Gas prices in Oregon and US rise, diesel prices drop

KTVZ on April 27, 2026

Matthew Draxton

PORTLAND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Average gasoline prices in Oregon have increased 7.3 cents per gallon in the last week, now averaging $5.00 per gallon today. The national average price for gasoline has also risen, climbing 7.0 cents per gallon to $4.04 per gallon.

Gasoline prices across the state are currently $1.14 per gallon higher than a year ago.

Prices in Oregon are 16.3 cents per gallon higher than a month ago. The national average for gasoline is up 5.7 cents per gallon from a month ago and stands 94.3 cents per gallon higher than a year ago.

In portland, drivers are paying even more — about $5.07 per gallon on average. Across the state, prices vary widely — from about $4.39 to as high as $6.59, according to gas buddy.

According to Triple A, the average in Bend is $5.04. That’s up 12 cents from last week, and nearly a $1.23 from a year ago at this time. 

In contrast, the national average price of diesel has decreased 9.2 cents compared to a week ago, now at $5.408 per gallon.

Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy, noted that average gasoline prices rose in 39 states over the last week, with the national average moving higher. He stated that while diesel prices saw a brief divergence with declines in most states, “that divergence may prove short-lived.” Haan attributed the expected rise in gasoline prices to oil prices climbing again as markets react to renewed geopolitical tensions and the cancellation of talks between the U.S. and Iran. “As a result, gasoline prices are set to rise further this week, with diesel expected to follow,” Haan said. He added that many inland states— including those in the Great Lakes and Plains— could see average gas prices climb to their highest levels since 2022, while price-cycling markets may also experience another round of hikes in the next few days.

GasBuddy price reports indicate a significant difference in fuel costs within Oregon. Yesterday, the cheapest station in the state was priced at $4.39 per gallon, while the most expensive reached $6.59 per gallon, creating a difference of $2.20 per gallon.

Historical data shows the fluctuation of gasoline prices in Oregon and nationwide over the past five years. On April 27, 2025, Ore. prices averaged $3.85 per gallon, with the U.S. average at $3.10 per gallon. A year prior, on April 27, 2024, Ore. was at $4.45 per gallon and the U.S. average at $3.65 per gallon. On April 27, 2023, Ore. prices were $4.07 per gallon and the U.S. average was $3.61 per gallon. Going back to April 27, 2022, Ore. saw $4.65 per gallon with a national average of $4.14 per gallon. Five years ago, on April 27, 2021, Ore. prices were $3.22 per gallon and the U.S. average was $2.88 per gallon.

In neighboring areas, prices also saw increases. Eugene reported an average of $4.96 per gallon, up 3.9 cents per gallon from $4.92 per gallon last week. Salem’s average is $4.91 per gallon, an increase of 6.7 cents per gallon from $4.84 per gallon last week. Portland prices reached $5.07 per gallon, up 7.8 cents per gallon from $4.99 per gallon last week.

GasBuddy, a PDI Technologies company, has served as a fuel savings platform for more than 25 years. With more than 100 million app downloads, GasBuddy provides real-time prices at more than 150,000 stations. The platform offers savings through Pay with GasBuddy+™ and updates fuel pricing averages 288 times daily, utilizing spotter reports, direct station integrations and transactional data.

Gasoline prices are expected to rise further this week, with diesel also anticipated to increase. Many inland states, including those in the Great Lakes and Plains, could see average gas prices climb to their highest levels since 2022. Price-cycling markets may also experience another round of hikes in the next few days.

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Texas Southern University Soars Higher with Historic Houston Spaceport Ribbon Cutting

CNN Newsource on April 27, 2026

By Francis Page Jr.

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    April 27, 2026 (Houston Style Magazine) — Houston reached new heights—again. In a city globally synonymous with space exploration and innovation, Texas Southern University (TSU) boldly expanded its footprint with the grand opening of its new aviation facility at the Houston Spaceport, marking a transformative moment not just for the university, but for the future of diverse talent in aerospace.

