LCJ weekly newsletter for 7-31-2025
Thursday's newsletter
Daily Bible verse
Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves,
Philippians 2:3
Blast from the past
LeFlore County legals
Unemployment rates down again in Oklahoma
Unemployment rates dropped in 61 counties from the previous year, were higher in 12 and stayed the same in the June report by the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission.
Love County had the state’s highest rate at 5.5 percent with Hughes, McIntosh and Seminole counties reporting the second highest rate for the month. Dewey, Harmon and Texas counties had the lowest rates in the state at 2.2 percent.
LeFlore County had a rate of 4.3 percent for the month, dropping from 5 percent last June. The county had the 63rd highest rate in Oklahoma. While the rate was lower than the same period for 2024, it did increase from 3.4 percent in May and 2.9 percent in April.
The county had a workforce of 19,134 with 18,320 currently employed with 814 out of work. In May, the total was 19,531 with 18,683 employed and 668 out of work.
See the rates for all of Oklahoma HERE.
Former Oklahoma Governor Nigh dies
Oklahoma mourns the passing of George Patterson Nigh, a towering figure in the state's political landscape, died Wednesday, at the age of 98.
A native of McAlester, Nigh's remarkable career in public service spanned decades, leaving an indelible mark on Oklahoma's history and development.
Nigh was a true trailblazer, entering the Oklahoma House of Representatives in 1950 as a college senior, making him one of the youngest legislators in the state's history.
His early accomplishments included introducing the bill that officially designated "Oklahoma!" as the state song. He went on to serve an unprecedented four non-consecutive terms as Lieutenant Governor, a role that saw him briefly assume gubernatorial duties on two occasions due to resignations, showcasing his readiness and commitment to leadership.
In 1979, Nigh was elected the 22nd Governor of Oklahoma, serving a full four-year term. His popularity and effectiveness were undeniable, leading to his historic re-election in 1982. He became the first Oklahoma governor to win consecutive terms and, notably, the first to carry all 77 counties in the state. During his governorship, Nigh championed initiatives focused on education, tourism, and infrastructure, overseeing 17 tax cuts and guiding the state through the challenging economic downturn of the early 1980s oil bust. He signed the Executive Branch Reform Act of 1986, which streamlined the state's executive agencies, and appointed the first two women to serve on the Oklahoma Supreme Court.
Beyond his political offices, Nigh continued to serve Oklahoma. From 1992 to 1997, he served as President of the University of Central Oklahoma (UCO), where he is credited with a significant building boom that transformed the institution. He and his wife, Donna Nigh, were also instrumental in establishing the Donna Nigh Foundation, dedicated to supporting Oklahomans with developmental disabilities.
Nigh was widely remembered for his gregarious personality, quick wit, and unwavering optimism. Tributes poured in from across the political spectrum, with many recalling his ability to foster bipartisanship and his deep love for Oklahoma. Former Governor Brad Henry described him as "a longtime dear friend, a mentor and a true public servant," while former Governor Frank Keating noted, "He was a man of love, humility, and goodness. We loved him for who he was and what he was. We shall miss him terribly."
His legacy is one of dedicated public service, a commitment to improving the lives of Oklahomans, and an enduring example of leadership marked by integrity and a genuine connection with the people he served. He is survived by his wife, Donna, and their daughter, Georgeann Nigh Duty. Flags across Oklahoma will be lowered to half-staff in his honor.
Oklahoma top news stories
· Investigation into Ryan Walters Still Ongoing, Oklahoma Co. Sheriff Says
· Oklahoma County Sheriff Tommie Johnson clarified that the investigation into State Superintendent Ryan Walters regarding allegations of explicit material displayed in his office is still in its early stages, contradicting Walters' claims of being cleared.
· Link: News 9
· Oklahoma City Comets Suffer Third Straight Loss
· The Oklahoma City Comets lost 10-1 to the Salt Lake Bees, marking their third consecutive defeat and their lowest run total since May, as their six-game home losing streak continued.
· Link: OKC Comets Official Site
· Massive Earthquake Off Russia Triggers Tsunami Alerts
· An 8.8-magnitude earthquake off Russia's eastern coast triggered widespread tsunami warnings and evacuations across the Pacific Rim, including Hawaii and the U.S. West Coast, though initial damage reports were minor.
· Link: News On 6 (This was a national/international story with local impact on alerts).
· Teen Charged in Deadly Tulsa Church Shooting
· A 15-year-old suspect has been charged as an adult with first-degree murder in connection with the shooting death of another teenager outside a Tulsa church festival.
· Link: News On 6
· Former Broken Arrow Teacher Arrested, Accused of Arkansas Double Murder
· A former teacher from Broken Arrow has been arrested and is accused of a double murder in Arkansas, with details emerging from the ongoing investigation.
· Link: News 9
· Oklahoma Seeks $100M from Chicken Companies Over River Pollution
· After two decades of legal battles, Oklahoma is pursuing over $100 million from major chicken producers, alleging that runoff from chicken waste has polluted the Illinois River watershed.
· Link: News On 6
· New Roof Upgrade Grants Opening Soon for Homeowners
· The Oklahoma Insurance Department will soon open applications for up to $10,000 in state grants to help homeowners in specific ZIP codes strengthen their roofs against severe weather.
· Link: News On 6
· OKC Launches Awareness Notification Form for First Responders
· Oklahoma City officials have introduced an online Awareness Notification Form, allowing residents and business owners to provide public safety officers with information about conditions that could affect emergency response at their locations.
· Link: City of OKC News
· Roofing Permits Required in OKC Starting August 1
· Starting August 1, contractors and property owners in Oklahoma City will be required to obtain a roofing permit from the city before undertaking any roof removal, repair, or replacement on single-family homes and duplexes.
