To make a correction or edition, send a text to (918)649-4712.
Clear skies, cool temperatures for Saturday
The high is forecast to be only 51 degrees with a low of 28 for Saturday. At the start of the Heavener Christmas parade at 6 p.m. Saturday, the temperatures is expected to be around 40 degrees.
Sunrise was 7:22 a.m. Sunset is 5:11 p.m.
Friday’s high was 43 with a low of 26. No rain was recorded, leaving the monthly total to 1.90 inches, still short of December’s average rainfall of 3.10 inches.
Average temperatures for Dec. 21 are a high of 52 and low of 25.
Records for the date were a high of 66 in 1985. The record low was 7 in 1976.
Last year on Dec. 21, the high was 58 with a low of 49.
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LeFlore County calendar of events for the next week. The calendar is a free service for our readers. If you are a church or non-profit event, please email me at craig@heavenerledger.com.
High school basketball: Heavener at Mansfield, Arkansas tournament
Today in history
1988
Pan Am Flight 103 explodes over Scotland
On December 21, 1988, Pan Am Flight 103 from London to New York explodes in midair over Lockerbie, Scotland, killing all 243 passengers and 16 crew members aboard, as well as 11 Lockerbie residents on the ground. A bomb hidden inside an audio cassette player detonated in the cargo area when the... read more
Ancient Egyptians celebrated New Year when the Nile River overflowed, usually in June. Then someone suggested, “If we change New Year to January, we won’t drown coming home from the party.”
Quinn Minute
Early Romans named their celebration for Janus, a deity with two faces. One face looked backward, the other forward.
Today, we also reflect on the past, and plan for the future. But we no longer have two faces, because the one in back is too hard to shave.
Another New Year’s custom was chimney cleaning. This meant participants planned to “clean up” their faults, and strive to do better the next year.
Sadly, a few zealous cleaners toppled down the chute into the fireplace below. This was called “coming down with the flue.”
The Druids celebrated the New Year on March 1. Unfortunately, that was two months late for bowl games.
But remember, these were ancient civilizations, and they did not yet worship football.
WHAT’S THE BEST IDEA? – I’m writing a series of articles on humankind’s best ideas. Can you help me?
E-mail me the best idea you’ve ever heard, plus your name and phone number. I’ll call you to get more details. E-mail Rix at rix@rixquinn.com with the words BEST IDEAS in the “Subject” line.
LCJ newsletter is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
Daily Bible verse
And Mary said: “My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
Luke 1:46-47
Choctaw Nation earns accreditation
DURANT – The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma has been recognized as one of 84 economic development organizations accredited by International Economic Development Council (IEDC) as an Accredited Economic Development Organization (AEDO). The Choctaw Nation is the first Native American tribe to receive this accreditation.
The AEDO designation places the Choctaw Nation in the top one percent of economic development organizations in the U.S. Only three other Oklahoma communities - Ada, Ponca City and the Tulsa Chamber, have received this prestigious recognition.
The Choctaw Nation assists communities in its reservation with marketing and recruiting businesses to their area. Last year, the Choctaw Nation Economic Development team assisted with 38 site selection Request for Proposals (RFP) and seven site visits. Three businesses chose to locate manufacturing operations in the Choctaw Nation, creating 120 new jobs and $93 million in capital investments.
“We are committed to helping our communities grow and prosper. It’s important for them to market themselves to businesses so we can invest in our future and create a sense of pride in our communities,” said Chief Gary Batton, Chief of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. “Our economic development efforts, help communities create an attractive environment for businesses and their employees.”
“The Choctaw Nation displays the professionalism, commitment, and technical expertise that is deserving of this honor,” said IEDC President and CEO Nathan Ohle.
The AEDO program is a comprehensive peer review process that measures economic development organizations against commonly held standards in the profession. The program consists of two phases: a documentation review and an onsite visit. Each phase is designed to evaluate information about the structure, organization, funding, programs, and staff of the candidate economic development organization.
Earning the AEDO accreditation tells the community and prospects that the Choctaw Nation has attained a measure of excellence assuring that their trust is well-placed and their business is in good hands.
Maintenance of the AEDO status is required every three years and is accomplished through documentation submission and/or onsite visits by a team of the AEDO subcommittee.
About The International Economic Development Council
The International Economic Development Council is the largest membership association serving economic and community development professionals in the world. With over 5,000 members nationwide and abroad, IEDC offers the economic development profession one source for information and professional development, one voice for the profession and one force for advocacy. For more information on IEDC or the AEDO program, call Dana Crater at (910) 821.0245; fax (202) 223.4745; write to IEDC at 1275 K Street NW, Suite 300, Washington, DC 20005; email dcrater@iedconline.org; or visit IEDC’s website at www.iedconline.org.
About The Choctaw Nation The Choctaw Nation is the third-largest Indian Nation in the United States with nearly 230,000 tribal members and 12,000-plus associates. This ancient people has an oral tradition dating back over 14,000 years. The first tribe over the Trail of Tears, its historic reservation boundaries are in the southeast corner of Oklahoma, covering 10,923 square miles. The Choctaw Nation’s vision, “Living out the Chahta Spirit of faith, family and culture,” is evident as it continues to focus on providing opportunities for growth and prosperity. For more information about the Choctaw Nation, its culture, heritage and traditions, please go to www.choctawnation.com.
Heavener’s Isaac Cook goes up for a basket during Thursday’s game with Broken Bow. Photo by KAYDENCE McGEE.
To make a correction or add a score, text (918) 649-4712.
Heavener’s Taylee Baker drives to the basket against Broken Bow’s Haylie Branley. Photo by KAYDENCE McGEE.
Broken Bow sweeps pair from Heavener
Broken Bow swept Heavener in a pair of basketball games Thursday at Heavener as the Wolves and Lady Wolves played their final game until Christmas break.
After Broken Bow’s girls cruised to a 70-37 win in the opener, the Savages broke through in the second half to down Heavener, 44-35, in the second contest.
For the boys, Broken Bow sophomore Graydon Howell is already getting notoriety for his play at football, but showed he is equally skilled at basketball as Howell scored 12 of the Savages’ 14 points in the third quarter as Broken Bow, which led 23-21, at halftime, increased the advantage to 37-26 after three periods.
The 10th-ranked Class 4A Savages improve to 5-1 with the Wolves dropping to 4-2. Broken Bow’s girls are now 5-2 while the Lady Wolves are 1-5.
In addition to his big third quarter, Howell proved to be the biggest difference in the game between a pair of very athletic teams. He wound up with a game-high 21 points for the Savages, Broken Bow’s only player in double figures.
Heavener, which remained in striking distance throughout, was led by Canyon Ford and Roselio Garcia, both with 12 points. Garcia’s points all came from 3-point baskets
Boys
Broken Bow 44, Heavener 35
BBHS 8 15 14 7--44
HHS 9 12 5 9--35
Broken Bow—S. Baker 1 3-4 2 6; D. Hall 1 0-2 2 2; G. Howell 10 0-0 0 21; L. McDaniel 0 1-2 2 1; M. Williston 3 2-4 1 9; T. Tinadero 0 0-0 3 0; A.J. Brannon 1 1-2 1 3; L. Axton 0 0-0 1 0. TOTALS: 16 7-14 12 44.
Broken Bow jumped out to a big lead and outscored the Lady Wolves in every quarter in getting the win. Tyson Woolsey led the Lady Savages with 19 points and Jaylen Cauthron added 13.
Zaida May had 12 points to lead Heavener while Heavener’s only senior, Britlee Reed, added 11.
