The Penny News Feed

Beckham County SROs Attend Statewide School Safety Conference

BCSO Press Release — Mon, 08 Jun 2026 09:33:00 GMT

Sayre, OK – Beckham County Sheriff’s Office School Resource Officers recently attended the Oklahoma Association of School Resource Officers (OKASRO) Conference, joining law enforcement officers, educators and school administrators from across the state to discuss current school safety challenges and best practices.

School Resource Officers Joseph Coats and Richard Jones attended the conference alongside Erick Public Schools Principal Steven Whalen, where they participated in training sessions and collaborative discussions focused on enhancing school safety and preparedness.

Conference topics included legal updates affecting school safety, identifying child predator tactics and behaviors, recognizing grooming and inappropriate communication warning signs, extortion and emerging digital threats facing students, and prevention strategies related to nihilistic violence and school shooting prevention.

The conference also provided an opportunity for Beckham County Sheriff’s Office personnel and Erick school administrators to collaborate on future safety planning efforts and discuss ways to further strengthen existing security measures within their schools.

“Although our schools are inherently safe and have effective prevention and protocol measures in place, it remains essential to conduct tabletop discussions and continually evaluate potential concerns,” said Beckham County Sheriff Derek Manning.” The Beckham County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to exploring new approaches to school safety while expanding training opportunities, professional relationships and resources that enhance school security efforts.”

“School safety requires constant attention and preparation,” Manning added. “Training opportunities such as the OKASRO Conference allow us to stay informed on emerging issues, build relationships with other professionals and bring valuable knowledge back to our schools and communities. Our goal is to continue strengthening partnerships with educators while ensuring the safest possible environment for our students.”

Two Injured After Vehicle Strikes Deer, Catches Fire Near Elk City

Paragon Staff — Mon, 08 Jun 2026 09:00:00 GMT

Elk City, OK – Two people were injured early Monday morning after a vehicle reportedly struck a deer, left the roadway, hit a tree, and caught fire east of Elk City.

According to Elk City Fire Chief Kyle Chervenka, emergency crews were dispatched at approximately 1:36 a.m. after receiving an automatic crash notification from an iPhone.

"As fire crews arrived on scene, we found a single vehicle upright in the ditch," Chervenka said. "The vehicle was fully involved in fire."

The accident occurred on Country Club Road near the Elk City Police Department gun range.

Chervenka said bystanders arrived before emergency personnel and were able to remove one of the occupants from the burning vehicle. Both occupants were transported for medical treatment. One patient was flown to Oklahoma City by medical helicopter, while the other was taken by ambulance to Great Plains Regional Medical Center.

The conditions of the victims were not available.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation by the Oklahoma Highway Patrol. However, preliminary information indicates the vehicle may have struck a deer before leaving the roadway and colliding with a tree.

Chervenka noted that automatic crash notifications from iPhones are becoming more common for emergency responders.

"We get a lot of those," he said. "About 99 percent of the time, somebody left a phone on top of their car and it fell off. But we treat every one of them the same because you never know."

He added that firefighters have responded to several recent crashes involving deer and observed numerous deer in the area while working the scene.

"They're moving, and there's a lot of them out there," Chervenka said. "We've been out on several calls lately with vehicles striking deer. It must be that time for them to start moving a little bit."

Motorists are encouraged to remain alert, especially during nighttime and early morning hours when deer activity tends to increase.

SWOSU Shares Oklahoma Fossil History with Weatherford Community

SWOSU Press Release — Mon, 08 Jun 2026 08:55:00 GMT

Weatherford, OK – Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) faculty and students from the Department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences recently shared the geological history of Oklahoma during a community presentation at the Weatherford Public Library. The presentation, titled “Fossils of Ancient Oklahoma,” welcomed community members of all ages.

The presentation featured Dr. Renan Bosque, Dr. Marcella Santos, Madi Crisp, Darby Elmore, and Eric Mesta. Attendees learned how fossils help scientists study ancient environments and better understand the history of life on Earth. The presentation also focused on Oklahoma’s changing landscapes through geological time, including ancient seas, changing climates, and extinct organisms preserved in the fossil record.

Community members had the opportunity to examine fossils from Oklahoma and other parts of the world during the event. Children and families also participated in hands-on activities and discussions about Earth history, extinction, evolution, and prehistoric life.

The outreach event provided SWOSU students with an opportunity to share scientific knowledge with the public while engaging with the local community outside the classroom. Events like this continue the Department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences’ involvement in science education and community outreach across western Oklahoma.

For more information about the SWOSU Department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, visit https://www.swosu.edu/biological-sciences/.

