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
A voice of one calling: “In the wilderness prepare the way for the LORD; make straight in the desert a highway for our God.
Isaiah 40:3
Guess who
Here is this week’s guess who. If you recognize this young guy, send an email with his name to craig@heavenerledger.com. Last week’s guess who was Mr. B.J. Keller. Congratulations to Chuck Hudlow, Ralph Perdue Jr., Fran Benton, Ray Luman, Butch Gilstrap, Carter Tate, Kristi Branscum, Otis Dawes, Bill Johnson, Bob Babcock, Joey Clubb and Nan McClain for identifying Mr. Keller,
Blast from the past
1989 Heavener baseball team.
LeFlore County legals
Aggravated assault and battery-felony: Taylor Shane Smith.
APC-aggravated-misdemeanor: Anthony James Roberds.
APC-Misdemeanor: Zachary C. Zimmer.
Assault and battery-misdemeanor: Courtney Semone Brown.
Breaking and entering with unlawful intent-misdemeanor: Dustin Alan Adams.
Carrying a firearm in vehicle while under the influence: Anthony James Roberds.
Collection of delinquent state tax: State of Oklahoma Ex Rel OTC vs. Clendon Bollinger.
Disrupting/prevent/interrupt/emergency telephone call: Taylor Shane Smith; George Wayne Gates Jr.
Divorce: Jessica Diane Montgomery vs. Zachary Kristopher Montyarris (Pro-se); Cynthia Jane Cox vs. Matthew Eugene Andrew Cox.
Domestic abuse-assault and battery-misdemeanor: Jason Allen Schafer; George Wayne Gates Jr.
Domestic abuse-assault and battery by strangulation-felony: Taylor Shane Smith.
Domestic abuse-assault and battery against a pregnant woman: Andrew Lee Edwards.
DUI Alcohol (municipal)-felony: Michael Mitchel Mann; Billy Bud Hammons.
DUI Alcohol (Municipal) misdemeanor: Raven Melissa Cannon; Raven Melissa Cannon; Luis Garcia; Jamie Gonzales Rodriguez.
Eluding/attempting to elude police officer-misdemeanor: Terrence Joseph Genevie.
Estate of deceased: Dennis Dean Bass, aka Dennis Bass; James Emmett Huffman aka James E. Huffman.
Exploitation of an elderly person or disabled adult-felony: Tyler Colby Crowder.
Failure of driver to wear seat belt: Jennfer Kingsborough.
Failure to have required blaze orange: Dakota Glenn Potter; Branden Michael Mason.
Failure to maintain insurance or security-misdemeanor: Raven Melissa Cannon.
Failure to pay taxes due state-misdemeanor: Raven Melissa Cannon.
False reporting of crime: Rickie Edward Hale.
Forcible entry and detainer up to $5,000 (SC): Pocark Properties vs. Tina Quinn.
Illegal possession of buckshot: Dakota Glenn Potter; Branden Michael Mason.
In re: the change of name of: Zachary Kristopher Montyarris.
Larceny of merchandise from retailer-misdemeanor: Leanne R. Britton James.
Marriage license: Cole Brannon Wilson and Madeline Rose Hitt; Luke Joe Adrean and McKinley May Alexander (pre-marital counseling).
Money judgment/civil-over $10,000: Jimmy Cluck vs. Alan Bland; Bank of America vs. Malcolm Ellis McFerren; Crown Asset Management LLC vs.. Sharon Gray; U.S. Bank National Assoc. vs. David A. Slama; Portfolio Recovery Associates LLC vs. Brenda Trejo; Lakeview Loan Servicing LLC vs. Wesley D. Hooten, spouse of Wesley D. Hooten, occupants of the premises.
Money judgment/civil-$10,000 or less: Velocity Investments LLC vs. Terra D. Thornhill; Onemain Financial Group LLC v. Dakota S. Wofford; Capital One vs. Jennifer Gail Moody; Security Credit Services LLC vs. Kristi Lee; Synchrony Bank vs. Jeannete Schmidt; Capital One, N.A. vs. Rick A. Coleman; Crown Asset Management, LLC assignee of Webbank (Prosper Funding LLC) vs. Michelle Cox; Crown Asset Management LC assignee of Webank (Prosper Funding LLC vs. Russell McCage; Calvary SPV LLC vs. Billy Spiiva; Midland Credit Management Inc. vs. Braylie D. Goff.
Money judgment-small claims under $5,000: Speedy Loans of Arkoma vs. Savanna Soriano; Speedy Loans of Arkoma vs. Henry Jorden; Speedy Loans of Arkoma vs. Heather Coarrubias; Speedy Loans of Arkoma vs. Zachary Stockton; Speedy Loans of Arkoma vs. Tyler Davenport; Kenwood Loans vs. Jimmy Thomas; Kenwood Loans vs. Keiran Rogers; Kenwood Loans vs. Keiran Rogers; Kenwood Loans vs. Elizabeth Tress; Western Shamrock Finance vs. Amy Childress; Western Shamrock Finance vs. Richard Koenig; Western Shamrock Finance vs. Sandra Bain; Western Shamrock Finance vs. Stephen Wemmerus; Western Shamrock Finance vs. Caleb Martin; Sun Loans vs. Amy Brigance; Sun Loans vs. Jamie Danielle Pursley; Sun Loans vs. Crystal Calderon; Sun Loans vs. Taylea Womack; Diamond Finance vs. Billy Hale Jr.; Diamond Finance vs. Brandi Williams; Diamond Finance vs. Kayla Spence; Ramon Marquez vs. Niora J. Upchurch; Robinson Construction LLC vs. Reliable Residential Services, LLC; Robinson Construction LLC vs. Charley Covey; Red River Credit Corp. vs. Micah McGinnis; Red River Credit Corp. vs. Marion Deleplank; Bell Finance vs. Sherri L. Bryant.
