugene Duncan, Jimmy Christopher Jordan, William Nichols, River Ashton Walker, Chase Dillyon Blevins, Kevin Durrett, Jimmy Dean Lambert, James Austin Ozment, William Webb, Richard Jr. Boone, Mikel Dye, Brandi Lynette Lancaster, Mary Pharis, Tristyn William Wells, Bradley Duane Boswell, Eric Lee Ellis, Edward Dee Jr. Lanham, Anthony Scott Poindexter, Tangi Wells, Christina Boyles, Daron Ray Eplin, Vernon Dale Lann, Garland Dillard Powdrill, Darren Lamar White, Shonna Dee Ann Brakebill, Raymond Focht, Cheryl Ann Lara, Gwenvere Reed, Calvin Williams, Allen Ray Brown, James Funburg, Sonya Renee Large, Cory Wayne Reynolds, Jamie Darlene Williams, Jr., Leslie Brown, Ricky Dan Garrison, Gregory Dale Lawson, Charlene Rice, Jackie Lea Wisdom, Jackson Coleman Bryson, Jack Melborn Garza, Ruben Lawson, Jarred Robertson, Austin Tyler Worley, Phillip Titus Burnett, Cody K. Gibson, Jr., Gerald Hugh Lever, John J. Robertson, Haylee A Yahraus, Jessica Cecilia Burris II, Richard Cecil Gill, Dana Michelle Lewis, Brandon E J Ross, Kevin D. Cardana, Adolfo Raralcaba Gonzalez, Kathleen M. Lewis, Dale Sawyer, Kandis Autumn Carter, Kevin Dale Gorum, Joshua Lynn, William Curtis Schirmer, Keith Chaney, Charles Anthony Harris, Dylan Lyttle, David P. Serena, Robert Checotah stories from the past JERRY FINK places drifts were 5 to 6 feet high. Fountainhead airport, surrendered to two highway MANAGING EDITOR patrolmen and a state game ranger in the general area 115 Years Ago: Late Reading Water Meters where they abandoned their car within 20 minutes af- Checotah Times • October 26, 1906 Owing to the bad weather during the past week the ter the shootings. work of reading the water meters has been delayed. As A Cordial Reception a consequence the mailing of cards to consumers will Park Head, Trooper Are Buried Vice President Charles W. Fairbanks arrived in be four or five days late. The “cutoff” list will also be Funeral services for Highway Patrolman Bill Walker, Checotah Tuesday afternoon about two hours behind postponed until March 15. 35, were held at 2 p.m. Saturday in First Baptist Church schedule time and notwithstanding the disagreeable with Rev. Don Wheat, former minister, officiating. weather a large crowd was present to hear him. Erv Kelley for Chief of Police Trooper Walker was slain near Fountainhead State The north porch of the Lawrance Produce house was In this issue of the Democrat will be found the an- Park in the line of duty Wednesday. arranged for the speakers stand with elaborate deco- nouncement of Erv Kelley for the office of Chief of rations. Police subject to the action of the Democratic primary Pickens Gains in Life Battle A committee of Checotah citizens went to South March 15. The host of friends and associates of W.L. Pickens, McAlester to meet the distinguished man and when For the past two years Erv has served the city of a game ranger, were cheered by the news following a the train stopped at Checotah the vice president was Checotah as Chief and to say that he has made good medical bulletin stating that his condition is gradually escorted to the speakers stand and introduced by would be putting it mildly. improving. Mayor Faulkner. Ranger Pickens was critically wounded by gunfire in 75 Years Ago: the dual killings at Fountainhead Park last Wednesday, J.L. Kniseley Injured McIntosh County Democrat • February 21, 1946 and remained for four days in the intensive care unit City Tax Assessor J.L. Kniseley was thrown from a of the hospital following emergency surgery Wednes- buggy at 9:30 last night while driving home from the OFFICERS FAIL TO FIND TRAIL day night and Thursday morning. city hall, and is now lying at his home, corner of Hous- OF KIDNAPPER ton street and East Side Boulevard, with a broken col- 25 Years Ago: lar bone and a bruised face. Memphis police, who were instructed to arrest Ben McIntosh County Democrat • February 29, 1996 Mr. Kniseley had been meeting with the board of Brinkley of McIntosh county on charges of kidnap- equalization at the city hall and started home about ping his own son, have failed to locate the man, Sheriff Grand Jury Returns Indictment in 9 o’clock, driving his buggy horse. At the corner of John McQuillen stated this week. Alleged Bombing Conspiracy Houston and F streets, while the horse was turning the Brinkley lost custody of his son after joining the corner at a pretty lively gait, the wheel ran into a ditch, navy. He kidnapped his 9 year old son, Herbert, last John Raley, United States Attorney for the Eastern overturning the buggy and throwing Mr. Kniseley to Wednesday and was said to have departed from Mem- District of Oklahoma, has announced that on Feb. 20, the ground. phis, Tenn. 1996, the United States Grand Jury for the Eastern District of Oklahoma meeting in Muskogee, returned Largest Load of Cotton City Seaman Visits British Samoa Isle a superseding indictment against Willie Ray Lampley Probably the largest single load of cotton ever mar- Johnie Morgan, seaman first class of Checotah, a/k/a Ray Lampley, 65, of Vernon; Cecilia Lampley, keted in Checotah was brought in on Sept. 24 of this spent part of Christmas day sight-seeing in Upolu Is- 50, of Vernon; and John Dare Baird a/k/a J.D. Baird, year by W.D. Bordon who lives on the W.H. Marshall land British Samoa. 53, of Shawnee. farm on Deep Fork. The load weighed 3,410 pound Stidham to Be Honored March 22 and sold for $88.86 in the seed. Foreign Vets Plan to Start Auxiliary The James E. White post of the Veterans of Foreign Emmy Scott Stidham, of Checotah, is among seven 100 Years Ago: Wars will hold its regular meeting next Wednesday individuals, two organizations and two newspapers to McIntosh County Democrat • February 24, 1921 night at the city hall. be honored by the Oklahoma Heritage Association at Plans for forming a ladies auxiliary will be discussed its annual membership meeting and awards luncheon SOME SNOW and delegates for the state and national encampments on Friday, March 22. Highest Snowfall in 15 Years Covered Ground will be elected. Checotah in the Good Ole Days “Old man winter” who during the past few months Checotah: The Gem of the Prairie has been asleep at his post a greater part of the time 50 Years Ago: awoke last Friday morning and began to give us a sam- McIntosh County Democrat • February 25, 1971 In 1888 Robert Burton, founder of the town, opened ple of what he intended we should have about Christ- Two Killers Captured; Taken the first general store. The C.G. Moore Drug & Co. mas time. About 7 o’clock in the morning he began his established the first drug store which later became job by sending a small flurry of snow and noting the to Penitentiary Kniseley Drug & Company. extreme pleasure on the faces of the youngsters pro- Erwin Edgar Jones and William B. Franklin, the ac- The village blacksmith shop was operated by Amos ceeded to redouble his efforts. By evening the earth cused killers of Highway Patrolman Bill Walker and McIntosh and W.W. Bray. was covered with a beautiful mantle of white. Park Superintendent Leo Newton, were captured at W.E. Gentry and E.H. Lerblanc opened a store and Upon arising Saturday morning the citizens were 7:50 last Sunday morning, 8 miles west of Eufaula, af- Lerblanc meeting hall was also constructed. Checo- greeted with the largest snowfall seen in this locality ter eluding officers for 84 hours. tah’s Switch was filled with prosperity and touted as a for 15 years. It is estimated that fully 12 inches of snow The young killers, who are believed to have been “gem of the prairie.” on the level fell during the day and night. In some involved in a dope ring,operating from airplanes at

A8 • McIntosh County Democrat Thursday, February 25, 2021 COMMUNITY Through With Chew Week offers opportunity to quit smokeless tobacco Through With Chew Week, Feb. 21- nicotine than found in cigarettes. The • Dip and chew can cause your gums cluding text and email support, phone 27, focuses on offering those Oklaho- Oklahoma Tobacco Helpline encour- to pull away from the teeth where the and web coaching and a two-week sup- mans who use smokeless tobacco the ages smokeless tobacco users to un- tobacco is held. The gums do not grow ply of patches, gum or lozenges for reg- opportunity to quit, with free help from derstand the facts about smokeless to- back. istered participants. the Oklahoma Tobacco Helpline, a pro- bacco and think about quitting during • Leathery white patches and red sores “With free options and tools that can gram of TSET. Through With Chew Week. The Help- in the mouth are common and can turn be customized and combined to pro- “Smokeless isn’t harmless despite what line also offers at least a two-week sup- into cancer. vide the best fit for you, the Oklahoma many people may think. Through With ply of nicotine patches, gum or lozenges • Nicotine, found in all tobacco prod- Tobacco Helpline is a tremendous pub- Chew Week is an ideal time for Okla- to those who register for the free ser- ucts, is a highly addictive drug that im- lic asset to Oklahomans wanting to quit homans to learn about the dangers of vice. Smokeless tobacco users often find pacts the brain and the body. tobacco and better engage full, healthy smokeless tobacco and to examine the the nicotine lozenges helpful in curbing • Dip and chew may contain more living,” said Jon Hart, Ph.D., Oklahoma impact tobacco addiction has on their cravings while quitting smokeless to- nicotine than cigarettes. Tobacco Helpline director. lives,” said Julie Bisbee, TSET executive bacco. • Holding an average-size dip in your Call 1-800-QUIT NOW (1-800-784- director. “The Helpline is here for Okla- mouth for 30 minutes gives you as 8669) or visit OKhelpline.com to ex- homans who are trying to quit using Smokeless Tobacco Facts much nicotine as smoking three ciga- plore all the free services and resources smokeless tobacco or those who want • Smokeless tobacco contains at least rettes. A two-can-a-week habit results available to Oklahomans. Connect with to support their loved ones through the 28 cancer-causing chemicals and can in the same nicotine consumption as a the Helpline through social media by quitting process.” cause oral, pancreatic and esophageal pack-a-day smoker. liking the Oklahoma Tobacco Helpline Smokeless tobacco is even more habit cancer. The Oklahoma Tobacco Helpline pro- on Facebook or following @OKhelpline forming than cigarettes because it con- • Sugar in smokeless tobacco may vides FREE support to those thinking on Twitter and Instagram. tains up to four times as much addictive cause decay in exposed tooth roots. about quitting smokeless tobacco, in- Boards, commissions, city councils and more can resume meeting virtually during pandemic

Gov. Kevin Stitt on Wednesday, Feb. 10, signed legis- Many government and nonprofit governing boards the Legislature was stymied because last year was an lation to temporarily modify the state’s Open Meeting and commissions are required to follow the Open election year and the current Oklahoma Legislature Act to allow public bodies to meet via teleconference Meeting Act to ensure meetings are open to the public wasn’t formally organized until lawmakers met for or- or videoconference. and the media. ganizational day in early January. In his first bill bill signing this year, Stitt signed Sen- As Oklahoma’s COVID-19 cases spiked in Decem- “This measure keeps government running even ate Bill 1031 by Senate Pro Tem Greg Treat, R-Oklaho- ber, nearly 200 local elected officials and nonprofit when board or commission members may need to ma City, and House Majority Floor Leader Jon Echols, leaders asked Stitt to call the Oklahoma Legislature quarantine,” Echols said in a news release. “The pub- R-Oklahoma City. into a special session to reinstate the virtual meetings lic will still have access to these meetings and the ma- “We had constituents, we had local school boards, exemption. terials presented in them. This ensures openness and we had state agencies all wanting this to be able to Earlier this week, Echols said it would have been dif- transparency and allows our state to continually move meet virtually,” Stitt said in a signing ceremony with ficult to address the legislation in a quick special ses- forward even during these trying times.” legislative leaders at the Oklahoma state Capitol. sion because legislative procedure requires five days Because of an emergency clause on SB 1031, the bill The legislation reinstates the virtual meetings ex- for a bill to pass through the House and the Senate. took effect immediately upon Stitt’s signature. emption that expired in November. It also requires Once the regular legislative session kicked off Feb. The virtual meetings allowance is effective until Feb. public bodies to provide meeting materials to virtu- 1, lawmakers fast-tracked the virtual meetings legisla- 15, 2022 or until 30 days after the governor’s emergen- al participants and prevents groups from meeting in tion, passing the bill in record time cy declaration expires. Stitt has renewed his emergen- person after posting notice of a virtual meeting. House Speaker Charles McCall, R-Atoka, also said cy declaration throughout the pandemic.