· Link: City of OKC News
Incapacitated voters still can cast ballot
Registered voters who become physically incapacitated after 5 p.m. Monday and are unable make it to the polls, still have an opportunity to cast their ballot.
Leflore County Election Board Secretary Kayla Rees said state law permits voters who become emergency incapacitated after 5 p.m. Monday to vote under special provisions. Rees said emergency incapacitation is something most voters don't think about.
"Voting is our constitutional right, but life happens. Injury, illness, or even childbirth can prevent a voter from being able to go to the polls,” she said. “That's why it's important to make sure voters know their rights in the event of an emergency."
If you or someone you know becomes physically incapacitated after that time, contact your County Election Board as soon as possible. Rees said Election Board officials will work with you to make sure you have all of the necessary information to cast your ballot. Information can also be found on the Oklahoma State Election Board website at oklahoma.govlelections.
The Leflore County Election Board is located at 103 North Church Street in Poteau and is open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Election Board officials can be reached at (918) 647-3701 or by email at LefloreCounty@eIections.ok.gov.
EARLY VOTING BEGINS THURSDAY
Early voting begins Aug. 7 for voters in the Town of Bokoshe and the Town of Shady Point for Leflore County.
Voters who will not be able to make it to the polls on Election Day, have the option of voting early at their County Election Board.
Leflore County Election Board Secretary Kayla Rees said early voting is open to all voters.
"You do not need to provide an excuse to vote early. Oklahoma allows early voting for all elections conducted by the County Election Board or State Election Board—from school board and municipal elections to state and federal elections,” she said. “This is a great option for those who will be out of town on Election Day or who want to avoid long lines."
Early voting is available Aug. 7-8 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. at LeFlore County Election Board at 103 North Church Street in Poteau. Rees reminds voters that early voting is not available at polling locations.
Some voters may need assistance to vote because they are blind or visually disabled, physically disabled or infirmed, or illiterate. Such individuals may request to have an assistant or vote privately and independently using the ATI device attached to the voting device. Those who require assistance should talk to their precinct official or contact the County Election Board directly for instructions.
For questions, please contact the Election Board at (918) 647-3701 or Leflorecounty@elections.ok.gov.
LeFlore County commissioners’ minutes
LeFlore County Commissioners met in a Regular Business Meeting on Monday with Chairman Jamie Oliver presiding. Also present were Vice-Chair Vallard Campbell, Member Josh Blaylock and County Clerk 1ST Deputy Jedd Kirby. Absent: County Clerk Kelli Ford.
The following action was taken by the board:
(1.) Chairman Jamie Oliver called meeting to order.
(2.) Motion was made by Jamie Oliver and seconded by Vallard Campbell to approve the minutes of regular meeting held July 21, 2025. Motion was approved, all voting yes.
(3.) Motion was made by Jamie Oliver and seconded by Josh Blaylock to approve purchase orders as presented. Motion was approved, all voting yes.
(4.) Monthly Fee Reports: None presented.
(5.) Motion was made By Jamie Oliver and seconded by Vallard Campbell to approve the following transfers of appropriations:
· $20,000 from District 1/ T-2 Maintenance and Operations Account to T-6 County Highway Insurance Account.
· $12,104.98 from District 1/ T-2 Maintenance and Operations Account to T-6 County Highway Insurance Account.
· $684 from District 2/ T-2 Maintenance and Operations Account and $5,000 from District 2/ T-3 Capital Outlay Account to T-6 County Highway Insurance Account, for a total of $5,684 to the T-6 Account.
· $20,000 from District 1/ T-2 Maintenance and Operations Account to T-6 County Highway Insurance Account and District 3/ T-3 Capital Outlay Account. $10,000 to each account.
· $656.47 from FDHOG-2R Account to FDHOD-2R Account.
Motion was approved, all voting yes.
(6.) Blanket Purchase Orders: None presented.
(7.) New Business: None discussed.
(8.) Motion was made by Jamie Oliver and seconded by Josh Blaylock to approve contract between Command Fire Apparatus (CFA) and Octavia Fire Department regarding the purchase of a 2003 Ford/ BRAT 4x4 mini- pumper truck via Sourcewell in the amount of $89,000. Motion was approved, all voting yes.
(9.) Burn Ban: Not needed at this time. No discussion.
(10.) Motion was made by Jamie Oliver and seconded by Vallard Campbell to approve resolution allowing County Treasurer to reinvest surplus of County Health Department Funds for August, 2025. Motion was approved, all voting yes.
(11.) Motion was made by Jamie Oliver and seconded by Josh Blaylock to approve resolution authorizing application for financial assistance from the Rural Economic Action Plan and Statement of Understanding and Assurances regarding LeFlore County 2026 REAP Grants as submitted by the Kiamichi Economic Development District of Oklahoma (KEDDO). Motion was approved, all voting yes.
(12.) Motion was made by Jamie Oliver and seconded by Josh Blaylock to approve subscription agreement between Regroup Mass Notification and LeFlore County as submitted by Emergency Management. Motion was approved, all voting yes.
(13.) Motion was made by Jamie Oliver and seconded by Vallard Campbell to approve settlement of claim against LeFlore County as submitted by Central Communications in the amount of $209,969.69. Motion was approved, all voting yes.
(14.) Motion was made by Jamie Oliver and seconded by Josh Blaylock to approve Interstate 40 Crosstown Steel Beam Transfer Form regarding surplus property consisting of steel beams resulting from the deconstruction of the Interstate 40 Crosstown Bridge located in Oklahoma County. Motion was approved, all voting yes.
