News

Stay up-to-date with Western Oklahoma’s latest news on KECO Radio 96.5FM! Our seasoned journalist, Jared Atha, covers everything from breaking stories to local events and weather forecasts. Stay informed and engaged with our comprehensive coverage. Tune in or explore our News page for Jared’s reports.

KECO 96.5FM News Posts

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Elk City High School Graduate Named OCU A.D.

Oklahoma City, OK – Elk City native Sadiaa Jones was recently hired as the new Oklahoma City University Athletics Director. The 1995 Elk City High School graduate has been Executive Athletic Director for Dallas College since 2021.

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The Time Kramer was Jailed in Cordell

By Landry Brewer Cordell, OK – Washita County Undersheriff Rusty Cannon and his wife, Carol, met a famous actor at the sheriff’s office a decade and a half ago. The celebrity was in Cordell then because of

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Election Officials Offer Voting Tips

Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday for the Roger Mills County Special Election and the City of Clinton special election. Voting officials offer these important tips to voters—especially those who will be

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Registrations Open for SWOSU Music Camps 2025

Weatherford, OK – The Department of Music at Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) invites middle- and high-school musicians to register for the 70th summer of SWOSU Music Camps hosted in Weatherford. The 2025 Music Camp offerings include

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Canute Man Arrested After Two-Day Manhunt

Canute, OK — A Canute man is facing multiple felony charges following a two-day manhunt that involved several law enforcement agencies. Jesse Lynn Davis, 42, of Canute, was booked into the Beckham County Jail at 8:16 p.m.

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Three Amigos

By Landry Brewer Elk City, OK – MacKinley, Quinn, and Spence Brewer are an Elk City High School first. In the ECHS tennis program’s half-century existence, they’re the first set of three siblings to play on the

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Early Voting Begins June 5th

Roger Mills County Election Board Press Release Cheyenne, OK – Early voting begins Thursday, June 5th for voters in Roger Mills County who are registered to vote within the municipal boundaries of the Town of Cheyenne. Voters

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SWOSU Alumni Board Adds Three New Directors

SWOSU Press ReleaseWeatherford, OK – The Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) Alumni Association has announced the election of three SWOSU graduates to its Board of Directors.Tanner Bonham of Edmond graduated from SWOSU in 2017 with a Bachelor

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Tornado Strikes Ellis County

Arnett, OK – On Sunday evening an EF-2 tornado touched down southwest of Arnett in Ellis County. The storm damaged homes, outbuildings, oil field sites, and an Arnett school building. Power lines and trees were downed, and

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Teen Drowns at Canton Lake

Canton, OK — An 18-year-old Fairview man drowned Sunday evening at Sandy Cove Beach on Canton Lake, according to Blaine County authorities. Samuel Memphis Williams was swimming around 5:35 p.m. when he went after a ball that

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Voters Reminded of Election Day Laws

Cheyenne, OK – With the May 13 Election approaching, County Election Board officials are reminding voters of Election Day laws. PERSONS ALLOWED INSIDE ELECTION ENCLOSURE It is a crime for any person other than voters and election

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Election Day Reminders and Tips

Cheyenne, OK – Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 13, for the Roger Mills County Special Election. Roger Mills County Election Board Secretary Kelly Tice offers these important tips to voters—especially

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SWOSU Hosting Spring 2025 Commencement Ceremonies

SWOSU Press Release Weatherford, OK – Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) will host four commencement ceremonies on the Weatherford campus in May for the Spring 2025 graduating seniors. Eligible participants for the ceremonies include students who will

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Heavy Rainfall Totals Across Western Oklahoma

From April 25 to April 30, 2025, western Oklahoma experienced significant rainfall, with totals ranging from 2.5 to 3.6 inches across Beckham, Washita, Custer, and Roger Mills counties. These figures are based on data from the Oklahoma

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Local Librarian is Tennis Titan

By Landry Brewer Elk City, OK – Joni (Jordan) McConnell is the most successful Elk City High School tennis player of all time. McConnell’s parents, both teachers, played tennis and put her on the courts with them

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OSDH “Healthy” Awards Announced

Lawton, Okla. – The Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH) has announced the 2024 Certified Healthy Oklahoma awardees, recognizing outstanding efforts in promoting health and wellness throughout the state. Among the honorees, schools and organizations from Beckham,

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Severe Weather Possible in Western Oklahoma

Western Oklahoma – Western Oklahoma residents—especially those in Beckham, Custer, Roger Mills, and Washita counties—should stay weather-aware through the rest of this week. The Storm Prediction Center continues to highlight the region with ongoing risks for severe

