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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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

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SWOSU Enrollment Increases Significantly for Fall 2024

October 4, 2024 SWOSU Press Release Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) has reported a significant increase in enrollment for the fall 2024 semester, marking a 7.6% rise compared to the previous year. The current total enrollment stands

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Key Dates for Texas Voters

October 2, 2024 As the 2024 election approaches, it’s essential for voters to stay informed about important deadlines to ensure their votes are counted. Last Day to Register to Vote: October 7, 2024, is the final day

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Local Sheriff Warns of Scam

September 27, 2024 Local authorities are warning the public of a new scam that has been circulating around in the area.

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Voter Registration Deadline Approaches

Sept. 23, 2024 Beckham Co. Election Board Press Release October 11, 2024, is the last day to apply for voter registration in order to be eligible to vote in the November 5, 2024, General Election, Beckham County

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CASA Volunteer Training Begins February 17, 2025

Sept. 12, 2024 CASA Press Release CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) volunteers are concerned citizens who are trained to be the eyes and ears of the juvenile court judge. These everyday heroes interview the children, their families

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SWOSU Names 2024-25 Dr. Gerry & Phyllis Church Scholars

Sept. 9, 2024 SWOSU Press Release Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) has named Danni Sottile of Elk City, Oklahoma and Justin Childress of Tulsa, Oklahoma as the Dr. Gerry & Phyllis Church Scholars for Academic Year 2024-2025.

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Local Schools Preparing to Save Lives

Sept. 6, 2024 SWODA Press Release Did you know… Drug-related deaths claimed 107,941 American lives in 2022, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Fentanyl and other synthetic opioids are responsible for approximately 70%

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UPDATE: Feed Provider Issues Statement

Sept. 3, 2024 The Beutler and Son Rodeo Co., a respected provider of rodeo livestock for over 90 years, recently faced a heartbreaking tragedy, losing nearly 70 bucking horses in the last two weeks. The cause has

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SWOSU Earns Top Rankings for Safety, Value, and Public Education

August 29, 2024 SWOSU Press Release Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) has achieved significant recognition from Niche’s 2025 rankings, earning top spots across multiple categories. SWOSU has been named the #3 safest college campus in Oklahoma, reflecting

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More Than a One Trick Pony

August 29, 2024 Press Release Elk City, Okla. – August 19, 2024 – Five trick riding and roman riding cowgirls will gallop into the Rodeo of Champions in Elk City, entertaining fans with daring feats of dangerous

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Arapaho Secures OWRB Loan

August 28, 2024 The Arapaho Public Works Authority has secured a $285,000 loan from the Oklahoma Water Resources Board to upgrade its wastewater infrastructure. The loan comes with 100% principal forgiveness, meaning the authority won’t have to

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Reydon Man Accused of Stabbing

August 27, 2024 On August 24, the Roger Mills County Sheriff’s Office requested assistance from the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI) to investigate a stabbing incident. Around 3:00 a.m., deputies responded to reports of an injured

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Health Dept. Gives Local County Jail a “Perfect” Grade

August 27, 2024 After a surprise inspection conducted by the Oklahoma Health Department, Beckham County Sheriff Derek Manning says the county jail received a perfect grade. Manning credits the jail’s staff for maintaining a high-quality facility. Manning

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Severe Heat Wave Hits Western Oklahoma This Weekend

August 23, 2024 A severe heat wave is expected to impact Western Oklahoma this weekend, with temperatures soaring well above the seasonal average and potentially reaching dangerous levels. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued an Excessive

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Burns Flat Woman Accused of Stolen Identity

August 23, 2024 In a case of mistaken identity, a woman tried to claim a jackpot that wasn’t hers, leading to her arrest. According to court records, 41-year-old Bonnie Renee Bookout from Burns Flat faces serious charges

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Stolen Phone Leads to Computer Fraud Charge

August 22, 2024 An Elk City man has been charged with larceny, computer fraud, and unlawful use of a computer system after allegedly stealing a phone and depositing it into a kiosk at a local store for