Friends of the OHC receives grant to National Guard digitize The Chronicles of Oklahoma partners with OHP

The Oklahoma Historical Soci- photographs, maps and documents. and we invite you to join the OHS in ety (OHS) is pleased to announce Funds from this grant will be used celebrating its centennial. One way to assist during that the Friends of the Oklahoma to pay staff to process digitized is- to commemorate this anniversary History Center has received a grant sues of The Chronicles of Oklaho- is to support the scholarly work of from Inasmuch Foundation in the ma in such a way as to give patrons the journal by becoming a member winter weather amount of $35,000 to fund a project the ability to download and/or print of the OHS. OHS members receive to digitize its scholarly journal, The individual articles, book reviews, a subscription to the journal as one At the request of the Oklahoma Department of Chronicles of Oklahoma. meeting minutes, or other specific of many perks of membership. To Public Safety, the Oklahoma National Guard is ac- The grant also honors the work of content from each issue. learn more, please visit www.okhis- tivating nearly 90 National Guard members and Dr. Bob Blackburn, who began his This process would make The tory.org/membership. pre-positioning them at locations across Oklaho- career with the OHS as editor of Chronicles available online in a This project has been made pos- ma in advance of a severe winter storm expected to The Chronicles of Oklahoma and manner that resembles the online sible through the generous support impact the state early next week. recently retired after 41 years of ser- presence of other scholarly, histor- of Inasmuch Foundation. Inasmuch The Oklahoma Department of Public Safety re- vice to the state. ical journals. Foundation champions journal- quested the Oklahoma National Guard provide The OHS is currently in the pro- 2021 marks the centennial of the ism, education, human services and Stranded Motorist Assistance Recovery Teams cess of uploading full issues of The publication of The Chronicles of community to improve the quality (SMART) from Feb. 13-18 to assist the Highway Chronicles of Oklahoma to The Oklahoma. of life for Oklahomans. Patrol in recovering motorists who may become Gateway to Oklahoma History, an The works published in The The mission of the Oklahoma stranded in the potential storm. online repository of Oklahoma his- Chronicles cover the depth and Historical Society is to collect, pre- At the direction of the Oklahoma Office of Emer- tory housing historic newspapers, breadth of Oklahoma’s rich history, SEE CHRONICLES, PAGE A9 SEE NATIONAL GUARD, PAGE A11

The program, which was initially only open to high you for allowing me to represent you at the State Cap- CAPITOL school seniors, has now been opened to juniors as well. itol. CONTINUED FROM A6 I have only two spots left for students from House Dis- session is going on, high school students from across trict 15, so anybody interested in the program should Rep. Randy Randleman represents District 15 in the the state have a unique opportunity to learn more apply now. The application can be accessed at https:// Oklahoma House of Representatives, which includes about the Legislature. Through the House Page Pro- okhouse.gov/Pages/. portions of Haskell, LeFlore, McIntosh, Muskogee, gram, students have a week to view the legislative If you have any questions about the page program or Pittsburg and Sequoyah Counties. process up close and gain experience working in state concerns about legislation, you can reach me at (405) government. 557-7375 or [email protected]. Thank

assistance. ties with water main breaks impacting Department of Agriculture, Food, and THANKS In advance of the storm, the governor water supply. Forestry provided support to address CONTINUED FROM A7 declared a state of emergency in all 77 The Oklahoma Highway Patrol re- livestock needs due to frigid tempera- personal belongings. I will be checking Oklahoma counties and activated the sponded to collisions and provided tures. in with them to see how many people State Emergency Operations Center. motorist assistance statewide. They To all of these we owe our gratitude. they served and how things went. This allowed for state and local agencies were helped by the Oklahoma Nation- Again, I pray everyone in our district The Gospel Rescue Mission, work- to provide mutual aid in accordance al Guard. The Oklahoma Corporation made it through this storm OK. Please ing with Muskogee Emergency Man- with the State Emergency Operations Commission monitored and reported reach out if I can assist you in any way. agement, also opened the doors to its Plan. power and gas outages as well as utility chapel to those in need of 24/7 emer- The Oklahoma Department of Emer- concerns across the state. Avery Frix serves District 13 of the gency shelter. The mission reported on gency Management and Homeland Se- The State Department of Health mon- Oklahoma House of Representatives. He its Facebook page that it had many of- curity was in contact with emergency itored and responded to issues concern- can be reached by phone at (405) 557- fers from people who wanted to help, managers across the state and coordi- ing medical facilities, patient transport, 7302 or via email at avery.frix@okhouse. and they asked for volunteers to help nated resource requests from state agen- and COVID-19 vaccine integrity. They gov. chaperone and to provide coffee and cies and voluntary agencies as needed, also tracked injuries as reported by snacks. I’m hoping they had plenty of including bottled water for communi- Oklahoma hospitals. The Oklahoma

Thursday, February 25, 2021 McIntosh County Democrat • A9 Great dam aerial snow pictures

COURTESY PHOTOS | MICHAEL PENDLEY, VANTAGE POINT PHOTOGRAPHY

New opportunity for Oklahomans to purchase health insurance during Marketplace Special Enrollment Period

A 2021 Special Enrollment Period (SEP) for individ- missioner Glen Mulready. “In light of the pandemic, Care.gov or by contacting the HealthCare.gov Mar- ual health insurance plans under the Affordable Care Oklahomans have become very aware of the value of ketplace call center. Visit HealthCare.gov to verify Act (ACA) began Monday, Feb.15. Oklahomans who health insurance. This is an opportunity to assess your view plan options and estimate monthly premiums. do not have health insurance may be eligible to pur- family’s needs during this Special Enrollment Period.” Coverage will be prospective on the first day of the chase coverage through the health insurance market- There are six insurers that offer individual health month following the application date. No health ques- place. plans on the 2021 health insurance Marketplace in tions will be asked and no pre-existing condition wait- The SEP was created following the Executive Order Oklahoma: Blue Cross Shield of Oklahoma (BCB- ing periods apply. You can also determine if you qual- issued by President Biden on Jan. 28. SOK), Bright Health, Medica Insurance Company, ify for Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance From Feb.15 through May 15 this SEP will be open Oscar Health, UnitedHealthCare (UHC) and Com- Program (CHIP) at https://www.healthcare.gov/. to all exchange-eligible consumers who are submitting munityCare Oklahoma (CCOK). BCBSOK and Med- If you have questions about other insurance issues, a new application or updating an existing application. ica offer statewide plans while Bright Health, CCOK, please contact the Oklahoma Insurance Department “We all understand how important it is to have Oscar and UHC serve limited areas of the state. at 1-800-522-0071 or visit our website at www.oid. health insurance and access to affordable health care The SEP will allow individuals and families to enroll ok.gov. during this unprecedented time,” said Insurance Com- in 2021 health insurance coverage through Health-

Veterans should contact Unemployment claims continue to decline Eastern Oklahoma VA to The Oklahoma Employment30,467, a decrease of 5,897 from and pull all unemployment infor- Security Commission (OESC) re- the previous week’s revised level of mation into one location. schedule COVID-19 ports a continued decline in con- 36,364. Unemployment claimants should tinued and initial unemployment • Continued claims’ four-week be aware that not returning to vaccine appointment claims, with the continued claims moving average was 36,291, a de- work when recalled or when work four-week moving average declin- crease of 2,752 from the previous is available could potentially lead As of Feb. 18, the Eastern Oklahoma VA Health Care ing for the 33rd consecutive week. week’s revised average of 39,043. to disqualification from receiving System has given the COVID-19 vaccine to 5,119 Vet- “The continued decline in claims unemployment benefits. erans. A total of 3,995 Veterans have received their is certainly encouraging, but we re- Nationally, the advance fig- Employers may report this ac- first shot and 1,124 Veterans have received both shots. main focused on providing Okla- ure for seasonally adjusted initial tivity by emailing returntowork@ As we continue to notify and schedule our high-risk homans with the help they need claims during the same period was oesc.state.ok.us, calling 405-962- Veterans, we encourage Veterans 65 years and older as they continue to navigate un- 773,000, a decrease of 19,000 from 7524, or mailing OESC at P.O. Box to contact us at 888-397-8387 to request a COVID-19 employment,” said Shelley Zum- the previous week’s revised level, 52006, Oklahoma City, OK, 73152- vaccination appointment. walt, OESC Executive Director. the U.S. Department of Labor re- 2006. Additionally, all Veterans are encouraged to visit the “Between March 2020 and January ports. The four-week moving av- If a claimant returns to work full national VA “Keep Me Informed” website and indicate 2021, OESC paid out more than $4 erage was 823,000, a decrease of time, they should keep their unem- if you want to receive the vaccine: https://www.va.gov/ billion in benefits. That’s more than 33,500 from the previous week. ployment claim open with OESC health-. To access the tool, Veterans will need an up- our agency has paid out to Okla- For the week ending Jan. 30, DOL and not certify a weekly claim. If graded My HealtheVet account. To upgrade your ac- homans in the past 10 years com- reports the advance seasonally ad- they return part time, a claimant count, please call us at 918-577-3824 or toll-free at bined. Even as claims decrease, justed insured unemployment rate may continue to certify their week- 888-397-8387 Ext. 3824. our staff continues to work hard to was 3.2%, a decrease of 0.1 per- ly claim and must report all gross Enrolled Veterans who would like to get tested for improve our systems and processes centage point from the previous earnings for the week to potential- COVID-19 should call the Eastern Oklahoma VA to meet the needs of Oklahomans week’s revised rate. ly receive a partial benefit. Eligi- Health Care System at 888-397-8387 for an appoint- throughout the pandemic.” The national weekly seasonal- bility for continued benefits is de- ment time. ly adjusted initial claims report is termined on the circumstances of Weekly Unemployment Num- one of 10 components in the Com- each individual claimant. bers for Week Ending Feb. 6 posite Index of Leading Economic OESC is an excellent resource CHRONICLES historic sites and affiliates • For the week ending Feb. 6, the Indicators. To smooth out the vol- for people looking to re-enter the across the state. advance number of initial claims, atility in the weekly initial claims job market by connecting Oklaho- CONTINUED FROM A8 Through its research unadjusted, totaled 5,253, a de- data, a four-week moving average mans with available employment serve and share the histo- archives, exhibits, educa- crease of 2,414 from the previous is used to assess trends. through https://okjobmatch.com/. ry and culture of the state tional programs and pub- week’s revised level of 7,667. If a PUA-eligible claimant re- of Oklahoma and its peo- lications the OHS chron- • Initial claims’ four-week mov- Claimant Resources opens their business, they will ple. icles the rich history of ing average was 6,580 a decrease Individuals seeking unemploy- still receive backdated unem- Founded in 1893 by Oklahoma. of 441 from the previous week’s re- ment benefits should go to https:// ployment benefits to when their members of the Territo- For more information vised average of 7,021. ui.ok.gov and create an account COVID-19-related job loss or rial Press Association, the about the OHS, please vis- • The advance unadjusted num- with the Get Started button to con- business closure occurred. OHS maintains museums, it www.okhistory.org. ber of continued claims totaled nect their social security number

A10 • McIntosh County Democrat Thursday, February 25, 2021 COMMUNITY Gaylord College teams up with Cronkite School to better serve Native American communities

Two of the nation’s premiere journal- Cronkite News posted its first story ism schools are partnering to expand from Gaylord last month about a prom coverage of indigenous communities. dress that calls attention to missing and The University of Oklahoma Gaylord murdered indigenous women, now part College of Journalism and Mass Com- of an exhibit at the Smithsonian Nation- munication and the Walter Cronkite al Museum of American History. Other School of Journalism and Mass Com- stories that have been shared include munication at Arizona State Univer- the legacy of Indian boarding schools sity announced Wednesday they will and the Cherokee Trail of Tears. increase reporting of native issues by “This is just the beginning,” said Kris- news services each operates. tin Gilger, interim dean of the Cronkite Under the collaboration, students School. “By combining forces and am- from Gaylord News and Cronkite News plifying each other’s work, we can fill will publish stories on both news or- COURTESY PHOTOS a gap in coverage that has persisted for ganizations’ websites, share story ideas University of Oklahoma Gaylord College of Journalism Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Commu- way too long. We’re excited to see where and pair up students to cover develop- and Mass Communication. nication at Arizona State University. this collaboration takes us.” ing news stories. Students from both The Cronkite School and Gaylord schools share a newsroom in ASU’s new and classroom teaching. The Cronkite work in indigenous communities. College have worked together on a Ambassador Barbara Barrett and Jus- School is home to Indian Country To- “This collaboration between the Gay- number of other programs supported tice Sandra Day O’Connor Washington day and covers indigenous communi- lord News program and our friends at by the Inasmuch Foundation, formerly Center, located three blocks from the ties extensively through its Cronkite Cronkite will provide badly needed cov- the Ethics & Excellence in Journalism White House, from which they cover News service, the news arm of Arizona erage of Native American communities Foundation, established by Oklaho- national news about indigenous issues. PBS. This semester the school also is of- in Oklahoma and Arizona, as well as ma journalist Edith Kinney Gaylord in In addition, both news organizations fering a reporting course focused exclu- nationally,” said Ed Kelley, dean of the 1982. The foundation provides fellow- distribute student work to more than sively on indigenous communities. Gaylord College. “The networks both ships for Cronkite and Gaylord students 100 partner news organizations across Gaylord College, the home of the Na- programs have established through me- to participate in the national Carne- the country. These media outlets will tive American Journalists Association, dia partners across the country will dis- gie-Knight News21 program headquar- now have access to stories from both just concluded a 41-part series entitled tribute Gaylord and Cronkite students’ tered at Cronkite, and supports profes- Cronkite and Gaylord students. “Exiled to Indian Country” that was stories, to the benefit of news consum- sorships at both schools. The Cronkite School and Gaylord distributed by its Gaylord News service. ers. This alliance not only gives young College each have prioritized cover- This semester the college launched the journalists more opportunities to hone Gaylord News is a reporting project of age of Native American communities Bob Burke Native American Reporting their skills but also a greater under- the Gaylord College of Journalism and and issues through reporting programs Center, which will train reporters to standing of Native issues.” Mass Communication.

