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Mollman Media News Archives for 2022-07

2022, July 5th-9th

Saturday, July 9th

 

Chix Residents Asked to Voluntarily Reduce Water Use

Chickasha city officials are asking residents to voluntarily cut back on their outdoor watering for the next several days. City officials say the reason is because of the installation of water lines along the route of the U.S. Highway 81 bypass west of the city. In a prepared statement, officials said that the lines need to be sterilized and the city must to re-route a lot of water to the tower on West Idaho. Officials ask residents minimize outdoor water usage during the day. That includes watering lawns, gardens, and landscapes, and not filling in-ground swimming pools. They also ask residents to not wash their cars in their driveways. The voluntary conservation request is expected to run into next week. For updated information see the city's Facebook page or the city's website at chickasha.org

 

Mother Arrested for Suspect Child Neglect

A mother is accused of child neglect after her four-year old child wandered away from home while she slept. 33-year old Amanda Rae Anderson was taken into custody this week. The child had wandered to a home about a block away. A probable cause affidavit indicates the child walked to the home barefoot over broken glass on the sidewalk. The boy was only wearing a shirt with no underwear or shorts on, was soiled, and appeared to have had a number of mosquito bites.  The individual who found the child identified Anderson as his mother. Police went to Anderson's home where an officer found her asleep. She told the officer she had no idea the child was missing. Anderson was arrested and charged with felony child neglect. She is out of jail after posting a $10,000 bond

 

Native American Boarding School Listening Tour Begins

Federal officials will be at Riverside Indian School in Anadarko today to begin a national listening tour to hear about the terrible treatment suffered by numerous Native American children who attended federal boarding schools in the late-1800s and into the mi-1900s. Deb Haaland, Secretary of the U.S. Department of Interior, launched a widespread investigation last year which determined that generations of Native American youth were forced or compelled to attend the schools. Haaland said it was a way for the U.S. government to break up tribal nations and obtain their land.

 

              

 

Haaland said they have found 53 burial sites across the country that are tied to the boarding schools. Haaland is the first Native American to serve as the Interior Department Secretary. She plans to compile testimony she hears into an oral archive. The Oklahoman reported this week that Haaland said children were punished for speaking their Native languages and the schools often operated like the military with drills, marches, and strict rules. The investigation found that many of the schools did not focus on education but on manual labor and skills training designed to eradicate Indigenous cultures. Oklahoma had the most boarding schools of any state with 76.  Riverside is among the few off-reservation boarding schools that are still in operation today. Haaland said the schools are run much differently than they did in the past as they now focus on native cultures and education.

 

Talk Show Topic

Here's what we're talking about this weekend. Jake Grossnicklaus with the Grady County Cattle Producers Association is this week's guest on the KOOL Konversation. Find a link to the podcast the Community tab on this website.

 

Obituaries

Larry Smith

Funeral service for Larry Smith, 66, of Dallas and formerly of Chickasha will be held at a later date. Arrangements are with Sevier Funeral Home.

Patricia Moore

A memorial service for Patricia Moore, 31, formerly of Minco, will be held at a later date. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.

 

Friday, July 8th

 

Worker Dies in Oil Field Accident

An oilfield worker died while a crew was clearing a spot to locate an oil rig. 44-year old Matthew Kopf of Newcastle died in the accident that happened along the Washita River east of Ninnekah yesterday. Grady County Undersheriff Gary Boggess says the sheriff's office received a 9-1-1 call just before noon and asked for an ambulance to respond. Boggess says a crew for Cabot Oil and Gas Corporation was clearing a spot for an oil rig when a skid steer got stuck on the riverbank. Crews used tow straps and a chain attached to a tractor in an attempt to free the skid steer. Kopf was driving the tractor when the chain broke under the stress of the pull, recoiled, and struck Kopf in the head, neck, and shoulder area. Kopf died at the scene.

 

Missing Man's Body Found at Lake Chickasha

The body of a man reported missing from Tuttle this week was found at Lake Chickasha. Undersheriff Boggess said the body of 43-year old Mark Barham was found Tuesday evening. Boggess said the sheriff's office received a 9-1-1 call from Barham’s mother early Tuesday. She said he may have gone to the lake to go kayaking. Deputies pinged Barham's cell phone which they traced to the west side of the lake. When investigators got there they found Barham's cell phone in his truck, but he and his kayak were not there. Caddo County deputies and Chickasha police were also summoned to the scene. Authorities did not find anything on an initial search of the lake. Later Tuesday afternoon, a Caddo County deputy returned to the lake. A civilian with a boat volunteered to take the deputy around the lake again, where they found Barham's body in his kayak. Boggess said there did not appear to be any sign of foul play. Barham's body was taken to the state medical examiner’s office where officials will determine his cause of death.

