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Jimmy Peters to return to Duncan Ward 1 position
Kyle Phillips / The Transcript
Plant Manager Ryan Bart gives a tour of the Norman Water Reclamation Facility on Feb. 1, 2020. Voters will see a rate increase on an April ballot.
Water rate increase? Voters to decide water rate increase in April 2022 By Mindy Ragan Wood
Transcript Staff Writer
OU head coach
while utility rate increases must be approved by voters. Increasing the rate would allow the city more income to finance capital projects, improvements and replace old water lines, staff said during the presentation. Ward 4 Lee Hall said while it was important to provide stable rate revenue for projected improvements, the most important considerations
By Max Bryan
Transcript News Editor
Daily Transcript
An analysis of Norman police’s practices shows a significant racial disparity in the department’s uses of force, which disproportionately affect Black people. Of NPD’s 267 uses of force from 2016 to June 2020, officers used force against Black people 44 times, according to an NPD news release. It’s roughly 16.5% of all uses
By Janelle Stecklein
CNHI State Reporter
of force in that time frame — more than three times the 4.7% of Norman residents who are Black. Additionally, police used force on Black people 3.4 times as often as on white people in that time. This statistic accounts for poverty levels, crime rates in different neighborhoods and percent of Black resKyle Phillips / The Transcript idents in neighborhoods, Norman police investigate an officer-involved shooting July according to a Center 5, 2014, after a Cleveland County Sheriffs Deputy killed a for Policing Equity news suspect on 24th Avenue SW between Boyd St. and Brooks See DISPARITY Page A3 Ave.
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OKLAHOMA CITY — Oklahoma’s attorney general said Tuesday that lingering doubts he has about the science behind COVID-19 vaccines is one reason the state is pushing back on federal vaccination mandates with lawsuits. However, two doctors, after learning of his remarks, said they have confidence in the science that led to the vaccines. O’Connor made his remarks during a Tuesday morning press conference where he, Gov. Kevin Stitt, National Guard Adjutant Gen. Thomas Mancino,
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Despite doctors’ confidence in vaccine science, Oklahoma AG remains unconvinced of safety
NPD data show racial disparity in use of force
allyship (n) al-ly-ship [al-ahy-ship] 1. the status or role of a person who advocates and actively works for the inclusion of a marginalized or politicized group in all areas of society, not as a member of that
TULSA — John W. Franklin wept as he read his grandfather’s account of the Tulsa Race Massacre. The fragile, yellowing, 90-year-old document — an eyewitness description of the worst race massacre in U.S. history — now sits in the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture. “I wept the first time I read it; the second time I read it, and the third time I read it,” he said about B.C. Franklin’s account of the 1921 massacre. It describes the horrors in Tulsa’s affluent, thriving Greenwood District when a white mob — fueled by racism, envy and fear — murdered, looted and burned out the Black community with impunity. The account, written in 1931, was not discovered until 2015 in a storage unit. For decades, many details of what happened in
as well as an Oklahoma business owner, discussed concerns about the federal government and military mandating COVID-19 vaccines. They also discussed five lawsuits that seek to halt the mandates, which they contend are unconstitutional. Asked why he has concerns with the COVID-19 vaccine, as opposed to other vaccines that have long been required by the military — such as flu, polio, anthrax and the measles — Attorney General John O’Connor said he believes the science is more of a concern for the COVID-19 vaccine because of how long it’s been See VACCINE Page A2
Inside
group but in solidarity with its struggle and point of view and under its leadership. Example: “Companies were quick to promise an inclusive work environment, flooded their social media pages with Black and brown faces, extolled allyship ...” — Rita Omokha, “VR Trainings are Not ...Corporate Racism,” Wired, 2021
• Judge blocks vaccine mandate for federal contractors — Page A5
