News

Pure City, gone with the wind

Mary E. Maurer
Friday, June 5, 2026
Oil fever swept this area in December of 1939 with an announcement in the Durant Weekly News: “Pure Oil Company, Tulsa, this week announces their intention of drilling a 7,000 or 9,000 ft. well in the huge block involving acreage in Bryan, Marshall, and Johnston counties.

COURT RECORDS

News Staff
Friday, June 5, 2026
Felonies filed Melanie Marie Ash, 49, Mead, DUI. Johnny Warren Jones III, 36, Durant, domestic abuse.
About 42 American Legion Riders visited Durant American Legion Post 39 last month to raise funds for the American Legion’s Veterans and Children Foundation. Matt Swearengin | Durant Democrat

About 42 American Legion Riders visited Durant American Legion Post 39 last month to raise funds for the American Legion’s Veterans and Children Foundation. Matt Swearengin | Durant Democrat

American Legion Riders visit Post 39 Green-Bryant

Matt Swearengin
Friday, June 5, 2026
Oklahoma American Legion Riders rode to Durant American Legion Post 39 Green-Bryant last month during a legacy run to raise funds for the American Legion Veterans and Children Foundation. “Every year, we ride,” said Brett Martin, director of the Oklahoma American Legion Riders.

Primary election is June 16

Matt Swearengin
Friday, June 5, 2026
Voters will head to the polls June 16 for the primary election and a state question that would increase the minimum wage. For Bryan County Commissioner District 1, Republicans Richard Nix and Lance Billings are seeking the office.
Beth Deen, Rapid DNA program supervisor, demonstrates the Rapid DNA machine. Matt Swearengin | Durant Democrat

Beth Deen, Rapid DNA program supervisor, demonstrates the Rapid DNA machine. Matt Swearengin | Durant Democrat

Rapid DNA machine for law enforcement unveiled

Matt Swearengin
Friday, June 5, 2026
A grand opening for the statewide Rapid DNA Investigative Lead program was held May 27 at the Durant Police Department, and the machine will help local law enforcement agencies solve crimes.
The Durant Area Chamber of Commerce Magnolia Festival turtle race was Saturday morning at the Choctaw Event Center. On the left is Chloe Hughes, director of membership and marketing for the Durant Area Chamber of Commerce. Taking pictures is Sierra Haney. The annual Magnolia Festival included live music, more than 150 vendors and a food truck city. Matt Swearengin | Durant Democrat

The Durant Area Chamber of Commerce Magnolia Festival turtle race was Saturday morning at the Choctaw Event Center. On the left is Chloe Hughes, director of membership and marketing for the Durant Area Chamber of Commerce. Taking pictures is Sierra Haney. The annual Magnolia Festival included live music, more than 150 vendors and a food truck city. Matt Swearengin | Durant Democrat

Magnolia Festival held at Choctaw Event Center

News Staff
Friday, June 5, 2026
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Judge Jones, a fourth-generation truck driver, earns his Class A CDL from Central Tech Truck Driver Training and Kiamichi Tech in Durant. Jessie Phillips | Kiamichi Tech

Judge Jones, a fourth-generation truck driver, earns his Class A CDL from Central Tech Truck Driver Training and Kiamichi Tech in Durant. Jessie Phillips | Kiamichi Tech

From family tradition to Career:

News Staff
Friday, May 29, 2026
DRUMRIGHT – In the Jones family, trucking isn’t just a career path. It’s a tradition passed down through generations, built on long hours, hard work, and pride in doing the job right.
Outgoing Southeastern Oklahoma State University Student Government Association President Sarah Coblentz hands the SGA President’s gavel to incoming President Dylan Klaassen Dan Hoke | SE

Outgoing Southeastern Oklahoma State University Student Government Association President Sarah Coblentz hands the SGA President’s gavel to incoming President Dylan Klaassen Dan Hoke | SE

Student Government Association at Southeastern installs officers

News Staff
Friday, May 29, 2026
The 105th Legislature of the Southeastern Oklahoma State University Student Government Association (SGA) celebrated its annual banquet recently, concluding with the installation of new officers and senators for the 2026-27 academic year.
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