Poteau Daily News
Making a fresh side street on north side of Poteau
A Robinson Construction crew paves Ben Klutts Road on the north side of Poteau near Walmart on Friday. The paving project, which came after Walmart performed a complete resurfacing of its parking lot, clsoed most of this side street for at least part...
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Bonilla marks 75 years of U.S. citizenship
Richard Bonilla, 97, a member of the Poteau Kiwanis Club, celebrates his 75th anniversary of United States citizenship while surrounded by friends on Thursday at Methodist Assisted Living in Fort Smith, Ark. After entering the United States on Dec. 14,...
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EOMC adjusting to drop in state-directed Medicaid payments
Eastern Oklahoma Medical Center will be adjusting to a significant loss of state-directed Medicaid payments, which were reviewed during the LeFlore County Health Authority meeting on Tuesday. EOMC faces a loss of around 52 percent in Supplemental...
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Progress through two years of Work Ready
Work Ready Poteau, a job readiness program for those who are unemployed or underemployed, has continued helping more people grow job skills and seize better opportunities since becoming operational in September 2024. “Removing the employment barrier...
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Arkansas man too fast, too furious for short jail sentence
Steven Alexander Weinart, 39 of Polk County, Ark., was sentenced on Aug. 4 in LeFlore County Courthouse to 149 years in prison for a high-speed pursuit that took place on July 16, 2023. After deliberating for almost two hours, the jury convicted him...
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Poteau to install HVAC at primary, UE gyms
The Poteau school board on Monday approved bids to install heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC) systems in the Poteau Primary School and Upper Elementary School gyms. Poteau Public Schools Operations Director Devin Cochran said these projects...
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Programming updates at Patrick Lynch Public Library
Patrick Lynch Public Library Manager Mona Goodrich speaks to the Poteau Rotary Club on Wednesday. Patrick Lynch Public Library Manager Mona Goodrich discussed on Wednesday new and upcoming programming and learning opportunities at the library, which...
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Education, health care highlights Munson’s campaign
While making her second visit to Poteau in her run for governor, Democrat Cyndi Munson placed an emphasis on education and health care. “We can pay for these things. We can protect the core services that we care about,” she said, “to take care of our...
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Poteau moves through summer street projects
Poteau marked progress with a handful of public works projects during the city council meeting on Monday. Street Commissioner Ronnie Burgess detailed work that was completed in a neighborhood on the west side of town on Teakwood Drive, Candlewood Way...
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Franklin visits Poteau in state superintendent run
Robert Franklin spoke to a gathering at the Cavanal Event Center in Poteau on Saturday as he prepares for the Aug. 25 Republican primary runoff against Little Axe High School teacher Dr. James Taylor. “We need to stop beating up on schools and start...
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West, Glinski sound off on SQ 844
The two general election candidates for state House District 3 discussed on Thursday at different events the negative impact that would come if State Question 844 were approved when it comes on the ballot on Aug. 25. SQ 844 is related to ad valorem...
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Arvest grant for Boys and Girls Club
POTEAU (July 28, 2026) – The Arvest Foundation announced it has awarded a $10,000 grant to the Boys & Girls Club of LeFlore County to support the organization’s summer and after-school programs. Arvest associates recently presented the check on behalf...
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Poteau teams get World Series runner-up
Poteau teams of various age groups took the trip for a 16th straight year to the Choctaw Nation World Series, which takes place north of Philadelphia, Miss., with two of its teams earning runnerup in the manifestation of Choctaw culture. The...
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Taylor discusses school ideas, choices
Dr. James Taylor, one of the two candidates in the Republican primary runoff for state superintendent of schools, made a return visit to Poteau on Thursday, speaking to Republicans at Patrick Lynch Public Library several weeks after previously being in...
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New DEXA scan coming to EOMC
During the LeFlore County Hospital authority meeting on Tuesday, a move was made for a key piece of new equipment, and a sign was given for an anticipated program. The board approved the purchase of a DEXA (Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) scan from...
