Residents in the Gray Ridge Subdivision of Enid, Oklahoma are running into delays in rebuilding after a catastrophic EF-4 tornado tore through their neighborhood in April.

Many homeowners are having to rebuild from scratch after their homes were completely destroyed leaving nothing but the slab in the ground.

Rebuilding homes in the area comes with extra regulations that some homeowners were not expecting leaving some of them frustrated and at a standstill with City of Enid.

Section 9-1A-4 of the City of Enid Ordinance requires homes in the Noise Zone to follow the April 2005 "Guidelines for Sound Insulation of Residences Exposed to Aircraft Operations" prepared by Wyle Research & Consulting for the Department of the Navy, or the latest revision thereof.

The intent is to reduce the noise and vibrations extending from the flight line and flight path to the surrounding area. The study shows that Gray Ridge is receiving 65-75 decibels from these aircraft. The overall sound level reduction (SLR) required within a given noise zone can be determined by subtracting the acceptable range for interior occupied space (45 dB) from the highest noise level within that contour. For example, at 70 dB DNL, the required reduction to obtain an internal 45 dB for residential structures is calculated as 70 dB minus 45 dB, equaling 25 dB. The following pages show an effective way to reduce the exterior levels to the acceptable interior range. Sound reduction standards have been designed to provide outdoor-to-indoor SLR of 25 dB, 30 dB, and 35 dB.

There will be a meeting for the homeowners of Gray Ridge Subdivision to discuss the reason for the Noise Zone and a brief overview of the regulations outlined in the City of Enid Ordinances regarding the noise zone and the "Guidelines for Sound Insulation of Residences Exposed to Aircraft Operations".

The meeting will take place at the City of Enid, Administration Building, Council Chambers at 6:00 pm on Thursday, August 13, 2026.

If you have any questions or concerns about the noise zone and related regulations, please send them before the meeting.

Jacquelyn Porter, Community Development Director
Office: 580.616.7225
Cell: 580.231.0293
Email: Jacquelyn.porter@enid.org

See a portion of the Noise Zone Regulations.

Stride Bank Center is proud to announce a special week long screening of Never Stop Chasing the week of August 21-27.

In the immersive documentary Never Stop Chasing, legendary storm chaser Reed Timmer pursues a life hunting the world’s most violent weather. Haunted by the tragic death of his mentor, Tim Samaras, in the historic 2013 El Reno tornado, and the sudden loss of his best friend and long-time chase partner, Joel Taylor, Reed’s life on the edge takes a severe emotional toll. Driven by an unshakeable compulsion, he pushes his mind and body to the absolute limit in pursuit of the perfect storm.

Event Details

Date: August 21-August 27
Location: Stride Bank Center – Grand Ballroom
Showing Times: Aug. 21-22; 24-27 7:00 PM A 3 PM showing on Aug 23

Tickets: Tickets are $11 (When purchased at the box office or over the phone. Additional fees occur online.)

Online: Visit the Stride Bank Center website at www.stridebankcenter.com and click on the event listing
By Phone: Call the box office at 580-616-7380
In Person: Tickets may also be purchased at the Stride Bank Center Box Office during regular hours.

Tyler Kijac with TK Pro Rodeo along with the Chisholm Trail Expo Center will be bringing back PRCA Rodeo to Enid, Oklahoma. After two decades Enid will have its PRCA rodeo back March 12-13, 2027.

The rodeo will be two exciting nights of family entertainment. It will include bareback riding, steer wrestling, bull riding, breakaway roping, team roping, saddle bronc riding, calf roping and barrel racing!

Coulten Cue and David Henneke put on a luncheon on May 4 to make the announcement and provide information to sponsors. If you’d like more information contact Coulten at 580-237-0238.

TK Pro Rodeo produces sanctioned professional rodeos and bull ridings across the country. Based out of Jay, OK, the TK Ranch is perfectly located in the Northeast tip of Oklahoma. For the past three consecutive years TK Pro Rodeo has been voted the Stock Contractor of the year.

