Saturday, Sept. 21st

 

SCOOP, Stack Continues Seeing High-Producing Wells

Continental Resources and Marathon Oil are both boasting of oil well sites producing 1,000 barrels of oil per day. Continental files  a report with the Oklahoma Corporation Commission that indicate two wells just east of Chickasha had a combined production of more than 1,100 barrels of oil and nearly 2,200 metric cubic feet of natural gas on a daily basis. The Jantz Family well and the Nancy J well are in the Springer formation in Section 33 of Township 7 North and Range 6 West. The wells were both spudded and completed between January and April. The website www.okenergytoday.com reports the drilling depths were about 22,000 feet and 25,000 feet. Marathon reported that a well northeast of Watonga was producing more than 1,000 barrels of oil per day out of the Mississippi Lime play. That well is just over 20,000 feet deep.

 

Two Firms OK Natural Gas Supply Agreement              

In other energy news, Cheniere Energy has signed a gas supply agreement with EOG Resources. Cheniere is building a $1 billion natural gas pipeline through the SCOOP and STACK regions, to deliver natural gas to the Durant area and eventually to the Gulf Coast. EOG recently reported three Grady County wells on a single pad producing 4,200 barrels of oil per day. The agreement is for EOG to sell natural gas to Cheniere over a 15-year period starting in 2020.

 

Stephens County Man Convicted of Child Sex Crimes

A Marlow man is convicted of several sex crimes against children. A Stephens County jury found Mathew Hale guilty of charges which include child sexual abuse and possession of child porn. The FBI arrested Hale two years ago and found a photo on Hale’s computer of him with a nine-year old girl. The jury has recommended that Hale spend life in prison. His formal sentencing will be held November 7th.

 

Woman Charged in Connection with Oil Field Theft

A Chickasha woman is arrested after a felony warrant was issued for her alleged involvement with concealing stolen property. 43-year old Jennifer Bullington was booked into the Grady County jail Thursday. The warrant was issued earlier in the week after an investigation by the Grady County Sheriff's Office. Authorities say Bullington was linked to the theft of numerous items from a Blanchard area well site back in May. Bullington is out of jail after posting bond.

 

Sheriff's Office Updates Warrant List

The Grady County Sheriff's Office has released an updated list of individuals who have outstanding warrants. Here's Public Information Officer Lisa Hatchett.

 

              

 

If you have information regarding any of these individuals you're asked to contact the sheriff's office by calling 405-222-5085.

 

Talk Show Topic            

Here's what we're talking about this weekend. District Attorney Jason Hicks is this week's guest on our KOOL Konversation. We have a link to the program under the Community tab on this website.

 

Friday, Sept. 20th

 

Teen Arrested for Making Threats at School

A Bridge Creek teenager was arrested after making threats at school. The middle school student was taken into custody after classes had been dismissed Thursday. The Grady County Sheriff's Office posted information about the arrest on its Facebook page. School officials postponed the start of last night's junior high football games until the student was located. It wasn't clear what kind of threats the student made. The social media post indicated that in today's climate the threat had to be taken seriously and to find out if it was credible. Officials said the district attorney was notified and the teen would be evaluated.

 

Consumer Spending Mixed in Grady County Area

There is mixed news for consumer spending in the region. It was lower throughout Grady County in the most recent reporting period but up in Chickasha according to the latest numbers from the Oklahoma Tax Commission. In Grady County, consumer spending for July was estimated at $110 million which was down about 24 percent from the previous month and down about 9 percent compared to the same time a year ago. For the City of Chickasha, consumer spending was estimated at $30.1 million in July which was up about 5.8 percent from the previous month and an increase of about 3 percent from July of last year. As far as sales tax receipts, Grady County received about $826,000 in sales tax revenue this month (based on the July consumer spending). Chickasha collected more than $1.1 million. Use Tax receipts - those paid on Internet purchases - were about $131,000 for Grady County and more than $88,000 for the City of Chickasha.

 

OSU Extension Funding Concerns Aired

At the state capital on Thursday, there were a couple of interim studies to discuss concerns about funding for OSU County Extension offices. Offices have undergone several cuts in funding over the last decade which has led to fewer staff members at the county level. Currently, the funding comes through the state regents for higher education. State Rep. Tommy Hardin of Madill says he'll work to have the appropriations moved to another area.

 

              

 

Former State Senator Ron Justice of Chickasha addressed lawmakers and said that extension research is still relevant and that it’s important for county extension offices to get that information to farmers and ranchers.

 

Weekend Events in Chickasha, Anadarko

There are a lot of events taking place in the Chickasha and Anadarko areas this weekend. In Chickasha, there’s a huge car show tomorrow with the Saturday Night Cruisers. It's a day-long event in the parking lot of the First Baptist Church at 4th and Colorado Avenue. The Chickasha Antique Auto Club will have its monthly coffee and cars from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Saturday at Daniel Terry's Pro Auto Care  in the Grandview Shopping Center next to the Stage Store. The Grady County Historical Society Museum celebrates the Smithsonian Magazine's Museum Day with a day of live music starting at 1:00 p.m. The Chickasha Chamber of Commerce will hold its final outdoor summer concert tomorrow night with Weston Horn and the Hush, a free concert beginning at 7:00 p.m. at 3rd and Chickasha Avenue. And at the Legends Outdoor Concert venue, Steven Adler, who played drums for the rock and roll group Guns and Roses is scheduled to play with his new band. Tickets required for that event tomorrow night.

Anadarko Events

In Anadarko tomorrow, the Anadarko Chamber of Commerce will host Wings and Wheels at the Anadarko Airport. There will be free airplane rides for kids 8 to 18 years old and food vendors will be on site from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Another event in Anadarko will be a program for those who like to literally dig into the past. The Wichita and Affiliated Tribes and researchers with the University of Oklahoma will host an archaeology event at the Wichita History Center. Visitors will be able to bring in artifacts or interesting items they have found to see if they can find out what they are and also to learn about preserving the culture of the ancient Plains Dwellers. It's a free program will be from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Saturday.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $58.13 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $64.40.

Natural gas slips to $2.53 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,511 and silver is $17.95.

 

 

Thursday, Sept. 19^th

 

Grady Memorial, Blue Cross Still Negotiating Contract

Families with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma insurance continue being concerned about the stalled negotiations between Blue Cross and Grady Memorial Hospital. A contract for Grady Memorial to be in-network with Blue Cross expired earlier this year. However, the two sides have agreed to honor the previous contract through Oct. 28th. Blue Cross issued a statement saying families will have access to other in-network hospitals in the area after that date. Grady Memorial Hospital administrator Kean Spellman says families would still be able to go to Grady Memorial but will have to pay out-of-network rates. That means co-payments could increase, perhaps by as much as 20 percent. Spellman says Blue Cross has not responded to his most recent counter-offer, as he fights for a higher re-imbursement rate. He said it's possible that Blue Cross could wait right up until the Oct. 28th deadline to respond.

 

Woman Enters Blind Plea in Child Neglect Case

You may recall an awful case of child neglect from the Fletcher area a couple of years ago. A bed-ridden teen was stuck to her bed with multiple wounds and covered in cockroach eggs, feces, and urine. Reports at the time even indicated part of her buttocks was missing. The teen was hospitalized in critical condition. Authorities arrested Margo Zill and she was charged with one felony count of child neglect. On-line court records indicate she was scheduled to go to trial later this month. Instead, Zill entered a blind plea to the charge in Comanche County District Court. A judge could sentence her to life in prison. Her sentencing has been scheduled for Dec. 4th.

 

Update on Some ODOT Road Projects

Look for more regional road repairs in the future by the State Department of Transportation. State Rep. Brad Boles says upgrades on State Highway 19 west of Alex is among them. Right-of-way acquisition is now underway along eight miles of the highway. Appraisal of properties should be done late next year, with the reconstruction expected to begin in 2023. Boles said current projects nearing completion include the installation of a cable barrier on U.S. Highway 81 in Ninnekah at a cost of $4.3 million, and a resurfacing project of a four-mile section of State Highway 92 in the Friend area which is a $1.3 million project.

 

USAO Announces New VP of Academic Affairs

A familiar face at USAO has been named the university's interim Vice President for Academic Affairs. Dr. Donna Gower has been a member of the faculty for more than 10 years. She previously served as the chairman of the division of education and speech language pathology, the director of teacher education, and director of assessment. In a press release, USAO President John Feaver said that Gower has proven her dedication to the university, and recognized her background as a renowned educator and administrator. Gower fills the post after Dr. Krista Maxson accepted the position as vice chancellor of the Ohio State Department of Education.

 

Anadarko BIA Office Gets Technology Upgrade

The Bureau of Indian Affairs office in Anadarko is the first BIA office in the country to have better access to a national database. The Tribal Access Program is a state-of-the-art system which will allow agents to take mugshots, process finger and palm prints, and have improved access to the National Crimes Information Computer (NCIC). The Lawton Constitution reports that the system will also better ensure the safety of children placed in foster care. Before a tribe can place a child with a foster family, the Native American Children's Safety Act requires that all adults in foster homes undergo a criminal records check, and a check of tribal and state abuse-and-neglect registries. BIA Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs Tara Sweeney was on hand for the unveiling of the system. All 28 BIA offices nationwide will eventually have the same system.  

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $58.11 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $63.60.

Natural gas is $2.63 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,504 and silver is $17.74.

