2025: A Year in Review These were the lead stories in the 52 weeks of the Newcastle Pacer
January 2, 2025
• Newcastle 2024-25 Site Teachers of the Year were announced. They are Makensy Saldana at the Early Childhood Center, Tonya Walker at the Newcastle Elementary School, Glen Stallings at Newcastle Middle School, Jordan Heatly at Newcastle High School, and Krista Cochran at Thrive Learning Collaborative.
• A ribbon cutting ceremony is planned by Newcastle Public Schools to unveil the completed bond issue projects at Newcastle Middle School. The school system invites community members to take part in a celebration at 611 E. Fox Lane.
January 9, 2025
• Newcastle City Council members have adopted a Regional Safety Action Plan which has a goal of eliminating traffic deaths and serious injuries by the year 2050.
The Council approved a resolution at their December meeting which puts the plan in place. Long term, it is anticipated to not only save lives, but also to aid the City in a successful application for grant funding through the United States Department of Transportation SS4A (Safe Streets and Roads for All) program. January 16, 2025
• A Newcastle homeowner found themselves at odds with their neighbors as the number of animals on their property grew to more than was allowable for the size of their property.
Husband and wife Diego Murrieta and Angelica Gil had to seek a Use Permitted on Review from the City of Newcastle in order to comply with Code Enforcement regulations and to appease other area property owners.
After the couple took several steps, including reducing the number of their animals, the City Council has approved the UPOR for a confined horse stable and an allowance of 10 horses and seven steers.
January 23, 2025
• A 2022 bullying complaint by a Newcastle Middle School student filed with the Department of Justice has resulted in the school system taking numerous actions intended to help keep something like this from happening again.
During the regular Board of Education meeting January 14, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Cathy Walker provided a PowerPoint presentation which updated the board concerning the DOJ investigation. Because of privacy laws, the school was protective of disclosing any student information.
A statement from the schools said, “Newcastle Public Schools recently entered into a resolution agreement with the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division in response to a complaint made by a student concerning discrimination on the basis of sex, race or national origin. NPS cooperated fully with the DOJ in addressing the complaint and both the district and DOJ now consider the matter to be concluded.
• The City of Newcastle has taken another step toward opening up Main Street land for retail development. A 2023 purchase of the land south of Fox Lane and east of Main Street was made in anticipation of developing it and offering it for sale to retailers.
If successful, it will provide a new area for businesses, and in so doing will aid the city in providing items and services needed for continued growth.
January 30, 2025
• An announcement that work has been completed at Newcastle Middle School came with the fanfare of a ribbon cutting on January 8.
Project construction company Nabholz Corporation and designers MA+ Architects joined with Newcastle Public Schools officials in making the announcement.
The work, paid for from proceeds of the 2022 bond issue approved by Newcastle voters, included six new classrooms, two of which are safe rooms, new restrooms, and new water fountains.
February 6, 2025
• It’s not often that you attend a local business luncheon and hear the main speakers use the word “blessing” to describe something in which they’ve been involved.
Two area entities did just that as they described to those attending the Newcastle Chamber of Commerce luncheon on Tuesday, January 28 at the Library Community Center.
Both Carrie Koesler and Mindy Bellack described the emotion they felt as they were involved in giving back to those less fortunate in the community.
Carrie Koesler, who is in community outreach for OEC/OEC Fiber, was one of the main speakers, as was Mindy Bellack and her staff from Frontline Family Solutions. February 13, 2025
• Filing ended at 5 p.m. Wednesday, February 5 for the four Newcastle City Council seats that are coming up for election in April.
Incumbent Council members Karl Nail and Gene Reid filed unopposed for their seats and will continue serving. Nail, 58, represents Ward No. 4 and has been serving as mayor of Newcastle. Reid, 75, represents the Council Member at Large seat. He is a former mayor.
Filing for Council Member Ward No. 1 are Todd D. D’Amico, 54, and the incumbent, Kimberly Sutton, 51.
Two also filed for the Council Member Ward No. 3 seat. Incumbent Mike Fullerton, 59, and Jon Malcolm, 42, filed for the position.
• If you recently noticed an odor or bad taste to your water in Newcastle, it’s because the water at Lake Stanley Draper is turning over.
City Manager Kevin Self said the water being supplied to Newcastle by Oklahoma City, comes from Draper Lake, and his office was contacted by Oklahoma City YEAR IN REVIEW on page 2 regarding the foul odor and taste. Self said they told him this event happens approximately twice per year.
YEAR IN REVIEW: City working to get ready for Chickasaw Nation hospital
To help out, Oklahoma City has started a carbon treatment to alleviate the problems. He said the water is not harmful, although the odor, discoloration and taste may be unpleasant.
February 20, 2025
• Newcastle High School junior Connor Leader just won the Regional titles for two swimming events, and he’s preparing to compete at OSSAA Class 5A State.
He won first place in the 100 Yard Butterfly and the 100 Yard Breaststroke.
A Newcastle High School Athletics department spokesperson said Leader is an outstanding multi-sport athlete, and we are honored to have him competing not only at swimming but also in baseball. He stated that Leader is now a three-time State qualifier in swimming and also competed in State for baseball last season.
February 27, 2025
• McClain County Commissioners appointed Rebekah Couch to replace the retiring Pam Beller as County Clerk during their regular meeting February 3.
Couch was sworn in by Special Judge Lori Puckett.
March 6, 2025
• Construction work on State Highway 76 (Council Avenue) between State Highway 37 and State Highway 30 in Newcastle will impact traffic patterns in the area. The work is hoped to begin on March 10, but that date is not set in stone.
Regardless of the start, travelers on this stretch of road need to be ready for approximately 450 days of work that, when finished, will add shoulders in some areas and turn lanes at key intersections.
March 13, 2025
• Design is still underway on the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority East-West Connector turnpike going from Newcastle to Norman.
