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Choctaw member led committee that created state seal
McAlester baseball prepares for upcoming season SPORTS
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SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2020
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Smith bill stopped after ‘stop and frisk’ concerns explanation of his or her actions,” the bill states. EDITOR A portion of the bill allowed officers to demand A representative called the suspect to explain a bill he authored an their action, but it was atrocity after it raised removed at the recomconcerns over its consti- mendation of Chairman Chris Kannady, R-Oklatutionality. District 18 Represen- homa City. Smith said tative David Smith, law enforcement officers requested R-McAlthe legisester, said lation. he auPittst h o r e d b u r g House Bill County 3359 with citizens the intent voiced to crack concerns down on during a crime — town hall but backed meeting away from last year the bill afabout ister it sues stemr a i s e d State Rep. David Smith ming from “stop and crime and frisk” con- “I couldn’t get it d r u g s, cerns and w h i c h any deader if I passed Smith said tried. It was an with an partially a m e n d - atrocity.” inspired m e n t him to DAVID SMITH through State representative write the the House bill. Ju d i c i a r y Smith, a Committee this week. military veteran, said he Smith called the bill a d i d n ’ t h av e t i m e t o mistake and House Machange language in the jority Leader Jon Echols bill before it went to jureportedly stopped the dicial committee and he bill from being heard on did not intend to “stomp the floor. on” constitutional rights. “I buried that bill; I “I’m up here to try to c r e m a t e d t h a t b i l l ,” help them (constituents) Smith said. “I couldn’t and this bill just was not get it any deader if I the way to do it,” Smith tried. It was an atrocity.” said. The bill, if passed, Smith’s district inwould have allowed law cludes Allen, Arpelar, enforcement officers to Ashland, Atwood, Brostop anyone they sus- mide, Calvin, Canadian, pect of breaking the law Centrahoma, Coalgate, — or if the officers think Crowder, Eufaula, Gerty, a person is about to com- Hanna, Hitchita, Hornmit a crime. town, Indianola, Kiowa, “A peace officer may Lamar, Lehigh, Longstop any person who the town, McAlester, Philpeace officer reasonably lips, Savanna, Stidham, suspects is committing, Stuart, Tupelo. has committed or is He authored seven about to commit a viola- house bills and a joint tion of the criminal laws resolution this session. of this state or the crimiThe resolution would nal ordinances of a mu- put a question to a vote nicipality and may re- of Oklahomans to decide quire the person to give o n a c o n s t i t u t i o n a l his or her name and ad- amendment that would dress, photo identifica>> See SMITH // Page A6 tion, if available, and an By ADRIAN O’HANLON III
DERRICK JAMES | Staff photo
A fire blazes at Paula’s Baby Shop in McAlester on Thursday evening. Building owner Paula Cormier says four tenants living in the apartments above the baby clothing shop were transported to a hospital.
‘I just wanted to know everybody was OK’ ■■ No fatalities reported after baby clothing store, apartments burn down By ADRIAN O’HANLON III EDITOR
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aula Cormier is relieved all apartment tenants escaped a fire at the building she owns in McAlester. The eight-year owner of Paula’s Baby Shop said when she heard the baby clothing store and apartment complex was burning down Thursday in McAlester, she was first concerned about everyone’s safety. “The first thing, I just wanted to know everybody was OK,” Cormier said Thursday night. Cormier said her father bought the building to start a plumbing shop more than 50 years ago before she took it over as a baby clothing store eight years ago. She said she had left for the day before her assistant, Crystal Hammons, called her to inform her of the blaze before 6 p.m. Hammons said she found out after a friend called to tell her about a scanner call reporting a fire at the building, then she
DERRICK JAMES | Staff photo McAlester firefighters respond to a fire Thursday evening at Paula’s Baby Shop.
hurried to help. “I tried to find all of the tenants to make sure all of them were out and make sure they were safe,” Hammons said. Cormier said five of the six apartments were being rented
CHECK IT OUT Watch emergency responders work the scene of the fire, plus submitted video of people escaping the blaze from a second-story window with video on our website at www. mcalesternews.com.
>> See FIRE // Page A6
5 THINGS TO KNOW
How to volunteer, help community through the American Red Cross Mike Mlynek, executive director of the American Red Cross South Central & Southeast Chapter Oklahoma, provides information about how people can help through the organization.
1
What does the American Red Cross do?
The American Red Cross is always looking for local, committed community and business relationships to help provide services and outlets for programs. Red Cross offers youth education programs, canteen services for first re-
INSIDE
sponders at emergency situations, smoke alarm installations, client assistance and other services.
2
How can I volunteer through Red Cross?
3
What does the application process entail?
You can create a Red Cross ID at www.redcross.org/volunteer, click on “Find My Volunteer Opportunity,” identify an opportunity of interest and “Apply Now.” Click the required Red Cross volunteers touch lives every day. fields to create your ID and proceed. You can fill They are as diverse as the people receiving Red out your contact information and verify at the Cross services. Volunteers are always needed in bottom of the page to confirm your account. a variety of areas. If you are interested in volunteering, please complete a volunteer application at www.redcross.org/volunteer.