 

 

Wednesday, Sept. 18th

 

Search for Chix Schools Superintendent Underway

Chickasha residents share what qualities they think a new school superintendent should have. Consultants working with the Chickasha Board of Education spent the day Tuesday meeting with residents, business and civic leaders, and even school employees to develop a check list of personality and leadership traits they would like to see with a  new administrator. Stephanie Hyder is the Director of Executive Search Services with the Oklahoma State School Boards Association. That's the group hired by the Chickasha school board to find qualified candidates for the post. She discusses the next step in the process.

 

              

 

The group will accept applications and resumes from September 30^th through November 8th. They will recommend four to eight candidates for the school board to interview between mid-November and late December. A new superintendent could be named in January or February, but may not be on board until next school year. Currently, the district is being led by interim Superintendent Jennifer Stegman.

 

Pre-Trial Conference Set for School Official

Who is Accused of Domestic Violence

The superintendent of Ninnekah schools has a pre-trial conference today, as he prepares to face a jury trial on a felony domestic abuse charge. The conference for Todd Bunch stems from his arrest last summer in connection with allegations that he assaulted a woman in Lindsay and tried to smother her with a pillow. The conference is scheduled this afternoon in Garvin County District Court in Pauls Valley. Bunch was initially charged with a misdemeanor but prosecutors have since charged him with a felony. Bunch has remained on the job at Ninnekah schools. The Ninnekah Board of Education issued a statement saying they believed in due process, and that Bunch is innocent until proven guilty. Bunch's trial is scheduled to start on Monday.

 

Suicide Prevention Program Scheduled

Suicide is the 8th leading cause of death in Oklahoma and in 2017 resulted in more deaths than the flu. A program this weekend hopes to raise awareness about suicide in hopes of providing help to those considering taking their own lives. Melanie McKinley is a counselor with Grand Assembly of God. She points to several situations where an individual may choose death over life.

 

              

 

The church will host a free program Saturday called Overcomer. A couple of guest speakers will discuss the warning signs of individuals who may be considering suicide and how to intervene. Registration starts at 8 a.m. with the program running from 9 a.m. to noon.

 

New 'Compass' Can be Seen at Chix Airport

The Chickasha Airport has a bright, new huge compass painted on its taxiway. This past weekend, about a dozen members of the Oklahoma Chapter of the 99s, a female pilots group, gathered at the airport to paint the 70-foot in diameter compass 'rose' and refresh the “Chickasha”  lettering also on the taxiway. Compass rose markings are designed to help calibrate compasses in airplanes which is required each year by the Federal Aviation Administration. The 99s is an international organization of license women pilots with headquarters in Oklahoma City.

              

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $59.34 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $64.55.

Natural gas is $2.66 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,509 and silver is $17.94.

 

 

Tuesday, Sept. 17th

 

City Council Extends Contract with Water Group

The contractor hired by the City of Chickasha for water treatment services will continue its work for an additional five years. Last night, the city council approved a five-year extension of its contract with the USW Utility Group. Mayor Chris Mosley said the company has made a lot of progress with the city's equipment as well as the city’s water quality.

 

              

 

The Oklahoma Water Resources Board has recognized that Chickasha's water is among the best in the state. USW executive Mike Jump acknowledges there have been a few problems with water quality this year and says it is due in part to some equipment issues at the plant as well as flooding. He says some equipment repairs are expected to be completed in the next few weeks. The current contract with USW expires in June of 2020. The contract extension will run through June of 2025. The contract calls for the city to pay USW about $750,000 per year for its services. (EDITOR'S NOTE - That figure is a corrected from a story published Monday, September 16th. We apologize for the mistake)

 

City Land Sale Approved for RV Park

The city council also approved the sale of some city-owned land to Paul and Jan Knight. For years, the Knights have leased about four acres of land from the city to operate the Time Out RV Park. The Knights have previously tried to purchase the property but were turned down. Last night, the council approved the sale of about 5 1/2 acres of land to the Knights for about $7,000 per acre. The purchase will allow the Kinghts to add about 20 spaces to the RV park. Paul Knight said the expansion probably won't happen until next spring.

 

Firm to Study Storm Water Drainage

The council also approved an agreement with Smith, Roberts, and Baldischwiler LLC for engineering services on a storm water drainage study. Fire Chief Brian Zalewski said it will be the most detailed study of the city in more than 60 years. It's hoped the study might be able offer some solutions which might alleviate flooding problems the city has experienced over the years.

 

Firefighter's Funeral Set

The funeral for a volunteer firefighter killed in a non-fire related traffic accident is set. 21-year old Blaine Alexander died when his pickup was hit by a semi near Ft. Cobb last week. Alexander was a volunteer with Grady County's Acme fire department which is near Rush Springs. Firefighters from the region and the around state are expected to honor Alexander at the funeral which will be at 2:00 p.m. Thursday at the Sterling High School gymnasium. Grady County fire officials say an initial staging of fire trucks will organize at the Hop N Sack in Rush Springs about 1:00 p.m. Thursday and will caravan to Sterling. Some departments may meet at the school prior to the service. After Thursday's funeral, there will be a graveside service for Alexander at the Woodlawn Cemetery.

 

Native American Activist to Visit USAO

The challenges that Native Americans face in the 21st century will be discussed at USAO next week. Lyla June, a Native American activist, musician, and poet, will be the keynote speaker for the annual Abelson Religious Reconciliation lecture. A USAO press release indicates that June is a student of global cycles of violence, and the destructive relationships between human beings and nature. June founded the Taos Peace and Reconciliation Council to help heal the inter-generational trauma and ethnic division in northern New Mexico. She also takes part in a 1,000-mile prayer walk which exposes how various energy industries have exploited the Navajo Nation's land.  The renowned hip hop artist and singer-songwriter also founded the Regeneration Festival, an annual celebration of children held every September in 13 countries. June's lecture will be next Tuesday, Sept. 24th at 7:00 p.m. in the USAO ballroom. It is free and open to the public.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $62.90 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $69.02.

Natural gas is $2.68 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,505 and silver is $17.91.

 

 

Monday, Sept. 16th

 

Man Dies Following Turnpike Motorcycle Crash              

There have been a lot of motorcycle accidents this summer, and there were two more over the weekend with one of them claiming the life of an Oklahoma man. Killed in a crash on the H.E. Bailey Turnpike was 71-year old Richard McDonald of Broken Arrow. The accident happened about nine miles southwest of Chickasha on the turnpike near Mile Marker 71 about 4:15 p.m. Sunday. A report from the trooper responding to the crash indicated that McDonald may have had a medical issue that caused him to run off the highway and crash.

 

Another Bike Accident Hospitalizes Rush Springs Man              

A second crash involving a motorcycle injured a Rush Springs man. 53-year old Nicholas Jackson was air-lifted to an Oklahoma City hospital and was last in serious condition with head injuries. That accident happened just west of Elgin about 4:30 p.m. Saturday. The OHP said Jackson swerved to miss an unidentified object then ran off the road and rolled. He was not wearing his helmet.

 

Contract for Chix' Water Treatment Firm Up for Renewal              

(EDITOR'S NOTE - This is a correction to the version published Monday, September 16th. The previous story had an error regarding the annual payment. We apologize for the mistake)

It's contract renewal time for the firm that treats the City of Chickasha's drinking water and waste water. The city council is expected to sign off on a five-year extension of the contract with USW Utility Group when the council meets tonight. The current five-year contract is set to expire next June. The city pays USW more than $750,000 a year for water treatment services.

 

Proposed Land Sale Back on Council Agenda              

The council is also to consider selling about 5 1/2 acres of city-owned land to Paul and Jan Knight. The Knight's have leased acreage from the city for 13 years to operate the Time Out RV Park at Ada Sipuel Avenue and Grand Avenue Extension. The issue was tabled from a meeting earlier this month. The council is also expected to waive bidding requirements in order to have PSO install a three-phase electrical distribution system at Shannon Springs Park. The council meets at 6:30 p.m. tonight at city hall.

 

Input Sought Regarding Chix School Superintendent

Consultants who are working to find candidates to be the next superintendent for Chickasha schools will be in town tomorrow to get local input. The school board contracted with the Oklahoma State School Boards Association to do a nationwide search for candidates. The consultants will meet with business leaders, school administrators, teachers, and school employees in the afternoon, then will hold an inter-active community meeting tomorrow night. Individuals are encouraged to bring their laptops, tablets, or use their smart phone to provide instant feedback during the program That community meeting will be at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday at the Canadian Valley Technology Center.

 

Blanchard Sup't. Looks Foward to School Growth

Blanchard School Superintendent Jim Beckham is ready to move forward with the projects approved by school district voters last week. Voters passed a $31 million bond issue by a two-to-one margin. The projects include a new auditorium/performing arts center and a new football stadium.

 

              

 

Also part of the bond issue is a new middle school cafeteria that will double as a safe room, and some new classrooms at the elementary school. Groundbreaking is not likely for any of the projects until next spring.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $54.85 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $60.22.

Natural gas was up to $2.61 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,512 and silver is $17.93.

