Flag Day is not a federal holiday but is observed all across the country. The holiday was officially established in 1916 by President Woodrow Wilson, and in 1949 Congress declared June 14 a national holiday.

20 Facts about the American Flag:

1. Pennsylvania is the only state that observes Flag Day as a state holiday.

2. The flag has been changed 27 times. The final star, for Hawaii, was added in 1960.

3. The flag is normally flown from sunrise to sunset.

4. The flag should not be flown at night without a light on it.

5. The first time the flag was flown after being adopted was on Aug. 3, 1777 in Rome, New York.

6. The designer of the American flag was Francis Hopkinson, a signer of the the Declaration of Independence as a delegate from New Jersey.

7. Betsy Ross sewed the first American flag.

8. There are six American flags on the moon. Five are standing, but Neil Armstrong's fell over.

9. The flag should not be flown in the rain or inclement weather.

10. After a tragedy or death, the flag is flown at half staff for 30 days. It's  called "half staff" on land ,and "half mast" on a ship.

11. When your flag is old and has seen  better days, it is time to retire it. Old flags should be burned or buried.

12. The Flag Code bans the use of the flag as clothing. That’s right, not USA T-Shirts, bandanas or bikinis.

13. If you like to study flags, then you are a Vexillologist!

14. The colors of the flag have meaning. Red stands for hardiness and valor. White symbolizes purity and innocence. Blue represents vigilance, perseverance and justice.

15. An American flag should never touch the floor or the ground.

16. When displayed on a wall or window the blue field should be in the upper left corner.

17. The military folds the flag with 13 folds, each with symbolic meaning.

18. 50 flags fly 24 hours a day around the Washington monument.

19. 95% of U.S. flags are made in the U.S.A.

20. The U.S. flag always flies at the top of a staff above any other flag.

Garfield County Election Board Secretary, Shari Monsees, said early voting is open to all registered voters. “You don’t need to provide an excuse to vote early. Oklahoma allows early voting for all elections conducted by the County Election Board or State Election Board – from school board and municipal elections to state and federal elections. This is a great option for those who will be out of town on Election Day or who want to avoid long lines,” Monsees said.

Early voting is available Thursday, June 11 and Friday, June 12, from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Saturday, June 13, from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Garfield County Election Board Office located at 903 Failing Avenue, Enid. Monsees reminds voters that early voting is not available at polling locations.

Some voters may need assistance to vote because they are blind or visually disabled, physically disabled or infirmed, or illiterate. Such individuals may request to have an assistant or vote privately and independently using the ATI device attached to the voting device. Those who require assistance should talk to the precinct official or contact the County Election Board directly for instructions.

For questions, please contact the Election Board at 580.237.6016 or email shari.monsees.ctr@elections.ok.gov. Please join the “Garfield County Election Board, Enid” Facebook page to stay informed on upcoming elections, sample ballots, candidate filings, and important dates.

Turkey Season Excitement

Few outdoor traditions are as exciting as spring turkey season. Early mornings in the field listening for gobblers is a time-honored experience for many Oklahoma hunters. Healthy wildlife habitat plays an important role in sustaining strong turkey populations. Maintaining productive pastureland, food sources, and habitat areas supports both turkeys and other wildlife throughout the year.

Nutrition Matters for Deer Herds

While turkey hunters are focused on the woods and fields this spring, deer are also entering an important period in their annual cycle. After the stress of winter and the rut, deer need steady nutrition to regain body condition. Providing supplemental feed like Double Down Pen & Pasture deer feed can help support digestive health and deliver balanced nutrition during this transition period. Spring is also a great time to establish mineral supplementation sites. Minerals help support antler growth in bucks and overall health for the entire herd.

