Tuesday, Nov. 21st

 

Chix City Council Meeting Canceled

Last night's regularly scheduled Chickasha City Council meeting was canceled because not enough council members were present. Four of nine councilors were absent leaving only five members to conduct business including Mayor Chris Mosley. However the mayor does not count when it comes to having a quorum for the meeting. Mosley initially postponed the meeting and moved on to the agendas for two other arms of city government - The Chickasha Municipal Authority and the Chickasha Airport Authority - where the mayor does count toward the minimum five members needed for a quorum. Both of those meetings were over with quickly as there were only a few routine items on what's called a consent docket where all items can be approved with a single vote. Mosley anticipated that one of the four absentee council members would soon arrive but after about a 15-minute wait the meeting was canceled. Council representatives missing were Rick Croslin, Oscar Nelson, Brian Gerdes, and Kelly Boyd. The next regular city council meeting is scheduled for Monday, Dec. 4^th.

Downtown lamp shade controversy returns

A number of people attending had signed up to discuss issues during the citizen's communications portion of the meeting. Some were expected to talk about the weekend social media post regarding a lamp shade placed on a lamp post near the Leg Lamp in downtown area. Developer Chet Hitt had placed a lamp shade on a post in front of the Savoy 1902 Hotel he is remodeling. The lamp shade was similar to the one that is on the leg lamp, but without the fringe. In a Facebook video, Hitt said some Grinches didn't like the lamp shade and - after meeting with city leaders - he decided to take it down.

Lamp shade may violate copyright laws

About this time last year, there was controversy about replacing angels on the downtown lamp posts with lamp shades. At that time, the city attorney advised the council to not use the lamp shades as it might be a copyright infringement with the movie ‘A Christmas Story’. Hitt's post has had more than 12,000 views and an overwhelming majority support the lamp shade. Now, Hitt has posted a new Facebook video offering commemorative ‘The Grinch Who Stole Chickasha's Lamp Shade’ t-shirts for sale with proceeds going to the Salvation Army.

 

Grady County Jail to get Inmates from Comanche County

The Grady County Jail will be getting a few extra inmates from a neighboring county. Comanche County Commissioners say there is an overflow of inmates at their jail in Lawton and they have reached out to both Grady and Okmulgee counties to help out. Grady County could be getting as many as 15 prisoners and Okmulgee County as many as 20 if room is available. The agreements could last up to a year.

 

Non-Working Tag Light Leads to Drug Arrest

A woman is jailed on a $100,000 bond for having numerous drugs in her possession after she was pulled over on a traffic stop. 49-year old Kelli Little of Duncan was stopped by a Grady County deputy last Friday because the tag light on her vehicle was out. The deputy also was informed that her driver’s license had been revoked. Authorities found Fentanyl, methamphetamine and drug items in the vehicle. Little has been formally charged with a felony for aggravated drug trafficking and several misdemeanors. Her next court appearance is scheduled for Dec. 6^th.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $77.60 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $82.32.

Natural gas is $2.88 per million BTUs.

Gold is $2,009 and silver is $23.95.

 

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Monday, Nov. 20th

 

Driver Critical After Pickup Crashes into a Ravine

A driver is battling life-threatening injuries after his pickup crashed on the H.E. Bailey Turnpike. 61-year old David Moore of Newalla suffered numerous injuries in the accident which occurred about six miles southwest of Chickasha about 7 a.m. Sunday. The highway patrol reports that Moore was eastbound on the turnpike near mile marker 74 when the pickup ran off the highway, went airborne for nearly 150 feet, then flipped end-over-end 1 1/2 times and landed upside-down in a ravine. Moore was pinned in the wreckage for an unknown amount of time before the Chickasha Fire Department was able to get him out using the Jaws of Life. The accident remains under investigation.

 

Chix City Council to Consider Cost Overruns on Project

It's going to cost the City of Chickasha another $56,000 to pay for a water line project. The city council tonight will consider the adjustment after the contractor said there had been some increases in costs since the project was awarded this past summer. The project is part of a Community Development Block Grant received for improvements in the 300 block of Missouri Ave.; on Virginia Ave. from Shepherd Street to Henderson Street; and on Henderson Street for a half-block from Virginia Ave. north.

Carpet for City Hall to be discussed

The council is also expected to approve spending nearly $14,000 to install new carpet in city hall. The city has been negotiating with OK Carpet of Chickasha for the work since no bids were received. The carpet will replace flooring that was damaged in the 2020 ice storm.

EDC Audits submitted

Under consent docket items on the agenda for tonight's meeting the council is asked to acknowledge the receipt of the audits of the Economic Development Council for the fiscal years ending in June of 2022 and June of 2023. The council meets at 6:30 tonight at City Hall.

 

Chix Community Thanksgiving Dinner is Thursday

Chickasha's annual community Thanksgiving Dinner will be held this Thursday, Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 23rd. A number of churches and organizations have hosted the event for many years. The meal will be held at the Chickasha Soup Kitchen at 6th and Pennsylvania Ave. from 11:00 a.m. to noon and will have all the traditional menu items. Meals will be delivered to homebound residents. Individuals who would like meals delivered are asked to call 405-222-5433 by the end of the day tomorrow. The meal is free but donations are welcome.

 

'Golden Ticket' Blood Drive Today

KOOL/RANCH radio stations, the YMCA, and the Oklahoma Blood Institute (OBI) are again joining efforts for a community blood drive today. The OBI Bloodmobile will be in the YMCA parking lot at 7^th and Chickasha Ave. from 12:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Walk-ins are welcome. Donors at all  OBI blood drives taking place in the region today receive a chocolate bar - one of which has a golden ticket - which can be redeemed for $250 Visa Gift Card. If you can't donate today find an upcoming blood drive in your area by visiting the blood institute's website: www.obi.org

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $75.89 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $80.61.

Natural gas is $2.96 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,976 and silver is $23.88.

 

Obituary

Buren Thompson

Funeral service for Buren Thompson, 95, of Cement will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday Nov. 21st at the Pentecostal Holiness Church in Cement. He worked in the commercial trades sector and helped to build Grady Memorial Hospital. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.

Saturday, Nov. 18th

 

Report: Extreme Winter Weather 'Could' Cause Problems with Power Grid

Lengthy periods of sub-freezing temperatures in the Sooner State this winter could lead to rolling blackouts. That's according to a new report from the North American Electric Reliability Corporation. The non-profit group takes a look at power reliability in the U.S. and develops standards for a secure supply of power. Oklahoma is part of the multi-state Southwest Power Pool which serves a number states from Texas to Montana. The report says the power pool reserves are lower this year than last, and that planned rolling blackouts may be necessary should extreme winter weather strike. The Oklahoman reports that PSO and OG&E are preparing for the possibility of extreme weather. PSO officials said they are focused on meeting the needs of their customers in all types of weather. Spokesman Wayne Green said ahead of every winter the utility reviews equipment and procedures and makes investments when necessary. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's forecast for the Midwest shows equal chances of above or below normal precipitation levels. The National Weather Service is predicting near normal temperatures for the winter.

