Saturday, May 25th

 

Banks 'Rachet Up' Work to Finance Oil, Gas Projects

A new study shows that regional banks across the country are increasing their efforts to finance the energy industry. That's especially good news for Oklahoma since oil and gas is the state's top industry. The website OK Energy Today cites the survey conducted by Pickering Energy Partners. It indicates that banks are backing away from climate goals as well as from their previous discrimination of the industry when they were using federal energy policies to avoid making those loans.  The report said that many private climate goals sought by the year 2030 are likely to be missed and banks are now saying that net-zero targets by 2050 will not be achievable. The Energy Workforce Technology Council highlighted the study and found that U.S. banks are racheting up their lending to oil and gas clients.

 

Anadarko Residents Injured in OKC Fatality Accident

Four Anadarko residents were taken to a hospital following a multi-vehicle crash in Oklahoma City where a pedestrian died. The accident happened Thursday afternoon near I-240 and Western Avenue. Injured were 31-year old Christopher Rios; 20-year old Alyssa Rios; 20-year old Levi Hankins and an unidentified 7-year old girl. All were taken to OU Med where they were admitted in good condition. They were in one of three vehicles involved in the crash which is still under investigation. Authorities have not identified the pedestrian who died.

 

Chickasha Muncipal Swimming Pool to Open Memorial Day

The swimming pool at Chickasha's Shannon Springs Park will be opening for the summer on Monday which is Memorial Day. Officials with the YMCA which is managing the pool again this year say the pool will be open Monday afternoon from 1-6 p.m. YMCA members get free admission, while admission for non-Y members is $5. The YMCA will have several sessions of swimming lessons throughout the summer. The pool can be reserved for private parties after normal operating hours. Contact the YMCA for more information. The pool will close in early August just before school resumes.

 

Talk Show Topic

Here's what we're talking about this weekend. The three Republican candidates for District Two Grady County Commissioner are on the KOOL Konversation. Current commissioner Kirk Painter and challengers Ruth Bingham and Garland Terry are on the show. There is a podcast of the program under the Community tab on this website.

 

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Friday, May 24th

 

OSBI Arrests Child Porn Suspect

Agents with the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI) track down a Blanchard man accused of distributing child porn. The agency's Internet Crimes Against Children unit began looking into the allegations last week and was able to obtain hundreds of images of child sexual abuse material from an on-line user. On Wednesday, the OSBI and other law enforcement agencies served a search warrant at the home of 19-year old Kevin Berit Goelz. He was taken to the McClain County Jail where he is facing charges of child sexual exploitation, distribution of child porn, and violating the Oklahoma Computer Crimes Act. The OSBI said the Blanchard Police Department and the sheriff's offices in both McClain and Payne counties were part of the investigation.

 

Arrest Warrant Issued for Cyril Burglary Suspect

Caddo County authorities are looking for a suspect after thousands of dollars in items were stolen from a Cyril home. An arrest warrant has been issued for 37-year old Joshua Myers of Marlow. He’s charged with felony grand larceny, burglary, and having a firearm after former felony conviction. KSWO-TV cites Caddo County court documents that say Cyril police believe Myers broke into the home earlier this month and stole jewelry and a revolver with a combined value of more than $20,000. A bag containing the revolver was found in an alley the day after the burglary.

 

Turnpike Work Begins Next Week

Upgrades to a portion of the H.E. Bailey Turnpike between Chickasha and Fletcher will get underway next week. Officials say traffic will be narrowed to one lane in both directions through the summer.  Crews will be replacing the pavement on the shoulders and making guardrail improvements. The estimated cost of the project is $9.2 million with work expected to be completed in early fall.

 

College Scholarships for Special Needs Students Approved

Students with intellectual and developmental disabilities will be able to get college scholarships beginning this fall. Gov. Kevin Stitt has signed HB 3792 into law which creates the Oklahoma Access and Achievement Program. State Sen. Ally Siefried (R-Claremore) authored the bill which she says will open doors for the students and ensure they have the financial support and resources they need to succeed and become valuable members of Oklahoma's workforce. A student enrolled in comprehensive transition and post-secondary programs will take traditional classes in addition to specialized classes. They will have trained peer mentors and can serve as interns. The scholarships will be funded through the Oklahoma Higher Access Learning Trust Fund.

 

Blanchard Summer Concert Series Begins Tonight

The Memorial Day weekend is about to kick-off and the City of Blanchard will begin a weekly summer concert series tonight. The Zach Ray Band opens the series at Lions Park. Zach is a Blanchard native who has been playing in Nashville the last few years. He says he and his crew are continuously honing their craft.

              

 

 

Zach will have several members of Blake Shelton's backup band helping him tonight. The Blanchard Summer Concert Series is hosted by the Blanchard Parks and Recreation Department and will be held every Friday night through June 28^th.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $76.87 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $81.90.