Getting Your Lawn and Garden Ready

Spring also means it's time to get serious about lawn care and gardening. Whether you're planning a backyard vegetable garden or improving your lawn, early preparation is key. Healthy soil, quality seed, and the right fertilizer program make a big difference in long-term results. At Johnston Seed Company, we offer a wide selection of:

• Lawn seed varieties
• Garden seeds and planting supplies
• Soil amendments and fertilizers
• Wildlife feed and mineral supplements

Our team is always happy to help you find the right products for your property. Spring is a season full of opportunity — and we’re here to help you make the most of it.

Stop by the store and let’s get your season started right.

319 W. Chestnut, Enid, OK
(800) 375 – 4613
www.johnstonseed.com

One additional report card will be drawn for our Grand Prize, a $150 Savings Account at Security National Bank!

The report cards must be turned in to Security National Bank by June 12, 2026 at 5 p.m. to be eligible for the drawing. In February, they will draw four report cards and those students will be paid for the final Fall 2025 semester A's and B's.

Security National Bank of Enid offers a full suite of products and services for consumer and commercial customers. Bank 24 hours a day using SNB’s online banking at snbenid.com.

Security National Bank is located at: 201 West Broadway, 201 West Maine and 210 North Oakwood. Bank lobby hours are 9am to 5pm Monday through Friday and Saturday’s 9am to noon at the 201 West Maine location. Security National Bank of Enid is a member of the FDIC.

Memorial weekend is full of local events. The weekend schedule is below.

Friday, May 22 at 6:30 pm - NJCAA Division College World Series Opening Night

Veterans Carry the Flame Ceremony – Series Runs May 22-30
David Allen Memorial Ballpark – 301 S. Grand, Enid
www.davidallenballpark.com for additional details

Saturday, May 23 at 8:00 am - Jay Chambers Memorial Red Dirt Run of Honor

5K/Half Registration begins 7:00 am – *Pancake Breakfast 7-11 am
Woodring Wall of Honor /Enid Woodring Regional Airport - 1026 S 66th St, Enid

Saturday, May 23 at 11:00 am – Ride of Valor Medal of Honor Motorcycle Ride

Woodring Wall of Honor & Veterans Park – Vietnam Memorial Wall
Registration begins 10:30 am –ML Becker Educational Center

Monday, May 25 at 10:00 am – City of Enid Memorial Day Ceremony

Enid Woodring Regional Airport – Joint Use Hanger
1026 S 66th Street, Enid

Honoring the Fallen of Oklahoma
Hall of Honor Presentation – Oklahoma Military Heritage Foundation
Senator Roland Pederson and Rep. Mike Dobrinski & John Pfeiffer
Keynote Speaker Col Carl Miller, Vance Air Force Base
Pastor Jake Merrick
Dedication of the Living Wall
Blue Star Mothers Blue to Gold Ceremony
Free BBQ Lunch for Veterans and Families

For Additional Information contact Woodring Wall of Honor 580-233-4530. Visit the website at www.woodringwallofhonor.com.

Ride of Valor Pre-Registraton – Cycle Ward - 319 N. Independence
5K/Half Pre-Registration www.itsyourrace.com

*Sat Pancake Breakfast 7-11 am by donation to benefit Yes We Can Civitan

YWCA Enid announced today that Executive Director Courtney Dennis will step down from her role in late summer, with her final day of leadership set for August 28, 2026, following more than a decade of service to the organization, including six years as Executive Director.
The YWCA Board of Directors has officially opened the search for the organization’s next Executive Director. Interested candidates are encouraged to submit a cover letter, resume, and list of three professional references to YWCA Enid Board President Hannah Hankey at board@ywcaenid.com. Questions and requests for additional information may be directed to Hankey at 580-234-7581.

YWCA Enid’s programs and services will continue uninterrupted throughout the leadership transition, including emergency shelter, advocacy, prevention education, counseling, and support services for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking.

During her tenure, Dennis led the organization through a period of significant growth and strengthened impact. Under her leadership, YWCA Enid expanded programs and community partnerships, increased facility safety and security, elevated awareness of victim services throughout the region, and strengthened organizational operations and sustainability. Dennis also played a vital role in advancing statewide funding for victim services programs across Oklahoma.