Broken Bow 70, Heavener 37
BBHS 23 17 13 17—70
HHS 5 13 7 12—37
Broken Bow—J. Classon 0 3-4 0 3; R. Gaston 3 0-0 0 7; L. Tomlinson 0 0-0 1 0; G. Smith 2 0-0 0 6; T. Woolsey 7 5-9 0 19; H. Brantley 3 0-0 0 7; A. Shelton 2 0-0 2 5; J. Cauthron 5 2-2 1 13; K. Rogers 3 0-0 1 8. TOTALS: 25 10-15 5 70.
Clear skies and cold temperatures are forecast Friday for LeFlore County weather.
The high is forecast to be only 44 degrees with a low of 25.
Sunrise was 7:22 a.m. Sunset is 5:10 p.m.
Thursday’s high was 60 with a low of 36. No rain was recorded, leaving the monthly total to 1.90 inches, still short of December’s average rainfall of 3.10 inches.
Average temperatures for Dec. 20 are a high of 52 and low of 25.
Records for the date were a high of 70 in 1979. The record low was 10 in 1973.
Last year on Dec. 20, the high was 62 with a low of 46.
Today in history
1957
Elvis Presley is drafted
On December 20, 1957, while spending the Christmas holidays at Graceland, his newly purchased Tennessee mansion, rock-and-roll star Elvis Presley receives his draft notice for the United States Army. With a suggestive style—one writer called him “Elvis the Pelvis”—a hit movie, "Love Me Tender," and a... read more
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Daily Bible verse
The angel answered, “The Holy Spirit will come on you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God.
Luke 1:35
Guess who
Here is this week’s Guess Who. If you know who he is, send an email to craig@heavenerledger.com and your name will be published in next Thursday’s newsletter. Last week’s Guess Who was Dylan Roberts. Congratulations to Kristi Branscum, Linda Roop and Betty Ford for identifying Dylan.
Blast from the past
One of Heavener’s best running backs, Blake Smittle, stiff arms a Union Christian defender during a game in 2012. Smittle rushed for over 300 yards in the Wolves’ win.
Heavener Utilities Authority and City Council will meet in regular business meetings 6 p.m. Thursday in Heavener’s City Hall at 103 East Avenue B.
HUA
CALL TO ORDER – Chairman
ROLL CALL – Clerk
INVOCATION – Chairman
AGENDA
1. New Business / Public Comments (the public will be recognized by the chairman from a sign-in sheet where each citizen wishing to address the board of trustees shall sign their name and the request or purpose for being recognized).
2. Approval of minutes from previous meeting.
3. Approval of purchase orders presented for payment.
4. Treasurer’s report and financial statements
5. Water superintendent’s report
6. Trustees’/chairman’s report
7. Adjourn
City Council
CALL TO ORDER – Chairman
ROLL CALL – Clerk
INVOCATION – Chairman
AGENDA
1. New Business / Public Comments (the public will be recognized by the Mayor from a sign-in sheet, where each citizen wishing to address the city commission, shall sign their name and the request or purpose for being recognized).
2. Approval of minutes from previous meeting.
3. Approval of purchase orders presented for payment.
4. Consider, discuss and take action on Resolution # 2024-30 providing for municipal elections.
5. Consider and take action on code violations for Kiger Properties and Investments, for property located at 108 Highway 128, for dilapidated building.
6. Consider and take action on code violations for Kiger Properties and Investments, for property located at 304 East Avenue, for dilapidated building.
7. Consider and take action on code violations for David Boszor, for property located at 405 West Avenue H, for rank weeds and grass, trash accumulation, and harboring vermin.
8. Consider and take action on code violations for Sarah Young, for property located at 507 East 6th Street, for dilapidated building and public safety violations.
9. Open bids for demolition of 507 East 6th Street.
10. City Commission votes to enter into executive session (requires majority vote of quorum of the members present to enter).
11. Enter executive session with city manager and attorney for confidential communications, as authorized by 25 O.S. Sect. 307 (B) concerning:
A. Employment details for incoming city manager Chelsea Sweet
12. Reconvene in open meeting.
13. Consider, discuss and take action on employment details for incoming city manager Chelsea Sweet.
14. Treasurer’s report and financial statements
15. Trustees’/chairman’s report
16. Adjourn.
LeFlore County legals
Arson, third degree: Miguel Angel Figueroa Murillo.
Burglary in the second degree: Court David Cosssey.
Child endangerment by driving under the influence-felony: Victor Tellez.
Child neglect: Mandy Rhea.
Child neglect-neglect or refusal to compel child to attend school: Derek Wayne Pheland; Sharee Phelan.
Collection of delinquent state tax: State of Oklahoma OTC vs. Johnny Morslund, Kimberly Morsund.
Divorce: Johnny Lee Covey vs. Lisa Covey (pro se); Shannon Kay Phillips vs. Michael David Phillips; Joshua Clinton Kirkenndoll vs. Stormy Jean Kirkendoll; Christina Marie Aaron vs. Brandon Lee Aaron (Pro se); Kayla Mode vs. Josh Mode.
Domestic abuse-assault and battery-misdemeanor: Heath Dan Cosgrove.
Driving with license cancelled/suspended/revoked=misdemeanor: James Dalton Wayne Jones.
DUI alcohol-aggravated (Municipal) felony: Victor Tellez.
Eluding/attempting to elude police officer: Miguel Angel Figueroa-Murilllo.
Estate of deceased: Michael Ray Underwood.
Failure of driver to wear seat belt: John D. Albert; Jax Rhea Griffis; Raymond F. Mingeram; Clarence Pippin; Blake W. Ivey; Dustin Wayne Lee; Peige Nuzzi; Robert Wingfield; April Danielle Benefield; Blake W. Ivey; Raymond Owsley; Christie Danyelle Qualls; Clara Annagayle Bland; Christopher E. Becker; Frank Harrison; Brandon L. Guinn; Heather N. Patton; Melissa K. Lucas.
Failure of front seat passenger to wear seat belt: Aven Brent Easton; Thomas W. Bell; Cheyenne Harness; Ryan Nester; Logan L. Southerland; Austin Kaleb Barnette.
Failure to yield from stop sign: Margaret R. Higman; Verona Mitchell; Dana F. Hoover.
Following too closely: Jacqueline Long.
Forcible entry and detainer up to $5,000 (SC): Edna Elizabeth Montgomery vs. Roy Clark, Dravin Clark.
Headlighting: James Wyatt Riggs.
Hunting with the aid of a motor vehicle-wildlife: James Wyatt Riggs.
Inattentive driving resulting in collision: Ezekiel J. Harrison.
Marriage license: Jorge Alberto Lopez Olivares and Patricia Delgado Vazquez. (pre-marital counseling) Christopher Adam Good and Joyelle Betty Martin; Larry Kinslow and Charlotte Fay Kinslow; Caleb Danyael Smith and Karoline Lia Thornburg; Rob Luran Reeves and Kyla Cheyenne Brooks; Dalton Jocoby Stout and Mia Faith Pierce; Ernesto Vivar Arroyd and Brenda Deisi Tapia Vivar; Guillermo Trejo Maldanado and Marian Dadai Luero Tecla.
Money judgment/Civil-over $10,000: Capital One vs.. Melvin P. Emde. Enable Gas Transmission, LLC vs. Diablo Stone, LLC, Jonathan Mitchell, DBA Diablo Stone, Douglas R. Fisher, DBA Diablo Stone, McClary Stone Inc.
Money judgment/civil-$10,000 or less: Discover Bank vs. Layne Curtis; Capital One, N.A. vs. Tony Starr; Capital One, N.A. vs. David Z. Scroggins; LVNV Funding LLC vs. John R. Strain; Jefferson Capital Systems LLC vs. Felicia Mackey; Midland Credit Management Inc. vs. Chris Young; LVNV Funding LLC vs. Erika Castillo; LVNV Funding LLC vs. Jesse Ortega; Spring Oaks Capital SPV LLV vs. Brandon Gerdes; LVNV Funding LLC vs. Kyle Taylor Vines.
