McCurtain County election invalidated by 137-year-old law

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The Oklahoma Supreme Court made the rare move of striking the results of a 2022 lodging tax election in McCurtain County, citing a 137-yearold law while simultaneously requesting that the Legislature update the statute. The decision marks the latest development in a southeastern Oklahoma political battle raging between Hochatown — a new and growing town with more than 2,000 vacation rental cabins that generate lodging tax revenue — and McCurtain County, a timber and tourism rich area in the far corner of Oklahoma and the Choctaw Nation.
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Hugo school board begins search for new superintendent

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HUGO — The Hugo Board of Eduction met in special session Thursday, June 20, to approve the hiring of several new teachers, and accept the resignation of current Superintendent Corey Smith. In his resignation letter dated June 10, Smith stated: “After much consideration, I have decided to resign my position as Superintendent of Hugo Public Schools, effective June 30, 2024.

Choctaw Cultural Center offers full slate of summer events

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Thousands of years of culture and history of the Choctaw people are presented in a fascinating experience for the family at the Choctaw Cultural Center in Durant. Following are a few activities happening this summer at the center: Current: On display throughout the summer is “Bolukta: Mississippian Designs, Medallions, and Modern Choctaw Art” featuring recent works by award-winning Choctaw artist Jane Semple Umsted.

Clubs & Organizations:

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Sawyer Senior Center will have a benefit yard sale from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. July 5-6. Anyone with items to donate, can drop off at the center. Others are invited to set up their own area to sell their items. Breakfast sandwiches will be served starting at 7 a.m. The Sawyer VFD will begin cooking hamburgers and hot dogs to support their program also.