The 14-day ban makes it unlawful to set fire to any forest, grass, range, crop, or wild lands, as well as build campfires, bonfires, or burn trash. Violators face misdemeanor charges carrying fines up to $500, up to one year in prison, or both.

Officials noted that recent local blazes, including the Cox Mountain Road fire, highlighted the urgent need for restrictions, emphasizing that light scattered rainfall will not mitigate the current fire danger.

While open burning is restricted, commissioners adopted specific exceptions modeled after neighboring county guidelines to allow residents and businesses to operate safely:

• Outdoor Cooking: Outdoor gas grills, gas smokers, charcoal grills, wood pellet smokers, and outdoor gas fire pits remain permitted. Small fire pits with rings no larger than 3 feet by 3 feet are also allowed.

• Welding & Cutting: Welding and torch operations may continue, provided workers use fire-retardant blankets, clear all flammable materials from the immediate area, and keep a pressurized, charged water source within reach.

Commissioners noted they can review the ban at any time or call a special meeting to lift it early if the county receives significant rainfall.

A major infrastructure milestone has been reached for the upcoming overhaul of Boggy Depot Road, as District 2 Commissioner Spike Eaves announced that official environmental clearances are now complete.

Commissioner Eaves reported that environmental studies passed with no major delays or seasonal restrictions, allowing plans to move forward on 65% completed engineering designs. The proposed project will deliver a full road replacement stretching from U.S. Highway 69 to Harmony School, spanning sections across both District Two and District Three.

Eaves stated the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma would be paying 100% of the construction costs for the project. Atoka County remains responsible for securing the necessary right-of-way easements and covering utility adjustment expenses.

County crews have already mapped out initial locations in the field. Officials anticipate the right-of-way process could take up to nine months to navigate due to the number of individual land parcels involved along the route.

Prices in Oklahoma are 3.8 cents per gallon higher than a month ago and stand $1.19/g higher than a year ago. The national average price of diesel has increased 16.6 cents compared to a week ago and stands at $5.584 per gallon.

According to GasBuddy price reports, the cheapest station in Oklahoma was priced at $3.09/g yesterday while the most expensive was $4.69/g, a difference of $1.60/g. The lowest price in the state yesterday was $3.09/g while the highest was $4.69/g, a difference of $1.60/g.

The national average price of gasoline has risen 2.9 cents per gallon in the last week, averaging $4.05/g today. The national average is down 5.0 cents per gallon from a month ago and stands 92.6 cents per gallon higher than a year ago, according to GasBuddy data compiled from more than 11 million weekly price reports covering over 150,000 gas stations across the country.

Historical gasoline prices in Oklahoma and the national average going back five years: August 24, 2025: $2.61/g (U.S.Average: $3.12/g) August 24, 2024: $2.80/g (U.S.Average: $3.33/g) August 24, 2023: $3.47/g (U.S.Average: $3.80/g) August 24, 2022: $3.45/g (U.S.Average: $3.86/g) August 24, 2021: $2.83/g (U.S.Average: $3.14/g) Neighboring areas and their current gas prices: Oklahoma City- $3.76/g, up 7.1 cents per gallon from last week's $3.68/g.

Tulsa- $3.85/g, up 15.3 cents per gallon from last week's $3.70/g.

Amarillo- $3.72/g, up 15.1 cents per gallon from last week's $3.57/g.

'Average gasoline prices moved higher in the majority of states over the last week, with fewer than 10 states seeing declines, while diesel surged nearly 17 cents per gallon nationally, leaving it less than 25 cents away from an all-time record high,' said Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy.

'Gasoline, while not at all-time records, is at its highest level ever recorded this late in the calendar year, meaning Americans could for the first time ever see a national average price of gasoline above $4 per gallon on Labor Day — eclipsing the previous record of $3.83 per gallon set in 2012. While some oil shipments are apparently getting through the Strait of Hormuz, the dominant force propping up both gasoline and diesel prices is increasingly the growing loss of Russian refinery capacity, as continued Ukrainian attacks knock more facilities offline and constrain the global supply of refined fuels. Until that refining supply picture improves, both gasoline and diesel prices face continued upward pressure.'

In the meantime, visit us online at www.southernoklibrarysystem. org.

Statewide, the disbursement of $217,934,853 sales tax collections returned to the cities and towns reflected an increase of $2,448,687 from the $215,486,166 distributed to the cities and towns in August last year. The use tax disbursement to cities 2026 and town was $47,593,429 according to the Oklahoma Tax Commission.

In county returns, the counties shared in a $39,959,760 sales tax disbursement and a $10,105,894 use tax disbursement.

The chart below compares city sales taxes and taxable sales in area cities, towns and counties as well as a comparison for the same period in 2025. Taxable Sales are calculated by dividing the tax collected by the tax rate and it shows a rough estimate of retail sales activity. 2025

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· One hundred people lose their lives in Spain on September 1 due to flooding from storms. The storms come after a 55-day drought.

· The funeral train of actor Rudolph Valentino arrives in Chicago on September 3 after departing New York a day earlier. Despite a heavy police presence, several grieving fans break through a police cordon and run onto the tracks.

· Fifteen members of the League of Nations Council unanimously accept a resolution to admit Germany to the League on September 4. A condition of that acceptance was Germany's pledge that the country would never again go to war.

· Five prisoners are shot and killed in Raymondville, Texas, by a group of Willacy County officers on September 7. The five prisoners were being held on suspicion of killing two Willacy County peace officers on September 5.

· Pope Pius XI publicly condemns the Action française movement on September 8. The far-right, monarchist and national political movement in France objected to the legacy of the French Revolution.

· Roughly 1,000 Greek rebels attack government troops in Athens on September 9. Many of the troops are loyal to deposed Greek dictator Theodoros Pangalos, but their revolt is quickly put down.

· Twenty-six-year-old Italian anarchist Gino Lucetti throws a bomb at the limousine of Benito Mussolini on September 11. Mussolini is unhurt, but eight others are injured and Lucetti is quickly captured and imprisoned.

· The Aloha Tower opens in Honolulu, Hawaii on September 11. The tower ultimately welcomes hundreds of thousands of immigrants to Honolulu and draws comparisons to the Statue of Liberty in New York Harbor.

· The formation of the National Broadcasting Company (NBC) is announced on September 13.