With a celebratory ribbon-cutting ceremony held on Saturday, April 25, 2026, TSU officially unveiled its cutting-edge Texas Southern University at Houston Spaceport campus—a 20,000-square-foot aviation hub designed to prepare the next generation of pilots, engineers, and aviation leaders.

This milestone partnership between TSU, the City of Houston, and Houston Airports signals a powerful commitment to innovation, workforce development, and equitable access to high-demand careers in aviation and aerospace.

A Facility Built for the Future

At the heart of the new campus is a sleek, modern hangar housing TSU’s impressive fleet of 12 Cirrus SR20 aircraft, acquired in 2025. These industry-standard training aircraft position TSU students for real-world readiness from day one.

The facility also includes:

4,500 square feet of office and classroom space, enabling immersive, on-site instruction An 8,000-gallon fuel tank, delivering operational independence and saving the program hundreds of thousands annually Infrastructure to support TSU’s newly approved aerospace engineering program, further expanding academic pathways This is not just a building—it’s a launchpad.

Leadership That Lifts

The ribbon-cutting brought together a powerhouse of leadership and vision, including:

Vice Admiral James W. Crawford III, TSU President James Benham, TSU Board of Regents Chairman Dr. Terence Fontaine, Executive Director of TSU Aviation Dr. Carolyn Evans-Shabazz, Houston City Council Member, District D Chris Hollins, Houston City Controller Scott Hill, Houston Airports Deputy Director of Infrastructure Captain Xavier Samuels, United Airlines and TSU Aviation Advisory Board Chairman Together, they underscored a shared mission: ensuring that students—especially those from historically underserved communities—have direct pathways into high-growth, high-paying industries.

Houston’s Legacy Meets TSU’s Vision

Strategically located at 1775 Hutchinson Drive, just behind the Lone Star Flight Museum, the new TSU facility places students at the epicenter of Houston’s aviation and aerospace ecosystem.

And the timing couldn’t be more perfect.

With Houston continuing to expand its global influence in aviation, space travel, and advanced technology, TSU is ensuring its students are not just participants—but leaders—in shaping that future.

Empowering the Next Generation

Founded in 1927, Texas Southern University has long stood as a pillar of access, opportunity, and excellence. As a special-purpose institution dedicated to urban programming and research, TSU continues to evolve—meeting the moment with bold investments like this one.

The Houston Spaceport campus reflects a powerful truth: Talent is everywhere—but opportunity must be intentional.

With this new facility, TSU is not only training pilots—it’s cultivating innovators, engineers, and trailblazers who will carry Houston’s legacy forward across skies, industries, and generations.

Final Approach: A Bold Takeoff for Houston

As jets lift off from Houston Spaceport, so too will the ambitions of TSU students—fueled by access, excellence, and vision.

In a city that once put a man on the moon, Texas Southern University is ensuring that the future of flight looks more inclusive, more innovative, and more Houston than ever before.

Please note: This story was provided to CNN Wire by an affiliate and does not contain original CNN reporting. This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.

Kierra Lee
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ExxonMobil Houston Giving Campaign Sets Record $16 Million for Greater Houston Nonprofits

CNN Newsource on April 27, 2026

By Lisa Valadez

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    April 27, 2026 (Houston Style Magazine) — The ExxonMobil Houston Giving Campaign has raised a record $16 million to support nonprofits across Greater Houston, marking the highest total in more than 60 years of organized corporate giving. The result reflects a $2.6 million increase from the previous year and includes contributions from employees, retirees, the ExxonMobil Foundation, and company-sponsored fundraising events.

A majority of the funds, $13.3 million, will go to the United Way of Greater Houston to support programs focused on education, workforce development, and essential services for families. The investment is intended to strengthen long-term economic mobility while also addressing immediate needs such as housing stability, food access, and financial assistance for households facing hardship.

United Way leadership noted that the campaign arrives during a period of increased demand for social services across the region, with many families navigating higher costs of living and ongoing economic pressure. The organization described the ExxonMobil campaign as one of its largest and most consistent sources of workplace giving, with broad participation from across the company’s Houston-area workforce.

