Saturday, Sept. 23rd

 

Couple Pleads Guilty to Profiting from International Scheme

A Tuttle couple has pleaded guilty to federal charges related to an international scheme where they made millions off of pirated telephone system software. The Oklahoman reports that Raymond Bradley Pearce and Dusti Pearce conspired with a New Jersey man to commit wire fraud which involved generating and then selling stolen software licenses. The licenses had a retail value of more than $88 million. The software was used to unlock features of a popular telephone system used by thousands of companies around the world. That licensing system has since been de-commissioned. The couple was accused of using their illegally-gained profits to buy large quantities of gold bullion and other valuables. The Pearces agreed to plead guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud. They face up to 20 years in prison and must forfeit a money judgement of at least $4 million as well as gold, silver, collectible coins, crypto-currency, and a vehicle. Full restitution must also be paid to their victims.

 

Congressman Frank Lucas Works to Miminize

Impact of Foreign Investment in U.S. Farm Land

Oklahoma Congressman Frank Lucas (R-Cheyenne) hopes his recent efforts will help to better scrutinize foreign investment into U.S. agriculture. A house committee recently passed Lucas's Agriculture Risk Review Act. It calls for adding the nation's ag secretary as a permanent member of the House Committee on  Foreign  Investment in the United States.  A report on the website OK Energy Today indicates that currently the secretary and ag department can be designated as a lead agency for transactions on a case-by-case basis. The panel reviews transactions related to the purchase of agriculture land, ag bio-technology, or other purchases related to the ag industry. Lucas said the move is long overdue.

 

Obituary

Elaine Tanos

A memorial service for Beth ‘Elaine’ Tanos, 72, of Chickasha will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 26th at Ferguson Funeral Home. She worked as a loan officer and served on the board of directors for the Chickasha Senior Nutrition Center.  Memorial contributions may be made to the nutrition center.

 

High School Football Scores

Weatherford 35, Chickasha 15

Blanchard 46, Harrah 13

Tuttle 30, Bethany 10

Bridge Creek 27, Classen SAS 7

Anadarko 62, Mannford 22

Minco 45, Cashion 0

Dibble 82, Wynnewood 17

Ringling 14, Rush Springs 6

Apache 49, Mangum 29

Hinton 36, Christian Heritage Academy 7

Hobart 56, Carnegie 24

Laverne 50, Alex 0

Cyril 28, Hollis 20

Ryan 52, Mt. View-Gotebo 6

Lindsay 60, Comanche 7

Marlow 22, Pauls Valley 7

Elgin 54, El Reno 21

 

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Friday, Sept. 22nd

 

Chickasha Man Reported Missing

Authorities are asking for assistance in finding a disabled Chickasha man who has not been seen nor heard from in more than three weeks. 46-year old Richard Clarence Houston - whose right leg is amputated below the knee - was last seen on Thursday, August 31st around the post office in the 700 block of Kansas Avenue. Houston's photo is posted on the Chickasha Police Department's Facebook page.  He is Caucasian, about 5-feet-5-inches tall, and weighs about 300 pounds. The photo shows him with short brown hair with a brown mustache and a short goatee. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Chickasha Police Department by calling 405-222-6050 or any local law enforcement.

 

Grenade Found Near Chickasha Home

There were media reports that a grenade was found in a Chickasha neighborhood last night. KFOR TV reported that the Chickasha Police Department requested help from the highway patrol bomb squad. It was not immediately known if the grenade was live. The grenade was found in the area of Country Club Road and Flanders Drive some time before 8 p.m.

 

Grady County Consumer Spending Down Slightly

Consumer spending in Grady County was down slightly to end the first half of the calendar year. It's estimated that spending for the month of June was just under $9.7 million - which was off about 5.2 percent from May. June was the second highest month for consumer spending in the first six months with May holding down the top spot. The June number was more than 15 percent ahead of the same period in 2022. We estimate consumer spending when we see sales tax revenue for the county. The county received about $727,000 in sales tax collections in August which represents the purchase of taxable goods and services from June.

How is the sales tax revenue spent?

Here's how the sales tax revenue is distributed. The Grady County Fairgrounds received $242,000; Grady Memorial Hospital, $214,000; The 20 Grady County Fire Districts shared $121,000 with each one getting $6,000; the seven Senior Nutrition Centers shared $121,000 with each one getting $17,000; Tuttle EMS collected $23,000; and Rush Springs EMS received $5,500.

City of Chickasha numbers

For the city of Chickasha, sales tax revenues for August were just over $1.1 million which were paid on just over $29 million on the purchase of taxable goods and services at Chickasha retail outlets in June.

 

Tribes Consider Coalition to Create Broadband Service Firm

Officials with The Kiowa Tribe of Oklahoma are gathering with leaders of other tribes to form a coalition in order create their own broadband service provider. Kiowa Tribal Chairman Lawrence Spottedbird says the coalition could pool federal money and state funds to establish their own internet company. Spottedbird said the Kiowas have struggled to attract a reliable and affordable provider because of the tribe's small population. He has reached out to the Comanche and Caddo Nations as well as the Cheyenne and Arapaho tribe. He said he didn't want to overlap into the other tribes' plans but did want to coordinate and cooperate with them in order to enhance and support each other. Spottedbird said they hope to form the coalition soon and have a grant application ready by the end of January.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $89.63 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $93.60.

Natural gas is $2.84 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,944 and silver is $23.94.

 

Obituary

Nolan Rogers

A graveside service for Nolan Rogers, 67, of Chickasha will be held at 1:00 p.m. Monday, Sept. 25th at Fairlawn Cemetery. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.

 

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Thursday, Sept. 21st

 

Ninnekah School District Voters to Decide Bond Issues

Proposals to build a new gymnasium and make some improvements at the Ninnekah High School and purchase some new buses for the school system will be decided by Ninnekah school district voters next month. The two bond issues total nearly $20 million. The first proposal is a nearly $19.6 million plan to build a new gymnasium in phases and the second is a $400,000 transportation bond. Officials say property taxes would not increase if the bond issues are approved. The special election will be on Tuesday, Oct. 10th.

 

Speakers Set for USAO's Social Justice, Racial Healing Center

A prison-reform advocate along with an author who was a finalist for the National Book Award will be keynote speakers for a USAO event next month. Both will be addressing a program hosted by the Ada Lois Sipuel-Fisher Center for Social Justice and Racial Healing. Prison-reform advocate Reginald Betts is a poet and legal scholar who earned a Masters in Fine Arts Degree after serving more than eight years in prison for an armed car-jacking when he was 16. He founded an organization called Freedom Reads which gives prison inmates access to books. The other keynote speaker will be Arlie Hochschild, professor-emeritus of sociology at the University of California-Berkley. Hochschild has written nine books including Strangers in Their Own Land: Anger and Mourning on the American Right, which was a finalist for the National Book Award. The event is part of the Sipuel-Fisher Center's Building Bridges 2.0; Liberty, Justice, and Equality program Oct. 23rd through 25th.

 

Theatre Group to Celebrate Anniversary of Re-organization

The Chickasha Community Theatre is gearing up for its final show of the year. Rehearsals recently began for The Sound of Music which will be performed over two weekends in November. The theater is also preparing to celebrate the 30th anniversary year of its re-organization. It was originally active from about 1968 to 1976. Fast forward 18 years to 1994 where supporters came together to re-start the theatre and it’s been going strong ever since. Kristy Jarnagin was among those helping to provide new life to the group. She serves on the governing board and still performs occasionally. With the help of numerous donors and fund-raising campaigns Jarnagin says there have been a lot of improvements made to its home - the historic Washita Theatre downtown.

 

              

 

 

The group has already announced its 2024 schedule which can be seen on its website. There is one event at the theatre prior to The Sound of Music. There will be an evening of ghost stories during the downtown Fright Night which is set for Friday, Oct. 13th.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $90.28 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $93.52.

Natural gas is $2.73 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,944 and silver is $23.47.

 

Obituaries

Richard Souders, Jr.

Funeral service for Richard Souders, Jr., 58, of Pocasset will be at 10:00 a.m. Friday, Sept. 22^nd at the First Baptist Church of Mustang. He worked for Delta Airlines and for the City of Oklahoma City. Arrangements are with Sevier Funeral Home.

Joy Bollman

Funeral service for Joy Bollman, 85, of Chickasha and formerly of the Alex and Blanchard area will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 26th at Epworth Methodist Church. She was a volunteer at Grady Memorial Hospital. Arrangements are with McRay Funeral Home.

