Saturday, Sept. 24th

 

City of Chix May Look for New Water Source

Chickasha officials may be faced with the prospect of finding a new water source. Mayor Chris Mosley brought up the issue in his State-of-the City address this week. The city currently gets its water from the Ft. Cobb Reservoir and Mosley said officials with the Ft. Cobb Master Conservancy District which oversees the reservoir recently made the suggestion.

 

              

 

The mayor says it’s not too early to begin the discussion to look at alternatives as officials look toward the city's needs for the second half of the 21s century.

 

$1 Million Bond Set for Suspect Who Spit on Officer

A suspect accused of spitting on a police officer and vandalizing a law enforcement vehicle is in the Caddo County Jail and is being held on a $1 million bond. A probable cause affidavit states that a Mr. Chen, identified as 47-year old John Doe, is believed to be from California but listed a Minco address. The Lawton Constitution cites the affidavit which charges the suspect with a felony for placing body fluids on a government employee, and misdemeanors for vandalism and public intoxication.

 

Ft. Sill Soldiers Head to the Ukraine Region

Some Ft. Sill soldiers will be heading overseas for a deployment to Europe. About 300 members of the First Battalion, 14th Field Artillery Division will be supporting NATO troops in the fight to defend Ukraine. A number of HIMARS rocket launchers will be sent with them. A formal Casing of the Colors ceremony was held for the soldiers yesterday. The ceremony wraps the battalion flag for the trip overseas which will be unfurled once they reach their destination.

 

Blanchard Hosts Mufflers on Main

For the second straight weekend, classic car and truck enthusiasts can check out some of the sharpest such vehicles in the region. Last weekend the Saturday Night Cruisers held their annual care show in Chickasha. Today, the City of Blanchard’s Parks and Recreation Department is hosting Mufflers on Main. It features more than 150 vehicles with classy chassis's waxed to the max, shiny chrome, and unique body styles. More than 60 trophies will be awarded in several divisions. There will be live music throughout the day and food trucks will be on hand. It's not too late to register if you have a car or truck you'd like to enter. The actual show will run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Admission is free.

 

Talk Show Topic

Krystal Jarnagin and Stephanie Adams with the Chickasha Junior Social Workers are on the KOOL Konversation talking about their group's upcoming Spaghetti Day. Find a podcast to the program under the community tab on this website

 

Obituaries

Mildred Thompson

A private family service will be held for Mildred Thompson, 95, of Chickasha. Arrangements are with Sevier Funeral Home.

J.V. Lobaugh

A graveside service for J.V. Lobaugh, 91, of Chickasha will be held at 10:00 a.m. Monday, Sept. 26^th at Fairlawn Cemetery. He was a pastor and minister for nearly 60 years. Arrangements are with McCray Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Baptist Children's Home in Oklahoma City.

Joseph Richardson

A funeral service for Joseph Richardson, 28, of Chickasha is pending with Brown-Thomas Funeral Home.

 

---

 

Friday, Sept. 23rd

 

Keith Johnson Formally Hired as Chix City Manager

The Chickasha City Council formally hired Keith Johnson to serve as the next city manager. Following a 13-minute closed door session held during a special meeting last night, the council voted 6-0 to hire Johnson, who is currently the County Administrator of Franklin County in Washington State. Council representatives Oscar Nelson, Kia Ginn, and R.P. Ashanti- Alexander were absent from the meeting. Johnson has a long history of working for city, county, and state government agencies, including several years as a comptroller for the State of Oklahoma. Mayor Chris Mosley says Johnson's experience was a key to his selection.

 

              

 

In addition to his government work, Johnson has worked in the private sector as a director for the software company, Oracle. Johnson is expected to start in November. The city council hired Johnson after previous city manager Tyler Brooks resigned this past spring after just six months on the job. Johnson's base salary will be $145,000 per year.

 

Chix Mayor Presents 'State-of-the-City' Address

The City of Chickasha made a lot of progress over the last year and officials are working to make things even better in the future. That was the subject of Mayor Mosley's State of the City address yesterday. Mosley spoke to a number of business and education leaders discussing a number of issues...including one of financial stability. He said officials spent several months auditing thousands of utility bills and found a number of discrepancies. Mosley said after fixing the problems and raising utility rates, the city will have several million more dollars in revenue over the next several months.

 

              

 

Mosley also said the city is hoping to begin a major drainage project in the next couple of years and the city is looking to build a new raw water treatment plant further into the future.

 

Ninnekah Man Selected as 'Feel to Love' Winner

A Ninnekah man will be receive a free upgrade to his home heating and and air conditioning system courtesy of a local contractor. Bill Graves was selected to get the new system from DeHart Heating and Air Conditioning and Lennox from the companies' Feel the Love program. Graves was a local banker for many years and served nearly 25 years in the U.S. Air Force. He was nominated for the project by his granddaughter, who said that Bill goes above and beyond for every single person. He's 85-years old and suffering from some health issues and deserves to have someone help him after he's helped so many over the years. The installation of the system will take place at Grave's Ninnekah home today.

 

Longtime Attorney, CHS Football Announcer Bob Hays Dies

Long-time local attorney Bob Hays has died. Hays practiced law for many years and also served as a municipal court judge. He served on the board of directors for Chickasha Bank and Liberty National Bank. He also spent several years on the USAO Board of Regents, serving for a year as chairman. He grew up in Weatherford and started writing sports for his high school newspaper and continued writing while attending Southwestern Oklahoma State University. He then went to the University of Oklahoma where he earned a degree in journalism and was a sports writer for the Daily Oklahoman. He also earned his law degree at the OU law school. Hays also spent many years as the color commentator for Chickasha High School football games on KWCO radio. Hays was 83 when he passed away at his home Wednesday. Survivors include his wife Shirley, their daughters and their families. Funeral service for Bob Hays will be at 10:30 a.m. Monday Sept. 26th at Epworth Methodist Church. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to the USAO baseball and softball programs through the USAO Foundation.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $83.49 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $90.46.

Natural gas is $7.09 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,664 and silver is $19.34.

 

---

 

Thursday, Sept. 22nd

 

Guard Rail Installed at Dangerous Curve

Where A Ninnekah Family was Injured

Grady County officials are hoping an upgrade to county road where a rollover crash hurt several members of a Ninnekah family will prevent future accidents. A guardrail was recently placed along the roadway where a car with a mother and three children ran off a dangerous curve and rolled down a ravine and into a canyon. The Ricky Wells family is grateful for the efforts of Grady County Undersheriff Gary Boggess for having the guard rail placed installed. Boggess told KOCO News that one of things he likes best about his job is to make sure people's lives are safer. Two of the children injured in the accident continue their recovery and the Wells family says the response from the community to help them has been amazing.

 

Funeral Set for Dibble Teen

The Dibble teenager who died after being hit by an SUV while chasing a family pet on to a highway will be laid to rest Saturday. Sabrina Moreno died in the tragic accident which happened just south of the Dibble Crossroads Tuesday night. The teen had just celebrated her 14th birthday last week. Dibble school superintendent Chad Clanton said Sabrina was a good student in the 8th grade. The school brought in additional counselors and local churches sent support groups to Dibble schools Wednesday to help grieving classmates and staff. A local Girl Scout troop set up a memorial where the accident happened and will also have some fund-raisers to help the family with funeral expenses and other needs. Sabrina's funeral will be at 10 o'clock Saturday morning at the Eisenhour Funeral Home in Blanchard.

 

Chix Chamber Program Set for Women Business Owners

A program designed for businesses owned by women is being offered by the Chickasha Chamber of Commerce. Cathy Curtis with the State Department of Commerce will discuss tips and tricks in obtaining business grants, business development and women-owned business certification; and state-certified incubator programs. It's part of the Chickasha Chamber's Lunch and Learn Series. It will be held next Wednesday, Sept. 28th at noon at the chamber office. Cost is $10 and individuals wanting to attend should RSVP the chamber by the close of business on Monday.

 

Chix Library to Register Kids for 'Imagination Library'

We recently reported that the Chickasha Public Library will be joining the Dolly Parton Imagination Library. The country music Hall-of-Famer developed the program nearly 30 years ago to give free books to young children and is mailing books around the world. The Friends of the Chickasha Library will start enrolling children in the Imagination Library during the upcoming Rock Island Arts Festival on Friday, Sept. 30^th and Saturday, Oct. 1st. It's for children five and under, and children will receive an age-appropriate book in the mail every month addressed to them. For information visit the Chickasha Public Library or go to the website: www.imaginationlibrary.com

 

Bedlam Blood Drive This Afternoon

There is always a need for blood donations and KOOL/RANCH radio stations, the YMCA, and the Oklahoma Blood Institute (OBI) are hosting a Bedlam Blood Drive today. Donor will receive their choice of an OSU or OU blood drive t-shirt. The blood mobile will be in the YMCA parking lot from 12:30 to 5:30 this afternoon. Walk-ins are welcome. To find an upcoming blood drive in your area check out the Oklahoma Blood institute website: www.obi.org

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $82.94 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $89.83.

Natural gas is $7.78 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,676 and silver is $19.58.