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Local FFA Chapters to Receive PSO Grants

August 21, 2024 Seventeen FFA chapters across Oklahoma will benefit from over $36,000 in American Electric Power (AEP) Foundation FFA STEM After-School Grants this year. The AEP Foundation, the charitable branch of American Electric Power and parent

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June Sales Tax Collections Show Promise

August 21, 2024 The latest sales tax numbers are in, and once again, two out of three of western Oklahoma’s larger communities collected over $1 million. The latest numbers reflect sales tax intake for the month of

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Moore, Kendrix Honored by Higher Education Leaders

August 19, 2024 Twelve Oklahoma legislators and a legislative staff member were recognized by the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education and the Council of Presidents of Public Colleges and Universities as recipients of the 2024 Distinguished

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Walters Calls For Impeachment Proceedings

August 16, 2024 State Superintendent Ryan Walters urged Speaker Charles McCall and Rep. Mark McBride to initiate impeachment proceedings during a press conference on Friday.

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SWOSU Auction a Success For Athletics

August 14, 2024 The 18th Annual SWOSU Athletic Auction & Benefit Dinner, held on Saturday at the Pioneer Event Center, raised over $172,000 for student-athlete scholarships and athletic recruiting. According to a press release, the event, which

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NFEC’s Annual Meeting This Saturday

August 13, 2024 Northfork Electric Cooperative’s 85th Annual Meeting will take place on Saturday at the Sayre Municipal Park Pavilion. Registration starts at 9 a.m., where attendees will receive an NFEC cap and a paring knife. Enter

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Shooting Suspect Has Charges Upgraded After Preliminary Hearing

August 12, 2024 After a two-day preliminary hearing last week, a Carter man’s charges were upgraded from first-degree manslaughter to first-degree murder with malice aforethought. The hearing aimed to determine if there was probable cause to charge

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Oklahoma Opioid Abatement Board Awards $11 Million

August 8, 2024 The Oklahoma Opioid Abatement Board has awarded $11 million in grants to help address the state’s opioid crisis. One organization in Western Oklahoma is set to receive some of these funds.

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SWOSU Names 2024-25 Treadaway Family Scholar

July 31, 2024 SWOSU Press Release Kailey Barnes of Woodward, Oklahoma, is the recipient of the Treadaway Family Scholarship at Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) for the 2024-2025 academic year.

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Mangum Man Charged with Sexual Battery

July 30, 2024 A jailer from Mangum employed by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office is accused of sexually battering a female inmate, in what court documents describe as a consensual but physical relationship.

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FEMA Deadline Approaching

July 24, 2024 Residents in one Western Oklahoma county who were affected by the April 25 – May 9 severe weather have one week left to apply for FEMA assistance.

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State Overdose Numbers Alarming

July 22, 2024 Beckham County Sheriff Derek Manning, who also serves on the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics Board of Commissioners, provided some alarming numbers recently regarding illegal drug use in the state.

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SWOSU Names 2024-25 F.K. Buster Scholars

July 22, 2024 SWOSU Press Release Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) has named Ashton Cockrell of Cheyenne, Devin Mosser of Sayre, and Senaart (Cindy) Chanchanok of Cheyenne as the F.K. Buster Scholars for Academic Year 2024-2025.

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Suspected Serial Burglar Arrested

July 22, 2024 A Colorado man was arrested recently after an investigation revealed that the man along with an accomplice allegedly stole multiple items from multiple Walmarts across several states, including the store in Elk City.

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July Sales Tax Numbers

July 18, 2024 The latest sales tax numbers are in and once again two out of three of western Oklahoma’s larger communities collected over $1 million.

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Wilkes Family Endows Smalley Scholarship at SWOSU

July 16, 2024 SWOSU Press Release Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) has announced a major charitable gift from longtime benefactors and SWOSU alumni Mike and Judy (Smalley) Wilkes of Oklahoma City.