senior manager emeritus of the museum. And to the extent that what happened in Tulsa came down in history at all, it was inaccurate, blaming Black residents for what happened by calling it the “Negro uprising.” Later, it was called the Tulsa Race KYLE PHILLIPS | CNHI Photo Riot; today, it is known, , project manager of the 1921 Tulsa more accurately, as the Race Massacre Centennial Commission, awaits completion Tulsa Race Massacre. B.C. Franklin called it a “race war.” “It’s crucial that we re name this event for what it is,” said Paul Gardullo, At century mark, Tulsa Race supervisory curator at Massacre’s wounds still unhealed the museum, which in cludes an exhibit on Tul PAGE A7 sa. “I think the term that is being used right now — Tulsa Race Massacre — is the right term.” John Franklin thinks other terms do a better job conveying what hap pened. He notes that the Jewish press referred to the 1921 attack as a “po grom” massacre and expulsion of a particular religious 100th anniversary of the or ethnic group, such as
By ADRIAN O’HANLON III EDITOR
A retired McAlester educator believes students can grow through learning more about the Tulsa Race Massacre. Primus Moore said more should be done to educate students about what historians call the nation’s worst race massacre, which merits just three sentences in a history text for juniors at McAlester High School. The school supplements instruction with videos and materials — but Moore said more should be done statewide. “I really don’t think it’s enough,” Moore said. “I think it’s a start; it’s a beginning.” The Tulsa Race Massacre began May 31, 1921, and lasted less than 16 hours with an angry white mob destroying 1,200 Black homes and businesses in the previously flour flourishing Black community of Greenwood along what was known as Black Wall
‘REMEMBER AND RISE’ CANCELED
PAGE A6
Street. A commission report lists 38 official deaths, but the death toll is now estimated between 100 and 300 with bodies quickly buried in mass graves without documentation. Moore graduated in 1965 as the class president of L’Ouverture School, the public school Black students attended from 1908 to 1968 — when 115 L’Ouverture High School students integrated with McAlester High School. But Moore said he didn’t learn about the Tulsa Race Massacre until 1966 at Langston University, Oklahoma’s only historically black college or university, while talking with a roommate from Tulsa. Moore said he couldn’t believe it at first. It was the first time he heard about Black Wall Street and what historians now call the nation’s worst race massacre. “We were all shocked that it happened and that
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Several Midwest City residents packed into the Nick Harroz Community Center last week to discuss a proposed residential development on the city’s east side. The proposed Summerview development would add more than 900 single family houses and apartments on 173 acres between E. Reno Ave. and SE 15th St., just east of Westminster Rd. A total of 364 houses are planned on the west side of the development and 560
apartments on the east portion. Residents voiced concerns about the residential development including: increased traffic, density of the housing, storm water drainage, impact on schools, and other issues. The Nov. 16 community meeting was organized by a group of residents that oppose the project. They have been collecting signatures for a protest letter and provided an update on their efforts. A formal protest requires See MEETING, page 10A
Gov. Stitt visits EOC
Managing Editor
See Page 2A
SPORTS
Del City approves contract for EMS service
Students at Del City High School held a rally in support of Julius Jones last Thursday morning outside the school building. PHOTO BY JONATHAN TERRY
Students rally for Julius Jones
By Jeff Harrison Managing Editor
See JONES, page 10A
See Page 1B
Students at Midwest City High School hold a demonstration in support of Julius Jones, a death row inmate who was scheduled to be killed before Gov. Kevin Stitt commuted his sentence. PHOTO BY JEFF HARRISON
After 10 months of searching and negotiating with multiple ambulance providers, Del City has finally signed a one-year contract with Pafford EMS. Under the agreement, Pafford will provide EMS service with 2 ½ ambulances dedicated to Del City. Two ambulances will serve Del City 24/7, and a third will be staffed 12 hours per day during peak hours. Del City will pay $30,000 per month for the service. That cost will be passed on to residents in the form of a $3.45 ambulance surcharge on monthly utility bills. The new fee will be charged to every single-family residence, multifamily residential unit, nursing home and assisted
Obituaries A3 Opinion A4 Bridge A5 Sports A7 Lifestyles B1 Comics B3 Classifieds B4 Business B8
WORD of the day Nugatory (noun) noo-guhuhuh-tawr-ee tawr-ee 1. Of no force or effect; ineffective; futile; vain. Example: “While outdated theory may not render one’s interpretations nuga nugatory, they may seem quaint to those tory, who work within the field from which the
ideas came, and intramural strife, if it remains unobserved, can not then serve to provide occasions for fruitful comparison, since intellectual battles in one arena often have interesting parallels and previously unimagined consequences within another.” — Courtesy of Dictionary.com.