 

---

 

Wednesday, Sept. 21st

 

Dibble Teen Dies After Being Hit by SUV

Residents in Dibble are mourning the death of a teenaged girl today. The highway patrol reports the 14-year old ran into the roadway to try and catch a dog, when she was struck and killed by an SUV. She died at the scene. The accident happened just before 9:30 last night on State Highway 76 at 214th Street. The name of the girl was not released. The SUV, a 2022 Lincoln Navigator, was driven by 64-year old Tena Tucker of Lindsay. A passenger was 66-year old Greg Tucker also of Lindsay. Neither of them were injured.

 

Chix City Council Schedules Special Meeting

to Officially Hire New City Manager

A special meeting of the Chickasha City Council is set for tomorrow night to consider officially hiring the next city manager. In Monday night's regular council meeting, the panel unanimously voted to recommend Keith Johnson for the post. The council will go behind closed doors tomorrow night to discuss the possible approval of an employment agreement with Johnson. In addition, the council will consider an emergency clause to close the public right-of-way in the alley between the 500 blocks of Grand Ave. and Utah Ave. Earlier this week  the council approved vacating the property behind a former seafood restaurant in order to build a new convenience store. The special meeting will be held at 6 o'clock tomorrow night at city hall.

 

Water Leak Causes 'Lights Out' Issue at CHS Sports Arena

An electrical problem at the Chickasha High School Activity Center caused the lights to go out at the CHS Sports Arena over the weekend. Officials had just completed the regional high school cheerleading competition Saturday afternoon when the lights went out. Athletic Director Jerry Don Bray said they traced the problem to a broken water line in one of the bathrooms in the lobby. Water had leaked downstairs into the electrical room and ‘fried’ a panel. Bray said it will take a couple of weeks for a new panel to be delivered and installed. The lights are only out in the basketball arena although the lights in the lobby and auditorium still work. Some of the activities that were scheduled in the fieldhouse over the next couple of weeks will be moved to Myers Fieldhouse at the middle school and some will be held in the old high school gymnasium.

 

Newest USAO Regent Takes Oath of Office

The newest regent for USAO has been sworn in to office. Elgin Mayor J.J. Francais will serve a seven-year term on the panel. Francais is USAO grad and was sworn in by District Judge Kory Kirkland at this month's regents meeting. Francais received the appointment from Gov. Kevin Stitt. Francais' term runs through June 30th of 2029.

 

Researchers Find New Use for Old Grady County Oil Well

It's history in the making for a former Grady County oil well which has been transformed into a geo-thermal energy source. A ribbon-cutting ceremony will be held tomorrow on the outskirts of Tuttle at 508 East Rock Creek Road. The actual well is located in a pasture. The ceremony will be held by the University of Oklahoma's Mewbourne College of Earth and Energy. The website OK Energy Today reports the project has received national attention. After the wells are modified to produce geothermal energy researchers will spend the next year measuring the energy production to see if the output meets their estimates and if the wells will create enough energy to heat two nearby schools.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $84.45 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $90.62.

Natural gas is $7.72 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,682 and silver is $19.53.

 

---

 

Tuesday, Sept. 20th

 

Contract Talks to Begin with Potential new City Manager

After interviewing a couple of candidates for the vacant city manager post, the Chickasha City Council picked one of them to potentially be the city's next administrator. Following an executive session during last night's council meeting, the panel unanimously selected Keith Johnson. Johnson has not yet been hired but officials will begin contract talks with him. Officials did not say where Johnson was from or where he currently works.

Tattoo Parlors to be Allowed in Chickasha's Downtown Historic District

The council approved a change in the city's historic zoning ordinance which will allow tattoo parlors to locate in the downtown area. The ordinance currently bans the parlors from the area. There were no comments either for or against the issue during a public hearing on the proposal. The council also approved closing the alleyway and easements just north of the 500 block of Grand Avenue. During a public hearing on that issue, Mike Lawson with Lawson Retail Properties said they are in contract discussions to purchase the property where a former seafood restaurant is located. Plans are to demolish the restaurant and build a new convenience store and gas station. The company has a similar store in Ada. Lawson said they estimate having about 30 employees.

Work to Begin Soon to Add More Lights to Festival of Light

The council also approved a payment of nearly $30,000 to a firm which will install new electrical panels in Shannon Springs Park to be used for the expansion of the Festival of Light. Parks Director Spencer Wizenried said the company is ready to break ground on the work and it is expected to be in service for the 30th annual festival this fall. The council also honored Sandra Robertson who recently retired after a 23-year career with the library.

 

Grady County Commissioners Sign Off on ARPA Projects

Grady County Commissioners approved some $1.8 million projects to be funded by American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds. The Chickasha Express Star reports that Rural Water District 6 in Pocasset was awarded $700,000 for wells, hydrants, and system repairs. Rural Water District 7 in Ninnekah was awarded $600,000 for the construction of new water towers and related improvements. Grady County Emergency Management was awarded more than $350,000 for a new command and communications vehicle; the Bridge Creek Fire District will receive $107,000 for medical equipment needed for health and safety projects; and Rural Water District 2 in Amber will get $73,000 for the cleaning, re-coating, and repairs of water towers.

 

Grady County Fire Board Meets Tonight

The appointment of a new fire chief at the Pocasset Volunteer Fire Department and acknowledging new fire firefighters for the Pioneer and Farwell stations are among the issues to be discussed during the monthly Grady County Fire Board meeting tonight. The group will go behind closed doors to discuss the possible appointment of Cooper Grove to lead the Pocasset department. The panel will also get an update on potential ARPA grants and discuss the month of October as being Fire Prevention Month. The fire board meets at 7 o'clock tonight in the community room of the Grady County Emergency Management Office.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $85.36 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $92.00.

Natural gas is $7.75 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,674 and silver is $19.29.

 

Obituaries

Luther Sledge

A graveside service for Luther Sledge, 94, of Chickasha was held at 11:00 a.m. today (Tuesday, Sept. 20^th) at Fairlawn Cemetery. He was a U.S. Army veteran. Arrangements were with Brown-Thomas Funeral Home.

Hugh Givens

Funeral service for Hugh Givens, 85, of Chickasha will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 21st at the First and Georgia Church of Christ. Arrangements are with Brown-Thomas Funeral Home.

Darlene Baum

Funeral service for Darlene Baum, 77, of Chickasha will be held at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 21^st at Newsong Church of God. Arrangements are with Sevier Funeral Home.

Phyllis Ladyman

Funeral service for Phyllis Ladyman, 85, of Chickasha will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 21^st at Chickasha's First Assembly of God Church. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.

Debra Ann Harris

No service is scheduled for Debra Ann Harris, 64, of Chickasha. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.

 

---

 

Monday, Sept. 19th

 

Chix City Council to Discuss City Manager Candidates

A closed-door session of the Chickasha City Council will be part of tonight's council meeting as the group discusses a couple of candidates for the vacant city manager post. The council held interviews over the last couple of weeks including one this past Friday. It's not clear if the council will be hiring one of the two candidates tonight. The panel will hold two public hearings including one to change the ordinance which bans tattoo parlors in the city's downtown historic district. The Planning Commission is recommending the change. Another public hearing will be held to consider a request for the city to vacate some property between the 500 blocks of Grand Ave. and Utah Ave. in order for a company to build a convenience store.

Council to Nix Hilliary Broadband Proposal; Consider AT&T

Last fall, the city council approved a quote from Hilliary Communications to install broadband internet service at most city buildings. Tonight, the council will consider terminating that quote due to non-performance. The panel will then consider entering an agreement with AT&T to provide that service.

Payment for Hwy 81 Bypass Water Line Construction Proposed

The council will also consider approving a payment of nearly $300,000 to Miller Construction and Sons for water main construction associated with the U.S. Highway 81 Bypass project. It’s the first of three phases to install water lines associated with the bypass west of the city limits. The total estimated cost of water line construction is nearly $950,000. Officials with the state department of transportation are expected to pay for 60 percent of the total cost of water main relocations. The city council meets at 6:30 tonight at city hall.

 

Salvation Army to Expand Caddo County Services

The Salvation Army which serves Grady and Caddo counties will soon be expanding its services in Caddo County. For about the last year, the group has been providing help for families one day each week throughout Caddo County from its Anadarko office. Crystal McFarland says within a couple of weeks that office will be open every day.

 

              

 

The Anadarko office is located inside Bethel Baptist Church and will be open a half-day Monday through Friday mornings beginning Oct. 3rd. For information about services call 405-224-5647.

 

Volunteers Sought for Rock Island Arts Festival

The Rock Island Arts Festival is less than two weeks away. More than 90 spaces have been reserved for the three-day event which is set for Friday, Sept. 30th through Sunday, Oct. 2nd and will be held in the area of Chickasha's Rock Island Railroad Depot. Officials are looking for volunteers to help in any number of ways including visiting with vendors and offering to be a booth sitter, working the festival’s food booth, helping with the dunk tank, and spending some time in the festival's information booth. April Shipley Brenner is the volunteer coordinator. Reach out to her via e-mail: april.shipley@gmail.com

 

OHCE to Serve Lunch to Military Veterans

Military veterans will be treated to a lunch of beans, cornbread, and cobbler at the Grady County Veterans Center tomorrow. The Grady County OHCE will provide the meal from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 20th at the center which is located in downtown Chickasha at 6th and Chickasha Ave.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $85.11 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $91.35.