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Kiowa Co. Road to Get Major Improvement

July 3, 2024 The Oklahoma Transportation Commission met Monday and approved $863 million that Oklahoma intends to spend in the coming few years on making more improvements to bridges and county improvements under the County Improvements for

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Canute Man Dies While Changing Tire

July 1, 2024 A Canute man lost his life in Oklahoma County after a pick up on a jack fell on him while he was changing a tire on Friday night.

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SWOSU Tuition Hike Approved

July 1, 2024 It was announced last week that the Oklahoma State Regents of Higher Education approved requested increases in tuition for the 2024-25 school year for 11 college and universities in the state, including Southwestern Oklahoma

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SWOSU Announces Spring 2024 Graduates

June 28, 2024 SWOSU Press Release Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) is proud to announce the list of graduates for the Spring 2024 semester. The ceremonies were held in the Pioneer Event Center in May.

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Traffic Stop Leads to Drug Seizure

June 28, 2024 Texas DPS Press Release The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) seized more than 12 pounds of suspected fentanyl Thursday after a Texas Highway Patrol Trooper stopped a vehicle in Wheeler County.

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Elk City Man Charged With Embezzlement

June 27, 2024 An Elk City man was arrested earlier this month and charged with false declaration in pawn, pattern of criminal offenses, and two counts of embezzlement after allegedly taking items from previous employers and pawning

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FEMA Offered to Storm Victims

June 26, 2024 Officials remind Custer County residents and others that were affected by the May 19th tornado that representatives from FEMA will be available at Hydro High School now through Friday.

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Wellington Residents Sentenced

June 24, 2024 21 pleas took place in the 100th Judicial District Court in Childress County, Texas with some involving two Wellington, Texas residents.

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FEMA Assistance Available For Custer Co. Residents

June 18, 2024 It was announced that Custer County residents who suffered damage from recent severe storms last month are now eligible for disaster assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

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Kidnapping Suspect Receives Additional Charge

June 13, 2024 The Georgia man charged with, among other things, kidnapping in Custer County now has another felony charge to deal with after allegedly assaulting a detention officer inside the Custer County Detention Center.

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SWODA Awarded Opioid Grant

June 10, 2024 It was announced recently that The Oklahoma Opioid Abatement Board has awarded $11 million in grant awards to 71 cities, counties, schools districts and public trusts to help address Oklahoma’s opioid crisis.

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Primary Election Reminder

June 6, 2024 Custer County Election Board Press Release Primary elections for federal, state, and county candidates are scheduled for June 18, 2024 across the state. On Election Day, the polls will be open from 7 a.m.

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Adjusting the App

June 7, 2024 Beckham County Sheriff Derek Manning says his office has decided to adjust the amount of alerts that the department’s app sends out during weather events in the county.

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City Manager Addresses False Rumors

June 6, 2024 Elk City City Manager Tom Ivester addressed false rumors that has been circulating on social media regarding the city’s process of declaring a home in the 400 block of N. Main as dilapidated.

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Moore Comments on Latest Legislative Session

June 5, 2024 With the Oklahoma Legislative Session wrapping up last week, District 57 Representative Anthony Moore (R – Clinton) has had time to reflect on this year’s accomplishments that included, among other things, passing the state

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Request an Emergency Ballot for the June 18th Election

May 31, 2024 Roger Mills Election Board Press Release Registered voters who become physically incapacitated after 5:00 p.m. Monday, June 3rd and are unable make it to the polls, still have an opportunity to cast their ballot.

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Local Communities Awarded Route 66 Grants

May 31, 2024 The Oklahoma Department of Commerce recently named 11 projects that have been selected to receive awards from the Oklahoma Route 66 Grant Program, with two western Oklahoma communities being awarded grants.

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Early Voting Begins Thursday, June 13th

May 28, 2024 Roger Mills County Election Board Press Release Early voting begins Thursday June 13th for voters in Roger Mills County. Voters who will not be able to make it to the polls on Election Day,

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Absentee Deadline and Early Voting

May 28, 2024 Custer County Election Board Press Release The deadline for requesting an Absentee Ballot for the June 18, 2024, Republican Primary Election is Monday, June 3rd at 5 p.m. said Ann Brown, Secretary, Custer County

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ECHS Seniors Prepare for Boys State

May 28, 2024 By Landry Brewer Four members of the Elk City High School class of 2025 hope that Oklahoma Boys State is gonna treat ’em great.