Wellington Man Dies Following Rollover Crash in Collingsworth County

Paragon Staff — Sun, 07 Jun 2026 12:11:00 GMT

Collingsworth County, TX – A 59-year-old Wellington man died Saturday following a single-vehicle rollover crash in rural Collingsworth County.

According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, the crash occurred at approximately 5:17 p.m. on June 6 on County Road W, about one mile east of Farm-to-Market Road 398.

Investigators reported that a 2004 Ford F-250 was traveling westbound on County Road W when the driver lost control while traveling at a speed considered unsafe for the wet and muddy road conditions. The pickup left the roadway, entered the south embankment, and rolled over.

The driver, identified as Alfredo Saldana, 59, of Wellington, was transported to Collingsworth General Hospital, where he later died from injuries sustained in the crash.

DPS officials said Saldana was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash.

The Texas Highway Patrol investigated the incident. The crash remains under investigation.

Alabama Driver Injured in Beckham County Rollover Crash

Paragon Staff — Wed, 03 Jun 2026 08:49:00 GMT

Elk City, OK – A Hanceville, Alabama man was injured in a single-vehicle rollover accident early Tuesday morning in Beckham County, according to the Oklahoma Highway Patrol.

The collision occurred at approximately 4:44 a.m. on June 2 on State Highway 6 about 100 feet west of the intersection with State Highway 66.

Troopers reported that Bobby Armstrong, 86, was traveling eastbound on State Highway 6 when his vehicle failed to negotiate a curve to the right. The vehicle departed the roadway to the left and overturned approximately one and one-quarter times.

Armstrong sustained injuries in the crash and was wearing a seat belt at the time of the collision, according to the report. No passengers were in the vehicle.

The Oklahoma Highway Patrol indicated that next of kin had been notified. The crash remains under investigation.

Elk City Police Seeking Public Assistance in Shooting Investigation Investigation Underway Following Panel Road Shooting

Paragon Staff — Tue, 02 Jun 2026 12:07:00 GMT

Elk City, OK – The Elk City Police Department is asking for the public's help as investigators work to identify and locate individuals involved in a shooting that occurred near Panel Road in Elk City.

According to information released by the department, the shooting took place during the early morning hours between Friday, May 29, and Saturday, May 30, 2026. Authorities have not released additional details about the incident but say the investigation remains active.

Investigators are requesting assistance from anyone who may have been in the area during the time of the shooting. Police are particularly interested in obtaining photographs, video footage, surveillance recordings, or eyewitness accounts that could provide information relevant to the case.

Officials emphasized that even seemingly minor details could prove valuable to investigators as they work to determine what occurred and identify those responsible.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Captain Sammy Weygand of the Elk City Police Department.

Contact Information:

Captain Sammy Weygand

Email: weygand@elkcity.com

Phone: 580-225-1212

The Elk City Police Department thanked community members for their cooperation and assistance as the investigation continues.

"Your assistance could be critical to this investigation," the department stated in its public notice.

Early Voting Begins June 11

Roger Mills County Election Board Press Release — Mon, 01 Jun 2026 15:29:00 GMT

Cheyenne, OK — Early voting begins Thursday June 11th for voters in Roger Mills County. Voters who will not be able to make it to the polls on Election Day, have the option of voting early at their County Election Board.

Roger Mills County Election Board Secretary Kelly Tice, said early voting is open to all voters. “You do not need to provide an excuse to vote early. Oklahoma allows early voting for all elections conducted by the County Election Board or State Election Board—from school board and municipal elections to state and federal elections. This is a great option for those who will be out of town on Election Day or who want to avoid long lines,” Tice said.

Early voting is available Thursday, June 4th and Friday, June 5th from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Saturday, June 6th from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Roger Mills County Election Board located at 500 E. Broadway Ave., Cheyenne, Ok. Tice reminds voters that early voting is not available at polling locations.

Some voters may need assistance to vote because they are blind or visually disabled, physically disabled or infirmed, or illiterate. Such individuals may request to have an assistant or vote privately and independently using the ATI device attached to the voting device. Those who require assistance should talk to their precinct official or contact the County Election Board directly for instructions.

For questions, please contact the Election Board at 833-638-7999 ex. 7 or rogermillscounty@elections.ok.gov.

You can also find the Roger Mills County Election Board on Facebook at facebook.com/rmcelectionbd.

Election Day Reminders and Tips

Paragon Staff — Mon, 01 Jun 2026 15:28:00 GMT

Cheyenne, OK — Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday, June 16th, for the Roger Mills County Primary Election. Roger Mills County Election Board Secretary Kelly Tice offers these important tips to voters—especially those who will be casting a ballot for the first time.