 

Ag Groups Satisfied with Farm Bill Extension

Agriculture groups overall are pleased with the extension of the 2018 Farm Bill approved by Congress this week. The Farm Bill expired at the end of September but the House and Senate have both approved extending the bill through September of next year. The bill now goes to President Biden for his expected approval. The American Farm Bureau said it was grateful for the extension which will avoid serious program disruptions. The National Cattlemen's Beef Association said it is thankful for extending programs which farmers and ranchers depend on. About 75 percent of the current farm bill’s funding goes toward food assistance programs so the extension means that SNAP benefits are safe for now. Nine percent covers crop insurance, 7 percent covers commodities, and another 7 percent is for conservation

 

Talk Show Topic

Cathy Nestell with the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma is this week's guest on the KOOL Konversation. Find a podcast of the program under the Community tab on this website.

 

Obituary

Buren Thompson

Funeral service for Buren Thompson, 95, of Cement will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 21st at the Pentecostal Holiness Church in Cement.  He worked in the commercial trade sector and helped to build Grady Memorial Hospital. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.

 

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Friday, Nov. 17th

 

Festival of Light Opens This Weekend

The switch flips this weekend for the 31st edition of Chickasha's Festival of Light. It's become one of the state's largest displays of Christmas lights and has received a lot of national and international attention. An estimated 4 million lights will twinkle at Shannon Springs Park this year. Festival of Light Director Logan Lassley said there will be a lot of new activities north of the park dam this year.

 

              

 

 

The festival features a souvenir and gift shop with local vendors.

 

              

 

 

There will be a soft-opening at the park tonight which will be a walk-through only event although bicycles are welcome. The park will open to drive-through traffic tomorrow night. The festival opens at 6 p.m. each night and will run through New Year's Eve. By the way, the festival is among the nominees by USA Today for favorite light display in the country.

 

Accessory to Murder Suspect Jailed on $500,000 Bond

A six-figure bond has been set for one of the two suspects accused in the deaths of a Chickasha woman and her unborn baby. Katrina Johnson had her initial appearance in Grady County District Court on a charge of accessory to murder. A judge set her bond at $500,000. Katrina Johnson and her husband Kenneth Johnson are both implicated in the deaths of Ashley Cannon and her unborn baby. Cannon was eight-month’s pregnant when she was killed in her Chickasha apartment three years ago. A preliminary hearing has been set for Dec. 6th.

 

Marlow Suspect Accused of Lewd Acts with a Child

A Marlow man is accused of lewd acts with a child in Grady County. 68-year old David Norris Crichton is facing up to 20 years in prison if he's convicted. KSWO-TV cites court documents which indicate the young victim recently contacted authorities and told them the incident happened about four years ago. Crichton's bond was set at $100,000. A preliminary hearing conference has been scheduled for next month.

 

ALS Walk Draws Big Turnout to Support Local Family

There was a big turnout for last weekend's benefit walk to help a Chickasha family battling Lou Gehrig's Disease. The walk was organized by individuals who have lost their loved ones to the illness known as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Kenny Howell, whose wife Marla died from ALS two years ago, estimated as many as 250 people took part. Howell was thankful for all the work that was done to put together the walk in such a short amount of time.

 

             

 

 

The funds will go to the family of Merita and Dennis Beaty as Dennis was recently stricken with the disease for which there is no cure.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $72.90 per barrel.

London-based Brent is $77.42.

Natural gas is $3.06 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,993 and silver is $24.14.

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Thursday, Nov. 16th

 

Driver Arrested 2nd Time for Eluding

A driver who reportedly led Anadarko police on a pursuit through a school zone this week had pleaded guilty to a previous charge of attempting to elude. Christopher Vasquez, 25, of Anadarko was arrested Monday. KSWO-TV cites Caddo County court documents indicating that officers lost sight of Vasquez during the chase - but he was eventually found and taken into custody.  Vasquez has been charged with endangering others while attempting to elude, obstruction, driving without a license, and possession of drug items in connection with this week's arrest. His bond was set at $20,000. Vazquez has a long criminal history which includes pleading guilty to a previous charge of attempting to elude in 2018 and burglary in 2017.

 

Nation's Top Dogs Being Shown at Grady County Fairgrounds

Hundreds of the top dog breeds in the country will be in Chickasha over the next few days. It's the Sooner Circuit of Dog Shows. The Town and Country Kennel Club and the Canadian Valley Kennel Club team up every year to hold the event at the Grady County Fairgrounds. It's four days of competition with exhibitors working to earn their animals enough points to qualify for national dog shows next spring. The shows run today through Sunday. Admission is free all weekend.

OHCE Celebration of Crafts Show also this weekend

Also this weekend at the fairgrounds is the Grady County OHCE annual Celebration of Crafts Show. More than 40 vendors will have a lot of gift items available including holiday foods. The Celebration of Crafts is Friday and Saturday in the north exhibit building at the fairgrounds.

 

PSO Joins Effort to Warn of Utility Scams

Public Service Company of Oklahoma (PSO) joined a number of other utilities across the country and Canada to warn customers of utility scams. Yesterday was Utility Scam Awareness Day. PSO says customers across the state have reported scams or attempted scams more than 250 times so far in 2023. The day is an annual observance of Utilities United Against Scams. The theme this year was Screen the Search which reflects the increase in scams using digital methods. Signs of scams include demands for immediate payment, threats to disconnect service immediately, and requests for a specific payment such as a pre-paid debit card. Officials say if you are suspicious of a caller claiming to be from PSO to hang up and call 1-833-PSO-POWR.

 

The Great American Smokeout is Underway

Many smokers and tobacco users who have been trying to quit are urged to try again today during the Great American Smokeout. It's always held the Thursday before Thanksgiving and encourages tobacco users to quit for at least one day. The Oklahoma Tobacco Helpline offers some tips which include making small changes in your routines by avoiding situations that make you want to smoke. Keep mints and gum handy and reach for those items instead of a cigarette. If you normally smoke after you eat, take a short walk instead. Try hanging out at places where smoking isn't allowed, and calculate the money you'll save by not smoking. With cigarettes now right around $10 a pack you could save $70 a week if you smoke a pack a day. That's about $300 per month and more than $3,500 a year! For other information, call 1-800-QUIT-NOW or go on-line to www.okhelpline.com

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $76.66 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $81.18.

Natural gas is $3.19 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,968 and silver is $23.76.

 

Obituary

Melissa Zimmer

Funeral service for Melissa Zimmer, 46, of Chickasha will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 18th at Ferguson Funeral Home. She worked with the Chickasha Opportunity Workshop.

