In a lengthy and at times tense meeting, the Holdenville City Council voted to approve a five-year contract with Wright Water to take over operations at the city’s water plant. The decision followed extensive discussion among council members, city staff, and representatives from Wright Water, with the final motion passing unanimously after overcoming significant concerns.

Responsible for greeting all visitors and callers in a professional manner and making appropriate referrals. Responsible for promoting a positive image of the agency to the general public as well as employees. Determines eligibility of applications for services and processes necessary forms and documents to enable service delivery. Provides clerical support as needed when conducive to other responsibilities, giving priority to the person in charge of the site. Enters data, collects and organizes information for program operations. Must be 18 years old and have a high school diploma or GED. Must display good decorum in dealing with visitors as well as on the telephone. Must have good computer skills, including knowledge of Microsoft word, Excel and G-mail. Experience in receptionist and secretary skills desirable. Ability to work in a fast-paced multi-tasks environment. Strong organizational skills and ability to prioritize workload. Applicants must pass a drug/alcohol screen, a motor vehicle check, OSBI criminal background check, and have a current valid Oklahoma driver’s license. Apply online at www.bigfive.org . EOE/AA

In 1841, American writer-philosopher Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803–1882) published “Self-Reliance,” placing the ingenuity of the individual above an unquestioning acquiescence to the collective. It appeared just before The Communist Manifesto ennobled victimhood of one collective and victimization of another.

Harvey Dale Lee was born on September 15, 1943 in Mesa, Arizona to Leon Lee and Atha Joy Shields. He left this life on August 24, 2024 in Holdenville, Oklahoma.

According to the latest data from the VA, the average disability rating for veterans who have been granted claims under the PACT Act stands at 70%. This follows the largest outreach campaign in VA history, which saw veterans and survivors submit a record-breaking 2.4 million claims applications in 2023—a 39% increase from the previous year. This momentum is expected to continue in 2024.

Wetumka, OK — On August 21, 2024, Brent McGee, a former Athletic Director and Alternative Education Instructor at Wetumka High School, was arrested by Agents from the District 22 Criminal Investigations Unit, District 22 Drug and Violent Crimes task Force, and the Hughes County Sheriff’s Office.

Softball Team Falls in Extra Innings The Holdenville Wolverine fast pitch softball team played their best game of the year on Friday and lost to an extremely good Little Axe team in extra innings.Holdenville trailed 4-2 going into the bottom of the seventh. Autumn Jackson started the rally with a base hit to center field.

At the August 20th Holdenville City Council meeting, Holdenville General Hospital (HGH) CEO Steve Stewart presented a positive outlook on the hospital’s recent developments, despite ongoing financial challenges. While the hospital recorded a financial loss in July, Stewart noted that the loss was smaller than expected and an improvement compared to the same period last year.

Clayton Keith Tyler passed away Wednesday, August 14, 2024 at his home in Allen, Oklahoma at the age of 55. Clayton was born September 6, 1968 in Waurika, Oklahoma to Elzy Lee Tyler and Betty Lou (Williamson) Self.

Ronald “Ron” Gene Meely Jr. passed away Tuesday, August 13, 2024 at his home in Holdenville, Oklahoma at the age of 49.