The Penny News Feed

Structure Fire Near Elk City Destroys Home, Fire Chief Warns Dry Conditions Remain

Paragon Staff — Fri, 11 Sep 2026 08:35:00 GMT

Western OK – A rural home north of Elk City was destroyed by fire Thursday, one of two fires that kept western Oklahoma crews busy despite recent rainfall.

Elk City Fire Chief Kyle Chervenka said firefighters were dispatched at approximately 11:55 a.m. to a structure fire involving a double-wide home near the Beckham and Roger Mills county line.

The home was located along N1993 Road in a rural area north of Elk City. Chervenka said access to the property complicated the response because portions of the road are dead ends and the location must be approached from the north.

Elk City firefighters responded along with Hammon and Canute fire departments, which provided tanker support to help supply water to crews at the scene.

"When our crews arrived on scene, the fire was already through the roof and the structure was fully involved," Chervenka said.

Firefighters were able to knock down the blaze, but the home was considered a total loss.

Chervenka said the home was being rented by a young resident who had moved in only about a week earlier. The resident was not home when the fire started, but personal belongings inside the home were lost.

Neighbors spotted the fire and were able to rescue a dog from inside the home before conditions worsened. No injuries were reported.

The cause remains under investigation, but Chervenka said evidence currently points toward an electrical fire.

Because of the extensive damage, investigators had little physical evidence remaining inside the structure. However, video taken by people who initially approached the home helped firefighters identify where the fire apparently began.

Chervenka said the fire appears to have originated near a hot water heater, where witnesses reported seeing the heaviest smoke. Investigators believe the cause was most likely electrical.

Grass Fire Burns About 15 Acres South of Cheyenne

Later Thursday, firefighters responded to a separate grass fire south of Cheyenne.

Roger Mills County Emergency Management reported the fire at approximately 6:44 p.m. near N1910 and E990 roads. Cheyenne and Strong City fire departments responded along with mutual aid from Hammon and Berlin. Graders from Roger Mills County District 1 also assisted.

Crews quickly stopped the fire's forward progress after approximately 15 acres burned. Officials said the fire appeared to have started from a tree that continued smoldering after being struck by lightning during overnight storms.

All units were released from the scene by approximately 8:30 p.m.

Fire Danger Remains Despite Recent Rain

Chervenka cautioned residents against becoming complacent following this week's rainfall.

Elk City received less than half an inch of rain, while areas north of the city received around three-tenths of an inch, according to Chervenka.

"Our fields are still prime and ready to go," he said.

With temperatures forecast to return to around 100 degrees, Chervenka said vegetation could dry out rapidly.

He specifically cautioned against starting large controlled burns, including tree piles that could continue burning for several days.

"We're going to dry back out really fast," Chervenka said. "If we get grass started again and get any wind, we're going to be right back in the same situation."

Western Oklahoma has already experienced unusually dry conditions this year. Roger Mills County entered September following its ninth-driest August on record and second-driest January through August period in 132 years of records.

Great Plains Regional Medical Center Continues Free Community Education Series

GPRMC Press Release — Thu, 10 Sep 2026 08:43:00 GMT

Elk City, OK – Great Plains Regional Medical Center (GPRMC) will continue its free monthly education series, Community Connections, with a September session focused on financial literacy.

This month’s event, “Building a Healthy Financial Future,” will take place Wednesday, Sept. 16, from noon to 1 p.m. in the meeting room located at the far end of the GPRMC cafeteria at 1801 W. 3rd St. in Elk City. The session will be presented by Justin Koch, CFP, CPWA, CEPA, wealth advisor and president of CopperSky Wealth, and Robert Stephens, CFP, AAMS, financial advisor with Edward Jones.

Community Connections features monthly presentations from GPRMC physicians and guest speakers covering a wide range of subjects, including health and wellness, finances, legal planning and more. Each session is free and open to the public. Snacks will be provided, and while RSVPs are encouraged, walk-ins are welcome.

“Financial health is an important part of overall well-being,” said Corey G. Lively, CEO. “Through Community Connections, we’re excited to bring in local financial experts to help our members of our community navigate finances, no matter what stage of life they’re in.”

