Beverly Cantrell, Author at Ponca City Now

U.S. House extends surveillance powers until April 30 after late-night revolt sinks GOP plan

Friday, April 17 by AP

WASHINGTON (AP) — The House early Friday approved a short-term renewal until April 30 of a controversial surveillance program used by U.S. spy agencies in a post-midnight vote after Republicans revolted and refused President Donald Trump’s push for a longer extension. GOP leaders rushed lawmakers back into session late Thursday with a series... Read More.

Ponca City Garden Club Hosting Annual Plant for Pleasure Fundraiser Event

Friday, April 17 by Ponca City Now

The Ponca City Garden Club is hosting the annual Plant for Pleasure event on Saturday May 2, beginning at 8am at the Cann Gardens at Grand & 14th St. This event is held in conjunction with area gardeners sharing plants from their home yards. You are invited to come and purchase all kind of plants and... Read More.

NOC Tonkawa hosting greenhouse ribbon cutting, open house

Friday, April 17 by Ponca City Now

Northern Oklahoma College is hosting a ribbon cutting and open house for a new greenhouse on the Tonkawa campus. The event is set for Wednesday, April 22, from 12:30 p.m. – 2 p.m. with brief remarks and the ribbon cutting will be at 1 p.m. Tours will be available showcasing the Precision Agriculture and Renewable Energy... Read More.

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Senate Passes Bill to Keep Cellphones Out of Schools

Friday, April 17 by Ponca City Now

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Senate on Wednesday easily passed legislation from Sen. Ally Seifried, R-Claremore, to permanently keep cellphones out of Oklahoma schools. In a vote of 41-5, the full Senate passed House Bill 1276 to extend the state’s requirement that every public school district have a "bell to bell" policy prohibiting students from... Read More.

Senator Frix Applauds Passage of School Safety Funding for Oklahoma School for the Blind

Friday, April 17 by Ponca City Now

OKLAHOMA CITY – Senator Avery Frix, R-Muskogee, applauded the passage of House Bill 4067, which directs funding to enhance safety measures at the Oklahoma School for the Blind in Muskogee. HB 4067 appropriates $93,000 to the Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services for Fiscal Year 2027 to support the establishment and maintenance of a School Resource Officer... Read More.

A 10-day ceasefire in Lebanon goes into effect

Friday, April 17 by AP

Displaced residents drive back to their villages as locals wave Hezbollah flags and an image of late Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, in Zefta, southern Lebanon, Friday, April 17, 2026, following a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah. (AP Photo/Hassan Ammar) BEIRUT (AP) — A 10-day truce appeared to be holding in Lebanon early Friday, promising a... Read More.

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How to talk to kids about severe weather and help them feel safe

Thursday, April 16 by News 6

Parents across Oklahoma often prepare for severe weather with safety plans, but many also face another challenge: helping children understand storms without becoming overwhelmed or afraid. Experts say the way adults talk about tornadoes, thunderstorms and flooding can make a big difference in how kids respond before, during and after severe weather. What should parents tell... Read More.

Lowe, Pugh Applaud Teacher of the Year Finalists

Thursday, April 16 by Ponca City Now

The ten finalists for Oklahoma Teacher of the Year were recognized during a ceremony at the State Capitol, hosted by House Common Education Chairman Rep. Dick Lowe, R-Amber. During the ceremony, each finalist was presented with a check provided by the Masonic Charity Foundation. Lowe joined other members of the 2026 Oklahoma Teacher of the... Read More.

The Walt Disney Co. begins laying off 1,000 employees

Thursday, April 16 by AP

NEW YORK (AP) — The Walt Disney Co. on Tuesday began layoffs expected to lead to 1,000 job cuts across the company. Josh D’Amaro, who in February succeeded Bob Iger as chief executive, announced broader layoffs following a move in January to consolidate Disney’s marketing division. The cuts are expected... Read More.

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President Trump says Iran war “close to over” amid push for new peace talks

Thursday, April 16 by CBS News

What to know about the Iran war today: President Trump is again voicing optimism about a potential deal with Iran to end the war currently paused by a two-week ceasefire. Mr. Trump told Fox News the conflict is “very close to over” as he and Pakistan’s leader suggest a new round of direct U.S.-Iran... Read More.

Spring PonCon Cancelled

Wednesday, April 15 by Ponca City Now

Due to unforeseen circumstances, the April 18th PonCon has been cancelled. Mark your calendars for the Fall PonCon on November 7th. Vendors & artists can make reservations for Fall PonCon beginning June 1st by calling 580.765.7070

NOC Band Concert and Play-In-A-Day this week in Tonkawa

Wednesday, April 15 by Ponca City Now

The Northern Oklahoma College Division of Fine Arts has two events scheduled this week. On Thursday, April 16, the annual Band Concert will be held at 7:30 p.m. at the Heilmann Auditorium inside the Kinzer Performing Arts Center. Admission is free, children under 12 must accompanied by an adult. Then on Saturday, April 18, the Division of... Read More.