· Argentina enacts law No. 11,357 on September 14. The law provides more legal protection for married women and expands civil rights for women.

· English writer Rudyard Kipling publishes his Debits and Credits collection on September 15. The collection includes the poem, 'The Vineyard,' which is interpreted as a criticism of the United States for its late entry into World War I.

· Los Angeles County District Attorney Asa Keyes orders the arrest of five individuals on September 16. Among those to be arrested

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is evangelist Aimee Semple McPherson, who is accused of conspiracy to corrupt public morals.

· A Category 4 hurricane strikes Miami and much of southern Florida on September 18. The hurricane causes an estimated $100 million in damage and ultimately kills more than 370 people.

· Gangster Al Capone escapes harm when The North Side Gang conducts a failed assassination attempt on him in Cicero, Illinois, on September 20. The failed attempt is made in broad daylight while Capone is eating at his headquarters.

· Two men die during a failed takeoff as French aviator René Fonck attempts to conduct the first non-stop transatlantic flight on September 21. Fonck attempted to take off from Long Island's Roosevelt Field but he and his co-pilot were forced to leap to safety when the landing gear of his plane collapsed under the weight of the four passengers while the plane traveled on the runway.

· American inventor Thomas Edison declares radio broadcasting to be a commercial failure on September 22.

· A crowd of more than 132,000 people watch challenger Gene Tunney defeat heavyweight boxing champion Jack Dempsey on September 23 at the Sesquicentennial Stadium in Philadelphia. Dempsey was fighting his first bout in more than three years.

· John Coltrane is born in Hamlet, North Carolina, on September 23. Coltrane would become one of the most influential figures in 20th century music before succumbing to cancer in 1967.

· Henry Ford introduces the eight-hour workday and five-day workweek at the Ford Motor Company on September 25.

· American burglars Ray Terrill and Elmer H. Inman escape from prison in Oklahoma on September 27. The men would ultimately form the Kimes-Terrill Gang alongside gangster Matthew Kimes.

· The controversial play The Captive opens on Broadway on September 29. The play is among the first Broadway plays to address the subject of lesbianism and is shut down after 160 performances.

In a social media advisory issued last week, Oklahoma Forestry Services reported that a Forest Health Specialist located the metallic green insects inside monitoring traps set up at McGee Creek. While specimens have been sent to an entomology laboratory for official verification, state specialists express high confidence that the beetles are indeed the destructive species.

Originally native to Asia, the emerald ash borer is an invasive wood-boring beetle that attacks all native North American ash tree varieties. The pest has already been confirmed in several surrounding Oklahoma counties, including McCurtain, Choctaw, Pushmataha, Love, Carter, Murray, and Delaware.

According to OSU educational extension resources authored by forestry specialists David Coyle, Ryan DeSantis, Dieter Rudolph, and Crawford 'Wood' Johnson, adult beetles measure about three-quarters of an inch long with shiny green bodies. While adults are typically active above ground from mid-May through early July, larvae spend the rest of the year feeding on tissue underneath the tree's bark, causing severe canopy decline and eventual tree death.

Ash trees can be identified by their opposite branching structure, compound leaves featuring 5 to 11 smooth leaflets, winged seeds, and mature bark that forms deep, diamond-patterned furrows.

Forestry officials stress that human transportation of infested firewood remains the primary driver of rapid pest spread, as the beetles can naturally fly up to 10 miles annually. Landowners and outdoor enthusiasts are urged to buy and burn firewood locally rather than moving logs between areas.

For high-value ash trees, systemic insecticide treatments offer protection once the pests are known to exist within 25 miles of a property. Property owners considering chemical protection are encouraged to consult a certified arborist.

Residents who suspect they have spotted the beetle or wish to report a sighting are asked to contact Oklahoma Forestry Services at OKForest@ag.ok.gov with photos. Additional technical guidance is available through agency representative Dieter Rudolph at (405) 522-8888 or Oklahoma State University specialist Ryan DeSantis at (405) 744-5463.

Here are a few holidays to check out. As usual, Beth likes the FOOD ones best!

• August 27th: Just Because Day (a lighthearted day to do something nice, quirky or fun without any specific reason), National Banana Lovers D ay, and World Rock Paper Scissors Day

• August 28th: National Bow Tie Day, National Cherry Turnover Day, and International Read Comics in Public Day

• August 29th: National Lemon Juice Day, 'According to Hoyle' Day, and Marine Corps Reserve Day Beth was in Fort Worth on Friday and Saturday for a Singing Women of Texas North Retreat. There were OVER 100 people there! This is the time the group learns new music, welcomes new members, and catches up with returning members and friends. Oh... and eats... Yes, everybody brings a snack to share with the group.

There's everything from peanut butter crackers, cookies (homemade and store bought), candy, chips, fruit, cheese, nuts, trail mix, etc. Beth took 2 BIG bowls: one of candy corn and peanuts, and the other of candy corn and cashews. There was VERY LITTLE left in either bowl!

It was a great time, and Beth's head is spinning with bits and pieces of old songs that will continue to be in the concert repertoire, and the new ones for the upcoming concert season that begins in September. And, Jane Cooper, thank you for taking care of Beth's hummingbirds and watering her many plants while she was gone! You're amazing!

Ray and Beth had a water heater go kaput recently. So, they've been doing cooler showers. Well, Beth is a HOT shower person, and Ray prefers cooler ones. So, Beth has had to adjust! Ray's been okay with the cooler showers. And, since it's been so hot, you come in from outside and the cool feels GREAT! But, thanks to the Wilson Plumbing guys, a new water heater is being installed as Beth is ready to send her news in! Yay!

The ladies' class was down in attendance on Sunday. Sandra, Jane, Ronny, Ginger, Helen, Patsy, and Beth were the only ones there to del ve into I John chapter 2! It was a good study! Ask Ronny about the unicorn!!! Yes, we ALWAYS have fun! And, Patsy didn't get to stay for the whole class. She wasn't feeling well, so went home. When Beth checked in on her by phone later, she was a bit better. Get well, Patsy!

The class had some snacks on Sunday morning. There were the regular mints, of course. Then somebody brought chocolate. That's ALWAYS a hit! Then, there was Beth's mixes. She mixed candy corn and peanuts in one jar, and candy corn and cashews in another jar. That's always a hit as well. Yum! Have you tried it yet?