Tyler Kijac earned national recognition when he was crowned the All-Star Season winner of Ultimate Cowboy Showdown, the hit series hosted by Trace Adkins.

Photo: TK Pro Rodeo Facebook

Mark your calendars for July 24, 2027 and plan on attending the Vance Air Show!

This week, the team from Vance Air Force Base, City of Enid, Enid Chamber, Woodring Regional Airport, Staar Solutions, and Air & Space Forces Association of Oklahoma began planning for the return of the Vance Air Show in 2027.

The Vance air show which will include the USAF Thunderbirds, military and civilian air acts - and welcome an estimated 50,000+ visitors to Northwest Oklahoma. The last Vance air show was in 2016.

In the months ahead, there will be opportunities for businesses to get involved through sponsorships, community events, and welcoming guests from across the region. Contact the Enid Chamber of Commerce at (580) 237-2494 for more information.

Here is a quick memory of the 2016 show - https://www.enidbuzz.com/vance-air-show/

The City of Enid is excited to announce the launch of the Neptune My360 Water Consumption Portal, a new online tool designed to help residents monitor and better understand their water usage in real time.

The Neptune My360 portal allows utility customers to conveniently track daily water consumption, identify unusual usage patterns, and set alerts for potential leaks or high-water usage. The new system provides residents with greater transparency and control over their utility consumption from any computer, tablet, or smartphone.

“Our goal is to provide residents with modern tools that improve customer service and promote water conservation,” said City Manager Jerald Gilbert. “The Neptune My360 portal empowers customers with valuable information that can help save water and reduce utility costs.”

Features of the Neptune My360 portal include:

• Real-time water usage monitoring

• Daily and hourly consumption tracking

• Leak detection and customizable alerts

• Easy-to-read usage graphs and trends

• Mobile-friendly access

Residents can register for the Neptune My360 portal by visiting Enid.org/My360. Customers will need the first six numbers of their utility account information to complete the registration process. (Example: For an account number as 505XXX-111XXX, residents should only enter 505XXX for the account number on the portal when registering.)

Residents will also need to enter their name and address exactly how it appears on their water bill. View step-by-step video instructions at: https://youtu.be/9n5UvZkB0Vs.

For additional assistance or questions regarding the portal, residents may contact Utility Services at 580-616-7170.

The City of Enid remains committed to improving customer experience through innovative technology and enhanced public services.

The Enid News & Eagle will be promoting Public Art in Enid by giving out the recently printed Enid Public Art Guide and sponsoring “Public Art Quest” from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 7, as a part of Main Street Enid First Friday. The art guides will be handed out free at a table next to the entrance of the Garfield County Courthouse north driveway. The hours for First Friday are 6 to 9 p.m., but the Public Art Quest locations will be open from 5 to 7 p.m.

The courthouse will be open until 7 p.m. Friday for public viewing of the Ruth Monro Augur wall murals, featured in the Public Art Guide, that cover most of the first-floor hallway walls. Augur researched the details for a year before beginning to paint in 1935, making these paintings almost a century old. Also during the extended viewing hours, hosted by the Rotary Club of Enid, courthouse visitors can see the new Jailhouse Art Gallery featuring prints of the paintings painted directly on the fifth-floor jailhouse walls by Ponca Tribe members Burgess and Paladine Roye.

Want to do your own art? The Enid Public Library will offer a “Paint! Come & Go” event during the Public Art Quest from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday. Supplies and ideas will be provided for visitors to paint their own small canvas. Adults and children are welcome.

Guests coming to the library also can meet well-known Enid artists Kelly and Ty Tompkins who have many art pieces featured in the Public Art Guide. One large mural, “All Together Now,” located in the library, Kelly designed and helped Summer Reading Program children paint. Also on display will be a rendering of their future artwork, “Jesse Chisholm on the Trail,” soon to be added to the downtown library’s outdoor grounds.

What better way to show your appreciation for Public Art than to take a selfie with one. The outside mural at Enid Brewing Co. and Eatery – also featured in the Public Art Guide – is perfect for that. “I Love Enid” even has the outline of a person for you to stand in front of as you take your selfie. Those taking a selfie during Public Art Quest also may enter a drawing for three prizes for people of any age. Enid Brewing will be serving food and beverages their usual Friday hours.