Natural gas is $2.66 per million BTUs.

Gold is $2,361 and silver is $30.74.

 

Obituaries

Marleta Stephens

A memorial service for Marleta Stephens, 89, of Chickasha will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, May 31st at Chisholm Heights Baptist Church in Mustang. She worked for the Jane Brooks School for the Deaf and started M-Veta's Christian Book Store with her sister Vineta. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.

Melvin Wilson Jr.

Funeral service for Melvin Wilson Jr., 53, of Chickasha will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, June 1st at Ferguson Funeral Home. He was a U.S. Army veteran and a Licensed Practical Nurse.

 

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Thursday, May 23rd

 

New Anadarko City Manager Named

A new city manager will soon be on board in Anadarko. Janice Cain was recently named to the post and will begin June 1st. Cain has served as city manager in Marlow and Altus. While in Altus she was named the City Management Association of Oklahoma's City Manager of the Year in 2018. The Anadarko Daily News reports she has 40 years' experience in various positions in municipal government including 15 years as city manager in addition to serving as an interim city manager. Cain has been a consultant to municipal governments and served on a number of boards and commissions including the Oklahoma Municipal Power Authority, the City Management Association of Oklahoma, and the Oklahoma Municipal Assurance Group. The Stephens County native has also served as a trainer through the Oklahoma Municipal League. She’ll take the reigns from Anadarko Mayor Kelly McGlothlin who has been serving as interim city manager over the last few months.

 

Grant will Help USAO Improve University Habitat

USAO has received a large grant to help a flock of wild turkeys which roams the university's habitat. The Kirkpatrick Foundation has provided $40,000 to make improvements to include clearing out overgrowth in the forest where the turkeys live and re-forest areas to create more useable forest. Officials say because of the current overgrowth the turkeys can't move freely which prevents them from thriving. The project will be part of the ongoing research at the Jean McLaughlin Outdoor Education and Research Center. Officials say the grant will also help the university build partnerships with the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation and the National Wild Turkey Federation.

 

Chix Police Department to Host Leadership Programs

The Chickasha Police Department will be holding a couple of courses on Law Enforcement Leadership this summer. An executive academy will be held July 22nd through 26^th and a sergeant’s academy will be held July 29th through Aug. 2nd. Both are CLEET certified and will be led by Stephen Kent of The Results Group who will address the roles and responsibilities of leadership positions in law enforcement.  Interested individuals can register on the links to the academies which can be found on the Chickasha Police Department's Facebook page.

 

Chix Library Kicks Off Summer Reading Program

The Chickasha Public Library will kick-off its summer reading program today with a big event at Centennial Park. The kids can sign up for the reading program and there will be a lot of games and activities including touch-a-truck, face painting, chalk art, food trucks and more. Those taking part will also be able to get involved in a community service program by helping the city's animal shelter which will have some adoptable animals at the kick-off. A new event for the summer reading program is an Adventure Passport Challenge. Participants can pick up a passport booklet that includes locations of about a dozen Chickasha businesses for them to visit and get a stamp. At the end of the summer reading program the names of those with completed passports will go into a drawing to win family tickets to the Myriad Botanical Gardens. The kick-off is a free event at Centennial Park from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. today.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $77.57 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $81.90.

Natural gas is $2.84 per million BTUs.

Gold is $2,391 and silver is $30.79.

 

Obituary

Robert Novotny, Sr.

Rosary for Robert Novotny, Jr., 86, of Tuttle and formerly of the Verden and Chickasha area will be held at 7:00 p.m. tonight at Sevier Funeral Home. He was a U.S. Air Force veteran and worked at Dusters and Sprayers for more than 50 years. Funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, May 24th at the Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Mustang.

 

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Wednesday, May 22nd

 

Another Fatal Motorcycle Crash in Blanchard

For the second time in less than a week there's been a deadly motorcycle accident in the Blanchard area. Last night, 20-year old Austin Stokes of Blanchard died when he was driving his motorcycle in the wrong lane as he topped a hill and he was hit head on by a van.  Stokes was pronounced deceased after being taken to an Oklahoma City hospital. The accident happened about 6:30 p.m. on the Grady and McClain County Line Road and 353rd Street in Blanchard. The driver of the van, 49-year old Tanya Anderson of Blanchard was not injured, while a passenger identified as 31-year old Kiaya Anderson was taken to an Oklahoma City hospital in a private vehicle where she was treated and released. This past weekend, 23-year old Colby Hubers of Blanchard died when his motorcycle ran off the road and hit a mailbox.