Mayor Karl Nail said the OTA was supposed to be at 60% in design completion on the project by now, but they are not quite there. He added that the OTA wants to get started on the bridge over the South Canadian River.
“They have been doing drilling work to determine what will accommodate the bridge structures, such as piers,” Nail said. “They are continuing to purchase property, and they have the OTA board’s blessing to look at eminent domain if necessary.”
Nail said the OTA doesn’t want to go that route, and continues to work closely with area landowners to reach agreements on purchasing the land.
March 20, 2025
• Changes, at least on paper, are underway for the property at 124 S. Main Street — also known as the corner of Fox Lane and Main Street in Newcastle. The property will soon be known as Town Center Plaza.
The City purchased the property recently and during a Council meeting on Monday, March 10 approved a preliminary plat for the land, as well as changed zoning from Community Commercial District to a Planned Unit Development (PUD). By doing so, the City Council will have more control over how Town Center Plaza will appear. They also approved additional platting and design services through FSB Engineering.
The City describes the project as a City of Newcastle Master Planned Development that will have a “cohesive overall design and aesthetic, both in structures and landscaping, and a pleasing and inviting commercial community.”
• While the end to this year’s season came two games earlier than they wished, the Newcastle Racer girls basketball team still had a great season.
The Racers were ousted from the State Tournament in the quarter-final game against Fort Gibson, 60-34. The Tigers moved on where they lost in the semi-finals to Douglass. Douglass would then lose to the State Champions, Lincoln Christian.
March 27, 2025
• Cold weather put the brakes on some trash service in Newcastle earlier this year. At the time, social media was abuzz with discussions about problems being experienced with the city’s service provider, Republic Services.
City Council members, during their March 10 meeting, addressed the problems and then sat down with Republic Services officials for a discussion and to ask about any contingency plan so the problem won’t happen again.
City Manager Kevin Self said there had been a lot of discussion regarding trash service, specifically trash pickup during the week that Newcastle had the snow and ice, and there were some unhappy residents.
Self said it was primarily ice on the ground that caused issues for Republic Services.
April 3, 2025
• A push to raise more money for scholarships for Newcastle High School seniors has been successful.
The Newcastle Chamber of Commerce held its Racers for Excellence Scholarship luncheon and Dessert Auction on Tuesday, March 25. It raised $6,500 — $2,000 more than in previous years.
The winner, however, is not the Chamber. It is the fortunate Newcastle High School seniors who are recipients of the scholarships being awarded.
A n application process is underway and the Chamber gives out annually at least four scholarships in the names of local residents Gene Reid, Patti Manness, Cindy Frizzell, and Mona Brite.
April 10, 2025
• The good news is that elections were held to determine who will represent the citizens of Newcastle on the Board of Education and on the City Council. The bad news is that barely more than 5% of the eligible voters in the area made the decision — going to the polls and casting their ballots.
Out of 8,947 registered voters in the City of Newcastle city limits, only 468 took part to determine the two council races. That is just over 5.2% of the electorate.
Out of 8,595 registered voters in the Newcastle Public Schools district, only 477 took part in the Newcastle School Board election. That is just over 5.5% of the electorate.
• Results from the Tuesday, April 1 city council and school board elections were validated by the McClain County Election Board on Friday.
In the Newcastle Board of Education Office No. 5 race, incumbent Jeremy Gilbertson held onto the seat against challenger James Orton, 373 to 104. For the Newcastle City Council member Ward 3 seat, incumbent Mike Fullerton beat Jon Malcolm, 353 to 110. In the council member Ward 1 seat race, Todd D’amico beat incumbent council member Kimberly Sutton, 265 to 203.
April 17, 2025
• If you were having Coffee with the City last week, you were given a preview of the topics for Mayor Karl Nail’s annual State of the City luncheon with the Newcastle Chamber of Commerce.
The luncheon will be from 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday at the Newcastle Library Community Room. Attendees can RSVP online at [email protected].
Nail, who helped City officials host the Coffee with the City, is also the featured presenter at the State of the City.
During the Coffee, Nail said, “We try to do things generationally here. We started out as community that didn’t have any money, and we didn’t have any sales tax, and we were a farming community. We became a bedroom community and we had people moving out here. We needed infrastructure, and we had no money to build it.”
Nail said Newcastle had a lot of two-inch and four-inch water lines, and was always playing catch up while also addressing the needs of not just current residents, but for those 20-40 years into the future.
He said when the City does projects, they take longer to get them done, and build bigger than what is needed currently, and maybe what is needed 10-15 years from now.
• The Newcastle School Board of Education voted to approve Ashley Riley as the new principal of the elementary school Tuesday night at its regularly scheduled board meeting. Riley replac- YEAR IN REVIEW on page 3 es Bridgett O’Conner who resigned in September.
YEAR IN REVIEW: Turnpike east-to-west bridge to open travel to Moore, Norman
Riley holds a Bachelor of Arts in Education and a Master of Education degree both from the University of Central Oklahoma. She has been a public educator for 21 years, during which time she spent 17 years as a classroom teacher and a curriculum facilitator. April 24, 2025
• Coach Mike Crossley, described as the man who bleeds Racer blue by the Newcastle Athletics Department, was among four other inductees into the 2025 Chickasaw Hall of Fame.
Chickasaw citizens gathered April 17 at the Hallie Brown Ford Fine Arts Center’s Ataloa Theatre at East Central University in Ada for the special hall of fame induction ceremony.
In their latest issue of the Chickasaw News, Crossley is described as a record-breaking coach with more than 1,898 career wins. His accomplishments include three Oklahoma 4A State Championships and 36 trips to the State tournament.
May 1, 2025
• Pryor Place Event Center was the site last Thursday as Newcastle Public Schools held its Celebration of Excellence and announced this year’s Teacher of the Year, Jordan Heatly.
