The Penny News Feed

Elk City Police Seek Man Wanted on Felony Warrants

Paragon Staff — Fri, 04 Sep 2026 09:09:00 GMT

Elk City, OK – The Elk City Police Department is asking for the public’s help locating a man wanted on active felony warrants who was last seen in the Sayre area.

Police are searching for 53-year-old John Torres Diaz. Authorities describe Diaz as 5 feet, 8 inches tall and approximately 190 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes.

According to information released by the Elk City Police Department, Diaz is wanted on felony warrants for rape by instrumentation and child sexual abuse.

Police advise members of the public not to approach Diaz. Anyone who sees him should call 911 immediately.

Anyone with additional information regarding Diaz or his whereabouts is asked to contact the Elk City Police Department at 580-225-1212 or Detective Vanessa Doty.

The Elk City Police Department said Diaz was last known to be in the Sayre area.

New Big Elk Stadium Press Box Showcases Local Craftsmanship

Paragon Staff — Thu, 03 Sep 2026 08:31:00 GMT

Elk City, OK – Elk City Public Schools has completed construction on a new press box at Big Elk Stadium, a project Superintendent Mike Sparks says represents both a major improvement to the facility and the work of local businesses and craftsmen.

The new press box made its debut last Friday with the start of the 2026 football season. The district had been working toward the project for some time, with the Elk City Board of Education considering bids for the renovation earlier this year.

“It was something that's kind of been in the works, and you couldn't have asked for it to turn out any nicer than it did,” Sparks said. “It ought to be here for a long time.”

One of the most notable aspects of the project is how much of the work came from Elk City businesses and workers.

“Everything but the bricks on the outside,” Sparks said. “We had to buy the bricks from outside of Elk City, but other than that everything is here local, absolutely.”

Redibuilt Metal Products & Construction handled the project from demolition of the old press box through construction of the new facility. According to the company, every stud and steel component of the new structure was welded as part of the locally built project.

Other local contractors involved included Culver Electric, Kilhoffer Flooring, Jerry’s Glass, Jr. Noblitt LLC, Michael Poole and Pop and Sons Insulation.

The brick was provided by Martinez Brick.

For Sparks, the local involvement gave the project additional significance beyond simply replacing an aging press box.

“You've got a lot of people born and raised here who had a hand in putting this thing together,” Sparks said. “I think, again, that's one of the things about this community, especially me being somebody new, you find out how much this community means to people, and they had a lot of personal touch put in on this building.”

Dowdell Announces Campaign for Clinton Mayor

Paragon Staff — Wed, 02 Sep 2026 15:39:00 GMT

Clinton, OK – Clinton City Councilman Ernie Dowdell has announced his campaign for mayor, challenging current Clinton Mayor David Berrong.

Dowdell said his decision to run is centered on city leadership, accountability, economic development and long-term planning.

“We can’t stay in the status quo any longer,” Dowdell said. “We have to start planning five and ten years down the road.”

Dowdell was born and raised in Clinton and currently serves on the Clinton City Council. He and his wife, Shannon, have been married for 27 years and raised their three children in Clinton.

Dowdell said his time on the City Council has given him experience with city operations, finances and issues facing the community.

Among the changes Dowdell would like to see is a clearer division of responsibilities between the mayor, City Council and city manager. He said the mayor and council should establish priorities and direction, while the city manager oversees daily operations and carries out those priorities.

Dowdell also said he wants the city to establish clearer expectations and methods for evaluating progress on city projects and priorities.

Economic development is another focus of his campaign. Dowdell pointed to growth in nearby Elk City and Weatherford and said he believes Clinton should look for opportunities that distinguish it from surrounding communities.

He said he would like Clinton to take a more active approach to business recruitment, development and efforts to increase sales tax revenue.

Dowdell is also calling for the development of five, ten and twenty-year plans addressing water, infrastructure, economic development and other long-term needs.

Other priorities outlined by Dowdell include reviewing city fees and utility costs, pursuing state and federal grants, examining the city's permitting and inspection processes and improving communication between City Hall and residents.

He said he would also like to focus on customer service for residents and make city processes easier for contractors, tradespeople and businesses to navigate.

Dowdell said concerns about Clinton's current direction ultimately led him to enter the mayoral race.

“We are stuck,” Dowdell said.

Dowdell said he believes the city needs to improve its ability to make decisions, follow through on projects and prepare for future growth.

Dowdell is challenging current Clinton Mayor David Berrong in the mayoral race. Election Day is Tuesday, November 3.

Dowdell is a lifelong Clinton resident and member of First Christian Church. His family has longstanding ties to the community, including relatives who operated a local department store and others who practiced medicine in Clinton.

National Award Honors SWOSU Professor Todd Wiggen’s Work in Leadership Education

Paragon Staff — Wed, 02 Sep 2026 15:37:00 GMT

Weatherford, OK – Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) Professor Todd Wiggen has been selected as the 2026 recipient of the Susan R. Komives Collaborative Leadership Award. The national award recognizes a leadership educator whose work across campuses and organizations improves leadership programs, teaching and student experiences.

Wiggen is a professor of management and leadership in the SWOSU Department of Business within the Everett Dobson College of Business and Technology. Since joining SWOSU in 2016, he has helped expand the ways students can study and practice leadership through degree programs and experiences outside the classroom. His work has also connected SWOSU students and faculty with educators and organizations across Oklahoma and the country.

The National Clearinghouse for Leadership Programs created the award in 2022 and presents it every two years. Wiggen is its third recipient. The selection process considers each nominee’s work with other educators, ability to bring groups together and results across institutions and organizations.

One of the clearest examples of Wiggen’s collaborative work is his leadership in Reach Higher, Oklahoma’s statewide adult degree-completion program. Wiggen coordinates SWOSU’s Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership program through Reach Higher. He also chaired the council that advises the statewide program from 2019 to 2023. During his four years as chair, Wiggen worked with participating universities to complete a major curriculum revision. The update brought the program in line with other leadership degrees across the country, while graduates he advised at SWOSU have continued into MBA programs, law school and other graduate programs.

For students who returned to college to finish one degree, his support has also opened the door to additional education and career options.