When art is mentioned, the people of Enid always think of sculptor H Holden, whose several downtown Enid works include the Boomer statue, an icon of the Cherokee Strip Land Run. The Western Art Gallery of Harold T. Holden at 128 N. Independence will have a special opening during Public Art Quest. Your copy of the Public Art Guide will also help you find a few of Holden's sculptures on the courthouse lawn and throughout Enid.

The Enid Public Art Guide has photos of more than 100 Public Art pieces throughout Enid – 37 of them being in the downtown area – with maps showing artwork locations. Pick one up during Main Street Enid’s First Friday Aug. 7 and go on your own Public Art Quest and see them all.

The Oklahoma Legislature passed Senate Bill 861 during the 2007 Legislative Session to benefit both consumers and retailers in the state by providing sales tax exempt shopping. This will help businesses by providing a boost in the economy and the consumer by allowing them to save money when shopping for clothing and shoes.

Sales of any article of clothing or footwear designed to be worn on or about the human body and the sales price of the article is less than one hundred dollars ($100) are exempt. This does not apply to the sale of any accessories, special clothing or footwear primarily designed for athletic activity or protective use that is not normally worn except when used for athletic activity or protective use, or to the rental of clothing or footwear.

Be careful not to overspend just because the tax free weekend is going on in your area. The regular sales tax rate in Oklahoma is 4.5%, so that’s how much money you’d be saving – along with your local sales tax, if applicable. By shopping around, and also using coupons, you might find that the items you’re looking for are less expensive either before the tax free weekend or after it takes place.

Some of the items that are tax exempt include the following:

Aprons, household and shop
Athletic supporters
Baby receiving blankets
Bathing suits and caps
Beach capes and coats
Belts and suspenders
Boots
Coats and jackets
Costumes
Diapers, children and adult, including disposable diapers
Ear muffs
Formal wear
Gloves and mittens for general use
Hats and caps
Hosiery
Lab coats
Neckties
Pantyhose
Rainwear
Rubber pants
Sandals
Scarves
Shoes
Slippers
Sneakers
Socks and stockings
Steel toed shoes
Underwear
Uniforms, athletic and non-athletic
Wedding apparel

More details here https://oklahoma.gov/content/dam/ok/en/tax/documents/resources/publications/infographics/SalesTaxHoliday.pdf

At 10:26 p.m. Aug. 3, officers responded to INTEGRIS Health Enid Hospital, 600 S. Monroe, for a call of a man with a gun.

Officers arrived on scene and learned a man had been harassing staff and was asked to leave the hospital. The man told hospital security he had a gun. No gun was seen and the man left the hospital.

At 11:11 p.m., another call was received reporting a man with a gun on the third floor of the hospital. Officers again responded and began securing the building.

Hospital security and officers began checking cameras in the building but no man with a gun was found.

Officers contacted the caller and learned he was the husband of an employee of the hospital. Officers spoke with the employee, who said she told by a supervisor there was a man with a gun. She said she shared this information with her husband.

Officers contacted the supervisor and asked about what the employee said. The supervisor said she was told by security.

Officers again spoke with security who said they had not seen anything since the initial incident.

Officers were unable to locate the man from the first incident.

Official INTEGRIS Media Statement:

Late last night, our public safety officer responded to a report of a person loitering outside of the building adjacent to the hospital. The public safety officer approached the individual and asked them to leave the premises. In the process of leaving the premises, the subject claimed to have a gun; however, no weapon was observed. Out of an abundance of caution, our public safety team notified the Enid Police Department and advised them that the individual was leaving the area and headed east toward the police department.

As word spread of the initial encounter, local authorities received a phone call saying there was an individual with a gun inside the hospital, which initiated a response from local authorities. Out of an abundance of caution, police searched the building and reviewed surveillance cameras concluding that no armed individual entered any of our facilities. Any reports of an armed individual inside the hospital are false.

