April 25, 2026 Issue, Page 2 of 12

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NEWS 2• SATURDAY, APRIL 25, 2026 The Elk City News love of the arts in a variety ing a believable presence that makes Even the details—costumes, the In a place where people still say THEATRE of audiences across Western Oklahoma. The group wants PLAYHOUSE the stakes feel real. Jacob Staggs, as Lesgate, plays a suits, the dresses—add to the au- thenticity without ever feeling over- there’s nothing to do, nights like this say otherwise. Continued from page 1 Continued from page 1 to challenge the hearts and key role in building the tension of done. It all fits the world you’re sit- Out here in Western Oklahoma, minds of audiences, as well the story, helping set everything in ting in. it doesn’t take much—just the right house 2000 – “T-Bone N Torresma, in the role of the inves- as stir questions that cause motion. He brings a strong stage And the audience? They were all space, the right people, and a story Weasel”; Brazosport Center tigator, is a familiar and recognizable wonder and amazement. The presence, with solid timing and an in. It felt like a rollercoaster. One worth telling. A converted sale barn, Stages – “A Number”; Fort presence on local stages and brings UPUT theatre is wherever expressive performance that reads minute people were laughing, the a small stage, and a cast that knows Stockton Community The- that same command here. It’s a per- one can be, whether it is on a clearly, especially in a space this in- next they were leaning forward, how to use every inch of it. atre – “Laundry and Bour- formance built on confidence and street corner, in a home, in a timate. arms crossed, holding their breath. It works. bon.” control, and one that stands as some coffee shop, or an abandoned Boone, as Max Halliday, brings a You could look around and see it— And if this is what’s happening In 2017, UPUT was start- of her strongest work. building. natural sense of timing, with humor people shifting in their seats, react- now, it’s worth paying attention to ed as a means to share the Amelia Hardaway, as Margot that comes through almost effort- ing together, following every move- what comes next at the Southwest Wendice, is a natural on stage, bring- lessly. ment. It wasn’t passive. It was shared. Playhouse. hopes of investing in the communi- sion system. Elk City showed up with their TURKEY ties. This was Pinnell’s eighth turkey hunt, and over the past seven years, The hunters seemed pleased with the fruits of their morning out- continued hospitality and welcom- ing atmosphere for those looking to Continued from page 1 he said that a number of companies ing. As they returned to eat lunch, move their business to the area. Susie have indeed moved to Oklahoma. Mayor Micah Kilhoffer and Lt. Cupp, Executive Director, of the Elk places in Oklahoma as a means of Pinnell is the proudest of bringing Gov. Pinnell spoke to the hunters City Chamber of Commerce, along promoting Oklahoma Commerce. Dawn Aerospace to Burns Flat. The and prospective business investors. with Karen Touchstone, showed The Commerce Department be- company is a space transportation Some returned with their guides to each person the best in hospitality gan the turkey hunt as a promotion- network that connects the Earth and take another shot at a turkey, while for two days of promoting every- al event to get businesses into the space economies. It is a flight-prov- others went on their way with tur- thing Elk City may offer families and communities across Oklahoma in en green chemical satellite propul- keys in hand. businesses. OBITUARIES passions he loved most. John “Jack” Byrnes Gavin He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Helen Gavin; his John “Jack” Byrnes Gavin of to breaking, training, and racing sisters, Joan Nevins and Rosemary Mustang, Oklahoma, beloved hus- them. His skill, patience, and deep Gavin; his niece, Mary Nevins; and band of Martha Gavin, passed away understanding of horses earned his brothers-in-law, Reed Nevins peacefully on April 18, 2026, in him widespread respect within the and Frank Mechek. Oklahoma City. He was 95. equine community. In recognition Jack is survived by his wife, Mar- Jack was born on April 10, 1931, of his lifetime dedication, Jack was tha Gavin; his sister, Anne Hackl, in Alton, Illinois, to Joseph and Hel- honored by Western Horseman and her husband Richard; his en Byrnes Gavin. He spent his early magazine as part of its 50 Years of mother-in-law, Margarita “Maggie” years in Alton and Houston, Texas, Horsemanship feature. their marriage, Jack’s life took on Mechek; his sister-in-law, Theresa before moving with his family to Jack began his professional ca- new depth and joy, as the two built a Bearden; and his nieces and neph- Tulsa, Oklahoma, following World reer at Warren Petroleum in Tulsa. life together grounded in love, com- ews: Ashley Sands, Terri Leigh Holt, War II. There he graduated from Drawn ever closer to the horse cul- panionship, and shared interests. Mike Nevins, Cathy Burke, Jim Nev- Marquette High School and went on ture he cherished, he later moved to In addition to sharing a mutual ins, Tom Nevins, Kelly Kleiner, Scott to attend Oklahoma A&M College Oklahoma City, where he worked love of horses, Jack and Martha en- Hackl, Sharon Hackl, and Mark and the University of Tulsa. at Fred Jones Ford and Star Manu- joyed cheering on the Oklahoma Hackl. A lifelong lover of horses, Jack facturing. It was there that he met City Thunder and were devoted sup- A quiet man by nature, Jack found devoted nearly every free moment Martha, the love of his life. Through porters of the Mustang High School his truest fulfillment in the life he girls’ basketball