Allens Honored; Hospital Asks for Tax Change Support

State Senator Mark Allen and his wife, Nikki, were named Sallisaw Chamber of Commerce Members of the Month at the chamber luncheon Wednesday at People Inc. Chamber President Darren Girdner, left, presented the plaque and noted how the Allens support many community and chamber events.

Debbie Knoke, administrator at Sequoyah Memorial Hospital in Sallisaw, was the keynote speaker at the luncheon.  She spoke about the hospital's place in and services to the community, and how rising costs impact services. She asked chamber members to support a vote on Nov. 10 which, if approved, will change how a half-cent sales tax collected for the hospital will be used. The tax collection began in 1978.  The tax provides about $600,000 for the hospital.

Knoke emphasized this is not a new or additional tax. A yes vote will only change how the tax money is spent. At present the tax must be used only for capital improvements, such as the purchase of highly-expensive equipment. Approval of the proposal--a yes vote--will allow the hospital to use the money for much needed repairs, maintenance and operations.

Knoke said, "We ask you to support the proposal. Say 'Yes for Progress' so we can operate in a modern way."

Upcoming Events

*October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Sequoyah Memorial Hospital is holding a Mammogram Cash Special on Oct. 30, when mammograms will be $99 at the time of service. A physician must order the mammogram.

*Sequoyah Memorial Hospital (SMH) is holding the second annual Awareness Stroll for Breast Cancer on Oct. 3. The event is funded by a grant from the Susan G. Komen Foundation in Tulsa. Registration is at 10 a.m. and the walk begins at 10:30 a.m. at the SMH Professional Building. Free T-shirts will be given to the first 50 to register. The Awareness Luncheon for Breast Cancer will follow at 11:30 a.m. at the Professional Building. Lunch passes will be given to the first 50 stroll participants and another 25 lunch passes will be available. The event will include guest speakers, information and more.

*The Chamber's Bassnanza fishing tournament will be Oct. 31 at Kerr Lake. The entry fee is $150 and entry forms are available at the Sallisaw Chamber of Commerce or on the chamber's website.

*The Sallisaw Chamber of Commerce Evviva!, a fundraiser for the chamber, will be held Nov. 14 at Roma Italian Restaurant. The fun begins at 7:30 p.m. and tickets are $35 each, or $300 for a private corporate table for eight guests, and $150 for a corporate table for four guests. The evening includes an Italian meal, beverages and a silent and live auction. For information contact the chamber at 918-775-2558.

Sally Maxwell, Senior News Director

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