The idea for Birthday Blessing Boxes was started after Rotarian Past President Kriston Maker brought up the project as an idea for her birthday month. With the boxes in mind, Rotary Club began researching what it would take to get a program underway.

“We started researching and realized that food pantries consist of necessities,” said Rotarian Tamara Holland. “Unfortunately a birthday cake is not a necessity and many children do not have cakes on their birthdays.”

Holland said this is not by fault of the parent or caregiver, but that when a family is in survival mode, a birthday cake becomes an extra and not a necessity.

The Rotary Club is asking the public for help in their project. They will be collecting non-perishable items for the birthday blessing boxes, and after building the boxes, they will be donated to the Tri City Hope Center.

Time is running out to make donations, however, as collections are only being accepted through tomorrow (Friday). You can donate at these Newcastle locations: Community Bank of Oklahoma, 2245 N. Main Street; The First National Bank & Trust, 1308 N. Main Street; Impact Nutrition, 2160 N. Main Street, Suite D; Legacy Bank, 509 N.W. 32nd Street; Newcastle Tag Agency, 697 N. Main Street, Suite B; Pioneer Coop, 901 N. Main Street.

Holland said, “We will build the boxes at our next meeting at 6 p.m., August 4 at the Newcastle Storm Shelter.”

For anyone who wants to help Newcastle Rotarians build birthday boxes, you can show up at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, August 4 at the Storm Shelter, 851 N. Carr Drive.

They need items donated such as canned frosting, boxed cake mixes, and lemon lime soda. She said fun extras can include candles, balloons, birthday napkins, noise makers, and sprinkles.

As Newcastle Public Schools prepares to welcome students back on August 6, Superintendent Dr. Cathy Walker has some important updates to share for the 2026-2027 school year.

A letter in this issue of the Newcastle

Pacer on page 8 outlines what to expect in regards to the following: • New state laws affecting the schools, including updated dismissal times for the Newcastle Early Childhood Center and Newcastle Elementary School.

• New members of the Newcastle Public Schools leadership team.

• Changes to district communication platforms.

• Updates to student technology practices.

• Information about the district’s Aug. 25 bond proposal.

• Back-to-school reminders and what families can expect in the weeks ahead.

Dr. Walker said please take a moment to read this letter so you’re informed and prepared for a successful start to the school year.

The Newcastle Pacer is also providing a 2026-27 Newcastle Public Schools calendar on page 8 which can be cut out and posted on your refrigerator or bulletin board.

It is finally coming to fruition. A ground breaking ceremony is planned for 9:30 a.m. tomorrow (Friday, July 31) at the corner of State Highway 62 and 16th Street for the new Chickasaw Nation Health Newcastle Medical Center.

The City of Newcastle has been working with the Chickasaw Nation for the past five years on planning for what is to come including infrastructure needs in the area.

At the recent Coffee with the City gathering, Newcastle Mayor Karl Nail said, “You are going to start seeing this amazing dfacility rise out of the ground.”

He said when it is built and you are driving south on Main Street, “There will be a wow factor.”

He noted that it will be under construction for the next 12 years in three phases.

“They will spend a little more than a billion dollars on phase 1,” Nail said. “If all goes right with Phase 1, they’ll be planning Phase 2 during the earlier construction, and then roll right into construction with Phase 2.”

The hospital and a clinic structure will be part of Phase 1, and then additional clinic structures will be built later on. Nail said there will be about 50 rooms at first, but then there will be about 150 rooms when all phases are complete.

He said Phase 1 will include a pharmacy with drive-thru lanes built on the northwest corner of the property.

Newcastle has been working towards the start of construction for some time, but possibly no amount of planning can have us totally prepared, according to the mayor.

“When they start construction, they’ll have 600 to 800 people working on that site every single day for the next 12 years,” Nail said. “They’ll need places to stay and places to eat.”

When construction is completed on the facility, Nail said there will be people from all over the country coming to Newcastle to get their health services in either Ada, Durant, Tahlequah or Newcastle.

He said the existing facilities are some of the finest native hospitals in the country, but they won’t hold a candle to this facility.

“They will be offering services that other Native Amercian facilities in the country do not offer,” Nail said. “They know there will be people from all over the country coming here for semi-annual checkups, for scans, catheterization procedures, obstetrics/gynecology needs, and dental work.”

Nail said they, and their families, will be coming to Newcastle for up to a week at a time.

“They anticipate birthing 10-20 babies at that facility every single day,” Nail said. “Families, grandmas and grandpas, will be coming and needing services in Newcastle, as well.”

The mayor said major developers have been anticipating dirt moving on the project, and once they see it turn, there will be interest from all over the country.

As City planning has been ongoing, one of the goals by the City Council is to keep Newcastle as Newcastle.

Nail said, “We don’t want to become any other community’s replica.”

They do anticipate commercial development such ancillary business to the hospital and have been working towards generating revenue.

“This is a great opportunity to get some more sales tax generators to maybe tip the scales on residents versus commercial. Maybe build up that commercial when we have been so residential in the past,” Nail said. “We are doing everything we can to set Newcastle up to be attractive to commercial developers.”

Among side issues the City and the Chickasaw Nation have been working on are water agreements. Since the Chickasaw Nation is a sovereign nation, they are treated by the City just like Tuttle or Goldsby is treated concerning water usage.

Nail said they will have a service availability contract where their highest usage gallons of water during the year, such as during the summer months, will be what they buy from Newcastle every month.

The City has to pay for the highest usage it has when it purchases water from Oklahoma City, so this will be passed on to the Chickasaw Nation and will protect Newcastle residents from the facility’s water demand.

The City has been, and continues to be, working on better water capacity in the area. This is not just for the hospital, but also for the nearby residential areas.

The City of Newcastle is also working on roads projects to better accommodate travel to and from the area of the facility and around Newcastle.

Regardless, to help meet their need, the school system needs applicants to apply.

You can also apply if your children are homeless, migrant or runaway. If you believe your children meet any of these descriptions, contact David Morrow, 405-3874880, or email dmorrow@bridgecreek.k12.ok.us.

There are children who are already qualified to get free or reduced-price meals. They include children in households receiving benefits from Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations, or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families.

Children who are foster children and under the care of a foster care agency or court are eligible for free meals. Children participating in their school’s Head Start program are eligible for free meals. And, children who are in households that fall within the limits on the Federal Income Eligibility Guidelines may also receive either free or reduced-price meals.

The Federal Income Eligibility Guidelines Chart for the 2027 school year indicates that a household of one child can qualify if the total yearly income is $29,526 or less. A household of two children qualifies if total yearly income is $40,034 or less.

A household of three can qualify with an income of $50,542. For the income chart, contact Bridge Creek Public Schools.

To apply, you can obtain a form by contacting Brenda Roberts or Lindsay Atkinson. Call 405-387-4880, ext. 4005, or email either broberts@bridgecreek. k12.ok.us, or latkinson@ br idgecreek.k12.ok.us. They can provide complete instructions on how to fill out the forms.

If your child gets free or reduced-price meals, they may also be able to apply through Medicaid or Sooner Care for free or low-cost health insurance.

As the son of an Air Force veteran, grandson of a World War II naval combat veteran, nephew of a Bat-tan Death March survivor and Japanese prisoner of war, and brother of a Vietnam era Air Force veteran, I know firsthand that our men and women in uniform make vast sacrifices every single day to defend our freedom and keep us safe.

Therefore, as a member of Congress, I have made it a priority of mine to serve those who serve us.