Natural gas is $7.76 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,672 and silver is $19.35.

 

Obituaries

Anna Douglas

Funeral service for Anna Douglas, 85, of Tuttle were held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, Sept. 19^th at First Baptist Church of Tuttle. Arrangements were with Sevier Funeral Home of Tuttle.

Nathan Bailey

A graveside service for Nathan Bailey, 85, of Chickasha will be held at 2:00 p.m. Friday Sept. 23rd in the Cement Cemetery. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.

 

Saturday, Sept. 17th

 

Early-Morning Crash Injures Two; Takes Out Utility Poles

Work crews are still at the scene of an early morning crash in Chickasha where two people were injured and one of them taken to the hospital. The crash also damaged several utility poles. Chickasha police say the accident happened about 2:30 a.m. at the intersection of 9th and Grand Ave. and is still under investigation. Power crews were on the scene for several hours making repairs.

 

Fire Closes Caddo County Highway Friday Night

A truck fire led to a pasture fire which closed a Caddo County roadway last night. It happened on State Highway 19 east of Apache just before 8:30 p.m. The highway patrol reported the fire ignited some hay bales which then sparked the pasture fire. Several area fire departments were dispatched to beat back the flames. The highway was shut down about an hour and a half and was re-opened just before 10 p.m.

 

USAO, Redlands Team Up to Improve

Students' Employment Outlook

USAO and Redlands Community College have joined efforts to ensure their graduates are ready to meet the needs of the nation's workforce. In the first phase of the program the two institutions will share the positions of vice president for academic affairs, associate vice president of enrollment management, network security specialist, and director of printing services. USAO president John Feaver said it’s a unique collaboration of efforts between institutions with two very different missions, and that it allows both institutions to operate more efficiently and expand opportunities for students. Redlands President Jack Bryant said they hope it will encourage institutions across the country to look for more creative ways to meet the needs of the contemporary work place and modern-day college students.

 

Well Completions Reported Near Blanchard, Mustang

We have some well completions to share. Three wells on a single pad near Blanchard are bringing in a combined 2,000 barrels of oil and nearly 18,000 Mcf of natural gas per day. These are the Charles wells drilled by Native Exploration out of Oklahoma City. They are in the Woodford Formation about two miles east of Blanchard and were drilled to depths of more than 20,000 feet. Citizen Energy announced the completion of a couple of wells about three miles west of Mustang. They are the Kolar wells and together are producing about 600 barrels of oil and some 3,000 Mcf of natural gas per day. They were drilled to a depth of nearly 15,000 feet.

 

Saturday Happenings in, Around Chix

There's alot of activity in Chickasha today. The Saturday Night Cruisers are having their annual car show. That will be getting underway this morning at the First Baptist Church parking lot at 4th and Minnesota. The monthly Coffee and Cars Chickasha event is joining that car show this morning. Also today, toy collectors across the state will be taking part in the Southwest Vintage Toy Show. About 40 vendors will have items like Hot Wheels, Barbies, GI Joes, farm toys, and other collectibles. That's in the north exhibit building at the Grady County Fairgrounds from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Admission is $3 for adults while children 11 and under get in free. The Pioneer Volunteer Fire Department will hold its community appreciation dinner tonight.  The group will be serving free hamburgers and hot dogs at the Pioneer School Cafeteria from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Contributions are welcome which will help the fire fighters purchase needed equipment and supplies. You might also drop off some cases of bottled water or energy drinks.

 

Talk Show Topic

Here's what we're talking about this weekend. Crystal McFarland with the Salvation Army division which serves Grady and Caddo counties is this week's guest on the KOOL Konversation. Find a podcast of the program under the Community tab on this website.

 

Obituaries

Anna Douglas

Funeral service for Anna Douglas, 85, of Tuttle will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, Sept. 19th at First Baptist Church of Tuttle.  Arrangements are with Sevier Funeral Home of Tuttle.

Nathan Bailey

A graveside service for Nathan Bailey, 85, of Chickasha will be held at 2:00 p.m. Friday, Sept. 23rd in the Cement Cemetery. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.

 

High School Football Scores

Chickasha 42, Anadarko 20

Blanchard 40, Shawnee 13

Guthrie 24, Tuttle 20

Bridge Creek 20, Western Heights 6

Newcastle 34, Woodward 12

Minco 20, Merritt 7

Ringling 41, Apache 8

Tipton 48, Cyril 14

Hinton 48, Carnegie 0

Maysville 56, Alex 6

Hollis 45, Mt. View-Gotebo 6

Perkins-Tryon 34, Marlow 21

 

---

 

Friday, Sept. 16th

 

Trooper Jails Wanted Felon After Traffic Stop

A traffic stop made by a state trooper leads to the arrest of a wanted felon. 50-year old Jose Rogelio Salazar was wanted out of Greer County in southwest Oklahoma in connection with a more than decade-old arrest. Salazar was arrested in 2010 on drug complaints and pleaded guilty to two felony drug charges in 2013 and given a suspended sentence. A bench warrant for Salazar was issued two years ago for failure to appear. Salazar was booked into the Grady County Jail last night. It is expected that he will be taken to Greer County to face charges there.

 

Anadarko Woman Wanted for Felony Exploitation

An arrest warrant has been issued for an Anadarko woman accused of exploiting a mentally disabled person. On Wednesday, Caddo County authorities issued the warrant for 54-year old Jenna Sue Johnson. The Lawton Constitution cites court documents in which officials say she took advantage an individual with a severe intellectual impairment.

 

CHS Football Coach Suspended

Chickasha High School football coach Eric Gibson has been suspended. Superintendent Rick Croslin said Gibson was placed on paid administrative leave after some unspecified complaints were brought forth. Croslin issued a prepared statement saying Gibson was suspended over allegations of poor judgement pertaining to interactions and word choices. In a prepared statement Croslin said personnel issues and investigations are confidential so the district is unable to discuss the details of the allegations, or whether there will be further discipline associated with the outcome of an investigation. The suspension is for 10 days meaning that Gibson will not be on the sideline for tonight's game against Anadarko or next week's game against Weatherford. Gibson was just hired as team’s new coach in March and coached just two games this season. Assistant coach Ross Carter will serve as interim head coach until further notice.

 

Jay's Mini Stop to Celebrate 50th Anniversary

A Chickasha convenience store will be celebrating its golden anniversary this weekend.  Jay's Mini Stop has been around for years but Jay Smith and his late wife Maribeth purchased the store from Tom Love in the early 1970s. In the early years Jay and Maribeth lived in a mobile home behind the store and everyone in the family worked there.  A 50th anniversary celebration will be held at the store from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. tomorrow.

 

Volunteers Sought for FOL Live Nativity

As we move into the second half of September we see that we are only a couple of months away from the opening of Chickasha's Festival of Light. This is the 30th anniversary of the popular holiday attraction. The Festival will be having a live nativity scene again this year and the call is going out for volunteers. No acting experience is required, there are no lines to read, and costumes will be provided. Anyone who would like to take part can contact Joyce Belville by calling 405-224-6225.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $85.10 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $90.84.

Natural gas is $8.32 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,666 and silver is $18.84.

 

---

 

Thursday, Sept. 15th

 

Driver Dies in Deadly ATV Crash

An ATV accident has claimed the life of a Blanchard man. He was identified as 28-year old Blayne Gibby who died in the accident which happened just after midnight Wednesday. It occurred at an oilfield site just outside of Blanchard. The state trooper called out to the scene reports that Gibby was driving recklessly when the ATV overturned and landed on top of him. The Blanchard Fire Department said Gibby died at the scene due to the severity of his injuries. The trooper also reported that Gibby may have been under the influence at the time.

 

Arrest Warrant Issued for Caddo County Shooting Suspect

A suspect in a Caddo County shooting is on the run. Authorities are looking for 71-year old Troy Radford who is alleged to have shot another man in the face last Thursday. KSWO-TV cites Caddo County court documents saying that the shooting victim and a friend were working on a boat when they saw Radford across the street. Radford was holding his hand like a gun and pretending to shoot at them. The victim reportedly told Radford it would work better if he had a real one. Radford is alleged to have gotten the gun and fired the weapon several times. An arrest warrant for shooting with intent to kill was issued for Radford. Anyone with information is asked to call 9-1-1 or the Caddo County Sheriff’s Office at 405-247-6666. Radford may be driving a white 2001 Ford Ranger with Oklahoma Tag No. DLT-362.

 

DEQ Moves to Dismiss Hand Sanitizer Fire Lawsuit

A report out yesterday indicates that the state Department of Environmental Quality wants to dismiss a lawsuit filed in connection to the hand sanitizer fires at the former Chickasha Manufacturing Company and a neighboring facility in Ninnekah last month. Our partners at KWTV News 9 reports that the agency wants to dismiss the lawsuit because the case was filed in the wrong county.

