Opinion

Cheers to the volunteers who make the Carter County Free Fair a success. There is a lot of planning and work that takes place, behind the scenes and during the event.

Cheers to Barry Hickman, who was named the 2025 Oilman of the Year during the Old Timer’s Breakfast in Healdton last week. The Oilman of the Year represents a long line of men who have made an impact on the community.

Cheers to Melissa Lang who is taking over as the Interim Executive Director of Public Utilities for the City of Ardmore. She has spent 25 years working for the city, and has served in the police department, sanitation and public utilities.

Cheers to the Ardmore Police Department as it prioritizes the safety of students at bus stops and along the routes. While some people may take a hit in the pocketbook, it is a lesson worth learning in terms of practicing safe habits and helping save lives.

Cheers to Valero Ardmore Refinery and volunteers for once again making the United Way BBQ Showdown a major success. Over $500,000 was raised in the event which will allow the United Way of South Central Oklahoma to support much-needed support to area agencies.

Cheers to Merrick Drive Church of Christ, who are hosting their annual clothing giveaway this weekend to help both kids and the community.

Cheers to the City of Lone Grove and the Lone Grove Fire Department for breaking ground on a new fire station earlier this week. The new station is being funded by a P3 grant from the Department of Commerce along with matching funds donated by Lone Grove Schools and several area businesses.

Cheers to Elmbrook Home for receiving the National Silver Achievement in Quality Award from the American Health Care Association and the National Center for Assisted Living. The award honors long-term and post-acute care providers nationwide for their dedication to performance improvement and excellence.

Cheers to Trinity Baptist who every year host a breakfast for veterans on Independence Day. Pastor Terry Tolbert estimated this is the 27th year they have had some sort of event on the 4th of July to honor veterans.

Cheers to Robert Thornton, who retired as the Ratliff City Police Chief after 21 years of service. Thornton, who was honored in a ceremony last weekend, spent 44 years either in the military or in law enforcement.