So, last week, I urged my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to join me in doing just that by voting in favor of the Fiscal Year 2027 National Defense Authorization Act, more commonly referred to as the NDAA.

During a time when the world is so dangerous, this legislation was a must-pass legislation, as it will provide our brave service members with everything they need to ensure they are prepared and ready to serve when called to action. Specifically, it authorizes the national defense funding needed to expand U.S. production capacity, restore depleted stockpiles, strengthen shipyards, grow the defense workforce here at home, and create thousands of skilled American jobs.

The NDAA restores peace through strength by improving our nuclear deterrence and missile defense, while at the same time accelerating technologies such as hypersonics, quantum computing, and autonomous resources, all of which are essential to deterring the evils around the world like China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea.

In addition to ensuring our men and women in uniform are provided with the capabilities they need to confront the dangerous threats our nation receives, it is also important to prioritize their quality-of-life. That’s why my friend, Armed Services Committee Chairman Mike Rogers, made sure to include a 5% -7% pay raise for all our selfless service members in this bill. Additionally, the bill improves military housing, education, childcare access, and more.

All of this being said, our troops deserve more than just promises. They deserve to see the Fiscal Year 2027 NDAA become law. They deserve better pay and they deserve to be provided with the resources they need to succeed.

I know that there really will never truly be enough we can do to repay those who have served us, both past and present. However, we must do all we can. That includes passing this legislation through the House this week. I for one know I will support our brave men and women of the Armed Services with my vote on the Floor, and I encourage my colleagues to do the same.

For producers, federal conservation programs are complex compared to straightforward transactions with equipment or seed vendors. Enrolling in a three-to-five-year federal contract requires extensive data logging, compliance reporting, and strict implementation guidelines.

Producers rely on U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) local offices, specifically the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), to help navigate these transitions. For many, the NRCS office is the only place to talk through complex challenges without facing a commercial conflict of interest.

Today, the roles that maintain this vital support structure are at risk, threatening to create a gap that could affect both the financial viability of producers and the ecological footprint of American agriculture.

A pattern of attrition has swept the state and nation, triggering bottleneck problems for producers. For example, Nebraska alone lost 89 positions statewide as total personnel plummeted from 407 to 318.

Operational support is projected to deteriorate even further. The USDA’s next fiscal budget is projected to cut approximately $700 million from NRCS technical assistance. This budgetary reduction will trigger an estimated 3,000 additional staff cuts nationwide, further stressing the system.

The defunding of these services is hitting producers at a difficult time; compounding the pressures of an already stressed agricultural economy where producers need every resource available to stay profitable.

To support producers and field offices in your community, call or write to your U.S. senators and representative to advocate that Congress allocates at least $1 billion in dedicated Conservation Technical Assistance (CTA) funding for 2027.

This level of CTA funding, similar to what was provided in 2022-2024, is essential for local offices to continue to hire, train, and retain the specialized professionals needed to guide producers through complex conservation challenges.

New technologies are designed to make life easier and more convenient. But with those innovations come new threats, especially in the age of artificial intelligence. What once required advanced software to fake voices, photos, videos and documents can now be fabricated in seconds on a smartphone. Here’s what you should know about AI-powered insurance fraud and how to protect yourself.

How AI Enables Modern Insurance Fraud Fraudsters are increasingly using AI to generate realistic but fake evidence. According to the AI Insurance Fraud Statistics 2026 report published by WasItAIGenerated:

• AI-generated fake receipts now make up 34% of AI-related fraud cases.

• Synthetic medical documents account for 28%.

• AI-generated damage photos represent 19%.

• Deepfake video evidence makes up 12%. These tools allow scammers to produce convincing but fraudulent materials that are increasingly hard to distinguish from legitimate documents.

Why Traditional Fraud Detection Systems Are Struggling

Traditional fraud detection systems rely heavily on pattern recognition and human review. But AI has changed the game. According to the same AI Insurance Fraud Statistics 2026 report, AI-generated documents often pass visual inspection because they mimic authentic formatting with incredible accuracy.

That means older detection methods built for a pre-AI world are no longer enough.

The Financial Impact on Consumers

Fraud affects everyone. According to Verisk’s 2026 State of Insurance Fraud Study, 69% of consumers believe insurance fraud increases premiums for all policyholders.

The WasItAIGenerated analysis also finds that annual insurance fraud losses now exceed $308 billion, with AI-assisted fraud rising sharply year over year. Every fraudulent claim, AI-generated or not, ultimately contributes to higher rates.

How the Insurance Industry Is Responding

Insurers are rapidly integrating new tools to counter AI-powered fraud. According to Verisk’s fraud study, 98% of insurers say AI is fueling digital fraud and are investing in advanced detection tools, such as:

• Image forensics systems

• Deepfake detection technology

• Document authenticity scoring Regulators are responding as well. For example, the Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) shares fraud and scam information with other states and vice versa to help spot these issues early and prosecute criminals.

How to Protect Yourself From AI-Related Fraud

You can take preventive steps to avoid becoming a victim of AI-assisted scams:

• Be skeptical. If you receive unexpected communication claiming to be from an insurer, verify it through an official phone number or website.

• Verify all documents. If a medical form, repair estimate, or receipt looks odd, question it.

• Never alter claim photos. Even small edits to enhance may trigger fraud alerts.

• Keep original documents and receipts.

• Report suspicious activity immediately. New technology is giving fraudsters increasingly powerful tools, making fraud more difficult to spot. But insurers and regulators are fighting back with advanced detection technology and enhanced enforcement. The most important tool you have is awareness. Understanding how AIdriven fraud works can help you avoid becoming a target.

If you have questions or need assistance, OID is here to help. Contact us at 800-522-0071 or www.oid.ok.gov.

Sample ballots are now available for the August 25 election. Sample ballots are provided on this page, but voters can also download a sample ballot using the State Election Board OK Voter Portal at Oklahoma.gov/elections/ ovp or pick up a copy at the McClain County Election Board during normal business hours.

McClain County Election Board Secretary, Jenifer Howry, reminds voters that sample ballots are specific to each person.

Howry said, “If the OK Voter Portal indicates that you have no sample ballots available, it means you are not eligible to vote in an upcoming election. We recommend checking in the OK Voter Portal to make sure you have an election before heading to the polls.”

Howry said sample ballots will also be posted outside every precinct polling place on Election Day, so voters can review them before casting their votes.

The McClain County Election Board is located at 121 N. 2nd Avenue and is open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. For questions, please contact the Election Board at 405-527-3121 or Mcclaincounty@elections. ok.gov.

Absentee ballots are available to all registered voters, provided they are eligible to vote in the election requested. No excuse is needed to vote by absentee ballot.

The deadline for requesting an absentee ballot is 5 p.m. Monday, August 10, 2026. Voters can submit a request using the OK Voter Portal at oklahoma.gov/elections/ovp. Request forms are also available at oklahoma.gov/elections and at the McClain County Election Board office located at 121 N Avenue, Purcell.

Howry reminds voters to allow time for an absentee ballot to be received, completed, and returned by mail to the County Election Board. “With some exceptions, all absentee ballot affidavits must be notarized before being returned. Voters should give themselves plenty of time to make sure all steps have been followed and that the ballot is returned on time in order to be counted,” Howry said.

Voters exempt from having an absentee ballot affidavit notarized include those who are physically incapacitated and those who care for physically incapacitated individuals that cannot be left alone.

Voters who request a “physically incapacitated” ballot must have the signature on their absentee ballot affidavit witnessed by two people.