The curriculum review also led Wiggen and SWOSU Business Department Chair Amanda Evert to study undergraduate leadership programs throughout the country. The research identified courses commonly found in leadership degrees and provided guidance for colleges developing or updating similar programs. In 2024, the Journal of Leadership Education published their findings. The research grew from an Oklahoma program review and now provides useful information to leadership educators at other institutions.

Wiggen has also created opportunities for students and faculty within the SWOSU Department of Business. He played a central role in developing the Master of Science in Managerial Leadership program and launched the college’s first multidisciplinary international leadership travel program. Wiggen has coached SWOSU’s Collegiate Leadership Competition team for the past two years, and the team placed among the top 10 nationally in 2026. He has also mentored junior faculty members who served as assistant coaches and helped bring a regional competition to SWOSU.

His professional work keeps SWOSU connected with leadership and management educators throughout the country. Wiggen serves as editor-in-chief of Management Teaching Review and on the board of the Management and Organizational Behavior Teaching Society. The Association of Leadership Educators previously honored him with national awards for leadership and service in 2020 and teaching in 2023.

“I always say that leadership is relational, so to win an award based on my own collaborative efforts really means a lot to me,” said Wiggen. “Working with colleagues within and outside SWOSU gives us opportunities to exchange ideas and improve how we teach and serve students. I feel blessed to work with outstanding faculty members, and I enjoy every minute with my students.”

The award is named for Dr. Susan R. Komives, professor emerita at the University of Maryland and one of the founders of the National Clearinghouse for Leadership Programs. Komives contributed to several models, standards and research projects used in leadership education. The 2026 Leadership Educators Institute will recognize Wiggen during its Dec. 14-16 meeting.

For more information about programs available through the SWOSU Department of Business, visit https://www.swosu.edu/academics/business/index.php.

About Southwestern Oklahoma State University

Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) was founded in 1901 and offers more than 100 undergraduate and graduate programs across three locations in Weatherford, Sayre, and Yukon. The university serves more than 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.

MA+ Architecture Named Official Sponsor of the 7th Annual SWOSU Charitable Hunt

Paragon Staff — Wed, 02 Sep 2026 15:33:00 GMT

Weatherford, OK – The Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) Foundation, Inc. is pleased to announce that MA+ Architecture will serve as the Official Sponsor of the 2026 SWOSU Charitable Hunt, scheduled for Friday, September 11, 2026, in Devol, Oklahoma.

MA+, an award-winning architecture firm with offices in Oklahoma City, Weatherford, and Norman, provides professional services including architecture, interior design, master planning, school bond planning, 3D visualization, and furniture selection. The firm’s ongoing commitment to excellence and community partnership continues to strengthen SWOSU’s mission in meaningful ways.

“Philanthropic partners like MA+ are invaluable supporters of SWOSU’s mission,” said SWOSU Foundation, Inc. Executive Director Dr. Garrett King. “We are deeply grateful to MA+ for generously sponsoring this annual event that benefits the SWOSU Parks & Recreation Management program.”

The 2026 Charitable Dove Hunt will be facilitated by BlackOak Farms and will feature a sporting clay competition followed by an early evening guided dove hunt. After the hunt, participants will gather for a cocktail reception and dinner. Proceeds from the event will support the Dr. Ken Rose Memorial Fund, which exists to benefit the SWOSU Parks & Recreation Management Department.

Participation is limited, and early registration is encouraged. For those not participating in the hunt, cocktail hour and dinner-only options are also available. To register or learn more, visit www.HuntWithSWOSU.com or contact Taylor Adler at taylor.adler@swosu.edu or 580-774-6331.

Established in 1977, the SWOSU Foundation champions philanthropy to support the University’s programs and students. The Charitable Hunt is one of many events that help fulfill its mission of advancing excellence at SWOSU.

Registration Open for SWOSU Health Information Management 50th Anniversary Reunion

Paragon Staff — Wed, 02 Sep 2026 15:31:00 GMT

Weatherford, OK – The Health Information Management (HIM) program at Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) will welcome former and current students back to campus Friday, Sept. 18, for its 50th anniversary reunion. Former classmates will have time to catch up, visit with faculty and see how the program has grown over the years. Activities will take place from 1 to 4 p.m. in the Skyview Room at the Pioneer Event Center.

Marion Prichard, who led the program for 37 years, and former Assistant Director Faye Henson will share memories from their years at SWOSU. Together, they helped prepare generations of HIM students and guided the program through decades of change. Many former students will have a chance to visit with two faculty members who were an important part of their time at SWOSU. Attendees will also tour the program’s former and current campus locations, stopping by the Old Science Building for a group photo and heading over to the Jerry & Margaret Hodge Center for Pharmacy & Rural Health.

SWOSU first offered the MRA Degree in 1968, with the campus-based program beginning in 1975 as the Medical Record Administration Program under the Biology Department. Around 1990, the program became Health Information Management as the profession grew beyond traditional medical records and adapted to changing healthcare technology.

SWOSU added its Master of Science in Health Information Management in 2015 and later developed combined degree options that connect HIM with pharmacy and business. Today, SWOSU is the only university in Oklahoma that offers both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in HIM. Students can complete both programs online, which makes the degrees available to students who cannot relocate to Weatherford.

The Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education recently selected both programs as Future Education Model demonstration programs. As early adopters of CAHIIM’s 2026 accreditation standards, SWOSU faculty will test updated approaches to practical experience, project work and student feedback. Their participation gives SWOSU a role in shaping how future HIM professionals are educated.

Former and current HIM students may register at HIM Reunion RSVP through Wednesday, Sept. 9. For more information about SWOSU’s Health Information Management programs, visit swosu.edu/allied-health/health-information-management.

About Southwestern Oklahoma State University

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

Burns Flat Spaceport Selected for Up to 100 Microgravity Test Flights

Paragon Staff — Wed, 02 Sep 2026 15:26:00 GMT

Burns Flat, OK – The Oklahoma Infinity One Spaceport at Burns Flat has been selected as the operations site for a new series of commercial microgravity missions that could include as many as 100 flights over two years.

Astral Materials has selected Dawn Aerospace's Aurora spaceplane as a high-cadence test platform to accelerate development of furnace technology designed to manufacture advanced materials in microgravity.

Under the agreement, an initial campaign of Aurora microgravity flights will be conducted from the Burns Flat facility. The missions will allow Astral Materials to repeatedly test and refine its technology, with Aurora designed for turnaround times of approximately four hours.