 

 

Saturday, Sept. 14th

 

State's Higher Education Chancellor to Step Down              

The leader of Oklahoma's colleges and universities has announced he'll be retiring. Higher Education Chancellor Glen Johnson made the announcement yesterday.  Johnson will be stepping down in December of next year. Gov. Kevin Stitt recently called for Johnson to be replaced. Johnson spent 12 years leading colleges and universities in Oklahoma and previously served as president of Southeastern Oklahoma State University. He also served in the state legislature which included a stint as Speaker of the House. In reaction to Johnson's announcement, USAO president John Feaver said Johnson leaves a legacy of impeccably honorable service. Feaver said Johnson’s accomplishments are a matter of record and that he can personally attest to Johnson’s commitment to the process of enhancing the quantities and qualities of Oklahoma's social and economic well-being.

 

Local PEO Groups Celebrate Sesquicentennial

A number of women in Grady County are part of an international sisterhood which is dedicated to furthering the education of women. They are part of what's called PEO, which is short for Philanthropic Educational Organization. PEO groups around the world are celebrating its 150^th anniversary this year. There are four PEO groups in Chickasha. Pat Hoffman is president of the group that has the longest history in Chickasha. It's been around for 85 years. Hoffman said the group has provided thousands of dollars in scholarships to local women.

 

              

 

PEO also has a four-year women's college in Iowa. The international group is holding annual convention this week in Iowa.

 

1st Responder Cook-off Underway in Blanchard

Today is a big day of barbecue in Blanchard, as first responders show off their cooking skills in the inaugural First Responders Cook-off. The Blanchard Chamber of Commerce invited teams of two for the event. Each team pays an entry fee of $100 to compete for bragging rights. All the meat is being supplied at no charge to the cookers including ribs, pork loin, and pork butt. Teams will have all day to smoke their selections. Live music and kids activities will start at 5:00 p.m. at Lions Park, and wrist bands will be available for $5 for those who want to delve into the smoked barbecue fray.

 

Sheriff's Office Most Wanted List 

The Grady County Sheriff’s Office has updated its list of individuals who have outstanding warrants. Here’s Public Information Officer Lisa Hatchett.

 

              

 

If you have information regarding any of these individuals you’re asked to contact the sheriff’s office by calling 405-222-5085.

 

Friday Night Football Scores

Chickasha 44, Harrah 8

Blanchard 13, Anadarko 0

Tuttle 35, Plainview 28

Minco 14, Crossings Chr. 6

Rush Springs 12, Cordell 0

Dibble 20, Lexington 12

Alex 55, Central 8

MVG 32, Cyril 20

Lindsay 42, Bridge Creek 21

Marlow 20, Cache 7

 

 

Friday, Sept. 13th

 

Volunteer Fireman Dies in Crash

A fatal crash between a semi and a pickup claims the life of a volunteer Grady County firefighter. Jeffrey Alexander was serving with the Acme fire department near Rush Springs. The 21-year old from Marlow died in the non-fire related crash that happened about 1:30 p.m. Thursday about six miles south of Ft. Cobb. The trooper on the scene indicated the driver of the semi failed to yield from a stop sign and hit Alexander's pickup. Alexander was ejected from his truck and was pinned underneath. A  passenger riding with him, 47-year old Earl Alexander also of Marlow was not injured. The driver of the semi, 40-year old Chad Payne of Altus, also was not hurt.

 

Motorcycle Crash Victim Succumbs to Injuries

A Chickasha woman has died from her injuries after two motorcycles collided during the Labor Day holiday weekend. Bobbi Jo Martin passed away Wednesday, about a week and a half after being critically injured. Her husband Jack remains hospitalized. Two others involved in the crash were also seriously injured.  Jimmy and Sabra Martin are at home recovering. The funeral service for Bobbi Jo Martin is pending.

 

Competency Hearing Set for Man

Alleged to Have Assaulted Police Officers

A mental competency hearing  has been ordered for an Anadarko man charged with assaulting a police officer. 43-year old Zachary Joseph Niastor was taken into custody recently after a warrant was issued for his arrest. Niastor is charged with two counts of assault on an officer after a felony conviction. Niastor was arrested after police were called to investigate an unwanted person at a home earlier this week. The suspect identified as Niastor managed to elude authorities on foot, but was later taken into custody. The competency hearing is set for Oct. 10th.

 

Chickasha Health Care Firm Expands

A Chickasha-based health care firm has doctors who still make house calls. And the group has recently expanded with the acquisition of a similar company in Kansas. Physician House Calls was founded in Chickasha six years ago by Hank Ross and the home office still here. In addition to serving 21 counties in Oklahoma, the company now covers most of south-central Kansas after the acquisition  of Mobile Medical out of Wichita. Ross created his company after seeing a study by Medicare which indicated that by putting primary care physicians in patients' homes, the patients can save 37 percent of their annual health care costs. Ross said that about  one out of every eight Medicare patients qualify. In addition to the new market in Kansas, Ross says he has plans for even more growth.

 

              

 

Ross says the company has 50 employees in the Chickasha office right now and that could increase to 120 by the end of next year.

 

Zoning Change Requests Pass First Hurdle              

A couple of requests for zoning changes are being recommended by the Chickasha Planning Commission. The panel is suggesting that Hoffman Land LLC be approved to re-zone some residential property in the 1200 block of North 16th Street to light industry use. The group also supports a request from Bill McDuff to re-zone some general commercial property in the 200 block of North 6th Street to light industrial use. The proposals now go to the Chickasha City Council for consideration and they are expected to be discussed during the group's Oct. 7th meeting.

              

Food Truck Wins Another State Fair Crown

A Chickasha restaurant and its food truck are again winners at the State Fair of Oklahoma. The Urb Express, part of the InterUrban Restaurant, wins first place in the Slice of Savory category with its Honey Pepper Bacon Dog. Owner Josh Woods says it’s the third straight year for the Urb Express to earn a first place prize.

 

Talk Show Topics

Here’s what we’re talking about this weekend. Melanie McKinley and Stacy Maxwell with Grand Assembly of God will be on our KOOL Konversation to talk about the church’s Overcomer seminar, which will discuss suicide and suicide prevention. On Real Estate Today with John Mosley Grady County Sheriff Jim Weir, Undersheriff Phil Blevins, and Sheriff’s Office Public Information Officer Lisa Hatchett are on the program. We have links to both programs under the Community tab on this website.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $55.09 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $60.38.

Natural gas is $2.57 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,514 and silver is $18.25.

 

 

Thursday, Sept. 12th

 

Chickasha Mayor Touts Downtown Development

Chickasha leaders are moving forward with plans to make the downtown area a more popular place for shopping and recreational activities. In his State-of-the-City address yesterday, Mayor Chris Mosley said they are making some progress with that effort thanks to the combined efforts of the city and the economic development council. Recent development near the railroad depot includes a new microbrewery which will be opening in time for the Rock Island Arts Festival in October. Mosley also said they are looking at creating a new park on 9 acres of land next to the depot however private investors will be needed for that to happen.

 

              

 

Mosley also talked about the recent action of the city council to sell 20 acres of city-owned property near the Grady County Fairgrounds for both residential and commercial development. He also discussed  recent talks with officials from the Oklahoma Department of Transportation who say that at least part of the U.S. Highway 81 west bypass of Chickasha is expected to be completed in the next six to eight years.

 

Driver Run Over by his Own SUV

An Anadarko man was hospitalized after being run over by the SUV he had been driving. The accident happened at a Cyril gas station Tuesday night. 50-year old Johnny Moore suffered head, arm, and leg and some internal injuries and was last in good condition. A report from the highway patrol indicates that Moore had stopped to fuel his SUV and failed to put the vehicle in park. When he got out the SUV began moving, knocked Moore down and ran over him. The SUV ended up across the street from the gas station.

 

Stephens County Voters Extend Fairgrounds Sales Tax

Voters in Stephens County have approved an extension of a county sales tax which benefits the county fairgrounds in Duncan. By a nearly three-to-one margin, voters passed the one-fourth of a penny sales tax for an additional 20 years. It will expire in the year 2041. Recently the sales tax has brought in more than $300,000 a month to support operations of the fairgrounds. Officials with the Duncan Chamber of Commerce indicate the events held at the fairgrounds brings in about $60 million in tourism dollars each year. By comparison, Grady County's one-fourth of a penny sales tax for the Grady County Fairgrounds is also bringing in about $300,000 per month. Those funds are being used to pay for the climate-controlled event center that opened a few years ago.

 

State Has Fewer Polluted Streams

A new report shows that Oklahoma leads the nation in eliminating polluted streams. The Oklahoma Conservation Commission reports that 12 new streams have been removed from the polluted category. The group says the total number of streams removed from the list has grown to 84 since 2007. Officials site a partnership with USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service, the Environmental Protection Agency, the State Secretary of Energy and Environment, and the conservation commission for the improvement of the state's waterways.

 

Military Vets Gather on 9/11 Anniversary

Military veterans gathered at the Grady County DAV headquarters in Chickasha yesterday, and many recalled the sacrifices made by veterans and their families over the years. The group also paused in memoriam for the 18^th anniversary of the September 11, 2011 terrorist attack on American soil. Three veterans were awarded Quilts of Valor from Grady County OHCE. They were 101-year old Gordon Spangler, Harold Gillenwaters, and KOOL/RANCH radio personality Joe McIntosh. Each of the quilts took about 120 hours of labor to complete.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $55.75 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $60.81.

Natural gas is $2.55 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,511 and silver if $18.29.