(15.) Motion was made by Josh Blaylock and seconded by Vallard Campbell to approve programming resolution for project number 26-CBRI-D2-RD-P088 related to improvements on Yellow Springs Road located in LeFlore County Commissioner District 2. Motion was approved, all voting yes.
(16.) Motion was made by Jamie Oliver and seconded by Josh Blaylock to approve programming resolution for project number 26-CBRI-RD-P087 related to improvements on Walker Mountain Road located in LeFlore County Commissioner District 3. Motion was approved, all voting yes.
(17.) Motion was made by Jamie Oliver and seconded by Josh Blaylock to acknowledge Interlocal Cooperation Agreement #2024-01 between Circuit Engineering District #3 and LeFlore County, previously approved by Boards of County Commissioners Representatives. Motion was approved, all voting yes.
(18.) Motion was made by Jamie Oliver and seconded by Josh Blaylock to meet with Bodie Bachelor and approve final Petition for Establishment of a Rural Water District with updated maps and boundary lines as submitted by Water Distributors Company, Inc. Motion was approved, all voting yes.
Motion was made by Jamie Oliver and seconded by Josh Blaylock to adjourn. Motion was approved all voting yes, Oliver-yes, Campbell-yes, Blaylock-yes.
LeFlore County composite football schedule
Aug. 29
High school football: Summit Christian at Talihina; Bluejacket at Arkoma; Pocola at Antlers; Booneville at Poteau.
Sept. 5
High school football: Central at Heavener; Talihina at Porter; Panama at Spiro; Canadian at Arkoma; Poteau at McAlester.
Sept. 12
High school football: Heavener at Panama; Arkoma at Graham-Dustin; Spiro at Pocola; Poteau at NOAH.
Sept. 18
High school football: Talihina at Broken Bow JV.
Sept. 19
High school football: Charleston, Arkansas at Heavener; Panama at Wilburton; Bowlegs at Arkoma; Pocola at Vian; Spiro at Muldrow.
Sept. 25-2025
High school football: Arkoma at Quinton.
Sept. 26
High school football: Hugo at Heavener; Talihina at Allen; Panama at Chouteau; Pocola at Warner; Stilwell at Poteau; Spiro at Vian.
Oct. 3
High school football: Heavener at Prague; Gore at Talihina; Hulbert at Panama; Rejoice Christian at Pocola; Ada at Poteau; Valliant at Spiro.
Oct. 10
High school football: Roland at Heavener; Talihina at Central; Panama at Rejoice Christian; Gans at Arkoma; Pocola at Hulbert; Poteau at Glenpool; Spiro at Wilburton.
Oct. 16
High school football: Heavener at Kingston; Warner at Panama; Arkoma at Wilson-Henryetta; Chouteau at Pocola; Poteau at Tulsa McLain.
Oct. 17
High school football: Liberty at Talihina; Morris at Spiro.
Oct. 24
High school football: Heavener at Okmulgee; Wewoka at Talihina; Haskell at Panama; Wesleyan Christian at Arkoma; Pocola at Hartshorne; Sallisaw at Poteau; Spiro at Atoka.
Oct. 31
High school football: Kiefer at Heavener; Talihina at Regent Prep; Arkoma at Webbers Falls; Panama at Pocola; Poteau at Hilldale; Henryetta at Spiro.
Nov. 7
High school football: Heavener at Bethel; Mounds at Talihina; Hartshorne at Panama; Arkoma at Copan; Pocola at Haskell; Broken Bow at Poteau; Antlers at Spiro.
Meet the Sooners day is Saturday
NORMAN — One of the most popular traditions surrounding the Oklahoma football program – Meet the Sooners Day – is back again for 2025 and will be held Saturday, Aug. 2, from 1-2:30 p.m. at Gaylord Family – Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. The annual event gives select OU fans a unique opportunity to interact with their favorite players and coaches on the main stadium concourse.
This year's Meet the Sooners Day will be available only to members of 1Oklahoma (age 13 and above) or the OG&E Sooner Kids Club (age 12 and under). Sooner Kids Club members must be accompanied by an adult.
To purchase a 1Oklahoma subscription, click here. In addition to accessing Meet the Sooners Day, 1Oklahoma subscribers gain insider access to exclusive content and events featuring OU student-athletes. To buy a Sooner Kids Club membership, which also includes invitations to other exclusive experiences and admission to several home OU sporting events, click here. 1Oklahoma and Sooner Kids Club will have representatives on site to assist with new subscriptions and memberships.
Sooner Kids Club members and 1Oklahoma subscribers will each receive two mobile tickets approximately 24 hours prior to the event. Tickets will be non-transferrable and screenshots will not be valid for entry.
Attendees will enter at Gate 5 on the stadium's northwest corner (view map). OU's regular metal-detector and clear-bag policies will be in effect. Complimentary schedule posters will be available for fans to have autographed. Fans may also bring one other item to have signed during the event.
THE SOONER SHOP
OU's official store, The Sooner Shop, will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. the day of the event. The Sooner Shop is located on the bottom level of the Asp Avenue Parking Facility, just outside Gate 2 of Gaylord Family – Oklahoma Memorial Stadium.
McCoy Jr. named to Butkus Award watch list
STILLWATER – Oklahoma State linebacker Bryan McCoy Jr. is one of 51 players included on the preseason watch list for the collegiate Butkus Award, announced Wednesday by the Butkus Foundation.
He is one of nine players from the Big 12 included on the list for the award, which is presented annually to the nation's top linebacker.
An addition from the transfer portal who put up some impressive numbers over three years at Akron, McCoy is a two-time all-conference selection and led his team in tackles over each of the past two seasons.
In 2024, he was named to the HERO Sports G5 All-America third team and ranked No. 8 in the FBS with an average of 10.0 tackles per game. He has played 33 career games and made 18 starts.