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LeFlore County Crisis Services seeks help in filling counseling office
LeFlore County Crisis Services is ramping up its campaign to furnish its new counseling office next to the women’s shelter on Dewey Avenue in Poteau. “The Hope Restored building started as a dream of [former LCCS Director] Deanna [Chancellor] in 2015...
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Discovering how to be Better Together
Better Together Outreach is having its first big event this morning as it presents a pickleball tournament at Twyman Park in Poteau. Proceeds from the tournament go towards a school supply drive as Better Together Outreach is participating in the...
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Guillet joins Poteau school board
During the Poteau school board meeting on Monday, Kaley Guillet was appointed as a new member in seat No. 3. Guillet was interviewed by the board before the board approved her appointment. She replaced Dennis Yoakum following his resignation in June...
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Upcoming blood drives
Following are blood drives in LeFlore County through the end of July: Arkoma Boots and Badges Community Challege July 17 from 3-6 p.m. at the Arkoma Police Department at 1103 Main Street in the conference room. Contact Betty Gunter at 918-875-3381 or...
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Preparing for full-time fire station
Poteau Fire Chief John Ford explained the buildup to having a full-time crew at Station 1 near downtown. Starting in 2027, Station 1 is set to have 12 full-time firefighters — four per shift. Each firefighter would be on for 48 hours and off for 96...
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‘Worst eyesore:’ Poteau to tear down Economy Inn
A much-anticipated tear down was approved by the Poteau City Council on Monday as members voted to condemn Economy Inn at 2011 North Broadway. “It’s the worst eyesore on Broadway I’ve ever seen since I’ve been here. Our citizens are tired of it. Our...
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Ringing in 250 years of America around LeFlore County
Amanda and Gage Clemons display their flags from the bed of their truck during the Wister Independence Day Parade on Saturday. See poteaudailynews. com for more photos.
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Poteau celebrates America as 250th birthday nears
Several dozen people gathered at the Donald W. Reynolds Community Center in Poteau on Tuesday to celebrate local and American history ahead of the United States’ 250th anniversary of independence. Keynote speaker Kenneth Corn, a former state...
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Gov. Stitt recognizes LeFlore County personnel, meets with LeMay family
Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt visits the Donald W. Reynolds Community Center on Thursday to present citations of official recognition to members of the LeFlore County Sheriff’s Office and other law enforcement personnel from around the county for their...
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Keeping health care local at nearby clinics
Melanie Ward, RN, the clinic manager for Eastern Oklahoma Medical Center explained some of the services provided at the clinics on Thursday. Eastern Oklahoma Medical Center has three certified rural health clinics, which means that they receive Center...
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CASC approves budget amid flat state aid
The Carl Albert State College board of regents approved a $14.3 million budget request during its meeting on Tuesday. Carl Albert State College President Jay Falkner said this comes as the state did not increase aid to community colleges. “We...
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Library facilitates community resource fair
Patrick Lynch Public Library in Poteau was the place for a Community Resource Fair on Monday. Staff members from a few LeFlore County libraries helped coordinate the fair. More than 65 people visited the midday fair. Agencies at the fair included the...
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Howe Travel Center supports school supply drive
Poteau – First National Bank announced today an upcoming name and brand change effective Aug. 1. Starting in late July, clients will see the name Monument Bank integrated across the bank. “The name Monument Bank represents our dedication to building...
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West, Eastman sail in primaries; Oliver defends seat; Parker-Honeycutt runoff
Among primary elections on Tuesday, state Rep. Rick West (R-District 3) and Democratic corporation commissioner candidate Rhonda Eastman won their primary contests by wide margins. West beat Dalton Staley 2,752-678 (80.23 percent to 19.77 percent) to...
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Much to watch on primary election ballot
Primary election day is this Tuesday with polls open from 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Anyone with questions about their voting precincts can call the LeFlore County Election Board at 918-647-3701. Many local and statewide races are on the primary ballots for both...
