More than 220 county eighth graders from Kingfisher, Okarche, Dover and Hennessey public schools participated in the annual eighth grade health conference coordinated by Kingfisher Community Collaborative at the county fairgrounds Exhibit Building and MACenter. The county health department, OSU Extension Service, Mercy Hospital Kingfisher, Cimarron Electric Cooperative and Ovintive Inc. also were sponsoring partners. Dennis Baker, retired Kingfisher police chief, upper right, presented a motivational speech entitled “Labels Are for Soup Cans,” illustrating the dangers of stereotyping yourself or others. Kingfisher Police Sgt. Chod Trout, upper left, discussed internet safety and avoiding dangers lurking online. Breakout sessions on healthy diet and exercise, building confidence and healthy relationships were presented by Lindy Peterman, OSU Extension educator; Seasha Shroeder and Arielle Bush of the health department and Kingfisher High School senior Allison Themer, who also holds the title of county Distinguished Young Woman 2023. Volunteer organizers, at left, include: Peterman, Blair Coughlan, Seely Coughlan, Lisa Copeland, Brittney Hansens, Erin Scammahorn, Allie Phillips, Rachel Combs and Christine Reid. The day-long health conference has been a county tradition for more than 35 years. [KT&FP Staff Photos