An additional $1.3 million from the campaign will fund ExxonMobil Foundation initiatives, including STEM scholarships, college readiness programming, and summer learning opportunities through Teen Engineering and Tech Center programs. These efforts are designed to expand access to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education and to support students preparing for postsecondary education and technical careers.

Another $1.4 million was distributed to 768 local nonprofit organizations throughout the region. Food banks received the largest share of employee-directed donations, reflecting continued concern about food insecurity across the Greater Houston area.

Company leadership emphasized that the campaign is driven by employee and retiree participation and represents a long-standing commitment to community investment in the company’s hometown. The effort continues ExxonMobil’s broader philanthropic focus on education, basic needs, and strengthening local nonprofit capacity.

The record-setting total underscores the scale of corporate giving in Houston and the role major employers play in supporting regional social service networks, particularly at a time when nonprofits report sustained demand across multiple service areas.

Please note: This story was provided to CNN Wire by an affiliate and does not contain original CNN reporting. This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.

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4096658446

Houston’s Jazz Future Takes Center Stage: LUCÍA Set to Dazzle at the Eldorado Ballroom

CNN Newsource on April 27, 2026

By Francis Page Jr.

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    April 27, 2026 (Houston Style Magazine) — Houston, get ready—because the next global voice of jazz is about to step into one of the city’s most legendary venues. On Sunday, May 17, 2026, at 5:00 PM and 7:00 PM CT, the iconic Eldorado Ballroom will host an unforgettable evening as DACAMERA presents its Rising Jazz Stars series featuring the sensational LUCÍA.

LUCÍA A Voice That Transcends Borders

At just 23 years old, LUCÍA (Lucía Gutiérrez Rebolloso) is already turning heads across the global music scene. Hailing from Veracruz, Mexico, her sound is a captivating fusion of jazz, Latin heritage, and contemporary pop sensibilities. Her musical roots run deep—she began performing at the age of two in her family’s son jarocho ensemble, laying the foundation for a career that now feels destined for greatness.

Her accolades speak volumes. LUCÍA made history as the first Mexican artist to win the internationally acclaimed Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition, cementing her status as one of the most exciting emerging artists in jazz today. Her debut album showcases a fearless artistry, blending timeless standards like “What a Difference a Day Makes” with Spanish classics such as “La Llorona”, and even fresh interpretations of modern hits by Taylor Swift and Olivia Rodrigo.

Where Legacy Meets What’s Next

The setting for this performance is no coincidence. The Eldorado Ballroom, nestled in the heart of Third Ward, stands as a beacon of Houston’s rich cultural and musical legacy. Once graced by jazz greats, it now welcomes a new generation of artists who are redefining the genre for today’s audiences.

DACAMERA’s Rising Jazz Stars series—launched in November 2024—has quickly become a must-attend cultural experience. Designed to spotlight the brightest emerging talents from across the nation, the series offers an intimate, club-style atmosphere that brings audiences closer to the music—and the moment.

Music for Everyone: A Community-Centered Experience

In true Houston spirit, this event is built on accessibility and community. With DACAMERA’s “Choose What You Pay” ticket model, guests can attend at a price point that works for them, while supporting the organization’s mission to deliver world-class musical experiences to all. A suggested contribution of $50 helps sustain programming and ensures these transformative performances remain within reach for diverse audiences.

A Stellar Ensemble

LUCÍA will be joined by an exceptional trio of musicians:

Fabian Almazan on piano Hamish Smith on bass Julian Miltenberger on drums Together, they promise an evening of rhythm, improvisation, and emotional depth that will resonate long after the final encore.

Don’t Miss the Moment

For Houston Style Magazine readers who appreciate culture, community, and cutting-edge artistry, this is more than a concert—it’s a front-row seat to the future of jazz.