“It has been the greatest honor to lead YWCA Enid,” said Dennis. “This work is deeply personal to me, and I am incredibly thankful for our dedicated staff, Board of Directors, community partners, and supporters, whose compassion and commitment make our mission possible every day. I am proud of what we have accomplished together and confident the organization will continue to thrive for years to come.”
Board President Hannah Hankey expressed appreciation for Dennis’s leadership and contributions to the organization’s long-term strength and stability.

“Courtney’s leadership has shaped YWCA Enid in meaningful and lasting ways,” said Hankey. “Her dedication to survivors, staff, and the broader community strengthened the organization at every level, from programs and partnerships to visibility and sustainability. We are grateful for her service and look forward to building on the strong foundation she leaves behind.”

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 U.S. Department of Transportation's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Oklahoma Highway Safety Office, Oklahoma Highway Patrol and local law enforcement across the state urge drivers and passengers to buckle up for the Click It or Ticket seat belt safety campaign. The national high-visibility seat belt enforcement effort, which coincides with the Memorial Day holiday, runs from Monday, May 11th through Sunday, May 31, 2026.

"Seat belt use should be an automatic habit for drivers and passengers alike," said Lt. Chris Arnall of the Oklahoma Highway Patrol. "During the Click It or Ticket campaign, we'll be working with our fellow law enforcement officers across local and state lines to ensure the message gets out to drivers and passengers. Not buckling up could mean a ticket, or worse, risking a life."

In the 2025 Oklahoma Seat Belt Survey, statewide seat belt usage was 85.3% which is significantly below the 2024 national seat belt use rate of 91.2%. Of the Oklahoma counties surveyed, only two counties reported use rates of 90% or higher. Six counties had rates below 80% with the lowest use rate recorded at 72%. The Click It or Ticket mobilization is a reminder that seat belts save lives. Participating law enforcement agencies will be taking a no-excuses approach to enforcing Oklahoma's mandatory seat belt and child restraint laws, writing citations day and night.

Buckle Up the Right Way

Place the shoulder belt across the middle of the chest and away from the neck.
Lay the lap belt across the hips and not the stomach.
NEVER place the seat belt behind the back or under arms.

"We are asking friends and family to remind each other to buckle up in the front and back seats and to consider changing their habits if they don't," said Lt. Arnall. "Seat belts save lives, and everyone — front seat and back, child and adult — needs to remember to buckle up for every trip, every time."

For more information on the Click It or Ticket high-visibility enforcement campaign, please visit NHTSA.gov/ClickIt.

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

Garfield County officials have formally issued an Emergency Disaster Proclamation in response to the EF-4 tornado that impacted the Enid area and surrounding communities on Thursday, April 23, 2026.

This proclamation, signed by the Garfield County Board of Commissioners, recognizes the significant damage caused by this storm and allows the county to access additional emergency resources, coordinate response efforts, and support ongoing recovery operations.

The tornado caused widespread damage to homes, infrastructure, and agricultural property across the county. In the days since the storm, first responders, public works crews, volunteer organizations, and community partners have worked around the clock to assist affected residents and begin the recovery process.

“Our community has faced a devastating event, but the response has shown the strength and resilience of Garfield County,” said Emergency Management Director Jacob Price. “We are grateful for the outpouring of support and remain committed to helping our residents recover safely and as quickly as possible.”

Cleanup operations are well underway, with coordinated efforts continuing across impacted areas. Residents are encouraged to remain cautious in debris zones and watch for heavy equipment as recovery efforts continue.

Volunteer and donation efforts are ongoing and continue to be coordinated to ensure resources are used effectively. Those wishing to help are encouraged to follow official guidance on how to safely contribute.

Garfield County remains in close coordination with state and local partners as damage assessments continue and additional assistance is pursued.

Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

Visitors will see the Tales of a Time Traveler - with an Introduction to what to look for in the sky during the month of May.

Groups and schools may arrange a planetarium show by contacting Dr. Frankie Wood-Black at NOC by calling 580-628-6440 or emailing Astronomy@noc.edu

Admission is free to the event.

NOC will also be hosting a summer planetarium series at noon on June 17, July 8 and July 29.

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.

Letter carriers across Oklahoma will once again help fight hunger during the annual Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive on Saturday, May 9.

Now in its 34th year, the effort encourages residents to leave nonperishable food donations by their mailboxes before their mail carrier arrives. Donations collected along postal routes in central and western Oklahoma will benefit the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma and its partner agencies, helping stock shelves for local families in need.

Residents should watch for a plastic donation bag in their mailbox during the week leading up to the drive. Food can be placed in that bag or in any plastic bag and left by the mailbox for pickup on May 9.

Since the food drive began in 1992, more than 14.2 million pounds of food have been collected. Organizers say last year’s drive helped provide more than 750,000 meals. All donations stay local to support communities across the region.

“Hunger affects every community, and addressing it takes community action,” said Kelli Hayward Walsh, manager of OG&E Community Outreach & Engagement. “Stamp Out Hunger is neighbors helping neighbors, and OG&E stands alongside the Regional Food Bank in this impactful effort to help our neighbors.”

Regional Food Bank CEO Stacy Dykstra said the drive continues to make a direct difference for Oklahomans facing hunger.

“The beauty of Stamp Out Hunger is how it unites our communities through a simple act of giving,” Dykstra said. “Donations collected through this drive directly support our neighbors experiencing hunger.”

Organizers welcome all nonperishable food items. Some of the most-needed items include:

peanut butter
canned tuna or chicken
canned fruits
pasta and canned sauce
soup and stew

Healthier items such as whole grain and low-sodium foods are also encouraged.

Those who would rather give financially can text “StampOK” to 53-555. Organizers say every $1 donated helps provide three meals to Oklahomans facing hunger.

The food drive is presented by OG&E and American Fidelity, with additional support from CSAA-AAA Insurance, OU Health, WEOKIE Foundation, Bank of Oklahoma, and The Oklahoman.

More information is available through the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma.

Northern Oklahoma College Enid has hired Josh Quintero as the new Jets Cheer Coach for the 2026-2027 school year.

The cheer program was officially reinstated in December and will return for the 2026-27 academic year.

NOC Athletic Director Alan Foster announced the hiring this week.

“I am excited to welcome Josh back to the NOC coaching family,” Foster said. “He did a great job with our program before and I believe that he will continue to do great things as we enter this new chapter of competitive cheer. I look forward to his return.”

Quintero is no stranger to NOC Enid. He previously served as cheer coach for 10 years before the program was dropped in 2023. During that time, he led the Jets to four national championships.

“Bringing cheerleading back to NOC Enid isn’t just about a program, it’s about restoring opportunity,” Quintero said. “It’s about giving athletes a path to continue their passion for cheer, while earning an education, and be part of something bigger. With a championship culture already in place with four National Championships, we’re excited to build on that legacy and create something special for this community.”

He added, “NOC Enid has a championship culture in all their sports and now we get to help support these teams as we try to bring more championships back to Enid.”

Quintero grew up in west Texas and cheered for five years on the Small Coed Cheer Team at West Texas A&M University. He also served as a head instructor for the Universal Cheerleaders Association, spending many summers teaching junior high and high school cheer camps across the country. While working with Varsity, he also helped create some of the largest cheer competitions in the nation that are still operating today.

Quintero and his wife, Missy, own and coach Spirit Express in Enid. Over the years, he has served on several cheerleading boards, including the Oklahoma Cheer Coaches Association for high school cheerleading. In 2009, he was named one of the Top 30 Coaches Under 30 in the cheer industry by CheerCon. He has also helped develop some of the safety standards still used in cheerleading today.