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Public Invited to Memorial Day Service

May 23, 2024 Memorial Day weekend is upon us once again and that means the annual Memorial Day service at Elk City’s Fairlawn Cemetery will take place Monday morning.

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Remembering May 16th, 2017

May 16, 2024 It was seven years ago today (May 16, 2017) Elk City experienced one of it’s worst natural disasters in city history when a tornado ravaged the south side, destroying or damaging multiple homes near

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Elk City Graduation Saturday

May 16, 2024 The 2023 – 2024 school year is wrapping up across the country with graduation ceremonies taking place throughout the next few days.

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SWOSU Foundation Announces Key Staff Promotions

May 14, 2024 SWOSU Foundation Press Release Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) and its longtime philanthropic support organization, the SWOSU Foundation, Inc., have announced the promotion of key personnel in the SWOSU Office of Institutional Advancement (OIA).

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Wellington Man Sentenced

May 14, 2024 On Tuesday, May 7, nine pleas and three revocations took place in the 100th Judicial District Court in Childress County.

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Voter Registration Deadline Approaches

May 13, 2024 Custer County Election Office Press Release Friday, May 24, is the last day to apply for voter registration in order to be eligible to vote in the June 18, 2024 Primary Election. The Primary

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SWOSU Announces 2024–2025 President’s Leadership Class

May 10, 2024 SWOSU Press Release Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) has announced the selection of the newest members of the President’s Leadership Class (PLC) for the upcoming 2024–2025 academic year. The PLC program at SWOSU is

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Voter Registration Deadline Approaches

May 6, 2024 Roger Mills County Election Board Press Release Friday, May 24th, is the last day to apply for voter registration in order to be eligible to vote in the June 18th Primary Election, Roger Mills

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SWOSU Announces 2024 Winners of the Brandy Awards

May 6, 2024 SWOSU Press Release Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) has announced the winners of the 2024 Brandy Awards, which recognize outstanding staff, administrators, and faculty as well as the winner of the Diversity & Inclusion:

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Cordell Tornado Rated EF-1

May 3, 2024 According to the National Weather Service, the tornado that tore through Cordell late Tuesday afternoon causing structural damage has received an EF-1 rating.

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SWOSU Physics Banquet Celebrates Student Achievements

May 1, 2024 SWOSU Press Release The 2024 Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) Physics Banquet was hosted on April 27 at the Stafford Air & Space Museum, with over 50 guests in attendance. Attendees arriving early had

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Clinton Man Wanted After Allegedly Falsifying Convictions

April 26, 2024 A Clinton man is wanted in Beckham County after being charged with unlawful actions related to licensed dealers and private sellers of firearms after allegedly attempting to obtain firearms after being convicted of various

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Accident Disrupts Power in Elk City

April 23, 2024 Power was disrupted Monday afternoon for about 6 hours for PSO customers on the north side of Elk City after power line poles with multiple transformers were pulled down by a city trash truck.

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Relay for Life Fundraiser to be Hosted at SWOSU on April 26

Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) is hosting the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life, the world’s largest fundraising event dedicated to helping communities in their fight against cancer, on Friday, April 26 from 6 p.m. to 11

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Rep. Archer Talks House’s Proposed Budget

April 19, 2024 The Oklahoma House of Representatives rolled out their initial budget numbers earlier this week, which is a $12.6 billion appropriation to state agencies, programs and infrastructure.

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SWOSU Foundation, Inc. Awarded Heritage Preservation Grant

April 17, 2024 SWOSU Press Release Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) is proud to announce that the Oklahoma Historical Society (OHS) has awarded the SWOSU Foundation, Inc. a grant through the Oklahoma Heritage Preservation Grant Program.