Astral Materials is developing microgravity furnace hardware aimed at producing higher-quality semiconductor crystals and other advanced materials. Reducing the effects of gravity can limit convection and sedimentation during manufacturing, potentially producing crystals with fewer defects and greater consistency.

Those materials could eventually be used in photonics, quantum computing, advanced computing and high-power electronics.

"To realize our mission, we need engineering platforms that let us test often, learn quickly, and continuously improve our technology," Astral Materials CEO Dr. Jessica Frick said. "Aurora gives us a practical pathway to rapidly validate our manufacturing systems as we scale toward commercial production in orbit."

The Aurora spaceplane is designed to fly experiments into microgravity and return them to researchers shortly after landing. Astral officials say an experiment could be recovered in about 45 minutes, adjusted on the ground and potentially flown again later the same day.

Dawn Aerospace says Aurora can support up to 100 flights per vehicle annually. The frequent flights are intended to shorten development cycles that can take years when researchers rely exclusively on orbital laboratories.

The Burns Flat missions are not intended to replace longer-duration orbital research. Instead, Astral plans to use the Oklahoma flights to develop and mature its furnace systems before moving them into orbit.

Dawn Aerospace is developing its U.S. operational base at the Infinity One Oklahoma Spaceport in partnership with the State of Oklahoma.

Commercial flight operations from Burns Flat are currently planned to begin in 2028. The western Oklahoma facility is being developed to support frequent commercial suborbital flights and microgravity research, potentially making Burns Flat a significant U.S. testing location for companies developing next-generation space manufacturing technologies.

Everything You Need to Know About the 88th Elk City Rodeo of Champions

Paragon Staff — Wed, 02 Sep 2026 15:23:00 GMT

Elk City, OK – One of western Oklahoma's longest-running traditions returns Labor Day weekend as the 88th annual Elk City Rodeo of Champions takes over Ackley Park Sept. 4 through Sept. 6.

This year's rodeo will feature three nights of rodeo action, a Saturday morning parade, the return of a free concert, chuckwagon racing, a nationally known skydiver, specialty entertainment, food and merchandise vendors, and new reserved seating options.

A Tradition Dating Back to 1939

The Elk City Rodeo of Champions has remained close to the historic rock walls of Ackley Park since the beginning.

Elk City cattleman Peter Preston Ackley donated six acres of land for a city park in 1937, with plans that included a stadium for rodeos and baseball games.

Through a joint project between the City of Elk City and the Works Progress Administration, the Depression-era federal program created under President Franklin Roosevelt, the rock stadium at Ackley Park was completed in July 1939.

Just three months later, Elk City's Beutler Brothers, Elra, Lynn and Jake, produced the first Ackley Park Rodeo inside the new rodeo and baseball stadium on Oct. 28 and 29, 1939.

Eighty-seven years later, the rodeo remains just a short distance from where it all started. Today's event is held at Beutler Brothers Arena, located northeast of the original stadium and named in honor of the brothers who produced that first rodeo.

Rodeo Runs Sept. 4 Through Sept. 6

The 88th Elk City Rodeo of Champions will feature three nights of competition at Beutler Brothers Arena in Ackley Park.

Friday, Sept. 4, is Dr Pepper Night. Children can receive free bleacher admission by bringing an empty Dr Pepper can.

Sunday, Sept. 6, will be Purple Night as the rodeo helps raise awareness of Alzheimer's disease and dementia in partnership with the Western Oklahoma Alzheimer's Collaborative, Team Elk City. Fans are encouraged to wear purple.

Reserved Seating Arrives for 2026

A major change awaits rodeo fans this year with reserved seating available for the first time in the west grandstands.

All five west grandstand sections will offer numbered reserved seats. Section 103, located near the center of the arena, is the premium reserved section.

New chairback reserved seating has also been added at the top of the south grandstands. General admission bleacher seating will continue to be available on a first come, first served basis.

Advance prices are $25 for reserved Section 103, $20 for reserved Sections 101, 102, 104 and 105, $20 for south chairback seating, $12 for general admission bleachers and $10 for children's bleacher tickets for ages 6 through 12.

Prices increase during the rodeo to $30 for Section 103, $25 for the other reserved sections and chairback seating, $14 for general admission and $12 for children's bleacher tickets.

Tickets are available this week at Barber-Dyson Ford, Circle A Western and Outdoor, and at the rodeo grounds. Online ticket information is also available through the Elk City Rodeo website.

Rodeo Parade Rolls Through Elk City Saturday

The annual Rodeo of Champions Parade begins at 10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 5.

The parade route includes Main Street, Third Street and Broadway Avenue as the community celebrates rodeo weekend in downtown Elk City.

Free John King Concert Saturday Night

The concert returns to rodeo weekend in 2026.

Country artist John King will perform a free concert Saturday, Sept. 5, following the rodeo at Ackley Park.

The concert is scheduled for 10:30 p.m. to midnight, giving fans another reason to stick around after Saturday night's rodeo performance.

Admission to the concert is free.

Dana Bowman Will Bring In Old Glory

Fans will want to be in their seats for the arrival of the American flag this year.

Dana Bowman, a retired U.S. Army Sergeant First Class, Special Forces soldier and former member of the U.S. Army Golden Knights parachute team, will skydive into the rodeo carrying Old Glory.

Bowman is a double amputee who returned to parachuting following a 1994 accident. Since then, he has completed more than 5,000 jumps while appearing at rodeos and other events around the country.

Circle 7 Chuckwagons Coming to Elk City

Speed will not be limited to the rodeo livestock this year.

The Circle 7 Chuckwagons are the featured specialty act for the 2026 Rodeo of Champions.

Two chuckwagons, each pulled by a four-horse team, will race around the arena.

Reed Rosencrans of Minot, North Dakota, brings the act to Elk City after years of competitive chuckwagon racing in Canada. He now performs at rodeos across the country.

The teams feature miniature Thoroughbreds, horses bred for speed but small and agile enough to race around a rodeo arena.

Boom Boom Thompson Brings the Laughs

Shawn "Boom Boom" Thompson will make his first appearance at the Elk City Rodeo of Champions as the 2026 rodeo clown.

Thompson describes his role as being the "commercials for the rodeo," filling breaks in the action and providing laughs between the dangerous moments of rodeo competition.