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Government
Harrah election planned
Residents to vote on mayor, Ward 1 and 3 Danny Trent, 57, has filed to challenge Harrah mayor Larry Fryar, 64, in the upcoming April municipal election. Additionally, two candidates have filed to fill the Ward 1 seat after Kim Bishop leaves the post. Susan Morgan, 40, and Paul Wiegert, 66, have filed to represent Ward 1. Connie Bradshaw serves up some fresh catfish on Friday night. PHOTO RYAN HORTON Incumbent Duane Patterson, 56, has a challenger in Chris Lally, 39, for the 3 seat. Local restaurant celebrates new name, same great food and service Ward The municipal election is By Ryan Horton its new branding official business and continuing you can eat catfish spe- set for April 6. Managing Editor Feb. 1. a long tradition of serving cial. For a ward map and Choctaw Wagon up local favorites, espeOriginally named Nana more information visit During November and Wheels Café cially Friday and Papaw’s, the restau- https://cityofharrah.com/ December, the Bandana is open night’s rant has now undergone city-council Red’s Grill ran ballots in for all two renaming contests the Choctaw Times to alwhere the public deterlow community members mined the brand. to help determine a new New owners John and name for the restaurant. Kellie Haley were excitWith nearly 150 unique ed to see so much comname recommendations munity engagement in submitted, the café that the renaming process, has been an eastern Oklaand they look forward to homa County favorite for nearly 20 years made See WAGON Page 10A
Choctaw welcomes Wagon Wheels Cafe
Award
See EMS, page 10A
Harrah native named Unsung Hero of Capitol Hill
By Jeff Harrison Managing Editor
at ArchWell Health. The comprehensive primary care service includes Local senior citizens have a transportation to and from the new option for primary health center, access to same-day care in Midwest City. appointments, specialty and ArchWell Health last week ancillary services, social workers, celebrated the grand opening of dietitian, and more. a primary care physician office at “We want to provide high 6951 SE 15th St. in Midwest City. quality, holistic primary care for The new facility offers holistic our seniors and we do that in primary healthcare services for centers just like this,” Pakala said. Representatives from ArchWell Health cut a ceremonial ribbon last senior citizens age 65 and over. Thursday during the grand opening of their new Midwest City clinic “These centers are built right Employees with ArchWell located at 6951 SE 15th St. PHOTO BY JEFF HARRISON within our communities. These Health welcomed the community Thursday. Guests enjoyed tours City Chamber of Commerce also aren’t just doctor’s clinics. These for a ribbon cutting and grand of the new office and met with presented a plaque to Dr. Aneesh See ARCHWELL, page 10A opening celebration last doctors and staff. The Midwest Pakala, a primary care physician
their “perfect” tree.” of types of trees available Duncan High School’s along with a variety of prices as well,” McGough said. football, baseball, tennis teams and Key Club stu“Kiwanis looks forward to this special time of year, and dents helped club members assisting families to find See KIWANIS Page A2
Business
month, while the mayor, elected at large across all wards, earns $165 a month. The Council meets publicly on the first and third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. The City Council chambers are located at Choctaw City Hall, 2500 North Choctaw Road.
Managing Editor
Choctaw sweeps rival Bombers.
Healthcare
Tree Farms in Maine. Stacy McGough, Secretary of the Kiwanis Club, said there are a variety of trees available. “We will have a variety
Rick Modisette, 67, are all competing for votes in that ward. New terms will begin for these three even numbered seats April 19, and those terms will expire in April of 2024. Following the April election, all of Choctaw’s City Council members will earn $115 per
By Ryan Horton
City Council adds $3.45 monthly fee Anthony Thomas Staff Writer
Photos by Tamara Gregor / The Duncan Banner and submitted
In Ward 4, incumbent Roger Malone, 73, has two challengers in Donna Morris, 54, and 72-year-old Art Sipes. Ward 6 will have new representation as Dale Gill is set to vacate the seat leaving it to one of three candidates. Donald Judson, 38, Sean Lynch, 51, and
EMS
The Titans edged Coweta last week in the second round of the playoffs. See page 1B
(Above) Duncan High School’s football, baseball, tennis teams and Key Club students helped club members unload the 300 trees to kick off the season. The Christmas tree lot will open the Friday after Thanksgiving on Nov. 26 with a wide selection. The annual Christmas tree sale in Kiddieland inside Fuqua Park opens from 2-8 p.m. on weekdays, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Satur Saturdays and 1-5 p.m. on Sundays. Kiwanis Club members expect the trees, per usual fashion, well sell out within the first week of their availability.
A total of eight candidates filed for three Choctaw City Council seats to be filled in the upcoming April 6 election. Brent Pendergraft, 41, filed to challenge incumbent Mike Birdsong, 64, for the Ward 2 seat.
Yellowjackets sting Midwest City
Midwest City residents sign a petition opposing the Summerview residential development planned on the city’s east side during a community meeting on Nov. 16. PHOTO BY JEFF HARRISON
See FILING Page A2
See PENALTY Page A2
Election to determine next City Council set for April 6 By Ryan Horton
ArchWell Health opens clinic in Midwest City
to be here longer than a week.” Kiwanis members received their Christmas tree shipment on Thursday afternoon from Dutchman
Wednesday, February 10, 2021
8 candidates file for 3 seats
Local leaders meet with Gov. Stitt, tour Tinker Air Force Base.