VOTING TIPS

Mark your ballot using the example posted at your polling place and inside your ballot booth. If you make a mistake, do not try to correct it. Instead, take your ballot to the precinct officials. They will destroy the ballot and issue a new one.
You do not need to make a selection for each election/issue on the ballot in order for your ballot to be counted. The voting device will cast votes only for those elections/issues which you have marked.
Ballots can be read by the voting device regardless of how you insert the ballot into the system. If the system detects too many markings for a single office or question, an error report will be printed and the ballot will be returned to the voter for a new ballot to be issued.
If you need assistance or would like to use the audio-assisted ballot system, let a precinct official know. You do not have to show proof of a disability to use the audio-assisted ballot system.
Be sure to bring an approved form of identification. Photo identification cards issued by the federal government, State of Oklahoma, or a federally recognized tribe are accepted. You may also use the free, voter identification card mailed to you by your County Election Board when you registered to vote. Forms of identification with an expiration date, must have an expiration date that falls AFTER the date of the election.

If you forget your voter ID or your name is not found in the Precinct Registry, you may still cast a provisional ballot by signing an affidavit. A provisional ballot is sealed in a special envelope and counted after Election Day, if the voter’s registration information can be verified by the County Election Board. Election results cannot be certified until all provisional ballots have been researched, verified, and (if valid) counted.

Tice said election officials are there to assist voters and ensure all procedures are followed on Election Day. If you believe an election law has been violated, contact precinct and/or county election officials immediately. Do not wait until you leave the polling location.

Voting activity is generally slowest mid-morning and mid-afternoon, but lines and wait times can vary from precinct to precinct. All voters who want to cast a ballot should be in line no later than 7 p.m. “Anyone who is in line by 7 p.m. on Tuesday and eligible to vote, will be allowed to vote,” Tice said.

You can locate your polling place and view a sample ballot using the State Election Board’s OK Voter Portal at oklahoma.gov/elections/ovp.

The Roger Mills County Election Board is located at 500 E. Broadway Ave., Cheyenne, Ok and is open from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. For questions, please contact the Election Board at 833-638-7999 ex. 7 or rogermillscounty@elections.ok.gov.

You can also find the Roger Mills County Election Board on Facebook at facebook.com/rmcelectionbd.

Request an Emergency Ballot for the June 16 Election

Roger Mills County Election Board Press Release — Mon, 01 Jun 2026 15:27:00 GMT

Cheyenne, OK — Registered voters who become physically incapacitated after 5:00 p.m. Monday, June 1st and are unable make it to the polls, still have an opportunity to cast their ballot.

Roger Mills County Election Board Secretary Kelly Tice, said that state law permits voters who become emergency incapacitated after 5:00 p.m. Monday, June 1st to vote under special provisions. Tice said emergency incapacitation is something most voters don’t think about. “Voting is our constitutional right, but life happens. Injury, illness, or even childbirth can prevent a voter from being able to go to the polls. That’s why it’s important to make sure voters know their rights in the event of an emergency.”

If you or someone you know becomes physically incapacitated after 5:00 p.m. June 1st, contact your County Election Board as soon as possible. Tice said Election Board officials will work with you to make sure you have all of the necessary information to cast your ballot. Information can also be found on the Oklahoma State Election Board website at oklahoma.gov/elections.

The Roger Mills County Election Board is located at 500 E. Broadway Ave., Cheyenne, Ok and is open from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Election Board officials can be reached at 833-638-7999 ex. 7 or by email at rogermillscounty@elections.ok.gov.

You can also find the Roger Mills County Election Board on Facebook at facebook.com/rmcelectionbd.

Search Warrant Solves Multiple Burglaries, Leads to Drug Arrests and Hazardous Exposure Incident

Paragon Staff — Mon, 01 Jun 2026 15:26:00 GMT

Beckham County, OK – A recent search warrant executed by the Beckham County Sheriff's Office resulted in the recovery of thousands of dollars worth of stolen property, the solving of at least six burglaries, and the arrest of two individuals on drug-related charges.

Beckham County Sheriff Derek Manning said deputies served a search warrant at a residence and camper trailer last week, leading investigators to recover numerous stolen items connected to multiple burglary cases.

"We actually had people in the neighborhood coming up as my guys were serving the search warrant and saying, 'Hey, I've been missing that,'" Manning said. "We solved some burglaries that hadn't even been reported yet."

In addition to recovering stolen property, investigators discovered what Manning described as a trafficking amount of methamphetamine. A man and a woman were arrested and are expected to face charges. The investigation remains ongoing.

During the search, deputies encountered an unexpected and potentially dangerous situation inside a camper trailer located on the property.