Semifinalists for the award will be named November 4 and finalists will be named November 25. The winner will be revealed by December 10. The 2025 winner will be honored at a ceremony at the University of Illinois' Memorial Stadium in early 2026.
The 51-member selection committee, comprised of coaches, scouts and journalists, evaluates candidates based on the qualities that defined Butkus' career: toughness, leadership, competitiveness, football character, and traditional linebacking skills.
Oklahoma fishing report
NORTHEAST
Birch: July 27. Elevation is normal and stable, water temperature 85°F and stained. (USACE Lake Level) Striped bass hybrids fair on live shad around channels and points. Crappie fair on jigs around brush structure and creek channels. Report submitted by Jeremy Bersche, game warden stationed in Osage County.
Copan: July 27. Elevation is 7 ft. above normal and falling, water temperature 80°F and stained. (USACE Lake Level) Blue, channel, and flathead catfish slow on chicken liver, crawfish, goldfish, hot dogs, live bait, live shad, shad, shrimp, stinkbait, sunfish, and worms below the dam, riprap, and shorelines. Crappie slow on hair jigs, minnows, PowerBait, and tube jigs below the dam, brush structure, and coves. Report submitted by Lt. Joe Alexander, game warden stationed in Washington County.
Eucha: July 27. Elevation is 5 ft. below normal and stable, water temperature 86°F and stained. (USGS Lake Level) Largemouth bass fair on crankbaits, plastic baits, and spinnerbaits around brush structure, coves, and shorelines. Channel catfish fair on cut bait, shrimp, and stinkbait around coves, main lake, and shorelines. Crappie slow on jigs and minnows around brush structure and shorelines. Report submitted by Riley Willman, game warden stationed in Delaware County.
Fort Gibson: July 28. Elevation is 5.5 ft. above normal and falling, water temperature 77°F and clear. (USACE Lake Level) Blue, channel, and flathead catfish good on cut bait and shad below the dam, dam, discharge, and tailwater. Largemouth bass good on bill baits, buzz baits, and topwater lures. Crappie slow. Report submitted by Marvin Stanley, game warden stationed in Wagoner County.
Grand: July 27. Elevation is .5 ft. above normal and stable, water temperature 88°F and stained. (USACE Lake Level) Largemouth bass good on crankbaits, plastic baits, and spinnerbaits around docks, points, rocks, and shorelines. Blue catfish good on cut bait and shad below the dam, docks, main lake, and river channel. White bass fair on in-line spinnerbaits and spoons below the dam, flats, main lake, and points. Report submitted by Riley Willman, game warden stationed in Delaware County.
Greenleaf: July 26. Elevation is normal and stable, water temperature 86°F and clear. Largemouth bass fair on crankbaits, flukes, plastic baits, sassy shad, and spinnerbaits around creek channels, main lake, points, shorelines, and weed beds. Channel catfish fair on chicken liver, shad, and worms around creek channels, flats, and shorelines. Crappie fair on jigs, minnows, PowerBait around brush structure, docks, main lake, and weed beds. Report submitted by Dylan Langford, game warden stationed in Muskogee County.
Hudson: July 27. Elevation is 1.5 ft. above normal and stable, water temperature 86°F and stained. (USACE Lake Level) Largemouth and spotted bass fair on crankbaits, jigs, spoons, topwater lures, and worms around coves, points, and shorelines. Striped bass hybrids and white bass fair on crankbaits, plastic baits, and topwater lures below the dam, channels, and main lake. Blue catfish good on chicken liver, shad, and shrimp below the dam, channels, and points. Report submitted by Cody Morris, game warden stationed in Mayes County.
Hulah: July 27. Elevation is 4 ft. below normal and falling, water temperature 80°F and murky. (USACE Lake Level) Crappie slow on hair jigs, minnows, PowerBait, small lures, and tube jigs below the dam, brush structure, coves, and creek channels. Blue, channel, and flathead catfish slow on crawfish, goldfish, hot dogs, live bait, live shad, shad, shrimp, stinkbait, sunfish, and worms below the dam, channels, main lake, and shorelines. Report submitted by Lt. Joe Alexander, game warden stationed in Washington County.
Kaw: July 27. Elevation is 12 ft. above normal and rising, water temperature 85°F and murky. (USACE Lake Level) Striped bass, striped bass hybrids, and white bass fair on crankbaits, flukes, hair jigs, jerk baits, jigs, sassy shad, shad, and topwater lures below the dam. Blue, channel, and flathead catfish good on crawfish, cut bait, goldfish, live bait, live shad, shad, stinkbait, and worms below the dam, river channel, river mouth, shallows, and shorelines. Paddlefish excellent snagging below the dam. Report submitted by Spencer grace, game warden stationed in Kay County.
Keystone: July 28. Elevation is 12 ft. above normal and falling, water temperature 87°F and clear. (USACE Lake Level) Largemouth bass good on Alabama rigs, bill baits, buzz baits, in-line spinnerbaits, jerk baits, jigs, plastic baits, small lures, and spinnerbaits around brush structure, docks, shallows, shorelines, standing timber, and weed beds. Blue and channel catfish fair on live bait and worms around channels, main lake, river channel, and river mouth. Crappie fair on jigs and minnows around brush structure. Report submitted by Tracer Wagner, game warden stationed in Creek County.
Lower Illinois River: July 26. Elevation is 1 ft. above normal and stable, water temperature 70°F and clear. Largemouth and smallmouth bass good on jigs, live bait, live shad, minnows, plastic baits, shad, and small lures below the dam, brush structure, channels, shallows, and shorelines. Rainbow trout slow. Report submitted by Chase Fields, game warden stationed in Sequoyah County.