Future sessions are planned for topics including ear, nose & throat care, women's health, urology, surgery, community health, healthy lifestyle advice, insurance basics and legal planning.

To reserve a spot for the Sept. 16 session, call (580) 303-5874.

Great Plains Regional Medical Center is the largest health care provider in western Oklahoma offering a full range of medical services, including the region’s most comprehensive obstetrics and women’s health departments. GPRMC is home to 50 physicians who deliver high-quality, cost-effective care across 25 general and specialty areas. GPRMC operates western Oklahoma’s only physician-staffed, 24-hour emergency department and the only 24-hour general and orthopedic surgery centers in the region. As a nonprofit hospital accredited by The Joint Commission, GPRMC is committed to meeting the highest standards in patient care. Learn more at gprmc-ok.com.

OKIE811 Safety Day Coming to Elk City September 16

Paragon Staff — Thu, 10 Sep 2026 08:40:00 GMT

Elk City, OK – OKIE811 will host an Elk City Safety Day on Wednesday, September 16, at Western Technology Center, offering free training for excavators, facility operators, vendors and others involved in underground utility safety and damage prevention.

The event begins with check-in at 8 a.m. at Western Technology Center, 301 Western Drive in Elk City. Training begins at 8:30 a.m. with an OKIE811 certification course covering safe excavation practices, Oklahoma's Underground Facilities Damage Prevention Act and procedures designed to prevent accidental damage to underground utilities. Participants seeking certification must pass a 25-question test with a score of at least 80%.

Additional sessions throughout the day will cover professional line locating, Oklahoma Corporation Commission damage prevention efforts, excavation and trenching safety, and confined space safety. Facility operators may earn up to eight Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality continuing education credits for attending.

Lunch will be provided free by OKIE811. Attendees are encouraged to register by September 11 to ensure they receive a lunch ticket. Registration for Safety Day is free and also includes opportunities to network with industry professionals and win door prizes.

The event concludes at 4:30 p.m. with a closing safety message and door prize drawings.

Registration and additional information are available through the OKIE811 Elk City Safety Day registration page.

Three Lightning-Strike Fires Keep Roger Mills County Crews Busy

Paragon Staff — Thu, 10 Sep 2026 08:37:00 GMT

Roger Mills County, OK – Roger Mills County fire departments responded to three separate lightning-caused fires near Reydon Wednesday evening, with crews ultimately bringing all three incidents under control.

According to Roger Mills County Emergency Management, the first fire was reported around 6:37 p.m. near N1710 and E900 roads, northwest of Reydon. The Reydon Fire Department was dispatched after a lightning strike sparked the fire.

While crews were responding, a second lightning-strike fire was reported near N1750 and E920 roads, northeast of Reydon. All county fire departments were then paged to assist, along with graders from Roger Mills County Districts 2 and 3.

Rain extinguished the second fire, while the first continued to grow. Firefighters eventually brought the first blaze under control, and all departments except Reydon were released around 8:45 p.m.

As crews were returning home, a third lightning-strike fire was reported approximately five miles south of Reydon. Firefighters and county graders quickly responded and brought that fire under control.

All units were released from the third fire around 9:30 p.m.

No injuries or structural damage were reported in the information released by Roger Mills County Emergency Management.

Premium Aerospace Center Oklahoma Lands First Delta 757

Landry Brewer — Thu, 10 Sep 2026 08:27:00 GMT

Burns Flat, OK – Washita County’s aeronautical artists are getting to work on a high-flying canvas.

The first of five Delta Air Lines airplanes landed at Burns Flat’s Premium Aerospace Center (PAC) Oklahoma runway for a fresh coat of paint.

The Boeing 757 will be painted in PAC’s new, state-of-the-art Hangar 234.

“Hangar 234 is a paint hangar with a ventilation system that has 100% air exchange every 10 minutes with the ability to reach temperatures up to 120 degrees to help the paint curing process,” said PAC Accountable Manager Jose Gonzalez.