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Adopt a Dispatcher

April 16, 2024 Beckham County Sheriff Derek Manning reminds the public that there’s an easy way to show your appreciation to Beckham County dispatchers with this week being National Telecommunications and Communicators Week.

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SWOSU Launches Pharm.D./MSHIM Dual-Degree Program

April 15, 2024 SWOSU Press Release Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) is proud to introduce the Pharm.D./Master of Science in Health Information Management (MSHIM) dual-degree program, which combines the Doctor of Pharmacy and master’s degree in health

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ECPS Partnering with Leadership Group

April 12, 2024 Elk City Public Schools has been selected to take part in a leadership program that, according to Superintendent Mike Sparks, will create more opportunities for the school district to build on success and continue

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Elk City High Fulfills “Oklahoma’s Promise”

April 10, 2024 According to the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education, seven high schools have been named “Oklahoma’s Promise 2023 State Champions,” leading the state in the number of graduates who met the requirements to receive

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Fatal Accident Near Blair

April 9, 2024 A Granite woman has died Monday after being involved in a two vehicle accident north of Blair in Jackson County.

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SWOSU Announces 2024 Distinguished Alumni

April 8, 2024 SWOSU Press Release Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) with locations in Weatherford, Sayre and Yukon has announced its 2024 Distinguished Alumni Hall of Fame honorees.

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Kit Plane Crash Prompts Search of Pilot

April 8, 2024 Beckham County officials assisted Troopers with the Oklahoma Highway Patrol into the investigation of the apparent wreck of a kit plane near Delhi on Thursday.

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Henry Announces Run For Beckham County Sheriff

April 8, 2024 Provided Press Release My name is Wes Henry I am a republican and I am running for Beckham County Sheriff. In my 20 years of law enforcement experience, I have trained and worked in

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Oklahoma Schools Win Sweepstakes at SWOSU SWIM

April 1, 2024 The annual Southwestern Oklahoma State University Interscholastic Meet (SWIM), Oklahoma’s longest running academic competition for high school and junior high students, recently took place at SWOSU on Thursday, March 28. Established in 1913, SWIM

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SWOSU Honored for Collaboration with INTEGRIS Health

March 29, 2024 SWOSU Press Release On Thursday, March 7, Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) received recognition at the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education’s Business Partnership Excellence Awards Program for its collaboration with INTEGRIS Health.

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Skate Park Addition Opens

March 27, 2028 By Landry Brewer Elk City is pumped over the new Ackley Park West attraction for wheeled-sports enthusiasts.

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Deadline to Change Party Affiliation Approaches

March 25, 2024 Custer County Election Board Press Release Oklahomans who want to change their party affiliation must submit their change no later than March 31, Custer County Election Board Secretary Ann Brown said today. Voters may

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SWOSU Hosting Spring 2024 Commencement Ceremonies in May

March 15, 2024 SWOSU Press Release Southwestern Oklahoma State University will host four commencement ceremonies on the Weatherford campus in May for the Spring 2024 graduating seniors. Eligible participants for the ceremonies include students who will complete

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Gun Safety Bill Passes Committee

March 15, 2024 OK House of Rep. Press Release Rep. Nick Archer, R-Elk City, passed a bill out of the Appropriations & Budget Committee on Thursday that would encourage responsible gun ownership.

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SWOSU Pharmacy Students Advocate at Legislative Day

March 13, 2024 SWOSU Press Release On Tuesday, March 5, a delegation of 23 SWOSU Doctor of Pharmacy students, accompanied by three faculty members, participated in the annual Pharmacy Legislative Day at the Capitol, hosted by the

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January Sales Tax Numbers

March 13, 2024 The latest sales tax numbers have been released and most western Oklahoma communities saw a slight dip in collections when compared to the same time a year ago.

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Colonel Smith Goes to Washington

March 13, 2024 By Landry Brewer John Paul Smith takes a little bit of Elk City with him all over the United States and even overseas.