The Newcastle High School Aviation Program instructor was representing as the high school site Teacher of the Year. He received the top honors from a field of the NPS Site Teachers of the Year. They included: Makensey Saldana, Early Childhood Center; Tonya Walker, Newcastle Elementary School; Glen Stallings, Newcastle Middle School; and Krista Cochran, Thrive Learning Collaborative.
• Approximately 90 people gathered at the Newcastle Library Community Center to network and hear Mayor Karl Nail discuss the State of the City.
Highlights of the speech included new information on the East-West Connector Turnpike, the Chickasaw Nation Medical Complex and infrastructure projects.
May 8, 2025
•Oklahoma Turnpike Authority spokespersons Terri Angiers, David Streb and Lisa Salim met with the Newcastle Pacer on Tuesday afternoon to discuss the projected timeline of the opening of the East-to-West Connector Turnpike from U.S. Interstate 44 in Newcastle to U.S. Interstate 35 in Norman.
By the end of 2027, the new bridge across the South Canadian River will be open and Newcastle residents will be able to drive from I-44 to I-35.
That doesn’t mean all the lanes and interchanges will be open, and probably not all of the build out will be complete, but travelers will be able to pay a toll and drive that section of the proposed East-to-West Connector.
With this in mind, OTA is looking at possibly completing one direction of the bridge first and opening it up with two lanes going either direction. This, they believe, will meet the projected timeline of opening by the end of 2027.
• The Racers won the Regional Tournament they hosted on May 2-3 and now head to the Area Tournament starting today.
Head Newcastle Coach Jarod King said, “We pitched the ball really well. Tyler Frazier and Kaden Longman both had double digit strikeouts. Frazier had a no-hitter and Longman only gave up three hits. Connor Leader and Lane Seaton didn’t give up a game either.”
King added that Seaton hit a home run in the first game, and then Jackson Schanuel hit one in the next game.
“We played pretty well. Hopefully we can keep it going,” the coach said.
Newcastle dominated Regionals with an 8-0 victory over Bishop McGuiness to open the tourney. They scored 14 runs and held Tecumseh to 0 in the second game, and then beat McGuiness again, 8-0, in the tournament finals.
May 15, 2025
• In the part of the April Newcastle City Council meeting where council members can bring up topics, Council member Marci White shared her concerns with a homeless camp. The property in question is located on the north side of State Highway 37, in a tree-filled area just north of Tri City Mart and west of True Sky Federal Credit Union.
The Newcastle Pacer originally reported on the site in January 2024, but the inhabitants at the time reportedly left. Now, apparently, there is a different person or persons living at the site.
White said this is not only an issue with a homeless person living there, but also the issue of fair treatment coming from the City’s Code Enforcement efforts.
“I don’t want to sound callous toward homeless people, but we need to hold everyone to the same standards,” she said.
“I don’t care if the property owner is okay with them being there,” White said. This property owner needs to be held to the same standard as other commercial property owners.”
• The Racers punched their ticket to the Oklahoma Secondary School Athletic Association Class 4A Baseball State Championship tournament by winning the Super Regionals.
Newcastle was pitted against the Weatherford Eagles in a best-of-three. The Racers were named Super Regionals Champions after winning game one, 7-0, and game two, 6-3. Game three was unnecessary. May 22, 2025
• Newcastle High School’s volleyball program will continue to thrive under the dynamic leadership of Coach Aubrie Floyd, school officials said.
The Newcastle Board of Education approved her hire as the new high school head volleyball coach at their May monthly meeting. Since joining Newcastle Public Schools in August 2022, Coach Floyd has brought her passion, dedication, and an impressive volleyball background to the middle school team, fostering both athletic skill and a love for the game.
• Newcastle High School announces the hiring of Tyrone Lewis as the new head coach of the Racer wrestling program. A decorated athlete, experienced leader, and passionate mentor, Coach Lewis brings a championship pedigree and a deep commitment to building up student-athletes on and off the mat.
• The Racers opened the 2025 OSSAA Class 4A State Tournament last Thursday with a quarterfinal win against Sallisaw, 6-5, but ended their season on a return visit at 1:30 p.m. Friday, losing to Tuttle, 12-5.
May 29, 2025
• Guernsey Engineers, Architects, Consultants just announced they were awarded “Best in Show” for their work inside Newcastle Fire Station 1 during the 2025 Oklahoma Interior Design Coalition awards competition.
A Guernsey spokesperson said, “With the city experiencing rapid growth, this new station was designed to meet increased demands — accommodating a larger crew and expanded engine capacity to serve both rural and residential areas.”
They said, even better, their project architect Maria Prado was on hand with the team to accept the award. They said it was a celebration of not just the design, but also the impact it will have on public safety and the community for years to come.
Newcastle Mayor Karl Nail said this project, as well as all upcoming City projects, are being built generationally.
June 5, 2025
• A luncheon to show appreciation to Newcastle-area veterans was planned by the Newcastle Chamber of Commerce for Tuesday, May 27 — one day after Memorial Day.
With Newcastle resident and veteran Alan Davenport emceeing the program, two special veterans were pointed out and all veterans attending were recognized to the applause of those attending.
Davenport said one of the veterans he wanted to recognize is 2011 Newcastle High School graduate Josh Wesnidge. He is a guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
A second veteran receiving special recognition was 101-year-old World War II veteran Lonnie DaVoult.
Davenport said DaVoult was first trained to be a mechanic and worked on Jeeps. He then got into a discussion with his division officer, and all of a sudden he was transferred to the Signal Corps where he was delivering messages driving between headquarters and the front lines.
There, DaVoult came across the Dacha Concentration Camp, which was liberated by the U.S. Army Signal Corps. He was a part of this rescue, Davenport said.