 

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Wednesday, Nov. 15th

 

Minco Voters Say 'No' to School Bond Proposal

Minco school district voters turned down that multi-million dollar proposal to build a new football field and locker rooms in yesterday's special school bond election. Nearly two out of every three voters said 'no' to the more than $22 million proposal. Nearly 63 percent of those who cast ballots opposed the plan. 342 votes were cast against and 202 for the bond issue. The proposal was to build a new football field with artificial turf and an eight-lane track around it, plus some locker rooms for the football and track teams. Minco School Superintendent Kevin Sims posted a message on Facebook last night saying school officials will re-group after the holidays and start working on a better plan.

 

Friend School Voters Approve Special Bond Issue

Friend school district voters gave resounding support to a $400,000 bond issue in yesterday’s election. More than four out of every five voters approved the proposal which will allow the district to install four heating and air systems in school buildings and purchase some playground equipment. The measure passed with more than 85 percent of the vote, 93-15.

 

New Assistant Chief Named for Chix Police Department

The Chickasha Police Department has a new assistant police chief. Officials have announced that Daimon Alexander - who has been serving as the police chief in Binger - will take the post. Alexander has spent more than 30 years in law enforcement. He was with the Oklahoma City Police Department for more than 25 years working his way from patrolman to field training officer and becoming a lieutenant to work crime scenes and domestic violence cases. He was promoted to captain and returned to the patrol division. He retired from OKC in 2016 then joined the Chickasaw Nation Lighthorse patrol serving as the tactical team commander. He's spent the last couple of years at Binger. He holds a Master of Arts degree in criminal justice from the University of Central Oklahoma, a Bachelor's degree from OSU, and has had training at the FBI Executive Leadership Institute. He and his wife Joey have three children.

 

Lindsay School Band Director to be in Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade

The band director at Lindsay High School has been selected to take part in Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. Shelby Lam will be the only Oklahoman performing with the Band Directors Marching Band. The group will feature more than 400 band directors nationwide. Lam is a 2011 graduate of Marlow High School and a 2015 grad of Southwestern Oklahoma State. She will play the piccolo as the band will play “76 Trombones”, “The Thunderer”, and “The Stars and Stripes Forever” along the 2 ½ mile parade route. In addition to being in the parade the group will also play at next Monday's wreath-laying ceremony at the 9/11 Memorial in New York City. The band will play “Star Spangled Banner”, “Amazing Grace”, and “Taps”.

 

State National Guard Troops Get Visit from Oklahoma Officials

Oklahoma National Guard troops serving in South Africa got a recent visit from several Oklahoma officials. Gov. Kevin Stitt, U.S. Senator James Lankford, and U.S. Congressman Markwayne Mullin spent some time with guard members in the Horn of Africa where the soldiers serving as part of Task Force Tomahawk. Mullin said seeing members of the National Guard in action was inspiring and humbling. He said they are oceans away from their families but their mission is a vital national task of security and they are confronting the growing terrorist threat in the region. The troops are expected to return to Oklahoma in about three months.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $78.26 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $82.47.

Natural gas is $3.11 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,975 and silver is $23.44.

 

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Tuesday, Nov. 14th

 

Man Faces Manslaughter Charge After Fatal Crash

A KOOL/RANCH News update today about the man arrested in connection with that deadly crash on the H.E. Bailey Turnpike early Saturday morning. A Lawton man, 35-year old Marshall James Point, was initially arrested on a negligent homicide complaint. Grady County prosecutors have charged him with felony first degree manslaughter. Point is also charged with misdemeanors for driving under the influence of drugs and inattentive driving. A judge set Point's bond at $500,000. A probable cause affidavit filed by State Trooper Bryce Stout indicates that Point rear-ended a vehicle, causing it to run off the interstate and roll several times. 61-year old Hildreth Overcash of Oklahoma City was killed in the crash. Stout said in his affidavit that Point admitted eating some gummies that are like magic mushrooms a couple of days before the accident occurred. Blood was drawn to get his blood-alcohol content level but the results weren't immediately available.  Point is to be back in court Dec. 6th for a preliminary hearing conference.

 

Double Homicide Suspect Booked into the Grady County Jail

A suspect charged with aiding in the deaths of a Chickasha woman and her unborn baby was booked into the Grady County Jail yesterday. 42-year old Katrina Johnson was transferred in from the Oklahoma County Jail after she was arrested by a fugitive task force last week. She could have her initial appearance on the charge in front of a Grady County judge as early as today. County prosecutors filed charges again Katrina and her husband Kenneth last week in connection with the 2020 deaths of Ashley Cannon and her unborn child. Katrina Johnson is charged with being an accessory to murder. Kenneth Johnson is charged with murder and is serving time in the Lawton Correctional Facility on an unrelated charge.

 

Jail Inmate Uses Broom to Break Cell Window

A Grady County jail inmate is in more trouble. 36-year old Matthew Dan Lane of Chickasha has been charged with breaking a window in the day room of the jail's third-floor pod. A probable cause affidavit indicates the incident occurred this past May when Lane got a broom and started hitting a cell door until the window broke. He's been charged with a felony for injuring a public building and his bond was set at $10,000. Lane was serving an 8-year prison term after pleading guilty in connection with a 2021 arrest for having drugs with intent to distribute.

 

Minco, Friend School District Voters Cast Ballots Today

Voters in a couple of Grady County school districts go to the polls to decide special bond elections today. Voters in the Minco School District will decide a more than $22 million bond issue to build a new football field with artificial turf and eight-lane track, as well as new loccer rooms for the football and track teams. Voters in the Friend School District will consider a $400,000 bond issue to purchase and install heating and air systems on several buildings and to purchase some new playground equipment. Precincts are open until 7 o'clock tonight.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $78.26 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $82.52.

Natural gas is $3.20 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,950 and silver is $22.46.

 

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Monday, November 13th

 

Suspect Arrested In Connection with Deadly Crash

One person was arrested in connection with a deadly weekend crash in Grady County. 35-year old Marshall James Point of Lawton was taken into custody on complaints of negligent homicide and distracted driving. The accident happened about 4:30 a.m. Saturday near mile marker 72 about eight miles southwest of Chickasha. 61-year old Hildreth Overcash of Oklahoma City died as a result of injuries she sustained in the crash. A passenger in her vehicle, 66-year old Janice Miller also of Oklahoma City, was taken to an Oklahoma City hospital where she was being treated for head and trunk internal injuries. No details of the crash have been released.

 

Filming to Resume in Chix; Streets to be Closed

With the Screen Actors Guild strike now over film crews have returned to Chickasha to finish their work on the Twisters movie. The City of Chickasha is closing some streets in the area of 17th and Minnesota and 17th and Iowa today to allow the crews to wrap up their production. The work is expected to take about three weeks. Officials ask that residents not bother the crew nor the actors while they are on the set.

 

Chix' In-Town Limb Drop-off Site to Close for the Season

The City of Chickasha will soon close its in-town limb drop-off location for the season. Residents who have limbs and brush to get rid of will have just one more day to take the debris to the Public Works Headquarters which is on Genevieve Street north of the animal shelter. The last day will be this Saturday, Nov. 18th from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. There is a fee to drop off the brush and the fee will be added to the users’ next utility bills. Limbs and brush can still be taken to the Alex landfill over the next few months. The in-town drop-off site will re-open next spring.