No valid driver’s license-misdemeanor: Luis Garcia; Tyronzia Nelzie Blocker.
Notice of docketing of administrative order: Department of Human Services vs. Theresa Mae Mills; Department of Human Services vs. Christopher A. Carlson; Department of Human Services vs. Theresa Mae Mills; In the interest of the children Tiffany Clara Wright vs. Jerry Oliver Smith III; In the interest of children Matthew Barrett vs. Jessica Lynn Howard; In the interest of the children Ashley Dawn Pearson.
Operate vehicle without valid license: Bobby C. Clark.
Operating m/v on which all taxes have not been paid: Dante L. Guidry.
Paternity/custody/support: Tonie Sue Ann Bowman vs. Zachary Tyler Dunn.
Petit larceny-misdemeanor: Damarrius Chrishaun Johnston.
Petition for title to vehicle in Oklahoma: In re he matter of Tiffany Marowski 3N1CN7AP1EL818286 2014 Nissan Versa; In the matter of Braden J. Traw 1960 Austin Healeye Sprite.
Possession of controlled dangerous substance-Misdemeanor: Tyronzia Nelzie Blocker.
Protective order: Haley Marie Wilson vs. Ricky Shane Stokes; Joe Leroy Sprabery Jr. vs. Lance Ryan Sprabery; Ronda Jean Sprabery vs. Lance Ryan Sprabery; Kenneth M. Pollard minor children vs. Lucky Gabbert; Kenneth M. Pollard minor children vs. Arial Honeycutt; Kenneth M. Pollard minor children vs. Taydon Honeycutt; Joshua Kreider vs. Jacob Spears; Patricia Ann Kirk vs. Tenisha Cheynne Dunavant; Lance Ryan Sprabery vs. Ronda Jean Sprabery; Lance Ryan Sprabery vs. Joe Sprabery; Lance Ryan Sprabery vs. Travis Sprabery; Bernice Ann Herbert vs. Ned Kelly stanley Jr.; Brandy Renae Reese vs. Michael Carl Reese; Randi Aline Louise Taylor vs. Lilly Manning.
Protective order violation-misdemeanor: Cody Munnerlyn.
Quiet title: Brazil Creek Ranch, LLC vs. Loren Trahern, John H. Lamberson, Rosie M. Lamberson, Michael C.L. Brimfield, Kennedi B. Brimfield.
Reckless driving: Terrence Joseph Genevie.
Resident hunting without a license: Branden Michael Mason.
Small claims-forcible entry and detainer up to $5,000: Ramon Marquez vs. Nora J. Upchurch; Allen Rubbotom vs. Eli Vanerva; Phyllis Goodnight vs. Taylor Wooten, Melinda Wooten.
Small claims-replevin over $5,000: Terracore Matterials, LLC vs. Reliable Residential Services, LLC.
Speeding: Dax B. McMillin (55 in 45); Jennifer Kingsborough (75 in 65); Brandi Jen Underwood (75 in 65).
Tampering w/security camera or system-misdemeanor: Thomas Marvin Skinner.
Transporting opened container of intoxicating beverage-misd: Luis Garcia; Zachary G. Zimmer; Anthony James Roberds.
Trespassing after being forbidden-misdemeanor: Thomas Marvin Skinner.
Unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia-misdemeanor: Tyronzia Nelzie Blocker.
Unsafe lane use-misdemeanor: Luis Garcia; Billy Bud Hammons.
LeFlore County commissioners’ minutes
LeFlore County commissioners met in a regular business meeting Monday in the office of the courty clerk in the courthouse at 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 regular meeting held December 2, 2024. Motion was approved, all voting yes.
(3.) Motion was made by Jamie Oliver and seconded by Josh Blaylock to approve purchase orders and Sheriff grant stipend payments as presented. Motion was approved, all voting yes.
(4.) Motion was made by Jamie Oliver and seconded by Vallard Campbell to approve monthly fee reports as presented by the LeFlore County Clerk, Court Clerk and Election Board for the month of November, 2024. Motion was approved, all voting yes.
(5.) Motion was made by Jamie Oliver and seconded by Josh Blaylock to approve transfer of appropriations as follows:
· $30,000 from Co Commissioner Highway Dept. District 1 maintenance and operations account to Co Commissioner Highway Dept. District 1 equipment account.
· $63,152.34 from ARPA Wells and Wann (ARPA-WW) maintenance and operations account to ARPA General (ARPA-2) maintenance and operations account.
Motion was approved, all voting yes.