Through Spirit Express, the Quinteros have won multiple state, regional, and national titles with both their all-star teams and high school teams.

Quintero also owns Freedom Spirit Championships, where he runs some of the top cheerleading competitions for all-star and school teams.

A native of Amarillo, Texas, Quintero graduated from Amarillo High School and earned his degree from West Texas A&M University.

The 10 Under 40 Awards ceremony is set for Tuesday, August 18, 2026 at Stride Bank Center, where the top 10 recipients will be honored. These awards recognize well-rounded individuals who contribute meaningfully to Enid’s growth, culture, and progress. Nominations will be accepted through the online form, that will be posted on EYP’s Facebook page and on the awards website at www.growenid.com/eyp-10under40. The nominations will be reviewed by an independent panel of judges comprised of leaders from outside the EYP organization.

"ERDA is fortunate to partner with EYP to provide support to a vital sector of our workforce. Meredith Wright, director of marketing for ERDA, has done an exceptional job revitalizing EYP which is a critical component to our mission of retaining and attracting talent in our region,” Marcie Mack, Executive Director of ERDA. “The EYP team is dedicated to growing the next generation and being a cornerstone of Enid’s workforce."

Along with the 10 Under 40 Awards, EYP will be bringing back the “Social Shaker” awards at the event. These awards are designed to honor local individuals, organizations and businesses who have positively impacted the mission of Enid Young Professionals. It’s an opportunity to thank the people who have made a difference for our organization. Anyone, organization or business can be nominated in these categories:

Cultural Collaborator: An individual, group, organization or business who promote Enid’s arts and culture to young professionals through innovation, economic impact and social awareness.

Golden Shaker: A past 10 Under 40 recipient who has demonstrated continued commitment to the mission and development of Enid Young Professionals.
Spotlight Shaker: An individual, group, organization or business who acts as a community partner and champion of Enid by working to promote quality of life, retention and top talent and recruitment of the next generation of business and civic leaders.

Vibrant Visionary: An individual, group, organization or business who support entrepreneurial and innovative thinking to grow Enid’s young professional opportunities, involvement and quality of life.

Nominations for 10 Under 40 and the Social Shaker awards are now open. To nominate someone for the awards, visit www.growenid.com/eyp-10under40.

A Renewed Commitment to Enid’s Next Generation

EYP was formed to attract, retain, and empower young professionals who call Enid home. Through social gatherings and professional development events, the organization provides opportunities for emerging leaders to connect, grow, and make an impact.

EYP’s leadership emphasizes that building the next generation of community leaders requires strong collaboration with local businesses, institutions, and civic influencers. By fostering connections and creating opportunities for professional relationship-building, EYP continues to strengthen the foundation of Enid’s future.

Keston Cook, EYP committee member and Airport Director at Enid Woodring Regional Airport, expressed enthusiasm about the event’s return.

“I am incredibly excited for Enid Young Professionals to be bringing back the 10 Under 40 Awards! This event offers an excellent opportunity to showcase some of the best that our community has to offer while also providing a great space for young professionals in the area to meet and network with a group of their peers. I especially look forward to seeing the next generation of young professionals grow as they form new partnerships and turn fresh ideas into the local initiatives that keep our community growing.”

Cook shared that bringing back the 10 Under 40 Awards is important because Enid has seen remarkable, often behind‑the‑scenes contributions from young professionals in recent years. Reviving the group and the 10 Under 40 Awards creates a platform to spotlight that talent and the meaningful work being done across the community.

He emphasized that recognizing emerging leaders helps reinforce Enid’s commitment to keeping local talent local. Young professionals, he noted, are the driving force behind the community’s progress, bringing fresh ideas, new perspectives, and innovative approaches that shape Enid’s future.