Julius Jones
Local high school students walked out of their schools last Thursday morning in support of Julius Jones, the death row inmate who was scheduled to be executed later that day, until Gov. Kevin Stitt commuted the death sentence. All three Mid-Del high schools conducted walkouts. At Midwest City High School, students held a rally outside the administration building. A few students remained outside longer and held
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The Duncan Chisholm Trail Kiwanis Club will look to extend a bit of the Christmas spirit this holiday season as they work toward opening day of their Christmas Tree Sale. The Christmas tree lot will open the Friday after Thanksgiving on Nov. 26 with a wide selection. The annual Christmas tree sale in Kiddieland inside Fuqua Park opens from from 2-8 p.m. on weekdays, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturdays and 1-5 p.m. on Sundays. Dr. Nate Edwards, Christmas Tree Committee Chairman, said there has been a Christmas tree shortage over the past two years. This year, the Kiwanis club hauled in 300 trees for the community. “We anticipate having a very busy season,” Edwards said. “We don’t expect them
B1
• Oklahoma inmate asks Supreme Court to stay his execution — Page A8
Scan this QR code to find a location near you.
See WARD 1 Page A6
Local educators were honored last week during the Golden Apple Awards at Rose State. See page 2A
Kiwanis Annual Christmas tree sale aims to bring holiday cheer
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ALMANAC
Need a COVID Test?
Retired McAlester educator doesn’t want history to repeat itself
Worst race massacre finally being told
By Jeff Harrison Managing Editor
posthaste. But what was once one of the nation’s busiest death chambers has not resumed administering capital punishment as easily as some had hoped after Republican Gov. Kevin Stitt on Thursday stopped Julius Jones from being executed hours before he was scheduled to die.
LOCAL
VOL. 116, ISSUE 12
Residents turn out for community meeting about controversial housing development
Golden Apple
Supporters of Oklahoma death penalty fear executions ending OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — Af After a six-year moratorium on the death penalty following a series of botched lethal injections, Oklahoma officials announced in August they would seek execution dates for seven condemned men . By the next month, their executions were scheduled, leading some death penalty supporters to believe the state’s executions would resume
NOVEMBER 24, 2021
N
THE TULSA RACE MASSACRE destroyed more than 1,200 homes and businesses in 1921.
Duncan City Council Chambers inside the Duncan Police Department. The position did not go to vote as the term from Smith has not yet been completed. That means Peters’ term will extend through May 2023. Former Mayor Ritchie Dennington took the stand during public comment, and told Mayor and Coun-
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Oklahoma Historical Society | Courtesy Photo
See WATER Page A5
Vaccine doubts still driving state lawsuits Read more about Venables’ return to the Sooners. See Page B1
rerun for the position, will once again fill the role after former councilwoman Jennifer A familiar face will Smith, who took the return to the Duncan City Council lineup to position officially on July 7, 2020, resigned take his former position and fill the current from the office between late September Ward 1 vacancy. and early October this Jimmy Peters, who year. previously served as Peters’ selection and the Ward 1 Councilman after swearing in approval to the Ward 1 position came during a June 24, 2015, served two terms until he an- special meeting at 5:15 nounced he wouldn’t p.m. Friday, Nov. 19 in By Charlene Belew The Duncan Banner
Inside the Beacon
2022. On the school board side of things, positions will open in nine Stephens County school districts for filing during the same time period. According to information from Dunagan’s office, Board of Education positions include Office No. 2 positions in Duncan, Comanche, Marlow, Velma-Alma, Empire, Central High, BrayDoyle and Red River Tech Center. Grandview School District will make the only district seeking Office No. 1 to be filled. If only two candidates file, the position will be filled at the General Election. If more than two candidates file for the same seat, a Primary Election will take place.
By The Banner Staff
Candidates for municipal office in the City of Marlow or for school board positions throughout the county may begin filing their declarations of candidacy at 8 a.m. Monday, Dec. 6. According to Angela Dunagan, Secretary for the Stephens County Election Board, the filing period ends at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 8. Municipal offices are up for grabs in the City of Marlow. The positions include the Ward 1 and Ward 4 positions, both of which carry a three year term. Offices in Marlow will go to vote in a non-partisan primary election on Feb. 8, 2022, and if a general election is necessary, then that will take place on April 5,
Duncan Banner File Art
Former Mayor Ritchie Dennington (left) and Councilwoman Patty Wininger (center) thank Jimmy Peters for his years of service on council in July 2020 when he left the board. Peters will now return to the Ward 1 seat.