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McVay sees Poteau in state superintendent bid
Craig McVay came to Poteau on Tuesday and met with the LeFlore County Democrats as he runs for state Superintendent of schools. McVay, who has been the El Reno Public Schools superintendent since 2014, referred to himself as “a turn the lights on,...
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Weight facility to be named for Reed; Yoakum resigns from school board
During the Poteau school board meeting on Monday, a significant announcement came about an anticipated asset. Bob Reed Strength and Conditioning Center will be the name for the weightlifting building that is being developed in between Costner Stadium...
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Preparing before disaster strikes
While Oklahoma has not seen as much extreme weather this year, Jessica Fouch of Legal Aid Services has been promoting the practice of getting legal affairs and documentation in order before disaster strikes. Legal Aid Services of Oklahoma, a...
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Bigfoot, big imagination
State Rep. J.J. Humphrey (R-District 19), who represents parts of Pushmataha, Coal, Atoka and Bryan Counties and is running for lieutenant governor, refueled with food after the Meet the Canddates event on Tuesday and picked up his cup of coffee and...
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Lively exchanges as candidates meet before primary
During the Meet the Candidates luncheon presented by the Poteau Chamber of Commerce, two pairs of opponents for local office traded barbs while a total of 10 candidates came to speak. This forum took place two weeks before the June 16 primary...
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JEHCC commemorates 17 GED graduates
Inmate students who recently attained their high school equivalency were recognized on May 21 with a formal graduation ceremony. Graduates gathered in their caps and gowns to be honored by their fellow students, teachers, peers, and staff at the Jim E....
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Ivey: Man of ‘uncommon’ path
Garry Ivey, who died at age 77 on Monday, was remembered for his service and leadership in Poteau and LeFlore County. “Coming from Whitesboro, he was a true servant who believed in education and believed it was a way to better yourself,” Poteau Mayor...
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Poteau Adult Learning Center graduating class
Poteau Adult Education graduates gather before their High School Equivalency Graduation on Tuesday at the Donald W. Reynolds Community Center. The graduating class includes Seth Anderson, Christa Armstrong, Trinity Baker, Savanna Bartlett, Johnathon...
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Davis closes chapter at Adult Learning Center
The High School Equivalency Graduation on Tuesday signified an emotional ending for Poteau Adult Learning Center Director Myrna Davis. “There were a lot of emotions. I’ve done it a long time,” Davis said. “It’s time, but it’s hard. I’m very attached...
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Celebrating Poteau High School graduation
Natalie Falcon, right, receives her diploma book from Poteau school board member Ranada Adams on Friday during the Poteau High School graduation. See poteaudailynews.com for more photos.
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New Dale Cox Community Center opens in Poteau
POTEAU — The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma (CNO) opened the Dale Cox Community Center in Poteau near U.S. Highway 271 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and luncheon on May 8. Named in honor of Dale Cox, a former tribal council member and longtime member of...
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Poteau schools select Stockton as SEC principal
During the Poteau school board meeting on Monday, Allan Stockton was named the new seventh and eighth grade center principal. This follows the resignation of SEC principal Angel Hogan-Smith, which was approved in March. Stockton teaches history and...
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Cruz wins 20th anniversary of Cavanal Killer
Steven Cruz, a Heavener High School graduate and Carl Albert State College sophomore, won the 20th anniversary of the Cavanal Killer 8K run/walk on Saturday, going from Poteau Primary School up to the top of Cavanal Hill. Cruz finished in 38:55,...
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Poteau Schools Education Foundation marks 40 years
The Poteau Schools Education Foundation celebrated 40 years of supporting local teachers and students this year. In 1986, the foundation, also known as the Poteau Foundation for Excellence, was founded by Poteau businessman Steve Holton. Holton was a...
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Pumping blood with LeFlore County EMS
LeFlore County Emergency Medical Service began to perform blood service to patients in the field on Friday. LeFlore County EMS Director Keith Lickly and his team strived for a long time to attain this privilege while working with the Oklahoma Blood...