The job will take 15 days to complete.

Four more of Delta’s Boeing 757s are also scheduled for painting at PAC this year.

“Delta pilots will return to Burns Flat with the next aircraft to be painted and then fly the freshly-painted plane to the next destination,” Gonzalez said.

The crew painting the Delta airplanes will be a mix of experienced personnel originally from other areas who will train less-experienced locals as they begin aviation careers in Washita County.

Gonzalez reached out to Delta before PAC’s inception to ensure that work would be available prior to expansion and investment dollars were spent.

PAC operates in Burns Flat at historic Clinton-Sherman Air Force Base, which, as a Strategic Air Command base, housed nuclear-armed B-52 Bombers during the most dangerous years of the Cold War. It also boasts one of the longest runways in the country.

Elk City Chamber Announces Rodeo Parade Winners

Paragon Staff — Wed, 09 Sep 2026 13:51:00 GMT

Elk City, OK – The Elk City Chamber of Commerce has announced the winners from Saturday’s Rodeo Parade, with local businesses, schools, organizations, churches and individuals earning honors in several categories.

In the Commercial division, Sigma Bar-S took first place, Stockman’s Vet Clinic finished second and C-6 Operating placed third.

The Antique Vehicle category was won by the Pennington Family, followed by The Rio Vintage Market & Mercantile in second and Oooh La La, Gayle Noreuil in third.

Elk City Middle School Cheerleaders took first place in the School/School Organizations category. Elk City High School Football placed second, while Merritt FFA finished third.

In the Beauty Pageant division, Ashton Cockrell, Cheyenne Arapaho Old Settlers Queen, earned first place. Bailey Gossen, Miss Elk City Teen, placed second, and Miss Washita County Queens finished third.

Kerosene Cowgirls won the Riding Club category. Thompson Carriages & Red Hills Express took second, followed by Donna Sue Perry in third.

Elk City Carnegie Library, Hooked on Books, took first place among Clubs and Organizations. Western Oklahoma Alzheimer’s Collaborative placed second, and AM Creative Studio finished third.

Christ Lutheran Church earned first place in the Church category, followed by One Church in second and Primera Iglesia Hispana in third.

Ashton Cockrell, Cheyenne Arapaho Old Settlers Queen, was also recognized for Best Themed Float.

Elk City Middle School Cheerleaders received the award for Best School Themed Float.

In the Best Window Decor competition, The Attic Door took first place, 580 Threads finished second and Christie’s Thrift Store placed third.

The winners were provided by the Elk City Chamber of Commerce following Saturday’s parade.

Elk City Schools Adds Weather Station to Improve Student Safety

Paragon Staff — Tue, 08 Sep 2026 14:11:00 GMT

Elk City, OK – Elk City Public Schools has added a new weather monitoring system designed to improve student safety and give school officials better information when making decisions about travel, outdoor activities and severe weather.

Superintendent Mike Sparks said the district recently installed a Perry Weather system, which provides localized weather information, lightning detection, travel monitoring and access to live meteorologists.

Sparks said one of the biggest reasons for the investment was the number of students who travel across Oklahoma for athletics, band, choir and other school activities.

“We had a time last year where we had kids in Tulsa, we had other kids in the southeastern part of the state, and we had storms pop up,” Sparks said.

Unlike a standard weather app, the system can use the location of coaches and students who are traveling. School personnel can communicate with a meteorologist who can provide information about approaching weather and, when necessary, recommend a safer route.

The district can track as many as 50 trips at the same time.

Sparks said the system should also be useful during the winter when administrators are deciding whether teams and other groups should travel based on road and weather conditions.

The need became particularly clear last year when Elk City golfers encountered unexpected severe weather while practicing for postseason competition.

“The golf team last year was practicing for their state playoff, and they ended up under an overpass because a storm came in they weren’t aware of,” Sparks said. “This would alert them ahead of time.”

The system also helps the district comply with Oklahoma Secondary School Activities Association guidelines regarding heat. It monitors wet bulb globe temperature, which is used to determine when weather conditions require changes to outdoor practices and activities.

