— By Gary Perkins

Our Weekly Chamber Luncheons have been very well attended, with the following individuals at our last get-together: Justin Young, Russell Sain, Denise Bain, Tonia Cooper, Jared Gregg, Kathy Perkins, myself, and Tim Smith, who had a couple dignitaries from the American Legion, with him. He introduced us to Wes Benge, who is the State Commander of the American Legion, and Raul Rizou, who serves as the Honor Guard Captain. All three were in their American Legion uniforms, and looked sharp as we all enjoyed the buffet at Fajita Rita's. We will continue to meet at Fajita Rita's for the month of August, each Thursday, at 11:30. Come and join us and experience the fun. Our luncheons are open to anyone and everyone, and is merely a casual gathering of friends that always proves to be enjoyable and informative. There is no formal structure or planned discussions, just casual fun while we enjoy lunch together. Give us a try.

Unless I hear a loud protest, we will probably suspend our weekly Farmer's Market, after the month of August. The heat has taken a toll on local crops, and even some of the established fruit and vegetable stands are running out of produce. I will take our little sign down at Langston Park, but if anyone wants to still use it, on Thursdays, it is allowable. Canopies can be set up on the grass, but the Town does ask that vehicles not park on the grass. Hopefully next year, we can start anew, with plenty of rain for all of us to enjoy our gardens. I think the only good that has come out of this drought, is the fact we don't have to mow as often. Like all of you, though, I would rather be faced with mowing a green yard often, than the brown that is showing now. Like most of you, we are praying for rain to come to our dry land.

One last reminder, if you haven't already heard, our Fort Gibson 5K Run and One Mile Fun Run, scheduled for August 25, has been canceled for this year. We are sorry to the many runners that have supported this run over the years, but we promise to be back next year, with a bigger and better run. The Cherokee Nation Wings Organization, who had taken us off their schedule for this year, has already committed to reinstate us for 2013, and many years to come.