Saturday, July 25th

 

Schlumberger to Layoff Thousands

More layoffs have been announced in the energy sector.  Schlumberger reports that it will reduce its workforce by about 21,000 jobs worldwide. That's about 25 percent of its workforce. Company officials say the firm will pay more than $1 billion in severance benefits. The company operates out of Houston but has three facilities in Oklahoma City. It wasn't clear how many Oklahoma job losses there will be. Schlumberger is the world's largest oilfied services company. The website OK Energy Today cites company representatives as saying the cuts put the number of its employees back to where it was at the start of the oil and gas fracking boom.

 

Fire Crews Squelch Trash Fire at HSI Sensing

Chickasha firefighters were dispatched to HSI Sensing for a fire in the parking lot Friday afternoon. Crews were dispatched about 3:45 p.m. to a large pile of debris behind the main building which was burning. Fire officials said a sanitation truck had just picked up a large bin from the back of the property. The driver is believed to have seen fire or smoke and emptied his truck in a vacant area of the paved parking lot. Fire crews quickly doused the burning debris and there was no damage to any vehicles or buildings.

 

Silver Alert Continues for Missing Blanchard Man              

A Blanchard man who walked away from his home this week is still missing. A Silver Alert was issued for 64-year-old Terry Wayne Taylor on Wednesday. The Grady County Sheriff's Office issued the alert after family members say Taylor was last seen Tuesday afternoon. Taylor takes prescription medication and he suffers from dementia. Family members did tell authorities that he has previously walked away from home without telling anybody only to return a few days later. A photograph of Taylor is posted on the Grady County Sheriff's Office Facebook page. If you have information about Terry Wayne Taylor call 405-224-0984, local law enforcement, or 9-1-1

 

Parts of Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge Re-opens

A few of areas of the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge have re-opened to the public. The regions had been closed since the coronavirus first took hold in Oklahoma in March. Camp Doris, The Narrows, and the Charon's Garden Wilderness area are once again accessible to visitors. While the public is welcome, refuge officials says public restrooms, shower houses, and refuge buildings and offices will stay closed. KSWO-TV reports that all camping will be by reservation only and that visitors will have to use self-contained RVs, travel trailers, or pop-ups.

 

Christmas Concert in Shannon Springs Park Tonight

There will be a special Christmas concert in Chickasha tonight-

 

              

 

That is Shane Henry and Maggie McClure, aka The Imaginaries who will perform under the stars as part of Chickasha's Christmas in July. The concert is free and will be held at Shannon Springs Park Amphitheatre while the lights on the 160-foot tall Christmas tree will shine. Organizers ask that those attending arrive by about 8:30 p.m. for the concert which starts at 9:00 p.m. Seating is available in the amphitheatre but families can bring lawn chairs and blankets to allow for social distancing.

 

Food Bank Holds Virtual 'Stamp Out Hunger' Food Drive              

Many food drives to stock pantries have been canceled over the last few months. One of them was the National Association of Letter Carriers Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive. This year was to be the 28^th year for the food drive. The Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma has come forward with a solution. The group will hold a virtual Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive. Last year, the letter carriers’ efforts  in central and western Oklahoma collected almost 600,000 pounds of food and raised more than $175,000 which  provided 1.2 million meals to hungry families. In recognition of the 28 years of commitment by the letter carriers and the U.S. Postal Service, the food bank hopes to raise $28,000 by July 31st. Donations can be made on-line at www.feedinghope.org

 

 

Friday, July 24th

 

6th Grady County Resident Dies from Coronavirus              

State health officials say another resident in Grady County has died from COVID-19. The state health department reports the 50- to 64-year old man lived in Tuttle and he is the second person in that community to have died from the illness. His death increases the number of fatal coronavirus cases in Grady County to six. The other four deaths have all occurred in Chickasha. Grady County has had a total of 328 positive tests and there are currently 48 active cases. In Chickasha, there have been 185 positive tests with 27 currently battling the illness. Tuttle has had 71 positive tests and 11 are active. Blanchard has had 98 positive tests and 14 are active. The health department reports 477 deaths statewide from the illness. Yesterday, nearly 750 new positive coronavirus tests were confirmed with the total number closing in on 29,000 since mid-March. The number of active cases in Oklahoma is right at 5,000 and the number of those currently hospitalized was lower yesterday, to about 600.

 

Oklahomans Urged to Wear Masks

To Lessen Spread of COVID-19

Health officials continue urging everyone to wear masks while in public in order to minimize the spread of the COVID-19 virus. Brad Warden is the infection control specialist at Grady Memorial Hospital.

 

              

 

Warden says it doesn't matter if you wear a cloth or paper mask, either will minimize the spread of the coronavirus should anyone be infected and not know it.

 

Search Continues for Missing Blanchard Man              

The Grady County Sheriff's office says a Silver Alert is still in effect for Terry Wayne Taylor, a man missing from his home near Blanchard. Grady County Undersheriff Phil Blevins says there hasn't been any solid information about Taylor, who is 64-years old and is battling dementia. Family members have told officials that it’s not the first time Taylor has left home without telling anybody, only to return a few days later. Taylor does take prescription medicine. Blevins said a man matching Taylor's description was seen at the Domino's convenience store in Blanchard on Wednesday, but it wasn't known if it was him. Anyone with information about Terry Wayne Taylor is asked to call the sheriff's office at 405-224-0984 or 9-1-1.

 

Talk Show Topic

Here's what we're talking about this weekend. Pam Ladyman and Dan Turner with Chickasha Public Schools are on the KOOL Konversation. Find a link to the program under the Community tab on this website.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $41.07 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $43.31.

Natural gas is $1.78 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,889 and silver is $22.82.

 

Obituaries

David Williams

A graveside service for David Williams, 76, of Tuttle will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, July 25^th in the Fairview Cemetery of Tuttle.  He owned and operated Williams Plumbing, Heat, and Air and served in the Oklahoma National Guard. Arrangements are with Sevier Funeral Home of Tuttle.

Michael Hunt

Funeral service for Michael Hunt, 72, of Alex will be at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, July 29th at Ferguson Funeral Home in Chickasha. He served in the U.S. Army Special Forces, then became a helicopter pilot. He retired as a pilot from Beech Aircraft.

 

 

Thursday, July 23rd

 

Silver Alert Issued for Missing Grady County Man

Family members and law enforcement officials continue their search for an ailing Blanchard man who hasn't been seen in nearly two days. The Grady County Sheriff's Office issued a Silver Alert for 64-year old Terry Wayne Taylor. He was last seen about 2 o'clock Tuesday afternoon. The sheriff's office said Taylor suffers from dementia. He is Caucasian and a photograph shows him with a beard and moustache. He was last seen wearing a light green, button-down shirt, blue jeans, and black, lace-up work boots. He walks hunched over and also shuffles when he walks. Anyone with information about Terry Wayne Taylor is asked to call the sheriff's office at 405-224-0984 or 9-1-1.

 

OSBI Offers Reward for Information

On 2019 Death of a Caddo County Man              

In Caddo County, authorities continue looking for information regarding the death of a Binger man. 57-year old Randy Gathers was found dead in his home in February of 2019. The OSBI is offering a $10,000 reward for information. Gathers was last seen in his orange Dodge pickup headed to Hinton two days earlier on Valentine's Day. He was often seen at the Dollar General and Crainco stores in Binger. Anyone with information is asked to contact the OSBI anonymously by calling 800-522-8017 or e-mailing information to tips@osbi.ok.gov

 

Chix Schools Urge Students to Enroll;

Choose Learning 'Pathway'              

Chickasha Public Schools continue asking parents of students to reach out regarding enrollment for the upcoming school year. Pam Ladyman is the director of special services and federal programs for the district. She says officials need all families to take part even if students completed a pre-enrollment process this past spring. Ladyman said in addition to confirming enrollment, a learning pathway needs to be selected. The district is offering classroom instruction, distance-learning, or a combination of the two. Parents can visit the administration office at 9th and Choctaw until 5 p.m. today (Thursday) or Monday through Thursday of next week from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. For other information call 405-222-6500.

