Monday, Dec. 20th

 

Resignation 'Agreements' Approved 

for Suspended Ninnekah School Administrators

Two administrators suspended from Ninnekah Public Schools who were implicated in the molestation scandal involving basketball players have had resignation agreements approved by the school board. The agreements for suspended superintendent Todd Bunch and high school principal David Pitts were approved last week following a closed door meeting of the board. Both Bunch and Pitts are among several defendants named in a federal lawsuit alleging the cover-up of sexual assaults of girls basketball players. The Chickasha Express-Star reported that the terms of the agreements weren't released. Both men were suspended by the school board earlier this year pending the outcome of an investigation into the allegations brought forth by several former basketball players who say they were assaulted by former coach Ron Akins. Akins is facing rape and sexual battery charges in connection with the allegations.

 

State Leads the Country in Medical Marijuana Dispensaries

Oklahoma leads the country in its number of marijuana dispensaries. With more than 2,100 dispensaries, Oklahoma has almost twice as many dispensaries as next two states combined. Oregon and California together have about 2,500 dispensaries. The study published in The Oklahoman shows there are more than 400,000 total medical marijuana licenses in the state which includes about 385,000 individual licenses. That's up from 365,000 last year and accounts for one in every 13 Oklahomans. The licenses also include nearly 9,500 growers; more than 1,700 processors; more than 100 transportation firms; and nearly 30 laboratories. The study shows that Grady, McClain, Garvin, and Comanche counties each have more than 200 medical marijuana facilities.  The number of care-giver licenses was down from just under 2,600 last year to just under 2,000 this year. Medical marijuana tax revenue in Oklahoma has grown from $24 million in 2019 to more than $61 million so far this year (January through November). State and local sales tax revenues have grown from $30 million in 2019 to nearly $76 million in the first 11 months of this year. Nearly 60 percent of the tax revenue goes to disadvantaged public school districts as well as charter schools; about 35 percent goes to the Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Authority for regulating the industry; and about 5 percent goes to the state health department for drug and alcohol rehabilitation. Any collections over $65 million will go into the state's general fund.

 

Two Hospitalized After Car Hits Tree

Two people were sent to the hospital - one with life-threatening injuries - after a car ran off the road near Dibble and hit a tree over the weekend. An unidentified 17-year old girl was air-lifted to an Oklahoma City hospital and admitted in critical condition. She was a passenger in a car driven by 21-year old Austyn Thomas of Lindsay. Thomas was taken by ground ambulance to a hospital where he was admitted in fair condition. The accident happened about six miles southwest of Dibble in McClain County just before noon Saturday. The highway patrol reports that Thomas was northbound on May Avenue when the accident happened. The trooper investigating the crash said some kind of distraction inside the vehicle was the cause of the crash.

 

HUD Sends $5 Million to Oklahoma Tribes

Several million dollars in COVID-19 relief funds have been awarded to tribal groups in Oklahoma. Each of five tribes will equally share $5 million which comes from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Officials with the Apache and Kiowa Tribes say they'll use the money for housing upgrades and construction. Officials with the Apache Housing Authority said they will use the money to clean, modify, or replace air ducts in homes. They may also enclose garages to create extra bedrooms, renovate rental units, and even upgrade broadband infrastructure. Officials with the Kiowa Housing Authority said they'll use the funds to build as many as 14 new homes around Carnegie. Other Oklahoma tribes to receive the funds are the Seminole, Seneca-Cayuga, and Modoc Nation.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $70.83 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $73.52.

Natural gas is $3.69 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,797 and silver is $22.35.

 

Obituaries

Mary Vananda

No service is scheduled for Mary Vananda, 80, of Chickasha.  Arrangements are with Sevier Funeral Home.

Frances Hackworth

A private graveside service for Frances Hackworth, 77, of Verden will be held at 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, December 21^st at the Laverty Cemetery. Arrangements are with Sevier Funeral Home.

Michael Jones

Funeral for 66-year old Michael Jones of Oklahoma City and formerly of Amber will be at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, December 21st at the Amber Mission Holiness Church. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.

‘Angie’ Whitlow

Funeral for Angela ‘Angie’ Whitlow, 50, of Chickasha will be at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, December 22nd at Ferguson Funeral Home.

Saturday, Dec. 11th

 

Thousands of Meals to be Distributed to Area Students

Some 20,000 meals will be provided to youth in the region next week. The Chickasaw Nation and Chickasha Public Schools are teaming up to provide the meals for children 18 years old and under to help make sure the youth have something to eat over the two-week Christmas break. Students in Chickasha, Pioneer, and Friend schools will be receiving the meals. Donya Charlson leads the Johnson O'Malley Native American program at Chickasha High School. She says the distribution will be held over several days next week. Each student will get enough food for five meals. The distribution will be held over several days. Chickasha High School students will be able to pick up the meals at the high school on Monday; Middle School and Lincoln School students can pick up the meals at their schools on Tuesday; parents of Grand Elementary students can pick up the meals at the school on Wednesday; and parents of Bill Wallace students can pick up the meals at the school on Thursday. Charlson said parents of students in Pioneer and Friend schools can pick up the meals at Chickasha High School either Tuesday or Wednesday between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. in the bus lane at the high school.

 

Continental Resources 3rd in Active Rig Locations

Continental Resources is among the most active rig operators in the country right now. Numbers from Enverus Rig Analytics show that the Oklahoma City-based company has 22 rigs in operation nationwide which is third best behind Pioneer Natural Resources (26) and EOG Resources (25).

Regional Oil, Gas Activity

Recent well completions include two in Canadian County. Citizen Energy III has one of them near Union City. It was producing more than 200 barrels of oil and 1,500 metric cubic feet of natural gas per day at a depth of nearly 19,000 feet. The spud date for that location was November of 2020 and the completion date was this past May. Devon Energy reported a completion of a well three miles south of Calumet. That location reported daily production of 860 barrels of oil and nearly 8,000 Mcf of natural gas at a depth of 22,000 feet. The spud date was this past February with completion in August. Both are in the Mississippian play.

