Saturday, June 26th

 

Fight Over Steering Wheel Leads to Crash

Two people were hurt and one hospitalized in serious condition after a near head-on collision west of Ninnekah this morning. The accident happened just after midnight on State Highway 277 about four miles west of U.S. Highway 81. 25-year old Cheyanne Walker of Duncan was taken to an Oklahoma City hospital and admitted with leg and internal injuries. Walker was a passenger in a car driven by 42-year old James Mayberry of Tulsa who was not injured. The driver of the other car, 57-year old Lawassa Riggs of Dibble, was taken to Grady Memorial Hospital where she was treated for minor injuries and released. The highway patrol reports that Walker and Mayberry were fighting over control of the steering wheel of their vehicle which crossed the center line and hit the Riggs vehicle.

 

Amber Alert Issued for Missing Moore Children

An Amber Alert has been issued for two missing children. Moore police issued the alert early this morning for 6-year old Kathryn Glad and 2-year old Cory Glad. Authorities say the children are believed to be with their biological grandmother Twana Brinlee. She reportedly has been diagnosed with schizophrenia and is without her medication and may be in a state of crisis. Authorities say Brinlee may have a gun and previously attempted to conduct religious acts with the kids. Brinlee may be driving a gray 2020 Toyota Tacoma with Oklahoma Tag KBQ-254. Police say she may have been headed to a lake or Arkansas to visit family. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Moore Police Department.

 

Lawmakers Named to 'Honor Roll' of Children's Group

A number of state lawmakers in the region get good marks for their support of children's issues at the state capital this past legislative session. The Oklahoma Institute for Child Advocacy (OICA) released its annual report card for all members of the house and senate. Joe Dorman is the CEO of the group and says lawmakers were scored on how their votes compared to the OICAs position on various bills related to the youth. Regional lawmakers named to the OICA Honor Roll include Representatives Toni Hasenbeck of Lawton, Cindy Roe of Lindsay, Brian Hill of Mustang, and Daniel Pae of Lawton and Senator Jessica Garvin of Duncan. Dorman also complimented Gov. Kevin Stitt for signing a number of pro-child measures into law and the OICA is grateful for his leadership and vision. The scorecards of all state lawmakers can be seen on the Oklahoma Institute for Child Advocacy's website: www.oica.org

 

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.

 

Talk Show Topics

Here's what we're talking about this weekend. Cassandra Ersland with the Chickasha Chamber of Commerce and Jim Cowan with the Economic Development Council are the KOOL Konversation talking about a Christmas in July promotion. On Real Estate Today, Chickasha Mayor Chris Mosley and Vice Mayor Zack Grayson will discuss some of the goings-on at Chickasha City Hall. Find links to both programs under the Community tab on this website.

 

Friday, June 25th

 

Man Charged with Domestic Violence Back in Custody

A man charged with felony domestic violence earlier this year is in more hot water with the law. 41-year old Jessie Arevalo of Noble was arrested by state troopers earlier this week after a short pursuit. Arevalo was out of jail after posting bond on the February charges. Court documents indicate that a couple of state troopers were conducting a driver's license and safety checkpoint at Cottonwood and Sooner Roads southeast of Chickasha Wednesday morning when they saw a motorcycle make an improper turnabout.  The troopers attempted to make a traffic stop but he did not pull over. The biker turned into a mobile home park and drove through a number of yards before he laid the bike down and started running on foot - but the troopers were able to catch up to him. Arevalo was arrested on complaints which include attempting to elude and drug possession. Arevalo has been formally charged with misdemeanors and is being held on a $25,000 bond in connection with this arrest.

 

Suspect Arrested on Stalking, Assault Complaints

A man on probation is arrested by Verden police on complaints of stalking and assault. 41-year old Caleb Tallent of Cement was taken into custody this week after two confrontations with an ex-girlfriend earlier this month. Court documents say that Tallent crashed his pick-up into the woman's truck and almost hit her in the process and that he threatened to burn her house down. It's also alleged that Tallent broke into the woman's home by kicking in the front door. Tallent was on probation after pleading no contest to a felony charge of child endangerment following a 2017 arrest. Tallent remains in jail on a nearly $40,000 bond.

 

Sex Offender Arrested for Failing to Register

A Grady County man is jailed on a $50,000 bond for failing to register as a sex offender. Authorities arrested 34-year old Dustin Roger Crump at a Tuttle home earlier this week. A probable cause affidavit shows that the Grady County Sheriff's Office received a tip about Crump living in the Tuttle area. Crump had been living in Oklahoma City and was delinquent in his registration in Oklahoma County. Crump did not check out from Oklahoma County nor check in with Grady County as required. In a written statement Crump admitted he had been in Grady County for about three weeks without letting officials know where he was. Crump is on probation after pleading no contest to a sex crime out of Canadian County.

 

Chickasha Rodeo is This Weekend

The dust will be flying at the Grady County Fairgrounds the next couple of nights with area cowboys and cowgirls competing in the 82nd annual Chickasha rodeo. Rafter D Rodeo of Sterling is the stock contractor bringing its rough stock to challenge the contestants. All the familiar rodeo events will be held including barrel racing, steer wrestling, calf roping, and bull and bronc riding. The colorful and patriotic grand entry will kick things off at 8 o'clock both nights. There will be a rodeo parade downtown Chickasha at 4 o'clock tomorrow afternoon.

 

Anadarko's Honor America Fireworks Tonight

There's an early 4th of July fireworks show in Anadarko tonight. The annual Honor America fireworks will be at the Caddo County Fairgrounds. Officials with Limelight Productions say there will be about 1,400 aerials, booms, and blasts. The fireworks are a free event and those attending may want to take lawn chairs and blankets. Also, our sister station New Country 98.5 KACO will play patriotic music that will be synchronized with the fireworks. The show will start about 9:45 tonight.

 

Duncan Job Fair Today

Employers and job seekers alike will get an opportunity to connect at the Duncan job fair today. More than a dozen companies looking for qualified employees will be taking applications and in some cases conducting interviews on the spot. The job fair is hosted by the Duncan Economic Development Foundation and is from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. today at the Duncan Simmons Center.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $73.70 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $75.76.

Natural gas is $3.42 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,782 and silver is $26.30.

 

Thursday, June 24th

 

Illegal Marijuana Grow Operation Shut Down

An illegal marijuana growing operation in Rush Springs has been shut down. Agents with the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics (OBN) and Grady County sheriff's deputies hit the operation Wednesday morning. KOKH-Fox 25 reports that there were 52 greenhouses and that by noon officials had counted over 20,000 plants valued at $30 million. OBN officials posted photographs on its Facebook page asking anyone with information about the operation to reach out to them. OBN spokesman Mark Woodward said there were about 30 Asian workers at the facility and believes all are victims of human trafficking brought to the United States from China. Woodward tells The Oklahoman that all 77 Oklahoma counties are now a source for black market pot. Woodward said that the illegal weed can be cultivated in the state at a cost between $300 and $400 per pound and then sold for as much as $2,500 per pound on the east coast. Woodward said it appears that illegal grow operations often appear to be legitimate by obtaining a  license and complying with ownership requirements while In reality they are shell corporations for established criminal drug rings.

 

State Senators Ask for Investigation

Into Sky-High Building Supply Prices

A number of Oklahoma state senators want to look into the skyrocketing prices of building supplies. Officials are asking the state attorney general's office to investigate allegations of price gouging and market manipulation during the pandemic. One senator said the price spikes have been a top concern for several months and that the increases have caused project delays and financial hardships. Senator Cody Rogers (R-Tulsa) said lumber prices have shot up four to six times from the price it was 18 months ago. Sheets of oriented strand board that were previously $11 now cost $48 even though they can be made for $4. The cost of hot-rolled coil steel has climbed by nearly 300 percent in less than a year. Rogers says the state's Emergency Price Stabilization Act prohibits any increase of more than 10 percent for the price of goods during a declared emergency. Rogers also said other business practices or agency regulations relating to interstate commerce in the building trades industry could be abused to create market manipulation.

 

OU Softball Co-Captain to Lead Chix Rodeo Parade

The annual Chickasha rodeo is coming up this weekend and there's a special grand marshal for the rodeo parade. Former Chickasha High School all-state softball player Linnsie Elam is now a national champion after helping the OU Sooner softball team win the NCAA Women’s College World Series earlier this month. Elam is one of the co-captains for the Sooners and is also a three-time Academic All-Big 12 selection. While at Chickasha High School Elam was part of the Lady Chicks back-to-back state champion softball teams. The rodeo itself will be both Friday and Saturday nights at the Grady County Fairgrounds at 8 p.m. each night. The parade is 4:00 o'clock Saturday afternoon downtown.

 

Lots of Live Music in Chickasha this Weekend

It's going to be a big weekend for music lovers in Chickasha with a couple of music venues blasting out the tunes. Curtis Hart’s Muscle Car Ranch will again host TwisterFest, a three-day music festival which will run Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. The ranch has expanded to 80 acres and includes 20 acres of lakes to camp around. 70 bands will perform on five stages over the weekend with local favorite Dollar98 playing Saturday night. Christian bands will perform all day Sunday. The other concert venue is Fred McNatt’s Legends Event Park which will have a Friday night only concert with Kody West; Giovanni and the Hired Guns; and Carson Jeffry. Tickets for both events will be available at the gate.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $73.08 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $75.19.

Natural gas is $3.33 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,782 and silver is $26.13.

 

Wednesday, June 23rd

 

Drug Ring Taken Down in Southwest Oklahoma

Agents with the Oklahoma State Bureau of Narcotics (OBN) and numerous law enforcement groups have eliminated an illegal drug distribution ring in southwest Oklahoma. Officials made nearly 20 arrests in the Lawton and Comanche County region following an 18-month investigation. The Lawton Constitution reports that the arrests include the alleged kingpin who was leading the illicit drug trade.  OBN spokesman Mark Woodward said it is one of many drug operations they've been able to eliminate statewide in the last few months. In the Lawton probe, 42-year old Ronnie Davis was said to have been at the helm of the operation. Davis was already on federal probation after convictions of previous crimes related to this particular methamphetamine distribution network. He was arrested last month after investigators found nearly 1,100 grams (2 1/2 pounds) of meth at his home. Later in the investigation, authorities said they found more than 12 pounds of meth in a storage unit. Davis has been charged with aggravated drug trafficking and faces up to 20 years in prison if he's convicted. Other agencies involved in the investigation included the Elgin Police Department, Comanche County Sheriff's Office, Drug Task Forces in Districts 2 and 3, and the Federal Office of Probation and Parole. Woodward said the combination of cheap land and looser marijuana laws in the state are attracting drug organizers to Oklahoma.

 

Blood 'Emergency' Declared

A nationwide shortage of blood has officials issuing a blood emergency. Dr. John Armitage with the Oklahoma Blood Institute (OBI) says the supply is the worst he has seen in his more than 25 years with the agency. Armitage said they are down to about one day's supply of blood which is highly unusual. He said they'd like to have a three-to-five day supply on hand. The OBI provides over 90 percent of the blood needed in Oklahoma hospitals and other medical facilities. Blood centers nationwide are also facing shortages and that means that blood can't be borrowed. Armitage said should the area experience a mass trauma event that everyone who needs blood may not be able to get it immediately. Current and new blood donors are urged to help re-stock the shelves. Information on blood drives in your area visit the website: www.obi.org

 

Missionary's Death Mourned

Longtime missionary Jeanne Jones has died. Jones and her husband Dwain Jones served as pastors of Chickasha's First Assembly of God Church in the 1980s and then he traveled the world for 30 years raising money for the Calcutta Mercy Ministries. Jeanne Jones was 78 when she passed away at her Chickasha home on Sunday. Dwain Jones died in 2016 and the couple were married for 57 years. A memorial service for Jeanne Jones will be at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, June 26th at Chickasha’s First Assembly of God. Memorial contributions may be made to the Calcutta Mercy Ministry.