 

Driver Charged with Child Abuse after Traffic Stop

A traffic stop leads to the arrest of a woman who has been charged with child abuse. Tuttle police pulled over 42-year old Cecilia Esparza-Valdez of Bethany early Monday morning for swerving left of center. KSWO-TV cites Grady County court documents that allege Esparza-Valdez had an odor of alcohol about her and she refused to follow instructions during a field sobriety test. She's been charged with two felony counts of child abuse and a misdemeanor charge of DUI. If tried and convicted of the child abuse charges Esparza-Valdez faces up to life in prison. A preliminary hearing conference has been scheduled for June 26^th and she remains in jail on a $20,000 bond.

 

Four Area Counties Make Top-10 List

for Highest Annual Household Incomes

Several area counties are on a top-10 list for having the highest annual household incomes in Oklahoma. And Grady, McClain, Cleveland, and Canadian County all made the list.  No. 1 is Canadian County with an annual median household income of just over $82,000; McClain County is No. 3 with an annual median household income of just over $80,000; Grady County checks in at No. 7 at just over $74,000; and Cleveland County is No. 8 at just under $72,000. The Oklahoman published information obtained from the five-year estimates put together by the U.S. Census Bureau's 2022 American Community Survey.

 

Anadarko 4th of July Celebration to Include Lighted Drones

While many are preparing for the upcoming Memorial Day holiday a lot of communities are looking a little further down the road to the 4th of July. There will be a lot of fireworks displays for Independence Day celebrations including communities like Chickasha, Blanchard, and Anadarko. The Anadarko Honor America Day celebration will have a new addition - a lighted drone show. The City of Anadarko's Facebook page says 80 illuminated drones will take to the sky and created dazzling patterns and stunning visuals. Anadarko’s Honor America Day celebration will be on Friday, June 28th at Randlett Park with activities starting at 5:00 p.m.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $79.26 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $83.71.

Natural gas is $2.67 per million BTUs.

Gold is $2,444 and silver is $31.97.

 

Obituary

Doyal David Martin

Funeral service for Doyal David Martin, 72, of Chickasha, will be held at 10:00 a.m. Friday, May 24^th at Ferguson Funeral Home. He worked in the oilfield, for horse trailer manufacturers, and Midwest Towers.

 

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Tuesday, May 21st

 

Chix Council OKs Grant Application Process

to Engineer/Design Downtown-to-Fairgrounds Bridge

A proposal to build a pedestrian bridge over a railroad that would connect downtown Chickasha to the Grady County Fairgrounds was the subject of considerable debate during last night's Chickasha City Council meeting. During a 3 1/2 hour meeting most the discussion was centered on a proposed resolution to declare the city eligible to apply for Transportation Alternatives Program funds through the Oklahoma Department of Transportation. The funding is available through a federal program called the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. DeShon Heisel with an Oklahoma City engineering firm selected to help with the application process said this is the first step of what would take several years to complete.

 

              

 

 

The bridge would require approval from the railroad which has not yet been obtained. The grant would provide 80 percent of the estimated $750,000 cost of the engineering and design of the bridge with the city to pay 20 percent or $150,000. Officials say the project could be linked to more than a dozen other grants that would provide some of the private funding needed for the bridge construction which has an estimated price tag of between $7 million and $10 million. Officials say the application must be submitted by next week with grant announcements to be made in November. The council voted 6-3 in favor of the resolution with council members Charlie Burruss and Kelly Boyd voting no and councilman Brian Gerdes abstaining.

Shannon Springs Park bridge also selected for program

The council approved a second resolution to apply for a similar grant to replace the bridge over the pond at Shannon Springs Park. The estimated cost of that project is just over $1.4 million.

YMCA awarded pool contract

The council also approved a contract with the YMCA to operate the pool at Shannon Springs Park this summer. YMCA Director Lewis Knisley said they are looking to open the pool Tuesday, May 28^th but it could be open on Memorial Day if things are in order.

Council applies for 'Quality Event Designation' for National Show

The panel also approved a resolution requesting a Quality Event Designation from the State Department of Commerce for the Red Angus National Youth Expo that will be held at the Grady County Fairgrounds June 9th through 13th. The commerce department will reimburse communities for some of their expenses for hosting events that bring out-of-state visitors and promotes tourism. The group also approved a request from the Chamber of Commerce to hold a decorated ATV/motorcycle/bicycle parade at Shannon Springs Park on the 4th of July ahead of the fireworks display that will be held at the park that night.

 

Grady County Sheriff's Office Phone Number 'Spoofed'

Another local law enforcement agency has had its phone number spoofed. Grady County Sheriff Gary Boggess says individuals are making calls that appear to be from the sheriff's office at 405-224-0984. The caller is telling potential victims that they have missed their jury summons, that a warrant had been issued for their arrest, and they could pay to have the warrant dismissed. Boggess says his office would never make such a call. The sheriff says should anyone receive one of these spoofed calls to simply hang up and not share any personal bank account or credit card information. Just a few weeks ago the Chickasha Police Department had its telephone number spoofed.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $79.80 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $83.98.