 

Energy Group Hosts Sheep, Goat Show

Today is a big day at the Grady County Fairgrounds as the Petroleum Alliance of Oklahoma holds its SCOOP Winter Classic Sheep and Goat Show. About 200 youth will be showing a combined 400 or more animals. The alliance is a trade association created by the merger of the Oklahoma Independent Petroleum Association and the Oklahoma Oil and Gas Association. Its board of directors includes executives with oil and gas companies which operate in the South Central Oklahoma Oil Province (SCOOP). Bray Haven, who works with the Oklahoma Youth Expo and the Oklahoma Energy Resources Board, coordinates the show. It's a counterpart to the STACK Classic Swine Show that's held in Kingfisher in the summer. Haven said the youth have the opportunity to show their animals twice to different judges. The top prizes are $300 in cash to the grand champions however Haven said more than $10,000 in cash and prizes will be awarded.

 

More Christmas Parades Tonight

Christmas parades are on tap for a couple of area communities tonight. Anadarko and Blanchard are holding lighted Christmas parades. In Blanchard, local merchants have special sales and activities this afternoon with food trucks, train rides, and photos with Santa. The chamber of commerce will have Shop Blanchard giveaways and Kindergarten students will sing. The city's parks and recreation department will hold a Cajun Christmas, Mardis Gras-style at 6 o'clock. In Anadarko, the theme for the parade is Favorite Christmas movies. That's also set for 6 o'clock tonight.

 

Talk Show Topic

Here's what we're talking about this weekend. District 3 Grady County Commissioner Ralph Beard is on our KOOL Konversation program. Find a link to the program under the Community tab on this website.

 

Friday, Dec. 10th

 

Former Cop Gets Deferred Sentence for Child Abuse

A former Ninnekah police officer will spend two weeks in jail and gets a deferred sentence after pleading guilty to child abuse. 52-year old Doug Mabry was sentenced by a Caddo County judge this week. Mabry was arrested in April of 2020 after Chickasha police were called to a home where Mabry was accused of using excessive force to discipline a teenager who he said had been disrepectful. Mabry entered a blind plea to the charge back in September and Judge David Stephens handed down the sentence Monday, December 6th. In addition to spending 14 days in jail, on-line court records indicate Mabry was also issued a five-year deferred sentence.

 

Arrest Warrant Issued for Mother 

of Developmentally-Disabled Son

An Anadarko woman is accused of misusing benefits intended for her developmentally disabled son, who was reportedly living in a shed. A felony arrest warrant was isssued for 39-year old Rebecca Ann Payne who is being sought for alleged abuse by a caretaker. The Lawton Constitution reports the warrant was issued following an investigation by Adult Protective Services. Officials say the victim is an Anadarko high school student. School officials reported he had bad hygiene but it had gotten worse from him not bathing for days. A probable cause affidavit indicates the victim told authorities he lives in the shed because there's no room in the house. In an interview with Anadarko police, Payne said her son wanted to stay in the shed because it was like having a place of his own. It has heat and air conditioning and he had access to the house. Payne said she used her son's monthly $459 disability payment to pay for gas and bills and his monthly $245 SNAP benefits to buy food. Authorities have since relocated the victim to his own apartment.

 

Marlow Women Hospitalized After Crash

Two Marlow women are hospitalized following a traffic accident. 55-year old Joy Shepard was air-lifted to an Oklahoma City hospital where she was last in critical condition. 22-year old Kaylee Shepard was taken to a Lawton hospital where she was last in poor condition. The accident happened about 2:30 p.m. Thursday four miles east of Lawton. The highway patrol reports that Kaylee Shepard drove her car into the intersection of a couple of roads and the car was hit by a pick-up driven by 36-year old Kyle Byington of Elgin. Byington refused medical treatment.

 

Utility Bills to Increase in Apache

Residents in Apache will be paying more for water and other city utilities after the first of the year. The town board of trustees the approved the increases which will be about 14 percent. A typical residential bill will go up more than $7 to nearly $60 per month for water, sewer, and trash pick-up. KSWO-TV reports that officials indicated the increase will cover necessary repairs and equipment as designated by the six-year budget plan of the Public Works Authority.

 

Another Busy Weekend on Tap For Festival of Light;

Downtown Shuttles Available to Reduce Wait Time

With two weeks left before Christmas, Chickasha is preparing for another big weekend for Festival of Light visitors. Long lines are anticipated both tonight and tomorrow night for families, school, church and tour buses, and even limousines that patiently wait for the opportunity to drive and/or walk through Shannon Springs Park. It's also another weekend for December at the Depot. There are activities in downtown Chickasha at the Rock Island Railroad Depot from 5:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. tonight and tomorrow night with activities for the kids, pop-up vendors inside and around the depot, and some downtown merchants are open late. Downtown visitors can also ride a shuttle to the park without sitting in the long line of traffic waiting to get in the park.  Tickets are just $2 per person for the round trip while children three years and younger ride free.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $70.94 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $74.42.

Natural gas is $3.81 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,770 and silver is $21.88.

 

Thursday, Dec. 9th

 

ARPA Funds Still Available in Grady County

Grady County Commissioners have already distributed more than $3 million dollars in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds received from the federal government. The funds were allocated to assist with groups negatively impacted by the pandemic. Commissioners have approved $1.3 million for Grady Memorial Hospital; 1.3 million for Life Skills Institute/Resurrection House; and $500,000 to county fire departments. District 3 County Commissioner Ralph Beard said there is still about $2 million left in the first allocation of ARPA funds and encourages groups to apply. Applications are available on the on the county's website: www.gradycountyok.com

 

              

 

Applications are screened by a legal firm to make sure they fall within federal guidelines. Beard said the county will receive another allocation of $5 million in ARPA funds next summer.