A couple of birthdays were celebrated at SFBC on Sunday. Happy Birthday to Ginger Layton and Carl 'Rodney' Brown! Mr. Brown, Beth is printing your name EXACTLY as it was sent to her! So, she's not real sure about the specific reasoning there! But, hoping you have a great birthday. And, Sherry Farris had a birthday last week as well. However, she was in Coalgate watching a grandkid get baptized. That's pretty important! Happy Birthday to Sherry anyway!

David and Gale Layton celebrated their 36th anniversary last week. Happy Anniversary y'all!

Now, Sunday was the 100th Anniversary of Stringtown First Baptist Church. So there was a special service and recognition during the service. First of all, Kathryn Hayes was recognized as having been a member for the longest time. She's been in SFBC for 72 years! Wow! The oldest member of SFBC is Jack Lansdale. He's 92 years old. Congratulations to both of those amazing people!

Also in attendance were 2 former pastors: Bro Loyd Thompson and Bro Joey Lansdale. Bro Scott Ridgway was in attendance as the current pastor of Stringtown FBC. Another special guest was Randy Hurt. He's the former Director of Missions for Atoka and Coal Counties. Currently, he's serving as the Regional Ministry Partner.

Bro Loyd Thompson read about the history of the church, about the pastor who helped start the church, where the land came from, the buildings built, etc. Then there was a video made several years ago interviewing several older members of the church. Later, Bro Joey Lansdale spoke from Matthew 16:18. Bro Scott Ridgway finished up the service with a message from the book of Joshua. He spoke about the importance of remembering the great things God has done, and the importance of looking forward to great things to come.

A special thank you to Becky Richards for working so hard to compile a history of SFBC!

Following the service, there was a meal prepared by the ladies of the church. The meal featured BBQ and the yummy sides that go with it!

Many ladies had Secret Sister gifts on Sunday! If you're doing Secret Sister, please remember your Secret Sister on her special days as well as other times during the year!

Don't forget to read to those kiddos! That 1000 books before kindergarten program is in full swing! Go by the Atoka County Library to get more information or help with getting started, documenting, and getting questions answered.

Samaritan's Purse Operation Christmas Child is coming up really soon! You've got a couple of months yet, so get going!

There are so many prayer requests! Here's a long list: Bro Scott Ridgway and family, the search for a Director of Missions, SFBC (and your own church), deacons, new Christians, lost in our families and friends, spiritual needs, churches who are searching for pastors, and unspoken requests. Add our country, our President and leaders, military, veterans, law enforcement officers, and firefighters.

Remember our mission efforts including OK Baptist Homes for Children, Mexico Missions, Operation Christmas Child, Oh Yeah! Missions, Brock's Closet, Recycle Your Bible, Kingdom Builders, Celebration Recovery, Prison Ministry, Moses Adjekewei, Cyril Anthony, other missionaries, and others God brings to your heart as you pray. Don't forget to pray for our schools, teachers, administrators, support staff, and students.

Continue praying for Sandra Burnes (upcoming surgery), the family of Harley Hamlin, the family of Walter E's son, Kathryn Hayes' daughter, Darrell C, Zack G, the Brewster family, Melanie W, Vesta B, and Mary Lou L.

Upcoming Events:

• September 3rd: ACBA Senior Adult Trip to Roma's Italian Restaurant in Antlers. Leave the church at 10:00. Sign up at SFBC.

• September 8th: Coalgate Nursing Home Visitation. Leave SFBC @ 1:45.

• September 13th: Women's Bible Study @ 5:00

• September 20th: Picnic after church at Boggy Depot Park

• September 20th: Soul Sisters @ 5:00 Since September will arrive in just a few days, here's a September quote for you!

'The morning of the first September was crisp and golden as an apple.' — J.K. Rowling

The morning event will take place from 8:15 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. at the Blue Moon Cafe, located at 893 US-69 in Stringtown.

Sponsored by the Choctaw Casino - Stringtown, the casual gathering is designed to foster professional relationships, share community updates, and encourage collaboration among both new and long-time Chamber members. Attendees can enjoy breakfast while discussing ongoing economic and civic developments in the area.

Last week marked my first full week in the official role, and it was certainly a challenging one. There is still much for me to learn about various functions within the City of Atoka, but the work is genuinely interesting, and I look forward to growing into the position each day. I also had the opportunity to meet with several citizens and address a number of concerns, many of which, I’m hopeful, have been resolved.

On August 4th, an unfortunate incident involving Plant Supervisor Jacob Boston occurred. While attempting to locate a blockage in the discharge line between the Water Plant and the Wastewater Plant, Boston was driving through the fields and unimproved land that separate the two sites. The distance between the facilities is approximately 1.4 miles, with about 15 manholes located along the discharge line.

Boston was operating a City of Atoka 2025 Ford pickup when the vehicle became stuck and sank to the frame in an unexpected bog area south of the old Ethan Allen building. Dry vegetation came into contact with the truck’s catalytic converter, igniting a fire that damaged the engine compartment and part of the cab before it could be extinguished. Thankfully, no City staff or first responders were injured.

Following the incident involving the Water Plant truck, our Policies and Procedures were reviewed and appropriate measures have been taken to prevent any such future incidents. We are also inspecting and if needed, equipping vehicles and buildings with the proper safety gear.

The automobile fire claim has been reported to our insurance carrier, OMAG, and an adjuster inspected the vehicle on August 7th. The truck has been deemed a total loss, and the claims process is now nearing completion. Once finalized, we will begin the procurement process to secure a replacement vehicle.

We are currently in the process of replacing the Utility Terrain Vehicle (UTV) used by the Fire Department. The department’s existing UTV, a 2008 Polaris Ranger 6x6, has essentially reached the end of its primary service life and needs to be retired. Our plan is to equip the Fire Department with a new 6x6 UTV and repurpose the older unit for broader use within the City of Atoka. The older UTV will support a variety of needs within Public Works and Capital Improvement, and it will also remain available to assist Police, Fire, and Emergency Management.

On August 6th, our City Crew began clearing streets rights-of-way along East Court, Mc-Clendon, Dickerson, and Texas Streets. The crew has been removing weeds, brush, limbs, and, in some cases, trees that have begun creating visibility issues and general nuisances in these areas. As time and resources allow, the crew will continue clearing additional alleys and street rights-of-way throughout the city.

