VFW Essay Contest winners announced

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December 26, 2025

VFW Post 539 recently announced the winners of the Voice of Democracy and Patriot Pen essay competitions. Congratulations to the following Okmulgee County students:

Voice of Democracy • 1st Place ($100): Mason Coxsey – Pittsburg High School

• 2nd Place ($75): Erin Chew – Henryetta High School

• 3rd Place ($50): Josie Cope – Preston High School — Patriot Pen

• 1st Place ($100): Molly Chew – Henryetta Middle School

• 2nd Place ($75): Jordan Yandell – Ryal School

• 3rd Place ($50): Kamrian Craig – Ryal School.

-The theme for both essays were “How do you show patriotism and support for our country?” Mason Coxsey also won first place for his Voice of Democracy essay at the VFW District 7 level, and Molly Chew won 2nd place for her Patriot Pen essay.

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HHS Unveils New Walker Cup Case

December 26, 2025

Henryetta High School recently unveiled its new Walker Cup Case, giving the iconic rivalry trophy a permanent home following Henryetta football victories over Morris in the annual matchup. The project...

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County District Court to hold warrant clearing event

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An opportunity to start 2026 off without the burden of an outstanding warrant on misdemeanors, traffic cases and fines and costs payment plans is being offered by the Okmulgee County District Court.On...

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A Year Defined by Grit, Growth and the Power of Community

December 26, 2025

Part 1- As the final days of the year fade into memory, Okmulgee County stands as it always has-rooted in tradition, strengthened by resilience, and shaped daily by the people who call it home.The pas...

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Fair checks available for pickup

December 26, 2025

OSU Extension has announced fair checks are now available for pickup at the office, located at 1901 N. Oklahoma Ave. at the Okmulgee County Fairgrounds. Please contact the OSU Extension Office at 9187...

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State prison population climbed

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As the Legislature enacted tougher sentencing laws, Oklahoma’s prison population increased for a third consecutive year in 2025.The Department of Corrections reported a population of 23,498 on Dec. 22...

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Beggs celebrates Jingle Bell Day

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Beggs truly rang in the holiday season in memorable fashion as Jingle Bell Day and the Beggs Christmas Parade transformed downtown into a scene straight out of a small-town Christmas postcard. With sm...

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GCTC Curriculum Director Visits Lions

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Lion of the Day Neesha Herring welcomed guest speaker Ryan Dunn, curriculum director at Green Country Technology Center, at the Dec. 19 meeting. Dunn shared updates on the school’s growing impact acro...

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• The Griffin Wholesale Grocer Company announced it would close its Henryetta branch on Jan. 1, 1926, consolidating all county operations into its Okmulgee house. President J.T. Griffin said improved ...

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3:35 a.m. - 1000 Block N. Collins Ave. - RP advised the camera in his living room detected movement, and someone had broken in through the gate and cut the lock.11:32 a.m. - Hwy 16 & Dentonville Rd. -...

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