• A series of long-discussed changes at Henryetta’s city hall were completed, moving the water superintendent’s office into the former city engineer’s rooms and relocating the mayor’s desk into the space left behind. The law firm of Hummer & Foster shifted into the mayor’s former office, and their vacated rooms were set aside for the Henryetta Chamber of Commerce. The new chamber space offered more room for agricultural and industrial meetings, along with convenient access to the city rest room for visiting rural families.

• The Henryetta Hens basketball team claimed a 23-14 victory over Stigler in a well-matched contest. Coach Cox noted that neither side relied on standout players, with each team holding its own throughout the game. The win added momentum as Henryetta prepared to face Paden and then Weleetka, the latter match set to determine the East Central Conference championship. Both Henryetta and Weleetka entered the contest undefeated in conference play.

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• Dewar FHA members spent their Saturday helping prepare the community for Bicentennial celebrations. The girls cleaned the Mike Crawford Memorial and painted local fire hydrants in red, white and blue. Several members also presented Dewar’s scrolls to the passing wagon train and rode with it to Hoffman. Their work added color and spirit to the town’s Bicentennial observance.

• The Henryetta High School Band brought home a 11-plus rating from the Checotah Jaycees Concert Band Festival. Director Doyle Burress noted that the group was made up of nearly half junior high students, yet they competed on equal footing with full high school bands. Judges praised the ensemble’s musical feel, strong training and moments of excellent musicianship. Buddy Allen of Shawnee High School encouraged the students to “Keep up the good work,” adding that they had the potential to be winners.

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