The ballot belongs to you

Every election season, we hear the same phrases repeated over and over.“Voting is a right.”“Voting is a privilege.” Both are true. But I think they miss something important. Voting is also a responsibility. It is a duty.

Continuing education

You know the saying, “You can’t teach old dogs new tricks?” Well, I am getting very close to being an old dog. I hope I will always be open to learning something new though. It may be a new way to teach, a new way to learn or a new way to look at the world.

Gentner Drummond Is the Right Choice for Oklahoma Governor

The following editorial represents the opinion of this newspaper's editorial staff. Oklahoma stands at a crossroads.

I Think We Can

Recently, I’ve been reading The Little Engine That Could with my young daughter. Like many children’s books, it contains lessons that are just as relevant for adults as they are for children.Most people remember the famous phrase, “I think I can. I think I can.

Meet the intern

Dear readers, I am Caleson Coon and the summer 2026 intern for Cimarron Valley Communications. I grew up in Okemah, OK, along with receiving my high school diploma from my hometown in 2024.

Every community has its favorites

The restaurant where the waitress knows your order before you sit down. The mechanic who always finds time to squeeze you in. The teacher who changed a student's life. The local business owner who sponsors little league teams, donates to fundraisers and quietly supports causes throughout the year.

Honoring those who have paid the ultimate price

Generally Speaking Each May we observe Memorial Day to honor the men and women who gave all in defense of our freedom. As Americans, we know that freedom is not free.

Adventures with Allie

There are people in this world who love loudly, and there are people who love steadily. The steady kind are the ones who shape your life so deeply that you do not even realize how much of yourself was built by them until one day they are gone.My Popou was that kind of man.

The Pros and Cons of a Minimum Wage Increase for Oklahomans

Voters will decide State Question 832, the minimum wage increase, on June 16. If passed, the state question would boost the state’s minimum wage from $7.25 to $12 in 2027, to $13.50 in 2028, and to $15 in 2029, with further increases tied to the cost of living.

Why Investors Should Watch Inflation and Stock Valuations Right Now

My college-aged son called me upset a few weeks ago. The water pump went out and the head gasket blew on the car he bought himself. He said he saw the temperature gauge go up, and he pulled over as fast as he could, but it was too late; his engine was ruined.