On August 7th, Mayor Brian Cathey, Police Chief Brian Snead, City Clerk Susan Bates, Emergency Management Director Travis Mullins, and I met with engineers and representatives from the University of Oklahoma at City Hall. This in-person meeting supported our participation in the Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Grant and focused specifically on the planning and implementation phases of our project.

On August 7th, Police Chief Brian Snead and I attended the graduation ceremonies for CLEET Basic Academies A2602 and A2602B at East Central University in Ada, OK. Patrolman Caelan Hall graduated following the successful completion of his academy training, marking an important milestone in his service to the City of Atoka.

We continue to work throughout the community and have remained highly active across multiple areas. The following sections provide a department-by-department overview of our recent activity.

Capital Improvement/Streets Department: Supervisor Jason Hokett reports his crew has completed the following tasks:

• Brushed hogged sports complex and on the side of the roads where needed. Helped clean up the sewer pit.

• Helped mow and weed eat sewer plant, transfer station, water plant and airport. Cleaned up a lot on Indiana St. hauled off trees and mowed.

• Cleaned storm drains throughout town.

• Put out sand on the graves that needed it at the cemeteries.

• Helped at the water plant as needed.

• Helped with water leaks as needed.

• Fixed potholes where needed.

• Cleaned drains throughout town as needed.

• Helped clean up at the city lake.

Water/Sewer Department:

Supervisor Gordon Smith reports his crew has completed the following tasks:

• Daily rounds were completed including meter reading, locates, and work orders from City Hall.

• Made sure drains were clear and brush was hauled off.

• Put in new water line on Greathouse Dr.

• Helped with picking up brush and trees and cleaning the cemeteries. Worked on the lift stations though out town.

• Cleaned up around the shop.

• Helped at the water and sewer plant as needed.

• Fixed leaks and put in meters as needed throughout town.

Parks And Recreation Department: Supervisor Shawn Wilson reports his crew has completed the following tasks: Mowed and weeded Green Meadows, Westview Cemeteries, Police Department, City Hall, Museum, Water Plant, Sewer Plant, Box House, the parks in town, cleaned bathrooms at the green space daily and picked up trash.

Picked up trash on Court St. emptied trash cans at all parks and lakes. Run the street sweeper throughout town.

Picked up limbs, brush and put out sand on the graves at the cemeteries. Checked on Lake Atoka, picked up trash and picked up limbs that’s fallen. Cleaned up trash at the box house.

Wastewater Treatment Plant:

Supervisor Oakley Gass reports the following update: This week we will be washing clarifiers RAZ pumps and UV system. We will also be doing general maintenance and continue to waste sludge and general cleaning around plant We will be helping air capital equipment pull old digester motor and install new one this week as well as working with Robert from UMD on some new tests and having a few meters calibrated.

Water Plant:

Supervisor Jacob Boston reports the following update: The following is the weekly report for the Atoka WTP. The plant is running on average of 20-HRs per day and average of about 1,057,857 thousand gallons a day. We have been testing and running jars to make sure the uprise of manganese is under control.

We have also been flushing hydrants in the system and monitoring chlorine due to the change in water and temperature changes. We are still waiting on Haynes to get back to us on a few things we need to have them look at and fix some of the issues on train 1. We also need to do some maintenance and oil changes and greasing this week.

Police Department:

Assistant Chief Brian Snead reports the following from 07/28/26 through 08/10/26: 1. Disturbance calls responded to: (23) 2. “Other” calls, incidents or activities that required service: (354) *this does not include traffic stops or traffic contacts.

3. Municipal Prisoners booked into the Atoka County Jail: (06) 4. Offense and Incident Reports completed in the OSBI ODIS System: (31) 5. Official OK Traffic Collision Reports completed for OK DPS: (07) 6. From August 2, 2026, to August 6, 2026, Sgt. Cody Poe attended a Crimes Against Children Conference in Dallas, Texas. The conference is part of an Oklahoma ICAC Task Force Grant Training that the department is involved with. Additionally, Sgt. Poe received 40-hour CLEET-accredited Continuing Education Training at the conference.

7. On August 7, 2026, Assistant City Manager Gene Dodson and I attended the CLEET Basic Academy graduation ceremony for Classes A2602 & A2602B in Ada, Ok, where Atoka Police Officer Caelan Hall proudly graduated.

8. On August 7, 2026, Atoka Police Department responded to a possible gunshot call in a residential area. Officers arrived to the scene and located an individual with an apparent gunshot wound. Officers attempted to resuscitate the individual but was unsuccessful. Officers made contact with the suspect. The suspect is a member of the Choctaw Nation. Officers contacted Choctaw Lighthorse and the Federal Breau of Investigations, while maintaining and protecting the scene. The Atoka Police Department completed a report of the incident.

9. Routine problems occurred with several of the police vehicles and other departmental equipment during the referenced period. Repairs and maintenance continued as they normally do.

Animal Control:

Officer John Smithart reports the following: from 07/27/26 through 08/09/26:

• Dogs that were picked up by the Animal Control Officer: (02)

• “Other” animals picked up or otherwise dealt with: (04)

• Dogs that were adopted from the pound: (01)

• Dogs that were claimed by their owners: (00)

• Dogs that were euthanized: (00)

• Animal carcasses that were retrieved for disposal: (07)

• Dogs that were being held in the pound: (10)

• Dogs that were properly registered according to City Code: (00)

• Dogs that were escorted to the Vet (with owners) for Rabies vaccinations: (00)

• Warnings issued (verbal or other): (04) Fire Department:

Fire Chief John Mullins reports Atoka Fire Department responded to the following calls for July 2026:

• 4 Vehicle Accidents

• 0 Structure Fires

• 3 Vehicle/Equipment Fires

• 3 Grass Fires

• 1 Natural Gas Leak/CO Alarm

• 1 Power Line Down

• 1 Lost or Missing Person

• 21 Medical Emergencies

Training and Department Activities During July, the department held its bi-monthly meeting and completed CPR and Basic First Aid training provided by Atoka County EMS.

Firefighters also discussed training needs for the department and identified several areas for development and improvement over the next several years. Continued training will help ensure our members are prepared to safely and effectively respond to a wide range of emergency situations.