 

Chix Public Works Director Discusses Summer Effort

The City of Chickasha's new public works director says crews have been working on a number of projects over the summer. Jim Crosby says they have been focused on a number of water line breaks and filling pot holes. He says one area of concern which was brought to the attention of the city council earlier in the year is being taken care of.

 

             

 

Crosby also said they are slowly working on replacing street signs throughout the city.

 

Chix Mayor to Give 'State of the City' Address

Chickasha Mayor Chris Mosley will be issuing his annual State of the City address next week. The mayor's comments will be delivered during a program hosted by the Chamber of Commerce next Thursday, Sept. 22nd. He's expected to discuss key projects and initiatives as well as discussing potential development and opportunities. The presentation will be held at the Grady County Fairgrounds with lunch starting at 11:30 followed by the Mayor's presentation. Tickets are $25 for chamber members and $30 for non-members. Individuals wanting to attend should RSVP the chamber by Monday afternoon.

 

Energy Prices

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $88.48 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $94.10.

Natural gas is $9.11 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,699 and silver is $19.47.

 

Obituary

Alyce Miracle

A memorial service for Alyce Miracle, 84, formerly of Chickasha will be held at noon Saturday, Sept. 24th at Sevier Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Relay for Life or the American Cancer Society.

 

---

 

Wednesday, Sept. 14th

 

January Trial Date set for Coach Accused of Raping Players

A Grady County judge has set a January trial date for a former girls basketball coach accused of raping his teenaged players. During a court appearance yesterday, a January 23rd trial date was scheduled for Ron Akins who is charged with 10 felonies including rape, sexual battery, and lewd acts with children. Akins was arrested in June of 2021 after one of his former players came forward to talk about what happened. Several other former and current players also alleged similar complaints. Many said they had taken their complaints to school officials who took no action and said there was nothing they could do about it.

 

Suspect Arrested for Assaulting an Officer

After Claiming he was President of the U.S.

A homeless man claiming to legally be the President of the United States and also a federal agent was arrested by Chickasha police this week. 41-year old Travis Marshall Wallis was picked up after police were called to a convenience store to investigate a suspicious person just before 2:30 a.m. Monday. A probable cause affidavit indicates a man at the Love's Convenience Store on Choctaw and was acting strange. The officer said the man appeared to be intoxicated and attempted to conduct a sobriety check. The suspect became combative and wrestled with the officer. A back-up officer arrived and officers had to use a taser to subdue the suspect. Wallis has been formally charged with a felony for assault on a police officer and misdemeanors for impersonating an officer and public intoxication and disturbing the peace. A competency hearing has been scheduled for next month.

 

New Festival of Light Director Hired

A new director is in place for Chickasha's Festival of Light (FOL). Duncan native Logan Lassley will be serving as director for the upcoming season. He will also serve as tourism director for the Chamber of Commerce. In a press release, chamber president Jim Cowan said he was glad to have Lassley join the chamber team and that his energy and passion to enhance the visitor experience in the city will be crucial. Lassley earned a bachelor's degree at Southwestern Oklahoma State University.  He previously served as the director of ticket memberships for the minor league hockey franchise in Wichita, Kansas. Lassley was selected as FOL director after Billy Elkins stepped down to take a new job in Kentucky.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $87.31 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $93.17.

Natural gas is $8.28 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,715 and silver is $19.55.

 

Obituary

Donald Trammell

 A graveside service for Donald Trammell, 68, of Chickasha will be held at 10:00 a.m. Friday, Sept. 16^th at Memory Lane Cemetery in Anadarko. Arrangements are with McRay Funeral Home.

 

---

 

Tuesday, Sept. 13^th

 

Coach Accused of Sex Crimes has Court Date

Former girls basketball coach Ron Akins, accused of the rape and sexual assault of young girls is to be in Grady County District Court today. Akins is facing numerous charges of molestation and lewd acts to children while he was coaching. One of his former players finally spoke out about how Akins treated her which led to several other current or former players accusing Akins of ‘grooming’ them. Several of the alleged victims have also filed a federal lawsuit against the former coach.

 

Lankford, Inhofe Work to Prevent

Foreign Ownership of U.S. Farmland

Oklahoma U.S. Senators James Lankford and Jim Inhofe have introduced a bill to prevent foreign purchases of Oklahoma farmland. The measure called the Security and Oversight of International Landholdings (SOIL) Act would provide oversight and transparency of the purchase of U.S. agriculture land that threatens national security. The website OK Energy Today reports the measure was filed over growing concern about recent purchases of U.S. farmland by China near military installations and the two senators don't what that to happen in Oklahoma. Lankford said the state's legal marijuana trade has attracted transitional criminal organizations to Oklahoma that are trafficking not only drugs, but people as well. He said those organizations have partnered with Chinese nationals to buy land and businesses throughout the state. Lankford said they need to know who is buying the land, how they are using it, and if any criminal activity is occurring.

 

Tattoo Parlor Hopes to Locate in Chix Historical District

A public hearing to allow a tattoo parlor to open in historic downtown Chickasha will be held by the city's Planning Commission this afternoon. Current city ordinances do not allow tattoo parlors in the downtown historical district. Two other public hearings are also scheduled including a use-on-review application for Josh Woods at 1809 West Grand; and a hearing to consider a request by Lawson Retail Properties for the city to vacate property owned by the city in the 500 block of Utah. The planning commission meets at 4 o'clock this afternoon at city hall.

 

Chix Airport Advisory Panel to Discuss Projects

There is also a special meeting of the Chickasha Airport Advisory Board today. There will be a presentation of projects planned for funding in the upcoming year, and discussion of projects to be added to the five-year Capital Improvement Plan. That meeting will be at 4 o'clock this afternoon at the airport.

 

Animal Shelter Fundraiser is Tonight

The Chickasha Animal Shelter will hold a fundraiser this evening to support the Chickasha Animal Rescue Transport Association (CARTA). The group helps to minimize the number of animals at the shelter and transport them to other areas for adoption. There will be a silent auction at Interurban Restaurant from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. tonight. In addition to the silent auction Interurban will donate $1 from every hamburger sold to CARTA.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $87.78 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $94.00.

Natural gas is $8.25 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,737 and silver is $19.79

 

Obituaries

Doris Filip

A graveside service for Doris Filip, 74, of Chickasha will be held at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 14th at Fairlawn Cemetery in Chickasha.

Ryan Parrish

Funeral for Ryan Parrish, 35, of Pocasset will be held at 1:00 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 15th at Epworth United Methodist Church. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to Hope Community Services in Oklahoma City.

Sharon Simmons

A memorial service for Sharon Simmons, 79, of Chickasha and formerly of Cement will be held at 1:00 p.m. Friday, Sept. 16^th at Ferguson Funeral Home.

 

---

 

Monday, Sept. 12th

 

Chix School Board to Consider Agreement

with Construction Management Firm

The Chickasha school board will discuss entering into an agreement with a construction management firm to develop the projects approved by school district voters in the safety and security bond elections last month. The panel will consider the agreement with local company CMS Willowbrook. If approved the company would receive 5 percent of the final construction cost of those projects. The board of education will also consider re-districting the school board wards throughout the city and consider a master contract with the Chickasha Organization of Professional Administrators, which is a new union created for principals and vice principals. The contract calls for a step raise and adding an additional year to the pay scale. Officials say they do not expect any significant pay increases. The district will also recognize the Chicken Express Employees of the Month. The certified employee is Amber Esquivel and the support employee is Cristy Cervantes, both of whom work at Bill Wallace School. The school board meets at 6 o'clock tonight at the school administration building. The meeting will be live-streamed on the school district's website.

 

Blue-Green Algae Blooms Still a Concern at Chix Park

City of Chickasha officials are still dealing with blue-green algae bloom issues in the pond at Shannon Springs Park. Officials detected the blooms several weeks ago and have posted notices that fishing is not allowed. They also encourage pet owners to not let their pets swim in or drink the water. A statement from the city says they have treated the pond once but the problem is on-going. They also say they are trying to not harm the fish. Blue-green algae blooms are toxic and can cause serious illness to humans and pets.

 

Chix Library Friends Seek Books for Upcoming Sale

The Friends of the Chickasha Library are making plans for their fall used book sale and are asking for contributions of books from the community. They are looking for children's, teens, and adult fiction and non-fiction books, reference materials, DVDs, and book CDs. However, they are not accepting video or cassette tapes at this time. Individuals can drop off items at the library at 6th and Iowa. The used book sale will be Oct. 17th through 29th. Proceeds will be used to buy new books and materials.

 

Cattlemen's Group Prepares for Carcass Contest

The Grady County Cattlemen's Association will be kicking off its upcoming carcass contest in the next few weeks. The contest is open to area youth from eight years old to a senior in high school. Only steers will be accepted in the contest and only one animal per exhibitor will be allowed. The weigh-in will be Saturday, Oct. 17^th at Standridge Cattle Company. A maximum of 25 steers will be allowed. Entries may be submitted at the Grady County OSU Extension Office. For information contact Grady County Cattlemen’s Association President Jake Grossnicklaus by calling 405-320-4170.