 

Another Suspect Arrested for Drug Trafficking

There's been another arrest in the on-going battle with drug dealers distributing pain pills laced with fentanyl. The latest arrest was made earlier this week when the Grady County Sheriff's Office combined efforts with the Drug Enforcement Administration to bring in 55-year old Chris Elroy Loveless of Chickasha. A probable cause affidavit indicates officials received a tip that alleged Loveless sold nearly 30 pills to an individual for $400. Loveless told investigators he has about 1,000 fentanyl-laced tablets delivered to his home every week and that he sells them for up to $20 each. Loveless has been formally charged with felonies which include trafficking and distribution. He remains in the Grady County Jail on a $250,000 bond. He faces up to 20 years in prison and fines up to $100,000 if convicted.

 

Silver Alert Issued for Missing Duncan Woman

The search continues for a Duncan woman who has been missing from her home for about three weeks. The Duncan Police Department issued a Silver Alert for 84-year old Margie Pickens in mid-June. There were reports that she was seen at the Lawton-Duncan Y and asked for a ride to Elk City. However, video surveillance did not show any evidence that she had been there. The last time anyone had contact with her was a text message she sent to her landlord, saying she was going to her family farm east of Duncan. Individuals were asking residents to check their storm cellars to see if she had taken shelter from the heat.  Pickens is Caucasian with hazel eyes and shoulder-length light brown hair and was on foot. Anyone with information about Margie Pickens is asked to contact the Duncan Police Department by calling 580-255-2112.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $102.73 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $104.65.

Natural gas is $6.29 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,735 and gold is $19.02.

 

Thursday, July 7th

 

Driver of Car Critical After Crash with Semi

A car rear-ended a semi in Alex yesterday and the driver of the car is hospitalized in critical condition. 31-year old Haley Kinsey of Bradley was air-lifted to an Oklahoma City hospital after being trapped in her car for more than 45 minutes. Crews from the Alex Fire Department had to use their Jaws of Life to free Kinsey from the wreckage. Somehow, a five-year old girl in the car with her escaped serious injury. The child was taken to Children's Hospital to be treated for a head injury and was allowed to go home. The accident happed about 9:15 a.m. Wednesday at State Highway 19 and Main Street. The trooper investigating the accident said that Kinsey was behind the semi as both were westbound on the highway. The truck driver slowed to make a turn and Kinsey's car crashed into the semi. The truck driver identified as 33-year old Justin Hamilton of Lindsay was not hurt.

 

Reward Offered for Info Regarding Drilling Fluid Incident

A huge reward is being offered for information about the vandals who broke into the yard of a Cyril oilfield company and released thousands of gallons of drilling fluid. A $10,000 reward has been offered by Stellar Drilling Fluid Company. One or more persons gained entry into the yard by cutting a chain-link fence then opened valves on several storage containers to release nearly 6,000 barrels of fluid. The incident happened late Monday or early Tuesday of this week. Tips can be called in to the Caddo County sheriff's office at 405-247-5700.

 

Tuttle Begins Odd-Even Outdoor Watering

Tuttle residents are asked to conserve their water usage as the area deals with the triple-digit high temperatures. The city has gone to an odd-even system for residents who want to water their yards, landscapes, and gardens. Residents whose addresses end with an odd number can water on odd-numbered days and residents whose addresses end with an even number can water on even-numbered days. A post on the City of Tuttle's Facebook page says the reason for the cut back is that Tuttle buys its water from Newcastle which buys most of its water from Oklahoma City. So Tuttle is required to follow Oklahoma City's conservation measures. Oklahoma City requires odd-even outdoor watering year-round.

 

Chickasha Ward 3 Meeting Set

Chickasha residents who live in Ward 3 can meet with their city council representatives next week. A ward meeting will be held at the Washita Valley Park Community Building Monday, July 11th at 6:30 p.m. Ward 3 councilmen R.P. Ashanti-Alexander and Oscar Nelson will be on hand to discuss issues and share residents’ ideas about the city's future. Residents can e-mail questions ahead of the meeting so officials can have answers at that time. Questions can be e-mailed to: info@chickasha.org

 

Wildlife Refuge Again Issues Restrictions Due to Heat

The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge is again limiting some activities due to the excessive heat. Hiking is only allowed from sunrise until 10 a.m. each day and all visitors must be off the trails by that time. Also, there will be no back-country camping at Charon's Garden Wilderness area. Hiking is still allowed in established picnic areas and campgrounds. All roads are open to vehicles and bicycles. Officials are concerned that the extreme heat may cause health and safety issues with patrons and that could put emergency and search-and-rescue crews at risk if they are called to respond in dangerous heat conditions and traverse rough terrain. Individuals planning to visit the refuge can get updates on the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge website.