 

Duncan Job Fair is Friday

There are a lot of companies that have job openings right now - and there are also a lot of people who are looking for work or maybe a better job. The Duncan Economic Development Foundation hopes to unite the employers and the job-seekers with a job fair later this week. Nicole Punnoe says numerous companies will be at the job fair taking applications.

 

              

 

Punnoe also said some companies will have interviews on-site. The Duncan job fair is this Friday (June 25^th) at the Simmons Center from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Companies wanting to join the job fair should contact the Duncan Economic Development Foundation.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $72.85 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $73.06.

Natural gas is $3.26 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,783 and silver is $26.04.

 

Tuesday, June 22nd

 

Chix City Budget Approved

The City of Chickasha has a $48 million budget for the fiscal year that begins next week (July 1^st). Following a public hearing that last about three minutes Monday night, the city council unanimously approved the plan. Only one person discussed the budget during the public hearing. Tory Wise said there are about $5.5 million in street improvement projects set aside for a couple of streets that would be better spent elsewhere.

 

              

 

Wise also said there was also $100,000 set aside for improvements at the city's sports complex that were initially designated for critical infrastructure work. The council approved the budget without any changes saying that the issues that Wise brought up could be considered in the future.

 

Chix Residents Oppose Cell Phone Tower

The council also heard from a number of residents who are opposed to placing a new cell phone tower in their neighborhood. Earlier this year, the city’s Planning Commission denied Branch Communications a special use permit for the tower in the area of 8th and Dakota. The issue was on the agenda for last night's meeting and among the residents speaking against it was Mary Hathaway.

 

              

 

A Branch Communications representative said initially they sent 42 notices to area property owners and only had two oppose the project at the Planning Commission meeting. While the issue was on the city council agenda last night it was not listed as a public hearing so a council decision on the matter was postponed. The hearing will be scheduled for the council's July 6th meeting.

 

Chix City Council OKs Southgate Zoning Changes

A developer's requests to re-zone some property in the Southgate Addition to build some duplexes and commercial projects get unanimous approval from the city council. The panel approved the requests for Bryce Binyon who applied to re-zone residential property in order to build six duplexes – and to re-zone residential property to commercial use to build a Family Dollar Store and some self-storage units. The council also unanimously approved of hosting the city's annual fireworks show at Shannon Springs Park on Sunday, July 4th. Western Enterprises of the Enid area produces the show every year. Mayor Chris Mosley pointed out that the more than $10,000 needed to pay for the fireworks is all private money donated by local businesses and individuals.

 

Chix School Administrator Leaves for New Job

A Chickasha school administrator is moving on. Seth Meier, who has served as the district's director of curriculum and personnel, has been hired as an elementary school principal in Moore. On a social media post, Meier said he will be at Southgate-Rippetoe Elementary school. Meier said he enjoyed his time in Chickasha but that he missed kids, the buzz of the school day, and the excitement of feeling like every day was an episode of Saturday Night Live. He said he will eventually return to an administrative role in education but that right now his heart is in the school house.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $73.66 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $74.90.

Natural gas is $3.19 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,781 and silver is $26.06.

 

Obituaries

Wayne Robnett

A private graveside service will be held for Wayne Robnett, 83,  of Chickasha. He was a U.S. Navy veteran. Arrangements are with McRay Funeral Home.

Mary Harruff

A celebration of life for Mary Harruff, 86, of Chickasha was held at Grace Baptist Fellowship Hall. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.

 

Monday, June 21st

 

Another Public Hearing for Proposed Chix Budget,

Southgate Rezoning Hearings set for City Council

Another public hearing for the City of Chickasha's proposed budget for the upcoming fiscal year will be held by the city council tonight. The hearing had been set for the June 7th meeting but was postponed to allow the public to get a better look at the plan. Officials have put together a $48 million spending plan for review. The council will also have a couple of public hearings on some re-zoning proposals for businessman Bryce Binyon. He's asking to re-zone some residential property in the Southgate Addition to allow for the construction six new duplexes. The other public hearing for Binyon is to rezone some residential property in the Southgate Addition to commercial use for the construction of a Family Dollar store and some storage units. The Planning Commission has recommended that both issues be approved. The council will also go behind closed doors to discuss two issues. One is a lawsuit filed against the city by the Chickasha Firefighters Association. The topic of the other issue is vague, saying only that it is for discussion of an issue which could seriously impair the ability of the council to process the claim or pending investigation if it was done in a public setting. The council meets at 6:30 tonight at city hall.

 

One Dead in Caddo County Accident

A weekend crash in Caddo County claims the life of a Lawton man. Kenneth Deshong, 39, died when the car he was driving ran off the road and hit a concrete bridge. The accident happened about 4:30 a.m. Saturday on State Highway 152 near State Highway 58 about 14 miles west of Binger.

 

Driver Hospitalized After Southeast Okla Crash

A Blanchard woman was taken to a Texas hospital after crashing her pickup into a creek in southeast Oklahoma. 33-year old Leigha Parsons was air lifted to a Plano, Texas hospital with head injuries and was admitted in stable condition. The accident happened just before 5:30 p.m. Sunday between Hugo and Idabel in Choctaw County. The highway patrol said Parsons ran off the road, hit a culvert, crashed through a fence and landed in the creek.

 

Silver Alert Canceled for Missing Lawton Man

A Silver Alert issued for a Lawton area man has been canceled.  The Comanche County Sheriff's Office issued the alert for Henry Fred Whitehead, 78, just before noon Saturday saying he had a medical or physical disability and was in imminent danger of serious injury or death. He was driving a dually pickup. Authorities canceled the alert about 5:30 this morning saying he had been located but gave no details.

 

Turnpike Authority to Automate All State Toll Roads

The Oklahoma Turnpike Authority is making plans to fully automate all of its toll plazas. What that means is that you won't have to dig in your pockets to find all the change you need to pay your toll. The authority will soon begin a five-year plan to switch all turnpikes to the new system which will still include the PikePass system as well as a new PlatePay program. The PlatePay system which will take a picture of your tag then use the registration information on file to send the owner an invoice for the toll. Oklahoma City's Kilpatrick Turnpike will be first on the list with the conversion expected to be in place by the end of summer. The turnpike authority is seeking vendors to make the transition on the H.E. Bailey Turnpike but that change won't happen for another couple of years.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $71.64 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $73.51.

Natural gas is $3.22 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,782 and silver is $26.05.

 

Obituaries

Cory Westbury

Funeral service for Cory Westbury, 51, of Chickasha is pending with Brown-Thomas Funeral Home.

Elizabeth (Jones) Farmer

A graveside service for Elizabeth (Jones) Farmer, 79, of Comanche and formerly of Chickasha will be at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, June 22^nd. Viewing is today at the Bailes-Polk Funeral Home in Duncan.

Saturday, June 19th

 

Anadarko Police Officers Cleared of Wrong-Doing

The Anadarko police officers suspended after being involved in a fatal officer-involved shooting have been cleared of wrong-doing. At a press conference yesterday, Police Chief Eric Harlan said the Caddo County District Attorney’s Office cleared the officers and that a police department internal review found that Officers Charles Maldonado and Sooner Harmon acted appropriately and did not violate the law or department policy. Harlan re-capped the shooting that occurred just before 1:00 a.m. Monday, April 5th. He said the officers responded to a report of a man suffering from a drug overdose. Another man, Silas Lambert, became aggressive toward one of the officers and pointed a gun at him. The other officer tried to tase Lambert but the taser didn't work. Lambert then began shooting and hit one officer in the arm and both officers returned fire. Lambert was pronounced dead at the hospital. The man who overdosed also died. The injured police officer was seriously wounded and has had several surgeries but is expected to fully recover.

 

America Celebrate Juneteenth

Numerous ceremonies are being held nationwide today to commemorate Juneteenth. It’s an event which marks the day that the last African-Americans being held in bondage in the mid-1800s finally find out  they were free. It came 2 1/2 years after President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation. Chickasha historian R.P. Ashanti-Alexander says it’s now one of numerous events which celebrate the diverse cultures that are now part of the United States.

 

              

 

While Chickasha is not having a Juneteenth celebration this year there are events scheduled in Duncan, Lawton, and Oklahoma City.

 

Activities Abound in Chickasha

There is a lot going on in Chickasha this weekend. The City of Chickasha is hosting its annual Wings and Wheels Fly-in, Car Show, and air show at the Chickasha Airport. Things get started this morning with free airplane rides for kids and a car and an aircraft show. The actual air show starts at noon. Food trucks will be on site and free bottled water will be available. Grand Assembly of God is hosting its annual car and craft show with car registration starting at 8 a.m. and more than 50 arts and crafts vendors will be there. At the Grady County Fairgrounds, two national youth cattle groups begin a five-day run with more than 700 youth from 28 states expected to show more than 1,000 head of cattle. The National Youth Chianina and the National Youth Maine-Anjou Associations are having their annual shows here for the first time.

 

Grady County PRIDE Group Organized

There is now an organized group in Grady County that supports the LGBT community. Grady County PRIDE has been formed to support the group. It was formed with the help of the Stephens County PRIDE organization which has been active for a couple of years. Jacob, who did not want to use his last name, says the PRIDE groups are for anyone who feel they are outcasts or alone. Jacob said since June is PRIDE month they decided to organize a Grady County PRIDE walk which will be held downtown Chickasha tomorrow afternoon. They'll be walking in front of the Grady County Courthouse from about 4:00 p.m. until 5:30 p.m. and will have a couple of individuals speak about the challenges they face. There are Facebook pages for both the Grady County and Stephens County PRIDE groups.

 

 

Friday, June 18th

 

This Date in History: U.S. Supreme Court Allows

Chickasha Woman to Break Color Barrier at OU

Today marks an important anniversary in the 20th century civil rights movement. It was on this date in 1948....73 years ago that the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that a black student could attend the OU Law School. That student was Ada Lois Sipuel-Fisher of Chickasha, who challenged the university's policy and state law regarding segregation. However, Sipuel-Fisher still faced discrimination even after being allowed to attend OU. Chickasha city councilman and Lincoln School Principal Dr. R.P. Ashanti-Alexander says-

 

              

 

Sipuel-Fisher would go on to become a successful lawyer and even a member of the OU board of regents. She died in 1995 at the age of 71. Last fall, USA Today Network named Sipuel-Fisher among Oklahoma’s top 10 women of the 20th century.

 

Juneteenth Celebrations Set, and its now a Nat'l Holiday

The anniversary of the Supreme Court's decision for Ada Sipuel-Fisher falls just before another major event for African-Americans - Juneteenth. It was on June 19th, 1865 that African-Americans who were still in bondage in Texas finally received word that they were free. General Gordon Granger delivered the news in Galveston, Texas and it came 2 1/2 years after President Lincoln had signed the Emancipation Proclamation that abolished slavery. A number of programs are scheduled nationwide this weekend to commemorate the event. However, The Chickasha Juneteenth celebration was canceled for a second straight year due to the pandemic. By the way, Juneteenth is now a national holiday. President Biden has signed a bill passed by the House and Senate this week setting aside June 19th as America’s 12th national holiday.

