• The first case of the West Nile Virus in Okmulgee County in the summer of 2015 was officially confirmed by the Okmulgee County Health Department, encouraging residents and neighbors to take extra precautions to reduce the risk of contracting WNV, a mosquito-borne illness. “It is important for everyone to know the highest risk months in Oklahoma for WNV exposure occur from July through October.”

• The Dunbar All-School Association, Inc., along with community volunteers, helped in the cleanup and repairs of the old Attucks Elementary School building. Located on the corners of Miami and Kennedy streets, the building contributes to the community as an additional place to hold events.

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• CP Kelco hosted international speaker, Charlie Morecraft, at the Covelle Hall Auditorium on Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2000. Morecraft shared his near-death experience as a blue-collar worker in an oil refinery, making a lasting impression on the way the audience thought about safety. We take for granted our everyday activities but in one quick flash, an accident can happen that could lead to total devastation for our families and loved ones.

• Donna Hemphill, who was the Okmulgee Branch Manager for Staffmark, received the company’s award for “Making a Difference.” Nominated by Wayne Larkin, the Staffmark Oklahoma Operations Director at the time, Donna’s great attitude was said to have helped her come up with creative solutions because no matter what task was projected onto her, she would always find a way for it to get done.

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