The department has also scheduled several annual required compliance checks. These inspections and tests will be conducted this fall to ensure our apparatus and equipment continue to meet applicable NFPA standards and that the safety equipment used by our firefighters remains in proper working condition.

Wildland Fire Safety

The department reminds residents to use caution when conducting any outdoor burning. As temperatures rise and conditions become drier, fires can spread more quickly and become difficult to control.

We are entering the time of year when wildland and grass fires typically begin to increase. High temperatures, dry vegetation, and changing weather conditions can create dangerous conditions for both firefighters and civilians. Residents are encouraged to use extreme caution and ensure all outdoor fires are completely extinguished.

Fleet Maintenance

The department continues to address fleet maintenance needs across our apparatus. Due to the age of several vehicles, replacement parts for some equipment are no longer manufactured. This requires department personnel to locate alternative sources and replacement components in order to keep the fleet operational and available for emergency response.

Emergency Management:

Director Travis Mullins reports the following update for July 2026: Weather and Fire Conditions July began with rainy and cooler weather before conditions transitioned to warmer and drier weather. The lack of rainfall has contributed to increasingly dry conditions and the development of flash drought conditions in the area.

If we do not receive additional rainfall during the coming weeks, particularly into the middle and latter part of August, fire danger could increase significantly. Emergency Management will continue to monitor weather and environmental conditions and provide information to the public as needed.

Search and Rescue Assistance

During July, the Emergency Management team was requested to assist with the search for a juvenile in the Harmony area. Our team assisted by driving area roads and utilizing our drone to conduct an aerial search of areas that were difficult to access from the ground.

Wide Area Search Training

From July 28–30, members of the City of Atoka Emergency Management team attended Wide Area Search Training at the McAlester Emergency Operations Center. The training was provided by Texas A&M and FEMA.

Our team successfully completed all required testing and practical skills evaluations and earned Basic Wide Area Search Certification.

This training provides our team with additional knowledge and skills to conduct organized searches and better understand the processes involved in responding to major incidents and disasters. The additional training will strengthen our ability to support search and rescue operations and assist our community and surrounding areas following severe weather or other large-scale emergencies.

Throughout September, anyone who signs up for a new library card or uses their existing card at any Southern Oklahoma Library System location will have the chance to participate in the “Pick-A-Pop!” game. Each participant can select a random lollipop from the display. Those who pick a lollipop with a black spot on the stick will win a free 3D print item, courtesy of the library’s cutting-edge 3D printing services (library standards apply). The event will run through September 30th.

A library card opens the door to a world of resources, including access to computers, high-speed wireless Internet, eBooks, audio books, magazines, DVDs, and a collection of over 200,000 printed materials. The Southern Oklahoma Library System also offers computer classes, children’s story times, summer reading programs, research databases, book clubs, homework assistance, tutoring, DIY programs, and a variety of community outreach events.

“We want to encourage everyone in our community to experience all the library has to offer,” said Executive Director Gail Oehler. “Whether you’re interested in the latest technology, discovering new books, or connecting with neighbors at our events, your local library is here to support you”.

Don’t miss your chance to join the fun and unlock a wealth of opportunities. Visit your nearest Southern Oklahoma Library System branch this September, sign up for a library card, and try your luck at “Pick-A-Pop!”

Stop by your local SOLS branch to sign up for your card today. For more information, call (580) 223-3164 or visit one of our branches in Ardmore, Davis, Tishomingo, Sulphur, Atoka, Healdton, Marietta, and Wilson.

According to a probable cause affidavit filed by Deputy Matthew Clay, the incident began around 8:39 p.m. when officers observed a white SUV traveling northbound on Farris Road with defective side-view mirrors.

During the stop, the driver, identified as Timothy Teafatiller, provided proof of insurance alongside a driver's license belonging to his passenger, Glennette Mutter. A routine status check revealed that Teafatiller’s driver’s license was revoked.

After Teafatiller granted permission to search the vehicle, deputies located a cigarette box inside the sunglasses compartment containing a plastic baggy with a crystal-like substance. When questioned about the contents to prevent accidental exposure to fentanyl, Mutter told officers the substance was methamphetamine and claimed ownership of it.

Deputies reported that Mutter also surrendered a glass pipe containing burnt residue and two pre-rolled marijuana cigarettes concealed in her clothing. A field test conducted at the Atoka County Jail confirmed the white substance tested positive for methamphetamine. The seized evidence has been forwarded to Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI) labs for formal analysis.

Mutter faces misdemeanor counts of Possession of a Controlled Substance and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Teafatiller was also taken into custody for driving with a revoked license, and the vehicle was impounded by Highway 69 Wrecker Service.

The collision occurred at approximately 8:55 p.m. on Aug. 19 along State Highway 70E, roughly a quarter mile west of Sam Hill Lane.

According to the preliminary report by Trooper Christopher Turrobiartes, Meron Stanley, 72, was driving a eastbound 2021 Chevrolet Silverado when the vehicle struck a cow traveling on the highway.

Stanley was not injured in the impact. A passenger in the vehicle was also uninjured.

Both occupants were wearing seatbelts at the time of the collision, according to the report.

A six-inch rain! We were in Ada when it started and we actually got wet while there with the temperature dropping to 78 degrees. We were hoping that we would bring this home with us but the closer we got to Atoka, the less it rained. When we arrived home the temperature had risen to 91 degrees but that was far better than the 100+ temperatures we had been experiencing. Hey, we will take anything we can get, right?

A few weeks ago, I was in a small class of adults. The question came up about faith and what it was and what it meant to the people involved. I must admit that most of us were speechless as we struggled to express what this simple word meant to us as an individual. I listened as different people talked about their explanation of what faith was and I began formulating my answer. I was 'saved by the bell' as the time passed and I did not have to give a ready answer. This did stay with me for the next several weeks and I continued my daily routines with this on my mind.

I remember a similar question came up between two learned men with one asking his friend how he, a man of science, knowledge, and training could believe in a supreme being. The friend simply said, “Oh Carl, with all your knowledge and intelligence, how can you not?”