 

Salvation Army Begins Christmas Campaigns

The Salvation Army which serves Grady and Caddo Counties has begun its annual Red Kettle bell-ringing campaign for the upcoming holiday season. Officials have a goal of raising $65,000 which will be used throughout the 2024 calendar year to help families get through hard times. Lt. Crystal McFarland said any groups or individuals who would like to volunteer to be part of the bell ringing campaign can go to the website: www.registertoring.com and pick the days and times they can help out. McFarland also said The Salvation Army's Angel Tree campaign is also underway. There are Christmas trees at the Wal-Mart stores in Chickasha and Anadarko and on them are Angel cards which have a list of items the children have asked for. McFarland said there are nearly 400 of these 'Angels' this year.

 

              

 

That is an increase of nearly 100 children from last year.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $77.17 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $81.43.

Natural gas is $3.03 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,943 and silver is $22.17.

 

Obituaries

Mark Stallbaumer

A funeral mass for Mark Stallbaumer, 82, of Chickasha will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 16th at Holy Name Catholic Church. He was a Boy Scout and Cub Scout leader, and a Paul Harris Fellow with the Rotary Club. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.

Orlin Akins

Funeral service for Orlin Akins, 86, of Chickasha will be held at 2:00 p.m. Thursday Nov. 16th at Ferguson Funeral Home. She and her husband raised cattle and she was active with Southern Oaks Church of Christ.

Bob ‘Bobby Joe’ Wenninger

A graveside service for Bobby Joe Wenninger, 90, of Cordell will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, Nov. 17th at Fairlawn Cemetery in Chickasha. He worked in the oilfield. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.

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Saturday, Nov. 11th

 

Tom Cole Critical of Sell-off of U.S. Strategic Petroleum Reserves

4th District Oklahoma Congressman Tom Cole (R-Moore) says the Biden Administration's selling off much of the nation's Strategic Petroleum Reserves has significantly reduced energy production in the U.S. In his recent media column Cole says the administration sold off more than 40 percent of the reserves at a time when China and Iran are increasing their oil production. Cole says America's emergency oil supplies are at their lowest levels in 40 years. And with war breaking out in the Middle East he said that presents a unique threat to not only the U.S. but also allies like Israel and others around the world. Cole recalled how another Middle East war in the 1970s led to an embargo of oil coming to the U.S. from Arab members of OPEC. Cole said the decision to sell the reserves was done for political expedience rather than meaningful effect and it did not have any effect on energy prices.

 

Walk to Benefit Local Residents Battling Lou Gehrig's Disease

Several Chickasha families who have lost loved ones to Lou Gehrig's Disease or who are currently fighting the illness have united to raise awareness of the affliction. Lou Gehrig's Disease is the common name for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). It's a progressive degeneration of nerve cells in the spinal cord and brain that send signals to muscles throughout the body, eventually rendering them useless but it does not affect the brain. There is no cure and victims can suffer for years. One of the most notable persons to suffer from ALS was Dr. Stephen Hawking, who lived more than 50 years before his death in 2018 at the age of 76. Kenny Howell and Dwight Sehon are among those who have formed a local Walk for the Cure this weekend. The group has sold more than 150 t-shirts to raise funds which will help Merita and Dennis Beatty as Dennis is now fighting a battle with ALS. The fundraiser is tomorrow at 2 o'clock starting at the Century 21/Mosley Insurance office at 428 West Grand Avenue and there are a one mile, two mile, and three-mile walks mapped out. Howell says they are not yet a 501 (c) 3 non-profit group but they will begin work on that after the first of the year. You can follow the group on Facebook - ALS: Walk for the Cure.

 

Veterans Day Ceremonies Set 

Today is Veterans Day, a national holiday set aside to honor men and women serving in the armed forces and paying tribute to those who lost their lives while serving in the military. The day was first noted at the end of World War I as Armistice Day which went into effect in the 11th hour, of the 11th day, of the 11th month in 1918. Veterans Day ceremonies are being held nationwide. The Oklahoma Veterans Recognition Committee held a program at the Grady County Veteran's Memorial in Chickasha's Shannon Springs Park and the City of Blanchard held a veterans day parade.

 

Obituary

Marilyn Johnson

Funeral service for Marilyn Johnson, 97, of Lawton will be at held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, Nov. 13^th at McRay Funeral Home. She and her husband owned and operated an interior decorating shop in Lawton and a nursing home in Temple.

 

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Friday, Nov. 10th

 

Charges Filed in Connection with Deaths of Mom, Unborn Child

It was nearly three years ago that two small children found their mother's lifeless body in the family's Chickasha apartment. The body of 37-year old Ashley Cannon was found Nov. 30th of 2020. Her throat had been cut. Ashley's unborn child that was due within a few weeks also died. This week, Grady County prosecutors filed two murder charges against a Lawton couple in connection with the deaths. 37-year old Kenneth Johnson was charged with two counts of first-degree murder. His wife, 39-year old Katrina Johnson, was charged with accessory to murder. District Attorney Jason Hicks credits the persistence of all the agencies involved with the investigation.

 

              

 

 

Kenneth Johnson was originally a person of interest in connection with the deaths but was not arrested after telling investigators he had an alibi. The OSBI was called in to help out and about three months ago turned evidence over to Hicks’ office for review. Kenneth Johnson is currently behind bars in the Lawton Correctional Facility serving time on unrelated charges.  Katrina Johnston was arrested in Oklahoma City by a fugitive task force. Hicks said he will pursue the death penalty in both cases.

 

Caddo County Man Pleads Guilty to Child Sex Crimes

A Cyril man pleads guilty to more than a dozen felony counts of child rape and sexual assault. 33-year old Jeffery Reginald Moyer waived his right to a jury trial and pleaded guilty in Caddo County District Court this week. Caddo County authorities arrested Moyer in August of last year. He was accused of raping and molesting a child for six years starting when the child was only five years old. District Judge Kory Kirkland sentenced Moyer to 25 years in prison to be followed by 25 years’ probation.

 

Anadarko's City Manager to Return to Lawton

Anadarko's city manager is leaving. Richard Rogalski was named executive director of the Lawton Economic Development Authority yesterday (LEDA). Rogalski spent about a year and half as city manager. He is returning to Lawton where he previously worked in economic development and also served as deputy city manager until retiring in the spring of 2022. The LEDA is a division of the City of Lawton, and Rogalski will also work with the Lawton Economic Development Corporation. The two entities will share in the payment of his $140,000 annual salary. The Lawton Constitution reports that Rogalski will remain in Anadarko for 30 days however he will be available to complete some of the projects he started.