The first city water rate increase in six years will be put before the voters in April following a Tuesday decision by Norman City Council. Councilors in their Tuesday study session reached a consensus to send an increase to voters and to raise water connection fees in future by council vote. Fees can be adjusted by council vote
Volume 12, No. 15
Inside the Times City
Weekend, Nov. 20-21, 2021
Marlow Municipal, area school board filings upcoming
Former OU defensive coordinator returns as Sooners’ head coach
Brent Venables
duncanbanner.com local news updates
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The Duncan Banner - 11/21/2021
B SPORTS Norman North split in home games against Southmoore
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Dailies, Population more than 30,000
Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) recently congratulated Sabrina Parker, who was named one of the Unsung Heroes of Capitol Hill by the Ripon Society and Franklin Center for Global Policy Exchange during a bipartisan virtual event in December. This recognition is awarded annually to exceptional congressional schedulers and executive assistants. A native of Harrah and based in Cole’s Washing-
ton office, Parker has been on staff since 2011 and currently serves as Director of Operations. In this role, she creatively manages the details and facilitates the logistics relating to all aspects of Cole’s schedule. She also oversees and ensures timely completion of numerous other support functions for the office. “For more than nine years on my staff, Sabrina Parker has demonstrated that she will always go the extra
mile to ensure smooth operations for me and my office,” said Cole. “Her attention to detail, work ethic and professionalism are truly unmatched. I am grateful for the unending dedication and energy she brings to her demanding job and the service she also renders to the Fourth District of Oklahoma. She is indeed one of the greatest unsung heroes of Capitol Hill, and I am proud to congratulate her on this Harrah’s Sabrina Parker and Congressman Tom Cole well-deserved recognition.” (OK-04). PHOTO PROVIDED
On this day Inside • 100M watch ABC TV movie “The Day After” about nuclear war. — Nov. 20, 1983 • China prohibits opium trade. — Nov. 21, 1906
• Duncan Swim finishes second on Senior Night. — Page A7
See STUDENTS, page 12A
• RRTC gives high school students college prep experience ahead of real world. — Page B1
— Courtesy of Onthisday.com
April 28, 2022 12:05 pm (GMT +0:00)
April 28, 2022 12:16 pm (GMT +0:00)
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Of 33 Purcell High School graduates who enrolled in college in Oklahoma in the fall of 2020, six had to take remediation courses in English
Thursday, May 20, 2021
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OCCA tosses post-conviction application JeanneGrimes The Purcell Register
Gala 2021
In a ruling October 7, the Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals struck down Shaun Bosse’s latest attempt for postconviction relief for first degree
Raising funds for Hope Center Hope Center Ministries will host Gala 2021 next week at the McClain County Farm & Home Building in Purcell.
Please see Bosse, page 11A
The gala on October 21 will raise funds for the
Please see Gala, page 11A
Congestion addressed at North 9th JeanneGrimes The Purcell Register
on the street, particularly at times parents are picking up children from the elementary and intermediate schools. The initial report by the firm cites an “overabundance of signs directing vehicles on where to go.” TECUSA engineer B.J. Hawkins reported the problem is centered on two
City and school officials were set to meet Wednesday to address traffic flow concerns on North 9th Avenue around the elementary school. City manager Dale Bunn announced the planned meeting during a city council meeting October 7. A study by Traffic Engineering Consultants Inc., presented the city with options to improve traffic flow
Please see 9th, page 11A
Storm brings rain • Photo provided
2A State Champions
Purcell’s Dragon Pride Marching Band won the Class 2A State Championship last Saturday at Claremore. They were second overall in all classes. Inside
Bond passes $24.5 million for Washington schools
in the future. The measure passed, 493-
Read all about
YOUR Heart of Oklahoma football teams.
Please see Bond, page 6A
The 1.5” that was recorded here Sunday night, coupled with the 1.2” that fell Wednesday morning, brings the year-to-date rainfall total to 37.8”. So far this year Oklahoma City has officially
measured 28.04”. The normal year-to-date total is 30.89”. The storm Sunday produced at least 16 tornadoes in the state and several places got hail damage including Norman, again.
Chili cook off See where your chili recipe
stacks up with your neighbors.
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Purcell, 1 Gig Internet is now available! Save big on fast & reliable Internet. suddenlink.com
Please see Malone, page 10A Find it...
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Wired connection up to 940 Mbps. Speeds, prices & availability vary by area.
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Ponca City’s Po-Hi Steppers paraded a grand Old Glory as their tribute to Veterans Saturday. The talented group recently won a National Championship in the Nationall American Dance/Drill Team Competition. See more photos on page 2.
Po-Hi Steppers unfurl Old Glory Carol Conner
5 questions with Julie Malone Editor’s note: Answering The Purcell Register’s five questions this week is Wayne Elementary School principal Julie Malone. Q: What is the best part of being an elementary principal? A: The kids. They are the best part of my job. Greeting students in the morning is my favorite part of the day. They don’t know a hug or smile from them is often the best part of my day. One day in the cafeteria, ketchup was served with lunch, and kids just love to give cafeteria hugs. I ended up with a ketchup handprint on the back of my white sweater. I never did wear that sweater again, but it was worth it. Working with an invested group of teachers and support
Opinion.................4A Society..................6A Sports...................1B Obituaries...........10A Classifieds..........11B
Veterans Day
BARNSDALL
Washington junior Abby Wood goes for a ballduringWashington’s 10-0 win over North RockCreekHighSchool in the State finals. The Warriors were crowned the Class 3A State champions.