Thompson lives in Sidney, Iowa, and travels the rodeo circuit entertaining crowds around the country.

Plenty to Eat and Shop

Fans will have plenty of options when it comes to food, drinks and shopping throughout rodeo weekend.

Vendors scheduled to attend include 5B Rodeo with jewelry, purses and leather goods; Brown's Grill with barbecue and loaded fries; Carnival Eats & Treats with pizza, corn dogs, snow cones and other carnival favorites; Heaven's Kitchen with home-style cooking; Foster's Designs with western clothing, jewelry and belts; Noel Concessions with pizza, pretzels, drinks and corn dogs; B's Drinks with snow cones and refreshing drinks; and The Surf Bar West Food Truck with acai bowls and smoothies.

The Elk City Lions Club will also be serving food, with proceeds supporting causes throughout the local community.

Rodeo Weekend at a Glance

The Elk City Rodeo of Champions runs Friday, Sept. 4, through Sunday, Sept. 6, at Beutler Brothers Arena in Ackley Park.

Friday is Dr Pepper Night, with free bleacher admission for kids who bring an empty Dr Pepper can.

Saturday features the Rodeo of Champions Parade at 10 a.m., another night of rodeo action and the free John King concert from 10:30 p.m. to midnight.

Sunday closes the weekend with Purple Night, supporting Alzheimer's and dementia awareness.

Add in Dana Bowman's patriotic skydive, the Circle 7 Chuckwagons, Boom Boom Thompson, vendors, food and three nights of rodeo competition, and the 88th Rodeo of Champions continues a tradition that began beside Ackley Park's rock walls in 1939.

Fire Near Gracemont Forces Evacuations in Caddo County

Paragon Staff — Wed, 02 Sep 2026 15:07:00 GMT

Gracemont, OK – Emergency crews responded to a wildfire Tuesday in Caddo County that forced some nearby residents to evacuate their homes.

The fire broke out shortly before noon about three miles southwest of Gracemont. A couple of homeowners in the area were evacuated as crews worked to contain the blaze.

Firefighters received assistance from air support and were eventually able to bring the fire under control. Crews remained on scene afterward conducting mop-up operations and watching for hot spots.

The cause of the fire has not been determined. Officials have also not confirmed whether any injuries were reported.

The fire comes as extremely dry conditions continue to create an elevated wildfire threat across southwest and western Oklahoma. Burn bans are currently in effect across much of the region, with emergency management officials urging residents to use caution with anything that could produce a spark or flame.

Hot, Dry Weather Continues Across Western Oklahoma

Those dry conditions are expected to continue through the remainder of the week. The National Weather Service forecast for the Elk City area calls for sunny skies and highs near 102 degrees Thursday and Friday, followed by highs around 101 Saturday and 100 Sunday. Overnight lows will remain in the lower 70s. Little to no rain is currently in the forecast.

South winds will also continue through the end of the work week, with gusts around 20 mph possible at times, keeping fire danger a concern across western Oklahoma.

Burns Flat Driver Injured in Washita County Rollover

Paragon Staff — Wed, 02 Sep 2026 14:59:00 GMT

Washita County, OK – A 21-year-old Burns Flat resident was injured Tuesday afternoon in a single-vehicle crash in Washita County.

According to the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, the collision occurred at approximately 3:50 p.m. Tuesday, September 1, near North 2110 Road and East 1120 Road, about six miles northwest of Burns Flat.

OHP reported the vehicle was traveling westbound on East 1120 Road when it left the roadway to the right and traveled approximately 174 feet before striking a bridge post. The vehicle then rotated and rolled backward down a creek embankment approximately 42 feet before coming to rest.

The driver, whose name was being withheld pending notification, was transported to an Elk City hospital. The driver initially was reported to have suffered a leg injury and a laceration to the head. Hospital personnel later determined the driver had suffered a pelvic injury rather than a leg injury.

OHP reported the driver was not wearing a seat belt. No passengers were reported in the vehicle.

Burn Bans Renewed Across Western Oklahoma as Hot, Dry Conditions Continue

Paragon Staff — Tue, 01 Sep 2026 13:48:00 GMT

Western Oklahoma – Several western Oklahoma counties have renewed or continued burn bans as drought conditions and persistent heat keep wildfire danger elevated across the region.

As of September 1, 52 of Oklahoma's 77 counties have submitted burn ban resolutions, according to updated state information.

Custer County commissioners renewed the county's burn ban effective August 31 for another 14 days. Kiowa County has also extended its burn ban through September 14.

Elsewhere in western and southwest Oklahoma, Dewey, Washita, Greer, Harmon and Jackson counties remain under burn bans. Washita, Harmon and Jackson counties currently have bans extending through September 7.

Not every county in western Oklahoma is included. Ellis, Roger Mills and Beckham counties are currently not under county burn bans.

Across the state line in the eastern Texas Panhandle, Hemphill, Wheeler and Collingsworth counties are also under burn bans.

The restrictions come as Oklahoma Forestry Services continues to warn of worsening wildfire conditions. In its August 31 Fire Situation Report, the agency said wildfire occurrence and severity are increasing as above-normal temperatures continue and drought impacts intensify.

Conditions are particularly concerning in western and southwest Oklahoma. Forestry officials expect above-normal wildfire activity to continue because of the depth of the drought and persistent hot and dry weather. Afternoon temperatures around 100 degrees, low humidity and southerly winds could allow grass fires to spread rapidly. Brush fires could also exhibit more dangerous fire behavior when wind and terrain align.

Oklahoma Forestry Services says county burn bans may be issued for up to 14 days and can be renewed if extreme fire danger persists. Residents should check the restrictions for their individual county before conducting any outdoor burning.

Hot, Dry Forecast Continues

Little relief is expected from the weather this week. The National Weather Service forecast for Elk City calls for sunny and hot conditions, with highs near 100 Wednesday, 101 Thursday, 100 Friday and around 100 again Saturday. Overnight lows will generally remain in the lower 70s, with no meaningful rainfall currently in the forecast.

The National Weather Service says weather-related fire conditions may be somewhat lower as humidity increases, but drought-stricken vegetation remains highly susceptible to wildfire.

Oklahoma Forestry Services expects hot and primarily dry conditions to continue through the work week and says above-normal wildfire occurrence could persist for the next two weeks, with no clear signal yet for widespread beneficial rainfall.