Money judgment-small claims under $5,000: America’s Car Mart Inc. vs. Kenny Threadgill; America’s Car Mart vs. Blake Thornburg, Kara Thornburg; America’s Car Mart vs. Souk Morse; America’s Car Mart Inc. vs. Tyler Perkins; America’s Car Mart Inc. vs. Cassandra Lankford; Destiny Atkins vs. Tammy Beiu; Warren & Bovos, Inc. DBA Hamilton, Warren, Bovos and Adams vs. April Nuva.
Notice of child support obligation: In the interest of the children of Kelsey Jewell Hoover vs. Bradley Neil Brewer.
Operating m/v w/o valid driver’s license: Bruce H. Ortbals.
Operate vehicle without valid license: Angel Martinez-Velasquez; Chad H. Akers; Derek B. Vaughn; Damond Earl Plummer; J.D. Reichard Jr.
Overload any axle (0700-2,000 pounds): Zachary L. Watts.
Overload any axle (over 10,000 pounds): Randy L. Watkins; Dustin Lynn Smittle.
Petit larceny-misdemeanor: Miguel Angel Figueroa-Murillo; Kelci Lynn Campbell; Connor James Martin.
Possession of controlled dangerous substance-misdemeanor: James Dalton Wayne Jones; Daniel Wayne Draper.
Protective order: Nathan Davd Jager minor child vs. Paul Gabe Przyblinki; Tracy Jen Elizabeth Bollinger minor child vs. Ethan Wayne Palmer.
Replevin: Jessica Williams, Timothy Williams vs. Gene Rodney Sulsom, Georgia Dorsey, Brian Dorseyeplevin: Jessica Williams, Timothy Williams vs. Gene Rodney Sulsom, Georgia Dorsey, Brian Dorsey.
Speeding: Levi D. Owens (65 in 55); Ashley L. Brown (55 in 45); Maikle C. Perez (65 in 55); Wesley A. Davis (60 in 55); Natalie Brown (75 in 65); Tiffani P. Rodriguez (75 in 65) ; Gabriel A. Broom (75 in 65); James Leatherwood (65 in 55); Juwan T. Campbell (75 in 65) Oasis S. Saenz (75 in 65); Randalyn O. Rice (55 in 45); Kathryn S. Taylor (65 in 55); Barbara A. Dooty (55 in 45); Heather N. Patton (75 in 65); Charles W. Cohea (65 in 45); Hayven G. Hoffman (75 in 65); Kyle Ray Washburn (75 in 65); Ethan L. Leonard (76 in 65); Elijah D. Gallegos (65 in 55).
Transporting open container of alcoholic beverage-misdemeanor: Daniel Wayne Draper.
Threaten to perform act of violence: Jeramia Wayne Norman.
Trespassing after being forbidden-misdemeanor: Miguel Angel Figueroa-Murillo.
Unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia-misdemeanor: James Dalton Wayne Jones; Daniel Wayne Draper.
Writ of habeas Corpus: Tenisha Cheyenne Dunavant vs. Patricia Ann Kirk.
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LeFlore County commissioners’ minutes
LeFlore County commissioners’ meeting for Monday in Poteau with Chairman Jamie Oliver presiding. Also present were Vice-Chair Vallard Campbell, Member Josh Blaylock and County Clerk First Deputy Jedd Kirby. Absent: County Clerk Kelli Ford.
The following action was taken by the board:
(1.) Chairman Jamie Oliver called meeting to order.
(2.) Motion was made by Jamie Oliver and seconded by Vallard Campbell to approve the minutes of special meeting held December 12, 2024. Motion was approved, all voting yes.
(3.) Motion was made by Jamie Oliver and seconded by Josh Blaylock to approve purchase orders and payroll claims as presented and are on file in the office of the County Clerk. Motion was approved, all voting yes.
(4.) Monthly Fee Reports: None presented.
(5.) Motion was made by Jamie Oliver and seconded by Vallard Campbell to approve transfer of appropriations in the amount of $10,857.25 from ARPA-WW (Wells & Wann Company) to ARPA-2 County General Maintenance & Operations. Motion was approved, all voting yes.
(9.) Burn Ban. Not needed at this time. No discussion.
(10.) Motion was made by Vallard Campbell and seconded by Jamie Oliver to approve Notice to Sell County Property described as SPIRO BLK 120 N15 LOT 2 B1514 P386 to bidder number 9385 for the sum of $121.73 as submitted by the LeFlore County Treasurer. Motion was approved, all voting yes.
(11.) Motion was made by Josh Blaylock and seconded by Vallard Campbell approve 324 A Claim as submitted by Pinnacle Consulting Management Group for the sum of $8,775.00 regarding Project STP-240C(112)CI, Job Piece 32899(04), Parcels 3, 3.1, and 3.2, located in LeFlore County. Motion was approved, all voting yes.
(12.) Motion was made by Jamie Oliver and seconded by Vallard Campbell to approve Easement for Public Highway document as submitted by Connie Marie Ray and James Terry Ray regarding 33 foot of roadway lying in part of Section 33, Township 5 North, Range 27 East. Motion was approved, all voting yes.
(13.) Motion was made by Jamie Oliver and seconded by Josh Blaylock to approve Request for Flood Plain Services & Application for Permit of Public Service Pipeline Crossing regarding maintaining a temporary 2” poly pipe along, upon or across road known as River Road located at the junction of Highway 63 and N4645, South ¾ miles to River Road Bridge, Muse, Oklahoma, effective December 9, 2024. Motion was approved, all voting yes.
(14.) Motion was made by Jamie Oliver and seconded by Vallard Campbell to approve Resolution regarding appointment of Cash Carter as member to the LeFlore County Fair Board in place of Bucky Pugh with term start date of December 16, 2024 and appointment termination date of January 31, 2026. Motion was approved, all voting yes.
(15.) Motion was made by Vallard Campbell and Josh Blaylock to approve title sheet regarding State of Oklahoma Department of Transportation Plan of Proposed County Bridge, State Job No. 29974(04), Rhino Road, for bridge # 192 and bridge # 193, as submitted by the Circuit Engineering District # 3. Motion was approved, all voting yes.
(16.) Motion was made by Josh Blaylock and seconded by Vallard Campbell to approve change in requisitioning officer from Howard Bandy to Rodney Derryberry and addition of Dennis Yochum as requisitioning officer to all LeFlore County 911 accounts. Motion was approved, all voting yes.
(17.) Motion was made by Jamie Oliver and seconded by Josh Blaylock to award bid regarding the 2025 LeFlore County Ballot Printing Contract to Mid-West Printing Company (see attached ballot pricing form for pricing details). Motion was approved, all voting yes.
(18.) Motion was made by Jamie Oliver and seconded by Vallard Campbell to table bid award regarding the purchase of LeFlore County 6-month County Highway Materials from January 1, 2025 through June 30, 2025 pending further review and tabulation of bid submissions. Motion was approved, all voting yes.
Jada Marie Ray, 33, of Poteau was sentenced to prison.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics, the District 16 Drug Task Force, and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
On July 23, 2024, Ray pleaded guilty to the charge. According to investigators, on Jan. 5, 2023, Ray distributed 20 pills containing fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance.
Ronald A. White, Chief U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearing. Ray will remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jordan Howanitz represented the United States.
Wreck claims life of Poteau man
A wreck claims life of a 63-year-old Poteau man Thursday at approximately 3:42 p.m. ½ miles north of Poteau.
William E. McGuire was driving a 2004 Chevrolet Silverado and tried to cross Highway 112 from 290th Avenue when his vehicle was struck by a 1997 Peterbilt driven by Gene V. Bock, 64, from Van Buren, Arkansas.