 

Sipuel-Fisher's Work to be Highlighted

in State Historical Society Series

The Civil Rights work of Chickasha's Ada Lois Sipuel-Fisher is part of an upcoming series of programs on women's activism in Oklahoma. The programs are being hosted by the Oklahoma Historical Society and Oklahoma Humanities. The series is called "This Land is Herland" which is a celebration of the centennial of the 100^th anniversaries of the passage of the women’s suffrage amendment to the Oklahoma Constitution in 1918, and the passage of the 19th Amendment to the US Constitution in 1920. The series features nine notable women scholars who explore the work of Oklahoma women. The programs will be on Aug. 13th, Sept. 22nd, and Nov. 5th. Sipuel-Fisher's work will be presented during the Sept. 22^nd program called The Gendered Politics of Civil Rights. Cheryl Wattley, with the University of North Texas-Dallas College of Law will present the program which she calls "Making History - Being an NAACP Plaintiff." Information about the series can be found on the history center's website: www.okhistory.org/suffrage

 

Christmas in July Activties Continue

Chickasha's Christmas in July promotion is continuing and there are a couple of special events this week. Tonight's free movie is Home Alone with McAuley Caulkin and Joe Pesci. The Chickasha Community Theatre will show the film at Washita Theatre starting at 7:00 p.m. While the movie is free, proceeds from the sale of concessions will benefit the community theatre. This Saturday night, there will be a Christmas concert in Shannon Springs Park with The Imaginaries, AKA Shane Henry and Maggie McClure. The concert will be held at the amphitheatre starting at 9:30. Concertgoers are asked to arrive about 8:30. Families may also bring lawn chairs and/or blankets to help with social distancing.

 

Weatherford Space Museum has New Addition              

There's a renewed interest in space exploration thanks to the International Space Station and the recent success of the public-private cooperation between NASA and Space-X. In Weatherford, the Stafford Air and Space Museum now has a full-scale replica of the Apollo Lunar Module. It's identical to the spacecraft that carried Apollo 10 commander Tom Stafford (of Weatherford) and fellow crew member Gene Cernan to the surface of the moon more than 50 years ago. The website OK Energy Today reports the spacecraft is over 2 1/2 stories tall. The objective was to construct a replica so detailed that astronauts who originally flew the missions couldn't tell it was a copy.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $41.90 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $44.29.

Natural gas is $1.68 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,881 and silver is $23.18.

 

 

Wednesday, July 22nd

 

New Construction Permits in Chickasha

Drop Below $1 Million Level for June

For the first time in 2020, the monthly value of new construction in Chickasha fell below the $1 million mark in June. The city's Community Development Department approved a total of 15 total building permits with all but one of them in residential construction. The total value of the new construction is just over $700,000. Permits for two new single-family homes make up most of that number. One was awarded to Reese Homes, LLC to build a $400,000 home on Country Club Drive. The second was awarded to Raush Coleman Homes to build a $100,000 home the Shadow Valley Development. The only commercial building permit issued went to Barry Thomas for a $3,500 remodeling project at 1201 Crystal Park. For the first six months of the year new construction in Chickasha has topped $9.4 million.

 

Grady County Fair is a Go, With Precautions in Place              

There will be a Grady County Fair this year. Officials say to expect some changes and that the health and safety of visitors and fair participants are the top priorities. There will be a smaller than usual vendor area and attendance will be limited for entertainment activities. There will be extra spacing in the still exhibit area. There will be added hand-sanitizing stations throughout the fairgrounds. The livestock shows will go on as scheduled and the livestock and still exhibit booklets are available on the Grady County Fairgrounds website.  The princess contest is also still planned prior to the event. The fair honorees are the front line workers battling the coronavirus pandemic, including - but not limited to - health care workers, food service employees, farmers, ranchers, and truckers. Officials also announced the carnival will be not be coming this year, canceling its visit because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Grady County Fair will run Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, August 27th-29th.

 

Coronavirus Update             

The number of Oklahomans testing positive for the coronavirus tops 27,000. The state health department added more than 800 new cases to its Tuesday report after a technical data-entry error occurred over the weekend. Also, nine more deaths were attributed to the disease, with that count now at 461. The number of active cases is 5,202 with just over 600 patients currently in the hospital. The number of Oklahomans who have recovered from COVID-19 topped 20,000 in Tuesday’s report. Chickasha has had a total of 171 cases and there are 38 currently active. Blanchard has had 93 total cases and there are 17 active. Tuttle has had 67 total cases and there are 15 active. Anadarko has had 47 total cases  and there 10 active cases. Grady County has had 309 total cases and there are 68 active cases.

 

End of Summer "Day of Play" Scheduled

A number of groups are combining efforts to offer an end-of-summer Day of Play at Chickasha's Shannon Springs Park before children head back to school. The YMCA, the City of Chickasha's Parks and Recreation Department, Chickasha Rotary Club, and the Public School Foundation are organizing the event. There will be volleyball and cornhole tournaments, a fishing derby, and perhaps a radio-controlled boat race on the pond. The municipal swimming pool will be open for the final day and swimming is free as long as individuals donate some school supplies to the Public School Foundation. Also scheduled are a meet-and-greet with Chickasha Fightin’ Chick athletes, a little Mr. and Miss Chickasha contest, and a movie will be shown that night. The Day of Play is set for Saturday, Aug. 15th.

 

STACK Wells are High Producers

Here is some rare oil production news to report. Several wells in Canadian County wells are jointly producing about 3,600 barrels of oil per day. Ovintiv Mid-Continent out of Houston filed the completion report on wells in the STACK play in the Mississipian Basin southeast of Okarche. Spud dates were in January with completion dates in February. Drilling depths were about 20,000 feet.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $41.96 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $44.32.

Natural gas is $1.67 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,856 and silver is $22.35.

 

 

Tuesday, July 21^st

 

Consumer Spending Down in Grady County;

Continues to Hold Steady in Chickasha

Consumer spending throughout Grady County is down substantially over year-ago levels. Much of that can be blamed on the downturn in the energy sector as well as the coronavirus pandemic. The most recent numbers show that county-wide consumer spending in May was about $48.4 million. That's down more than 27 percent from the previous month and down more than 63 percent from May of 2019. The estimate is based on the most recent sales tax collections for the county which was $363,000. A year ago the county collected almost $1 million in sales tax revenue. While consumer spending is down significantly throughout the county, the City of Chickasha continues to hold fairly steady. Estimated consumer spending in May was $26.7 million. That's about 5 percent higher than April but off about 10 percent compared to May of 2019. Chickasha received just under $1 million in sales tax revenue in the most recent distribution from the State Tax Commission. Use tax collections for the county this month was $71,000 which is down from $83,000 last month. The City of Chickasha received $72,000 in use tax collections which is down from $120,000 last month. Use taxes are paid on Internet purchases.

 

Grady EMS Contract with City of Chix Questioned              

The Chickasha City Council approves its annual agreement with the Grady County Emergency Medical Services district but not before questions arose regarding what services the county is actually paying for. During Monday night’s city council meeting, Councilman Kim Loggins noted that the contract is only for ambulance services from the city and asked if the county also pays for a fire truck and rescue truck which are also dispatched to many emergency calls in the county. City Manager John Noblitt said there is no payment agreement for those services, but the matter is also a concern of his. He said the additional services are made available through inter-local agreements between the city and county but still believes the city should be compensated for sending the additional units.  Loggins asked if the contract approval should be postponed in order to re-negotiate the terms but Noblitt said quick approval was needed so the city could get paid as soon as possible on calls that have been made in recent weeks.

