County Commissioners Again Table Road Allocations

During their weekly meeting Monday morning, the Sequoyah County Commissioners approved the purchase of a new Chevy Tahoe K9 unit for the Sequoyah County Sheriff’s department, at $47,336. Sheriff Larry Lane said half of the funds will come from the forfeiture account, with another $12,000 from the Cherokee nation. Commissioners also approved the lease purchase of a Ford 350 for the West Tenkiller Fire Department, valued at $30,122, and the 2011 Freightliner tanker truck for the Lee Creek Fire department.

In old business, commissioners once again voted to table the discussion and action to change the distribution percentage of monthly allocation of roads that are distributed to each district.

District 2 Commissioner Steve Carter once again made a motion that funds be allocated 40-40-20 instead of an equal 33-33-33 split, to more accurately reflect the number of roads in each district. Carter said the majority of the roads in the county, or 80 percent, fall within Districts 2 and 3, with District 1 having the fewest at approximately 20 percent of the total roads. He gave numbers of 363 roads for District 2, 303 for District 3 and 219 for District 1. District 1 Commissioner Ray Watts again made a motion to table the action. 

District 3 Commissioner and Chairman Jim Rogers said he had researched the topic, and found that in 1998, a ½ cent sales tax was voted in for roads with equal allocations and it has passed two times since then.

“One of the things we need to look at is the reconfiguration of our road mileage – the actual mileage,” Rogers said. “The area verses the population. We need to sit down and look at what the actual percentages would be. It wasn’t voted in by percentage of the district.”

Carter said it is not right and not fair that the two districts with the majority of the roads are getting the same allocation as the district with the fewest roads.

“None of us have enough money to do what we need to do,” Rogers said, adding that if they cut into the T2 money, Watts could possibly be looking at layoffs of up to four employees. “I just want to be fair about things.”

“If you want to make it better for your people, you’ll do this,” Carter said.

“I think we need to look at the numbers,” Watts said.

Rogers seconded Watts motion to table the discussion until more information is gained, and the motion passed 2-1, with Carter voting no.

In new business, commissioners approved a transfer of appropriations for the election board; approved fixed asset cards; approved disaster recovery plans for the treasurer’s office, court clerk and county clerk offices; and blanket purchase orders.

No action was taken to submit programming to add bridges to the bridge replacement program.

Pam Cloud, Managing News Director

For more news stories stay tuned to The MIX 105.1 or visit www.kxmx.com

   

Give Blood and Let the Adventure Begin May 21

Oklahoma Blood Institute has an exciting new adventure in store for donors who give blood to help patients in local hospitals!

Oklahoma Blood Institute will hold a blood drive with Vian Community at Marvin’s IGA on Monday, May 21, from 1:30 to 6 p.m. Donors will receive a limited edition “Let the Adventure Begin” t-shirt, and their choice of voucher, for either two free admissions to Science Museum Oklahoma, ortwo free admissions to Safari Joe’s H20 Water and Adventure Park in Tulsa:*

Oklahoma Blood Institute is proud to partner with Safari Joe’s, which features Reptile Rush Slides & Rapids Water Roller Coaster as well as one-of-a-kind reptile and animal attractions.

“With summer on the way, we want to give donors another extraordinary reason to give the priceless gift of blood,” said John Armitage, M.D., president and CEO of Oklahoma Blood Institute. “Patients need blood 365 days a year, but the summer months present a unique challenge since so many of us are busy with travel and activities, and we may get out of our normal donation routines.”

Donors will also receive a coupon for a free honey butter chicken biscuit from Whataburger and a chance to win Whataburger for a year.*

Only ten percent of people in the United States who are eligible to give blood actually do. Blood donation takes just about an hour, and each donation can save the lives of up to three patients. 

Donors also receive free health screenings. If they opt not to take the t-shirt, Oklahoma Blood Institute will make a monetary donation to Global Blood Fund for blood center assistance in developing countries.

As a non-profit blood center, Oklahoma Blood Institute’s donors provide every drop of blood needed for patients in more than 160 hospitals, medical facilities and air ambulances statewide. Approximately 1,200 volunteer blood donors are needed each day to maintain the supply.

Appointments are not required but can be made by calling Greg at 479-652-2362 or visiting obi.org.

*16-year-olds must weigh at least 125 pounds and provide signed parental permission; 17-year-olds must weigh at least 125 pounds; 18+ year olds must weigh at least 110 pounds. Blood donation not necessary to enter prize drawing.