SWOSU Celebrates 125 Years With New Anniversary Campaign

SWOSU Press Release — Tue, 01 Sep 2026 13:25:00 GMT

Weatherford, OK – Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) has launched a university-wide campaign in celebration of its 125th anniversary and the generations of students, faculty, staff, alumni and supporters who have shaped the university since 1901. The campaign continues celebrations that began earlier this year and gives Bulldogs everywhere new ways to take part in the milestone.

At the center of the campaign is a new anniversary mark inspired by the bell tower of SWOSU’s original Administration Building. The design brings one of the university’s earliest landmarks into the celebration and gives anniversary materials a recognizable connection to SWOSU’s beginnings.

SWOSU was established March 8, 1901, when the Oklahoma Territorial Legislature authorized a normal school in southwestern Oklahoma. Since then, SWOSU has grown from an institution preparing teachers into a comprehensive university whose graduates serve communities across Oklahoma and around the world. The anniversary celebrates that growth and the generations who have made SWOSU part of their lives.

“SWOSU’s 125th anniversary gives us an opportunity to honor the generations of students, faculty, staff, alumni, and supporters who have shaped this university while also looking toward what comes next,” said Jonathan “Boone” Clemmons, assistant vice president for Public Relations & Marketing. “We want this celebration to bring the SWOSU community together and give Bulldogs everywhere a way to celebrate their connection to the university.”

Official SWOSU 125th Anniversary merchandise will be available beginning Sept. 14 at the Alma Mater Merc, SWOSU’s campus bookstore. The collection will give Bulldogs a lasting reminder of the milestone.

The anniversary website at 125.swosu.edu tells how Weatherford secured the university and how SWOSU alumni later carried their education into NASA’s Mission Control. It also shares the history of the original bell tower that inspired the anniversary mark.

About Southwestern Oklahoma State University

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

Elk City Schools Continue Free Meals as District Links Program to Student Success

Paragon Staff — Tue, 01 Sep 2026 13:16:00 GMT

Elk City, OK – Elk City Public Schools is continuing to provide free meals to all students, a program Superintendent Mike Sparks says is helping the district take care of students both inside and outside the classroom.

The district offers free breakfast and lunch, along with an after-school meal available from 3:15 to 4:30 p.m.

"It's just what school ought to be," Sparks said. "We ought to be about taking care of kids, and that's what's going on here."

Sparks said the impact of the meal program extends beyond making sure students have enough to eat. Since the program began, school officials have noticed improvements during the afternoon, including fewer behavioral issues and better experiences for students during bus rides home.

The district is also receiving statewide attention for the program and its connection to student performance.

Sparks and Mrs. Dyson have been invited to speak at the Hunger Free Oklahoma statewide conference in Tulsa in October. The organization visited Elk City last spring and examined the district's free meal program alongside its academic results.

"When you look at when we started the free meals and look at our academic outcomes and how those two have played hand-in-hand," Sparks said, the results caught the organization's attention and led to the invitation to present Elk City's approach at the conference.

Sparks credited much of the program's success to district employees who make an extra effort to ensure students have access to meals.

At Elk City Middle School, for example, the cafeteria is located separately from the main building. Cafeteria employees bring breakfast to the main building to make it easier for students to participate. Other staff members also take breakfast directly to students who might otherwise skip it because of morning activities.

Sparks said those individual efforts are part of a larger commitment throughout the district.

"Everybody's in this for a greater cause," Sparks said, pointing to employees working in classrooms, cafeterias and facilities across the district. "That's why I think we're being so successful."

For Sparks, the combination of student services, academics and staff involvement has created plenty of optimism within the district.

"It's a good time to be in the brown and white, for sure," he said.

Juvenile Taken Into Custody After Stolen Vehicle Report in Beckham County

Paragon Staff — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 14:03:00 GMT

Beckham County, OK – A juvenile was taken into custody early Monday morning after a Beckham County sheriff’s deputy located a vehicle that had been reported stolen or taken without permission.

Beckham County Sheriff Derek Manning said a deputy stopped the vehicle and found a juvenile behind the wheel. Manning said it was unclear from the initial log whether the deputy made the traffic stop because of the stolen vehicle report or had stopped the vehicle independently around the same time the call was received.

“There was a report of a stolen vehicle,” Manning said. “Someone called in and said that a juvenile had taken their vehicle, kind of an unauthorized use situation.”

After confirming the vehicle was the one authorities were looking for, the deputy took the juvenile into custody and began the required process involving the Office of Juvenile Affairs and a judge.

Because juveniles cannot be held in the Beckham County Jail, Manning said the juvenile was kept secure at the sheriff’s administration office while officials determined where the juvenile would be placed.

The deputy later transported the juvenile to the Cleveland County Juvenile Detention Facility in Norman.

Manning said the case will proceed through the juvenile justice system and any potential charges will be handled through that process.

During a search of the vehicle, deputies also located several vaping devices. Manning said the Elk City Police Department contacted the sheriff’s office and indicated the devices could be connected to a separate case.

The sheriff’s office secured the items for Elk City police.

The incident occurred late Sunday night into early Monday morning, Manning said.

Two Killed in I-40 Crash East of Hydro

Paragon Staff — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 08:07:00 GMT

Caddo County, OK – Two Oklahoma City residents were killed and four others were injured in a two-vehicle crash Saturday afternoon on Interstate 40 in Caddo County.

According to the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, the collision occurred at approximately 3:32 p.m. Saturday, August 29, near mile marker 91, about five and a half miles east of Hydro.

OHP identified the driver of one vehicle as 21-year-old Eric Miller of Burns Flat. Miller was injured in the crash. Two passengers in his vehicle were also injured. According to the collision report, seat belts were not in use by all occupants of the vehicle.

The second vehicle was driven by 73-year-old Jean Giles of Oklahoma City. Giles was injured in the collision and died as a result of the crash.

A passenger in the vehicle, 75-year-old Gregory Giles of Oklahoma City, was also killed. OHP reported that both occupants of the second vehicle were wearing seat belts.

Both lanes of westbound I-40 were closed for approximately four and a half hours due to the wreck.

The cause of the collision remains under investigation by the Oklahoma Highway Patrol. Next of kin have been notified.