Traffic flow
November 11th November 19th Near Total Lunar Eclipse
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Laying out
Please see State, page 2B
November 11, 2021
11th New Hope Food Truck, 12-1 PM, New Hope Church 14th Listening session, Sacred Heart Catholic Church 10:00 a.m. 16th FMFI Board Meeting, 6 PM, 160 N. Main Sweet Home Baptist Church Services 1st and 3rd Sundays 3 PM. Monday-Friday, Seniors 55+ Drive Through Lunch, 11 AM-12:30 PM, ON Elder Nutrition Center
Greg Gaston • double g images
It was about as dominating a perforperfor mance as can be drawn up. In three games in the State tournament Washington pitcher Maggie Place and the Warrior defense allowed zero runs and seven hits. Place struck out 19 batters during the span. Washington took run-rule wins
Bosse denied
T he F airFax ChieF
Serving the United States of America is a long tradition – starting with those who fought for freedom back in the Revolutionary War. We were reminded of that Saturday, when one lone man dressed in a revolutionary war uniform paraded
Darian Mahan, Cobie Rickner, Claire Norrell and Miranda Williams took the opportunity for a group selfie while waiting for the Chandler High School graduation ceremonies to begin Friday evening at Joe Telford Stadium. After missing last year’s graduation due to COVID-19, Chandler had almost perfect weather and celebrated this year’s graduates with a festive atmosphere and a fireworks show. See our graduation section inside this week’s edition for more photos and information on graduates from all high schools in the area. Photo/Brian Blansett
Local arrest in Capitol incursion MIKE McCORMICK Staff Writer A 25-year-old Chandler resident was arrested this week by the Federal Bureau of Investigation for allegedly participating in the incident on Jan. 6 of this year where hundreds of people stormed the U.S. Capitol. Federal court records show that on Monday of this week the FBI executed a warrant for the arrest of Tanner Bryce Sells. A source said the arrest by the FBI occurred in Chandler after Sells was reportedly stopped by an Oklahoma Highway Patrol Trooper. Public records show the warrant was executed and returned. An FBI agent says in a Statement of Facts “there is probable cause to believe that Tanner Bryce Sells violated the U.S. Code which makes it a crime
And the Class of 2034
Sarah McFadden
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VETERANS
Courtesy Photo | NATE FOLGER
kids from COVID
Carol Conner T he F airFax ChieF
Carol Conner T he FairFax ChieF
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YOUNG READERS
The pre-schoolers at East Side Elementary School got into the end-of-school spirit with the school’s annual rodeo last week. They had stick horse races, roping and rocking horse bronc riding and threw flying disks made to look like cow pies. Above, some of the wranglers give their thirsty stick horses a drink from the hands of teacher Kathy Shupe. For more photos, see Page 4A. Photo/Brian Blansett
Wilson said in his proclamation announcing Armistice Day, “To us in America, the reflections of Armistice Day will be filled with solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the country’s service and with gratitude for the victory, both because of the
Now for young readers Vaccines guard
Area Sales Tax Collection for October 2021
Carney: Valedictorian and salutatorian
See Page 2A
war didn’t officially end until the Treaty of Versailles was signed on June 28, 1919, fighting stopped when there was a temporary cessation of hostilities – known as an Armistice. That happened on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month. After passing a bill to honor WWI veterans, President
Woodland Seniors and their families were honored at last Friday’s football game. Greg, Jamie and Mary Louise Jordan; Paige Hadlock, Gunnar and William Gates; Misty Hayes, Levi and Luke Bernard; Dustin and Cassidi Potts, Vanessa, Wyatt and Jessica Asher; Daniel, Lainy and Cathy LeForce; Sammy Cagle, Regan Lockert and Kristi Metzger; Frank, Jacob and Sara Brackett; Bree, Will and Ben Lockett, Marcy and Andy Graham; Leslie Williams, Lucian and Jason McKinney.