Military personnel and residents living overseas, along with their spouses and dependents, are also eligible for certain allowances. Military personnel should contact the Voting Services Officer in their unit for an Absentee Ballot Applications from any United States military installation or United States Embassy or Consulate. Military personnel and overseas citizens who are already registered voters in Oklahoma may apply for absentee ballots using the OK Voter Portal at oklahoma.gov/elections/ovp.

Those who need to complete a new Voter Registration should apply through the Federal Voting Assistance Program at FVAP.gov.

All Completed absentee ballots must be in the hands of the County Election Board no later than 7 p.m. on Election Day.

Haley said that persons who are United States Citizens, residents of Oklahoma, and at least 17 ½ years old are eligible to apply for voter registration. However, you must be at least 18 years old to vote.

Applications must be received by the County Election Board or postmarked no later than midnight, July 31. Applications postmarked after that time will be accepted but will not be processed until after the August 25 Election. Applications may also be submitted to any motor vehicle agency that is also an official voter registration agency by the submission deadline.

Applicants will be notified in writing when their application has been processed. Approved voters will receive a Voter Identification Card in the mail. Some may receive a letter that explains the reason or reasons the application was not approved.

Howry said those who do not receive a response within 30 days of submitting their application should contact the County Election Board office immediately.

The McClain County Election Board reminds voters that applications must be approved by the County Election Board Secretary in order to vote.

Registered voters who have moved to McClain County from a different county or state will need to complete a new Voter Registration Application in order to be eligible for elections in McClain County.

If you have moved within the county and need to update your address, you may make changes online using the OK Voter Portal at oklahoma.gov/ elections/ovp or complete a Voter Registration Application.

Voter Registration Applications can be downloaded from the State Election Board website at oklahoma.gov/ elections. You may also complete a form at your County Election Board. Most post offices, tag agencies, and public libraries have applications available upon request.

The McClain County Election Board is located at 121 N. Second Avenue, Purcell and is open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. For questions, please contact the Election Board at 405-5273121 or mclciancounty@elections. ok.gov.

They are offering free dental care for children ages 17 and younger during their annual Back-to-School Dental Care Day.

The event will take place from 8 a.m. to noon on Monday, August 3 at 3290 N. Tri City Drive. Parents and guardians are encouraged to schedule an appointment as soon as possible by calling 405-213-1405.

All dental services provided during the event are free of charge for children ages 17 and under. Treatment will be limited to the services the dental team is able to provide during the event.

“Good oral health plays an important role in a child’s overall well-being and academic success,” said a Custom Dental spokesperson. “We are proud to give back to our community by helping local children start the school year with healthy smiles.”

Because appointment times are limited, reservations are required to ensure every child has the opportunity to be seen.

Ihope everyone is having a wonderful summer!

As we prepare for the start of a new school year, I wanted to share several important updates from across our district.

First, I am pleased to welcome several outstanding individuals to our leadership team. They are: Jackie Stewart, Elementary assistant principal; Mike Miller, facilities manager; Krista Cochran, THRIVE administrator; and Sheri Sereno, public information officer.

They have already made a positive impact and I know they will continue to do great things for our district and our students.

Going forward, several new state laws will directly impact our school day and school calendar.

Senate Bill 481 requires all students in prekindergarten through 5th grade to receive 40 minutes of recess each day, an increase of 20 minutes from previous requirements. To meet this mandate, the Board of Education approved adjusted dismissal times for the Early Childhood Center (ECC) and Elementary School. This extends the school day by 10 minutes for these campuses.

While we were able to reallocate 10 minutes within the existing instructional schedule, an additional 10 minutes were necessary to meet the new requirement.

Beginning this school year:

• ECC will dismiss at 3:50 p.m.

• Elementary School will dismiss at 4 p.m.

At this time, this adjustment is only for the current school year. If the Oklahoma State Department of Education does not allow recess time to count toward required instructional time, we will need to make additional adjustments to the school calendar next year.

HB 3151

House Bill 3151 will require our district to add seven additional instructional days beginning with the 2027–2028 school year. Before making those calendar decisions, I will be sending a survey to parents and staff to gather input on where those seven days should be added.

It is also important for our community to understand the financial impact of this mandate. Adding seven instructional days is projected to cost the district more than $1 million, including employee salaries, utilities, transportation, and child nutrition services.

HB 1276

House Bill 1276 makes Oklahoma’s bell-to-bell cell phone ban permanent.

SB 758

Additionally, Senate Bill 758, which was passed last year, eliminates the use of virtual learning days. Any school days canceled due to inclement weather must now be made up later in the school year.

We are continuing to work toward streamlining communication with our families with the goal of simplifying communication and reducing the number of platforms families need to monitor. This year we will primarily use:

• ParentSquare (ECC, Elementary, and Athletics)

• Minga (Secondary Schools)

• Google Email

• Infinite Campus School Messenger

• EKadence (THRIVE) The district has also updated its student technology practices. Beginning this school year, we will maintain a one-to-one Chromebook program only at the high school. All other campuses will utilize classroom sets of Chromebooks for instructional use during the school day.

Devices will not be sent home and students will not be permitted to bring personal devices from home for classroom use. Additional information regarding these changes will be shared in the coming days.

Aug. 25 Election

On the August 25 ballot, the district has a $15 million bond proposal. If approved, the bond would fund:

• A storm shelter for the 4th/5th Grade Center and Elementary School

• Additional classrooms for the Aviation Building

• New soccer locker rooms

• Track renovation and improvements • Expansion of the Transportation Department These projects would be completed while keeping the district’s sinking fund tax rate constant.

Over the next few weeks, you should be receiving information from your child’s school administrator regarding back-to-school events and important dates. You can also find information on our social media pages.

I am so excited about the new school year and look forward to welcoming back students on August 6.

It is a great day to be a Racer! Dr. Cathy Walker

Superintendent of Schools

IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF
MCCLAIN COUNTY
STATE OF OKLAHOMA

CASE NO. CS-26-184

MERRICK BANK
Plaintiff,
vs.
BRENDA C STJOHN aka BRENDA CAROL ST JOHN
Defendant

NOTICE BY PUBLICATION

THE STATE OF OKLAHOMA TO: BRENDA C STJOHN aka BRENDA CAROL ST JOHN

The Sheriff of MCCLAIN  County, Oklahoma, Greetings:

You will take notice that the Plaintiff, MERRICK BANK, filed its petition in the District Court of MCCLAIN County, Oklahoma, against the above-captioned Defendant, BRENDA C ST JOHN aka BRENDA CAROL STJOHN, seeking a money judgment against Defendant, BRENDA C ST JOHN aka BRENDA CAROL ST JOHN in the amount of $3142.30, and unless Defendant answers said petition on or before the 10th day of September, 2026, said petition will be taken as true and judgment will be rendered for Plaintiff for $3142.30.

Dated this 1st day of July, 2026.