 

Chickasha Schools to Begin Enrollment Next Week

There is only about a month of summer vacation left for many public school students. The first day of classes for Chickasha Public Schools is five weeks from today - Thursday, August 11th. The district will begin the enrollment process for returning and new students on Monday, July 11th. Parents have the option of enrolling their children in person at the district's enrollment center or on-line by going to the district's website. The enrollment center is at 7th and Kansas Avenue (across from the post office) and is open Monday through Thursday throughout the summer.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $98.53 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $100.69.

Natural gas is $5.51 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,742 and silver is $19.35.

 

Obituary

‘Colene’ Talbert

Funeral for Alta ‘Colene’ Talbert, 95, of Chickasha will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, July 11th at the Northside Church of Christ. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.

 

Wednesday, July 6th

 

Vandals Cause Massive Drilling Fluid Spill in Cyril

A Cyril park is closed while officials clean up a drilling fluid spill that appears to be the work of vandals. Officials with the Oklahoma Corporation Commission say nearly 250,000 gallons of drilling fluid - the equivalent of some 6,000 barrels - leaked from the plant from Monday night into Tuesday. KWTV News 9 reports that Caddo County deputies suspect someone broke into the property of Stellar Drilling Fluids saying the chain-link fence surrounding the company was definitely cut. Oklahoma Corporation Commission spokesman Matt Skinner said the spill is made more complicated by the fact that it happened within the city limits. The town of Cyril posted on its Facebook page that Keechi Trail and Park would be closed until further notice. The fluid got into the park's recreational ponds which are used for fishing. Investigators will review video surveillance to see if any suspects can be identified. The Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality is also investigating. There was no estimate available regarding the clean up.

 

One Hospitalized, One Jailed After Man Hit by Truck

A Chickasha man suffered broken bones and another is in jail after a fight ends with one man driving his pick up into the other. Documents filed in Grady County District Court indicate Chickasha police were called to a home in the 600 block of North 9th Street just after midnight Tuesday to investigate a fight. Police arrested 41-year old Timothy Carl Stover of Oklahoma City...after its alleged he intentionally drove his SUV into the victim, pinning him against a pickup. Stover told police that the victim attacked him with a bat. The victim said Stover was threatening his family, so he hit the windshield of Stover's SUV with the bat. The victim was taken to an Oklahoma City hospital to be treated for a broken arm, a broken ankle and possible internal injuries. Stover has been formally charged with assault with a dangerous weapon and felony DUI. He remains in the Grady County Jail on a $100,000 bond. Just a couple of months ago, Stover pleaded guilty to a charge of having a firearm after conviction and was sentenced to 10 years in prison with all but 90 days suspended.

 

July 4th Pursuit Suspect Identified

An Anadarko man was arrested for leading numerous law enforcement agencies on a high-speed chase across three counties on Monday. Anadarko police say 38 year old Michael Ruban Brown was taken into custody following the pursuit from Anadarko to Newcastle which lasted about an hour. Brown is facing charges that include burglary, larceny of a vehicle, conspiracy to commit violence, and attempting to elude. He's not yet had his initial appearance on the charges.

 

New Chix Restaurants Win Approval to Sell Alcohol

A couple of new Chickasha restaurants get to go-ahead to serve alcohol when they open their doors. Public hearings for the restaurants' use-on-review applications were held during last night's city council meeting and neither received opposition. The applications for Brandi Terry to serve alcohol at 101 Chickasha Avenue and for Brett Kappus to serve alcohol next door at 117 Chickasha Avenue were passed unanimously in a 6-0 vote.

'Street Outlaws' Filming Passes; Legal Issues Still Being Discussed

After some debate, the council approved a temporary street closure to allow the Discovery Channel to film an episode of the popular 'Street Outlaws' program at the Airport Industrial Park. There are some legal details that still needed to be worked out but the measure passed by a 5-1 vote with councilman Brian Gerdes recusing his vote.

Chix Firm Wins Bid to Help Expand Festival of Light

The council approved a bid of just over $100,000 from Electrical Technologies of Chickasha to expand electrical service at Shannon Springs Park for the Festival of Light. The company will have to provide a performance bond and unit pricing which weren't included in their initial bid.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $97.43 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $102.77.