4
What else is required on the application?
Applicants must agree to the policy agreement and continue to the background check. Applicants must upload a picture of valid ID, read and agree to the consent form, enter your social security number and click finish to successfully apply. After completing the application, you will be contacted for a “Get to Know You” interview. Any other questions can be directed to marama.baylesraleigh@redcross. com.
5
What other ways can I help?
Prepared shelters are a vital source to providing warmth, safety and comfort to those affected by disaster. Organizations work with the Red Cross to utilize their facilities in the event of an emergency or disaster. Let the Red Cross be your community partner in preparedness. Utilize the free resources on the website or download one of the apps today, become a volunteer, host a training for your workplace on sheltering, talk to a Red Cross representative. —Adrian O’Hanlon III
CLASSIFIED B3 // COMICS B2 // OBITUARIES A2 // OPINION A6 // SPORTS B1
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KEEP COOL
SIGNING
Tips for keeping your cats cool this summer PETS
>> PAGE A6
Stuart’s Zack Clark signs with Carl Albert
McAlester
SPORTS
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THURSDAY, JUNE 4, 2020
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ADRIAN O’HANLON III | Staff photo
REV. ANTHONY WASHINGTON, right, holds a sign bearing the name of George Floyd, the black man who died under the knee of a police officer last week in Minnesota. People walked in a peaceful demonstration against racism on Wednesday in McAlester. Mayor John Browne, beside Washington, and District Attorney Chuck Sullivan, center, were among the walkers.
Steps in a new direction
McAlester marchers participate in peaceful procession “This is not the end, but the beginning.”
By JAMES BEATY and ADRIAN O’HANLON III EDITORS
ANTHONY WASHINGTON
The Rev. Anthony Washington looked over a crowd of approximately 300 people near noon Wednesday following a peaceful march in McAlester. Washington not only noted the many participants, but also the racial diversity of those coming together to make a stand against racism and protest the May 25 death of George Floyd under the knee of police in Minneapolis. The McAlester group, organized by Washington, had just completed a march that began on Strong Boulevard and headed west down Carl Albert Park-
Mt. Triumph Baptist Church pastor
way to South Main Street. “This is not the end, but the beginning,” Washington told the assembled group, adding he hopes it’s the start of a dialogue with local leaders. Organizers selected the route to honor two individuals. Dr. Willa Strong, an educator and strong builder of the African American community in McAlester, and former U.S. House Speaker Carl Albert, who helped pass the Civil Rights Act of 1964..
ADRIAN O’HANLON III | Staff photo
COMMUNITY MEMBERS march Wednesday along Carl Albert Parkway in McAlester in a statement of >> See MARCH // Page A8 solidarity against racial injustice.
Kiowa High School celebrates with prom parade By ADRIAN O’HANLON III EDITOR
ADRIAN O’HANLON III | Staff photo
JODIE POOL holds her niece, Jensyn Hale, during Kiowa High School’s prom parade on Tuesday evening.
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Kiowa Public Schools S u p e r i n t e n d e n t R i ck Pool knows what graduating students and their parents have gone through during the pandemic because his daughter is a senior. Pool choked up Tuesday night when talking about senior’s missed memories and achievements due to the corona-
virus pandemic — but he beamed as students walked up to an outdoor patio in dresses and slacks for Kiowa’s prom parade on the campus. He said the students deserved a celebration for the culmination of their hard work — of which they were robbed due to the virus. “You work for the celebration of your senior year and that’s what the last week is supposed to
CHECK IT OUT Watch a video and look through photos from the Kiowa High School prom parade on our website at www.mcalesternews.com.
be — but we haven’t had that,” Pool said. “And this is a really good group. I’m attached to them.” Parents and grandparents made food for the event; gold streamers fluttered in the wind
along a pavilion; patio lights set a cool tone for the prom. Erica Wright, parent of K i o wa s e n i o r E t h a n Newberry, said it was heartbreaking as her son missed out on playing in the all-state basketball game and finishing the academic year with friends — but she knew the school would make it up to seniors. “They care too much
>> See PROM // Page A2
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September 12, 2020
HS FOOTBALL
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NAIL BITER
DERRICK JAMES | Staff photo
SAVANNA’S AYDEN FRY is grabbed for a tackle by the Canadian defense. The Bulldogs held on with a late-game interception to take the 21-20 win.
Savanna holds off Canadian in fourth quarter for win By DEREK HATRIDGE SPORTS EDITOR
CANADIAN — Savanna and Canadian met for the first time in seven years, and renewed the series with an instant classic as the Bulldogs held on for a 21-20 win on Friday night. The game began on a hot start offensively for both teams. Canadian’s Jake Brewster caught a pass from Johnathan Hasbrock on a slant route and evaded the Bulldog defense for the first score of the game and a 6-0 lead. The Bulldogs answered
on the next possession, as quarterback Ayden Fry zipped a 10-yard pass over the middle for the answer and 7-6 lead. Defense then took over for the rest of the first quarter and the first minutes of the second. The Bulldogs forced a fumble and recovered on the Cougar 37. This led to another score for Savanna and the 14-6 lead. Defense once again stepped up for the Bulldogs, forcing another fumble and recovery. Savanna marched to the Canadian 1-yard line, and Fry crossed the goal
line for the score. With just seconds left in the half, Canadian found Brewster again down the left side line into Savanna territory. A few plays and penalties later, the Cougars ran a keeper at the goal line to make the score 21-12 at half. In the third quarter, defenses from both sides once again ruled the opening minutes of the half. Canadian prevented a 4th-down conversion and took over on offense, but the Bulldog defense answered right back.
