Of Dogs & Children

I am a dog lover and have three adorable rascals of pups. I’m also the first person in my friend group to say that having dogs is not the same as having kids. Because it isn’t.

Richard L. (Dick, Papou) Smith

Richard L. (Dick, Papou) Smith lived a life defined not by titles, accomplishments or years, though he gathered plenty, but by the steady and extraordinary way he loved everyone.Richard was born Aug. 6, 1936, in Oklahoma City to Pete andVera Smith.

Near-Death Experience

Freshman year of high school is when a lot of people start collecting firsts. First party. First drink. First real heartbreak.My first was a little different. It was the first, and only, time I almost died.Not almost died in the way people say when a car drifts a little too far into their lane.

Lighting a new spark in an old engine

SincebecomingWellston fire chief in late 2021, Todd Beesley had thought about what could happen to “the old 48.”The 1948 fire engine had been out of service for decades.

Lavon Sue Toby

Lavon Sue Toby passed away on May 19, 2026. She was born on February 8, 1966. She was preceded in death by her parents, mother, granddaughter, and brother.She is survived by her husband, daughters, son-inlaws, son, grandchildren, sisters, along with extended family and friends.

Andrew Sokol, Jr.

Andrew Sokol, Jr. was born February 9, 1941, in Nemacolin, Pennsylvania, to Andrew Sr. and Elda (Fortney) Sokol. He passed away on May 15, 2026, in his home in Wellston at the age of 85.Andrew served his country proudly in the United States Army, playing bass horn in their band.

Ralph Leon Ratliff, Sr

Ralph Leon Ratliff, Sr was born October 8, 1943, in Carnegie, Oklahoma, to Orville and Thelma (Pierce) Ratliff. He passed away on May 16, 2026, at his home in Wellston at the age of 82.Ralph married Reda Martin in Enid on March 20, 1963 and they shared 63 years together.

CVEC hosts dinner, safety event for first responders

SEMINOLE, OK — In recognition of National Electrical Safety Month, Canadian Valley Electric Cooperative (CVEC) recently hosted a Dinner & Electrical Dangers event for local first responders.