COURT CLERK Kristel Gray
BY: Karen Weltmer
Court Clerk or Deputy Clerk

/s/ Stephen L. Bruce
Stephen L. Bruce, OBA #1241
Everette C. Altdoerffer, OBA #30006
Leah K. Clark, OBA #31819
Roger M. Coil, OBA #17002
Katelyn M. Conner, OBA #36601
Attorneys for Plaintiff
P.O. Box 808
Edmond, Oklahoma 73083-0808
(405) 330-4110
brucelaw@sbrucelaw.com

_____

No. 74
July 23, July 30, August 6, 2026
3 times

NOTICE BY PUBLICATION

IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF
MCCLAIN COUNTY
STATE OF OKLAHOMA

CASE NO. CJ-26-21

OU FEDERAL CREDIT UNION
Plaintiff,
vs.
JASON GLEN JONES
Defendant

THE STATE OF OKLAHOMA TO: JASON GLEN JONES

The Sheriff of MCCLAIN  County, Oklahoma, Greetings:

You will take notice that the Plaintiff, OU FEDERAL CREDIT UNION, filed its petition in the District Court of MCCLAIN County, Oklahoma, against the above-captioned Defendant, JASON GLEN JONES, seeking a money judgment on its first cause of action against Defendant, JASON GLEN JONES in the amount of $13934.94, together with post-judgment interest thereon at the contractual rate of 10.4900%, until paid; and all costs of this action including a reasonable attorney’s fee, and on its second cause of action against Defendant, JASON GLEN JONES in the amount of $5197.62, together with post-judgment interest thereon at the contractual rate of 17.4900%, until paid; and all costs of this action including a reasonable attorney’s fee and unless Defendant answers said petition on or before the 10 th day of September, 2026, said petition will be taken as true and judgment will be rendered for Plaintiff on its first cause of action for $13934.94, together with post-judgment interest thereon at the contractual rate of 10.4900%, until paid; and all costs of this action including a reasonable attorney’s fee, and on its second cause of action against Defendant, JASON GLEN JONES in the amount of $5197.62, together with post-judgment interest thereon at the contractual rate of 17.4900%, until paid; and all costs of this action including a reasonable attorney’s fee.

Dated this 1st day of July, 2026.

COURT CLERK Kristel Gray
BY: Karen Weltmer
Court Clerk or Deputy Clerk

s/ Stephen L. Bruce
Stephen L. Bruce, OBA #1241
Everette C. Altdoerffer, OBA #30006
Leah K. Clark, OBA #31819
Roger M. Coil, OBA #17002
Katelyn M. Conner, OBA #36601
Attorneys for Plaintiff
P.O. Box 808
Edmond, Oklahoma 73083-0808
(405) 330-4110 | brucelawsbrucelaw.com
_______
No. 76
July 30, August 6, August 13,
August 20, 2026
4 times

PROCLAMATION AND NOTICE OF ELECTION

Under and by virtue of Section 26, Article 10 of the Constitution and Title 70, Article XV, Oklahoma Statutes 2011, and other laws supplementary and amendatory thereto and a Resolution of the Board of Education of Independent School District Number 1 of McClain County, Oklahoma, adopted on the 26th day of May, 2026, an election is hereby called to be held in said School District on the 25th day of August, 2026, for the purpose of submitting to the registered qualified electors thereof the following proposition:

PROPOSITION

“Shall Independent School District Number 1 of McClain County, Oklahoma, incur an indebtedness by issuing its bonds in the sum of Fifteen Million Dollars ($15,000,000) to be issued in series with or without other funds to provide funds for the purpose of improving or acquiring school sites, constructing, repairing, remodeling and equipping school buildings, and acquiring school furniture, fixtures and equipment; or in the alternative to acquire all or a distinct portion of such property pursuant to a lease purchase arrangement; and levy and collect an annual tax, in addition to all other taxes, upon all the taxable property in such District sufficient to pay the interest on such bonds as it falls due and also to constitute a sinking fund for the payment of the principal thereof when due, said bonds to bear interest at not to exceed the rate of ten percentum (10%) per annum, payable semi-annually and to become due serially within five (5) years from their date?”

The voting devices used at said election shall set out the proposition as above set forth and shall also contain the words:

For the above proposition        YES

Against the above proposition        dNO

The polls shall be opened at seven o’clock a.m. and remain open continuously until and be closed at seven o’clock p.m.

That the number and location of the polling places for said election shall be the same as the regular precinct polling places as designated for statewide and local elections by the County Election Board; or combined as authorized by statute Title 26 O.S., Section 13A-101.  The persons who shall conduct said election shall be those officers designated by the County Election Board, which officers shall also act as counters and certify the election results as required by law.

That the specific projects for which at least seventy (70%) percent of the proceeds of the aforesaid Bonds shall be expended (or in the alternative to acquire all or a distinct portion of such property pursuant to a lease purchase arrangement) and the dollar amounts for each project shall be as follows:

Proposition

Construct, furnish, equip, and/or acquire improvements at Newcastle Elementary School to include but not be limited to: multi-classroom addition to include a storm shelter, restroom improvements in the 2nd grade and 3rd grade areas, and flooring improvements
    $5,730,000

Construct, furnish, equip, and/or acquire improvements at the Newcastle School District Track & Field Complex to include but not be limited to: track resurfacing, infield resurfacing, and site improvements
    $905,000

Construct, furnish, equip, and/or acquire improvements at Newcastle High School to include but not be limited to: classroom expansion for the aviation program
    $1,715,000

Construct, furnish, equip, and/or acquire improvements at Newcastle High School Racer Stadium to include but not be limited to: a new soccer locker room building to include restrooms and concessions    
    $5,405,000

Construct, furnish, equip, and/or acquire improvements at the Newcastle School District Transportation Facility to include but not be limited to: parking improvements
    $1,245,000

            Proposition Total                          $15,000,000

WITNESS our hands as President and Clerk of the above Board of Education and the seal of said School District this 26th day of May, 2026.

    /s/  Tiffany Elcyzyn
    President, Board
    of Education
(SEAL)

ATTEST:
    /s/  Valory Dalton
    Clerk, Board of Education
__________________

No. 77
July 30, August 6, 2026
2 times

IN THE DISTRICT COURT WITHIN AND FOR MCCLAIN COUNTY
STATE OF OKLAHOMA

CASE NO. CJ-25-219

U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION,
Plaintiff,

-vs-

MILLACENT MCGAUGH; TERRI SUMMERLIN; WESLEY MCGAUGH; OKLAHOMA HOUSING FINANCE AGENCY; SPOUSE, IF ANY, OF TERRI SUMMERLIN; OCCUPANT(S), IF ANY, OF THE PREMISES; 
Defendants.

NOTICE OF SALE

Attention: Defendants and all parties with interest in the listed real property
The McClain County Sheriff will sell the below-described real property to satisfy a judgment for the indicated action.

LOT ONE (1), IN BLOCK SIX (6), OF FINAL PLAT OF FOX HOLLOW PHASE 2, A PART OF THE NW/4 OF SECTION TWENTY-THREE (23), TOWNSHIP NINE (9) NORTH, RANGE FOUR (4) WEST, I.M., NEWCASTLE, MCCLAIN COUNTY, OKLAHOMA, ACCORDING TO THE RECORDED PLAT THEREOF.

Common Address: 201 Klare Ct, Newcastle, OK 73065
The property will be sold to the highest cash bidder at the public auction:

Time: 10:00 a.m.
Date: 15th day of September 2026
Place: McClain County Sheriff’s Office Room 121
Appraised real value:    $220,000.00

The sale adheres to the Special Writ of Execution and Order of Sale issued per the judgment in the District Court of McClain County, Oklahoma, in Case No. CJ-25-219, titled Plaintiff, v. MILLACENT MCGAUGH; TERRI SUMMERLIN; WESLEY MCGAUGH; OKLAHOMA HOUSING FINANCE AGENCY; SPOUSE, IF ANY, OF TERRI SUMMERLIN; OCCUPANT(S), IF ANY, OF THE PREMISES; all those holding or claiming any interest in the property.