The Cougars picked off their second pass of the game as the Bulldogs were putting together a drive downfield midway through Canadian territory. But Savanna held steadfast, forcing a Canadian punt. The defensive strongholds held throughout the entire quarter, leaving the score 21-12 after three. In the final quarter, Canadian stripped the ball away from the Bulldogs and recovered. That’s wham Brewster took two snaps for 40 yards and the score. The two-point
conversion was caught in the back of the end zone, bringing the score to a one-point ballgame with 8:27 left. On the next offensive possession, a long pass from the Cougars was intercepted by Dawson Jones for Savanna. But the mean green defense stepped up to force a punt, allowing Canadian to take back over on offense. After trading possessions, the Bulldogs had the ball in the waning minutes of the game. But the Cougars refused to quit, and forced a turn-
over on downs with 53 seconds remaining. With time ticking down, the Cougars lobbed a pass downfield that was tipped and caught by Savanna to seal the win. Fry completed 20-of-29 passes for 93 yards and a touchdown, while Pakes Garnett had 26 carries for 126 yards and a touchdown for Savanna. For Canadian, Hasbrock completed 5-of-10 passes for 130 yards and a score. Brewster caught four passes for 128 yards and a touchdown, while also having five carries for 32 yards and a score.
Wilburton, Quinton still undefeated after Week 2 By DEREK HATRIDGE SPORTS EDITOR
Wilburton took a 20-6 win at Seldon D. Taylor Field on Friday against Keys to remain undefeated on the season. Keys (0-2) struck first to take an early 6-0 lead over Wilburton (2-0). But D i g g e r s q u a r t e r b a ck Grayson Mathis was able to connect with Aubrey Runkle on a 12-yard pass over the middle to strike back and even up the score. Defense took over for
both teams, and they found themselves tied at 6-6 at the half. In the third quarter, Runkle nabbed an interception deep downfield for the Diggers. That play led to a Mathis handoff to Ralph Camacho, who punched the ball into the endzone and taking the lead for Wilburton. The Diggers would get their final score of the night after Mathis connected with Christian Gockel for a 40-yard run and the win. The Diggers will next
face off against Roland QUINTON 48, GANS 0 on Sept. 18 at Seldon D. Quinton notched anTaylor Field in Wilbur- other win in its belt as it ton. traveled to Gans on Friday, where it took a 48-0 SPERRY 34, HARTSHORNE 12 win over the Grizzlies. Hartshorne hosted Quinton (2-0) achieved Sperry in a newly-sched- another mercy rule win, uled Week 2 battle, where this time late in the the Pirates prevailed fourth quarter. The green over the Miners 34-12. and white are set to have The Miners move to 0-2 their home opener on on the season, and will Sept. 18 against Arkoma next face off against Tali- while also looking to exhina on Sept. 18 at But- t e n d t h e i r w i n n i n g ler-Jennings Field in streak. ADRIAN O’HANLON III | Staff photo Hartshorne. The Tigers will be coming off a 49-8 • Contact Derek Hatridge at Wilburton’s Jake Wesley and the Diggers took a 20-6 win loss to Atoka. dhatridge@mcalesternews.com. Friday at home against Keys .
IF THE HAT FITS
Remembering to enjoy the journey
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his year has been a roller coaster. I think I’ve written that sentence before — at least 2020 times. But it’s so evergreen that it may as well be this year’s slogan. But this time, the roller coaster lifted us up at the end of this week. Sure, it’s after it let us fall down, but it’s the thought that counts, right? I’m of course talking about football and everything that has transpired the last two weeks. Starting last Wednesday, McAlester players and fans were hit with the news that the game against Sallisaw was cancelled. And believe me, it wasn’t fun being the bearer of that news either.