Natural gas is $2.75 per million BTUs.

Gold is $2,443 and silver is $31.80.

 

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Monday, May 20th

 

Tornadoes Again Hit Oklahoma

Another night of violent weather swept across portions of the state last night with reports of multiple tornadoes. Tornado warnings were issued for Caddo and Grady Counties for a storm moving into central Oklahoma from Weatherford. Later, three tornado warnings were issued for Grady County. The first was about 9:10 p.m. for a storm southeast of El Reno with a possible tornado and baseball-sized hail moving southeast and threatening Union City, Minco, Tuttle, and Bridge Creek. At 9:35 p.m., a tornado warning was issued for Union City, Minco, Tuttle, El Reno, and Mustang for a storm southwest of Yukon. Then at 9:50 p.m. a tornado warning was issued for two tornadoes - one four miles east of Union City and one west of Yukon. KWTV News 9 storm trackers had video of a tornado touching down east of Union City. There are no reports of injuries or damage from those storms.

 

Motorcyclist Dies in Weekend Crash

A Blanchard man died when his motorcycle ran off the road and hit a mailbox over the weekend. 23-year old Colby Hubers died in the accident that happened on State Highway 76 just south of U.S. Highway 62 about 11:30 p.m. Saturday. The highway patrol said that Hubers was driving under the influence, speeding, and not wearing a helmet.

Two other people hospitalized in separate accident

Another weekend traffic accident in Blanchard sent two people to separate hospitals Saturday morning. 47-year old Joey Pettijohn was last in critical condition at OU Medical Center and 49-year old Dustin Pettijohn was last in serious condition at Integris-Baptist Hospital. That accident happened at the intersection of a couple of county roads south of Blanchard just before 10:00 a.m. The Pettijohns were slowing down to make a turn when their Jeep was rear-ended by an SUV driven by 18-year old Samuel Vaughn also of Blanchard who was not hurt. The trooper investigating that accident said Vaughn was distracted.

 

City of Chix to Seek Grants for Pedestrian Bridges

Downtown

There's new information about a proposed pedestrian bridge that would connect the Grady County Fairgrounds to downtown Chickasha. During tonight's Chickasha City Council meeting, the panel will consider a resolution declaring the eligibility of the city to submit an application to the Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT) for a grant that could be used to help pay for the project. It asks ODOT for $750,000 to help build the bridge over the railroad tracks near the Rock Island Railroad Depot. In a letter to ODOT City Manager Keith Johnson says the city is prepared to provide the local matching funds for the project and believes the investment would spur a new era of economic development and tourism.

Shannon Springs Park

The council will consider a second resolution asking ODOT to provide about $1.4 million in funds to replace the pedestrian bridge over the pond in Shannon Springs Park. In a separate letter to ODOT Johnson said the bridge is over 50 years old and needs to be replaced to be accessible to the handicapped.

Panel to get Economic Development Update

Also tonight, Economic Development Director Jim Cowan will have a  presentation for the council. The meeting will begin at 6:30 tonight at city hall.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $80.06 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $83.98.

Natural gas is $2.63 per million BTUs.

Gold is $2,445 and silver is well over $30 to $32.30.

 

Obituaries

Carol Sites

Funeral service for Carol Sites, 80, of Chickasha will be held at 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, May 22nd at Ferguson Funeral Home. She worked at Pool Mortgage Company, was a vice president at First Federal Savings and Loan, and also worked at USAO. Memorial contributions may be made to the USAO Foundation.

Marilyn Barrington

A graveside service for Marilyn Barrington, 79, of Chickasha will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, May 25th at the Marlow Cemetery. She was a teacher in Oklahoma and Texas schools. Arrangements are with Sevier Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Barrington-Nichols-Thompson Scholarship Fund at Samford University in Birmingham, Alabama.

Donna Start

A memorial service for Donna Start, 68, of Chickasha will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, June 8th at the Ninnekah First Baptist Church. She was a waitress, a Red Cross volunteer, and was a licensed first responder. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.

 

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Saturday, May 18th

 

Regional Communities Among Top-10 Fastest Growing in the State

Two tri-city communities and several others nearby are among the fastest growing cities in Oklahoma. The Oklahoman reports that the Census Bureau ranked cities with a population of at least 5,000 residents and measured growth from July of 2022 to July of 2023. Newcastle was the fastest growing city increasing 7 percent or about 900 citizens; Mustang was No. 4 growing by 4.6 percent and had the highest number of new residents at nearly 1,000; Tuttle was No. 6 growing by 3.8 percent with 300 more residents; El Reno was No. 8 growing by 3.5 percent adding nearly 650 people; and Yukon was No. 10 growing by more than 3.2 percent or just over 816 new residents.