Oklahoma vaccinations pushing Warner School forward despite record winter storm District special JESSIE CHRISTOPHER SMITH & NANCY MARIE SPEARS million, about 24.09% of the population. In Missis- GAYLORD NEWS sippi, 20.3% of adults have been inoculated. And in Oklahoma is pushing ahead with its COVID-19 New Mexico, an estimated 28.73% of adults have re- election set vaccination drive despite severe winter storms that ceived at least one dose of the vaccine. left thousands of people stranded in their homes and All 39 tribal nations in Oklahoma opted to receive The Warner School District will hold a Special Elec- some without electricity and running water. the vaccine through the federal Indian Health Ser- tion on March 2. And the state continues to lead most surrounding vice (IHS), as opposed to receiving doses from the McIntosh County voters must be registered at and states in getting the first dose into residents’ arms, in state of Oklahoma. reside at an address within the geographical boundar- spite of early opposition to the vaccine. The Oklahoma City health service office reported, ies of the Warner School District to be eligible to vote Despite single-digit temperatures, sub-zero wind “Tribal nations have been a key part of our planning in the school district election. chills and massive winter storm precipitation for the vaccine rollout so that American Indians Precinct Polling Place #460102 (Church of Christ, plunged all Oklahoma counties into a state of emer- and Alaska Natives will have equitable access to safe 309 East Gentry, Checotah, Oklahoma) will be open gency, state officials said they are prepared for the and effective COVID-19 vaccines. As of Feb. 12, the from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on election day. Eligible voters challenges that may arise in vaccine distribution ef- Oklahoma City Area Indian Health Service, which may also vote absentee in-person (early) at the McIn- forts. serves tribes in the state of Oklahoma, has distribut- tosh County Election Board in the McIntosh Coun- Shipment of six million doses have been delayed ed 209,225 COVID-19 vaccines to the tribal health ty Courthouse, 110 North 1st, Eufaula, on Thursday, nationwide by the storms that swept out of Texas the programs.” February 25, and Friday, February 26, from 8 a.m. to Heartland into the East Coast. Buffy Heater, assistant deputy commissioner for 6 p.m. There is no early voting on Saturday for this “I really am not worried about our ability to catch the state health department, said the state’s Immu- election. up with that within the next week, two weeks at most nization Information System only collects state-allo- Anyone who needs to verify their registration infor- probably,” said Oklahoma Department of Health cated vaccine data, which includes American Indians mation or view a sample ballot can do so online. The Deputy Commissioner Keith Reed. who were vaccinated at county health departments Online Voter Tool can be accessed on the Oklahoma While acknowledging that the weather interfered and private healthcare providers and hospitals that State Election Board’s website: www.elections.ok.gov. with the vaccination timeline in the past week, Reed administer the vaccine. Those who vote by mail can also check the status of said he feels “we’ll be able to make up for lost time The Indian Health Service shares its vaccination their ballot using the Online Voter Tool. Sample bal- pretty easily.” data with the CDC rather than Oklahoma or any lots are also available at the County Election Board The intense winter storms and power outages have other state. With no direct communication, the state office and can be requested by calling (918) 689-2452. slowed administering of vaccines at more than 2,000 is unable to obtain those records easily. That’s why sites nationwide, and more than one-third of states tribal vaccine numbers are not typically included in are experiencing shipment delays. Oklahoma’s statewide reports, Reed said. Some people are worried about the effectiveness A few small tribal clinics do have a system that of the vaccine if their second-dose appointments get communicates with the state’s Immunization Infor- pushed back because of the weather. mation System, Reed said, “but that is maybe 5% of Sen. Thompson Reed said that according to the Centers for Dis- the total vaccines that are administered through that ease Control, there is no evidence of a decrease in system. So at this point, that information is not com- the vaccine’s effectiveness as long as the second dose municated either by us, or by CDC when they reflect comments on is within 42 days of the first. There is no data on its the numbers for the state.” effectiveness after 42 days, but if a second-dose ap- Oklahoma’s Department of Health is working with pointment gets pushed beyond that, the CDC rec- tribes, the CDC and the Indian Health Service to ommends getting the next dose as soon as possible, better understand what those numbers will look like Feb. 16 revenue and not repeating the first dose. for tribal nations in the state, Reed said. Since the first coronavirus vaccination in the state Demand for the vaccine has been strong despite in December, thousands of Oklahomans have re- initial concerns that Oklahomans would shy away. ceived the completed series of vaccine doses. As of On Wednesday, Feb. 16, University of Oklahoma certification Feb. 18, 22.7% of Oklahoma adults had been vacci- Health Services, along with IMMY Labs and the Senate Appropriations Chair Roger Thompson, nated with at least the first dose. Reed said the state Cleveland County Health Department, announced a R-Okemah, issued the following statement after the is expecting to receive 110,000 doses any time and large-scale first-dose coronavirus vaccination clinic Oklahoma State Board of Equalization (BOE) met on another 137,000 next week. for Monday, Feb. 22. Tuesday to certify revenues available for appropriation “We’ve [already] probably vaccinated 45 to 50% The response was so swift that appointment slots for the Fiscal Year 2022 budget. The amount initially of our population of patients 65 and older with at for the 10,000 doses at the free clinic were filled up certified by the board in December was $8.46 billion. least one dose of the vaccine,” said Dr. Dale Bratzler, within 20 minutes. Bratzler said that is a promising The amount certified Tuesday was $9.64 billion. a leading infectious disease expert at the University sign that people are listening and signing up for im- “I am encouraged by the new numbers certified to- of Oklahoma hospitals. “They account for more than munizations. day during the Board of Equalization meeting. This 70% of the hospital admissions in Oklahoma, and “We’re in a bit of a race right now to get as much speaks well of the economy in Oklahoma. Small busi- they account for more than 80% of the deaths from vaccine out there that we possibly can to slow the ness owners have been innovative, diligent, and per- COVID-19.” current spread, because if you slow spread you re- sistent despite all of the challenges during this pan- Based on the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2019 population duce the opportunities of mutation,” Bratzler said. demic. estimate, Oklahoma’s adult vaccination rate of 22.7% “When you get the opportunity to get the vaccine, “Oklahoma has benefitted from federal dollars, is better than in some surrounding states. unless you have a specific contraindication, please which helped these numbers. I am very optimistic In Texas - where severe weather compelled the get the vaccine. It’s the best way to protect yourself. It for FY 2022, but cautiously optimistic about FY 2023. state to implement rolling power outages to reduce is our pathway to getting back to the norm we used This is not the year to spend every dollar. We need to stress on the electric grid - about 19.86% of the state’s to remember.” have funds easily accessible if we have another surge adult population has been vaccinated. in COVID cases—money that can be used to pay for Kansas has vaccinated 14.66% of adults, and Ar- Gaylord News is a reporting project of the University more testing, vaccines, and other critical needs.” kansas has vaccinated about 19.68%. of Oklahoma Gaylord College of Journalism and Mass For more information, contact Sen. Roger Thomp- In Colorado, more than 1 million vaccines have Communication. son at 405-521-5588 or email Roger.Thompson@ok- been administered to a population of more than 5 senate.gov.

Thursday, February 25, 2021 McIntosh County Democrat • A11 COMMUNITY Oklahoma farmers relieved following upholding of water rule JOSEPH TOMLINSON “But I also want to be sure that we do of WOTUS could leave bodies of water plemented,” Regan said. “So we have a GAYLORD NEWS that in a way that we are protecting our vulnerable to pollution without regula- ton of time, in my opinion, to aim for Oklahoma farmers expressed opti- water quality, our wetlands, and our tion from the federal government. these goals but massage the processes mism about the Senate’s 51-49 vote to bays,” said nominee Michael Regan, Still, the rule enjoys wide support by which we would achieve those goals.” uphold the Trump administration’s who currently heads North Carolina’s from Republican lawmakers. Moesel said he is cautious but hopeful Navigable Waters Protection Rule, Department of Environmental Quality. U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-OK), a veter- that Regan will keep farmers in mind. which replaced an Obama-era regula- Under the NWPR, non-navigable an member of the Senate Environment “Making sure we have those lines of tion farmers feared would lead to costly wetlands, ponds, streams and rivers are and Public Works Committee, voiced communication with [Regan] and the litigation and limit water use on their less heavily regulated under the Clean concern over the fate of the NWPR rule others in his agency is very important,” own land. Water Act, allowing farmers to manage during Regan’s confirmation hearing Moesel said. “But the early signs from “When [the Obama-era rule] first and operate those waters without fear of last week. based on what the North Carolina folks came out, it was panic time,” said Jimmy costly litigation. “Can we have a chance to talk about have told us from dealing with him are Kinder, a farmer from Walters. Kinder’s Prior to the Trump Administration’s [NWPR]?” Inhofe asked Regan. “That h op e f u l .” farm is 11 miles from the Red River, the rule taking effect in June of 2020, the issue is going to be the one—and politi- Despite Regan’s claims of his collab- closest navigable water, but under the Obama administration’s Waters of the cally I have to say this too—it’s one that orative approach toward government, Obama-era ruling, Kinder was at risk United States (WOTUS) rule was op- everyone ought to be concerned about Inhofe voted against his nomination to of litigation if heavy rains caused runoff posed by farmers due to what they because that’s the number one issue,” be administrator of the EPA on Tuesday. from his farm into the river. viewed as the rule’s obscurity and broad- Inhofe added. The Environment and Public Works “The one thing I was worried about is ness. They feared WOTUS would limit Regan sought to reassure Inhofe and Committee voted 14-6 to move Regan’s that we run cattle, and if [manure] goes their use of waters by leading to uncer- other Republicans of his collaborative nomination to the full Senate. into the waterway, that could be a prob- tainty over whether waters on their own approach to government in his opening “While I have great respect for Secre- lem,” Kinder said. “It was just a cloud land would fall under the Federal Clean statement, but was met with skepticism. tary Regan, I cannot in good conscience hung over us.” Water Act. “In North Carolina we’re moving be- vote to confirm him to lead the EPA as Oklahoma Farm Bureau President “It’s like [they] can’t tell you for certain yond the old argument that we have he will be tasked with carrying on many Rodd Moesel was also pleased with the what the speed limit is, but [they’ll] let to pit creating jobs against protecting failed Obama-era policies,” Inhofe said upholding of the Trump administra- you know when you’re speeding,” Kind- the environment,” Regan said. “If con- in a press release. tion’s rule. er said of the Obama-era WOTUS rul- firmed, I will work with the entire ad- Thursday’s 51-49 vote was tipped to- “We think the redefinition that was ing. ministration to build and strengthen ward Republicans due to Sen. Joe Man- done under the Trump administration “The Obama rule was so broad in its that partnership to power America’s chin (D-WV) joining them in favor of is much clearer and gives a lot more definition that there was lots of con- economy with cleaner energy and cre- Trump’s NWPR rule. clarity to our farmers and ranchers, and cern,” Moesel said. He pointed to law- ate millions of good-paying middle In the future, Biden could negotiate for that matter, everyone else who owns suits filed across the country relating to class jobs.” with Manchin in hopes of splitting the land,” said Moesel. which bodies of water were considered Regan then spoke to the uneasiness vote 50-50, leaving Vice President Ka- “We’re encouraged about the vote.” WOTUS, and which were of fair use for surrounding Biden’s recent executive mala Harris to cast the deciding vote. That Senate vote occurred just a day farmers. orders, and the progress that could be after President Joe Biden’s nominee to “It’s been a patchwork of what rule ap- made. Gaylord News is a reporting project of lead the U.S. Environmental Protection plies where,” Moesel said. “I see the executive orders as setting the Gaylord College of Journalism and Agency told a key senate committee he The Trump rule has caused some goals and setting vision. But in those Mass Communication. wanted to look at the options and any blowback from environmental groups executive orders, they leave plenty of lingering concerns over the rule. who believe the Trump-era definition room for how these things will be im- McIntosh County RWSG & SWMD No. 8 receives $100,000 in OWRB funding The McIntosh County Rural Water, Sewer, Gas and Solid Waste Management District No. 8 (District) re- ceived approval for $100,000 in funding Tuesday from the Oklahoma Water Resources Board (OWRB) to improve the District’s water infrastructure. Construction of improvements to the water system COURTESY PHOTO | KIOWA TRIBE will be financed in full via a principal forgiveness loan Cars line up for about four miles while people wait to receive boxes of food. through the Oklahoma Drinking Water State Revolv- ing Fund (DWSRF). The District will use the funds for system improve- ments to address disinfection byproduct issues. Disinfecting drinking water has reduced waterborne Kiowa Tribe provides food, supplies disease drastically. However, byproducts which may result by the disinfection process can sometimes have unintended effects. Therefore, by addressing this is- amid harsh winter weather sue, this project helps meet the public health goals for the state. Joe Freeman, chief of the OWRB’s Financial Assis- NANCY MARIE SPEARS In sub-freezing weath- erything, needing mon- Darin Zotigh, director tance Division, calculated that the District’s custom- GAYLORD NEWS er conditions, more than ey and food.” of the Administration on ers will save an estimated $123,800 over the life of the Oklahoma’s Kiowa 20 Kiowa tribal employ- Powell said he was so Aging for the tribe, was loan compared to traditional financing. Tribe is moving to ex- ees volunteered on the grateful that he would be another volunteer. He The DWSRF program is administered by the OWRB pand emergency assis- frigid plains of the Ki- able to put something on had icicles on his eye- and the Oklahoma Department of Environmental tance efforts for trib- owa Dance and Activi- his table. brows because it was so Quality (ODEQ) with partial funding from the U.S. al members as severe ty grounds to hand out Ahnawake Toyekoyah frigid. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The DWS- weather conditions are food boxes to anyone never took a break to “Even though it was RF program has provided approximately $1.7 billion now only beginning to who showed up on Fri- warm up as she braved cold outside, I had a in drinking water loans to provide communities the abate. day, Feb. 12. the wind to direct the warm feeling in my heart. resources necessary to maintain and improve the in- The tribe is offer- The bitter cold didn’t two lanes of traffic. It was good to see every- frastructure that protects our valuable water resources ing free firewood, and deter those in need from The food box giveaway one deny themselves and statewide. households with tribal showing up, and more was part of a Farmers to their comfort and get out Since 1983, the Oklahoma Water Resources Board elders are the first prior- than 45,000 pounds of Family and USDA grant there and work together,” has approved over $5.09 billion in loans and grants for ity. food was distributed received by the tribe. A Zotigh said. water and wastewater infrastructure improvements “We are monitoring to tribal members and community grant serves throughout Oklahoma. the storm and doing the non-Native recipients, everyone, which is why Nancy Marie Spears, a Julie Cunningham, Executive Director of the best we can to get help to despite a two-hour delay tribal and non-tribal member of the Cherokee OWRB, and Scott Thompson, Executive Director of those most in need. We when the food truck got members were served, Nation, is a reporter for the ODEQ, express their sincere appreciation to State are clearing driveways held up in Tulsa due to according to the news Gaylord News, a report- Senator Roger Thompson and State Representatives to those in rural areas the weather. release. Cars were lined ing project of the Gaylord Randy Randleman and David Smith for their support with extreme emergency Glenn Powell, a up for about four miles, College of Journalism and of the DWSRF program. needs to get in and out,” non-Native, drove the and about 1,350 boxes of Mass Communication. Kiowa Chairman Mat- first car in line. He said food - containing dairy, thew Komalty said in a COVID-19 is no joke. protein, vegetables and CHECOTAH NEWS statement. “I lost my job and ev- fruit - were handed out. CONTINUED FROM A1 March 22 - April 2 will be $50. All academically el- NATIONAL GUARD covery of stranded motorists and transport those igible CHS Seniors are invited to attend prom at no motorists to safety and shelter.The teams’ priority is charge. CHS Juniors or freshmen who are academi- CONTINUED FROM A8 the recovery of people and movement to safety. They cally eligible may purchase a ticket but no refunds will gency Management and with approval from Gover- will not be recovering vehicles in most instances.The be given to anyone who becomes ineligible the week nor Kevin Stitt, the National Guard will be providing Oklahoma National Guard continues to serve the of prom or due to other circumstances. Attendees will eight teams to assist the Highway Patrol. state of Oklahoma in the fight against COVID-19, have their temperatures checked at the door and they These teams include personnel and equipment that as well as stand prepared to assist in emergencies as cannot be under quarantine. Masks are highly recom- can traverse hazardous road conditions, provide re- needed. mended.