 

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Wednesday, Sept. 20th

 

Two Injured in Separate Traffic Accidents

Two people were hospitalized following separate traffic accidents early Tuesday morning. 26-year old Emily Johnston of Newcastle was hurt when she crashed her Jeep near the junction of U.S. Highway 62 and the Alex Highway just after 5 a.m. That was before a thunderstorm moved through the area. The highway patrol reports that Johnston tried to pass a vehicle and didn’t have sufficient clearance. She swerved to avoid oncoming traffic, left the highway, and rolled three times. Johnston was last in fair condition in an Oklahoma City hospital.

One critically hurt in multi-vehicle crash

One person suffered life-threatening injuries in an accident on the H.E. Bailey Turnpike southeast of Chickasha about 6 a.m. Tuesday - which occurred after a storm moved through that area.  A pick-up ran off the highway and hit a legally-parked car that had its emergency flashers on. The pick-up then was hit by a semi. 36-year old Johnathan Price of Princeton, Missouri was a passenger in the pick-up. He was taken to an Oklahoma City hospital where he was last in critical condition. The driver of the pick-up, 40-year old Michael Frakes of Lawton was treated and released from a hospital. Two people in the car - 51-year old Donald Tharp of Apache and 48-year old Johnny Fields, Jr. of Fletcher - were also hospitalized briefly but were treated and released. The driver of the semi was identified as 49-year old David Evans of Norman who was also treated and released.

 

Cancer Survivor Urges Congress to Support Research for Cure

A three-time cancer survivor is spending some time in the nation's capitol this week advocating on behalf of the American Cancer Society. As a young man, Howie Jackson of Chickasha survived two bouts with leukemia and earlier this year he won a battle with prostate cancer. For the last several years he has been going to Washington, D.C. to encourage Congress to support funding to help find cures for cancer.

 

              

 

 

Jackson’s work in Washington started in 2010. His efforts include supporting local Relay for Life campaigns which raise funds for the American Cancer Society to support ongoing cancer research.

 

Chickasha Fall Clean-up Campaign Begins

Chickasha residents are encouraged to do some fall clean up this week. The city's public works headquarters will be accepting all kinds of trash, limbs, furniture, appliances, and any unwanted items that may be cluttering up yards, garages, and sheds. There will be large roll-off dumpsters at public works, which is on Genevieve Street north of the animal shelter. Shae Mortimer with the city says residents will have to show they live in the city limits in order to use the free service.

 

              

 

 

Hours will be from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. today through Friday and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday. There is a separate area for limb and brush disposal and it does not have to be cut down to a smaller size. Refrigerators and window air conditioning units will have to have the Freon removed by a certified technician and individuals will have to show that documentation in order to drop them off. Items that won't be accepted include tires, batteries, motor oil, paint, or items considered to be hazardous materials.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $91.20 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $94.34.

Natural gas is $2.85 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,953 and silver is $23.56.

 

Obituary

Billy Bob Tryon

Funeral service for Billy Bob Tryon, 76, of Chickasha will be at 1:00 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 21st at Bible Baptist Church. Arrangements are with McRay Funeral Home.

 

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Tuesday, Sept. 19th

 

Changes to Planned Downtown Chix Park Approved

The Chickasha City Council put its stamp of approval on changes to the proposed downtown park being planned near the Rock Island Railroad Depot. Pat Brooks with the Chickasha Community Foundation outlined the changes in a 20-minute presentation during last night’s city council meeting. Brooks said among the most noticeable changes is a mini-train which will circle the six-acre park. There will also be a train station, playgrounds, pickleball and sand volleyball courts, and an area to show outdoor movies. There is also a large stable for developer Chet Hitt to keep his Town's End draft horses in.  Hitt plans on offering wagon rides during special events. Brooks said another round of fund-raising for the park will begin soon and they are hoping to begin construction on some of the projects by this time next year. Further down the road there could be an area for a carousel and perhaps a community flower and/or vegetable garden. The park will be open year-round and will be locked at night.

New city park regulations approved

The council approved changes to a couple of city ordinances which may be targeted at the homeless. The council established hours at city parks to be from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. and that no overnight camping will be allowed. Police could give a ticket to anyone violating the new rules. It wasn't clear what the fine might be but most tickets cost about $175. The new regulations would not impact camping or overnight stays at Lake Chickasha. Another ordinance change prohibits trespassing and illegal entrance on public or private property. Emergency clauses on all of the changes were approved meaning they will go into effect as soon as they are published.

Chicken limit established; roosters banned

The council also approved a limit on the number of chickens or other fowl a household could have. Officials say residents can have a maximum of five chickens but it bans roosters. Residents must get a city permit and have annual inspections. The permit fee would benefit Animal Control.

 

USAO Board of Regents Has New Face

The newest regent for the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma (USAO) has taken her oath of office. Sulphur pharmacist Amanda Conley took her seat on the panel recently. She was appointed to the post by Gov. Kevin Stitt and the state senate approved the appointment. Her term is for seven years and she takes over the post previously held by David Ferrell. The Conley family has been in the cattle business for five generations. She works as a contract pharmacist for the Chickasaw Nation and she also currently serves as a board member for Arbuckle Memorial Hospital.

University gets more national publicity

In other university news, USAO has been named a top-20 public liberal arts university by U.S. News and World Report for the second straight year.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $91.48 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $94.43.

Natural gas is $2.73 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,956 and silver is $23.59.

 

Obituaries

James Odom

Funeral service for James Odom, 95, of Amber will be at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 21st at the First Baptist Church of Amber. He was rancher and dairy farmer and spent many years on the Amber-Pocasset school board. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to the First Baptist Church of Amber.

Dellas Anderson

A memorial service for Dellas Anderson, 91, of Chickasha will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 23rd at the First Baptist Church of Chickasha. He was a U.S. Army veteran and worked for the Soil Conservation Service for nearly 40 years. Arrangements are with Sevier Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to Gideon’s International.

John Periman

A memorial service for John Periman, 88, of Chickasha will be held at 2:00 p.m. Monday, Sept. 25th at First Baptist Church of Chickasha. He was a U.S. Air Force veteran, was a store manager for Humpty Dumpty and Dunn’s, and sang bass with the church choir and barbershop quartets. Arrangements are with McRay Funeral Home.

 

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Monday, Sept. 18th

 

Two Critically Injured in Weekend Accident

The Oklahoma Highway Patrol is still investigating a weekend crash which critically injured two young women. An un-named 16-year old from Chickasha and 22-year old McKayla Rodriguez of Alex were in a small SUV which was involved in a collision with a pick-up about four miles west of Marlow. The accident happened just after 4 o'clock Saturday afternoon. Both were air-lifted to an Oklahoma City hospital. Details of the crash were not reported. The pick-up was driven by 33-year old Eldon Nihipali of Marlow who was not hurt. The OHP reported that seat belts were being used in both vehicles.

 

Violent Threat Issued Toward Friend School

Friend School officials say classes will be held today as usual today after the school received a violent threat. A post on the Grady County Sheriff's Office Facebook page - attributed to Friend Superintendent Trevor Rogers - says a student made the threat after school last Friday. Rogers says the school's new resource officer and the sheriff's office were notified. Rogers said patrons should rest assured that the situation was thoroughly investigated and addressed effectively in conjunction with state and federal laws.

 

Chix Sewer Line Replacement Cost Increases

The price tag for repairing a sewer line just west of downtown Chickasha is getting more expensive. The city council tonight will consider some added costs to the project that is near 16th Street and U.S. Highway 62 (Choctaw Avenue). Officials say they have to move the sewer line 20 feet west of the original location. While digging to install the new line it was discovered that there was an existing pipeline in that same area that could not have been found in the original work plan. The additional materials will add $27,000 to the cost of that project.

Ordinance proposed to limit number of chickens at households

The council will also consider some changes to city ordinances including one that pertains to having chickens and other fowl in the city limits. The proposal calls for a maximum of five birds per household and roosters would not be allowed. The city council meets at 6:30 tonight at city hall.

 

Lincoln School Sets Conferences, Book Fair, Fund Raiser

Lincoln Elementary School will have parent-teacher conferences after school both today and tomorrow. There will also be a special fund-raiser and scholastic book fair during those times. Conferences will run from 3:45 to 7:15 today and tomorrow afternoon. The fund raiser is with Nothing Bundt Cakes out of Norman which will be giving some proceeds of their sales to the school. The scholastic book sale will be held at the library.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $90.77 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $93.93.

