News

El Reno artists have a new place to showcase their work with the opening of the Loud Cloud Community Art Gallery.

Sue Beard, who has spearheaded a number of public art projects in El Reno, is operating the gallery inside the Loud Cloud Dispensary, 1901 SW 27th St. The site was formerly the El Charro Mexican Restaurant.

Jose and Hugo Rodriquez are part of the family that operated the restaurant. They, along with partner Markus Gaines, opened the dispensary. Jose said the mission of the new operation is to “provide a service to the community.”

After five seasons, including four straight playoff appearances, Chuck Atchison will be handing over the keys to the El Reno High School football program – or at least a duplicate set.

The El Reno School Board voted last week to assign Atchison the duties as the district’s new Director of Operations, the position vacated on Dec. 13 by the retiring Wes Brower.

Atchison assumed his new duties on that day, said Superintendent Craig McVay.

Pete Stapperfend shakes hands with Municipal Judge Richard Lewis after being sworn in as the new Ward 2 City Council representative Tuesday night.

Stapperfend was elected in the Nov. 9 election and will serve a four-year term on the council.

Redlands Community College has named Dr. Todd Ecklund as vice president for Academic Affairs. He will oversee all academic programs and facilitate the development and implementation of new programs and courses.

“Redlands is very fortunate to have someone with Dr. Ecklund’s experience and educational background join our team. As an instructor and administrator, he brings valuable knowledge and ideas that will benefit our students and faculty,” said Redlands President Jack Bryant.

MUNICIPAL COURT

Tyler Reed McCalip, Oklahoma City, speeding, $165.

Lee Anna Wolftongue, El Reno, failure to appear warrant, $295.

Taylor Joseph Barks, Yukon, expired tag, $130.

Francis K. Hamilton, El Reno, dog at large, $145.

James Raymond Woodruff, El Reno, failure to obtain registration and title within 30 days of purchase, $130.

Ramiro Chavez Fuentes, Enid, speeding, $175.

Allen Brice-Montas, Port St. Lucie, Fla., speeding, $165.

Garrett Alan Vincent, El Reno, expired tag, $165.

Unlike the fierce debate over Oklahoma’s congressional redistricting map, state lawmakers approved new legislative redistricting plans last month with a near-unanimous bipartisan vote that received little fanfare.

Oklahoma City Indian Clinic offers these tips to keep safety in mind when giving Christmas gifts.

National Safe Toys and Gifts Month is observed every December to remind people of important safety guidelines when purchasing toys and gifts. These five important tips will help you give gifts that are both fun and safe this holiday season.

Make sure toys are appropriate for the age and skill level of the child

A partnership announced last week between Southwestern Oklahoma State University and Yukon Public Schools is not sitting well with Redlands Community College.

SWOSU, with its main campus in Weatherford, is partnering with Yukon Public Schools to create a College & Career Center to be housed in the Yukon district.  

Trinity Lutheran Church in El Reno hosted a Live Nativity on Friday and Saturday night.

Members of the parish acted out the roles depicted in the manger scene which Christians believe was where the Christ child was born more than 2,000 years ago. The colorful production included help from some live animals.