Weather, high usage cause county water issues

PATRICK FORD NEWS EDITOR Freezing temperatures, higher use and water line breaks and leaks have caused headaches for many around the city and county over the past few days. Okmulgee Public Works reported the water plant was operating at very high levels, which caused difficulties in keeping the system charged. Public Works has received a large amount of calls about the various issues. In a public statement Wednesday, they said the drops in pressure were due to leaks in addition to more people running their water to keep pipes from freezing. Resi- dents were also reassured the water plant was not being shut off. Crews have been busy since last week to find and repair the leaks. The department recommended minimizing water use to essential functions. “Only run water at a trickle,” the department encour- aged water consumers. Customers were urged to keep an eye open for running water or new fresh ice slicks around homes or property. Public Works also issued a statement on numerous ru- ANTHONY NIETO | GENERAL MANAGER mors saying the water plant is not going to be shut off. Cold weather does not stop our emergency responders from performing their However, there was minor damage to the home. Public works, sanitation Also due to the weather, sanitation pickup is running duties. Earlier this week, the Okmulgee Fire Department responded to a small and street crews are working to catch up with issues related to the freezing SEE WEATHER, PAGE A2 attic fire on North Seminole Street. No one was injured during the incident. weather Okmulgee has experienced. City council approves April 6 election ordinances, rezoning to see city, Retiring fire chief thanked for service school races MELISSA HEMINOVER Manager Tom Giulioli PATRICK FORD STAFF WRITER said. Okmulgee City Council A motion was made and NEWS EDITOR met for their regular ses- seconded to approve the County voters will next head to polls in April to cast sion this week to consider rezoning of the property. votes for several city and school board posts. several agenda items, in- The next item addressed The election will be Tuesday, April 6, according to cluding a rezoning ordi- a request for an ordinance Okmulgee County Election Board Secretary Ashley nance. to close a portion of the Carnes. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. in the In attendance were May- right-of-way of the alley respective areas. or Richard Larabee, Terry about half a block west of The last day to register to vote is March 12; with the Bemis, Mickey Baldwin Wood Drive between 5th deadline to request an absentee ballot on March 30 at and Everett Horn. Coun- and 6th Streets. 5 p.m. cilman Javier Ramirez Retired Chief Bruce Swearingen Interim Chief Dewayne Hurt “This is where the old Early voting will be Thursday and Friday, April 1-2, was not in attendance. Subway was located,” Gi- 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. at the Okmulgee County Courthouse. The minutes from the was consideration to ap- Feeds, located on the west ulioli said. “It does not Here is what is on the ballots: January meeting were ap- prove an ordinance to re- side of Highway 75. cover the entire block. It proved as well as claims zone the property at 2950 “It was originally zoned goes to about the middle City of Beggs: for the month. N Wood Drive, which in- single family, but own- of that block where the Mayor The first order of busi- cludes a blue metal build- ers are asking for it to be new Casey’s building will • Willy D. Smith ness Council addressed ing with the words Hi-Vee zoned commercial,” City SEE COUNCIL, PAGE A2 • Jacob Branson • Lanissa Jack Melton • Trevor Meyer Beggs Public Schools: Office No. 1 Caring for Children • Tom Karnowski • Leonard Moore City of Henryetta Foster parent shares help and experiences, Councilmember Ward 4 • Howard Nelson Sheward Jr. encourages others to help • Jennifer Michelle Munholland ELECTION, PATRICK FORD Willard Cully and his wife, Nave, SEE PAGE A4 NEWS EDITOR of Henryetta, are experiencing Foster families are desperately first-hand being foster parents. needed in Okmulgee County. He shared his thoughts on the Heather Huff, Child Welfare following questions. VFW Luncheon to honor first Specialist for Region IV Foster How did you hear about the Care and Adoption Recruitment, need for foster parents and what responders, law enforcement stated there are 7,600 children in inspired you to take steps to be- foster care. In Okmulgee County, come one? Okmulgee VFW Post 1189 will host a lun- there are 151 children in foster “First of all, I was a foster child cheon today, Feb. 19, honoring the men and care and, of those, 38 are placed myself, so I’ve always known women in public service. outside of the county since there about the foster system,” Willard The lunch, beginning at 12:30 p.m., will be were not enough homes. said. “I saw an ad on Facebook for free to first responders, firefighters and law Many people may have never OKFoster and saw the need for enforcement. Lunch will include Indian Tacos, considered becoming a foster par- fosters.” Pinto, Butter and Northern Beans, fried pota- ent, or if they have, felt it was too How hard is it to qualify as a fos- toes, coleslaw, dessert and ice cream. big of a challenge to surmount. ter parent? For other members of the community, the One Okmulgee County foster According to Cully, it’s not really lunch is available for a $7 donation. parent shared his experience with difficult. VFW Post 1189 is located at 1427 N. Okmul- the program with hopes to help “We had a good recruiter from gee. For more information, call 918-756-7559. those considering the step. SEE CHILDREN, PAGE A4 Foster parents Nave and Willard Cully

A2 • Okmulgee Times NEWS Friday, February 19, 2021 Ranchers face record conditions

MELISSA HEMINOVER closer to their home or bringing them in to Another issue some ranchers have faced STAFF WRITER shelter inside their barns or, for some, even is the diesel in their trucks and equipment Sledding down snow-covered hills, build- their homes. turning to gel. Typically, an anti-gel prod- ing snowmen, making snow ice cream … During these winter months, many cattle uct is poured into the diesel tank to ensure the snow we have seen over the last several ranchers must take extra measures to en- this does not happen, but most all places days can mean some of the most enjoyable sure soon-to-be-born calves, as well as the in the Okmulgee County area are sold out. times for families. However, some families cows giving birth, have the warmest condi- Numerous feed stores in the county also have faced some of the most trying times tions possible to ensure the calves born will faced shortages as ranchers were stocking they have ever experienced. live through the record low temperatures. up on feed for their horses and cattle in an- Ranchers in Okmulgee County have Sadly, many ranchers have reported loss of ticipation of the snowstorm. This caused endured grueling conditions worse than newborn calves and even some cows due several feed and ranch supply stores to run many of them have dealt with in their life- to the conditions. completely out of feed for their custom- time. “This is the coldest I have ever seen it,” ers during this unprecedented time. Ship- As we watched local weathermen an- one Wilson area rancher said. “We have ments of feed store owners were expecting nouncing the coming of the snowstorm, had this much snow before, but we have have been delayed due to the hazardous many of us were running to the grocery never had it this cold.” road conditions. The rolling blackouts store to stock up on food, while ranchers Ranchers have been having problems have played a part in the production of were preparing to make sure their animals keeping water accessible to their animals feed across the state, also contributing to would survive the conditions they were go- as well, due to the ice being so thick on supply stores running low on feed. ing to be faced with. the ponds. Many have to endure the cold With temperatures on the rise, ranchers Local ranchers say weather such as this temps several times a day to keep the ice are now beginning to prepare for the wet means bringing their livestock as close broken. and muddy conditions that will follow COURTESY PHOTO to their home as they can. Whether this “I’ve never seen ice on top of a pond this once all the snow has melted away. A block of ice discovered during the recent spell of win- means transferring the animals to pastures thick,” a rancher in the Morris area said. ter weather.

WEATHER crews spent time trying to repair a major In Morris, residents were informed strain on the system, and help thaw out line break, which was completed Thurs- trash service should return to normal as the area that has faced below freezing CONTINUED FROM A1 day morning. soon as the weather improves. temperatures for almost two weeks. behind. Crews are working as hard as The leak, coupled with residents run- Only one broken line was reported on In the meantime, take a minute to thank they can to catch up with the routes. ning water to keep lines from freezing Wednesday, near Dollar General, which the hardworking employees of the various The City of Beggs had to shut off their and the home water leaks, prompted was quickly repaired. Public Works Departments, street crews, water system for a period of time Wednes- city officials to declare an emergency on Morris residents were also encouraged postal service employees, law enforce- day to repair multiple water line breaks. Wednesday. Residents were being urged to conserve water use if possible due to ment and emergency responders, and Service was beginning to be restored late to run water through their faucets for a low pressure. those who have continued to keep our Wednesday afternoon. few minutes each hour instead of letting Warmer temperatures projected for the cities and towns open and operating. In Henryetta, city water department water run constantly. weekend will do much to alleviate the

COUNCIL to be surplus property was mulgee County Criminal day per prisoner, or $28 for agreement. for necessary reasons.” also approved by Council. Justice Authority (OC- 12 hours or less. A motion “We were not able to offi- The members then vot- CONTINUED FROM A1 “This is nothing we are CJA). This agreement was to approve the agreement cially thank Chief Swearin- ed to adjourn the regular be located.” currently using,” Council- executed initially by Ok- was made by Mayor Lara- gen for all of his services,” meeting and moved on to Giulioli included an man Terry Bemis said. A mulgee County, but no bee and seconded by Ever- Baldwin said. “We appre- the other meetings of the agreement has been made motion was made and sec- records show the City of ett Horn. ciate him and look forward evening. with Casey’s to relocate the onded to approve the sur- Okmulgee approving the Other business included to seeing Dewayne Hurt All other minutes from utilities, which they have plus. It was then approved agreement. approving a contract with step up to fill those boots.” January meetings as well agreed to do. to have ownership of the “We continue to put pris- Nichols Lawn and Trash “Our city workers have as reports were approved, A motion was made by items transferred to Ok- oners over there,” Giulioli Services for Trash Abate- been working very hard and Council voted to ad- Mickey Baldwin and sec- mulgee County. said. “We haven’t sent very ment for specific privately and spending extra time journ the meeting. onded by Everett Horn to Council discussed ap- many, but they haven’t owned properties in the away from their families,” The next meeting will approve closing this alley. proving an agreement for billed us in years.” City. Mayor Larabee and Mayor Larabee said. “I be Tuesday, March 16 at 5 A resolution declaring services between the City The agreement with the the City Clerk will execute hope everyone is staying p.m. at City Hall. certain personal property of Okmulgee and the Ok- County is to be $56 per the documents for this safe and conserving heat

Friday, February 19, 2021 OBITUARIES Okmulgee Times • A3

Guy Mitchell Long TaNeisha Vaught Duncan Trace Royce Todd June 10, 1958 - February 10, 2021 January 29, 1981 - February 12, 2021 November 25, 1962 - February 10, 2021 Guy Mitchell Long TaNeisha Vaught Dun- Mr. Trace Royce “Quetone” was born on can, 40, a resident of Ok- Todd, in his 58th year, June 10, 1958, in Hold- mulgee, passed on Friday, passed from this life on enville, to Thomas and February 12, 2021. Ta- Wednesday evening, Mattie (Fixico) Long. Neisha started her jour- February 10, 2021, in Guy passed away on ney on this earth in Ok- Tulsa. Wednesday, February mulgee in 1981. She was Jackie and Kathern 10, 2021, in Oklahoma a graduate of Okmulgee [on] Todd celebrated City. He was 62 years High School in 2000. Ta- the arrival of their sec- old. Guy graduated Neisha married the love ond son at Travis Air from Okmulgee High of her life Kenneth Dun- Force Base, Califor- School in May of 1977. can II in 2006. nia on November 25, After high school, he TaNeisha had a wide 1962. They named him worked for Okmulgee Indian Community for a few range of interests including all things elephant. She Trace Royce Todd. years. He later moved to Tulsa where he worked enjoyed hanging out with friends and family. She Trace was a graduate of Okmulgee High School, at the Tulsa State Fairgrounds in maintenance for would organize gatherings so everyone had fun and Class of 1981, where he was a member of the Okmul- many years. Guy started having back trouble, so he no one was left out, from the oldest to the youngest. gee Bulldog Marching Band, under John Samples. decided to move home to Okmulgee where he spent Her goal was to keep those around her laughing. Ta- His personality and sense of humor was evident as the rest of his years. He loved OU Sooner football! Neisha also liked trying to get Memaw to make new he interacted with his classmates and friends. He Guy was a huge fan. Every game day you would see recipes she found online. Her relationship with God fell in love with his high school classmate, Teresa him putting up his OU flags early in the morning. was a priority in her life. She attended Calvary Baptist Reed, and they were united in holy matrimony. Guy admired horses. He took care of them at the Church with her lifetime friend, Amber. Later in life, he furthered his skills through Diesel fairgrounds. Guy will be forever in our hearts and TaNeisha was preceded in death by her grandparents, Mechanic School, Tool and Die school and eventu- truly missed! James & Estella Wilson; her father, David Wilson; and ally earning his CDL license. He was a hard worker Guy is preceded in death by his parents; three sis- her beloved husband of seven years, Kenneth Duncan and provided for his family with every fiber of his ters Vicky Watashe, Karen Long, and Minnie Wolf; II. She is survived by her grandparents, Charles (Jack) being. Trace also served his country in the United and a nephew Bryan Beatty. Survivors include three and Marilyn Vaught of Okmulgee; her mother, Lisa States Army Reserves. sisters Sidney Long, Thomasine Long both of Ok- Robinson and husband Kenny of Sapulpa; her brother, One of Trace’s greatest accomplishments was mulgee, and Lou Ann Messer of Checotah; broth- David Wilson Jr. and wife Sarah of Okmulgee; and sis- completing Bible School and serving the Lord as er Bobby Long of Okmulgee; and a host of nieces, ter, Rhea Wilson Jackson and husband Randy of Ok- Assistant to the Pastor at New Hope Fellowship, nephews, relatives and friends. Special friends Kent mulgee; and stepsister Ashleigh Robinson of Skiatook; while living in California. Mayberry and Mike Pahsetopah. along with a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, He leaves in God’s care to cherish his wonderful A graveside service for Mr. Long will be held 2 and cousins. memory; his devoted wife, Teresa, of the home in p.m. Tuesday, February 23, 2021, at the Newtown Several opportunities (drop in) are being provided Vinita; his children, Jackie Todd, Pollock, Calif., Cemetery. Visitation will be at Schaudt Okmulgee for those who wish to honor TaNeisha. These will be Chrystal Todd, Auburn, Calif. and Victor Todd, Funeral Service Chapel on Monday, February 22, held at Restore Church (1219 E 11th St, Okmulgee Ok Elk Grove, Calif.; his parents, Jackie and Kathern 2021, from 5-7 p.m. p.m. Arrangements are en- 74447) on Friday, February 26th from 5 p.m.-8 p.m. Todd, Okmulgee; his brothers, Wayne Todd, Lin- trusted to Schaudt’s Okmulgee Funeral Service. (for public) and also on Saturday, February 27th 10 coln, Calif. and Tom Todd, Park Hill; six grandchil- Family and friends may leave kind words of com- a.m.-12 p.m. (for public), 12 p.m.-2 p.m. (for family dren; along with other family members and many fort, special memories and condolences to the fam- only), then 3 p.m.-5 p.m. (for public). A slide show of friends. ily online at www.schaudtfuneralservice.com. her life will be playing as you reminisce and say your A Celebration of Trace’s life will be shared on Sat- final farewell here on this earth. Due to COVID-19 urday, February 20, 2021, at 1 p.m. in the Chapel restrictions, please wear a mask. If you would like to of Peace of the Keith D. Biglow Funeral Directors, Jacquetta Jo McCarthy send a card or donation for the family, please mail it Inc., in Okmulgee. Retired Pastor Ed Peck will of- June 24, 1947 - February 17, 2021 to TaNeisha Duncan, P.O. Box 357, Okmulgee, OK, ficiate at the ceremony. Facial coverings and social 74447. distance are suggested for the service. The family Jacquetta Jo Mc- will gather for fellowship following the service, Carthy, a resident of potluck style, at the Okmulgee Community Center, Beggs, passed from Gary L. Frazier West 7th and Kern Street in Okmulgee. this life on February December 9, 1953 - February 9, 2021 17, 2021, at the age of 73. She was born to Gary Lynn Frazier, lifelong resident of Morris, died Elden J. Jarvis the late Roy Edward February 9, 2021, at the age of 67 years. Gary was August 30, 1929 - February 13, 2021 Gurny and Frances born December 9, 1953, to the late Harold Frazier and Irene (Bruton) Gurny Frances Kelly Frazier. Elden J. Jarvis, longtime Okmulgee resident, died on June 24, 1947, in Funeral services will be held at First Baptist Church Saturday, February 13, 2021, in Okmulgee at 91 Sapulpa. Jacquetta en- Morris on February 19, 2021, at 10 a.m., with Pastor years of age. Elden was born August 30, 1929, in joyed being outdoors Ray Moffeit and Rev. Dave Kelley. In lieu of flowers, Atoka, to Walter L. and Laura L. (Wright) Jarvis. fishing, gardening, and the family requests money be donated to the youth He married Emmi L. Hofsess in Landshut, Ger- taking care of her flowers. program at First Baptist Church Morris. many on May 15, 1952. Elden served in the United She is preceded in death by her parents. She Arrangements have been entrusted to the McClen- States Army, beginning on July 20, 1948, and re- leaves behind her husband Lloyd McCarthy; chil- don-Winters Funeral Home of Okmulgee. Memories, ceiving and honorable discharge on September 10, dren Sherry Irene Walker and husband Robert, Ed- condolences, photos and videos may be shared with 1952. He enjoyed raising cattle and farming and was ward Lloyd McCarthy and wife Penny, and Don- the family on Gary’s Tribute Page at www.mcclen- retired from Campbell Specialty Company. Elden na Denise McCarthy; grandchildren Bradley Kyle don-winters.com. was a member of the Okmulgee Elks Lodge 1822, Walker, Trisha Ann McCarthy, and Madelyn Grace VFW Post 1189, the German-American Society of Pittman; great grandchildren Harley Brooks, Piper Tulsa and Trinity Lutheran Church of Okmulgee. Brooks, Robbie Dale Walker, and Amara Pittman; Friends may visit the funeral home on Tuesday, and sister Bernice Arrowood. February 23, 2021, from 12-5 p.m. A graveside service will be held 11 a.m., Tuesday, Funeral services will be held 2 p.m. Wednesday, February 23, 2021, at the Beggs Cemetery Pavilion. February 24, 2021, at the McClendon-Winters Fu- Friends may visit the funeral home Monday, Febru- neral Home Chapel with Reverend Dr. Christian C. ary 22, 1-5 p.m. Arrangements have been entrust- Tiews officiating. Interment will follow in the Ok- ed to the McClendon-Winters Funeral Home of mulgee Cemetery. Beggs. Memories, condolences, photos and videos Arrangements have been entrusted to the Mc- may be shared with the family on Jacquetta’s Trib- Clendon-Winters Funeral Home of Okmulgee. ute Page at www.mcclendon-winters.com. Memories, condolences, photos and videos may be Friday South wind 5 to 10 mph shared with the family on Elden’s Tribute Page at Mostly sunny, with a becoming northwest in www.mcclendon-winters.com. Cordelia Claire McClure high near 37. Wind chill the afternoon. March 8, 1938 - February 15, 2021 values between 1 and 11. Calm wind becoming Sunday Night Cheryl Tiger Cordelia Claire south around 5 mph in Partly cloudy, with a July 25, 1944 - February 12, 2021 McClure, longtime the afternoon. low around 30. North- Okmulgee resident, west wind around 5 mph Cheryl Tiger was born on July 25, 1944, and passed away Monday, Friday Night becoming calm in the passed away on February 12, 2021. Services pend- February 15, 2021, in Mostly clear, with a low evening. ing with Integrity Funeral Home in Henryetta. Charleston, W.V. She around 20. South wind was 82 years of age. around 5 mph. Claire was born March 8, 1938, in Leaven- Saturday worth, Kansas to the Mostly sunny, with a late Roscoe and Clara high near 45. South wind Gladys (Henderson) 5 to 10 mph. Campbell. She mar- ried David E. McClure in December of 1958. He Saturday Night preceded her in death March 28, 2014. Mostly cloudy, with a Funeral services are pending. low around 35. South Arrangements have been entrusted to the Mc- wind 10 to 15 mph. Clendon-Winters Funeral Home of Okmulgee. Memories, condolences, photos and videos may be Sunday shared with the family on Claire’s Tribute Page at A 20 percent chance of www.mcclendon-winters.com. showers. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 49.