Derek Hatridge SPORTS EDITOR
The Buffs took it in stride and switched gears to focus on the rivalry week with Ada. But Wednesday came once again, with the same result as the previous week. However, this is where the story takes a turn, much to the delight of the McAlester
faithful. The very next day, McAlester announced that there will be football played this week, just not at Hook Eales Stadium. The Buffs instead head to Shawnee for a weekend battle, and for a few hours, we will get to forget all the craziness happening in the world around us. It’s a great reminder to enjoy those winning moments. There’s a lot of seriousness going on in the world, but it’s those bright spots that help keep you going. And this isn’t just a reminder for McAlester football fans, but for everyone in all activities in each city and town across the state. It’s the fall, which means school colors and activities
nearly every night of the week. And we’re once again being reminded how much our communities and the people in them impact our lives. Every day, there are those moments and memories that seem to resonate with your very soul. It’s getting rewarded a ribbon from the county fair — even if you had to participate virtually. It’s performing that halftime ensemble you’ve been working on for weeks as your grandparents watch it being broadcast over the internet. It’s seeing warm eyes light up with happiness as your loved one takes to the playing surface — even from behind a custom team mask. Those are the moments to
hold on to. I wrote last week how it’s going to take everyone working together as a team to help propel our communities forward. And we’re seeing that first hand. There have been people hard at work making sure our kids and our communities stay safe and not miss out on these moments that, to be frank, they’ll never get back again. So let’s keep it up. By working together, we’ll get to enjoy all of these moments that will resonate for a lifetime. And we’ll make it to the end of the roller coaster ride that we’re on, with the memories and photo evidence to prove it. • Contact Derek Hatridge at dhatridge@ mcalesternews.com.
sports March 7 HS BASEBALL • Crowder at Wright City, 1 p.m. • Hartshorne at Valliant, 1 p.m. • McAlester at Poteau, 1 p.m.
HS BASKETBALL • State Tournament
HS TRACK • McAlester at Holland Hall
COLLEGE BASKETBALL • Region II Tournament
COLLEGE BASEBALL • EOSC at Connors State, 1 p.m. • EOSC at Connors State, 3:30 p.m.
March 9 HS BASEBALL • Coweta at McAlester, 5 p.m. • Indianola at Crowder, 4 p.m. • Hartshorne at Warner, 4:30 p.m. • Tupelo at Kiowa, 4 p.m.
HS SOFTBALL • McAlester at Warner, 5:30 p.m. • McAlester vs. Henryetta at Warner, 6:30
March 10 HS BASEBALL • McAlester at Coweta, 5 p.m. • Stuart at Crowder, 5:45 p.m. • Warner at Hartshorne, 4:30 p.m.
HS SOCCER • McAlester girls at Poteau, 5 p.m. • McAlester boys at Poteau, 7 p.m.
HS SOFTBALL • Crowder at Quinton, 4 p.m. • McAlester at Poteau, 4:30 p.m.
COLLEGE BASEBALL • EOSC at Northeast Texas Community College, 3 p.m.
COLLEGE SOFTBALL • Carl Albert at EOSC, 2 p.m. • Carl Albert at EOSC, 4 p.m.
March 12 HS BASEBALL • Crowder vs. Idabel at Valliant, 4:15 p.m. • Crowder at Valliant, 6 p.m. • Kiowa at Haileyville, 4 p.m. • McAlester at Red Oak, 5 p.m. • McAlester at Red Oak, 7 p.m.
HS SOCCER • McAlester girls at Wagoner Tournament • McAlester boys at Wagoner Tournament
HS SOFTBALL • Eufaula at Crowder, 4 p.m. • Indianola at Canadian, 4 p.m. • Sallisaw at McAlester, 5 p.m.
COLLEGE BASEBALL • Seminole at EOSC, 2 p.m.
COLLEGE SOFTBALL • EOSC at NEO A&M, 4 p.m. • EOSC at NEO A&M, 6 p.m.
March 13 HS BASEBALL
Kiowa falls to Garber in state semifinals By DEREK HATRIDGE SPORTS EDITOR
OKLAHOMA CITY —It was an emotional day for Kiowa. The Cowboys came out and fought a red-hot start to the game by Garber, but ultimately fell in a 60-42 loss Friday in the Oklahoma Secondary Schools Activities Association Class A State basketball semifinals at Jim Norick Arena. Kiowa won the opening tip and Ethan Newberry immediately found the bucket for the first score of the game. Garber responded with a three and took the lead for the first time. The Cowboys’ Noah Belt drove through the lane to score and retake the lead for Kiowa. The Wolverines were fouled on the next offensive possession, and made both to grab the lead back. A three and four more foul shots put the Wolverines ahead 12-4 before Newberry recorded some foul shots of his own. Garber answered with a bucket under the goal before Corbin Lalli took to the other end and used a spin move to finish the shot and pull the Cowboys within 8 points after the first quarter. In the second quarter, Garber hit another three, but Chris
HS BASEBALL • Broken Bow at McAlester, 1 p.m. • Indianola at McCurtain, 12 p.m.
COLLEGE BASEBALL • EOSC at Seminole, 1 p.m. • EOSC at Seminole, 4 p.m.
March 16 HS BASEBALL • Crowder at Gore, 11 a.m. • Midway at Indianola, 4 p.m.
COLLEGE BASEBALL • EOSC at TCS Post Grad, 12 p.m.
DEREK HATRIDGE | Staff photo
KIOWA’S CORBIN LALLI drives toward a defender during Friday’s Class A state semifinal game loss to Garber in Jim Norick Arena. The Cowboys ended the season with a 24-7 record.