Oologah: July 27. Elevation is 7 ft. above normal and stable, water temperature 82°F and stained. Largemouth and smallmouth bass fair on crankbaits, minnows, plastic baits, and worms around shallows, shorelines, and weed beds. Blue, channel, and flathead catfish fair on hot dogs, live shad, shad, shrimp, sunfish, and worms around channels, creek channels, main lake, rocks, sandbar, and shorelines. Report submitted by Dartanion Tilley, game warden stationed in Nowata County.
Skiatook: July 27. Elevation is normal and stable, water temperature 85°F and clear. (USACE Lake Level) Striped bass hybrids and white bass fair on crankbaits and shad around creek channels and points. Blue and channel catfish fair on cut bait around coves and points. Report submitted by Jeremy Bersche, game warden stationed in Osage County.
Spavinaw: July 27. Elevation is normal and stable, water temperature 81°F and clear. (USGS Lake Level) Largemouth bass good on crankbaits, jigs, and plastic baits around main lake and points. Crappie fair on jigs and minnows around brush structure and docks. Channel catfish slow on cut bait around flats and main lake. Report submitted by Kody Moore, game warden stationed in Mayes County.
Tenkiller: July 28. Elevation is 0.5 ft. above normal and stable, water temperature 88°F and stained. (USACE Lake Level) Largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted bass fair on jerk baits, jigs, plastic baits, and topwater lures around brush structure, channels, and main lake. Blue, channel, and flathead catfish fair on chicken liver, cut bait, minnows, shad, sunfish around main lake, and river channel. White bass fair on Alabama rigs, in-line spinnerbaits, and jigs around flats, main lake, and river channel. Report submitted by Cody Youngblood, game warden stationed in Cherokee County.
Webbers Falls: July 26. Elevation is normal and stable, water temperature 86°F and murky. (USACE Lake Level) Saugeye fair on crankbaits, jigs, lipless baits, live bait, and small lures around river channel and river mouth. Blue and channel catfish fair on chicken liver, minnows, shad, and worms below the dam, river channel, rocks, and shallows. White bass slow on flukes, jigs, nymphs, sassy shad, and small lures below the dam, main lake, points, and river channel. Report submitted by Dylan Langford, game warden stationed in Muskogee County.
SOUTHEAST
Blue River: July 29. Elevation is normal and stable, water temperature 80°F and clear. (USGS Lake Level) Largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted bass good on crankbaits, flukes, lipless baits, plastic baits, spinnerbaits, topwater lures, and tube jigs below the dam, brush structure, channels, rocks, shallows, shorelines, and weed beds. Channel catfish good on chicken liver, cut bait, punch bait, stinkbait, and worms around brush structure, channels, and rocks. Report submitted by Ethan Lovelace, biologist at the Blue River Public Fishing and Hunting Area.
Broken Bow: July 25. Elevation is 2 ft. below normal and falling, water temperature 87°F and clear. (USACE Lake Level) Largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted bass fair on Alabama rigs, bill baits, buzz baits, crankbaits, flukes, in-line spinnerbaits, plastic baits, and spinnerbaits around brush structure, main lake, points, river channel, and standing timber. Crappie fair on hair jigs, jigs, minnows, and spoons around brush structure, points, river channel, and standing timber. Report submitted by Dru Polk, game warden stationed in McCurtain County.
Eufaula: July 25. Elevation is normal and stable, water temperature 86°F and murky. (USACE Lake Level) Largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted bass fair on Alabama rigs, crankbaits, in-line spinnerbaits, jerk baits, and plastic baits around docks, main lake, points, riprap, and rocks. Blue, channel, and flathead catfish fair on cut bait, live bait, and shad below the dam, channels, rocks, and shallows. Crappie fair on crankbaits and hair jigs below the dam and rocks. Report submitted by Jake Rowland, game warden stationed in McIntosh County.
Hugo: July 25. Elevation is normal and stable, water temperature 77°F and murky. (USACE Lake Level) Largemouth, spotted, and white bass fair on bill baits, crankbaits, lipless baits, plastic baits, and topwater lures around brush structure, points, and standing timber. Blue, channel, and flathead catfish fair on cut bait, live bait, live shad, and punch bait below the dam and spillway. Crappie fair on hair jigs, jigs, and minnows around brush structure and standing timber. Report submitted by Chance Phillips, game warden stationed in Choctaw County.
Konawa: July 27. Elevation is normal and stable, water temperature 90°F and clear. Largemouth bass good on crankbaits, plastic baits, and spinnerbaits around main lake, points, river channel, and weed beds. Striped bass hybrids and white bass good on crankbaits and live shad around coves, inlet, main lake, and river channel. Channel catfish good on chicken liver, cut bait, and shrimp around inlet, riprap, rocks, and weed beds. Report submitted by Garret Harley, game warden stationed in Seminole County.
Lower Mountain Fork River: July 25. Elevation is normal and stable, water temperature 67°F and clear. Rainbow trout good on grasshoppers, PowerBait, and small lures around creek channels and spillway. Report submitted by Mark Hannah, game warden stationed in McCurtain County.
McGee Creek: July 25. Elevation is normal and stable, water temperature 86°F and stained. (USACE Lake Level) Largemouth and spotted bass fair on Alabama rigs, bill baits, jigs, plastic baits, and topwater lures around rocks, shorelines, and standing timber. Channel and flathead catfish good on shad, stinkbait, sunfish, and worms around channels, dam and main lake. Crappie slow on minnows, small lures, and tube jigs around brush structure, points, and standing timber. Report submitted by Shay Loudermilk, game warden stationed in Atoka County.