 

Joint Panel to Ensure Rescue Plan Act Funds Spent Wisely

An area state lawmaker will serve on a panel to make sure federal relief funds for Oklahoma will be used for the right reasons. Rep. Brad Boles (R-Marlow) will serve on a joint legislative committee to help prioritize proposals for the state's $1.9 billion from the American Rescue Plan Act. The funds are to be used to respond to the public health emergency and negative economic effects caused by the pandemic. It can include payments to state agencies, non-profits, industry, households, and can include investments in public infrastructure. 12 members from both the state house and senate were appointed to the panel.

 

Masonic Lodge Foundation Grant to Help Bond

Students, Admin at University of Science and Arts

An effort to help connect students and administrators at the University of Science and Arts has received support from the Masonic Lodge Foundation of Oklahoma. The group awarded the university a $5,000 grant to help host regular events to foster those relationships. One of the first projects planned is a monthly Pizza on the Patio event for a casual gathering to allow for interactions and forge a stronger sense of family and community. Student surveys have shown that they want more social activities and a better understanding of the university's services and programs.

 

Talk Show Topic

Here's what we're talking about this weekend. Christie Chambers, the executive director with the Oklahoma Blood Institute, is 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 $71.04 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $73.08.

Natural gas is $3.25 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,792 and silver is $26.44.

 

 

 

Thursday, June 17th

 

Pursuit Lands Wanted Man in Jail

A high-speed pursuit leads to the arrest of a Tuttle man who has outstanding warrants in three counties. 61-year old Richard Dale Mayes was one of two people taken into custody after the chase on Saturday, June 12^th. Mayes was arrested after speeding away from Minco police who attempted to pull him over on a minor speeding violation. A probable cause affidavit indicates the pursuit went north on U.S. Highway 81 to the Union City area then to El Reno at speeds of 110 miles per hour. Union City Police and Canadian County Sheriff's deputies were summoned to assist. The chase finally came to an end at an El Reno convenience store near Highway 81 and Route 66. Mayes has outstanding warrants in Grady, Custer, and Oklahoma counties, and is facing new Grady County charges that include felony eluding and misdemeanor drug possession. He remains in jail on a $50,000 bond. Also arrested was 38-year old Virgina Dawn Raniag of Oklahoma City, who also had an outstanding Grady County warrant on a misdemeanor drug charge. She's facing new misdemeanor drug charges and remains in jail on a $20,000 bond.

 

National Youth Cattle Shows Coming to Chickasha

Two national youth cattle groups will be taking over the Grady County Fairgrounds over the next week.  The American Junior Maine-Anjou and the American Junior Chianina Associations will be at the fairgrounds. It will be a big shot in the arm for the Grady County economy. About 650 youth from 28 states will be showing over 1,000 head of cattle, looking to earn some bragging rights with their animals. The exhibitors are all 21-years old and younger with some competitions for kids as young as three-years old.  There's more than just livestock shows including a livestock judging competition, a quiz bowl, queen and princess contest, and a concert. Fairgrounds crews are getting all the pens set up for the animals this week and the youth and their families will be arriving Saturday. Officials expect the show to bring as many as 3,000 people per day to the fairgrounds through Thursday, June 24th.

 

Adult Learning Center Graduation Tonight

Graduation ceremonies will be held tonight for individuals who have earned their GED from the Chickasha Adult Learning Center. The center works to help individuals who didn't finish high school to earn the general education certificate which is equal to a high school diploma. The center, which is housed at the former Southwest School, also provides English as a Second Language courses and like public schools this past year offered distance-learning options. The commencement ceremony will be at 7 o'clock tonight at the Chickasha High School Activity Center.

 

Southwest Oklahoma Aquarium Marks Anniversary

The Medicine Park Aquarium recently celebrated its 4th anniversary. Of course, it's grown to be much more than just an aquarium. Director Doug Kemper discusses two other exhibits-

 

             

 

They've also opened a Snake Shack which features the seven venomous snakes that are found in Oklahoma. The aquarium is open every day except Thanksgiving and Christmas.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $72.15 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $74.39.

Natural gas is $3.25 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,803 and silver is $26.79.

 

Obituaries

Tracy Cranton

A memorial service for Tracy Cranton, 65, of Chickasha  will be held at 2 p.m. Tuesday, June 22nd at Sharon Baptist Church. Arrangements are with Sevier Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made the Chickasha Soup Kitchen.

Rodney Parks

Funeral service for Rodney Parks, 44, of Oklahoma City are pending with Brown-Thomas Funeral Home.

 

Wednesday, June 16th

 

Teen Says He Killed Brother, Burned his Body

A 13-year old Bridge Creek teen has told authorities he killed his older brother and then set his body on fire in what is said to be an assisted suicide. KWTV-News 9 reports that investigators were called to a home south of Bridge Creek back in March. Firefighters found the body of a 16-year old in a garage with an air compressor hose wrapped around his neck. The younger brother is reported to have told investigators that the two had planned the assisted suicide at least a month before it happened. The name of the 13-year old has not been published. The report says he is being charged as adult although a court motion has been filed requesting that he be tried as a juvenile. The youth is in the Grady County Jail charged with first degree murder and desecration of a human corpse. He is being held on a $500,000 bond.

 

OU Selected for New Weather Research Project

Here is a big announcement for the City of Norman and the University of Oklahoma. Already home to the National Weather Center, OU has been selected to host a new weather research project for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The university will be home to what's called the Cooperative Institute for Severe and High Impact Weather Research and Operations. OU will receive nearly $210 million in funding over five years and will have the potential for renewal of another five years. Oklahoma Congressmen Tom Cole and Frank Lucas issued statements supporting the choice. Cole said OU is well positioned to host the institute which will improve the understanding of severe and high-impact weather. Lucas said he's proud to see the research funding going to an institution that has a long history of helping NOAA achieve its mission of severe storm forecasting.

 

Leadership Chickasha Applicants Sought

Finding the next generation of community leaders is the goal of the long-running Leadership Chickasha program which is part of the Chamber of Commerce. A new class will be starting up this fall and applications are now being accepted. Accepted candidates spend one day each month for seven months attending seminars, inter-active learning courses, and touring various city, county, and educational facilities. Typically, the candidates are business or professional individuals who already hold leadership positions with their companies. Tuition fee is $350 for chamber members and $450 for non-chamber members. The program will run from September, 2021 through March, 2022. Applications are on the Chamber of Commerce website or can be picked up at the Chamber office.

 

Funny Cars to be Part of Grand Assembly Car, Craft Show

Muscle car and antique car and truck enthusiasts will have a couple of car shows to check out in Chickasha this weekend. In addition to the car show at the Wings and Wheels Fly-in and Car Show at the airport on Saturday, Grand Assembly of God will host its annual car and craft show at the church at 102 E. Almar Dr. Two-time CHAOS funny car champion Ken Singleton and his high-risk racing team will be on hand and there will be more than 50 arts and craft vendors. Car show registration begins at 8:00 a.m. and awards will be issued at 2:00 p.m.

 

COVID Vaccinations, Food for Kids

Offered by Grady County Health Dep't.

The Grady County Health Department will be providing COVID-19 vaccinations at a couple of Chickasha sites today. Those locations will be at Washita Valley Park from 11 to noon and at the Chickasha Library from noon to 1. The vaccinations are for anyone 12 years and older and youth under 18 will have to have a parent or guardian with them. In addition to the vaccinations, the health department will be providing some extra meals to youth with the help of the Regional Food Bank. The food bank and the library are already offering daily meals to all youth 18-and-under at the two locations but the health department will provide an extra meal for them today as well as each of the next two Wednesdays.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $72.12 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $73.99.

Natural gas is $3.24 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,860 and silver is $27.87.

 

Obituaries

Jimmy Lee Jenkins

Funeral service for Jimmy Lee Jenkins, 67, of Altus will be at 11:00 a.m. Friday, June 18th at The Lord's House in Oklahoma City. Arrangements are with Brown-Thomas Funeral Home.

 

Tuesday, June 15th

 

Chix Sales Tax Revenues Climb

Chickasha officials are cautiously optimistic about recent sales tax revenues for the city which reflect an increase in consumer spending. The Oklahoma Tax Commission this month sent the city more than $1.1 million in sales tax revenue which were paid on an estimated $29.3 million which was spent on taxable goods and services at city retailers. The sales tax receipts are based on actual sales tax collections for the last half of April and projections for the first half of May. Officials say the sales tax collections for both May and June were the best for those months in the past five years - and without major oil and gas traffic. Chickasha Mayor Chris Mosley said some of the consumer spending was generated by federal stimulus funds and that the city is still 'limping along.'

 

Anadarko Gets New Ambulance; Awaits New Firetruck

In Anadarko, there is some good news for the city’s fire department. The city just received a new ambulance which was put in to service yesterday. And, officials are anticipating the arrival of a new pumper truck. City Manager Kenneth Corn made the announcement about the firetruck on the city's Facebook page-

 

              

 

Corn said the truck is expected to be delivered in October and it will be the first new firetruck in more than 30 years. Corn also outlined a number of infrastructure projects in his 10-minute video. Among them, replacing the main line into the city's sewer plant and installing a number of lift stations to help get waste water to the plant. A Community Development Block Grant and another grant from Indian Health Services and the Wichita and Affiliated Tribes will help pay for those projects.

 

Air Show Set Saturday at Chickasha Airport

Father's Day weekend will feature quite a treat at the Chickasha airport. The City of Chickasha and the Chickasha Wings Flying School are again combining efforts to host the annual Wings and Wheels Fly-in and Car Show. The last couple of years they have brought in some historic World War Two aircraft but Mitch Williams of Chickasha Wings says they shifted gears this year-

 

              

 

The air show will be Saturday, June 19th and will feature an aerobatics pilot; an experimental aircraft flying formation; races between a motorcycle and an airplane; and radio controlled planes. There will be free airplane rides for children 8 to 17 years old and awards for car show and fly-in participants. Food trucks will be on site. Registration for the free airplane rides for children will start at 8:30 a.m. with flights from 9 a.m. to noon and again after 2 p.m. The actual air show will get underway about noon. Admission is free and individuals are urged to bring lawn chairs, hats, and sunscreen.

 

Science and Arts' Regents Hold Tuition, Fees Steady

Good news for students who will be returning to the University of Science and Arts this fall. The university’s board of regents voted to keep tuition and fees at current levels. In a prepared statement, university president John Feaver said that as they begin to resume more normal operations after the pandemic, it is his hope that keeping rates flat will take some of the pressure off students and allow them to concentrate on their classroom work. On average, Oklahoma students enrolled in 15 credit hours at Science and Arts can expect to pay a little more than $4,000 per trimester.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $70.88 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $72.86.

Natural gas is $3.35 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,865 and silver is $27.73.

 

Obituary

David Tobey

A graveside service for David Tobey, 83, formerly of Chickasha will be at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, June 16^th at the Alex Cemetery. He was a U.S. Army Reserves veteran. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.