 

 

 

 

Wednesday, Sept. 11th

 

Voters Approve Area School Bond Issues

Voters put their stamps of approval on bond issues for a few school districts in the region yesterday. In Blanchard, voters said yes to a $31 million bond issue that will fund big projects to include a new performing arts center and a new football stadium - both of which will be on the high school campus. The measure received 66 percent voter approval, 599 to 309. The new football stadium will replace the one at the Oscar Brooks Sports Complex and will initially have a grass field. Officials say they may go to artificial turf later. It also includes a new cafeteria which will double as a safe room at the middle school, as well as some new classrooms at the elementary school. There will be no property tax increases to fund this bond issue as a previous issue will expire before the new one takes effect.

Carnegie Voters Say Yes to School Upgrades

In Carnegie, voters narrowly approve a $5.4 million bond issue for new heat and air units and roofs at the high school and middle school, a safe room at the elementary school, and secure entry points in all schools. That measure passed with 62 percent of the vote, 243 to 147 which was just nine votes over the required 60 percent approval needed for passage.

 Hinton Voters Pass Transportation Bond             

In Hinton, voters approved a more than $900,000 transportation bond with 68 percent of the vote, 118 to 55.

Apacher Voters OK PSO Franchise Extension

Apache voters overwhelmingly approve a 25-year extension of a franchise agreement with Public Service Company of Oklahoma. it was a very low turnout, with less than 60 voters going to the polls. The measure passed 52-4.

 

Chix Mayor to Give 'State-of-the-City' Address              

Chickasha Mayor Chris Mosley will be taking a look back and a look forward in a State-of-the-City address this morning. Mosley will reflect on the past year's activity, and share what's in store in the coming months, and some long-term goals city officials are developing. The first-term mayor is delivering his message to business leaders this morning at the Canadian Valley Technology Center, in a presentation hosted by the Chamber of Commerce.

 

$12 Million Budget OK'd for Grady County Government

A budget of more than $12 million has been approved for Grady County government offices. The Grady County Excise Board signed off on the spending plan yesterday. That's a 30 percent increase over the previous year. The biggest increase in the budget is for capital improvements for the courthouse, growing from $2.5 million last year to more than $4.5 million this year. It's expected that much of that money will be used to renovate the top floor of the courthouse, since the old jail that used to be there has been closed (inmates were moved to a new jail annex this past summer). The sheriff's office budget increased about 18 percent, from $1.6 million last year to $1.9 million this year. Sheriff Jim Weir said among the reasons for the increase is the transfer of one courthouse employee to the sheriff's office. He said it also includes salaries for three deputies who serve as resource officers for Chickasha and Bridge Creek schools, and the Canadian Valley Technology Center. Those school districts will reimburse the sheriff's office for most of those salaries. Weir also said he has added a new deputy to help cut down on heavy truck traffic on county roads with a size-and-weights officer.

 

              

 

Weir said county commissioners will purchase the $30,000 in scales and other equipment needed for the deputy.

 

Livestock Producers May Have Suffered Drought Loss

The summer drought likely had a negative effect on some livestock producers. Mark Jackson with the Grady County Farm Service Agency says producers who have what's known as grass pasture NAP coverage might consider filing a notice of loss.

 

              

 

Jackson said producers need to report any losses within 15 days of when the loss occurred. He said the 2018 Farm Bill re-instated NAP, or the Non-Insured Assistance Program with 50 percent or more coverage levels.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $57.40 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $62.38.

Natural gas is $2.58 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,500 and silver is $18.20.

 

 

Tuesday, Sept. 10th

 

Blanchard Voters Deciding $31 Million School Bond Issue

A new auditorium and a new football stadium would be built for Blanchard Public Schools, if voters give their approval today. The facilities are part of a $31 million bond issue being decided in a special election that is underway. In addition to a new performing arts center and the football stadium at the high school, the measure would build some safe rooms at the middle school and new classrooms at other school sites. Polls are open until 7 o'clock tonight.

 

Elections Also Underway in Carnegie, Hinton, Apache

Carnegie and Hinton have school bond elections today as well. There is a $5.4 million proposal in Carnegie for school improvements and a more than $900,000 transportation bond proposal in Hinton. Resident in Apache are also going to the ballot box today to decide if a franchise agreement with Public Service Company of Oklahoma should be extended.

 

New Church Bolsters Chix Building Report

New construction in Chickasha last month got a boost with a project for a new church. The city's Community Development Department approved 12 permits totaling more than $900,000 in August. At the top of the list is the total renovation of a former church at 9th and Grand Avenue. Contractors for Victory Family Church have totally gutted that building, and have started construction on what is a $500,000 project. Other commercial and industrial projects include a $110,000 building permit for Traca Conrad in the 3600 block of South 16th for a proposed 4,200 sq. ft. puppy spa and kennel. Wal-Mart was ok'd for a $40,000 renovation for its electronics and entertainment department; and Bordwine Development picked up a $5,000 permit for some temporary offices on Pikes Peak Road. In residential construction, one new single-family home was permitted for Merrick Home Construction for $210,000 near 20th and Carolina. For the first eight months of the year city officials have approved $9.4 million in new construction. That’s about half the total through the first eight months of last year.

 

Re-zoning Requests to get Public Hearings Today              

A couple of public hearings for re-zoning requests will be held by the Chickasha Planning Commission this afternoon. Hoffman Land LLC hopes to re-zone some residential property to light industrial use at 1201 N. 16th Street. Bill McDuff is asking to re-zone some general commercial property at 202 N. 6th Street to light industrial use. The Planning Commission can only make recommendations on re-zoning requests. Regardless of their ruling, issues are sent to the city council which will decide if the rezoning requests should be approved.

              

Utility Poles Stolen from the City of Anadarko              

Now a story about a strange burglary in Anadarko where thieves stole nearly 30 utility poles. City Manager Kenneth Corn said it wasn't someone who just drove by and wanted a pole or two. He said it had to be a planned theft, as the perpetrators had to use some pretty big equipment. The poles are worth about $6,000. Corn said the poles had some unique markings of a red spray paint mark and a silver logo...unless the thieves have removed them. Anyone with information about the theft is asked to call the Anadarko Police Department by calling 405-247-2411.

 

Chix School Board to Review USAO, Redlands Pacts

Agreements between Chickasha Public Schools and a couple of regional colleges will be reviewed by the Chickasha school board tonight. Memorandums of understanding with both USAO and Redlands Community College are on the agenda for tonight's monthly board of education meeting. The panel is also to discuss the district's projected budget and estimate of needs for the current school year, and will get an update on the search for a new superintendent. Consultants with the Oklahoma Secondary School Boards Association will be in Chickasha next week to get community input regarding a new top administrator for the district. Officials will meet with the school board, administrators and teachers during the day. An inter-active forum for Chickasha residents will be next Tuesday, Sept. 17th at the Canadian Valley Technology Center, starting at 6:30 p.m. Those wishing to attend are encouraged to bring lap tops, tablets, or can use their cel phones to provide immediate feedback during the session.

 

Grady County 4H Cloverbuds Set First Meeting

Grady County's 4H Cloverbuds program has a lot of activities scheduled over the next few months. Cortney Evans with the Faithwalkers 4H Club is the youth leader for the program, and explains who Cloverbuds is for.

 

              

 

The group will meet the third Thursday of every month, starting next Monday, Sept. 16^th at the Grady County OSU Extension Office in Chickasha at 5:30 p.m. In that first meeting they'll be learning about wheat and how wheat is made into flour, then will make their own flour tortillas.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $57.85 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $62.59.

Natural gas is $2.58 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,502 and silver is $18.05.

 

 

Monday, Sept. 9th

 

Caregiver Accused of Taking Thousands from Employer              

A caretaker for an elderly Cyril man is accused of taking thousands of dollars from his bank account. Authorities are looking for 67-year old Valoris Marie Tieyah. Caddo County authorities issued a warrant for her arrest last week. She's wanted for exploiting an elderly person after the victim told investigators that nearly $23,000 had been taken. Cyril police allege the victim was initially in rehabilitation, then became ill and needed help with preparing meals, cleaning house, and paying bills. He hired Tieyah as a home care person, and reports indicate the money was taken out of his bank account over a three-month period last year. If convicted of exploitation, Tieyah faces up to 10 years in prison and up to a $10,000 fine.

 

Mt. View Pedestrian Dies After Being Hit By Car

The highway patrol is investigating a fatal car-pedestrian accident which resulted in the death of a Mt. View man. 68-year old Jackie Lester was walking along State Highway 9 east of Mt. View just before 7:00 a.m. Sunday when the accident happened. The trooper dispatched to the accident said that a car driven by 39-year old Shautonna Stevenson of Hobart was westbound on the highway when the car struck Lester. Stevenson and a passenger in the car were taken to a hospital where they were both treated and released with minor injuries.

 

Chix Street Improvements Set for Spring of 2020              

There won't be any major street improvements in the city of Chickasha this year. But officials say they are getting ready to do some road work early in 2020. David Buchanan is the city's Public Works Director. He says officials are putting together a list of the streets that will get some repairs.

 

              

 

Buchanan says the list of the streets targeted for improvements could go before the city council this fall.

 

Worries Begin Due to Energy Sector Downturn

There’s concern in the Oklahoma energy sector as the number of rigs drilling for oil and gas has fallen significantly from what they were a year ago. In the summer of 2018 there were more than 140 active rigs in the Sooner State. Last week the number dropped to 75. Russell Evans is an associate professor of economics and also serves as the Director of the Steven Agee Economic Research and Policy Institute at Oklahoma City University. Evans said the state's tax revenue is starting to feel the effects of the downturn. The website www.okenergytoday.com cites a report from the Petroleum Alliance of Oklahoma that quotes Evans as saying the state is between “less than a somewhat full-healthy economy and somewhat more than being in a recession”. Industry officials hope the downturn is getting the attention of state lawmakers before the ripple effect from the lesser drilling activity takes place.