Natural gas is $5.52 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,763 and silver is $19.16.

 

Obituaries

Freddie Ogles

Funeral for Freddie Ogles, 83, will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, July 8th at St. Johns AME Church in Arcadia. Arrangements are with Brown-Thomas Funeral Home.

Mary Johnson

Funeral for Mary Johnson, 77, of Alex will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, July 9th at the Alex United Methodist Church. Arrangements are with Sevier Funeral Home.

Jamie Hackney

A memorial service for Jami Hackney, 62, of Chickasha will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday at the USAO Alumni Chapel. Arrangements are with McRay Funeral Home.

 

Tuesday, July 5th

 

Driver Arrested Following Lengthy High-Speed Pursuit

A driver was arrested yesterday after a high-speed chase that covered three counties. During the chase through Caddo, Grady, and McClain County, a state trooper crashed and rolled his cruiser. There was no information regarding the status of injuries the trooper may have suffered. The pursuit began Monday morning in Anadarko where state troopers say the suspect was trying to break into a shed and get away from Anadarko police. Reports then indicate the suspect broke into a home, took some keys, stole a car, and drove off. During the pursuit, troopers say the suspect fired shots at them and tried to hit the cruisers of several troopers. The pursuit finally came to an end near Newcastle not far from the State Highway 37 and State Highway 76 junction. The roadway was closed for about three hours. The unidentified suspect was taken to the Caddo County Jail.

 

Officials Work to Name Victim of Fiery Crash

A fiery weekend crash which killed a driver near Carnegie remains under investigation. The unidentified driver died in the crash that happened just after midnight Sunday about two miles west of Carnegie in Kiowa County. The highway patrol reports that the driver was in a pickup which was southbound on a county road when the truck ran off the road, hit an embankment, and caught fire. The state medical examiner is working to identify the driver.

 

Public Hearings Dot Chix City Council Agenda

A number of public hearings are scheduled for tonight's Chickasha City Council meeting. Among them are a couple of use-on-review applications to sell alcohol. One is for Brandi Terry at 101 West Chickasha Avenue and the other is for Brett Kappus at 117 West Chickasha. A third hearing is to consider amendments to the final plat of the Red Bud Ridge housing addition. A fourth hearing is to discuss and consider changes to zoning ordinances as they pertain to congregate living facilities.

'Festival of Light' Electrical Expansion to be Considered

The council will also consider awarding a project to expand the electrical service in Shannon Springs Park for the Festival of Light. Three bids were submitted however none of them included all the required information. The engineering firm for the project, Chisholm Trail Consulting, indicates the council can declare a waiver to award a contract for just over $100,000 to Electrical Technologies, Inc. of Chickasha or reject all bids and re-start the process.

'Street Outlaws' May Film in Chickasha

The council is also to consider a temporary street closure to allow the filming of the popular Discovery channel program Street Outlaws. The proposal calls for the closure of the Airport Industrial Road during a two-week period between July 18th and August 6th. Producers would pay the expenses for any public safety overtime or they would hire off-duty public safety officials to fill their safety needs. The filming would be done at night. The city council meets at 6:30 tonight at city hall.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $108.43 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $114.79.

Natural gas is $5.73 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,802 and silver is $19.82.

 

Obituaries

Leonard Hillary

A graveside service for Leonard Hillary, 89, of Chickasha will be held at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 6th at Fairlawn Cemetery. He was a U.S. Air Force veteran. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association.

Norma Chasten

Funeral for Norma Chasten, 80, of Anadarko will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, July 9th at the Greater First Baptist Church of Anadarko. Arrangements are with Brown-Thomas Funeral Home.

 

Monday, July 4th

No news due to the Independence Day holiday.

 

2022, June 27th-July 2nd

Saturday, July 2nd

 

Construction of New Chix City Park Underway

Groundbreaking was held this week for a new park in downtown Chickasha. City, business, and civic leaders with the Chickasha Community Foundation were on hand to turn over the first shovels of dirt for the park being built next to the historic Rock Island Railroad Depot. The first phase of construction will include remodeling the old Freight or Mill Building into public restrooms, creating a USAO Arts Plaza, and erecting a more permanent version of the now iconic 40-foot tall leg lamp that has been a feature of downtown the last two holiday seasons. The Leg Lamp is larger-than-life version of the leg lamp made popular by the classic holiday movie, The Christmas Story. The lamp has received international attention including a story in the London Daily News as well as on TV stations in Tokyo. Pat Brooks, president of the Community Foundation says the park is being built entirely with private funds and grants. This first phase of construction is expected to be completed by mid-November which will mark the start of the 30th anniversary of the city’s Festival of Light. Brooks says fund-raising efforts are continuing in order to complete future amenities that may include tributes to local residents who have made an impact on a national and international level, an amphitheatre; walking and jogging trails; a children's play area; and a food truck court.