 

Dr. A to Chair State NAACP Education Committee

Chickasha Lincoln School Principal Dr. R.P. Ashanti-Alexander has been named chairman of the state NAACP education committee. Dr. A is a life-long educator and pastor having spent 45 years in both fields. As a member of the Oklahoma Education Association, he founded the OEA Black Caucus and is president of Chickasha's Tri-County Branch of the NAACP. He works to increase participation in communities to advocate the pursuit of racial justice with a platform to ensure political, educational, social, and economic equality of rights of all individuals and to eliminate race and ethnic-based discrimination.

 

Filing Period Ends for School Boards, Some Town Councils

Yesterday was the final day for candidates to file for school board posts or some town council seats.

Grady County

Laurie Allen filed unopposed for her seat on the Chickasha Board of Education; DeAnn Mittelstaedt is being opposed for her post on the Amber-Pocasset school board by Jeanette Parham; Danielle Epps is being opposed for her Bridge Creek school board seat by Jeana Ely; and Tuttle school board member Tim Hogland is being opposed by Casey Clark. Filing unopposed were Brock Perryman for the seat he was appointed to at Ninnekah; Steven Burton, Jr. at Alex; Chad Tharp at Verden; Garrin Bratcher at Rush Springs; Shaylee Chester at Minco; Scott Taylor at Friend; Jeff Martin at Pioneer; Mark Shaw at Middleberg; and Jimmie Vickery of Minco for Office 4 for the Canadian Valley Technology Center school board. In the Tuttle city council filings, Mayor Aaron McElroy is being opposed by Judy Preston; and two candidates have filed for Ward 3. Dewey Trey Buck and Darrell Alcorn have filed for the seat currently held by Todd Littleton who did not seek re-election.

McClain County

Lonnie Bewley, Kristi Mitchell, and Justin Smith have filed for a seat on the Blanchard school board; Jason Ott and Brandon Hedrick have filed for Dibble school board; and Valory Dalton filed unopposed at Newcastle.

Caddo County

Renee Hill and Clarissa Davilla filed un-opposed for their seats on the Anadarko school board; three candidates have filed for Office No. 2 at Cyril including Kenny Gray, Derek Cocheran, and Connie Clayborn; three candidates have filed at Carnegie including Brad Holsted, Shannon Ware, and William Boettger, Jr. Candidates filing un-opposed were Kellie Hoofard at Cement; Clint Brower at Gracemont; Wesley Hedrik at Binger-Oney; Brent Venable at Ft. Cobb-Broxton; Chaz Hurt at the Caddo Kiowa Technology Center; Nicole Josey at Apache; Sarah Farr at Lookeba-Sickles; Kenneth Spady at Hinton;  and Keith Propps at Hydro-Eakly.

Garvin County

Clint Simonton filed unopposed for his post on the Lindsay school board.

Stephens County

At Marlow schools, incumbent Mark O'Neal is opposed by Gena Webb; Courtney Barton filed unopposed at Central High; and Eric Dorman filed unopposed at Bray-Doyle. There is a two-day period to protest applications or for candidates to withdraw.

 

P and K Equipment Purchases Standridge Equipment

Standridge Equipment Company, the long-time John Deere dealership with locations in Chickasha and Duncan, is under new ownership. The businesses have been purchased by P and K Equipment. The Standridge dealership was locally owned and operated by the Standrige family for more than 50 years. A press release announcing the acquisition indicates that many of the Standridge employees will join P and K. They include Trey Adams and Josh Adams who will continue to lead the Chickasha and Duncan locations. P and K Equipment General Manager Scott Eisenauer said the Standridge family has a long history in the John Deere business and they are honored to continue their legacy. With the addition of the Chickasha and Duncan locations P and K has 20 locations with 18 in Oklahoma and two in Arkansas.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $72.36 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $75.28.

Natural gas is $3.81 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,783 and silver is $22.31.

 

Wednesday, Dec. 8th

 

OHP Continues Probe of Fatal Traffic Accident Near Minco

State troopers are continuing their investigation a fatal crash between a garbage truck and a car in northern Grady County. 55-year old Tammy Pool of Minco died in the accident which happened just before 3:00 p.m. Tuesday one mile east of Minco on State Highway 37. The driver of the trash truck, 25-year old Brandon Ataddlety of Anadarko, was not hurt. Authorities say Ataddlety's condition was apparently normal and he was wearing his seatbelt. Pool was not wearing her seat belt and her condition is under investigation. The accident shut down traffic on the highway for more than five hours.

 

School Board, Town Council Filing Updates

We have updates after day two of school board and town council filings.

Grady County

No candidates have yet filed for the post up for election on the Chickasha Board of Education. Brock Perryman has filed at Ninnekah; Scott Taylor has filed at Friend; Garrin Bratcher has filed at Rush Springs; Mark Shaw has filed at Middleberg; Jeana Ely and Danielle Epps have filed for Office No. 2 at Bridge Creek. There have been no additional filing at Alex where Steve Burton filed nor at Ampo where DeAnn Middelstaadt and Jeanette Parham have filed for Office No. 2; and Tim Hogland has not yet drawn an opponent at Tuttle. There also has not been any new candidates come forward for Tuttle City Council. Aaron McElroy has filed for mayor and Darrel Alcorn has filed for Ward 3.

McClain County

Brandon Hedrick has filed for Dibble school board and as of late afternoon yesterday there had been no filings for Blanchard or Newcastle school board.

Caddo County

Renee Hill and Clarissa Davilla are still the only candidates who have filed for separate seats on the Anadarko School Board; Wesley Headrick filed for Binger-Oney schools; Brent Venable has filed at Ft. Cobb-Broxton; Clint Brower has filed at Gracemont; two candidates filed at Carnegie, William Boetgger Jr. and Brad Holsted filed for Office No. 2. Sarah Farr has filed at Lookeba-Sickles. There have been no additional filings at Cement where Kelly Hoofard has filed; nor at Cyril where Connie Clayborn has filed. And Chaz Hurt is the only candidate to file for the Caddo Kiowa Technology Center school board.  Today is the final day for candidates to file for school board or town council elections.