              

Music Day Set for Grady County Museum              

A day of music and activities will be held in downtown Chickasha on Saturday, Sept. 21st. It will start at The Grady County Historical Society Museum for Smithsonian Magazine Museum Day, celebrating a year of music. It's a free event, with the museum opening at 9:00 a.m. Music starts at 1:00 p.m. with a children's sing-a-long which will be followed by a musical instrument petting zoo with Rocky Roberston. At 2:00 p.m. is a steel drum performance by Ron Blankenship, followed at 2:30 p.m. by flautist Kate Sukula. At 3:00 p.m. is piano player Steven Weber, with opera singing at 3:30 p.m. from Steven Sanders. At 4:15 p.m., classic rock will be performed by Shane and Harris, followed at 5:00 p.m. by Tim Brauer and First Look. Following the activities at the museum, the Chamber of Commerce will host its season-ending free outdoor concert at 3^rd and Chickasha Avenue with Weston Horn and the Hush performing at 7:00 p.m.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is to $56.52 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $61.54.

Natural gas is to $2.49 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,517 and silver is $18.25.

 

 

Saturday, Sept. 7th

 

Home Invasion Suspects Jailed on $1 Million+ Bonds

Two suspects arrested in connection with a Tuttle home invasion shouldn't be getting out of jail anytime soon. A Grady County judge set bond for both suspects at well over $1 million each. The bond for Nathaniel Jones was set at $2.5 million, while bond for Jessica Roberts was set at $1.5 million. Both are charged with first degree robbery and assault and battery with a deadly weapon in connection with a break-in of a home of an elderly Tuttle couple last week. The couple were beaten and tied up. Jones and Roberts are to announce their attorneys on Sept. 19th, with their preliminary hearing conferences scheduled Oct. 2nd. At last report, authorities were looking for a third person who drove the get-away car after the attack.

 

Food For Kids Campaign Underway

As Oklahoma children get back in their classrooms, the Regional Food Bank is cranking up its backpack program. Many elementary school children around Grady and Caddo counties and throughout western Oklahoma get a back-pack filled with nutritional, ready-to-eat foods each Friday. And to help out, some companies and individuals are contributing tens of thousands of dollars to help the food bank's Food for Kids drive. The companies will match all donations to the Regional Food Bank, up to $180,000. Cathy Nestlen with the Regional Food Bank says that means your contributions will help even more children.

 

              

 

Among those providing the funds are the Masonic Charity Foundation of Oklahoma, 7-11 stores, Lezlie and David Hudiburg, David Gorham, and an anonymous donor. The groups will match all contributions that come in during the month of September, up to $180,000. To donate, visit the website www.foodforkids.us

              

Some Bird Hunting Now Allowed at Refuge

Bird hunters will be happy to hear that the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge has added some new programs. Turkey and waterfowl may now be sought after the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service received favorable response from a public survey. Individuals will have to get a permit and keep it with them while they hunt. The permits are available at the visitor's center and various refuge locations. Waterfowl like ducks and geese can be harvested during their respective seasons in specific areas. Turkey hunting will be allowed during a controlled hunt at different times of the year, similar to elk and deer hunts. During those controlled hunts, individuals can harvest feral hogs and coyotes. Hunters cannot shoot from across a road, parking lots, or designated hiking trails. Some bird hunting actually starts today, as the teal season begins.

 

Fightin' Chicks Win Season Opener at Marlow

The Chickasha Fightin' Chick football team wins it season opener at Marlow, 20-7. The Chicks scored on their first offensive play of the game, on about a 70-yard touchdown pass from Cayss Lowery to Kaden Stephenson. Lowery was 10-15 passing for 150 yards and the one touchdown Stephenson had three receptions for 80 yards and the TD. Running back Hassain Burdex had 90 yards rushing and a touchdown on 11 carries.  Defensively, Austin Albright had two interceptions and a fumble recovery and also had 8 tackles. Stephenson stopped a Marlow scoring threat with an interception in Chickasha's endzone. J.T. Richie had a team-high 12 tackles with four for losses and was in on three quarterback sacks. Harrison Funderburk had 8 tackles. Coach Jerry Don Bray liked what he saw early but thought the team's intensity waned in the second half.

 

         

 

The Chicks will have their opener next Friday night when they host Harrah.

 

Other scores

Tuttle 41, Kingfisher 18

Minco 14, Dibble 6

Elgin 35, Blanchard 20

Anadarko 28, Lexington 7

Bridge Creek 44, Little Axe 24

Laverne 28, Alex 22

Cyril 58, Corn Bible Academy 12

Rush Springs, idle

 

 

Friday, Sept. 6th

 

Special Elections for Some Next Tuesday

Voters in the Blanchard, Carnegie, and Hinton school districts will be going to ballot boxes next week to decide special bond elections. In Blanchard, voters will decide a more than $30 million bond issue which would allow the district to build a performing arts center, a new football stadium, and new classrooms. In Carnegie, voters are to cast ballots on a $5.4 million bond measure for school improvements. In Hinton, a bond issue for $925,000 would allow the district to purchase school buses and related transportation equipment. In Apache, voters are deciding whether to continue a franchise agreement with Public Service Company of Oklahoma. In-person, absentee voting is available at county election board offices today. Early voting for the Blanchard issue is available at both the Grady and McClain county election boards, while voters in Carnegie and Apache can cast ballots early at the Caddo County election board. The election boards are open until 6:00 p.m.

 

Chix Planning Commission to Hold Re-Zoning Hearings              

A couple of requests for zoning changes will be heard during public hearings at next week’s Chickasha Planning Commission meeting. One is for Hoffman Land, LLC to rezone property at 1201 N. 16^th Street from single-family residential to light industrial use. The other is for Bill McDuff to rezone property at 202 N. 6^th Street from general commercial to light industrial. The Planning Commission will meet at city hall next Tuesday, Sept. 10th at 4:00 p.m.

 

Mayor Prepares State-of-the-City Address

Chickasha Mayor Chris Mosley is putting together his annual State-of-the-City address. Mosley will give an update of activities over the past year and discuss plans, goals, and ideas for the short- and long-term. Mosley's presentation will be Wednesday morning, Sept. 11th at Canadian Valley Technology Center. It's hosted by the city and the Chamber of Commerce. Breakfast will be available at $10 for chamber members and $15 for prospective members. Seating is limited. Breakfast will start at 7:30 a.m. with Mosley's address at about 8:00 a.m. You're asked to RSVP the chamber and advance tickets can be purchased on-line at events@chickashachamber.com

 

Alex, Cement Have Weekend Celebrations

There are a couple of small town celebrations in the region this weekend. The Alex Founders Day is all day tomorrow, with a 5K run, fishing tournament, parade, a car show, activities in the park, and a concert. In Cement, it’s the second annual Jesse James Festival, which will also include a car show, the Marlow Gunfighters, and activities for the kids. A Jesse James historian who has been featured on the Discovery and Travel channels will have a couple of presentations, and author Freda Cruse Hardison will have books for sale and conduct research for a new book. Legend has it that Frank and Jesse James spent some time in the area, and some believe the famed bank robbers may have hidden some money in the hills in the Cement area.

 

USAO Student Works with State Hall of Fame              

A USAO student has been selected to help handle numerous artifacts and archives at the Oklahoma Hall of Fame. History major Dominique Washington will be working at the Gaylord-Pickens museum. She’ll  focus on software programs and best-practices which are critical to the operation of museums. She will also conduct research on hall of fame members and other notable Oklahomans. Washington and fellow USAO history major Cora Clegg both interned at the Oklahoma History Center over the summer. They helped to improve research aids for the Clara Luper Collection, and also served as research assistants for USAO history professor Tonnia Anderson and Bruce Fisher, son of Chickasha civil rights activist Ada Lois Sipuel-Fisher, for USAOs Ada Lois Sipuel-Fisher Center for Social Justice and Racial Healing.

 

Talk Show Topic

Here's what we're talking about this weekend. Several members of Chickasha Philanthropic Educational Organizations (PEO) are guests on our KOOL Konversation to discuss the 150th anniversary of the international group. We have a link to the program under the Community tab on this website.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $56.30 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $60.95.

Natural gas is $2.43 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,515 and silver is $18.27.

 

 

Thursday, Sept. 5th

 

Costs for City of Chix Emergency Projects Climb

The price tags for emergency repair work on the City of Chickasha's water treatment plant and a storm water line are growing. At this week's city council meeting, City Manager John Noblitt gave the panel an update on the two emergencies he declared this summer. Noblitt said some critical issues happened with some of the equipment at the water treatment plant. He said the initial cost of those repairs is about $29,000 so far. He did say that the city's water towers seem to be keeping up with demand over the last few weeks. The emergency repairs to the storm water drain at 4^th and Colorado have topped $35,000 and will continue to rise. Noblitt said the Department of Transportation will not make any further repairs to 4th Street (U.S. Highway 81) unless the city pays them. There are still some sidewalk repairs that need to be made before that project will be considered complete.