Cook also hopes the event sends a clear message: young leaders are valued. He wants them to feel confident building their careers and roots in Enid, knowing they are an essential part of what makes the community strong and special.

Watch Planes Fly In for Breakfast at Enid Woodring Regional Airport This Saturday

There’s something a little different happening at Enid Woodring Regional Airport this Saturday morning, and it’s one of those events that’s fun whether you’re an aviation enthusiast or just looking for something unique to do around town.

On Saturday, April 18, 2026, pilots from surrounding airports will be flying into Enid for the airport’s monthly Fly-In Breakfast. The public is invited to come out, enjoy breakfast, watch the planes arrive and depart, and spend a little time exploring one of Enid’s most interesting local spots.

The event takes place from 7:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at Enid Woodring Regional Airport. Guests can enjoy an all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet for $10.99, while kids 12 and under eat for $5.99.

One of the best parts of the morning is simply watching the action on the airfield. Visitors can see aircraft flying in from surrounding communities, landing on the runway, taxiing in, and later taking off again. From time to time, there are also spot landing contests, which add a little extra excitement for those who enjoy seeing pilots show off their precision flying skills.

Even if you’re not a pilot or an airplane buff, the Fly-In Breakfast offers a fun family-friendly outing. It’s a chance to get up close to aircraft, see static displays on the ramp, and experience the atmosphere of a working regional airport. Kids especially tend to love watching the planes come and go, and it makes for a different kind of Saturday morning activity.

While you’re there, you can also stop in and check out the airport terminal and the Barnstormers restaurant, which have become part of the experience for many who attend. The event combines small-town hospitality, good food, and aviation in a way that’s hard to find just anywhere.

The Fly-In Breakfast is typically held on the third Saturday of most months from March through October, although dates are subject to change. Throughout the season, Enid Woodring Regional Airport welcomes pilots flying in for breakfast and fellowship, while giving the public a chance to enjoy the sights and sounds of general aviation up close.

For anyone looking for something a little out of the ordinary this weekend, this is a great excuse to head out to the airport, grab some breakfast, and watch the sky come alive.

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Woodring Airport History

Enid Woodring Regional Airport (WDG) is located just 4 miles SE of Enid, OK. It is a full service FBO with all the amenities. The airport now houses Barnstormers restaurant and several rooms of aerospace and military memorabilia.

Enid’s Airport was renamed Enid Woodring Municipal Airport on May 30, 1933 after Lieutenant Irvin A. (Bert) Woodring, born February 1, 1902 in Enid, Oklahoma. Irvin A. Woodring was one of the U.S. Army Air Corps’ “Three Musketeers of Aviation” along with fellow pilots John J. Williams and William Lewers Cornelius. The group performed aerobatics at the National Air Races. J.J. Williams died in practice at Mines Field, Los Angeles on September 11, 1928.

Charles Lindbergh, for whom the three had served as escorts, filled in following Williams death. Two weeks later, W. L. Cornelius died when his plane collided with another plane. On January 20, 1933, Bert Woodring fell 2,000 feet to his death over Wright Field in Dayton, Ohio, when his Consolidated P-30 fighter exploded in mid-air.

Within the airport grounds is the former traveling VietNam Memorial Wall, Woodring Wall of Honor and Veterans Park, which honors Oklahoma veterans. Ceremonies are held annually on Memorial Day to honor fallen soldiers. A two-story veterans museum at the site is in the works.

United Way of Enid and Northwest Oklahoma will host its 2026 Annual Meeting and Awards Ceremony on Thursday, April 23rd, from 11:30 am – 1:00 pm, in the Grand Ballroom of the Stride Bank Center. The meeting will feature lunch, special presentations, the 2025-2026 campaign totals, and special announcements about the 2026-2027 Campaign Chair, the 100th Red Feather theme, and plans for the year. The cost of attending is $40 per person or $400 for a table for 8.