According to Manning, two deputies and a Sayre police officer began experiencing serious symptoms after entering the trailer. The officers reported difficulty breathing, numbness and tingling in their faces and lips, light-headedness, and coughing.

"They got out immediately," Manning said.

A fourth deputy later entered the trailer wearing breathing apparatus equipment but reportedly began experiencing similar symptoms despite the protective gear.

The affected officers were transported to a hospital for evaluation and were released several hours later. Manning said officials have continued checking on them and all have reported no lingering symptoms.

Authorities remain uncertain about the source of the exposure.

"We still don't know what it was," Manning said.

Out of caution, the Sheriff's Office requested assistance from the Oklahoma National Guard's Hazardous Materials Unit. The specialized team responded to the scene and conducted an investigation but was unable to identify any remaining hazardous substance.

Investigators have not ruled out a connection to the methamphetamine discovered at the property, although Manning said no equipment commonly associated with a methamphetamine laboratory has been identified.

"There are all kinds of chemicals you can mix up that will create toxic gases that cause those kinds of symptoms," Manning said. "They can cause death or serious injury pretty quickly if you don't get out."

Manning praised the deputies for following safety procedures by immediately evacuating the trailer and securing the area until hazardous materials experts arrived.

The sheriff also expressed appreciation to the Sayre Police Department and the Oklahoma National Guard for their assistance.

"Our guys are okay. That's the important thing," Manning said. "It's just a reminder of how dangerous this job can be in ways you don't expect. They were searching for stolen property when this happened."

The investigation into both the drug case and the source of the hazardous exposure remains ongoing.

Voters Reminded of Election Day Laws

Roger Mills County Election Board Press Release — Mon, 01 Jun 2026 15:25:00 GMT

Cheyenne, OK — With the June 16th Election approaching, County Election Board officials are reminding voters of Election Day laws.

PERSONS ALLOWED INSIDE ELECTION ENCLOSURE

It is a crime for any person other than voters and election officials to remain within 30 feet of a ballot box while an election is in place. Additionally, it is unlawful for any person other than election officials and voters to be inside the election enclosure where voters are checked in, issued ballots, and vote. This law is not intended to include minor children who accompany voters to their voting location.

A news reporter or photographer may, while covering the election being conducted, be allowed inside the election enclosure for no more than five (5) minutes. The reporter or photographer shall not interfere with voters or election officials and shall neither observe any individual voter while the voter marks a ballot, nor photograph any voter who is marking a ballot.

ILLEGAL VOTING

It is a crime to vote more than once at any election, or vote in a precinct after having transferred your voter registration to a new precinct, or vote knowing that you are not eligible. It is also unlawful to vote and submit an absentee ballot issued to another person.

ELECTIONEERING

Electioneering is advocating for or against a candidate or issue that is on the ballot. It is a crime to electioneer within 300 feet of any ballot box while an election is in progress.

Electioneering can be verbal or it can include displaying items such as signs, pamphlets, t-shirts, buttons or hats. If voters are unsure whether or not their clothing or accessories would constitute an election crime, it is recommended that those items be left at home.

PRINTED MATERIAL

No printed material other than that provided by the election board shall be publicly placed or exposed within 300 feet of any ballot box while an election is in progress. Voters may, however, bring personal notes to assist them with their election choices while they are marking their ballot. Personal notes must remain concealed at all other times while inside the election enclosure.

PHOTOGRAPHS AND DISCLOSURE OF VOTE

A voter may take a digital image or photograph of their marked ballot while inside the election enclosure. However, it is unlawful for voters to post the image or photograph on social media or otherwise distribute or disclose how they voted until they have left the election enclosure.

ELECTION INTERFERENCE

It is a misdemeanor to interfere with the orderly and lawful conduct of an election.

No one, including a lawfully appointed watcher or exit pollster may interfere with a registered voter who is attempting to vote, or may attempt to influence the vote of a person by means of force or intimidation. This includes activity both before and during an election.

POLLSTERS

An “exit pollster” is a person who receives an official commission from the County Election Board Secretary to conduct “polls” or interviews of voters leaving the polling place. No pollster shall be permitted within 50 feet of any ballot box while an election is in progress and shall be limited to written polling materials.

Any person conducting an exit poll within 300 feet of any ballot box shall display identification provided by the Secretary of the County Election Board. Voters are not required to participate in exit polls.

INTOXICATION

It is unlawful to take intoxicating liquors of any kind or quantity to within one-half mile of any polling place on an Election Day. Additionally, no person shall attend an election or be within 300 feet of a polling place in an intoxicated condition on an Election Day.