 

Council Postpones Decision on Sale of RV Park Property              

The city council also postponed a decision on the possible sale of some city owned land which is currently being leased by Paul Knight for the Time Out RV Park. Knight wants to buy the four acres of land he's currently leasing from the city, and an additional acre and a half. Knight has leased the property for 13 years but would like to expand. Knight says the RV park is full, and that he has turned down 200 requests for RV parking over the past year. Knight says he has already invested more than $250,000 over the years in the property, and feels he cannot invest more money into property he does not own. The issue could be considered again at the Sept. 16 council meeting

 

Fatal Motorcycle Accident in Stephens County

A Marlow man has died in a motorcycle crash. 59-year old Marcus Law was riding his bike on the Duncan Bypass when the accident occurred about 3:00 p.m. Wednesday. The highway patrol reported that Law may have been traveling at an unsafe speed when he went off the road and hit a sign. Law was air-lifted to a Duncan hospital where he later died.

 

Former Cop Accused of Sex Crime Appears in Court

A former Cement police officer accused of soliciting prostitution from a teenager was in court this week. Stacy Burger was arrested in June when it was alleged he asked a 16-year old girl for sex and she refused. The incident reportedly occurred at a Chickasha home. A judge has scheduled a preliminary hearing for Burger on Nov. 20th. Burger remains in the Grady County Jail on a $100,000 bond, though his attorney has filed a motion to reduce that figure.

 

SCOOP Region Has More Top-Producing Well Sites

It's been a while since we've had any reports of lucrative well sites in the SCOOP. We do have one to tell you about today. Gulfport Energy reports completion of a three-pad well with a combined production of almost 2,000 barrels of oil and an eye-opening 53,000 metric cubic feet of natural gas per day. The three Jeanie wells are near Alex in Township 27, Range 5N and 6W. The website www.okenergytoday.com indicates that each well was drilled to a depth of about 21,000 feet in the Woodford formation. It took about a year for the wells to be completed after their spud dates in the spring of 2018. Another large producing site is just north of Grady County. Houston-based Travis Peak Resources reported a well bringing in 1,800 barrels of oil and nearly 3,500 metric cubic feet of natural gas per day about four miles southeast of Yukon.

 

Premium Sale is Tonight for Caddo County Fair Exhibitors

It's a big day for Caddo County FFA and 4H youth who showed livestock at last week’s Caddo County Fair. The premium sale will be held tonight for nearly 70 animals which qualified for the sale. The seven grand champion animals will command top dollar. The grand market steer was shown by Ryder Klassen of Hydro-Eakly; the grand prospect steer was shown by Tucker Freie of Ft. Cobb-Broxton. The grand barrow was shown by Kade Pendley of the Cyril. The grand market lamb was shown by Stetson Nix of Carnegie and the grand ewe lamb was shown by Barrett Sitton of Binger-Oney. The grand wether goat was shown by Rayli Wright of Lookeba-Sickles, and the grand doe goat was shown by Addy Schneberger of Carnegie. A buyer's dinner hosted by the Caddo County Sirloin Club and CK Energy will get underway at 6 o'clock and the sale at 7 o'clock tonight at the Caddo County Fairgrounds.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $56.26 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $60.70.

Natural gas is $2.44 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,548 and silver is $19.24.

 

 

Wednesday, Sept. 4th

 

Two Arrested in Connection with Tuttle Home Invasion

Two people are behind bars this morning, in connection with that home invasion that occurred in Tuttle last weekend. The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI) posted news of the arrests on its official Facebook page earlier today. Media reports indicate the arrests came after an overnight standoff at an Oklahoma City home. In custody are 25-year old Nathaniel Jones and 28-year old Jessica Roberts. Jones was picked up on a Grady County warrant for first degree robbery and taken to the Oklahoma County Jail. Roberts was booked into the Grady County jail, also on a robbery charge. The suspects were identified after the OSBI received numerous leads. Jones and Roberts are alleged to have beaten and tied up the elderly couple that lives in the home.

 

Head-on Crash in Anadarko Claims Three Lives

A violent head-on collision kills three people in Anadarko. The accident happened near the Riverside Indian School on U.S. Highway 281 Tuesday afternoon. 39-year old Amanda Satoe of Anadarko; 32-year old Joshua Westerman of Marshall, Texas; and 67-year old Larry Fitzgerald of Florida all died in the crash that happened about 2:30 p.m. The highway patrol reports that Satoe and Westerman were southbound in an SUV at a high rate of speed. The vehicle ran off the road and the driver over-corrected, then collided with the pick-up driven by Fitzgerald, who was towing a bumper-pull camper trailer.

 

Motorcycles Crash; Four Injured              

Four people are seriously injured and two were last hospitalized in critical condition after two motorcycles collided in Chickasha this past weekend. Jack and Bobbi Jo Martin are still in the hospital. Their cousins Jimmy and Sabra Martin were seriously injured, suffering broken bones. Jimmy and Sabra are home from the hospital. Chickasha police didn't have official information available about the accident which happened Sunday afternoon near 4^th Street and Almar Drive. Social media posts indicated that Jack Martin may have suffered from a medical condition that caused him to crash in to Jimmy and Sabra's motorcycle.

              

Two Injured When Box Truck Hits Turnpike Bridge

Two men are injured when their delivery truck hit a bridge on the H.E. Bailey Turnpike. The driver suffered critical injuries in the accident that happened in the westbound lanes of the turnpike near Mile Marker 90 about 10:00 a.m. Tuesday. The driver, 27-year old Drake White of Mustang, was thrown out of the truck and suffered numerous injuries. He was air-lifted to an Oklahoma City hospital. The passenger, 43-year old Corey Jackson of Oklahoma City, was pinned in the wreckage for about 45 minutes. He was also taken to the hospital but was released after treatment.  The initial reports were that the vehicle was a semi but the highway patrol indicated it was a box truck. The trooper investigating the crash reports that White may have fallen asleep at the wheel.

 

Plans for RV Storage Park Business Shelved             

A capacity crowd gathered at Chickasha City hall last night, in anticipation of a public hearing regarding the proposed development of a recreational vehicle storage business. But the hearing was abruptly canceled when the applicant withdrew the plan from consideration. Kelly Boyd was seeking a zoning change to create the RV storage business on 29^th Street but the plan met with strong opposition. It's the second time in the last three years that Boyd had tried to re-zone five acres of agriculture property he owns to commercial use to develop the business. In both instances neighboring property owners and others were vocal in their opposition to the plan.

 

Chix City Council OK's Funds for New Development              

The city council signed off on a plan to use economic development funds to encourage the development of about 21 acres of property in the east part of Chickasha. The council authorized the use of $180,000 as part of an agreement with a Mustang company knows as It’s Our Turn. The property is located at Almar Drive and South Grand Avenue, near where a new motel is under construction. The plan is to build a number of residential units which could be apartments or duplexes, as well as a commercial district to add new businesses. The company has 3 1/2 years to show some progress on the development in order to qualify for the city funds, unless the city approves an extension.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $53.94 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $60.40.

Natural gas is $2.36 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,546 and silver is $19.45.

 

 

Tuesday, Sept. 3rd

 

OSBI Probes Tuttle Break-in

Authorities continue their search for the suspects who broke into a home and terrorized a Tuttle couple. It happened late Friday night, when the OSBI says a man and his wife were beaten and tied up. Somehow, the man was able to get free and got his gun and shot at the suspects. A relative of the victim says his uncle unloaded his weapon on one of the suspects, and believes one of them was hit twice. The 79-year old uncle has Stage 4 lung cancer. The nephew said his aunt and uncle met the suspects on-line to sell them some items. Anyone with information about the suspects is asked to contact the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation. Some video surveillance of the suspects can be seen on the OSBI Facebook page.

 

Centerpoint Energy OK'd for Rate Hike

Customers of CenterPoint Energy will see an increase in their natural gas bills. The Oklahoma Corporation Commission approved a $1.9 million rate increase for the company. That translates into nearly $1.30 a month increase for residential customers. Commercial customers will also see an increase. The website www.okenergytoday.com reports that the corporation commission approved the rate increase after conducting a yearly review of CenterPoint Energy's plan. CenterPoint has about 100,000 customers in Oklahoma including the Chickasha area as well as southern, southwestern, and northern Oklahoma.

 

Chix City Council Meeting is Tonight              

A public hearing for a proposed recreational storage business will be held by the Chickasha City Council tonight. The council normally meets on Monday, but is meeting tonight because of the Labor Day holiday. Businessman Kelly Boyd is looking to re-zone some of his agriculture property to commercial use, in order to develop a five-acre plot for the RV storage facility. The council is also to consider awarding a bid to a company to replace many of the city's storm sirens. The fire department has received a grant to help pay for that project. The panel will also consider an economic development agreement for a new housing and commercial development. A company called It's Our Turn of Mustang is purchasing about 21 acres of city-owned property, intending to develop about 120 residential units and some commercial property. If approved, the city could pay the company up to $180,000. The city would extend water and sewer lines to the property.

 

State Lawmaker Wants Help for Emergency Teachers              

The shortage of certified teachers in the Sooner State is not unique to Oklahoma. Officials say there is a shortage nationwide, including in the state of Texas, where many Oklahoma teachers are going to take advantage of higher teacher pay. One Oklahoma state lawmaker says that with the hundreds of emergency teacher certifications approved by Oklahoma Department of Education in the Sooner State, many of them are going through on-the-job training. State Representative Toni Hassenbeck of Elgin will have an interim study to look at a $100 million fund designed for teachers and student support.