 

Free Medicare Program Scheduled 

A free Medicare workshop will be held for area residents tomorrow. Cale Walker, a financial advisor with Edward Jones, will hold the workshop at 10:00 a.m. tomorrow (Tuesday, Sept. 13^th) at the Canadian Valley Technology Center in meeting room No. 4. No pre-registration is required.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $86.79 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $92.84.

Natural gas is $7.99 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,735 and silver is $19.15.

 

Obituaries

Cynthia Bramblett

A graveside service for Cynthia Bramblett, 66, of the Chickasha and Verden area were held at 2 o'clock this afternoon (Monday, Sept. 12^th) in the Verden Cemetery. Arrangements were with McRay Funeral Home.

Cynthia Cobb

A graveside service for Cynthia 'Tooty' Cobb, 61, of Chickasha will be held at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 13^th in the Laverty Cemetery. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.

Luther Sledge

Funeral service for Luther Sledge, 94, of Houston Texas and formerly of Chickasha is pending with Brown-Thomas Funeral Home. He was a U.S. Army veteran.

 

Saturday, Sept. 10th

 

Former State Sen. Justice Honored for Lifetime of Service

Former State Senator Ron Justice of Chickasha is among several individuals being honored for their lifetime of service this weekend. Justice is among six OSU alumni being honored with a Distinguished Alumni Award from the Oklahoma State University Alumni Association. The award recognizes those who attain distinctive success in their profession and/or perform outstanding service to their communities. Justice earned his bachelor's and master's degrees in agriculture education at OSU. He spent a few years in Kansas as a 4H agent then moved back to Oklahoma to work in the same position for both Muskogee and Alfalfa counties. He then became the county extension director for Grady County where he served for 24 years, retiring in 2003. He then spent 12 years in the state senate and then served as vice president of public policy at the Oklahoma Farm Bureau. Justice is still active today as he serves on the Oklahoma Water Resources Board and the Oklahoma 4H Foundation board of trustees.

 

Ninnekah Schools to Help Family

of Students Injured in Crash

Ninnekah school officials released a statement about that crash that injured three children Thursday night. All are students at Ninnekah. School officials say a second-grader was air lifted to the OU Trauma Center. Facebook posts from friends and family say she suffered a fractured pelvis and had to have part of her intestine removed. A first grader and a fifth grader were also hurt. The fifth grade student, an 11-year old boy, suffered a broken arm. Social media posts say he managed to climb out the ravine to get help. The statement from Ninnekah schools said they are planning to have a spaghetti dinner to benefit the family next week.

 

Winter Home Heating Bills Expected to Increase

Home and business heating bills this coming winter are forecast to be the highest in 15 years. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) says part of the reason is that demand remains high and inventories are low. The website OK Energy Today cites the EIA report which indicates that natural gas spot prices could rise to a monthly average of more than $9 per million BTUs by January. Officials said there are limited options for replacing natural gas in the short term especially the natural gas that's needed to generate electricity. The report predicts that demand will remain high despite the high prices.

 

Volunteer Fire Departments to Host Community Dinner

The Pocasset and Harold Volunteer Fiire Departments are hosting a community appreciation dinner tomorrow. They'll be grilling hamburgers and hot dogs with sides and drinks available. It is free but donations are welcome. There will also be a bounce house for the kids. It will be held at the Pocasset Community Center from 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. tomorrow (Sunday).

 

Local Photographer to be Featured at Art Wrecker Studio

Motorcycle fans and those who enjoy photographs of bikes and their owners might check out the work of local photographer Johnny Trammell. The USAO Art Wrecker Studio will feature Trammell's artistry over the next few weeks. The theme of the show is Pics, Pistons, and Dirty Thunder. The studio is in downtown Chickasha next to Midfirst Bank. There will be an opening reception from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. tonight and the Shakespeare Wine Company will be on hand. The show will run through Saturday, Oct. 1st where a closing reception will be held from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

 

Obituary

Cynthia Bramblett

A graveside service for Cynthia Bramblett, 66, of the Chickasha and Verden area will be held at 2:00 p.m. Monday, Sept. 12th in the Verden Cemetery. Arrangements are with McRay Funeral Home.

 

Football Scores

Friday

Tuttle 61, Noble 41

Piedmont 28, Blanchard 13

Minco 53, Apache 20

Newcastle 30, Piedmont 13

Mangum 35, Rush Springs 34

SW Covenant 36, Alex 8

Cyril 35, Mt. View-Gotebo 12

Texhoma 21, Carnegie 12

Lindsay 28, Atoka 7

Marlow 62, Comanche 0

Thursday

Dibble 8, Little Axe 7

 

---

 

Friday, Sept. 9th

 

Biker Critically Injured in Crash Near Rush Springs

A motorcycle rider is hospitalized in critical condition after crashing his bike north of Rush Springs. 34-year old Parker Jordan of Duncan was airlifted to an Oklahoma City hospital with head, trunk, arm, and leg injuries. The accident happened about 1:15 p.m. Thursday on U.S. Highway 81 about 2 1/2 miles north of Rush Springs. The trooper responding to the crash reported that for an unknown reason Jordan's 2019 Harley Davidson veered off the highway and rolled several times. He was not wearing a helmet.

 

3 Children Injured After Car Rolls into Ravine

Three Ninnekah children are taken to a hospital after a car runs off a county road and crashes into a ravine. A seven- year old girl was admitted to Children's Hospital and was last in fair condition. A six-year old girl and an 11- year old boy were treated and released. The accident happened just before 8:00 p.m. Thursday about 3 1/2 miles north of Chickasha near the intersection of CR 1320 and CS 2840. The driver of the car, 31-year old Melinda Crumb of Ninnekah, refused medical treatment. Crumb and all the children were buckled up. The state trooper investigating the crash reported that Crumb approached a curve and ran off the road. The car hit and embankment and overturned into the ravine. The cause of the accident is still under investigation.

 

Dobson Fiber to Expand in Chickasha

Chickasha residents will have another Internet Service Provider to choose from in the future. Dobson Fiber has announced the company will begin construction of a network that will offer up to 10 gigabits-per-second internet speeds. A ground-breaking ceremony was held yesterday with representatives from the City of Chickasha, Chamber of Commerce, and Saxon Allton, Gov. Kevin Stitt's State Field Director. In a press release, officials said the network will be built in geographic zones. Once each zone nears completion residents will be notified when they can begin signing up for service. Dobson's website allows individuals to input their addresses and get notified if their address is on their fiber build-out plan. The website is: www.dobson.net

Dobson also announced a dozen more fiber network commitments including the Marlow area.

 

New Street Signs Purchased for Chix Cemeteries

The Chickasha City Council this week approved the purchase of a number of new street signs for the city's two cemeteries. The council approved a bid of just under $18,000 from Barco Municipal Products for green signs with white capital letters that will be installed in both Rose Hill and Fairlawn Cemeteries. Barco's bid was the lowest of three bids submitted with the highest from Luther Signs at just over $25,000.

 

Final Payment Approved for Chix Dog Park

The council also approved the final payment for the construction of the Badgett Dog Park. A payment some $41,000 was approved for Bordwine Development Company after the firm submitted the maintenance bond and other paperwork needed for the project to be considered complete. The Badgett Family of Chickasha donated $100,000 to build the park.

 

One-Stop Center Created for Grady County Veterans

The Grady County Disabled American Veterans (DAV) headquarters is now a one-stop location for several veterans organizations. Daryl Jacobs with DAV Chapter 17 says the center now also houses the VFW, American Legion, and the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs. The Grady County Veterans Center is downtown Chickasha at 6th and Chickasha Avenue. Hours of operation are Mondays from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and Wednesdays and Fridays from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Information is available on the Grady County DAV Chapter 17 Facebook page.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $83.54 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $89.15.

Natural gas is $7.91 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,738 and silver is $18.71.

 

Obituary

Rholando Dickerson

Funeral for Rholando Dickerson, 29, of Lawton will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 10th at Cameron Baptist Church in Lawton. Arrangements are with Brown-Thomas Funeral Home.

 

---

 

Thursday, Sept. 8th

 

Rush Springs Shooting Suspect at Large

Grady County authorities say a suspect remains at large this morning after a shooting occurred at a home west of Rush Springs Wednesday night. Grady County Undersheriff Gary Boggess tells KOOL/RANCH News that they are looking for 41-year old Michael Pearson. Boggess said authorities were called to a home about two miles west of Rush Springs near State Highway 17 and CS 2800 about 6:40 p.m. Authorities say Pearson got in to an argument with his father and that Pearson fired a shot and fled the home. The father was not hurt. Rush Springs police, sheriff's deputies, and Rush Springs and other volunteer fire departments were summoned to conduct a manhunt. They had a couple of drones with infrared cameras to help in the search in a wooded and brushy area but Pearson managed to get away. Last night’s search was called off about 9:30 p.m. Boggess said Pearson has prior convictions on charges of assault and domestic abuse. Boggess says Rush Springs residents should take precautions and are asked to call 9-1-1 if they have any information on Pearson's whereabouts. Authorities are expected to request a warrant for Pearson's arrest this morning.