 

Biker Hospitalized After Hitting Deer

A motorcycle rider is hospitalized after hitting a deer. 27-year old Colter Thornburg of Bradley suffered leg injuries in the crash and was taken to a Norman hospital where he was admitted in good condition. The accident happened just after 10:00 p.m. Monday on State Highway 19 about two miles east southeast of Bradley. Thornburg was wearing a helmet.

 

Workforce Board to Hold Drive-Thru Job Fair              

A unique event will be held next month to help people who have lost their jobs, are looking for a new position, or may be looking for work for the first time. A drive-through job fair will be hosted by the South Central Oklahoma Workforce Investment Board. The group has offices at Chickasha's Workforce Oklahoma office as well as the Adult Learning Center.  Jessica Forbes is the Business Service Coordinator with the Workforce Investment Board. She says at a normal job fair, businesses set up tables and job seekers stop by to discuss the positions that are available. So to respect social distancing efforts because of COVID-19, businesses are asked to contact her office to provide employment information. Materials from all the participating businesses will be placed in a bag and given to those who take part in the drive-through job fair. The event is set for Thursday, Aug. 6th from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. in front of the USAO Student Services center near 18^th and Alabama Ave.

              

CHS Athletes to Work Free on 'Give Back' Day

A number of Chickasha High School student-athletes will be learning about giving back to their community. About 50 students and their coaches will mow lawns, trim hedges, or even wash windows for free on Friday. CHS Athletic Director Jerry Don Bray said the athletic programs rely so much on the contributions of residents and businesses that they want to show their appreciation with this free work day. Bray said the football coaches initially came up with the idea but that other sports programs wanted to take part.

 

              

 

The coaches will provide all the equipment. Anyone who would like to take part can contact Coach Bray at the high school activity center calling 405-222-6556. Deadline to call is Thursday afternoon.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $40.61 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $43.28.

Natural gas is $1.63 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,825 and silver is $20.76.

 

Obituary

Noland James

A memorial service for Noland James, 89, will be held at 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, July 22nd at Chickasha’s First Christian Church. Arrangements are with Sevier Funeral Home. James  was a U.S. Air Force veteran.

              

 

Monday, July 20th

 

Chix City Council Meeting Returns to Virtual Format

The Chickasha City Council will return to a virtual meeting format for its meeting tonight. Individuals can watch the meeting on YouTube by going to the city's website www.chickasha.org/YouTube

Anyone wanting to participate in citizen communications will have to log-in to the Zoom platform and join the meeting via the Zoom Desktop or Mobile App. On the agenda is a proposal to allow the city manager to dispose of surplus equipment from the police department, and to allow the police department to use approved state contract vendors for fleet maintenance and equipping new fleet units through June 30th of next year. The panel will also discuss renewing an agreement between the city and the Grady County Emergency Medical Services district, and discuss renewing the capital outlay for the EMS district. The council meeting will begin at 6:30 p.m. tonight.

 

Caddo County Youths Injured in Rollover Accident

Two Gracemont teens are hospitalized after an SUV rollover crash over the weekend. The 14- and 17-year old girls were air-lifted to an Oklahoma City hospital where they were admitted in good condition. A 12-year old boy riding in the SUV was not hurt. The names of the youth were not provided as the highway patrol does not release the names of juveniles involved in traffic accidents. The accident happened about 3:15 p.m. Saturday northwest of Gracemont. The trooper investigating the crash reports that the 14-year old was driving a Chevy Blazer and was traveling at a speed too fast for the road type. The SUV ran off the road, hit a fence, and rolled an undetermined number of times. Both girls were thrown out of the vehicle. They were not wearing their seat belts. The uninjured 12-year old was reported to have been buckled up.

 

Crash on Turner Turnpike Injures Fletcher Man              

A Fletcher man is hospitalized after a crash early this morning in northeast Oklahoma. 32-year old Joshua Herring was taken to a Tulsa hospital where he was admitted in fair condition. The accident happened just after 3:00 a.m. on the Turner Turnpike west of Tulsa. The trooper investigating the crash said Herring's Dodge Durango initially ran off the roadway then he over-corrected, and the SUV hit the center barrier head-on. The trooper said there was an odor of alcohol in the vehicle and that Herring was sleepy.

 

Chickasha Public School Students

Will Again Get Free School Supplies

Whether students attending Chickasha Public Schools this fall will be in the classroom, learning virtually, or a combination of the two - parents will not have to purchase any school supplies. Once again this year, the Chickasha Public School Foundation will be providing all paper, notebooks, crayons, and other supplies for every student, for free. Jen Jantzen with the Foundation says the work to provide the supplies certainly comes in handy this year.

 

              

 

Jantzen said teachers will make sure the students have everything they need. Jantzen said the effort saves parents at least $100 per student.

              

Coronavirus Update              

Oklahoma saw its total number of coronavirus cases top 25,000 over the weekend. The number of new cases was dramatically lower yesterday with an additional 209 confirmed cases. But for all of the previous week there were nearly 5,000 new cases. The state department of health reports there are more than 5,300 active cases of the illness and that 451 people have died. Grady County topped 300 total cases over the weekend with the count now at 304 with 80 of those currently active. In Chickasha there have been 171 total cases and 46 are active. Caddo County has had 225 cases with 26 active. Anadarko has had a total of 44 cases with 11 of them current. In some other communities, Blanchard has had 89 cases with 20 currently active. Tuttle has had 65 cases and 15 of them are active.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $40.59 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $43.14.

Natural gas is $1.72 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,812 and silver is $19.85.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Saturday, July 11th

 

Chickasha Fugitive Returned to Grady County              

A suspect accused of raping and sexually assaulting teenage girls at a Chickasha home more than a decade ago has been extradited back to Grady County. Guy Lengyelleahu was booked into the Grady County jail early this morning. He was arrested by U.S. marshals in New Mexico earlier this week after authorities got a tip about a vehicle that was driving. In March of 2009, Grady County prosecutors filed rape and lewd molestation charges against Lengyelleahu. A probable cause affidavit indicates that he raped one girl at knifepoint. If convicted, Lengyelleahu could be sentenced to life in prison. He's expected to have his initial appearance on the felony charges in Grady County District Court sometime next week.

 

25 Jail Inmates Test Positive for COVID-19               

Grady County Jail Administrator Jim Gerlach says 25 inmates have been placed under quarantine after testing positive for the coronavirus. He said none of the inmates showed any symptoms of the illness prior to the tests. Gerlach said all the inmates who have tested positive for COVID-19 are federal inmates who are in transit to other areas of the country. No Grady County inmates and no female inmates have tested positive. One federal inmate died from the illness several weeks ago. Gerlach said there is only one inmate currently hospitalized and has been since May, although the inmate is also dealing with other health issues. Gerlach said that 15 jail employees have also tested positive since COVID-19 hit Oklahoma in March but that all of them are back on the job. Many of the federal inmates are refusing to be tested. Gerlach said the reason is that they don't want to be quarantined before moving on to their next stop. Gerlach said they are not using any county resources for testing. He also said they are sanitizing the jail several times each day and that inmates are given two masks each week, although many don't wear them.

              

 World War II Vet Gordon Spangler Dies             

A decorated Grady County citizen-soldier has died. Gordon Spangler, who fought in World War II and in Korea as a member of the Oklahoma National Guard, passed away Thursday. He was 102 years old. He joined the National Guard when he was a high school student at Minco. After graduation, the 158th Field Artillery Division was called to active duty with the 45th Infantry where Spangler served more than 500 combat days in Europe. He was also called to active duty during the Korean War where he served 429 combat days. Spangler received presidential citations for his service in both wars. He would serve with the National Guard for more than 40 years and in 1972 was named Oklahoma’s National Guardsman of the Year by Gov. David Hall. Gordon and his wife Pauline were married nearly 79 years before she passed away at the age of 98 in February of last year. The funeral service for Gordon Spangler will be at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at Epworth Methodist Church. Those attending are asked to wear facial coverings. The service will also be live-streamed on YouTube at Chickasha UMC. He'll be buried in the Friendship Cemetery.  Arrangements are with McRay Funeral Home.