The hospital and clinics continue to operate without disruption, maintaining a safe environment. The safety and security of our patients, visitors and caregivers remain our highest priority. We appreciate the prompt response and partnership of local law enforcement and our public safety team.

Beacon schedules will be programmed according to the current school district calendars, which are available online.

During testing, motorists are reminded to always obey all traffic laws and all posted speed limits in all school zones, even during testing, and to drive with extreme caution.

For questions, please contact the Technical Services Department at 580-616-7336.

Enid school zones are 20 mph during specified times and when lights are flashing.

School zones will have flashing lights. If you speed in a school zone you'll pay a fine. Officials will turn off the school beacons during the lunch period for most Enid Public Schools. According to schools officials, students no longer leave campuses during the lunch hour and all playgrounds are fenced and supervised during breaks. Officials have determined the use of the beacons is no longer needed during this time of day.

Drivers need to slow down and pay attention when kids are present – especially before and after school.

During the school year, motorists must share the road with children who are getting on and off the bus, riding their bikes to and from school and children who are walking.

A few precautions can go a long way toward keeping children safe:
• Don't block the crosswalk when stopped at a red light or waiting to make a turn, forcing pedestrians to go around you; this could put them in the path of moving traffic.
• In a school zone when flashers are blinking, stop and yield to pedestrians crossing the crosswalk or intersection.
• Always stop for a school patrol officer or crossing guard holding up a stop sign.
• Take extra care to look out for children in school zones, near playgrounds and parks and in all residential areas.
• Don't honk or rev your engine to scare a pedestrian, even if you have the right of way.
• Never pass a vehicle stopped for pedestrians.
• Always use extreme caution to avoid striking pedestrians wherever they may be, no matter who has the right of way.

Some schools have specific drop-off procedures for the school year. Make sure you know them for the safety of all kids.

The following apply to all school zones:
• Don't double park. It blocks visibility for other children and vehicles.
• Don't load or unload children across the street from the school.
• Carpool to reduce the number of vehicles at the school.

If you're driving behind a bus, allow a greater following distance than if you were driving behind a car. It will give you more time to stop once the bus’s lights start flashing. It is illegal in all 50 states to pass a school bus that is stopped to load or unload children.

• Never pass a bus from behind – or from either direction if you're on an undivided road – if it is stopped to load or unload children.
• If the yellow or red lights are flashing and the stop arm is extended ALL traffic must stop.
• The area 10 feet around a school bus is the most dangerous for children. Stop far enough back to allow them space to safely enter and exit the bus.
• Be alert. Children often are unpredictable and they tend to ignore hazards and take risks.

As a reminder, speeding in a school zone is a $215.00 fine and overtaking a stopped school bus is a $565.00 fine.

The shows will demonstrate the Great Planet Adventures as well as what to view in the night sky in the Enid area.

When the school year begins, planetarium shows will occur on the first Tuesday of each month beginning at 6 p.m.

The planetarium may be reserved for school and community groups. For more information, contact Dr. Frankie Wood-Black at Frankie.woodblack@noc.edu .

Northern Oklahoma College, the state’s first public two-year community college, is a multi-campus, land-grant institution that provides high quality, accessible, and affordable educational opportunities and services.

NOC serves nearly 3,100 students through the home campus in Tonkawa, Enid, and NOC/OSU Gateway Program in Stillwater, and the University Center in Ponca City. Of these students about 80% receive financial aid and/or scholarships. 75% of NOC students complete their degree with zero debt.

The college is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and offers associate degrees in three general areas: Arts, Science and Applied Science; the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs; and the Accreditation Commission for Education and Nursing.

For more information about Northern Oklahoma College please call (580) 628-6208 or visit the NOC website at www.noc.edu.

The Enid Police Department announced on Wednesday that they will begin to encrypt their radio communications.

The decision was not made to hide anything from the public. The decision was made to ensure the safety of police officers and protect the privacy of the residents of Enid.

Information shared over open radio channels can spread quickly - even while incidents are still unfolding. Apps can use Al to transcribe situations and put them out to users, sometimes creating unnecessary panic.