June 12, 2025
• Newcastle sisters Katelynne and Kaleigh Williams won the Oklahoma High School Fishing State Championship May 31 through June 1 out of Wolf Creek ramp on Grand Lake.
The girls, both sophomores at Newcastle High School, were sitting in second place after the first day of fishing with five fish weighing 18.41 pounds. They caught their biggest bass that day, weighing 4.78 pounds. On day two they had five fish weighing 15.73 pounds for a two-day tournament winning total of 34.14 pounds.
For their efforts, they were named Anglers of the Year, they were awarded scholarships to Murray State College for $16,000 each, and they qualifed to compete nationally.
• A tornado in Newcastle the afternoon of Tuesday, June 3 damaged a home south of Portland Avenue and S.E. 24th Street, and destroyed a barn at May Avenue between S.E. 24th and S.E. 32nd Streets.
YEAR IN REVIEW: PLS announces Newcastle Library getting $1.4 million upgrade
City of Newcastle Director of Information Technology Scott Hannan said there also was minor tree damage at S.E. 32nd Street and S. Pennsylvania Avenue near the South Canadian River.
June 19, 2025
• If a community-wide Rock, Paper, Scissors competition isn’t enough to pique your interest, know there also will be live music, vendors, food trucks, kids’ games, a large fireworks display, and more at the 2025 Newcastle Red, White & Blue Fest.
Newcastle Parks & Recreation Director Kyle Marks said this year’s Fest is scheduled to begin at 5 p.m. on Saturday, June 28. Getting underway at the same time is the aforementioned Rock, Paper, Scissors — but with a twist. Marks said anyone can play and those who join in will start with red, blue, silver or gold beads (supplied by the City). They’ll challenge others with the same bead color to a best two of three matches. The winner takes one bead from the loser.
Marks said, “If you run out, no worries. You can get more beads and keep playing.”
June 26, 2025
• As the City of Newcastle moved from one budget year to the next at its June Council meeting, residents of The Ridge housing addition were in attendance to ensure a drainage project would continue into fiscal year 2025-26.
Residents Fara Coffey and Tammy Kubier, who have talked with the City since at least meetings in 2022, appeared again during the public comments portion of the June City Council meeting. They were in attendance to ask about the City’s funding and relate new and ongoing problems with the drainage in the area.
The City had committed to working on drainage problems in Phase 2 of the development, but because of the cost of the work, determined it should be spread out in budget years. In the last two months, Newcastle and the state of Oklahoma have experienced record-breaking amounts of rainfall. Coffey and Kubier said drainage problems have continued in The Ridge, and because new houses continue to be built in the older portion of the addition, new flooding problems have arisen which are impacting the Phase 2 area.
• While its still in the planning process, Newcastle City Council members have approved changes to the Newcastle Public Library at an estimated cost of $1.4 million. The changes are being planned and paid for by Pioneer Library System.
During the June City Council meeting, held earlier this month, a new Master Plan was outlined with PLS reporting the $1.4 million upgrade to the facility.
July 3, 2025
• Newcastle’s Board of Education appointed local resident Ron Lock to the vacated Board 1 seat. He was publicly sworn in to the position at the board’s June 24 meeting.
Lock and his wife, Angela, have lived in Newcastle for the past 15 years. Lock is the father of four sons and he has five grandchildren.
• Head Football Coach Jeff Brickman will return to not only lead the Racers for the 2025 football season, but also will be the school district’s Athletic Director.
Newcastle Public Schools announced the appointment after the Tuesday, June 24 Board of Education meeting.
Brickman brings more than 20 years of experience in public education and a proven track record in athletic program development and leadership, according to the school district. He has served as a head high school football coach for more than a decade, and his coaching experience extends to boys and girls basketball, boys track, boys soccer, and boys golf. Brickman also held the position of Offensive Coordinator at Oklahoma Baptist University.
July 10, 2025
•Newcastle Public Schools’ policy on cell phones and wireless telecommunications devices has been changed to conform with a new State law. Students are now prohibited from using cell phones and electronic devices while on campus during school days.
The change has Board of Education President Tiffany Elcyzyn elated for the younger grades, but concerned for the high school.
The only exceptions to the rule, as outlined in the policy, are for emergency use where communication is needed for safety or urgent personal matters including medical emergencies, natural disasters or lockdowns to communicate with law enforcement or family, the monitoring of health issues such as glucose monitoring, and if a student with special needs uses their device for assistance for medical or technological purposes.
The Newcastle Schools’ policy states that students found to be using personal electronic devices for illegal purposes, violations of privacy, or to cheat on tests, will be subject to discipline and the device may be confiscated and then returned at the end of the day.
July 17, 2025
• Mid-America Technology Center (MATC) is asking voters in its district to approve a 3-mill increase to its building fund in an upcoming August 12 Special Election. The proposed increase would raise MATC’s millage rate from the current 1 mill to 4 mills — just one shy of the 5-mill maximum allowed by law.
If passed, the funds will be used strictly for capital improvements, specifically to begin building a campus to better serve the northern part of McClain County.
For property owners, the increase would result in a tax adjustment based on the assessed value of their property. For example: A $200,000 property would see an increase of approximately $66 per year.
July 24, 2025
• Mayor Karl Nail used his time at the recent Coffee with the City to provide another update on the turnpike work and the Chickasaw Nation hospital coming to Newcastle.
Nail, addressing attendees at the police station for the City’s quarterly event, said the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority would be starting on the bridge portion of the Eastto- West Connector turnpike east of Portland Avenue in December this year. The bridge will cross the South Canadian River. Nail said OTA has projected taking bids for this work in December, and then construction will begin in the first quarter of 2026. He said OTA’s opening date goal to be driving on this is September 2027.
He said the City has been busy relocating utilities and taking the opportunity to upgrade their facilities, spending a lot of money to address the expected future growth.