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A4 • Okmulgee Times COMMUNITY Friday, February 19, 2021 CHILDREN ally depends … it’s on a as a foster parent, lots of feels like they belong. In the upcoming months, case-by-case basis.” resources and help are at For more information, the Okmulgee Times will CONTINUED FROM A1 Do you have to accept one’s disposal. visit https://okfosters. visit with some other fos- the Department of Hu- every child DHS calls you Willard and his wife org/ or call Heather Huff ter parents, both single man Services. They are about? make use of online sup- at 918-606-2449 for more and married, about the very transparent with “No, you do not have to. port groups in addition information. experience and joys of be- the process. They tell you It really depends on your to having regular contact To apply, see https:// ing a foster parents. what steps to take. They family preference, your with the child’s casework- www.okbenefits.org/en/ basically give you the family dynamic.” er along with DHS em- childwelfarehome tools and it’s up to you to Willard stated he and ployees. get it done.” his wife have had three “The biggest support Willard stated those kids at one time. comes from permanency applying must undergo What would you tell workers,” Willard said. a physical, submit to fin- people if they were con- “They are very big advo- gerprint and background cerned about getting too cates for the kids in their checks and with all the attached? c are .” paperwork, it’s up to the “I would say attach- Foster care, Huff noted, applicant to make sure all ment is necessary,” Wil- is only temporary, which the steps are completed lard said. “Necessary for allows the parent(s) to and documents submit- mental health, necessary work on their issues, ted. for nourishment… that’s while ensuring the chil- Do you have to be mar- why we are here. Not say- dren are in a safe envi- Here are the lat- Increase of 2,459 est results from the ried to be a foster parent? ing they (the children) ronment. Okmulgee County “You don’t have to be were not loved, … but What’s one positive Oklahoma State De- married to be a foster to know we are here for thing you would tell peo- partment of Health as Total Cases: 3,562 parent,” Huff said. “You them, we do love them ple about fostering? of Feb. 18. Total Recovered: 3,392 Total Deaths: 44 can be married, you can and there is more out There’s several things, Oklahoma be divorced, you can be there than the situation Willard stated. Total Cases: 416,476 City / Deaths / cohabitating, still living they are coming from. “For me and my wife, Recovered together but not mar- Without that attachment, we haven’t been blessed Increase of 618 r i e d .” it’s not possible. to conceive right now, Active Cases: 17,396 Beggs: 393/4/373 She added some ap- “We are all about fami- and we were kind of in Total Recovered: Dewar: 78/0/73 plicants live with their ly connections, because I a place of kind of going 394,968 Henryetta: elderly parents, or have was a foster kid with four through the motions of Total Deaths: 4,112 903/13/855 their adult children living other children - there the day, but then one day Increase of 23 Morris: 332/3/323 Okmulgee: with them, even same sex were five of us - and if we just realized ‘what are United States couples. I didn’t have that fam- we waiting on.’ What’s 1,456/24/1,380 “There are differentily connection I don’t the hold up? There are so Total Deaths: 490,540 Schulter: 42/0/41 family dynamics,” she know what would have many kids out there that said. happened,” he said. “If I need you. Do foster parents get didn’t have that attach- “I would say it is scary, training and if so, what is ment, I don’t know where but our fear is second to ELECTION that like? I would be right now… or what these kids need,” he CONTINUED FROM A1 “So, every potential fos- who I would be… I don’t said. ter home, you have to do believe you can become Some are afraid of fos- City of Morris 27 hours of training. And too attached.” tering older children or Councilmember Ward 1 that’s just the beginning. “We would rather chil- teenagers. What’s your • Jerome W. Dugas Jr. It’s detailed training on dren be placed with take on that? • Jess Wayne Payne what to expect. Ours was someone that gets at- Willard stated there are online since we started tached than one that lots of positives about Town of Dewar during the pandemic. doesn’t get attached,” fostering teenagers. Board of Trustees, Office 2 There were some in-per- Huff said. “We want peo- “Right out the gate, we • Landon Jefferson son classes before the ple to get attached.” had teenagers,” he said. • Anthony D. Polk pandemic as well.” Do you get reimburse- “But they are and can be How many children ment and do you get paid self-sufficient. They can Board of Trustees, Office No. 5 have you fostered so far? childcare? bathe themselves… get • Darlene Sandefur “We have had five “We do get a monthly their own drinks and the • Dana Louise Weeks placements in our home stipend for children in teens do help out with the and we’ve done respite our care and there is paid younger ones.” Other area elections that may affect some Okmul- care twice. We have had childcare,” Willard said. Involvement in school gee County residents include: kids with us for a couple Reimbursement also var- and extra-curricular ac- Graham Dustin Schools - Office 1, Jimmy Shad- of weeks, a month, some ies by the age of the child. tivities are also important dix against Jeremy Pippin; and Liberty and Midway for six months. So it re- Once being accepted to make sure the child Schools School bond proposition.

Project Heart Senior Special, Refried Beans • Monday: Breakfast: Chicken Biscuit • Monday: Pulled Pork, Cole Slaw, Potato Salad, Mock • Wednesday: Breakfast: Biscuit and Gravy, Sausage Lunch: Cheeseburger or Turkey Club Sandwich or Pecan Pie, Milk Lunch: Spaghetti, Green Beans Cobb Salad • Tuesday: Beef Stew, Green Peas, Pears, Cornbread, • Thursday:Breakfast: Mini French Toast • Tuesday: Breakfast: Pancake Bites Cinnamon Roll, Milk Lunch: Chicken Strips, Mashed Potato, Gravy Lunch: Chili w/Cornbread or Pizza Munchable or • Wednesday: Western Egg Bake, Hash Browns, Bis- • Friday: Breakfast: Biscuit, Sausage Taco Salad cuit, Mixed Fruit, Fruit Juice, Milk Lunch: Chicken Sandwich, Black Eyed Peas • Wednesday: Breakfast: Egg & Cheese Breakfast • Thursday: Swedish Meatballs w/Sauce, Vegetable Sandwich Blend, Strawberries & Bananas, Parslied Buttered Beggs Schools Lunch: Chicken Patty or PB&J or Italian Chef Salad Noodles, Pound Cake, Milk Milk variety and cereal options offered daily for break- • Thursday:Breakfast: Donuts • Friday: Onion Sage Chicken, Roasted Baby Bakers, fast. Extra fruit and vegetable options available for Lunch: Spaghetti & Meatballs or Ham & Cheese Rol- Green Bean Casserole, Roll, Cranberry Fluff, Milk lunch. Milk variety and water offered at lunch. lup or Popcorn Chicken Salad • Monday: Breakfast: Popcorn Chicken or French • Friday: Breakfast: Biscuits & Gravy w/ Sausage Morris Schools Toast Sticks, Yogurt, Apple Slices, Grape Juice Lunch: Super Nachos or Popcorn Chicken Wrap or All meals served with fruit and milk. Breakfast also Lunch: Chicken Wrap or Chicken Patty, Toast, Sweet Chicken Caesar Salad served with juice and Pop Tart option. PB&J is an op- Potato Tots, Pineapple Chunks tion each day for lunch. • Tuesday: Breakfast: Yogurt Parfait or Blueberry Sau- Schulter Schools • Monday: Breakfast: Pancake, Egg sage on Stick, Cheese Stick, Pears, Orange Juice All meals served with milk and fruit. Breakfast is also Lunch: Hamburger, Lettuce, Tomato Lunch: Chicken & Noodles or Chicken Tenders, served with juice and an option for cereal. • Tuesday: Breakfast: Breakfast Pizza or Pop Tart Cornbread, Peas, Pears • Monday: Breakfast: Apple Cinnamon Muffin, Lunch: Ele: Hot Ham & Cheese Croissant HS: Eagle’s • Wednesday: Breakfast: Biscuit and Gravy & Sausage Cheese Stick Patty or Egg & Cheese Biscuit, Yogurt, Peaches, Apple Lunch: Taco Salad, Beans, Corn Juice • Tuesday: Breakfast: Biscuit and Gravy, Sausage Lunch: Steak Fingers or Salisbury Steak, Gravy, Lunch: Grilled Chicken, Cheesy Potatoes, Carrots, Mashed Potatoes, Roasted Broccoli, Peaches, Roll Jell-O • Thursday:Breakfast: Breakfast Nachos or Mini Cin- • Wednesday: Breakfast: Pancake on Stick nis, Cinnamon Toast, Pineapple Chunks, Orange Juice Lunch: Quesadilla, Refried Beans, Rice Lunch: Ham & Cheese Rollup or Popcorn Chicken, • Thursday:Breakfast: Scrambled Eggs, Sausage Bis- Cucumbers, Grapes, Chocolate Elf Grahams cuit • Friday: Breakfast: Donut or Mini Waffles, Yogurt, Lunch: Cheeseburger Macaroni, Green Beans, Bread Applesauce, Orange Juice • Friday: Virtual Day Lunch: Pepperoni Pizza or Chicken Sandwich, Baby Carrots, Apple Twin Hills School All meals served with white or chocolate milk. Salad bar Preston Schools available for lunch. Choice of fat free and low fat flavored white or choc- • Monday: Breakfast: Combos, Pears olate milk and chilled fruit served daily for lunch and Lunch: Stew, Cornbread, Peaches breakfast. Cereal option and fruit juice served daily for • Tuesday: Breakfast: Sausage Biscuit, Jelly, Apricots breakfast. Only main entrees are listed. Lunch: Burritos, Corn, Pineapples • Wednesday: Breakfast: French Toast Sticks, Pears Lunch: Salisbury Steak, Mashed Potatoes, Gravy, Roll, Mandarin Oranges • Thursday: Breakfast: Donuts, Sausage Links, Orang- es Lunch: Chicken Alfredo, Carrots, Applesauce • Friday: Breakfast: Cinnamon Rolls, Applesauce Lunch: Hamburgers, Curly Fries, Pears