McGuire was pronounced deceased on the scene by LeFlore County EMS and was transported by Dowden-Roberts Funeral Home.
Bock was transported by a privately owned vehicle to Eastern Oklahoma Medical Center, where he was treated and released.
The condition of both drivers is under investigation. The cause of the accident was from the failure to yield from a stop sign.
Seat belts were equipped in both vehicles, not in use in McGuire’s vehicle while Bock was wearing his seat belt.
Neither vehicle had air bags
The accident was investigated by Trooper Wes Odom.
Seeds released for basketball LCT
Seeds have been released for the 2025 basketball LeFlore County Tournament, which will be held Jan. 20 through Jan. 25.
Defending champions Pocola got the top seed in both the boys’ and girls’ division.
Here is the seeding.
Boys
1. Pocola
2. Panama
3. Heavener
4. Talihina
5. Howe
6. Poteau
7. Wister
8. Spiro
9. Cameron
10. LeFlore
11. Whitesboro
12. Arkoma
13. Bokoshe
Girls
1. Pocola
2. Howe
3. Whitesboro
4. Panama
5. Spiro
6. Talihina
7. Wister
8. Poteau
9. Heavener
10. Cameron
11. Arkoma
12. LeFlore
13. Bokoshe
Heavener’s Taylee Baker gets a shot off in Tuesday’s home openers with Spiro. Photo by KAYDENCE McGEE
Heavener splits home openers
Heavener splits its home opening basketball games with Spiro Tuesday.
The Wolves used a 17-5 run in the third quarter to come back from a 10-point deficit at halftime to take the second game, 52-43, after the Lady Bulldogs were too much for Heavener in the opener, winning 76-51.
Heavener’s boys are now 4-1 while the Bulldogs drop to 1-4. Spiro’s girls are 2-3 and the Lady Wolves are 1-4. Heavener has another home game Thursday against Broken Bow while Spiro visits Warner, also Thursday.
After Spiro used a 17-6 advantage in the second quarter to take a 28-18 lead at the half, Heavener took the momentum back in the third quarter with the big run to take a 35-32 lead going into the final period. Heavener also controlled the fourth quarter, outscoring Spiro 16-11 to make the second-half advantage for the Wolves, 33-15.
To get the win, Heavener overcame a large heigh disadvantage as the Wolves barely topped the 6-foot-mark with their tallest player while Spiro countered with two players over 6-5. But Heavener’s constant defensive pressure seemed to take its toll in the second half.
Brandon Sanchez led Heavener with 14 points. Isaac Cook added 10 and Geren Palmer gave the Wolves a lift with 10 points off the bench.
For Spiro, Brycen Graham and Elijah Branscum each had 14
Spiro’s girls outscored Heavener in every quarter and built a 35-21 lead at the half before coasting in the second half to the win.
Brynleigh Graham had 20 for Spiro and Rylee Darneal added 13. Heavener’s lone senior, Britlee Reed, had 16 to top the Lady Wolves while Taylee Baker added 11.
Woodland downs Talihina, 58-23, Friday night to win the state football championship for Class A-II.
Top-ranked Woodland built a 26-0 lead at the half and increased the margin to 42-0 before the Golden Tigers scored three late touchdowns on passes from Landen Griffith.
His touchdowns came from 25 yards to Jayden Evans, 13 yards to Noah Lloyd and 30 yards to Kaden Cossey.
Woodland finished 14-0 while Talihina, which was hoping to add its second state championship in football after previously winning in 1966, closed at 12-2.
Oklahoma fishing report
NORTHEAST
Kaw: December 16. Elevation is normal and stable, water temperature 50°F and stained. (USACE Lake Level) Crappie good on hair jigs, jigs, minnows, sassy shad, and tube jigs around brush structure, riprap, and standing timber. Blue and channel catfish fair on cut bait, live shad, shad, and sunfish below the dam, main lake, and river channel. Striped bass hybrids and white bass slow on live bait, sassy shad, and spoons below the dam. Report submitted by Spencer Grace, game warden stationed in Kay County.
Keystone: December 16. Elevation is 3 ft. above normal and stable, water temperature 53°F and clear. (USACE Lake Level) Largemouth bass good on crankbaits, plastic baits, and worms around brush structure, main lake, and rocks. Blue, channel, and flathead catfish fair on live bait, live shad, and minnows around main lake and rocks. Crappie good on jigs and minnows around brush structure, main lake, and rocks. Report submitted by Tracer Wagner, game warden stationed in Creek County.
SOUTHEAST
Blue River: December 16. Elevation is normal and stable, water temperature 45°F and clear. (USGS Lake Level) Rainbow trout good on caddis flies, midges, nymphs, PowerBait, small lures, and spoons around brush structure, channels, creek channels, and rocks. Report submitted by Ethan Lovelace, biologist at the Blue River Public Fishing and Hunting Area.
Broken Bow: December 16. Elevation is 3 ft. below normal and rising, water temperature 53°F and clear. (USACE Lake Level) Largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted bass fair on crankbaits and spoons around brush structure, creek channels, points, and standing timber. Crappie fair on hair jigs, jigs, minnows, and spoons around brush structure, points, river mouth, and standing timber. Report submitted by Dru Polk, game warden stationed in McCurtain County.
Konawa: December 15. Elevation is normal and stable, water temperature 52°F and clear. Largemouth bass fair on Alabama rigs, crankbaits, and plastic baits around main lake, points, river channel, and weed beds. Striped bass hybrids and white bass fair on Alabama rigs, crankbaits, and live shad around coves, discharge, main lake, and river channel. Channel catfish slow on chicken liver, cut bait, and shrimp around discharge, inlet, riprap, and rocks. Report submitted by Garret Harley, game warden stationed in Seminole County.
Lower Mountain Fork River: December 13. Elevation is normal and stable, water temperature 60°F and clear. Rainbow trout good on PowerBait, tube jigs, and worms around creek channels and spillway. Report submitted by Mark Hannah, game warden stationed in McCurtain County.
McGee Creek: December 13. Elevation is 3 ft. below normal and falling, water temperature 54°F and stained. (USACE Lake Level) Largemouth and spotted bass excellent on Alabama rigs, bill baits, crankbaits, in-line spinnerbaits, jerk baits, jigs, plastic baits, and small lures around brush structure, points, rocks, shallows, shorelines, and standing timber. Channel and flathead catfish excellent on cut bait, shrimp, and stinkbait around channels, creek channels, and flats. Crappie slow on jigs, minnows, and small lures around brush structure, main lake, points, and standing timber. Report submitted by Shay Loudermilk, game warden stationed in Atoka County.
Pine Creek: December 13. Elevation is normal and stable, water temperature 61°F and clear. (USACE Lake Level) Largemouth bass good on crankbaits and plastic baits around flats and points. Crappie good on jigs around brush structure and standing timber. Channel catfish good on chicken liver around creek channels. Report submitted by Mark Hannah, game warden stationed in McCurtain County.
Texoma: December 15. Elevation is 1 ft. above normal and stable, water temperature 54°F and clear. (USACE Lake Level) Striped bass good on flukes and live shad around channels, flats, main lake, points, and river channel. Blue, channel, and flathead catfish good on chicken liver, cut bait, live shad, punch bait, and stinkbait around channels, docks, flats, points, river channel, and river mouth. Crappie fair on grubs, hair jigs, jigs, minnows, and nymphs around brush structure, docks, points, and standing timber. Comments: Fishing this week has been good again. Striper are good on live shad and dead sticking methods. Find the birds and you’ll find the fish. Wintertime fishing looks like it’s going to be great. Catfish are biting on cut and live bait near channels and ledges. Crappie are biting on minnows and jigs near brush piles and docks. Report submitted by Garrett Beam, game warden stationed in Bryan County.