(6.) Motion was made by Jamie Oliver and seconded by Vallard Campbell to approve Blanket Purchase orders as presented and are on file in the office of the County Clerk. Motion was approved, all voting yes.
(9.) Burn Ban: Not needed at this time. No discussion.
(10.) Motion was made by Jamie Oliver and seconded by Vallard Campbel to approve plat map and forest service easements, as presented by Tharren Duffy, for proposed new subdivision known as Whispering Pines @ Big Cedar, located near Forest Service Road K39 East of Big Cedar, Section 17, Township 2 North, Range 26 East, LeFlore County, Oklahoma. Motion was approved, all voting yes.
(11.) Motion was made by Jamie Oliver and seconded by Vallard Campbel to approve resolution setting base pay for elected officials during 2025 calendar year at $5,234.38. Motion was approved, all voting yes.
(12.) Motion was made by Vallard Campbell and seconded by Jamie Oliver to approve County Highway District # 1 CBRI Rhino Road Project as number 24-CBRI-D1-RD-P099 (105) with projected cost estimated at $219,380.09. Motion was approved all voting yes.
(13.) Motion was made by Jamie Oliver and seconded by Vallard Campbel to approve resolution and notice to advertise 2025 Free Fair Board Election Directors. Motion was approved, all voting yes.
(14.) Motion was made by Vallard Campbell and seconded by Jamie Oliver to approve KEDDO REAP Close-Out documents and Affidavit certifying REAP project completion regarding project number K8027-24 Parker Road located in County Commissioner District 1. Motion was approved, all voting yes.
(15.) Motion was made by Josh Blaylock and seconded by Vallard Campbel to approve 324 A Claims in the amounts of $1,120.00 and $8,000.00 concerning Brandon Blain England and Rachel Ann England, and $2,000.00 concerning England Cattle Company, LLC as submitted by Pinnacle Consulting Management Group. Motion was approved, all voting yes.
(16.) Motion was made by Jamie Oliver and seconded by Josh Blaylock to approve disposing of equipment records to benefit LeFlore County Commissioner Highway Department District 3 regarding the below mentioned items as follows:
a) D3-302.116, 2001 International dump truck with original purchase price of $45,006, purchased from H.D. Copeland International Trucks, Inc.;
b) D3-354.032, Galion dump bed, with original purchase price of $6,822, purchased from Southwest Trailers & Equipment;
c) D3-312.001, 1978 Caterpillar loader, with original purchase price of $36,700, purchased from D & H Material & Equipment.
Motion was approved, all voting yes.
(17.) Motion was made by Josh Blaylock and seconded by Vallard Campbel to approve 324 A Claims in the amounts of $1,120.00 and $8,000.00 concerning Brandon Blain England and Rachel Ann England, and $2,000.00 concerning England Cattle Company, LLC as submitted by Pinnacle Consulting Management Group. Motion was approved, all voting yes.
(18.) Motion was made by Josh Blaylock and seconded by Vallard Campbell to approve request for Flood Plain Service and Application for Permit regarding public service pipeline crossing to construct and maintain a gas line located at 28918 205th avenue, approx. 400’ from the South East corner of Section 1, Township 7 North, Range 25 East. Motion was approved, all voting yes.
(19.) Motion was made by Jamie Oliver and seconded by Vallard Campbell to approve engagement letter in the amount of $2,400, as submitted by Arbitrage Compliance Specialists, Inc. for arbitrage compliance services regarding final rebate calculation of the LeFlore County $5,675,000.00 Sales Tax Revenue Refunding Bonds, Series 2014. Motion was approved, all voting yes.
(20.) Motion was made by Vallard Campbell and seconded by Josh Blaylock to award bid regarding the purchase of a 2019 or newer 1-Ton truck to benefit LeFlore County Commissioner Highway Department District 1 to Dunn Ford in the amount of $55,000. Motion was approved, all voting yes.
(21.) Motion was made by Jamie Oliver and seconded by Josh Blaylock to enter into executive session to discuss with counsel all aspects of pending litigation, including the upcoming settlement conference filed in the District Court of LeFlore County, Oklahoma, in the case styled Richard Tackett v. Kendall Morgan and LeFlore County Sheriff, in his official capacity, Case No. CIV-20-113-JAR. Motion was approved, all voting yes.
1. Executive Session - Discussion with Counsel
2. Motion was made by Jamie Oliver and seconded by Vallard Campbell to adjourn executive session and reconvene in open session. Motion was approved, all voting yes.
(22.) Motion was made by Vallard Campbell and seconded Josh Blaylock to schedule Settlement Hearing for December 17, 2024 regarding pending litigation filed in the District Court of LeFlore County, Oklahoma, in the case styled Richard Tackett v. Kendall Morgan and LeFlore County Sheriff, in his official capacity, Case No. CIV-20-113-JAR. Motion was approved, all voting yes.
Howe Trustees appoint Leslie Pierce
Howe Trustees appointed Leslie Pierce to the Board of Trustees in the regularly scheduled meeting Thursday in Howe’s City Hall.
Trustees also approved the hiring of Michael Huber as a reserve officer for Howe and approved improvements for the fire department station.
The Trustees also went over a draft ordinance for Cox Communications and decided to visit with representatives before action is taken.
