News

Young County Commissioners adopted new expanded burn ban rules and discussed preparations and training for the upcoming fire season. The new burn restrictions were suggested by Precinct 3 Commissioner Stacey Rogers to allow commercial welding during a burn ban as long as certain rules are followed, County Judge Win Graham said. The Commissioners voted to adopt language taken from Wichita County that sets rules for spotters, the diameter of the welding area, and a minimum amount of water and fire retardant that welders are required to have on hand. The rules state that welders must notify the Sheriff ’s Office of the location of the project and contact numbers before commencing a project and that welding is prohibited when winds are higher than 20 miles per hour.

March 13 - March 17

Two Olney bands played to a sold-out crowd at the American Legion on March 3 to raise money for the post’s programs for local veterans, and one of them - singer Race Ricketts – was honored with a state resolution for his contributions to the community. County singer Race Ricketts headlined the show and was preceded by Kevin Bullock and Casey Keeter, who wowed the crowd with country fare accompanied by Mr. Bullock’s fiddle and Mr. Keeter’s guitar. Mr. Ricketts thrilled with a set of original songs, including his first single, “940.” Mr. Ricketts’ fans have made the anthem to the Young County area code a hit on local radio. The also song grabbed the attention of Sen. Drew Springer, who honored Mr. Ricketts with a Feb. 21 proclamation for bringing “great credit to Young County” with his music and charitable work. Mr. Ricketts got his start in country music during the COVID lockdown writing songs at the Olney home of his parents, Jamie and Roger Ricketts. In addition to his American Legion concert, Mr. Ricketts has played to raise money for the Olney Chamber of Commerce, the Olney Recreation Association and the Graham Theatre in the Square.