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Fire Weather Returns Wednesday

March 12, 2024 A study by the Texas A&M forest service finds that the start of the Smokehouse Creek Fires may have originated near Stinnett, Texas in Hutchinson County late last month and may have been caused

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Absentee Deadline and Early Voting

March 11, 2024 Custer County Election Board Press Release The deadline for requesting an Absentee Ballot for the April 2, 2024, Board of Education Elections for Clinton, Weatherford and Hammon School, Clinton Board of Education Special Election,

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Stitt Comments on Recent Wildfires

March 11, 2024 During a recent appearance on KECO’s The Early Morning Show, Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt talked about the recent wildfires in Texas and Oklahoma and the relief efforts that have come from the state.

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Local School Conducts “Wildfire” Drill

March 5, 2024 With recent wildfires in parts of western Oklahoma and the Texas panhandle, one local school decided to conduct a “wildfire evacuation drill” last week.

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Registration Deadline April 2

March 5, 2024 Custer County Election Board Press Release Friday, March 8th is the last day to apply for voter registration in order to be eligible to vote in the April 2, 2024, Board of Education School

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Wellington, TX Man Convicted

March 4, 2024 Office of the 100th Judicial District Attorney Press Release On Tuesday, February 27, one hearing took place in the 100th Judicial District Court in Childress County.

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Hook Family Endowment Established at SWOSU

March 1, 2024 SWOSU Press Release Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) with locations in Weatherford, Sayre, and Yukon has announced the establishment of the Hook Family Endowment.

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ECHS Student Serves as Senate Page

February 29, 2024 By Landry Brewer Elk City High School senior Jackson Ivester recently spent a week at the Capitol in Oklahoma City learning the art of legislating.

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SWOSU Names Spring 2024 North Family Scholars

February 27, 2024 SWOSU Press Release Seven Parks and Recreation Management (PRM) students at Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) have been named North Family Scholars for Academic Year 2023-2024.

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Water Main Leak Likely Caused by “Air Hammer”

February 26, 2024 By Landry Bewer City crews spent several hours recently repairing a water main leak underneath Country Club Boulevard in front of the old Northeast Elementary School building.

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December Sales Tax Intake Down

February 23, 2024 The latest sales tax numbers have been released and most western Oklahoma communities saw a slight dip in collections when compared to the same time a year ago.

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SWOSU Awards Scholarships to Winners of Anatomage Tournament

February 23, 2024 The Allied Health Sciences department at Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) hosted the 2nd annual Anatomage Tournament at the SWOSU Esports Arena in the Wellness Center on Friday, Feb. 9. Following the success of

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Early Voting Begins Thursday, February 29th

February 21, 2024 Roger Mills County Election Board Press Release Early voting begins Thursday, February 29th for voters in Roger Mills County who would like to vote in the March 5th Presidential Preferential Primary Election. Voters who

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SWOSU to Host Veterans Education Benefits Assistance Event

February 19, 2024 SWOSU Press Release Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) is pleased to announce an upcoming event to assist veterans with their education benefits. Representatives from the Muskogee Veterans Affairs (VA) Regional Office will be visiting

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Elk City Schools Partner With Food Service Company

February 14, 2024 It was announced by Elk City Superintendent Mike Sparks that the school district has partnered with a food service management company that intends to serve fresh and nutritious meals throughout the district.

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Absentee Deadline and Early Voting

February 12, 2024 Custer County Election Board Press Release The deadline for requesting an Absentee Ballot for the March 5, 2024, Presidential Preferential Primary Election is Monday, February 19th at 5 p.m., said Ann Brown, Secretary, Custer

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SWOSU to Host Pharmacy Day for High School Students

February 9, 2024 The SWOSU College of Pharmacy will be hosting a Pharmacy Day for high school juniors and seniors on Wednesday, March 6 from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. This program will consist of hands-on, interactive

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PSO Seeks Rate Hike

February 9, 2024 In a recently filed request with the Oklahoma Corporation Commission, it was revealed that Public Service Company of Oklahoma is seeking another rate increase.