The Slater Family served as 2025-2026 chairs for the campaign. Highlights of the United Way’s Campaign came in the form of several pledges, contributions, and donated gifts of stock.

“The Golf Tournament, Pillar’s Dinner, and Chili Cook-off events were once again huge successes, raising funds to help support our 14 partner agencies. Thank you to everyone who donated their time, energy, or money in any way, large or small, or gave words of encouragement. We are truly blessed to have been a part of this campaign and the United Way organization,” Shanda Slater stated.

Funds raised through the United Way of Enid & Northwest Oklahoma’s campaign go to support 14 nonprofit member agencies: Booker T. Washington Community Center, Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City, SCOUTING AMERICA Last Frontier Council, Community Development Support Association, Denny Price YMCA, Human Services Alliance of Greater Enid, Garfield County Child Advocacy Council, 4RKIDS, Loaves and Fishes, RSVP of Enid and North Central Oklahoma, Thayne A. Hedges Regional Speech & Hearing Center, The Salvation Army, Youth & Family Services North Central Oklahoma and YWCA of Enid. Funds also support research to identify human service needs throughout Enid & NW Oklahoma communities and help accountable health and human services agencies to meet those needs by improving the health, safety, education, and economic well-being of our most vulnerable citizens.

April 17th is the deadline to RSVP or purchase seats for the event. Please call Kim at the United Way office at (580) 237-0821 or email kim@unitedwayenid.org

For more information about United Way of Enid & Northwest Oklahoma, visit www.unitedwayenid.org

Piano Illusions bringing music, comedy and crowd interaction to Stride Bank Center on April 11

Stride Bank Center will welcome a different kind of live performance to Enid on Saturday, April 11, 2026, when Piano Illusions starring internationally known pianist and entertainer Igor Lipinski comes to town.

The show is designed to be more than a standard piano concert. Lipinski mixes high-level piano performance with humor, storytelling and audience participation to create an interactive evening aimed at both adults and kids.

Known for putting an energetic spin on both classical and modern music, Lipinski has built a reputation for turning a traditional concert setting into something more playful and unexpected. Piano Illusions combines serious musical talent with a theatrical, family-friendly style that keeps the audience involved throughout the night.

Stride Bank Center General Manager Kevin Frusti said the venue is always looking for events that offer something different for the community, and he believes this performance fits that goal well. He said Lipinski’s blend of musicianship, comedy and crowd engagement makes the show a standout addition to the entertainment lineup coming to Enid.

Lipinski said he is looking forward to bringing the show to Enid and sharing the experience with local audiences.

More information about the show can be found at: https://igorlipinski.com/show.

Enid High School has a new leader for its boys basketball program.

The Enid Board of Education unanimously approved the hiring of Mark Berokoff as the new head coach of the Plainsmen basketball team during a special board meeting held this morning. He is set to begin his duties on May 4.

“I couldn’t be happier to have Coach Berokoff joining us,” said Enid Public Schools Athletic Director Robb Mills. “He brings a wealth of knowledge to the court, and when you pair that with the solid group of players we have coming back, the future of Plainsmen Basketball looks bright. I’m ready to see how far we can grow. Go Big Blue!”

Berokoff brings a long list of coaching experience at the high school, college, and professional levels.

He began his coaching career in California, where he posted a 225-77 record at the high school level. He later served as head coach and athletic director for men’s basketball at Randall University from 2012 to 2021, then as head coach of men’s basketball at Oklahoma City University from 2021 to 2025. Most recently, he was an assistant coach for men’s basketball at the University of Portland.

During his time at Randall University, Berokoff led the program to three NCCAA National Championships in 2016, 2017, and 2018. He was also named National Coach of the Year twice, in 2016 and 2019.

Berokoff said he is excited for the opportunity to help build the Plainsmen program.

“With a deep commitment to player development, competitive excellence, and the holistic growth of student-athletes, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to the Plainsmen basketball program,” he said.