 

America's Birthday Parties Underway

America's annual birthday party is underway. The 4th of July commemorates the efforts of the Founding Fathers of the United States of America and their declaration of independence for 13 colonies which had previously been under British rule. The country's 246th birthday is being celebrated with parades, community events, and fireworks nationwide. In this region, the Blanchard Independence Day celebration is this evening. Activities will start at 6 p.m. off of U.S. Highway 62 behind the Sonic Drive In. There are kids games, food trucks, live music, and fireworks. Salt Creek Casino in Pocasset will have inflatable games and activities for children tomorrow starting at 5 p.m. followed by fireworks.

Chickasha July 4th Fireworks to be held Monday

Chickasha's 4th of July celebration will be Monday night at Shannon Springs Park. The fireworks display is funded by private donations with some $18,000 contributed for the numerous displays. Among them are a 600-shot red-white-and-blue 'zipper pattern' barrage; a nearly 560-shot crackling with red pearl barrage; a 300-shot pattern of red and green crossette barrages; and a 210-shot red rhyme dancing barrage. The Grand Finale will include two 90-shot silver coconut barrages; five gold brocade flower chains; two 49-shot quick salute barrages; and an 88-shot twilight-glitter to red-white-and blue tip fan barrage.

 

Obituaries

‘Gordon’ Reinhart, I

Funeral service Otto ‘Gordon’ Reinhart I, 73, of Blanchard, will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, July 6th at Ferguson Funeral Home of Chickasha.

Alicia Spencer

A memorial service for Alicia Spencer will be at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, July 6th at Bible Baptist Church. Arrangements are with McRay Funeral Home.

 

Friday, July 1st

 

DA Pleased with U.S. Supreme Court Ruling

A ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court this week returned some power to the State of Oklahoma concerning the prosecution of non-Native Americans in crimes against indigenous people. In a 5-4 vote, the nation's high court ruled in favor of Oklahoma in the Castro-Huerta Decision.  In a prepared statement, District Attorney Jason Hicks - who serves Grady, Caddo, Stephens and Jefferson counties in District 6 - said the decision is great news for victims of crimes statewide. He said due to the McGirt Decision, the state could not prosecute non-Indians in crimes against Indians. He said there have been multiple cases where the state did not have jurisdiction due to the Native American status of victims and that it has been difficult for him to explain to them that there was nothing his office could do. Hicks said such cases will now remain with the state instead of being sent to another location for prosecution. He said the Supreme Court's decision was a monumental moment and a giant step in re-storing the state's ability to keep the public safe.

One Tribe Speaks out Against Court Ruling

Some tribal groups disagreed with the decision. Quapah Nation Business Committee Chairman Joseph Byrd said the court rendered a decision that is an affront to tribal sovereignty and erodes centuries of well-settled federal Indian law. He went to say that by inserting itself into an area reserved specifically for Congress the high court signals that absolute power is no longer absolute when it comes to Indian affairs.

 

Chix Mayor Named Chairman of USAO Regents

Chickasha Mayor Chris Mosley will be a champion multi-tasker over the next few months. Mosley was recently named the chairman of the board of regents for USAO. Mosley has been member of the regents since 2012. He'll be guiding the panel for the next 12 months. That will be in addition to his work as mayor and as Chickasha's acting city manager while the city council looks for a new manager. He's also involved with the family insurance business. Other officers for the USAO  regents include Cale Walker who will serve as vice chairman. Walker was appointed to the panel in 2019 and is a financial advisor with Edward Jones. Kelly Wilkerson will serve as clerk for the regents. Wilkerson is in her third year with the regents and is co-owner of the Chicken Express franchises in Chickasha, Duncan, and Lawton.

 

Where to Watch Fireworks this July 4th Weekend

There will be numerous fireworks shows in the region this weekend. Anadarko will hold its Honor America Day celebration today. They'll have activities starting at 11 o'clock this morning at the Caddo County Fairgrounds. There are arts and crafts vendors, food trucks, and free games and activities for the kids. The fireworks show will begin at 9:45 tonight, and music will be synchronized with the fireworks on our sister station New Country 985. Blanchard will hold its Independence Day celebration tomorrow evening. Activities start at 6 p.m. with food trucks, kids’ games, and live music from Squad Live and the Oklahoma City Symphonic Band. Salt Creek Casino will have activities Sunday evening starting at 5 p.m. with face painting and inflatable games followed by fireworks; and the City of Chickasha will have its fireworks display on Monday night, July 4th at Shannon Springs Park. There will be food trucks at the park prior to the fireworks.