 

Bill Would Allow School Districts to Carry Over Local Funding

A state lawmaker wants to remove carryover limits for school district budgets and penalties for violating those limits. State Sen. Jessica Garvin (R-Duncan) has filed SB 1126 which she says would improve accountability and transparency of local school district funding. In a press release, Garvin said she's bothered by the fact that the school funding formula penalizes districts for carryover funds. She says it often leads to impulse purchases that may not be needed just so they don't lose those funds. Garvin said by allowing the funds to be carried over districts could create long-term strategic plans for improving educational outcomes. Those could include facility upgrades, new technology, and incentives for hiring and retaining teachers and support personnel.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $72.05 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $75.44.

Natural gas is $3.70 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,790 and silver is $22.45.

 

Obituaries

Phil Gordon

A memorial service for Phil Gordon, 68, of Chickasha will be held at 2:00 p.m. Thursday, December 9th at First Baptist Church. He was a long-time attorney and civic leader. Arrangements are with Sevier Funeral Home.

‘Denise’ Adair

Funeral for Ruby 'Denise' Adair, 48, of Chickasha will be at 1:30 p.m. Thursday, December 9th at Ferguson Funeral Home.

Walter Hayes

Funeral for Walter Hayes, 80, of Chickasha will be at 10:00 a.m. Friday, December 10^th at Sevier Funeral Home.

‘Susan’ Kester

A memorial service for Terry 'Susan' Kester, 70, of Chickasha will be at 10:30 a.m. Friday, December 10^th at Ferguson Funeral Home.

Dorothy Jolley

Funeral for Dorothy Jolley, 94, of Blanchard will be held at 1:30 p.m. Friday, December 10^th  at Ferguson Funeral Home.

 

Tuesday, Dec. 7^th

 

City Council Flips Vote, Approves Cell Phone Tower Permit

By a one-vote margin, the Chickasha City Council approves a special use permit to allow the installation of a cell phone tower in a mostly residential area. It was the same permit the council unanimously denied early this year. Residents in the neighborhood of 520 S. 8th Street protested the permit. However, the approval came after an attorney for Branch Communications said the Federal Communications Act of 1996 takes away much of a municipal government’s discretion in such matters. David Box said that includes concerns of neighbors against the development.

 

              

 

It was also mentioned that city code is not strong enough to prevent the tower from being installed. Speaking against the permit was attorney Josh Armor representing property owners.

 

              

 

City Manager Tyler Brooks said while he wouldn't necessarily want a cell phone tower in his back yard it was in the best interest of the city to approve it.

 

              

 

The council voted 5-2 to approve the permit during last night's city council meeting with Mayor Chris Mosley and council representatives Zack Grayson, Brian Gerdes, Kelly Boyd, and Georgianne Hebbelthwaite changing their votes to approve the permit while Oscar Nelson and Dr. R.P. Ashanti-Alexander maintained their votes against it.

Other Council Decisions

In other city council action the panel approved a more than $18,000 payment to Bordwine Development for the latest phase of construction of the Badgett Dog Park; approved the appointment of Councilman Brian Gerdes to the Chickasha Industrial Authority; approved the veterinary service contract with the Verden Veterinary Clinic; and deemed outdated police department radio equipment as surplus. The council postponed a decision regarding the final plat of Phase 3 of the home construction project in the Sleepy Hollow Addition.

 

Filing Period Continues for School Board, Council Posts

Monday was the first day of a three-day period for candidates to file for school board seats and some municipal offices. In Grady County, no one filed for the Chickasha school board post although incumbent Laurie Allen says she intends to run. For Amber-Pocasset schools, DeAnn Middelstaadt and Jeanette Parham both filed for Office 2; For Alex schools, Steve Burton has filed; and for Tuttle schools, Tim Hogland has filed. For Tuttle city council, Aaron McElroy has filed for mayor and Darrel Alcorn has filed for Ward 3. In Caddo County, for Anadarko schools, current school board members Renee Hill and Clarissa Davilla have filed for their respective seats; at Cement schools, Kelly Hoofard has filed; at Cyril schools, Connie Clayborn has filed; at Apache schools, Nicole Josey has filed; and for Caddo Kiowa Technology Center, Chaz Hurt of Carnegie has filed. In McClain County there have been no school board filings for Blanchard, Dibble, or Newcastle. The filing period runs through tomorrow afternoon.

 

Contributions Sought for Non-Profits Supporting Children

There are a couple of worthy programs seeking contributions to help their missions today. The Darren Cook Foundation is one of them. Cook was the long-time owner of J and W Grill who passed away last year. J and W Grill and several other locally-owned restaurants will donate proceeds of today's sales to Santa's Workshop. The other participating restaurants are Jake's Rib, A and E Grill, and InterUrban. Another program you can support is the Beautiful Day Foundation. Every month, the foundation holds joint birthday partys at area schools serving pizza and drinks, delivering cupcakes to all students, but most importantly, letting each child feel loved by the community. The Foundation is working with Lincoln, Grand, and Bill Wallace schools in Chickasha while Verden and Rush Springs schools have started chapters this year. The group is seeking corporate and individual contributions. Find information on Facebook and Instagram or on the website: www.beautifulday.net

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $69.49 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $73.08.

Natural gas is $3.65 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,783 and silver is $22.42.

 

Obituaries

Phil Gordon

Funeral service for Phil Gordon of Chickasha is pending with Sevier Funeral Home.

Susan Hankins

Funeral service for Susan Hankins, 75, of Chickasha was held Tuesday, December 7^th at Holy Name Catholic Church. Arrangements were with Sevier Funeral Home.