REPORTING POTENTIAL CRIMES

Voters who believe an election crime is being committed, should contact their county election board or local law enforcement while the act is in progress or as soon as possible. Be prepared to provide as much information and documentation as possible.

For more information or to report a potential violation of election law, contact the Roger Mills County Election Board at 833-638-7999 ex. 7 or rogermillscounty@elections.ok.gov.

You can also find the Roger Mills County Election Board on Facebook at facebook.com/rmcelectionbd.

Woman Arrested After Erick Home Invasion Assault

Paragon Staff — Mon, 01 Jun 2026 15:18:00 GMT

Erick, OK — A woman was arrested following an assault involving a knife at a residence in Erick, according to Beckham County Sheriff Derek Manning.

Manning said the incident began when a female suspect went to a home and knocked on the door. The victim reportedly believed the visitor was a family member and opened the door. Once the door was opened, the suspect allegedly forced her way inside while armed with a knife.

The victim suffered minor injuries during the encounter. Manning said the woman was not stabbed, but received cuts while the suspect was brandishing the knife and holding it against her.

"The woman was able to give us a very good description," Manning said. "She had great presence of mind with some of the descriptions that she gave us."

Investigators used the information provided by the victim to identify the suspect and make an arrest.

"We were able to, based on that, get an identification of the suspect and make an arrest in that," Manning said. "Good job on the victim's part. Glad she's okay."

Manning credited the victim's ability to remain calm and observe details during a frightening situation.

"In this case, we were happy that we had a victim that was able to process that information and get it back to us in a way that we could use," he said.

The sheriff noted that incidents of this nature are uncommon in Western Oklahoma, particularly involving a female suspect.

"It's unusual, but not unheard of," Manning said. He declined to speculate on what may have motivated the attack, saying investigators do not yet have definitive information regarding the suspect's actions.

During a discussion about suspect identification, Manning explained that local agencies generally rely on outside resources for composite sketches.

"We would usually contact OSBI or maybe a larger police department," Manning said. "A lot of that can be done through computer simulation these days, but we defer that to agencies that have more expertise."

The investigation remains ongoing.

Oklahoma Woman Killed in Rollover Crash Near Higgins, Texas

Paragon Staff — Mon, 01 Jun 2026 09:54:00 GMT

Lipscomb County, TX – A 25-year-old Oklahoma woman was killed Friday evening in a single-vehicle rollover crash on U.S. Highway 60 southwest of Higgins in Lipscomb County, Texas.

According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, the crash occurred at approximately 5:30 p.m. on May 29.

Investigators said Cameron Kaylyn Hammons, 25, of Ames, Oklahoma, was driving a 1999 GMC Sierra northeast on U.S. 60 when she lost control of the pickup due to a suspected mechanical failure.

The vehicle entered a side skid, left the roadway, traveled into a ditch, and rolled over multiple times.

Authorities reported Hammons was not wearing a seatbelt and was ejected from the vehicle during the rollover. She was pronounced dead at the scene from injuries sustained in the crash.

Weather conditions were clear and the roadway was dry at the time of the accident. The posted speed limit in the area is 75 mph.

The Texas Highway Patrol investigated the crash. The incident remains under investigation.

No other vehicles were involved in the crash, and no additional injuries were reported.

Lake Carpenter Named RUSO Board Chair

RUSO Press Release — Thu, 28 May 2026 08:49:00 GMT

Oklahoma City, OK – The Regional University System of Oklahoma (RUSO) Board of Regents selected Lake Carpenter to serve as chair of the board at its May 27 meeting. Carpenter, who previously served as vice chair, was appointed to the board by Gov. Mary Fallin in 2013 and reappointed by Gov. Kevin Stitt in 2022.

As chair, Carpenter said he looks forward to elevating the work of RUSO’s six institutions and highlighting their critical role in preparing graduates for Oklahoma’s workforce, supporting economic growth and strengthening communities across the state. He said he also hopes to help spotlight the ways RUSO universities are preparing students for high-demand careers that meet the needs of Oklahoma’s growing communities and industries.

The Regional University System of Oklahoma governs East Central University, Northeastern State University, Northwestern Oklahoma State University, Southeastern Oklahoma State University, Southwestern Oklahoma State University and the University of Central Oklahoma. The six universities together serve more than 40,000 students across the state.

"RUSO universities have a direct and lasting impact on Oklahoma students, families, communities and employers," Carpenter said. "As a SWOSU graduate and as the father of RUSO graduates and students, I know firsthand how these universities open doors and prepare people to build successful careers here in Oklahoma. These campuses are deeply connected to the people and places they serve, and as chair, I want to help tell that story for each of our six institutions."