 

Monday, June 14th

 

PSO Re-Thinking Proposed Ft. Sill Power Plant

Public Service Company of Oklahoma (PSA) officials may be re-considering their plans to build an emergency power plant at Ft. Sill. We reported last week that the Oklahoma Corporation Commission approved the project with some restrictions. The Oklahoman is reporting that the panel approved a plan that is about half of the cost of the original proposal put forth by the utility. PSO was seeking $118 million to build the power plant which would provide emergency power to Ft. Sill for about two weeks. The corporation commission only approved a $60 million plan saying they didn't object to the plans to help the base upgrade its abilities to operate during emergency situations. The panel did take issue with its estimated cost. PSO indicated that the revisions would add less than one dollar per month to their customers’ monthly bills.

 

Chix' Ward 2 Residents to Meet with Council Reps

Chickasha residents who live in Ward 2 will have their annual meeting with their city council representatives and other city officials tonight. The meeting will be at city hall with Councilwoman Georgianne Hebblethwaite and Councilman Clark Van Dyck on hand to discuss issues, concerns, and ideas for a better city. That meeting will be at 6:30 tonight in the city council chambers at city hall.

 

Chix School Board to Consider Resource Officer Contract

A contract with the Grady County Sheriff's Office and revisions to handbooks for foster families and English learners are to be considered by the Chickasha school board tonight. The panel contracts with the sheriff's office to pay for a school security officer. The proposal calls for the officer to be paid nearly $4,000 per month from August 1, 2021 to May 31, 2022. The officer would work no more than 171 hours per month. The panel will also consider some personnel changes which include adding Dr. Demeka Norwood as the district’s Federal Programs Coordinator; moving Milton Bowens from the Graduation and Instructional Coach position at the high school to Curriculum Coordinator in administration; and hiring Tammie Swinburne as the district's Special Education Counselor. The school board meets at 6 o'clock tonight at the school administration building. The meeting will be video-streamed on the school district's website.

 

Anadarko School Board to Consider Elem School Changes

Anadarko school administrators are considering changing the grade spans in their elementary schools. The Anadarko school board will consider changing Sunset Elementary to Pre-K and Kindergarten; East Elementary to 1st, 2nd, and 3rd grades; and Mission Elementary to 4th and 5th grades. The panel will also consider a number of fund raisers and an overnight stay for FFA members in Stillwater to participate in a livestock judging contest. The Anadarko school board meets at 6 o'clock tonight at the school administration building.

 

Choctaw Avenue Repairs Underway

Here's a reminder that ODOT will have a portion of Choctaw Avenue narrowed to one lane in each direction for a highway improvement project. This will be at 11th and Choctaw Ave. near Love's and the Plaza North shopping center. Repairs are expected to take place much of the week.

 

FAA Extends Spaceport License

Oklahoma's Spaceport has had its license renewed by the Federal Aviation Administration. The website www.okenergytoday.com reports that the license for the Oklahoma Space Industry Development Authority was renewed for five years. It authorizes the Authority to operate a launch site at the Clinton-Sherman Industrial Airpark in Burns Flat. The article indicates that the FAA's top priority in regulating commercial space transportation is that launch and re-entry operations are safe for the public. The Oklahoma Spaceport is one of only 12 such sites in the country. Others are in Texas, Colorado, New Mexico, California, Alaska, Florida, and Virginia.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $70.91 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $72.69.

Natural gas is $3.30 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,857 and silver is $27.82.

 

 

Saturday, June 12th

 

Early-Morning Storms Rumble Through the Region

Much of the Grady and Caddo county region was struck with gale-force winds and up to quarter-sized hail in thunderstorms that tracked across the area this morning. The National Weather Service issued severe thunderstorm warnings just after 2 a.m. for storms that packed near hurricane-force winds at 60 mile per hour. The Oklahoma Mesonet site indicates that the peak wind speeds in Chickasha was 59 miles per hour while at Acme, which is west of Rush Springs, winds topped out at 74 miles per hour. Minco had wind speeds of 52 miles per hour. One early report of wind damage in Chickasha is that part of the roof of Jimmy's Cleaners at 8th and Minnesota Ave. had peeled back. Public Service Company of Oklahoma and several electric coops reported a number of power outages. As far as rainfall is concerned, the Mesonet shows that Minco received the heaviest rainfall with more than an inch-and-a-half of precipitation; Chickasha received just under an inch; Ft. Cobb and Apache got about two-tenths of an inch; and the Acme site collected one-tenth of an inch of rain.

 

Some Chix Police Officers Commissioned by BIA

Some Chickasha police officers have been cross-deputized to also serve with the Bureau of Indian Affairs as a result of the U.S. Supreme Court's McGirt Decision. BIA Assistant Special Agent In Charge Bryan Stark gave the oath of office to 13 officers in a Friday ceremony-

 

              

 

Police Chief Dee Rowell and Assistant Chief G.G. Music were among those sworn in. Stark tells KOOL/RANCH News-

 

              

 

Chickasha will be working specifically with the Chickasaw Nation of which Chickasha was orIginally a part of.

 

Highway Construction Projects Approved

Several highway and bridge construction projects for the area are expected to get underway later this year after bids were approved by the state transportation commission this week. Projects in McClain County include one to widen and re-surface a five-mile stretch of State Highway 76 north of Lindsay. That's a nearly $3.5 million project awarded to Silver Star Construction out of Moore. Also in McClain County, construction of bridges and approaches on a county road over Walnut Creek north of the state highway 74B junction near Blanchard. That's just over a $1 million project awarded to H and H Bridge Company of Joplin, Mo. A third McClain county project is to grade, drain, surface, and build a bridge on a 2 ¼-mile section of a county road from the State Highway 59 junction to just west of Criner. That's a $5 million project awarded to Trease Construction out of Coalgate. In Stephens County, a right-of-way clearance on State Highway 29 west of Bray is a nearly $90,000 project awarded to Robin Hausner House Movers and Demolition out of Sperry, Okla. They were all among 32 contracts awarded totaling nearly $118 million to improve the state's highways, roads, and bridges.

 

Talk Show Topic

Here's what we're talking about this weekend. Shae Mortimer with the City of Chickasha and Mitch Williams with the Chickasha Wings Flying school are our guests on the KOOL Konversation. Find a link to the program under the Community tab on this website.

 

Friday, June 11^th

 

Water Service Returns to Anadarko;

Precautionary Boil Recommended

Contractors have made temporary repairs to a broken water line in Anadarko which caused officials to urge residents to conserve water earlier this week. City Manager Kenneth Corn says residents can now use water but the city has issued a precautionary boil recommendation before drinking or cooking with it. Corn said that a more permanent repair will be needed.

 

              

 

Corn said the problem arose when a valve on the water line broke. He said they will be replacing about a 20-foot section of a 16-inch pipe once they get the parts they need. Corn said that officials would be letting residents know when that work would take place but could not give a time frame on when that might occur.

 

Wanted Man Leads Police on High-Speed Pursuit

A Ninnekah man who had a warrant out for his arrest is behind bars after leading law enforcement on high-speed chase. 53-year old Scott Grady Leatherwood had a warrant for a misdemeanor drug possession charge stemming from an arrest last summer. A probable cause affidavit indicates that a Chickasha police officer spotted Leatherwood driving down the street Monday night and tried to pull him over and that's when the chase began. Speeds reached 60 miles per hour through several neighborhoods, then south on 16th Street to U.S. Highway 81. A Grady County deputy joined the pursuit which went south of Ninnekah with speeds reaching 110 mph. Leatherwood turned on to a county road about six miles south of Ninnekah and bailed out of the truck and managed to get away. It's not clear how or when authorities discovered Leatherwood's whereabouts but he was booked into jail just early Thursday morning. In addition to his arrest last summer, Leatherwood was also arrested just a few weeks ago for having firearms after a previous conviction and was out of jail after posting bond. Leatherwood is now facing a new felony charge of endangering others while eluding and he remains in jail on a $55,000 bond.

 

Chickasha's Mental Health to be Discussed

What is the state of Chickasha's mental health? The Chickasha Public Library will host licensed mental health counselor Virginia Savage in a program next week. Savage says we've all been through many struggles this past year-and-a-half and that now is a good time to reflect on our strengths and challenges to assess how we've done and how we might do better. She said they will be talking about the meaning of mental health and what contributes to and detracts from it. The free program is geared toward adults and older teens. It’s made possible through a grant from the State Department of Libraries and the Institute of Museum and Library Services. The program will be at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, June 19th. Pre-registration is required due to limited space.

 

Counties to Sell Properties with Delinquent Taxes

County treasurers across the state are making final preparations for a Monday auction of properties which have delinquent property taxes. The current owners of these properties are at least four years delinquent in paying the taxes owed. Grady County Treasurer Robin Burton says this is a 'buyer beware' sale and all properties are sold 'as-is' and no warranties will be given. There are about 70 properties available in Grady County and about 60 properties available in Caddo County. The properties will be sold for the taxes owed in addition to costs and fees; or two-thirds of the assessed value plus costs and fees, whichever is less. Current property owners can still pay the delinquent taxes owed prior to the sale. Available properties statewide can be seen on the website: www.oktaxrolls.com Interested buyers should contact their local county treasurer's office for other information.

 

Chix High School Counselor Has New Role

A long-time Chickasha school counselor will have a new role with the district. Mona Greenfield will be the new student accounting, assessment, and communications coordinator. A post on the district's Facebook page shows that her duties will include focusing on the student information system, enrollment, state testing coordination, and website development. Greenfield has spent her entire 26 year career in education with Chickasha schools. In addition to being the high school counselor the last few years she served as the vocal music teacher for the high school and Grand Elementary.

 

Elks Lodge to Host Kids Fishing Day

Tomorrow will be a good day to get the kids hooked on fishing. The Chickasha Elks Lodge will hold its annual kids fishing day at Shannon Springs Park. The lake was just stocked with 2,000 pounds of catfish yesterday. It's a free event for kids 16-and-under and there are three age divisions. The kids will need to bring their own fishing poles however bait will be provided. Officials are encouraging foster families and military veterans to take part. They'll get started about 9 o'clock and run until noon. The Elks will be serving free hot dogs and chips afterwards.

 

Talk Show Topic

Here’s what we’re talking about this weekend. Shae Mortimer and Mitch Williams are on the KOOL Konversation discussing next weekend’s Wings and Wheels Fly-in, Air Show, and Car Show at the Chickasha Airport. Find a link to the program under the Community tab on this website.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $70.29 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $72.52.

Natural gas is $3.15 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,895 and silver is $26.29.

 

Thursday, June 10th

 

Anadarko Deals with Water Line Break

Working through the night, crews in Anadarko have made some progress with a water line break which caused officials to ask residents and businesses to conserve water. The break was discovered about noon Wednesday between the city’s water towers and the pumps which are used to get the water into distribution system. City Manager Kenneth Corn has been keeping residents updated on the situation on The City of Anadarko’s Facebook page.

 

 

Officials are hoping water service can return to normal later today but continue asking individuals to use tap water only for drinking and that no water be used for bathing, car washing, or watering lawns and gardens. Corn said the water may be discolored after the repairs are made and suggests that residents open their taps for a few minutes to allow their lines to clear up.

 

Street Project May Slow Downtown Chix Traffic

A traffic advisory has been issued for motorists driving through downtown Chickasha. State Department of Transportation crews are repairing a section of Choctaw Avenue around 11th Street. Officials say traffic will be down to one lane in both directions perhaps through the end of the week. Motorists are urged to use caution while driving through that work zone.