EPD has battled with false reports of shooting events (called in by someone suffering a mental crisis) and had the real-time locations of officers posted to social media during actual active shooter events.

While many residents listen to radio traffic with good intentions, the same information can be accessed by those who wish to do harm.

Encryption is an important step to protect the safety of the officers and other law enforcement agencies responding to dangerous situations. Encryption will also protect the privacy of those the police department encounters during their shifts, including victims.

Passed by the legislature and approved by Governor Kevin Stitt, Senate Bill 1481 from Sen. Ally Seifried, R-Claremore, has doubled recess time for students in kindergarten through fifth grade.

Senate Bill 1481 increases the minimum amount of daily recess to 40 minutes for elementary school students and those in full-day kindergarten programs.

“Active students are better learners,” Seifried said. “Giving kids time to have fun and play with their classmates supports their mental health, improves their social development and helps build life skills like leadership, creativity and conflict resolution. Doubling recess time is a simple, practical way to give students’ brains a break so they come back to the classroom recharged and ready to focus.”

Due to the recent change in Oklahoma law, EPS elementary schools will now be in session from 7:50 a.m. to 3:10 p.m. Doors will open at 7:30 a.m. for drop off.

Pre-K will be in session from 7:50 a.m. to 2:40 p.m.

Tuesday night, Lt. Nick John was sworn in as the next chief of the Enid Police Department by Mayor David Mason during a meeting of the Enid City Commission.

John replaced Chief Bryan Skaggs, who was also honored during last night’s meeting.

“I’m honored. We’ve got great men and women who work for the Enid Police Department. I’ve got a great assistant. I’ve got a great admin staff working with me. I’m eager to work with all the city employees,” John said. “I’m truly, truly honored to be the chief of police for the Enid Police Department. I wear this uniform with honor and this badge with honor, just like the other officers of our agency. And you should be proud of them.”

He said he wants to continue providing the finest service to the public while continuing to improve the department.

“Our officers at the Enid Police Department work hard and strive for the best each day. I want to build on that and continue with the commendable service they offer the public,” John said. “I’m excited to embrace the technology that will be available to the department and will continue to work to improve our investigative abilities and make improvements in our dispatching and call taking center.”

John began his career with the department on May 9, 2005, serving as a C-shift patrol officer. During his 21 years with the department, he has served as a supervisor in Investigative Services Division, Training Division and Patrol Division.

John also previously served on the department’s SWAT Team and in Honor Guard.

YWCA Enid announced today that Rachel McVay has been selected as the organization’s next Executive Director and will assume the role in early August as the organization enters its next chapter of leadership.

McVay brings extensive nonprofit leadership experience and a strong commitment to community service. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated a passion for building strong organizations, supporting children and families, and fostering collaborative partnerships that strengthen communities.

The YWCA Board of Directors selected McVay following a comprehensive search process and expressed confidence in her ability to lead the organization forward while continuing its mission to provide safety, support, advocacy, and hope for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking.

YWCA Enid’s programs and services will continue uninterrupted throughout the transition, including emergency shelter, advocacy, prevention education, counseling, and support services for survivors.

“We are excited to welcome Rachel McVay to YWCA Enid as our next Executive Director,” said Board President Hannah Hankey. “Rachel is a respected leader with a heart for service and a strong understanding of the importance of community-based support. The Board is confident that her leadership will help strengthen and advance YWCA Enid’s mission for years to come.”

McVay said she is honored to join the organization and continue its important work in the Enid community.

“I am truly honored to join YWCA Enid as Executive Director,” said McVay. “This organization plays a vital role in the lives of survivors and families in our region, and I am grateful for the opportunity to support that work. I look forward to partnering with the staff, Board of Directors, and community supporters to continue building on the organization’s strong legacy of service and impact.”

If you or someone you know is experiencing sexual assault, domestic violence, or stalking, please contact the YWCA on their 24-Hour Crisis Hotline at 580-234-7644 to connect with an advocate today. You are not alone, and the YWCA is here to help. Hope starts here at the YWCA.