/s/ Landy Offolter
Sheriff of McClain County

Sally E. Garrison, OBA #18709
Elizabeth A. Morehead, OBA #17673
Dalton Woodring, OBA #36492
The Mortgage Law Firm, PLLC
421 NW 13th Street, Suite 300
Oklahoma City, OK 73103
Telephone: (405) 246-0602
Facsimile: (405) 698-0007
Julie.Grooms@mtglawfirm.com    
Contact.OK@mtglawfirm.com    
Attorneys for Plaintiff
__________________
No. 78
July 30, 2026
1 time

Board of McClain County Commissioners met in regular session on Monday, July 20, 2026 at 8:15 a.m. in Room 111 of the McClain County Courthouse. Chairman Terry Daniel called the meeting to order and led the flag salute. County Clerk Rebekah Couch called the roll and those present were: Chairman Terry Daniel, Vice Chairman Glen Murray, and Richard Ward represented member Wilson Lyles in his absence.
Glen Murray moved to approve the minutes of the July 13, 2026 meeting, Richard Ward seconded. Vote Aye: Murray, Ward, Daniel. Motion carried.
Glen Murray moved, Richard Ward seconded to approve the following maintenance and operation claims. Vote Aye: Murray, Ward, Daniel. Motion carried.
CLAIMS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2025-2026 AS FOLLOWS:
General 2071, Auto Zone, 32.53, Parts & Supplies 2072, Valir Outpatient Clinics, 35.00, Service 2073, Elliotts Purcell Automotive, 472.99, Parts & Service 2074, Amazon, 612.41, Supplies 2075, Amazon, 47.00, Batteries 2076, Midcon Data Service, 24.42, Service 2077, Guaranty Abstract, 160500.00, Purchase Property 2078, Davison Fuels & Oil, 1555.09, Fuel;
Health 311, Willowbrook, 129532.34, Construction;
Highway 2012, Dolese Bros, 7503.54, Crusher Run 2013, K D Arnold Trucking, 11824.92, Contract Services 2014, Sun Coast Resources, 24906.47, Fuel;
Rural Fire-ST 270, Guaranty Abstract, 67500.00, Purchase Property;
Sheriff Federal Drug Forfeiture 5, Visa, 545.50, Lodging 6, McCraw, Shane P., 250.00, Meals 7, McCraw, Shane P., 250.00, Meals 8, McCraw, Shane P., 250.00, Meals 9, McCraw, Shane P., 250.00, Meals;
SR Cit-ST 479, Ben E Keith Lockbox, 3189.44, Supplies;
CLAIMS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2026-2027 AS FOLLOWS:
Eco Dev-ST 2, Trinity Climate Control, 760.50, Service & Installation;
Em Mgmt-ST 1, ImageNet Consulting, 95.83, Service 2, Public Service Co Of Oklahoma, 75.64, Service 3, WW Tire, 1728.81, Parts 4, Security Lock Service, 175.00, Locksmith 5, MyFleetCenter, 314.53, Service;
Fair Main-ST 1, KellPro, 468.00, Annual Service Fee;
General 25, ACCO-SIG, 60000.00, Property & Liability Coverage 26, Davison Fuels & Oil, 1458.36, Fuel 27, Midcon Data Service, 25.57, Service 28, Sysco, 3853.17, Supplies 29, Guaranty Abstract, 1505.00, Purchase Property 30, Quill, 172.99, Supplies 31, Grimsleys, 46.23, Supplies 32, Oklahoma Natural Gas, 53.34, Service 33, ODP Business Solutions, 180.83, Office Supplies 34, DataScout, 6147.07, Annual Subscription 35, Symmetry Energy Solutions, 1043.86, Natural Gas Commodity 36, Oklahoma Electric Cooperative, 5484.18, Service 37, Quill, 613.60, Supplies;
General Govt-ST 1, ACCO-SIG, 372824.00, Property & Liability Coverage;
Health 10, Oklahoma Natural Gas, 185.36, Service 11, Purcell Public Schools, 1914.75, Rent;
Highway 10, Bruckners Inc, 2415.60, Service 11, Centerline Supply, 259.00, Signs 12, Kirby Smith Machinery, 1063.00, Supplies 13, Local Government Testing Consortium, 75.00, Drug Testing 14, Noble Truck Repair And Sales, 952.05, Repair & Service 15, Warren CAT, 228.00, Service 16, Warren CAT, 2608.28, Service 17, Williams, Eva, 200.00, Contract Labor 18, Oklahoma Natural Gas, 204.83, Service 19, Trinitas Materials, 2921.21, Type B Mix 20, AEG Petroleum, 822.25, DEF 21, Oklahoma Natural Gas, 247.03, Service 22, Dolese Bros, 4525.77, Chips & Rock 23, Windstream, 109.27, Utilities;
Rental of County Property - Expo 3, James Supply And Rental, 28.00, Supplies 4, Oklahoma Natural Gas, 188.46, Service 5, Oklahoma Natural Gas, 252.03, Service;
Rural Fire-ST 3, AT&T, 283.78, Service 4, AT&T, 243.24, Service;
SR Cit-ST 4, Pioneer Telephone, 103.71, Service 5, Oklahoma Electric Cooperative, 170.32, Service 6, Oklahoma Electric Cooperative, 371.00, Service 7, Oklahoma Electric Cooperative, 754.00, Service;
Use-ST 1, BancFirst, 41579.16, Bond.
Glen Murray moved to approve Blanket Purchase Orders as on file in the County Clerk’s office, seconded by Richard Ward. Vote Aye: Murray, Ward, Daniel. Motion carried.
Glen Murray moved, Richard Ward seconded to approve of the following Transfers of Appropriations: Use-ST: $65,000.00 from 1301-1-2000-2005 into 1301-1-2000-4110. Vote Aye: Murray, Ward, Daniel. Motion carried.
Glen Murray moved, Richard Ward seconded to approve the Treasurer’s Financial Statement for the Resale Property Fund. Vote Aye: Murray, Ward, Daniel. Motion carried.
Glen Murray moved, Richard Ward seconded to approve of the mileage reimbursement rate to increase to .76 as of today. Vote Aye: Murray, Ward, Daniel. Motion carried.
Terry Daniel moved, Richard Ward seconded to approve the invoice from CEC for professional engineering services rendered for the Buffalo Creek project for District Three, in the amount of $61,787.77. Vote Aye: Murray, Ward, Daniel. Motion carried.
Glen Murray moved to approve the Transfer Form 240 for transferring funds for the Residual Balance of $24,609.98 between the Excess Resale and Resale, Richard Ward seconded. Vote Aye: Murray, Ward, Daniel. Motion carried
With no further business Glen Murray moved to adjourn at 8:39 a.m., Richard Ward seconded. Vote Aye: Murray, Ward, Daniel. Motion carried.