 

Driver Hospitalized After Rollover Crash

A Caddo County man is hospitalized after crashing his car. 30-year old Johnathon Ray Stone of Carnegie was air-lifted to an Oklahoma City hospital after suffering head, arm, leg, and trunk injuries. He was admitted in fair condition. The accident happened west of Carnegie about 7:30 a.m. Friday. The trooper dispatched to the accident reported that Stone lost control of the car when the road changed from asphalt to gravel. The car careened off the road and overturned, throwing Stone out of the vehicle.

 

Sheriff's Office Updates Warrant List

The Grady County Sheriff's Office has issued 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.

 

 

Friday, July 10th

 

State Transportation Commission

Approves Highway, Bridge Projects

The state Transportation Commission this week approved a number of projects for the Grady and Caddo County areas. Jay Earp is the Division 7 Engineer for the State Department of Transportation which includes the two counties. He says the agency will be taking bids to replace the bridges over the Washita River on U.S. Highway 62 east of the H.E. Bailey Turnpike in September. The estimated cost of that project is more than $13 million. The installation of a cable barrier on U.S. Highway 81 between Ninnekah and Marlow is continuing. That's a more than $3 million project. Earp also said contractors are almost finished with a bridge replacement at Lake Burtchi which is a $975,000 project. A project to install fencing along the U.S. Highway 81 west bypass route of Chickasha was approved this week. That's a $700,000 project. Actual road construction of the bypass is not expected to begin for another couple of years.

 

Food Distribution Program Helps 500 Families              

Many families have been struggling to get through the coronavirus crisis - whether its family members battling the illness or because of lost jobs. Several organizations collaborated for a big food distribution effort in Chickasha yesterday. The Chickasaw Nation was able to help several hundred families. Becky Chandler is the executive officer for Nutrition Services with the Chickasaws.

 

              

 

The distribution took place at the Chickasha sports complex. Chandler said all the food was distributed within about two hours. Similar food distribution programs have been held in Purcell, Kingston, and Marietta and a future distribution will be held in Pauls Valley.

 

Chix City Council OKs Rezoning, Use-on-Review Requests              

A request to rezone some property near the Grady County Fairgrounds to a planned use development was approved by the Chickasha City Council this week. A group called It's Our Turn, LLC of Mustang requested the change. The property was previously zoned for commercial use and includes about 21 acres of land at the junction of Ada Sipuel Avenue and Grand Avenue South which is just southeast of the fairgrounds. City Manager John Noblitt said the Chickasha Municipal Authority was a joint applicant. Noblitt said developers anticipate both residential and commercial construction on the property with less than 30 percent anticipated for commercial. Noblitt said the city anticipates spending about $600,000 on utilities and building a detention pond. The council also approved the variance of the city's veneer ordinance for a warehouse to be used by the Grady County Emergency Management Agency next to the sheriff's office at 3rd and Pennsylvania Ave. The council also approved a use-on-review for Tressa Swanson to use her home at 2025 California for massage therapy. Officials said there were no concerns about parking issues since Swanson provides treatment sessions by appointment only.

 

Feaver Marks 20 Years as USAO President

USAO President John Feaver recently marked his 20th year at the helm of the university. Feaver spent several years teaching at USAO before moving into an administrative position in the mid-80s. That was a strenuous time for USAO as state lawmakers had their sights on closing the university. Feaver said he took the reins to get USAO on track to keep its doors open.

 

              

 

Feaver has spent a total of 40 years at the university, starting as a teacher in 1980. To recognize Feaver’s length of service as president, the USAO Foundation initiated a 20 for 20 campaign, urging alumni and university supporters to donate $20 to university projects in honor of Feaver's 20 years as president. Feaver has no immediate plans to retire as he wants to guide USAO through the coronavirus crisis. He said he has an agreement with the board of regents to give them a one-year's notice before he retires.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $39.62.

London-based Brent crude is $42.35.

Natural gas is $1.78 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,813 and silver is $19.16.

 

Obituaries

Gordon Shepard, Jr.

A private family memorial service will be held for Gordon Shephard, Jr., 58, of Chickasha. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.

 

 

Thursday, July 9th

 

Fire Destroys Unoccupied Home in Bradley

Fire crews battled a house fire in Bradley this morning. Buddy Myers with the Grady County Fire Department said the sheriff's office received a 9-1-1 call about 5:15 a.m. regarding a structure fire at 5th and Main. Bradley and Alex fire departments were dispatched, and Ninnekah was also called out for mutual aid. About 18 firefighters and nine trucks were able to get the fire under control and no nearby homes were threatened. Myers said it’s believed the small one story, wood-frame home had been unoccupied for more than a year. The preliminary damage estimate is about $50,000. It's not yet clear how the fire started.

 

Chix School Students Need to Confirm Enrollment              

Chickasha school officials are preparing for an August 20th start date which is only six weeks away. Officials say parents and students will need to confirm enrollment before attending. Parents can either do an in-person confirmation, or an on-line enrollment process is available on the school district’s website. There will be a single location for the in-person confirmation to keep parents from having to visit multiple schools. It will be held at the Chickasha High School Activity Center from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 14^th through Thursday, July 16^th. All that will be needed is proof of residency. Officials hope to minimize contact and practice appropriate social-distancing by breaking down the three days alphabetically. On Tuesday, it will be for students with last names that begin with A through I; on Wednesday, students with last names starting with J through R; and Thursday students with last names starting with S through Z. Officials say a parent can attend any of the three days if it is more convenient.

 

State Tops 1,500 New COVID-19 Cases in Two Days

The number of new coronavirus cases in Oklahoma jumped by more than 1,500 in a 48-hour period this week. The total number of positive COVID-19 cases is now close to 18,000 according to the Wednesday report from the State Health Department. Three more deaths were blamed on the infection which now stands at 407. That's about 2.2 percent of the total number of confirmed cases. The number of active cases in Oklahoma is approaching 4,000 and 458 patients are currently be treated in Oklahoma hospitals. Chickasha currently has 49 of Grady County's 68 active COVID-19 cases. Anadarko has six of Caddo County's 12 active cases.

 

'Sound' Improvements Made to Chix City Council Chambers

The City of Chickasha has finally solved a years-long problem during city council meetings. It has been very difficult to hear anyone talking in the council chambers due to poor acoustics in the very large room. City Manager John Noblitt says the city installed a new sound system this week.

 

              

 

Noblitt said the cost of the system was about $25,000 which was half of the anticipated price.

 

Chix Company to Lease Former Nat'l Guard Armory              

The former National Guard Armory at the Chickasha airport will be seeing some new activity. The city council approved an 18-month lease of the building to Standley Systems. A casket company was the last business to use that facility but it closed a few years ago. Standley Systems will use the building to store some of its equipment. The city will get about $25,000 in lease payments over the 18-month term of the lease.

 

Council Extends Pact with Proposed Coffee Shop              

The city council this week also approved the extension of an economic development agreement with a Duncan coffee shop to help with opening a Chickasha location. The council previously approved the agreement with Viridian Coffee last fall but store owners were delayed in their efforts to find a location. The agreement calls for the company to receive $85,000 in economic development funds to help with renovation and start-up costs. The coffee shop will be opening in the former Taco Bueno restaurant near 4th and Grand Avenue. Renovation work is expected to begin in August and they hope to be open sometime in October.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $40.90 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $43.29.

Natural gas is $1.82 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,823 and silver is $19.40.

 

 

Wednesday, July 8th

 

Chickasha Fugitive Arrested in New Mexico              

Federal officers say a man wanted for raping a teenage girl at knifepoint and other sex crimes in Chickasha more than 10 years ago has been arrested in New Mexico. Guy Lengyel-Leahu had been a fugitive since March of 2009 when a warrant was issued for his arrest. He was accused of sex crimes against girls who were 12 and 13 years old at the time. Prosecutors charged Lengyel-Leahu with rape with a weapon, forcible sodomy, and three counts of lewd molestation. Federal officials say they received a tip last month about a vehicle that Lengyel-Leahu may have been driving and a nationwide alert was issued. A New Mexico state trooper spotted the car and U.S. Marshals made the arrest. Lengyel-Leahu will be extradited back to Grady County to face the charges. If convicted he could be sentenced to life in prison.