 

Driver Injured in Caddo County Crash

A truck driver is hospitalized after a Caddo County crash. 39-year old Katlin Goddard of Lookeba suffered internal injuries and was last in serious condition in an Oklahoma City hospital. The accident happened at the intersection of a couple of county roads about a mile east of Ft. Cobb just before noon yesterday. The highway patrol reports that Goddard ran off the road and traveled about 450 feet in a ditch before the truck rolled onto its passenger side. The investigating trooper said driver inattention was the cause of the accident.

 

Darko Has Inaugural 'Open Hearts, Open Streets'

In Anadarko, the community is having its first-ever Open Streets event. Open Streets is part of international event encouraging families to spend time together and create healthy lifestyles through play and outdoor activities. The Anadarko event is called Open Hearts Open Streets. It kicked off with a one-mile walk, followed by a number of vendors with different activities that could include chalk art, corn hole, dancing, and families can ride bikes and roller skate. Food trucks will also be on site. That will take place in the 200 block of Broadway Avenue which will be closed to traffic throughout the event which will run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

 

Talk Show Topic

Matt Stockman, Chickasha's new Director of Tourism and Festival of Light coordinator is this week’s guest on KOOL Konversation. Find a podcast of the program under the Community tab on this website.

 

Obituaries

Carol Sites

Funeral service for Carol Sites, 80, of Chickasha will be held at 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, May 22nd at Ferguson Funeral Home. She worked at Pool Mortgage Company, was a vice president at First Federal Savings and Loan, and also worked at USAO. Memorial contributions may be made to the USAO Foundation.

Marilyn Barrington

A graveside service for Marilyn Barrington, 79, of Chickasha will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, May 25th at the Marlow Cemetery. She was a teacher in Oklahoma and Texas schools. Arrangements are with Sevier Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Barrington-Nichols-Thompson Scholarship Fund at Samford University in Birmingham, Alabama.

Donna Start

A memorial service for Donna Start, 68, of Chickasha will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, June 8th at the Ninnekah First Baptist Church. She was a waitress, a Red Cross volunteer, and was a licensed first responder. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.

 

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Friday, May 17th

 

Consumer Spending Up in Chix; Down in Grady County

Consumer spending for the region is showing some mixed results. For the City of Chickasha, estimated consumer spending from mid-March to mid-April was just under $33 million. That's up about 14 percent from the previous 30-day period - and up about 3 percent from the same time a year ago. The City of Chickasha collected more than $1.4 million in sales tax revenues from those purchases of taxable goods and services. The city also received $155,000 in use tax revenue which comes from on-line purchases - a total which was off slightly from the previous month.

Grady County

For all of Grady County, consumer spending for the mid-March to mid-April time frame was about $75.8 million. That number was down about 18 percent from the previous 30-day period and off about 5.8 percent compared to the same time last year. The county received $568,000 in sales tax revenue from those purchases. The county received another $117,000 in use tax revenue from on-line purchases.

 

Eluding Driver has Child in Back Seat of Vehicle

A driver leads Caddo County deputies on a high-speed pursuit with the driver having an unsecured child in the back seat. Deputies were called out to investigate a report of a driver running motorists off the road earlier this week. KSWO-TV reports that deputies tracked down the vehicle and the driver refused to stop. Even after the motorist hit some stop sticks he sped on and even managed to drive around a barricade before he finally pulled over. A three-year old child in the back seat was not in a car seat. Arrested was 57-year old Edward Jay Redden of Cyril. After being formally charged with eluding and driving under the influence of drugs he was released from jail on a $5,000 bond. If convicted he faces up to 10 years behind bars and a $10,000 fine.

 

Youth Rodeo-ers in Chix for State Finals

More than 125 young rodeo competitors from Oklahoma and neighboring states are in Chickasha this weekend for the Oklahoma Junior High School Rodeo Association state finals. They are at the Grady County Fairgrounds competing in more than a dozen events including bull riding, bareback and saddle bronc riding, barrel racing and goat-tying. They're also competing for a boys and girls all-around title where the points they earn from scores and times from multiple events are combined to see who are the top overall cowboys and cowgirls. Today is round two of competition with a grand entry parade at 1:00 p.m. with rodeo action starting at 2:00 p.m. A final performance will be at 2:00 p.m. tomorrow and the awards presentations will be Sunday.

 

Blanchard May Daze Begins

It's a big weekend in Blanchard with the annual May Daze event. There are more than 100 vendors downtown including food trucks and live music and there are town-wide garage sales. May Daze runs from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. today and tomorrow.

