Mencacci named vice president of advancement at SOSU

Southeastern Oklahoma State University is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Shelly Mencacci as Vice President of Advancement, effective this summer.

Hal Rymel named to Dean’s List at University of Maryland Global Campus

ADELPHI, MD — Hal Rymel of Durant was named to the Dean’s List for the spring 2026 term at University of Maryland Global Campus. To be eligible for the honor, a student must complete at least six credits during the term, earn a grade point average of at least 3.

Durant banker completes OBA Intermediate School

OKLAHOMA CITY — Jessie Ingram, with First Texoma National Bank, in Durant, recently completed the Oklahoma Bankers Association 2026 Intermediate School at the OBA’s Harris Event Center in Oklahoma City.

Colbert resident wins grand champion at National Junior Shorthorn Show

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Exhibitors from the American Junior Shorthorn Association gathered in Abilene, Texas, June 20–27 for the 2026 National Junior Shorthorn Show & Youth Conference.

Ballew named Director of Alumni Relations and Special Events; Davison to lead Career Services

Southeastern Oklahoma State University has announced leadership updates in Alumni Relations and Career Services.

Janeva Maxson named director of Aerospace Sciences Institute

Southeastern Oklahoma State University has named Janeva Maxson as director of the Aerospace Sciences Institute. Maxson brings nearly 30 years of leadership experience in aviation, logistics, and strategic management, including senior civilian leader roles with the U.S.

Former Kingston resident convicted of killing two people in traffic accident

A former Kingston resident charged with two counts of first-degree manslaughter was sentenced earlier this month on reduced misdemeanor convictions after being found guilty by a jury on the lesser charges.

A buck for Benjamin

My grandson Ben had a tough year in 2025. In September he lost his other granddad Darrell Smith in a freak accident that left the entire family reeling. Darrell and I were happy to share granddad duties, and we made a great team.

Bryan County Farm Bureau scholarships

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Man wanted for suspicion of murder arrested in Bryan County

A Texas man wanted on a murder warrant was arrested in Bryan County following a coordinated operation involving multiple federal, tribal and local law enforcement agencies. According to the Bryan County Sheriff’s Office, Earnest Millard Jr.