 

Retiring CV Tech Employees Heralded for Service

Three longtime employees with Canadian Valley Technology Center have announced their retirements. Assistant Superintendent Bill Bradley has spent a total of 40 years in education with 37 of those at CV Tech. He started has a construction trades teacher on the Chickasha campus and has served as an administrator for the last 23 years. Superintendent Gayla Lutts says Bradley was among those who helped rebuild the El Reno campus after a massive tornado destroyed many of its buildings in 2013.

 

              

 

Lutts said a seminar center on the technology center's Cowan Campus in Yukon will be named in Bradley’s honor later this month. A couple of long-time employees on the Chickasha campus also announced their retirements. Carla Estep who has been serving as an events coordinator is retiring after 25 years and Betty Henderson who has worked as an instructional coach is retiring after 14 years.

 

Chickasha Efforts Nominated for State Tourism Awards

The Chickasha Leg Lamp that was part of last year's Festival of Light was a big hit across the state. It even drew the attention of Lt. Gov. Matt Pinnell who said it was ideas like that which generate tourism in the Sooner State. The 40-foot tall inflatable Leg Lamp was sparked by Tim Elliott and the Chickasha Economic Development Council and is one of three local tourism projects up for an award from the Oklahoma Travel Industry Association. Another is the Hometown Christmas music video and movie produced which featured Chickasha's small town charm. The Redbud Awards will be awarded July 29th in Edmond.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $69.96 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $72.22.

Natural gas is $3.13 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,883 and silver is $27.81.

 

Wednesday, June 9th

 

Grady County Consumer Spending, Sales Tax Numbers

Good news and bad news for consumer spending throughout Grady County. The numbers are up from the month-to-month totals but down from the same time a year ago. It's estimated that nearly $67 million was spent on taxable goods and services in March. That's up 26.5 percent from February but it’s off 16 percent compared to March of 2020. The consumer spending estimate is based on the sales tax revenue turned over to the county by the state tax commission. Grady County received just over $500,000 in sales tax revenues this month which was paid on the taxable goods and services that were purchased in March. Sales tax revenues are designated for several areas all of which received the approval of Grady County voters. The Grady County Fairgrounds picked up $167,000; Grady Memorial Hospital obtained $148,000; the seven senior nutrition centers shared $83,000 with each one getting nearly $12,000; the 20 fire districts also shared $83,000 with each one getting $4,100; Tuttle EMS collected $15,000; and Rush Springs EMS received $3,800.

 

Chix Police to Take Oaths with BIA

A number of Chickasha police officers will officially be crossed-deputized with the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) this week. 13 officers will be sworn in to serve on the Special Law Enforcement Commission.  Police officers and sheriff's deputies in many parts state are being cross-deputized with the BIA as a result of the U.S. Supreme Court's McGirt Decision. Being part of the special law enforcement commission will allow officers to file cases in federal court when an incident includes victims or suspects of crimes involving members of federally-recognized Native American tribes. The swearing-in ceremony will be held Friday afternoon at the Chickasha Police Department.

 

With Restrictions, PSO Gets OK for Ft. Sill Energy Center

Public Service Company of Oklahoma (PSO) has obtained approval to build that huge energy center at Ft. Sill although state regulators have placed restrictions on the proposal. Earlier this week, the Corporation Commission OK'd the $118 million plan which has been in discussion for seven years. The website www.okenergytoday.com reports that the question is: 'will PSO and the U.S. Army moved ahead with what turned out to be something of a controversial proposal to create secure emergency electrical power for the post?’ The project involves the creation of a solar facility as well as something called a Reciprocating Internal Combustion Engine (RICE) facility. The Corporation Commission order found that PSO's choice of that facility imposes unreasonable and unjust costs to PSO customers. PSO ratepayers would pay $108 million of the $118 million project. Monthly bills would increase about $1 per month starting in 2023 if PSO decides to move ahead. The article states that PSO does not need corporation commission approval to begin construction but was seeking pre-approval to pass the costs along to its customers.

 

Some Ag Producers May Get Crop Insurance Discount

Agriculture producers who planted cover crops last fall may be eligible for savings on their crop insurance premiums. The Pandemic Cover Crop Program has been implemented by the USDA. Kate Henson is with the Center for Rural Affairs who focuses on agriculture, conservation, risk management and federal programs-

 

              

 

Producers have until next Tuesday, June 15th to sign up for the discount and are encouraged reach out to their local Farm Service Agency for information.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $70.05 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $72.22.

Natural gas is $3.13 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,891 and silver is $27.68.

 

Obituary

Jimmy Jenkins

Funeral service for Jimmy Jenkins, 67 of Altus is pending with Brown-Thomas Funeral Home.

 

Tuesday, June 8th

 

Lake Chickasha Resident Takes Concerns to City Council

A resident at Lake Chickasha has been bringing her concerns about the conditions at the lake to the Chickasha City Council for the last several months. Kathy Martin was back in front of the panel last night addressing those issues.

 

              

 

Martin said she and other lake residents are getting ready to sign new leases and wants the city to make a better effort to make it a cleaner, safer place.

 

City Budget Approval Postponed

The final approval of a proposed budget for the City of Chickasha has been postponed. The city council delayed a formal decision on the $48 million spending plan in order that the public have more time to view the spending plan. A brief public hearing for the budget was held during last night's meeting but resident Torry Wise asked for more time to look at the proposal. The city attorney said that last night's public hearing was legally required but that another hearing could be held during the June 28th council meeting to get public input. The council awarded the construction of a dog park to Bordwine Development. The panel approved the company’s $110,000 bid after altering the base bid of more than $150,000. Mayor Chris Mosley said the park is being paid for by donated funds. Mosley said the Badgett Family which initially donated $50,000 and has agreed to provide the additional funds needed to build the facility.

 

City Funds Approved for Petroleum Building Upgrades              

The council also approved the use of $86,000 in economic development funds to help make improvements to the Petroleum Building. Owner Gail Bush said upgrades to the building will cost about $260,000 to include a new elevator. Economic Development Director Jim Cowan attended the meeting and said the improvements also include remodeling the fifth floor of the building to add some retail space and to develop a BB gun museum.

 

Mayor Proclaims 'A Cowgirl's Song' Day

With the filming of a Hollywood movie in Chickasha complete, Mayor Chris Mosley proclaimed Monday, June 7th as "A Cowgirls Song" Day. The proclamation was issued prior to last night's city council meeting. Crews spent the better part of three weeks filming at various locations around town. The proclamation credits accomplished filmmaker Timothy Armstrong for bringing in an all-star cast to include Cheryl Ladd, Savannah Lee May, and Darci Lynne Farmer - and that local business individuals including Reagan Elkins, Maggie McClure, and Shane Henry and local investors were instrumental in having Chickasha being chosen for the film. It also states that Chickasha has been recognized as a 'film-friendly' city by the Oklahoma Film Commission.

 

Chix Businessman Ben Milam Dies

Longtime Chickasha business owner Ben Milam has died. Milam opened a heat and air business in the early 1980s and ran the company which still bears his name for more than 20 years. Milam was 83 when he passed away yesterday. He was born in Verden and graduated high school there. Before graduation he joined the Army Reserves where he served as a radio operator. Before starting his own business he worked for PSO, Perdue Industries, and Maremont. He served as an auxiliary police officer for Chickasha, and while living in Tuttle served on the city council, and also served as a volunteer firefighter at both Tuttle and Rush Springs. A graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Friday, June 11th at the Verden Cemetery. Arrangements are with McRay Funeral Home.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $69.23.

London-based Brent crude is $71.49.

Natural gas is $3.07 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,896 and silver is $27.81.

 

Obituary

Kenneth Davies

A graveside service for Kenneth Davies, 89, of Chickasha will be at 1:00 p.m. Friday, June 11^th at Fairlawn Cemetery. He was a retired U.S. Marine. Arrangements are with Sevier Funeral Home.

 

Monday, June 7th

 

Morning Storms Bring High Winds, Hail

Thunderstorms with some intense winds and hail made their way through central and eastern Grady County and western McClain County early this morning. The National Weather Service issued thunderstorm warnings for storms near Agawam and Alex about 5:00 a.m. Radar indicated the storms packed 60 mile-per-hour winds and quarter-sized hail. The storms were slowly moving northeast at 15 miles per hour toward the Middleberg, Dibble, and Blanchard areas.  The warnings were allowed to expire about 5:45 a.m. There were no preliminary reports of damage.

 

Chix Officials to Finalize Budget Work; Public Hearing Set

A proposed budget for the City of Chickasha will be heard in a public hearing during tonight's city council meeting. Prior to the formal council meeting, the panel will hold a work session on the spending plan for the upcoming fiscal year. The budget in its current form provides for nearly $48 million in expenditures over the next 12 months. The fund balance to start the fiscal year is projected at nearly $45 million with an anticipated $36 million in revenue. The work session, which is also open to the public, begins at 5:30 p.m. in the council chamber at city hall. The formal city council meeting will begin at 6:30 p.m.

 

Dog Park Project Could be Awarded

Construction of a new dog park for Chickasha could begin in a few weeks. The city council is expected to award a bid for the project to Bordwine Development tonight. The base bid submitted is just under $152,000 which is about $40,000 more than the engineer's estimate. However, the council will consider a change order which would make the contract about $110,000. The change would be planting fewer trees and purchasing items from the specified vendor in lieu of a substitute project vendor. Officials say the project is being paid by donated funds. To date the Badgett Family has provided $50,000 for the dog park which will be built at Centennial Park. It is expected to feature dog play stations, picnic tables, and landscaping along with 1,000 sq. ft. of concrete sidewalk and 1,300 feet of fencing.

 

New Elevator Proposed for Petroleum Building

The council is also to consider an economic development funding proposal to help install a new elevator in the Petroleum Building. The Economic Development Council is recommending the city use grant funds set aside for economic development projects. Building owner Gail Bush says the cost of the new elevator would be about $260,000 and she's asking the city to provide about $86,000 to help pay for the project. The economic development fund provides one dollar for every three dollars in private funds invested.

 

Teen Hospitalized Following Weekend Crash

A teenager was hospitalized after being thrown out of a pickup in a traffic accident south of Rush Springs over the weekend. The unidentified 14-year old Duncan boy was airlifted to an Oklahoma City hospital with head, trunk, and internal injuries and admitted in fair condition. The accident happened just before 7:30 a.m. Saturday on U.S. Highway 81 about four miles south of Rush Springs. The Highway Patrol reports that a pick-up driven by 43-year old Crissy Butler of Duncan ran off the highway, over-corrected, then hit a cable barrier in the median. Butler and two other passengers were not injured. The injured teen was not buckled up.

 

Three Hospitalized After Motorcyle-Car Accident

Two Newcastle residents are hospitalized after the motorcycle they were riding crashed into a car making a U-turn in front of them. 56-year old Coy Stevens and 59-year old Sheryl Jones were taken to an Oklahoma City hospital with head, arm, and leg injuries and were admitted in stable condition. The accident happened south of Watonga on U.S. Highway 270 yesterday afternoon. The highway patrol reports that the driver of the car was having a medical issue and attempted a U-turn. Stevens attempted to avoid a collision but crashed into the passenger side of the car. The driver of the car, 84-year old Earl Boyd of Watonga, was also hospitalized for a medical condition not related to the accident. His condition was not included in the accident report.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $69.62 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $71.89.

Natural gas is $3.10 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,887 and silver is $27.70.