 

DAV Chapter to Treat Veterans for Armed Forces Day 

Tomorrow is Armed Forces Day which wraps up a week-long commemoration of Military Appreciation Days. The first Armed Forces Day in 1950 was set aside for the military to show state-of-the-art equipment to Americans and to honor and acknowledge Americans in the armed forces. To show appreciation to Grady County and area servicemen and women, Grady County DAV Chapter 17 will hold a cake-and-ice cream event tomorrow from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the DAV headquarters in Chickasha at 6th and Chickasha Avenue. Families of veterans are also welcome.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $79.23 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $82.75.

Natural gas is $2.50 per million BTUs.

Gold is $2,386 and silver is $29.93.

 

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Thursday, May 16th

 

Joint Funeral Scheduled for Chickasha Family

The three members of the Mayhugh family who died after a tragic shooting at their home will have a joint funeral service. James Mayhugh, his wife Patty, and their daughter Shayla will all be laid to rest next Monday.  The man accused of their deaths, Jacob Mayhugh, was arrested Tuesday in Oklahoma City. He's facing three charges of first degree murder and the district attorney has filed a motion that bond be denied for Jacob when he is arraigned on the charges.

James Mayhugh

James was 55-years old. He first sold cars and then spent more than 20 years doing body work with R and M Body Shop. He loved his 55 Chevys.

Patty Mayhugh

Patty Mayhugh was just a few weeks shy of her 55th birthday. The couple had dated since high school and were going to celebrate their 36th anniversary in July. She worked at Pet Milk but was mostly known for being a cashier at Dunn's, Spencer’s, and Williams’ Grocery stores in downtown Chickasha. She loved going to garage sales.

Shayla Mayhugh

Shayla was 28 years old. She earned a bachelor's degree at USAO and worked for the Grady County Jail for a year. Her obituary said she should have been a detective. She enjoyed going on ride-alongs with law enforcement, and she attended the Citizens Police Academy put on by the Chickasha Police Department. She recently joined her dad at R and M Body Shop where she was a painter. The funeral service will be at 10:30 a.m. Monday, May 20th at Bible Baptist Church and all will be laid to rest at Fairlawn Cemetery. Funeral arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.

 

Grady County Special Olympians Take Part in State Games;

Coach Collects 'Coach of the Year' Honor

A group of Grady County athletes are in Stillwater taking part in the summer games of the Oklahoma Special Olympics. About 20 individuals named The Cats with the Athletes of Grady County are among the more than 4,000 athletes taking part. Special Olympians from Grady County have been participating in the state games for more than 25 years. Marlayna is one of the athletes-

 

              

 

 

The coach of the team is Lisa Sykes who is a special education teacher with Tuttle Public Schools. Assistant coaches are Joe Taylor, Chuck Phillips, and Jacob White. The team was to meet with Stewart and Beth Ann Meyer who completed their five-day, 125-mile walk from Chickasha to Stillwater yesterday in time for the opening ceremonies. By the way, Coach Sykes was named the Coach of the Year for the state games. She was one of 10 coaches nominated.

 

Chix Schools to Offer Summer Meals

Today is the final day of classes for students in Chickasha Public Schools. Officials have announced that there will be a free summer breakfast and lunch program at three of the schools. The program will run June 3rd through July 25^th at Bill Wallace, the middle school, and the high school. All will have grab-and-go breakfasts from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. and will serve lunch although meals do not have to be eaten on site. The meals will be available Monday through Thursday of each week with the exception of June 17th and July 4^th which are holidays. The meals are for all youth 1 through 18 years old.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $78.63 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $82.38.

Natural gas is $2.42 per million BTUs.

Gold is $2,389 and silver is $29.79.

 

Obituary

Brandon Forshee

Funeral service for Brandon Forshee, 44, of Chickasha will be held at 1:00 p.m. Friday, May 17th at Laverty Baptist Church. He worked in factories, restaurants, and in customer service. Arrangements are with Sevier Funeral Home.

 

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Wednesday, May 15th

 

Triple Murder Suspect Arrested

Jacob Mayhugh, the man first described as a person-of-interest in connection with a triple homicide in Chickasha last weekend, has been arrested. Investigators officially named Mayhugh a suspect yesterday, after a warrant was issued for Mayhugh's arrest on Monday.  A probable cause affidavit indicates that Mayhugh killed his parents and sister - James Mayhugh, Patty Mayhugh, and Shayla Mayhugh. Their bodies were found at their Chickasha home on Saturday. The SUV that Mayhugh was believed to be driving was found in downtown Oklahoma City. Reports say Mayhugh's driver's license, cash, a cell phone, and two AR-15 magazines (with white writing on them) were in the vehicle. A similar magazine was found at the crime scene. Investigators said Mayhugh was arrested in Oklahoma City but did not say where. The affidavit indicates an AR-15 rifle, a 9MM handgun, and numerous shell casings were found at the Mayhugh home and the serial number on the rifle was traced to Jacob who had just purchased the weapon about three weeks ago.