Area FFA Chapters Receive PSO Foundation STEM Grants

Paragon Staff — Fri, 28 Aug 2026 08:52:00 GMT

Tulsa, OK – FFA chapters in Burns Flat-Dill, Carnegie, Mountain View-Gotebo, Weatherford, Navajo and Altus are among 16 Oklahoma chapters receiving STEM After-school Grants from the Public Service Company of Oklahoma Foundation for the 2026-27 school year.

The grants will support hands-on student projects involving science, technology, engineering and math, with an emphasis on their applications in agriculture. Projects funded through the program can include animal science, food safety, agricultural technology, school gardens, drone aviation and other STEM-related activities.

The PSO Foundation says the program is designed to encourage curiosity while helping students develop skills that can translate into future careers in agriculture and related industries.

“Opportunities like the PSO Foundation’s STEM After-School Grants allow FFA students to take what they learn in the classroom and apply it to real world challenges,” Oklahoma FFA Foundation Executive Director Jacey Fye said. “These grants give students the resources to explore new ideas, develop valuable skills and see how agriculture and STEM connect to the careers of the future.”

Each recipient chapter will be recognized during upcoming FFA Chapter Officer Leadership Training conferences. Five regional COLT events are scheduled for late August and September.

The STEM After-school Grant program is part of the PSO Foundation’s effort to support academic achievement and workforce development across Oklahoma.

In addition to the western Oklahoma recipients, grants were awarded to FFA chapters in Bartlesville, Antlers, Hugo, Valliant, Wapanucka, Apache, Fletcher, Stigler, Wister, Wister-Howe and Newkirk.

Woodward Man Killed in Pedestrian Collision Near Seiling

Paragon Staff — Fri, 28 Aug 2026 08:35:00 GMT

Dewey County, OK – A Woodward man was killed late Thursday night after being struck by a commercial motor vehicle on U.S. Highway 270 in Dewey County.

According to the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, the collision occurred at approximately 11:35 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 27, on U.S. 270 near County Road 2360, about 11 miles southeast of Seiling.

Troopers reported that a commercial vehicle driven by 56-year-old Randall E. Kilhefner of Clearfield, Utah, was traveling southbound on U.S. 270 when it struck 62-year-old John W. Hughes of Woodward.

According to the OHP collision report, Hughes was walking with traffic in the traffic lane when the collision occurred. Kilhefner attempted to avoid Hughes and ran off the right side of the roadway.

Hughes was transported to the Seiling emergency room, where he was pronounced dead.

Kilhefner was not injured in the collision and was wearing a seat belt, according to OHP.

The Oklahoma Highway Patrol reported that Hughes' next of kin has been notified.

Beckham County Rural Water District No. 1 Issues Mandatory Water Restrictions

Paragon Staff — Thu, 27 Aug 2026 10:36:00 GMT

Beckham County, OK – Beckham County Rural Water District No. 1 has issued mandatory water restrictions for all customers due to ongoing drought conditions and a declining water table in the district’s well field.

Under the restrictions, customers are prohibited from using district water for agricultural spraying. Agricultural spraying may continue if water is obtained from another source, such as a private well.

The district is also prohibiting outside watering, including watering lawns and gardens and filling swimming pools.

Officials said the restrictions are necessary because drought conditions have caused the water table in the district’s well field to drop.

The restrictions are mandatory and apply to all Beckham County Rural Water District No. 1 customers until further notice.

Oklahoma Invests $500,000 in SWOSU’s Registered Teacher Apprenticeship Pathway

SWOSU Press Release — Thu, 27 Aug 2026 08:52:00 GMT

Weatherford, OK – Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) has received $500,000 in Phase II funding through TeachForwardOK to support its Registered Teacher Apprenticeship Pathway. The program helps school employees earn bachelor’s degrees and become fully certified teachers while continuing to serve their communities. This investment will prepare more teachers for Oklahoma classrooms while helping school districts develop educators from within their own schools.

Registered Teacher Apprenticeships are nationally recognized pathways approved through the U.S. Department of Labor. SWOSU developed the pathway for paraprofessionals who already work in schools but do not hold bachelor’s degrees. After completing 60 college credit hours, eligible candidates can enter the apprenticeship and continue working in paid positions with partner districts while finishing their SWOSU coursework. The pathway requires a one- to two-year internship in place of traditional student teaching. Apprentices graduate with traditional bachelor’s degrees in education and meet all Oklahoma teacher certification requirements.

Phase I funding helped SWOSU establish the systems needed to operate the new pathway and gather feedback for improvement. The Phase II award moves that support into direct program delivery. It will cover tuition and book costs for apprentices, stipends for mentor teachers and the continued operation and development of the program. The award is expected to provide significant financial support to at least 37 apprentices working toward teacher certification.

“This funding removes barriers that have kept talented individuals from becoming teachers while giving rural districts the opportunity to grow their own educators alongside the university,” said Robyn Randol, SWOSU director of Registered Teacher Apprenticeship. “Together, we are creating a stronger, more accessible pathway into teaching and a sustainable teacher pipeline for rural Oklahoma.”

SWOSU began piloting the pathway last year, and its first cohort is expected to complete the program in December. The pathway now works with numerous school districts across Oklahoma. A growing number of freshmen and sophomores have also expressed interest in entering the pathway once they become eligible. More than 50 current apprentices are expected to complete the pathway and become fully certified teachers by fall 2028.

The Oklahoma Legislature established TeachForwardOK through Senate Bill 212 as a two-year pilot for nontraditional teacher candidates and emergency-certified teachers. The Office of Educational Quality and Accountability (OEQA) selected several universities to operate models based on the needs of their regions and student populations. OEQA described SWOSU’s program as the most expansive among the funded approaches.

The pathway is a collaboration among SWOSU’s SWOSU’s Department of Education, the Oklahoma Public School Resource Center and participating school districts. SWOSU provides the college coursework, while partner districts provide paid classroom experience. SWOSU and the Oklahoma Public School Resource Center work with each district to align the pathway with local workforce needs.

“The Registered Teacher Apprenticeship pathway represents exactly what is possible when universities, schools, and community partners come together around a shared need,” said Marla Pankratz, chair of the SWOSU Department of Education. “I am incredibly proud of the leadership and extraordinary work of Robyn Randol and our Department of Education faculty, who have embraced this innovative pathway and the students it serves. Ultimately, this is an investment not only in teachers, but in Oklahoma’s youngest children, their families, and the communities they call home.”