The City of Enid is committed to providing dependable, efficient solid waste services that residents and businesses rely on every day. Following careful review and long-term planning, the Enid City Commission approved a measured update to residential solid waste rates to help maintain the quality and reliability of service while planning responsibly for the future.

Beginning July 1, 2026, the residential polycart rate will increase from $16.00 to $18.00 per month. Additional carts will increase from $5.50 to $9.00 per month. A modest 2% annual adjustment will begin January 1, 2027, to help avoid larger, sudden increases in future years.

These changes apply only to residential polycart services. Current bulky item rates remain $20 for the first trip and $65 for additional trips.

Solid waste collection depends on specialized trucks and equipment that operate daily under demanding conditions. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, costs for this equipment have risen dramatically due to inflation and supply chain challenges.

In 2021, a typical solid waste collection truck cost approximately $275,000. By 2025, those same trucks exceeded $420,000, with prices projected to rise above $450,000 in 2026. Residential polycarts have also increased substantially, rising from approximately $55 per cart in 2021 to more than $85 per cart today.

Even with this adjustment, Enid’s rates remain competitive with other Oklahoma communities.

This decision was made carefully and thoughtfully to ensure that dependable services continue while avoiding larger financial impacts in the future. By taking a measured approach today, the City is working to protect service quality, maintain affordability, and continue providing the reliable solid waste services residents expect.

Residents with questions are encouraged to contact the City of Enid Solid Waste Department for additional information.

Kiwanis Club Rides: 3:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Train Stop Express Concessions: 6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Miniature Golf & Sno Cones: 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Enid Symphony Orchestra: 8:30 p.m.
Fireworks: Dusk to 9:30 p.m.

At 8:30 p.m., the Enid Symphony Orchestra will be performing under the direction of Douglas Newell, Music Director. The theme this year is, “The Night Sousa Came to Town.” The performance is sponsored by Security National Bank of Enid. Additional assist has been provided by Park Avenue Thrift, the Oklahoma Arts Council, and the National Endowment for the Arts.

Parking is available on the north side of the park for only those vehicles with disabled license plates or placards, a member of the Enid Symphony Orchestra, or workers for the Kiwanis rides and concession stand.

To ensure safety of spectators, motorists and event staff, the following roads will be temporarily closed prior to the celebratory event: W. Rupe Avenue at Van Buren (U.S. 81), S. Van Buren Access Road at W. Rupe Avenue, and W. Rupe Avenue at S. Johnson Street.

Following the fireworks, traffic from the Golf Course will be directed west on Rupe Avenue towards Cleveland Street and traffic from Meadowlake Park will be directed west on Rupe Avenue towards S. Johnson Street. Traffic on Van Buren south of W. Moore Avenue will be directed either east onto W. Moore Avenue or south on Van Buren toward Southgate Road. This will result in a temporary closure of Van Buren (U.S. 81) north of W. Moore Avenue.

FIREWORKS WARNING!

Enid has a city wide ban on the possession, sale and use of fireworks within city limits. State Law says fireworks can only be sold in Oklahoma between June 15 and July 6. Class C fireworks, such as firecrackers, bottle rockets and exploding devices are prohibited in city limits, but novelty fireworks, such as party poppers and smoke bombs, are permitted. If you get caught you could be fined up to $500 plus court costs. You can transport them if they stay unopened. You can set off fireworks outside the city limits but it is illegal to set off fireworks on county or public roads or near a standing crop.

Congressman Frank Lucas praised the fact that Vance Air Force Base has been selected as the fourth T-7A Main Operating Base, bringing a major investment and the next generation of pilot training to Enid.

The U.S. Air Force will replace the current T-38C aircraft at Vance AFB with the new T-7A advanced trainer. The transition will include aircraft deliveries, facility construction, upgrades to operations and support areas, and improvements to maintenance facilities needed for pilot training and aircraft operations.

According to Congressman Frank Lucas, the aircraft investment alone could represent up to $2 billion at Vance Air Force Base.

