June 13, 2022
SWODA Press Release
Currently, all long-term care facilities are fully open to visitation. All common areas of the facilities are open with social distancing in place with screening and mask requirements. Here are a few tips to make your visit with residents go smoothly.
When wearing a mask, remember communication may be harder as residents may have hearing issues. It’s hard to listen when you can’t see mouths move. Be sure to speak up so residents can hear you. You may need to slip your mask down while at a safe distance to allow the resident you are visiting to see your face so they know who has come to visit.
Residents love to receive little gifts although the gift of your company is more than enough. Some suggested items are stationary, word search and other puzzle books ,puzzles and coloring books, flowers, lotions, soaps, candies, cookies, books, lap blankets, socks and wraps. Check with the facility if you want to bring items that all residents can enjoy.
The gift of your time is most welcomed. Even if you don’t have a loved one in the facility, they welcome visitors to come entertain residents. Can you sing, dance, or play a musical instrument? Your stage and a rapt audience await! Bingo callers are always needed, as are people who have a gift for teaching crafts or exercise classes.
The long-term ombudsman team are always looking for volunteers. If you have two hours a week to give to a long-term care facility, please give your area LTC Ombudsman Supervisor Cherrie Nutley a call at 580-562-5032.
Copyright 2022 Paragon Communications. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without permission.
Clinton Man Arrested for Meth Trafficking and Obstruction
November 14, 2024 42-year-old Anthony Reynolds of Clinton was arrested on Oct. 28 on charges of trafficking over 20 grams of methamphetamine and obstructing an officer.
Burns Flat Man Wanted on Multiple Rape Charges Arrested in Michigan, Says Oklahoma Highway Patrol
November 14, 2024 The Oklahoma Highway Patrol (OHP) announced last week the arrest of Eric Little Mchan, a 43-year-old man from Burns Flat, who was wanted in connection with multiple rape charges in Washita County.
Train Derails Near Lone Wolf; No Injuries Reported
November 14, 2024 Crews responded to a train derailment Wednesday near Lone Wolf in southwestern Oklahoma.
OSIDA to Explore Space Launch Feasibility and Unmanned Aircraft Systems Advancements in Western Oklahoma
November 13, 2024 The Oklahoma Space Industry Development Authority (OSIDA) is set to meet to discuss critical advancements that could position western Oklahoma as a hub for space launches and unmanned aircraft systems. The authority’s agenda includes
Elk City Named Among U.S. Favorite Towns by WorldAtlas
November 13, 2024 Elk City has earned a spot on an impressive list of U.S. towns, recently highlighted by WorldAtlas. This recognition places Elk City alongside other beloved Oklahoma towns, including Bartlesville, Durant, Tahlequah, Guthrie, Ponca City,
Child Neglect Arrest in Elk City Apartment
November 13, 2024 A child neglect case has emerged following an eviction at an Elk City apartment, with disturbing conditions leading to the arrest of two adults.
Elk City School Board Approves EMT Program
November 12, 2024 The Elk City School Board met Monday night for their regular monthly meeting and, among other things, approved a new program that Superintendent Mike Sparks says will give high school students an opportunity to
Lt. Gov. Matt Pinnell Tours Western Oklahoma for Route 66 Centennial Preparations
November 12, 2024 In preparation for the centennial celebration of Route 66, Oklahoma Lt. Governor Matt Pinnell has been busy visiting Western Oklahoma communities along the ‘Mother Road,’ gauging their needs and observing their preparations for the
Weatherford Man Charged with Soliciting Sexual Conduct with a Minor
November 12, 2024 A Weatherford man faces a felony charge of soliciting sexual conduct or communication with a minor via technology.
Recent Rains Ease Drought in Parts of Oklahoma, But Majority Still Impacted
November 11, 2024 Recent rains have certainly helped western and southwest Oklahoma’s drought status; however, more than 67 percent of Oklahoma remains in some degree of drought. According to the latest data released on Thursday by the
Latest Sales Tax Revenue for Local Cities Shows Mixed Results
November 11, 2024 Sales tax revenue figures for September 2024 reveal varied results across Western Oklahoma cities compared to the same month last year. Elk City led the gains with a 4% increase, amounting to $1,324,434.66, up
Preview: Elk City Board of Education Regular Meeting
November 11, 2024 On Monday, the Elk City Board of Education will hold its regular November meeting.
Reckless Driver Arrested in Beckham County with 47 Grams of Methamphetamine
November 8, 2024 More details have emerged about the woman arrested late last month in Beckham County after being found with illegal drugs during a traffic stop.
Clinton Man Charged with Sexual Battery While in Custer County Jail
November 8, 2024 A Clinton man faces charges of sexual battery while in custody at Custer County Jail.