Middleton was quick to answer with one of his own for the Cowboys. Kiowa next forced a turnover, which led to foul shots for Julian Kamrud and brought the deficit down to 10. Kamrud was next fouled on a
dleton triple to cut the Garber lead to 34-26 at the half. In the start of the second half, Garber gathered back-to-back steals but couldn’t convert them into points. Kamrud nailed a baseline fadeaway to get the Cowboys going in the third quarter. Kamrud followed that up with a finger roll through the lane to bring the score to a 38-30 Garber lead. The Wolverines responded with a pair of free throws and and three points on a layup and foul shot to extend the lead back to double digits. Lalli next forced his way through the middle of the lane for the score, but the Wolverines answered right back. This led to a back and forth that saw Garber lead over Kiowa 48-34 after three quarters. In the final period, the Cowboys battled to contain the Wolverines, but it would not be enough as Garber used the momentum to take the win. Kiowa was led by Kamrud with 15 points, followed by Belt with 7 points, and Newberry and Middleton with 6 points each. The Cowboys finish the season with a record of 24-7.
three, making two of three to keep the Cowboys scoring. After another Wolverine triple, Kamrud responded by reaching the foul line and making them both. Later, Noah Belt was fed on a • Contact Derek Hatridge at dhatridge@ backdoor cut, followed by a Mid- mcalesternews.com
Stuart defeated by Arapaho-Butler in state semifinals By DEREK HATRIDGE SPORTS EDITOR
OKLAHOMA CITY —The Hornets never quit. Stuart came out red hot to start the game, and proceeded to trade shots with Arapaho-Butler, but the Hornets fell in a 65-56 loss in Friday’s Oklahoma Secondary Schools Activities Association Class A State basketball semifinals in Jim Norick Arena. The Hornets began the game by winning the opening tip, but it was Arapaho-Butler that broke the ice with a bucket on its first offensive possession. The Indians went on a run bef o r e C o n n o r C l ay t o n drove the lane and was fouled on a made shot. He sank the free throw and put his team on the board. Clatyon responded again by repeating the same play and propelling Stuart on a 14-0 run to take the lead. That included a three by Sammy Luker and back-toback triples by Zack Clark to lead 14-9. The Indians were able to find an offensive rhythm, and drained two
DEREK HATRIDGE | Staff photo
STUART’S ANTHONY WATERDOWN bodies up against a defender during Friday’s Class A state semifinals game against Arapaho-Butler. The Hornets finsihed the season 26-6.
threes of their own to lead 15-14 after the opening quarter. In the second quarter, Anthony Waterdown recorded a block, which led to free throws on the offensive end. Waterdown made the front end of his foul shots to tie the game at 15-15. Arapaho-Butler forced its way to the line on the
next possession, and made one of two shots to take a one-point lead. That’s when Jared McIntosh fought for a rebound and fed Clark for a threepoint shot and the lead. The Indians answered with a two-point and three-point shot before Clayton nailed a triple of his own. The Indians responded in kind, but
Clayton once again imposed his will, making his way to the free throw line and sinking both. Luker finished off the quarter by bodying up on the baseline for the score to cut the score to a 2725 Arapaho-Butler lead at the half. In the second off, the Indians made the first score before McIntosh answered with a jumper from the left side. After trading scores once again, the Indiants rattled off an 11-0 run to take a 42-29 lead late in the third quarter. McIntosh hit a jump shot from the foul line to end the run, but the Indians answered right back. Clayton received a pass on the baseline and powered his way up for the score, which lead to a 44-33 deficit heading into the final period. The Indians started the fourth quarter with the basketball and made five straight points before a foul shot by McIntosh got things started for Stuart. Waterdown got another defensive block, and took the basketball down the length of the floor and made a contested
CHECK IT OUT Look online for more coverage from the basketball playoffs at www. mcalesternews.com and follow along with live updates on Twitter and Facebook.