 

Chickasha 'Mask' Ordinance Approved

For Most City-Owned Buildings

The Chickasha City Council passed a new ordinance this week that requires visitors to city hall and most city-owned buildings to wear a facial covering. Violators could be fined. City Manager John Noblitt said the ordinance adds some teeth to the unenforceable mandate that has been in place since March. Noblitt said it is not the intent to over-enforce the ordinance.

 

              

 

Masks will be required when visiting the police department, fire stations, and water treatment facilities. It does not include the YMCA, a building owned by the city but leased and managed by that organization. The city council unanimously passed the ordinance with an emergency clause. It is expected to go into effect next week after the ordinance is published in the local newspaper.

 

Driver Hospitalized After Rollover Accident

An Anadarko woman is air-lifted to a hospital after her car crashes in Ft. Cobb. 51-year old Trina Glenn suffered head and trunk injuries in the accident and was last in fair condition at an Oklahoma City hospital. The accident happened just after 10:30 p.m. Tuesday at the junction of State Highways 9 and 146. The highway patrol said Glenn was southbound on SH 146 and failed to stop at a stop sign. The car went into a broad slide, ran off the road and went airborne, hit a drainage ditch and rolled twice. Glenn was wearing a seat belt. The trooper investigating the crash said there was an odor of alcohol at the crash site.

 

Status of Grady County Fair to be Discussed

Will there be a Grady County Fair this year? Many events in the region have been canceled because of the coronavirus including the Rush Springs Watermelon Festival and the State Fair of Oklahoma. Grady County Fair coordinator Jamie Jones says the Grady County Fair Board will make a decision when the panel meets Monday, July 13th. Jones said the carnival has already canceled its appearance for the fair which is currently scheduled for August 27^th-29^th.

 

Anadarko Indian Exposition Canceled

This year's American Indian Exposition in Anadarko has been canceled because of the coronavirus. The Lawton Constitution reports that Expo board president Phil Dupoint said the decision was made after considerable deliberation. Dupoint said they are following guidelines from the City of Anadarko, The Caddo County Commissioners, and the Centers for Disease Control, and it was determined that such a large gathering would not be safe. This was to be the 85th year for the Expo which was scheduled next month.

 

BIA Sanctions Against Kiowa Tribe Lifted              

Some sanctions placed against The Kiowa Tribe of Oklahoma have been lifted, giving the tribe access to nearly $4 million in federal funds needed for its programs. The Lawton Constitution reports that the Bureau of Indian Affairs initially put the sanctions in place four years ago because of the late filing of the tribe's audits for fiscal years 2014 and 2015. The BIA issued additional sanctions for the late submission of audits from the 2016 and 2017 fiscal years. Tribal officials were notified June 30th that all sanctions have been lifted. Tribal Chairman Matt Komalty was quoted as saying the lifting of the sanctions vindicates officials of allegations made in recall charges. Komalty also said they can now start planning for the next phase of the tribe's future growth and success.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $40.62 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $43.08.

Natural gas is $1.87 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,815 and silver is $18.85.

 

Obituary

Donna Fitzgerald

A graveside service for Donna Fitzgerald, 63, of Minco will be held at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, July 9^th at Minco's Evergreen Cemetery. Arrangements are with Sevier Funeral Home of Tuttle.

 

 

Tuesday, July 7th

 

Chix City Councilman Again Calls

for Panel to Battle Racism             

Ward 3 Chickasha City Councilman R.P. Ashanti-Alexander has called for city officials to take action to bring the city together on racial issues. During last night's city council meeting, Ashanti-Alexander cited what could be considered a threat to African-Americans.

 

              

 

Since the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis, Minn. earlier this year, several Oklahoma communities have formed groups to deal with possible racism in their communities. So far, no such group has been formed in Chickasha.

 

Chix Mayor, Councilmen Take Oaths of Office

Chickasha Mayor Chris Mosley and other city councilmen were sworn into office during last night's city council meeting. Mosley ran un-opposed for a second term this spring. Others sworn in were Dr. R.P. Ashanti-Alexander and Zach Grayson, both of whom also ran un-opposed. Also taking his oath of office was David Sikes, who just last week was re-elected. One new councilman was sworn in - businessman Clark Van Dyck. He ran unopposed for the seat previously held by Joe Molder, who did not run for re-election.

 

Council Denies First Responder Appreciation Event

A proposed first responder appreciation event has been canceled after the Chickasha Police Department opted to not support it. Brett Landry was asking to hold the event at Shannon Springs Park on Saturday, July 18th. At first the event did have the support of police but City Manager John Noblitt said authorities rescinded that support.

 

             

 

Noblitt was pressed to say why the support was withdrawn but made the following statement after consulting with the city attorney.

 

              

 

The council voted 6-3 to deny the first responder event. Those voting against the proposal included Mayor Mosley, David Sikes, Kimmie Loggins, Zach Grayson, R.P. Ashanti-Alexander, and Clark Van Dyck. Voting in support of the event were Jim Hopkins, Oscar Nelson, and Brian Gerdes.

 

Blood Drive Scheduled Today

KOOL 105 and 106.1 The RANCH radio stations are teaming up with the Oklahoma Blood institute to host blood drives over the next few weeks. One of them is today, as the bloodmobile will be in the YMCA parking lot across from the studios at 7th and Chickasha Avenue. Jennifer Isinger with the blood institute said they will be providing free tests for COVID-19 antibodies.

 

              

 

The blood drive runs from 11:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. and walk-ups are welcome. Everyone will have their temperature taken before being allowed to donate and donors are asked to wear masks. The next scheduled blood drive is Thursday, July 16^th. To schedule an appointment, visit the Oklahoma Blood Institute website: www.obi.org

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $40.63 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $43.10.

Natural gas is $1.83 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,783 and silver is $18.27.

 

Obituaries

Jewell Thompson

A graveside service for Jewell Thompson, 100, of Alex will be at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, July 8^th at the Antioch Cemetery. Arrangements are with Sevier Funeral Home.

Terry Atwell

Funeral service for Terry Atwell, 72, of Ninnekah will be at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, July 8^th at the First Baptist Church of Ninnekah. He was a U.S. Army veteran and received a Purple Heart for his service as a combat infantryman in Vietnam. Arrangements are with McRay Funeral Home.

Claude Hill

Funeral services for Claude Hill, 68, are pending with Brown-Thomas Funeral Home.

 

 

Monday, July 6th

 

Man Dies in Rollover Accident              

A Chickasha man died in a rollover crash while exiting the H.E. Bailey Turnpike this past 4th of July weekend. 43-year old Reford Alcorn, II was identified as one of two individuals in the pickup involved in the accident Friday night. A second passenger, 23-year old Billy Johnson, II, was taken by ground ambulance to an Oklahoma City hospital where he was admitted in critical condition. A hospital spokesman this morning said that Johnson was no longer in the hospital. The accident happened about 8:00 p.m. Friday, July 3rd on the exit ramp at Mile Marker 83 of the turnpike at U.S. Highway 62. The highway patrol reported that the pickup was traveling at a high rate of speed when it veered off the exit ramp and rolled an undetermined number of times. Both men were thrown out of the truck. The highway patrol reported it wasn't clear who was driving.