team. Whether at shared with Martha, grounded in home or in the stands, Jack was hap- companionship, shared passions, piest surrounded by the people and and enduring love. MISDEMEANORS & FELONIES MISDEMEANORS State of Okla vs Glendon L George Concealing stolen property MARGARITA MECHEK vs Billy D Frost Public intoxication It is with heavy hearts and pro- vs Misty D Buchahan Dumping trash found gratitude for a life well-lived vs Andrew D Reed Possession of CS & paraphernalia that we share the passing of Maggie vs Wade A Hill Resisting. Threatening an act of violence Mechek, a beloved mother, grand- (USPS # 173-020) vs William Herrera-Mendoza Obstructing an officer. Driving mother, sister, and friend. Maggie 580-225-3000 without a license. Possession of CS & paraphernalia departed this world peacefully on Is published once weekly by Beckham County Media, LLC vs Elber Castillo-Herrera Possession of CS & paraphernalia April 19, 2026, in Oklahoma, just 109 W. Broadway, Elk City, OK 73644-4736 shy of her 102nd birthday. Born on Periodicals Postage Paid at Elk City, OK 73644 FELONIES May 21, 1924, in the enchanting State of Okla vs Audra White Child abuse. Assault & battery on town of Taos, New Mexico, Maggie’s POSTMASTER: Send address changes to PO BOX 964, Elk City, OK 73648 school employee. life was a testament to resilience, vs William Meserole Indecent exposure love, and the joy that comes from a heart full of laughter. SUBSCRIPTIONS Sheryl Ponce, Maggie was a beacon of warmth Staff Writer "There will not be any changes or exceptions Deliverd by mail: and kindness. Her smile, always Archuleta, Mike Archuleta, Tom to the publication of these records." $50/yearly print only Neva Pyatt, genuine and infectious, could light Archuleta, and Steve Archuleta, $60/yearly print & online up even the darkest of rooms, and all of whom predeceased her. Her Advertising Director $40/online only No refunds on subscriptions. Ashley Moore, MARRIAGES & DIVORCES her laughter was a melody that res- onated with all who were fortunate close-knit family ties were a testa- ment to her commitment to those enough to know her. She was the she loved. [email protected] Advertising Director cherished daughter of the late Jacob DIVORCES Maggie was preceded in death by [email protected] Nancy Karnowski, Starla Andris vs Jason Andris and Auerlia Archuleta, and the lov- her beloved husband, Ed Mechek, ECNclassifi[email protected] CSR Stella Foust vs Aaron Foust ing sister to Beatrice Sanchez, The- her son, Frank Mechek, and her odora Pacheco Archuleta, Theresa grandson, Frank Mechek Jr. Despite these profound losses, Maggie’s life was a celebration of love and con- Providing comfort and support for End of Life choices nection. Her legacy lives on through her devoted daughters, Martha Gavin and Theresa Bearden, whose Hospice care provides medical services, emotional support, and spiritual lives she enriched immeasurably resources for people who are in the last stages of a serious illness, such as with her wisdom and grace. cancer or heart failure. Hospice care also helps family members manage the She leaves behind a loving fam- practical details and emotional challenges of caring for a dying loved one. For questions regarding hospice service or eligibilty, contact: THE BRANDING restaurant IRON ily who will forever cherish her memory, including her grandchil- dren Ashley Sands (Chris) and Cory Bearden (Ashley), and her Carrie Perry, RN - Administrator great-granddaughters Terri Leigh $15.99 Thursday Night and Kelsey Bearden. Maggie’s fam- Brianna Barker, RN - MANAGER OF PATIENT CARE SERVICES Steak & Shrimp Buffet ily was her pride and joy, and she reveled in their accomplishments and happiness. Her brother, Manuel SOME OF THE MOST COMMON CONDITIONS ARE: Archuleta, along with many nieces • Cancer • Failure to Thrive • End Stage Cardiac Disease (CHF) • End Stage Cerebrovascular Disease (CVA) • End Stage Amyotrophic $12.99 Friday Night and nephews, also survive her, car- Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) • End Stage Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Catfish & Ribs Buffet rying forward her legacy of warmth and kindness. • End Stage Liver Disease • End Stage Renal Disease • AIDS/HIV Throughout her life, Maggie was • End Stage Neurological Disease such as Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s Dine-In or Carryout Available a pillar of strength for her family and 1200 S. 10th Street • Clinton, OK • 580-323-5554 community. Her generosity knew no bounds, and her home was always a refuge of love and laughter. She be- Professional, Passionate lieved in the power of community Advance, Attentive ... and the importance of nurturing re- lationships, values that she instilled Our Difference is Our Care in her family and all who knew her. The family would like to extend Have you ever considered becoming a their heartfelt gratitude to the staff hospice volunteer? at Mercy Hospital for their compas- A fulfulling experience in the spirit of sionate care during Maggie’s final giving and receiving. days. Their kindness and dedication will never be forgotten. As a family, we find comfort in knowing that Maggie’s spirit will remain forever in our hearts, a guiding light of love and laughter. A celebration of Maggie Mechek’s life will be held at a later date, where family and friends will gather to honor the extraordinary life of a re- markable woman. Maggie Mechek’s legacy is one of love, laughter, and unwavering devotion to her family. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten, Locally owned & operated. Proudly serving as her spirit lives on in the hearts of Carrie Perry, RN central western Oklahoma since 2011. all who were privileged to know her.