KXMX News Staff

For more news stories stay tuned to The MIX 105.1 or visit www.kxmx.com

   

Cherokee Nation Donates $58,000 to District 5, District 6 Law Enforcement

Cherokee Nation Secretary of State Chuck Hoskin Jr. and Tribal Councilors Bryan Warner and E.O. Smith presented checks totaling $58,400 to law enforcement agencies in District 5 and District 6.

The Cherokee Nation recently made a contribution of $58,400 to law enforcement agencies in District 5 and District 6, which encompass all of Sequoyah County and part of Muskogee County.

Cherokee Nation Secretary of State Chuck Hoskin Jr. and Tribal Councilors Bryan Warner and E.O. Smith presented the checks to law enforcement officials at a special luncheon Tuesday at Cherokee Casino Sallisaw.

“One of the most rewarding parts of my role as Tribal Councilor is providing assistance to organizations that are vital to our communities,” Warner said. “With the state’s financial situation, law enforcement agencies have experienced recent budget cuts much like other sectors, and I am glad the tribe can step up and help alleviate some of that financial strain.”

Of the $58,400 total donated, the Sequoyah County Sheriff’s Department received $12,000, and the Braggs, Gore, Marble City, Muldrow, Roland, Sallisaw, Vian and Webbers Falls police departments each received $5,800. The annual donations help ensure the safety of both Cherokee and non-Cherokee citizens.

“These brave men and women risk their lives daily for the safety and well-being of our communities, and I am so glad that the tribe can support them and their work,” Smith said. “As a Tribal Councilor, I will always work to support these agencies, whether it is financially or through other resources, because I know that it will be used responsibly and for the betterment of our communities.”

For Sequoyah County Sheriff Larry Lane, partnerships with Cherokee Nation are an important resource.

“Anything we need, we know we can call the tribe, and they are always great to work with,” Lane said.

Each year the tribe donates 20 percent of vehicle tag sales revenue to local law enforcement agencies. The funds can be used on equipment or other needs.

“The Cherokee Nation strives to be a good partner throughout our 14-county jurisdiction, and our commitment to providing funding to law enforcement through car tag revenue is evidence of that dedication,” Hoskin said. “I commend Tribal Councilors Warner and Smith for not only delivering financial support to the agencies in their districts, but also for their diligence in securing other needed resources for these departments throughout the year.”

KXMX News Staff

For more news stories stay tuned to The MIX 105.1 or visit www.kxmx.com

   

Precinct Location Change

Voters in Precinct 307, Calvary Baptist Church, will now be voting at the Price’s Chapel Baptist Church, beginning with the June 26, Primary Election. Voters will need to go to the new location to vote.

Price’s Chapel Baptist Church is located at the intersection of Hwy 59 N and 101, Sallisaw. Polls will open at 7:00 a.m. and close at 7:00 p.m. Voters will still need to take voters ID cards with them to vote or a picture ID.

If you have questions please feel free to call the Sequoyah County Election Board Office at (918)775-2614 or come by 110 E. Creek Ave. in Sallisaw.

For more news stories stay tuned to The MIX 105.1 or visit www.kxmx.com

   

Cherokee Nation hosts Sequoyah Day on May 19

Enjoy a day of traditional Cherokee art, music and more, honoring legendary statesman and inventor of the Cherokee syllabary, Sequoyah. The event will be held in conjunction with Cherokee Nation's Traditional Native Games. 

Sequoyah Day begins at 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 19, at Sequoyah’s Cabin Museum in Sallisaw.

“We are proud to bring to life an event like Sequoyah Day. It’s a unique daylong celebration of Cherokee history and culture at the home of the man who pioneered the Cherokee syllabary,” said Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Bill John Baker. “Now that Cherokee Nation owns and operates the Sequoyah Cabin Park, we can organize these types of family-driven events that are both educational and fun for all.” 

The family-friendly event runs until 4 p.m. and features live performances, activities for children and cultural demonstrations such as pottery, flint-knapping, bow-making, stone carving, graphics and more. 

The event includes multiple performances from the Cherokee National Youth Choir and a special language presentation at 1:30 p.m.

The cabin was constructed by Sequoyah in 1829 and welcomes more than 12,000 visitors each year. It was designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1966 and a National Literary Landmark in 2006. The homestead includes a one-room cabin and nearly 200 acres.

Prior to reopening under Cherokee Nation management in 2017, Sequoyah’s Cabin Museum received much-needed repairs and renovations.