Nail said other City projects have been placed on the back burner because of the turnpike activities. He added that the City and OTA have a good partnership. Ultimately, he said, the turnpike will impact the safety of travelers getting in and out of the communities.
The Mayor said the City has been in constant communication with the Chickasaw Nation planners and designers about the new Indian hospital.
He reminded those attending the Coffee that the Chickasaw Nation is building the facility, and the Indian Health Services is staffing the facility. Because of this, the Chickasaws were working for months with their architects and designers, based on the amount of staffing.
Nail said while there are no major plans available right now, projections are for the facility to be 4.2 million square feet and have 5,500 employees. July 31, 2025
• The City of Newcastle’s annual Youth Fishing Derby made a splash with its firstever evening format this year, drawing more than 220 young anglers to the pond for an unforgettable night of fishing, fun, and friendly competition.
Originally postponed due to weather, the rescheduled derby still saw strong participation, with 370 kids pre-registered and an additional 98 registering on-site, for a total of 468 participants.
“Even with the heat, the turnout was amazing,” said Parks and Recreation Director Kyle Marks. “We loved seeing so many families come together to enjoy the evening and try something new.”
August 7, 2025
• With the hottest day of the summer so far in Oklahoma, protesters were at the Purcell Walmart attempting to put the heat on U.S. Congressman Tom Cole (R-CD4).
The mostly Democrat gathering at 10 a.m. Wednesday, July 30 was organized by the Congressional District 4 Democrat chair to protest several issues they feel are important and that they believe are not being heard by Rep. Cole.
The Congressman was in Purcell for a 10 a.m. Chamber of Commerce meeting at Sonny’s Cafe.
Sherrie McNall, McClain County Democrat Party vicechair, said, “It was hot and most of us were holding umbrellas and drinking a lot of water. We had several people join us from Norman, Pauls Valley and Ardmore. They lined the street going up to Sonny’s Cafe.”
She said these are all areas served by Cole. Many of those in attendance are members of the Tri City Women in Action group. They are a group of women who care about the current issues of the community, according to McNall. They meet at the Newcastle Library on the first Thursday of each month.
August 14, 2025
• Newcastle recently witnessed a heartwarming display of compassion as friends and local businesses stepped up to support resident Daman Akram, a stroke survivor facing daily challenges.
A year and a half ago, Daman endured a major stroke, followed by eight months of intensive rehabilitation and ongoing physical therapy. Despite these hurdles, Akram continues to work full-time as a Zoning Researcher for First American Commercial Due Diligence of Norman, exhibiting remarkable drive and a customer-service oriented personality that keeps him engaged with his company.
Jessica Millwee, manager of the local Great Clips, extended her support by providing Daman with a much-needed haircut.
• Gearing up for the next election cycle, Newcastle resident Mitchell Jacob is preparing to announce his candidacy for U.S. House Oklahoma District 4.
Jacob, a Democrat, said he will share his vision to build a better Oklahoma.
August 21, 2025
• Voters in eight area counties decisively voted down a permanent three mill increase to construct a north campus of Mid-America Technology Center in a special election Tuesday, August 12.
The measure failed 4,1671,378 (75.15% to 24.85%) from voters in McClain, Cleveland, Garvin, Grady, Murray, Pontotoc, Pottawatomie and Stephens counties — all of which have high school students who attend MATC.
Newcastle precincts voted down the measure 728-203.
• A space for four new establishments is well underway in Newcastle just south of Boomerang Diner on Main Street.
Mayor Karl Nail said the developer is ready to place utilities and do a final grade on the area. The City is hopeful for retail establishments which can provide for area residents and generate sales tax revenue.
Mayor Nail said the final plat was approved for the City’s land south of Fox Lane on Main Street. He said the City has sent information to the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality seeking permits.
The City will soon be placing utilities access for the land including water, sewer and road.
August 28, 2025
• McClain County voters will head to the polls on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, to decide whether to make permanent an existing halfcent county sales tax, split between two key areas: public safety and essential county services.
The special election, approved by the Board of County Commissioners during a July 9 meeting, includes two separate propositions: Proposition 1 asks voters to permanently extend threefourths of the existing halfcent sales tax (0.375%) for public safety purposes. This includes funding for the county sheriff’s department, emergency management services, rural fire departments, and related facilities or operations.
Proposition 2 would make the remaining one-fourth (0.125%) permanent to support essential county services, including 4-H programs, OSU extension services, senior centers, the county free fair, economic development, and public facilities.
Officials emphasize that no new taxes would be introduced — the vote is only to make portions of an existing tax permanent starting January 1, 2028.
September 4, 2025
• Over the last month, evidence of WNV activity has increased. Positive mosquito pools have been identified in many regions of Oklahoma.
Recently, OSDH’s Mosquito Surveillance Program has detected a positive WNV pool in McClain County, Oklahoma.
WNV spreads through the bite of an infected mosquito. In Oklahoma, WNV is primarily spread by the Culex mosquito, which feeds on infected birds and then spreads the virus when biting humans, horses, and some other mammals.
• With developers and builders continuing to show strong interest in Newcastle, the City Council continues to wrestle with decisions which can impact not only the business side of housing, but also the future expenses of the residents who purchase homes here.
Among recent agenda items presented by City staff, but which was not approved, is an ordinance which would provide for the use of plastic pipes in driveway culverts. These would replace the use of corrugated metal pipes. The Council’s agenda for their August meeting showed adoption of Ordinance 1001, which would have allowed the use of HPPE piping (polyethylene pressure pipe) under driveways for drainage. The ordinance indicated that they could be used as long as they are installed per manufacturers’ specifications.
September 11, 2025
• The City of Newcastle will mark the completion of its new wastewater treatment plant with a public grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony at noon on Friday, September 19, 2025. The event will take place at 1200 N.E. 16th Street in Newcastle, and is open to the public.
