It was a tragedy that rocked our entire community, the passing of Klancy Alan “Newt” Hodge, 14, of Poteau, OK, who passed away Monday, November 23, 2020.
Emerging from the painful loss, family and friends rallying their support to ensure that the legacy of the young cowboy is never forgotten. From hoodies and caps, Hodge’s memory remains forever in the hearts and lives of those he touched.
On March 12, parents Joe and Brandie Hodge announced the purchase of the Hartford football stadium property. Plans were under way for the “Newt Hodge Memorial Arena.”
“This little town needs this and Newt loved Hartford and rodeo!”
-Brandie Hodge
Work is already underway to transform the space. The community came together on Sunday, March 28 for a workday. Around 50 volunteers worked on the roping end of the arena and removed chain link fencing at the baseball and softball fields for parking.
The Hodges were presented with an American flag to be flown at the Newt Hodge Memorial Arena. “I wanna see it flying high in that arena,” the anonymous donor stated.
The family, who were extremely grateful for the assistance and turnout for the workday, finds comfort in the community’s support. “A new arena is in town…as Newt would say ‘let’s get it boys!'”