Friday, February 19, 2021 COMMUNITY Okmulgee Times • A5 Black History Month Countians leave their mark in athletics, sports and coaching PATRICK FORD cinnati Bengals. 1995-97), Rockford Lightning (1994-95) is a professional fitness trainer. NEWS EDITOR After his NFL career came to an end, and Quad City Thunder (1997-99). He Black History Month is a time to pay Tate returned to his hometown, where also played in professional leagues in tribute to some of the wonderful, historic he worked as a coach for several years at Mexico City, Mexico; Istanbul, Turkey; people who have given so much to move Beggs High School. and Angers, France. this nation along in incredible ways. While playing with Oklahoma City, Whether through inventions, politics, Holmes was named to the CBA All-Star activism, science, or philanthropy, these team in 1996 and helped the Cavalry win individuals have left their mark in histo- the CBA championship in 1997. He also ry. won a championship with the Quad City Okmulgee County has several people Thunder in 1998. who have gone on to be known in their Holmes served on the USA Basketball particular field and contributed to Black Men’s Developmental National Team History. Committee as an Athlete Representative. In this second part, we look at some He played for USA Basketball as a mem- of the people with Okmulgee County ber of the 1999 Pan American Games ties that excelled in sports and athletics. Team, which won a silver medal, and These are just a few of the many with the 1997 Tournament of the Americas outstanding careers: squad, which won a gold medal. Clarence James The former OHS star then moved from Clarence James graduated from Ok- the court to the bench. In his first job, he mulgee’s Dunbar High School in May of was a coach at Central High School in 1969. He is a member of the final class to Ronnell Lewis Tulsa in 2000-01. graduate from Dunbar prior to integra- Ronnell Lewis launched his football ca- Holmes then served as a basketball tion with Okmulgee High School. reer as a running back for the Okmulgee coach at Midwest City High School from Those who knew James back in his Bulldogs 4th-grade team in 2000. Lewis 2001-05. He also coached the Athletes high school years remember an incredi- sparked the team to a league champion- First AAU 16-17 and under team during ble athlete who excelled in several sports. ship in the Junior Football League title that time. He was chosen as an All-State running game. During his time as a high school and back in the final DHS football season in Lewis grew up and became a superstar AAU coach in the Sooner State, he 1968. running back at Dewar High School. He coached 15 players who went on to play After graduation, he planned to play terrorized opponents and led the Drag- Division I basketball or football, with football at a college in Missouri. How- ons to incredible success in both 8-man several players going on to the NBA and ever, a former assistant coach from Ok- and 11-man campaigns. NFL. mulgee Dunbar recruited him to play at Despite Lewis playing at the lower lev- Holmes then made the jump from the Langston. He chose Langston and en- els of prep football, his skills were known high school ranks to a role as an assistant joyed a great career playing for the Lions. Dewey McClain far and wide. His highlight plays became coach. He was hired by his former coach He earned all-conference running back McClain is from Okmulgee, and at- a fan favorite on Youtube.com. Billy Tubbs as an assistant at Lamar Uni- honors and was invited to a tryout with tended Okmulgee High School. He then College coaches were falling all over versity. the legendary Green Bay Packers. enrolled at East Central State Universi- each other trying to land this all-every- Kermit Holmes went to work for the “I went to training camp in 1973,” he ty, where he played college football. He thing player. In the end, the Dewar dan- Cardinals in August 2005 and remained said. “But I was cut and didn’t make the graduated in 1976 with a Bachelor of dy signed to play for Coach Bob Stoops there for nine seasons. t e am .” Arts in history, with minor concentra- and the Oklahoma Sooners. Holmes spent the 2011-12 season as James then entered the world of coach- tions in psychology, sociology, govern- Lewis quickly won over the Sooner director of basketball operations before ing. The former athlete started the jour- ment, and physical education. Nation with his highlight-reel plays on returning to an assistant coaching posi- ney as an assistant coach at Okmulgee McClain signed with the Atlanta Fal- the Sooners’ special-teams unit. He was tion the following season. High School. The experience convinced cons as a free agent and played for At- often featured on the ESPN college high- Holmes, who earned a Bachelor of Arts him coaching would be his profession. lanta as a linebacker from 1976 through light show for his bone-crushing tackles degree from Oklahoma, organized the Having heard so much about the great 1980. on the kickoff return team. Kermit Holmes Annual Girls and Boys football being played in Texas, he decid- McClain also played for two years in Coach Stoops then moved Lewis to an Basketball Camp in 1996 and established ed to head south and do some coaching the United States Football League. He is outside linebacker spot - and his fame the Kermit Holmes SCHOLARSHIP there. a founding member and past president continued to grow. The Dewar gradu- Award in 1997. “It was my calling and I wanted to of the National Football League Play- ate was soon labeled by his head coach Holmes is currently working for Nor- move to Texas and coach there,” he said. ers Association (NFLPA) Metro Atlanta as ‘The Hammer’ for his physical tackles man Public Schools. “There was an opening in Rosenberg and Chapter and a member of the National and offensive-stuffing plays. I called three times.” Former Players Board of Directors of the The next stop for Lewis was an ear- In 1978, James made the jump from NFLPA. ly exit from OU and a trip to the NFL. prep football to North Texas State in In addition, McClain retired from the Lewis was a fourth-round pick out of Denton. He was hired to coach outside City of Atlanta after serving eighteen (18) Oklahoma in 2012. He was picked by the linebackers. years in the Department of Parks, Recre- Detroit Lions. The next step for the Dunbar graduate ation and Cultural Affairs, and four years After leaving the NFL, Lewis signed was in 1981 to Texas Tech. He ended up with Atlanta Workforce Development and played for several league football coaching both defensive ends. He later Agency. He has received a host of special programs, including the Canadian Foot- coached the TT receivers. awards for his achievements such as The ball League, Arena Football League, and In 1987, James moved to Austin to 2011 Jesse Jackson Sportsman of the Year the Indoor Football League. coach receivers for the Texas Longhorns. Award and the 2012 Martin Luther King Lewis currently resides in Tulsa. He spent four seasons schooling the Jr. March Committee Rev. James Orange Texas receivers - winning three games Award, just to name a few. against the arch-rival Oklahoma Soon- McClain ran in a special election for ers. He remained with the Longhorns a the Georgia House of Representatives, to total of four years. serve the 100th district, which took place James then left the Longhorns to coach on Nov. 5, 2013. He was the only candi- David Thompson the receivers at Oklahoma. He remained date on the ballot, and won the race un- David Thompson was born and raised at OU from 1992 through 1998. contested. He is still serving as a Georgia in Okmulgee. David went through the The next job would be back in Texas - state representative. Okmulgee Public School system and and back at the high school ranks. James graduated from Okmulgee High School accepted a job as assistant head coach in 1993 as a Nationally-ranked and high- with the prep powerhouse Allen Eagles ly-recruited student athlete. and head coach Todd Graham. The Ok- David enjoyed going to school in Ok- mulgee man served one season as assis- mulgee where he competed in weight tant head coach. training, track and field and football. In 2001, James departed the north Dal- Thompson helped Coach Dwight Pan- las area school for a Big 12 coaching as- key’s Bulldogs to back-to-back Class signment with the University of Kansas. Kermit Holmes 3A track titles in 1992 and 1993. He He worked for one season as the receiv- Okmulgee native Kermit Holmes also helped Coach Tom Condict’s Bull- ers’ coach. helped the Okmulgee Bulldogs capture dog football team to back-to-back state His next move was back to Texas for the boys basketball state championship semi-final appearances in 1991 and a job at Southern Methodist University in his senior year at OHS in 1987, beat- 1992, including a 12-1 record in 1992. in Dallas. He spent from 2002 through ing Tulsa McClain 55-51. He is also a proud alumni of Oklahoma 2007 seasons as an assistant with the For his senior year, he improved his State University, where he is OSU’s 3rd Mustangs. He spent two seasons as wide averages to 21.9 points and 11 rebounds all-time leading rusher with 4,318 yards. receiver coach and four seasons working per game, and was selected in the Super He won many honors at OSU, including with running backs. Rodney Tate 5, the list of the top 5 players in the state All Big 8, All Big XII Running Back, and James was out of coaching in 2008 but Rodney Tate, born in Okmulgee, is of Oklahoma by The Daily Oklahoman. All-American Honorable Mention fol- returned to the sidelines in 2009. He ac- a graduate of Beggs High School. He Holmes played collegiately at Okla- lowing his junior and senior campaigns. cepted a job at the University of Tulsa. played running back on the 1975 State homa from 1989-91 for Billy Tubbs. He He was also a two-time Doak Walker His former Allen head coach hired him Champion Beggs Golden Demon Foot- earned team MVP honors in 1991 after finalist, which goes annually to the best at TU as the outside receivers coach and ball team. averaging 14.8 points per game and lead- running back in Division I college foot- also the Director of Recruiting. Tate also won State in track that year, ing the team in rebounding at 9.3 rpg. ball. James retired from coaching in 2010. taking gold in the 100 meter dash. Tate Additionally, Holmes helped Oklaho- David graduated with his Bachelor’s In 2019, he returned to Langston Uni- was highly recruited in high school by ma post a two-year record of 47-20. Degree in Speech Communication from versity where he was presented a Honor- schools such as Oklahoma, OSU, Arkan- The 1990 Sooners reached the second Oklahoma State University in 1997. ary Captain’s Ring for the 1973 champi- sas, Alabama, and Texas A&M. Eventu- round of the NCAA Tournament and Prior to his professional fitness career, onship at the school. He was responsible ally, he decided to sign to play football the 1991 squad advanced to the cham- he played football in the NFL as running for organizing a fundraiser for the LU and run track for the University of Tex- pionship game of the National Invitation back and kick returner for the St. Louis athletic department along with design- as Longhorns. He recorded three career Tournament (NIT) in Madison Square Rams. He was voted the Rams’ Rookie of ing the rings for his 1973 football team- touchdowns against OU during the an- Garden in New York City. the Year award in 1997. mates. nual Red River Shootout at the Cotton Holmes moved on to the professional David was also the No. 3 rusher in NFL Bowl. ranks and enjoyed an extensive career. Europe during one season as the top Information taken from Okmulgee Tate was drafted in the 4th round by He played in the U.S. and overseas. He running back for the Amsterdam Admi- Times archives and Wikipedia the Atlanta Falcons in 1981. After his played for a number of CBA teams, in- rals football team. contract ended with the Falcons, Tate cluding the Columbus Horizon (1991- David retired from the NFL in 2000. played several more years with the Cin- 93), Oklahoma City Cavalry (1993-94, David currently resides in Dallas, and

A6 • Okmulgee Times COLUMNS & OPINION Friday, February 19, 2021 Cold weather presents challenges, opportunities

to these dangerous levels our priorities and our focus dez was selected due to her experience with and in- shifts to their well-being. We’ve had water outages, terest in supporting tribes and our sovereignty. The power interruptions, hazardous travel conditions and Republicans selected the longest serving Member of several other obstacles to contend with. So many have the House, Representative Don Young of Alaska. Rep. stepped up to assist. Young has been a champion of Native issues since the When I asked our people during my State of the Na- 1970s and is expected to be supportive on many tribal tion address, “what will you do to help your Nation, priorities. can you check on each other and make sure we all Congresswoman Deb Haaland will have her Senate have what we need?” I’m so happy to see that many confirmation hearing for Secretary of the Interior on of you were listening and took those words to heart. February 23. Haaland, if confirmed, will become the KVSVPE! In our Muscogee language, that is the If we are going to be all-in for our people and for our first Native American to hold a Cabinet Secretary po- word for cold. I’m not sure there is a word in our lan- communities, then it is going to take all of us pulling sition in U.S. history. The Muscogee Nation has com- guage to describe just exactly how cold it has been, on the same rope to get it done. This week’s weather, municated our support for Congressswoman Haa- though! while obviously challenging, provided a tremendous land’s confirmation and look forward to the chance to Weather like we have had certainly presents chal- opportunity to show we can come together for the work with the agency under her leadership. lenges to national, state, city and tribal governments. good of all. If you took water to elders that had theirs Our Muscogee Nation vaccination efforts continue We have seen unprecedented wind chills and con- shut off, if you worked extra hours clearing hazardous to be a huge success. Our vaccination numbers con- ditions in Oklahoma and Texas stretch the limits of roads, if you got out on the roads and made it to our tinue to increase, and we are looking forward to mov- our energy capacity. Power companies were forced to health facilities so that we could continue providing ing into the next phases. Please visit our website www. schedule rolling interruptions - indicating just how care, I say MVTO! The Nation recognizes your efforts, creekhealth.org for additional information on the vac- desperate the situation has been. The challenges we and it is appreciated by 90,000 strong. cine and to learn where we are in our efforts. Let’s keep have all faced over the last several days has led me to Although we have been focused on the weather in strengthening our Nation through vaccination! think a lot about those that walked the Trail of Tears. Oklahoma, some important news came out of Wash- In closing, please continue to stay safe and weather Our ancestors travelled in conditions that were equal- ington, D.C. this week, too. On Feb. 17, the House aware. Winter isn’t over, and there will be chances for ly as miserable and there weren’t nearly the comforts Natural Resources Committee held an organizational future precipitation. Being prepared before it hits is we enjoy today to take the sting out of the cold. meeting and selected the Chair and Ranking Repub- always the best option. Until next time, take care of But our ancestors endured. Instilling a toughness lican Member of the House Subcommittee on Indige- yourselves and each other. MVTO! in our people that continues today. I have been so nous Peoples. The Democrats selected freshman Rep- pleased with the level of commitment to service that resentative Teresa Leger-Fernandez of New Mexico For our people, for our communities, I have seen from our various departments, employ- to Chair the Subcommittee. She is a highly respected for our next generations, ees and neighboring communities this week. We have attorney who has served as counsel to several tribal Chief Hill many vulnerable citizens, and when the weather gets nations. Though a freshman member, Leger-Fernan- A Blizzard of Mental Health Needs