Lloyd Parrett

Funeral service for Lloyd Parrett of Tuttle will be at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, December 8th at the First Church of the Nazarene. Arrangements are with Sevier Funeral Home.

 

Monday, Dec. 6th

 

Another Public Hearing Scheduled

for Controversial Cell Phone Tower

A company wanting to build a cell phone tower in a Chickasha neighborhood is again trying to get approval for the project. Branch Communications is looking to construct the tower in the 500 block of South 8th Street. The city council has already turned down the project once. Residents in the area have spoken out against the proposal in previous public hearings held by the city's planning commission and city council and both panels rejected the plan. The city council will hold another public hearing on the special use permit application during tonight's city council meeting.

Other Council Agenda Items

The council will go behind closed doors to discuss a pending investigation, claim, or action regarding the city's economic development agreement and sales tax agreement with Chisholm Trail Development. The group will also get a re-cap of the past year's efforts of the Economic Development Council from the group’s president, Jim Cowan; make an appointment to the Chickasha Industrial Authority; and approve a resolution to schedule the annual city council election next April. The group is also to consider a second payment to Bordwine Development for the company’s continuing work on the Badgett Dog Park. The payment is more than $18,000. Prior to the council meeting Mayor Chris Mosley is to issue a proclamation declaring Chickasha as Christmas Town, recognizing all the holiday events and activities that have taken place and are taking place this time of year. The city council holds its only regularly scheduled December meeting tonight at city hall starting at 6:30.

 

Board of Education Filings Underway

School board filings are underway in Oklahoma today. For Chickasha Public Schools Office No. 2, the post currently held by Laurie Allen, is a five-year term that is up for election. In Anadarko, there are two seats to be filled. Office No. 2, the seat currently held by Renee Hill is for a five-year term, and Office No. 5 currently held by Clarissa Davilla, is for a 3-year unexpired term. There are school board elections in nearly every school district and career tech district in the state. The filing period  runs through 5 o'clock Wednesday afternoon. Candidates will file at the county election board in the county seat where their school district is located. If any races develop school board elections will be held next spring.

 

Elk Hunts to Temporarily Close Parts of Wildlife Refuge

The State Department of Wildlife will be conducting some controlled elk hunts at the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge over the next few weeks.  The refuge will temporarily close part of the refuge during those periods. The first hunt will be held tomorrow through Thursday. Among the areas to be closed will be the public use areas west of the Visitor Center. The public areas east of the visitor center will remain open. There will be additional elk hunts next Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday (Dec. 13^th-15^th); and then again on January 3rd-5th. Get more information from the refuge's Facebook page or website.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $66.26 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $69.88.

Natural gas is $4.13 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,783 and silver is $22.37.

 

Obituary

Ramon Alfaro

Funeral service for Ramon Alfaro, 38, of Chickasha will be at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, December 8^th at the First and Georgia Church of Christ. Arrangements are with McRay Funeral Home.

Saturday, Dec. 4th

 

Family, Friends Mourn Deaths of Accident Victims

A Dibble family is faced with having to deal with the tragic deaths of three people killed in a head-on collision near Purcell Thursday night. 39-year old Kimberly Hartline, her daughter 18-year old Madysun Faber both of Dibble, and a 15-year old teen identified as Tyler Durham of Moore died in the crash. Faber had just recently graduated from Dibble High School and Durham was a junior who played on the football team. They all were headed to a basketball game when the accident happened. A statement issued by Dibble school officials says everyone is deeply saddened by the tragedy and that they have taken measures to facilitate a grieving and healing process for students and staff. The note said they appreciate the many expressions of sympathy that have been sent. Memorial funds may be contributed to accounts for both families which have been established at the First National Bank in Blanchard. Donations may also be made to Dibble agriculture teacher Jeff Evans at Dibble High School. In the mean-time, the driver of the pickup that hit their vehicle is still in the hospital. 34-year old Patricia McLeod of Blanchard suffered serious injuries and is expected to be hospitalized for several days. Investigators noticed an odor of alcohol in her vehicle and believe she may have been impaired while behind the wheel.

 

Controversial Cel Phone Tower Up for Discussion Again

A company wanting to build a controversial cell phone tower in a Chickasha neighborhood is again trying to get approval to do so. Branch Communications is looking to construct the tower in the 500 block of South 8th Street but the permit has already been denied. Residents in the area have spoken out against the proposal in public hearings with the city's planning commission and city council and officials have rejected the permit in those meetings. The city council will hold another public hearing on the special use permit application during Monday night's city council meeting.

 

Chickasha Christmas Parade is Tonight

Chickasha's annual nighttime Christmas parade is tonight. The Chamber of Commerce-sponsored event will have the usual holiday-themed floats and entries following the traditional east-west route along Chickasha Avenue. The grand marshal is KFOR-TV meteorologist Emily Sutton and other special entries are the Express Clydesdale horses. There's an extra special event happening after the parade. The musical duo of The Imaginaries - Maggie McClure and Shane Henry - will perform a benefit acoustic concert and will also have a screening of their newly-released holiday music video Christmas town which was filmed entirely in Chickasha with local actors. That will start after the parade about 8:00 p.m. and will be indoors at the Chickasha Community Theatre. Admission is $10 with 100 percent of the proceeds being donated to the Resurrection House and The Chickasha Soup Kitchen.

 

Anadarko Welcomes Walking Trail Ideas

In Anadarko, officials are asking for input on a proposed walking trail for the community. The city has received a grant to build the trail and is looking for recommendations to identify points of interest, trail types, and future construction. Chisholm Trail Consulting is requesting the input prior to designing the trail which could include shade and rest areas, drinking fountains, exercise stations, or other additions to make the trail attractive and useful. The survey is available at Anadarko City Hall or can be downloaded from the City of Anadarko's website.

 

Obituary

Alan McCroskey

A graveside service for Alan McCroskey, 61, of Tuttle will be held at 1:00 p.m. Monday, December 6th at Fairview Cemetery in Tuttle. Arrangements are with Sevier Funeral Home of Tuttle.