The $52 million facility is one of the largest infrastructure investments in the city’s history. It replaces an aging treatment system and is designed to serve the long-term needs of Newcastle’s growing population.
With a treatment capacity of 1.5 million gallons per day, the new plant provides a more reliable, efficient, and environmentally responsible solution to the City’s wastewater management.
September 18, 2025
• The City Council is moving forward on design and construction administration services for new tennis and pickleball courts at Newcastle’s Veterans Park.
The idea had been tossed around by the Council until their regular meeting Monday, September 8 when they approved a proposal from Copeland Design Collective for landscape architectural consulting services at a cost of $44,000.
City Manager Kevin Self said the courts would be a good addition to the park and would serve the city residents, as well as the school to use for practice.
• McClain County voters approved making an existing half-cent sales tax permanent during Tuesday’s election.
Unofficial election results, which will be certified on Friday, show that Proposition 1 was approved 999-836, and Proposition 2 was approved 1,002 to 848.
Proposition 1 was to make permanent three-fourths of the existing half-cent sales tax for public safety purposes. This includes funding for the county sheriff’s department, emergency management services, rural fire departments, and related facilities or operations.
Proposition 2 makes permanent the remaining one-fourth to support essential county services, including 4-H programs, OSU extension services, senior centers, the county free fair, economic development, and public facilities.
• “Newcastle is a city with vision, and I’m grateful for the chance to see it all firsthand,” said United States Senator James Lankford, after a visit here in late August.
The Senator met with city officials before taking a tour of Newcastle Fire Station 1 and the new Wastewater Treatment Facility.
“It was great to spend the afternoon with Newcastle city leaders and see firsthand the investments residents have made in public safety and utilities,” Lankford said. “As the metro continues to grow, Newcastle is clearly focused on maintaining its reputation as a top-notch place to live.”
September 25, 2025
• Two Newcastle dancers, Maddie Britton and Avyn Puckett, have been selected to join the cast of Tempus, the newest professional production from acclaimed choreographer Derek Piquette.
The show will make its premiere in Arizona this October.
Tempus is an innovative dance work choreographed and directed by Piquette, who is recognized internationally for his performances with Cirque du Soleil and appearances on “So You Think You Can Dance.” Tempus promises to deliver a powerful fusion of artistry, athleticism, and storytelling, exploring the passage of time through movement and music.
For Maddie and Avyn, both dedicated young dancers, being cast in Tempus represents an extraordinary milestone. They will share the stage with seasoned professional performers, bringing their own passion and artistry to a production that pushes the boundaries of contemporary dance.
• The Newcastle Police Department has received 15 new 800 MHz radios thanks to a $4,000 grant from Oklahoma Electric Cooperative’s Operation Round Up (ORU) program.
The new radios will significantly improve interagency communication, enhancing officer safety and public response capabilities.
October 2, 2025
• Superintendent of Schools Dr. Cathy Walker addressed the gathering at Newcastle’s Community room last week on Tuesday to talk about the growth and the resulting needs it creates for a school system.
YEAR IN REVIEW: Newcastle Schools‘firmly’in Class 5A with 2,596 students
Walker was in attendance to provide this year’s State of Newcastle Schools address. The annual luncheon, sponsored by Sooner State Bank, provides a venue for Newcastle- area residents and Chamber of Commerce members to hear how things are going at the public school system.
Walker said Newcastle Schools is now firmly in Class 5A with 2,596 total students, served by 767 staff members. She said the school is also well into the construction of projects and purchases from the $77,025,000 bond issue passed by district voters in August 2022.
She also said the high school graduated 190 seniors last year, had five valedictorians, and had 76 National Honor Society members. Seniors brought in $1,218,698 in scholarships. The high school also had athletes and teams who went to State “in about all of our activities last year,” she said.
• A new City of Newcastle wastewater treatment plant, different than the one Newcastle just opened, is being planned to serve the south side of Newcastle and the State Highway 9 growth area.
City leaders have been planning for the building of an MBR plant to serve existing businesses and expected new businesses and residential areas near SH-9 and State Highway 62. Their timeline is to have it in service within three-and-a-half to four years.
Mayor Karl Nail said the City has purchased 14 acres of land for the facility at a cost of $100,000. It is located at approximately 1005 S.E. 44th Street in Newcastle — just east of SH-62 on the north side of SH-9.
October 9, 2025
• Super Regionals is coming to Newcastle today and possibly Friday, if necessary. The Racers earned the opportunity to host Super Regionals by winning the Regional Tournament last week.
Newcastle beat Ardmore, 22-0, and moved forward in the tournament brackets to Play Bridge Creek, winning 18-0.
The Bobcats worked their way back to play Newcastle again in the finals, but the Racers again prevailed with a 7-6 victory to claim the Regional Championship.
Super Regionals is scheduled against Cache for 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. games on Thursday, and an if-necessary game at noon on Friday. The winner goes to State.
October 16, 2025
• Two triples by Baylee Tate help lead the Newcastle Racers Fastpitch team to the Super Regional Championship and another trip to the State Tournament.
Big wins by Newcastle at the Oklahoma Secondary Schools Athletic Association Regional Fastpitch Tournament placed the Racers in Super Regionals this week against Cache in a best of three tourney.
• A week of Newcastle High School Homecoming activities culminates tonight and tomorrow with celebratory activities including a high school dance, a parade, a community festival, crowning of Homecoming King and Queen and the football game.
After an assembly on Monday, a blood drive on Tuesday, and a Fields of Faith celebration on Wednesday, Newcastle High students will have their Homecoming Dance tonight (Thursday) at Racer arena. Tickets are required for entry.
The community can jump into the celebration at 10 a.m. Friday with the annual Homecoming Parade on Main Street.
October 23, 2025
• An election Tuesday, November 18 will ask Newcastle School District voters to either approve or disapprove a $10.7 million bond issue. The proposal is not expected to raise taxes on area property owners.