Diseases (IMD) waiver Childhood Experiences for serious mental ill- (ACEs), the risk of child- ness and addiction from hood mental health con- the Centers for Medi- ditions also has elevated, care & Medicaid Services especially with pandem- (CMS). This will be a ic isolation. In short, we joint effort between the face a blizzard of need. Oklahoma Department With these recent of Mental Health and changes in policy, and a Light Ahead Substance Abuse Ser- new attitude from law- This cold snap is rais- and advocacy organiza- vices and the Oklahoma makers regarding mental Honest talk among the sexually abused or the oth- ing awareness of home- tion, released a report last Health Care Authority. health issues in our state, erwise broken takes time. It requires, I discovered, a lessness in Oklahoma year called “The Impact Also, twenty-eight I have hope we will begin people - and a place - of safety. - especially in northeast of Chronic Underfund- members of the Oklaho- to see positive changes. A day would eventually come when mission agen- Oklahoma where a man ing on America’s Public ma Legislature recently Please, do your part and cies, church councils and team leaders would gra- froze to death overnight Health System” with in- announced the formation contact your lawmakers ciously open doors that had long been kept shut. To last week. Officials and formation that will likely of a bipartisan, bicameral to express support for listen, to counsel and pray, to employ whatever means volunteers have been shock the general public, legislative caucus to serve improved preventative to bring help for Christian workers and spouses. working around the clock though it is all too well as a forum for legisla- health funding and better In earlier times, though, the struggling party was to help those in need, known in advocacy cir- tors to discuss bipartisan policies to help Oklaho- often left to simply do the best they could. Forging sometimes coming into cles. They detail that the solutions to the state’s on- mans in need of mental ahead in silence, managing their demons. Some - my- a debate about the best United States spends an going mental health and health support and treat- self included - muddled along for years. way to assist. Please, do estimated $3.6 trillion addiction crisis. The cau- ment. The Holy Spirit will mercifully watch over the what you can to support annually on health, with cus, co-chaired by Rep. wounded, the ‘saved-but-fractured souls.’ By His the programs providing less than 3 percent of that Josh West, R-Grove, and About OICA: The Okla- grace, we made it through without becoming casual- aid to the homeless as spending directed toward Sen. Julia Kirt, D-Okla- homa Institute for Child ties. Bringing with us our scars, yet moving forward. we continue to face this public health and preven- homa City, will convene Advocacy was established Often, it was a marriage companion’s support saving weather, and also those tion. Furthermore, they monthly during the leg- in 1983 by a group of cit- their loved one from outright despair. Sadly, for some battling the pandemic highlight public health islative session to stay izens seeking to create a men, their suffering continues undisclosed even to- facing the world. spending as a proportion informed on key mental strong advocacy network day. Their pain is real, their wounds run deep. Shame Much of our homeless- of total health spending health issues and discuss that would provide a voice binds them and replays a false narrative in their ness crisis stems from the has been decreasing since ideas for improving care for the needs of children minds - ‘there is no place to turn.’ May these gain help. crisis in mental health, 2000 and falling in infla- and systems in Oklaho- and youth in Oklahoma, Through the divine Friend. Through His children, His which affects people of tion-adjusted terms since ma. particularly those in the wounded healers. Like those I would one day find. all ages. Nearly 60% of the Great Recession of These lawmakersstate’s care and those grow- Years after our long season of overseas service, I Oklahomans in need of 2008. note one in five Okla- ing up amid poverty, vio- found myself in a Sunday morning church service in mental health treatment The news is not all bad homans had a mental lence, abuse and neglect, Tulsa, Oklahoma. The pastor opened his Bible. And last year did not receive though. More Oklaho- health condition prior to disparities, or other situ- (daringly) his heart. I would never be the same. help, according to Mental mans will now be able to COVID-19. An estimated ations that put their lives “Did he really say that - right here before the con- Health America. A large receive mental health and 40% of Oklahomans are and future at risk. Our gregation?” I thought. Had this soft-spoken, well-re- part of this comes from addiction services thanks experiencing anxiety and mission statement: “Cre- garded preacher confessed to struggles with the kinds a lack of support for state to a recent federal waiv- depression, and the CDC ating awareness, taking of things that had hounded me so long? Can it be I am programs. er bringing more unity reports Oklahoma opioid action and changing pol- not alone? That there may be hope?” This is not just an Okla- to the treatment of be- overdoses have increased icy to improve the health, Through weeks that followed, my soul was ushered homa problem. Trust havioral health illnesses. by more than 50% in the safety, and well-being of from the shadows to ever-increasing flickers of hope. for America’s Health, Oklahoma is one of only last 12 months. Due to Oklahoma’s children.” Like small beams of light through the door-slats of a a non-partisan public seven states to receive an increase in the trauma darkened shed, they came. health policy, research an Institution for Mental associated with Adverse SEE GIANTS, PAGE A10 Adult daughter is annoyed by father’s playful pats

DEAR INAPPROPRIATE: No, they did not. Your DEAR DIFFERENT: Because you have already dis- daddy is acting like a dirty old man. His behavior may cussed your differences privately with these relatives, feel seem “playful” to him, but to persist after you asked him free to post your reaction to the offensive posts. They not to is not only inappropriate but also somewhat creepy. won’t like you for it, and the rest of the tribe may gang up You are an adult. No one has a right to hit, swat or put on you, but you and your husband will be able to look at his hands on you regardless of how he claims it’s intend- yourselves in the mirror knowing you spoke aloud your ed. Tell him again you don’t like it and it makes you un- truth. comfortable, and if he persists, he will see far less of his daughter. DEAR ABBY: My son’s new wife -- who has a daughter DEAR ABBY: I am 20-something years old, and my fa- -- insisted his two children are not biologically his. After a ther still hits my behind sometimes. I feel it is inappropri- DEAR ABBY: My husband and I grew up in very con- DNA test, it turns out she was right. They aren’t. My son, ate, but the last time I complained about it, several years servative households. Since college (where we met) and my husband and I are heartbroken. His twins are 10, and ago, it didn’t go over well. It also didn’t stop his behavior. moving to a large city, we have become more liberal. We they don’t understand what’s going on. What else can I do? have friends of other races with whom we are very close, My husband and I are trying to gently remain in their Right now, all I can do is try not to place myself in a but both of our families frequently post inflammatory lives with phone calls and limited visits. My son’s wife re- position where my behind is exposed. I no longer walk in and offensive, racially biased comments on social media. fuses to visit with us until we stop communicating with front of him or wear leggings, and I wear oversized jackets Do we have a duty because of our beliefs and our friends the children, promise never to talk about them and dis- to cover it. I’m a modest dresser. I’m not provocative. Did to publicly object to their posts? We have previously dis- play no pictures in our home. She’s trying to convince people back in the day normally “playfully” hit their adult cussed our differences with these family members, and our son to stop seeing us, as well. What to do? -- DISAP- daughters’ behinds? -- INAPPROPRIATE IN IDAHO we don’t see eye to eye. -- DIFFERENT NOW IN TEXAS SEE DEAR ABBY, PAGE A10

Friday, February 19, 2021 RELIGION Okmulgee Times • A7

CF Facebook Family. page) The doors open at 10 a.m. for connecting and Café Wednesday Hope, followed by passionate music, children’s pro- 6 p.m. Divine Service Lunch and gramming and encouragement from God’s Word at 6:30 p.m. Lenten Evening Prayer 10:30 a.m. Thursday Rev. Baldwin concluded, stating, “Learning to trust 2:30 p.m. BA/Muskogee Catechesis God can be a difficult thing, but His Word is eternal Pastor Rev. Dr. Christian C. Tiews and Trinity Lu- Prayer planned and will never let you drown. Seeing God work in your theran, a congregation of the Lutheran Church - Mis- life is a journey that has many rewards. One of those souri Synod, cordialy invite you to attend services. rewards is getting to know you! Yes, loving God and Trinity Lutheran is located at 2014 E. 6th Street in loving each other is our heart beat at CF. My prayer for Okmulgee. The office phone number is 918-756- you is that you will discover Jesus Christ as you seek 6046 and office hours are 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday for Feb. 25 after this mighty God who is compassionate and loves through Thursday and 1 to 5 p.m. Friday. Local pastors will come together for Lunch and you so much.” Prayer Thursday, Feb. 25, from 12 to 1 p.m. for a time Other ways to connect with us can be found at these New Life Apostolic Church to connect, eat and pray together. social media sites: Instagram - CornerstoneOkmul- New Life Apostolic Church has relocated. Come join The event will take place in the Blue Room of the gee, Twitter - @CornerstoneOK and Youtube. For us at 4900 N. Wood Drive in Okmulgee. Elect Lady McCulloch Building. more information, call 918-756-4787 or visit www.ok- Anna Lewis is the pastor. “The food has been donated so all pastors need to do mulgeefoursquare.org. #followingjesus #hopeishere Sunday morning prayer is at 9 a.m. is RSVP to 918-815-2430 and bring the prayer,” Rev. #FacebookONLINE #staywarm Sunday morning service is at 10 a.m. followed by Mickey Baldwin, spokesperson for Okmulgee Prayer Live Apostolic Holiness Broadcasting from Iowa, with 365, said. “It will be one hour of connection that could Trinity Lutheran Church Bishop Terry Gilmore. change our city, so if you are a local full-time pastor or This Sunday, Feb. 21, is the First Sunday in Lent Bible Study is Tuesday evenings at 6 p.m. bi-vocational pastor, this meeting is for you.” (Invocabit). The readings are from Genesis 3:1-21 or Wednesday evening prayer is at 6 p.m. and Bible Samuel 17:40-51, 2 Corinthians 6:1-10 or Hebrews Study is at 7 p.m. (Live Apostolic Holiness Broadcast- 4:14-16 and Matthew 4:1-11. ing). Jesus Does Battle in Our Place In the Garden, man exalts himself to be a god in Second Baptist Church place of God (Gen. 3:1-21). He succumbs to the temp- At Second Baptist, we still preach this wonderful tation of the devil, and eating of the forbidden fruit, message. And we will preach it this Sunday as we meet he receives death. But in the sin-cursed wilderness, at 10 a.m. for morning worship. We sing and pray and God humbles Himself to become man in place of man share from God’s word together and would love for you (Mt. 4:1-11). He does not eat but fasts and bears the to share our worship time. We encourage safer prac- onslaughts of the devil for us that we may be restored tices as we meet and offer livestreaming on Facebook to life. Jesus stands as David in our place to do bat- (search OK2BAP). We livestream only for a midweek tle against the Goliath, Satan (1 Samuel 17:40-51). Bible study on Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. Most of our Though outwardly Jesus appears weak, yet He comes activities are also audio only streamed over the phone. in the name of the Lord of hosts. He draws from the You can dial in with 918-400-9855 after we have be- five smooth stones of the books of Moses and slings gun and listen on your phone. Cornerstone Foursquare Church the Word of God. The stone sinks into the forehead, Steve Gallagher is our Pastor, Renee Dove leads our A Place to Discover God and the enemy falls. In Christ, we are victorious over music, Amplify Youth is led by Wade Lackey and our “The Cornerstone Foursquare (CF) family would the devil. Let us therefore not receive the grace of God Children’s leader is Courtney Norton. We have a bus love for you to discover God’s Word with us this 2021 in vain (2 Cor. 6:1-10), but seeing that we have a great ministry that runs Sundays. If you need a ride, contact as we dive in to be more and more a reflection of Je- High Priest, let us come boldly to the throne of grace, the church office at 918-756-6027. sus Christ,” Rev. Mickey Baldwin, lead pastor, said. that we may obtain help in time of need (Heb 4:14- The office is currently open Tuesdays only from 10 “We are people who have hurts, disappointments and 16). a.m. to 2 p.m. The office phone line is available Mon- frustrations just like you, yet we have found that we Pastor: Rev. Dr. Christian C. Tiews day through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. are stronger together as we trust in Jesus Christ as our Elder: James Remington Second Baptist Church is located at 1003 North Al- Lord. So, make your way to our Okmulgee campus on Activities for the Week: abama and is “Where God’s Love Come’s First.” Please Sundays or engage us from the comfort of your home Sunday come see us. via Facebook Live and let our hearts be connected 9:00 & 10:45 a.m. Divine Service, in person (sermon w it h h op e .” also on our Facebook page, Trinity Lutheran Church New Life Assembly of God When you join a CF Sunday or Wednesday, you are Okmulgee) New Life Assembly of God is located on the corner being linked with family - you matter. CF is here for We will offer the imposition of ashes this morning of New Lake Rd. And C St. in Henryetta. you. to make up for the Ash Wednesday service that was Sunday School for all ages takes place at 10 a.m. The CF campus is located at 617 N. Oklahoma Ave. canceled. Morning worship service takes place at 11 a.m. Pas- in Okmulgee at the intersection of Oklahoma & Trent. 12:15 p.m. Confirmation Class tors Cordell and Erin Hines give you a special invita- Our service streams LIVE on Facebook at 10:30 a.m. Monday tion to come to New Life. Sundays and 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays to connect to our 10:30 a.m. Bible Study (also live on our Facebook Ready or Not

RANDY ZINN by doing good works. However, in this PASTOR, RUSSELL MISSIONARY BAPTIST same chapter we are told that we are A favorite game I remember playing as God’s workmanship created in Christ Je- a boy growing up in Batesville, AR, was sus unto good works. the classic “Hide and Seek.” One person We found, too, that we who have been would close their eyes and count to some born again should always be ready to particular number while all the other share Christ with others. The Apostle players were finding places to hide. Then Paul said in Romans 1:15 that, with all followed the announcement by the one that was in him, he was ready to preach counting, “Ready or not, here I come.” Christ to those at Rome, also. Many need Although that was just a childhood to hear the good news of the love God game, I have learned that it is a good has for every person and His wonderful thing to always be ready for certain situ- plan for their salvation. ations in life. I do not recall ever hearing From I Peter 3:15, we noted also that my dad, Enoch Zinn, described as “al- we should be “ready always to give an an- ways calm, cool and collected.” However, swer to every man (person) that asketh he often was a person who looked ahead you of the hope” of eternal life in Christ. and tried to be prepared for those chal- There are people all around us who are lenging events that are bound to present living in a spiritual fog and are looking themselves while rearing six rambunc- for hope for this life and life hereafter. tious boys. Now, let’s consider further some things My dad was a construction worker and for which the Bible admonishes us to be the family was living in Wichita, KS, a ready. Christians should be always ready couple of miles from St. Francis Hospi- for persecution and even to die if neces- tal when I was born. A few weeks prior sary for Christ. II Timothy 3:12 reminds to the big day, due to the numerous one- us, “...All that will live godly in Christ Je- way streets in the area, my dad began sus shall suffer persecution.” Paul said in to practice the drive to the hospital. For Acts 21:13, “...I am ready not to be bound several days, he would come home from only, but also to die at Jerusalem for the work, have dinner and make the practice name of the Lord Jesus.” Many Chris- drive. Dad was on “ready’. tians around the world are being perse- The night my mom announced it was cuted and killed for their faith in Christ. time to go to the hospital, she calmly With the unusual events of the last year, handed her bag to Dad as he nervously many are asking if we are living in the last rushed out the door, slid under the steer- days. I and many others believe that we ing wheel and sped off with precious are and the Bible indicates there will be cargo in the passenger seat. When they an increase in the persecution of Chris- arrived at the hospital, nothing seemed tians during these times. God’s people in familiar. That’s when Dad discovered he America will not escape this and it is oc- had driven the wrong way on a one-way curring to some degree already. street and could not locate the emergen- Finally and most important, we all cy entrance. Mom rose to the occasion need to be ready for the soon coming of and managed to walk a block to the en- the Lord Jesus Christ back to the earth, trance. Dad was “ready” but, in his ex- first to rapture His own and then to right citement, he could not recall the route he wrongs, hold many accountable for their had so diligently practiced. wicked and unlawful deeds and to set up The Bible teaches us to be ready at all His kingdom. Ready or not, He is com- times for certain occasions and we re- ing back. I pray we’ll be ready for His cently considered a number of these. coming. First, we found in Titus 3:1 that we are admonished to be “ready to every good Randy Zinn is pastor of Russell Mission- work.” Ephesians 2:8-9 explains that we ary Baptist Church, Russell, Ark.; former- are saved by grace through faith, not ly of Okmulgee.