 

Saturday, June 5th

 

Proposed City of Chickasha Budget Released

A nearly $50 million budget for the City of Chickasha will have a public hearing in next week's Chickasha City Council meeting. The projected expenses for the fiscal year that starts July 1st are just under $48 million. The budget summary shows the city will have about $45 million in various accounts to start the fiscal year, and it’s projected that revenues will bring in just under $36 million. The hearing will be held during the Monday, June 7th council meeting which will get underway at 6:30 p.m. Prior to that meeting the council will have an informal work session at 5:30 p.m. to discuss the plan. The council is expected to adopt the final spending plan during its June 21st council meeting. A summary of the budget can be seen on the agenda for the Monday, June 7th meeting which is posted on the city's website: www.chickasha.org and is under the Agenda tab.

 

Suspect Wanted for Taser Attack

A Caddo County man is wanted for allegedly using a taser to rob a woman outside a Lawton bar. An arrest warrant has been issued for 30-year old Michael Christopher Bowen of Apache. The Lawton Constitution cites court records which indicate the victim told police she was waiting for a friend to pick her up outside the night club on May 15th. A man drove up and asked if she called an Uber and she said no but that the driver made her feel uncomfortable. The driver got out of the car and produced a taser, and the victim said she jumped out of the way and ran across the street. Video surveillance from the bar was post to a number of social media sites and Bowen was identified as the suspect.

 

'A Cowgirl's Song' Work Ends This Weekend

Film crews will be wrapping up their work in Chickasha this weekend on A Cowgirls Song. The city has been abuzz over the last two weeks with the arrival of actress Cheryl Ladd who plays a grandmother in the movie. Also in the film are Savannah Lee May who is a budding actress along with Oklahoma's own Darci Lynn Farmer, the young ventriloquist who won America's Got Talent almost four years ago. Farmer says it's great to work with her co-stars.

              

There are even more local ties to the film as The Imaginaries, the husband and wife due of Shane Henry and Maggie McLure, are co-producers and are writing original music for the film. Reagan Elkins with his Intellego Media group is also a co-producer of the film.

 

State High School Rodeo Finals Tonight

State champions of high school rodeo will be decided tonight at the Grady County Fairgrounds. It’s the final round of competition for the Oklahoma High School Rodeo Association. Cowboys and cowgirls are also looking for a top four finish in their respective events which will earn them a trip to the national high school finals rodeo in Lincoln, Neb. in July. Among them are team ropers Creek Williams of Colony and Wyatt Peterson of Wister. Williams says they have been working together the last couple of years and talks how the two cowboys from opposite sides of the state managed to get together.

 

              

 

Tonight's championships get underway at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $5.

 

Talk Show Topic

Here's what we're talking about this weekend. Cassandra Ersland and Whitney Palesano with the Chickasha Chamber of Commerce are on our KOOL Konversation program. Find a link to program under the Community tab on this website.

 

Friday, June 4th

 

Judge Issues 600+ Year Sentence

Grady County District Judge Kory Kirkland follows a jury's recommendation to sentence a man to more than 600 years in prison. Kirkland formally sentenced 35-year old Eric Zeiset to 620 years behind bars yesterday.  Zeiset was convicted on 20 counts which included possession of explosives and firearms after conviction, and possession of stolen vehicles. The sentences ranged from 10 to 60 years on each count and they will run consecutively, meaning Zeiset will spend the rest of his life in prison. Oftentimes, individuals convicted of multiple crimes serve their sentences concurrently (at the same time).  It's believed to be a record-long sentence issued by a Grady County judge. Assistant District Attorney Rebecca Brink prosecuted the case-

 

              

 

A jury convicted Zeiset following a four-day trial this past March. He was arrested in February of 2019 after authorities found explosives and weapons at a home outside of Verden.

              

New Law Will Allow Cities, Towns to Call Elections

for Property Tax Increases to Fund Public Safety

Cities and towns across the state in the coming months will be able to ask their residents to decide on property tax increases to help fund police and fire protection. Gov. Kevin Stitt has signed SB 838, which would allow municipalities to schedule elections to have residents vote on increasing ad valorem taxes for that purpose. State Representative Dick Lowe (R-Amber) said the measures would need a super majority for approval

 

              

 

Currently, cities and towns only operate on sales tax revenues for funding. The law goes into effect Nov. 1st.

 

Utility Group May Vote on Proposed Ft. Sill Energy Center

The state panel which regulates utilities may vote next week on a proposal from Public Service Company of Oklahoma to build a multi-million dollar energy center at Ft. Sill. The $118 million plan is being debated by the Oklahoma Corporation Commission. The website www.okenergytoday.com reports that Commissioners Todd Hiett and Dana Murphy are expressing doubts whether the proposal would survive a legal review from the state supreme court.  Commissioner Bob Anthony is in favor of the proposal, calling it a security issue. Commissioners are planning a meeting Monday to consider a possible vote on the plan. If approved, PSO rate payers would pay $108 million of the total with Ft. Sill paying $10 million.

 

More Youth Rodeo State Finals in Chickasha

A couple of weeks ago, the Grady County Fairgrounds hosted the Oklahoma Jr. High School Rodeo Association State Finals. This weekend, the high school rodeo association is holding its state finals. More than 150 participants will be looking to earn enough points in their respective events to qualify for the national finals. Rodeo action begins at 2:30 p.m. this afternoon and admission is free. Tickets for the Saturday night’s championship round are $5 per person.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $68.81 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $71.31.

Natural gas is $3.04 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,874 and silver is $27.50.

 

Obituary

Brian Branch

A funeral service for Brian Branch, 50, of Chickasha is pending with Brown-Thomas Funeral Home.

 

Thursday, June 3rd

 

Formal Sentencing Today for Man Convicted

of Having Cache of Explosives, Weapons

A man convicted of more than two dozen counts of having explosives, weapons, and stolen vehicles is to hear is formal sentence today. A Grady County jury recommended that 35-year old Eric Casey Zeiset of Amber spend more than 600 years behind bars. A judge is scheduled to issue Zeiset's formal sentencing in Grady County District Court this afternoon. Zeiset was arrested for having a cache of explosives and weapons at a home south of Verden in February of 2019 following an investigation by the District Attorney's Task Force, Verden police, and the state bureau of narcotics. District Attorney Jason Hicks said at the time of the conviction that while the jury's recommendation may seem excessive Zeiset is a dangerous man.

 

Chickasha Firm to Add Jobs Thanks to State Program

A Chickasha area company will be adding a number of jobs to its workforce. Cimarron Trailers is adding 40 positions to its payroll with the help of the state Department of Commerce Quality Jobs Act. Cimarron currently has about 123 employees. Taking part in the Quality Jobs Act is expected to allow the employee-owned company to increase its workforce by about one-third over the next five years. In a prepared statement, Cimarron Trailers president Ben Janssen thanked the Department of Commerce for its leadership in helping to encourage growth for existing Oklahoma companies. Janssen said the new jobs will be a positive impact for the community. Cimarron Trailers was founded more than 20 years ago and its trailers are sold in 22 states. The company was acquired by Iowa-based Folience in 2018.

 

Discussion Continues on City of Chickasha Budget

Budget talks at the City of Chickasha are continuing. The city council will have a work session Monday to continue hammering out a spending plan for the fiscal year that begins in less than a month. Monday's work session will get underway at 5:30 p.m. prior to the council's regularly-scheduled meeting. The council must hold a public hearing on the proposed spending plan before it can be approved. Also at city hall, officials have posted an opening for a finance director. The individual is responsible for planning, organizing, coordinating, and directing the city's financial activities, supervising the finance and utility billing staff, and help the city manager in putting together the annual budget. Candidates should have a bachelor's degree and five years’ experience in managing fiscal operations (preferably in a local government setting), and CPA certification is preferred. A complete job description and applications are available on the city's website.

 

Festival of Light Has New Leader

There's a new director for Chickasha's Festival of Light. Whitney Palesano has taken the reins of the holiday light display. The announcement was posted on the Chickasha Chamber of Commerce Facebook page which stated that Palesano is the newest employee at the Chamber. In addition to her Festival of Light duties she will also help with chamber events and tourism. Palesano is a life-long Chickasha resident and has served on the Festival of Light and chamber boards of directors.

 

Chickasha Municipal Swimming Pool Now Open

Temperatures have been a little cool to take a dip in the pool but the Chickasha Municipal Swimming Pool is open for the season. The pool in Shannon Springs Park opened this past Tuesday and will have open swimming from noon to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday. The pool is managed by the Chickasha YMCA and Y members get to swim free while the cost for non-members is $5 per day. Private parties can be booked any evening or all day on Sunday by contacting the YMCA. The Y also will offer a series of swimming lessons through the summer and that information is also available by contacting the Y by calling 405-224-2281. The pool will be open through mid-August.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $68.33 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $71.35.

Natural gas is $3.08 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,897 and silver is $27.97.

 

Obituaries

Betty McBride

A graveside service for Betty McBride, 84, of Tuttle will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, June 4^th at Fairview Cemetery in Tuttle. Arrangements are with Sevier Funeral Home of Tuttle.

Bobby May

A memorial service for Bobby May, 69, of Chickasha will be held at 3:00 p.m. Saturday, June 5^th at Pleasant Hill Baptist Church.

 

Wednesday, June 2nd

 

Tuesday Morning Pursuit Involved Stolen Vehicle

That pre-dawn pursuit we reported yesterday was the result of law enforcement getting word about a stolen pick-up out of Anadarko. Anadarko police say they received a call just after 5:00 a.m. Tuesday  about a 2019 Chevy Silverado that had been stolen from a home in the 400 block of West Central Boulevard. Authorities issued a Be On the Lookout (BOLO) alert to law enforcement. A few minutes later, a Grady County deputy spotted the truck in the Minco area and attempted to make a traffic stop and that's when the chase began. The pursuit topped speeds of 100 miles per hour and the driver of the truck used the backroads in Grady County to get from Minco to Tuttle and then on to Newcastle. The pursuit then went into Oklahoma City on I-44 where the suspect managed to elude authorities. On Star was able to locate the truck at a home in southwest Oklahoma City but the vehicle had been abandoned by the time officers arrived.  There's no word on a possible suspect.

 

Wind Farm to Get Major Upgrade

A Caddo County wind farm will be getting some upgrades in the coming months. Many of the turbines at the Blue Canyon Two Wind Farm near Carnegie will be outfitted with new blades and generators. Officials say 73 of the 84 turbines in Caddo and Kiowa counties will be repowered. The wind farm is owned and operated by EDP Renewable North America. The Lawton Constitution quotes project manager Christopher Morris as saying it’s a critical step toward extending the longevity and efficiency of the company's projects. The repowering of the wind farm will ensure that economic benefits and affordable energy will continue. Officials believe the effort will create an annual 30 percent increase in power production and extend the life of the project an additional 20 to 30 years. The wind farm has already been in operation more than 15 years. The wind farm powers the equivalent of 94,000 average Oklahoma homes with electricity each year. Through 2019 it has paid more than $17 million to local governments and more than $25 million to landowners.