The fire department had no calls for the previous month while the police department had nine calls with several verbal warnings and one ticket issued.
It was also noted that Howe needs volunteers for the fire department. Anybody interested should contact city hall or a member of the Howe Fire Department.
YAHL students make presentation
YAHL students for Howe School made a presentation to the School Board during Monday’s regular board meeting at the Administrative Building.
According to the principals, current enrollment for the school numbers 219 in high school and 471 for kindergarten though eighth grade.
The Board also approved encumbrances, the superintendent’s report, program status along with upcoming events, staff needs and OSSBA policy updates.
Melinda McGee was hired as the new cafeteria manager. The Board also discussed traffic problems with dropping off and picking up students.
Heavener opens play in Haskell Tournament
Heavener’s boys and girls open play in the Haskell Tournament Thursday playing Keys.
Talihina plays Woodland for title
Talihina plays Woodland for the Class A-II football championship 7 p.m. Saturday at the University of Central Oklahoma.
The Golden Tigers (12-1) are ranked sixth while Woodland (13-0) is ranked first.
Talihina will be going for its second state championship to go along with the 1966 championship. This will be the Golden Tigers’ first championship game since a loss to Kingston in 1980 in the state title game.
Woodland, which reached the state semifinals last year before losing to eventual state champion Fairview, is going for its second state championship after previously taking home the game ball in 2010.
The Golden Tigers have good numbers, but not quite as impressive as Woodland. Talihina averages 39 points per game and gives up 15.5. Woodland averages 53.5 and gives up 9.6. Woodland’s closest win was a 34-14 victory over Hominy.
For two schools located so far apart, there have been several common opponents. Talihina beat Summit Christian, 62-28, in the opener while Woodland won a district game, 60-0. Both teams also played Porter. The Golden Tigers won that game, 44-25, while Woodland defeated Porter, 65-12.
Talihina defeated district foe Gore, 48-0 while Woodland defeated the Pirates, 48-14, in the playoffs. Regent Prep was also a common opponent. Regent Prep handed Talihina its only loss in district play, 41-26, as the Golden Tigers were without some key players while Woodland beat Regent Prep in the semifinals last week, 60-22.
This will be the first time a LeFlore County team is playing for a state football championship since Poteau defeated Weatherford to win the Class4A title in 2019.
Talihina’s run is even more impressive since the Golden Tigers did not have a varsity team two years ago and now are in the state finals.
LeFlore County scoreboard
12-10-2024
LeFlore County scoreboard for sports scores for games played Tuesday.
Kaw: December 2. Elevation is 1 ft. above normal and falling, water temperature 50°F and murky. (USACE Lake Level) Crappie good on jigs, live bait, minnows, and tube jigs around brush structure and standing timber. Blue and channel catfish good on cut bait, goldfish, shad, sunfish, and worms around flats and main lake. Striped bass, striped bass hybrids, and white bass fair on crankbaits, jerk baits, lipless baits, live shad, and sassy shad below the dam. Report submitted by Spencer Grace, game warden stationed in Kay County.
Keystone: December 1. Elevation is 3 ft. above normal and stable, water temperature 50°F and murky. (USACE Lake Level) Largemouth bass fair on jerk baits and jigs around brush structure, riprap, rocks. Blue, channel, and flathead catfish fair on cut bait, dough bait around coves, river channel, and river mouth. Crappie slow on jigs and minnows around brush structure and docks. Report submitted by Bailey Johnson, game warden stationed in Creek County.
SOUTHEAST
Blue River: December 3. Elevation is normal and stable, water temperature 47°F and clear. (USGS Lake Level) Rainbow trout excellent on caddis flies, midges, nymphs, PowerBait, small lures, spoons, and worms around brush structure, channels, creek channels, river channel, and rocks. Report submitted by Ethan Lovelace, biologist at the Blue River Public Fishing and Hunting Area.
Broken Bow: November 27. Elevation is 4 ft. below normal and falling, water temperature 57°F and clear. (USACE Lake Level) Largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted bass fair on Alabama rigs, bill baits, crankbaits, in-line spinnerbaits, plastic baits, spinnerbaits, and spoons around brush structure, creek channels, main lake, points, river mouth, and standing timber. Crappie fair on hair jigs, jigs, minnows, and spoons around brush structure, main lake, points, and standing timber. Report submitted by Dru Polk, game warden stationed in McCurtain County.
Konawa: December 1. Elevation is normal and stable, water temperature 56°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 inlet, riprap, and rocks. Report submitted by Garret Harley, game warden stationed in Seminole County.
Lower Mountain Fork River: November 29. Elevation is normal and stable, water temperature 57°F and clear. Rainbow trout excellent on PowerBait, tube jigs, and worms around creek channels and spillway. Report submitted by Mark Hannah, game warden stationed in McCurtain County.
McGee Creek: November 29. Elevation is 3 ft. below normal and stable, water temperature 59°F and stained. (USACE Lake Level) Largemouth and spotted bass good on Alabama rigs, bill baits, crankbaits, in-line spinnerbaits, and plastic baits around brush structure, docks, points, riprap, and rocks. Channel and flathead catfish fair on chicken liver, cut bait, shrimp, and stinkbait around channels, creek channels, dam, docks, and flats. Report submitted by Shay Loudermilk, game warden stationed in Atoka County.