At Big Elk Stadium, the system includes lightning detection. When lightning is detected within 10 miles, a 30-minute safety countdown automatically begins. Another strike resets the countdown.

Sparks said the automated system removes some of the potential for human error when deciding when it is safe for students to return to the field.

The station also includes flashing warning lights and a speaker system. School officials can send announcements to the stadium remotely using a phone.

During a recent band practice, Sparks tested the feature from his office by sending a message over the stadium's public address system welcoming band director Mr. DeWitt and the Elk City High School band, the Pride of Western Oklahoma.

Weather information from the station is also expected to be added to the district's website. Parents and community members will be able to see current Elk City conditions, including temperature and humidity, along with an hourly forecast.

A camera associated with the station provides regularly updated images overlooking Big Elk Stadium, including the school's new press box and video board.

While many of the system's features are geared toward athletics and school travel, Sparks said it will be used throughout the district. Elementary administrators, for example, can use the localized information when deciding whether conditions are appropriate for students to go outside.

“There’s not any grade level that is not going to be touched and impacted by this,” Sparks said.

Sparks described the system as a relatively small investment that gives the district another tool for protecting students whether they are at school, traveling across Oklahoma or participating in outdoor activities.

“It increases our ability to track our kids, be weather aware, and keep everyone as safe as possible,” Sparks said.

Passenger Killed in Dewey County Rollover Crash

Paragon Staff — Tue, 08 Sep 2026 14:03:00 GMT

Oakwood, OK – A Texas man was killed in a single-vehicle crash early Saturday morning in Dewey County, according to the Oklahoma Highway Patrol.

The crash occurred at approximately 5:38 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 5, on U.S. Highway 270 near East 730 Road, about 2.3 miles northwest of Oakwood.

OHP reported that a vehicle driven by 20-year-old Marco Herrera Lopez of Las Vegas, Nevada, was traveling southeast on U.S. 270 when it left the roadway to the left and overturned.

A passenger, 22-year-old Brayan Romael Cajas Sales of Plano, Texas, died as a result of the crash. OHP reported that another passenger was injured.

Herrera Lopez was not injured.

According to the collision report, seat belts were not in use by all occupants of the vehicle.

The Oklahoma Highway Patrol investigated the crash.

Canton Lake Water Release Scheduled to Help Oklahoma City Water Supply

Paragon Staff — Tue, 08 Sep 2026 11:56:00 GMT

Canton, OK – Water from Canton Lake is scheduled to be released later this month to help replenish Oklahoma City's drinking-water supply as drought and extreme heat continue to affect water resources across the state.

The release is currently scheduled to begin September 17 following a request from Oklahoma City and a recommendation from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which manages the dam at Canton Lake. The Oklahoma Water Resources Board voted on the city's request shortly before Labor Day weekend.

Once released, the water will travel approximately 100 miles down the North Canadian River before reaching Lake Hefner, one of Oklahoma City's primary drinking-water reservoirs.

Not all of the water released from Canton Lake is expected to make it to Oklahoma City. An estimated 30% to 40% could be lost during the trip through evaporation or by soaking into the riverbed and banks.

Canton Lake is already approximately 1.6 feet below its normal level. The Canton Lake Association estimates the upcoming release could lower the lake by another three feet, potentially leaving it about 4.6 feet below normal.

The release comes as drought, high temperatures and limited rainfall continue to put pressure on Oklahoma City's water supply. Lake Hefner has experienced declining water levels and accounts for roughly 40% of Oklahoma City's drinking-water storage.

The decision also raises concerns around Canton Lake, where lower water levels can affect boating, recreation, tourism and businesses that depend on lake activity.

Oklahoma City has turned to Canton Lake for additional water during previous dry periods. Similar releases occurred in 2013, 2022 and 2024.

Elk City Hosts Fetching Animals

Landry Brewer — Tue, 08 Sep 2026 11:47:00 GMT

Elk City, OK – Dog days returned to the Elk City Convention Center.

The West Central Oklahoma All-Breed Kennel Club Dog Show was held there Aug. 27-30.