 

Talk Show Topic

Here's what we're talking about this weekend. Grady County Emergency Management Director Dale Thompson is this week's guest on our KOOL Konversation. Find a podcast to the program under the Community tab on this website.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $105.76 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $114.81.

Natural gas is $5.42 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,791 and silver is $19.68.

 

Thursday, June 30th

 

Verden Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Weapons Charges

A Verden man is awaiting sentencing after pleading guilty to federal firearms charges. 31-year old Stephen Lee Martin entered the plea in Federal court earlier this month. The plea made in connection with his arrest in connection with a domestic violence incident that occurred at his home in March of this year. An investigation by Verden police alleged that Martin had discharged a shotgun near the head of a female victim and used the shot gun to force her into his pickup. It's also alleged Martin tried to hide the shotgun by throwing it and some ammunition into a ditch however investigators were able to find the items. Martin has prior felony convictions and wasn't supposed to have any firearms. Earlier this month a federal grand jury issued a three-count indictment against Martin including being a felon in possession of a firearm; being a felon in possession of ammunition; and kidnapping. He pleaded guilty to the firearms and ammunition charges. Sentencing is expected to take place within 90 days. He faces up to 10 years in prison on each charge and a $250,000 fine. Martin has been in federal custody since mid-April.

 

Tip Leads to Child Porn Arrest

An Amber man has been arrested for having child pornography. 32-year old Carl Lee Moore was arrested Tuesday following an investigation by the Oklahoma State Bureau of investigation (OSBI). Court documents indicate that the OSBI received a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children last fall regarding 90 child sexual abuse files, including videos and pictures being downloaded. Investigators traced the IP address to Moore's Amber home. Grady County prosecutors have charged Moore with felony counts of having child pornography and unlawful use of a computer system. During his arraignment on the charges yesterday Moore's bond was set at $300,000 and he remains in the Grady County Jail.

 

Suspect Accused of Violating Burn Ban

A Blanchard man is accused of violating a burn ban. 72-year old Lawrence Julian Carroll was arrested by a Grady County deputy this week. Court documents indicate that authorities were called out to a home in the Blanchard area in March to investigate a property damage report.  A woman told the deputy that her neighbor, Carroll, had been burning while a burn ban was in effect. She alleged the fire spread to her home where it damaged or destroyed several lawn mowers that were being repaired by her husband. Carroll admitted starting the fire but told officials with the Bridge Creek Fire Department he thought he had fully extinguished the blaze. Carroll is facing misdemeanor charges of unlawful burning and burning in drought emergency conditions. He is out of jail after posting a $2,500 bond. The case has been set for the July 22nd disposition docket in Grady County District Court.

 

Former USAO Hoopsters in New Adam Sandler Movie

Some former USAO basketball players are in the new Adam Sandler movie. Elvin Rodriguez, Bookie Diakete, and Richard McCalop can been seen in Hustle. Sandler is an NBA scout who discovers a raw but talented player in Spain and tries to get him ready for the NBA draft. The movie also features some big name NBA stars including LeBron James as well as Hollywood actors Queen Latifah and Robert Duvall. Rodriguez has the most prominent role of the three Drovers in the nearly two-hour film. He said it took several weeks of going through the audition process before he was offered his role.

 

              

 

The film is currently available on Netflix.

 

Restaurants Touted by State Tourism Department

Several area restaurants have been recognized by the state department of tourism. They include J and W Grill which was praised for its onion burgers, chili-cheese coneys, and old-fashioned breakfast meals. Crazy Eight Cafe and Coffee House was awarded for its early dining option;, full-service coffee bar; and homemade desserts. Ken's Steak House and Ribs of Amber is known for its appetizer ribs and expertly cooked steaks and prime rib. Burrito Grill in Blanchard is touted as the home of the one-pound burrito, and is also noted for its tacos, quesadillas, and salads.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $109.78 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $116.26.

Natural gas is $6.50 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,812 and silver is $20.57.

 

Obituary

Delphia Malone

Funeral service for Delphia Malone, 64, formerly of Chickasha will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, July 9th at First at the Georgia Church of Christ. Arrangements are with Brown-Thomas Funeral Home.

