Swings and fences

I grew up in a small town which correlated to a small school. In school we had one playground for grades two through six. The playground was broken into three sections separated by gates and tall chain-link fences like a patchwork of territories.

Adventures with Allie

It’s been one year since my husband and I bought our first home, and I’m starting to suspect the house is alive. Not in a “haunted” way, although that squirrel in the attic might disagree, but in a “testing your patience constantly” way.Take the floors.

Backing the Blue in a Small Town

Oilton City Council, Ward 4 Although we may not always agree, I have respect for each of my fellow council members. Every member brings a unique perspective and a genuine desire to see Oilton move forward. When our form of government was created, it was built with checks and balances in mind.

Fall forum is your opportunity to bring forth youth policy ideas

For the Children Each year, the Oklahoma Institute for Child Advocacy (OICA) holds our Fall Forum to look at trends in child health, safety, and wellbeing.We invite advocates from across the state to hear from experts about critical topics.

Living in Interesting Times

There are some days when I wonder if the person who first said, “May you live in interesting times,” was applauded for this statement or condemned.

Mortgage Rates Are Rising Despite Fed Cuts—Here’s Why

Stock Market Insights Wealth ManagementMy wife and I bought our first house in 1997 for $23,000 and had a 7.5% mortgage rate. Even though the loan was small, it was still scary for a new finance guy and a school teacher. A lower interest rate would have really helped us out.

The Value of a Staycation

As some may know, I took a vacation last week. One of the main things people wanted to know was where I was going and what I would be doing for the vacation. The assumption is always that a vacation means packed suitcases, a full itinerary, and perhaps a boarding pass.

Sandites shut-out Bruins

BARTLESVILLE — The Sand Springs Sandites came into Friday’s district opener knowing they had to set the tone early, and from the first snap they showed why they should be feared, even after an inauspicious start to their season.

Adventures with Allie

I get funny looks every time I say it out loud: I am an OU fan who cheers for OSU any time the Cowboys aren’t playing the Sooners. People look at me like I just announced I put ketchup on steak.But it’s true. Crimson and Cream is ingrained in my soul.

Child Protection Courts, Other Reforms, Studied by Lawmakers

For the Children Recently, Rep. Danny Williams, R-Seminole, along with Reps.