The annual event brings 750 to 1,000 dogs and their owners from several states to town.

“Because it lasts four days, is so well attended, and uses so much of the Convention Center, the dog show is our biggest yearly event,” said Convention Center Director Julie Brewer.

The 4-day affair features 350 to 500 entries per day, and each owner may enter several dogs in various categories in this American Kennel Club-affiliated competition.

The Convention Center is ideal for this kind of event. Its main hall and back room include 23,000 square feet of space for the more than 50 events that it hosts every year, including the dog show.

With 430 parking spaces and 75 RV hookups, there's plenty of parking for both same-day and overnight guests.

Because of the event's size and duration, the dog show requires extensive preparation.

"We start preparing for it three weeks in advance," Brewer said.

The annual dog show is normally held the weekend following Labor Day and Elk City's Rodeo of Champions, but the holiday fell later this year, so the dog show was held earlier than usual.

Winning Runs, Winning Rides in Elk City

Ruth Nicolaus — Tue, 08 Sep 2026 11:41:00 GMT

Elk City, OK – A Nebraska man, via Wisconsin, came to Oklahoma to win the saddle bronc riding at the Elk City Rodeo of Champions.

Lavern Borntrager, Elsmere, Nebraska, scored 86 points on the Beutler and Son Rodeo Company horse Green Bay to win the title and a check for $3,750.

The 27-year-old was excited to have drawn the Beutler horse, a gelding that was selected to buck at the 2025 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo.

“That horse bucked really hard,” he said. “He bucks a lot of guys off. I knew if I stayed back, lifted (on the reins), went at him, and didn’t hesitate, I thought it would work out, and it did.”

Borntrager grew up in Wisconsin and moved to Nebraska as a young man to work on a ranch. He had never been to a rodeo before and was introduced to the sport by Cort Scheer, a relative of the family for whom he worked. Scheer, who grew up in Elsmere, Nebraska, is a saddle bronc rider who has made multiple trips to the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo.

Scheer mentored Borntrager in the saddle bronc riding.

“There’s nobody that has been a bigger influence on my career than him,” he said. “I have the utmost respect for that guy.”

Borntrager is on the bubble of qualifying for his first Prairie Circuit Finals Rodeo. He was ranked fourteenth in the Prairie Circuit standings, two spots out of making it to the Prairie Circuit Finals Rodeo, held in November in Mulvane, Kansas.

His Elk City win will put him in the top dozen of saddle bronc riders in the circuit.

It was his first time to compete in Elk City. “It’s a great rodeo,” he said. “I’ve had a good time. They do an awesome job of putting it on.”

An Oregon man won the bull riding in Elk City.

Shane Scott, Molalla, Oregon, scored 89 points on the Beutler and Son Rodeo bull Shake N Bake to win nearly $3,807 and win the title.

The 20-year-old, a student at Weatherford (Texas) College, is majoring in equine management and will graduate in May 2027. He competes in collegiate rodeo as well as the PRCA and qualified for the College National Finals Rodeo once.

Bull riding is Scott’s first love, but he also competed in saddle bronc riding in high school and won two saddle bronc titles at the National High School Finals Rodeo.

Right now, he’s only riding bulls, but would like to add saddle bronc riding to his repertoire.

And right now, bull riding is his strength.

“It’s been my love since I was a little kid,” he said. “That’s all I ever dreamed about, being a world champion bull rider.”

Other champions at the Rodeo of Champions include bareback rider Connor Griffith, Skullbones, Tennessee (87 points); steer wrestler Emmett Edler, State Center, Iowa (4.3 seconds); team ropers Paul David Tierney, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma and Casey McCleskey, Hedley, Texas (4.7 seconds); tie-down roper Austin Lawrence, Sperry, Oklahoma (9.3 seconds); and barrel racer Kristi Cole, Magnolia, Texas.

The all-around champion is Paul David Tierney. Tierney competed in two events: tie-down roping and team roping.

Next year’s rodeo will be September 3-5, 2027.

More information can be found at www.elkcityrodeo.com.

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.