“I’m pleased to see Vance Air Force Base’s selection as home for the new T-7A, which is an investment into the community of Enid,” said Representative Lucas. “With the largest military operating area, cheapest pilot training pipeline cost, and a fourth runway, Vance Air Force Base is a seamless partner for the Air Force to integrate the T-7A.”

Lucas also thanked local, state and federal partners who have worked for decades to make sure Vance is prepared to support future generations of Air Force pilots and their families.

The selection is also being celebrated locally as a major win for Enid and the surrounding area.

“We very much appreciate being selected as the premier location for the maximum deployment of the new T-7A aircraft,” said Michael Cooper, Chairman of the Vance Development Authority. “Due to our excellent community and base relationship, we continue to be successful in our efforts to enhance the base, bringing support from all levels to assist with increasing mission capabilities.”

Cooper added that the new aircraft and additional personnel coming to Vance will increase the need for continued community planning, including more affordable housing, water resiliency and alternative energy options for the base.

Enid Mayor David Mason also praised the announcement.

“I was very pleased to learn that Vance AFB will be receiving the T-7A,” Mason said. “I think this shows the trust and relationship the Air Force has for Enid and the relationship Enid has for Vance and its continued mission to train the best pilots in the Air Force.”

Mason said the community will continue working to provide the infrastructure and quality-of-life needs required to help Vance grow and strengthen its mission.

“I’m proud to live in Enid, home of Vance AFB,” Mason said.

The T-7A Recapitalization Program is designed to replace the aging T-38C fleet with a modern advanced training aircraft. The new system will help prepare pilots for 4th-, 5th- and future 6th-generation aircraft. The program includes not only the T-7A aircraft, but also advanced simulators, ground-based training systems and infrastructure improvements at key pilot training bases.

Vance Air Force Base has long played a major role in training U.S. Air Force pilots, and this announcement helps secure its place in the future of military aviation training.

The Board of Directors of 4RKids announced the resignation of Executive Director, Rachel McVay.

While her departure represents a significant loss for the organization, the Board expressed its gratitude for the foundation she has helped build and the lasting impact she leaves behind.

“As Board President, it has been an honor to work alongside Rachel McVay,” said Ramey Holsten, President of the 4RKids Board of Directors. “On behalf of our entire Board, I want to express our deepest gratitude for her exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment to the mission of 4RKids. She has been instrumental in strengthening our organization and enriching the lives of the individuals and families we serve. While we are saddened to see her leave, we fully support her as she begins this new chapter. Her impact on 4RKids will be felt for years to come, and we wish her nothing but continued success.”

For additional information, please contact:
Ramey Holsten
President, Board of Directors 4RKids
580-603-4174
mailto:rameyholsten@gmail.com

This year also kicks off the countdown to America’s 250th birthday, making Independence Day feel even more special. Whether you’re looking for a hometown fireworks display, a full day of July 4th activities or a nearby celebration to enjoy with family and friends, we’ve rounded up local events happening in and around Enid.

Check back often as we’ll continue adding fireworks displays, celebrations and holiday events as details are announced.

JUNE 20

LAHOMA
Lahoma will have their fireworks celebration on Saturday, June 20. Enjoy food trucks, music, a bounce house, games and fireworks. Starts at 9am and ends around midnight.

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JUNE 26

MEDFORD
Join Medford for 4th Fest on Friday, June 26th! Begins at 6:30pm at the Medford Airport.

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JULY 2

HENNESSEY
Residents will have a new way to celebrate Independence Day this summer as the Town of Hennessey prepares for its first annual Freedom Fest on Thursday, July 2. The community event will feature a parade, family activities, games, vendors, food, inflatables, contests, and entertainment at the Hennessey High School football practice field. Activities will begin at 6 p.m., with a community parade scheduled to line up at 7 p.m. at the Christian Church parking lot. The parade will begin at 7:30 p.m. and travel through town before ending near the Freedom Fest activities.

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JULY 3

HILLSDALE
Hillsdale will celebrate America's 250th Birthday on July 3 and 4. Friday, July 3 begins at 6pm. Enjoy supper, 3 on 3 basketball, homemade ice cream, lawn games and bingo, and movie in the park at 9m.