 

              

 

Hassenbeck says many of the individuals given the emergency teaching certification may have never taught a child how to read before, and that they need to have access to software or other training materials.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $55.10 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $60.43.

Natural gas is $2.29 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,541 and silver if $18.60.

 

 

Monday, September 2nd

No news due to the Labor Day Holiday

 

Saturday, Aug. 31st

 

Chickasha Water Treatment to Change Again              

The contractor responsible for treating Chickasha's drinking water will be returning to its normal chemical treatment this weekend. For the month of August, U.S. Water Corporation crews have been using chlorine in an attempt to rid the city's water lines of small particles of what are known as TTHMs, or trihalomethanes. The Environmental Protection Agency says those particles are carcinogenic. Starting Sunday, September 1st, crews will return to the chemicals they use 11 months out of the year to treat the incoming water from the Ft. Cobb reservoir. It’s a combination of chlorine and ammonia called chloramines, which they say provides the cleanest and safest water possible. Residents may notice a slight change in taste and quality of water but official say it is safe to drink. If you notice a slight discoloration, open the taps in your house for a couple of minutes to get the newly treated water through your water line.

 

Coaching Legend A.D. Birtschi Dies

Longtime high school basketball coach A.D. Birtschi has died. Burtschi was 70 when he passed away on Thursday. Burtschi coached for 43 years at the high school and collegiate level, most notably at Putnam City High School where his teams won four state championships. He's in both the Oklahoma Coaches Association and the Oklahoma High School halls of fame. Earlier this summer, it was announced he would be among the inaugural class of the Putnam City High School Athletic Hall of Fame. Burtschi attended high school at St. Joseph's Academy at Chickasha's Holy Name Catholic Church and played collegiately at Oklahoma City University. Rosary service will be at 6;00 p.m. Tuesday, September 3^rd at Sevier Funeral Home. His funeral will be at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, September 4th at St. Charles Catholic Church in Warr Acres. Memorial contributions may be made to the Father Stanley Rother Foundation or Positive Tomorrows.

 

Man Accused of Illegal Use of Truck, Credit Card              

A construction worker is accused of the illegal use of a company truck and credit card. Verden police arrested the man earlier this week at one of the town's convenience stores. The officer was fueling his vehicle when the suspect pulled the pickup up to a gas pump and had seemingly fallen asleep. The officer approached the driver, and believed he had been drinking. The officer said he found an open bottle of vodka in the cab. Court documents indicate the driver refused to take a breathalyzer test, telling the officer his attorney said he should not do so. When calling in the tag number, the officer discovered that the truck had been taken from a construction company almost a month ago, and that the driver is alleged to have been using the company credit card to buy fuel and alcohol without permission. Authorities arrested 43-year old Kevin Ray Smith of Anadarko. Prosecutors have charged him with DUI, unauthorized use of a vehicle and taking or receiving a stolen credit card. He's out of jail after posting a $10,000 bond.

 

Sheriff's Office Wanted List

The Grady County Sheriff’s Office has released a new list of individuals who have outstanding warrants. Here’s Public Information Officer Lisa Hatchett-

 

              

 

If you have information regarding any of these individuals you’re asked to contact the sheriff’s office by calling 405-222-5085.

 

Historical Society Banquet Speaker Named              

Oklahoma award-winning author John Dwyer will be in Chickasha this fall, to serve as guest speaker for the annual meeting and banquet of the Grady County Historical Society. Two of Dwyer's books have won the Will Rogers Medallion Award for national literacy. He's taught history at Southern Nazarene University for nearly 15 years. Dwyer has a new book about World War Two called Mustang, about a young man on the farm who was a college football star and then became a pilot during the air wars in the European theatre. Tickets for the historical society's annual meeting will be on sale soon. The meeting is scheduled for Nov. 4th.

 

              

 

Friday, Aug. 30th

 

Public Hearing Expected for Proposed RV Storage Site              

A plan to create a Chickasha business where owners of recreational vehicles can store their RVs is expected to get a public hearing during the Chickasha City Council meeting next week. While the agenda for the meeting hasn't been finalized, it's anticipated that the hearing will be including during the meeting scheduled for Tuesday, September 3rd. Businessman Kelly Boyd is attempting to re-zone about five acres of property he owns in the 800 block of 29th Street to create the storage site. There is opposition to his proposal from neighbors and others who don't believe it would be a good location for such a business. City Manager John Noblitt is recommending the zoning change, but the Planning Commission voted unanimously to not recommend the change.

 

Election Board Secretary Fired

Grady County Election Board Secretary JoAnn Hames has been fired. Hames just took over the post a couple of months ago. In a closed-door meeting earlier this week, Grady County Commissioners voted unanimously to terminate Hames immediately. Then, at a special meeting of the State Election Board yesterday, that panel also voted to remove Hames from her post. We've not been able to find out the reason for Hames' dismissal. We asked District Attorney Jason Hicks but said he said was unable to comment. Hames was appointed to the post earlier this summer after the retirement of previous election board secretary, Susan Turner. State Senator Lonnie Paxton recommended Hames which was approved by the State Election Board. After removing Hames, the state board then appointed former Grady County Election Board Secretary Mary Robinett to fill the post on an interim basis.

 

Thieves Steal Safes From Caddo County Home              

In Caddo County, authorities are warning residents of an increase in burglaries in the south part of the county. On its Facebook page, the sheriff's office indicated deputies were called out to the Apache Y on Wednesday, where two safes were taken from a home. The safes were later found discarded on a county road. However, thieves managed to break into them and took guns, U.S. and European currency, and jewelry. The post also indicates there have been other burglaries in the Apache and Stecker areas. Authorities are asking anyone with information about this crime to call 405-247-5700.

              

Suspect Accused of Gun Threats

A Chickasha man faces felony charges after waving a gun at several people. 29-year old Cody Loveless was arrested earlier this week. The confrontation is alleged to have occurred at a home in the 700 block of North 11^th earlier this month. An arrest warrant affidavit filed by Chickasha police indicates that Loveless went to the home of his ex-girlfriend looking for the title to her car. The affidavit states he broke some of the car windows, then tried to kick in the door at the home and threatened several individuals with the weapon. Prosecutors have charged Loveless with three felony counts of pointing a firearm and two misdemeanors for vandalism. Loveless remains in the Grady County Jail in lieu of a $25,000 bond. Prosecutors also filed information saying that Loveless has been convicted of previous felonies, including a drug-related arrest from 2016, where he was sentenced to 8 years in prison.

 

Talk Show Topic

Here’s what we’re talking about this weekend. State Representatives Brad Boles and Toni Hassenbeck are the guests on our KOOL Konversation.  We have a link to the program under the Community tab on this website.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $56.71 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $61.08.

Natural gas is $2.30 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,535 and silver is $18.52.

 

 

Thursday, Aug. 29th

 

Public Input Sought in Superintendent Search              

The search for a new superintendent for Chickasha Public Schools is underway. Chickasha residents are being asked to provide input on what qualities the new administrator should have. The Chickasha Board of Education contracted with the Oklahoma State School Board Association to find candidates for the school board to interview. A consultant for the association will be in Chickasha next month to meet with school officials and teachers, business leaders, and the community at-large. On Tuesday, Sept. 17th, the consultant will meet at noon with business leaders, and in the afternoon will spend time with school administrators and teachers. The community meeting will be at 6:30 p.m. that night at Canadian Valley Technology Center. Officials say it will be an inter-active session, and those who want to attend are welcome to bring a tablet, lap-top, or use their smart phone. A list of potential candidates could be presented to the school board in October. It's hoped that a new superintendent could be in place by the first of the year. Former Chickasha Superintendent Jack Herron stepped down from the post in April. Jennifer Stegman is serving as interim superintendent.

 

Jason Hicks to Lead District Attorneys Groups

District Attorney Jason Hicks will be serving as president of the Oklahoma District Attorneys Association for the next year and will also serve as chairman of the board of trustees for District Attorneys Council. Hicks talks about some of the work he'll be involved in.

 

              

 

Hicks is the district attorney for Grady, Caddo, Stephens, and Jefferson counties.

 

Apache Police find Pipe Bomb, Drugs in Stolen Car

Police in Apache say they found an armed pipe bomb and drugs when they pulled over a stolen vehicle last weekend. Officers made the stop early Sunday morning and arrested two men and a woman. The Lawton Constitution points to records on file in Caddo County District Court regarding the arrests. 31-year old Erwin Michael Pewo and 41-year old Danielle Renee Koassechony both of Apache; and 26-year old Eric Wayne Hyde  - whose hometown was not listed - have been charged with crimes ranging from possessing explosives, a stolen vehicle, drugs, and burglary tools to breaking and entering. Bond for each was set at $20,000.

              

More Activity in the SCOOP Play            

Continental Resources continues its exploration of the SCOOP region. The company filed permits this week to drill three wells on a single well pad between Chickasha and Blanchard. It's a continuation of Continental's Springboard Project, which is now in its 5th year of searching for oil and gas in a 73-square mile area in and around the Grady County area. It's focused on an area known as the Springer, Sycamore, and Woodford reservoirs. The new site is along U.S. Highway 62 in section 17 of Township 7 North, Range 5 West about four miles east of the Tabler Y. The website www.okenergytoday.com reports that when Continental first announced the Springboard project, officials estimated an unrisked resource potential of up to 400 million barrels of oil equivalent.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $55.78 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $60.49.