BOARD OF COUNTY
COMMISSIONERS
McCLAIN COUNTY, OKLAHOMA
Terry Daniel, Chairman
Glen Murray, Vice Chairman
Wilson Lyles, Member
Attest:
Rebekah Couch
County Clerk

____________
No. 79
July 30, 2026
1 time

PUBLIC NOTICE

WHEREAS, a Petition for Annexation of Additional Territory to be incorporated into Rural Water and Sewer District No. 9, McClain County, Oklahoma, has been duly filed with the McClain County Clerk by Tina Adkins (Gray Acres Foundry, LLC), petitioning that the Board of County Commissioners of McClain County annex the following described real property into said district, to-wit:

NE/4 and NW/4 of Section 21, Township 8 North, Range 3 West, McClain County, Oklahoma.
SE/4 NE/4 NW/4 NW/4 of Section 21, Township 8 North, Range 3 West, McClain County, Oklahoma.
NE/4 NE/4 NW/4 NW/4 of Section 21, Township 8 North, Range 3 West, McClain County, Oklahoma.
NE/4 NW/4 NW/4 of Section 21, Township 8 North, Range 3 West, McClain County, Oklahoma.
N/2 NE/4 NW/4 of Section 21, Township 8 North, Range 3 West, McClain County, Oklahoma.
E/2 NE/4 NW/4 NW/4 of Section 21, Township 8 North, Range 3 West, McClain County, Oklahoma.
W/2 NW/4 NW/4 NE/4 of Section 21, Township 8 North, Range 3 West, McClain County, Oklahoma.
N/2 S/2 N/2 SE/4 of Section 21, Township 8 North, Range 3 West, McClain County, Oklahoma.

NOW, THEREFORE, NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a public hearing on said Petition for Annexation of Additional Territory will be held on August 17, 2026, at 8:30 a.m., before the McClain County Board of County Commissioners at the McClain County Courthouse, located at 121 North 2nd Street, Purcell, Oklahoma. 
__________________

Alawsuit filed by Pike Off, OTA, Inc., seeks to stop the work by the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority (OTA) on the East-to-West Connector turnpike. They say the project is adversely impacting the Waters of the United States (WOTUS), and that the OTA divided up the overall project into 10 segments of projects in order to avoid federal permitting procedures.

If the project had not been divided up, Pike Off says it would have required OTA to file a more time-consuming federal Environmental Impact Statement. These can take up to two years or more.

They also state that federal agencies improperly approved the segments of projects, instead of imposing the guidelines that would have been required had the overall project been submitted as one.

In a statement to the Newcastle Pacer, the OTA says they are in compliance with all laws and are working on a response to the lawsuit.

The Pike Off lawsuit, filed on June 23, lists defendants as the OTA, United States Army Corps of Engineers-Tulsa Division, the Federal Highway Administration, the Department of the Interior-Bureau of Reclamation, and the United States Fish and Wildlife Service.

The lawsuit says that for federal rules and regulations, they believe the entire 30.5 miles of the East-to-West Connector Turnpike must be considered as a whole when it comes to environmentals.

The lawsuit states that OTA is required to obtain an individual permit on the entirety of the project, and that by dividing the project into two separate phases, each consisting of five separate segments — resulting in a total of 10 for the project — the OTA has avoided requirements for connected actions. The lawsuit further states that OTA has failed to provide the required information to demonstrate that each of the 10 segments is a single and complete project.

Pike Off is asking, through the lawsuit, to be granted a temporary restraining order, and permanent injunctive relief to prohibit OTA from continuing the project’s construction without first submitting to what they say is required permitting procedures and obtaining an Individual Section 404 permit.

They also state that an Environmental Impact Statement is required for the project by Federal Highway Administration regulations, but that OTA has not performed one.

Pike Off states that they believe the OTA has not completed theNationalEnvironmental PolicyActrequirementsbefore making their decisions, and the Waters of the United States have been impacted because they have already discharged fill material into WOTUS.

The lawsuit specifically names problem areas as the construction of two bridges across the Canadian River, and construction of temporary and permanent work roads across Lost Creek, a tributary of the Canadian River. They note that these are habitats of the Arkansas River Shiner and other endangered species, In filings made on July 14, Pike Off asks the court to determine what they say are several facts including that construction of the project constitutes the discharge of dredged or fill material into WOTUS, and because of this an Environmental Protection Agency Section 404 individual Permit is required.

They want the court to make a determination that the United States Army Corps of Engineers did not act in accordance with the law in approving the project under Nationwide Permit 14. An NWP 14 Permit is required for crossings of WOTUS associated with the construction of transportation projects.

Pike Off asks the court to determine that the project is a “major federal action,” requiring compliance with Federal Highway Administration and Army Corps of Engineers regulations including the preparation of a full Environmental Impact Statement.

Pike Off asks for the court to require OTA perform a Section 4(f) study, a requirement of the U.S. Department of Transportation Act of 1966 concerning wildlife or waterfowl areas.

Pike Off wants civil penalties imposed against the OTA, they want the court to award Pike Off its costs of the court actions including attorney’s fees, and any other relief.

The Oklahoma Turnpike Authority statement says, “OTA consults with several federal agencies for construction- related permitting. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers determines the permitting process and typically, federal 404 permits are evaluated based on where a project intersects with protected waters under the Clean Water Act. OTA reviews projects with these agencies early in the process and has followed the law and complied with all federal requests in permitting the work near these protected waterways.”

The OTA further states, “The Oklahoma Turnpike Authority takes seriously the need to protect the environment by following all federal and state laws, and strives to leave the area in better condition than when work began.

“OTA’s design calls for building what will become the state’s longest bridge with piers constructed outside of the South Canadian River’s boundaries. This is to proactively prevent impacts on the waterway in compliance with the federal Clean Water Act.

“The Authority has worked closely with the Corps of Engineers, the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, and other regulatory agencies, as required, throughout the design and environmental study process to ensure that this new east-west corridor is delivered to the highest standards and in compliance with all laws.

“OTA’s general counsel will review the filed litigation and work to prepare the appropriate response to address the allegations raised in the lawsuit.”

The OTA says in December, the OTA Board awarded the $97 million construction contract for the East-West Connector bridge over the South Canadian River in Mc-Clain and Cleveland counties. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers permit process was completed in December.

“OTA has included stringent environmental protection provisions in this construction contract,” they state.

The contractor began staging at the construction site in January, and work began in early February.

The project is approaching 30% completion.

A motion for extension of time to file an answer was requested by OTA and was granted by the Oklahoma Western District Court as unopposed on Thursday, July 16.

The first phase of the project has a budget of $75.3 million and will include construction of a diverging diamond interchange. The project is part of ongoing construction on the west side of the Toby Keith Expressway between I-44 and the Canadian River bridges. It includes realignment of the two-way frontage roads on both sides of I-44 between 24th Street and the 36th Street overpass, and new on and off ramps at NW 24th Street, providing increased access to the I-44/H.E. Bailey Turnpike for the community of Newcastle Motorists can expect to see construction starting later this year.

I-44 is expected to remain open during daytime construction, accommodating at least one lane of traffic in each direction.

Intermittent nighttime closures are expected and will be communicated ahead of time by the OTA.

This is the sixth project of the Toby Keith Expressway (East-to-West Connector) to be awarded for construction.

A Miss McClain County Pageant is planned and they need entries. Those wishing to enter must do so by Tuesday August 4.

The Pageant will be at the McClain County Farm and Home Building at 6 p.m. on Tuesday September 1.

Age Divisions (age as of September 1) include: Tiny Miss — 2 to 4 years old; Little Miss — 5 to 9 years old; Jr. Miss — 10 to 14 years old; Miss — 15 to 18 years old. Contestants must be residents of McClain County to enter.

Each age division is limited to six participants and these will be entered on a first come, first serve basis. Entry forms along with more requirements and information can be found on the fair website at www.mcclaincountyfair. com or on their page on Facebook @ mcclaincountyfair.

You can contact the Mc-Clain County Free Fair manager at 405-205-4732 or by email at mcclaincountyfair@gmail.com with additional questions.

Newcastle showed an increase from the same time the previous year by

Sales & Use Taxes

$20,220.26. Norman was up nearly $1.4 million while Blanchard was up nearly $62,000.