Berokoff holds an undergraduate degree in Business Administration from Regis University and a master’s degree in Public Administration from Randall University.

He and his wife, Staci, have one daughter, Jacinda.

In addition to all the fantastic food, there will be other vendors for arts, crafts, and other wares, as well as live music.

Attendees are urged to have cash for the entry fee, though most of the vendors are set up to take cards and other forms of electronic payments.

There will be some seating and picnic tables available, but lawn chairs are also welcomed.

Lineup for the 2026 Red Brick Road Food Truck and Art Festival!

Food Trucks:

David's Smok'n BBQ
The Tasty Tipi
Travelin' Tom's Coffee
Kona Ice
Cutie Pies
Yum Pig
Kolander’s Concessions
Big Lemon lemonade
Lucky Lucky Dumpling
Metro Minis
Common Crave
Tropical Freeze
Nacho Madness
Two Sisters Mobile Bakery
Newman's Firehouse Grill
Vic's Jolloff
Squire & Cindy's Kitchen
Shamrock Swagger
Psycho Taco
The Rolling Spoon
Sweets by Karen
The To Go Box
Smoke Wagon
A Fuego Pizzeria
Rolling Concessions
Settlers Brewing

Artists, Artisans, Crafters, Treat Makers, and other lovely vendors:

Lynch Family Farm
Vernost Winery
Twisted & Tangled Winery
Sugar Belle Candy
The Painted Lady
Jaren's Jerky
Nothing Bundt Cake
Heavenly Kernels
Renewal by Anderson
Franklin's Man Cave Art
Fins, Fangs & More
Flowfox Designs
TKM
Boho Bright & Sassy
The Shelf
Knotty Kibben
Awe Graffiti Art
40 Martyrs Cigar Lounge
Joshua Hinton Art
HP Tea
Sip & Smile
Twister Strums
Jackie's Craft Room
Ace of Spades Hat Co.
4 Counting Out Loud
Kris Fairchild Art
Funky Faces
Enid Axe
Alisha Norwood
C&C Crafts
Satin & Sweets Boutique
Dustbowl Tough

The fair is scheduled for Thursday, March 26, at 4:00 p.m. in the Administrative Services Center board room, 500 S. Independence. EPS administrators will be available to speak with potential applicants, accept resumes, and have extended interviews from 4:45 to 6:00 p.m.

All candidates with a college degree, education related or otherwise, are welcome to attend and learn about how to become a teacher in EPS schools.

“Our administrators are looking forward to meeting this year’s candidates looking to join the EPS team,” said Jane Johnson, Director of Human Resources and Communications. “We’re excited to continue excellence in our schools and hire the best of the best for the 2026-27 school year!”

EPS boasts a competitive starting salary, paying an average $3,800 more per step than the state scale, as well as a $2,000 signing bonus for standard certification in early childhood, secondary math, secondary science, special education, and world language.

EPS provides 1:1 technology for all students, every school has newly added classrooms and secure entrances, character education district-wide, and Enid High School has a state-of-the-art competitive gymnasium and performing arts center. EPS also boasts an affordable childcare center, EPS Cares, for current employee’s own children.

For information on employment, please visit enidpublicschools.org/applytoday.

For questions, call the EPS Human Resources Department at 580.366.7016.

They’re calling on volunteers of all ages to come lend a hand and help keep Downtown Enid looking its absolute best. Whether you’re passionate about your community, love being outdoors, or just want to make a positive impact—this is a great way to get involved!

Why it matters:

A clean, vibrant downtown benefits everyone. Together, we can take pride in our space and make a lasting difference for our community.

Date: April 26
Time: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Meet-Up Location: Courthouse Lawn Gazebo, Downtown Enid

Bring your friends, your family, and your community spirit—we’ll provide the rest!

Let’s work together to keep Downtown Enid beautiful.

Sign up at https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090E4EAFAA29A57-63055126-thegreatest.