FAIRVIEW
Fairview is having a Red, White & Boom celebration on Friday, July 3 beginning at 4pm. Food - Fun - Fireworks at Specht Park.

OAKWOOD Country Club
Oakwood Country Club will have their members fireworks show on Friday, July 3 at dark.

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JULY 4

KINGFISHER
Red, White & Boomfest will be Saturday, July 4, Parade in downtown Kingfisher beginning at 10am. Family fun in Kingfisher Park all day followed by a free concert and fireworks.

COVINGTON
The annual BBQ at the park in Covington will be Saturday, July 4th at 6pm. They will be selling fireworks from the trailer in the Dairy Sweet parking lot up until the evening of the 4th, then they will be at the Covington park. Free entry.

DRUMMOND
The July 4th Celebration in Drummond is hosted by The Brake Room, 220 Kansas Ave. Kid activities begin at 3pm. Live music, food and drinks. Fireworks at dusk. Take your lawn chairs!

GARBER
Garber will have a 5k and 1 mile walk at 8am. Enjoy free swimming at the Garber pool 1pm. The July 4th Celebration begins at 5pm at the Garber softball field. Take the family for a fun small town celebration ending with a grand fireworks show.

HILLSDALE
The July 4th Celebration in Hillsdale begins at breakfast from 7:30-9;30am. The Firecracker 5k is at 8am. Enjoy the parade at 10am. There will be events throughout the day ending with fireworks at dark.

POND CREEK
Join Pond Creek on Saturday, July 4th at 7pm for a Fun-Filled Celebration! Brought to you by Pond Creek Community Partners and Pond Creek Fire Department. Bring your family and friends for an evening of fun, food, and community! Event Highlights: Paradise Ice, Mama Hankins Food Truck, Water Slide, Vendor Booths, Turtle Races. And Fireworks at Dark! Bring your lawn chairs and stay for the spectacular fireworks show at dark!

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JULY 5

CARMEN
Carmen will have a 5th of July celebration on Sunday, July 5. Enjoy activities, raffles and fireworks at dark.

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JULY 10

ENID
The City of Enid’s July 4th Celebration has been rescheduled to Friday, July 10, 2026, at Meadowlake Park due to inclement weather this past weekend.

We still hope you’ll join us for an evening of community celebration with family and friends, including the Enid Symphony Orchestra’s performance of The Night Sousa Came to Town, Kiwanis Club rides, concessions, mini golf, sno cones, and a fireworks show at dusk.
Event schedule:

Kiwanis Club Rides: 3:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Train Stop Express Concessions: 6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Miniature Golf & Sno Cones: 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Enid Symphony Orchestra: 8:30 p.m.
Fireworks: Dusk to 9:30 p.m.

If weather impacts the event again, there is a contingency plan to hold the fireworks on Saturday, July 11.

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JULY 11

BRECKINRIDGE
Breckinridge Fire Department welcomes you to their annual Breckinridge Block Party on Saturday, July 11th! Take the family and enjoy hotdogs and chips, bounce houses, snow cone stand and fireworks! 323 Red Cedar St. Food at 7pm. Fireworks at dusk.

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JULY 11

GOLTRY
July 4th Celebration starts at 3pm. Activities take place at the Goltry Park and Community Building. Enjoy a meal, homemade ice cream, entertainment, OBI blood drive, and fireworks at dark. Fun for all ages.

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Send other fireworks celebrations to buzz@enidbuzz.com and we'll get them on the calendar. Info at your fingertips 24/7 at https://www.enidbuzz.com/events/

SNB customers should expect to receive their new debit card before July 13th, 2026. Customers should continue to use their existing card until that date.

The expanded ATM network can be found by scanning the QR code on the back, or by visiting: www.allpointnetwork.com/locator.

Call SNB at 580-234-5151 with questions.

Looking for a job?

Security National Bank is currently taking applications for full-time tellers. Competitive wages and benefits. Apply online at snbenid.com. Click on “about us” and then “careers”. Send to anyone looking for a job!