Wister: December 13. Elevation is normal and stable, water temperature 55°F and stained. (USACE Current Lake Level) Largemouth bass good on crankbaits and jigs around brush structure. Blue catfish good on cut bait and live shad around main lake. Crappie good on jigs and minnows around brush structure. Report submitted by James Williams, game warden stationed in Le Flore County.
2014—Baptist Association to hold three dinners…Heavener graduate Eric Mead starts dental career in Heavener…Friends of Kerr Mansion to hold New Year’s Eve bash…Ledger holds ribbon cutting…Hodgen basketball teams win Fanshawe Tournament…Howe teams sweep Green Valley Conference Tournaments…Heavener sweeps games from Wister.
20 YEARS AGO
2004—Judy Bolin reports local students did well in testing…CASC gets $50,000 for Native American students…Seven applicants for school board in Heavener…Heavener loses to Savanna in basketball…Heavener all-star readers are Erica LeMay, Jakob Gunter, Cheyanne Cranfield and Ricardo Curies…Kelly Falkner named teacher of the month at HHS…Melissa Brown is the student of the month.
30 YEARS AGO
1994—Howe student Kenneth Corn selected to participate in program…Eldred Chronister, Homer Marrow file for school board seats…OK Foods’ plant in Heavener takes up the slack after Fort Smith plant burns…Brother and sister Freddie Cox and Kimberly Cox are graduating from the University of Oklahoma…Mandy Naylor scores 25 points against Battiest…Wolves whip Hartshorne behind Jason Henry’s 17 points.
50 YEARS AGO
1974—Two escapees from the vo-tech south of Hodgen have been caught…Wister Lake is now 25 years old…Tree decorating party planned for Heavener Library…Heavener City Council reviewing ordinance determining how late a business can stay open…Senator James Hamilton requests funding for a vo-tech in Talihina…Charles Hurley has a 10 ½ foot camper for sale…New half ton Chevy truck is $3,688 at Hembree Chevrolet.
60 YEARS AGO
1964—Three Howe youth have been arrested and charged with the burglary of four Heavener businesses…Monroe man and wife charged with the burglary of Holton’s Hardware Store in Poteau…New Wister Water Plant dedicated…Paul’s 66 Station in Howe has a 1962 Chevy Bel Aire for sale…Doyle Winters would like the owner of a stray cow that has been in his pasture all summer to retrieve it.
70 YEARS AGO
1954—Heavener area received almost 2 ½ inches of rain that was sorely needed…Grand opening planned for Wilson & Johnston Appliance and Paint Store.
80 YEARS AGO
1944—Heavener is getting ready for Christmas with schools closing Friday and stay closed until Jan. 2…Special Christmas cards from the Germany front have been arriving…Mack Hall Jr. has lost a small terrier.
90 YEARS AGO
1934—Government continues buying cattle to prevent their death from the drought…Heavener is currently without a daytime passenger train for the first time in a long time…Grading and graveling of road from fish hatchery south of town to Howard is now completed…Ground roast beef is only nine cents per pound at Willige Home Grocery in Heavener…New Year fireworks available at Baker’s Service Station between Heavener and Howe.
Clear skies and cold temperatures are forecast for LeFlore County weather.
The high is forecast to be 60 degrees with a low of 32.
Sunrise was 7:21 a.m. Sunset is 5:10 p.m.
Wednesday’s high was 55 with a low of 32. No rain was recorded, leaving the monthly total to 1.90 inches, still short of December’s average rainfall of 3.10 inches.
Average temperatures for Dec. 19 are a high of 52 and low of 25.
Records for the date were a high of 76 in 1978. The record low was 7 in 1981.
Last year on Dec. 19, the high was 52 with a low of 36.
LeFlore County calendar of events for the next week. The calendar is a free service for our readers. If you are a church or non-profit event, please email me at craig@heavenerledger.com.
Thursday
Poteau Kiwanis Club meets noon
Heavener VFW bingo 6:30 p.m. Highway 59 North
High school basketball: Broken Bow at Heavener; LeFlore at McCurtain; Panama at Buffalo Valley; Pocola at Wilburton; Poteau at Eufaula; Red Oak at Cameron; Spiro at Warner; Braggs at Wister
Heavener Utilities Authority and City Council meet 6 p.m..
High school basketball: Central at Howe; Gans at Arkoma
Saturday
Funeral service for Audrey Odell Forehand
Heavener Christmas parade
Monday
LeFlore County commissioners meet 9 a.m.
Wednesday
Merry Christmas
Lute graduates from OBA Operations School
Kalyn Lute graduates from Oklahoma Bankers Association Operations School in Oklahoma City.
Lute, who is with the First National Bank of Heavener, was among 39 attendees of the school, which was held Nov. 18-22 at the OBA Harris Event Center.
The OBA Operations School, conducted annually, prepares junior-level operations managers to manage effectively and efficiently operations functions within a bank. Students develop a thorough understanding of key operations areas, develop and apply analytical skills, strengthen management skills in relations to human resource planning and motivational techniques, study regulatory and competitive factors that affect banking and learn about state-of-the-art banking technologies.
The OBA conducts more than 70 educational programs and seminars each year, which reach more than 5,000 bankers across the state. The Association represents approximately 200 banks across the state and serves as the primary advocate for the banking industry. It’s also heavily involved in fraud training and prevention as well as legal and compliance services and communications for its member banks.
Area teachers receive training
WILBURTON – A total of 27 area middle and high school math and science teachers participated in a four-day Texas Instruments training workshop at Kiamichi Technology Center in Poteau and at Eastern Oklahoma State College in McAlester.
The workshops were designed to help teachers integrate the TI-Nspire Navigator Systems and TI-Nspire CX II calculators effectively into classroom instruction, which helps students explore, understand and connect the principles of science, math, coding, engineering design, and electronics.
The workshops were conducted by Texas Instruments T3 Systemic Coaches Sandra Hocutt, Jeff Lukens, and Doug Roberts.
In addition to showing new teachers how to use this classroom system to enhance instruction, teachers also received helpful information for preparing students for the ACT college entrance exam and for helping to teach future teachers about the use of this technology.
“One of GEAR UP’s goals is to create sustainability of grant priorities once the grant is complete,” said GEAR UP Professional Development Coordinator Lisa Goddard. “Our Texas Instruments coaches have given our teachers valuable information to make that sustainability happen.”
County teachers who attended were Leigh Cooper and Jessica Wigginton, Howe; Tracy Loyd, LeFlore; Liz Belcher, Panama; Matthew Mitchell and Jessica Nelson, Poteau; Keith Craig, Marty Darneal and Lisa Gist, Spiro.
The training is provided by Eastern Oklahoma State College’s 2017 GEAR UP grant. GEAR UP is a federal initiative to increase the number of low-income students who enter and successfully transition into postsecondary education. Eastern has finished its seventh year of the $17 million grant, serving students, teachers, parents, and administrators in 39 partner schools in Southeast Oklahoma.
CASC bookstore named to honor of Sullivans
CASC bookstore named to honor Kay and Mike Sullivan.
The Kay and Mike Sullivan Bookstore is located in the Costner-Balentine Student Center, which will undergo an extensive renovation beginning Spring 2025.
The late Kay Sullivan began her career at Carl Albert Junior College (now Carl Albert State College) in
1973, managing and operating the bookstore for 24 years. During this time, she was also an active
member of the Women’s Auxiliary at the College. Following her service to the college, she
was an entrepreneur and business person, owning and operating Kay Sullivan Real Estate. She served on the Carl Albert State College Development Foundation Board of Trustees where she worked to support the mission of increasing scholarship funds, enhancing academic enrichment, and building a residential housing program.