A8 • Okmulgee Times PUBLIC RECORDS Friday, February 19, 2021

info. One detained with female half requesting EMS. Morris Hwy. - RP states he ran off roadway and no 12:39 p.m. - Animals - 1500 block of Walnut - RP assistance is needed. advised of three dogs with no shelter and one looks 2:52 p.m. - Accident No Injury - East of Hwy. 75/ like it is starved with its bones showing through skin. Gun Club - Advised no injuries but advised hit signs. Wants to speak with deputy. 3:05 p.m. - Accident with Injury - Hwy. 75/231st St. - 2:27 p.m. - Alarm - 20000 block of S. 350 Rd. - Resi- Advised rollover SB just north of Creager. RP advised dential alarm. Indicator main ranch garage overhang. subject is out and does not want EMS. Advised OHP, 7:23 p.m. - Accident with Injury - Hwy. 62/Prairie County and Mercy EMS per OHP. Bell - Two vehicles, no injuries, roadway blocked. 4:39 p.m. - Accident with Injury - Hwy. 16/Hwy. 75 9:43 p.m. - Accident with Injury - Hwy. 75 and 266th SB. 02/08/2021 St. - Single vehicle, possible injuries, airbags deployed. 4:41 p.m. - Accident No Injury - 15000 block of Fer- 10:29 a.m. - Animals - 4300 block of N. 180 Rd. - 10:14 p.m. - Abandoned Vehicle - 271st St. Hwy. 75 guson - Advised driver is in the ditch but no injuries. Walk-in RP advising neighbor’s dogs are suspected of - Vehicle in center median. 5:58 p.m. - Shooting/Shots Fired - 9400 N. 150 Rd. - attacking livestock. RP advised neighbor’s daughter came to her residence 10:32 a.m. - Abandoned Vehicle - Hwy. 62 EB be- 02/10/2021 and advised her father had shot himself and request- tween 320 Rd./330 Rd. - RP advised of a grey in color 1:43 a.m. - Accident No Injury - I-40 WB MM 235 ing RP to contact EMS then left going back to her fa- one ton feed bin trailer left in the middle of the road- - Three semi accident, no injury, roadway is blocked. ther’s residence. way. Were able to move it off roadway the best they HFD started. 7:08 p.m. - Civil - 600 block of N. 220 Rd. - Civil is- could. RP called back and owner came back for the 1:55 a.m. - Accident No Injury - Hwy. 75/Conifer sue involving landlord coming into residence without trailer. Rd. - Vehicle slid into guardrail. notice. 12:17 p.m. - Burglary - 18000 block of S. 250 Rd. - 2:13 a.m. - Accident No Injury - Hwy. 75 SB south RP advised her neighbors have been gone a long time of Conifer - 02/11/2021 due to house flooding. There is an unfamiliar black Single vehicle, silver in color, slid into guardrail. 10:10 a.m. - Harassment - Officer advised he spoke SUV loading things in vehicle. Exact address is un- 9:06 a.m. - Accident No Injury - Hwy. 52/Green Pine with former employee of OCCJA. Advised him to stop known. One story home, on west side of road. - Near the creek. Advised a vehicle has run off into it. harassing employees at the jail. If he did not, officer 2:26 p.m. - Rape - Area of Hwy. 16 in the Twin Hills Advised subject is out and walking around. Advised will file a report. area - RP and juvenile want to make report in refer- she has help coming and refuses any help from RP. 10:40 a.m. - Accident No Injury - Bixby/Harrold Rd. ence to daughter and two friends being touched inap- Advised County and OHP. - Advised vehicle flipped over. Two people involved. propriately. 9:15 a.m. - Accident No Injury - N. of Ferguson and 12:50 p.m. - Fraud - 6900 block of N. 310 Rd. - Wants 2:46 p.m. - Suspicious Person/Vehicle - 180 Rd./Alt. Hwy. 75 NB - Advised property damage. 2003 Chevy. a deputy to call in reference to her ex and his wife us- 75 - Vehicle check on maroon vehicle parked SB in 9:30 a.m. - Property Damage - Alt. 75/Gun Club - ing her SSN to get loans. NB lane. Chevy pickup has wrecked in front yard and hit his 1:46 p.m. - Accident No Injury - Gun Club/Armory mailbox but does not want a report. Just wants the - EMS unit was rear ended. 02/09/2021 truck towed. 3:24 p.m. - Accident No Injury - Happy Camp/180 1:16 a.m. - Accident No Injury - Hwy. 75 NB just 10:30 a.m. - Unwanted Person/Vehicle - 8400 block Rd. - Advised driver is off in a ditch. Does not know south of Hwy. 16 - Single vehicle. Roadway partially of Cartwright Rd. - RP advised they need a deputy if the driver is hurt but advised no property damage. blocked. in reference to a female being there. Advised it’s his 3:40 p.m. - Property Damage - Twin Hills/Happy 1:46 a.m. - Accident No Injury - Hwy. 75 NB just brother’s ex-girlfriend and they want her off the prop- Camp - Three vehicles, one in the ditch and two in north of Preston - Single vehicle, no injury, off the erty. the roadway, have hit a mailbox. No injuries. Advised roadway. 11:51 a.m. - Hwy. 75 SB south curves N. Dewar - OHP and County. 2:15 a.m. - Fire - 13000 block of Nuyaka Rd. - House Unknown if anyone is injured. 4:50 p.m. - Animals - 700 block of N. Kern - Pit bull fire, no entrapment. 12:03 p.m. - Accident No Injury - Hwy. 75 NB south attacking neighbor in city limits. Needing a deputy to 4:00 a.m. - Alarm - 10000 block of Fig Rd. - Indi- of Ferguson - Truck hauling an RV wrecked, blocking contact dog owner in county. cator upstairs, glass breakage audible. Key holder re- roadway. Advised OHP. 5:22 p.m. - Accident No Injury - S. of Hwy. 16 on questing response. No pets on site. 12:50 p.m. - Accident No Injury - Bixby/Ferguson - Dentonville Rd./north of Jones Rd. - Semi off in ditch. 7:09 a.m. - Accident with Injury - Hwy. 75 NB near Black Chevy. Advised out with vehicle owner. Bridge Advised OHP and County. 266 Rd. - Rollover. has damage to it. 6:07 p.m. - Mental Subject - 800 block of N. 256 Rd. 9:54 a.m. - Domestic - Fig/Wilson - Advised two 911 2:04 p.m. - Accident with Injury - NB Hwy. 16/Hwy. - 17-year-old, autistic, mental health issue, striking calls of domestic in progress. White four door car in- 75 - Rollover at Hwy. 16/Hwy. 75. mom. volved. Requesting deputy. Will call back with more 2:12 p.m. - Accident No Injury - 16000 block of Old SEE SHERIFF, PAGE A9

1:05 p.m. - Civil Dispute - 100 block of West 7th - 20th St 1:32 p.m. - Dog jumped fence but cannot move, been 7:20 a.m. - Semi blocking roadway, Allied Wrecker there for two hours, requesting Animal Control - 1100 en route to take care of situation - Love’s Travel Stop block East 8th 7:45 a.m. - Traffic Accident, no injury - 13th & Del- 2:47 p.m. - Report of 13-year-old driving gold Buick aware - Sunny Stop 8:05 a.m. - Non-injury accident, RP advised accident 2:54 p.m. - Traffic accident hit and run. RP advised involving two vehicles - 6th & Miami PT Cruiser hit Escalade and fled, RP was witness - 8:52 a.m. - Semi stuck - Seminole & Cherokee Walmart 10:00 a.m. - Stolen property - 1300 block East Chi- 3:23 p.m. - RP reporting threats - 2500 block of East cago 02/06/2021 2nd 11:19 a.m. - Non-Injury accident - Kitty’s Lake & 2:27 a.m. - Suspicious white Dodge behind building 7:43 p.m. - Alarm call, broken glass detected in front Mission - Dollar General off 4th St - Tractor Supply 12:10 p.m. - Requesting to speak to officer about re- 3:36 a.m. - Suspicious white van in front parking lot 10:12 p.m. - Report of shots fired - 1200 block of straining order - James Hodge North Taft 12:19 p.m. - Racoon walked into store - McCoy’s 4:14 a.m. - Suspicious vehicle parked in lot - Wal- 12:40 p.m. - Advised neighbor behind her keeps greens 02/08/2021 coming into her yard but climbs over fence and it is 4:40 a.m. - Suspicious vehicle with tail lights on - 9th 8:24 a.m. - Wild cat & opossum caught in personal tearing down - 400 block North Bryan & Woodlawn trap in driveway, Requesting Animal Control - 1400 1:15 p.m. - RP stated she hit a black Ford, advised to 6:44 a.m. - RP requesting Animal Control take dog block E. 8th leave her info - Walmart Parking Lot hit by vehicle - 400 block of South Mission 9:13 a.m. - Advised raccoon walking in circles in 1:37 p.m. - RP states someone hit vehicle, unknown 9:43 a.m. - Two pit bulls in backyard of residence do driveway, requesting Animal Control - 900 block West who hit it - Walmart Parking Lot not belong there, requesting Animal Control - 1000 8th 2:02 p.m. - Three trucks stuck, one partially blocking block of South Prairie 12:39 p.m. - RP requesting to file stolen gun report, roadway - 22nd & Delaware 12:12 p.m. - Requesting to speak with officer con- advised stolen from residence in Okmulgee - 600 2:21 p.m. - Injury accident - Locke Supply on 5th cerning stolen catalytic converters. block South Florida 2:23 p.m. - Black Escalade stuck on ice - west of Hwy 1:00 p.m. - 911 hang up with no response on call 2:02 p.m. - Report of pit bull sitting on porch making 75 & East 36th back - Near 16500 block Loop 56 caller nervous, always running loose without chain - 4:45 p.m. - Non-injury accident with one vehicle - 1:57 p.m. - Threatening messaging being received - Seneca & Taft Hwy 75 NB & Smith 1300 block of East 8th 2:41 p.m. - Suspicious truck blocking both lanes on 4:50 p.m. - Non-injury accident - Walmart 2:55 p.m. - Child abuse reported - Murphy’s Hwy. 75 going SB - near Taco Bell 5:00 p.m. - RP advised of dog that is chained to a 3:49 p.m. - Disturbance, female screaming and 2:47 p.m. - RP requesting to talk to officer in refer- trampoline with no food or shelter - 9th St West of threatening worker at shelter –200 block of North ence to rights on removing two broken down semis East Side School Morton from his property advising they do not belong to him 5:10 p.m. - RP requesting assistance getting semi 3:53 p.m. - Suspicious person rang doorbell, RP did but owner has yet to remove them as asked - Central backed out of business and on way - Hwy 75 & Walnut not recognize subject and requests officer - 1400 block Ave Rent-A-Center East 9th 6:10 p.m. - Possible trespassing investigating smoke 5:13 p.m. - Motorist Assist with elderly female driv- 4:36 p.m. - Subject drunk and disrespectful at resi- coming from chimney of vacant house, subject advised ing - Mission & 4th dence, will not allow RP to get his stuff - between 3rd FD he lives there, requesting PD, does not believe sub- 5:36 p.m. - Truck stuck in middle of roadway block- & 4th on Osage ject actually lives there - 900 block South Oklahoma ing both lanes of traffic - 12th & Miami 7:55 p.m. - RP requesting assistance contacting sub- 11:39 p.m. - Disturbance car alarm sounding for an 5:50 p.m. - Suspicious male came and knocked on ject, has tried via phone but it’s disconnected - 500 hour - Creek Forest RPs door. Subject came a second time, RP wanting to block of Crestview Dr. file report - 500 block of North Sherman 8:38 p.m. - RP advises dog went missing and posted 02/09/2021 6:34 p.m. - RP advised white car partially in ditch info on FB, received message from subject claiming 12:57 a.m. - Domestic, boyfriend set bedroom on could be traffic hazard - 800 block South Kern had dog. Subject sent photos but unclear, RP asked to fire - 400 block North Bryan 6:39 p.m. - RP advised RV is stuck in ditch facing meet with subject to make firm identification. Subject 2:50 a.m. - Shoplifting reported, female putting stuff wrong way - Dripping Springs Road west of Hwy. 56 is now demanding money before will meet with RP - in pockets - 20th Circle K 11:45 p.m. - Truck stuck in middle of roadway, sub- 700 block South Woodlawn 7:09 a.m. - Semi back tire sparking SB - Hwy 75 & ject got vehicle unstuck, RP advises subject may be in- 11:44 p.m. - Suspicious Vehicle - YMCA lot off 13th Stewart Martin toxicated - 600 block S Seminole 9:51 a.m. - RP advised woman in alley screaming 02/07/2021 and crying with no shoes on - 100 block East 6th 12:51 a.m. - Unwanted person. Subject has refused 10:59 a.m. - Animal Control requested, neglected to leave, been there several hours, Requesting Officer dog reported, second RP called requesting dog be - Days Inn Office checked on - 700 block South Rogers 12:52 a.m. - 911 Hang Up with Response - 12th & 1:21 p.m. - RP advised man in gray hoodie yelling Liberty and hitting RV and female came out behind building 3:02 a.m. - Suspicious activity. RP states was on with blood on her face and got into a vehicle and left property cleaning and station wagon type vehicle scene - 600 block South Oklahoma pulled into main bay of main building, RP heard what 3:02 p.m. - RP advised unconscious male in vehicle sounded like chainsaw start up then two loud ‘explo- in NB Lane, EMS responding - Hwy. 75 & McDonalds sions,’ RP requesting Officer - Old Beeline Salvage 5:08 p.m. - RP stating subject will not give dog back Yard Main Building - 7th & Morton Marriage License 3:33 a.m. - PSO worker requesting Officer for report. ML-2021-00014 Someone cut pole down with chainsaw - 3200 block 02/10/2021 02/16/2021 North Wood Dr. 1:02 a.m. - Report of disturbance two cars in ditch, Pope, Matthew Robert and 5:22 a.m. - Suspicious person in pick-up parked at two trucks in road, yelling - Mission & Parkview Sanders-Musick, Jennifer Dawn back gate SB on Taft - 1200 block North Bryan 1:07 a.m. - RP advised ex in neighbors Apt - 1000 W Marriage License 10:46 a.m. - RP advised subject tied dog to pole in 6th #2 Okmulgee front of store and drove away - Walmart 4:51 a.m. - Setting up cones close to 20th due to ice