Natural gas is $2.64 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,984 and silver is $23.43.

 

Obituaries

Loretta Burton

A graveside service for Loretta Burton, 86, of Alex will be held at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 19th at the Alex Cemetery. She worked at Grady Memorial Hospital and the highway department. Arrangements are with Sevier Funeral Home.

Kevin Quillin

Funeral service for Kevin Quillin, 53, of Chickasha will be held at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 19^th at Full Gospel Church. He owned and operated Chickasha Upholstery. Arrangements are with McRay Funeral Home.

Natalie Pearson

Funeral service for Natalie Pearson, 72, will be held at 10:00 a.m. Friday, Sept. 22nd at Abundant Life Christian Church in Lawton. Arrangements are with Brown-Thomas Funeral Home.

Saturday, Sept. 16th

 

Admitted Killer Sentenced for Death of his Father

A man who admitted killing his father with a cinder block has been sentenced to 25 years behind bars. A federal judge sentenced Phillip Keith Ray, 45, to 300 months in prison this week. Ray pleaded guilty to second degree murder a year ago. The fatal attack occurred at a Chickasha home in October of 2021. The victim's body was found in the backyard of a home in the 900 block of South 13th Street. The case was heard in federal court as Ray is a member of the Comanche Nation and the crime occurred within Native American territory.

 

Oklahoma Song Writer Phil Sampson Dies

Oklahoma song writer Phil Sampson has died. Many say Sampson was one of Oklahoma's finest song-writers. He was best known for writing the No. 1 hit single "I Loved 'Em Everyone" released by T.G. Sheppard in 1981. Sampson was 80 years old when he passed away in Lawton last week from complications after a fall. Sampson grew up around the Chickasha area before he and his wife Susan settled in Lawton. In the 1960s he played the folk coffee house circuit. He then spent some time in California then returned to Oklahoma and began playing in a new bar in Medicine Park run by Vietnam veterans. He is survived by two brothers including Gary Sampson, a retired Chickasha school teacher and Kent Sampson of Stillwater; and one sister Mary Ann Lombard of Massachusetts. Funeral service for Phil Sampson was held today (Saturday, Sept. 16^th) at St. John's Lutheran Church in Lawton.

 

Wildlife Refuge Hosting Elk Tours

Among the fall programs to enjoy at the Wichita Mountains Wildlife refuge are their bugling elk tours. The tours are offered every weekend through Oct. 22nd. These are 3-hour bus tours which go through the special use area of refuge during the height of the elk mating season. Members of the Friends of the Wichitas serve as guides for the tours. Most are in the evening beginning about 5 p.m. but there will be two morning tours available, at 6:30 a.m. Saturday Sept. 23rd and again on Saturday, Oct. 7th. The tours are free but reservations are required and can be made by calling the refuge. Children must be at least eight years old.

 

Talk Show Topic

Kristy Jarnagin with the Chickasha Community Theatre is on the KOOL Konversation and Sue Getman with the Chickasha Area Arts Council is on Real Estate Today. Find a podcast of the program under the Community tab on this website.

 

Obituaries

Loretta Burton

A graveside service for Loretta Burton, 86, of Alex will be held at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, September 19th at the Alex Cemetery. She worked at Grady Memorial Hospital and the highway department. Arrangements are with Sevier Funeral Home.

Natalie Pearson

Funeral service for Natalie Pearson, 72, will be held at 10:00 a.m. Friday, September 22nd at Abundant Life Christian Church in Lawton. Arrangements are with Brown-Thomas Funeral Home.

 

High School Football Scores

Chickasha 31, Anadarko 8

Minco 67, Merritt 24

Blanchard 34, Shawnee 31

Guthrie 20, Tuttle 3

Bridge Creek 42, Western Heights 12

Newcastle 69, Woodward 7

Alex 42, Maysville 16

Tipton 46, Cyril 0

Hinton 55, Carnegie 20

Apache 26, Ringling 0

Mt. View-Gotebo 32, Hollis 14

Marlow 27, Perkins-Tryon 21

 

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Friday, Sept. 15th

 

Man Dies After Tree Falls on Him

A worker at a moto-cross track died in a tragic accident this week. The Grady County Sheriff's Office reports that 23-year old Tracy Farrow was using a front-end loader to clear out some trees at the track about two miles south of Rush Springs. A large tree rolled off the bucket and fell on to Farrow. Undersheriff Kori Brewer said a bike rider who discovered the accident called it in. It happened about 3:30 Wednesday afternoon.

 

Suspect Faces Murder Charge After Fatal Crash

A murder charge has been filed in connection with last weekend's traffic death of an Anadarko woman. 35-year old Billie Butler died in what was reported as a single vehicle accident last Saturday night. She was described as a passenger in an SUV that crashed but no driver was listed. Anadarko police say they were able to identify the driver as 45-year old Justin Chase Milford. A warrant was issued for his arrest and he was taken into custody at a Cyril home on Monday. A probable cause affidavit from Anadarko police says that an officer pulled the vehicle over for an expired tag. The vehicle then pulled away from the officer which led to a short pursuit. As the SUV approached a bridge on Highway 281 – the officer said it appeared that Butler was trying jump out. About the same time, the driver did jump out of the moving SUV and was able to elude authorities on foot. The SUV drifted toward the bridge and Butler became pinned between the SUV and the bridge where she died from her injuries. Milford has been charged with first degree murder and eluding and he remains in the Caddo County Jail with bond set at $800,000. Milford also has outstanding warrants out of Grady County including a felony for unauthorized use of a vehicle following an arrest just last week, and for a misdemeanor charge of driving under suspension following an arrest in July.

 

Driver Hospitalized Following SUV Rollover

An Amber man is hospitalized after his SUV crashed. 59-year old Steven Mackey was injured in the accident that happened just before noon yesterday. The highway patrol reported that Mackey's SUV ran off the road and rolled onto its top, pinning Mackey inside for an undetermined amount of time. He was wearing a seatbelt and the airbags did deploy. He was taken by ground ambulance to an Oklahoma City hospital where he was last in fair condition with head, trunk, and internal injuries.

 

Anonymous Donor Pays for New Swings in Chix Parks

A couple of Chickasha parks have some new playground equipment thanks to an anonymous donor. Parks and Recreation Director Spencer Winzenried said a contributor who wished to remain nameless gave the city $5,000 to purchase the equipment. Winzenreid said swings have been installed in Austin Park (which is near the Canadian Valley Technology Center) and at the 12th and Alabama Avenue park. The metal-framed swing sets are about eight feet tall and 32 feet wide and wood chips have been added for safety. The swings were installed at no cost thanks to CMS Willowbrook Development. Winzenreid said the swing sets could use some specialized swings for disabled children. He said they cost about $500 each and is hopeful another donor or donors would provide those funds.

 

Winner Announced in Chix PD Rib Cook-off

There's a new barbecue rib champion at the Chickasha Police Department. Lt. Traye Alexander was named the champion of the this week’s cook-off. A panel of four judges selected one of two of Alexander's entries as the winner. There were a total of eight entries in the competition. It was the first time for Alexander to win the cook-off after finishing runner-up several times. The defending champion was Lt. Lauren Jewell who was also among the competitors. The police department holds cooking challenges at different times throughout the year and sometimes has a chili cook-off.

 

Monthly Cars and Coffee at the Leg is Tomorrow

Classic and antique cars, truck, motorcycles, street rods, custom builts, ATVs, and UTVs will be on display in downtown Chickasha tomorrow morning. It’s Cars and Coffee at the Leg which is held the third Saturday of every month. It is not a judged show and no membership is required, so anyone who wants to show off their vehicle is welcome. Contact Brad Bates by calling 405- 426-7041 for information. There's free coffee and donuts for everyone. Cars and Coffee at the Leg runs from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. in downtown Chickasha.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $90.16 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $93.70.

Natural gas is $2.71 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,939 and silver is $23.38.

 

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Thursday, Sept. 14th

 

Chickasha Officials Respond to Water Complaints

Chickasha residents have been complaining about brown and smelly water recently. City officials blame the issue on an increase of manganese in the water supply coming from the Ft. Cobb Reservoir. The spike in manganese is a problem experienced in many Oklahoma communities this time of year. It typically occurs in late summer and some websites attribute the problem to reservoir water ‘turning over’ – where mineral-rich water at the bottom rises to the top and enters distribution lines. The city issued a prepared statement which says the contractor of the city's water treatment plant (USW) indicate manganese has not reached unsafe levels. USW representatives say their on-going testing shows the water is safe to drink and to use. City crews are flushing the city's water lines by opening fire hydrants throughout the city in an attempt to get the affected water through the system faster. The statement said that manganese is a naturally occurring mineral and is found in small amounts in the human body which supports bone and tissue health. However, websites indicate that exposure to high levels of manganese can affect the nervous system and damage kidneys.