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SWOSU Announces 2025 Distinguished Alumni

SWOSU Press Release Weatherford, OK – Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) has announced its 2025 Distinguished Alumni Hall of Fame honorees. Known as “SWOSU’s highest honor,” the Distinguished Alumni Hall of Fame was established in 1976 by

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Elk City Police Department Hiring Full-Time Officer

Elk City, OK – The City of Elk City is currently accepting applications for a full-time police officer position. This role involves enforcing laws, preventing crime, conducting investigations, issuing citations, controlling traffic, and supporting various law enforcement

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Mini-Golf Course Should be Big Fun

By Landry Brewer Elk City, OK – The new Ackley Park mini-golf course is on schedule for completion later this month. The 18-hole course will include a 3-hole practice green “The price will remain $3 per person

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Local Texas Elections Set for May

Wheeler County, TX – Local elections are just around the corner, with key seats up for grabs in Shamrock, Wheeler, and the Parkview Hospital in Wheeler, Texas. Voters will help shape the future of their communities by

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Voter Registration Deadline Approaches

Cheyenne, OK – Friday, April 18th, is the last day to apply for voter registration in order to be eligible to vote in the May 13th Roger Mills County Special Election, Roger Mills County Election Board Secretary

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New Elk City Mayor Sworn In

Elk City, OK – During the latest meeting of the Elk City Commission, newly elected Mayor Micah Kilhoffer was sworn into office alongside re-elected commissioners, Ward 2 Commissioner Rod Carver and Ward 3 Commissioner Rocky Andresen. Shortly

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Longtime Cloud Chief Firefighter Retires

Cloud Chief, OK – Longtime Cloud Chief Firefighter Bob Ogle has retired after 16 years of dedicated service to the community. Bob joined the Cloud Chief Fire Department in 2008, the same year the department was established,

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SWOSU Students Study Wildlife in Yellowstone

Weatherford, OK – Over Spring Break, students from Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) traveled to Yellowstone National Park’s northern range to take part in an immersive field experience during the Yellowstone Ecology course. Led by Dr. Renan

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April 1 Election Results

Results will start to come in when polls close at 7 p.m. City of Elk City Elections: Mayor • Shannon McAbee • Micah Kilhoffer Commissioner, Ward 2 • Mike McFall • Rod Carver Commissioner, Ward 3 •

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REMINDER: Today is Election Day in Oklahoma!

Polls are open NOW to 7:00 p.m. — make your voice heard! Elk City voters will help decide several key local races, including: Mayor Shannon McAbee Micah Kilhoffer Commissioner, Ward 2 Mike McFall Rod Carver Commissioner, Ward

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Oklahoma Schools Win Sweepstakes at SWOSU SWIM 2025

Weatherford, OK – The annual Southwestern Oklahoma State University Interscholastic Meet (SWIM), the longest-running academic competition in Oklahoma, was held on March 27, 2025, at SWOSU in Weatherford. Established in 1913, SWIM has provided generations of students

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SWOSU Computer Club Hosts Annual Fundraising Lock-In

Weatherford, OK – The Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) Computer Club recently hosted its annual fundraising lock-in at the Pioneer Event Center, bringing together students, faculty, and staff for a night of gaming, collaboration, and community. The

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Election Day Reminders and Tips

Roger Mills Co. Election Board Press Release Cheyenne, OK – Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 1st , for the Board of Education/Municipal General Elections. Roger Mills County Election Board Secretary

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Voters Reminded of Election Day Laws

Cheyenne, OK – With the April 1st Election approaching, County Election Board officials are reminding voters of Election Day laws. PERSONS ALLOWED INSIDE ELECTION ENCLOSURE It is a crime for any person other than voters and election

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Alva Woman Killed in Crash North of Foss

Custer County, OK – A two-vehicle crash claimed the life of an Alva woman Thursday night in Custer County. The Oklahoma Highway Patrol says the wreck happened around 8:14 p.m. on March 20, about 3.5 miles north

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Clinton Man Charged with Arson

A Clinton man has been charged with felony arson after allegedly setting a house on fire. The suspect later told authorities he started the fire because he believed the house was haunted. According to a probable cause

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Early Voting Begins March 27

Sayre, OK – Early voting begins Thursday, March 27th for voters in Beckham County. Voters who will not be able to make it to the polls on Election Day, have the option of voting early at their

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SWOSU Honors Students at Distinguished Student Award Ceremony