Barnsdall Bartlesville Burbank Fairfax Hominy Kaw City Pawhuska Pawnee Ponca City Ralston Shidler Skiatook
See Page 3A
Officials at Carney High School have named the top two graduates for the 2021 graduating class. Sarah McFadden was named Valedictorian and Sara Mayes is the Salutatorian. They were honored at
down Grand in Ponca City. Ponca’s Veterans’ Day parade was bigger and better than ever. There were fighter jets flying overhead, tanks on the streets, and even veterans from World War II! The idea of honoring those who serve in the military didn’t begin until after World War I. Even though that
The horrors of Osage 1920’s history told in Killers of the Flower Moon by David Grann is now available in an edition for readers 10 and up. The conspiracy and murders of Osages have been called “one of history’s most ruthless and shocking crimes.”The discovery of oil and the fact that Osages kept their mineral rights made them among the wealthiest people in the world. But that wealth brought out greed and jealousy. Tribal members began to die – at first quietly, then by gunshot, then by blowing up a house! Anyone who tried to figure out what was going on wound up in the same condition as the targeted tribal members – dead. Osage tribal officials eventually were able
to (1) knowingly enter or remain in any restricted building or grounds without lawful authority to do so. “And (2) knowingly and with intent to impede or disrupt the orderly conduct of Government business or official functions, engage in disorderly or disruptive conduct in or within proximity to any restricted building or grounds when, or so that, such conduct impedes or disrupts the orderly conduct of Government business or official functions.” He goes on to state “or attempts or conspires to do so.” The agent further states “that there is probable cause to believe Sells violated the U.S. Code which makes it a crime to willfully and knowingly utter loud, threatening or abusive language, or engage in disorderly or disruptive
2021 23,325 1,884,179 628 34,147 62,438 7,678 206,678 67,815 1,439,188 1,737 5,527 402,783
2020 18,099 1,579,191 507 21,929 47,203 6,755 117,529 63,856 1,212,435 1,895 4,064 339,044
2019 20,833 1,652,367 515 16,285 46,161 3,799 116,475 37,549 1,125,371 1,985 4,599 319,997
2018 17,453 1,635,282 617 16,934 47,548 4,236 106,250 55,578 1,129,447 2,371 6,110 299,336
Can you believe that the vaccine to protect the world from the deadly coronavirus is now available to kids as young as 5? Starting way back in early 2020, the invisible coronavirus began reshaping the whole world into a frightening place where no one and no place was safe from illness and possible death. The solutions at that time, knowing that you could just breathe the virus in, were to avoid as much contact with others as possible, clean obsessively, and basically stay home! But with scientists around the world working fulltime to save humanity, vaccines were developed, approved, and shot into arms as early as last December. When we were grieving the loss of people from the deadly COVID-19 virus last year, the victims were our friends and family who had no opportunity to protect themselves with a simple shot in the arm. But thanks to the miracles of modern medicine and science, the ability to protect ourselves began. Those most at risk – our beloved elders, those with lots of health issues – began to be protected, so we had fewer and fewer deaths. Nursing home residents here in Oklahoma began getting the vaccine in late December. Since then, thousands of adults have had the opportunity to get immunized. Just a few short weeks ago, the vaccines were approved for kids 12 and up. Then we got the thrilling news that a booster would improve the odds of survival for those over 65 or immunocompromised. But now, with a recent surge due that saw many children getting ill – now even our precious young children can get the life-saving vaccine. Dr. Donna Tyungu, a pediatric infectious disease specialist with Oklahoma Children’s Hospital – OU Health was quoted in the Tulsa World as saying, “Children are not supposed to pass away. COVID is now one of the 10 leading
Nearly every surrounding city saw an increase in sales tax for the month of October with the exception of Ralston, who showed a slight decrease.