 

More Info Released About Marijuana Grow Facility Break-in

We have more details about the arrest of a suspect alleged to have been involved with the break-in of a marijuana grow facility east of Chickasha earlier this week. The suspect, 24-year old Billy Eugene Thomas, is said to be part of an Oklahoma City gang. The Grady County Sheriff's Office posted information about Thomas’ arrest on its Facebook page. The post showed several bags that officials say contains 140 pounds of marijuana deputies recovered that Thomas and others allegedly stole from the facility then threw out of a car during a high-speed pursuit with law enforcement. Investigators are looking for two other suspects. Thomas has been charged with felony counts of burglary and drug possession. He remains in the Grady County Jail on a $25,000 bond.

 

Electric School Buses Now Part of Chix Schools Fleet

Chickasha Public Schools now have some electric school buses in its fleet. Three buses arrived yesterday after being trucked in from Springfield, Illinois. Chickasha schools received a federal grant from the Environmental Protection Agency to purchase five EV buses at a cost of $375,000 each. The school district's Director of Operations Dan Turner says they want to see if using electric buses will save the district money on fuel and maintenance costs.

 

              

 

 

The buses are much quieter than a standard gasoline or diesel bus. They will be used for in-town routes only. Turner said among the interesting features is that when buses are plugged in for re-charging, data is sent to a California firm showing if the bus is having any problems. That firm can contact an Oklahoma City company which will send a technician to Chickasha make repairs.

 

Carnegie Man Hospitalized after Crash

A Caddo County man was taken to an Oklahoma City hospital in a medical helicopter after being injured when his pickup ran off the roadway. 76-year old Michael Dietrich of Carnegie was last in stable condition. The accident happened just before 9:30 a.m. Wednesday on State Highway 58 about eight miles south of Carnegie. The highway patrol said Dietrich veered off the highway, drove through a fence, and came to rest on an embankment. It wasn't immediately known what caused Dietrich to run off the road.

 

Downtown Tattoo Earns Some Top Awards at Conference

KOOL-RANCH radio and Mollman Media send a shout out to Downtown Tattoo in  Chickasha which had another great showing at this year's Texas Tattoo Conference in Paris, Texas recently. They had four first-place finishes including the most realistic tattoo, the best large black-and-gray tattoo, the best small black-and-gray tattoo, and the best black piece.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $88.52 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $91.88.

Natural gas is $2.68 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,929 and silver is $22.87.

 

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Wednesday, Sept. 13th

 

Voters Reject CV Tech Bond Issue; Elect New Minco Mayor

Voters in more than 100 precincts across four counties turned down that massive $75 million bond proposal for the Canadian Valley Technology Center school districts in yesterday's special election. The voting was split nearly 50-50. Of the more than 5,000 ballots cast 2,556 were ‘no’ votes and  2,508 were ‘yes’ votes. The plan needed a 60 percent super majority for passage.

Plan supported in Grady County

Grady County voters overwhelmingly supported the plan with nearly three of every four of the more than 1,000 voters who cast ballots said yes. The unofficial count was 671 ‘yes’ votes and 379 ‘no’ votes.

Canadian County voters opposed the plan

However, nearly 55 percent of the more than 3,900 Canadian County voters rejected the measure.  There were 2,104 ‘no’ votes and only 1,735 ‘yes’ votes.

Oklahoma and Caddo County voters liked the bond

150 voters in Oklahoma County gave just under 60 percent approval to the plan (91 ‘yes’ votes to 62 ‘no’ votes) and in Caddo County there were 15 votes cast with 8 ‘yes’ votes and 7 ‘no’ votes. Officials were hoping to make $25 million worth of improvements at the Chickasha campus and build a $50 million public safety training facility at the El Reno campus.

Hollandsworth to be next Minco mayor

Voters in the town of Minco have elected a new mayor. Long-time city councilwoman and vice mayor Susan Hollandsworth won by just 18 votes over challenger Dena Sanford. The unofficial tally shows Hollandsworth collecting just over 53 percent of the vote, 157 to 139. Hollandsworth will be sworn in during a future town council meeting and will take over the post previously held by Keith McMullen. McMullen stepped down earlier this year after a majority of the town council slashed the budget for the Minco police department.

 

1 of 3 Suspects in Custody for Marijuana Grow Facility Burglary

One suspect is in custody and authorities are looking for two others in connection with the break-in of a marijuana grow facility in the Tabler area. Grady County Sheriff Gary Boggess said deputies were dispatched to investigate some suspicious activity just after midnight Tuesday. Authorities encountered a vehicle which began to speed away and the ensuing pursuit topped 100 miles per hour. During the chase the suspects threw numerous bags of marijuana out of the car. The vehicle became disabled when a tire blew out and three individuals got out and fled on foot. Authorities captured 24-year old Billy Eugene Thomas who his being held in the Grady County Jail on complaints of burglary and eluding. Boggess said officials at the grow facility believed about 150 pounds of product were stolen.

 

Rock Island Weekend Expected to Draw Thousands to Chix

We are about two weeks away from one of the biggest weekends of the year in Chickasha. The Chickasha Chamber of Commerce is calling it The Rock Island Weekend with Bites, Bikes, and Art Vibes. The three-day event will be in downtown Chickasha from Friday, Sept. 29th through Sunday, Oct. 1st. It includes the 15th annual Rock Island Arts Festival hosted by the Chickasha Arts Council. The festival will take up the 400 and 500 blocks of Chickasha Avenue all three days. Saturday will be a huge day with the Chamber's Oklahoma Food Truck Championship. More than 30 food trucks will line the 100 through the 300 blocks of Chickasha Avenue competing for a $10,000 grand prize. Also Saturday, the annual Rock Island Ride bicycle tour will be held which is an event that has drawn more than 300 riders in recent years. Also Saturday, the Together We Heel walk against domestic violence hosted by the Grady County Coordinated Community Response Team and the Intervention and Crisis Advocacy Network (ICAN).  Visit the website: www. visitchickasha.com/rock-island-weekend

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $88.84 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $92.06.

Natural gas is $2.74 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,933 and silver is $23.18.

 

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Tuesday, Sept. 12th

 

CV Tech Bond Issue; Minco Mayoral Election on Ballots Today

There are special elections in some but not all areas of the state today.  Voters in 14 school districts within the Canadian Valley Technology Center service areas are casting ballots on a $75 million bond issue. If approved, funds will pay for an estimated $25 million in improvements at the nearly 60-year old Chickasha campus; and a $50 million stand-alone public safety training facility at the El Reno campus. Some of the updates on the Chickasha campus could include major renovations to existing buildings; more focused points of entry for safety and security; a storm shelter to meet growth; additional parking, and new space designed to meet an increase in demand for workplace settings which include electrical,  cosmetology, and hospitality fields. If approved, property taxes would increase about $30 per year on a $100,000 home. The bond issue needs a 60-percent super-majority from voters throughout Grady, Canadian, and Oklahoma counties to pass.

Two candidates vie for Minco Mayor

In Minco today, voters are electing a new mayor. Susan Hollandsworth and Dena Sanford are on the ballot. Polls are open until 7 o'clock tonight.

 

Minco School Superintendent Discusses Proposed Bond Issue

Also in Minco, school superintendent Kevin Sims discussed details of a nearly $23 million bond proposal announced last week. Sims aired about a 25-minute video on the school district's Facebook page yesterday to outline the plan designed to build a new football stadium and track. Sims said the current facilities are outdated and while the district has about 100 students who run track - the district doesn't even have a track. Sims said it is one phase of future projects planned for the district.

 

              

 

 

Sims said the next project would be a new show barn for the agriculture program. If approved, property taxes for Minco school district patrons would increase about 4 percent - or about $40 per year on a $100,000 home. Voters will decide the issue in a special bond election in November.

 

Chix Planning Commission to Hold Two Public Hearings

Public hearings for a re-zoning application to build a new laundromat and approval of an over-sized structure already built will be held by the Chickasha Planning Commission today. Bassm Alzoubi is asking to re-zone some property at 16th and Park Avenue from residential-use to general commercial-use. The oversize building request is for Jim and Denise Gerlach at 820 East Choctaw. The Planning Commission meets at 4 o'clock this afternoon at city hall.