Weatherford, OK – Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) celebrated the achievements of 147 students on Sunday, Feb. 23, at the 2024–25 Distinguished Student Award Ceremony. This honor recognizes students who have excelled academically, demonstrated leadership in extracurricular

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OSBI Investigates Homicide in Clinton

OSBI Press Release Clinton, OK – On March 4, 2025, the Clinton Police Department requested the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation to assist in a homicide investigation. Just before 12:30 a.m., officers responded to a shots fired

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SWOSU Junior Honored as 2025 George Nigh Scholar

SWOSU Press Release Weatherford, OK – Adreana Aquino, a junior at Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU), has been named a recipient of the George and Donna Nigh Public Service Scholarship and participated in the George and Donna

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Texas Fugitive Arrested in Custer County

Custer County, OK — A Texas fugitive accused of probation violation related to a child sexual assault case has been charged in Custer County, Oklahoma. According to court documents filed on February 19, 2025, Jess Lee Kolander,

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Teacher Training Fund Established at SWOSU

Weatherford, OK – Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) has announced the receipt of a major charitable gift from Ms. Marilyn Allred of Oklahoma City. This generous philanthropic contribution will be used to establish an endowment that will

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Elk City House Fire Quickly Contained

Elk City, OK – At about 11:30 a.m. Friday, firefighters rushed to the 900 block of Halsey Drive after receiving a call about a house fire. Engine 3, A-shift arrived to find heavy smoke billowing from the

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The Price of Progress

By Landry Brewer Elk City, OK – As Elk City’s Downtown Construction Project moves into its next phase, downtown businesses are doing their best to meet shoppers’ needs. Crews completed work at Main & 7th and have

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SWOSU Digital Commons Reaches Two Million Downloads

Weatherford, OK – As the SWOSU Digital Commons is about to reach its nine-year anniversary, downloads for the entire collection have surpassed the two million mark for the institutional repository at Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU). As

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Elk City Fire Department Now Hiring Paramedics

Elk City, OK – The Elk City Fire & EMS Department is actively recruiting paramedics for a dedicated paramedic-only position. This is an excellent opportunity for experienced EMTs looking to advance their careers or for licensed paramedics

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SWOSU Named Top 10 for Affordable Early Childhood Education

SWOSU Press Release Weatherford, OK – Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) is ranked #10 nationally for the most affordable online Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education programs, making it the highest-ranked university in Oklahoma for affordability, according to

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Fastenal Supports SWOSU HERC

SWOSU Press Release Weatherford, OK – Fastenal has made a generous gift of equipment in support of Southwestern Oklahoma State University’s (SWOSU) National Aeronautics & Space Administration Human Exploration Rover Challenge (NASA HERC) Team for 2024-2025. Each

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SWOSU Jazz Festival Celebrates 55 Years

SWOSU Press Release Weatherford, OK – The 55th annual SWOSU Jazz Festival is coming up on Feb. 13–14 in Weatherford, Okla. A tradition spanning over five decades, the festival is one of the region’s most anticipated music

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Busey Brothers Make Major Gift to SWOSU

SWOSU Press Release Weatherford, OK – Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) has received a generous philanthropic gift from SWOSU graduates and brothers Philip Busey, ’04, and Brian Busey, ’05, both of Oklahoma City. The Busey brothers serve

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Students Attend Education Expo

By Landry Brewer Several area high school students mixed with college, university, and technology school representatives at the recent Western Oklahoma Education Expo at Elk City’s Convention Center. The 34th annual event sponsored by the Elk City

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Two Individuals Face Felony Charges in Custer County

Custer County, OK – Two individuals, 27-year-old Catherine Allina Foulke and 30-year-old William Arney of Custer City, are facing serious felony charges related to alleged child abuse and neglect. These charges stem from incidents reportedly occurring in

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OSBI Investigating Double Homicide in Granite

Granite, OK – On Sunday night, the District 3 Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force requested the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI) to investigate a double homicide. Shortly after 10:00 p.m., deputies responded to a residence

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Elk City Man Charged with First Degree Rape

Elk City, OK – While investigating inappropriate messages sent to a 16-year-old, Elk City Police uncovered an alleged inappropriate relationship between a 23-year-old man and a 13-year-old girl. According to court records Gavin Chase Vermillion was arrested

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Couple Arrested for Alleged Child Neglect

Elk City, OK – A Carter couple, 39-year-old Tara Dyer and 43-year-old Matthew Dyer, are out on bond after being arrested on December 27, 2024, on allegations of enabling child neglect involving their 16-year-old son. Authorities report

