NEWS IN BRIEF

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District reversed course, allowed practices

Cordell Schools initiated virtual learning through Dec. 7, Superintendent Brad Overton wrote in a post on the district’s Facebook Page.

In November, Cordell Schools made the decision to move to distance learning to help stem the spread of COVID-19.

That decision also included a decision to halt all basketball or wrestling practices, scrimmages or games until after Dec. 7. “We feel that if extracurricular activities continue that this defeats the purpose of moving to a virtual schedule,” Overton wrote on Nov. 19 in a letter to parents and the community.

The district reversed course last week and allowed athletic practices to take place.

“Upon further consideration, Cordell Schools has decided to allow the basketball and wrestling teams to begin practicing as of Tuesday, Dec. 1, 2020, since most of the student-athletes are no longer in quarantine,” Overton wrote in an email to the Beacon.

The district made the decision with an eye on competing in games or meets this week, as students returned to campus.

“The winter sports season is going to be a challenge in providing the opportunity for our student-athletes to participate,” Overton said. “It is important for our athletes to be in proper condition to prevent injuries and be ready to compete.”

As COVID-19 numbers continue to rise in the city, county and across the state, the future is unknown, Overton said.

“We also brought into consideration that we are uncertain what the situation will look like after the Christmas break and want to give our student-athletes the opportunities to participate as much as possible this school year.”

Geisler wins foundation fundraising prize

Jason Geisler was named the winner of the Cordell Academic Foundation fund-raiser.

Geisler won a meat package by Mike’s Meat.

The annual foundation fund-raiser raises money and awards grants to teachers who need items that aren’t in the annual budget.

Chamber holds online auction this week

The Cordell Chamber of Commerce is holding an online auction on three prize baskets made up of donated items from area businesses.

You can log on the chamber’s Facebook page and bid in the comments under the basket you want. Each bid must be in whole dollar amounts. If you would like to bid more than a $1 on your bid you can but it must be in whole dollar amounts.

The online auction will end at noon on Friday, Dec. 11.

Free ‘Surge’ COVID-19 testing comes to area

The Oklahoma State Department of Health will bring free COVID-19 testing to Oklahoma through Dec. 19.

Surge testing temporarily will increase federal support in communities experiencing a major uptick in cases and hospitalizations.

Testing locations are drive-thru and by appointment only. Pre-register at www. DoINeedaCOVID19test. com. On-site registration will also be accommodated. An identification card is not required to get tested.

Surge testing sites use the nasal self-swab testing methodology. Test results will be received via email notification within 3-5 days.

Following is a schedule for surge testing in locations close to Cordell:

Saturday, Dec. 12 and Dec. 19

Custer County Health Department

220 N. Bradley St.

Weatherford, OK 73096

8 a.m. to 5 p.m.