 

Grady County DAV Chapter's Monthly Meeting Tonight

Grady County Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Chapter 17 will hold its monthly meeting tonight. There will be an ice cream social so members are encouraged to stop in, visit with their fellow veterans, find out what's going on, and help plan for upcoming events. The meeting will get underway about 6 o'clock tonight. DAV Chapter 17 meets the second Tuesday of every month at the DAV Center downtown Chickasha at 6th and Chickasha Avenue.

 

Gov. Stitt Calls Another Special Session for Tax Cut Talks

Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt has called for a special session of state lawmakers to consider his on-going effort to cut taxes, and to increase transparency in the state budget process. In a prepared statement, Stitt said he's calling on lawmakers to put Oklahoma on a path to zero income tax and give Oklahomans a much-needed tax break. The agenda calls for lawmakers to consider a trigger law mandating that if a state or federal court finds some individuals who - due to  their race, heritage, or political classification don't have to pay a state tax - then no Oklahoman would have to pay that tax. The agenda also calls for a measure to increase budget transparency to ensure Oklahomans and their elected representatives have the ability and opportunity to see how their tax dollars are being spent. Twice before, the governor has been unable to get his tax cut proposals through the legislature in either regular or special sessions.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $87.29 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $90.64.

Natural gas is $2.61 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,941 and silver is $23.31.

 

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Monday, Sept. 11th

 

Chix Schools to End Shooting Sports Program

A clay-shooting sports program that began in Chickasha Public Schools last year is being closed down. Tonight, the Chickasha school board will act on a recommendation from Superintendent Rick Croslin to eliminate the program. Croslin said the reason is for safety concerns. The school board is being asked to transfer funds collected for the shooting sports program to the girls' power-lifting program.

Soccer coaches to teach an hour a day

The panel will also consider boys’ soccer coach Damon Mantooth and girls’ soccer coach Jimmy Hampton for part-time teaching positions for one hour each day.

Lease change for old Intermediate School proposed

The board of education will also consider a contract change with the Washita Valley Community Action Council's (WVCAC) lease of the former Intermediate School. The council leases the building from the school district for its Head Start and Early Head Start programs. The WVCAC is asking to add another building at that site to the lease. If approved, WVCAC would be responsible for all utilities, maintenance, repair of water, sewer, and gas lines; heat and air units; and the fire control system.

Bill Wallace employees to be honored

The school board will also recognize a couple of Bill Wallace Early Childhood Center employees. Teacher Tonya Yokum was named the district's certified employee of the month and Flor Zubiate is the support employee of the month. The school board meets at 6 o'clock tonight at the School administration building.

 

Fatal Weekend Crashes Remain Under Investigation

Women dies in Anadarko accident

The Oklahoma Highway Patrol (OHP) continues an investigation into a fatal crash that happened in Anadarko Saturday night. 35-year old Billie Butler of Oklahoma City died in the single-vehicle accident that happened 1/2 mile north of Anadarko on Highway 281 just before 11:00 p.m. Saturday. Butler was listed as a passenger in the SUV and investigators were trying to determine if she was the driver. Highway 281 was closed for more than 3 1/2 hours after the crash.

Motorcyclist dies in Fletcher crash

The OHP is also still investigating a fatal crash between a pickup and a motorcycle that happened in Fletcher early Saturday morning. 38-year old Gilbert Crow of Oklahoma City was pronounced dead at the scene. Crow was riding a motorcycle that was involved in a collision with a Dodge Ram 1500 pickup. The truck was driven by 46-year old Randy Herring of Apache. Neither he, nor a passenger identified as 32-year old Jessica Dacus of Fletcher, were hurt.

 

Minco School District Voters to Decide Athletic Complex Bond

Minco school district patrons will be asked to approve a multi-million bond issue to build a new athletic complex. If approved, the nearly $23 million proposal would allow the district to install a new turf field for the football program and other improvements. The measure will be on a special election ballot in November.

 

Cattle Producers Announce Youth Steer Contest

Grady County youth who show cattle are being encouraged to take part in a performance steer contest. The program is hosted by the Grady County Cattle Producers Association. Youth will enter a calf in the program next month and raise the animal over the next several months. Officials with the cattle producers say it is a great way for the youth to learn about beef production. Cash prizes will be awarded in the spring. Entries need to be submitted by Oct. 15th and it is limited to 25 contestants. Contact the Grady County OSU Extension Office for information by calling 405-224-2216.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $87.51 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $90.65.

Natural gas is $2.61 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,949 and silver is $23.39.

 

Saturday, Sept. 9th

 

Doctor Dies While Fighting Fire at his Home

Longtime family practice doctor Gayle Bounds has died. Bounds passed away while fighting a fire at his home southwest of Dibble. Grady County Undersheriff Kori Brewer said deputies and the Grady County Fire Department were dispatched to the Bounds’ home about 5 o'clock Thursday afternoon. Brewer said that a fire got out of a burn pit and was approaching the family home. Brewer said that Bounds suffered a medical episode while fighting the fire. No one else was home at the time. The home was not damaged. Brewer said the state medical examiner will determine the doctor's cause of death.

 

OHP Investigates Fatal Fletcher Crash

Authorities are investigating a deadly crash in the Fletcher area this morning. We don't have any details other than two vehicles were involved and that the Oklahoma Highway Patrol  shut down traffic near Northeast  120th Street and King Road just before 3:30 this morning.

 

Details Emerge Regarding Arrest of Caddo County Pursuit Suspect

KOOL-RANCH News has updated information about the arrest of a Caddo County man after a pursuit this week. We reported that 45-year old Evan McElhaney was being held in the Caddo County Jail on a $500,000 bond after being charged with multiple felonies. KSWO-TV cites court documents which indicate authorities were called to the Crows Roost area at Ft. Cobb Lake Tuesday morning to investigate a man who was believed to be intoxicated and shooting at several homes. As officers surrounded McElhaney's home and waited for the arrival of a Special Response Team, McElhaney sped away in his pick-up. He initially managed to elude authorities, however he was located several hours later and led authorities on a pursuit but they were able to get him stopped and take him in to custody. McElhaney is facing charges which include assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, shooting with intent to kill, running a road block and eluding.

 

Benefit Car Show Helps Tuttle Teen Battling Rare Illness

The Tuttle community is rallying behind a teenager battling a rare form of Parkinson's Disease for which there is no cure. Hunter Edge has been in a Houston hospital for several months and is under-going experimental treatments which have already cost several hundred thousand dollars. Hunter is the son of Dusty and Lindsay Edge and family friend Jason Johnston has put together a car show today to help the family pay for the mounting medical bills. Members of the Tri City Cruisers and the Thursday Night Cruisers of Mustang are hosting the car show today at Coal Creek Winery. More than 40 trophies will be awarded, food trucks will be on hand, and proceeds from the day will go to the Edge family.

 

Ft. Sill Soldiers Complete Basic Training

Nearly 400 Ft. Sill soldiers were recognized for completing their basic training this week. Soldiers from Charlie Battery, 1st Battalion, 79th Field Artillery Division; and Fox Battery, 1^st Battalion, 31st Field Artillery Division were commended for their work and will now head to various advanced training schools.

 

High School Football Scores

Chickasha, idle

Anadarko, idle

Bridge Creek, idle

Tuttle 35, Noble 7

Piedmont 21, Blanchard 7

Newcastle 35, Plainview 21

Minco 33, Apache 23

SW Covenant 55, Alex 0

Mt. View-Gotebo 38, Cyril 6

Lindsay 38, Atoka 7

Marlow 42, Comanche 6

 

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Friday, Sept. 8th

 

Cyril Home Invasion Suspect Arrested

An alleged gunman is facing a half-dozen felony charges after a recent break-in at a home in Cyril. 48-year old John Raymond Moore is facing the charges in Caddo County District Court. KSWO-TV points to court documents which allege Moore broke into the home, pointed an assault rifle at two people and threatened to kill them. Moore told investigators that he made the threats because one of the victims was telling lies about him. Moore is facing charges which include burglary, having a firearm after former felony conviction, and disrupting an emergency phone call. If convicted, he faces up to 50 years in prison. His bond was set at $25,000.