Instead, the passage would provide for several school district needs while maintaining the district’s current bonding capacity.
Zack Robinson, senior vice president with BOK and the district’s bond advisor, said the $10.7 million bond would target the same tax rate as recent years, allowing the school district to fund important projects while maintaining taxes at their historical levels. Robinson said since 2022, the District’s Sinking Fund tax rate (for bonds) has averaged around 36 mills, the same target for this bond. He also explained this bond would be paid off with the current $79 million bond that was passed in 2022.
• Newcastle native Brandon Blair got into music at about the age of three, listening to his parents blast 1990’s country and 1980’s pop through speakers that were four times his size.
The parents’ love of music translated into a love of his own, first with a Fisher-Price tape recorder and then with a personal computer utilizing Audacity software.
On November 5, Blair will release his second album, a new experimental Hip-Hop album titled, “There is Death for the Dogs.” He said it is a collaborative project with Canadian producer Slumcat.
•Blanchard sent Newcastle home from the State Playoffs early on Thursday after a 10-1 loss. The Lions went on to beat Tuttle 8-3, and then lost to Lone Grove, 2-0, in the State Finals.
The Racers finished their 2025 season as District, Regionals and Super Regionals Champions, as well as earning accolades of State Qualifer. Newcastle finished as number 7 in the State with a 29-8 overall record.
October 30, 2025
• Newcastle Public Schools’ encouragement of students to “See Something, Say Something,” when they see or hear threatening behavior or language recently paid off.
Students utilizing the school’s STOPit reporting software contacted the school about a student their own age who was off campus but posing threatening behavior.
At the same time, Newcastle Police Department was contacted by the First Baptist Church, and brought in to investigate the related complaint and take action before anything further could take place.
• Newcastle has a lot of challenges and is experiencing a lot of change. Mayor Karl Nail said people don’t always like change.
“There’s going to be a huge leap-frog change between the hospital and the turnpike extension, and I hope you all will embrace it because we can’t stop it,” Nail said.
His words came during last Thursday’s “Evening with the Mayor,” held at Newcastle Fire Station #1 and co-sponsored by the City of Newcastle and the Newcastle Chamber of Commerce.
Nail said area residents could let the changes coming frustrate them or upset them, but he added, “That won’t do anybody any good.”
He said, “Let’s make this the best that we can, and keep Newcastle, Newcastle. Don’t let this change us and change our community.”
November 6, 2025
• If you’ve found yourself having a difficult time putting food on the table, there’s help at the Tri-City Hope Center in Newcastle. On the other hand, if you’ve found yourself blessed with resources and you would like to help a good cause, there’s the Tri-City Hope Center.
The Hope Center is a ministry and the creation of its Director Shannon Kowals. For those in need, the Hope Center’s shelves are lined with food, clothing and household items, all either purchased or donated by the help of caring individuals. But that’s not all.
They have a biblical mission to aid others in the Mc-Clain and Grady County areas who need help.
“Even though we meet the physical needs of those struggling in our community, our main task is to spread and show the love of Jesus Christ,” Kowals says. “Our commission from the Bible is to spread His word to the ends of the earth. We are made to serve God.”
Connie Childers, a volunteer of six years at the Hope Center, said there has never been more of a need. She said especially right now — they are averaging about 148 families per week. Childers said they are getting about 5-10 new people a week who are in need of food, clothing and other items.
• Walkability is a newer concept that has become important for growing communities. Newcastle’s walkability is the topic for an interactive open house from 6-7:30 p.m. December 4 at the Newcastle Storm Shelter.
City leaders said participants will be able to help shape Newcastle’s walkable future when they attend.
November 13, 2025
• A few cents at a time, Newcastle residents are saving lives. Through Oklahoma Electric Cooperative’s Operation Round Up program, community donations have provided three new automated external defibrillators (AEDs) for the City of Newcastle, ensuring help is never far away in a cardiac emergency.
The $3,000 grant, funded entirely by OEC members who voluntarily round up their monthly electric bills to the nearest dollar, supplied new AED units for City Hall, the Newcastle Storm Shelter, and the Water Department. Two older but still functional AEDs will be relocated to the Street Department and the Water Treatment Plant, expanding coverage across more city facilities.
• Newcastle senior Cross Country runner Hadlee Mann was selected to run in the Oklahoma/Arkansas All-Star Cross Country Meet.
She’ll represent NHS and Oklahoma starting at 11:30 a.m. November 15 in Rogers, Arkansas.
Mann was named an All-State runner earlier this year, after having also been a record- setter for the Racers.
November 20, 2025
• The holiday season is about to shine a little brighter. Christmas in the Park returns to Veterans Park from 3-6 p.m. on Saturday, December 6, bringing an afternoon full of festive fun and family tradition.
City of Newcastle Parks & Recreation Director Kyle Marks said participants can enjoy free professional photos with Santa by Cashlie Joy Photography, meet his real reindeer, explore the North Pole Market for unique gifts and treats, and experience inflatables, real snow, and games for kids. Children can also take part in the Rotary Club Bike Giveaway by picking up a Christmas Passport at the Rotary Club of Newcastle booth. As they explore the North Pole Market, kids can visit participating vendors to collect stamps on their passport. Once all six stamps are collected, they’ll return the completed passport to the Rotary booth to be entered into the drawing.
• The Outpost Print and Ship Center in Newcastle not only hosted the Morning Mingle with the Newcastle Chamber of Commerce this month, but also made a big announcement.
They are currently at 2160 N. Main Suite C in Newcastle, but will be moving in February to a new location, about 50-100 feet away, according to owner Larry Kincaid. They are also planning a fiveyear anniversary celebration. These are hoped to take place in February 2026.
• Newcastle (8-3) opened football post-season play with a win in the first round of the State Playoffs against the Altus Bulldogs Friday night, spurred on by an “electric” home field crowd, according to Head Coach Jeff Brickman.
