Matt Swearengin | Durant Democrat Washington Irving Elementary School had a race Nov. 22 in inflatable costumes for Special Olympics and students who brought 10 cans of food for the food drive were able to throw water balloons at Principal Maegan Morgan and counselor Cassie Mullens. Pies were also thrown.

Kiwanis Terrific Kids for November were awarded by Kyle Stephens and Hudson Toews for Robert E. Lee Early Childhood Center. Front row, Olivia Sorrels, Zeppelin Fowlkes, Isaac Osborn, Andres Conejo, Harley White, Willow Millard and Everly Mitchell. Back row, Adam Bra, Freya Allen, Nolan Wiga, Kenzlie Taylor, Azariah Cross, Bentley Carter, Ellie Robinson, Haygen Easterwood, Titus Franklin, Colten Hoskins and Karter Franklin. Not shown are, Not pictured: Ezekiel Wright and Chyenne Patton. Photo provided | REL

Three Valley Museum had its annual “Baked Potato Blowout“ on Nov. 11 and this giant potato was among the many potatoes served that were provided by Main Street Barbecue. The Julia Jackson Chapter of the United Daughters of the Confederacy provided pies and Indian Nation Wholesale also contributed to the event. WoodmenLife helped prepare take-out and delivery orders. From left, museum director Nancy Ferris, Pat Metheny, Jeri Veal, Sherri Elmore and Hudson Toews. Matt Swearengin | Durant Democrat

Choctaw Language Program gains grant to aid schools

A ribbon cutting was held Nov. 19 for the Children’s Urgent Recovery Center in Durant. The center will address mental health needs of children in the community, and it is the result of a collaboration between Lighthouse Behavioral Wellness Centers and the Choctaw Nation. Matt Swearengin | Durant Democrat