 

Veterans Day Ceremonies Set

Tomorrow is Veterans Day. There will be numerous programs around the area, the state, and the nation to honor the men and women who gave their lives to protect America's freedoms - and also those who are currently serving or have served in the armed forces. Among the ceremonies will be one at the Grady County Veterans Memorial in Chickasha’s Shannon Springs Park. The Oklahoma Veterans Recognition Committee will host the program at 11:00 a.m. Guest speaker is Grady County Sheriff Gary Boggess. Following the program veterans and their guests will be served lunch at the Chickasha Elks Lodge. Blanchard will have a Veterans Day program starting at 9:30 a.m. downtown with music from the Andrews Sisters which will be followed by a parade at 10:30 a.m.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $75.74 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $80.01.

Natural gas is $3.04 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,957 and silver is $22.61.

 

Obituary

Lola ‘Aileene’ McGill

A private family graveside service will be held at a later date for Aileene McGill, 86, of Chickasha. She and her husband Charley were long-time Realtors. Viewing will be through Sunday, Nov. 12^th at Sevier Funeral Home.

 

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Thursday, Nov. 9th

 

Minco Voters to Decide School Bond Proposal

There have been a lot of improvements made in the Minco school district in recent years. School officials are hoping to use that momentum to make even more upgrades should voters approve a special bond election next week. Voters will decide a more than $22 million bond issue. Superintendent Kevin Sims says the bonds will be used to build a new football complex with an eight-lane track and a new fieldhouse for the football and track programs.

 

              

 

 

School officials have held a number of community meetings in recent weeks to discuss the proposal. It is a 16-year bond proposal and Sims said property taxes would increase about 4 percent should it pass. The issue will be decided next Tuesday, Nov. 14th. Voters can cast ballots early as in-person, absentee voting can be done at the Grady County Election Board in Chickasha today and tomorrow.

 

Alpaca Blast-Off Returns to Grady County Fairgrounds

One of the most unique events held at the Grady County Fairgrounds each year takes place this weekend. Alpaca producers from several states will take part in what's called the Alpaca Blast-Off which is hosted by Alpacas of Oklahoma. President Debbie Ashley discusses some of the events that will take place.

 

               

 

 

There is also a youth division where the animals maneuver around an obstacle course, and there's also a costume contest where the kids and their alpacas are dressed up. Nearly 60 alpaca producers are bringing about 200 animals to the event. It will run Saturday and Sunday starting at 9:00 a.m. both days and there's no cost for those who would like to watch the events.

 

Darko Library Hosts Program for Dementia Patient Caregivers

Caring for patients who have dementia can be emotionally and physically challenging. The Anadarko Community Library will host a program to offer support and provide resources and guidance to caregivers. The library and the Wichita and Affiliated Tribes will host Dr. Thomas Teasdale who is one of the co-principal investigators with the Oklahoma Dementia Care Network. He'll discuss his insights on dementia care and the latest advances in the field. The Wichita and Affiliated Tribes will demonstrate the impact that music has on memory and discuss music’s potential as a source of solace and connection for dementia patients. It's a free, hour-long program at the Anadarko Library next Tuesday, Nov. 14th beginning at 5:30 p.m. The program is supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services through the Library Services and Technology Grant and the state Department of Libraries.

 

'Christmas Town' Prepares for Season

The City of Chickasha is preparing to return to its Christmas Town designation. The Festival of Light opens Nov. 18th and crews have been working the last couple of days erecting the large downtown Christmas tree downtown which this year is at the corner of 6^th and Chickasha Avenue. Plus the Chamber of Commerce is preparing for the lighted Christmas parade the night of Dec. 2^nd. Another holiday tradition is The Christmas Tour of Homes. Locations this year are the home of Matt and Christina Wray; the home of Robert and Stacy Arthur; St. Luke's Church; the USAO president's house; and the Resurrection House and Life Skills Institute. The Tour of Homes will be from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 2nd. Tickets are $15 with all proceeds benefitting the Resurrection House. Ticket outlets include Jay's Jewelry; the Okie Mountain Trading Company; First National Bank; the Mosley Insurance Agency; Kendall's Flowers; Liberty National Bank; Creme de la Creme; Hairy's Hair Salon; and Casbah Hair Salon.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $75.33 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $79.55.

Natural gas is $3.11 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,951 and silver is $22.56.

 

Obituary

Rita Hughes

A graveside service for Rita Hughes, 76, of Edmond and formerly of Chickasha will be held at 2:00 p.m. Monday, Nov. 13^th in the Alex Cemetery. She was a loan officer at what was once Superior Bank which is now Arvest Bank. Arrangements are with McRay Funeral Home.

 

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Wednesday, Nov. 8th

 

Chix Officials May Consider Closing Public Pool

The City of Chickasha has spent a lot of money making repairs to the municipal swimming pool at Shannon Springs Park over the last few years. Is it time to think about permanently closing it? The city recently commissioned a study of the pool and it showed there are several problems which will need to be dealt if the pool is to open next summer. City Manager Keith Johnson told the city council this week officials will need to take a hard look at the issues and decide what to do.

 

              

 

The pool is about 40-years old. Johnson said details of the study will be presented to the city council in a future meeting.

 

Chix Public School Foundation Issues Grants

Chickasha public school students will benefit from thousands of dollars in grants that were recently awarded by the Chickasha Public School Foundation. The Foundation was able to fund 38 of the 43 requests, and awarded $47,000 in grants out the $60,000 in total grants sought. Grant totals were nearly $16,000 at the high school; nearly $15,000 at Grand Elementary; more than $7,000 at the Middle School; Nearly $3,400 at Lincoln School; and nearly $2,200 at the Bill Wallace Early Childhood Center. The band program which impacts three schools received a grant of nearly $3,100. Foundation director Gab Shepard said the foundation has awarded more than $1.1 million in grants in the 37-year history of the organization.

 

Chix Schools JOM Marks Native American Heritage Month

November is Native American Heritage Month which is held to celebrate and commemorate the rich ancestry and traditions of Native Americans. There is a program in some Oklahoma public schools called the Johnson O'Malley program which is commonly called JOM. Funding is made possible by the Choctaw Nation though it is for students or parents who are members of any federally-recognized tribes. The Chickasha schools JOM program will hold at Indian Taco fundraiser today with the help of the Masonic Lodge. It will be from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Masonic Lodge at 112 ½ S. 6^th.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $77.37 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $81.61.

Natural gas is $3.14 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,969 and silver is $22.42.

 

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Tuesday, November 7th

 

Operation Greenlight Underway

A week-long national program to honor and support military veterans is getting its first recognition in Grady County. It's called Operation Greenlight. A formal ceremony was held on the steps of the Grady County Courthouse yesterday. In addition to honoring veterans the campaign is also to raise awareness of the challenges that some veterans face, especially those who have been in combat. Grady County Sheriff Gary Boggess said not all veterans received the respect they deserved when they came home, and tells the meaning of the green light.

