• Business leaders in Okmulgee quietly met to oppose State Senator W. M. “Clu” Gulager’s attempt to regain his former job as county tax ferret. His previous contract had been canceled due to widespread dissatisfaction with his aggressive tax‑digging methods, which many felt targeted property owners unfairly. Past lawsuits, controversy in multiple counties, and lingering distrust led local citizens to urge county commissioners not to reappoint him.
• Henry S. Tucker, age 42, former Sheriff of Okmulgee County, became violently ill with diabetes and passed away shortly afterward despite constant medical care. A well‑known pioneer resident, Tucker had been swept into office in 1918 by strong public support. He leaves behind a wife, three young sons and extended family who gathered at his bedside.
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• The Okmulgee Bulldogs lost a close game to Purcell in the opening round of the Edison Tournament, falling 49-47 after giving up a six‑point fourth‑quarter lead. Fouls and missed shots in the final minutes allowed Purcell to tie the game and pull ahead with 29 seconds left. Bobby Moore led Okmulgee with 20 points and 13 rebounds, while Mark Garner added 13 points and 12 rebounds. Despite leading at halftime and after the third quarter, the Bulldogs struggled with cold shooting and turnovers. They were scheduled to face Tulsa Central next in the consolation bracket.
• Alan Ruscoe, 20, of Okmulgee, was arrested in Tucumcari, N.M. after allegedly stealing a car from a Beggs driveway on Jan. 4. The owner, Mrs. Jearold Kelly, had left the vehicle running while delivering groceries to a relative. Her purse, groceries and a full tank of gas were still inside when the car was taken. Two juveniles were also involved. After a bulletin was issued, New Mexico authorities located the car and detained all three occupants. Deputy Sheriff Cliff Johnson traveled to retrieve the suspects so they could face charges in Okmulgee County.
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