Stigler Fire Department

06/01/2026

Today is Brinlee Ballard’s first day as my summer intern at the Stigler-Haskell County Chamber of Commerce, and I couldn’t be more excited! She’s going to be a huge help this summer as we work on events, member services, and community projects.

I am so glad to have her around to help and look forward to a great summer! 💙

06/01/2026

Centerton, Arkansas police captain Chris Kelley killed in explosion
Investigators confirm the explosion happened Saturday night ( May 30) along Highway 72. Crews were called to the scene around 7 PM.
The cause of the blast has not yet been released.

According to the sheriff's office, Kelley had been a member of the BCSO Reserve Division since 2017, and in 2023 was named Reserve Deputy of the year.

05/31/2026

A Message from the Board of Directors, Wildland Firefighter Foundation

Dear Wildland Firefighter Foundation Family,

We have difficult news to share. Our Executive Director, Burk Minor, recently sustained serious burn injuries and is currently receiving treatment at the University of Utah Burn Center in Salt Lake City, where he is receiving outstanding care. While the road ahead will require time, focus, and healing, Burk remains in good hands and is deeply appreciative of the tremendous outpouring of support he has received from the wildland fire community and beyond.

To help keep everyone informed, a CaringBridge site has been established where official updates regarding Burk's condition and recovery will be shared. We ask that everyone use this resource as the primary source for information and updates. A GoFundMe has also been established to assist Burk and his family during his recovery.

The messages, texts, cards, prayers, positive thoughts, and words of encouragement have meant a great deal to Burk and his family. Your continued support is welcomed and appreciated.

During Burk's recovery, Dina Pfeifer, alongside the dedicated Wildland Firefighter Foundation staff, Board of Directors, and our nationwide network of supporters and partners, will coordinate day-to-day operations and ensure that the Foundation continues serving wildland firefighters and their families without interruption.

While things may look a little different in the coming weeks and months, the Foundation remains fully operational. Our commitment to supporting the wildland fire community remains unchanged, and services will continue as we work together to carry forward the mission Burk has championed for so many decades.

Burk has spent his life showing up for others during some of their most difficult moments. Now, as he focuses on healing, we have the opportunity to show up for him. On behalf of Burk, his family, the staff, and the Board of Directors, thank you for your continued support, patience, encouragement, and care.

With gratitude, Board of Directors, Wildland Firefighter Foundation

05/31/2026

Stigler Announces District Teacher of the Year

By John Block
Sports Editor & Staff Writer
Fourth grade teacher Sara Thompson was named the Stigler Public Schools Teacher of the Year during the district’s annual end of year banquet held May 18, recognizing more than a decade of dedication to students and education in the district.
In addition to earning the district’s top honor, Thompson was also selected as the elementary school Teacher of the Year. Other campus honorees included Kelli Gilmore, who was named middle school Teacher of the Year, and Katrina Gragg, who earned high school Teacher of the Year honors.

The complete story is available now in the May 28 issue.

05/31/2026

05/31/2026

Firefighter/Paramedic Demair Lloyd, 44, suffered a medical emergency at home after his shift in Prince George's County.

05/31/2026

Last Friday, I had the opportunity to attend the Oklahoma SBDC Four County Consortium meeting. It was great connecting with our Small Business Development partners and hearing about the projects, resources, and exciting work happening to support businesses across our region.

Did you know the Small Business Development Advisor is in the Stigler-Haskell County Chamber of Commerce office every Tuesday? This is a free service available to help entrepreneurs, startups, and existing businesses with guidance, planning, and resources.

If you’d like to schedule a meeting or get connected, I’d be happy to help!