The Oklahoma Conservation Commission (OCC) has launched the Soil Health Implementation Program (SHIP), a new initiative to improve soil health across Oklahoma’s agricultural landscapes. Approved unanimously by the Commission on December 12th, SHIP aims to provide comprehensive soil conservation solutions in both rural and urban areas The program, led by the OCC’s Soil Health Team, focuses on conservation practices that build land and operation resilience by improving ecosystem health. It combines technical assistance and financial incentives to encourage the adoption of soil health practices among agricultural producers. SHIP offers up to $40,000 over three years to approved applicants aiming to make a significant impact on their soil conservation.

Guthrie Police Chief Don Sweger sits down withtheNewsLeaderto discuss the burgeoning technological advancements the department is adopting for license plate-reading devices. The new tech is still early in development, but Sweger is hopeful he will receive the needed funding to move forward with the endeavor, as well as public approval. If implemented, officers will be able to run automatic searches on plates that ping to every active computer in an officer’s vehicle.

Clyne Hubbard Myles was given life in prison following a four-year long trial involving the murder of his wife in 2019. The 53-year-old was charged with second- degree murder as well as possession of a firearm and lewd acts with a human corpse. Myles’ attorney made the case for a 30-year sentence, but Logan County judge Louis Duel ruled in favor of Robyn Miles’ family and Logan County with a life sentence.

Tucker Wal lraven was selected to represent our Mulhall-Orlando band in the 45 th Annual All-Senior Honor Band held on the campus of Southwe s t e rn Ok l a h o ma State University, Saturday, November 18, 2023.

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The Oklahoma Sports Museum Association announced the hiring of Brandon Chenoweth as Associate Director of Guthrie’s Territorial Sports Museum, replacing longtime director Richard Hendricks. A lifelong sports fan, Chenoweth outlined his plans for revamping the museum’s public image, which involves establishing an online presence with the website and social media, as well as changing the museum’s name to the Oklahoma Sports Heritage Museum.

Anewelementaryschool was erected in Guthrie with initial construction beginning on Dec. 18. Guthrie Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Mike Simpson and President of the Guthrie Board of Education Ron Plagg spoke at the groundbreaking ceremony of Cotteral Elementary, which has a targeted opening date for the 2025-2026 school year.

Central Oklahoma Camp’s Campfire Gala raised over $77,000 that will be put toward improving all camp programs in the future. The Camp’s “Make Promises Happen” program aims to give individuals with disabilities opportunities to participate in outdoor activities. It involves year-long activities such as ziplining, archery and arts and crafts.