I walk a three mile walk almost daily and pass green fields, see the deep blue of the sky, see the sun coming over the horizon, see my crow friends sweep across the sky, hear the birds as they call to the coming day, sometimes see the deer as they walk with their young and see the occasional racoon cross the road towards adventures unknown. The early morning breeze whispers its secrets to the trees as the grass nods a reassurance to the dawn. This always gives me pause to simply stop and drink in all of life and I know that the day has promise for life.

One had but to look around and see the wonders of the universe and of life and know that there is a creator of life and that there is a purpose for all that is here, It does not take a genius or one of superior intellect to simply see and feel that there is a creator. Simple observation demonstrates this. We do not see the air, but we simply breathe it and feel it as it simply kisses our skin. We feel the warmth or the coolness of it and simply appreciate its existence without having seen its presence. To know that you have the love of someone dear to you is to have faith that you love and are loved. The simple wag of your dogs' tail when he greets you gives you hope and faith that no matter how 'bad' the day is he will still be there to greet you and still love you no matter how bad the day was. Even if you do not want him to nose you to make you give him a reassuring pat or stroke, he will do so and, in the end, you will forget your troubles and begin petting him and the troubles will melt away.

All this is faith. Faith that things will get better, that there is life, that there is more than what we are, what we have. Faith is what we strive for even when the world is turned upside down and everything seems bad. When something wicked this way comes, faith assures us that this too will get better if we have faith that we can and will do better.

This is what gets us through the tough times. This gets us through good times to a place where we are more grounded and strive to accomplish what we need to achieve. Faith that we can get beyond ourselves and achieve our true potential.

I do not know if I could ever articulate what faith is, but it is to know the unexplainable. I may not be able to see the summer breeze, but I know it is there because I can feel it. Maybe that is what faith is, feeling the unseeable and having it touch you in a way that you can never truly explain to someone else because it is there for you.

I will never attempt to put myself into the intellectual circle of someone like Carl but I can say with the knowledge and experiences I have had, I do believe that there is a supreme being and that his wonders are spread out before us, we have but to look and faith does the rest.

The crash occurred at approximately 10:23 a.m. on Aug. 18 along the northbound lanes of U.S. Highway 69 at the intersection of Chickasaw Road.

According to the preliminary report by Trooper James Reinecker, Wesley D. Weber, 87, was driving a southbound vehicle on US-69 when he turned left to enter Chickasaw Road. Weber's vehicle pulled directly into the path of an Atoka County EMS ambulance that was traveling northbound in the inside lane of US-69.

The ambulance, driven by 20-year-old Ryan A. Reynolds of Ada, struck Weber's vehicle on the passenger side.

Weber was pronounced deceased at the scene. He was wearing a seatbelt at the time of the collision.

Reynolds sustained injuries in the crash. Two passengers inside the ambulance were also injured.

The incident left Atoka County EMS temporarily down to just a single operable unit in its service fleet. To maintain emergency coverage for local residents while repairs are underway, Johnston County EMS and Choctaw County EMS have loaned replacement vehicles to Atoka County until the fleet is back at capacity.

According to a recent survey conducted by Talker Research, 51 percent of respondents indicated their plan to give a book as a holiday gift in 2025. Books provide hours of entertainment at a fraction of the cost of the latest gadgets or even experiential gifts like tickets to a show or sporting event.

That makes books an appealing gift for loved ones of all ages, including children. Kids have much to gain from reading as youngsters. Indeed, research has shown that reading helps kids develop their critical thinking and language skills and can foster a sense of wonder about the world. Shoppers looking for books to give youngsters this holiday season can consider these titles that are among the many recommended by the Association For Library Service to Children.

· Night Walk, by Jason Cockroft. This is an intergenerational story about loss and remembrance that also showcases the wonders of the natural world. The story focuses on a sleepy boy and his grandfather as they follow the favorite path the boy's late grandmother liked to walk through nearby woods.

· Papilio, by Ben Clanton. This is the story of Papilio Polyxenes, a caterpillar going through the stages of metamorphosis. Papilio experiences the ups and downs of growth as she learns to fly, fall, and feed during her transformation from caterpillar to butterfly.

· Safe Crossing, by Kari Percival. Another book likely to inspire or strengthen a love of the natural world, this is the story of the efforts of a community to protect amphibians as they migrate from wooded uplands to a nearby pond.

· The Adventures of Cipollino, by Gianni Rodari. A translation of an Italian classic, this is the story of a young onion (most characters in the book are an animal, a vegetable or a fruit) who leaves his home in an effort to free his wrongfully imprisoned father. Cipollino encounters a colorful cast of characters along the way in this entertaining work that's written for readers nine and up.

· Busted, by Dan Gemeinhart. Oscar Aberdeen is the main character in this tale about an unusual 12-year-old boy who lives in a retirement home. A humorous story unfolds when Oscar and his grandfather are served with an eviction notice from their home at Sunny Days. Desperate to remain in the only home he's ever known, Oscar accepts the help of a fellow resident with a not-so-stellar reputation.

· Rebellion 1776, by Laurie Halse Anderson. A book taking young readers between the ages of 10 and 14 back to 1776 may be ideal as Americans commemorate 250 years of nationhood. In this tale, 13-year-old Elsbeth Culpepper awakes in the spring of 1776 during the Siege of Boston, which turns the city into a war zone. Elsbeth is subsequently forced to confront those conditions as well as a suddenly missing father and an outbreak of smallpox.

These are just a few of the many titles that would make great gifts for young readers this holiday season. A lengthier list of titles can be found at https://www.ala.org/alsc/awardsgrants/ notalists/ncb. GG26A162

Emergency personnel responded to the incident at approximately 9:22 p.m. on Aug. 22 along the shores of Lake Eufaula in Pittsburg County, roughly three miles south of the city of Eufaula.

Investigating officers identified the victim as Jeffrey Nowlin. According to the preliminary report, two bystanders discovered Nowlin unresponsive in approximately two feet of water near the shoreline.

Nowlin was not wearing a personal flotation device at the time of the incident.

Emergency medical responders treated Nowlin at the scene before AirCare transported him to St. John Medical Center in Tulsa, where he was admitted in critical condition.

The incident was investigated by Trooper Tyler James of the marine detachment of OHP Troop W. Assisting agencies at the scene included the Longtown Fire Department, the Pittsburg County Sheriff's Office, Community EMS, and AirCare.