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Poteau celebrates accomplishment of 220 Event Park
Poteau community members and representatives from T-Mobile gathered at the 220 Event Park on Dewey to celebrate the dedication of the park on Friday afternoon. A slew of events followed the dedication, including live music and a parade. Soundscape...
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Poteau FFA embraces change
Poteau FFA members expeditiously went through their annual banquet at the Donald W. Reynolds Community Center on Thursday. Among the awards, of which photos are on page 2, former Poteau FFA Advisor and agericulture instructor Logan Rea was granted an...
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Poteau HS Color Guard shows flair
Jenny Hess, left photo, and Mamie Bear, right photo, perform during the Poteau High School Color Guard Showcase on Monday at Sherman Floyd Fieldhouse. See videos from the showcase at poteaudailynews. com.
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Being a presence for children with CASA
With San Bois CASA (Court-Appointed Special Advocates) in need of volunteers to be a presence and advocate for children in the court system, Executive Director Leah McLaughlin presented the opportunities for people. “Some of you may say, ‘They have...
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Lara to face murder charge
Edgar Lara, 36 of Levelland, Texas, is being charged with first-degree murder and other counts after killing LeFlore County deputy Walker LeMay in a shooting near Wister, west of the city limits, on Sunday. In a case filing at the LeFlore County...
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Triad cuts ribbon, joins Poteau Chamber
Triad Complete Healthcare cuts the ribbon to join the Poteau Chamber on Tuesday at its clinic at 2110 North Broadway Avenue. The clinic, which is open 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday through Friday, can be reached at 918-205-1994. People can check insurance...
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LeFlore County deputy dies, Wister chief suffers injuries from shootout
Edgar Lara, 36, was arrested on Sunday after drawing authorities into a midday shootout on Sunday. Lara shot at officers while members of the LeFlore County Sheriff’s Office, the Wister Police Department and the United States Forestry Service were...
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House District 1 candidates meet at Haw Creek
The four Republican candidates for state House District 1 spoke at an event in the Haw Creek Community Center south of Heavener on Thursday. They are seeking to replace state Rep. Eddy Dempsey of Valliant, who chose not to run for reelection after...
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Poteau school moves on preparations for upcoming year
During the Poteau school board meeting on Monday, Ranada Adams was named board president once again. Gary Hecht was named the board clerk. The board approved the decision not to make up school days from snow days that were taken from January 26-30...
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Pocola ratifies plans for fire training center
During the Pocola Municipal Authority meeting on April 7, the decision was made to move forward with plans for a fire training center. The fire training center would be a 40-foot-by80-foot building with an office, bathroom, laundry room and kitchen....
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Oliver prepares to become PKMS principal
When Ashley Oliver, a 2006 Poteau High School graduate, began her career as a middle-school science teacher in Talihina in 2011, she did not see herself becoming a principal. “I was pretty firmly rooted in being a teacher. I am a science teacher. I...
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PVIA retains officers
During the Poteau Valley Improvement Authority meeting on Tuesday, the board chose to keep all of the officers and standing committees as they are. The only exception is that Mick LaFevers is no longer an officer. Joe Mode is the PVIA president and...
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Talihina Chamber of Commerce Banquet
The Talihina Chamber of Commerce recognized the contributions of many community members during its banquet on Saturday. Musician Bo Phillips was inducted into the chamber’s Hall of Fame. The Bo Phillips Band has played concerts of various sizes in...
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Poteau students win Law Day contest
Manuel Sanchez and Vianey Gonzalez won first place in the recent statewide Law Day Contest sponsored by the Oklahoma Bar Association for their 11th grade art entry. They were recognized by Oklahoma Supreme Court Chief Justice Dustin P. Rowe during a...
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Investigating spectroscopy in STEM
Children work on color arrangements while learning about spectroscopy, the science of colors and the interaction of light during STEM Squad at Patrick Lynch Public Library in Poteau on March 26. See upcoming library events in the area calendar on page 2.
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Caughern states opposition to eliminating property tax
LeFlore County Treasurer April Caughern laid out the county finances and expressed her opposition to a proposal by some state lawmakers for a ballot proposition to eliminate the state income tax on Thursday while speaking to the Poteau Kiwanis...