Pine Creek: November 29. Elevation is 1 ft. above 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 fair on jigs around brush structure and standing timber. Channel catfish good on chicken liver and cut bait around creek channels. Report submitted by Mark Hannah, game warden stationed in McCurtain County.
Sardis: November 29. Elevation is 1 ft. below normal and stable, water temperature 60°F and stained. (USACE Lake Level) Largemouth bass fair on bill baits, crankbaits, lipless baits, plastic baits, and spinnerbaits around brush structure, channels, points, and standing timber. Blue, channel, and flathead catfish fair on cut bait, shad, stinkbait, sunfish, and worms around brush structure, channels, flats, main lake, points, and standing timber. Crappie fair on jigs, minnows, and tube jigs around brush structure, channels, points, and standing timber. Report submitted by Thomas Gillham, game warden stationed in Pushmataha County.
Texoma: December 1. Elevation is 1.5 ft. above normal and stable, water temperature 57°F and clear. (USACE Lake Level) Striped bass good on live shad and topwater lures around channels, flats, main lake, and points. Blue, channel, and flathead catfish good on cut bait, dough bait, live bait, live shad, punch bait, and stinkbait around channels, coves, docks, main lake, and river channel. Crappie fair on caddis flies, hair jigs, jigs, and minnows around brush structure, coves, docks, and standing timber. Comments: Fishing this week was good. Striper are good on flat areas near ledges with live shad. Striper are biting very well right now. Catfish are good near ledges and channels with live bait. Crappie are good around docks with brush in 17-26 ft. with jigs. Report submitted by Garrett Beam, game warden stationed in Bryan County.
Wister: November 29. Elevation is .5 ft. above normal and stable, water temperature 54°F and stained. (USACE Current Lake Level) Largemouth bass good on buzz baits and spinnerbaits around brush structure and creek channels. Blue catfish good on cut bait and shad around main lake and river channel. Crappie excellent on jigs and minnows around brush structure, main lake, and river channel. Report submitted by James Williams, game warden stationed in Le Flore County.
Down memory lane
10 YEARS AGO
2014—KCH Holiday Express coming Sunday…Large crowd turns out for Heavener Christmas parade…Board rehires superintendent, treasurer….Friends of the Runestone radio auction set for Saturday…Drury family to release second album…Moonlght Madness Sale coming to Bernard’s…
20 YEARS AGO
2004—Rails to Trails program at Wister turning into a problem…Roger Nelson files for school board position…Poteau businessmen protest changes around courthouse…Democrat banquet planned…Heavener band director Joel Hank Nichols and band earn top honors…Heavener band to perform Christmas concert…Pete Scott selected senior of the month at Heavener High School…Sharon Fanner was the teacher of the month.
30 YEARS AGO
1994—Kiwanis Club earns $2,000 in radio auction…Three D plans expansion…Eldred Chronister, Homer Marrow file for school board positions…Heavener basketball teams lose at Eufaula…Total of 1,307 deer killed in county…Crystal Buford named to all-star band…Lions Club helps with renovation of Lamplight Theater.
50 YEARS AGO
1974—Two escapees from Hodgen prison found guilty of second-degree burglary residence near Cedar Lake…Kiwanis earn over $600 with radio auction…Heavener School program to be presented Dec. 19 at 7:30 p.m. Over 300 students expected to participate…First Baptist Church hold special ground breaking ceremony for new auditorium…Port Tamplin of Heavener selected as deputy sheriff after first of the year…Charles Hurley has a 10 ½ foot cab over camper shell for sale.
60 YEARS AGO
1964—Burglars hit four stores in Heavener Monday, taking an assortment of merchandise and money. Back doors were kicked in. A total of $365 in cash and $1,025 in merchandise was stolen…Annual school science fair slated for Feb. 5…Methodist Church ladies’ cook book “Our daily bread” sold out. Second printing planned…David Tolleson has a 1951 Chevy truck for sale…New Hamilton watches start at $39.95 at Phipps Jewelry…Regular size hamburgers are 15 cents every Saturday at Mary Schiffner’s Red Hen Café.
70 YEARS AGO
1954—A well-known whiskey runner and bootlegger from Muskogee has been arrested after a chase in LeFlore County…LeFlore County commissioners advise road between Hodgen and Conser will be paved soon…Cloverleaf Dairy Cream Café was robbed Sunday night. A young black man was arrested near DeQueen, Arkansas while attempting another burglary and admitted to the Heavener robbery…Rainfall is some eight inches below average for the year in Heavener…Fire danger remains high in the area…Santa Claus visited Heavener last week…Mrs. George Crager has two No. 2 wash tubs and a 20 gallon wash pot for sale…See Bill Rockwell Jeweler for expert watch repairing.
80 YEARS AGO
1944—Six Heavener men Denver Northrip, Early Oliver, James Simmons, William Wyatt, Jessie Brand and Edgar Stinson are manning an anti-aircraft battery on an island in the southwest Pacific…War bond sale in Heavener brings in $11,000…Bob Lindsey of Heavener was injured when the car he was driving overturned near Hodgen. He had been released from the hospital and returned to school Wednesday…Addison Lumber Co. has plenty of lumber for repairs.