A12 • McIntosh County Democrat Thursday, February 25, 2021 Winter Blast of 2021

COURTESY PHOTO | KARL RAY COURTESY PHOTO | HOLLY LACKEY Indian Territory Checotah Cemetery under a blanket of snow was beautiful. Nothing was coming down these frozen tracks during this snow storm.

COURTESY PHOTO | SHARLENE LINDSEY EDDY COURTESY PHOTO | HOLLY LACKEY COURTESY PHOTO | IRIS PARK Frozen fences, ponds and hay were just a few of Streets were bare as more snow fell on the sleepy The winter view from Joe and Iris Park’s home as the farmer’s woes this past week. town of Checotah. they stayed inside by the cozy fireplace.

COURTESY PHOTO | MICHAEL PENDLEY, VANTAGE POINT PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY PHOTO | KARL RAY Docks and marinas on Lake Eufaula were frozen over, creating a rare aerial COURTESY PHOTO | DELLISE MILLER Not much going on when it is frozen downtown in Checotah. view compared to the summers here. Three Springs Ranch in Checotah. Thursday, April 23, 2020 • The McIntosh County Democrat • The Eufaula Indian Journal Thursday, February 25, 2021 • THE MCINTOSH COUNTY DEMOCRAT • THE INDIAN JOURNAL • PAGE B1 MCINTOSH COUNTY Champion Basketball SPORTS Schedule Page B5 SPORTS FOR THE WHOLE COMMUNITY.

Black History month spotlights rodeo legend Myrtis Dightman

Myrtis Dightman was career, including the Cal- inducted into the Rodeo gary Stampede in 1971, Hall of Fame in 2016. He and the Cheyenne (Wyo.) was sometimes referred to Frontier Days in 1972. as the Jackie Robinson of His success in the professional bull riding, arena led to Dightman Myrtis Dightman made being featured in adver- history in 1964 when he tisements as the black became the first African- “Marlboro Man” and he American to compete in played a bull rider in the the National Finals Ro- movie “J.W. Coop” with deo and he went on to Cliff Robertson filmed compete on rodeo’s big- at the Oklahoma State gest stage six more times Penitentiary and he had in a brilliant career that a small role in the movie spanned three decades. “Junior Bonner” starring Dightman finished the Steve McQueen. regular season 17th that Dightman’s career got first NFR year, when he its start in the 1950s when competed at the Los An- friend James Francies was geles Sports Arena as an riding bulls and Dight- injury replacement for man thought it would be Carl Nafzger. Two years a treat to travel down the later, Dightman made road with him. Dightman history again by becom- began as a rodeo clown/ ing the first African- bullfighter, but it wasn’t American to qualify for long before he tried his and compete at the NFR. hand at riding bulls. He finished eighth in the Dightman acknowl- world standings that sea- edged the transition to son. riding bulls was made In 1967 and ’68, Dight- easier for him thanks to man finished third and the help and advice he fourth in the final bull received from African- riding world standings, American bull riders and was seventh in 1972, Freddie Gordon, Wil- when he made his last ap- lie Thomas and James pearance at the NFR. Thomas. Dightman is Dightman won numer- from the east Texas town DEVERE HELFRICH/DICKINSON RESEARCH CENTER/NATIONAL COWBOY AND WESTERN HERITAGE MUSEUM | COURTESY ous major rodeos in his of Crockett. Dightman at the 1966 National Finals Rodeo in Oklahoma City. Checotah wrestlers punch ticket to state

RODNey HaltOm worked their tails off since joining the SPORTS EDITOR program and to see them finish their The Checotah wrestling program high school career, as a stateRodney qualifiers Haltom | IJ • Demo is has developed state qualifying athletes so special. But we’re going to be shoot- under the guidance of head coach Brett ing for state champions on all these Oleson and assistant coaches Rodney guys,” Checotah head coach Brett Ole- Eaton and Marcus Cunningham. Se- son said. nior Malachi Harris will see his high Joining Harris (138 pounds) and school end at the big show, Oklahoma’s will be freshman Keith McGuire (106 State Wrestling tournament at the Jim pounds) and sophomore Cord Mont- Norwick arena in Oklahoma City on gomery (170 pounds) as all three quali- COURTESY February 27. fied last Saturday at the Plainview Re- Checotah wrestlers punch ticket to state. Pictured left to right Checotah head coach Brett Oleson, “I’m just so happy for all these guys gional and senior Jalen Atkins (285 Keith mcGuire, malachi Harris, Cord montgomery and assistant coach Rodney eaton. especially for Malachi and Jalen. They pounds) qualified on Monday. tourism and ODOt partner to take Oklahomans fishing What better way to ism & Branding. “We’ve highway junctions and “reel” in the new year been thrilled with the will indicate to anglers than by finding a great positive response and which loop of the fish- fishing spot? New Okla- economic impact to the ing trail they are near. homa Fishing Trail signs fishing trail so far, and Each loop is designated going up around the these signs are such a by a color: northeastern state will help make it great way for us to spread (green), southeastern even easier for anglers to awareness about the trail (orange), south central find the state’s top fishing and Oklahoma’s incred- (blue), central (purple), destinations. ible fishing opportuni- southwestern (gold) and In partnership with ties.” northwestern (red), each the Oklahoma Tourism The Oklahoma Tour- having a variety of fish & Recreation Depart- ism & Recreation De- available. The 18 inch ment, the Oklahoma De- partment selected the x 24 inch signs are the partment of Transporta- locations and ODOT is same color as the des- tion is erecting roadside erecting 815 signs across ignated region, display signs indicating the lo- the six fishing trail loops a rod with a lure and cation of the Oklahoma statewide that will alert read “Oklahoma Fishing Fishing Trail loops. De- visitors to prime fishing Trail.” OTRD $35 per sign, an additional 20 fish- $8.2 million in projected signed to promote the spots in the region. “ODOT is very excited and ODOT will provide ing experiences that lodging revenue, creat- state’s unique fishing op- Planning for the sign to be a part of such a pos- maintenance. are part of the Wildlife ing a 90-to-1 return on portunities and increase installation endeavor itive initiative driven by In June 2019, the Department’s “Close investment based on revenue, the trail high- began in 2019. The first the Tourism Department state launched the Okla- to Home” fishing pro- digital spend. lights lakes and rivers signs are currently being and to be able to pro- homa Fishing Trail as a gram. More information For more information around the state. installed in southwestern vide guidance to drivers joint initiative between on the Close to Home on the Oklahoma Fish- “I’m so excited to see Oklahoma with a state- seeking that special fish- OTRD and the Okla- fishing destinations can ing Trail, visit the OTRD these new signs going up wide installation goal by ing spot,” said Secretary homa Department of be found at www.wild- website at FishinOK.com around the state,” said the end of March. The of Transportation and Wildlife Conservation. lifedepartment.com. or order or download the Oklahoma Lt. Gov. Matt markers will be placed ODOT Executive Direc- The trail highlights 40 Digital promotion Oklahoma Fishing Trail Pinnell, who is also the under highway iden- tor Tim Gatz. of Oklahoma’s top fish- of the Oklahoma Fish- brochure at TravelOK. state’s Secretary of Tour- tification signs at state The signs initially cost ing lakes and rivers and ing Trail has resulted in com/Brochures.

