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Martens elected president of Oklahoma Mortgage Bankers Association

Erika Martens, of Sallisaw, was recently elected President of the Oklahoma Mortgage Bankers Association (OMBA) for the 2020-2021 term year. Martens is the Vice President of Finance and Systems Administration for FirstTrust Home Loans, an independent mortgage bank headquartered in Sheridan, Ark., with branch locations in seven states, including Oklahoma. Martens holds an MBA from Oklahoma State University, along with several mortgage underwriting and technical certifications. She also serves her local community as Board President of The Health and Wellness Center, Treasurer of Immanuel Baptist Church, and member of P.E.O International-Chapter GY and Sequoyah County Women In Business.

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Rusty Barn Bar burns

Vian Fire Chief Keith Boshers said the old Rusty Barn bar, located at 105582 S. 4528 Road just outside Vian town limits, was a total loss on July 30 after catching fire from unknown reasons around 3:23 a.m. Boshers said the department arrived on the scene at 3:28 a.m. where they found the structure fully engulfed and already on the ground, deeming it a total loss. There was reportedly no utilities going to the establishment, as it has been closed for several years and belongs to James Holderness of Tulsa. Boshers said his department returned to the station around 4:19 a.m. and was assisted by Blackgum and McKey Fire Departments.