Friday, February 19, 2021 COMMUNITY Okmulgee Times • A9 Cowgirl competes in televised competition Ranching and Rodeo could win Jennifer Hudgins a life-changing prize MELISSA HEMINOVER Myers was named Rookie of the Year STAFF WRITER in 1999 in the Professional Rodeo Cow- Not too many from Okmulgee Coun- boys Association in the tie-down calf ty find themselves on primetime televi- roping, steer wrestling and all-around. sion, much less on a competition show Myers also qualified for the National Fi- hosted by Trace Adkins. But that is nals Rodeo in Las Vegas fourteen times. exactly what a call from the INSP net- According to INSP Myers now helps work meant for Preston’s own Jennifer shape the future of rodeo cowboys. Hudgins. Fred Whitfield is a three-time Nation- Hudgins, along with her father, runs al Finals Rodeo Champion in tie-down a ranch of just under 7,000 acres in Ok- calf roping as well and was inducted in mulgee County and has been ranching to the ProRodeo Hall of Fame in 2004. all her life. However, she was taken by When asked about becoming a con- surprise when representatives from the testant on Ultimate Cowboy, Hudgins national network contacted her. said a friend of hers was a contestant “I was totally shocked,” Hudgins on the first season of the show and rec- said. INSP had contacted her concern- ommended her for the second season. ing their competition series “Ultimate After a series of interviews with show Cowboy” that was looking for contes- executives, filming was set to begin. tants for their second season. “We were scheduled to begin film- INSPs “Ultimate Cowboy” brings ing in March and April, but when together 14 cowboys from across the COVID-19 hit, we had to push filming United States to compete in intense back to late July and August,” Hudgins challenges each week resulting in one said, which made for some extremely contestant remaining and earning a life hot conditions for the contestants. changing prize. Hudgins was able to compete in the “It was like cowboy survivor,” Hudgins events with her own ranch gelding. She said. “The challenges were definitely says the challenges were often rodeo fo- more of a test than I thought they would cused as well as some that were unique. b e .” COURTESY PHOTO | INSP They always maintained the cowboy Each week, the competitors were Jennifer Hudgins, owner of 4 Bar H Cattle Company in Preston, and her gelding compete in the second season of code. faced with ranch and rodeo type chal- “Ultimate Cowboy,” airing on the INSP network. The season premiere is set for Wednesday, Feb. 24. “The core of every competition was al- lenges which a panel of judges cri- ways ranch related,” Hudgins said. tiqued. Judges were looking at how well end their journey on the show. training company,” according to INSP. Tune in to Season 2 of Ultimate Cow- each cowboy performed the challenge, The judges, who are well-known “Buddy is not as well known, but he boy airing on INSP Wednesday, Feb. 24 if they were able to complete the chal- in ranching and rodeo, were Buddy related more to the ranch cowboy and to watch Hudgins, along with the other lenge, and if they were able to maintain Schnaufer, Cash Myers and Fred Whit- was the fairest judge I have ever been competitors. the core values of the cowboy way of life field. around,” Hudgins said. The winner of Ultimate Cowboy will throughout the challenge. Schnaufer is a returning judge from Judges Myers and Whitfield are well be awarded a life changing prize of Judges met with host Adkins to discuss the show’s first season and is known as known in the rodeo community. $50,000 worth of cattle to help them their assessment of the contestants and a cowboy businessman. “Of course, I have a lot of respect for build, or continue to grow, their own help determine a winner for the week as “Schnaufer owns a lucrative cattle Cash and Fred,” Hudgins said about the cattle business. well as point out who they felt needed to operation and renowned quarter horse well-known rodeo cowboys.

SHERIFF 2:23 p.m. - Juvenile - 8400 block of banking information and she wants to 11:59 p.m. - Fire - Area of 790 block Cartwright Rd. - RP juvenile advised know what they need to do to protect of Bryant Rd. - Structure fire. Plainview CONTINUED FROM A8 dad is screaming at him and hitting themselves. FD en route. Advised county and top 7:07 p.m. - Alarm - 23000 block of him. Kept him up all night and won’t 6:31 p.m. - Welfare Check - 30000 five notified. Banyon Rd. - Indicator, key fob panic. leave him alone. Requesting a deputy. block of S. 210 Rd. - Welfare check. 7:07 p.m. - Property Damage - 340 Can hear both parties screaming the Rd./Watts Rd. - RP advised they have background then phone disconnects. 80 acres. People are cutting his trees and Made connect back with an uncle in the dragging them off the property. Advised house. Advised RP and father got into he knows who is doing this. an argument because juvenile was dis- 9:28 p.m. - Domestic - 21000 block of respecting father. There are no weapons Smith Rd. - 13-year-old juvenile getting but juvenile did break a glass window. physical with parent, mom. Parties are separated. Did advise juve- nile’s tongue is bleeding. Juvenile RP 02/12/2021 called from neighbors and advised fa- 8:58 a.m. - Alarm - 16000 block of N. ther threw him out with no shoes, just 280 Rd. - Trip is the sun room door. Re- pajamas he was wearing. Advised his questing deputy. hand and tongue were bleeding but did 9:05 a.m. - Dumping - 1500 block of not need EMS. W. Seneca - Illegal dumping overnight 2:24 p.m. - Suspicious Person/Vehi- in dumpster. Requesting call from dep- cle - 14000 block of N. 248 Rd. - RP ad- uty. vised a younger male in a black jacket 9:35 a.m. - Animals - 29000 block of and black stocking cap with a backpack S. 160 Rd. - Advised her neighbor’s dog came to her door. Subject was on foot. came onto her property and tried to at- She told him to get off her property. She tack her husband. advised he walked WB on Gun Club. 2:36 p.m. - Accident No Injury - 4:35 p.m. - Fraud - RP requesting Hayes/220 Rd. - Advised of five car ac- phone call in reference to phone scam- cident, unsure if any injuries. mers telling her to buy gift cards. 3:43 p.m. - Alarm - 9900 block of Ri- 6:24 p.m. - Prowler - 15000 block of N. senhoover Ave. - Indicator, hold up Skyline Dr. - Advised she thinks some- alarm, front counter. Spoke to clerk, no one is inside the trailer in her driveway. assistance needed. 9:47 p.m. - Fire - 1 block N. of Eufau- 3:53 p.m. - Other - In area of 221st la on Kern - RP advised of large flames. St./N. 250 Rd. - Subject laying in the OFD en route. snow. 4:48 p.m. - Accident No Injury - Ar- 02/14/2021 beka between Holly and Hackberry - 11:40 a.m. - Animals - 13000 block Detected a crash. No communications of Hectorville Rd. - RP wanting deputy with subject in car. Unknown injury. to speak with lady because she left her Made contact with subject in vehicle. three dogs outside in snow. Advised no injury, no property damage. 4:47 p.m. - Fire - 10000 block of Creek Advised County and OHP. Mine - House Fire. Advised County. 9:44 p.m. - Reckless Driver - NB Hwy. 02/13/2021 75 from Preston - Semi with no tail 6:13 a.m. - Suspicious Person/Vehi- lights. High rate of speed. Almost ran cle - Hwy. 266 E. of County Line - RP EMS off roadway. Advised OHP. requesting Okmulgee County because McIntosh takes too long to get out 02/15/2021 there. Advised there is a subject wearing 3:15 a.m. - Alarm - 9900 block of Ris- a black hoodie with his hood up whose enhoover - Preston store hold up. car broke down in front of RP’s proper- 4:44 a.m. - Reckless Driver - Hwy. 75 ty. Subject is now banging on door. Re- going SB in NB lane - Report of a vehi- questing deputy. cle going SB in the NB lane just north of 10:31 a.m. - Domestic - 1800 block of Schulter. Advised County. OHP advised N. 330 Rd. - RP advised grandson and they were fixing to call HPD as well. wife were in physical domestic. Wife left 8:19 a.m. - Alarm - 9900 block of Ris- marks on husband and then got a gun. enhoover - Alarm indicator, hold up. RP advised got gun away from female 10:44 a.m. - Suspicious Person/Vehi- half and gun put away. Told female to cle - 24000 block of Hwy. 62 - Advised leave. Last seen walking SB down 330 someone keeps shining a light in her Rd. from Ferguson. Advised does not house. Waits until she falls asleep and need EMS just a deputy. Female half then shines it in her face. They did it this called and advised she got in an argu- morning and then they cut her phone ment with husband because she was off before she could call. told to leave but he would not let her get 1:58 p.m. - Fraud - 10000 block of her things. Advised there are no weap- Harrison Rd. - RP advised there is ons involved. a scammer online getting husband’s

A10 • Okmulgee Times LIFESTYLES Friday, February 19, 2021 Area residents share winter weather photos

COURTESY PHOTO | BOB JANDEBEUR

COURTESY PHOTO | MISTY MCCOY COURTESY PHOTO | BENJAMIN BROWN COURTESY PHOTO COURTESY PHOTO | CHERYL CLAY DEAR ABBY lieving you and your hus- right to dictate who you (or that’s a decision only he can band are their grandpar- your son, for that matter) make. If he also chooses to CONTINUED FROM A6 ents. If you love them, do see and communicate with. turn his back on you, then POINTED IN TEXAS not knuckle under to your She also does not have the you raised a milquetoast son’s new wife or it will be right to order you to re- instead of a man. DEAR DISAPPOINT- only the beginning of how move any object from your ED: Those children, re- she will attempt to control home. Copyright 2021 Uexpress gardless of who their birth you. If your son opts to turn father is, were raised be- She does not have the his back on those children,

GIANTS ter the space. Freedom lay distinct words which, for istry. Twice visited by polio, within reach. my journey, seemed just Jerry authored “Living with CONTINUED FROM A6 The meetings went on. I right. a Limp.” His “Giants in the For months to come, I learned many such gath- Celebrate Recovery. Rough” memoir highlights would meet and confess erings had emerged across the Africa years. Both books and converse and pray in the land. Some with differ- Copyright 2021 Jerry are available through Ama- the company of other men, ing formats under differ- Lout zon. He welcomes reader each of us struggling with ing labels. All with Christ Writer-speaker Jerry comments and warm- our own habits, hurts and at the center. Our partic- Lout grew up in Okmul- ly accepts invitations for hang-ups. Regardless of ular group - led weekly by gee County. After serving speaking engagements. jer- the occasional awkward that same courageous and with his wife in overseas [email protected] moments of open confes- vulnerable pastor - bore its missions, he founded and sion, oxygen seemed to en- own title. A union of two directed a TU campus min-

Regionals Updated district brackets OSSAA changes dates for 2A-4A district tournaments LARRY OWEN Detoured CONTRIBUTING SPORTS WRITER Five area high school basketball programs were scheduled to begin Snowfall delays start of 2nd their Road to the State round of Class A, B playoffs Championships this weekend, but Mother LARRY OWEN Nature had other plans. CONTRIBUTING SPORTS WRITER The district basketball Basketball teams in Classes A and B were given a tournaments for Classes small detour on their Road to State this week. 2A-4A were to get un- Due to heavy snowfall that blanketed the state twice derway today and Satur- this week, the Board of Directors at the Oklahoma day at various locations SEE REGIONALS, PAGE B2 across the state. Due to snowfall and inclement weather that covered the state earlier this week, the OSSAA decided to push back the start dates for the district tournaments to Monday and Tuesday. LARRY OWEN | CONTRIBUTING SPORTS WRITER The five OkmulgeeLaPatrick Vann and the Okmulgee Bulldogs will get their playoff schedule started Tuesday evening at Kiefer. County basketball pro- grams that were set to 5, and 6 will play Mon- districts 1-4 will feature teams in Districts 2 and begin their postseason day evening, while teams Pawhuska and Wyan- 3 will begin the regional schedule this weekend in districts 3, 4, 7, and dotte in District 1, Dale tournament Thursday at were Okmulgee, Hen- 8 will play Tuesday eve- and Haskell in District Dale High School. The ryetta, Preston, Morris, ning. The girls games will 2, Preston and Chou- remaining two days of and Beggs. Okmulgee tip off at 6 p.m. followed teau-Mazie in District regional tournament ac- and Henryetta will be- by the boys contests at 3, and Fairland and tion will take place Fri- gin postseason play on 8 p.m. All teams in the Colcord in District 4. day and Saturday at Dale the road, while Pres- district tournaments will The teams in Districts High School. FILE PHOTO | JACOB FACTOR ton, Morris, and Beggs advance to their respec- 1 and 4 will open re- The Class 2A, Area II Joey Fowler and the Dewar Dragons will continue their journey towards a will open the playoffs at tive regional tournament gional tournament play districts 5-8 will feature state tournament berth Saturday evening in the winner’s bracket semifinals home. Thursday-Saturday. Thursday at Pawhuska Oklahoma Union and of the Class B regional tournament in Frontier. Teams in districts 1, 2, The Class 2A, Area II High School, while the SEE DISTRICT, PAGE B3