PAGE B2 • THE MCINTOSH COUNTY DEMOCRAT • THE INDIAN JOURNAL • Thursday, February 25, 2021 Sports • Eli Vastbinder captures career-first PBR victory at Pendleton Whisky Velocity Tour’s Lexington Invitational

In front of a rau- som (Rawson/Obernagel/ ity Tour, and fourth-evert cous, socially-distanced Daisy’s Bucking Bulls) for event on American soil, crowed at Rupp Arena in 76.5 points in the cham- Salgado rose from No. 68 Lexington, Kentucky, Eli pionship round. to No. 38 in the world. Vastbinder (Statesville, For his efforts, North Tying for the Round 2 North Carolina) cap- Carolina-native Vast- win, Marcus Mast (Mid- tured his career-first PBR binder earned a critical dlebury, Indiana) placed (Professional Bull Riders) 31 world points. After be- third overall. event victory, going a per- ginning the event ranked Mast first rode The fect 3-for-3 at the league’s No. 62 in the world, he Beast (Yount Bucking Pendleton Whisky Veloc- surged 35 positions and Bulls, LLC) for 87.5 points ity Tour’s Lexington Invi- is now ranked No. 27. in Round 1, before win- tational. Thiago Salgado (Navi- ning the second round The 29-year-old ad- rai, Brazil) placed second, courtesy of an 87-point vanced to Round 2 after earning 30 world points. score atop Rip (3J Ranch). recording an 82-point After winning Round His hopes of a flawless score on Flea Flick- 1 on Friday evening com- outing in the Bluegrass er (Richardson Land & pliments of an 88-point State were dashed in the Cattle Co.) in Round 1 on score aboard Lil Wil- championship round Friday evening. liard (Richardson Land & when he was bested Continuing the mo- Cattle Co.), Salgado was by White Squirrel (Sho- mentum, Vastbinder re- humbled in the event’s Me Rodeo/Titan Cattle mained flawless in the second round, when Co.) in 3.58 seconds. ANDRE SILVA | COURTESY second round when he he was brought down Seeking his second eli Vastbinder captured his career-first PBr advanced to round 2 after recording an 82-point (Professional Bull riders) event victory, going a score on Flea Flicker (richardson land & cattle made the requisite eight in a quick 1.71 seconds qualification to the PBR perfect 3-for-3 at the league’s Pendleton Whisky co.) in round 1. aboard Mr. Wyers (Raw- by Chickasaw (CO Cattle World Finals in 2021, Velocity tour’s lexington invitational. Vastbinder son/Obernagel/Daisy’s Co./Bob Whisnant). Mast is now ranked No. Bucking Bulls) for 84.5 Undeterred, the surg- 37 in the world after be- Top 5 was Guatemalan world points and he is was earned courtesy of points. ing Brazilian rebounded ginning the league’s ex- sensation Rodrigo Mel- now ranked No. 31 in the outs recorded by Go Blue, Vastbinder then se- in the championship pansion series tour stop gar (Santa Rose, Guate- world. Nightmare and Driller. cured the victory in the round, covering Money No. 82. He is 13 points mala) in fifth place. The PBR Pendleton Fans can relive all the final round when he be- Moves (Mason/Smith outside of the Top 30 and Bucking off Bring It Whisky Velocity Tour’s action from the PBR came the lone contender Bucking Bulls) for 87 a position on the elite On (GEM Bucking Bulls) Lexington Invitational Pendleton Whisky Ve- to cover all three of his points. Unleash The Beast. in 7.35 seconds in Round was also a stop on the locity Tour’s Lexington bovine athlete opponents Marking his career- Chase Dough- 1, Melgar was flawless on 2021 Million Dollar Bull Invitational Sunday, Feb- during the two-night bull first appearance on the erty (Canby, Oregon) fin- the final day of action for Team Challenge. ruary 21 at 8 a.m. EST riding, covering New- Pendleton Whisky Veloc- ished in fourth place. the PBR Pendleton Whis- Mason/Smith Buck- on RidePass, at RidePass. Fresh off his victory ky Velocity Tour’s Lex- ing Bulls won the com or via the RidePass at the Touring Pro Divi- ington Invitational. performance with app available on iOS, An- sion event in Texarkana, Melgar recorded his 278.67 points courte- droid and Roku. Arkansas, last weekend, first score of the event sy of the trips notched The PBR Pendleton Dougherty began the in Round 2 when he by Devil’s Smoke, Slim Whisky Velocity Tour Court Report PBR Lexington Invita- rode Nightmare (Rich- Shady and Money Moves. next travels to North tional on a high note, fin- ardson Land & Cattle Second place was SJ Charleston, South Caro- Mcintosh county district court report ishing fourth in Round Co.) for 85 points in Ranch with 276.82 points, lina, and North Charles- 1 after covering White Round 2. He then won while Richardson Land ton Coliseum on Feb. 26- Felony Cases Portfolio Recovery As- Squirrel for 87 points. the championship round & Cattle Company was 27. Action gets underway John Wayne Billing- sociation vs. Kerri Dunn, Following a via an 88-point score third with 276.14 points. with Round 1 at 8 p.m. sley: possession of fire- et al 3.4-second buckoff aboard Blessed (Nothin’ SJ Ranch’s team includ- EST on Friday, February arm after former felony Portfolio Recovery As- aboard Speck (JQH But Try Ranch/Diggers ed Cheecho, Rip and Ci- 26, followed by Round conviction; possession of sociation vs. Jade Keah- Bucking Bulls-Skip & Bucking Bulls). marron, while the bronze- 2 and the championship CDS; driving with license bone, et al Elaine Jones) in Round The 23-year-old’s ef- effort from Richardson round on Saturday, Feb- canceled/suspended/re- 2, Dougherty concluded forts earned him 11.33 Land & Cattle Company ruary 27 at 7 p.m. EST. Small Claims the event with a quali- voked; failure to maintain Brett Ryan Johnson vs. insurance or security fied ride, making the 8 Amber English, et al aboard Driller (Richard- PBR Pendleton Whisky Velocity Tour – Lexington Invitational Misdemeanor son Land & Cattle Co.) Rupp Arena – Lexington, Kentucky Marriage for 87 points. Event Leaders (Round 1-Round 2-Round 3-Event Aggregate-Event Points) Cases Dougherty’s Top-5 fin- 1. Eli Vastbinder, 82-84.5-76.5-243.00-31 Points. Christopher Lenoir: licenses filed 2. Thiago Salgado, 88-0-87-175.00-30 Points. Christopher Joseph ish earned him 11 world domestic abuse – assault points and he is now 3. Marcus Mast, 87.5-87-0-174.50-19 Points. and battery Whitten and Leticia Lo- No. 32 in the world after 4. Chase Dougherty, 87-0-87-174.00-11 Points. Randy Shawn McGee: pez Cronin travelling to Lexington 5. Rodrigo Melgar, 0-85-88-173.00-11.33 Points. uttering a forged instru- Jessy Ray Highfill Jr. ranked No. 36. He trails 6. Rafael Henrique dos Santos, 0-85.5-87-172.50-6.5 Points. ment and Olga Gutierrez Vega the world’s Top 30 and a (tie). Michael Lane, 86-86.5-0-172.50-6 Points. position on the premier 8. Wyatt Rogers, 84.5-86.5-0-171.00-2.5 Points. Civil Cases less Divorces filed Unleash The Beast by a 9. Hunter Ball, 83.5-87-0-170.50-5.5 Points. Matthew Faglie vs. slim 6 world points. 10. Jesse Petri, 85.5-0-84.5-170.00-2 Points. than $10,000 Kristen Faglie Rounding out the Cavalry SPV vs. Anna S. Jennings, et al Sara Lee Lovett vs. Ty- ler Lovett PBR Premier series event in Longview, Texas relocated to Fort Worth Feb. 26-27 Black history is part of The PBR (Profession- Longview, Texas origi- American history al Bull Riders) Unleash nally scheduled for Feb. The Beast: American 27-28 has been relocated February is Black History Month and we hon- Roots Edition event in to Fort Worth, Texas and or those that paved a path for others to follow. Cowtown Coliseum and However to me, Black history is American his- will now take place Fri- tory. For instance take Benjamin Oliver Davis Sr. day, Feb. 26 and Satur- Davis was the first African American to rise to day, February 27 at 8 p.m. rank of brigadier general in the U.S. Army. The CST. 54th Massachusetts Regiment commanded by PBR encourages fans Colonel Robert Shaw was one of the first Afri- to hold onto their tickets, can American regiments to see combat during which will be honored for the Civil War. Oklahoma’s own J.C. Watts was the the relocated event. Any first African American Congressmen in Okla- refunds will be issued homa. The Tuskegee Airmen were all African from the original point of American pilots who fought in WWII, escorting purchase. Tickets for the U.S. bombers and eliminating German fighters. PBR Unleash The Beast: Cathay Williams was the first black women to en- American Roots Edition list and the only documented women to serve in event in Fort Worth go the U.S. Army posing as a man during the Ameri- on sale Saturday, Febru- can Indian Wars. ary 20 and can be pur- As you can see this is American history and I chased at the Cowtown for one am grateful each one of these examples Coliseum box office, on- has each made a significant difference in history line through PBRTIX. of the greatest nation on earth, the United States com or by calling (800) of America. God Bless them and God bless OUR 732-1727. America. 1-2-3 break. Wrestling schedule Rodney Haltom Sports Editor Feb. 26-27 State OKC TBA 918-689-2191 [email protected]