Natural gas is $2.25 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,548 and silver is $18.64.

 

 

Wednesday, Aug. 28th

 

Bicyclist Dies After Being Hit by Pickup

A terrible accident results in the death of a bicycle rider who was struck by a pick-up. 47-year old Scott Womack of Chickasha died in the accident. It happened just before 7:00 p.m. Monday on a county road near the intersection of South 16th Street and U.S. Highway 81. The highway patrol reports that Womack was hit by a pickup driven by 38-year old Bryan Bingham, also of Chickasha. Bingham was not injured. The trooper is still looking into the cause of that accident.

 

Suspect Charged with Molesting Child at City Fair

An 11-year old girl is reported to have been sexually assaulted at a town fair in Caddo County. Her alleged attacker is in jail. The Lawton Constitution points to Caddo County court records which indicate the molestation took place at the Carnegie Fair earlier this month. Authorities arrested 19-year old Troy Dean Shirey of Carnegie. He has been charged with a felony count of lewd or indecent acts to a child. The court documents indicate Shirey sent a text message to the victim's brother, with Shirey saying he'll regret it the rest of his life, and that he wanted to die and deserved to go the hell. A judge initially set Shirey's bond at a half-million dollars, but on-line court records indicate his attorney was able to get bond reduced to $250,000. Shirey remains in the Caddo County Jail, with his preliminary hearing conference set for Sept. 26^th.

 

Pay Hike Ok'd for Grady County Employees

Employees of Grady County government offices will be getting a small pay raise. The Grady County Excise Board on Tuesday approved a 4 percent pay hike for county workers. Department heads had requested a 5 percent increase in pay. Grady County elected officials will NOT be included in the pay raise plan. It was about this time last year when it was determined that elected officials had collectively been overpaid by about $750,000 over the previous 10 years. County department heads have submitted requests that are a combined $12 million for the 2019-20 fiscal year, which is about a 33 percent increase over the previous year’s budget. The Excise Board is expected to make a final decision on the 2019-20 budget in a couple of weeks.

 

Lawmakers to Consider Increase of County Funding

to Repair Roads, Bridges Damaged by Oilfield Traffic

A couple of state lawmakers in the region are working together to find a way to help counties pay for the repair of roads and bridges damaged as a result of oilfield truck traffic. State Representative Brad Boles says he and Sen. Lonnie Paxton will have an interim study in the next few weeks to review the issue.

 

              

 

Boles, R-Marlow will be one of our guests on our KOOL Konversation program coming up this weekend, along with Representative Toni Hassenbeck, R-Elgin.

 

Help Available for Ag Producers Affected By Trade War

The U.S. trade war with China is having a negative impact on America's farmers and ranchers. The United States Department of Agriculture has implemented a program called the Market Facilitation Program (MFP), to offset lower crop and livestock prices because of increasing tariffs on America's exports to China. Mark Jackson with the Grady County Farm Service Agency says most all crops grown in the Grady and Caddo county area are eligible.

 

              

 

Jackson said there will be two or three rounds of payments and the first round of payments are being made right now. The sign up period for the Market Facilitation Program runs through December 6th.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $54.93 per barrel.

London-based Crude oil is $59.51.

Natural gas is $2.20 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,552 and silver is $18.47.

 

 

Tuesday, Aug. 27th

 

Consumer Spending Still Strong

Recent sales tax numbers show that regional consumer spending is still at a high level. It's estimated that $132 million was spent on taxable goods and services throughout Grady County in the month of May. That's up 11 percent from April and up slightly from May of 2018. Of that total, about $29 million was spent at businesses in the City of Chickasha. We estimate consumer spending when we see sales revenues and factor in the respective local sales tax rates. Grady County received about $960,000 in sales tax revenue in July (which was paid on purchases made during the month of May). Here's how that money is distributed - The Grady County Fairgrounds gets more than $330,000; Grady Memorial Hospital receives $293,000; the seven senior nutrition centers get about $21,000 each; the 20 fire districts take in about $7,500 each; Tuttle Emergency Medical Services gets $30,000; and the Rush Springs EMS gets $7,500. Use tax collections for Grady County were $146,000 which is up 12 percent from a year ago. Chickasha's use tax receipts were $74,000 which is up slightly from the same time last year. Use Taxes are paid on purchases made on the Internet.

 

Results of Kiowa Tribal Election

Voters in Saturday's Kiowa Tribal election approved a resolution authorizing the use of medicinal and recreational marijuana. The unofficial results of the election shows the resolution passed with 62 percent of the vote, 690 to 418. It's unclear as to where tribal members will be able to legally use recreational marijuana. Tribal members also approved a resolution for the chairman to sign for a loan for the development of a new casino in Hobart. That passed with 63 percent of the vote, 701 to 409. A resolution to approve the tribal budget passed overwhelmingly, collecting four out of every five votes, 894 to 217. The results won't be official until Wednesday afternoon.

 

New Hotel Sets Grand Opening              

A grand opening is scheduled this afternoon for Chickasha's newest hotel. The Fairfield Inn and Suites will have a ribbon cutting ceremony at 4:00 p.m. with the Chamber of Commerce. The hotel is located at 2812 S. 4^th Street and will give Chickasha a 5th major hotel-motel operation. Others are the Hampton Inn, the Holiday Inn Express, the Quality Inn, and America's Best Value Inn. Another hotel is expected to open in the coming months. The Best Western Plus is currently under construction near the Grady County Fairgrounds.

 

Repairs Begin on Mt. Scott Roadway

It's been almost a year since the road to the top of Mt. Scott has been closed because the road was damaged by flooding. While walkers and bicyclists can access the road, cars and trucks cannot. Today, repair work on that road is scheduled to get underway, and it will be closed for all use until the work is completed. However, officials at the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge say the road will be open Saturday through Monday for the Labor Day Weekend for walkers and bike riders. Then starting Tuesday, September 3^rd the road close again to all traffic until construction is completed. It's not clear how long the repairs might take.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil is $53.64 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $58.70.

Natural gas was up to $2.23 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,540 and silver is $17.85.

 

 

Monday, Aug. 26th

 

Apartment Complex Fire Leaves Dozens Homeless

A four-alarm fire at a Chickasha apartment complex this weekend left a number of families homeless. The fire broke out at the Palms Apartments at 17th and Alabama just after 1:00 a.m. Sunday. The complex is located right next to USAO. Fire departments from Anadarko, Rush Springs, and Tuttle were called in to support Chickasha fire crews to battle the flames for several hours. Chickasha Fire Chief Brian Zalewski said there were no injuries. He said about 40 people from 10 apartments are having to re-locate, and are getting help from the Red Cross. Three apartments were damaged by the fire and seven had smoke and water damage. Zalewski said the fire started in a mechanical closet in the laundry room. There was no immediate estimate of damage.

 

Domestic Violence Suspect Sought              

In Union City, police are asking for the public's help in finding a domestic violence suspect. A post on the department's Facebook page from this past weekend indicates authorities are looking for Shawn Holt, whom they say has a violent history. Officers were called to a home Saturday night and confronted Holt, who fled on foot and led authorities on a foot chase through several yards during a downpour. A Canadian County K-9 officer tracked Holt through some rough terrain but Holt managed to get away. Holt is wanted on complaints of domestic violence, burglary, and vandalism. Anyone with information about Shawn Holt is asked to call 9-1-1 or their local law enforcement agency.

 

Grady County State Senator Awarded for Efforts

A Grady County state lawmaker is recognized for his efforts to improve workplace safety. State Senator Lonnie Paxton of Tuttle was presented an award from the Oklahoma Workplace Safety Coalition. That group includes major employers along with members of law enforcement, mental health, schools, and churches. A news release says the coalition identified areas in state law which needed to be modernized to promote greater safety. Paxton and State Rep. Chris Kannady of Oklahoma City co-authored SB 715 which created the Workplace Safety and Violence Act. The measure allows employers to access restraining orders to protect employees. Paxton said the bill is aimed at stemming behaviors before they become violent. Paxton was also co-author of Senate Bill 656 to modernize training requirements for law enforcement. Another measure approved was SB 752, which clarifies that it’s unlawful to disrupt business via electronic communication.

 

Energy Company Sees STACK Success

The STACK oil and gas play is rocking along with production. Newfield Exploration Mid-Con has done well with multi-well, single-pad drilling with one site producing more than 3,300 barrels of oil per day. The website www.okenergytoday.com reports that the site is about 11 miles east of Watonga.  Newfield also has multi-well, single pad sites west and northwest of Kingfisher with one producing about 2,700 barrels and the other more than 2,000 barrels of oil per day.

 

Tai Chi, Movies Scheduled for Chickasha Library              

With kids back in school, the Chickasha Library has some fall programs for adults that will be starting soon. Tai Chi classes will start on Tuesday, Sept. 3rd. The classes will be each Tuesday and Thursday from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. The classes are part of the Oklahoma Healthy Aging Initiative. Beginning Thursday, Sept. 5^th is movie night, with the films geared toward adults starting at 6:00 p.m. The films will have a PG or PG13 rating. And on Friday, Sept. 7th, an ancestry.com workshop will be held from 2:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. There are always a number of youth reading programs for children. Contact the library by calling 405-222-6075 or see the library’s Facebook page.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $55.35 per barrel.

London-based Brent Crude is $59.34.

Natural gas is $2.16 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,540 and silver is $17.74.