 

              

 

 

Another speaker was Tommy Howell with the Disabled American Veterans. He said that every 22 seconds a military veteran dies from suicide. He encouraged veterans and those who know a veteran who may need help to reach out for assistance through the DAV, American Legion, or Veterans of Foreign Wars groups. The Grady County Courthouse is being illuminated at night with green lights in support of the program this week. The City of Chickasha is also supporting Operation Greenlight as Chickasha Mayor Chris Mosley issued a proclamation designating this week as Operation Greenlight week during last night’s city council meeting.

 

Chix Man Says City Gov't Not Doing Enough for Residents

A Chickasha businessman wants the City of Chickasha to do more for its residents. Charlie Burruss addressed the city council last night saying smaller towns in the region are doing more for their communities.

 

              

 

 

Burruss said it seems citizens concerns aren't being addressed because there is a thick layer of insulation between the citizens and the city's decision makers.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $80.82 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $85.18.

Natural gas is $3.26 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,972 and silver is $22.72.

 

Obituaries

Gary Goforth

A graveside service for Gary Goforth, 54, of Chickasha will be held at 11 o’clock Wednesday, Nov. 8^th at Fairlawn Cemetery. He was the chief engineer for Hampton Inn. Arrangements are with McRay Funeral Home.

Joseph Cocheran

A memorial service for Joseph Cocheran, 75, of Pocasset will be held at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 11th in the Pocasset Cemetery. He was a truck driver and a U.S. Army veteran. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.

 

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Monday, Nov. 6th

 

'Operation Greenlight' for Military Veterans Begins

You may be seeing a lot of green lights glowing on some county and municipal buildings over the next few days. It's called Operation Greenlight which is a national promotion for county and municipal governments to shine green lights in support of veterans and raise awareness of challenges they face. There will be a ceremony on the steps of the Grady County Courthouse this afternoon with Sheriff Gary Boggess serving as the guest speaker. The public is invited to the program which will be from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. The courthouse will be closed during the ceremony. Tonight, the Chickasha City Council is expected to issue a proclamation supporting Operation Greenlight. Businesses and households are also encouraged to participate by shining a single green light throughout the week.

Veterans Day programs will be held Saturday

Veterans Day is this coming Saturday, Nov. 11^th and there will be ceremonies and activities to honor those who served and those who died while serving in the Armed Forces. The Oklahoma Veterans Recognition Committee will hold its annual ceremony at the Grady County Veterans Memorial in Chickasha's Shannon Springs Park. It will get underway at 11 o'clock and Sheriff Boggess will also serve as the guest speaker for that event. The City of Blanchard will have its annual Veterans Day Parade Saturday. The Andrews Sisters will perform at 9:30 a.m. downtown with the parade to start at 10:30.

 

Chix Airport Project Payment to be Discussed

The Chickasha City Council is expected to authorize a more than $250,000 payment for improvements being made at the airport when the panel meets tonight. It's the second payment to Tri-City Seal Company for its work on rehabilitating the runway and taxi-ways.

Central Business District Grants to be considered

The council is also to consider awarding some Central Business District grant re-imbursements to a couple of downtown business owners. A grant of more than $65,000 is being sought by Weston DePriest at 406 Chickasha Avenue for renovation work done for The 5th Street Boutique; and a grant of more than $25,000 is being sought by Alex Warnes with GPP Development at 301 Chickasha Avenue for renovations done for the Wild Ox Axe Throwing venue. Both grants are being recommended for approval by the Chickasha Economic Development Council.

Library's 'Food for Fines' for December expected to be approved

The council is also expected to approve a proposal by the library to again offer a Food for Fines program for the month of December, to allow patrons to donate food in place of paying fines for overdue materials. The food will be donated to local food pantries.

 

Festival of Light to Offer 'Sneak Peek' Before Opening

We're less than two weeks away from the opening of the Festival of Light (FOL). Director Logan Lassley said 4 1/2 million lights will shine in Shannon Springs Park this year. This is the 31st year for the festival and the official opening date is Saturday, Nov. 18th. Lassley said they will have a 'sneak-peek' on Friday, the 17^th however, it won't be for drive-through traffic.

 

              

 

 

The ice skating rink, Ferris wheel, carousel, and carriage rides are all back. The festival will open at 6 p.m. nightly Nov. 18th through Dec. 31st. Shuttles will be available from downtown Chickasha Friday and Saturday nights only beginning Dec. 1st through Dec. 23rd.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $80.51 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $84.89.

Natural gas is $3.52 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,994 and silver is $23.31.

 

Obituary

Karen Sue Jennings

A graveside service for Karen Sue Jennings, 65, of Chickasha will be held at 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 7^th at Rose Hill Cemetery. She worked at Maremont/Gabriel and also was a Sunday school teacher and sang in the choir at Grand Assembly of God Church. Arrangements are with Sevier Funeral Home.

Saturday, Nov. 4th

 

PSO Rate Hike Finally Approved

After months of hearings, reviews, and intense discussion the Oklahoma Corporation Commission has approved a rate increase for Public Service Company of Oklahoma (PSO). In a 2-1 vote, the panel approved a $131 million rate hike Friday. According to the website OK Energy Today, PSO customers are expected to eventually see their rates go down - but not before they increase an average of $5.35 per month. Monthly rates will later drop about $17 for a net savings of about $12 per month which is expected to start in January. Commissioners Todd Hiett and Kim David voted for the plan and Commissioner Bob Anthony voted against it. David called the month's long process a nightmare. Anthony, who had opposed the rate hike from the start, called it a dereliction of duty. The delays were the result of an order proposed by commissioners which underwent three days of review and challenges by an administrative law judge back in May. The $131 million rate hike is less than half of the nearly $295 million rate hike PSO was initially asking for.

 

Wildlife Refuge Offers Fall Foliage Tours

Central Oklahoma is in the midst of its peak of fall colors with tree leaves changing to various shades of orange, red, and purple. The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge will have fall foliage walks later this month. The Friends of the Wichitas will guide participates through select locations to see maple, oak, and sumac trees with their array of colors with the Wichita Mountains serving as a backdrop. Guides will discuss native vegetation and seasonal cycles which provide the scenery. The tours will be at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 18^th and Sat. Nov. 25th. The tours last about three hours. They are free but reservations are required and will be taken on a first-come, first-served basis starting on Monday.

 

'Fall Back' To Central Standard Time Tonight

Oklahoma and much of the country will be returning to standard time this weekend. We'll move clocks back one hour which means many will get one more hour of sleep or one extra hour to enjoy tomorrow. There has been a lot of discussion about keeping daylight savings time permanent. While many states have passed resolutions to support that plan it's up to the politicians in Washington, D.C. to make the final decision. Back in the 1970s, Congress did make daylight savings time permanent, but the decision was reversed in less than a year after the early morning darkness proved dangerous for school children and public sentiment changed. Most digital devices will automatically make the change. If you still have analog clocks you'll have to manually re-set them. The official time change is 2 o'clock tomorrow morning, so it’s best to re-set the time before going to bed tonight.