 

Pursuit Suspect Allegedly Stole Pickup at Gunpoint

Now an update to a story we had last week about a man wanted in southern Oklahoma arrested after a lengthy pursuit which ended in Grady County. Authorities arrested Kevin Bryant Melton last Wednesday night. A probable cause affidavit indicates Melton allegedy stole a pickup at gunpoint in Carter County. The pursuit topped 100 miles per hour as the truck reach Pauls Valley then headed west on State Highway 19 through Maysville and Lindsay. Troopers eventually performed a Tactical Vehicle Intervention (TVI) maneuver to force the pickup off the road near the Washita River west of Lindsay. But Melton took off on foot and eventually went into the river in waste-high water where the suspect got into a scuffle with authorities. Melton was eventually taken into custody. Melton is facing Grady County charges which include endangering others while attempting to elude and assault with a deadly weapon. Also, while in the Grady County Jail Melton was alleged to have been seen smoking contraband tobacco in a bathroom so he's also charged with having contraband in jail.  His bond has been set at $300,000.

 

Verden Police Make Unrelated Drug Trafficking Arrests

Verden police made a couple of unrelated drug trafficking arrests this week. Chief Jason Cox made a traffic stop on a vehicle this past Monday night. Cox allegedly found methamphetamine in the vehicle and arrested 43-year old Zargosa Hernandez of Hobart. Hernandez is charged with trafficking and is being held on a $150,000 bond. Later that evening authorities arrested a woman in connection with meth trafficking case they were investigating. Authorities allegedly found a number of tablets believed to be counterfeit Percoset tablets laced with fentanyl. Police arrested 30-year old Heather Johnelle Glass of Chickasha. She has been formally charged with aggravated trafficking and her bond was also set at $150,000.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $81.84 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $88.

Natural gas is $7.84 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,731 and silver is $18.50.

 

Obituaries

Howard Oaks

A private burial will be held for Howard Oaks, 73, of Chickasha. He was a U.S. Army veteran. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.

Billy Byrum

No service is scheduled for Billy Byrum, 69, of Chickasha. He was also a U.S. Army veteran. Arrangements are also with Ferguson Funeral Home.

 

---

 

Wednesday, Sept. 7th

 

Chix City Council OKs Plan to Design

New Raw Water Treatment Plant

A proposal to build a new raw water treatment plant for the City of Chickasha is okayed by the city council. The panel gave its blessing to develop a conceptual design and feasibility study for the first phase of the project. It’s being created by Guernsey and Associates at a cost of just under $150,000. Officials say the State Department of Environmental Quality has $35 million in loans available for the city to build the new plant but the concept plans and other information is needed before the loans can be made available. The plan is expected to be completed by early December and the council will be given progress reports over the next few months. Officials are considering two sites for the new plant one near the current location on north 4^th Street and another at the city’s industrial park.

Waste Connections Rate Increase Approved

The council also approved a rate increase for the sanitation services provided by contractor Waste Connections. The current contract with the firm allows for a rate increase when the company's costs are higher than expected. City officials haven't said if this will mean an increase in residential and commercial trash pick-up services.

Pact with Delaware Nation Approved

The council also approved an agreement with the Delaware Nation to allow the tribe to provide low-income Chickasha residents who are members of the tribe some assistance in paying their water and sewer bills.

Council Backs CV Tech Plan to Build Public Safety Traing Center

The council approved a letter of support for the Canadian Valley Technology Center which is applying for a federal grant to build a public safety training center. The letter states that it’s important to help and support the center in providing training education for those in the public safety sector and that the city is committed to assist and advise CV Tech when needed or requested. The letter also states that with the facilities and training staff available that there is no doubt they will turn out some of the finest police officers, communications specialists, corrections officers, firefighters, and emergency service personnel in the state.

 

First Phase of Permanent Leg Lamp Structure Completed

Chickasha gets a leg up both literally and figuratively as a nearly 25-foot fiberglass leg was put into place yesterday. It will eventually be a permanent leg lamp similar to the one made popular in the classic holiday film ‘A Christmas Story’. An inflatable version of the leg lamp had been used for the Festival of Light over the last couple of years but it frequently had to be repaired. With the help of Johnson’s Cranes, the gray leg - complete with a high heel - was lifted high above a steel foundation then lowered over about a 25 foot tall steel centerpiece designed to keep the leg lamp in place. The leg was manufactured at Midwest Towers and took about two months to put together. The leg itself weighs about 2,800 pounds. Still to come, a 15- foot tall lamp shade to go on top of the leg. The entire leg lamp will sit on a ten-foot pedestal to make it a 50-foot tall structure. The structure will be painted - complete with a fishnet stocking - and is expected to be ready for the grand opening of the first phase of a new city park being built next to the Rock Island Railroad Depot in early November.

 

Chix School Foundation Teacher Grant Applications Needed

Teachers in Chickasha Public Schools only have a few more days to submit applications for fall grants that will be issued by the Chickasha Public School Foundation. Foundation Director Gab Atwell says the deadline to apply is next Monday, Sept. 12th. The foundation will be awarding grants in early November. Each year, the foundation awards an estimated $40,000 in grants which pay for supplies, equipment, and materials not provided by the district.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $86.88 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $92.83.

Natural gas is $8.14 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,716 and silver is $18.10.

 

Obituaries

Richard ‘Dicky’ Pearcy

A graveside service for ‘Dicky’ Pearcy, 80, of Chickasha will be held at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 8^th at Fairlawn Cemetery. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.

Thomas ‘Tommy’ Busby

A memorial service for Tommy Busby, 78, of Chickasha will be held at 1:00 p.m. Friday, Sept. 9th at Epworth United Methodist Church. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.

 

---

 

Tuesday, Sept. 6th

(Burn bans are still in effect for Garvin and Comanche counties)

 

Chix City Council to Auction Mineral Rights at Lake Chix

A public auction to sell the mineral rights on land at Lake Chickasha is scheduled for tonight’s Chickasha City Council meeting. There are several tracts up for bid ranging from 80 to more than 660 acres. The panel will go behind closed doors to discuss the possibility of awarding a bid later in the evening. The panel will also have a closed-door meeting to interview a prospective candidate for the vacant city manager post. The group is also to consider accepting the Badgett Dog Park as complete. The panel will also consider making a final payment of more than $41,000 to Bordwine Development which is the contractor that was awarded the project nearly a year ago.

New Water Treatment Plant to be Discussed

(Editor's note - This story has been corrected from an earlier version that contained erroneous information. We apologize for the error) There is a big project to be discussed tonight - a proposal for the first phase of the construction of a new raw water treatment plant. Officials say the city has $35 million reserved in what's known as the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund Loan Program through the State Department of Environmental Quality. To access the loan the project must be ready to proceed. Officials will consider a nearly $150,000 proposal from Guernsey and Associates for this first phase.

Council to Look for Bids for Sewer Line Project

The council will also consider going out for bids for a sewer line replacement in the area of Highway 62 and 16th Street. Officials say the sewer line there has been in bad shape for the last four years.

Waste Connections Contract Up for Review

The panel will also consider a proposal to increase the price the city pays to Waste Connections for sanitation services. Waste Connections officials told the council last month that a rate increase was necessary due to unusual changes in their operations. The increase is allowed under the company's current contract. The city council meets at 6:30 tonight at city hall.

 

Commissioners Cancel Grady County Burn Ban

Grady County's burn ban has been lifted. Grady County Commissioners canceled the ban at their meeting this morning. The ban has been in effect since mid-July when temperatures topped 100 degrees and there had been no rain for an extended period of time. Burn bans in Comanche and Garvin counties are still in place. Commissioners in Comanche County will meet this morning to consider whether to continue the ban. The ban in Garvin County is in effect for another week although commissioners could decide to end the ban when they meet today.

 

Oil and Gas Well Completions

We have some oil and gas well completions to report this morning. Gulfport Midcon has a couple of wells in the Alex area bringing in more than 460 barrels of oil per day and an abundant amount of natural gas - nearly 33,000 Mcf per day. These are the Nelda wells which are in Section 4 of Township 4 North and 6 West. The wells are in the Woodford formation and were drilled to a depth of nearly 13,000 feet.

Completions in Canadian County

Camino Natural Resources has a couple of active wells in Canadian County about three miles southeast of El Reno. They are the Black Kettle wells which are bringing in about 430 barrels of oil and just over 1,100 Mcf of natural gas per day. They were drilled to a depth of about 17,500 feet. Red Bluff Resources has a well northwest of Piedmont although no production numbers were available. It was drilled to a depth of nearly 14,000 feet.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $86.87 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $93.02.

Natural gas is $8.79 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,723 and sliver is $18.35.

 

Obituary

Buelah Hill

Funeral for Buelah Hill, 84, of Ninnekah was held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 6^th at Ferguson Funeral Home.