 

Summer Food Programs Begin

Youth in the Chickasha area can now get free lunches throughout much of the summer. The Chickasha Public Library and the Regional Food Bank have teamed up to provide healthy meals every Monday through Friday for all youth 18-and-under. There are two pick-up locations although the youth will only be able to get lunches at one of them each day. The meals can be picked up at Washita Valley Park from  11:00 a.m. to noon at Washita Valley Park and from noon to 1:00 p.m. at the Chickasha Public Library. The meals will be available through July 30^th. In a related story, the Chickasaw Nation is providing an opportunity for families of students eligible for free or reduced meals at participating public schools. Information posted on the Chickasha schools website says it’s for First Americans and non-First Americans. Families can apply to receive an EBT card to purchase healthy food. Application are available on the website www.Chickasaw.net/SummerEBT and the deadline to apply is August 4th. Families can also call 580-272-1178 during regular business hours Monday through Friday.

 

FFA Groups Encouraged to Apply for PSO STEM Grants

FFA programs might consider applying for science and technology grants being offered by Public Service Company of Oklahoma. The STEM grants are being provided by PSO's parent company and it's non-profit American Electric Power Foundation. Grants range from $1,000 to $2,500 for projects involving science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). A news release indicates that priorities will be given to applications that benefit more than one chapter and that are sustainable over a number of years. The AEP Foundation has set aside a total of $40,000 for grants. Chapters have until July 9th to apply. Applications can be found on the state FFA website at www.okffa. org

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $67.72.

London-based Brent crude is $70.25.

Natural gas is $3.10 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,898 and silver is $27.88.

 

Obituaries

Carol ‘Sue’ (Porter) Beck

A graveside service for Sue Beck, 69, of Mustang and formerly of the Amber-Pocasset area will be at 3:00 p.m. Thursday, June 3^rd at Chickasha’s Fairlawn Cemetery. Arrangements are with Sevier Funeral Home.

Marion Pinkerton

Funeral service for Marion Pinkerton, 74, of Chickasha will be at 10:30 a.m. Friday, June 4th at Ferguson Funeral Home.

 

Tuesday, June 1st

 

Morning Pursuit Crosses Several Counties

Law enforcement officers in at least four counties were part of a high-speed pursuit this morning. It's reported that speeds reached 110 miles per hour at one point. The first scanner reports came in just after 5:45 a.m. from northern Caddo County. The chase continued into northern Grady County from Minco to Tuttle and then into Newcastle in McClain County. From there, the chase continue onto I-44 into Oklahoma County. Authorities were trying to reach On Star to shut down the vehicle. The last report was that On Star had located the pick up at a home in Oklahoma City. Listen to KOOL/RANCH News later today for an update.

 

Grady County Memorial Day Ceremony Held

A good crowd gathered for the Grady County Memorial Day ceremony at the Chickasha Elks Lodge yesterday. The ceremony is normally held at the county veterans memorial at Chickasha's Shannon Springs Park but was moved indoors because of the rain. U.S. Army veteran Brad Bates was the guest speaker. He's part of four generations of his family who have served. His grandfather served in WW I; an uncle served in WW2 and Vietnam; another uncle died in a naval training exercise after Korea; his brother Bruce served in the Marines; his son Daniel is currently serving in the Air Force; and he has a nephew who served in the Marines after attending the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, MD. Bates said the U.S. stands ready to defend freedom around the world with an astounding number of military bases.

 

              

 

Also during the ceremony, the names of the 129 Grady County men and women who lost their lives while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces were read. Oklahoma Veterans Recognition Committee chairwoman Sherri Lewis said we should also remember the nearly 82,000 men and women who remain missing in action.

 

Enrollment Underway for OK's Medicaid Expansion

Oklahoma families eligible for health coverage through the state's Medicaid expansion can begin applying for benefits today. The Oklahoman reports that Medicaid, also known as SoonerCare, has covered children, pregnant women, elderly adults, and disabled individuals. The Oklahoma Health Care Authority estimates an additional 200,000 people will be eligible. Under the expansion individuals ages 19-64 who meet income guidelines can enroll. For one person the maximum income is just under $1,500 per month or nearly $18,000 per year. For a family of four it’s just over $3,000 per month or $36,500 per year. Individuals can apply on-line at www.MySoonerCare.org or call the SoonerCare Helpline, 800-987-7767.

 

WIC Recipients Get Added Benefits

Families who are part of the State Health Department's Women, Infants, and Children’s (WIC) program get some good news. Officials say there is a temporary increase to the Cash Value Benefit as well as a permanent addition of canned fruits and vegetables to the approved food list. The Cash Value Benefit will increase from $9 to $35 per month per participant from June 1st through Sept. 30th. The funds come from the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. Regarding the new foods allowed for purchase, previously clients could only buy fresh or frozen fruits and veggies. Clients can now purchase canned fruits and vegetables as long as they meet Food and Drug Administration standards.

 

Rig Count Up in Nation, State

With energy prices on the rise there's more work in the oil patches across the country.

 

              

 

That's Matt Skinner with the Oklahoma Corporation Commission.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $66.32 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $69.63.

Natural gas is $2.99 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,909 and silver is $28.33.

 

Monday, May 31st

No news due to Memorial Day holiday

Saturday, May 29th

 

Search for 'Possible' Drowning Victim Canceled

Authorities in Tuttle have called off the search for a possible drowning victim. After Thursday night's heavy rains two boys reported seeing a child in Coal Creek north of Tuttle on Sara Road. Search crews spent a couple of hours Thursday night looking for a little girl and they were out at the break of dawn Friday morning. Ground and air searches were made with the help of the Oklahoma City Fire Department and the Chickasaw Nation brought in drones to search along the creek bank. The creek feeds into the Canadian River which was also searched from the air with a helicopter but nothing was found. Michael Scott with the Tuttle Police Department said there were no calls about missing children and no other reports were made. Scott tells our partners at KWTV-News 9 that there was no reason to doubt the boys.

              

The search was called off about noon Friday.

 

Teen Uses Baseball Bat to Fend of Mother's Attacker

A teenager uses a baseball bat to fight off a suspect alleged to have sexually assaulted and threatened her mother with a knife. This happened in Carnegie last weekend. The Lawton Constitution cites documents filed by Carnegie police indicating that officers responded to a call about a man with a knife. When they arrived police heard yelling inside the home and made a forcible entry. A man with blood on his hands approached the officer and the suspect was arrested. It was reported the women barricaded themselves in a room but the suspect kicked in the door and held a knife to the mother's throat. The teen hit the suspect with the bat and was able get him out of the room before police arrived. Authorities arrested 46-year old Kevin Scott Hill of Oklahoma City. Caddo County prosecutors have charged him with sexual battery and assault and battery with a dangerous weapon. He is out of jail after posting a $20,000 bond and Hill is to be back in court June 24th for a preliminary hearing conference.

 

Wild Hogs Reported at Anadarko Park

In Anadarko, officials believe wild hogs are invading the city park. City Manager Kenneth Corn says while no one has seen the animals they have seen some tell-tale signs at Randlett Park.

 

              

 

Corn said the wild hogs must be coming in late at night or early in the morning. They have set up some traps but haven't caught any of the animals. City officials say the park is being used quite a bit with youth baseball programs and individuals walking around the park. Corn said anyone who might see the wild animals to avoid contact with them and call police.

 

Sheriff's Office Updates Warrant 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, May 28th

 

'Possible' Drowning in Tuttle Under Investigation

Authorities in Tuttle are investigating a report of a possible drowning. KWTV-News 9 reports multiple agencies were summoned to aid in the search last night. An official stated that two boys said they saw a girl who appeared to be six or seven years old in Coal Creek near North Sara Road and State Highway 152. The boys said the girl had a cut on her cheek and a pink shoe. Tuttle police and the Oklahoma City Fire Department's dive team were called out about 8:30 p.m. Thursday with the search was suspended about 11:00 p.m. Michael Scott with the Tuttle Police Department said that no one has called in to report a missing child. The search was expected to resume sometime this morning.

 

Grady County Commissioner Faces Embezzlement Charge

A Grady County Commissioner has been charged with embezzlement for allegedly using county resources for personal gain. District One Commissioner Mike Walker is charged with one felony count of embezzlement. Walker says he is innocent and calls an OSBI investigation a witch hunt. The charge was filed in Grady County District Court Thursday following a nearly nine-month investigation by the state agency. An OSBI affidavit indicates that Grady County District Attorney Jason Hicks asked the OSBI to work a misconduct case involving Walker. It's alleged he used an estimated $30,000 in county materials, equipment, and labor to pave a private road to his Tuttle home. Walker's attorney, Doug Carel said-

 

              

 

The charge was filed by special prosecutor Brian Hermanson, District 8 District Attorney for Payne and Noble counties who was appointed to the case by the state attorney general’s office. Walker was taken to jail where he was photographed and fingerprinted then released on his own recognizance. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for Oct. 14th. Walker says will remain on the job as he maintains his innocence. If convicted Walker could be sentenced to up to eight years in prison, pay up to a $10,000 fine, and restitution.

 

Info Still Sought for Chickasha Cold Case

It's been more than 24 years since a three-year old Chickasha girl was abducted by her non-custodial mother. A group identifying itself as Oklahoma Cold Case posted information on Facebook requesting any new information about the kidnapping of Bethany Maria Tiner. Tiner was taken by her mother Teresa Kennedy on January 1st, 1997. It was believed that Teresa took the child to Washington State and that they may have been with Teresa's girlfriend, Rachel Lewis. The post says Bethany's father, Joe has never stopped looking for his daughter who would now be 27 years old. It's believed Bethany may be using the last name of Barlow or Kennedy and could be in California, Colorado, or Canada. Anyone with information about the abduction is asked to contact the Chickasha Police Department.

 

Turnpike Crash Injures Driver

A driver is seriously injured when his car ran of the H.E. Bailey Turnpike. 53-year old Greg Sanders of Blanchard was hospitalized with head, arm, leg, and internal injuries after the Thursday morning crash. Sanders was trapped in the vehicle for about 20 minutes before being rescued by the Newcastle Fire Department. The crash happened just after 5:30 a.m. Thursday at Mile Marker 95 in the Newcastle city limits. The trooper investigating the accident said it wasn't clear what caused Sanders to run off the highway, go airborne near a county road, then crash into a concrete embankment and overturn.

 

Talk Show Topic

Here's what we're talking about this weekend. Lt. Chris Liles with the Oklahoma Highway Patrol is this week's guest 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 $66.85 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $69.46.

Natural gas is $2.96 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,895 and silver is $27.78.

 

Thursday, May 27th

 

Proposed PSO Energy Security Center at Ft. Sill Debated

State regulators this week debated a proposal by PSO to build a $118 million energy security center at Ft. Sill. The plan would have PSO ratepayers foot most of the cost at $108 million with Ft. Sill paying only $10 million. Members of Corporation Commission were on both sides of the issue. The website www.okenergytoday.com reports that Commissioner Bob Anthony spoke in favor of the project. He fears that if it’s rejected the federal government might retaliate against the state in future military base realignment discussions. Anthony said that if Oklahoma tells Ft. Sill to go fly a kite it would be a big mistake. Commissioner Dana Murphy spoke against the measure, questioning if taxpayers paying a premium was reasonable. Murphy said while supporters say it would help all PSO customers she struggled with seeing how it would. The project has been under consideration for nearly seven years. Among the groups opposed to the project are the corporation commission's own Public Utilities Division, the state attorney general's office, and an industrial consumer's group.

 

Suspect Wanted for Shooting Deaths of Ex's Puppies

A man accused of the shooting deaths of his ex-wife's puppies is being sought by law enforcement. An arrest warrant has been issued for 41-year old Jimmy Lloyd Burch of Marlow. The Lawton Constitution cites a probable cause affidavit from a Stephens County sheriff's deputy that Burch fatally shot two pit bull puppies with his rifle. Burch told investigators he thought the dogs were going to hurt his horses. The investigating deputy said the puppies were only four to six months old and not likely to run anywhere near the speed of a horse and were not a nuisance.  Burch is facing two counts of cruelty to animals.