B2 • Okmulgee Times & Henryetta Free-Lance SPORTS Friday, February 19, 2021 Henryetta Wrestling Club to Talons Up! be well represented at State Morris youth wrestling to send 7 to OKWA state meet LARRY OWEN championship medals in the 10 Saturday at 5 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. LARRY OWEN CONTRIBUTING SPORTS WRITER and Under brackets this weekend. Fans will be able to check up on CONTRIBUTING SPORTS WRITER Nine members of the Henryet- Bandr Wallace will compete in all of these wrestlers by going to The Morris Eagle Wrestling Club will send seven of ta Knights Wrestling Club will the 73-pound weight class, Mi- arena.flowrestling.org and clicking its team members to the 43rd Annual OKWA State compete against other talented chael Dixon will compete in the on the OKWA 43rd Annual State Wrestling Championships in Tulsa this weekend. wrestlers this weekend at the 43rd 110-pound weight class, and Me- Championships tab and look up The state wrestling meet, which will begin today Annual OKWA State Wrestling kko McNac will compete in the each wrestler in either the brackets and continue on Saturday, will take place at the Expo Championships. Heavyweight weight class. pages or the team and competitors Square Pavilion. The state wrestling meet, which The final four HKWC members page. Friday’s sessions are scheduled to take place at 10 will begin today and continue on to compete this weekend will bat- --- a.m., 12 p.m., and 2 p.m., while Saturday’s sessions Saturday, will take place at the tle in the 15 and Under, Division V, Division I will be 8 a.m., 10 a.m., and 1 p.m. Expo Square Pavilion in Tulsa. brackets. • 43 lbs. - Luke Olsen The finals sessions will take place Saturday at 5 p.m. The nine state tournament en- Tucker Watson and Cash Faulk- Division II and 7:30 p.m. trants from the HKWC will com- ner will compete in the 119-pound • 105 lbs. - Tristan Mowdy The seven Morris wrestlers will compete in three pete in four different divisions at weight class, Braxton England will Division III different divisions at the state meet. the 2-day event. compete in the 126-pound weight • 73 lbs. - Bandr Wallace Dallas Lane Hughes will compete in the 6 and Un- Luke Olsen will compete in the 6 class, and Tayler Hamric will com- • 110 lbs. - Michael Dixon der 60-pound weight class in Division I. and Under 43-pound weight class pete in the 140-pound weight class. • Heavyweight - Mekko McNac The trio of Ketcher Hughes, Randy Hotema, and in Division I, while Tristan Mowdy Friday’s sessions are scheduled to Division V Kash Walters will compete in the 8 and Under will battle for the 8 and Under take place at 10 a.m., 12 p.m., and 2 • 119 lbs. - Tucker Watson brackets in Division II. Hughes will compete in the 105-pound weight class in Division p.m., while Saturday’s sessions will • 119 lbs. - Cash Faulkner 55-pound weight class, Hotema will compete in the II. be 8 a.m., 10 a.m., and 1 p.m. • 126 lbs. - Braxton England 61-pound weight class, and Walters will compete in In Division III, three HKWC The finals sessions will take place • 140 lbs. - Tayler Hamric the 64-pound weight class. members will compete for state The final three Morris grapplers at the state meet will compete in the 12 and Under brackets in Division IV. Ethan Hotema will compete in the 88-pound weight class, Clark Hotema will compete in the 120-pound REGIONALS weight class, and Tommy Calico will compete in the CONTINUED FROM B1 130-pound weight class. ondary Schools Activities Association made the unfor- Fans will be able to check up on all of these wrestlers tunate decision to push back the start of the regional by going to arena.flowrestling.org and clicking on the basketball tournaments, which was slated to begin OKWA 43rd Annual State Championships tab and Thursday. look up each wrestler in either the brackets pages or The 3-day event will now get started Saturday with the team and competitors page. consolation quarterfinal and winner’s bracket semifinal --- action. The consolation semifinals, which were sched- Division I uled to take place today, will now be played Monday, • 60 lbs. - Dallas Lane Hughes while the consolation finals and regional championship Division II games, which were originally scheduled for Saturday, • 55 lbs. - Ketcher Hughes will be held on Tuesday. • 61 lbs. - Randy Hotema The Dewar Dragons and Wilson Tigers find them- • 64 lbs. - Kash Walters selves in the proverbial driver’s seat headed into region- Divison IV als after capturing district championships this past Sat- • 88 lbs. - Ethan Hotema urday afternoon. • 120 lbs. - Clark Hotema The Dragons defeated the host Afton Eagles 64-39 in • 130 lbs. - Tommy Calico Afton to win their Class A, Area II, district crown, while the Tigers knocked off the Maysville Warriors 57-51 in Bowlegs to take home the Class B, Area IV, district title. The Wilson Lady Tigers will have a tougher road ahead of them in their bid to keep their season alive, needing to win six straight games in a span of seven Moved Again days to punch their ticket to the Class B state tourna- ment after suffering a 54-19 loss to the Maysville Lady Warriors in Saturday’s district championship game in Bowlegs. Inclement weather changes The Sasakwa Lady Vikings, who are coached by for- regional wrestling meets mer Schulter basketball standout Rikki Wolfe, are also FILE PHOTO | JACOB FACTOR LARRY OWEN in the proverbial driver’s seat in the Class B regional Brooke Branson and the Wilson Lady Tigers will look to keep their season tournament after capturing the district championship alive Saturday afternoon in the consolation quarterfinals of the Class B- re CONTRIBUTING SPORTS WRITER last Saturday with a 44-38 victory over 19th-ranked gional tournament. Mother Nature has once again put a hold on the Coleman in Sasakwa. high school wrestling regional tournaments. Below are the updated brackets for the regional bas- The regional meets were originally scheduled to ketball tournaments that feature the Dewar Dragons, take place last Friday and Saturday and were pushed Wilson Tigers and Lady Tigers, and Sasakwa Lady Vi- back to this Thursday and Friday due to freezing kings. temperatures and ice on the roadways. --- After the state was blanketed twice this week by Class A, Area II Regional Tournament snowfall, the Oklahoma Secondary Schools Activ- February 20, 23, 24 ities Association chose to once again postpone the Sub-Site: Frontier High School start date a few more days. Main Site: Yale High School The regional wrestling meets are now scheduled to Boys Bracket take place Saturday and Monday. Consolation Quarterfinals The Class 3A tournaments will still take place at At Yale the designated sites with the East regional meet tak- Yale vs. Summit Christian; Saturday, 3 p.m. ing place at Blackwell High School, while the West At Frontier regional will be held at Plainview High School. Frontier vs. Afton; Saturday, 3 p.m. Okmulgee County schools Okmulgee and Hen- Winner’s Bracket Semifinals ryetta will be joined at the East Regional by Barns- At Yale FILE PHOTO | PATRICK FORD dall, Berryhill, Blackwell, Cascia Hall, Cashion, Garber vs. Davenport; Saturday, 8 p.m. Yahv Williams and the Wilson Tigers will continue their journey towards the Chandler, Daniel Webster, Hennessey, Holland Hall, At Frontier state tournament Saturday evening in the winner’s bracket semifinals of the Hulbert, Inola, Jay, Lincoln Christian, Locust Grove, Covington-Douglas vs. Dewar; Saturday, 8 p.m. Class B regional tournament in Kiowa. Metro Christian, Morrison, Newkirk, Oklahoma Consolation Semifinals at Yale Christian School, Pawhuska, Pawnee, Perry, Sperry, Yale/Summit Christian winner vs. Covington-Douglas/ Winner’s bracket semifinal winners; Tuesday, 8 p.m. Tonkawa, Victory Christian, Vian, and Watonga. Dewar loser; Monday, 3 p.m. --- The Morris Eagle wrestling squad will compete at Frontier/Afton winner vs. Garber/Davenport loser; Class B, Area IV Regional Tournament the West Regional and will be joined by Anadarko, Monday, 8 p.m. February 20, 23, 24 Bethel, Bridge Creek, Checotah, Comanche, Com- Consolation Finals at Yale Sub-Site: Sasakwa High School munity Christian, Cordell, Crossings Christian, Da- Consolation semifinal winners; Tuesday, 3 p.m. Main Site: Varnum High School vis, Geary, Hinton, Hobart, Lexington, Little Axe, Championship at Yale Girls Bracket Mangum, Marlow, McLoud, Mill Creek, Pauls Val- Winner’s bracket semifinal winners; Tuesday, 8 p.m. Consolation Quarterfinals ley, Perkins-Tryon, Plainview, Prague, Salina, Sul- --- At Sasakwa phur, Temple, Vinita, Warner, Wilburton. Sub-Site: Vanoss High School Paoli vs. Coleman; Saturday, 1 p.m. The top five finishers in each weight class at each Main Site: Regent Prep High School (Tulsa) At Varnum regional tournament will earn a spot in next week- Consolation Quarterfinals Calvin vs. Tupelo; Saturday, 1 p.m. end’s state wrestling championships at the State Fair- At Vanoss Winner’s Bracket Semifinals grounds Arena in Oklahoma City. Wetumka vs. Riverfield; Saturday, 3 p.m. At Sasakwa Any wrestler finishing sixth at Regionals will get At Regent Prep Cyril vs. Sasakwa; Saturday, 6 p.m. the chance to compete at the state meet if one of the Liberty vs. Gans; Saturday, 3 p.m. At Varnum Top 5 finishers are unable to compete due to injury Winner’s Bracket Semifinals Varnum vs. Caney; Saturday, 6 p.m. or other circumstances. (Note: A sixth-place region- At Vanoss Consolation Semifinals at Varnum al winner will not replace one of the top five (1-5) Vanoss vs. Keota; Saturday, 8 p.m. Paoli/Coleman winner vs. Varnum/Caney loser; Mon- regional place-winners who fails to make weight at At Regent Prep day, 1 p.m. the first weigh-in of the state wrestling tournament.) Ripley vs. Regent Prep; Saturday, 8 p.m. Calvin/Tupelo winner vs. Cyril/Sasakwa loser; Mon- Consolation Semifinals at Regent Prep day, 6 p.m. Wetumka/Riverfield winner vs. Ripley/Regent Prep Consolation Finals Consolation Quarterfinals loser; Monday, 3 p.m. At Varnum At Sasakwa Liberty/Gans winner vs. Vanoss/Keota loser; Monday, Consolation winners; Tuesday, 1 p.m. Paoli vs. Coleman; Saturday, 3 p.m. 8 p.m. Championship at Varnum At Varnum Consolation Finals at Regent Prep Winner’s bracket semifinal winners; Tuesday, 6 p.m. Calvin vs. Achille; Saturday, 3 p.m. Consolation semifinal winners; Tuesday, 3 p.m. --- Winner’s Bracket Boys Bracket Championship at Regent Prep SEE REGIONALS, PAGE B7

Friday, February 19, 2021 SPORTS Okmulgee Times & Henryetta Free-Lance • B3

FILE PHOTO | JACOB FACTOR LARRY OWEN | CONTRIBUTING SPORTS WRITER LARRY OWEN | CONTRIBUTING SPORTS WRITER Charie Barnett and the Morris Lady Eagles will kick off their playoff journey Victoria Hill and the Henryetta Lady Knights will open their playoff schedule Kendal Daniels and the Beggs Golden Demons will kick off the postseason Monday at home against Claremore Sequoyah. Tuesday at Valliant. Tuesday evening at home against Sperry. DISTRICT CONTINUED FROM B1 Ketchum in District 5, Pocola and Hulbert in District 6, Nowata and Commerce in District 7, and Chelsea and Caney Valley in District 8. The teams in Districts 5 and 8 will open regional tournament play Thursday at Oklahoma Union High School, while the teams in Districts 6 and 7 will begin the regional tournament Thursday at Hulbert High School. The remaining two days of regional tournament action will take place Fri- day and Saturday at Hulbert High School. The area tournament for Class 2A, Area II will take place next Thursday-Saturday at Fort Gibson High School. The Class 3A, Area II districts 1-4 will feature Mill- wood and Meeker in District 1, Lincoln Christian and Eufaula in District 2, Rejoice Christian and North Rock Creek in District 3, and Kiefer and Okmulgee in District 4. The teams in Districts 1 and 4 will open regional tournament play Thursday at Kiefer High School, while the teams in Districts 2 and 3 will be- gin the regional tournament Thursday at North Rock Creek High School. The remaining two days of re- gional tournament action will take place Friday and Saturday at North Rock Creek High School. The Class 3A, Area II districts 5-8 will feature Val- liant and Henryetta in District 5, Adair in District 6, Salina and Westville in District 7, and Newkirk and LARRY OWEN | CONTRIBUTING SPORTS WRITER FILE PHOTO | JACOB FACTOR Dewey in District 8. The teams in Districts 5 and 8 will Adrianne Wilson and the Preston Lady Pirates will open their postseason Keegan Burgess and the Morris Eagles will begin postseason play Monday at open regional tournament play Thursday at Henryetta schedule Monday at home against Chouteau-Mazie. home against Claremore Sequoyah. High School, while Adair and the District 7 champion will square off in the winner’s bracket semifinal game Thursday evening at Adair High School. The District 7 runner-up will earn an automatic spot in Friday’s regional consolation semifinal round at Adair High School, which will serve as the regional main site for Districts 5-8. The area tournament for Class 3A, Area II will take place next Thursday-Saturday at Verdigris High School. The Class 3A, Area IV districts 1-4 will feature Beggs and Sperry in District 1, Roland in District 2, Tishomingo and Antlers in District 3, and Heaven- er and Idabel in District 4. The teams in Districts 1 and 4 will open regional tournament play Thursday at Beggs High School, while Roland and the District 3 champion will square off in the winner’s bracket semi- final game Thursday evening at Antlers High School. The District 7 runner-up will earn an automatic spot in Friday’s regional consolation semifinal round at Antlers High School, which will serve as the regional main site for Districts 1-4. The Class 3A, Area IV districts 5-8 will feature Hugo and Atoka in District 5, Keys (Parkhill) in District 6, Vian and Spiro in District 7, and Morris and Clare- more Sequoyah in District 8. The teams in Districts LARRY OWEN | CONTRIBUTING SPORTS WRITER FILE PHOTO | JACOB FACTOR 5 and 8 will open regional tournament play Thursday Markhi Johnson and the Preston Pirates will host Chouteau-Mazie Monday Tori James and the Okmulgee Lady Bulldogs will begin their postseason at Morris High School, while Keys (Parkhill) and the evening in their playoff opener. schedule Tuesday at Kiefer. District 7 champion will square off in the winner’s bracket semifinal game Thursday evening at Spiro High School. The District 7 runner-up will earn an automatic spot in Friday’s regional consolation semi- final round at Spiro High School, which will serve as the regional main site for Districts 5-8. The area tournament for Class 3A, Area IV will take place next Thursday-Saturday at Henryetta High School. --- District Tournament Class 2A Area II, District 3 at Preston Girls Bracket Chouteau-Mazie vs. Preston; Feb. 22, 6 p.m. Boys Bracket Chouteau-Mazie vs. Preston; Feb. 22, 8 p.m. --- Class 3A Area II, District 4 at Kiefer Girls Bracket Okmulgee vs. Kiefer; Feb. 22, 6 p.m. LARRY OWEN | CONTRIBUTING SPORTS WRITER LARRY OWEN | CONTRIBUTING SPORTS WRITER Boys Bracket Nick Hudson and the Henryetta Golden Knights will travel to Valliant Tues- Caylee York and the Beggs Lady Demons will begin their postseason Tues- Okmulgee vs. Kiefer; Feb. 22, 8 p.m. day to begin postseason play. day at home against Sperry. ------Area II, District 5 at Valliant Area IV, District 1 at Beggs Area IV, District 8 at Morris Girls Bracket Girls Bracket Girls Bracket Henryetta vs. Valliant; Feb. 23, 6 p.m. Sperry vs. Beggs; Feb. 23, 6 p.m. Claremore Sequoyah vs. Morris; Feb. 22, 6 p.m. Boys Bracket Boys Bracket Boys Bracket Henryetta vs. Valliant; Feb. 23, 8 p.m. Sperry vs. Beggs; Feb. 23, 8 p.m. Claremore Sequoyah vs. Morris; Feb. 22, 8 p.m.

B4 • Okmulgee Times & Henryetta Free-Lance TV GRIDS Friday, February 19, 2021

Friday, February 19, 2021 TV GRIDS Okmulgee Times & Henryetta Free-Lance • B5

B6 • Okmulgee Times & Henryetta Free-Lance COMICS Friday, February 19, 2021

FRANK AND ERNEST ® by Ron Thaves THE BORN LOSER ® by Art & Chip Sansom

ARLO & JANIS ® by Jimmy Johnson

Strive for harmony and peace of mind. How you interact with others and do your best to solve problems will pave the way to a brighter future. Refuse to let petty differences stand between you and your happiness. Assess situations and prepare to make this a year to remember. Patience THATABABY ® by Paul Trap will be necessary. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 19) Take your time. Listen careful- ly and consider the effect your words will have on others. Get- ting along with others will be essential when you are trying to get things done.

PISCES (Feb. 20-March 20) Put more energy into getting ahead. Connect with people who owe you a favor or those who have something to of- ALLEY OOP ® by Dave Graue & Jack Bender fer that will help you reach your goal. A positive change is heading your way.

ARIES (March 21-April 19) Be receptive to ideas pre- sented to you. Something someone shares will set the foundation for a concept that can help provide insight into something you want to pur- sue. Follow your dreams!

TAURUS (April 20-May 20) BIG NATE ® by Lincoln Peirce Do whatever it takes to live up to your promises. It’s what you accomplish, not what you talk about, that will ultimately turn heads. Show passion in all that you do. HERMAN ® by Jim Unger

GEMINI (May 21-June 20) You’ll find a way to get what you want. Taking a back seat to someone trying to outdo you is not acceptable. You have plenty to offer, and it’s time to strut your stuff and make things happen. THE GRIZWELLS ® by Bill Schorr CANCER (June 21-July 22) Use your charm to get your way. A chance to show off will draw attention from someone who can give you the boost you need. Opportunity is with- in reach, but you must be will- ing to adapt.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) Settle into something that feels comfortable. It will ease stress and encourage you to follow a path that is more to your liking. Love and romance are on the rise.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) Live in the moment, learn from experience and pour your en- ergy into something you find fulfilling. Taking a stroll down memory lane will be a good reminder of what you don’t want to pursue.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23) You’re ready to take on the world. Let negativity go. Allow a positive attitude, new ideas and the desire to make a dif- ference lead the way. Your dis- cipline and hard work will pay off.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 22) Mixed emotions will get in the way of success. It will be easier to complete your responsibili- ties if you don’t compartmen- talize them. One step at a time is all it takes.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23-Dec. 21) The past will be your best reference when you want to move forward or start some- thing new. Don’t rely on others when it’s your insight that will point you in the right direc- tion.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) Stay on course. Don’t deviate from your plans or let anyone push you in a direction you don’t want to go. Change be- gins with you; make decisions that will set you up for success.