 

---

 

Monday, Sept. 5th 

 

(No news due to the Labor Day holiday)

 

Saturday, Sept. 3rd

(Burn bans are still in effect for Grady, Garvin, and Comanche counties)

 

Group Says Oklahoma Electricity System is 'Broken'

Yesterday KOOL/RANCH News had a story about Oklahoma's electricity rates skyrocketing nearly 50 percent over the last year. Today, the group that reported the news says the reason for the spike is that the state's electricity system is broken. That comment is from Mike Boyd who is the executive director for the Alliance for Electrical Restructuring in Oklahoma. Boyd said Oklahomans are at the mercy of monopoly utilities that are demanding rate increases while they reap record profits. He said customers have no options, no recourse, and no way to escape being ripped off.  Boyd cited numbers from American Electric Power (AEP) which is the parent company of Public Service Company of Oklahoma (PSO) that showed AEP reported net income of more than $2 billion in 2021. PSO and OG&E have petitioned the Oklahoma Corporation Commission for over $1.5 billion in combined rate increases over the last two years. Boyd said his group will at the state capital next year to talk to lawmakers about creating legislation that would allow consumers to choose which utility they want. 21 states currently offer choice and competition in electricity markets. A study by the Retail Energy Supply Association shows that prices in those states have declined since 2008. See the full story on the website:

www.okenergytoday.com.

 

Chix to host 5th Annual Oklahoma Food Truck Championship

The Oklahoma Food Truck Championship returns to Chickasha next month and will feature 30 vendors looking to capture bragging rights. This will be the fifth year for the event which will be held during the Rock Island Arts Festival the weekend of Sept. 30th through Oct. 2nd. The food truck competition will be on Saturday. There will food creations from tacos to sushi and desserts to attract the attention of festival goers. The competition began with local restaurateurs Josh Woods and Zach Grayson five years ago but the event is now hosted by the chamber of commerce. Chamber president Jim Cowan said the event draws people from all over Oklahoma and surrounding states. There will be local food trucks like former champion Creek Bottom Burgers and many have unique names such as Some Like it Tot and Contrabandz Lab. New to the championship is a football fun zone where individuals can watch college football on several big screen TVs under a huge tent. Live bands will be playing much of the day including local bands Tim Brauer and First Look and Dollar 98. For information about the event check out the Oklahoma Food Truck Championship Facebook page or website: www.okftc.com

 

Talk Show Topic

Darrel Cheshier with the Swingin' Chicks Square Dancers is this week’s guest on our KOOL Konversation. Find a podcast of the program under the Community tab on this website.

 

High School Football

Marlow 45, Chickasha 14

Noble 34, Blanchard 27

Elgin 33, Anadarko 14

Minco 14, Mooreland 6

Apache 26, Rush Springs 6

Lindsay 47, Dibble 6

Tipton 66, Alex 16

Seiling 46, Cyril 0

Mt. View-Gotebo 60, Maysville 12

Tuttle and Newcastle, idle

 

---

Friday, Sept. 2nd

(Burn bans are still in effect for Grady, Garvin, and Comanche counties)

 

Sooner State Leads U.S. in Electricity Rate Increases

A new report shows that Oklahoma has the dubious distinction of having the fastest rising electricity rates in the country. A report by the Alliance for Electrical Restructuring in Oklahoma indicates there was a nearly 50 percent increase in rates from June of 2021 to June of this year. The state dropped from having the most affordable electricity rates to 18th in the nation. Residential customers experienced a more than 30 percent increase, which was also the largest of any of the 50 states and the District of Columbia. The report shows that prices climbed more than seven cents per kilowatt hour to almost 11 cents which factors in all sectors which includes residential, commercial, industrial, and transportation. While Oklahoma rates increased 49 percent over the last year the average increase nationwide was 14 percent.

 

Summer Temps Were Hottest in More than a Decade

We all know it was pretty hot over the last couple of months. Officials say the statewide average temperature was in more than a decade and was the 11th warmest on record. Officials with the Oklahoma Mesonet say the average temperature in August for a 24-hour period was just under 83 degrees. Officials say it was the 46^th hottest month since records started being kept in 1895. Temperatures topped 100 degrees on 18 of the 31 days last month.

 

Suspect Accused of Assaulting Ex-Girlfriend

A Rush Springs man is behind bars accused of assaulting his ex-girlfriend. Grady County authorities received a 9-1-1 call late Monday night to investigate a disturbance east of Rush Springs. A probable cause affidavit indicates the victim claimed her ex broke into her house while she, her juvenile daughter and mother were sleeping. An argument began and then things got physical. The suspect is alleged to have choked the victim to the point where she nearly passed out. The victim grabbed her gun but the suspect took it away from her and said 'you don't pull a gun unless you intend to use it.' The suspect then pointed gun at the woman. The suspect eventually left the house in his work truck. Authorities reached out to the suspect’s place of employment in Lindsay where police took him into custody, then turned him over to Grady County authorities. In custody is 28-year old Jesse Kenneth Sliger. He's charged with felony counts of pointing a firearm and assault by strangulation and remains in the Grady County Jail on a $50,000 bond.

 

Nude Woman Arrested After Eating Tainted Mushrooms

A woman who said she was high on tainted mushrooms was arrested for running around naked in public. A probable cause affidavit indicates that the Grady County Sheriff's Office got a call about 8:30 Tuesday night about a naked woman east of Chickasha near Highway 62 and Hibarger Hill. The reporting party said the nude woman was 'freaking out'. The person who made the initial call picked up the woman to take her to the hospital. As they got in to Chickasha, the woman jumped out of the vehicle at the stoplight at 3rd and Choctaw and was again running around without clothing and freaking out. Several individuals tried to calm the woman down. A deputy managed to get the woman into his vehicle and called an ambulance and paramedics took her to the hospital. She was treated and released and taken to jail on complaints of indecent exposure and public intoxication. 27-year old Paige Jestine Hatley has been formally charged with misdemeanors which include outraging public decency.

 

Law Enforcement to Hold Weekend DUI Checkpoints

The Labor Day weekend is upon us and law enforcement groups are encouraging motorists to not drink and drive. The Oklahoma Highway Safety Office reports that there will be some DUI checkpoints in both Cleveland and Oklahoma counties. The Highway Patrol's ENDUI team will work with local police and sheriffs offices with a goal of getting impaired drivers off the road. In 2020, nearly 400 people were killed in drug and/or alcohol related traffic accidents in Oklahoma. Officials say every one of those deaths could have been prevented had the driver made the choice to not drive under the influence. Officials urged individuals to have a designated driver, take a cab, or use an Uber or Lyft driver if they've been drinking.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $86.61 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $96.59.

Natural gas is $9.26 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,717 and silver is $17.79.

 

Obituary

Rholando Dickerson

Funeral service for 29-year old Rholando Dickerson of Lawton is pending with Brown-Thomas Funeral Home.

 

---

 

Thursday, Sept. 1st

(Burn bans are still in effect for Grady, Garvin, and Comanche counties)

 

Pursuit Leads to Arrest of Wanted Suspect

A state trooper arrests a wanted man following a pursuit in Grady County. 25-year old Kevin Bryant Melton of Wilson, Okla. was booked into the Grady County Jail on numerous complaints.  We don't have any details about the chase but we can tell you that Wilson was wanted for knowingly concealing stolen property out of Carter County. He also has a violent history which includes an arrest for assault on a police officer. In addition to being held on the Carter County warrant Bryant was arrested on complaints of assault with a deadly weapon, eluding, and obstruction.

 

1960s OKC Restaurant Sit-In Effort

Subject of USAO Presentation

Several participants of sit-ins at Oklahoma City restaurants during the pre-civil rights days of the 1960s will be in Chickasha to discuss their efforts, which helped to bring about the 1964 Civil Rights Act. Bill Clifford, Joyce Henderson, Marilyn Luper-Hildreth and Joyce Jackson will be part of the screening of the documentary Children of the Civil Rights which will be presented at USAO. The program will be hosted by the university's Ada Sipuel-Fisher Center for Social Justice and Racial Healing as well as the Student Services Department. The film will be introduced by its director, Julia Clifford. It tells the story of a group of young people who spent six years going into segregated restaurants in Oklahoma City and asking for service. At the end of the six years, they had desegregated every restaurant they visited except one.  The documentary will be shown at Te Ata Memorial Auditorium next Thursday, Sept. 8th at 6:30 p.m. It is free and open to the public. Registration is required and individuals may sign up on-line at: www.usao.edu/civilrights

A live-stream event will be available for those unable to attend.

 

Consumers Likely to Face Even Higher Utility Bills

Looks like monthly utility bills in Oklahoma will be going up even more than expected because of the Polar Vortex phenomenon that occurred in February of 2021. Customers of utilities like PSO and Summit Energy (formerly Centerpoint Energy) and others may be paying more due to higher than projected interest rates on the bonds sold for those companies to pay their costs of purchasing power  during that period. The Oklahoman reports that the state sold bonds for ONG last week at an amount that was more than double the estimated interest rate. In July bonds for OGE also sold at a higher interest rate. While the interest rates were higher than expected they are lower than the 6 percent cap set by the corporation commission.