Event Details

What: DACAMERA at the Eldorado: Rising Jazz Stars featuring LUCÍA When: Sunday, May 17, 2026 | 5:00 PM & 7:00 PM CT Where: Eldorado Ballroom, Houston, TX Tickets: Choose What You Pay (Suggested: $50) More Info: Call 713-524-5050 or email boxoffice@dacamera.com Stay Connected: Text DACAMERA to 346-440-4545 for updates

Be there before the world catches on. Experience LUCÍA—live, luminous, and unforgettable.

Please note: This story was provided to CNN Wire by an affiliate and does not contain original CNN reporting. This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.

Kierra Lee
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A Galaxy Reinvented: “The Mandalorian & Grogu” Brings 1920s Grit to Star Wars’ Newest World

CNN Newsource on April 27, 2026

By Francis Page Jr.

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    April 27, 2026 (Houston Style Magazine) — The Force is about to meet fedora-era firepower—and Houston Style Magazine readers, this is the cinematic moment you didn’t know you were waiting for.

As anticipation builds for the theatrical debut of The Mandalorian & Grogu, set to open Friday, May 22, 2026, the legendary Star Wars universe is boldly expanding in a way that feels both nostalgic and strikingly new. This time, it’s not just about galaxies far, far away—it’s about mood, grit, and a daring creative swing inspired by the golden age of gangster cinema.

Welcome to Shakari: Where Star Wars Meets Scorsese

Enter Shakari—a rain-soaked, crime-ridden planet inspired by Prohibition-era Chicago and the cinematic stylings of Martin Scorsese. Designed by production visionary Andrew L. Jones, this new world brings a noir edge to the Star Wars galaxy.

Think shadowy alleys, neon reflections on wet pavement, and a city that never sees sunlight. It’s a bold departure from icy tundras like Hoth or gleaming cityscapes like Coruscant—Shakari feels alive, dangerous, and deliciously cinematic.

Even more intriguing? A mysterious Ardennian character—connected to the species seen in Solo: A Star Wars Story—is rumored to operate a food truck on this gritty world, blending humor and world-building in classic Star Wars fashion.

A Powerhouse Creative Team

Helmed by Jon Favreau and co-written with Dave Filoni, the film continues the beloved journey of Din Djarin, played by Pedro Pascal, alongside everyone’s favorite Force-sensitive companion, Grogu.

The cast also features:

Sigourney Weaver as Colonel Ward Jeremy Allen White as Rotta the Hutt And elevating the emotional depth? A sweeping score by Oscar-winning composer Ludwig Göransson.

With a runtime of approximately 2 hours and 12 minutes, this cinematic chapter promises both action and atmosphere in equal measure.

Blasters, But Make It 1920s

In true Star Wars fashion, innovation meets nostalgia. The film introduces a new class of blaster inspired by the iconic Tommy gun—reimagined with futuristic flair. It’s this fusion of old-world design and sci-fi imagination that keeps the franchise culturally relevant and visually exciting.

Box Office Buzz: A Strong Opening on the Horizon

Industry projections suggest a $90M–$100M three-day opening, with potential to climb even higher over the Memorial Day holiday stretch. For context, that would surpass the opening of Solo while positioning the film for long-term success.

With a reported $166M production budget, analysts estimate profitability within the $332M–$415M global range—a target that feels well within reach given the franchise’s global fanbase and the film’s family-friendly appeal.

Why This Matters for Houston—and Beyond

For Houston’s vibrant, culture-savvy audience, The Mandalorian & Grogu represents more than just another blockbuster—it’s a signal that storytelling is evolving. It’s about blending eras, genres, and artistic influences to create something fresh, bold, and unforgettable.

From the streets of Shakari to theaters across Houston, this film invites audiences to experience Star Wars through a new lens—one that’s darker, richer, and undeniably stylish.

Final Take

As the countdown to May 22 begins, one thing is clear: The Mandalorian & Grogu isn’t just expanding the galaxy—it’s redefining it.

And if Shakari is any indication, the future of Star Wars looks less like a distant fantasy… and more like a cinematic masterpiece dripping in rain, rhythm, and rebellion.