 

Two Injured in Separate Caddo County Accidents              

There were a couple of traffic accidents in Caddo County that happened about the same time late Saturday. One was just north of Anadarko on U.S. Highway 281. 18-year old Priscilla Barrera of Anadarko was air-lifted to an Oklahoma City hospital where she was admitted in good condition with leg injuries. Barrera was a passenger in a car heading south on the highway at a high rate of speed and struck an SUV that had pulled onto the highway. A second passenger in Barrera's car, 18-year old Cassandra Avila also of Anadarko, was not hurt. The SUV driver, 60-year old Stacy Hollowell of Anadarko, was not hurt. The second accident was northeast of Ft. Cobb at the intersection of a couple of county roads. 29-year old Dillon Wilson of Ft. Cobb was taken to an Oklahoma City hospital and admitted in fair condition. The state trooper investigating that crash said the Wilson's pickup failed to go around a curve then ran off the road and hit both a stop sign and a fence. Both accidents happened between 11:30 p.m. and midnight Saturday night.

 

Minco School Worker Tests Positive for COVID-19

An employee of Minco Public Schools has tested positive for the coronavirus. Superintendent Kevin Sims posted the news on the school district’s Facebook last night. The unidentified employee was at the football team's Summer Pride weightlifting program from June 22^nd through June 25th. Sims said coaches made sure that the weight room and all facilities that were used were thoroughly sanitized every day. The health department is recommending that anyone attending the camp during those days to monitor their health over the next few days for coronavirus symptoms. Individuals experiencing a fever, difficulty in breathing, and/or a cough should get tested for COVID-19.

 

Mask Policy to be Reviewed for Chix City Hall

Chickasha city officials will consider whether it will be necessary to continue wearing masks inside city hall and other city-owned buildings. It's one of the items to be discussed during tonight's city council meeting. In background information provide to council members, it’s being recommended that facial coverings be required through the end of the year. The proposed city ordinance would not require businesses nor anyone attending outdoor activities on public property to wear a mask. The council also has a number of public hearings scheduled. One is for property near the Grady County Fairgrounds to consider re-zoning property from commercial use to a planned use development. Another public hearing is to consider a Use-on-Review for a home at 2025 California. Yet another public hearing will be held to approve a variance of the city's veneer ordinance for property at 302 N. 3rd. The council will also consider a request by Brett Landry to hold a Law Enforcement Appreciation event at Shannon Springs Park on July 18th. The city council meets at 6:30 tonight at city hall.

 

1st National Bank Breaks Ground on New Tuttle Branch

First National Bank and Trust (FNBT) is building a new bank in Tuttle. A groundbreaking ceremony was held last Thursday for the 5,000 sq. ft. bank in the 5300 block of East Highway 37 which is just east of the current bank. FNBT President and CEO John Gorton said the bank purchased the land more than 30 years ago in hopes of expansion. Gorton said the bank will feature four drive-thru lanes, an ATM, and a community meeting room. The bank's mortgage company will also re-locate to the new building. The current bank will remain open until the new facility is completed which is expected to be April of next year. CMS Willowbrook of Chickasha is the construction management company in charge of the project, and the architectural services are from Bockus Payne Architecture of OKC.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $40.65 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $43.14.

Natural gas is $1.73 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,784 and silver if $18.49.

 

Obituaries

Ardessa Bowens

Funeral service for Ardessa Bownes, 94, of Chickasha will be at 11:00 a.m.  Saturday, July 11^th at Shepherd Street Christian Church. Arrangements are with Brown-Thomas Funeral Home.

Illora Walker

Funeral service for Illora Walker, 78, of Lawton is pending with Brown-Thomas Funeral Home.

 

 

Saturday, July 4th

 

One Dead, One Hospitalized in Rollover

There was a deadly crash in Chickasha last night. A pickup ran off the H.E. Bailey Turnpike exit ramp and rolled several times just east of downtown. Killed in the crash was 43-year old Reford Alcorn, II of Chickasha. A second man, 25-year old Bill Johnson, II, also of Chickasha was last in critical condition at an Oklahoma City hospital. The state trooper called out to investigate the crash is still trying to determine who was driving. The preliminary report indicated that the pickup was traveling at a high rate of speed when it ran off the exit ramp and rolled several times, throwing both men out of the pickup. Neither man was wearing a seatbelt. The accident happened just before 9:00 p.m. Friday night. The ramp was closed for nearly four hours.

 

Close Anadarko School Board Race Certified

There won't be a recount in the tightly contested school board race in Anadarko this week. The Caddo County Election Board has certified the result of the election in which Derrell Sanders defeated Tara Tartsah-Clark by four votes, 485 to 481. Sanders won just two of the five precincts where votes were cast but those precincts had the largest number of voters. Sanders won Precinct 41 by 35 votes, 136 to 101 and Precinct 51 by 19 votes, 196 to 177. Tartsah-Clark won Precinct 12 by 15 votes, 57 to 42; Precinct 22 by 17 votes, 89 to 72; and Precinct 31 by 14 votes, 54 to 40. Sanders will serve a five-year term on the panel.

 

Country Music Star Trace Adkins Re-schedules Concert              

Officials at Ft. Sill have canceled an upcoming concert with country music recording artist Trace Adkins. Adkins was scheduled to perform July 25th. Officials canceled the concert and all activities connected with it due to coronavirus concerns. Adkins is expected to take part in next year's Armed Forces Day concert which is scheduled for May 15th.

 

World War I Traveling Museum Based in Marlow              

Did you know that the world's largest World War I traveling museum is based in Marlow? Museum curator Keith Colley spends most of his time on the road but tells KSWO-TV that the traveling show is based in Marlow. The museum sits inside one car and a trailer and has numerous artifacts, pictures, and displays. Colley said he started the project after a conversation about the war while working with people who suffer from Alzheimer's. His first artifact was a shovel from Bulgaria. Colley says he's had to cancel nearly 250 shows over the last few months because of COVID-19. He has taken his museum to many schools but also takes it to parades and air shows.

 

Obituaries

Ardessa Bowens

Funeral service for Ardessa Bowens, 94, of Chickasha will be at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, July 11^th at Shepherd Street Christian Church. She worked as a custodian at USAO for more than 20 years. Arrangements are with Brown-Thomas Funeral Home.

Illora Walker

Funeral service for Illora Walker, 78, of Lawton is pending with Brown-Thomas Funeral Home.

 

 

Friday, July 3rd

 

Safety, Caution Urged for July 4th Weekend

Americans are hitting the roads for vacations, trips to lake, or other family outings to celebrate the three-day Independence Day weekend. First responders encourage everyone to think safety-first in everything they do. Grady County first responders have already answered a call to a swimming pool incident in Alex. Alex police and fire, the Grady County Sheriff's office, and Chickasha EMS all responded to a report of a man in an above-ground pool. Buddy Myers with the Grady County Fire Department said the unidentified man was taken to a hospital where his condition is not known. Officials also say to be extra careful when shooting off fireworks. Fire officials say fireworks should be left to the professionals, but for those who choose to buy fireworks at local stands to use extra caution. Have some water nearby, and children should be supervised if they are allowed to use them. Sparklers can be dangerous as they can cause severe burns. Officials also say it’s important to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated during the hot temperatures to avoid heat exhaustion or even heat stroke. They also say to not drink and drive while on the roadways.

 

School Districts Pick Up Incentive Grants

A number of Oklahoma school districts will be able to purchase tablets and other equipment for future distance-learning needs thanks to some grant money. Anadarko, Central High, and Bray-Doyle are among the districts to receive some incentive grants. Comanche, Geronimo, Ryan, and Temple school districts also received grants. Anadarko and Comanche both received $100,000. Bray-Doyle and Central High received $50,000 while Mangum and Temple each collected about $34,000. Some of the schools will purchase Chrome books while others will provide hot-spots for households which don't have easy access to the Internet.

 

Hundreds of State Businesses Apply for COVID-19 Funds

State officials say they have already closed the application period for businesses wanting to apply for coronavirus relief funds. Financial institutions were inundated with requests when the application period opened on Monday. State Department of Commerce officials say about 2,500 applications were received by Tuesday morning. State Commerce Secretary Sean Kouplen said this is the first of two phases of application periods for companies which have suffered a loss of business due to COVID-19. About $50 million in relief funds are expected to be sent out between July 13th and July 31st. The funds were made available from the Federal CARES Act. Kouplen did not say when the second phase of applications would take place.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $40.65 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $43.41.