Noble showed an increase of nearly $53,000, and Purcell was up just more than $47,000 over 2025 business.

McClain County saw an increase of $28,508.

From that total, Newcastle had the most sales with Purcell following. Blanchard was third, and Lindsay came in after Blanchard. The municipality is just now beginning to collect taxes on Medical Marijuana sales.

Newcastle was returned $10,015.79 to its city coffers, but also collected $12,439.96 for the MMJ.

Purcell collected and was returned $12,289.06 to its city coffers from its sales. They collected another $8,278.98 for MMJ.

Blanchard was returned $2,800.24, and Lindsay was returned $18.35.

Blanchard collected $3,327.45 for the MMJ, and Lindsay did not collect anything for MMJ.

McClain County municipalities provided the State of Oklahoma the following in taxes: Purcell, $10,054.72; Newcastle, $10,052.89; Blanchard, $2,588.15; and Lindsay, $164.97.

The University of Central Oklahoma has announced the students named to its honor rolls, a distinction given to those who meet the highest academic standards.

Among those listed were six Newcastle residents on the President’s Honor Roll, and eight Newcastle residents on the Dean’s Honor Roll.

President’s Honor Roll students are: Jule Debow, Kaylee Mangus, Brianna Meeks, Emilee Lorraine Pinkston, Megan Leigh Price, and Courtney R. Sutton.

Dean’s Honor Roll studnets are: Morganne G. Bigham, David Edward Brantley, Megan E. Cicoria, Olivia Johnston, Jayden Aubrey Lassen, Kayla Marie Lingle, Makenzi Grace Maple, and Natalie Orr.

For the spring 2026 semester, 1,709 students were named to the President’s Honor Roll, an honor achieved by those who recorded a “straight-A” or 4.0 GPA.

In addition, 1,404 students were named to the Dean’s Honor Roll, a list of those who achieved a 3.5 GPA or better for the semester and no grade lower than a B.

To be eligible for the President’s or Dean’s lists, students must complete at least 12 hours of on-campus class credit for the semester.

UCO is creating transformative learning opportunities that foster student success. As Oklahoma’s largest metropolitan university, UCO provides high-quality, nationally recognized programs that are always evolving and adapting to the needs of students and the community.

2 locals on the University of North Dakota spring 2026 Dean’s List

Nearly 1,800 University of North Dakota (UND) students have been recognized for outstanding academic achievement by being named to the 2026 spring semester Dean’s List.

Listed among those are local students Cooper J. Coffman of Blanchard, and Samantha B. Samson of Newcastle.

The UND Dean’s List comprises students whose grade point average are in the top 15% of the enrollment in each of the University’s degree granting Colleges and Schools. A student must have completed no fewer than 12 semester hours of academic work for the semester, of which eight or more hours must be graded work rather than “satisfactory/unsatisfactory.”

Burchett on Missouri S&T Dean’s List

Missouri University of Science and Technology announces the names of students who made the Dean’s List for the spring 2026 semester.

Trey B. Burchett, a sophomore from Newcastle, made the list.

The Dean’s List recognizes undergraduate students who earned at least a 3.5 grade point average for the semester and passed all classes.

Missouri University of Science and Technology (Missouri S&T) is a STEM-focused research university of over 7,000 students located in Rolla, Missouri.

Perry brings more than 30 years of educational experience to the board, along with an understanding of Mid-America Technology Center’s mission and the communities it serves.

After a career in public education, she joined MATC in 2021 to launch the Business Office Assistant program, where she developed curriculum and built partnerships with local businesses to prepare students with the technical and professional skills needed for today’s workforce.

Throughout her career, Perry has been recognized for her commitment to student success, relationships, and educational excellence. Her transition from educator to board member reflects her continued dedication to supporting career and technology education and ensuring future generations of students have access to high-quality training and opportunities.

You can donate by calling 405-387-3232 or by emailing chamber@newcastleok.org.

This is a Newcastle Chamber of Commerce project, and it is their way of saying thank you to the educators who give to the students and the community.

They are accepting goodies for the baskets or monetary donations. All donors will be recognized on the chamber’s official donor list.

They’ll be collecting items through July 30. For more information, contact chamber@newcastleok.org.

The Oklahoma Institute for Child Advocacy (OICA) will celebrate our 10th Annual Heroes Ball on Saturday, July 25. This fundraising gala recognizes and celebrates Oklahoma’s champions for children, and we would be honored for you to join us for this very special evening which honors some of Oklahoma’s best champions for children.

This year, we are thrilled to present our Kate Barnard Lifetime Achievement Award posthumously to Clara Luper, and to the members of her Oklahoma City NAACP Youth Council for their peaceful protests that changed the nation.

The Katz Drug Store sit-in occurred in August 1958 with the mission to end segregation in Oklahoma City. That effort began a series of non-violent sit-ins across six years until Oklahoma City was no longer segregated. The movement spurred change nationwide.

Marilyn Luper, Joyce Henderson, and Joyce Jackson, who as youngsters participated in the sit-in, will participate in a discussion that will serve as the Heroes Ball’s keynote address. All the living members of the NAACP Youth Council have been invited so we can recognize their accomplishments.

Kate Barnard, for whom the award is named, was Oklahoma’s first female statewide elected official, serving as the Commissioner of Charities and Corrections. She is regarded as the foremost child advocate of her time.

The Jay Scott Brown Individual Advocate Award will go to Carmelita Skeeter, the CEO of Indian Health Care Resource Center of Tulsa (IHCRC). The award’s namesake, Jay Scott Brown, was an OICA Board Chairman who passed in 2022 following a career of service to the organization and other youth programs, including the Oklahoma Commission on Children and Youth.

Carmelita Skeeter began her career at IHCRC in 1976 when she helped survey residents to assess health needs of the local urban Indian population. She was hired as one of IHCRC’s original four employees, becoming CEO in 1989. Carmelita’s dedication to improve the lives for the First Americans’ population is the focus of her professional life over 50 years of service.

The Organizational Advocate Award will go to Pivot, A Turning Point for Youth, honoring their work on behalf of children who are homeless, disconnected, or otherwise at risk. Pivot has provided programs and services for the Oklahoma City community for more than 50 years, with a focus on youth services, counseling, educational and vocational services, prevention, intervention, and diversion services.

The Henry Bellmon Public Servant Award, named after the former Oklahoma Governor and U.S. Senator, will go to Oklahoma Labor Commissioner Leslie Osborn. Commissioner Osborn previously served in the Oklahoma House of Representatives for 10 years, becoming chair of the powerful Appropriations and Budget Committee. As Labor Commissioner, she protected child labor laws in Oklahoma and elevated social issues important to youth. Commissioner Osborn will term out of office in January 2027.

The Laura Boyd Public Servant Award will be presented to former U.S. Senator, the late Fred Harris. Former state Rep. Laura Boyd, Ph.D., served the Norman area from 1992 to 1998, when she became the first female nominated for governor by one of the primary political parties in Oklahoma. She owns and is the CEO of Policy and Performance Consultants, Inc. and is regarded as a national expert in improving the quality of life for children at risk.

Senator Harris served in the Oklahoma Senate before a distinguished career in the U.S. Senate. He ran for President of the United States in 1972 and 1976. A strong leader in the civil rights movement, Harris publicly supported desegregation and the rights of Indigenous Americans. Harris served as a board member for New Mexico Voices for Children, a counterpart organization to OICA, until his passing in 2024.