Clinton City Council Approves Hospital Sale, Sets Special Election for Voter Approval
November 8, 2024 During a special meeting of the Clinton City Council on Thursday night, a letter of intent from Rural Hospital Solutions (RHS) was approved, allowing RHS to begin managing Clinton Regional Hospital on Monday.
Flood Watch Issued for Western Oklahoma as Heavy Rain Approaches
November 7, 2024 A flood watch is now in effect for several counties in western Oklahoma, including Beckham, Custer, Dewey, Ellis, Greer, Harmon, Jackson, Kiowa, Roger Mills, and Washita, extending through Friday evening. Heavy rainfall is forecasted
Elk City Man Charged with Second-Degree Burglary After Early Morning Break-In
November 7, 2024 A 52-year-old Elk City man is being held in the Beckham County Detention Center after being charged with second-degree burglary.
SW Oklahoma Organizations Received National Association of Development Organizations 2024 Impact Award
November 6, 2024 SWODA Press Release The Southwest Oklahoma Development Authority (SWODA) and the Southwest Oklahoma Regional Transportation Planning Organization (SORTPO) based in Burns Flat, Oklahoma, has received a 2024 Aliceann Wohlbruck Impact Award from the National
Multiple Sentences and Probations Issued in Childress County Court
November 6, 2024 On Thursday, October 24, 31 pleas took place in the 100th Judicial District Court in Childress County.
Oklahoma Election Day Results: Trump Dominates, Local Incumbents Retain Seats
November 6, 2024 Tuesday was Election Day across the country, and in Oklahoma, Republican Donald Trump maintained strong support, winning the state decisively with 66% of the vote. Locally, Trump’s backing surged even higher, receiving 75% of
SWOSU Announces 2024 Homecoming Court and Parade Float Winners
SWOSU Press Release Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) wrapped up this year’s Homecoming festivities on Saturday, Oct. 26, where Landry Freeman and Carlie McKinnon were crowned 2024 Homecoming King and Queen. The announcement took place during halftime
Enid Man Arrested for Child Endangerment, Driving Violations, and Marijuana Possession
November 5, 2024 An Enid man faces multiple charges after being arrested last month for child endangerment, operating a motor vehicle with a suspended driver’s license, possession of marijuana, and speeding.
Man Charged with First-Degree Murder in Connection with Elk City Fentanyl Death
November 5, 2024 A man from Elk City has been charged with first-degree murder following an overdose death. According to an affidavit filed in Beckham County, 36-year-old Jose Antonio Acevedo is accused of selling the deadly drugs
Sayre Couple Released on Bond After Facing Child Neglect Charges
November 4, 2024 A Sayre couple was recently released from the Beckham County Detention Center following charges of child neglect.
Beckham County Detention Center to Implement New Surveillance and Body Cams
November 4, 2024 The Beckham County Detention Center will be receiving upgraded surveillance equipment.
Election Preview: Western Oklahoma Voters Prepare for a Major Election Day
November 3, 2024 On November 5, 2024, voters will head to the polls for the General Election, deciding on high-stakes races and measures that span from local government seats to state and national issues. Early voting, which
Power Outage Affects 740 Beckham County Residents Due to Storms
Beckham County, Oklahoma — Severe storms have left 740 Beckham County residents without electricity, affecting approximately 6.7% of the county’s total customers. The outage, first reported earlier today, is expected to last as utility crews work to
WPLS and SWOSU Host Best-Selling Author James Patterson
November 1, 2024 SWOSU Press Release The Western Plains Library System (WPLS) and Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) hosted best-selling author James Patterson on Oct. 22, drawing a sold-out audience with all VIP Gold and Silver tickets
Miss SWOSU Scholarship Pageant Set for November 9
October 31, 2024 SWOSU Press Release Southwestern Oklahoma State University’s (SWOSU’s) annual Miss SWOSU Scholarship Pageant will take place on Saturday, Nov. 9, at the Weatherford Performing Arts Center. The event will begin at 7 p.m., bringing
Clinton Man Arrested on Assault and Battery Charges Following Domestic Dispute
October 31, 2024 Earlier this month, a Clinton man was arrested on assault and battery charges involving a household member. According to a probable cause affidavit, Clinton police responded to several disconnected 911 calls on Oct. 8.