bucket to trim the lead. After a few scores by Arapaho-Butler, McInt o s h a n d Wa t e r d o w n combined a few scores to bring the lead down to 12 points late in the fourth. McIntosh next hit a contested three and brought the lead to single digits. Stuart battled late in the game, forcing its way to the foul line and cutting the lead to six. The push would not be enough however as the Indians used late game foul shots of their own to help take the win over the Hornets. Clayton led the Hornets with 19 points, followed by McIntosh with 11, Clark with 9 points, Waterdown with 8 points, and Luker with 7. Stuart ends the season with a record of 26-6. • Contact Derek Hatridge at dhatridge@mcalesternews.com
IF THE HAT FITS
HS SOCCER
March 14
March 7, 2020
HS BASKETBALL
• Hartshorne at Vian, 1 p.m. • Quinton at Kiowa, 2 p.m. • Quinton vs. Asher at Kiowa, 4 p.m. • Asher at Kiowa, 6 p.m. • Stuart at Indianola, 4 p.m. • McAlester girls at Wagoner Tournament • McAlester boys at Wagoner Tournament
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Congrats to area teams on successful seasons
his season has been a lot of fun. I only came into this job in late January, but I’ve been a fan of local sports my entire life. I played here, and family and friends have too. Now that I’m watching a new generation of athletes compete for their hometowns, I can only say that I am proud. Congratulations are in order for every area team on successful basketball seasons. They may have ended earlier than some would have hoped, but rest assured, you represented your school and your town with pride. Four area teams even made it into the Class A state tournament this week. Yes, four. It’s been an absolute blast to
So to the Stuart Hornets, Kiowa Cowboys and Cowgirls, and Quinton Savages, I say thank you and congratulations. Your student athletes, coaches, and fans have been wonderful to be around this week, and I couldn’t thank you all enough for allowing me to hop on the bandwagon and enDerek Hatridge joy this ride with you all. SPORTS EDITOR I look forward to all the coaches sending in their stats watch these teams play, and it and nominations for the all-area team. It’s not going to won’t be something I forget. be an easy task compiling the The towns emptied as you all made the trip to our state’s lists because of all the great capital and poured your heart talent we have in the area, but and soul out for your squad. It I take on the job with complete seriousness in a labor of love. has made for a memorable You have all worked your time covering my first state basketball tournament as your tails off, and it showed night sports editor. in and night out. For you se-
niors, you may have put on that jersey for the last time, but may you never forget what you did in honor of the name on the front. I hope you’ll all look back on this season with joy and remember all that you’ve accomplished. I selfishly hope you’ve saved newspaper clippings of a photo or a story about your favorite team. Not because I wrote it—OK, maybe it’s a little because I wrote it—but because it’s a piece of you and your history. So once more, congratulations to all of our area teams. It’s been a crazy, beautiful ride, and I can’t wait to do it with you all again next season. • Contact Derek Hatridge at dhatridge@ mcalesternews.com
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SWEARING IN
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Mayor, councilor sworn in for city
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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 2020
Serving southeast Oklahoma since 1896
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Annual livestock show underway at fairgrounds
Schooling the blues By JAMES BEATY
By DERRICK JAMES
MANAGING EDITOR
STAFF WRITER
Blues singer Bebo McDaniel had never faced a crowd quite like this — an auditorium filled with elementary school students. Chances are not many of the Edmond Doyle Elementary School students in McAlester had heard a blues singer live and in-person before, either. That didn’t stop them from naturally taking to each other, though. On Wednesday, Bebo sat in an onstage chair with an amplified acoustic guitar across his knee, ran his fingers across the strings and began belting out downhome Delta blues. And since he didn’t have a drummer, he asked the students to provide percussion in the form of handclaps and foot stomps — a request with which they enthusiastically complied. McDaniel opened with the blues standard “Key to the Highway” playing a chopping rhythm, generating a rousing response from the youngsters — along with teachers, administrators and others who were present. He next tore into the riff for Howlin’ Wolf’s “Smokestack Lightnin’ “ — modifying Wolf’s lyrics for his young audience. McDaniel asked if they knew what the blues are, and then improvised lyrics they might be more likely to identify with than those in Wolf’s original. “I believe I’ll clean my room,” he sang. Looking at some of the younger elementary students, he added “I believe I’ll learn to tie my
Gabriella Chatkehoodle believes more people should participate in agriculture activities like showing animals. She shows for Jones Academy 4-H as the 77th edition of the Pittsburg County Junior Livestock Show continues this week at the Pittsburg County Fairgrounds. Chatkehoodle is a 17-year-old Hartshorne High School senior who has shown hogs for Jones Academy 4-H since the
>> See LIVESTOCK // Page A5
KEVIN HARVISON | Staff photo
BLUES SINGER BEBO MCDANIEL shares a laugh while onstage in the auditorium at Edmond Doyle Elementary School while delivering a musical show for the students.
shoes.” McDaniel delivered the blues performance at the request of school counselor Sandra Sanchez, who said she’d known McDaniel since he was a child when they attended the same church. “A lot of these kids don’t know what diversity is,” she said, saying she wanted to give them the opportunity to hear McDaniel sing and play. As the youngsters trouped into the cafeteria, McDaniel was already set up and singing onstage. “We’re excited he’s here,” said Edmond Doyle Elementary Principal Denise Martin. “We’re looking forward to lis-
tening to him.” She said it could be the first time some of the students have heard live music. Judging by their applause, they liked what they heard. Sanchez took to the stage with microphone in hand to give McDaniel an introduction. “He’s a blues singer,” Sanchez said. “I’ve known him since he was 8 years old. He goes all over the state. This is some of the best music you could ever listen to.” McDaniel played several songs, including an encore at the request of Ward 5 City Councilor Maureen Harrison, who walked into the auditori-
um just as he wound up his performance. As McDaniel sang one last song, one of the children spontaneously shouted “You’re a great singer!” The impromptu review brought a smile to his face. Another student told him she’s blues fan, attending the annual blues festival in Rentiesville with her family. McDaniel has played the Dusk “Til Dawn Blues Festival in Rentiesville, as well as other venues in Oklahoma and outside the state. He and his group, consisting of bassist Connor Adcock and drum-
>> See BEBO // Page A2
Decision delayed in terrorism case By ADRIAN O’HANLON III EDITOR
A decision on whether a t e e n charged with threatening to shoot up McAlester High School will stand t r i a l w i l l Alexis Wilson not be made for another month. After more than four
>> See CASE // Page A5
5 THINGS TO KNOW
Black History Month celebrates diversity Here are five things to know about Black History Month.
