January
Frigid winter cold hits Bristow. The highs were in the 20s and 30s.
Bristow school board leaders honored in January. Five were honored for their varied years of service.
Oklahoma Blood Institute offered cozy sweatshirts to boost blood donations. Winter months are often a difficult time form maintaining an adequate blood supply.
Bristow covered in a blanket of glistening snow. Bristow received approximately three – four inches of snow.
New law went into effect allowing convicted felons to vote. They must have completed their sentence, parole, probation or been pardoned.
Depew couple, Peter and Chelsea Thiel, arrested on alleged child sexual abuse charges. Both were booked into the Creek County Jail with bonds set at $700,000 and $500,000, respectively.
Bristow Pirates Football team gets a new head coach. Billy Sexton replaced Chris Cole. Coach Sexton, a Fort Worth, Texas native, came to Bristow with 15 years of coaching experience.
Bristow Community Center hosted 2025 Martin Luther King, Jr. Program. The special guest speaker was Reverend Anthony L. Scott.
A new Route 66 mural was installed at the square. It was put in place by Randy Stapleton.
February
Philanthropic Education Organizaion held it’s annual trivia night fundraiser. They raised $7,000.
Bristow High School breaks ground on its 2024 bond issue. It was for two new buildings for the high school and a storm shelter for Collins Elementary.
Tragedy hits the Depew community. A 14 year old resident
tragically ended his life with the reason reported as due to bullying.
Bristow Community Center hosts 2025 Black History Program. Guest speaker was Dr. Jennettie Hanyes Marshall.
Illegal grow house busted in Bristow. The Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics served a warrant on Bristow Ting LLC, located off Highway 48 and West 321 st Street South. They recovered over 253 pounds of processed marijuana and 8,304 plants.
Healing prayer class was offered in Bristow. Chuck and Nancy Horton, following retirement after 47 years of ministry, offered the classes in March and April.
Bristow public schools put on lockdown due to threat. A 911 call to the Bristow Police Department alledged there was a weapon at the school. A suspect was found and appreheneded but no weapon was found.
An Ultimate Cowboy Showdown 2021 contestant lands in Creek County Jail. Depew resident, Jennifer Hudgins, was booked into Creek County on charges of protective order violation, two counts of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, possession CDS, obstructing an officer, resisting executive officer and larceny of merchandise from retailer.
Buzzing with the local bees. David Wood, Sr. holds monthly meetings at the First Baptist Church every second Tuesday at 6:30 pm.
Honoring Bristow’s own, Toni Godwin, during Black History Month. Godwin serves as the Executive Director of Bristow Social Services Semi overturn causes traffic delay. Driver falls asleep and veered off the road casuing the semi to carsh near a construction zone.
March
Starting over, the loss of a lavender farm. Thomas and Diluza Williford lost the majority of their lavender field to a controlled burn that got out of hand.
The cancellation of the 2025 Western Heritage Day events. Partly due to not having a full board, the Bristow Round Up Club made the decision to cancel the events. The rodeo, will still go on.
City council holds special meeting. A Resolution to increase the number of Industrial Authority trustees from five to eight was adopted.
Read Across America Week Challenge: With a promise to “Kiss a pig”. Edison Elementry students were challenged to read 500 books; they read 2,709. Mrs. Shelton, Principal and Mrs. Smythe, Librarian, lathered on some lipstick and kissed the pig.
Kellyville teacher awarded $40,000 in furniture for classroom makeover. Jennifer Childres was chosen out of 500 teachers to win a dream class See Review, Page Ten to the Young Eagles EAA pro gram.
Wildflower Run bicycle giveaway. Bicycles are given away to the young runners. They ad to participate in the workouts and compete and finish the 5K race.
Big changes coming to Main Street. The Bristow Historical Society received a grant for $774,677 to refurbish and move the Chrysler sign.
BPD arrests Bristow resident on alleged child pornography charges. Nathan Shelton was arrested on May 9 and several electronic devices were seized.
Big turnout brings success for 37th Wildflower Run. 56 children and 302 competed in the run.
Bristow Berry Bros gears up for fifth blackberry harvest season. Two brothers, now aged 13 and 10, stated their business by picking blackberries for their neighbor.
World premier musical coming to the Freeland Center. Kannon Gets the Wiggles, a musical based on the real life story of Andee and Kannon Cooper, debuted at the Freeland Center. It is based on the daily struggles of Kannon, who was diagnosed as having Lennox-Gastaut syndrome.