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VACCINE
BURBANK 18th First Baptist Church of Burbank Annual Community Thanksgiving Meal, 6 PM, Burbank Alumni Building
HOMINY AA Big Book Meeting, every Tuesday and Thursday, 8 PM, 510 Friends Road Monday-Friday, Senior Citizens Lunch 11:30 AM12 PM, Drive-Through and Call Ahead Orders, Senior Citizens Center
PAWHUSKA 11th Pawhuska Public Schools Veterans Day Car Parade, 10 AM, begins at High School Softball Field 11th AA Meeting every Thursday, 7:30-8:30 PM, 1228 S Pecan Ave. (918) 440-9646 COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic, Wah-Zha-Zhi Health Center, 7:45 AM - 4 PM, Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays by appointment only, 918-287-9300 Monday-Friday, Senior Citizens Lunch, 12 PM, Call Ahead Orders at ON Elder Nutrition Center
PONCA CITY 13th Holiday Craft Fair, 8 AM-4 PM, RecPlex 19th Holiday Market, 10 AM-3 PM, Pioneer Technology Center 20th PetSense Adoption Event, 2-5 PM, 2129 N. 14th Street
Brittney Payette Student Life Editor
Cameron University hosted an Empowering Women in Leadership and STEM Conference at 5:30 p.m. on March 3 in the McCasland Ballroom. The keynote speaker was Shelby Morris, an Oklahoma native who works as an Employee Learning Facilitator at Oklahoma State University. Morris introduced the Clifton StrengthsFinder test to the attendees, which uses 177 questions to determine people’s top five strengths. The test, according to Morris, helps people learn more about themselves. “Instead of fixating on what’s wrong with people, let’s talk about what’s right with them,” Morris said. She then discussed how people’s innate talents affect their lives and how the StrengthsFinder test can help people realize their true potential. “They are not strengths until they are productively applied,” Morris said. Morris asked attendees to go around the ballroom to find other people who share some of the same top five strengths results, and discuss it within their found groups. “We want to focus on what we’re good at and build on that, and look at our potential,” Morris said. “We are at our best when we are fully engaged and aware of our strengths.” She also asked people to find others that have different strengths and ask questions about their results. One of the people who attended the conference, Marketing Senior Kassi Coosewoon, talked about her Zoom group and their top StrengthsFinder talents. “I was in a diversified group,” said Coosewoon. “We all had a different top strength, but it was cool to see how many of my group members were surprised at their top five.” After the keynote speaker finished speaking, attendees went to get food and network with other people. Next, a discussion panel featuring women in leadership positions answered a variety of questions from the audience
EVENTS 1-3 1st Place 110 Points 2nd Place 80 Points 3rd Place 60 Points
EVENTS 4-8 1st Place 100 Points 2nd Place 70 Points 3rd Place 50 Points
Morren said her’s was her stepmother, and Leonard’s was her mother. Do also talked about how to react when someone does not feel heard. “We are moving in the right direction,” Do said. “To be heard, you need to be more assertive and make yourself visible.” Morren said she had to learn how to stop apologizing, and to hold her ground. Leonard said she tries to pace herself so that she does not get overwhelmed, by chunking responsibilities instead of trying to do everything at one time. Do said people must take things one step at a time, so that they are not overwhelmed. Some questions were prepared for the event in advance, but audience members were also permitted to ask their own questions. Questions ranged from “what inspires you?” to how each panelist deals with stress. The Empowering Women in Leadership and STEM event allowed people to network with others, learn more about themselves and speak with accomplished businesswomen.
PAWNEE
SAND SPRINGS 13th Exhibit with Photos of Country Stars from Oklahoma, 2 - 4 PM, Sand Springs Cultural & Historical Museum
TONKAWA 11th-14th Fall Musical: Legally Blonde, 7:30 PM, Kinzer Performing Arts Center
TULSA 11th Stargazing night, 7-9 PM, Tulsa Botanic Garden, 3900 Tulsa Botanic Drive
Community calendar sponsored by
Photos by Brittney Payette
It STEMs from greatness: Panelists for the “Women in Leadership and STEM” event included Oklahoma State University’s Shelby Morris, Lawton Public School Teacher Samantha Leonard and Cameron Assistant Professor Dr. Christian Morren. The panel also included senior manager Nam Do (not pictured), who spoke at the conference about identifying strengths and her inspiration throughout her career.
What’s Inside Free books and how to get them
Sara Mayes
The panelists consisted of OSU Employee Learning Facilitator Shelby Morris, Cameron Assistant Professor and Voice Area Coordinator Dr. Christian Morren, Lawton Public School Teacher Samantha Leonard, and Ernst and Young’s Senior Manager in financial accounting advisery services, Nam Do. Morren said that people should try “helping out others as you want others to help you in times of need.” Morren also said people should try to place themselves in other’s shoes, and to listen to what people say, because there are multiple sides to every story. Do emphasized the importance of communication, being a team player and focusing on what people can accomplish instead of what they cannot. “My only suggestion is to take one step forward and focus on that very next thing that you need to do,” Do said. “Focus on what you can control versus what you can’t.” Leonard said that she did not see herself as a virtual teacher when she was younger, but is glad that she can rely on her strengths — such as her creativity — to teach virtually during the COVID-19 pandemic. Having a baby changed her perspective on life and career path. “I definitely knew that I needed to have a stable career for my daughter,” Leonard said. “I felt like the most fulfilling and gratifying career that could make my life comfortable and happy is to be a teacher.” Morris said her inspiration was her husband,
13th Let’s Talk About it Book Series, Pigs in Heaven, 7 PM, Pawnee Bill and Ranch Museum COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic every other Saturday, 9 AM-12 PM, Pawnee COVID Center
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POINTS: Points in the first eight categories are awarded as follows. No points are awarded in categories 9 through 23.
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Voters in the Washington School District passed a massive $24.5 million school bond to meet the growth needs of the district
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Each division’s Sweepstakes winner, which is determined by the amount of points accumulated in the first eight categories, receives the Sequoyah Award – the highest honor in the contest.
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