Leadership of LeFlore County is now accepting applications for the 2026 session. This countywide leadership program offers issue-driven sessions, interactive workshops, expert speakers, and valuable networking opportunities designed to strengthen leadership skills and community awareness. Open to individuals from diverse backgrounds across LeFlore County and surrounding areas, the program begins with its first session on March 19, 2026. Applications are due by February 13.

Sponsorship opportunities for 2026 are now open! Support local events, boost your business visibility, and stay engaged with the Poteau community all year long. Click below to explore our sponsorship levels and reserve your spot for the upcoming year.

The Poteau Chamber of Commerce recently celebrated the grand opening of Dr. Steven Brown, D.C. with a ribbon cutting ceremony. Dr. Brown was born in Mena, Arkansas, and later pursued his chiropractic education in Kansas City. After more than 40 years of practice in Oklahoma City and Tulsa, he chose to return closer to home and open his practice in Poteau. We are excited to welcome Dr. Brown to the community and wish him continued success at his new location.

Legislative Breakfast

The Poteau Chamber of Commerce invites members and community leaders to our Annual Legislative Breakfast on January 30 at 8:00 AM at the Donald W. Reynolds Community Center. Enjoy breakfast served by Ron’s Lumberjack Café while visiting with state and local legislators about issues impacting our community and region. Please RSVP by January 22 by calling 918-647-9178 or emailing admin@poteauchamber.com.

Wister Schools

Bingo Night is coming to Wister School Cafeteria on Saturday, January 31, with doors opening at 3:00 p.m. Players can enjoy regular games for $8 per card or special games for $30 per card, with prizes valued from $8 to $100 and big-ticket prizes throughout the night. Special game prizes include a 55" TCL Roku TV and a $500 cash jackpot in the final game. Come early and play to win!

Families are invited to a fun and festive Valentine Pajama Storytime at the Patrick Lynch Public Library on Monday, February 9 at 6:00 pm. Children are encouraged to wear their coziest pajamas and enjoy Valentine-themed stories, snacks, crafts, music, and a lively dance party. This free event is perfect for families looking to celebrate the season of love with a sweet evening of entertainment and togetherness. The library is located at 206 South McKenna Street. For more information, call 918-647-4444.

Chili for Children Cookoff Returns

The 4th Annual Chili for Children Cookoff will take place Thursday, February 12, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Donald W. Reynolds Center. Enjoy all-you-can-eat chili for $10 while supporting LCYS youth programs. Chili will be ready to taste at 11:00 a.m., and a dessert auction will be held. All proceeds benefit LeFlore County Youth Services. 🌶️

The 4th Annual Chili for Children Cookoff is right around the corner, and we are currently accepting donated desserts and pastries for the silent auction. Sweet treats of all kinds help make this event a success while supporting a great cause. Donations may be dropped off at 510 N. Broadway by February 11 before 5:00 pm. If you would like to contribute or have questions, please call 918-647-4196. Your generosity helps make a difference for local children.

Dennis Swanberg

Enjoy an uplifting night of laughter and inspiration at An Evening of Humor & Encouragement with Dennis Swanberg on Monday, February 16, 2026, at the Donald W. Reynolds Community Center in Poteau. Doors open at 5:30 PM, with the program beginning at 6:30 PM. Tickets are $20 in advance or $25 at the door, available at the Poteau Chamber and Community State Bank. Concessions will be available. Discounts are offered for recovery groups.

Save the date for a festive and informative community event. The Poteau Chamber of Commerce Wellness Resource Fair will take place on Tuesday, March 17, in celebration of St. Patrick’s Day at 501 South Broadway. Local organizations and health-focused vendors will be on hand to share resources, services, and information with the community. Booth space is free but limited, and advance reservations are encouraged. For more information or to reserve a booth, contact the Poteau Chamber of Commerce at

918-647-9178.

The 2026 Wolf Mountain Spring Classic will be held March 7 at Wolf Mountain Golf Course as a two-person scramble tournament. Teams will compete with a 10:00 a.m. shotgun start, and breakfast will be provided for participants. The entry fee is $200 per team, with flights determined by the number of entries. An optional skins game is available for $40 per team. Golfers are encouraged to register early by contacting the Wolf Mountain clubhouse to secure a spot.