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Remembering Terry Joe
Terry Joe Wiles, who served as a live music columnist for the Poteau Daily News and helped the newspaper in other capacities, passed away on Saturday. Wiles, a graduate of the Poteau High School class of 1970, was always plugged in with the live music...
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Remaning Easter egg hunts
Easter Egg Hunt on March 27 at the Poteau Area Recreational Complex with food (available for purchase) and activities beginning at 5:30 p.m. and the Easter egg hunt at 6 p.m. All proceeds benefit Arvest’s Million Meals Campaign to provide meals to area...
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TOP will make closing time a ‘Blank Canvas’ at Frozen Oasis
The Ouachita Productions will present the comedy mystery play “The Mystery of the Blank Canvas” at 7 p.m. on March 28 at Frozen Oasis at 103 South Pocola Boulevard. Seats come available at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $15 and can be purchased in advance at...
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EOMC welcomes community to new infusion clinic
Eastern Oklahoma Medical Center gathered people for a grand reopening of its infusion clinic, while marking a 10-year anniversary for the clinic. “We’re proud to offer this for 10 years,” EOMC CEO Tiffany Griffis said. With an increasing volume for...
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Howe girls state regain championship gold
Howe’s girls basketball team celebrates its state championship on Saturday at OG&E Coliseum in Oklahoma City. This is Howe’s fifth state championship with Chris Brown as head coach and seventh overall. See page 8 for the full story. See...
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Sharing reading, stories in community
More than 50 people filled the community room of Patrick Lynch Public Library in Poteau to hear bestselling author Lisa Wingate on Wednesday. One point she made that she has been bring to different audiences has been the value of sharing book reading...
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Hackler chosen to be Poteau High School principal
During the Poteau school board meeting on Monday, Eric Hackler was chosen as the new high-school principal. In July, he will replace Joe Ballard, who will take a position as the superintendent of K-8 school district Woodall Public Schools in...
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First gold ball for Red Oak girls basketball
Red Oak’s girls basketball team celebrates its first state championship in the sport after beating Kiowa in the state final on Saturday at OG&E Coliseum. See page 8 for the full story. Also, see the photo gallery at poteaudailynews.com. Red Oak players...
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Mazzei’s plans to end state income tax, fix education and more
Republican candidate for governor Mike Mazzei discussed several issues in his luncheon and meetand-greet at the Donald W. Reynolds Community Center in Poteau on Wednesday, although he explained particular plans for fixing education and eliminating the...
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GTCT to present childrens’ ‘Dare to Dream’
Cast members of the Good Times Community Theater production of “Dare to Dream.” This children’s play will be at the Bob Lee Kidd Performing Arts Center on Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. Tickets are $10 for adults and $8 for students...
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Merrick engages people in Spiro during visit
Jake Merrick, a Republican candidate for governor, visited with a gathering at Spiro Baptist Church on Sunday. This event was sponsored by the Oklahoma Second Amendment Association. Merrick expressed his desire for “true school choice,” discussing...
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National Technical Honor Society members
Kiamichi Tech had a National Technical Honor Society induction on Feb. 24 at the Poteau campus. Pictured are Poteau and Spiro campus NTHS members, including, for automotive service technology, Camron Billy, Hadlee Earls and Joshue Hernandez; for...
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First responders demonstrate care in DUI crash reenactment
First responders demonstrate operation of a scene of a driving under the influence (DUI) crash at the Arkoma football field on Wednesday afternoon. Arkoma police and firefighters, Pocola police and firefighters, Air Evac and LeFlore County Emergency...
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Jazz Night at LeFlore County Museum
See an upcoming issue for LeFlore County Livestock Show results.
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Pocola school begins campaign for bond to build new activity center
Pocola Public Schools began its push recently for a new activity center to serve multiple sports and other activities this week. With hometown fans, as well as plenty of those who made the trip from Wilburton, packed in the high-school gym for the...
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