Please note: This story was provided to CNN Wire by an affiliate and does not contain original CNN reporting. This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.

Kierra Lee
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4096658446

Therapy dog Aka supports Hawaii Life Flight’s first responders

CNN Newsource on April 27, 2026

By Kayli Pascal-Martinez

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    HONOLULU (KITV) — Celebrating National Therapy Animal Day, Hawaii Life Flight recognizes the significant contribution of a special four-legged team member who assists first responders in managing job-related stress.

National Therapy Animal Day is on April 30, and Hawaii Life Flight is celebrating Aka, a certified therapy dog who supports first responders across the islands. She provides comfort and connection that helps air medical teams manage the mental and emotional demands of their work.

“Aka has an incredible way of bringing smiles wherever she goes. She adores meeting new people, and you can see how much she genuinely loves connecting with everyone she encounters,” said Amanda Scott, Aka’s handler, flight nurse and Hawaii Life Flight Waimea base manager.

Aka is a 2-year-old bernedoodle who has been part of the Global Medical Response (GMR) Therapy Dog Team for two years. SHe’s named for the Hawaiian phrase ‘ho’o mino’aka,’ meaning ‘to make people smile or bring happiness.’

“Therapy animals like Aka offer something uniquely powerful, an uncomplicated moment of calm, joy, and human connection in the middle of demanding, high-stress work. She has an amazing ability to lift spirits, ease tension, and remind our crews that they’re supported and appreciated. We’re incredibly thankful for the positive energy and quiet strength Aka shares with everyone she meets,” added Scott.

Please note: This story was provided to CNN Wire by an affiliate and does not contain original CNN reporting. This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.

Affordable housing opens for single parents pursuing college degrees

CNN Newsource on April 27, 2026

By Jane Caffrey

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    PHOENIX (KNXV) — A Valley nonprofit is tackling two of the biggest obstacles facing single parents — housing and education — at the same time.

Phoenix Scholar House officially opened its doors on Thursday. It is the first community of its kind in Arizona. The affordable housing is built specifically for single parents pursuing a college degree.

Residents get more than just a roof over their heads. Childcare, education support, and career development are all part of the package. The community is designed to help parents stay in school without having to choose between their kids and their future.

Sierra Chavez-Fiore, a mom of three, is already living there. The full-time nursing student and part-time worker says the stability has changed everything.

“It definitely helps give me that peace of mind, and live stress-free I guess… so I can focus on my school, right? Because my school is very important. I am in a fast-paced program, and so, like, just knowing, like, we’re safe here, and we have a good home,” Chavez-Fiore said.

The project is a partnership between nonprofit Save the Family and Brinshore Development. They call this a blueprint and say they hope to replicate it across Arizona.

Please note: This story was provided to CNN Wire by an affiliate and does not contain original CNN reporting. This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.

Neighbors jump in to evacuate 28 horses as brush fire spreads

CNN Newsource on April 27, 2026

By Jessica Davis

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    SUFFOLK, Virginia (WTKR) — A Suffolk community rallied together to evacuate 28 horses from Harmonia Equestrian on Copeland Road after a nearby brush fire rapidly spread.

The fire burned about 100 acres and took firefighters five hours to contain. The Suffolk Fire Marshal’s Office charged one person with carelessly causing a fire. No injuries were reported, and every horse made it out safely.

Jennifer Rose Musicaro and her daughter Reagan Rose were about to ride horses at their farm when they noticed smoke rising above the trees nearby.

“We were about to pull out the horses and we started seeing smoke in the corner over here,” Musicaro said.

At first, they thought it was a controlled burn, but quickly realized it was not.

“The brush was starting to burn down the powerlines and then there were some side piles of big stacks of logs that were on fire. But as we were checking that out the fire department started so we thought they’re here everything is under control like let’s head back to the farm,” Musicaro said.

The fire spread rapidly, forcing them to evacuate all 28 horses. Musicaro turned to social media for help.