90 YEARS AGO
1934—KCS will add two new holiday trains for Christmas…Hall’s Funeral Home in Heavener has purchased a new hearse…Bryan Brady, a vocational instructor at Heavener School, is planning on opening a canning operation if local farmers agree to help with products…Twin boys were born to Mr. and Mrs. H.Z. Dorsey. Mother and children are doing fine…Some 50 men are working on the dam south of Heavener. When completed, the dam will be 50 feet high and 180 feet wide…The Ledger office is located at 407 East First Street. Subscriptions are $1.50 per year…Part wool, two-tone blankets are available at Young Mercantile Company in Heavener.
Warmer temperatures expected Thursday
Partly cloudy skies and warmer temperatures are expected Thursday in LeFlore County.
The high is forecast to be 62 degrees with a low of 44.
Sunrise was 7:17 a.m. Sunset is 5:07 p.m.
Wednesday’s high was 52 with a low of 32. No rain was recorded Wednesday, leaving the monthly total at 0.23 inches, well short of December’s average rainfall of 3.10 inches.
Average temperatures for Dec. 12 are a high of 54 and low of 27.
Records for the date were a high of 72 in 1984. The record low was 12 in 1982.
Last year on this date, the high was 66 with a low of 36.
Confirming Trump’s cabinet nominees
By Sen. MARKWAYNE MULLIN
In just 40 days, our nation’s 45th President, Donald J. Trump, will be sworn-in to serve as the 47th President of the United States of America. Let me tell you, as someone who speaks with the President on a regular basis: we have never had an incoming administration this prepared to hit the ground running on day one.
Mullin it Over
In a matter of weeks, President Trump has put forward a talented, highly qualified roster of cabinet picks who are prepared to serve at the will of the President. Importantly, Article II, Section 2 of the Constitution directs the Senate to carry out an “advice and consent” responsibility to vet Presidential cabinet nominees for confirmation. As your Senator, I take this constitutional responsibility very seriously.
It’s my intention to support ALL of President Trump’s cabinet nominees. Beyond the deference I feel this president should have to select his own cabinet, I’ve met with many of the nominees, and I have every confidence in their ability to serve. Let’s look at some of the cabinet nominees making headlines:
First, President Trump’s pick to lead the Department of Defense: PeteHegseth. Pete is a decorated combat veteran who served his country in uniform for nearly 20 years. After tours in Guantanamo Bay, Iraq, and Afghanistan, he earned two bronze stars for his valor. Then, Pete established himself as a business leader fighting for America’s veterans.
I’ve met with Pete, and I know he will support President Trump’s agenda to strengthen our military, and bring a fresh, mission-focused perspective to the Pentagon. Pete has been subject to a lot of anonymous criticism but let me be clear—his nomination will be vetted in a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing, not in the media. As I’ve said repeatedly, I will support Pete Hegseth’s nomination.
Second, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., President Trump’s nominee to lead the Department of Health and Human Services. I had the pleasure of getting to know Bobby on the road with President Trump, and he is deeply committed to Making America Healthy Again. He has a long history of public service, and he will work with President Trump to clean up federal health agencies and make government work for the people again. While some in the pro-life community have voiced concern: Bobby has made clear to me he will support President Trump’s policy agenda every step of the way. I look forward to visiting with him again next week about his bold vision, and I will back his nomination.
Third, I want to discuss Lt. Col. Tulsi Gabbard, President Trump’s pick to serve as the Director of National Intelligence. With two decades of proud service, Tulsi is an active Lt. Col. in the U.S. Army Reserve overseeing the Oklahoma and Missouri National Guard. After experiencing the cost of war, Tulsi Gabbard ran for Congress, where she served on the Armed Services, Homeland Security, and Foreign Affairs Committee. Many know that Tulsi Gabbard is a former Democrat who left the party after the establishment went woke. Just like Pete and Bobby, Tulsi Gabbard has committed to implementing President Trump’s America First agenda. On a personal note, Christie and I have been proud to call Tulsi Gabbard and her husband, Abraham, great friends for many years. There is no one better positioned to reform the intelligence community, protect our constitutional freedoms, and end federal agency weaponization against American citizens. Tulsi has my full support to enact President Trump’s ambitious agenda.
Lastly, I recently sat down with President Trump’s nominee to lead the FBI, Kash Patel. Kash will be a game-changer for the Bureau. He’s a former public defender, federal prosecutor, counterterrorism specialist, and Congressional watchdog. He’s served in key national security roles in all three branches of government, most recently as the chief of staff for the Department of Defense and Deputy Director of National Intelligence.
Patel is an America First fighter who will work with President Trump to remove politics from the FBI and end the weaponization of our justice system. I was proud to support Kash even before Trump named him for this role, and I’m confident he will back the field agents doing great work at the FBI while rooting out the polarization that has consumed the 7th floor of the Hoover Building.
In November, the American people delivered an overwhelming mandate by re-electing President Trump to serve another term by the greatest margin for any Republican in history. Oklahoma was a bedrock for this election, with 77 of 77 counties going for Trump for the third straight election cycle. I’m honored to call President Trump a true friend, and I am committed to supporting his agenda every step of the way. Unsurprisingly, President Trump’s cabinet selections reflect his bold vision to deliver for the American people, and I will do everything I can to get each one across the finish line as quickly as possible.