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Shamrock Native Promoted to Texas Ranger

Matthew Ferguson of Shamrock, Texas has been promoted to the Texas Rangers Division. Previously serving as a Highway Patrol Sergeant in Pampa, Ferguson now becomes part of the Texas Department of Public Safety’s primary investigative branch. The

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Lucas Passed Over for Top House Financial Services Role

Oklahoma Congressman Frank Lucas of Cheyenne will not be the top Republican on the House Financial Services Committee, which oversees Wall Street, the Federal Reserve, and cryptocurrency. The committee’s decisions regarding banks and financial institutions have significant

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Woodward Fatal Shooting Update

More details have been released surrounding the shooting deaths of a father and daughter in Woodward. Police say the suspect, 30-year-old Shane Cole Allison, knew the victims and admitted to planning the attack. The victims have been

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Clinton Police Department Hosts Annual Awards Ceremony

On December 7, 2024, the Clinton Police Department celebrated their annual Awards Ceremony and Christmas Party, honoring officers and staff for their exemplary service throughout the year. The event recognized individuals for their dedication, achievements, and contributions

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SWOSU Hosts Legislative Leaders

SWOSU Press Release Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) recently hosted Oklahoma legislative leaders Senator Chuck Hall (Perry – District 20); Senator Darcy Jech (Kingfisher – District 26); Representative Trey Caldwell (Lawton – District 63); and Representative Anthony

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Elk City Woman Arrested for Alleged Embezzlement

An Elk City woman has been arrested on embezzlement charges following an investigation into fraudulent activity involving forged checks and unauthorized credit card charges. According to a probable cause affidavit, 63-year-old Jo Elaine Earnest was taken into

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Skinny on Sports Report – Tue Dec 3rd

Your browser does not support the audio element. Click above to hear today’s Skinny on Sports Report HIGH SCHOOL HOOPS TONIGHT There are a slew of high school basketball games coming at you tonight on the paragon

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Altus Woman Arrested for Thanksgiving Homicide

An arrest has been made in connection with a homicide investigation in Altus. The Altus Police Department reports that 52-year-old Tammy Lockman has been arrested and charged with first-degree murder after a deadly incident on Thanksgiving in

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SWOSU Biology Students Earn Recognition at OK-LSAMP Research Symposium

December 2, 2024 SWOSU Press Release Six Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) students from the Department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences recently attended the 30th annual Oklahoma Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation (OK-LSAMP) research symposium held

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Skinny on Sports Report – Mon Dec 2nd

Your browser does not support the audio element. Click above to listen to today’s Skinny on Sports Report HIGH SCHOOL HOOPS RANKINGS RELEASED The first high school basketball rankings were released this afternoon for class 2A, A,

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Hammon Tournament of Champions Basketball

Don’t miss the excitement of the Hammon Tournament of Champions at TBT on Tuesday, December 26! The tournament promises an action-packed night, with the girls’ game tipping off at 6:30 PM, followed by the boys’ game at

Hammon at Arnett Basketball

Get ready for an exciting night of high school basketball as the Hammon Warriors travel to face the Arnett Wildcats on Wednesday, December 20! The girls’ game tips off at 6:30 PM, followed by the boys’ game

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Fatality Collision Near Bridgeport

A fatal crash occurred on Saturday morning at approximately 10:30 a.m., along Old Route 66 Road, 4/10 mile east of County Road 2590, near Bridgeport in Caddo County. The accident involved a 1956 Ford Pickup driven by

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SWOSU Reach High Program Awards Nearly $90,000 in Scholarships

November 26, 2024 SWOSU Press Release The Reach Higher degree-finishing program at Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) awarded nearly $90,000 in scholarships to students involved in Reach Higher degree programs. Fifty-five students received scholarships averaging around $1,700

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Beckham Co. Inmate Charged with Weapon Possession

November 25, 2024 A Bessie man has been charged with possessing a weapon as an inmate and with malicious injury to property valued at less than $2,500. At the time, 46-year-old Tony Ray Glassburn was reportedly already

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Rep. Archer Elected House Republican Caucus Vice Chair

November 21, 2024 Oklahoma House Republicans this week selected their leadership team for the 60th Legislature, with Rep. Nick Archer, R-Elk City, stepping into a prominent role as Caucus Vice Chair. The 81-member Republican majority maintains its

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Elk City Commissioners to Address Key Issues

November 19, 2024 The Elk City Commission is set to convene on Wednesday afternoon in the Commission Chambers at City Hall. The agenda includes several significant topics, including going into an executive session to discuss the performance

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Fatality Motorcycle Accident Near Snyder

November 16, 2024 A tragic motorcycle accident claimed the life of a 64-year-old Altus man on Saturday. The fatal collision occurred at approximately 4:35 PM on US-62 near the 55-mile marker, about five miles west of Snyder

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Candidate Filing Begins For Board of Education

November 15, 2024 Roger Mills County Election Board Press Release Candidate filing for the Board of Education begins Monday, December 2nd for 9 Roger Mills County school districts.