Lightning strikes community tornado siren. The community was awakened in the wee hours of the morning when lightning struck the tower. The siren blowed continuously until btechnicians were finally able to shut it down.
Wake Island Memorial: Bristow’s tribute to Veterans. The Wake Island Memorial at VFW Post 3656 is the only memorial of its kind in the US dedicated solely to the Battle of Wake Island.
Bristow High School Class of 2025. The 2025 graduating class was awarded an stounding $1.5 million in scholarships.
Former police officer arrested on alleged rape and assault charges. 39 year old Joseph Christopher Beers, a former Oilton police officer, was booked into the Creek County Sheriff’s ffice after he turned himself in regarding charges from 2024.
St. George’s Episcopal Church now a part of the National Register of Historic Places. Governor Kevin Stitt visited the Bristow Historical Society and presented shared the good news. St. George’s Episcopal Church, aka the “little church”, is now on the National Historic Registry.
June
Sam Varner Memorial Firework Show. The Bristow Police Department puts on the Same Varner Memorial Fireworks show for the community. The total cost to put on a nice display is approximately $11,000.
The Route 66 Road Rally is rolling through Bristow. Fun, Family-friendly, un-timed road rally covers the “100 Greatest Miles” of historic Route 66 from Sapulpa to Edmond.
Fatality collision one mile west of Bristow. Sergio Esabar, age 33, from Oklahoma City, lost his life in an accident that occurred one mile west of Bristow by mile marker 196, on the Turner Turnpike.
Honoring the Flay, June 14, Flag Day. Flag Day is annually observed on June 14 and commemorates the adoption of the Stars and Stripes as the official flag of the United States on June 14, 1777.
Clean up Creek County is scheduled for June 14. The Creek County Sheriff’s Department, with assistance from DEQ Oklahoma nd Electronic Synergy Foundation, is holding a free dump day on Saturday, June 14, at the Creek County Fairgrounds.
Two separate mishaps, two separate causes. A truck ran off the road on west Highway 16 when it hydroplaned due to heavy rain. A large truck swerved to miss a car that pulled out in front of him on south Highway 48, and overturned.
Boots & Badges blood drive, June 26. The blood drive honors our First Responders: Partners in Saving Lives, by giving your community the opportunity to donate on their behalf.
Gypsy man receives a life sentence. In September 2020, Adam Mason was arrested and charged with first degree murder in the death of his five year old daughter Adley Grace Mason. He was sentenced to federal prison for life, after pleading guilty to second degree murder.
Bristow’s Train Depot in National Spotlight. Linda and Joe Trigalet recorded a presentation that will be shared throughout the US as a part of the CAP (Conservation and Preservation) Program’s outreach to small museums.
July
New city ordinance takes effect. Beginning July 1, the City of Bristow implemented a new ordinance regarding junk vehicles sitting in yards inside the city limits.
OG&E donates fans to residents in need. Dozens of OG&E volunteers handed out 125 fans in the Sapulpa area to those who may be at higher risk for heat-related injury and illness.
Oklahoma lawmakers proud to host new Kratos defense facility. Kratos Defense is expanding its footprint in Oklahoma with a new jet engine plant in Bristow-an investment state leaders say reinforces Oklahoma’s rising status as a national security hub.
Back to School Backpack donation drives. The Bristow Social Services is proud to be a part of the back to school outreach in the community. Last year, the social services provided supplies to over 400 families across Creek County.
Bristow Historical Society honored by Oklahoma Museums Association. Thanks to the dedication of Bristow Historical Society volunteers, the Bristow Train Depot Museum has become a standout destination.
Creek County Conservation District honors Dwight Luther’s Service. In April 2006, Dwight Luther was appointed to the districts board, serving 19 years, with his final term as chairman.
First responders night a hit at Bristow McDonald’s. The Bristow McDonald’s hosted a successful First Responders night, drawing families and children to a fun time of celebration of the local first responders with engaging activities for kids and a generous community gesture.
Area resident loses life in single car accident. Xzavier Harjo, age 21 was killed when a truck driven by Destin Renfro, age 19, of Bristow, departed the roadway and rolled two and one half times coming to a rest on its top in a field.
Bristow Historical Society announces ground breaking ceremony for Chrysler Tower Plaza. The ceremony was held August 1, 2025 at the corner of 9 th and Main Street.
