Chamber Announces Dates for Sallisaw’s Fireworks Display and Lions Club Rodeo

Friday, May 30, 2025 — The Sallisaw Chamber of Commerce honored People Inc. as the chamber’s Member of the Month during its monthly membership luncheon held Wednesday, May 28, at the People Inc. Conference Center. The recognition came at a significant milestone for the organization, which is proudly celebrating its 40th anniversary this year.

Founded in 1985 under the name Human Development Center, People Inc. began as a modest program known as the “spud shop,” where clients prepared and delivered baked potatoes to downtown businesses. Just a few years later, in 1988, the organization adopted its current name, People Incorporated of Sequoyah County. By the 1990s, its services had grown to include home-based residential support and counseling for youth and families.

Over the decades, People Inc. has expanded its reach across multiple counties in eastern Oklahoma and now employs over 200 people, continuing its mission to serve individuals with disabilities and strengthen community health and development.

The luncheon also featured two keynote speakers from the Rural Renewal Initiative, a statewide program that brings university students to rural Oklahoma communities through the Rural Scholars Program. This paid 10-week internship places students in small towns where they conduct research, participate in service projects, and support local initiatives.

Amy Rodriguez, a student at Texas A&M University, was the first to present. Her research focuses on veterinary loss in rural areas, which she plans to study by surveying local veterinarians and agricultural workers to identify challenges in access to animal care.

Emma Buchanan, a student at Oklahoma State University, followed with a presentation on media and mental health literacy among youth in rural regions. Her work involves interviewing young people about the mental health resources they are aware of and use, as well as speaking with area professionals to understand barriers to access.

Chamber members also shared upcoming community events. The Sallisaw Fireworks Display is scheduled for Friday, July 4, at Sallisaw High School. The Sallisaw Lions Club Rodeo announced its 2025 dates, set for Thursday, July 31, through Saturday, August 2.

Lindsie Dyer, Staff Writer

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