 

Burglary Suspect In Custody After Pursuit

A suspect accused of breaking into a Chickasha home then leading police on a pursuit in a stolen vehicle has been charged with multiple felonies. 43-year old Mark Allen Haile, Jr. is charged with burglary and joy-riding in connection with an incident that took place April 27th. Haile was booked into the Grady County Jail this past weekend. His bond was set at $100,000 as prosecutors want to revoke his probation after he pleaded guilty to charges of grand larceny, vehicle theft, and unauthorized use of a vehicle after arrests in October of 2022.

 

New Tourism Director in Place for Chickasha

Chickasha has a new tourism director. Matthew Stockman, who previously served as the vice president of experience and events at Tulsa's regional tourism group was named to the post. While in Tulsa, the Dibble native spearheaded the establishment of Tulsa's stand-alone visitor center. In his tourism role, he'll collaborate with the Chamber of Commerce to orchestrate and promote events throughout the year including the Oklahoma Food Truck championship this fall. In addition to his work in tourism Stockman will serve as the director of the Festival of Light which will be in its 32nd year this fall. The festival will have some new additions for the upcoming season which will be announced at a later date. Stockman takes over the post previously held by Logan Lassley who left to become the director of United Way of Duncan and Stephens County.

 

Clean-up Chickasha Days Begin

Chickasha residents and businesses are encouraged to take part in the annual Clean Up Chickasha campaign - a four-day event that begins today. Roll-off dumpsters will be located at the city's public works headquarters to accept trash and large items. There is a separate site at the location for brush and limbs. Items that won't be accepted include tires, batteries, motor oil, paint, pesticides, Freon, and hazardous materials. Patrons will need to show a current utility bill from the city, or individuals can go to city hall to get a document that shows proof of residency. Public Works is located at 502 N. Genevieve Street which is north of the city’s animal shelter. Hours of operation are 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Wednesday through Friday and 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Saturday.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $78.02 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $83.36.

Natural gas is $2.34 per million BTUs.

Gold is $2,375 and silver is $29.11.

 

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Tuesday, May 14th

 

Convicted Rapist Accused of Another Sex Crime

A Chickasha man is in jail and charged with sexual battery after an alleged encounter with a teenager. 52-year old Michael James Gorski, who was convicted of rape out of Maryland back in 1996, and also convicted of felony robbery out of Virginia in 1995, was arrested by police last week after the girl's father called authorities saying the girl was assaulted. A probable cause affidavit indicates the teen was at a friend's apartment when she asked Gorski to buy her some alcohol. It states the two were on the way to the store when Gorski drove to a secluded area where the assault is said to have occurred. After taking the report, officers went to Gorski's home and took him into custody. Prosecutors have charged Gorski with a felony for sexual battery and a misdemeanor for providing alcohol to a person under 21. He remains in jail on a $150,000 bond. 

 

Caddo County Sheriff Wants OSBI to Investigate Jail Escape

Caddo County Sheriff Spencer Davis has called for an investigation into last week's escape of three inmates from the Caddo County Jail. On the sheriff's office Facebook page, Davis says he wants the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI) to find out everything that took place that night. Officials have determined that the escapees were able to pull a sink out of a wall and enter an area where plumbers work. From there, they were able to find a door and walk out. After escaping, they removed their jail clothing. It's not known how they got to Oklahoma City where they were found in a cemetery early Saturday morning. The district attorney has filed escape charges against all three men identified as Davantae Winters, Michael Brown, and Hector Hernandez.

 

Suspect Arrested for Cemetery Vandalism

A Grady County man who had just been released from jail is now in trouble for allegedly desecrating a gravesite at a cemetery. 62-year old Keith Monroe Jones of Pocasset was arrested last week after Grady County sheriff's deputies and Chickasha police officers were called to Fairlawn Cemetery. Court documents indicate that a gravesite had been disturbed with some bricks and flowers removed, and a stone placard pushed down in the mud. Jones told officers he was visiting his late-wife's grave and admitted that he was using items from her gravesite to outline his plot next to hers. Jones was incoherent while being questioned by police and when asked if he had been taking narcotics he said ‘I plead the 5th'. Monroe, who had just been released from jail after being arrested on public intoxication complaints, is now also charged with misdemeanors of injury to a cemetery or tomb, public intoxication and outraging public decency. He remains in jail on a $10,000 bond.

 

Machete-Wielding Man In Custody

A man threatening people with a machete and who barricaded himself inside an Anadarko home is taken into custody without incident. Anadarko police were called to the home early Monday morning and they called in the Caddo County Sheriff's Office Special Response Team. A post on the Anadarko Police Department's Facebook page says after trying to negotiate with the man they were able to take him into custody by using ‘less than lethal devices’ but did not elaborate. Authorities arrested Brandon Koassechony on an assault complaint.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $79.12 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $83.36.