 

Wednesday, June 29th

 

Voters Oust One Grady County Commissioner

Embattled Grady County Commissioner Mike Walker was defeated by one of his former workers in yesterday's primary elections. Zachary Davis picked up nearly 60 percent of the vote in the Republican primary in the District One county commissioner race - 1,432 to 995. Walker is facing charges of embezzlement and spying on employees stemming from an investigation which alleged he used county resources and labor to pave a private road. His trial is scheduled to begin in August. With no candidates in the Democratic primary Davis will assume the post in January.

Second Commissioner Goes to a Run-off

In the District three Grady County commissioner race incumbent Ralph Beard and challenger Gary Bray will meet in a run-off as neither picked up a majority of votes in a three-candidate Republican primary. Both received a nearly equal amount of votes - Bray with 746 and Beard with 742 - both collected about 42 percent of the vote. The third candidate in the field, John Williams, received 271 votes or 15 percent. Beard and Bray will meet in a run-off on August 23rd with the winner to take office in January as there were no Democratic candidates.

Caddo County Voters Elect Two New Commissioners

In Caddo County two new county commissioners were elected. In District 3, Robert Weaver defeated Mark Taylor in the Democratic primary picking up about 55 percent of the vote, 334 to 279. There were no Republican candidates for the post. Mike Belter won a three-person race in District 1, avoiding a run-off by 10 votes. Belter received 443 votes or 51 percent of the vote in the Republican primary. Bobby Lynn and James Bucky Brown were within five votes of each other. Lynn received 214 votes and Brown 209 votes. Belter will be the new commissioner as there were no Democratic candidates. Weaver and Belter will be sworn in to office in January.

State Senator Forced into a Run-off

State Senator Darcy Jech (R-Kingfisher), who represents much of Caddo County in District 26, will have to go to a run-off to try to retain his seat. He will meet Brady Butler in the August run-off. Jech received just under 43 percent of the vote while Butler received about 38 percent. A third candidate, JJ Stitt, received about 20 percent of the vote.

Stephens County Judicial Post to be Decided in November

In Stephens County, the race for District judge in District 5 will go to the general election in November. Neil West and Jay Walker both received about 33 percent of the vote in a four-person race. with Steven Crow collecting about 21 percent and Tommy Sims about 14 percent.

 

Food Trucks Sought for Chickasha July 4th Fireworks

The City of Chickasha is putting the call out for food trucks to be in Shannon Springs Park for the July 4th celebration on Monday. There are five spaces available in the food truck court at the park. There is no charge to set up however food trucks must have an active permit with the city, must be self-contained, and will have to undergo an inspection. The spaces are available on a first-come, first-served basis. There are no activities prior to the fireworks Monday night but food trucks can set up anytime that day. Most people will start arriving at the park after 6 p.m. Food trucks interested in participating should contact city hall by the close of business today.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $111.76 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $117.98.

Natural gas is $6.55 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,818 and silver is $20.79.

 

Obituary

Dorothy Kauffman

The life of Dorothy Kauffman, 88, of Lake Chickasha will be honored at her home at 10:30 a.m. Friday, July 1st which will be followed by a private burial. Arrangements are with McRay Funeral Home.

 

Tuesday, June 28th

 

Primary Elections Underway

Oklahomans are heading to the polls to cast ballots in primary elections today. Republicans and Democrats are voting in their respective primaries and Independent voters can cast ballots in the Democratic primary. There are numerous candidates for state and federal offices and several county primary elections in the region.

Grady County Has Two County Commissioner Primaries

In Grady County, there are Republican primaries for two county commissioner posts. In District Three, incumbent Ralph Beard is facing two challengers in Gary Bray and John Williams. In District One, incumbent Mike Walker is facing former district one employee Zachary Davis.

Caddo County has County Commissioner, State Representative Primaries

In Caddo County, there is a Republican primary for District One County Commissioner between Bobby Lynn, Mike Belter, and James 'Bucky' Brown. There is a Democratic primary for District Three County Commissioner between Robert Weaver and Mark Steven Taylor, the winner of which will be the new District Three commissioner. There is a Republican Primary for State Senate District 50 where incumbent Darcy Jech is facing two challengers in JJ Stitt and Brady Butler; and a Republican Primary for State Representative in District 55 between Jeff Sawatsky, Nick Archer, and Tad Boone.

Two State House Posts on the Ballot in McClain County

In McClain County, there is a Republican Primary for State Representative in District 20 between Anthony Mackey and Sherrie Conley; and a Republican primary for State Representative in District 42 between Cindy Roe and Matthew Huggans.

Garvin County Also has Two State Representative Primaries

Garvin County also has a Republican primary for State Representative in District 42 between Cindy Roe and Matthew Huggans; and for State Representative in District 48 between April Brown and Tammy Townley.