 

Another Caddo County Pursuit Leads to Arrest

Caddo County authorities recently found themselves in a high-speed pursuit for the second time within a week. The most recent chase led to the arrest of a Ft. Cobb man. Evan McElhaney is facing felony charges which include assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, shooting with intent to kill, endangering others while eluding, and avoiding a road block. Those charges have also filed in Caddo County this week. No details of McElhaney's arrest were available. His bond was set at $500,000. Just last week, Caddo and Grady County authorities were involved in the pursuit of a suspect who stole a pickup from Cement. Adam John Sherwood is facing multiple charges in connection with that pursuit.

 

Early Voting Ends Today for CV Tech, Minco Elections

Early voting resumes today for a couple of special elections set for next week. Voters in the Canadian Valley Technology Center's sending school districts in Grady, Canadian, and Oklahoma counties are deciding a $75 million bond issue. Proceeds would be used for safety and security improvements and new classrooms at the Chickasha campus and the contruction of a public safety training facility in El Reno. Also, Minco voters will be electing a new mayor. Voters can cast in-person, absentee ballots until 6:00 p.m. today at the county election board office where they are registered to vote. Regular precincts will be open next Tuesday, Sept. 12^th from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

 

Pirates, Glass Blowers Join Chix Art Walk Tonight

Downtown Chickasha will be alive tonight with the monthly second Friday art walk. Numerous artisans, bands, and performing artists will be scattered along Chickasha Avenue from the Leg Lamp to the Chickasha Area Arts Council and the Chickasha Art Center, as well as Shakespeare Wine Company on Kansas Avenue. Coordinator Dana Helms says pirates will be roaming throughout the venues. Helms says the event has grown ever since the first art walk in February.

 

              

 

 

There are a couple of glass blowers, live music will be at the new Wild Ox Axe Throwing venue, the Rock Island Candy Company, the Petroleum Building and the Leg Lamp. A food truck will be available and a local nursery will have plants and flowers. Hours for the art walk have been extended this month and will run from about 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $86.87 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $89.92.

Natural gas is $2.58 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,948 and silver is $23.36.

 

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Thursday, Sept. 7th

 

State Attorney General Says Fentanyl Battle Must Continue

Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond says the state needs to continue its never-ending battle against the deadly drug Fentanyl. The topic was among the issues Drummond addressed during a presentation at the Chickasha Chamber of Commerce yesterday. Drummond said the process to put the deadly drug into a pill is inexpensive. The pill looks like prescription Oxycotin which can be sold on the street.

              

 

Drummond puts a lot of blame on Chinese drug cartels saying they know that Fentanyl is fatal but that they consider the deaths collateral damage so they can make huge profits.

 

              

 

 

Drummond said federal officials say that Oklahoma is Ground Zero for much of the drug trade in the country.

 

Chix Police Department Introduces New Officers

We have some background information on Chickasha's newest police officers who took their oaths of office at this week's city council meeting. Two of them are military veterans.

Trenton Freeman

Freeman is a 2018 graduate of Chickasha High School then enlisted in the Marines. After serving four years he joined the department last year. He has already completed his CLEET training.

Martin Amerson

Amerson graduated from Rush Springs High School and joined the Army where he was stationed at Ft. Sill. He served as a HIMARS crew member and was deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Freedom Sentinel.

Jonithan Horse

Horse graduated from Amber-Pocasset and also attended Canadian Valley Technology Center. He previously was an Animal Control Officer for the city. Amerson and Horse will begin CLEET training next month.

 

Anadarko Library Hosts Senior Diabetes Series

Senior adults in the Caddo County area who suffer from diabetes can take advantage of a short-term weekly program to learn more about their disease and how to manage it. The Anadarko Public Library is partnering with the Oklahoma Healthy Aging Initiative to offer the course. The program is called Diabetes and Beyond which is designed to provide seniors and their caregivers with self-management information to improve their quality of life. There is information on how diabetes affects the body, how to monitor changes, meal preparation, and encouraging family involvement. The free program is held at the library every Wednesday at noon through Oct. 11th. Instructors are provided by the OU Health Sciences Center.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $87.54 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $90.60.

Natural gas is $2.51 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,945 and silver is $23.42.

 

Obituary

Brenda Rodgers

Funeral service for Brenda Rodgers, 67, of Chickasha will be at 2:00 p.m. Friday, Friday, Sept. 8th at Ferguson Funeral Home. She was a homemaker.

 

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Wednesday, Sept. 6th

 

TIF District Proposals to go to Chix Council Work Session

The Chickasha City Council delayed action last night on hiring a law firm to help the city develop what's known as Tax Increment Finance (TIF) Districts. City Councilman Kelly Boyd said a previous TIF district didn't work out as well as officials had hoped.

 

              

 

 

City Manager Keith Johnson said hiring a law firm would not necessarily mean that a TIF district is inevitable but the firm would provide guidance along the way.

 

              

 

 

Johnson said there is early discussion about two potential TIF districts. The council will have a future work session to get more details about the proposals.

 

Chix Police Department has Three New Officers

Three new officers for the Chickasha Police Department were sworn in during last night's council meeting. Martin Amerson, Jonithan Horse, and Trenton Freeman all took oaths to protect and serve. All grew up in and around the Chickasha area.

 

Former Chix Fire Chief to be Laid to Rest Today

Former Chickasha Fire Chief Brian Zalewski will be laid to rest today. Zalewski was 50-years old when he passed away last week. A funeral service will be at 2 o'clock this afternoon at Chickasha's Bible Baptist Church. The service will be led by Chaplain Kim Hayes and Fire Chaplain Richard Prather. Burial will be in the Westview Cemetery west of Rush Springs.

 

Okla's Attorney General to be in Chickasha

Attorney General Genter Drummond will have a stop in Chickasha today. Drummond will have a noon meeting at the Chamber of Commerce.

 

Gala to Honor USAO's Feaver, Hale

The current president and the immediate past president of USAO will be recognized at the Oklahoma History Center. A green-and-gold gala will be held to salute recently retired President John Feaver to celebrate his legacy and many decades of service to the university. New USAO President Kayla Hale is the first female president of the university which is historically known for being a women's college until the 1970s. The event will be held Saturday, Sept. 16th at the Oklahoma History Center with a cocktail hour and silent auction at 5:30 p.m. followed by dinner at 7:00 p.m. Cocktail attire is required. Individual tickets are $150 and tables for 10 are $1,000. Other sponsorships are also available. Tickets can be purchased on-line at: usao.edu/gala

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $86.69 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $90.04.

Natural gas is $2.58 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,951 and silver is $23.73.

 

Obituaries

Bob Cantrell

A private service was held recently for 83-year old Bob Cantrell. He spent several years at Friend School as superintendent, principal, teacher, and coach and he also worked for Chesapeake Energy. Arrangements were with Sevier Funeral Home.

Jackie Keen

A private graveside service will be held at a later date for Jackie Keen, 70, of Tuttle. She was a homemaker, loved to cook, loved her rescue dogs, and was a big Beatles fan. Arrangements are with Sevier Funeral Home.

Kellie Keeler

A memorial service for Kellie Keeler, 61, of Lawton is pending with Brown-Thomas Funeral Home.

 

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Tuesday, Sept. 5th

 

Chix City Council to Formally Adopt Sales Tax Hike

Chickasha voters overwhelmingly approved an increase in the city's sales tax last month with the proceeds to be used to build a new water treatment plant. Tonight, the Chickasha City Council will consider a resolution to formally adopt the 1 1/4 cent sales tax increase which will go into effect Jan. 1st. The overall city sales tax will increase just 1/2 of one percent as a current sales tax expires Dec. 31st.

Panel to discuss OKC law firm to help form TIF district

The panel will consider an agreement with a law firm to help create a tax increment finance (TIF) district within the city. The proposal is with The Public Finance Law Group of Oklahoma City,

Pact to build new hangar at the airport to be reviewed

During the Municipal Airport Authority segment of tonight's meeting the group will discuss a proposed contract with Diversified Construction of Oklahoma to build a new 10-unit T-hangar at the airport at the cost of $1.2 million and consider accepting a grant from the Federal Aviation Administration for $600,000. The panel will also consider going out for bids to design a couple of box hangars.

Sports complex concessions expected to remain with current vendor

Back to city council business, the group is expected to again award concessions at the city's sports complex to JW Concessions. Three bidders were seeking the contract however JW Concessions was the only one to supply all the information needed in the request for proposals. JW Concessions has had the contract for the last five years. The company will pay the city 25 percent of its earnings.

Cable permit agreement, homecoming parade to be considered

Also to be considered is a five-year cable permit agreement with Cebridge Acquisition, L.P. The council is expected to approve a request from the Chickasha High School student council to hold the annual football Homecoming parade downtown on Friday, Oct. 6th.