For more information about SWOSU’s Registered Teacher Apprenticeship Pathway, visit https://www.swosu.edu/education/teacher-apprenticeship.php.

About Southwestern Oklahoma State University

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

Car vs Deer Injures Binger Woman

Paragon Staff — Wed, 26 Aug 2026 14:41:00 GMT

Caddo County, OK – A Binger woman was injured Wednesday morning after her vehicle struck a deer and rolled in Caddo County.

According to the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, the collision occurred at approximately 6:45 a.m. Aug. 26 on County Road 1230, about five miles south of Binger.

Troopers said 55-year-old Heather A. Daniel of Binger was traveling east on CR 1230 when a deer crossed in front of her vehicle. Daniel struck the deer and continued east before the vehicle went into a broadside slide and left the north side of the roadway.

The vehicle then struck an iron tin horn and rolled approximately three-quarters of a turn before coming to rest on its passenger side.

Daniel was injured in the collision. No passengers were in the vehicle.

OHP reported Daniel was wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash.

Beckham County Sheriff: Stalking Arrest Highlights Domestic Violence Concerns

Paragon Staff — Wed, 26 Aug 2026 13:08:00 GMT

Beckham County, OK – The Beckham County Sheriff’s Office recently arrested a man on complaints of stalking and falsely reporting a crime following an investigation that Sheriff Derek Manning says began with an unserved emergency protective order.

According to Manning, the protective order originated outside Beckham County and had reportedly been outstanding since March. Investigators later determined the man was aware of the order but had not been formally served.

The investigation began after the man allegedly followed his ex-wife and another individual on the highway. Beckham County deputies intercepted the man who was following them, while the other individuals stopped separately and contacted law enforcement.

“We were able to intercept the person that was following and then were able to talk to the other people when they stopped and got in touch with us,” Manning said.

Manning said deputies conducted a lengthy investigation into the incident and the events leading up to it. The investigation resulted in the man being arrested on allegations of stalking and falsely reporting a crime.

Manning said his office takes stalking investigations seriously because the behavior can be an indicator of escalating domestic violence.

“If somebody is stalking and obsessing over someone, then the things that can follow tend to spiral upwards and become more and more dangerous and more and more possibly violent,” Manning said. “So we take those kinds of things very seriously.”

Manning noted that stalking is now treated as a more serious offense than it once was, in part because of its connection to potentially escalating domestic violence.

The identity of the person arrested was not provided. Formal charges and guilt are determined through the court system.

Western Oklahoma Voters Decide Key Local, State Races

Paragon Staff — Wed, 26 Aug 2026 11:42:00 GMT

Oklahoma City, OK – Western Oklahoma voters decided several closely watched local and state races Tuesday, with contests in Beckham County, Mangum and Weatherford.

Carnes Wins Beckham County Commissioner District 3

Sammy Carnes won the Republican runoff for Beckham County Commissioner District No. 3, defeating James E. Greer.

With all five precincts reporting, Carnes received 456 votes, or 60.08 percent. Greer received 303 votes, or 39.92 percent.

Carnes built his advantage on Election Day, receiving 420 votes compared to 276 for Greer. A total of 759 votes were cast in the race.

Risner Wins Mangum Commissioner Race

Jennifer Risner came out on top in the four-candidate race for an unexpired term as City of Mangum Commissioner No. 2.

With all three precincts reporting, Risner received 125 votes, or 39.81 percent. Rodd Duff finished second with 77 votes, or 24.52 percent.

Travis Mayabb received 65 votes, or 20.70 percent, while Katy Ramirez received 47 votes, or 14.97 percent.

A total of 314 votes were cast.

Terrel, Goldmann Win Weatherford Commission Seats

Drew Terrel won the race for Weatherford City Commissioner Ward 1, defeating Kendon Wood.

With all three precincts reporting, Terrel received 943 votes, or 56.16 percent. Wood received 736 votes, or 43.84 percent. A total of 1,679 votes were cast.

In Ward 3, Warren Goldmann defeated Joshua Adkinson.

Goldmann received 891 votes, or 52.35 percent, while Adkinson received 811 votes, or 47.65 percent. A total of 1,702 votes were cast in the Ward 3 contest.

Winegeart Wins State Senate District 26

Jessica Winegeart won the Republican runoff for Oklahoma State Senate District 26, defeating Rick Koch.

With all 49 precincts reporting, Winegeart received 5,064 votes, or 54.94 percent. Koch received 4,154 votes, or 45.06 percent.

Winegeart carried Election Day voting by a margin of 4,526 to 3,705 and also led early voting, 424 to 330. A total of 9,218 votes were cast.

The runoff determined the District 26 seat because no other party has a candidate on the November ballot.

Mazzei Edges Drummond for Republican Governor Nomination

Mike Mazzei narrowly defeated Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond to win the Republican nomination for governor.

With all 1,984 precincts reporting statewide, Mazzei received 186,678 votes, or 50.28 percent. Drummond received 184,631 votes, or 49.72 percent.

Only 2,047 votes separated the candidates out of 371,309 votes cast.

Drummond held the advantage in absentee and early voting, but Mazzei overcame the deficit on Election Day. Mazzei received 167,869 Election Day votes compared to 163,105 for Drummond.

Mazzei, a former state senator, advances to the November general election, where he will face Democratic nominee Cyndi Munson.

Clinton Woman Charged With Fourth-Degree Arson After July Incident

Paragon Staff — Tue, 25 Aug 2026 08:26:00 GMT

Clinton, OK – A Clinton woman has been charged with fourth-degree arson following an alleged incident involving gasoline and a vehicle late last month, and an outstanding warrant has been issued for her arrest.

According to court documents filed Aug. 17 in Custer County District Court, 28-year-old McKinley Renee Rivers of Clinton is charged with one count of fourth-degree arson, a felony. An outstanding warrant for Rivers' arrest was also issued Aug. 17.

The charge stems from an incident reported shortly after 4 a.m. July 31 at a residence on Prairie Chief Avenue in Clinton.

According to the probable cause affidavit, Rivers allegedly entered the residence and struck a person who was sleeping on a couch. The affidavit alleges Rivers then went outside, picked up a corded power tool and swung it at the windshield of a black Kia Rio.

