Senator Seifried recognizes local leaders for tornado preparation, recovery at Claremore Day at the Capitol

OKLAHOMA CITY – Sen. Ally Seifried, R-Claremore, on Thursday commemorated Claremore Day at the Capitol by honoring local emergency management officials, first responders and public servants who played a key role in the city’s tornado response and recovery efforts last year.

Seifried presented a citation on the Senate floor to recognize Claremore leaders for their coordinated and tireless efforts to manage emergency operations, provide aid, and help the city recover after an EF-3 tornado struck on May 25, 2024. The tornado carved a nearly 24-mile path of destruction that inflicted extensive and catastrophic damage to almost 800 homes, numerous local businesses and essential public facilities. Nearly two dozen people were injured, including several residents who sustained critical, life-threatening injuries.

To honor the local officials who were crucial to the city’s recovery, Seifried invited them to the Senate chamber to be publicly recognized by the full Senate.

Seifried recognized Claremore City Manager John Feary, Assistant City Manager Stan Brown, City Electric Director Todd Rue, Police Chief Steve Cox, Fire Chief Sean Douglas, Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Barby Myers, County Commissioner Dan Delozier and Rogers County Emergency Management Director Scotty Stokes and Deputy Director Steve Massey. She also thanked the Cherokee Nation for the tribe’s support and help in the tornado’s aftermath.

“Claremore’s response to the May 25 tornado exemplifies the resilience and unity of our community,” Seifried said. “The coordinated efforts of local leaders to keep residents safe and help them recover and rebuild have been nothing short of extraordinary. I’ve heard from people across the state who praised the city's exceptional emergency response efforts. It was a true honor to recognize these leaders at the Capitol for their dedication and service to the city of Claremore and all its residents.”

-END-

For more information, contact: Sen. Ally Seifried at (405) 521-5555 or Ally.Seifried@oksenate.gov