The 21st CCLC initiative delivers academic enrichment and learning opportunities for students from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade, focusing on high-poverty communities and schools that need targeted support. Programs run before and after school, during summer, and holiday breaks, serving more than 16,000 students annually.

Students benefit from support in reading, math, and tutoring, plus enrichment activities like robotics, chess, debate, art, music, drama, science, college and career readiness, and health and fitness. Families gain access to literacy and educational services that strengthen connections between home and school.

Oklahoma now features 50 organizations managing 57 grants across 92 locations statewide, reaffirming OSDE’s commitment to expanding safe, supportive, and academically focused out-of-school programming.

New 21st CCLC grantees:

• Atoka Public Schools - $299,992

• Boys and Girls Club Red River Valley - $115,000

• Checotah Public Schools - $247,000

• Cottonwood Public Schools $169,000

• Macomb Public Schools - $232,000

• Morris Public Schools – $300,000

• Roland Public Schools - $225,000

• Sand Springs Public Schools $300,000

• Shawnee Public Schools - $300,000

• Stigler Public Schools - $299,785

• Watts Public Schools - $196,000

• Westville Public Schools – $251,689

• Zion Public Schools – $271,597 Authorized under Title IV, Part B of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, as amended by the Every Student Succeeds Act, 21st CCLC provides annual awards through a competitive application process to both school districts and community-based organizations.

Here is a simple rule. Don’t fight with people at a buffet. When someone breaks in front of you to grab for the fried chicken or mashed potatoes then simply back off. Let them reach for what they want. Keep in mind it’s a buffet and more food will be coming. We’ve all seen people act like they have not eaten in years when they are going through a buffet. Take your time. You can always come back to the buffet for more. You won’t go home hungry.

Let people pass you on the road. If you want to drive 45 mph, that’s okay. Life doesn’t have to be lived at 75 mph. There is a reason there are speed limits on roads. Actually, some country roads need slower speed limits. Just because it’s legal to drive 55 mph on a country road doesn’t mean it’s safe to drive that fast. Take your time, slow down and let Mario pass you so you can enjoy the rest of your ride.

Don’t ignore the efforts of others. When it’s obvious that someone is working and trying hard then give them some appreciation. Sometimes people work hard and still don’t do a great job. You don’t have to encourage them to continue in their failures. If people are trying, they have a chance of progressing and doing better. You can find a way to constructively encourage them in their efforts. Let the school teacher know he or she is appreciated. They have tough jobs. Let your local public servant know you are thankful for his or her community efforts. Public service is often a thankless job. Thank the people who take care of you at your local medical office, nursing home and so forth. Extend appreciation to those who help you along life’s journey.

Don’t let opportunities pass. Wish people happy birthday, anniversary or whatever the occasion may be. Grieve with those who are suffering loss. In some way we will all experience various life celebrations and difficult occasions. We need each other in the good times and the difficult times. Be a friend in the good times and the bad.

We rarely agree with each other all of the time or even most of the time. Approval of each other’s politics, life achievements or failures should not be a reason to withhold kindness or even friendship. Becoming adversarial only demonstrates that we are small and incapable of working with others to solve problems.

Finally, treat others the way you want to be treated. Love is kind and covers a multitude of sins.

The hikers managed to contact 911 via cell phone, allowing dispatchers to ping their mobile location. Following instructions from emergency personnel, the pair remained stationary, enabling rescue crews to navigate directly to their position without delay.

The successful response relied on extensive coordination across state, county, and local emergency agencies. First responders at the scene included the McGee Creek Park Ranger, Oklahoma State Game Rangers, the Atoka County Sheriff's Office, City of Atoka Emergency Management, and Atoka County Emergency Management.

Volunteer crews from the Farris, Crystal, Harmony, and Bentley fire departments also deployed to assist with ground operations. Emergency officials expressed special appreciation to Atoka County Dispatch for establishing the critical location ping that guided teams straight to the hikers.

Both individuals were retrieved safely with no injuries reported.

According to a probable cause affidavit filed by Lt. Corwin Ridgway, an Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department Park Ranger, the incident occurred around 9:36 p.m. on August 7. Lt. Ridgway observed a dark-colored vehicle traveling eastbound on McGee Creek Lake Road at 37 mph in a posted 25 mph zone. A registration check revealed the vehicle's Texas tag had expired in May 2026.

Lt. Ridgway initiated contact near the intersection of McGee Creek Lake Road and Old Farris Road. The driver, later identified as Ray Knighten, claimed he did not have his license and provided officers with the name and date of his brother.

During the encounter, authorities ran a background check on the passenger, Lea Bates, which revealed an active arrest warrant out of Choctaw County. Bates was placed under arrest on the warrant and transported to the Atoka County Jail by Deputy Cort Humphrey.

Knighten was placed under arrest for driving without a valid license and transported by Deputy Matthew Clay while park rangers conducted an inventory of the vehicle prior to towing. During the search, Lt. Ridgway located a small, clear plastic baggy containing a white crystal substance in a pocket behind the passenger seat, along with two plastic straws containing residue inside a purse in the rear storage area.

En route to the facility, Knighten admitted his true identity to Deputy Clay. Jail Administrator Meagan White also confirmed his true identity upon arrival.

A field test conducted on the white crystal substance yielded a positive result for methamphetamine. Neither Knighten nor Bates claimed ownership of the narcotics or paraphernalia.

The District Attorney's office filed a charge of Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia under 63 O.S. § 2-405(B).