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Lisa Friesen Secures USDA Distance Learning Grant at SWOSU

February 8, 2024 SWOSU Press Release Lisa Friesen, Director of the Center for Excellence in Teaching & Learning at Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) has been awarded a substantial grant of $1,034,341 over three years through the

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SWOSU Department of Music Welcomes Renowned Cellist Christopher Adkins

February 8, 2024 SWOSU Press Release The Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) Department of Music has announced a special event featuring Christopher Adkins, Principal Cellist of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra. Adkins’ guest appearance, scheduled for Wednesday, Feb.

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Voter Registration Deadline Approaches

February 7, 2024 Roger Mills County Election Board Press Release Friday, February 9th, is the last day to apply for voter registration in order to be eligible to vote in the March 5th Presidential Preferential Primary Election,

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Lucas to Hold February Town Hall Meetings

February 6, 2024 Press Release Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03) will hold town hall meetings in Caddo, Kiowa, Jackson, and Roger Mills Counties this week. Residents around the locations are invited to attend and share their thoughts on

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Custer City Man Charged Receives Child Porn Charges

February 5, 2024 Court records show that a Custer City man has been charged with, among other things, distribution of obscene material or child pornography after allegedly sending and receiving the material via social media.

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Early Voting Info For Feb. 13 Election

February 1, 2024 Custer County Election Office Press Release Early voting for the February 13, 2024 Election, will be Thursday, February 8, and Friday, February 9, from 8 a.m. until 6 p.m. at the Custer County Election

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House Fires Keep Elk City Crews Busy

January 31, 2024 Elk City fire crews have been busy this week working two house fires that both appear to have been accidental electrical fires.

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Archer Previews HB3424

January 24, 2024 Last week was the deadline for state lawmakers to file bills that could possibly be considered during the upcoming legislative session.

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Latest Sales Tax Numbers In

January 18, 2024 The latest sales tax numbers have been released and most western Oklahoma communities saw little to no change when compared to the same time a year ago.

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SWOSU Names Johnny & Judy Beech Scholars

January 15, 2023 SWOSU Press Release Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) has named Cayan Freeman of Balko, OK, and Tyler Hoffman of Weatherford, OK as the Johnny & Judy Beech Scholars for Academic Year 2023-2024.

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Voter Registration Deadline Approaches

January 15, 2023 Roger Mills County Election Board Press Release Friday, January 19, is the last day to apply for voter registration in order to be eligible to vote in the February 13 Leedey Public Schools Special

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Extreme Cold Coming

January 11, 2024 Dangerous cold temperatures are set to return to the region starting tonight (Thursday) and continuing throughout the weekend.

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BREAKING: Fatal Shooting West of Elk City

BULLETIN FROM THE BECKHAM COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE: Beckham County deputies are on scene of a fatality shooting outside of an oilfield business on Merritt road. Sheriff Manning says the suspect is in custody and the investigation is

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Two Western Oklahoma School Districts Awarded EV Bus Grants

January 9, 2023 Seventeen Oklahoma school districts in Oklahoma, including a couple in western Oklahoma, were among dozens nationwide that received part of more than $1 billion from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to replace fossil fuel

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Great Plains Regional Medical Center New Year’s Baby

January 9, 2024 GPRMC Press Release Great Plains Regional Medical Center’s first baby of 2024 was born January 5th to proud parents Candra Davis and Nathan Rose. Taylyn Faye arrived weighing 7 pounds, 12 ounces and 21

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Elk City Leadership HOF Inductees Announced

January 3, 2023 The newest members of the Elk City Chamber of Commerce Leadership Hall of Fame were announced recently and will be inducted during an upcoming Elk City High School basketball game.

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News in Review: 2023

December 29, 2023   The top 10 western Oklahoma news stories from 2023:   10. Weatherford Superintendent Resigns June 30, 2023 After a special meeting Thursday afternoon, the resignation of Superintendent Dr. Jill Henderson was unanimously accepted

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Elk City’s Stories of the Year

December 29, 2023 By Landry Brewer Elk City’s most newsworthy events of 2023 included rescue and renovation, construction and education, athletics and taxation, triumph and tragedy.