Charles Edward McCool, Jr. of Red Oak was born March 21, 1966 in Midwest City to Charles Edward, Sr. and Lela Mae (Booth) McCool and passed away Dec. 10, 2024 in Wilburton at the age of 58.
No services are scheduled at this time. Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Dowden-Roberts Cremation Center of Poteau.
Charles was a longtime resident of the area and a mechanic. He was an avid Harley Davidson rider. Charles loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. He will be deeply missed.
Surviving family members are his mother, Lela Booth, of Red Oak; two daughters Lacy J. Pick of Red Oak, and Tracy Coley and boyfriend Wayne Flores of Wilburton; a step-daughter Amanda Nelson and her children; three sisters Kim Volk and husband John of Red Oak, Shelley Reece of Idabel, and Christina Dodson and husband Tylor of Independence, Missouri; one brother Mark McCook and wife Susan of Glenpool; six grandchildren Leanna McCool, Aidan Jones, Braxton Thomas, Harley Jones, Remington Plummer and Miles Coley; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other loved ones and friends.
He was preceded in death by his father, Charles Edward McCool, Sr. and his stepfather, Clarence Booth.
Rose Boswell funeral services are 1 p.m. Saturday at Mallory-Martin Chapel in Spiro with Reverend Howard Jeffery officiating. Interment will follow at Forest Park Cemetery in Fort Smith, Arkansas, under the direction of Mallory-Martin Funeral Home. The Wake Service will also be held in the Mallory-Martin Chapel at 6 p.m. Friday.
Rose was born Oct. 30, 1947, in Greenville, Mississippi, to Carrie Harrison and Richard Harrison and passed away Dec. 7, 2024, in Spiro.
In 1974, Rose married Pete Boswell, Sr., in Lawton, and together they built a life filled with love, family and memorable adventures.
Rose had a vibrant and loving spirit. She cherished time with her family and was known for her love of dancing, her feisty nature because she could fight if she had to, trips to the casino, and her dedication to hard work and keeping an immaculate home. She had a deep faith in the Lord and a generous heart, always caring for stray cats and any child in need who crossed her path.
Surviving family members are her daughter, Carrie Harrison, of Spiro; her son Pete Boswell, Jr., and his wife Shantell, also of Spiro; her cherished grandchildren Frank and Aline Harrison, David and Chelsea Harrison, Dallas and Jonah Harrison, Bailey and Nelson Buckland, Thorin, Jasmine, Reddie, Randsome, Savage, Cain, Pete, Shae, Tristian, Camden and Isaiah Harrison; seven great grandchildren; many loving nieces, nephews and friends.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Pete; her brothers Richard, Barney and Johnny Harrison; her sister, Myrtle Harrison; and her daughters, Angel Boswell and Myrtle Melinda Boswell.
Rose’s legacy is one of love, resilience, and compassion. Her family and all who knew her will forever treasure the memories of her warmth, humor, and the kindness she extended to all.
Harold Langley, 88, of Pocola passed away Dec. 7, 2024 at his home and was born Jan. 10, 1936, in Queen City, Arkansas to Clyde Edward and Donnie (Turner) Langley.
He was a proud veteran of the United States Air Force, where he served during the Korean War.
A funeral service is 2 p.m. Friday at Trinity Baptist Church in Pocola, with Jeff Beshears officiating. Burial will follow at Macedonia Cemetery in Pocola.
Survivors are his daughter Sharon Hall and her husband Bill; sons Anthony Langley and his wife Jan, and Franklin Langley; five grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; brother, Edward Langley; and sister Ella Mae Schillinger.
He was preceded in death by his wife, JoAnn Langley; daughter, LaDawna Langley; his parents Clyde and Donnie Langley; and his brother, Albert Roy Langley.
Pallbearers are Kevin Langley, Don Didier, Rick Patton, Donald Ray Schillinger, Doug Lovell and Monte Wisdom.
Pamela Jo Austin
Pamela Jo Austin, 76, of Tulsa (formerly of Heavener) was born Oct. 24, 1948 in Heavener to Hiram and Laverne (Johnston) O’Neal and passed away Dec. 6, 2024 in Fort Smith, Arkansas.
Funeral service was Tuesday at Dowden-Roberts Funeral Home Chapel in Heavener, with Reverend Ricky Huggins officiating. Burial will follow in Heavener Memorial Park, under the direction of Dowden-Roberts Funeral Home of Heavener.
Pam was a 1966 graduate of Heavener High School, where she was a majorette for the high school band. She was a secretary for the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation until retiring. Pam was a life member of the Eastern Star and of the Methodist faith. She loved spending time with her family and friends. Pam will be missed by all whom knew and loved her.
Survivors are two cousins Michelle Hunt of Poteau and Lisa Pate of Poteau; one brother-in-law,
Jim Brown, of Summerfield; extended family Charles Shadwick and wife Rocio and their children Angela and Kristy Shadwick, all of Heavener; and many friends whom loved her very much.
She was preceded in death by her parents Hiram and Laverne O’Neal; her husband, Michael Austin; and one sister, Shaelia Brown.