1
When was Black History Month first celebrated?
The forerunner of Black History Month began as a weeklong celebration in February 1926, the result of an effort by historian Carter G. Woodson. The week in February was chosen because it included the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass. Woodson wanted to raise awareness of African American’s many achievements.
2
When did it become a monthlong celebration? It expanded to a month in 1976 as the United States celebrated its bicentennial. U.S. President Gerald R. Ford strongly supported the ex-
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pansion and encouraged Americans to “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.”
3
What is the 2020 theme of Black History Month?
The 2020 theme is African Americans and the Vote, marking the centennial of the Nineteenth Amendment to the Constitution, which gave women the right to vote. The Nineteenth Amendment was ratified on Aug. 20, 1920.
4
Who are some of the local residents acknowledged in the city of McAlester in the Black History Month Proclamation signed by
Mayor John Browne? The proclamation states “The city of McAlester acknowledges several local residents whose determination, talents and concern made our community better: Dr. Willa A. Strong, Rev. Wade Watts, Michael J. Hunter, Kermit Anderson and his wife, Thelma Anderson. They left a legacy of strength and commitment. Countless individuals have made a difference in the past and many are engaging in positive action today.”
5
Is black history celebrated at any other time?
The Association for the Study of African American Art and History advances the study of black history throughout the year, according KEVIN HARVISON | Staff photo to the Smithsonian-related website at africanamericanhistorymonth.gov. COLUAH WATTS-STANFIELD, right, thanks the McAlester City Council for recognizing Black History Month, and the city’s past action in naming Wade Watts Avenue after her father, the civil rights leader Rev. — James Beaty Wade Watts, as Ward 1 Councilor Weldon Smith, left, listens.
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Holiman nabs second division I college offer
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FRIDAY, JULY 31, 2020
Serving southeast Oklahoma since 1896 GLANCE COVID-19 OKLAHOMA TEST RESULTS
Confirmed Positive Cases 35,740 Total Cumulative Deaths 536 Total Recovered 28,411
CASES BY COUNTY
County Cases Deaths Recovered Adair 274 5 194 Alfalfa 4 0 1 Atoka 60 0 47 Beaver 36 0 34 Beckham 41 0 29 Blaine 39 0 25 Bryan 368 1 285 Caddo 332 14 233 Canadian 988 5 789 Carter 285 3 228 Cherokee 292 1 180 Choctaw 161 1 148 Cimarron 1 0 1 Cleveland 2,487 47 1,917 Coal 27 0 22 Comanche 751 10 682 Cotton 17 2 13 Craig 68 0 50 Creek 468 12 352 Custer 173 0 131 Delaware 385 19 320 Dewey 7 0 6 Ellis 3 0 1 Garfield 324 4 238 Garvin 196 4 162 Grady 391 6 336 Grant 9 0 7 Greer 79 7 65 Harmon 15 0 3 Harper 5 0 3 Haskell 32 0 25 Hughes 96 1 34 Jackson 442 3 265 Jefferson 27 0 24 Johnston 37 0 31 Kay 205 10 155 Kingfisher 96 0 77 Kiowa 24 1 21 Latimer 58 1 30 Le Flore 184 1 115 Lincoln 112 2 77 Logan 164 1 138 Love 64 0 60 Major 23 1 19 Marshall 83 0 59 Mayes 270 6 198 McClain 379 4 325 McCurtain 814 25 685 McIntosh 141 1 110 Murray 59 0 44 Muskogee 411 16 265 Noble 74 2 62 Nowata 51 1 48 Okfuskee 48 0 26 Oklahoma 8,669 96 6,929 Okmulgee 369 2 245 Osage 346 11 289 Other 30 0 2 Ottawa 311 2 249 Pawnee 113 3 96 Payne 638 3 569 Pittsburg 160 3 120 Pontotoc 164 2 122 Pottawatomie 347 6 238 Pushmataha 83 0 54 Roger Mills 8 0 4 Rogers 745 13 506 Seminole 179 5 91 Sequoyah 214 4 123 Stephens 168 2 141 Texas 1,029 7 1,000 Tillman 54 1 44 Tulsa 8,636 98 7,127 Wagoner 673 22 534 Washington 556 39 479 Washita 23 0 16 Woods 15 0 13 Woodward 30 0 25 Total 35740 536 28411
PITTSBURG COUNTY CASES
City Cases Deaths Recovered McAlester 108 3 80 Canadian 4 0 4 Crowder 3 0 3 Haileyville 2 0 1 Hartshorne 17 0 9 Kiowa 5 0 4 Krebs 2 0 2 Pittsburg 2 0 2 Quinton 9 0 9 Savanna 4 0 4 Not listed 4 0 2 Total 160 3 120
LATIMER COUNTY CASES
City Cases Deaths Recovered Wilburton 31 1 14 Red Oak 3 0 1 Not listed 24 0 15 Total 58 1 30
HUGHES COUNTY CASES
City Cases Deaths Recovered Holdenville 67 1 22 Calvin 3 0 3 Wetumka 20 0 6 Not listed 6 0 3 Total 96 1 34 Data Source: Acute Disease Service, Oklahoma State Department of Health. *As of 11 a.m. July 29
INSIDE
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Krebs council votes on mask mandate By ADRIAN O’HANLON III EDITOR
KREBS — Councilors voted to approve an ordinance to require protective face coverings will be required in Krebs. Krebs City Councilors voted unanimously to approve an ordinance requiring protective face coverings to be worn in public due to the coronavirus pandemic. An emergency clause to immediately put the ordinance in effect also unanimously passed. The ordinance is set to expire Nov. 30, 2020, or with other action taken by the city, or with the expiration of COVID-19 re-
