Perry Daily Journal

01/04/2026

Perry Pride photo submission contest winners are featured on page 2 of the Saturday 1/3 print edition.

01/03/2026

01/03/2026

Stuffy of the week

This week’s Stuffy of the Week is Miss Cow, a plushy with a story rooted in first paychecks and lasting sentiment.

Miss Cow was purchased when Sonya Stevens was 16 years old, using her very first paycheck from Spencer’s Gifts. While shopping in Tulsa, Sonya found herself just a penny short, with the help of the lady behind her. That item was a stuffed cow—later named Miss Cow—chosen simply because she was “too cute” to leave behind.

See the full article on page 10 of the Saturday 1/3 print edition.

01/03/2026

Home Grown - January horticulture tips

Laura Payne
Horticulture Educator
Payne County Extension

As we begin a new year, now is an excellent time to take a fresh look at your landscape and think about your gardening goals for the months ahead. Are you hoping to add a new garden bed, or perhaps planning an extended vacation and considering ways to simplify and downsize your garden? Whatever your plans may be, staying focused on your goals will help set you up for success.

January can be one of the most enjoyable times of the gardening year. Seed catalogs are starting to arrive in mailboxes, online sales are popping up, and garden centers are beginning to stock new merchandise—sure signs that a new growing season is just around the corner.

Here are a few tips to help you get started in the new year:
• If you have a tall fescue lawn, take time to stir or remove any remaining tree leaves on the ground. Heavy leaf accumulation can smother turfgrass by limiting air and light.

See the full article on page 7 of the Saturday 1/3 print edition.

01/03/2026

Morrison Sports

See the photos on page 11 of Saturday's 1/3 print edition.

01/03/2026

The twin bull riders are full of hope, big dreams, and big goals for 2026

Twin bull riders Kutter and Kolter Gay are stepping into the new year with big dreams, steady confidence and a determination that reaches far beyond their years. The brothers are already making a name for themselves in the arena, and as the calendar turns, their goals are set firmly on winning, growing and one day riding among the greats of the sport.

Kutter Gay was the first to speak when asked about his New Year’s resolution, and his answer reflected both focus and ambition. His primary goal is to make it to a finals straight from the line. That goal quickly widened into a bigger vision of becoming a champion. When asked if that meant a world champion, Kutter answered without hesitation. Winning matters to him. He wants to compete at the highest level and come out on top. Outside the arena, Kutter shared that he is also committed to meeting his goals in school, showing that discipline and effort are just as important in the classroom as they are on the dirt.

See the full article on page 1 of the Saturday 1/3 print edition.

01/02/2026

PERRY BOARD OF EDUCATION RECOGNIZES
STUDENTS, APPROVES STAFF DEVELOPMENT STIPEND

The Perry Board of Education met in regular session on Monday, Dec. 8, 2025, at 5 p.m. in the Perry High School lobby, 900 Fir Ave., with four members present and one absent.

Following the call to order, roll call and the Pledge of Allegiance, the board heard communications and public interest items, beginning with student recognition.

Student of the Month awards were presented for each school level. Mrs. Shields introduced Braden Alley, a pre-kindergarten student in Mrs. Justus’ class, as Lower Elementary Student of the Month. Braden enjoys visiting the splash pad and hopes to one day become a train conductor, firefighter or helicopter pilot. He shared that he is thankful for his dog and that his favorite food is a Happy Meal from McDonald’s.

Read the full article on page 9 in Wednesday's 12/31 print edition.

01/02/2026

CHARTIER AND ROBERTS CROWNED C-D BASKETBALL HOMECOMING KING AND QUEEN

Micah Chartier and Alyssa Roberts are all smiles after being named the 2025–2026
Covington-Douglas Basketball Homecoming King and Queen, representing leadership, sportsmanship, and school pride on and off the court

See the photo on page 5 in Wednesday's 12/31 print edition.

01/02/2026

"Pacific Hotel," on D Street, Perry, O.T., c. 1895. Locals and travelers gathered for a photo.

From The Henry S. Johnston Collection, CSHS Archives.

01/02/2026

MAUREEN WOLFE RETIRES FROM FB&T

A warm and sunny day set the tone for a joyful retirement celebration honoring Maureen Wolfe and her remarkable 42 year career with First Bank and Trust Company. Friends, coworkers and family gathered to mark the occasion, filling the space with conversation, laughter and a steady hum of delight as memories were shared and well wishes exchanged.

Guests enjoyed food and refreshments while visiting with Maureen and one another, reflecting on the many years she dedicated to FB and T and the relationships she built along the way. The atmosphere felt relaxed and grateful, with smiles and heartfelt conversations happening in every corner of the room.

Maureen was joined by members of her family, who stood proudly beside her throughout the celebration. Their presence added a deeply personal touch to the day and underscored the importance of family support throughout her long and successful career.

Read the full article on page 7 in Wednesday's 12/31 print edition.