Mike Sullivan practiced law for almost 60 years, including private practice and public service as the District Attorney for LeFlore and Latimer Counties. He was elected to the Oklahoma State Legislature as a State Representative from 1969 to 1973. During his tenure in the House, Representative Sullivan along with Senator James E. Hamilton introduced a Joint House and Senate Resolution, which was authored by Representative
Sullivan, to change the name of Poteau Junior College to Carl Albert Junior College, in honor of the
Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, Carl Albert. As a result of this Joint Resolution, Carl Albert Junior College became the first community college accepted as a full member of the Oklahoma State System of Higher Education.
“We sincerely appreciate Kay and Mike Sullivan for their leadership, commitment, and service to
CASC,” said CASC President Jay Faulkner. “This naming honors their dedication to education and the integral role that it plays in the growth of our community. We are deeply grateful to the Sullivan family
for their outstanding generosity and service to CASC over the many years.”
After nearly 14 hours of debate, the House of Representatives approves two articles of impeachment against President Bill Clinton, charging him with lying under oath to a federal grand jury and obstructing justice. Clinton, the second president in American history to be impeached, vowed to finish... read more
Audrey Odell Forehand, 90, of Canadian passed away Dec. 16, 2024 at 6 a.m. at Hillcrest Hospital in Tulsa and was born Oct. 12, 1934 to Mittie L. (Adams) and Newton E. Forehand of Bates, Arkansas.
Funeral service is 2 p.m. Saturday at the Dowden-Roberts Funeral Home Chapel with Brother Larry Free and Ben Odom officiating. Interment will follow in Heavener Memorial Park under the direction of Dowden-Roberts Funeral Home of Heavener.
He graduated from Waldron High School in 1952 and was the last surviving classmate.
At Waldron, he played football, baseball and was in the school choir. Audrey was a pitcher for the Bates community baseball team as well. In 1956, he married. Then in 1957, he moved his family to Modesto, California and worked for Tulare Turkey Processing Plant until 1964. Audrey moved back to Oklahoma where he began working for the McAlester Naval Depot. He worked there until becoming part of the Army’s Single Manager for Conventional Ammunition in 1977, renamed to McAlester Army Ammunition Plant. He retired from the United States Department of Defense June 3, 1993.
After Audrey retired, he enjoyed fishing and working around his home. He was a skilled carpenter, electrician, plumber and auto mechanic. He was often called upon by his daughters for his talents. He was very attentive and caring; often taking care of a family member and/or relatives when ill. Audrey loved to tell stories about the time he worked as a young man for the Forestry Department in Idaho and growing up as a boy in Bates, Arkansas. He had cherished memories of helping his father and brother Emmett logging in the wood. Audrey was simply a peaceful man seeking fairness and harmony.
Survivors are daughters Tina Burgess and Debra Scarborough both of Tulsa; son Stewart Forehand and wife Kathi of McAlester; five grandchildren Steven Staples, Billy Ben Staples, Jimmy Forehand, Audra Perteet and Morgan Reese; 12 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; numerous other loved ones and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents Mittie and Newton Forehand.
Pallbearers are Stewart Forehand, Jimmy Forehand, Jake Forehand, Udell Forehand, Mike Forehand and Wess Reese.
Viewing is from noon until 5 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m. until service time Saturday at the funeral home.
Mark Allan Pollard, 67, of Poteau went to be with the Lord Dec. 14, 2024, surrounded by his loved ones.
He was born April 9, 1957, in Idabel to Juanita R. Pollard (Murphy) and James R. Pollard.
A celebration of his life is 2 p.m. Friday at the Hamilton Auditorium at Carl Albert State College in Poteau with Kerry Shuck, Matt Pollard, Brooks Pollard and Taylor Pollard officiating. Burial will follow at Oakland Cemetery in Poteau, under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home.
He was a devoted husband, dad, "Poppie", and coach. He possessed a larger-than-life personality with a huge heart, undeniable charm, and a sense of humor that could light up any room. The love for his family, his community, and the sport of baseball was unmatched. He cherished his daily walks on the Frisco Trail with his loyal dog, Bri, by his side. His kindness, wisdom, and humor will be greatly missed, but his memory will live on through his family, friends and the players whose lives he impacted.
He spent much of his life coaching baseball, building a remarkable legacy. He retired with 1,019 career wins, five national tournament appearances, seven regional championships, and had the honor of seeing 11 of his former players drafted into Major League Baseball. His dedication to the sport and to his players was evident in the countless lives he touched both on and off the field.
Surviving family members are his wife of 45 years, Cindy Pollard; sons Matt Pollard and wife Jeana, Brooks Pollard and wife Jesse, and Taylor Pollard and wife Staci; grandchildren Paley, Paven, Pacie, Praise, Eliza, Milly, Paran, Abel and Pearly; sisters Jan Coffman and Jeri Mitchell and husband Tracy; as well as friends, former players, and loved ones.
He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Juanita Pollard, and his brother, Joe Pat Suggs.
Visitation will take place Thursday from 6 to 8 p.m. at Evans & Miller Funeral Home.
The starting lineup for his service will include Jerry Holton, Pierre Guillet, Mike Metheny, Mike McBrayer, Bill Sanmillen and Jeff Jensen.
The bullpen will be made up of former Trojan and Viking players.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Carl Albert State College baseball program.
Evie Lorene Faulkenberry of Bentonville, Arkansas (formerly of Poteau) was born May 7, 1927 in Heavener to Delmar and Mae (Hudson) Roberts and passed away Dec. 13, 2024 in Centerton, Arkansas at the age of 97.
Funeral service is 1 p.m. Thursday at the Dowden-Roberts Cremation Center Chapel at 28918 205th Avenue in Poteau with Stan Robinson officiating. Burial will follow in Oakland Cemetery, under the direction of Dowden-Roberts Cremation Center of Poteau.
Evie attended Kiamichi Vo-Tech in 1971-1972 and became a Licensed Practical Nurse. She worked at the then LeFlore County Memorial Hospital in Poteau, but also for some local doctors until her retirement. Evie was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend. She will be missed by all who knew her.
Surviving family members are a daughter Phyllis Robinson and husband Stan of Bentonville, Arkansas; two sons Merle Faulkenberry and wife Sharon of Little Rock, Arkansas and C.L. Faulkenberry and wife Mary Lou of Mountain City, Georgia; seven grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and other loved ones.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 68 years, Olen Faulkenberry; four brothers Donald, Wayne, Floyd, and Vernon Roberts; and a granddaughter, Stephanie Harris.
William “Bill” McGuire of Poteau was born Aug. 31, 1961 in McAlester to William Edwin and Doris Ann (Williams) McGuire and passed away Dec. 12, 2024 in Poteau at the age of 63.
Memorial service was Monday at Dowden-Roberts Funeral Home Chapel in Heavener with Benny Marrow and Pastor Travis Cook officiating and presenting the Nurses’ Rights will be the Nurses Honor Guard of the River Valley. Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Dowden-Roberts Funeral Home of Heavener.
Bill was a longtime resident of the area, a 1979 graduate of Talihina High School, and graduated from EOSC in Wilburton with his RN degree. He was a travel Registered Nurse. Bill was a loving husband, father, brother, uncle, grandfather, cousin and friend. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
Surviving family members are his wife, Wendy McGuire, of the home; four daughters Christie Fox and husband Bud of San Antonio, Texas, Amanda Harris and husband Carl of McAlester,
Heather McGuire of McAlester and Sarah McGuire of Poteau; one son William McGuire and wife Kimberly of Guthrie; two sisters Kimberly Nygaard and husband Morten of North Carolina
And Robin Hackler and husband Robert of McAlester; seven grandchildren Breckin, Brianna, Karma, Ava, Liam, Carson and Alexander; his step-mother, Carlene McGuire, of Oklahoma City; a special friend, Bill considered a son, Cody Crank, of Talihina; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other loved ones, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Doris McGuire; and one son, Cody McGuire.