Stephens County has State Rep, District Judge Primaries

In Stephens County, there is a Republican primary for State Representative in District 50 between Jennifer Sengstock, Marcus McEntire, and Deborah Campbell. There is also a primary election for District Judge in District 5 between Tommy Simms, Neil West, Steven Crow, and Jay Walker. Polls are open until 7 p.m. tonight.

 

State Election Board Says to Check Location of Precincts

State election board officials recommend that voters should verify their polling places as some precincts have either closed or changed due to redistricting that took place earlier this year. Many voters were mailed new voter registration cards which indicate their precincts. You can check your precinct by going to the state election board website www.elections.ok.gov and click on the OK Voter Portal link. Individuals may also call their county election board office.

 

Funeral Set for Anadarko Man Fatally Shot by Deputy

Family and friends of an Anadarko man shot and killed by a Caddo County sheriff's deputy are saying their final goodbyes to the victim today. 48-year old Roy Sink died on Father's Day after a deputy was called to his home to investigate a disturbance. It was reported that Sink had a machete in his possession and there has been no word on why the deputy fired his weapon. A funeral service for Sink was held this morning at J.J. Methvin Methodist Church in Anadarko. A lot of individuals are speaking out about Sink’s death and want answers about the shooting. The name of the deputy involved has not been released. The OSBI is continuing its investigation and when finished will turn over its final report to District Attorney Jason Hicks who will determine if the shooting was justified.

 

Wildlife Refuge Lifts Hiking Restrictions

Hiking restrictions put in place at the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge last week have been lifted. An Emergency Heat Closure was implemented due to excessive heat. Officials announced yesterday (Monday) that they have resumed normal activities and hours of operation. However, officials say that temperatures will still be hot enough to pose a safety risk and they ask visitors to use caution. Visitors planning on visiting the refuge can get information on the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge Facebook page.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $117.58 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $119.81.

Natural gas is $6.50 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,826 and silver is $21.32.

 

Monday, June 27th

 

OSBI Re-Opens Garvin County Cold Case

In June of 1987, the remains of an unidentified woman were found in Garvin County. The case has never been solved. The Oklahoma State Bureau of investigation (OSBI) has re-opened the case hoping anyone can provide some information. The remains were found southwest of the I-35 exit at Goldsby in Short Creek on June 24th of that year. The woman had been shot in the head. The OSBI reports that she was Caucasian, about 5-feet, three inches tall and had brown hair. Anyone with information is asked to contact the OSBI by calling 800-522-8017 or send an e-mail to: tips@osbi.gov

 

Fire Board to Consider Buying Thermal Imaging Devices

The Grady County Fire Board meets tonight and will discuss the purchase of 12 hand-held thermal imaging cameras. The panel will also consider becoming an EMR agency under the direction of Heartland Medical Direction, and will discuss the use of lights and sirens in fire department vehicles. The panel will also discuss the state of inventories from all volunteer stations. The group will go behind closed doors to discuss a potential property damage claim; the release of some firefighters; and to consider the applications of new volunteers at Ninnekah and Friend. The fire board meets at 7 o'clock tonight in the community room of the Grady County Emergency Management Agency.

 

Woman Allegedly Uses Truck as Weapon

A Marlow woman is out of jail on bond after being accused of using her pickup as a weapon.  56-year old Tammy Sue Balthrop was arrested earlier this month following a confrontation with her husband, which allegedly included her ramming her pickup head-in into her husband's truck while he was in it. The Lawton Constitution cites Stephens County court documents that allege she also assaulted Stephens County deputies when they arrived to investigate. Balthrop has been formally charged with felonies that include assault and battery with a dangerous weapon and assault on a police officer. She's also charged with a misdemeanor for obstruction. Balthrop is out of jail after posting a $50,000 bond and she's to undergo a mental evaluation prior to her next court appearance which is scheduled for Aug. 24th.

 

Salvation Army Says Requests for Help Rise

The Salvation Army which serves Grady and Caddo Counties says more families are requesting help. Officials say the financial strain of lost income, medical expenses, and now inflation have all impacted family budgets. Lt. Bobby McFarland said the demand for food boxes and utility assistance is growing and he's concerned that the food pantry will soon be depleted. He's asking for contributions of non-perishable food items and monetary donations to help needy families in both counties. Food contributions can include canned fruit, vegetables, and meat; beans; rice; and peanut butter. All contributions can be dropped off at the Salvation Army headquarters at 2402 S. 16th which is near Bill Wallace School.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $104.27 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $113.12.

Natural gas is $6.22 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,840 and silver is $21.53.

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