RUSO institutions play a central role in addressing state workforce needs, including teacher preparation, nursing, health care, STEM fields and other critical occupations. Ninety-five percent of RUSO graduates are employed in Oklahoma one year after graduation, and 89% are working in the state five years later.

"Our regional universities are one of Oklahoma's strongest assets for workforce development and economic growth," Carpenter said. "They prepare teachers for our classrooms, nurses and health care professionals for our hospitals and clinics, and business leaders for our local economies. RUSO graduates serve communities across the state."

A western Oklahoma native, Carpenter is senior vice president at Bank of Western Oklahoma and serves as minister of music at First Baptist Church of Leedey. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in social science, magna cum laude, from Southwestern Oklahoma State University in 1999, with an endorsement in physical education.

He has a long record of civic and community service, including leadership roles with the Elk City Rotary Club, the Leedey Education Foundation, the Leedey Public School Mentor Program, Western Oklahoma Family Care Center and youth agriculture and livestock programs. He has received multiple Paul Harris Fellow recognitions through Rotary and has been awarded the Honorary FFA Chapter Degree. Carpenter and his family are also involved in farming and ranching in western Oklahoma.

Kylie Lindenfelser is SWOSU's Newest Ray & Gay Clark Scholar

SWOSU Press Release — Wed, 27 May 2026 11:37:00 GMT

Weatherford, OK – Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) is proud to announce that Kylie Lindenfelser has been selected as the recipient of the Ray & Gay Clark Scholarship for the 2025–2026 academic year.

Lindenfelser is from Erick, Oklahoma, and is studying Pharmacy at SWOSU.

The Ray & Gay Clark Scholarship is named for the late Walter Raymond “Ray” Clark (SWOSU Class of 1977) and the late Lana Gay Clark (SWOSU Class of 1976). Ray was a graduate of the SWOSU College of Pharmacy, and Gay was a graduate of the SWOSU School of Education. The award benefits students of the College of Pharmacy.

The Ray & Gay Clark Scholarship is stewarded by the SWOSU Foundation, Inc. The Foundation was established in 1977 to promote philanthropy, award scholarships, and distribute funds to support the activities and programs of SWOSU. For more information about the Ray & Gay Clark Scholarship or any SWOSU Foundation, Inc., funds, please call 580-774-3267 or visit www.SWOSUFoundation.com.

Ethan Mewhirter is SWOSU's Newest Sonobe Family Scholar

SWOSU Press Release — Wed, 27 May 2026 11:35:00 GMT

Weatherford, OK – Ethan Mewhirter of Lawton, Oklahoma has been named the Sonobe Family Scholar at Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) for the 2025–2026 academic year.

A native of Lawton, Mewhirter is a Senior majoring in Chemistry.

The Sonobe Family Scholarship was established by Blake and Janie Sonobe of Weatherford in 2014.

The Sonobes came to SWOSU in 1990. Blake taught in the Department of Chemistry, serving as chair of the Chemistry Department (1997-99) and interim chair/chair of the Department of Chemistry and Physics from 1999 until 2005. He served as senior vice president and provost for academic and student affairs from 2005 through October 2012 when he joined the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education (OSRHE) as Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs.

The Sonobe Family Scholarship rotates among Pharmacy, Chemistry, and Biology students.

The Sonobes are longtime SWOSU benefactors. They are Founder-level investors in the SWOSU Bulldog Angels Fund for students in crisis, and in 2018 Blake was recognized in the SWOSU Alumni Association's annual Emeriti Honors.

The Sonobe Family Scholarship is stewarded by the SWOSU Foundation, Inc. The Foundation was established in 1977 to promote philanthropy, award scholarships, and distribute funds to support the activities and programs of SWOSU. For more information about the Sonobe Family Scholarship or any SWOSU Foundation, Inc., funds, please contact 580-774-3267 or visit www.SWOSUFoundation.com.

SWOSU Names Wade as Newest Bromert History Scholar

SWOSU Press Release — Wed, 27 May 2026 11:33:00 GMT

Weatherford, OK – Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) is proud to announce that Abbyahna Wade has been selected as the recipient of the Roger Bromert History Scholarship for the 2025–2026 Academic Year.

A Weatherford native, Wade is a Sophomore student studying History.

The late Roger Bromert, PhD, was an admired and respected Professor of History at SWOSU for over three decades.

The Roger Bromert History Scholarship is stewarded by the SWOSU Foundation, Inc. The Foundation was established in 1977 to promote philanthropy, award scholarships, and distribute funds to support the activities and programs of SWOSU. For more information about the Roger Bromert History Scholarship or any SWOSU Foundation, Inc. funds, please contact 580-774-3267 or visit www.SWOSUFoundation.com.