The museum now features large displays that share the story of Sequoyah, his development of the Cherokee syllabary and the Cherokee language today. Additional displays showcase the history of the Cherokee Old Settlers, Cherokee Nation post-removal and the Cherokee Nation today. The museum also features a new retail space offering Cherokee Nation apparel, gifts and souvenirs. 

The museum is located at Highway 101, 7 miles east of Highway 59 in Sallisaw. For more information about Sequoyah’s Cabin Museum, please visit www.VisitCherokeeNation.com.

KXMX News Staff

For more news stories stay tuned to The MIX 105.1 or visit www.kxmx.com

   

Legg Honored at Sallisaw City Commissioner Meeting

Daryl Legg (left) receives a plaque for his service to the city

from Interim City Manager Keith Skelton.

Outgoing Ward 4 Commissioner Daryl Legg was recognized for his service to the city during Monday night’s city commissioner meeting. Legg was out of town on business during last month’s meeting when the other outgoing council members were recognized.

In other business, the commissioners approved a Code of Ethics and a City Council Handbook, along with participation in the Oklahoma Municipal Assurance Group, or OMAG Recognition program. The city is able to be refunded approximately $9,900 on liability insurance and worker’s compensation premiums by adopting the handbook, which includes the code of ethics.

Commissioners also approved a purchase order not to exceed $34,000 for the purchase of 624 new poly carts for the sanitation department, which was more cost-effective than repairing the older ones.

Ward 2 Commissioner Philip Gay addressed the council regarding water runoff issues at the water treatment plant, which have been an ongoing concern for several years. Interim City Manager Keith Skelton will consult with the contracted Hawkins-Weir Engineers, which are very familiar with the property, to discuss options. Skelton will be able to handle costs up to $20,000; anything over that will need to be presented to the commissioners at the June meeting.

Pam Cloud, Managing News Director

For more news stories stay tuned to The MIX 105.1 or visit www.kxmx.com

   

Outstanding Students Recognized at School Board Meeting

Masonic Award Winners from left to right Valerie Vang, MaKenzie Savage, Michael Carson, 

Quaid Girdner, Sergio Najera Diaz and Kennedy Weedon.

FCCLA Award Winners from left to right Davin Chandler, Nicole Adams-Henderson, 

Keli Presley and Supt. Scott Farmer.

Outstanding Wrestlers Kaleb Harris and Hunter Williams were recognized for their achievements. From left to right Asst. SHS Principal Russell Tillery, Kaleb Harris, Hunter Williams, and Supt. Scott Farmer.

Bennett Lessley was recognized for his achievements in track, specifically the hurdles.

 From left to right, Russell Tillery, Bennett Lessley, and Scott Farmer.

Several outstanding students were recognized at the beginning of the regular monthly meeting of the Sallisaw Public School board of education.

Special recognition was given to the six Masonic Award winners, who were presented awards earlier this year during a ceremony at the Masonic Temple. Masonic Award winners from Eastside Elementary School were MaKenzie Savage and Quaid Girdner; Sallisaw Middle School Masonic Award winners were Sergio Najera Diaz and Kennedy Weedon; and at Sallisaw High School, Valerie Vang and Michael Carson were named Masonic Lodge Students of Today. Carson also earned a scholarship, sponsored by Spider Webb Farm Implements Inc., through the National FFA organization.

Scott Farmer, Sallisaw superintendent, told the students their leadership matters.

“The culture and climate of the school is set by the kids,” Farmer said. “What you do matters; don’t ever take that for granted.”

Members of the FCCLA were recognized for their achievements at the state STAR events competition. Vida Benavides won first place and a gold medal in the Leadership senior division; Keli Presley won second place and a silver medal in the Hospitality, Tourism and Recreation senior division; and Nicole Adams-Henderson and Davin Chandler took second place and a gold medal in the Interpersonal Communication junior division.

Sports standouts were also recognized for accomplishments. Wrestlers Kaleb Harris won fourth at regionals and a state qualifier at 113, Hunter Williams took third place at regionals and third at state at 126, and Walter Soto, who was not able to attend the meeting, won third at regionals and third at state at 220.

Bennett Lessley was also recognized at the board meeting for placing second at regionals and third at state in the 330 meter hurdles.

Farmer commended all of these students who were recognized for their outstanding accomplishments in their respective fields.

Pam Cloud, Managing News Director

For more news stories stay tuned to The MIX 105.1 or visit www.kxmx.com