Speaker Kyle Hilbert and fellow Oklahoma House Republicans hit the road again, this time bringing their "Capitol to Community" series to the city of Woodward, as reported by Oklahoma House. This engagement initiative, intending to merge state and local efforts, showcased the area's educational, youth services, energy, and natural resource strategies. The two-day event, beginning Sunday evening at the Woodward County Event Center, offered lawmakers the chance to interact with community members and leaders in these sectors.
Continuing on Monday, participants got their hands-on experience of Woodward's offerings, including a visit to the Woodward TAP at Woodward Middle School and an immersion in Western Plains Youth & Family Services. While touring the High Plains Technology Center, legislators observed firsthand the vocational training available to the region's youth. On their packed itinerary was also a bus tour, witnessing the natural splendor and regional conservation projects like the Alabaster Caverns State Park and the Terry Peach Watershed Restoration Expansion Project.
In a statement, House Speaker Hilbert emphasized the significance of such visits, saying, "From career training in our schools to the stewardship of our natural resources, this community shows how local initiative and state partnership can come together to create real opportunities." He underscored the tour's purpose to "learn from local voices," and promoted Oklahoma's strength as one beginning at the grassroots level.
Local representatives Mike Dobrinski and Carl Newton, both serving the Woodward area, were quick to voice their optimism regarding the benefits of these tours. Proud of their turf, they highlighted Woodward's contributions ranging from education to energy sectors. They appreciated the state-level attention, believing it paramount for recognizing Woodward's integral role in Oklahoma, as told through The Oklahoma House. The reps conveyed their gratitude for the commitment demonstrated by their colleagues in engaging with the local realities.