Over 448 alleged animal cruelty charges in two separate cases. 83 year old Jerry Hine, of Stroud, owner and operator of Addd Love Pets, LLC, was booked into Lincoln County Jail on alleged cruelty to animal charges. 408 dogs were seized. Angela and James Peeks, of Kellyville, were arrested after an executed search warrant uncovered over 40 dogs living without adequate food, water or veterinary care.
From Celle Germany to Bristow, OK: a heartfelt exchange with the Laude Family. Julia Laude, a 2023 foreign exchange student, along with her parents, Lothar and Birgit, returned to Bristow as part of their trip along historic Route 66.
Rev. Eric Parker Ave. A street at 10 th and Chestnut was named after Rev. Parker.
August
Bristow Library awarded $20,000 grant. The Bristow Public Library received the grant from the Librariews Transforming Communities grant. This is the third round of the grant for the library.
A second alleged animal cruelty case in Kellyville.The Creek County Sheriff was dispatched to an assault and battery complaint in Kellyville involving Robert and Jennifer Ruenking. While speaking with Mr. Rubenking, the deputies noticed three severely emaciated dogs in the front yard of the residence. A further search turned up two more dogs, one of which was deceased.
Missing person. 71 year old, Patricia Matthews, was last seen Friday, August 8, 2025, in the Bristow area. She has been missing six days.
Free meals for all BPS students. Every student who is enrolled at one of the Bristow Public School sites will receive free breakfast and lunch all year long.
The Woodland Crown: A new disc golf course for Bristow coming to completion soon. The 18-hole disc golf course spans up to 5,562 feet with a shorter 4,134 foot option, mixing elevation changes, lake views, and tree-lined challenges for players of all skill levels.
Aviation enthusiasts event coming to Jones Memorial Airport. Meagan Roth, senior director of Launch, Integration and Test, Firefly Aerospace and Brett Billingsley, business analyst with Firefly Aerospace were guest speakers and answered questions about the aerospace field. The EAA Young Eagles Flights took place and they got an opportunity to join a pilot in the air.
Search efforts for missing woman have been called off. After searching for a week for missing Patricia Matthews, Okmulgee County Emergency Management called off the search. The Okmulgee County Sheriff ’s office will continue to take leads.
Why the railroad fixes in the community. The Federal Railroad Administration provides clear guidelines to make highway- rail crossings safer, reducing the risk of accidents between trains and vehicles. A $27 million state grant is helping Bristow become compliant in some of their railroad crossings.
September
Day of Caring event scheduled for September 12. Sharon VanOrsdol, who has been organizing the event for several years, says the Bristow Leadership class, along with volunteers, are on hand to help with planned projects.
Preserving Bristow History: Lincoln Alumni Reunion 2025. The history of Bristow’s black community came alive as the Lincoln Reunion Association gathered at the Bristow Community Center. It keeps the school’s legacy active through annual gatherings to celebrate community and honor alumni. Mayor Kris Wyatt spoke at the event.
Bristow Fire Department earns high rating. The Bristow Fire Department earned an ISO rating of 2, which is a huge win for the community.
Search for missing woman ends tragically. After weeks of searching, the body of Patricia Matthews was located in a rural area of Okmulgee County. Matthews’ body was discovered approximately a mile from where her car was located.
Reflections on Papa Joe: Bristow’s Gentle Marine of the Pecan Grove. The Rotary Club, members of the community friends and family joined in celebrating Joe Ihle, Sr. At 103, he is Oklahoma’s oldest living Marine and the steady hand behind Sooner Pecan.
Beautifying Bristow’s Nature Trail. Bristow 4-H Community Service Leader, Elias Braden, talked to the Creek County Conservation District about his vision to help beautify the nature trail.
Gollihare speaks at Oklahoma Farm Bureau meeting. Senator Gollihare updated the audience on legislative activities of interest to the Creek County Community.
Bristow FCCLA shines at Creek County Fair. At this year’s Creek County Fair, Bristow High School’s Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) chapter made their hometown proud. They had 34 total awards: 10 first place, 5 seconds, 8 thirds, 4 fourths and 7 fifths.
Bristow Methodists to observe World Communion Sunday. The First United Methodist Church in Bristow will join with tens of thousands of other churches around the world in sharing in the bread and cup of Jesus.
Bristow Lions and Rotary Clubs unite to host Senator Lankford and Representative Hilbert. The event was filled with good food and good-natured ribbing between the two clubs.
October
Mystery at the Depot: A Haunting Investigation (Parody). The Bristow Historical Society recently called in a “Ghostbuster”, to investigate eerie disturbances at the Train Depot Museum: flickering lights, moved artifacts, and unexplained sounds.