Pine Creek: July 25. Elevation is 5 ft. above normal and falling, water temperature 85°F and clear. (USACE Lake Level) Largemouth bass fair on crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and topwater lures around coves and points. Crappie fair on jigs and minnows around brush structure and standing timber. Channel catfish good on cut bait, hot dogs, and stinkbait around creek channels. Report submitted by Mark Hannah, game warden stationed in McCurtain County.
Robert S. Kerr: July 25. Elevation is normal and stable, water temperature 78°F and stained. (USACE Lake Level) Largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted bass fair on crankbaits, flukes, grubs, in-line spinnerbaits, jigs, small lures, and spinnerbaits around brush structure, coves, docks, points, shallows, shorelines, standing timber, and weed beds. Blue, channel, and flathead catfish good on chicken liver, cut bait, hot dogs, minnows, and stinkbait around channels, creek channels, river channel, river mouth, and sandbar. Sauger, saugeye, and walleye good on flukes, hair jigs, jigs, minnows, and shad around channels, coves, creek channels, main lake, and river channel. Report submitted by James Pixley, game warden stationed in Haskell County.
Sardis: July 25. Elevation is normal and stable, water temperature 85°F and stained. (USACE Lake Level) Largemouth bass good on bill baits, buzz baits, lipless baits, plastic baits, spinnerbaits, and topwater lures around brush structure, points, and standing timber. Blue, channel, and flathead catfish good on cut bait, shad, stinkbait, and worms around channels, points, and standing timber. Crappie good on jigs and minnows around brush structure, points, and standing timber. Report submitted by Thomas Gillham, game warden stationed in Pushmataha County.
Texoma: July 27. Elevation is 1 ft. below normal and stable, water temperature 84°F and clear. (USACE Lake Level) Striped bass good on live shad, topwater lures below the dam and points. Blue, channel, and flathead catfish good on cut bait, dough bait, live shad, and punch bait below the dam, coves, and river mouth. Crappie fair on caddis flies, hair jigs, jigs, and minnows around brush structure, coves, docks, and standing timber. Comments: Fishing this week has been good below the Denison Dam for striper. They are biting well on live shad, topwater lures, and buck tail jigs. They are also biting on the main lake on live shad around ledges and points. Catfish are good on punch bait and live shad around ledges and channels. Crappie are okay around brush piles near docks on jigs. Report submitted by Garrett Beam, game warden stationed in Marshall County.
Wister: July 25. Elevation is 2 ft. above normal and falling, water temperature 90°F and stained. (USACE Current Lake Level) Largemouth bass good on buzz baits and plastic baits around brush structure and river channel. Blue catfish good on cut bait and shad around main lake. Crappie good on jigs and minnows around brush structure. Report submitted by James Williams, game warden stationed in Le Flore County.
SOUTHWEST
Ellsworth: July 27. Elevation is 2 ft. below normal and stable, water temperature 81°F and murky. (USGS Lake Level) White bass good on in-line spinnerbaits, lipless baits, sassy shad, and small lures around flats and main lake. Blue and channel catfish fair on cut bait and shad around main lake and points. Report submitted by Mike Carroll, game warden stationed in Comanche County.
Rain, storms possible Thursday
LeFlore County weather forecast for Thursdy calls for mostly clear skies early with scattered thunderstorms this afternoon and thunderstorms Thursday night.
The high is forecast to be 97 degrees with a low of 735. A heat advisory is in effect from noon through 8 p.m. Heat index value of 108 is expected.
Heat related illnesses are possible especially impacting those not acclimated to the conditions or those performing strenuous activities. Take extra precautions when outside. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing. Try to limit strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Take action when you see symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
Sunrise was 6:27 a.m. Sunset is 8:21 p.m.
Wednesday’s high was 100, the second straight day temperatures reached triple digits, with a low of 75. No rain was recorded, leaving the monthly total at 4.10 inches, surpassing July’s average rainfall of 3.10 inches. The last day to have rain in the county was July 14.
Average temperatures for July 31 are a high of 94 and low of 65. Records for the date were a high of 109 in 1986 and a low of 51 in 1971.
Last year on July 31, the high was 97 with a low of 76.
Here is the upcoming forecast:
· Friday:
· High Temperature: 86∘F
· Low Temperature: 70∘F
· Daytime Condition: Rain (60% chance)
· Nighttime Condition: Rain (55% chance)
· Humidity: 84%
· UV Index: 7
· Wind: Northeast at 9 mph
· Saturday:
· High Temperature: 84∘F
· Low Temperature: 66∘F
· Daytime Condition: Heavy rain (60% chance)
· Nighttime Condition: Partly cloudy (15% chance of rain)
· Humidity: 82%
· UV Index: 5
· Wind: Northeast at 7 mph
· Sunday:
· High Temperature: 86∘F
· Low Temperature: 66∘F
· Daytime Condition: Partly cloudy (20% chance of rain)
· Nighttime Condition: Partly cloudy (15% chance of rain)
· Humidity: 76%
· UV Index: 8
· Wind: East at 6 mph
LeFlore County calendar of events
LeFlore County calendar of events for the next week. The calendar is a free service for our readers. If you are with a non-profit and want an event publicized, CONTACT us.
Thursday
Poteau Kiwanis Club meets noon
Loretta Turner funeral service
Heavener VFW bingo 6:30 p.m. Highway 59 North
Friday
Herman Harrell (Dub) Tolbert funeral service
Poteau Rodeo
Saturday
Poteau Rodeo
Sunday
Benefit for Audrey Hester noon at Freedom House
Monday
LeFlore County commissioners meet 9 a.m.
Heavener Lions Club meets 5 p.m. at Simple Simon’s
City of Poteau meetings 5:30 p.m.