Friday, February 19, 2021 PUBLIC NOTICES Okmulgee Times & Henryetta Free-Lance • B7

1700 E. 6th St. DRU R. TATE, OBA#30434 The Board approved the reimburse- ANNOUNCEMENTS Okmulgee, OK 74447 South County Law Firm PLLC Published in the Okmulgee Times ment claim for expenditures of the 918.756.1000-phone 1700 E. 6th St. 2-19-2021 District Attorney’s Office for the Legal Notices 918.917.8485-fax Okmulgee, OK 74447 February 08, 2021 month of January 2021, in the amount Attorney for Personal 918.756.1000-phone Pursuant to the Notice of Regular of $805.47. Motion, Walker; Second, Published in the Okmulgee Times 2-12- Representative 918.917.8485-fax Meeting properly filed and posted as Ballard. Vote: Walker, yes; Ballard, 2021, 2-10-2021 Attorney for Personal required by law, a regular meeting of yes. IN THE DISTRICT COURT Representative the Board of County Commission- The Board approved a Proclamation IN AND FOR OKMULGEE Published in the Okmulgee Times 2-12- ers of Okmulgee County was held naming the week of February 15-19 COUNTY 2021, 2-19-2021 February 08, 2021, at 9:00 a.m. in the 2021, Farm Bureau Week in the STATE OF OKLAHOMA IN THE DISTRICT COURT Published in the Okmulgee Times 2-12- County Commissioners Office at the County of Okmulgee, Oklahoma. IN THE MATTER OF THE ES- IN AND FOR OKMULGEE 2021, 2-19-2021 Okmulgee County Courthouse. Pres- Motion, Ballard; Second, Walker. TATE OF COUNTY IN THE DISTRICT COURT ent were Ron Ballard, Chairman; R. Vote: Walker, yes; Ballard, yes. VIRGINIA C. LOWERY STATE OF OKLAHOMA OF OKMULGEE COUNTY David Walker, Vice-Chairman. Cathi The report by Tom Payne on Okmul- Deceased. IN THE MATTER OF THE STATE OF OKLAHOMA Murphy, County Clerk, was present to gee County Veterans Memorial has Case No.: PB-2015-61 ESTATE OF JAMES EDWARD IN THE MATTER OF THE take minutes. Not present was James been moved to February 22, 2021. Judge: Cynthia Pickering STEPHENS ESTATE OF WILLIAM VERNON Connors, Member. Under New Business: There were no NOTICE TO CREDITORS Deceased. BEARDEN, SR., Deceased The Board approved the minutes of claims to approve; continued with STATE OF OKLAHOMA Case No.: PB-2021-6 No: PB-2020-100 February 01, 2021. Motion, Walker; signing of documents. ss. Judge Cynthia D. Pickering NOTICE TO CREDITORS Second, Ballard. Vote: Walker, yes; At 9:16 a.m., the Board voted to go COUNTY OF OKLAHOMA NOTICE TO CREDITORS All creditors having claims against Ballard, yes. into Executive Session to discuss a All creditors having claims against STATE OF OKLAHOMA William Vernon Bearden, Sr., de- The Board approved the following confidential communication matter VIRGINIA C. LOWERY, deceased, ss. ceased, are required to present the Utility Permit(s): Rural Water District with the Board of County Commis- are required to present the same with COUNTY OF OKMULGEE same, with a description of all security #20, Waterline, Howard Rd between sioners’ Attorney. Motion, Ballard; a description of all security interests All creditors having claims against interests and other collateral (if any) N. 340 & 330 Rd; Rural Water District Second, Walker. Vote: Walker, yes; and other collateral, if any, held by JAMES EDWARD STEPHENS, held by each creditor with respect to # 6, Waterline Hwy 75 & Ferguson Ballard, yes. each creditor with respect to such deceased, are required to present the such claim, to the Executor of the Rd; Motion, Walker; Second, Ballard. At 10:37 a.m., the Board voted to re- claim, to PHYLLIS DILLARD, Per- same with a description of all security Estate, William V. Bearden, Jr., 18902 Vote: Walker, yes; Ballard, yes. turn from Executive Session and back sonal Representative, in care of: interests and other collateral, if any, S. Prairie Bell Rd, Morris, OK 74445, The Board approved the following to the regular meeting. Let the record KELLY M. HUNT, held by each creditor with respect on or before the presentment date of Declaration of Surplus Equipment: show that no action was taken by the DRU R. TATE to such claim, to MARY LAFERN April 16, 2021, or the same will be (1) Hobart Iron Man Welder D404- Board in Executive Session. Motion, South County Law Firm DURBIN, Personal Representative, forever barred. 0204 District 2 Junked; Motion, Walker; Second Ballard. Vote: Walker, 1700 E. 6th St. in care of: Respectfully submitted, Walker; Second, Ballard. Vote: Walk- yes; Ballard, yes. Okmulgee, OK 74447 DRU R. TATE LAW OFFICE OF STAN er, yes; Ballard, yes. No Vote/Action being taken on any on or before the following the pre- South County Law Firm, PLLC BEARDEN The Board approved the reimburse- item(s) discussed in Executive Session sentment date, on the 20th day of 1700 E. 6th Street By: /s/ Stan Bearden ment claim for the Election Board at this time. April, 2021, or the same will be forever Okmulgee, Oklahoma 74447 Stan Bearden, OBA #13654 Secretary’s salary for the month The meeting adjourned at 10:38 barred. on or before the following the pre- Attorney for Personal Representa- of January 2021, in the amount of a.m. with a motion by Walker and a Dated this 9th day of February, 2021. sentment date, on the 20th day of tive $4,032.68. Motion, Walker; Second, second by Ballard. Vote: Walker, yes; /s/ Ron Ballard /s/ Dru R Tate April, 2021, or the same will be forever 7715 E. 111th St, Suite 105 Ballard. Vote: Walker, yes; Ballard, Ballard, yes. RON BALLARD, CHAIRMAN KELLY M. HUNT, OBA#31387 barred. Tulsa, OK 74133 yes. /s/Cathi Murphy BOARD OF COUNTY DRU R. TATE, OBA#30434 Dated this 9th day of February, 2021. (918) 746-5551 CATHI MURPHY, COUNTY COMMISSIONERS South County Law Firm /s/ Dru R Tate CLERK CLASSIFIEDS

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REGIONALS p.m. loser; Monday, 1 p.m. At Stringtown loser; Monday, 8 p.m. Championship --- Stringtown/Midway win- Stringtown vs. Midway; Consolation Finals At Stringtown CONTINUED FROM B2 Sub-Site: Kiowa High ner vs. Kiowa/Maysville Saturday, 3 p.m. At Stringtown Winner’s bracket semifi- Semifinals School loser; Monday, 6 p.m. Winner’s Bracket Consolation semifinalnal winners; Tuesday, 8 At Sasakwa Main Site: Stringtown Consolation Finals Semifinals winners; Tuesday, 3 p.m. p.m. Cyril vs. Sasakwa; Satur- High School At Stringtown At Kiowa day, 8 p.m. Girls Bracket Consolation semifinalBattiest vs. Wilson; Satur- At Varnum Consolation Quarterfinals winners; Tuesday, 1 p.m. day, 8 p.m. Varnum vs. Tupelo; Satur- At Kiowa Championship At Stringtown day, 8 p.m. Battiest vs. Wilson; Satur- At Stringtown Buffalo Valley vs. Whites- Consolation Semifinals day, 1 p.m. Winner’s bracket semifi- boro; Saturday, 8 p.m. At Varnum At Stringtown nal winners; Tuesday, 6 Consolation Semifinals Paoli/Coleman winner Stringtown vs. Midway; p.m. At Stringtown vs. Varnum/Tupelo loser; Saturday, 1 p.m. --- Kiowa/Maysville winner Monday, 3 p.m. Winner’s Bracket Boys Bracket vs. Buffalo Valley/Whites- Calvin/Achille winner Semifinals Consolation Quarterfinals boro loser; Monday, 3 vs. Cyril/Sasakwa loser; At Kiowa At Kiowa p.m. Monday, 8 p.m. Kiowa vs. Maysville; Sat- Kiowa vs. Maysville; Sat- Stringtown/Midway win- Consolation Finals urday, 6 p.m. urday, 3 p.m. ner vs. Battiest/Wilson At Varnum At Stringtown Consolation winners; Moyers vs. Whitesboro; Tuesday, 3 p.m. Saturday, 6 p.m. Championship Consolation Semifinals At Varnum At Stringtown Winner’s bracket semifi- Battiest/Wilson winner nal winners; Tuesday, 8 vs. Moyers/Whitesboro

B8 • Okmulgee Times & Henryetta Free-Lance COLUMNS & OPINION Friday, February 19, 2021 Chicken: From Sacred Totem to Dinner

Recipe adapted from cookierookie.com

Being stuck in the house this week meant I was pull- ing stuff from the pantry and making do with what we had. I was not heading to the store for an ingredient I might have been missing. I did pick up a bunch of chicken last Saturday so this week I put it to good use. Then, as I was preparing this column, it occurred to me I have not made a column for chicken yet! I don’t know how I have done this for 3 and a half years now without dedicating a column to chicken! Time to remedy that. The chicken is a descendant of the Southeast Asian So, I threw some things together without measuring red jungle fowl. It is believed they were first domesti- anything and viola - dinner! cated around 2000 B.C. It appears at that time, how- 4 frozen chicken breast ever, they were mostly used for cockfighting or con- BBQ sauce, enough to cover all breasts. I didn’t use sidered a sacred animal and used for such things as the whole bottle, but if you feel like it, go ahead. fortune telling, fertility and virility. Paprika According to the Smithsonian, Egyptians mastered Minced onion artificial incubation and figured out how to optimal- Honey ly hatch the eggs hens were laying. They created vast Brown sugar Green Tea Poached Chicken ovens where the temperatures could be controlled by Preheat oven to 375°F. Lightly spray 9x13” baking 4 cups water fires made of straw and camel dung. The ovens were pan with cooking spray. Place frozen chicken breast in 8 green tea bags full of corridors and vents that also allowed more con- pan in single layer. Four is all that would fit in my pan 1lb chicken breasts, quartered trol and gave them room to turn the eggs. Their meth- as they were rather large breasts, if you have more and ½ lemon, sliced ods were closely guarded secrets for centuries. they fit, feel free to use them. Pour BBQ sauce over ½ tsp sea salt By 800 B.C., chickens were a delicacy for the Ro- breasts. I think I used about a cup and a half. Sprinkle 1 cup chopped fresh parsley mans. There are writings that show they used eggs for each breast with paprika and minced onion to taste. ½ lemon, juiced omelets and ate stuffed chickens and even ate mashed Drizzle with honey as desired and sprinkle brown 3 Tbsps. olive oil chicken brains. Due to this, Roman farmers began sugar over each breast. Bake for 45 minutes or until no 1 clove garlic looking for ways to fatten the birds to make them bet- longer pink and internal temperature reaches 165°F. 1 Tbsp. water ter for eating. They were known to use bread soaked So easy! Bring 4 cups water to boil in large, high-sided skil- in wine or a combination of cumin seeds, barley and let. Add tea bags. Steep for about 5 minutes. Remove lizard fat. Out of concern for ‘the pursuit of excessive and discard tea bags. Reduce heat to medium and add luxury,’ the Roman government actually created a law chicken, lemon slices, and sea salt. Cover and cook 18 in 161 B.C. that limited the eating of chicken to once to 20 minutes or until internal temperature reaches a day and only if it hadn’t been overfed to fatten it. 165°F. Combine parsley, lemon juice, olive oil, gar- Once Rome collapsed though, the chicken largely fell lic and remaining water in food processor and puree into obscurity once again. until very smooth. Serve chicken warm, topped with In the late 1800’s, Queen Victoria was well known for parsley mixture, if desired. I think it tasted just fine, her collection of strange and exotic animals. Among if not better, without the topping. I was surprised by these was the Cochin chicken from China. She loved how much I liked this chicken! them so much, she sent their eggs to other royalty and Recipe from Eating Right for your Blood Type cook- high ranking officials. Soon, everyone wanted chick- book ens. Queen Victoria was even gifted Brahma chickens from author George Burnham. The Brahma is so large they are considered the King of Chickens. In America, chicken didn’t take off for centuries. While settlers brought chickens with them, most were used for eggs more than eating. America was full of turkeys and ducks and had no use for eating chick- en. In the 1840’s and 50’s, poultry shows were held and brought chickens out of complete obscurity. Even then, though, chickens were rarely eaten and eggs were considered a delicacy. Chickens were eaten by farmers who raised them and not by mass consumers. Even into the 20th century, chicken was a relatively minor part of the American diet. What changed was the industrialization of the chicken farm. People be- gan noticing some chickens were better at laying eggs than others and some were bigger with more meat. Around the turn of the 20th Century, there was a real Honey Garlic Chicken boom and different farms cropped up with different 6 boneless skinless chicken breast specialties for the industry. In the 1990’s, chicken con- ¼ cup flour sumption surpassed beef for the first time in history. 1 tsp paprika Now, it’s a multibillion dollar industry controlled by ¼ tsp salt Quick Cooking Chicken 4 main companies. Today, there are more chickens in ½ tsp pepper 2 Tbsps. olive oil the world than humans, at a ratio of 3 to 1! ½ cup honey 6-7 chicken tenderloin strips This week, pick up some chicken and let’s use staples 1 Tbsps. soy sauce ¼ tsp salt from the cabinets! Chicken has an even texture and is 4 garlic cloves minced ½ tsp ground black pepper, more or less to taste mild flavored enough it spices well and goes with just 1 tsp red pepper flakes 4 tsps. dried basil about everything. Make your list and hit the store Sat- Preheat oven to 375°F. In medium shallow bowl, mix ½ cup honey urday when it warms up some. Then, meet me in the together flour, salt, pepper and paprika. Coat each 3-4 Tbsps. balsamic vinegar, more or less to taste kitchen for chicken! chicken breast in flour mixture and place in light- Heat olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-high ly greased 9x13” baking dish. In separate bowl, mix heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Cook and BBQ Baked Chicken honey, soy sauce and garlic. Pour evenly over chicken. stir chicken in hot oil until chicken is no longer pink So Tuesday night, I wasn’t really wanting to cook. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes to taste. Cover with in the center, about 5-7 minutes. In small bowl, com- Nothing had been left out to thaw and I wasn’t really foil to keep from drying out. Bake 30 minutes. Uncov- bine basil, honey and vinegar. Pour over chicken and feeling having to really pull out a recipe. So, I didn’t. er and bake 15 minutes. Serve with rice or vegetables, cook 1 more minute. Super easy again! Frozen chicken can still be cooked, it just takes longer. with extra sauce on the side if desired. Recipe adapted from allrecipes.com