Pallbearers were Bill Shadwick, Charles Shadwick, Rocky Makovy, Scott Brown, Jim Brown and Kristy Shadwick.
Randy Haynes, 63, of Wister was born Jan. 2, 1961 in Poteau to Clarence W. and Loretta (Stripling) Haynes and passed away at his home Dec. 4, 2024 in Wister.
Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Dowden-Roberts Funeral Home of Heavener.
Randy was a long-time resident of the area and a graduate of Heavener High School. He worked as a correctional officer for the Oklahoma Department of Corrections until he retired. Randy will be deeply missed.
Survivors are three sons Kirby Haynes of Broken Arrow, Case Haynes of Heavener and Cooper Haynes of Monroe; four sisters Robin Smith of Greenwood, Arkansas, Judy Rowland of Hot Springs, Arkansas, Cheryl Miller of Checotah and Rona Taylor of Elm Springs, Arkansas; one brother, Paul D. Owens, of Oklahoma City; and eight grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Loretta Haynes; and a brother, Clarence Gene Haynes.
Private memorialization by his family and loved ones will follow. He will be laid to rest in Spiro City Cemetery.
Kenny was born July 19, 1953, in Fort Smith, Arkansas, to Genelle (Clingenpeel) Harlan and Parks E. Harlan and passed away Nov. 7, 2024, in Spiro.
Raised in the Methodist Church of Spiro, Kenny carried his faith with him throughout his life. After serving his country in the Navy, he began a distinguished career as lead firefighter and hazardous waste response instructor at Station #2 at Fort Chaffee. Later, he worked as a firefighter and hazardous waste responder for FEMA in Denton, Texas.
Kenny had a passion for life that shone through his many interests. An avid sports fan, he enjoyed all types of athletics and played golf in his younger years. A talented guitarist with a love for classic rock, Kenny also had a deep appreciation for vintage sports cars and could share his vast knowledge about them with anyone willing to listen.
With a dry, witty sense of humor and a quiet, soft-spoken nature, Kenny left a lasting impression on those fortunate enough to know him. His love for animals, particularly dogs, was evident through his excellent training skills and the bonds he shared with his pets. Above all, he took pride in his career and the stories that came with it.
Survivors are his nephew Troy Talley and wife Shari of Edmond; nieces Trisha (Talley) Pickle of Poteau, and Trae Branscum and husband Heath of Arkoma; seven great-nephews and nieces; and numerous Harlan and Clingenpeel cousins.
Kenny is preceded in death by his beloved sister, Margaret (Peggy) Harlan Talley.
Messages of condolence can be shared online at Mallory-Martin Funeral Home Spiro.
George B. Rethman
George B. Rethman, 87, of Spiro passed away peacefully Dec. 6, 2024 and was born May 23, 1937 in Tulsa to Grace Emma (Ward) Rethman and Benjamin Franklin Rethman.
Funeral services to honor George’s life were Monday at Mallory-Martin Chapel in Spiro, officiated by Brother Sherman Dix. Burial will follow at New Hope Cemetery in Spiro, under the direction of Mallory-Martin Funeral Home.
A proud veteran of the United States Army and a lifelong advocate for agriculture, George was a Junior Master Farmer in FFA, earning a ribbon from the governor of Oklahoma. His love for farming was evident in his work managing a dairy farm for his father, where his dedication and strong work ethic left a lasting impression.
On June 1, 1958, George married the love of his life, Helen, in Tulsa. Together, they celebrated 66 wonderful years of marriage, building a legacy of love, faith, and family.
George is survived by his devoted wife, Helen; three sons: George Richard Rethman and wife Joann, Michael B. Rethman and wife Patricia, and Tab Anthony Rethman and wife Cassandra; grandchildren: Jamie, Grant, Tabitha, Lance, Matthew, and Alexa; and great-grandchildren: Colton, DeoKoeto, Hollie Mae, Blazen, Brayden, Landon, Logan, and Cache. He is also survived by his beloved sister, Donna Christian, and her husband Ronnie, along with numerous other relatives and dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Grace and Benjamin Rethman, and his granddaughter, Ashley Nicole Rethman.
Pallbearers were his grandsons: Jamie Rethman, Grant Rethman, Lance Rethman and Matthew Rethman.
Betty Sue Lenz-Patzkowsky, 67, of Fort Smith, Arkansas cremation services will be conducted under the care of Mallory-Martin Funeral Home in Spiro, with private memorialization by her family and loved ones.
Betty was born Oct. 28, 1957, in Houston, Texas, to Ray Albert Lenz and Martha (Simmons) Lenz and passed away Nov. 21, 2024, in Fort Smith, Arkansas.
Survivors are her children daughters Amanda Brewer and husband AJ, Hollis Spears, and Rose Cantrell; sons Raymond Patakowsky and Gaylon Patakowsky and his wife Amber; sister, Diana Lenz; brother, Jimmy Lenz; 16 grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.
A dedicated caregiver, Betty found purpose and fulfillment in her work as a Certified Nursing Assistant, compassionately attending to those in need. Despite the many challenges life presented, Betty's strength, resilience, and love for her family shone brightly, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew her.