 

Friday, December 3rd

 

Three Die in Head-on Collision

Three people were killed and two others - including a toddler - are hospitalized following a multi-vehicle traffic accident between Dibble and Purcell. The highway patrol reports that a pick-up tried to pass a vehicle in a no-passing zone and hit an SUV head on. The accident happened just after 6:00 p.m. Thursday on State Highway 39 about 3 1/2 miles west of Purcell. The three people who died were all riding in the SUV. They were identified as 39-year old Kimberly Hartline and 18-year old Madysun Faber both of Dibble, and a 15-year old unidentified male from Moore. A two-year old girl also in the SUV was hospitalized with minor head and internal injuries. The driver of the pick-up, 34-year old Patricia McLeod of Blanchard, was last in serious condition. The trooper investigating the crash reported the McLeod tried to pass another vehicle in a no-passing zone and crashed into the SUV driven by Hartline. The driver of the third vehicle, 34-year old Keith Frazier of Purcell, was not injured.

 

Suspects Arrested After Fight at Illegal Pot Farm

In Garvin County, the owner of an illegal marijuana growing operation and two of his employees were arrested after a fight erupted outside the facility. Authorities received a 9-1-1 call Monday afternoon about the suspects dragging a man along a county road near Elmore City. When sheriff's deputies arrived the victim told authorities he was being forced to stay there so the suspects could extort money from a wealthy family. Our partners at KWTV News 9 reports that Garvin County Sheriff Jim Mullett said investigators found more than 1,700 pounds of marijuana that had a street value of about $2 million. They also found over $32,000 in cash and numerous weapons. Mullet said his office would work with the State Bureau of Narcotics to destroy the illegal marijuana.

 

FOL's 'December at the Depot' Debuts Tonight

A new addition to Chickasha's Festival of Light is designed to attract more visitors to the downtown area over the next few weekends. It's called December at the Depot. Several downtown stores will be open into the evening, pop-up vendors will be around the railroad depot, there are children's activities, and photos with Santa. The iconic leg lamp from The Christmas Story movie and a 60-foot tall lighted Christmas tree are also there. December at the Depot also allows Festival of Light visitors to park near the depot and take a shuttle to the Festival of Light at Shannon Springs Park and they won't have to wait in the long traffic line. December at the Depot will be every Friday and Saturday night through December 25th.

 

Minco Honey Festival is Tomorrow

The town of Minco will be hosting its annual Honey Festival tomorrow. It's a day full of activities with tours of the honey plant and cotton gin, nearly 100 vendors, free samples of cheese and milk products, carriage rides, and photos with Santa. A morning breakfast kicks off the day the First Methodist Church from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.

 

Salvation Army National Challenge is Today

The Salvation Army which serves the Grady and Caddo County region has a big day today. Officers are taking part in the Salvation Army National Commander's Red Kettle Challenge. The goal is to raise $1 million nationwide during a four-hour period. Lts. Bobby and Crystal McFarland with the local Salvation Army will be ringing the bells at Chickasha Wal-Mart from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. The McFarland's have a goal of raising more than $115,000 locally throughout the local Red Kettle drives underway in Chickasha, Anadarko, and Newcastle. All the funds collected will stay in the area to help needy families in Grady and Caddo counties.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $66.50 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $69.67.

Natural gas is $4.06 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,769 and silver is $22.27

 

Obituaries

Devin Harris

Funeral service for Devin Harris, 25, of Altus will be at 10:00 a.m. Monday, December 6^th at Spirit of the Lord Church in Altus. Arrangements are with Brown-Thomas Funeral Home.

Rosalind Givens

Funeral service for Rosalind Givens, 40, of Chickasha will be at 12:00 p.m. Monday, December 6th at Shepherd Street Christian Church. Arrangements are with Brown-Thomas Funeral Home.

 

Thursday, Dec. 2^nd

 

Former Janitor Pleads Guilty To Child Sexual Assault

A one-time janitor facing charges of the sexual assault of a 14-year old girl has pleaded guilty to those charges. A trial for 31-year old Richard Dayton Pewenofkit of Anadarko was supposed to be held in Caddo County District Court this week but Pewenofkit entered his plea prior to the trail getting underway. Pewenofkit, who worked for Anadarko Public Schools, was arrested nearly two years ago after the victim and her grandmother reported the incident. The Lawton Constitution reports that Pewenofkit admitted giving the teen alcohol and marijuana. He pleaded guilty to felony charges of rape and sodomy and a misdemeanor for contributing to the delinquency of a minor. A judge sentenced Pewenofkit to two concurrent terms of 15-years in prison with seven years suspended.

 

Overturned Semi Slows Traffic on H.E. Bailey Turnpike

An overturned semi on the H.E. Bailey Turnpike between Chickasha and Newcastle is backing up traffic this morning. The big rig overturned near mile marker 100 - right underneath the overpass of State Highway 4. There was no immediate word of injuries. Traffic was being diverted on to State Highway 4.

 

Lawmaker Proposes Change to Fatality Crash Probe Process

A state lawmaker hopes to make some changes in how fatality traffic accidents are handled. Sen. George Burns (R-Pollard) says under current law, a body cannot be removed from an accident scene until a medical examiner arrives and conducts an investigation. Burns says there are not enough medical examiners to cover all 77 Oklahoma counties. That has resulted in some instances where a body remains at an accident scene for several hours and there have been times when family members have arrived long before the medical examiner.  Burns’ Senate Bill 1123 would allow Emergency Medical Technicians to transport bodies to hospitals where the medical examiners would conduct their investigations. Burns says it’s about dignity for those who died and it would reduce trauma experienced by loved ones.