Thursday, February 25, 2021 • THE MCINTOSH COUNTY DEMOCRAT • THE INDIAN JOURNAL • PAGE B3 Sports | Outdoors Wildcats eager to swing bats this spring Bringing you outdoor adventures RODNEY HALTOM Daylen Warrior at first SPORTS EDITOR base. Both can produce like never before The Checotah Wild- at the plate as Butler was cats are eager to take the .324 at the plate in 2019. Imagine yourself $10 you spend on a raf- to the baseball diamond “This team has the this spring. After last spending the day chas- fle ticket could become talent to play at a high ing bass with Fishing $40 for fish and wildlife year’s Covid-19 debacle level and they work hard of high school sports Hall-of-Famer Jimmy conservation and man- at their positions. We’re Houston. Or having a agement in Oklahoma. Checotah is ready to pretty blessed because we prove their worthiness. shot at a private-land Raffle tickets are on have Clancy Campbell tom turkey on a guided sale now through the Wildcat head coach Tom at catcher and is one of Butler is excited about hunt. How about getting Wildlife Department’s eight returning starters. up close to an alligator license website at Go- his team and the poten- Andrew Arden hits with tial they have. in the wild? Or perhaps OutdoorsOklahoma. authority and in the out- becoming the proud com. The final day to “I can’t wait. It’s been field Colten Burnett has a long time and our guys owner of an Oklahoma buy tickets for these great speed and quick- Lifetime Hunting and Outdoor Oklahoma Ad- are really excited about ness and a strong arm. playing,” Checotah Tom Fishing License? venture raffles will be In addition, Kayson Flud These possibilities Aug. 6, 2021. Butler said. and Blaine Smith will be Butler and Wildcat will become realities for Here are the Outdoor used in several different the lucky winners in the Oklahoma Adventures Nation should be excit- positions. That tells you a ed, as they will have se- new Outdoor Oklahoma you can try to win: little about their skill set. Adventures raffle pro- - Guided Fishing Trip nior Hayden Price on the They’re talented,” Butler pitcher’s mound. Price gram! with Pro Angler Jimmy added. Whether you are a Houston. has signed with Connors Assistant coach Rob- State College and has an hunter, angler, or some- - Guided Youth Dove ert King will return and one who just appreciates Hunt with Crash Land- arsenal of pitches and is Checotah will have a more than capable with the natural resources we ing Outdoors. another familiar face in have in Oklahoma, these - Snagging for a World a bat. the dugout as Double- Joining Price will be RODNEY HALTOM | SPORTS EDITOR Outdoor Oklahoma Ad- Record Paddlefish with A catcher Caleb Knight Checotah senior pitcher Hayden Price is focused on helping his ventures provide you the Reel Good Time Guide Brock Butler at third will help guide this Alma team win the state championship. base and pitching, and chance to have a great Service. Marta to success. — and likely a once-in- - Guided Youth Duck a-lifetime — outdoor Hunt with MLB Pitcher experience. Archie Bradley. For this round, 14 - Stream Snorkel Trip 5 tips for 2021 graduates to prepare for a raffles are being offered, with ODWC Biologist. with Adventures rang- - Become a Bear Bi- fiercely competitive job market ing from hunting and ologist for a Day. fishing opportunities to - Guided Spring Tur- Colleges may return to for interviews and ulti- your abilities and inter- fields that you’re pursu- wildlife viewing excur- key Hunt With HiRoost normalcy in a few months mately land the job. But ests on social media plat- ing and get credentialed sions and youth oppor- Outfitters. as the rollout of COV- don’t let that discourage forms,” Thompson says. through online training tunities. - Southwestern Okla- ID-19 vaccines contin- you. Instead, let it inspire “This is where you display programs. If opportuni- Anyone can enter, homa Private Land Hunt ues. Meanwhile, in sharp you to grow and learn your public brand. Your ties are far fewer in your whether or not you have for a Cow Elk. contrast to that positive what you need to know profile, posts, photos, and chosen field, research a hunting or fishing li- - Get Up Close to Al- news, millions of college to set yourself apart from videos reflect what you’re where your best skills ap- cense. Tickets are $10 ligators in Southeastern students will graduate this other candidates. It’s all about. It’s key that your ply in other industries.” each or a bundle of five Oklahoma. spring facing bleak em- about positioning yourself presentation and message Prepare for virtual in- tickets for $30 for each - Guided Birding ployment prospects. by building your resume, are consistent on each terviewing. “When you of the Adventure raffles. Trip to Red Slough with The COVID-19 pan- brand, and your network. platform that you use.” interview in person, your Or get an Ultimate Bun- ODWC Experts. demic caused unemploy- And being enthusiastic Expand your network- body language, enthusi- dle for $50, which enters - All-inclusive Spring ment to soar in 2020 about the process.” ing. “Today, about 75 asm, handshake and small you into all 14 raffles. Turkey Hunt in Central and is expected to affect Thompson suggests the percent of new hires hap- talk help build a connec- There is no limit to the Oklahoma. the job market for gradu- following tips for soon- pen through networking,” tion with the interviewer,” number of tickets that - Private Land Youth ates again this year. Some to-be graduates as they Thompson says. “Build Thompson says. “Being you can buy. Deer Hunt. labor analysts see the pan- prepare for a fiercely com- a target list of people to interviewed on a screen All proceeds from - Spend a Day With demic perhaps having petitive job market: contact at companies that demands that you be fully these raffle opportuni- Any ODWC Employee. this ripple effect on grad- Build your brand. The are hiring. Join discus- engaged, establish a rap- ties go directly to the - Win a Lifetime uates for years to come. job market is so competi- sion groups on LinkedIn port, have continual eye Oklahoma Department Hunting and Fishing Li- These sobering trends tive that companies are that can expand your con- contact and express your- of Wildlife Conserva- cense. are why students should looking for far more than tacts and your knowledge. self clearly.” tion to fund fish and See all the details of expand their preparation candidates with a high Connect with thought “How you stand out wildlife conservation, each Adventure along for the job market and GPA. “Hiring managers leaders and ask them from the crowd has always and public hunting and with the rules at www. know what action steps often seek well-rounded questions to gain insight.” been the differentiator in fishing opportunities for wildlifedepartment. they need to take, says young people who can Upskill. “Companies hiring,” Thompson says. everyone to enjoy. For com/outdoorok/adven- Vince Thompson (www. communicate, collaborate want young people who “It’s much a bigger crowd each raffle dollar raised, tures. Don’t miss your meltatl.com), founder and and create,” Thompson are versatile and able to now for fewer jobs, so the ODWC can access $3 chance of getting drawn CEO of the marketing says. “They’re looking for learn new skills quickly,” importance of prepara- in federal Wildlife and for an Outdoor Oklaho- agency MELT and author people who have been Thompson says. “Re- tion in all facets has never Sport Fish Restoration ma Adventure of a life- of Building Brand You: active outside the class- search skills required in been more important.” funding. That means the time! How To Use Your College room as well – in clubs, Experience To Find And the community, volun- Win Your First Job. teer work, etc. All of these “Thanks to COVID-19, aspects are part of your if you’re in college right brand. Also, the new lit- On this day in U.S. military history now or recently gradu- mus test in the job market ated, you’re facing the will be, ‘What did you do RODNEY HALTOM works at Regensburg and Augs- number of communist ground toughest job market in to improve yourself and On February 25, 1811 – Con- burg. Losses are reported at 30 forces from winning their objec- our lifetime,” Thomp- others during COVID? gress authorizes first naval hospi- and 35 bombers, of the 8th and tives. Lieutenant General George son says. “With so many Or did you do nothing tal. 15th Air Forces respectively, E. Stratemeyer, Far East Forces people unemployed and and feel sorry for your- 1836 – Samuel Colt patented as well as 8 escort fighters. The Commander, said “Our inter- displaced, people will be self?’ Employers are going the first revolving barrel multi- Americans claim to shoot down diction from the air of the main willing to take a lesser job to be looking for those in- shot firearm. 142 German fighters as well as enemy resupply lines, plus our for a lesser salary just to tangibles.” 1861 – The Confederate Ma- destroying 1000 German fight- continued and systematic de- get back in the market. Organize your market- rine Corps was organized in ers on the assembly lines and struction of such supply caches “To use a fishing anal- ing playbook. “Utilizing a Richmond, Virginia. 1000 more lost to the disruption as he had been able to build up ogy, it’s going to take a lot complete marketing play- 1862 – U.S.S. Monitor com- of production. During the night, in his immediate rear areas, not of casts to get a few bites book means leveraging missioned in New York, Lieuten- RAF Bomber Command attacks only prevented the Communist ant John L. Worden command- Augsburg in two waves. from exploiting his initial mo- ing. Captain Dahlgren described 1945 – Duren is taken by mentum but also enabled our Monitor as ”a mere speck, like a the US 7th Corps (part of US ground forces to resume the of- Lake Eufaula Fishing Report hat on the surface.” 1st Army). Other bridgeheads fensive.” Elevation above normal, water 40 and murky. 1913 – The Sixteenth Amend- over the Roer River have been 1972 – U.S. troops clash with For current elevation conditions go to the U.S. ment, which effectively paved the captured to north and south of North Vietnamese forces in a Army Corps of Engineers website at https:// path for the United States’ adop- Duren and they are rapidly be- major battle 42 miles east of Sai- www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/EUFA.lakepage. tion of an income tax, was ratified ing extended. To the south, on gon, the biggest single U.S. en- html. Largemouth, smallmouth, spotted and on this day in 1913, although its the right flank of US 3rd Army, gagement with an enemy force striped bass good on crankbaits, jerk baits, small roots can be traced back to 1895. crossings over the Saar have also in nearly a year. The five-hour lures and spinnerbaits around brush structure, 1933 – The USS Ranger be- been made near Saarburg. action around a communist bun- docks and main lake. Blue, channel and flathead comes the US first aircraft carrier, 1945 – On Iwo Jima, the ad- ker line resulted in four dead and catfish good on chicken liver, cut bait, hotdogs built to be a carrier. vance of US 5th Amphibious 47 wounded, almost half the U.S. and stinkbait below the dam, along channels, 1944 – In the climax of the Corps continues but there are weekly casualties. creek channel, discharge, inlet and river mouth. “Big Week” bombing campaign, heavy losses in the area around 1991 – In the most decisive ac- Crappie good on hair jigs, jigs, minnows and aircraft of the US 8th Air Force the second airfield. The US 3rd tions of the Gulf War, VII Corps, tube jigs around brush structure, creek channels, (830 bombers) and the US 15th Marine Division is committed to moving directly east with three discharge and docks. Air Force (150 bombers), with the battle. heavy divisions abreast, attacked Report submitted by David deMontigny, game fighter escorts, conduct a day- 1951 – Air attacks on enemy the elite Iraqi Republican Guard warden stationed in McIntosh County. light raid of the Messerschmitt supply lines prevented a superior units. Thursday, April 23, 2020 • The McIntosh County Democrat • The Eufaula Indian Journal PAGE B4 • THE MCINTOSH COUNTY DEMOCRAT • THE INDIAN JOURNAL • Thursday, February 25, 2021 LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS

words and figures. LegalLEGAL Notice NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES PUBLISHER’S (96) hours, excluding Saturdays, NOTICE: NOTICE BY PUBLICATION and to the property described in the the Plaintiffs against all adverse claims All real estate advertised herein Legal Notice Legal Notice STATE OF OKLAHOMA TO: Petition on file herein. of all of said Defendants. is subject to the Federal Fair Published in the Indian Published in the Indian Journal, THE UNKNOWN HEIRS, BENEFI- Said Defendants, and each of them, GIVEN UNDER MY HAND AND Thursday, February 25, March 4 and Housing Act, which makes it Journal, Thursday, February CIARIES, EXECUTORS, DEVISEES, must file an Answer to the Petition filed SEAL this 22nd day of January, 2021. 18 and 25, 2021 11, 2021 TRUSTEES, LEGATEES, SUCCES- byEagan the PlaintiffsLaw Office on or before the 7th McIntosh County Court Clerk illegal to advertise “any pref- IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF NOTICE OF DEFAULT SORS,A cashier’s AND check, ASSIGNS, a certified IMMEDI- check day of April, 2021, with a copy thereof /s/ Donna Coffman MCINTOSH COUNTY erence, limitation or discrimi- Little Turtle RV & Storage ATE AND REMOTE, OF JOHN W. directed to Plaintiffs’ attorney of record, By: STATE OF OKLAHOMA nation because of race, color, Storage Unit I-12, rented by BROWN,five percent JR., (5%)A/K/A of JOHNthe bid BROWN, shall or said Petition will be taken as true Brooke H. Unruh, OBA #20878 religion, sex, handicap, famil- Jolene Molter GARY M. VANDERWERFF AND DECEASED; HELEN C. CODDING, and(918) judgment 689-2528 rendered, adjudging and Dovedan, McMillin & Unruh, Delinquent from November JOAN A. VANDERWERFF, TRUST- ial status or national origin, 15 (fifteen) days from date of this A/K/A HELEN CODDING, DE- decreeing the Plaintiffs herein as the PLLC 11, 2020 EES OF THE VANDERWERFF FAM- CEASED; AND CHARLES H. COD- owner of the property as described in 1930 South Bryant Ave. or intention to make any such ILY TRUST DATED DECEMBER 15, fullLittle no more Turtle than RV15 (fifteen)and Storage days DING, JR., DECEASED: the Petition on file herein and entitled Edmond, Oklahoma 73013 preference, limitation or dis- located at 114161 Highway 69, 2017;in, be AND denied the benefits of or be YOU AND EACH OF YOU are to the possession thereof, and that all of Telephone: (405) 509-1924 crimination.” Eufaula, OK 74432 will dispose HAROLD CODDING, INDIVID- 4. Certification of Non- hereby notified that Gary M. Vander- said Defendants have no right, title or Email:[email protected] This newspaper will not know- and/or dispense said property UALLY Werff and Joan A. VanderWerff, Trust- interest therein, and quieting the title of ATTORNEY FOR PLAINTIFFS in Storage Unit I-12 to satisfy Plaintiffs, ees of the VanderWerff Family Trust, ingly accept any advertising for v. Lessee’s default in payment 15 dated December 15, 2017; and Harold Petition filed in said Cause on or real estate which is in violation (fifteen) days from date of this The unknown heirs, beneficiaries, Codding, individually, Plaintiffs, have of the law. All persons are here- publication. Lessee must pay administrators, executors, devisees, filedthirty in (30) the daysDistrict from Court the dateof McIntosh of the Legal Notice by informed that all dwellings in full no more than 15 (fifteen) trustees, legatees, successors, and County, State of Oklahoma, a Petition advertised are available on an days from the date of this pub- assigns, immediate and remote, of against the unknown successors and Published in the Indian Journal, JOHN W. Thursday, February 25, 2021 and March 4, 2021. equal opportunity basis. lic notice to avoid this action. assigns, both immediate and remote, Signed BROWN, JR., A/K/A JOHN of John W. Brown, Jr., a/k/a John title and confirming possession as STATE OF OKLAHOMA Little Turtle RV & Storage BROWN, DECEASED; Brown, Deceased; Helen C. Codding, OKLAHOMA TURNPIKE AUTHORITY The unknown heirs, beneficiaries, a/k/a Helen Codding, Deceased; and Advertisement to Contractors – administrators, executors, devisees, Charles H. Codding, Jr., Deceased, A one-third (1/3) interest in a part March 16, 2021 10:00 A.M. Bid Opening Legal Notice trustees, legatees, successors, and Defendants therein, alleging that the Published in the Indian assigns, immediate and remote, of above named persons are deceased, Plans and proposals for this bid opening will be ready for sale on Febru- 2 Col, (3.08") X 7.3” Journal, Thursday, February HELEN C. CODDING, A/K/A HEL- and that their successors may claim an ary 23, 2021. No bidding proposals will be issued to any Contractor after 18 and 25, 2021 EN CODDING, interest in the lands described in the March 15, 2021 10:00 A.M. The cost for each bidding proposal is $50.00 12 Tabs, 429 Words NOTICE OF DEFAULT DECEASED; Petition on file herein; (Lots 1 and 2 +tax. State Standard Specifications may be purchased by contacting the HOUSING / Little Turtle RV & Storage The unknown heirs, beneficiaries, and the S/2 NE/4 of Section 1, Town- Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT) Office Services Di- PROPERTY Storage Unit I-14, rented by administrators, executors, devisees, ship 12 North, Range 15 East, McIn- vision. No refunds will be made for bidding documents or specification Jolene Molter trustees, legatees, successors, and tosh County, Oklahoma); that Plain- books purchased. Delinquent from October 7, assigns, immediate and remote, of tiffs are now the sole owners of said Sample proposals, preliminary plans, long form and short form notices, For Rent 2020 CHARLES H. CODDING, JR., DE- property as set forth in the Petition; order forms, bid tabs and awards, can be accessed on ODOT’s Web site: Little Turtle RV and Storage CEASED;Management (SAM) registration that the unknown successors and as- http://www.okladot.state.ok.us/contracts/index.htm. NORMA CODDING; located at 114161 Highway 69, signs, immediate and remote, of John Bids must be prepared as directed by the State Standard Specifications. LILLA HIGDON, A/K/A LILLA Need a place to hide and re- Eufaula, OK 74432 will dispose W. Brown, Jr., a/k/a John Brown, De- Unless otherwise specified, bids for all projects must be submitted over CODDINGtractors) in HIGDON;order to be awarded lax? Two-room suites $350/ and/or dispense said property ceased; Helen C. Codding, a/k/a Hel- the internet to Bid Express(http://www.bidx.com) using AASHTOware CHARLES H. CODDING, A/K/A in Storage Unit I-14 to satisfy en Codding, Deceased; and Charles tion ofProject said Plaintiff Bids. Instructions on file in for said using Bid Express, Project Bids, and the week, one-room $220/week. C. H. CODDING III; Lessee’s default in payment 15 H. Codding, Jr., Deceased, may claim electronic bidding process are available from the Office Engineer Divi- Utilities paid, fully furnished, PAUL CODDING; (fifteen) days from date of this some right, title, or interest in and sion. When written bids are allowed, sealed proposals may be delivered ELIZABETH SUMNICHT; fridge, microwave. Monthly publication. Lessee must pay to said interest adverse to Plaintiffs, directly to the Office Engineer Division prior to the scheduled bid opening. AND rates available! Lake Eu- in full no more than 15 (fifteen) which claims constitute a cloud on For written bids, do not disassemble the bidding proposal in any way. THE STATE OF OKLAHOMA ex the Plaintiffs’ title; that the title of the faula Inn, I40 and Hwy 150. days from the date of this pub- cordance with specifications on Any firm bidding a project as a joint venture must complete the ‘Request rel. Plaintiffs in and to said property be 918-473-2376. lic notice to avoid this action. file in the Engineer’s Office. Plans, (property)for Joint situated Venture’ in form, McIntosh which is posted on the ODOT website, prior to the specificationsOKLAHOMA and TAXother COMMIS-bidding quieted as against the Defendants, and Signed bid opening. Little Turtle RV & Storage SION, each of them be perpetually barred Defendants. and enjoined from setting up or as- Unless otherwise specified in the proposal, all bids must be submitted Mobile Homes Case No. CV-21-12 serting any right, title or interest in with a proposal guaranty equal to 5 % of the bid total. Legal Notice A virtual Pre-Bid Meeting will be held via ZOOM (https://zoom. 2010 Clayton mobile home Published in the Indian Journal, the officialus/j/89831447748). Plat thereof. at 10:00 AM on March 02, 2021 concerning this to be moved. Three bed- Thursday, February 18, 25 and March BUSINESS | EMPLOYMENT March 16, 2021 10:00 A.M. bid opening . Note, if you do not have a mi- crophone on your computer, you can also call this number using your room two bath, 16x76, front 4, 2021 IN THE DISTRICT COURT Help Wanted phone,+1 253 215 8782 or+1 346 248 7799 Meeting ID: 898 3144 7748. and back deck, partially fur- WITHIN AND FOR Submit any questions or concerns to the Office Engineer Division via nished, very good condition, MCINTOSH COUNTY email: [email protected], fax: (405)522-0972, or phone: (405)521-2625. Please include the words “Pre-bid question(s)” along with $28,500. 918-618-3707; STATE OF OKLAHOMA U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSO- the call order and the bid opening date of the project in question in the 918-618-3708. CIATION, subject line of the correspondence. Telephone: (918) 689-253 Petition filed in said Cause on or Plaintiff, The Oklahoma Department of Transportation(ODOT) and the Oklahoma vs. Turnpike Authority (OTA) ensures that no person or groups of persons SERVICES JAMES W. SANDERS, INDIVID- shall, on the grounds of race, color, sex, religion, national origin,age, dis- UALLY AND AS TRUSTEE OF THE ability, retaliation or genetic information, be excluded from participation SANDERS FAMILY REVOCABLE in, be denied the benefits of, or be otherwise subjected to discrimination Hardcopy plans and specifications Cleaning TRUST ESTABLISHED ON THE title and confirming possession as under any and all programs, services, or activities administered by ODOT 12TH DAY OF DECEMBER, 2018, or OT A, their recipients, sub-recipients, and contractors. To request an No Fuss No Dust Cleaning et al., accommodation please contact the ADA Coordinator at (405)521-4140 or May,Defendant(s). 2020, and then at said office Lots Two (2) and Three (3) in Block the Oklahoma Relay Service at 1-800-722-0353. If you have any ADA or Service: home, boat, busi- One (1) Bridgeport Beach Second ness, pressure washing, No. CJ-2020-75 Title VI questions email [email protected]. NOTICE BY PUBLICATION Description of work and location of project: Call Order: 021 tree/yard service. 918-421- THE STATE OF OKLAHOMA IN-MC-62C TURNPIKE PITTSBURG JP No.35280(04) ment 15 (fifteen) days from date of Northeast Quarter (SW/4 NE/4) 9966. TO: James W. Sanders, Individually of Section Eleven (11), Township AND MCINTOSH and as Trustee of the Sanders Fam- in full no more than 15 (fifteen) Ten (10) North, Range Sixteen (16) CABLE BARRIER, TRAFFIC SIGNING, AND STRIPING ily Revocable Trust Established on the Gravel, Sand, Etc 12th day of December, 2018, INDIAN NATION TURNPIKE: FROM M.P. 75.25, EXTEND NORTH TO Bette J. Sanders, Individually and M.P. 87.93 NEAR MCALESTER AND VERNON. All your gravel, sand, rock as Trustee of the Sanders Family Re- STATE OF OKLAHOMA, OKLAHOMA(918) TURNPIKE 689-2528 AUTHORITY envelope addressed as specified and other materials deliv- vocable Trust Established on the 12th WITNESS my hand and official- By: TIM seal J. GATZ, Director ered. Full loads (ten wheel- day of December, 2018 TAKE NOTICE that you have er) or half loads. Tractor and been sued by U.S. BANK NATIONAL skid steer available. Terry’s ASSOCIATION, and that you must Trucks 918-707-0732. answer the Petition of said Plaintiff on COMMISSIONERSfile in said MINUTES cause on or before April 4, Tulsa 2021, or the allegations of said Petition (918) 689-2528 Recycle/Trash ServiceMINUTES OF REGULARwill be MEETING taken as true and judgment E. A Motion was made by Pendley and seconded by Phillips to approve deposits. McINTOSH COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS The MotionStockyard was approved with the following votes: Inc. All aye. (918) 471-4002 facsimile April 6threndered,, 2020 foreclosing any interest you F. A Motion was made by Phillips and seconded by Pendley to approve Donation may have in the following-described No. R-20-27.Sale The every Motion was approved Monday with the following 9 a.m.votes: All aye. The McIntosh County Board of Commissionersreal met estateon Monday, (property) April 6th situated, 2020, in ain regu- Mc- G. A MotionN.E. Oklahoma’s was made by Pendley largest and and seconded finest by livestock Phillips to approve market. Expense larly scheduled Meeting, at 8:00 a.m. in the Commissioners’ meeting room on the first Report for FY 2019/2020Over 100,000 dated April head 6th ,sold 2020. annually. The Motion was approved with floor. Chairman, Michael Burns; Vice Chairman,Intosh Bill Phillips; County, Member, Oklahoma, Tim Pendley; to-wit: and the following votes: All aye. County Clerk, Ronda Prince, were all present. AdvanceLots notice 24 and of 25the ofMeeting Block was 5 of posted Stout’s on H. BOCCLarge acknowledged enough to receipt serve of you, McIntosh small County enough Treasurer to knowStatutory you. Report as of the bulletin board next to the Commissioners’Second room, and Addition also at both to the the south City and of east Che- January 31st, 2020 (prepared by State Auditor and Inspector). DON’S MOBILE HOMES – SERVING entrancesSue’s of the Courthouse, on the 2nd day of April, 2020. I. A Motion wasWeekly made by Phillips Market and seconded byReport Pendley to approve Cash Fund I. The MeetingRECYCLING, was called to order by Chairman,cotah, Michael McIntosh Burns, at County,8:00 am. Oklahoma, Estimate of Needs andTotal Request Head for Appropriations.of Cattle: 860 The Motion was approved THE AREA SINCE 1984. FEATURING II. Roll was called with the following responses:being Burns, a part present; of the Phillips, S1/2 ofpresent; the SW/4 and of Weightwith the following votes:Feeder All aye. Steers Feeder Heifers Pendley,SANITATION present. & Section 32, Township 12 North, Range J. A Motion was made by Pendley and seconded by Phillips to approve Monthly III. A Motion