Funeral services for Linda Kaye Selman, 71, of Spiro were Monday at Mallory-Martin Chapel in Spiro with Reverend Tommie Parker officiating.
Burial followed at the New Hope Cemetery in Spiro, under the direction of Mallory-Martin Funeral Home.
Linda was born Aug. 31, 1953 in Spiro to Martha Eva (Nelson) Beutelschies and Harry Ray Beutelschies and passed away Dec. 12, 2024, in Spiro.
She married Tom Edward Selman July 23, 1971, in Spiro, and they shared many wonderful years together until his passing June 24, 2024.
Linda had a creative spirit and enjoyed sewing, solving puzzles, painting, and working in her flower beds. Above all, she cherished time spent with her family.
Surviving family members include her daughter, Crystal Bennett and husband Shay; her son Edward Shawn Selman, and wife Sonya; her brothers Bobby Beutelschies, Rickey Beutelschies and wife Terry; her grandchildren Jacob Bennett, Keely Bennett, Sabrina Cuozzo, Samantha Cuozzo, Makylie Selman and Bailey Bennett; and her great-grandchildren Baker Bennett, Remington Gaither, and Briggs Bennett.
Linda was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Tom Selman; parents Martha and Ray Beutelschies; two sisters Martha McDonald and Lucretia Gray; and her brother, James Beutelschies.
Pallbearers were Jacob Bennett, Ben Bennett, Travis Beutelschies, Royce Bilyeau, Lee Selman, Dewayne Selman, Zack Beutelschies and Cody Beutelschies. Honorary pallbearers were Lee Beutelschies, Shawn Selman and Shay Bennett.
LCJ newsletter is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
Daily Bible verse
For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Isaiah 9:6
Heavener’s Taylee Baker gets off a shot in the Lady Wolves’ loss to Spiro Tuesday. Photo by KAYDENCE McGEE
Heavener splits home openers with Spiro
Heavener splits its home opening basketball games with Spiro Tuesday.
The Wolves used a 17-5 run in the third quarter to come back from a 10-point deficit at halftime to take the second game, 52-43, after the Lady Bulldogs were too much for Heavener in the opener, winning 76-51.
Heavener’s boys are now 4-1 while the Bulldogs drop to 1-4. Spiro’s girls are 2-3 and the Lady Wolves are 1-4. Heavener has another home game Thursday against Broken Bow while Spiro visits Warner, also Thursday.
After Spiro used a 17-6 advantage in the second quarter to take a 28-18 lead at the half, Heavener took the momentum back in the third quarter with the big run to take a 35-32 lead going into the final period. Heavener also controlled the fourth quarter, outscoring Spiro 16-11 to make the second-half advantage for the Wolves, 33-15.
To get the win, Heavener overcame a large heigh disadvantage as the Wolves barely topped the 6-foot-mark with their tallest player while Spiro countered with two players over 6-5. But Heavener’s constant defensive pressure seemed to take its toll in the second half.
Brandon Sanchez led Heavener with 14 points. Isaac Cook added 10 and Geren Palmer gave the Wolves a lift with 10 points off the bench.
For Spiro, Brycen Graham and Elijah Branscum each had 14
Spiro’s girls outscored Heavener in every quarter and built a 35-21 lead at the half before coasting in the second half to the win.
Brynleigh Graham had 20 for Spiro and Rylee Darneal added 13. Heavener’s lone senior, Britlee Reed, had 16 to top the Lady Wolves while Taylee Baker added 11.
SHS 20 15 25 16--76
HHS 12 9 15 15--51
Heavener’s Zaid Rodriguez drives in for a basket in Tuesday’s game. Photo by KAYDENCE McGEE
LeFlore County scoreboard 12-17-2024
LeFlore County scoreboard for sports games played Tuesday.
Basketball
Boys
Gore 85, Arkoma 23
Smithville 45, Cameron 35
Heavener 52, Spiro 43
Howe 66, Vian 35
Panama 65, Wister 50
Sallisaw 54, Poteau 43
Girls
Smithville 60, Cameron 24
Spiro 76, Heavener 51
Howe 69, Vian 19
Panama 71, Wister 28
Sallisaw 57, Poteau 29
Whitesboro 36, McCurtain 30
To make a correction or addition, text (918) 649-4712.
Poteau’s Drew Stone defends Cooper Jackson of Sallisaw in Tuesday’s game. Photo by DAVID SEELEY/Sequoyah County Times
Sallisaw sweeps Poteau
Sallisaw sweeps Poteau in a pair of basketball games Tuesday at Sallisaw.
The Lady Diamonds won big in the opener, 57-29, before Sallisaw’s boys overcame a halftime deficit and used a big third quarter to get a 54-43 victory.
Poteau’s girls are 1-5 while the Pirates are 2-4. The Lady Diamonds improve to 5-2 while Sallisaw’s boys up their record to 4-3. Poteau visits Eufaula Thursday.
Boys
Poteau led 26-23 at the break before Sallisaw went on a 17-5 run in the third quarter to take control of the game en route to the victory.
Deacon King led the Pirates with 14 points and Garrison Whitworth added 13. Brodie Nickel scored 13 to lead Sallisaw, Tae Muskraft-Flynn added 12 and Cooper Cox finished with 10.
On December 18, 1620, with the English ship Mayflower anchored in Plymouth Harbor, Massachusetts, a small party of sailors from the vessel go ashore, as its passengers prepare to begin their new settlement, Plymouth Colony.... read more
Audrey Odell Forehand, 90, of Canadian passed away Dec. 16, 2024 at 6 a.m. at Hillcrest Hospital in Tulsa and was born Oct. 12, 1934 to Mittie L. (Adams) and Newton E. Forehand of Bates, Arkansas.
Funeral service is 2 p.m. Saturday at the Dowden-Roberts Funeral Home Chapel with Brother Larry Free and Ben Odom officiating. Interment will follow in Heavener Memorial Park under the direction of Dowden-Roberts Funeral Home of Heavener.
He graduated from Waldron High School in 1952 and was the last surviving classmate.
At Waldron, he played football, baseball and was in the school choir. Audrey was a pitcher for the Bates community baseball team as well. In 1956, he married. Then in 1957, he moved his family to Modesto, California and worked for Tulare Turkey Processing Plant until 1964. Audrey moved back to Oklahoma where he began working for the McAlester Naval Depot. He worked there until becoming part of the Army’s Single Manager for Conventional Ammunition in 1977, renamed to McAlester Army Ammunition Plant. He retired from the United States Department of Defense June 3, 1993.
After Audrey retired, he enjoyed fishing and working around his home. He was a skilled carpenter, electrician, plumber and auto mechanic. He was often called upon by his daughters for his talents. He was very attentive and caring; often taking care of a family member and/or relatives when ill. Audrey loved to tell stories about the time he worked as a young man for the Forestry Department in Idaho and growing up as a boy in Bates, Arkansas. He had cherished memories of helping his father and brother Emmett logging in the wood. Audrey was simply a peaceful man seeking fairness and harmony.
Survivors are daughters Tina Burgess and Debra Scarborough both of Tulsa; son Stewart Forehand and wife Kathi of McAlester; five grandchildren Steven Staples, Billy Ben Staples, Jimmy Forehand, Audra Perteet and Morgan Reese; 12 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; numerous other loved ones and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents Mittie and Newton Forehand.
Pallbearers are Stewart Forehand, Jimmy Forehand, Jake Forehand, Udell Forehand, Mike Forehand and Wess Reese.
Viewing is from noon until 5 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m. until service time Saturday at the funeral home.
LCJ newsletter is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
Daily Bible verse
“But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times.”