 

County Road Improvement Project Keeps Expanding

A proposal to make improvements to a Grady County road has grown to nearly four times its original price tag. Officials have been working for several years to upgrade what's known as Amber Road which is CR 1280 between Amber and Pocasset. County Commissioner Kirk Painter says there have been a lot of changes made to the proposal.

 

              

 

 

Painter is hoping the project could start sometime in early 2025.

 

Caddo County Fair Premium Sale Tonight

The premium sale for the animals shown during last week's Caddo County Fair will be held tonight. Tucker Freie of Anadarko had the grand prospect steer; Walker Maxwell of Hinton at the grand market steer; Reagan Bickerstaff of Anadarko had the grand barrow; Ashlyn Maddox of Hydro-Eakly had the grand wether lamb; and Jennica Williams of Ft. Cobb-Broxton had the grand wether goat. Nearly 60 animals will be sold tonight at the Caddo County Fairgrounds in Anadarko.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $85.55 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $86.84.

Natural gas is $2.77 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,956 and silver is $23.87.

 

Obituaries

Mark Hale

A graveside service for Mark Hale, 68, of Chickasha was held at 10:00 a.m. this morning (Monday, Sept. 5^th) at the Pioneer Cemetery. He worked for the railroad, in the oilfield, and as a truck driver. Arrangements were with Ferguson Funeral Home.

Pamela Ratliff

Funeral service for Pamela Ratliff, 64, of Chickasha will be held at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, September 6th at Sharon Baptist Church. She worked at Grady Memorial Hospital for more than 30 years. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.

Princeton Awbrey

Funeral service for Princeton Awbrey, 33, of Chickasha will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, September 6^th at Shepherd Street Christian Church. Arrangements are with Brown-Thomas Funeral Home.

 

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Monday, Sept. 4th

No news due to the Labor Day holiday.

 

Saturday, Sept. 2nd

 

Obstetric Services May Return to Grady Memorial Hospital

Grady Memorial Hospital and the hospital foundation are beginning a multi-million dollar fund-raising campaign to bring obstetric services back to the hospital. The hospital's OB-GYN services were shut down a few years ago which forced expectant mothers to go to Oklahoma City, Duncan, or Lawton hospitals and doctors to get pre-natal care and have their babies delivered. Beth Malone is the Chief Nursing Officer at the hospital.

 

              

 

 

Malone says the hospital has plans to remodel three or four rooms on the second floor of the hospital into an obstetric suite that will meet state department of health standards. The suites would also allow the hospital to hire a couple of OB-GYN physicians. Details of a $6.5 million fund-raising campaign are expected to be announced soon. Malone said the target date to open the obstetrics area is early 2025.

 

Arson Suspect Claimed Space Aliens Started Fire

A Caddo County man claimed aliens were to blame for a grass fire at Ft. Cobb State Park last month. An arrest warrant has been issued for 42-year old Steven Jeffrey Curnett who is facing a felony charge of third degree arson. Authorities were dispatched to the park the evening of Monday, Aug. 21^st to investigate a suspicious grass fire.  KSWO-TV cites court documents which indicate Curnett said he was swimming with his alien friends - and the fire started when they left in their spaceship. Investigators went to Curnett's Hydro home a few days later to ask him more questions. At that time he said the fire began when he threw his glass marijuana pipe in the grass. Curnett also allegedly admitted to setting another fire because the first one was not burning very good. When asked why he started the fires Curnett said he liked watching them. If convicted Curnett faces up to 15 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.

 

Talk Show Topic

Chickasha High School Principal Debbie Davis and Middle School Principal Tori Weber are on the KOOL Konversation program. Find a podcast of the program under the Community tab on this website.

 

Obituary

Pamela Ratliff

Funeral service for Pamela Ratliff, 64, of Chickasha will be at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, September 6^th at Sharon Baptist Church. She worked at Grady Memorial Hospital for more than 30 years. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.

 

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Friday, Sept. 1st

 

Retired Chix Fire Chief Brian Zalewski Passes Away

The Chickasha community as well as fire departments, law enforcement agencies, and emergency medical groups across the state are mourning the death of former Chickasha Fire Chief Brian Zalewski. Zalewski passed away Wednesday night. His death attributed to a heart attack. He was in his early 50s. Current Chickasha Fire Chief Tony Samaniego worked with Zalewski for nearly two years.

 

              

 

 

The Chickasha Police Department posted on its Facebook page that Chief Z was a great man and that his passion for serving others was inspirational and will live on as his legacy. A statement issued by Heartland Medical Direction officials says Zalewski dedicated himself to serving his community and extended unwavering assistance to those in need. The statement also indicated that Zalewski was honored as a true hero at a First Responder Night at UCO and that he epitomized kindness, humility and dedication. Heartland officials also said his commitment had no limits and that he became an integral figure in the emergency services landscape in Oklahoma. Zalewski spent about 15 years with the Chickasha Fire Department retiring in 2020. Later that year he was hired as a reserve deputy with the Grady County Sheriff's Office. He also was a paramedic, flight nurse, and instructor. Chief Z is survived by his wife Kim and their adult children. A funeral service will be announced at a later date.

 

Anadarko Firefighter Faces Child Sex Abuse Allegations

An Anadarko firefighter is in custody for alleged child sexual abuse. 37-year old David Hadrava was arrested this week following an investigation by the Caddo County Sheriff's Office. On-line court records show that Hadrava has been charged with six felonies including four counts of sexual abuse to children under 12 years old. Hadrava, who listed a Hinton address, remains in the Caddo County Jail on a $600,000 bond. A preliminary hearing conference has been set for November.

 

Hiking Restrictions Implemented at Wildlife Refuge

Officials at the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge have implemented some restrictions on hiking due to extreme heat. Officials say they have had a number of heat-related search-and-rescue missions recently. They say the hot weather and rugged terrain pose a safety risk not only to visitors but emergency response crews as well. Starting today, hiking is only allowed from sunrise to 10:00 a.m. All visitors must be off the trails and the Mt. Scott roadway no later than 10:00 a.m. The restrictions are in place until further notice. Refuge roads will be open to motorized vehicles and bicycles for wildlife observation and photography.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $83.63 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $86.86.

Natural gas is $2.77 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,970 and silver is $25.01.

 

Obituary

Clyde Gene White

Funeral service for Clyde Gene White, 82, of Chickasha will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, September 5th at Grand Assembly of God Church. He was a manager for the C.R. Anthony Company and also owned the Ranchwood Motel in Rush Springs. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.

 

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Thursday, Aug. 31st

 

Many Mourn Death of Cleveland County Deputy Sheriff

Numerous law enforcement agencies are reaching out to the Cleveland County Sheriff's Office and the family of a deputy sheriff who was allegedly shot and killed by her husband. Jordan Cannon died early Wednesday morning. Her husband, Vaughn Cannon - also a deputy sheriff - was arrested in connection with Jordan's death. The Chickasha Police Department and the Grady County Sheriff's Office posted messages on their Facebook pages. Chickasha police extended their deepest condolences to the family, friends, colleagues, and community of the Cleveland County sheriff's office. The Grady County Sheriff's Office asked for prayers for Jordan's son, her parents, and her work family. Jordan was recognized as an outstanding officer and while she loved her work, she also enjoyed inter-acting with citizens. Prior to her work in Cleveland County she worked at the Okarche Police Department. A candlelight vigil will be held at 8 o'clock tonight at the Cleveland County Courthouse.

Domestic violence runs rampant in Oklahoma

Cannon's death brings to light the issue of domestic violence. Oklahoma is said to have the most domestic violence cases in the country (according to Domestic Violence Intervention Services). The state is third in the number of domestic violence homicides. The Young Women's Christian Association reported there were more than 43,000 domestic violence cases in Oklahoma last year which led to nearly 1,000 arrests. 

ICAN program helps domestic violence victims 

A number of Grady County groups join forces each year to battle domestic violence. The Grady County Coordinated Community Response Team includes the district attorney's office, sheriff's office, and police departments which combine efforts to support The Intervention and Crisis Advocacy Network (ICAN). ICAN offers a 24-hour crisis line and provides emergency shelter and other services for victims and their children.  The response teams' Together We Heel walk will be held Saturday, Sept. 30th which will be during the Rock Island Arts Festival. Supporters are asked to wear high heels for a half-mile walk which will be held downtown Chickasha. Last year the walk raised more than $20,000 for the ICAN program. Domestic violence victims needing immediate help can call the crisis line at 405-222-1818. To support the Together We Heel Walk contact ICAN director Matt Whetzel by calling 405-224-8256.