Sheriff Offers Halloween Safety Tips
October 30, 2024 It’s Halloween, which means little ghosts, goblins, princesses, and maybe even a clown or two will be wandering the neighborhoods looking for treats. Beckham County Sheriff Derek Manning offers tips to help ensure you
Early Voting Info For Western Oklahoma
October 30, 2024 Early voting for the upcoming election begins this Wednesday, October 30, in Oklahoma, offering residents a chance to cast their ballots ahead of Election Day. Early voting runs through Saturday, November 2, in various
Medicare Open Enrollment Starts: Important Updates for 2025
October 28, 2024 Medicare Open Enrollment has kicked off. October 15th thru December 7th is when Beneficiaries can re-visit their current Drug plans and Supplements to make changes. 2025 brings several new changes and it’s more important
Teenage Officers, Members Added to National Honor Society
Elk City High School’s new honor society members have pledged their allegiance.
Reckless Driving Leads to Meth Discovery
October 28, 2024 A reckless driving case in Beckham County led to the discovery of methamphetamine.
Oklahoma Imposes Burn Ban in 44 Counties Amid Wildfire Risk
October 29, 2024 In response to the ongoing wildfire threat, Oklahoma officials have imposed a burn ban in 44 counties, including Greer, Harmon, Kiowa, Jackson, and Caddo. The ban, enforced by local fire marshals, prohibits all open
Virginia Fugitive Couple Arrested in Elk City Following Standoff
October 28, 2024 A Virginia couple, wanted on multiple charges including firearm possession and fugitive escape, were apprehended in Elk City on October 17, following a tense standoff involving local law enforcement and Troopers with the Oklahoma
Former “Home Improvement” Star Zachery Ty Bryan Arrested for DUI in Custer County
October 28, 2024 Zachery Ty Bryan, widely recognized for his role as Brad Taylor on the ’90s hit show “Home Improvement”, was taken into custody in Custer County on Friday on suspicion of driving under the influence.
Public Meeting on the Future of Transportation in Cheyenne
October 28, 2024 Residents and stakeholders are invited to participate in a public meeting on October 29, 2024, to contribute to the Forward 45 Regional Transportation Plan (RTP). Hosted by the Southwest Oklahoma Regional Transportation Planning Organization
Fatal Collision Near Reydon Claims Life of Local Man
October 28, 2024 A fatal accident occurred on Sunday night, October 27, 2024, approximately 10:09 p.m., roughly four miles south and three miles east of Reydon, Oklahoma, in Roger Mills County.
SWOSU Hosts Smithsonian’s Voices and Votes Exhibit
October 23, 2024 SWOSU Press Release Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) will host the Smithsonian Institution’s traveling exhibition, Voices and Votes: Democracy in America, beginning Oct. 26 at the Al Harris Library. This free exhibit opens during
OWRB To Host Meeting at Quartz Mountain
October 23, 2024 The Oklahoma Water Resources Board (OWRB) is set to continue its series of statewide meetings with water utility suppliers, regulated industries, commercial agricultural producers, and economic development groups. The fourth round of meetings kicks
Wellington Man Sentenced to Six Years Probation for Burglary in 100th Judicial District Court
October 23, 2024 Press Release On Monday, October 21, one plea took place in the 100th Judicial District Court, via the internet-based meeting app Zoom.
Clinton Man Arrested for Allegedly Stealing $4,250 Lawnmower
October 23, 2024 A Clinton man was recently arrested and charged with grand larceny after allegedly stealing a lawnmower.
Weatherford Man Arrested After Allegedly Stealing Go-Karts from Clinton Store
October 23, 2024 A Weatherford man was recently arrested and charged after allegedly stealing go-karts from a Clinton store.
Voters Reminded of Election Day Laws
October 23, 2024 With the November 5th Election approaching, County Election Board officials are reminding voters of Election Day laws.
Two Men Arrested in Clinton for Allegedly Threatening Juvenile with Assault Rifle
October 23, 2024 Two men were arrested on October 16 after allegedly threatening a juvenile with an assault rifle, according to the Clinton Police Department. Aldan Ray Whiteshirt and Lucious Eckiwaudah, both 21, were taken into custody
Moonlight Madness Returns to Downtown Elk City
October 23, 2024 The Elk City Chamber of Commerce is bringing back “Moonlight Madness” to downtown Elk City this Thursday, October 24th, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. This family-friendly event promises fun for all ages with
17-Year-Old Arrested for Stabbing Two Teenagers After Clinton Festival, Faces Attempted Murder Charge
October 22, 2024 A 17-year-old male was arrested on the evening of October 12 in Clinton, facing charges of assault and battery with a sharp object, and attempted murder, after allegedly stabbing two teenagers following a festival
Public Meeting on Forward 45 Regional Transportation Plan in Elk City
October 21, 2024 The Southwest Regional Transportation Planning Organization (SORTPO) invites the public to participate in a community meeting for the Forward 45 Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) tomorrow, October 22, 2024, at the Arrowhead Center, located at