 

Talk Show Topic

Jeff Sadler with the Oklahoma Water Resource Center at OSU is on our KOOL Konversation program. There is a podcast of the program under the community tab on this website.

 

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Friday, Nov. 3rd

 

Bicyclist Dies After Being Hit by Truck

A Grady County man has died after the electric bicycle he was riding was hit by a pick-up. 37-year old Charles Buck of Bradley was pronounced dead at the scene of the accident which happened before dawn Thursday morning just west of Lindsay. The highway patrol reports that Buck was eastbound on a dark stretch of State Highway 19 just before 6:00 a.m. Thursday when he was struck from behind by a pickup driven by 49-year old Randal Carlisle of Chickasha. Carlisle was not hurt. The highway patrol says the collision is still under investigation.

 

Cement Truck Damaged in Downtown Chix Sinkhole

A cement truck rolled onto its side in downtown Chickasha yesterday when a sink-hole opened underneath it. The truck was delivering some concrete in the alley behind the Chamber of Commerce just after noon. The truck rolled onto its driver's side after falling into the sinkhole. The driver was not injured.  Crews have been doing some work behind the Chickasha Commercial Building which will eventually be a new location for the Grady County Health Department. 

 

'Operation Greenlight' to Honor Military Veterans

Veterans Day ceremonies will be held throughout the country next Saturday, Nov. 11th. There is a new national program to honor veterans the entire week beforehand. It's called Operation Greenlight. Initially developed for county government offices, officials are inviting residents and business to take part by having a green light shining in the window or on the porch. The National Association of County Governments and the National Association of County Veteran Service Officers are urging the more than 3,000 counties parishes, and burroughs throughout the country to take part. The Grady County Courthouse will be among those participating. Grady County Sheriff Gary Boggess who is a military veteran will speak during the program on the steps of the courthouse between 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. Monday. The courthouse will be closed during that time. After the ceremony, the courthouse will have its exterior in green lights throughout the week. Operation Greenlight is not only to show support for veterans but also to raise awareness about the unique challenges they may face.

KCA veterans parade in Apache tomorrow

There will be a Veterans Day Parade in Apache tomorrow. The Kiowa, Comanche, and Apache (KCA) tribes will host the event. It will start about noon at the old Apache High School. Those participating in the parade are asked to arrive between 11:00 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.

 

Chix Community Thanksgiving Dinner Set

Thanksgiving is now less than three weeks away and a long-standing Chickasha tradition will again take place this year. A community Thanksgiving Dinner will be held on Thanksgiving Day which is Thursday, Nov. 23rd. Members of local churches have already started making plans. This year, the dinner will be served at the Chickasha Soup Kitchen at 6th and Pennsylvania Ave. from 11:00 a.m. to noon. Homebound individuals can have meals delivered to them and should contact New Life Christian Church by calling 405-222-5433 by Wednesday, Nov. 22nd. The meal is free however donations are welcome.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $82.46 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $86.85.

Natural gas is $3.47 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,997 and silver is $22.72.

 

Obituary

Casey Downes

A memorial service for Casey Downes, 62, of Cement will be held at a later date. He worked in the oilfield. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.

 

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Thursday, Nov. 2nd

 

Property Tax Statements Should be in the Mail

County treasurers’ offices across the state are beginning to mail out 2023 property tax statements. It happens around the first of November every year. Grady County Treasurer Robin Burton said her office recently mailed out 39,692 statements. That's about 600 more than last year which is an increase of just over 1.5 percent. The total property taxes owed is about $86.4 million. That's $2.8 million more than last year which is an increase of about 3.3 percent. The time-line to pay property taxes varies from county to county. In Grady County they can be paid in full any time before Jan. 15th of 2024. Or, half the total can be paid by January 15^th with the second half due April 15th. For those who have their property taxes included in their monthly mortgage payments - the financial institution will automatically send in a payment.

 

Free Well Water Testing Available in Grady County Next Week

For those of you who have water wells, it’s a good idea to have your water tested from time to time. Free testing will be available in Grady County next week. Representatives from the Oklahoma Water Resources Center at OSU will be in Chickasha to collect samples.  Jeff Sadler is a Water Resources Specialist with OSU Extension. He says they'll be testing for bacteria including e-coli-

 

              

 

 

You'll need to collect about a half-liter of water to be tested. Take samples to the Grady County OSU Extension Office Tuesday, Nov. 7th about 5:30 p.m. There will be a short program that will start about 6:00 p.m. Test results will be sent out in e-mails within a couple of weeks.

 

Soup Kitchen Sets Silent Sale 

We reportedly recently that the board of trustees which runs the Chickasha Soup Kitchen wants to purchase the building it is currently leasing to provide hot meals to the homeless. Currently donors provide about $75,000 per year which pays for utilities, equipment, and food. About 100 people are served each day Monday through Friday. Individuals, churches, and businesses are among the volunteers who donate their time. The soup kitchen will be hosting a Sip N' See Silent Auction to help raise some of the funds needed. It will be held Saturday, Nov. 11th from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Soup Kitchen located at 6th and Pennsylvania Ave. Individuals will also be able to go on-line to bid on items: www.chickashasoupkitchen.org

 

Holiday 'Buy Chickasha' Campaign About to Begin

The Chickasha Chamber of Commerce is about to begin its annual campaign to encourage holiday shopping at local merchants. The annual Buy Chickasha campaign will be getting under way Nov. 14^th. Every time shoppers make a purchase from participating merchants they will get tickets which will go into a drawing to win thousands of dollars in cash and gift cards. In all, $10,000 will be awarded - $5,000 for first place, $3,000 for second place, and $2,000 for third. Each will be half cash and half gift cards. The campaign will run through December 12^th and the drawing will be held on Thursday, Dec. 14^th at 3:00 p.m.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $80.44 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $84.63.

Natural gas is $3.49 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,995 and silver is $23.18.

 

Obituary

Steve Logue

Funeral service for Steve Logue, 55, of Chickasha will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 4th at Victory Family Church. He worked in the oilfield where he would become a consultant. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.

 

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Wednesday, Nov. 1st

 

Jury Suggests Lengthy Prison Term After Convicting Abuser

A Grady County jury has recommended a more than 100-year prison sentence for a man the panel convicted of domestic abuse and kidnapping. After a two-day trial in Grady County District Court last week, the jury recommended a 125 year sentence for James Albert Eudy, II. In a press release Grady County District Attorney Jason Hicks said that Eudy was arrested by Chickasha police this past February after being called to a home in the 600 block of N. 8th Street. Eudy was accused of hitting his ex-girlfriend in the face, breaking her nose and facial bones, trapping her in her own van and threatening to kill her. He also threatened to have others 'pay her a visit' if she called 9-1-1. The victim called police anyway and Eudy was eventually taken into custody. The jury recommended a 75-year prison sentence for kidnapping and a 50-year sentence for domestic abuse. Formal sentencing is scheduled for Dec. 12th in front of Associate District Judge Joseph Young.