Tuesday
Poteau Evening Lions Club meet 6 p.m. CASC
Wednesday
Poteau Rotary Club meets noon EOMC
Today in history
1975
Labor leader Jimmy Hoffa is reported missing
On the morning of July 31, 1975, James Riddle Hoffa, one of the most influential American labor leaders of the 20th century, is officially reported missing after he failed to return home the previous night. Though he is popularly believed to have been the victim of a Mafia hit, conclusive evidence... read more
1970s
1973
Delta Flight 723 crashes in fog at Boston Logan
American Revolution
1777
Marquis de Lafayette becomes a major-general without pay
Natural Disasters & Environment
1715
Hurricane sinks Spanish treasure ships
Religion
1556
Ignatius of Loyola, founder of the Jesuit order, dies
Space Exploration
1964
World War I
1917
Third Battle of Ypres begins in Flanders
World War II
1941
Preparations for the Final Solution begin
Herman Harrell (Dub) Tolbert service planned
Herman Harrell (Dub) Tolbert was born to Harrell and Jessie Tolbert of Bokoshe May 21, 1943 and passed away July 29, 2025 at the age of 82.
His funeral service is 10 a.m. Friday at Victory Worship Center in Spiro with Reverend Bryan Fout, Reverend Keith Williams and Nate Doshier officiating. Burial will follow at Old Bokoshe Cemetery, under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau.
Surviving family members are his wife, Sharon Kay; daughters Shannon Bullard, Dana Doshier and husband Michael; five grandchildren Isabela Doshier and fiance Austin Place, Rylan Bullard, Reagan Martin and husband Jeffery, Nate Doshier, and Brooklie Doshier.
He was preceded in death by his parents Harrell and Jessie Tolbert.
Pallbearers are Mike Doshier, Nate Doshier, Rylan Bullard, Ed Huber, Jeff Callaway and Matthew Cox.
You may leave an online message at www.evansandmillerfuneralhome.com.
Mary Ford
Mary Evelyn (Johnston) Ford of Heavener was born Dec. 4, 1937 in Heavener to Homer and Evelyn (Mason) Johnston and went home to be with her Lord and Savior July 28, 2025 in Heavener at the age of 87.
Mary’s funeral service is 2 p.m. Friday at the Heavener First Baptist Church with Pastor Brock Hardin and Brother Jimmy Binns officiating. The burial of the body she leaves behind will follow at Heavener Memorial Park, under the direction of Dowden-Roberts Funeral Home of Heavener.
She was a lifelong member of First Baptist Church in Heavener, where she served as Minister of Music under pastors John Murphy, Gerald Cox and John Riggs. During her time there, she was blessed with many opportunities to share her love of Jesus.
Mary (Mom, Grandmom, Ms Mary) was a God follower. She devoted her life to the Great Commission of Going and Telling.
Her going included taking large groups of young people, the Believers, to churches, parks, and festivals all across the country. She also loved going shopping. Even at Dillard’s makeup counter Mary would share Jesus with the people working and shopping. As God moved His ministry through her to Haven Heights in Fort Smith, she continued “going.” This time it was with a group of amazing women, JoySong, who traveled, sang, and shared the love of Jesus throughout the U.S.
Mary was a gregarious “goer.” Even as an elementary school student, she was preparing herself musically for a future that she could not imagine. One of her favorite stories to recount was the option her mother gave her to either iron clothes or practice piano. We were blessed that she chose piano. While in high school at Heavener, she was outgoing enough to be jokingly nicknamed “Big Deal.” Even in those early days, Mary played the piano for revivals and church camps at Kiamichi and Falls Creek. She went wherever God opened a door.
Her family was “in” on the going, too. Her husband of 30+ years, Wendell, and her two sons Britt and Lance were always going right along with her. The family would make annual pilgrimages to church music week in Ridgecrest, North Carolina and Glorieta, New Mexico. Those experiences, in addition to trips with the Believers with singing, Backyard Bible Clubs, and local service projects showed her sons the importance of going and telling.
Mary’s going and telling led her to a different mission field later in life. This time God had work for her in Wilburton at Eastern Oklahoma State College. She taught music courses and took speech classes to another level. Her expectations were always high for her students as well as herself. She worked her career in such a way as to bring glory to God and to point her students and fellow faculty members to Jesus. Many of her Eastern students have testified of the way she showed His love to them just when they needed it most. Mary also played for musicals while she was there and worked with her good friend, Paul Enis. Mary was always careful to review the lyrics to make sure nothing was disparaging to her Lord.
She was never seen in public without her friends. They might be the dulcimer group, the “red hats,” the bridge crew, or the “hand and foot” company. She was blessed to have amazing friends who helped her become more like Christ. Whether they were playing dominoes, singing hymns, or just enjoying each other’s company around the dinner table, Mary’s love for her sisters was always evident. Even after Mary couldn’t “go” on her own, her friends stepped in to take her to doctors’ appointments, always closely followed with lunch at Calico County.
While Mary might be most remembered musically for her piano skills, she also loved to sing. Mary and several of her friends participated in Cavanal Chorale and the Singing Churchwomen of Oklahoma. While with the latter, going threaded its way into the experience. Mary had the opportunity to sing in multiple churches across the state culminating in a mission trip to Brazil. While there, she sang, but she also shared. One of her favorite pictures was of a moment when she and a lady from Brazil sat on the side of the road as Mary led her newfound friend to faith in Jesus.
In the final phase of her life, Mary found one more place to go: she decided to move to Brookfield Assisted Living in Fort Smith. While there, her external going was limited, but inside the facility she would go, tell, share, and pray with other residents as well as the employees. She made a habit of daily sitting down at the keyboard and playing songs like “There’s Just Something About That Name” and “Jesus Loves Me.” Mary’s life exuded her love for Jesus until He called her home Monday morning.
