Southwest Oklahoma Legislative Update: Senate

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Senate Judiciary Committee, chaired by Sen. Brent Howard (R-Altus), approved four tort reform measures last week in hopes of strengthening legal protections for businesses and ensuring fairness in civil litigation.

Southwest Oklahoma Legislative Update: House

OKLAHOMA CITY – As Rep. Dick Lowe (R-Amber) crafted legislative bills for the new session, it’s obvious that his attention was centered on education and schools, including students and teachers.

Community celebrates opening of S212 Guest House

LAWTON – Homeless men who have aged out of the state’s foster care system now have a place where they can live.The MIGHT Community Resource and Development Center hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony Feb.

Our Blood Institute calls for donations

Seasonal illnesses, including the flu, are affecting blood donations. Oklahoma is among the hardest-hit states, with widespread flu cases leading to school closures and canceled high school blood drives, according to Our Blood Institute.

Five candidates competing for Elgin mayor’s office

Five people, including Elgin Mayor JJ Francais, are vying to be the town’s next mayor.Francais, who has served as mayor since 2021, is seeking a second term in the mayor’s seat. His opponents in the April 1 municipal election include:• Arthur Malone.• Elgin City Councilwoman Holly Martinez.

FISTA to issue request for proposals for anechoic chamber

LAWTON – The FISTA Development Trust Authority is seeking bids from manufacturers interested in making the FISTA Innovation Park’s anechoic chamber, a soundproof room for testing electronic devices against regulatory standards.The authority voted unanimously Feb.

Significant decline in Lawton burglaries, Chief Smith says

LAWTON – Comparing 2013 to 2024, burglaries here declined by 43.5%, Police Chief James Smith told the City Council recently.According to Smith’s report, 1,485 burglaries were reported in 2013, compared to 839 reported in 2024.In 2023, Smith said, 818 burglaries were reported, a per capita rate of 9.

City employee promoted to oversee Lawton’s Aquatic Center

From staff reports Yolanda Allen has been named the City of Lawton’s recreation superintendent.