 

Burglary Suspect Nabbed at Fire-Damaged Apartments 

A man seen climbing around the top of an Anadarko apartment complex which was recently damaged in a fire is in custody on a burglary complaint. Anadarko police were called to the Landmark Apartments to check out a man walking on the roof of the apartments. The suspect briefly eluded police but officers were able to track him down inside one of the units. KSWO-TV cites court documents which indicate that police knocked on the door and the suspect answered. He said he was allowed to stay there and climbed through the window because he forgot the keys. A witness told police they didn't know the suspect and that he was never given permission to live there. Authorities arrested 35-year old Zachary Roy of Carnegie and he has been formally charged with burglary and concealing stolen property. His bond was set at $5,000. Roy faces up to 10 years in prison if he's convicted. Roy previously pleaded guilty to charges of burglary and taking a cell phone into jail following an arrest in 2010.

 

Tribes Receive Federal Grants to Help Victims

of Human Trafficking, Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence

Native American tribes across the country including some in Oklahoma will receive federal grants to help victims of human trafficking, sexual assault, and domestic violence. The U.S. Justice Department awarded more than $13 million in grants. The funds will be administered through the Office of Violence Against Women and are to enhance tribal justice systems, support numerous services for victims, and provide training and technical assistance for service providers and tribal governments. A National Institute of Justice study found that more than 80 percent of American Indian and Alaskan native women and men have experienced violence in their lifetimes. The Wichita and Affiliated Tribes in Anadarko and the Delaware Tribe based in Bartlesville will each receive a $1 million grant; the Chickasaw Nation based in Ada will receive an $830,000 grant; and the Native Alliance Against Violence in Oklahoma will receive a more than $380,000 grant to assist tribes in developing and promoting state, local, and tribal legislation and policies that enhance best practices for responding to domestic and sexual violence.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $81.02 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $87.41.

Natural gas is $3.58 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,992 and silver is $22.77

 

Obituary

Linda Bryan

Funeral service for Linda Bryan, 78, of Mustang and formerly of the Chickasha and Anadarko area will be at 1:00 p.m. Friday, Nov. 3^rd at Bible Baptist Church. She was a homemaker. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.

 

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Tuesday, Oct. 31st

TIF District 'Review Committee' to be Formed

The Chickasha City Council has approved the forming of a review committee which will provide recommendations about developing new Tax Increment Finance (TIF) Districts in the city. The committee will be led by one member of the city council. It was initially proposed that Mayor Chris Mosley be appointed to that post but instead, vice Mayor Zach Grayson was selected. The council also appointed John Grote of the city's planning commission or his designee to the committee. Other representatives will include individuals from the Chickasha Public School District and the Canadian Valley Technology Center School District. Those appointees will likely be school administrators. Also to be named will be a representative from the Grady County Commissioners and three at-large members. All committee members will have to be approved by the city council.

OKC law firm hired to lead the way

Nate Ellis of an Oklahoma City law firm, The Public Finance Law Group, spent about 45 minutes discussing the formation of the committee and what its responsibilities would be. The council approved spending up to $30,000 for the law firm to provide guidance throughout the TIF District process. Ellis says he's expecting the committee to be in place and have its first meeting before the end of the year.

Possible TIF district site named

The first mention of a possible location of a TIF district was brought up during last night's meeting. Officials say a portion of the downtown area is being considered. In a TIF district, sales tax revenues and property taxes paid within the district can be set aside for infrastructure projects.  Ellis said that up to 100 percent of those proceeds could be used and that it could be a 15- to 20-year project. Other officials mentioned that, if the TIF district is formed, the city could get additional monies from what's known as the state ‘Leverage Act’ from the Incentive Evaluation Commission which is part of the Office of Management and Enterprises Services.

 

USAO Homecoming This Weekend

The upcoming weekend will be a special one for USAO. It is Homecoming as alumni will be returning to campus for a number of events. Among them is a celebration of the 50th anniversary of inter-collegiate athletics. However, Athletic Director Mike Ross says there have been numerous club-type sports programs throughout the more than 100-year history of the university.

 

              

 

Also to be recognized is former player and Coach Brisco McPherson who guided the men’s basketball team to its 2002 NAIA National Championship. An hour-long documentary of that team, ‘Unfinished Business,’ produced by USAO students and staff will premiere Friday evening at the Davis Hall Amphitheatre.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $82.31 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $87.45.

Natural gas is $3.35 per million BTUs.

Gold is $2,007 and silver is $23.37.

 

Obituary

Charlotte Brooks

Funeral service for Charlotte Brooks, 89, of Chickasha will be held at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 1st at Parkview Christian Church. She worked for an accounting firm for many years.  Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.

 

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Monday, Oct. 30th

 

Grady County Sheriff Re-Caps First Months in Office

It's been an active few months in office for Grady County Sheriff Gary Boggess. He was appointed sheriff earlier this year after former Sheriff Jim Weir retired. The sheriff’s office budget for the current fiscal year is about $6 million. About one-third of that total - $1.9 million - is for salaries. Boggess said he was able to give deputies about a 20 percent pay raise which brings their total salary and benefits package to about $72,000 a year. That ranks fifth highest among Oklahoma's 77 counties. Boggess said one of his initial goals was to get deputies to serve as a School Resource Officers (SRO) in every county school - and that was recently crossed off his list. There are 17 officers in all including one at the Canadian Valley Technology Center. Boggess said the SROs do more than work during the school day.

 

              

 

 

Boggess said he is also working with several neighboring counties to investigate agriculture thefts and has assigned Lt. Danny Booth as the county investigator.

 

              

 

We talked to the sheriff on our KOOL Konversation this past weekend. Find a podcast to the program under the Community tab on this website.

 

TIF District Discussion Tonight for Chix City Council

A proposal to create some additional Tax Increment Finance (TIF) districts in Chickasha will be discussed during a special meeting of the Chickasha City Council tonight. The council will consider hiring a financial counseling service and create a review committee to provide recommendations. The committee will include at-large members of the community. Mayor Chris Mosley says a portion of sales revenue from within a TIF district can help the city build water and sewer lines and other infrastructure. The special meeting will be held at 6:30 tonight at city hall.

 

USAO Regents Have New Board Member

Another new member has been appointed to serve on the USAO Board of Regents. Suzanne Reynolds was recently appointed to the post by Gov. Kevin Stitt to fill the seat previously held by the late David McLaughlin. Reynolds is a pharmacist from Nichols Hills who created the first pharmacist-managed out-patient, anti-coagulation clinic at Integris Baptist Hospital in OKC. Reynolds will serve the remaining few months of McLaughlin's term which runs through June 30th of next year.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $85.54 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $90.48.

Natural gas is $3.16 per million BTUs.

Gold is $2,006 and silver is $23.33.

 

Obituary

Tyler Robnett

Funeral service for Tyler Robnett, 23, of Chickasha will be held at 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 1st at Grand Assembly of God Church. Arrangements are with McRay Funeral Home.