At the Southern Plains Fest, it’s Mopar or No Car. Car enthusiasts displayed 76 cars and pickup trucks at the 5 th (third time in Bristow) Southern Plains Mopar Fest (SPMF) on Main Street (Route 66).
A little fun on the Bristow Municipal Court Lawn. Mrs. Wilson’s kindergarten students stopped by city hall for a short break. Mayor Wyatt and Chap steeped out and had an impromptu play day with cartwheels and other acrobats.
Bristow Holiness Church celebrates completion of a new chapter for the church and the community. The event marked the culmination of a project that began in February 2024 and has stood as a symbol of faith, perseverance, and growth for the congregation.
First Degree murder charges filed against Bristow resident. Dwight Lee Busby II, age 23, of Bristow, was taken into custody and booked on alleged first degree murder charges for a shooting that took place at Schlegal Park in Tulsa.
Olive Fire Department becomes first in Creek County to carry cyanide poisoning kit. The fire department is the first in Creek County to carry Hydroxocobalamin (CYANOKIT), a life-saving antidote for cyanide poisoning. Cyanide exposure is one of the most lethal forms of poisoning and is commonly associated with smoke inhalation from residential fires.
Chrysler Tower returns home. After being cleaned and repaired, the tower was placed in its new home at the corner of 9 th and Main.
OKDHS suspends SNAP benefits as of November 1. Due to the government shutdown, 684,600 persons did not receive their SNAP benefits for November. Several food banks in the immediate area were opened to help families in need.
Ex Mannford police officer sentenced to ten years. James Waltham, age 42, of Mannford, was charged with first degree rape and furnishing alcohol to a miner. Watham invited a student to his home and they both had two shots of whiskey. The student said he got sick and asked to lie down but when he awork, Waltham was allegedly assaulting him.
November
Hawg Wild Toy Run a great success. The event had a great turnout, collecting two truck beds full of toys to be donated to Bristow Social Services and Bristow Headstart.
Trunk-or-Treat spookily successful. For the second consecutive year, Edison Elementary hosted a trunk-or-treat event for its students with 25 vendors setting up booths to treat Edison students.
Six car collision on turnpike. A multi car accident occurred November 8 around 3 pm on I44 and mile marker 203. It involved two semis and 4 other vehicles. A couple of the vehicle drivers as well as a couple of vehicle passengers were injured.
City Hall remodel funded entirely by Grants. When finished, the updated lobby will serve as a sign of progress, improvement, and the community’s continued investment infrastructure.
American Legion gifting food baskets to area Veterans. The American Legion Post 126 furnishes food basket to area Veterans and their families.
Successful 2025 gala fuels Macy’s Cradle’s Mission of Hope for women facing unplanned pregnancies.
Municipal Authority receives $1,000,000 grant for system improvements. The Municipal Authority of the City of Bristow received approval for $1,000,000 in funding from the Oklahoma Water Resources Board to improve the Authority’s wastewater and water infrastructure.
Artist Andi Levin brings holiday magic to Bristow’s Main Street. Andi spent countless hours preparing Main Street for the upcoming Christmas parade and the holiday season, adding warm, cheerful touches that help transform the downtown area into a welcoming winter showcase.
December
House Speaker highlights approval for major hospital project in Bristow. Oklahoma House Speaker Kyle Hilbert, R-Bristow, today celebrated a major milestone for rural health care access following the Bristow Hospital Authority’s approval of a final lease agreement allowing St. Francis Health System to assume operations of Bristow’s local hospital.
Moving Mountains with Touch of Christmas. Volunteer’s from the early sunrise were already at work, pouring hot chocolate and firing up grills. Bags were filled with food, personal hygiene items and Christmas gifts for children.
Bristow 4-H Wildflower Community Service Project. The local Bristow 4-H Club had about half of the Club, sponsors and donors, Creek County OSU Agricultural Extension Educator, and a representative from the Oklahoma Conservation Commission, join together to help plant an Okies for Monarchs blend of native wildflower seeds from Johnston Seed Company at the entrance to the Bristow Nature Trail.
Vehicle Crashes into home, one dead in separate accident. A vehicle left the road, Hwy 66, hit a power pole then 2 vehicles pushing one into the home. 44 year old Joshua Donaldson, of Chandler, was killed when he left the road and struck a parked semi.
Run Stop gets a fresh, artistic look thanks to Collins Elementary students. Approximately 30 students in grades 3 through 5, worked on six ceiling tiles putting their own artistic touch on each one.