Absentee Deadline and Early Voting

Custer County Election Board Press Release — Wed, 27 May 2026 11:31:00 GMT

Clinton, OK – The deadline for requesting an Absentee Ballot for the June 16, 2026, Primary Election, is Monday, June 1, 2026 at 5 p.m., said Ann Brown, Secretary, Custer County Election Board. An application can be downloaded at www.ok.gov/elections, or obtained at the Custer County Election Board office, at 633 North 6th Street, Clinton. This application must be in our office either submitted online, by fax (580)323-5130, or in-person.

Early voting for the Election will begin Thursday, June 11, and Friday, June 12 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday, June 13 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Custer County Election Board office located at 633 North 6th Street, Clinton. There is no early voting on Monday prior to the election.

On Tuesday, June 16th, you will vote at your regular polling place, Brown said. If a voter has any questions about his or her eligibility, this information can be found online at www.ok.gov/elections, or calling the County Election Board office.

A reminder that a valid proof of Identity is required both for early voting and voting at the polling place.

For more information, contact the Custer County Election Board office at 580-323-5124. There is also more information about absentee voting at www.elections.ok.gov.

SWOSU Announces President's and Dean's Honor Rolls Spring 2026

SWOSU Press Release — Wed, 27 May 2026 11:30:00 GMT

Weatherford, OK – The President’s and Dean’s Honor Rolls at Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) in Weatherford, Sayre, and Yukon have been announced for the 2026 spring semester. The lists recognize undergraduate students for outstanding academic achievement and include students from 23 states across the U.S. and eight countries worldwide.

A total of 730 students earned a place on the Dean’s Honor Roll this semester. To qualify, undergraduate students must earn a grade point average of 3.5 or higher in 12 or more credit hours with no grade lower than a C. The President’s Honor Roll recognized 725 students during the spring semester. To qualify, undergraduate students must earn all As in 12 or more credit hours.

Together, the two honor rolls represent students from SWOSU who demonstrated a high level of academic performance throughout the semester.

The honor roll lists are organized by student last name, country, state, and city. They can be found HERE. Separate President’s and Dean’s Honor Roll lists can be accessed by selecting the tabs at the bottom of the attached Excel sheet.

About Southwestern Oklahoma State University

Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) was founded in 1901 and offers over 100 undergraduate and graduate programs across three locations in Weatherford, Sayre, and Yukon. The university serves over 5,000 students and prides itself on affordability, small class sizes, and over 200 faculty and staff committed to helping students achieve their academic and personal goals.

For more information about Southwestern Oklahoma State University, visit www.swosu.edu.

Elk City Police Department Investigating Reported Assault at Elk City Lake

Paragon Staff — Wed, 27 May 2026 08:53:00 GMT

Elk City, OK – The Elk City Police Department Criminal Investigations Division is investigating an incident reported at Elk City Lake involving the reported assault of an individual who was allegedly left alone at the scene.

According to information released by the Elk City Police Department, detectives are actively seeking information from the public that may help identify individuals or provide additional details related to the case.

Authorities stated no further details are being released at this time in order to protect the integrity of the ongoing investigation.

Anyone who witnessed suspicious activity, has surveillance footage, or may have information related to the incident is encouraged to contact Captain Sammy Weygand with the Elk City Police Department.

Captain Weygand can be reached at 580-225-1212 or by email at weygand@elkcity.com.

The Elk City Police Department says any information, no matter how small, could assist investigators.

Burns Flat EMS to Shut Down June 1 Amid Staffing and Pay Challenges

Paragon Staff — Wed, 27 May 2026 08:38:00 GMT

Burns Flat, OK — Burns Flat EMS will officially shut down ambulance operations effective June 1, 2026, according to a public statement released by the Washita County Clerk’s Office and information shared by community members familiar with the situation.

The closure comes after the resignation of the service’s medics and ongoing struggles related to staffing shortages, and low wages. Reports indicate some EMTs working for the volunteer ambulance service were earning $4.58 per hour while covering long shifts and emergency calls for the community.

In a public service announcement, county officials thanked the Burns Flat EMS volunteers for their years of service and acknowledged the difficult decision made by both the medics and town leadership.

“We know this was not an easy decision by the medics or the Town of Burns Flat leaders,” the statement read.

Under Oklahoma law, county commissioners are responsible for facilitating emergency medical services through municipalities, hospital authorities, or private organizations. Officials stated the Town of Burns Flat has now entered into a mutual aid agreement with Sinor Ambulance to continue emergency coverage from its Clinton and Hobart locations.

County commissioners said discussions are ongoing with Burns Flat leaders to determine a permanent long-term solution for EMS coverage in the area.