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Miss SWOSU 2025 Scholarship Pageant Winners Announced

November 15, 2024 SWOSU Press Release The Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) has announced the winners of the Miss SWOSU 2025 Scholarship Pageant, held on Nov. 9 at the Weatherford Performing Arts Center. Mia Macias from Leedey

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Custer County to Host Launch of $11.2M Broadband Grant Initiative

November 15, 2024 The Oklahoma Broadband Office (OBO) has been awarded an $11,233,311 grant from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) to help new internet users effectively access and utilize online services. This funding aims to

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Elk City Named Among U.S. Favorite Towns by WorldAtlas

November 13, 2024 Elk City has earned a spot on an impressive list of U.S. towns, recently highlighted by WorldAtlas. This recognition places Elk City alongside other beloved Oklahoma towns, including Bartlesville, Durant, Tahlequah, Guthrie, Ponca City,

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Elk City School Board Approves EMT Program

November 12, 2024 The Elk City School Board met Monday night for their regular monthly meeting and, among other things, approved a new program that Superintendent Mike Sparks says will give high school students an opportunity to

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SWOSU Announces 2024 Homecoming Court and Parade Float Winners

SWOSU Press Release Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) wrapped up this year’s Homecoming festivities on Saturday, Oct. 26, where Landry Freeman and Carlie McKinnon were crowned 2024 Homecoming King and Queen. The announcement took place during halftime

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WPLS and SWOSU Host Best-Selling Author James Patterson

November 1, 2024 SWOSU Press Release The Western Plains Library System (WPLS) and Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) hosted best-selling author James Patterson on Oct. 22, drawing a sold-out audience with all VIP Gold and Silver tickets

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Miss SWOSU Scholarship Pageant Set for November 9

October 31, 2024 SWOSU Press Release Southwestern Oklahoma State University’s (SWOSU’s) annual Miss SWOSU Scholarship Pageant will take place on Saturday, Nov. 9, at the Weatherford Performing Arts Center. The event will begin at 7 p.m., bringing

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Sheriff Offers Halloween Safety Tips

October 30, 2024 It’s Halloween, which means little ghosts, goblins, princesses, and maybe even a clown or two will be wandering the neighborhoods looking for treats. Beckham County Sheriff Derek Manning offers tips to help ensure you

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Early Voting Info For Western Oklahoma

October 30, 2024 Early voting for the upcoming election begins this Wednesday, October 30, in Oklahoma, offering residents a chance to cast their ballots ahead of Election Day. Early voting runs through Saturday, November 2, in various

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Medicare Open Enrollment Starts: Important Updates for 2025

October 28, 2024 Medicare Open Enrollment has kicked off. October 15th thru December 7th is when Beneficiaries can re-visit their current Drug plans and Supplements to make changes. 2025 brings several new changes and it’s more important

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Public Meeting on the Future of Transportation in Cheyenne

October 28, 2024 Residents and stakeholders are invited to participate in a public meeting on October 29, 2024, to contribute to the Forward 45 Regional Transportation Plan (RTP). Hosted by the Southwest Oklahoma Regional Transportation Planning Organization

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SWOSU Hosts Smithsonian’s Voices and Votes Exhibit

October 23, 2024 SWOSU Press Release Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) will host the Smithsonian Institution’s traveling exhibition, Voices and Votes: Democracy in America, beginning Oct. 26 at the Al Harris Library. This free exhibit opens during

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OWRB To Host Meeting at Quartz Mountain

October 23, 2024 The Oklahoma Water Resources Board (OWRB) is set to continue its series of statewide meetings with water utility suppliers, regulated industries, commercial agricultural producers, and economic development groups. The fourth round of meetings kicks

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Moonlight Madness Returns to Downtown Elk City

October 23, 2024 The Elk City Chamber of Commerce is bringing back “Moonlight Madness” to downtown Elk City this Thursday, October 24th, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. This family-friendly event promises fun for all ages with