 

Chickasha Police Receive OneOk Grant

A grant to the Chickasha Police Department will help the agency purchase some life-saving equipment. OneOk delivered a nearly $1,400 Emergency Responder grant to the department. Assistant Police Chief G.G. Music says the grant will be used to purchase AED pads, tourniquets, and crime scene tape.

 

Chix Library Begins Annual Food-for-Fines Campaign

It's the time of year when the Chickasha Library and its patrons help re-stock the shelves of the Emergency Food Pantry. Every December the library has its Food-for-Fines campaign. It allows individuals who have failed to return materials in a timely manner to have their fines waived by donating some non-perishable food items. Librarian Lillie Huckaby said the donation does not have to match the fine. Library patrons who don't have fines also contribute to the food drive and the general public is also invited to participate. Huckaby said if any materials have been lost the fine will be waived with a food donation, but the monetary value of the lost item will have to be paid. The Food for Fines program runs through the end of December.

 

Rush Springs Sets 'Back Home for Christmas'

Saturday will be a big day in Rush Springs where downtown merchants will be offering sales for holiday shoppers, inviting local vendors to set up booths at no cost, serving free refreshments, and holding drawings for numerous prizes. The theme is Back Home for Christmas and it will also feature a toy run and parade. Officials are inviting car clubs, motorcycle groups, horse riding clubs, and farmers to have their tractors in the parade. All parade participants are asked to bring a new toy or gift for children of any age. Santa and Mrs. Claus will also be on hand for pictures with proceeds donated to charity. Parade participants should begin lining up at the high school and toward the football field starting about 12:30 p.m. with the parade to start at 1:00 p.m.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $65.57 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $70.54.

Natural gas is $4.26 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,777 and silver is $22.40.

 

Obituaries

Phillip Wilson

Funeral service for Phillip Wilson, 63, of Mustang will be at 1:00 p.m. Friday, December 3rd at the First Baptist Church of Verden. Arrangements are with Sevier Funeral Home.

Mitchell West

Funeral service for Mitchell West of Austin, Texas and formerly of Ninnekah will be at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, December 4^th at Sevier Funeral Home. He was a military veteran having served in the U.S. Marines. Memorial contributions may be made to the Semper Fi and Americas Foundation at www.thefund.org/donate

 

Wednesday, Dec. 1st

 

Water Line Break Repairs Made

Crews for the City of Chickasha worked for several hours Monday on a water line break that left many with no or low water pressure. Residents and businesses in the southwest part of the city were affected in the area south of Grand Avenue from 24th Street west to University in the Harbors Addition (west of 29th and Grand). Officials say repairs were completed about 6:30 last night.

 

Some Grady County ARPA Fund Spending Approved

Grady County Commissioners have approved the use of some of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds the county has received. Chickasha's homeless shelter, the Resurrection House, will receive about $1.2 million to help finance the construction of new dormitories for men, women, and families. Four county fire departments will share in $500,000 in ARPA funds – those being Chickasha, Tuttle, Bridge Creek and Grady County fire departments. Funds will be used to purchase equipment, new radios, and AEDs. The Chickasha Express-Star reported that legal consultants look over requests for ARPA funds. The county still has about $2.5 million funds remaining from the first ARPA distribution. The county will receive another $5 million next summer.

 

OSBI Seeks Info in Stephens County Cold Case

Officials with the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation are re-opening an investigation from the 1980s out of Stephens County. The agency's official Facebook page shows photographs of two unidentified women they are looking for. Agents say they are not suspects or persons of interest in connection with their investigation. The agency did not disclose details about the case they are looking into. You can see photographs of the women on the OSBI official Facebook page. Anyone with information can e-mail the agency at tips@osbi.ok.gov or call a toll-free number, 800-522-8017.

 

Chickasha Certified as 'Film Friendly' City

Chickasha has been a popular spot for filming Hollywood movies over the last couple of years. Now, the Oklahoma Film and Music Office has designated Chickasha a certified Film Friendly City. Tava Sofsky is the director of the state office. She says city leaders have worked hard to diligently support the state's film and music industries in a way that benefits the region. This past summer, crews were in town filming ‘A Cowgirl's Song’, written and directed by Timothy Armstrong which will be distributed world-wide by Samuel Goldwyn. The film stars Cheryl Ladd and features music from local musical duo The Imaginaries and is being co-produced by Chickasha’s Reagan Elkins. Film crews were in Chickasha over the last couple of years to film scenes for movies like 'Infamous' and 'What Josiah Saw'. Jim Cowan with the Chickasha Economic Development Council says the city has embraced film and music to help tell the story of why it makes sense to live, work, and play in Chickasha.

 

School Board Filings are Next Week

Individuals who are considering opportunities to serve on their local school boards have just a few days to decide whether or not they want to do so. Filing for annual school board elections will be Monday, December 6th through Wednesday, Dec. 8th. If school board elections are needed they will be held next spring. School board candidates will file at the county election board office in the county in which their school district is located.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $66.18 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $70.57.

Natural gas is $4.56 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,787 and silver is $22.92.

 

Obituaries

Evelyn Reed

A memorial service for Evelyn Reed, 62, of Chickasha will be held at 6:00 p.m. Monday, December 6th at Full Gospel Church. She worked for many years in the mail room for the Chickasha Express-Star.

 

Tuesday, Nov. 30th

 

Suspect Faces Multiple Child Porn Charges

A tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children leads local investigators to a Chickasha man accused of having numerous files of child pornography. In custody is 40-year old Samuel Elijah Young who was arrested by Grady County sheriff's deputies last week. A probable cause affidavit indicates the sheriff's office received the tip on November 3rd. The suspected user had an e-mail address linked to Young. Authorities obtained a couple of search warrants for Young's home in the 1600 block of South 5th Street where he was arrested last Monday. Prosecutors have charged Young with more than 25 felonies in connection with the investigation. Young remains in the Grady County Jail. Bond has not yet been set as he has not had his initial appearance on the charges.