was made by Pendley and seconded by Phillips to approve Minutes of the 300-350Reports of County $180.00-$190.00Officials. The Motion was approved$147.00-$157.00 with the following votes: HOMES BY WINSTON, HAMILTON, TRANSFER Commissioners’ Meeting STATION held on March 3017th, 2020. East The of Motion the Indian was approved Base & with Merid- the All aye. 350-400 following votes: All aye. ian AND Lot 8 and 9 Block 5 of Stout’s K. A Motion was made$185.00-$195.00 by Pendley and seconded by Phillips$145.00-$155.00 to approve Certificate NEW VISION & DEER VALLEY. CHECK IV. Purchase Orders: A Motion was made by Phillips and seconded by Pendley to approve 400-450of County Treasurer, Request for Approval of Allocation of Alcoholic Beverage Second Addition th to the City of Che- $169.00-$179.00 $137.50-$147.50 signingLet of Uspurchase Supply orders Your to be processed for payment on April 6 , 2020. The Motion was 450-500Tax. The Motion was approved with the following votes: All aye. OUR WEBSITE TO SEE FLOOR- approvedTrash with Disposal the following Needs votes: All aye: 2019-2020cotah, McIntosh911 Phone 386, County, AT&T (SBC), Oklahoma, 317.53, L. A Motion was made$167.50-$177.50 by Phillips and seconded by Pendley$140.00-$150.00 to approve Treasurer UTILITIES387, CANADIAN VALLEY ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE,being a part ofCVEC, the 27.82,S1/2 ofUTILITIES388, the SW/4 of 500-550Quarterly Fee Report (quarter ended 3/31/20). The Motion was approved with AT&T, 317.53, UTILITIES389, AT&T (SBC), 317.53, UTILITIES390, AT&T (SBC), 317.53, UTILI- the following votes:$164.00-$174.00 All aye. $136.50-$146.50 PLANS, PICTURES, VIRTUAL TOURS Section 32, Township 12 North, Range 550-600 TIES 391, AT&T,Residential 234.34, UTILITIES; CDBG 4, SHADY GROVE RWD#5, 38043.78, REIMBURSE- M. A Motion was made$166.50-$176.50 by Pendley and seconded by Phillips$128.50-$139.00 to approve Election MENT; General 3080, SOUTER LIMESTONE & MINERALS,17 East of LLC, the 1023.09, Indian RoadBase Material3081, & Meridian, 600-650Board Payroll Reimbursement. The Motion was approved with the following & PRICING. BANK OF EUFAULA, 5.00, Payroll3082, JIFFY MART,for 397.03, the sum FUEL3083, of: PHILLIPS, BILLY votes: All aye. $142.00-$152.00 $120.50-$230.50 BOB,Commercial 30.19, TRAVEL3084, • Industrial BURNS, MICHAEL GENE, 88.38, TRAVEL3085, E.O.D.L.S., 9412.72, N. A Motion was made by Pendley and seconded by Phillips to approve SALARY3086, MCINTOSH CO FAIR BOARD, 600.00,Reason RENT3087, - UnpaidSHATSWELL, Principal GINNA Bal- Requisitioning and Receiving Officers (County Jail). The Motion was approved CAMILLE, 150.00, JANITORIAL SERVICE3088, CANONance: Amount FINANCIAL - $254,720.36SERVICES, 145.51, COPIER Joewith the followingDon votes: AllEaves aye. 3020 West Cherokee, Sallisaw LEASE3089,Call EMBROIDERY for Prices PLUS, 264.00, FIREMEN GEAR3090,Date of Default: SAF-T-GLOVE, 11/01/2019 INC, 174.04, O. A Motion Cellwas made 918-760-1300 by Phillips and seconded by Pendley to approve Blanket for FIREMEN GEAR3091, OSU COOPERATIVE EXTENSION SER., 4983.00, CONTRACTUAL SER- Oak Grove Senior Citizens Center (Bailey Breedlove) for $200.00. The Motion was VICES 3092, COOKSON HILLS PUBLISHERS INC, 128.16,Interest PUBLICATION3093, Due From: 10/01/2019 INDIAN NATION approvedOffice with the 918-234-3438 following votes: All aye. 918-775-5581 • 800-940-5581 WHOLESALE,We Pick667.86, FOOD3094,Up or HENSON CONSTRUCTION,including 1400.94, all subsequent REPAIRS3095, advances MCI, P. A MotionHome was made 918-266-2893 by Pendley and seconded by Phillips to approve Transfer 30.70, UTILITIES3096, EAST CENTRAL ELECTRIC,by Plaintiff,ECE, 120.01, if UTILITIES3097, any, for taxes, CANADIAN insurance of Appropriations (County Jail) in the amount of $7,000.00. The Motion was VALLEYYou ELECTRIC Bring COOPERATIVE, to Us! CVEC, 77.52, UTILITIES3098, PIED PIPER, 60.00, PEST approved with the following votes: All aye. visit us at donsmobilehomes.com SPRAYING3099, EAST CENTRAL OKLAHOMA APPRAISAL,premiums, LLC, or 6200.00, expenses PARCELS3100, necessary for Q. A Motion was made by Pendley and seconded by Phillips to approve Electronic AT&T, 166.03, UTILITIES3101, OG&E, 99.28, UTILITIESthe preservation 3102, CVEC, of164.29, the subjectUTILITIES3103, prop- payment for Bank of America P-Card statement (March 2020) for $337.53. The SALES & SERVICE • MOBILE HOME INSURANCE OG&E,918-473-2286 857.22, UTILITIES3104, EUFAULA TRUEerty, VALUE, all 41.94,costs BATTERIESof this action; 3105, reasonable AT&T, Motion was approved with the following votes: All aye. 188.27, UTILITIES3106, MILLER OFFICE EQUIPMENT, 374.90, COPIER/OVERAGES 3107, R. OKLAHOMA A Motion was made by Phillips and seconded by Pendley to approve 324A Claim AT&T, 157.97, UTILITIES3108, AT&T, 108.88, UTILITIES;attorney’s Health fees 301,and OKLAHOMAcosts as the STATE Court for payment to Porum Public Works Authority in the amount of $24,817.50 DEPTOpen OF HEALTH, Mon-Fri 10939.38, 8am to 4pmSALARY302, ELITEmay SPRAY allow, SERVICES, and the LLC, costs 90.00, of PEST foreclos- SPRAY- (District #2). The Motion was approved with the following votes: All aye. ING303, ELITE421106 SPRAY E 1040 SERVICES, Rd LLC, 80.00, PESTing SPRAYING304,your interest FIVE in STARthe property OFFICE SUPPLY, and S.CLASSIFIED A Motion was made by Pendley and seconded by Phillips to approve Transfer of 129.40, OFFICE SUPPLIES305, STATEWIDE COMMERICAL CLEANING COMPANY, 1250.00, Appropriations (General Government) in the amount of $ 29.22. The Motion was JANITORIALChECOTAh, SERVICE306, OK BLIZZARD, APRIL, 22.66,ordering TRAVEL307, said propertyLYNN, AMANDA, sold with15.12, or ADapproved NETWORK with the following votes: All aye. 3TRAVEL308, miles north EUBANKS, of Checotah SUSAN on Bus.DIANE, 69 105.86,without TRAVEL309, appraisement PITNEY BOWES as RESERVEPlaintiff ACCT, may T. A Motion was made by Pendley and seconded by Phillips to approve Transfer of 182.46, POSTAGE METER/EQP LEASE310, PITNEYelect, BOWES all RESERVE of which ACCT, you 182.46, will take POST- due Funds (RWD#5 CDBG) in the amount of $38,043.78. The Motion was approved AGE METER/EQPsuesrecycling.com LEASE311, WAL MART, 209.52, MEDICAL SUPPLIES312, AT&T MOBILITY, FORwith MORE the following INFO votes: CALL All aye. FARM AUCTION 41.85, UTILITIES313, AT&T MOBILITY, 309.62,notice. UTILITIES314, OG&E, 248.85, UTILITIES315, U. A Motion was made by Pendley and seconded by Phillips to approve Transfer of WINDSTREAM TELEPHONE, 257.85, UTILITIES316, SUESWITNESS RECYCLING my & handSANITATION, and official 43.00, 1-888-815-2672Funds (RWD#5 CDBG) in the amount of $156,609.94. The Motion was approved UTILITIES317, AT&T (SBC), 658.27, UTILITIES; sealHighway this 1913, 28 day ALPHA of Jan, DRUG 2021. TESTING CO., with the following votes: All aye. 50.00, DRUG TESTING1914, CINTAS, 56.68, UNIFORM CLEANING1915, ENGELMAN’S TRUCK V. A WANTMotion was TO made BUY by Pendley and seconded by Phillips to approve Transfer of SERVICE, INC, 480.00, REPAIRS1916, MHC KENWORTHLisa TULSA, Rodebush, 257.57, Court PARTS1917, Clerk DIRECT Funds (RWD#5 CDBG) in the amount of $50,146.28.SATURDAY The Motion was approved • FEBRUARY 27 • 10AM DISCOUNT TIRE OF STILLWATER, 1409.94, TIRES1918,By:/s/ CINTAS, Donna 56.68, Coffman UNIFORM CLEAN- with the following votes: All aye. Petition filed in said Cause on or ING1919, HOPKINS FUEL & PROPANE, 2006.00, FUEL1920,DEPUTY SUES COURT RECYCLING CLERK & SANITATION, OLDW. GUITAR$ A Motion was WANTED! made by Phillips LARRY and seconded by Pendley to approve Transfer of 75.00, TRASH SERVICE1921, MHC KENWORTH TULSA, 118.74, PARTS1922, CINTAS, 56.68, BRING$ Appropriations CA$H for (Pierce vintage Rd. Project, USA District #3) in the amount of $85,000.00. The UNIFORM CallCLEANING1923, Jean CANADIAN VALLEY ELECTRICDon Timberlake COOPERATIVE, - # CVEC, 9021 105.62, Motion was approved with the following votes: All aye. UTILITIES1924, AT&T, 266.50, UTILITIES1925, SOUTERChynna LIMESTONE Scruggs & MINERALS, - # 32663 LLC, guitars,X. tube A Motion amps, was banjos, made by mandolins, Pendley and seconded by Phillips to approve Transfer Estate of Ty Lindley 8333.20, Road Material1926, P&K EQUIPMENT, JOHNKim DEERE, S. Jenkins 331.00, -BLADES1927, # 32809 CINTAS, etc. Fender,of Appropriations Gibson, Martin, (Paradise Gretsch, Point Rd. Project, District #3) in the amount of 130.02, UNIFORM CLEANING1928, HOPKINS FUEL & PROPANE, 218.53, FUEL1929, RINKER others. Call$127,000.00. or text The 918-288-2222.Motion was approved with the following votes: All aye. AUTOMOTIVEfor PRODUCTS,all your 271.64, SUPPLIES1930, BANKWilliam OF AMERICA,H. Sullivan 88.86, - # PARTS1931, 8761 Y. A Motion was made by Pendley and seconded3 by MILES Phillips to approve NE Transfer OF VIAN ON DWIGHT MISSIONtitle and confirming ROAD possession as YELLOWHOUSE MACHINERY CO., 716.10, HYDRAULICBAER FLUID1932, & TIMBERLAKE, HOPKINS OIL P.C. CO., www.stringswest.comof Appropriations (Lotawatah Village Project, District #3) in the amount of RENT ON HANNA YARD, 200.00, RENT1933, NAPA AUTO PARTS, 2089.05, PARTS1934, $135,000.00. The Motion was approved with the following votes: All aye. DIRECT DISCOUNT TIRE OF STILLWATER, 511.24, TIRES1935,P.O. Box 18486 CVEC, 161.51, UTILITIES1936, Z. A Motion was made by Phillips and seconded by Pendley to approve payroll advertisingPUBLIC SERVICE CO. OF needs... OK., 35.90, UTILITIES1937,Oklahoma EAST CENTRAL City, ELECTRIC, OK 73154-0486 ECE, 35.00, FREON dated WANTED: April 8thWe, 2020. pay The $$$ Motion for was approvedKubota with the following M5040 votes: 4x4 All aye. Tractor w/Loader, only 520 one-ownerLots NINE (9) and hours TEN (10), * 12’in UTILITIES1938, SUES RECYCLING & SANITATION, 65.00,Telephone: UTILITIES1939, HOPKINS (405) 842-7722 FUEL & cylindersAA. A andMotion cans. was made R12 by R500 Pendley R11 and seconded by Phillips to accept all 3 bids Block THREE (3), of Bridgeport PROPANE, 2366.63, FUEL1940, AT&T (SBC), 202.20,Facsimile: UTILITIES1941, AT&T, (405) 52.58, UTILITIES; 848- R113 R114.received Convenient. for asphalting. The Certified Motion was approvedLandpride with the following Batwing votes: Brushog * Kubota RTV 500 Side-by-Side * 14’ Stock Trailer Jail-ST918-689-2191 1236, MR. PRINTER, 247.00, SIGN1237, MR. PRINTER, 247.00, SIGN1238, G&C ELEC- All aye. A Motion was made by Phillips and seconded by Pendley to approve TRIC, BILL E. GRISSOM, 244.43, ELECTRIC1239,9349 TURN KEY HEALTH CLINICS, LLC, 12345.03, Professionals.awarding Call bid 312-291-9169 to McGuire Brothers. or visit The Motion was approved with the following MEDICAL1240, MR. PRINTER, 96.00, SUPPLIES1241,[email protected] OFFICE DEPOT, 218.25, OFFICE SUP- RefrigerantFinders.comvotes: All aye. * 20’ Metal Floor Flatbed Trailer * Gravely 50” Zero Turn Mower * 7 Box Blade * PLIES1242, OFFICE DEPOT, 349.99, OFFICE SUPPLIES1243, SIMPLISTIL WELLNESS, 459.00, AB. (9:30 a.m.) Quarterly Meeting of County Officials. Nothing new to report. CLEANING SUPPLIES1244, ICS WACO SALES, 209.00, SUPPLIES1245, O REILLY AUTOMO- AttendedCATTLE by CountySALE Clerk, Treasurer, Assessor,4’ Garden and all three Tiller Commissioners. * 5’ Brushog * Post Hole Auger * Cultivator * Plow * Broadcast TIVE INC., 20.98, TINT1246, PRODIGY SOLUTIONS, INC, 1677.00, phone cards; Mtg Cert VII. BOCC Comments or Concerns: None. 44, AT&T, 54.33, UTILITIES; SH Svc Fee 347, YOUNGBLOOD, MATTHEW FALLON, 10.00, VIII. A Motion was made by Phillips and seconded bySeeder Pendley to adjourn* Squeeze Meeting. The Chute * Cattle Panels * Welders * 60 Gal Air Compressor * REIMBURSEMENT348, OFFICE DEPOT, 852.37, OFFICE SUPPLIES349, US BANK EQUIPMENT MotionMcALESTER was approved STOCKYARDS with the following SPECIAL votes: All aye. FINANCE, 529.98, COPIER LEASE350, DOUGS AUTO REPAIR, 71.00, REPAIRS351, BRANS- Signed this 13th day of April, 2020. Roll-in Showers PUBLIC NOTICE COW & BULL Roll-in SALE, Saturday, Showers March CUM, KEVIN JOSEPH, 65.00, REPAIR AUTO/SHERIFF Metal Brake * Large Roll-in Tool Chest Showers Roll-in FULL Showersof Tools * Wood Splitter * Miter Saw * V. Reports BOARD6th, at OF Noon!COUNTY Quality COMMISSIONERS Bred Cows, YouA. benefit 911 Coordinator, from public Matt notices. Hackler, gavePublic his reportnotices to theare BOCC. required because Heifers, Pairs, & Bulls. 918-423-2834for qualified Table Saw * Engine Stands * Drill Press * Parts Washer * Water Pumps * Lots of B. Emergency Manager, Susan Whittle, gave her report to the BOCC. Michael Burns, Chairmanfor qualified VI.a governmentAction Items body or corporation wants to do something you need Billwww.mcalesterstockyards.com Phillips, Vice Chairman for qualifiedfor qualified A. A Motion was made by Phillips and seconded by Pendley to approve purchase of Tim Pendley, Member SHOP TOOLS * Deep Freezers * Automatic Pig Feeders * Scales * LOTS MORE! to know replacementabout. vehicle for Emergency Management. The Motion was approved with ADVERTISE STATEWIDEVeterans the following votes: All aye. ATTEST: Veterans WhenB. government A Motion was ismade about by Pendley to change and seconded your life, by Phillipsor your to propertyapprove Transfer or VeteransVeterans of Appropriations (Emergency Management) in the amount of $6,000.00. The RondaPut your Prince, message County where Clerk it matters most WRIGHT-WAY AUCTION SERVICE assets areMotion about was toapproved be taken, with thenewspaper following votes: notices All aye. are there to keep – IN OKLAHOMACall NEWSPAPERS. Now!Call We Now! C. Sherry Burke with Health Dept. came and gave update on COVID-19. On th can place your ad in 148 newspapers. you informed.Thursday April 9 , 2020, the Eufaula Health Dept. will offer testing with prior Call Now! appointment from 9am until 1pm. For more information800-975-0056 or 800-975-0056 to place Wright,Call AuctioneerNow! (918) 774-5196Tommy D. BOCCwww.oklahomanotices.com and Monica Smith, Jail Administrator, discussed COVID-19. an ad, contact Landon Cobb at (405) 499-0022 or toll-free in OK at 800-975-0056800-975-0056 for free access to public notices in Oklahoma newspapers 1-888-815-2672. Photos at: wrightwayauctions.com LPXLP HalfHalf PricePrice HalfHalf Walk-inWalk-in Tubs Tubs PricePrice Walk-inWalk-in Tubs Tubs

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PAGE B6 • THE MCINTOSH COUNTY DEMOCRAT • THE INDIAN JOURNAL • Thursday, February 25, 2021