June 12, 2026
Auctioneer John Teel, who died May 29, often was the auctioneer for fundraising events, including the Durant High School Band homemade goods auction in 2024. Matt Swearengin | Democrat file photo
Durant Democrat editor Matt Swearengin received the Weekly Photo of the Year award sponsored by OGE Energy Corp. and Oklahoma Press Association The award was presented by OPA President Suzie Campbell during the Oklahoma Press Association convention in Norman. Photo provided | Oklahoma Press Association
People First client Ashley Adair ropes a steer during the People First Industries Mike Morris Memorial Track & Field Day. Matt Swearengin | Durant Democrat
Northwest Heights Elementary School STEM teacher Kasey Bennett is shown with family and Durant School District faculty, sta and administrators after she was named Oklahoma Teacher of the Year. Photos provided
Wednesday, June 10, 2026
Northwest Heights Elementary School kindergartenfourth grade Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) teacher Kasey Bennett was named the Oklahoma Teacher of the Year for 2026 during the Teacher of the Year Gala at the Reed Center in Midwest City.
A 5K run on May 30 was one of many activities during the Durant Area Chamber of Commerce Magnolia Festival.
A bull rider is shown in the Durant PRCA Rodeo. LeAnn Polson |Barefoot Blonde Photographer
The Durant Lions football team finished two weeks of spring football practice last week. Matt Swearengin | Durant Democrat
Caddo Bruin Jake McKay is about to kick the ball held by Cale Wigington during a game last season. McKay has a possibility of being quarterback. Matt Swearengin | Durant Democrat