Despite the closure, officials emphasized residents of Washita County will continue to have ambulance service available through the new agreement.

SWOSU Announces Dates for Fall 2026 Family, Day, Homecoming, & SWOSU Saturday

SWOSU Press Release — Tue, 26 May 2026 13:46:00 GMT

Weatherford, OK – Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) has announced some key dates for Fall 2026 activities.

Saturday, September 19: SWOSU Family Day, SWOSU vs Southeastern Oklahoma State University, 6:00 p.m. kickoff
Saturday, October 31: SWOSU Homecoming, SWOSU vs University of Arkansas-Monticello, 2:00 p.m. kickoff
Saturday, November 14: SWOSU Saturday, SWOSU vs Northwestern Oklahoma State University, 3:00 p.m. kickoff

Updates on these and other SWOSU activities are forthcoming. For more information, please visit www.SWOSU.edu.

SWOSU Names Amanda Taylor as Bud & Wanda Smalley Memorial Scholar

SWOSU Press Release — Tue, 26 May 2026 13:44:00 GMT

Weatherford, OK – Amanda Taylor of Hinton, Oklahoma, has been named the Bud & Wanda Smalley Memorial Scholar at Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) for the 2025- 2026 academic year.

Taylor is a Junior at SWOSU majoring in Marketing. After graduating, she intends to pursue a career in sports marketing.

The Bud & Wanda Smalley Memorial Scholarship Fund was established by Judy (Smalley) Wilkes (SWOSU Class of 1976 and Emeritus SWOSU Foundation, Inc. Trustee) and her husband, Mike Wilkes (SWOSU Class of 1975 and Past President of the SWOSU Alumni Association and SWOSU Presidential Order of Merit honoree) of Oklahoma City.

The fund provides scholarships to SWOSU students with a preference given to those students who graduated from high schools in Caddo County, Oklahoma.

The scholarship honors the late Bud & Wanda Smalley of Eakly. The Smalleys were champions of higher education; all four of their daughters, all four of the Smalley sons-in-law, and seven of their ten grandchildren are SWOSU alumni.

The Bud & Wanda Smalley Memorial Scholarship Fund is stewarded by the SWOSU Foundation, Inc. The Foundation was established in 1977 to promote philanthropy, award scholarships, and distribute funds to support the activities and programs of SWOSU. For more information about The Bud & Wanda Smalley Memorial Scholarship or any SWOSU Foundation, Inc. funds, please contact 580-774-3267 or visit www.SWOSUFoundation.com.

SWOSU Names Garrett Daniel Carter Memorial Scholar

SWOSU Press Release — Tue, 26 May 2026 13:44:00 GMT

Weatherford, OK – Kennedie Helton of Weatherford has been named the recipient of the Garrett Daniel Carter Memorial Scholarship at Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) for the 2025–2026 academic year.

Helton is a student in SWOSU’s College of Pharmacy and is pursuing a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree. The scholarship supports students who are enrolled in the SWOSU College of Pharmacy’s PharmD/MBA dual degree program.

The Garrett Daniel Carter Memorial Scholarship was established to honor the life and legacy of Garrett Daniel Carter, a 2016 graduate of the SWOSU College of Pharmacy. Following Carter’s passing in 2021, his parents, Mark Carter and Kim Carter of Stillwater, Oklahoma, created the endowment to provide ongoing scholarship support to pharmacy students.

SWOSU is nationally recognized for its pharmacy program and commitment to preparing students for successful careers in healthcare and other professions. For more information about the Garrett Daniel Carter Memorial Scholarship or any SWOSU Foundation funds, please contact the SWOSU Foundation, Inc. at 580-774-3267 or visit www.SWOSUFoundation.com.

Yukon Man Charged With Grand Larceny In Custer County

Paragon Staff — Tue, 26 May 2026 13:43:00 GMT

Clinton, OK – A Yukon man has been charged in Custer County District Court with felony grand larceny after authorities say he stole tools and equipment from a Clinton property.

According to a probable cause affidavit, Meonte Tequez Allen, 27, is accused of taking a black 1200-watt Craftsman generator and a Delta 15-inch blade chop saw on or about May 13, 2026. The items were valued at approximately $2,150.

Court documents state that a witness reported seeing a man arrive near the property in a tan SUV pulling a flatbed trailer. The trailer was reportedly empty when the man arrived and had items on it when he left.

Investigators later identified the suspect as Allen, according to the affidavit.

Allen was charged with one count of grand larceny, a felony. If convicted, the charge is punishable by up to two years in prison, up to one year in county jail, a fine of up to $1,000, or both, along with restitution.

A judge found probable cause for the issuance of an arrest warrant on May 19.