News

Gov. Kevin Stitt instructed the Oklahoma Department of Commerce to immediately halt the weatherization program administered by the Community Action Agency of Oklahoma City and Oklahoma and Canadian Counties Inc. (CAAOKC).

The action follows a forensic investigation that identified significant mismanagement and at least $663,000 in questioned or unallowable costs.

The governor also directed the Attorney General to investigate potential violations of state and federal law related to the misuse of funds.

“Taxpayer dollars are not a slush fund,” said Stitt.

El Reno American Legion Post 34 is coordinating the Memorial Day service that will be held Monday, May 25 at the El Reno Cemetery. 

Michael Pruitt, Post Commander, said the service will begin at 11 a.m., when he welcomes those attending.

Prayer will be offered and then the Pledge of Allegiance will be led by Mike Fussell. 

After about an hour in closed session, the El Reno City Council voted to adjourn without taking any action related to the resignation of City Manager Matt Sandidge. 

Last week, Sandidge announced he is leaving the city manager position. He has accepted a job in the private sector.

He said June 19 will be his last day to serve as manager here. 

Mayor Steve Jensen said council plans to name an interim city manager at its regular meeting, set for June 9. 

Floyd Mullens said his neighbors may have wondered what was happening at his home last Saturday, but he assures them, all is well. 

For the seventh consecutive year, Mullens hosted a barbecue in honor of Canadian County emergency responders. He and his wife, Toni, hosted the event at their home, 2401 E. Woodson. 

Ambulances, fire trucks, police and sheriff cars, all were parked at one time or another in front of the outdoor area where the food was served. Mullens said El Reno Public Schools provided tables and chairs for the event. 

For the past year, Canadian County Sheriff Chris West has had what could be described as a front row seat to history. 

In June, West will conclude a one-year term serving as president of the National Sheriffs Association.

It’s a role that has seen him travel back and forth from Oklahoma to Washington, D.C., more times than he can count.

Along the way, he’s visited with some of the nation’s top leaders, especially in the area of law enforcement and Homeland Security.

People gathered for prayer May 17 at the Centre Theatre as the nation rededicated itself to God.

Gatherings such as this were held across the nation as the United States approaches its 250th anniversary.

El Reno Scouts led the gathering in a flag salute as others offered prayers for healing in our nation.

Redlands Community College recently celebrated the Class of 2026 with the graduation of nearly 265 students during its spring commencement ceremony. Nursing graduates were honored during a pinning ceremony prior to commencement exercises.

“This graduating class exemplifies perseverance and academic excellence, setting a strong foundation for their future,” said Redlands President Jena Marr. 

The Center of Family Love in Okarche and the Oklahoma Knights of Columbus will host the 13th Annual Gift of Love Gala on Saturday, June 6 at 6 p.m. at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City.

This annual event will bring together community leaders, generous supporters, sponsors and friends of CFL for an evening dedicated to celebrating the lives and futures of individuals with developmental disabilities.

LAWSUITS

Cavalry SPV I LLC vs. Nicholas Spross IV and Nicholas J. Spross for $1,785.62 to pay a debt plus interest, costs and attorney fees.

Jefferson Capital Systems LLC vs. Dalton Lunski for $2,593.43 to pay a debt plus interest, costs and attorney fees.

Capital One N.A. vs. Buster Garcia for $2,563.00 to pay a debt plus interest and costs.

Capital One N.A. vs. Elijah Cummings for $8,840.88 to pay a debt plus interest and costs.

U.S. Bank N.A. vs. Elizabeth Rapoport for $8,731.73 to pay a debt plus interest, costs and attorney fees.

El Reno High School held its graduation Saturday with 240 seniors taking part in the ceremony.