CIVIL SPECIAL (CS)

Midland Credit Management v. Antonio Navarro Jr. – Indebtedness Tinker Federal Credit Union v. Kendra N. Harbour – Indebtedness Tinker Federal Credit Union v. Angaleta S. Standifer – Indebtedness Merrick Bank (f/k/a Merrick Bank Corporation) v. David R. Youngblood – Indebtedness Capital One, N.A. (Successor by Merger to Discover Bank) v. Xander Daniel Ortiz – Indebtedness CIVIL MISCELLANEOUS (CV) Elementary School District No. 21 of Atoka County, Oklahoma (a/k/a Lane Public School) v. The Unknown Heirs, Executors, Administrators, Devisees and Assigns and Successors, Immediate and Remote, of Rex Arley White, Deceased – Quiet Title SMALL CLAIMS

Rusty McCarty v. Justice Rector – Forcible Entry and Detainer Mersedeh Clark v. Willa Bracken – Forcible Entry and Detainer Robert Powell v. James Patterson – Forcible Entry and Detainer FELONY (CF)

Ray Knighten – Falsely Personate Another to Create Liability (C2) Waylon Brandon Henderson – Driving a Motor Vehicle While Under Influence of Drugs Second & SU (C2) Lexus M. Hartt – Trafficking in Fentanyl (B3) Susan Denise Ullery – Identity Theft - Use of Personal Information MISDEMEANOR (CM)

Lea Bates – Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia Glennette Mutter – Possession of Controlled Dangerous Substance James M. Leverett, Robert N. Howell, Ricardo Velasquez, George K. Phipps (15 mph over limit), Audrey Bazonnard (16–20 mph over limit), Dennis Martines (16–20 mph over limit), Joshua D. Wilson, Julie A. Brittain, Dodda Tejaswi (26–30 mph over limit), Sivanagarjunareddy Madire (16–20 mph over limit), Henry L. Lively (16–20 mph over limit), Bobby L. Oakes, and William E. Howard – Speeding Ray G. Knighten – Driving w/o Valid Drivers License; Operate Motor Vehicle w/ Expired Registration.

Landon Alan Sean Merritt – Public Intoxication.

Morgan M. Marshall – Seatbelt. Phillip L. Stephens – Seatbelt. Jake D. Settlemire – Seatbelt Driver.

Christopher J. Gibson – Seatbelt. Dennis Martines – Operating a Motor Vehicle Without a Valid License.

William L. Pruitt – Fail to Stay Within Lane of Traffic.

Stacy L. Christman – Seatbelt. Case C. Moore – Seatbelt. Justice Jones – Operate a Motor Vehicle Without a Valid Drivers License.

Waylon Brandon Henderson – Transporting Open Container of Alcoholic Beverage; Fail to Yield to Oncoming Traffic When Making Left Turn.

Timothy Purcell Teafatiller – Driving While License Revoked

ATOKA TRAFFIC (TR)

Jessica Tiffany Rhea, Tatron Rashad Williams Jr., Lloyd Dale Newton, Colby James Kaack, Issac Aven Flynn, Kara Churchwell, Travyn Eugene Hansel, Pedro Reyes, Ameer Mohammad Aljdou, Anthony Glenn Lewis Jr., Mitchell Lee Miller (two counts), Kylan Aaron Blackburn, Eric Caine Pierron, Jaxon David Bresee (21–25 mph over limit), Abimelec Jasser Tabora, Michelle M. Murillo, Steven Herrera Martinez, Jasmine Charmaine Joseph, Alejandra Ortiz, Fields Brandon Branch, Gabriel Fernando Carmona (16–20 mph over limit), Natalie Carroll Griffith, Moira Leilani Huffman Little, Jordan Casey Vernon, Edgar Ulises Duarte (16–20 mph over limit), Anderson Tam, Michael Allen Daues Sr., Elias Josue Valencia Ramirez, Deborah Jean Nagel, Alex James Humphries, Jorge Luis Coronel Espluga (26 mph or more over limit), Jessie Wayne Boyce, Dayme Serrano Swaby (11– 15 mph over limit), Mark Manding Yap, Akhtar Parvaz, Brianna Dominique Austin, Mary-Grace Cassandra Celona, Selisha Renee Caldwell, Autumn Nicole Fritz, Phoebe Emiko Atchley, Maria Pan Choc Esperanza (26 mph or more over limit), Chinwendu Chinweuba Otuonye (26 mph or more over limit), Hamzah Fayez Idlebi, Leah Ridgway Villanueva (21–25 mph over limit), Adrian Dejuan Rogers, Crystal Battles Flint, Eric Garcia (11–15 mph over limit), Jacob Ryan Sturms, Joanne Gullo, Seinram Nanghee, Laura Dawn Keener, Gabriel Fernando Carmona (16–20 mph over limit), and Seinram Nanghee – Speeding Andrew Robert Arterburn – Improper Tag/Display on Vehicle Ameer Mohammad Aljdou – No Valid Security Verification Form Gary Jamar McKee – Failure to Yield to Oncoming Traffic; No Valid Security Verification Form Mitchell Lee Miller – Defective Vehicle/Operating Defective Vehicle (two counts) Marcus Alton Lowe – Failure to Signal/Improper Lane Change; Operating a M/V w/o Valid DL Kadyn Michael Hodson – Defective Vehicle/Operating Defective Vehicle Steven Herrera Martinez – Improper Tag/Display on Vehicle Jasmine Charmaine Joseph – Operating a M/V While License is Suspended Jake King Whitehead – Public Intoxication; Drinking/Possession of Open Container of Alcoholic Beverage John Artussee – No Valid Security Verification Form Carolina Robles Vergara – Operating a M/V w/o Valid DL Edgar Ulises Duarte – Operating a M/V w/o Valid DL Mitchell Joseph Matussak – Improper Tag/Display on Vehicle Myeisha Tranee Stanley – Operating a M/V w/o Valid DL Payton Kearra Thames – Defective Vehicle/Operating Defective Vehicle; No Valid Security Verification Form; Improper Tag/Display on Vehicle Dayme Serrano Swaby – No Valid Security Verification Form; Defective Vehicle/Operating Defective Vehicle Cody Lee Fonville – Failure to Signal/Improper Lane Change; No Valid Security Verification Form Olivier Guemtchueng Tchomgwi – Defective Vehicle/Operating Defective Vehicle Maria Pan Choc Esperanza – Operating a M/V w/o Valid DL; Possession of Alcohol by a Minor Tisha Marie Wilson – Operating a M/V While License is Suspended; Failure to Pay Taxes Due State; Defective Vehicle/Operating Defective Vehicle; No Valid Security Verification Form Eric Garcia – Operating a M/V w/o Valid DL Samuel E. Martinez Franco – Defective Vehicle/Operating Defective Vehicle; Operating a M/V w/o Valid DL; No Valid Security Verification Form Eleazar Gonzalez – Improper Tag/ Display on Vehicle Deavon Parnell Abrams – Operating a M/V w/o Valid DL Deryl Willeams – Possession of Marijuana Cristina Osornio-Cruz – Defective Vehicle/Operating Defective Vehicle; Operating a M/V w/o Valid DL

TRAFFIC (TR)