The Heroes Ball Masters of Ceremonies will be Haley Hetrick from News 9 and Joleen Chaney, current OICA Board Member and former anchor for KFOR Oklahoma’s News 4.

For more information about the ball and ticket information, go to: https://www.oica.org/events.

Drummond, Mazzei agree on many conservative goals but differ on governing philosophy, priorities and executive leadership

Oklahoma Republicans will choose August 25 between two candidates who agree on many conservative principles but offer different ideas about how state government should be led.

Attorney General Gentner Drummond and former state Sen. Mike Mazzei both support lower taxes, economic growth, public safety and conservative government. Their differences are less about ideology than governing philosophy, policy priorities and how aggressively the governor should use the office to shape state government.

With Republicans holding every statewide elected office and commanding large majorities in the Legislature, the GOP nominee will enter the November general election as the favorite.

Here’s how the candidates compare on several of the major issues that have defined the campaign.

Taxes and the size of government

Tax policy has been a central theme for both campaigns.

Mazzei has made reducing — and ultimately eliminating — Oklahoma’s individual income tax one of his signature proposals. He argues state government should become more efficient, reduce spending where possible and return more money to taxpayers.

Drummond also supports lowering the income tax but has generally framed tax relief alongside maintaining balanced budgets and preserving core state services. He has argued Oklahoma can continue reducing taxes while investing in priorities such as education, infrastructure and public safety.

The governor can recommend tax policy and include proposals in the executive budget, but any tax changes must be approved by the Legislature. Education

Both candidates support parental involvement in education but emphasize different priorities.

Mazzei has promoted expanding educational choice, including charter schools, virtual education and other options that give families greater flexibility. He has argued Oklahoma should encourage innovation while reducing barriers to educational alternatives.

Drummond has focused more heavily on strengthening public education while supporting accountability and parental rights. As attorney general, he has also played a prominent role in legal disputes involving public education, including litigation over the proposed religious charter school.

The governor proposes education funding, appoints members to several education boards and helps shape education policy, but Oklahoma’s public schools are overseen by the Legislature, the elected state superintendent and local school districts.

Economic development

Both candidates say Oklahoma should remain competitive in attracting new employers and investment.

Mazzei has emphasized reducing regulations, streamlining state government and creating what he describes as a stronger business climate to recruit employers and encourage private-sector growth.

Drummond has promoted economic development alongside investments in infrastructure, workforce development and public safety, arguing that stable government and strong public institutions also help attract long-term investment.

Governors play a significant role in recruiting businesses, proposing incentive packages and setting priorities for executive agencies, although many economic development incentives require legislative approval. Immigration and public safety

Public safety has been another major focus of the campaign.

Drummond has highlighted his record as attorney general, pointing to efforts targeting organized marijuana crime, drug trafficking and other criminal activity. His campaign argues that experience has prepared him to lead state government.

Mazzei has called for stronger enforcement of immigration laws, greater cooperation with federal immigration authorities and continued support for law enforcement. He has also argued state government should operate more efficiently while maintaining public safety.

The governor oversees the Oklahoma Department of Public Safety and appoints agency leaders, but criminal prosecutions generally remain the responsibility of district attorneys and the attorney general.

Executive leadership

The sharpest contrast between the candidates may be how they view the governor’s role.

Drummond has presented himself as an independent conservative willing to challenge both Democrats and fellow Republicans when he believes the law or public interest requires it. He frequently points to decisions he has made as attorney general that differed from other Republican officeholders.

Mazzei has campaigned as a conservative reformer who says Oklahoma needs a governor focused on restructuring state government, reducing bureaucracy and applying private-sector management principles to executive agencies.

While governors cannot enact laws on their own, they wield significant influence through executive appointments, veto authority, budget recommendations, agency oversight and the ability to shape the Legislature’s agenda.

More agreement than disagreement

Despite their differences, the candidates also share substantial common ground.

Both support lower taxes, conservative budgeting, economic growth, a strong energy sector and a limited role for state government. For Republican voters, the runoff presents a choice not between competing conservative ideologies, but between two different approaches to leading Oklahoma government over the next four years.

( EDITOR’S NOTE: Tim Allen is the managing editor of OK Politics Today and brings nearly four decades of experience at the center of Oklahoma state government, including 28 years at the State Treasurer’s Office. OK Politics Today is a news media publication committed to timely, accurate reporting on Oklahoma politics. They provide clear, reliable information in real time, straight from the Capitol. For more candidate profiles, go to https://okpoliticstoday.com.)

This collective achievement means the Pioneer Library System Foundation will donate bookstochildrenenrolled in WIC programs throughout Cleveland, McClain, and Pottawatomie Counties, which expanded access to books and helping build home libraries for local families.

Since May 1, thousands of participants of all ages have committed to daily learning, building habits that support literacy, curiosity, and personal growth.

From reading books and listening to audiobooks to attending library programs and exploring new skills, the community has demonstrated that learning takes many forms, and every minute counts.

While the program is nearing its end, there is still time for individuals to complete their personal challenge goals. Participants can continue logging minutes through August 15, including any past reading or learning they may not have yet recorded. Reaching the 1,000-point milestone unlocks completion prizes, which can be picked up at any PLS branch.

Even those who started late or fell behind are encouraged to finish strong. With retroactive logging available, participants can catch up on missed days and still experience the satisfaction of completing the challenge.

SLC not only celebrates individual achievement but also reinforces the importance of consistent learning habits. By dedicating just 20 minutes a day, participants help prevent the “summer slide,” maintaining academic skills and returning to school or daily routines with confidence.

Adults played a vital role in this year’s success, contributing minutes, modeling lifelong learning, and directly supporting the community goal.

Their participation underscores that learning is not limited by age and that collective effort can create meaningful impact. Participants who have reached prize milestones are encouraged to visit their local library soon to collect their rewards and celebrate their accomplishment with staff.

SLC remains open through August 15 and is free for all ages.

To log final minutes or learn more, visit pioneerlibrarysystem. org/summer-learning- challenge or access your account through the PLS Connect app.

Pioneer Library System (PLS) inspires innovation, engagement, and learning across 10 communities in Oklahoma’s Cleveland, Pottawatomie, and McClain counties. Through 12 library branches, Information Stations in rural communities, 24-Hour Libraries, and robust digital access, PLS provides welcoming spaces and resources to connect people to information, technology, and experiences supporting lifelong learning, workforce development, and community engagement.

PLS ensures equitable access to information, technology, lifelong-learning programs, maker tools, entertainment, and community experiences for people of all ages and backgrounds. A modern community hub, Pioneer Library System helps communities grow, thrive, and imagine what’s possible. Learn more at pioneerlibrarysystem. org.

The website states, “Newcastle is an Oklahoma City suburb located about 20 miles south off of Route 62 and I-44. The town of 13,001 people has a ton going for it across all quality of life metrics. The economy is super strong as the city ranks 8th for unemployment and 7th for incomes per the most recent Census data. Additionally, it’s one of the safest cities in the Sooner State per the most recent FBI data.

“The Newcastle Public Schools rank in the top 20% of Oklahoma school districts per several sources including Niche and PublicSchool-Review. And like most Oklahoma towns, there’s plenty to do outside. From TG Farm to Veteran’s Park there is something to do in town with the family.

“And you can stop in the Boomarang Diner anytime of the day for a burger, pancakes, or to see your neighbors.”

HomeSnacks ranked the top 10 as Jenks, Bixby, Edmond, Owasso, Verdigris, Mustang, Broken Arrow, Newcastle, Collinsville, and Yukon.