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OHP Reminds Safety During NYE Weekend

December 28, 2023 The Oklahoma Highway Patrol ENDUI team announced this week that they will partner with law enforcement from across Oklahoma to make sure everyone has a safe New Year’s Eve holiday. This effort is part

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Allsup’s Coming to Elk City

December 28, 2023 According to a recent article in The Oklahoman, a popular convenience store plans to expand its footprint in Oklahoma with one of the stores planned to be built and opened in Elk City.

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Early Voting Begins January 4, 2024 in Beckham Co.

December 28, 2023 Beckham Co. Election Board Press Release Early voting begins Thursday, January 4, 2024 for voters in Beckham County. Voters who will not be able to make it to the polls on Election Day, have

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Fatal Weekend Wreck Near Sayre

December 27, 2023 Two people, including a 10-year-old, were killed, and two other children were injured in a crash near Sayre on Saturday.

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SWOSU Esports Triumphs in Esports Championships

December 21, 2023 SWOSU Press Release The Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) Blue Esports team concluded a week-long esports competition from Monday, Dec. 4, to Friday, Dec. 8, at the SWOSU Esports Arena in the Wellness Center

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Weatherford Woman Charged with Child Abuse

December 21, 2023 A Weatheford woman received a felony charge of child abuse in Custer County District Court recently after allegedly injuring a boy’s neck by placing her hands on him.

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Christmas Travel Looks to be Busy

December 21, 2023 Despite not being a “travel destination” state, officials say travel in Oklahoma will be busy once again this Christmas weekend.

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Little Change in Sales Tax Collections

December 20, 2023 The latest sales tax numbers have been released and most western Oklahoma communities saw little to no change when compared to the same time a year ago.

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PSO Announces Refunds on Interim Rates

December 20, 2023 PSO Press Release Public Service Company of Oklahoma (PSO) residential customers will see refunds of interim rates on their monthly bills starting in January.

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SWOSU Names 2023 Brenda Lumpkin Scholar

December 19, 2023 SWOSU Press Release Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) has named Marleigh Elizabeth West of Edmond, Oklahoma as the 2023 Brenda Lumpkin Scholar for the 2023-24 Academic Year.

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SWOSU Honors Distinguished Faculty with 2023 Emeritus Awards

December 8, 2023 SWOSU Press Release The SWOSU Alumni Association Emeritus Award, established in 2015 by the Alumni Association Board of Directors, recently recognized former SWOSU faculty who have played a pivotal role in the lives of

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House Page Program Now Accepting Applications

December 7, 2023 Press Release The Oklahoma House of Representatives High School Page Program is now accepting applications for the Second Regular Session of the 59th Legislature, announced Program Director Rep. Brian Hill, R-Mustang.

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Voter Registration Deadline Approaches

December 6, 2024 Washita Co. Election Board Press Release December 15th, 2023 is the last day to apply for voter registration in order to be eligible to vote in the January 9th Washita County, county-wide special proposition

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Biology Students Earn Funding for Pancreatic Cancer Research

December 6, 2023 SWOSU Press Release Two biology students from the Department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences at Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU), Colter Esparza from Granite and Darren Powers from Burns Flat, have recently been awarded

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Combating Porch Pirates and Mail Thieves

December 5, 2023 Sheriff Derek Manning said that his office has received reports this weekend of people stealing from mailboxes in rural Beckham County. Manning said there has also been at least one report of a suspicious

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Elk City Man Pleads Guilty to Production and Possession of Child

November 29, 2023 Press Release – U.S. Attorney’s Office Western District of Oklahoma TIMOTHY STEVEN BLAYLOCK, JR., 37, of Elk City, pleaded guilty to producing child pornography and possession of child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J.

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SWOSU Names 2023 Drs. Bob and Nancy Maynard Scholar

November 28, 2023 SWOSU Foundation Press Release Jessica Jefferson of Clinton, Oklahoma has been named the 2023 Drs. Bob and Nancy Maynard Scholar at Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) for the 2023-24 academic year.