lated emergency declarations. Krebs’ ordinance states a face covering is “a covering, or mask, that fully covers a person’s nose and mouth” — such as cloth facemasks, towels, scarves, and bandanas as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Exceptions to the ordinance include restaurant patrons while eating or drinking, anyone who falls into the CDC’s guidance for those who should not wear them due to a diagnosed medical or mental health condition or development disability, children younger than 5 years old, and more. Data from the Oklahoma
State Department of Health shows 35,740 cumulative cases, 536 deaths, and 3,098 hospitalizations statewide as of Thursday. OSDH reported 26,363 recoveries and 6,793 total active cases statewide Thursday. Pittsburg County had 160 cumulative cases, 120 recoveries, and three total deaths as of Thursday, according to OSDH data. OSDH reported 37 active cases Thursday, six fewer than the previous day’s report. Cases in Pittsburg County went from 43 on June 14 to 81 cases as of July 14. OSDH also listed Pittsburg County in the yellow risk phase — which means COVID-19 pos-
itive cases are present in the community at an increased level, and the risk of infection is elevated. The World Health Organization declared a COVID-19 pandemic on March 11, before President Donald Trump declared a national emergency and Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt declared a state emergency in the following days. Pittsburg County commissioners declared an emergency on March 16 and Krebs Mayor Bobby Watkins declared an emergency in the city on March 21. • Contact Adrian O’Hanlon III at aohanlon@mcalesternews.com
‘NO MATTER WHAT’ Annual school supply giveaway still on schedule
City allocates $30,000 for face mask purchases ■■ Council passes face mask assistance measure by split vote
By ADRIAN O’HANLON III EDITOR
R
eed Marcum plans to hand out 5,000 free bags of school supplies at his annual giveaway — but this time, with some safety precautions. The McAlester High School sophomore’s annual Bookbag Giveaway WHAT: Annual is set for 10 a.m. Bookbag Aug. 8 and is usualGiveaway ly held at the J MiWHEN: 10 chael Miller Law a.m. Aug. Offices. Reed said 8 anyone going to WHERE: this year’s event J. Michael will have to stay in Miller Law their car in a new Office delivery format to COST: limit contact during Free the coronavirus pandemic. Reed said he believes taking precautions was vital for him to
By JAMES BEATY MANAGING EDITOR
Details are still being worked out on a program that has $30,000 in city funds allocated to help businesses in McAlester buy face masks or other protective facial barriers. McAlester city councilors passed the measure by a split 4-3 vote Tuesday. It sets aside $30,000 for use as matching grants to help local businesses purchase face masks or other protective facial coverings in an effort to stop the spread of COVID-19. Wa r d 2 C o u n c i l o r
IF YOU GO
>> See GIVEAWAY // Page A8
ADRIAN O’HANLON III | Staff photo
REED MARCUM says he hopes to help area students start the school year with some of the supplies they need.
>> See MASKS // Page A8
HEALTHCARE HIGHLIGHT
Dr. Matthew Graves starts at MRHC on Monday Get to know Dr. Matthew Graves, who will be- smaller town has always appealed to me. In a gin offering OB-GYN services Monday at the smaller town, I can see the impact that I make McAlester Regional Health Center. and be a valuable resource to women’s health across the Southeastern, Oklahoma region.
4
I was born in Washington DC and grew up in Oklahoma City. I stayed in-state for college and attended the University of Oklahoma, where I met my wife, Elizabeth. Upon completing college, I completed my residency in Phoenix, Arizona.
make joint decisions, based on their healthcare needs.
1 2
Where are you from?
Why did you choose to practice in McAlester?
3
What do you hope to accomplish in your practice at How did you select MRHC? My number one goal is to provide quality, safe OB-GYN as your healthcare that is centered around the patient. It specialty? is important for me to work with my patients to
I was always fascinated by the operating room, but long-term care is also important to me. OB-GYN caught my eye because of the opportunity to provide long-term care to patients, work in the operating room and most of all, deliver new born babies!
5
What do you enjoy doing when you are not working?
I enjoy golfing, Oklahoma football, and Washington Nationals baseball. —Derrick James
My wife’s family is from here and living in a
Dr. Matthew Graves and wife, Elizabeth
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