 

Oklahoma Fuel Prices Continue Falling

Average fuel prices in Oklahoma have fallen below $3.50 per gallon. Prices this week were down about a dime from seven days ago, to $3.43. That's 35 cents less than a month ago but up more than 50 cents from a year ago. Around the state, fuel prices in Tulsa were the lowest at $3.37 a gallon and highest in Ellis County at nearly $4.00 per gallon. Oklahoma has the 9th lowest gas prices in the country heading into the Labor Day weekend.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $89.55 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $96.49.

Natural gas is $9.12 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,714 and silver is $17.59.

 

Obituaries

Ruby Lee Stewart

Funeral for Ruby Lee Stewart, 88, of Chickasha were scheduled for 1:00 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 1st at Southern Oaks Church of Christ. Arrangements are with Sevier Funeral Home.

Joe Clayton, Jr.

Funeral for Joe Clayton Jr., 84, of Cement will be held at 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 3rd at the First Baptist Church of Cement. Arrangements are with Brown Thomas-Funeral Home.

 

---

 

Wednesday, Aug. 31st

(Burn bans are still in effect for Grady, Garvin, and Comanche counties)

 

Malcolm Hilburn to be Inducted into Hall of Fame

Malcolm Hilburn, who spent more than 32 years with the Chickasha school district as an administrator, teacher, and coach will be inducted into the Oklahoma African American Education Hall of Fame next month. Hilburn was the first African-American administrator for Chickasha Public Schools. Hilburn came to Chickasha in 1956 and first taught at Lincoln School where he was an industrial arts, science, and math teacher and basketball coach. After the district became fully integrated in the 1960s he became the first African American administrator when he was named vice-principal at the junior high. In 1974 he was named the junior high principal where he served for 14 years until his retirement in 1988. A press release indicates that Hilburn's career was monumental in times of both racial and educational limitations. At the start of his career Hilburn and other African-American teachers did not receive their fair share of resources due to discriminatory practices - but Hilburn and his colleagues did not allow themselves to become victims of their environment. Hilburn was 83 when he passed away in 2005. He will be inducted into the hall of fame Sept. 30th.

 

Arson Not Ruled Out for Cause of Massive Fire

The state fire marshal's office continues its investigation into the hand sanitizer fire that burned down the former Chickasha Manufacturing Plant earlier this month. And officials say they have not ruled out arson. In a statement provided to our partners at KWTV News 9, officials say the cause of the fire had human involvement and that spontaneous combustion is not being considered as a likely cause. The statement from State Fire Marshal James Fullingim says his office and several other agencies continue looking into what caused that massive fire. Last week, the State Department of Environmental Quality levied a more than $6.5 million fine against Bordwine Development. The fine was issued after authorities discovered that an undetermined amount of hand sanitizer was dumped into the environment. The company was given 15 days to come up with a plan to properly dispose of the remaining sanitizer at three locations and 30 days to do so.

 

Chix Chamber Schedules Next 'Successful Women' Program

The chief counsel for the Chickasaw Nation's Tribal Justice Administration will be the next guest for the Chickasha Chamber of Commerce' Successful Women's Series. Debra Gee will be featured during the program. She also serves as a trustee for the Chickasaw Foundation and previously worked at the U.S. Department of Justice in Washington, D.C. While in the nation's capitol she served as deputy director of the office of tribal justice, and tribal legal counsel for the violence against women office. The program will be held in the USAO Ballroom on Tuesday, Sept. 20th at noon.  For ticket information contact Whitney Palesano at the chamber by Sept. 12th.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $91.64.

London-based Brent crude is $99.31.

Natural gas is $9.04 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,722 and silver is $17.84.

 

---

 

Tuesday, Aug. 30th

(Burn bans are still in effect for Grady, Garvin, and Comanche counties)

 

Burn Ban Continues in Grady, Nearby Counties

Grady County Commissioners have opted to continue a burn ban that has been in effect since mid-July. The panel extended the ban Monday morning ahead of last night's rainfall. The Grady County ban runs through next Monday. Burn bans also remain in effect for Garvin and Comanche counties.

 

Section of I-44 Narrowed to One Lane Labor Day Weekend

Some construction on the H.E. Bailey Turnpike this Labor Day weekend could impact motorists. Beginning Thursday, The turnpike will be down to one lane in each direction between Chickasha and Sterling for pavement rehabilitation work. The work is expected to run through Monday, Sept. 5th.

 

Chix Library to be Part of Dolly Parton Imagination Library

The Chickasha Public Library will soon be the Grady County affiliate for the national Dolly Parton Imagination Library. The Friends of the Chickasha Library is working with the national group. Wendy Ilacolbello gives a brief description.

 

              

 

The Oklahoma Department of Education provides a 50 percent matching grant to help get the program started. Once the program gets established, children in all Grady County schools and day cares will be able to enroll. Each child will have an age-appropriate book mailed to their home in their name every month. Officials hope to begin enrolling children within the next 60 days. Patrons will be able to enroll at the library or on the website: www.imaginationlibrary.com

 

USAO Davis-Waldorf Series Returns for 22nd Year

A long-running program at USAO will kick-off its season with some different events and an Oklahoma performer. The Davis-Waldorf Performing Arts series will open Sept. 15th. It will feature a performance from Stillwater crooner Wade Tower with live accompaniment. Tower is similar to singers such as Michael Buble, Frank Sinatra, and Nat King Cole. There will also be a casino night cocktail party. This will be the 22nd year for the Davis-Waldorf Series, which brings a number of national and international acts to Chickasha. Tickets for the Sept. 15th event are $30 for those who purchase $60 season tickets. Individual tickets for the Sept. 15^th event are $40 for those who don't purchase a season ticket. For information about the Davis-Waldorf shows this year, visit the website: www.usao.edu/dwpas

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $97.01 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $105.09.

Natural gas is $9.35 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,746 and silver is $18.61.

 

Obituaries

Lacquetta Wyche

A graveside service for Lacquetta Wyche, 73, of Elgin was scheduled for 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 30^th at Celestial Gardens Cemetery in Cyril. Arrangements were with Sevier Funeral Home.

Thelma Polk

Funeral service for Thelma Polk, 92, will be held at 1:00 p.m. Friday, Sept. 2nd at Sevier Funeral Home.

 

 ---

 

Monday, Aug. 29th

(Burn bans are still in effect for Grady, Garvin, and Comanche counties)

 

Chix School Officials to Discuss First Steps

of Upgrades After Bond Issue Passage

Administrators with Chickasha Public Schools aren't wasting any time in getting the process started to make numerous improvements throughout the district. School district voters approved a nearly $35 million bond issue to pay for the upgrades last week. Executive Director of Operations Dan Turner says the first meetings will begin in a few days.

 

              

 

Turner said the school board will have a special meeting soon to begin the process of selling the bonds and that the sale could be completed as early as the end of September with some of the upgrades getting started by the end of the year or early next. Voters also approved a $1 million bond issue for transportation needs in last week’s election. Both measures passed with 70 percent voter approval.

 

Report: State Attorney General Never Began

Promised Price-Gouging Probe After Polar Vortex

It's been a year and half since a paralyzing winter freeze impacted much of the Midwest. Oklahoma was included in the region which experienced sub-freezing and sub-zero temperatures for nearly two weeks. Energy costs for utilities and consumers went through the roof. Oklahoma Attorney General John O'Connor had promised an investigation into alleged price-gouging after the storm. However, a story by a publication called The Frontier indicates there is no active state investigation and that no criminal or civil cases have been filed. The Frontier reports that Oklahoma had the highest cost for natural gas in the nation during that time. In some parts of the state, natural gas was trading for about $1,200 per unit - compared to an average price of $2 to $4 per unit. In the meantime, utility companies have been given the go-ahead to acquire long-term bonds to pay their costs and pass those costs on to consumers. Consumers will be paying $3 to $5 more per month per utility for 10 years or longer in some cases.

 

Festival of Light Director Steps Down

Chickasha's Festival of Light is looking for a new director. Billy Elkins stepped down from the post recently. Elkins said he has accepted a new position in Kentucky and will be moving soon. A new director is expected to be announced in a couple of weeks.

 

'Together We Heel' Walk Set

We are just over a month away from The Rock Island Arts Festival. It's a three-day event in downtown Chickasha that features several other events including the annual Oklahoma Food Truck Championship, The Rock Island Ride Bicycle Tour, and a campaign to put an end to domestic violence. It's the Together We Heel walk which features a unique fundraising effort. Participants in the walk are asked to wear high heels – even men. It's being organized by the Intervention and Crisis Advocacy Network (ICAN) and The Grady County Community Coordinated Response Team. The coalition is a group which includes law enforcement agencies, the district attorney's office, and support groups that help and support victims and also works to ensure perpetrators are held accountable for their actions. Corporate sponsorships are available and walk participants are asked to donate $25 with walkers receiving a commemorative T-shirt. Prizes will be awarded to the individual and team that brings in the most donations and there will be best-dressed, hottest heels, and youngest participant awards. The walk will be on Saturday, October 1st starting at the YMCA and ending at the Rock Island Depot. For information, contact the district attorney's office (405-224-4770) or Matt Whetzel with the Intervention and Crisis Advocacy Network (405-224-8256).

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is 93.06 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $101.99.

Natural gas is $9.30 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,733 and silver is $18.42.