 

Man Suspected of Pawning Neighbor's Generator

A Verden man is accused of having of stolen property in connection with a couple of break-ins which occurred at his neighbor's home.  39-year old Joshua David Kitchens is charged with misdemeanors in connection with the break-ins that occurred over the last couple of months. A probable cause affidavit from the Verden Police Department indicates witnesses saw Kitchens break a window at the home in October. The victim said some meat from a freezer and a generator were taken. Police were able to locate the generator at a Chickasha pawn shop. Kitchens is facing charges of possession of stolen property and false declaration of ownership and he remains in jail on a $10,000 bond.

 

Researcher Seeks Chix National Guard Photos

Chickasha once served as one of three home bases for the 158th Field Artillery Battalion of the Oklahoma National Guard. Chickasha was known as Charlie Battery which was housed at the airport and what is now the YMCA. There is an effort by an individual to collect photographs of the troops from area residents. John Jensen has been researching the unit and is looking for pictures that may include local soldiers or those of anyone whose parents or grandparents who may have served. A poster requesting the photos says when National Guard soldiers went to summer camp they took unit photos to commemorate the training. Cell phone photos or scanned copies can be e-mailed to:

onefiveeightregiment@yahoo.com

 

Chix Schools Re-Stocking Food Pantries

Chickasha schools are collecting non-perishable food items to stock their food pantries. Officials are looking for foods like Ramen noodles; macaroni and cheese; granola and breakfast bars; cereal and oatmeal; canned soups, vegetables, and meats; peanut butter; crackers; beans; rice; and tortillas. Each school is collecting food for their respective pantries and an award will be presented to the school which collects the most food.

 

Local Salvation Army Accepts National Challenge

A challenge has been issued to Salvation Army locations nationwide - and the division that serves the Grady and Caddo County region has accepted. It's the national commander's Red Kettle Challenge. The goal is to raise $1 million in a four-hour period nationwide. Lts. Bobby and Crystal McFarland with the Grady and Caddo county group say it's a rallying cry for their supporters and a boost of excitement for the campaign. The event winner will be recognized by the national Salvation Army leadership and a with special spotlight video of one of their local programs. All the funds raised in the Grady and Caddo County region will remain in the area. The McFarlands will be at Chickasha's Wal-Mart Friday, December 3rd from 3-7 p.m. for their challenge. The McFarland's have a goal of raising more than $115,000 during the Red Kettle drive to help the missions in the two counties.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $69.95 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $73.44.

Natural gas is $4.85 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,797 and silver is $22.88.

 

Obituary

Edward ‘Mr. D’ Deplois

No services are scheduled for Edward 'Mr. D' Deplois, 96, of Chickasha. He was a U.S. Army veteran. Memorial contributions may be made to the Parkview Christian Church Women's Ministries. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.

 

 

Monday, Nov. 29th

 

Study: Okla. Kids Suffer Nation's Highest Rate of Trauma

Oklahoma children experience more trauma, including abuse and neglect than most children in America. Joe Dorman with the Oklahoma Institute for Child Advocacy points to a study that indicates the alarming statistic.

 

              

 

Dorman said the issue was one of many discussed in the OICA's fall forum, where advocates put together a legislative agenda to present to state lawmakers to try and reduce the child trauma, abuse, and neglect numbers.

 

Fees, Purchasing Discussions on Tap for Chix City Council

Discussions of fees charged by the City of Chickasha, along with city purchasing practices will be held during an informal work session of the city council tonight. The work session will get underway at 6:30 p.m. at city hall.

 

City of Anadarko Plans to E-mail Utility Bills

The City of Anadarko will be changing its utility billing process for many of its users after the first of the year. Officials say beginning in January the bills will be e-mailed to customers who have e-mail addresses. Those without e-mail service will still get their bills through the regular mail. A post on the City of Anadarko's Facebook page indicates that individuals can opt-out of the e-mail process and continue receiving bills through the regular mail. The forms to opt-out are available at Anadarko city hall or can be found on the website www.cityofanadarko.org

 

'Deck the Streets' Campaign Adds to Chix Holiday Theme

Chickasha businesses are being encouraged to increase their holiday spirit through a window decorating contest. It's called "Deck the Streets" and it’s just one more way the Chamber of Commerce is encouraging merchants to show their holiday cheer. Business owners and operators can decorate their store fronts with painted holiday scenes, lights and lighted displays, animated figures or whatever holiday scene they might come up with. The entry fee is $10 per business with all proceeds donated to a local charity selected by the winner. Judging will be decided by the community through likes or reactions to the displays on the chamber's Facebook page. The deadline for entries is Monday, December 6th with the winner announced Friday, December 10th. For information visit the chamber's Facebook page or website.

 

Christmas Parade, Benefit Concert This Week

Speaking of the holidays, Chickasha's annual lighted Christmas parade will be later this week. The parade will be downtown Saturday night and will begin at the YMCA and end at the railroad depot. Today is the deadline for groups to submit applications. The grand marshals for the parade are Emily Sutton with KFOR-TV and the Express Clydesdales. The parade will start at 7 p.m. After the parade, The Imaginaries will perform in concert at the Chickasha Community Theatre and will host a screening of their new music video. Admission is $10 to the concert with proceeds benefitting The Soup Kitchen and Life Skills Institute.

 

Girls Earn Boy Scouts of America Top Honor 

Two southwest Oklahoma teenaged girls are among the first in the state to receive Eagle Scout awards from the Boy Scouts of America. The Lawton Constitution reports that Erika 'Mili' Miller of Fletcher and Isabella Lengel of the Lawton area were recently recognized for their work during a formal ceremony. Both are in the Black Beaver Council which includes most of southwest Oklahoma. The Boy Scouts began admitting girls in February of 2019. Only about one out of every 100 Boy Scouts earn the Eagle Scout designation. They have to earn 49 merit badges and complete a public service project.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $68.15 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $72.72.

Natural gas is $5.44 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,796 and silver is $23.34.