Mary’s family is not just biological. Her church family, brothers and sisters in Christ, provided many of her dearest memories. She would talk about the revivals and singings, the meals, and fellowship and prayers of the saints. Mary’s life impacted thousands as an ambassador for Christ. She is now celebrating with Him for all eternity.
She is survived by two sons Lance Ford and wife Carol Ann of Heavener, and Britt Ford and wife Ginny of Leesburg, Virginia; nine grandchildren Julianne Varghese and husband Tony of Oklahoma City, Logan Ford of Richmond, Virginia, Nicholas Ford and wife Allison of Heavener, Gavin Ford of Littleton, Colorado, Gabriella Grivas of Leesburg, Virginia, Ashleigh Hazel, Amanda Griffith, Allison Gartrell and Aimee Tigges; numerous other loved ones and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Homer and Evelyn Johnston.
Friends who would like to view Mary’s earthly home are welcome to come by Dowden-Roberts Funeral Home between 9 a.m. until 8 p.m. Thursday and 9 a.m. until noon Friday. Our family looks forward to visiting with friends on Thursday from 6 until 8 p.m. at the funeral home.
The family would like to extend a special thanks to the caregivers at Brookfield Assisted Living, Heavener Nursing Home, and Elara Hospice.
To sign Mary’s online guestbook please visit www.dowdenrobertsfuneralhome.com
Michael Leslie Doyle
Michael Leslie Doyle, 82, of Talihina passed away July 23, 2025 and was born May 3, 1943 in Sacramento, California to Helen Marie (Chapman) and Mickey Doyle
Graveside services were Monday at New City Cemetery in Talihina with Brother Brian Fouts officiating. Services have been entrusted to McCarn Funeral Service.
Surviving family members are two sons Colin Doyle and wife Sherry of Edmond, and Sean Doyle and wife Susan of Greenwood, Arkansas; three grandchildren; two great grandchildren; one brother and three sisters.
He is preceded in passing by his wife, Linnia; parents, Mickey and Helen Doyle; one brother, and one sister.
John A. Sutter
John A. Sutter of Heavener was born June 11, 1965 to Ronald Alan and Carole Jean (Bonotto) Sutter and passed away July 24, 2025 in Fort Smith, Arkansas at the age of 60.
Funeral service was Monday at the Light and Hope Fellowship Church in Heavener with Pastor Mahlon Petre, Pastor Phil Petre and Pastor Vern Martin officiating. Interment followed in Heavener Memorial Park, under the direction of Dowden-Roberts Funeral Home of Heavener.
John was a resident of the area and a dedicated welder, who took pride in his craft. As a cherished member of Light and Hope Fellowship Church, John actively participated in the community. John was known for his warm spirit and his love for spending quality time with his church family and friends. He had a remarkable ability to create lasting memories. His kindness and generosity will be deeply missed by his family and all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.
Surviving family members are his mother, Carole Jean (Bonotto); one sister, Stacy Parenti; his church family at the Light and Hope Fellowship Church; numerous other loved ones and friends.
He was preceded in death by his father, Ronald Alan Sutter.
Pallbearers were Jesse Peight, David Peight, Andrew Peight, Hunter Peight, Darren Petre and Jordan Petre.
To sign John’s online guestbook please visit www.dowdenrobertsfuneralhome.com.
William Keith Jones obituary
William Keith Jones of Derby, Kansas (formerly of Heavener) was born Aug. 21, 1972 in Little Rock, Arkansas to William Henry “Bill” and Carolyn (Fox) Jones and passed away July 21, 2025 in Iowa City, Iowa at the age of 52.
Funeral services were Monday at the Dowden-Roberts Funeral Home Chapel in Heavener with Brother Joey Bottoms officiating. Burial followed in the Reichert Cemetery with military honors by the Poteau DAV Chapter #63. Arrangements were under the direction of Dowden-Roberts Funeral Home of Heavener.
To sign Keith’s online guestbook please visit www.dowdenrobertsfuneralhome.com.
Peggy Jane Spradley
Peggy Jane Spradley funeral service iwas Monday in the Mallory Chapel in Spiro with Pastor Matthew Sebo officiating, under the direction of Mallory Martin Funeral Home.
Interment followed at New Hope Cemetery in Spiro.
Peggy was born Sept. 19, 1948 in the Racetrack community to Vernon Pierce and Lena Mae (Craig) Smith and passed away July 25, 2025 in Spiro.
She married Randy Spradley April 3, 1981 in Spiro.
Peggy retired from Riverside Furniture as a finish furniture repairer. She was very active in her church and was a member of The Well Assembly of God Church in Pocola, where she served as a Sunday school teacher. Peggy also helped her husband with the bus ministry. She lived for her grandchildren and great grandchildren and enjoyed genealogy, crafting and sewing.
Peggy leaves behind her husband of 44 years, Randy; daughter, Shelly of Fort Smith, Arkansas; grandsons William Morris and wife Jessika of Spiro, Leighton Morris, also of Spiro; granddaughter, Piper Morris, of Pocola; great grandchildren Gabriel, Brooklynn, Brodyn, Malakai, Weston and Axl Morris, all of Spiro; brothers Wayne Smith and wife Sharon of Spiro; and Keith Smith of Tucker; brother-in-law, Raymond Jackson, of Spiro; sister-in-law, Barbara Lou, of Spiro; many nieces; nephews, other family members, friends and loved ones.
She is preceded in death by her parents Vernon and Lena Smith; sisters Carolyn Smith and Linda Jackson; brothers Donald Smith and Dennis Smith; grandson, Chanton Dean; and great grandson, Colt Lee.