First National Bank & Trust Co. of McAlester has introduced its Poteau Lending Team, dedicated to serving local customers with personalized loan solutions. The team includes Chris Fenton, Market President; Kass Fenton, Assistant Branch Manager and AVP Lending; and Sandra Lloyd, Loan Assistant. With a focus on local relationships and tailored lending options, the Poteau team is ready to help individuals and businesses reach their financial goals.

Holt Funeral & Cremation remains Poteau’s only 100 percent locally owned and family operated funeral home. Families who already have pre paid funeral arrangements elsewhere can choose to transfer their policy without losing money and continue supporting a local business. Policy holders are always the owner of their plan, not the funeral home. Transfers are simple and can be completed by signing a transfer document. For more information or assistance, contact Holt Funeral & Cremation at 918 721 0026 or visit their location on Dewey Avenue.

BEST STEP

The BEST STEP (Building Employment Skills Today) Summer Program will return in 2026 at Kiamichi Tech. This program helps students build real-world job skills, gain workplace experience, and strengthen independence in a supportive environment. Participants work with trained instructors and career development staff while exploring different career paths and learning valuable employment skills. BEST STEP is offered in partnership with Oklahoma Rehabilitation Services and Kiamichi Tech. More details on eligibility, enrollment, and session dates will be announced closer to summer.

Bud’s Country Junction is hiring for a full-time kitchen position, working 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Applicants must have their own phone and reliable daily transportation. No experience is required, as training will be provided. Interested candidates are encouraged to stop by Bud’s Country Junction on Friday, January 30, between 8:00 and 11:00 a.m. and ask for Mandy.

💼 RRCU Is Hiring in Poteau!

Red River Credit Union is growing and looking for motivated team members to join the Poteau, OK branch. Current openings include Branch Manager, Lead Teller/MSR, and Member Service Tellers.

Experience the Credit Union difference — where service and community come first!

👉 Apply today at rrcu.com/careers.

Poteau Police Department is Hiring!

The Poteau Police Department is seeking full-time police officers to join their team. Starting at $40,000 with annual step increases, officers enjoy great benefits including a take-home patrol vehicle, all equipment provided, Oklahoma Police Pension & Retirement System, ongoing training, and community-focused leadership. Join a department that values professionalism, proactive policing, and strong community partnerships. Be part of a supportive team making a difference in Poteau! For more information, contact (918) 647-8620 or recruitment@poteau-ok.com.

Poteau Fire Department

At the PFD, our hiring standards are uncompromising. We seek individuals who are deeply committed to serving others and who embody a strong sense of responsibility, accountability, and professionalism. We value decisiveness and resolve in the face of challenges, and we expect our team members to uphold the trust placed in us by our community. With a legacy spanning over 120 years, we are dedicated to finding individuals who will honor and further our extraordinary mission. If you share our commitment to excellence, we encourage you to explore opportunities with us.

Eastern Oklahoma Medical Center

Eastern Oklahoma Medical Center offers a variety of career opportunities for individuals seeking to make a difference in healthcare. Our available positions are updated regularly, and we encourage interested candidates to download and complete our Employment Application Form. For any inquiries, please contact our Human Resources department at 918-635-3361.

LeFlore County Community Resources

LeFlore County is filled with wonderful community resources to support and uplift individuals and families. From addiction counseling and rehabilitation to adult education and employment assistance, the county offers a wide range of services to meet the needs of its residents. Whether you need food and utilities assistance, counseling, or medical care, help is available to empower you on your journey. Don't hesitate to reach out and take advantage of these valuable resources!

Open Doors Free Clinic

Are you or someone you know in need of medical care but don't have insurance? Open Doors Free Health Clinic is here to help! We are open on the 4th Thursday of every month from 5:30pm to 8:00pm at 106 Flanagan Dr, Poteau, OK 74953. We provide care for chronic illness, women's health, family health, flu and covid testing, and more. Remember, "Come to me all who are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest." - Matthew 11:28. 

Oklahoma Alliance for Recovery Resources

Scan the QR Code for more information!