 

Fed Group Asks to Protect Lesser Prairie Chicken

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is again recommending that the lesser prairie chicken be placed under the Endangered Species Act. Oklahoma U.S. Senator Jim Inhofe has consistently been opposed to the idea. Inhofe believes the animal is thriving and that the voluntary public-private conservation partnerships are working. Supporters say populations of the bird in Oklahoma, Texas, Kansas, Colorado, and New Mexico are threatened.

 

Firms to Get Tax Credits to Hold Employee Blood Drives

Gov. Kevin Stitt has signed a bill that supporters say will help increase blood donations. SB 905 creates a tax-credit for Oklahoma companies that hold blood drives for their employees. The bill indicates that any company hosting a blood drive by a non-profit blood donation organization will get a $20 income tax credit for each verified employee donation. The blood drive cannot be open to non-employees. Total credits would be capped at $500,000 per year. Officials with the Oklahoma Blood Institute asked for the measure in an attempt to reach more potential blood donors. One state lawmaker said having continual blood drives is crucial to maintaining blood reserves and ensures that Oklahomans have life-saving blood in times of need. It's hoped that having more businesses host blood drives makes the process more accessible and convenient and will ultimately increase the state's blood supply. The new law will go into effect Nov. 1st.

 

RANCH/KOOL Blood Drive Today

Speaking of blood drives, KOOL/RANCH radio stations are hosting another community blood drive with the Oklahoma Blood Institute (OBI) today. An OBI bloodmobile will be in the YMCA parking lot across from the radio station studios from 12:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. today. No appointment is necessary. Donors will have their names entered into a drawing to win a Traeger grill as well as a Ranger boat. For information on upcoming blood drives in your area visit the website www.obi.org

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $66.21 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $68.77.

Natural gas is $2.98 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,898 and silver is $27.75.

 

Obituary

Ocelee Maytubby-Givens

Funeral service for Ocelee Maytubby-Givens, 86, of Chickasha will be at 1:00 p.m., May 29^th at the First and Georgia Church of Christ. Arrangements are with Brown-Thomas Funeral Home.

 

Wednesday, May 26th

 

Hostage Situation Details Released

We have some details of the hostage stand-off that ended peacefully at a Chickasha home on Sunday. A probable cause affidavit from Chickasha police indicates that Terry Gunnoe hit his wife in the head with a metal pipe and tied her to a chair with an extension cord and bungie cords. Authorities say Gunnoe told them he didn't want his wife to take a planned trip to Texas and also believed his daughter had been saying bad things about him. Gunnoe surrendered after several hours of talking to a hostage negotiator from the Oklahoma County Sheriff's office. Gunnoe and his wife were taken to the hospital where she was treated for a gash on her head and released. Gunnoe was kept at the hospital overnight to be treated for a pre-existing medical condition and upon his release was taken to the Grady County Jail. Prosecutors have charged Gunnoe with kidnapping and assault and battery with a dangerous weapon and he remains in jail on a $500,000 bond.

 

Suspect Jailed After Baseball Bat Attack

One man is in jail and another in the hospital after a confrontation at a Chickasha home. The victim suffered broken bones in his face and was taken to an Oklahoma City hospital. In custody is 27-year old Ronnie "Boomer" Self who is charged with firearms and assault charges. Officers were dispatched a report of an assault at 502 S. 9^th which occurred Saturday, May 22^nd.  A probable cause affidavit from Chickasha police cites witnesses as saying the suspect initially pulled a gun on the victim then hit him in the face with a baseball bat. Prosecutors have filed weapons and assault charges against Self who remains in the Grady County Jail on a $500,000 bond.

 

Man Injured, Jailed in Shootout with Cousin

A shootout between cousins lands one man in jail and with a gunshot wound to his chest. According to a probable cause affidavit filed by the OSBI, 58-year old Dwayne Keith White was allegedly vandalizing his cousin’s property. White is alleged to have pulled a pistol and fired a gun at his cousin and then blocked him in the driveway as he tried to leave. It’s alleged that White fired shots into the man’s vehicle and the cousin returned fire with an AR-15 and hit White in the chest at which point White left the home. The other man was not injured. It wasn’t clear how authorities tracked White down but he was arrested and booked into the Caddo County Jail. Prosecutors have charged White with shooting with intent to kill and he remains in jail on a $250,000 bond.

 

Youths Recognized in Steer Carcass Contest

More than 150 people turned out for the annual Grady County Cattle Producers Association meeting recently. New president Jake Grossnicklaus says a trade show was part of the event and the guest speaker was Chickasha native Dr. Rossalynn Biggs who now works at the OSU Veterinary Department. One of the highlights of the evening was the announcement of the winners of the youth steer carcass contest. Youngsters enter their steers into the program each fall. Awards issued in the spring are based on daily weight gain of the steers and the quality of the beef of those steers which is judged by an independent panel. Grossnicklaus says there were a record number of participants in the contest and one of them made it to a big sale in Oklahoma City.

 

             

 

7-year old Grady Stamps of Tuttle took the top award, with 16-year old Blake Janssen of Ampo earning second place, and 7-year old Brady Mitchell of Friend placed third.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $66.07 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $68.65.

Natural gas is $2.91 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,910 and silver is $28.17.

 

Obituary

Carrie Marsh-Rodriguez

Funeral service for Carrie Marsh-Rodriguez, 29, of Chickasha will be at 1:00 p.m. Thursday, May 27^th at Full Gospel Church. Arrangements are with Brown-Thomas Funeral Home.

 

Tuesday, May 25th

 

Gov. Stitt OKs State Budget

A state budget of more than $9 billion received the signature of Oklahoma governor Kevin Stitt yesterday.  The plan is about an 8 percent increase from the current budget. Officials say the increase makes up for some of the cuts and decreased spending in last year’s spending plan caused by the negative impact on the economy from the pandemic. Education gets nearly one-third of the total - a record $3.2 billion - with common education getting an increase of more than $200 million. The budget also puts $800 million into rainy day savings accounts which will increase those savings to more than $1.2 billion. The budget includes reductions in all personal income tax brackets and lowers the corporate income tax from 6 percent to 4 percent.

 

'Click It or Ticket' Seatbelt Campaign Underway

Law enforcement groups want to remind families to buckle up on the roadways during the upcoming Memorial Day holiday weekend. The Oklahoma Highway Safety Office has implemented the Click It or Ticket campaign, urging motorists and passengers to wear their seat belts. Officials say wearing a seat belt is the No. 1 thing you can do to help save your life in a crash. In 2019 there were 208 people who died in Oklahoma traffic accidents were not wearing seat belts. The National Highway Safety Administration cites statistics that show there is a 50 percent increase in surviving a traffic accident if you’re buckled up. More than 55 agencies across the state will be adding extra personnel who will be on the lookout for those not wearing seat belts. They’ll be taking a no-excuses approach to seat belt law enforcement and say tickets will be issued day and night. The campaign runs through Sunday, June 6th.

 

Chix Resident to Serve on State Library Panel

A Chickasha woman has been selected to serve on a state panel which supports Oklahoma libraries. Angie Lewis will be serving on the board of directors for the Friends of Libraries in Oklahoma (FOLIO). Lewis has been with the Friends of the Chickasha Library for nearly 30 years. She’s helped to organize the library’s annual chocolate festival and assisted with getting a state library landmark plaque for the late Chickasha author Bill Wallace which was placed at Centennial Park last year. FOLIO has been around for more than 40 years with a mission to help local Friends of the Library groups to assist their local libraries, promote the development and improvement of libraries, and encourage wider use of library facilities by the public.

 

Teens Finish Bank 'Student Board of Directors' Program

A local financial institution recognized some high school students for their work.  The students were part of The First National Bank's Student Board of Directors program. Monthly meetings were held to give students an in-depth learning experience on the foundations of banking operations and career opportunities that exist in community banking and finance. Chickasha High School juniors who took part were Abbegail Morvant-Pettit, Brianna Alexander, Baylee Bradford, and Brooklyn Green.

 

Goodyear Blimp to Arrive in Lawton Today

If the skies clear up in southwest Oklahoma today some folks might be able to get a glimpse of the Goodyear blimp. The Wingfoot Three is scheduled to make a stop at the Lawton/Ft. Sill Regional Airport this afternoon. The blimp is making a cross country trip from its home base in Carson, California to Goodyear's headquarters in Akron, Ohio. KSWO-TV reports the Wingfoot Three is the newest of more than 300 blimps that Goodyear has built since 1917. This particular blimp has been in use for the last three years.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $66.05 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $68.46.

Natural gas is $2.89 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,886 and silver is $27.75.

 

Obituary

George Brinkman

Funeral service for George Brinkman, 87, formerly of Chickasha will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, June 5th at McRay Funeral Home.

 

Monday, May 24th

 

Hostage Standoff Ends Peacefully

Dozens of law enforcement officials were summoned to help Chickasha police with a hostage stand-off yesterday. Authorities were called out to 816 S. 20th just before 5:00 a.m. Sunday. Here's Chickasha police spokesman Lt.  Scott Weaver-

              

Inside the house were 70-year old Terry Gunnoe and his wife. Authorities called in Mike Davenport, the negotiation team leader with the Oklahoma County Sheriff's Office. He spent several hours on the phone with Gunnoe trying to get him to surrender. Several of Gunnoe's children were on the scene trying to help when they could. About 3:30 p.m. Gunnoe surrendered peacefully to Davenport. Neither Gunnoe nor his wife were injured but were taken to the hospital. Weaver talks about the reason so many Special Response Team (SRT) members were called out to support the effort.

 

              

 

Weaver said Gunnoe would be arrested on a kidnapping complaint.

 

Council Special Sessions Include City Budget 

Chickasha City Council members have some extra work to put in this week. Special work sessions are scheduled tonight and tomorrow night. Tonight the panel will hear a presentation from the Oklahoma Municipal Assurance Group. Tomorrow night the group will discuss a proposed city budget for the 2022 fiscal year that will begin in just over a month.  Both meetings will be held at city hall and are scheduled to start at 6:30 p.m..

 

Chix School Students Ready for Summer

Today is the last day of classes for Chickasha Public Schools. The original last day of school was scheduled to be last Thursday, but a couple of extra days were added because of the polar vortex that put the state in a deep freeze in February. School officials announced that a virtual learning pathway will be offered for the first semester next year. However, students will have to apply to be accepted into the program and applications need to be turned into the school they will be attending June 7th. Officials said there will not be a blended system next school year. They also announced that any student wanting to participate in sports, band, FFA, or any extra-curricular program will have to be in the classroom for face-to-face instruction with teachers. The first day of school this fall will be Thursday, Aug. 12th.

 

Chix Relay for Life Set June 5th

Chickasha will be having a Relay for Life fundraiser to assist the American Cancer Society this year. As you know last year's program was canceled because of COVID. Officials will have a block party downtown Chickasha on Saturday, June 5th, from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. There will be games, music, vendors, food trucks, and some of the traditional Relay for Life events including recognition of cancer survivors. For information, see the Relay for Life Facebook page or contact Barbara Pelley.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $63.58 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $66.44.

Natural gas is $2.91 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,883 and silver is $27.80.