“My husband is away in Maryland with our bigger trailer, if for some reason we have to move horses could the community come and start helping move horses? And within 5 minutes of making that post and showing that video I was flooded with phone calls,” Musicaro said.

In just one hour, every horse on the property was moved to nearby farms. Some were taken to their other property, Kay’s Acres, while others were sheltered by neighbors who offered space.

“A big one was Seahorse, right around the corner. They offered to get us one of their big fields so we were able to put over ten horses over there and then a lot of folks with the small private offered up their farms too,” Musicaro said.

While the evacuation took just an hour, it took most of the next day to bring them all back home. The owners said the rescue would not have been possible without the community.

Please note: This story was provided to CNN Wire by an affiliate and does not contain original CNN reporting. This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.

‘At least 10 structures’ damaged in Miami County during tornado-warned storm

CNN Newsource on April 27, 2026

By JoBeth Davis, Krista Tatschl

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    RICHLAND TOWNSHIP, Kansas (KMBC) — According to the Miami County Sheriff’s Office, “at least 10 structures” sustained damage during tornado-warned storms Sunday night.

Miami County Undersheriff Matt Kelly said at least 10 structures were damaged in the northwest part of the county, most of it along 247th Street stretching between Indianapolis and Pleasant Valley Road.

KMBC 9 News reporter Krista Tatschl says at least seven utility poles are down along the roadway, making the area difficult to access.

One family told KMBC their barn collapsed and blew away.

Utility crews worked to restore power Sunday night, with outages reported mainly outside the town’s main corridor.

An Evergy worker said crews had already checked about 10 homes for damage and expected to work through the night to restore service.

Residents described sudden and intense conditions.

One family said they were away when a neighbor called to report their barn had been destroyed.

Another said they watched the storm until debris began flying sideways.

No injuries were reported.

Flooding also caused problems, especially on low-lying roads.

A business owner along Main Street said heavy rain briefly turned the roadway into what looked like a river.

Please note: This story was provided to CNN Wire by an affiliate and does not contain original CNN reporting. This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.

Volunteers unite from across Oklahoma to help Enid recover from EF4 tornado

CNN Newsource on April 27, 2026

By Patrick Talbot

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    ENID, Oklahoma (KOCO) — Clean up continues in Enid as the city recovers from an EF-4 tornado that hit the community on Thursday evening.

Days later, the damage is still hard to describe. Homes were flattened, windows were blown out and roofs were blown off of houses, and debris remains all across the area.

But people from all across the U.S. and the state of Oklahoma, including Vance Air Force Base, made their way to the Gray Ridge neighborhood to help those impacted by the storm.

“It’s just another part of the job. Our service, it doesn’t stop when we hang our hat when we retire, and our oath extends beyond just our duty day. So, it’s just another part of being a servant to the people,” Patricia Kimball, the volunteer coordinator for the City of Enid, said. “We put out a call the first day on Friday, and within a couple of hours, we already had 150 people from the base say that they could show up, and then by the end of Friday, we had over 400 community members who were signed up, ready to go at a moment’s notice.”

But the volunteers and service members in the community aren’t the only ones stepping up. Support came from all over Oklahoma.

“My biggest encouragement is twofold. One, from the community locally. The churches that are here, the city members that are here, volunteers and leadership both, and then how many people are filling leadership roles within that. I really appreciate that. I’m really encouraged by it. I’m also very encouraged by the state participation,” volunteer Bradley Jennings said. “It’s a really big outpouring. I really love what we’ve got coming from the state of Oklahoma.”

This support showcased the Oklahoma Standard for all to see.

“People coming in asking, ‘Hey, what can I give? What can I do? What is needed over there?’ As well as hearing reports about people just showing up here and doing whatever that they can. So, it was extremely heartwarming,” Kimball said. “It was simply amazing to see how much people care about their community and what they did to step in.”

Enid Fire Chief Jason Currier said the department is extremely appreciative of the response it has seen from volunteers, organizations and Vance Air Force Base.

Please note: This story was provided to CNN Wire by an affiliate and does not contain original CNN reporting. This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.