Micah 5:2
LeFlore County commissioners’ minutes
LeFlore County commissioners’ meeting for Monday in Poteau with Chairman Jamie Oliver presiding. Also present were Vice-Chair Vallard Campbell, Member Josh Blaylock and County Clerk First Deputy Jedd Kirby. Absent: County Clerk Kelli Ford.
The following action was taken by the board:
(1.) Chairman Jamie Oliver called meeting to order.
(2.) Motion was made by Jamie Oliver and seconded by Vallard Campbell to approve the minutes of special meeting held December 12, 2024. Motion was approved, all voting yes.
(3.) Motion was made by Jamie Oliver and seconded by Josh Blaylock to approve purchase orders and payroll claims as presented and are on file in the office of the County Clerk. Motion was approved, all voting yes.
(4.) Monthly Fee Reports: None presented.
(5.) Motion was made by Jamie Oliver and seconded by Vallard Campbell to approve transfer of appropriations in the amount of $10,857.25 from ARPA-WW (Wells & Wann Company) to ARPA-2 County General Maintenance & Operations. Motion was approved, all voting yes.
(9.) Burn Ban. Not needed at this time. No discussion.
(10.) Motion was made by Vallard Campbell and seconded by Jamie Oliver to approve Notice to Sell County Property described as SPIRO BLK 120 N15 LOT 2 B1514 P386 to bidder number 9385 for the sum of $121.73 as submitted by the LeFlore County Treasurer. Motion was approved, all voting yes.
(11.) Motion was made by Josh Blaylock and seconded by Vallard Campbell approve 324 A Claim as submitted by Pinnacle Consulting Management Group for the sum of $8,775.00 regarding Project STP-240C(112)CI, Job Piece 32899(04), Parcels 3, 3.1, and 3.2, located in LeFlore County. Motion was approved, all voting yes.
(12.) Motion was made by Jamie Oliver and seconded by Vallard Campbell to approve Easement for Public Highway document as submitted by Connie Marie Ray and James Terry Ray regarding 33 foot of roadway lying in part of Section 33, Township 5 North, Range 27 East. Motion was approved, all voting yes.
(13.) Motion was made by Jamie Oliver and seconded by Josh Blaylock to approve Request for Flood Plain Services & Application for Permit of Public Service Pipeline Crossing regarding maintaining a temporary 2” poly pipe along, upon or across road known as River Road located at the junction of Highway 63 and N4645, South ¾ miles to River Road Bridge, Muse, Oklahoma, effective December 9, 2024. Motion was approved, all voting yes.
(14.) Motion was made by Jamie Oliver and seconded by Vallard Campbell to approve Resolution regarding appointment of Cash Carter as member to the LeFlore County Fair Board in place of Bucky Pugh with term start date of December 16, 2024 and appointment termination date of January 31, 2026. Motion was approved, all voting yes.
(15.) Motion was made by Vallard Campbell and Josh Blaylock to approve title sheet regarding State of Oklahoma Department of Transportation Plan of Proposed County Bridge, State Job No. 29974(04), Rhino Road, for bridge # 192 and bridge # 193, as submitted by the Circuit Engineering District # 3. Motion was approved, all voting yes.
(16.) Motion was made by Josh Blaylock and seconded by Vallard Campbell to approve change in requisitioning officer from Howard Bandy to Rodney Derryberry and addition of Dennis Yochum as requisitioning officer to all LeFlore County 911 accounts. Motion was approved, all voting yes.
(17.) Motion was made by Jamie Oliver and seconded by Josh Blaylock to award bid regarding the 2025 LeFlore County Ballot Printing Contract to Mid-West Printing Company (see attached ballot pricing form for pricing details). Motion was approved, all voting yes.
(18.) Motion was made by Jamie Oliver and seconded by Vallard Campbell to table bid award regarding the purchase of LeFlore County 6-month County Highway Materials from January 1, 2025 through June 30, 2025 pending further review and tabulation of bid submissions. Motion was approved, all voting yes.
Poteau female sentenced for fentanyl
MUSKOGEE – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Jada Marie Ray, 33, of Poteau was sentenced to six months in prison for one count of Distribution of Fentanyl.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics, the District 16 Drug Task Force, and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
On July 23, 2024, Ray pleaded guilty to the charge. According to investigators, on Jan. 5, 2023, Ray distributed 20 pills containing fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance.
Ronald A. White, Chief U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearing. Ray will remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jordan Howanitz represented the United States.
To make a correction or addition, text (918) 649-4712.
Rain, storms expected Tuesday
LeFlore County weather for Tuesday will have the possibility of showers this morning with thunderstorms expected, along with the chance of hail for tonight. There is currently a 100 percent chance of rain for Tuesday night.
The high is forecast to be 66 degrees with a low of 45.
Sunrise was 7:20 a.m. Sunset is 5:09 p.m.
Monday’s high was 71 with a low of 44. A total of .01 inches of rain was recorded, bringing the monthly total to 0.91 inches, well short of December’s average rainfall of 3.10 inches.
Average temperatures for Dec. 17 are a high of 53 and low of 26.
Records for the date were a high of 74 in 1976. The record low was 5 in 1979.
LeFlore County calendar for Tuesday
LeFlore County calendar of events for todayk. The calendar is a free service for our readers. If you are a church or non-profit event, please email me at craig@heavenerledger.com.
Tuesday
High school basketball: Spiro at Heavener; Smithville at Cameron; Vian at Howe; Poteau at Sallisaw; McCurtain at Whitesboro; Wister at Panama; Arkoma at Gore;
Near Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, Orville and Wilbur Wright make the first successful flight in history of a self-propelled, heavier-than-air aircraft on December 17, 1903. Orville piloted the gasoline-powered, propeller-driven biplane, which stayed aloft for 12 seconds and covered 120 feet on its... read more
Mark Allan Pollard, 67, of Poteau went to be with the Lord Dec. 14, 2024, surrounded by his loved ones.
He was born April 9, 1957, in Idabel to Juanita R. Pollard (Murphy) and James R. Pollard.
A celebration of his life is 2 p.m. Friday at the Hamilton Auditorium at Carl Albert State College in Poteau with Kerry Shuck, Matt Pollard, Brooks Pollard and Taylor Pollard officiating. Burial will follow at Oakland Cemetery in Poteau, under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home.
He was a devoted husband, dad, "Poppie", and coach. He possessed a larger-than-life personality with a huge heart, undeniable charm, and a sense of humor that could light up any room. The love for his family, his community, and the sport of baseball was unmatched. He cherished his daily walks on the Frisco Trail with his loyal dog, Bri, by his side. His kindness, wisdom, and humor will be greatly missed, but his memory will live on through his family, friends and the players whose lives he impacted.
He spent much of his life coaching baseball, building a remarkable legacy. He retired with 1,019 career wins, five national tournament appearances, seven regional championships, and had the honor of seeing 11 of his former players drafted into Major League Baseball. His dedication to the sport and to his players was evident in the countless lives he touched both on and off the field.
Surviving family members are his wife of 45 years, Cindy Pollard; sons Matt Pollard and wife Jeana, Brooks Pollard and wife Jesse, and Taylor Pollard and wife Staci; grandchildren Paley, Paven, Pacie, Praise, Eliza, Milly, Paran, Abel and Pearly; sisters Jan Coffman and Jeri Mitchell and husband Tracy; as well as friends, former players, and loved ones.
He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Juanita Pollard, and his brother, Joe Pat Suggs.
Visitation will take place Thursday from 6 to 8 p.m. at Evans & Miller Funeral Home.
The starting lineup for his service will include Jerry Holton, Pierre Guillet, Mike Metheny, Mike McBrayer, Bill Sanmiller and Jeff Jensen.
The bullpen will be made up of former Trojan and Viking players.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Carl Albert State College baseball program.