Natural gas is $1.73 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,785 and silver is $18.25.

 

Obituaries

Joyce Martin

A private service was held for Joyce Martin of Chickasha. She was the widow of the late Don Martin, who owned and operated Don Martin Chevrolet for many years. Her late sister, Klova Dee Shaw owned and operated Frye's Jewelry. Joyce also owned and operated a real estate company and a travel agency. Arrangements were with Ferguson Funeral Home.

Ina Mink

Funeral for Ina Mink, 78, of Grand Lake, Okla. and formerly of Cement will be held at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, July 7th at the Cyril Assembly of God. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.

Robert Maxwell

Funeral for Robert Maxwell, 56, of Chickasha will be at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, July 7th at Full Gospel Church. Arrangements are with Sevier Funeral Home.

 

Thursday, July 2nd

 

Several Public Hearings Scheduled

for Chickasha City Council Meeting

The rezoning of some planned development of property near the Grady County Fairgrounds is among several public hearings to be held by the Chickasha City Council next week. The area is near Ada Sipuel Avenue and the South Grand Avenue extension. The hearing is  to consider re-zoning the property from commercial use to a planned urban development, which could include some duplexes and/or apartments. Another public hearing will be held to consider a use-on-review for a home at 2025 California. Yet another public hearing will be held to approve a variance of the city's veneer ordinance for property at 302 N. 3rd, requested by Grady County Emergency Management Director Dale Thompson. The council will also consider a request by Brett Landry to hold a Law Enforcement Appreciation event at Shannon Springs Park on July 18^th. Also on the agenda is consideration of an economic development agreement with Viridian Coffee, which is proposing to open a coffee shop in the city. City Councilman David Sikes, who just won re-election to the council on Tuesday, will take his oath of office for his second term. The city council meets Monday , July 6^th at 6:30 p.m. at Chickasha City Hall.

 

Suspect Jailed on Felony Domestic Violence Charge

A Rush Springs man is behind bars accused of felony assault and battery following a domestic disturbance. Rush Springs police and Grady County deputies were called to a home the morning of June 25th. A probable cause affidavit indicates the victim suffered numerous facial, head, and trunk injuries, and alleges the suspect tried to strangle her and whipped her with a cel phone charging cord. In custody is 46-year old Jeffery Todd Jordan. At his initial appearance in Grady County District court this week, a judge set Jordan’s bond at $45,000. Jordan has a history of violence, pleading guilty to a felony for assault on a police officer in 2008 and a misdemeanor charge of domestic assault in 2016.

 

Sen. Inhofe Leads Defense Spending Talks              

Oklahoma U.S. Senator Jim Inhofe is leading discussion in the U.S. Senate regarding the National Defense Authorization Act. Inhofe is the chairman of the senate armed forced committee, and says the measure is crucial to all of Oklahoma's military installations. He mentioned of couple of them in an interview with RANCH News.

 

              

 

Inhofe is hopeful the military spending plan can be in place by November.

 

App Shows State Highway, Turnpike Conditions              

There is a new app available which provides real-time traffic and road conditions on Oklahoma highways and turnpikes. The State Department of Transportation debuted the app last year under the ODOT name, and has been fine-tuning the system by adding turnpike data and even snow plow cameras. There are links to the app on both the ODOT and Oklahoma Turnpike Authority websites.

 

Blanchard, Chix to Host July 4th Celebrations              

There will be a number of 4th of July fireworks programs to enjoy over the next few days. Blanchard is hosting its annual Independence celebration tonight. Starting about 6:00 p.m., there will be games, live music, food trucks, and helicopter rides will be available. The fireworks display will begin about 9:45 p.m. Chickasha will be hosting its annual fireworks display Saturday night at Shannon Springs Park. There will be food trucks at the park that evening and the fireworks will also start about 9:45 p.m.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $39.82 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $42.03.

Natural gas is $1.67 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,785 and silver is $18.23.

 

Obituary

Cynthia Arters

A graveside service for Cynthia Arters, 58, of Chickasha will be at 10:00 a.m. Monday, July 6th at Fairlawn Cemetery. Arrangements are with Sevier Funeral Home.

 

 

Wednesday, July 1st

 

Painter, Hannah Win Re-Election              

Grady County Commissioner Kirk Painter and Court Clerk Lisa Hannah both retain their offices in yesterday's primary election. In unofficial results of the Republican primary, Painter keeps his District 2 Commissioner’s post with 61 percent of the vote to defeat Ron Reynolds (no Democrat filed for the post). Hannah was re-elected with 76 percent of the vote over Damon Logue (likewise, no Democrat had filed). County Clerk Jill Locke won the Republican nomination for her office by collecting 61 percent of the vote over Kari Porter. Locke will now face Democrat Frieda Willis in the November general election.

              

Lowe Edges Talley in HD 56 GOP Primary              

The House District 56 GOP primary between Dick Lowe and Randy Talley went down to the wire. Lowe won by only 235 votes to get the party's nomination. Both Lowe and Talley were first time political candidates. Lowe said he expected a close race.

 

              

 

Talley said he was disappointed with the outcome but that his campaign was able to discuss a lot of concerns.

 

              

 

Lowe will go on to face Democrat Craig Parham, the Mayor of Amber in the general election.

 

Senior Nutrition Sales Tax Extended              

Grady County voters overwhelmingly approved the extension of a county sales tax to fund senior nutrition centers. The measure passed by a nearly 2-to-1 margin. The one-eighth of a penny sales tax will continue through December of 2025.

 

Sikes Re-elected to Chix City Council              

In Chickasha, Ward One city councilman David Sikes won re-election, earning 67 percent of the vote to defeat Dewey Mosshart IV.

 

School Board Election Results

There were several school board races throughout the region. Dustin Tate defeated Russell Baker by 32 votes for a seat on the Ninnekah School Board. Lance Melton defeated Chris Long by 27 votes to get seat on the Rush Springs board of education. Neely Alexander defeated Heather Crowder by 44 votes for a seat on the Friend School Board. Michelle McRay defeated Jeff Martin by 52 votes in the Pioneer school board election. Jennifer Mandrell received 61 percent of the vote to defeat Greg Hamby for a seat on the Dibble board of education.

 

Caddo County School Board Election Results              

A school board race in Anadarko was decided by just four votes. Derrell Sanders defeated Tara Tartsah-Clark 485 to 481 in the unofficial results. Sanders would take the post previously held by long-time school board member Skip Hamill who did not run for re-election. Tartsah-Clark has until Friday to file for a recount. At Binger-Oney, Kylie Toho had 64 percent of the vote to defeat Jenny Jones for seat on the school board. At Carnegie, Christie Harrison received nearly 63 percent of the vote over Misty Boettger to win a seat on the school board. Lance Shenold picked up 56 percent of the vote over Patrick Michael Hayes to win re-election to the Caddo Kiowa Technology Center board of education.

 

Anadarko Voters Pass All City Propositions              

Voters in the city of Anadarko passed all seven propositions which officials say were needed update a number of policies and procedures. On the statewide ballot, SQ 802, the Medicare expansion proposal, won narrow approval with 50.5 percent of the vote.

 

Harley Rider Critical After Crash

A motorcycle rider is in critical condition after he was hit by a pickup near Lindsay. 32-year old Trevor Twyford of Pauls Valley suffered head, trunk, arm, and leg injuries in the accident that happened on State Highway 76 south of Lindsay just before 8:00 p.m. Tuesday. Twyford was not wearing a helmet. The highway patrol reports that Twyford's Harley Davidson was hit by a truck driven by 19-year old Kyle Keeler of Lindsay. Keeler and an unidentified 16-year old girl in the truck with him were not hurt.