The person reportedly took the tool away from Rivers and returned inside the residence.

Investigators allege Rivers then obtained a gas can and poured gasoline into the vehicle and on its exterior. According to the affidavit, when another person attempted to take the gas can from her, Rivers allegedly poured gasoline on that person and slung gasoline around the area.

Authorities reported finding gasoline in the front passenger seat and on the exterior of the vehicle. The affidavit also states there was a strong odor of gasoline coming from the vehicle and scratch marks were observed on the windshield.

Court documents allege Rivers intended to set fire to the vehicle but did not complete the act because police arrived at the scene. Rivers was not located at the scene that morning, according to the affidavit.

Prosecutors subsequently filed the fourth-degree arson charge in Custer County District Court. An outstanding warrant for Rivers' arrest was issued Aug. 17 in connection with the case.

The charge is an allegation, and Rivers is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.

Weatherford Man Charged With Kidnapping, Assault With Dangerous Weapon

Paragon Staff — Tue, 25 Aug 2026 08:16:00 GMT

Weatherford, OK – A Weatherford disturbance has resulted in felony charges against 29-year-old Steven Adam-Levi Big Goose.

Court records filed August 17 in Custer County charge Big Goose with kidnapping, assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, and disturbing the peace following an incident in Weatherford on August 16.

According to a probable cause affidavit, law enforcement was called shortly before 5 a.m. after receiving a report of a domestic disturbance. Authorities were told a woman had sought help and reported that another person had tried to cut her throat.

The affidavit states Big Goose was located outside a second-floor room and detained. Investigators reported smelling a strong odor of alcohol on him. Authorities said the woman was visibly upset and had redness on her face and neck, swelling and discoloration around one eye, and a small abrasion on her neck that appeared to have dried blood on it. A large knife found inside the room was collected as evidence.

According to the affidavit, the woman told investigators that she and Big Goose had been drinking earlier in the evening and that an argument later developed. She alleged Big Goose became jealous, found a knife she had hidden, and placed the knife against her throat. She told investigators she could feel the knife breaking the skin and that she begged him to stop.

The affidavit states the woman ran outside seeking help but later returned to the room. She alleged Big Goose later grabbed her by the throat, pushed her onto a bed, covered her mouth and squeezed her face after she began screaming. Other people nearby reportedly heard the screams and directed her to seek help.

During an interview with investigators, Big Goose acknowledged that he and the woman had been drinking and arguing. He denied holding her down or placing a knife to her throat, but reportedly acknowledged that a knife was involved and said he may have shoved her in the chest. When told witnesses had reported seeing the woman leave the room and seek help, Big Goose acknowledged that she had done so.

Big Goose was arrested and booked into jail. Investigators reported finding no obvious signs of fresh injury on him. The affidavit also states he had no prior related criminal history.

The formal charges allege Big Goose forcibly confined the woman against her will, assaulted her with a knife and disturbed others in the area. Kidnapping is listed as a felony punishable by up to 20 years in prison, while the dangerous weapon charge carries a possible sentence of up to 10 years in prison or one year in county jail.

The allegations contained in the affidavit and charging documents have not been proven in court. Big Goose is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

Drought Deepens Across Western Oklahoma as Burn Bans Expand

Paragon Staff — Mon, 24 Aug 2026 13:29:00 GMT

Western Oklahoma – Drought conditions have rapidly intensified across western Oklahoma, prompting several counties to extend burn bans as hot, dry weather continues to increase wildfire concerns.

Washita, Dewey, Greer and Jackson counties extended their county burn bans during meetings of county commissioners Monday. Kiowa and Harmon counties remain under burn bans established last week.

In all, 46 of Oklahoma's 77 counties are currently under county burn bans.

The latest U.S. Drought Monitor, valid Aug. 18 and released Aug. 20, shows a sharp deterioration in conditions across Oklahoma. Every part of the state is now classified as at least abnormally dry, while 94.64 percent is experiencing moderate drought or worse. Severe drought covers 62.21 percent of Oklahoma, and nearly 35 percent of the state is now in extreme drought.

The most serious conditions remain concentrated in western Oklahoma. Large portions of western and southwestern Oklahoma are classified in extreme drought, with areas of exceptional drought, the highest category on the Drought Monitor scale, appearing across portions of western Oklahoma.

Conditions have deteriorated quickly. One week earlier, 28.14 percent of Oklahoma was in extreme drought or worse and only 2.29 percent was experiencing exceptional drought. Those figures have now increased to 34.94 percent and 8.68 percent, respectively.

The Drought Monitor specifically noted that extreme to exceptional drought continues across western Oklahoma. Persistent high pressure over the southern Plains has produced unusually hot temperatures and little rainfall, contributing to what officials describe as flash drought conditions.

The worsening drought is also increasing wildfire concerns.

Oklahoma Forestry Services said Monday was expected to produce the highest fire danger of the week in southwestern Oklahoma. Temperatures across western and southwestern Oklahoma were forecast to reach 100 to 112 degrees, with relative humidity falling into the 20 to 27 percent range. Dry vegetation combined with gusty winds could allow grass fires to spread rapidly.

Forestry officials said grassland fires in western and southwestern Oklahoma could spread at rates of 90 to 135 feet per minute, with flame lengths of 9 to 13 feet. Fires involving a mixture of grass and brush could also produce torching and spotting behavior, making suppression more difficult.

There is at least some opportunity for relief this week, although widespread drought-ending rainfall is not expected.

A cold front moving into Oklahoma will bring scattered opportunities for showers and thunderstorms. Around Elk City, the National Weather Service forecasts a 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms Tuesday night, followed by additional 20 percent chances Wednesday night and Thursday. Temperatures are also expected to fall from triple digits Tuesday to the middle and upper 90s Wednesday and Thursday.

Oklahoma Forestry Services cautions that rainfall during the next seven days is expected to remain sparse, with the best chances for widespread wetting rainfall in the Oklahoma Panhandle. Storms associated with two frontal boundaries could provide isolated beneficial rainfall elsewhere, but hot and primarily dry conditions are expected to remain the overall pattern.

Until more substantial rainfall arrives, officials are urging residents to follow county burn-ban restrictions and use extreme caution with any activity capable of producing a spark or flame.