 

USAO Hosts Meet-and-Greet for Students Tonight

USAO students are back in class this week and there is a big event for them in downtown Chickasha tonight for the community to welcome them. The university is holding a street-and-greet event. It will be a festive atmosphere with music, vendor booths, inflatables, and food trucks. There will be commercial booths, non-profit organizations, and other groups sharing information about the services available to students while they are here. USAO's Art Wrecker studio which is downtown will have a number of activities. It will be held in the 200 block of Chickasha Avenue from 6 to 8:30 tonight and it is free and open to the public.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $81.63 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $85.86.

Natural gas is $2.80 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,971 and silver is $24.93.

 

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Wednesday, Aug. 30th

 

Pursuit Suspect Faces Numerous Charges

Adam John Sherwood, the man accused of stealing a pickup and leading law enforcement on a back-roads pursuit last week, is facing several felony charges. Sherwood was arraigned in Caddo County District Court Monday on eight charges ranging from auto theft and assault and battery with a dangerous weapon to endangering others while eluding and having a pattern of criminal offenses. Sherwood is being held in the Caddo County Jail on a $250,000 bond. The chase took place last Wednesday when its alleged Sherwood stole a pickup from a Cement convenience store. The chase began after Grady County deputies were called to an area near Pioneer School to check out a suspicious vehicle. Authorities say Sherwood led Grady and Caddo County deputies and state troopers on a pursuit through the back roads of Grady and Caddo counties at speeds of up to 70 miles per hour. Authorities managed to take Sherwood into custody southeast of Anadarko. Officials say Sherwood may also face charges in Grady County though none have been filed at this time.

 

Embezzlement Suspect Worked for State Rep's Company

A suspect is charged with embezzling more than $1 million from a company owned by a state representative. Darren Wayne Alaniz is facing six felony counts of embezzlement for allegedly taking funds from a firm owned by State Representative Brad Boles of Marlow. The charges were filed in Stephens County after Boles realized that Alaniz was receiving unauthorized W-2 payments from Philtek Services. Alaniz worked for the company for five years and stepped down in July of last year. Court documents say Alaniz was authorized to submit and review all of the company's employee payroll information, including his own. Alaniz was paid a combination of regular pay, bonuses, and expense reimbursement during the time the alleged embezzlement took place. The unauthorized payments continued until Alaniz' manager credentials were revoked by company owners.

 

'Onward Chickasha' Survey Continues

Officials are continuing to work on a long-range plan to take Chickasha into the middle part of the 21st century. The Onward Chickasha project is an 18-month effort to develop a proposal to create a path of community improvements. Officials continue to encourage residents to take part in an on-line survey to offer guidance as to what improvements should be made. The current phase of the project is the Visual Preference Survey and users are asked to select the kind of housing construction they like, commercial development, parks and recreation, transportation, and infrastructure. Residents can go to the website onwardchickasha.org to take part in the survey.

 

Caddo County Fair Concludes

Most of the events for this year's Caddo County Fair wrap up today. There is the apple pie contest and voting for the quilt block challenge ends this afternoon. Also today will be the drawing for last year's quilt block. All the still exhibits will be released this evening. The horse show will be tomorrow night with the premium sale for the top animals exhibited in this week’s stock shows set for next Tuesday.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $81.16 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $85.49.

Natural gas is $2.56 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,965 and silver is $24.99.

 

Obituary

Judy Sullivan

A private graveside service will be held at a later date for Judy Ann Sullivan, 80, of Chickasha. She worked in auto sales for more than 35 years including for Ferguson Buick-Pontiac, Lacefield Chevrolet, and the John Holt Auto Group. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.

 

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Tuesday, Aug. 29th

 

Teen Suspect Connected to Minco School Threat Arrested

Minco schools brought in extra security yesterday after a TikTok video threatened violent acts against the school. Superintendent Kevin Sims says he was notified by parents Sunday night about the threat. It indicated that something could happen yesterday and at the next home football game. Sims reached out to Deputy Chris Velarde who was just hired as the district's resource officer. Velarde and other investigators quickly had a 14-year old suspect in custody. Sims said the teen lived in Minco but was not a student there. Grady County Sheriff Gary Boggess said the teen was taken to the Grady County Jail and was being held on a complaint of domestic terrorism. The teen went before a judge yesterday afternoon who ordered the youth be held in a juvenile detention facility until his next court appearance which is scheduled for Sept. 12th. Sims said school officials will be looking at protocol as it relates to attending athletic events. The next home football game is Sept. 15^th and Sims said they'll be stepping up security.

 

              

 

 

Sims thanked the sheriff's office and other law enforcement for their quick response to the threat.

 

Grady County Consumer Spending Surges

Consumer spending at Grady County retail outlets hit its highest level in more than two years this past May. It's estimated that more than $10 million in taxable goods and services were purchased that month. That's the highest level since before 2021. Consumer spending was up 14 percent from April and up 9.7 percent from May of last year. We estimate consumer spending when we see the sales tax revenues for Grady County. The most recent report from the Grady County Clerk's office shows the county received $780,000 as a result of the county's 3/4ths of a penny sales tax. The areas which benefit from the sales tax include the Grady County Fairgrounds which received $260,000; Grady Memorial Hospital received $230,000; the 20 county fire districts shared $130,000 so each one received about $6,500; the seven senior nutrition centers also shared $130,000 and each one received $18,000; Tuttle EMS collected $24,000; and Rush Springs EMS received $6,000.

 

Warrant Issued for Tuttle Arson, Burglary Suspect

Grady County authorities are looking for a woman suspected of arson. A warrant for the arrest of 62-year old Kathleen Annette Raiden of Tuttle was issued yesterday. On-line court records indicate she's facing three felony charges which include 4th degree arson, second degree burglary, and malicious injury to property. KSWO-TV cites documents which allege Raiden broke into a Tuttle home back in May and caused about $4,000 in damage. She's also accused of pouring paint thinner around the home and turning on a gas stove in an attempt to start a fire.

 

Cement to Hold Jesse James Festival

The legendary tales of Jesse James will come back to life in Cement next week for the annual Jesse James Festival. The town has a Jesse James Museum and Visitors Center which is open year-round. The Festival is set for Saturday, Sept. 9th and will include a wild west show, live music, food trucks, and a car show. Also, the Cement Volunteer Fire Department will hold a benefit hamburger and hot dog dinner that day at the fire station and will accept donations.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $80.10 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $84.42.

Natural gas is $2.58 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,951 and silver is $24.71.

 

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Monday, Aug. 28th

 

Biker Hospitalized After Crash

The Oklahoma Highway Patrol is still investigating a crash that sent a motorcycle rider to the hospital. 31-year old Michael Bailey of Marlow was last in stable condition in an Oklahoma City hospital. The accident happened just before 4 o'clock (Sunday) afternoon five miles east of Duncan. The trooper investigating the accident said it wasn't immediately clear what might of caused Bailey to crash. The trooper also said Bailey was not wearing a helmet.

 

Chix Soup Kitchen Looks to Purchase Rented Building

Officials with the Chickasha Soup Kitchen are undergoing a campaign to purchase the building the group is currently leasing. The soup kitchen, which started as a peanut butter and jelly sandwich ministry out of a cooler at First Christian Church, is now serving 200 or more people a day five days a week at a rented building at 6th and Pennsylvania Ave. The building has a fully-equipped kitchen with a large dining hall and bathrooms which are accessible for the disabled. The group is governed by a 10-member board which raises about $75,000 a year which helps pay for the lease, utilities, equipment, and food. Officials say making the current facility a permanent location would provide stability for clients and volunteers. The kitchen is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization and all contributions are tax deductible. For information reach out to the soup kitchen by calling 405-999-5761.

 

Chix Library Touts Success of  Dolly Parton Book Program

More than 1,000 free books have been mailed to children in the Grady County area over the last year. The books are part of the Dolly Parton Imagination Library program. While the program has been around for nearly 30 years the Chickasha Library joined the program about a year ago. Jana Dabney is with the Friends of the Chickasha Library.

 

              

 

 

Parents can visit the Chickasha library to sign up their children and again there is no cost to families. The state department of libraries provides some of the funding to be part of the program and Dabney says the Friends of the Library kicks in about $1,000 a year.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $79.83 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $84.48.

Natural gas is $2.54 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,941 and silver is $24.57.