The Racers scored 21 points each in the first and second quarters while holding Altus to only seven a piece in the first and third. The 4214 score going into halftime was enough for the win, but the Racers would add another seven points in the third quarter for the game-winning total
of 49-14.
November 27, 2025
• Collin and Bayleygh Black of McClain County were honored with the Oklahoma Farm Bureau Young Farmers and Ranchers Achievement Award on Saturday, November 8, during the organization’s 84th annual meeting in Oklahoma City.
The Achievement Award recognizes Young Farmers and Ranchers who have excelled in their farming or ranching operation and have honed their leadership abilities through Farm Bureau and other activities and organizations.
Collin and Bayleygh are the owners of CB Cattle Company of Newcastle.
“Winning this award means a lot to us,” Black said. “We work really hard to do what we do and to keep things going, and it’s nice to be recognized for it.”
• Newcastle moved on to the OSSAA Class 5A Football State Semi-Finals after beating number two-ranked Pryor on Friday night. The win places the Racers (5-1, 9-3) in a game tomorrow (Friday) night against number oneranked Carl Albert (7-0, 12-0).
Newcastle traveled to Pryor for the 40-30 win, while Carl Albert beat McAlester, 55-0. The State Semi-Final game between Newcastle and Carl Albert will be at 7 p.m. at Norman North High School.
December 4, 2025
• Guinness World Records announced Wednesday that four-year-old Ozzy Pick, a French Mastiff/Bull Mastiff mixture, is the new record holder for the longest tongue on a living dog.
Ozzy is the pet of Angela and Jon Pick of Newcastle. He received a certificate from Guinness stating, “The longest tongue on a living dog is 19.89 cm (7.83”) and was achieved by Ozzy Pick (UA) in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA, on 12 September 2025.”
• A stiff wind and a tough Carl Albert football team, along with some Newcastle errors, combined to a 42-7 Racer loss in the State Semi-Finals Friday night.
Newcastle Head Coach Jeff Brickman said it was a cold and windy night and Carl Albert took advantage of having the wind with them in the first quarter, going up by 14 points while holding the Racers scoreless.
Newcastle had the wind in the second quarter, nabbing a touchdown of their own, according to Brickman, but with halftime nearing and the Racers with the wind at their backs, they outpunted their coverage. Carl Albert added another touchdown to make the score 21-7 going into halftime.
The Racers again had the wind in the third quarter, and had several opportunities to score, but to no avail, coming out of the third without additional points.
Carl Albert added two more fourth quarter touchdowns to end the game, 42-7. Newcastle ended the Racers’ 2025 season with a 9-4 overall record.
• Newcastle homeowners may experience an increase in their water bills in January 2026, depending on how much water they use.
After hearing City Manager Kevin Self explain that the current rates charged by Newcastle were not keeping up with the rate increases charged by Oklahoma City, the City Council in their November meeting unanimously approved a new four-tiered structure of charges based on use. The new structure increases rates when use increases and when Oklahoma City increases its rates charged to Newcastle.
The base rate will not increase for those residences who use 2,000 gallons or less. Other rates went from the following: 2,001 to 5,000 gallons, $5.65 to $6.15; 5,001 to 10,000 gallons, $6.65 to $7.15; 10,001 to 15,000 gallons, $7.65 to $8.15; and 15,000-plus gallons, $9.15.
December 11, 2025
• An Independent Audit Report on City of Newcastle business during the 2023-24 fiscal year came back with a “clean” opinion.
HBC Certified Public Accountants, represented by Chris Heim, provided the audit to the City during the November Council meeting, and said a “clean” opinion is the best a government entity can get.
He said the numbers provided by the City staff can be relied upon by the City Council and outside agencies.
Heim said the financial highlights included that the City’s net on cash basis increased by $2.8 million. Revenues increased by about $300,000 compared to the previous year.
• McClain County will soon be getting some 8,000 sq. ft. of new office space in order to free up space in the existing county courthouse to accommodate the needs of continued growth in Oklahoma’s third fastest growing county.
In their weekly meeting Monday, November 24 at the courthouse, county commissioners Wilson Lyles, Glen Murray and Terry Daniel voted to sell $4 million in bonds to construct new office space for the election board and various other offices of the county including the likes of detectives for the sheriff’s office and others as needed.
Funds to retire the bonds will come from the county’s monthly Use Tax revenues.
December 18, 2025
• Dr. Genevieve Craig, assistant principal at Newcastle High School, has been named the 2025-2026 High School Assistant Principal of the Year by the Oklahoma Association of Secondary School Principals (OASSP).
During her four years as NHS assistant principal, Dr. Craig has been instrumental in establishing consistent expectations, integrating restorative practices, and providing visible, accessible leadership throughout the building.
By cultivating a positive school culture grounded in restorative practices, Dr. Craig has modeled and trained students and staff in reflection, repair, and reintegration, emphasizing personal growth over punitive consequences.
December 25, 2025
• Access Oklahoma Program Manager Ladan Nelson provided an update to Newcastle City Council on the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority East-to-West Connector project. Much of the focus at the December 8 meeting was on the South Canadian River bridge project.
At the time of the City Council’s meeting, OTA had not awarded a contract for construction; however, the turnpike authority did so at their December 9 meeting.
OTA states that the first phase of the $97 million bridge project was awarded to to Crossland Construction Co. Inc.
They state this will be the longest bridge in Oklahoma at more than 1.25 miles long. Work will begin in early 2026 and is expected to be completed by late 2027.
• Fourteen Newcastle Racer football players were named to the All-District roster at the end of the 2025 football season. Among honorees was Kaden Longman who earned both Player of the year and Most Valuable Player.
•••• That was 2025, the Year in Review, as reported in the Newcastle Pacer.