 

Boots, Badges Blood Drive is Today

Grady County law enforcement and firefighters are combining efforts for their annual Boots and Badges blood drive today. The Oklahoma Blood Institute will be set up in the USAO Ballroom from about 12:30 to 5:30 this afternoon. All donors 18 years old and older get a free COVID-19 antibody test in addition to the mini-health check that is customary when donating blood. All prospective donors will have their temperature taken before being allowed to donate.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $39.27 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $41.15.

Natural gas is $1.75 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,803 and silver is $18.76.

 

Obituary

Pauline Thomas

A graveside service for Pauline Thomas, 89, of Chickasha will be at 1:00 p.m. Friday, July 3rd at Rosehill Cemetery. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.

 

 

Tuesday, June 30th

 

Voters Asked to Wear Masks at Precincts

Voters casting ballots in the primary election today will be asked to take coronavirus precautions when going to their precincts. While it’s not required, voters are asked to wear a mask and poll workers will have hand sanitizer, gloves, masks, and disinfectant on hand. Voters are asked to be patient and follow signage and procedures. Voters will have to provide some kind of identification, whether it’s a driver’s license, a state ID, or voter registration card.

 

Municipal, School Board, and County Races on Many Ballots

There are city council elections in Chickasha and Lindsay. In Chickasha, Ward One incumbent David Sikes is facing challenger Dewey Mosshart IV for a two-year term. In Lindsay, there are ten candidates on the ballot. In Anadarko, there are seven propositions for city voters to consider. There are school board races at Ninnekah, Rush Springs, Friend, Pioneer, Dibble, Anadarko, Marlow, Binger-Oney, Carnegie, and the Caddo Kiowa Technology Center. All Grady County voters will decide if a county-wide sales tax that supports the senior nutrition centers should be extended for another five years. Grady County Republicans will elect a court clerk, where incumbent Lisa Hannah faces challenger Damon Logue. Republicans in Grady County will choose a county clerk candidate, where incumbent Jill Locke is facing challenger Kari Porter. The winner goes on to the general election in November. Grady County Republicans in District Two will elect a county commissioner, with incumbent Kirk Painter facing challenger Ron Reynolds. There is one state house race of interest for Republicans. That's in House District 56 which includes parts of Grady, Caddo, and Kiowa counties. Dick Lowe of Amber and Randy Talley of Chickasha are on the ballot. The winner will be on the November ballot against Democrat Craig Parham. On the statewide ballot, Oklahoma voters will decide SQ 802, the Medicare reimbursement proposal. Polls will be open until 7 o'clock tonight.

 

Casino Closed Because of COVID-19

A regional casino has closed after an employee tested positive for the COVID-19 virus. The Golden Eagle Casino in Apache suspended its gaming operation last week and will be closed through July 14^th which is in line with the Apache Gaming Commission's coronavirus policy. A statement from the group said they'll follow the environmental public health and safety check list recommendations during the down time. They'll also put screening measures in place and a dedicated sanitation vendor will be brought in.

 

Anadarko School Board Considers Food Service Contract

A bid for a food service management contract is the subject of a special meeting of the Anadarko school board this afternoon. It's the only item to be considered when the panel meets at noon at the Anadarko school administration building. The contract is for the upcoming school year and, if approved, would go into effect tomorrow. July 1st which is the start of the 2020-21 fiscal year.

 

Harold Hamm Buys Millions of Continental Shares

Continental Resources founder and executive chairman Harold Hamm has purchased nearly 4.8 million shares of the company's common stock on the open market. In a press release, the company reports the purchases were made between June 22nd and June 25th at market price. Hamm's total holdings are nearly 290 million shares, or about 79 percent of Continental's total outstanding common shares. Hamm said he believes the company's current share price reflects an uncommon value as the global pandemic has negatively impacted worldwide crude demand.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $39.70 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $41.71.

Natural gas is $1.71 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,784 and silver is $18.10.

 

Obituary

Debbie Wallace

A memorial service for Debbie Wallace, 65, of Verden will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, July 3^rd at New Life Christian Church. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.

 

 

Monday, June 29th

 

Grady County Leaders Submit Budget Requests          

Grady County government officials have submitted budget requests that total nearly $13 million for the fiscal year that starts Wednesday. That's about a 6 percent increase over the current fiscal year spending plan. The budget requests were submitted to the county excise board last week. Budgets won't be approved until revenue projections for the coming year are finalized. Officials are asking for a 5 percent pay hike for their employees. They say their insurance costs are climbing more than $17 per month. Sheriff Jim Weir is asking for a more than 8 1/2 percent increase in his budget, from $2.5 million to nearly $2.8 million. He says the additional funds are needed to reassure the public that deputies are taking every step to help the county be safe and for his department to be transparent. The sheriff's department budget also includes $600,000 to be paid to the Grady County Jail for the incarceration of county inmates. County Clerk Jill Locke is seeking an increase of about $50,000 to nearly $820,000 to get three of her employees certified. Court Clerk Lisa Hannah is asking for about a $14,000 increase to $534,000. Part of the increase would be used to help train a new employee who will take over for someone who is retiring. Assessor Bari Firestone is decreasing her main budget about $10,000 to just over $450,000. Treasurer Robin Burton is decreasing her budget by about $13,000 to $434,000. Grady County Emergency Management Director Dale Thompson wants to decrease his budget to $224,000 but is asking to purchase a repeater for the Bridge Creek Fire Department. District Attorney Jason Hicks is asking for a $13,000 increase from the county budget to $70,000 to help pay for the salary of a new assistant district attorney. There is also about $4.5 million set aside for courthouse capital improvements.

 

State Businesses Urged to Apply for COVID-19 Grants

Oklahoma businesses can begin applying for coronavirus relief grants today, money made available through the State Department of Commerce. The grants are part of the agency’s Oklahoma Business Relief Program. Businesses which suffered a 25 percent decrease in revenue may be eligible. Businesses can apply through participating financial institutions and a list of those insititutions is available on the state department of commerce website: www.okcommerce.gov Maximum grants will be $25,000 and the funds can be used for expenses for which the company has not or will not receive reimbursement from another source (such as other federal, state, or city grants) or insurance proceeds. A service fee of up to $500 may be charged by the financial institutions and the grant cannot be used to pay that fee. The application deadline is July 10th and the distribution of grants will begin July 17th.

 

Chickasha's 160-Foot Tall Christmas Tree

To be Lit for Month-Long Promotion

Temperatures could reach 100 degrees this week, but a new promotion for Chickasha businesses will make you think of much cooler temps. Christmas in July is yet another event put together in a joint effort of the Chamber of Commerce and the Economic Development Council (EDC). Chamber President Cassandra Ersland says the Festival of Light came up with the idea to create a campaign in July to help 'adopt' light displays in Shannon Springs Park for the upcoming season. To help, the 160-foot tall Christmas tree at the park will be lit the entire month of July starting Wednesday night. The chamber and EDC will help businesses throughout the city promote their July specials, events, and sales. The EDC has also partnered with the Chickasha Community Theater to screen Christmas movies in the Washita Theatre each Thursday evening in July (starting July 10^th). The screenings will be free with concession proceeds going toward theatre renovations. A full list of events can be seen on the chamber website: www.chickashachamber.com/christmasinjuly

 

Halliburton Sells El Reno Property              

Reports indicate that Halliburton has sold its property in El Reno that served as the company's Remote Operations Command Center. The property just east of El Reno on the historic Route 66 Highway was closed back in December. The site is 86 acres and included 32,000 sq. ft of office space and  a more than 93,000 sq. ft. maintenance shop. The website www.okenergytoday.com reports a company called CBRE advertised the property at a sales price of $16 million. CBRE did not reveal the purchase price nor the buyer. Not included in the sale was an adjacent rail operation involving frac sand.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil was down more than 3 percent last week to $38.49 per barrel. London-based Brent crude was down to $41.02. Natural gas was down 10 percent to fall just below $1.50 per million BTUs. Gold is $1,783 and silver is $18.15.