Natural gas is $2.38 per million BTUs.

Gold is $2,352 and silvre is $28.67.

 

Obituary

James Clayton, Jr.

A private memorial service for 72-year old James Clayton, Jr. of Chickasha will be held by the family. He worked in construction and played and recorded music. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.

 

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Monday, May 13th

 

Triple Murder Probe Continues; Person-of-Interest Sought

Authorities are continuing their investigation into the deaths of three people at a Chickasha home over the weekend. The bodies of three adults were found in the area of 6th and Washington Avenue about 11:30 Saturday morning. The identities of two women and a man found shot to death still have not been released. Chickasha police have called in the Oklahoma State Bureau of investigation to assist. The OSBI says a person-of-interest is being sought and identified him as 22-year old Jacob Mayhugh. Photos of him are posted on the Grady County Sheriff's Office and OSBI Facebook pages and have been broadcast on Oklahoma City TV stations. He could be driving a tan or light brown 2000 model GMC Yukon with Oklahoma tag number FIG-110. He was last seen in the area of 4th and Almar Drive about 4:30 last Friday afternoon. Anyone with information can reach out to Chickasha police by calling 405-222-6050 or the OSBI at 800-522-8017 or e-mail information to the OSBI at tips.osbi.ok.gov

 

Escaped Caddo County Jail Inmates Back in Custody

Also over the weekend, three inmates who broke out of the Caddo County jail in Anadarko were captured. Davantae Winters, Hector Hernandez, and Michael Brown escaped sometime late Thursday night or early Friday morning. Reports indicate they were found in an Oklahoma City Cemetery early Saturday morning. All three men have lengthy records with Winters most recently arrested for murder. Hernandez was serving time for aggravated trafficking and Brown for aggravated assault. Authorities were to look at the jail's security video to determine how they escaped.

 

Open Forum Set For Discussion on Homelessness

An open forum featuring a discussion on homelessness will offer an opportunity for the public to get information about what homelessness is - and isn't. The Chickasha Community Alliance will hold a panel discussion on the topic. The Alliance includes the Salvation Army, Life Skills Institute, and the Resurrection House. Zach Bowles with the Resurrection House says there is a stigma about the homeless and that alliance members want to help them get out of their situations.

 

            

 

 

Bowles says many have simply fallen on hard times.  The forum which will also include Chickasha Police Chief G.G. Music be held on Thursday, June 6th at 6:00 p.m. at the Chickasha Community Theater. The event is free and open to the public. The panel will field questions from the public but the questions must be submitted in advance. There are flyers being distributed that have a QR code on them for users to fill out a form to turn them in.

 

Road Work to Slow Highway 81 Traffic South of Rush Springs

Road work will impact traffic on U.S. Highway 81 south of Rush Springs this week. Starting this morning, the state department of transportation says northbound and southbound traffic will be intermittently narrowed to one lane from State Highway 7 south to the Grady-Stephens county line. That work will be from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day through Friday. Officials say motorists should expect delays and urge them to use caution while driving through that area.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $78.26 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $82.79.

Natural gas is $2.25 per million BTUs.

Gold is $2,345 and silver is $28.37.

 

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Saturday, May 11th

 

Escaped Caddo County Jail Inmates Captured

Three inmates who escaped from the Caddo County are back in custody. Reports indicate the men were found in a cemetery in southwest Oklahoma City. Hector Hernandez, Michael Brown, and Davantae Winters managed to escape from the Anadarko jail sometime late Thursday or early Friday. All three have lengthy criminal records – with Winters recently being arrested for murder. Hernandez was in for aggravated trafficking and Brown for aggravated assault. In a Facebook post, Caddo County Sheriff Spencer Davis says numerous law enforcement agencies were involved in the search. It's not clear how the escapees were tracked to Oklahoma City. At one point officials had reason to believe they could have found a way to get out of state and even posted be-on-the-lookout (BOLO) advisories at airports. Authorities say they are checking the jail’s security video to see how they managed to escape. It's not the first time that inmates have escaped from the jail. Four inmates escaped back in 2013 just two years after that jail was built.

 

Swap Meet, Garage Sales, and Monster Trucks 

Today's the final day for Chickasha Antique Auto Club’s spring swap meet. It's been a good week for bargain hunters and those looking for parts for their renovation projects. The swap meet is held just east of the Grady County Fairgrounds and some vendors are also indoors at the fairgrounds. Chickasha's city-wide garage sales are also wrapping up today and are being held in conjunction with the swap meet. Other events happening include the final two performances of Extreme Monster Trucks with one at 2 o’clock this afternoon and the other 8 o'clock tonight.

 

Highway 81 Project To Slow Traffic in Southern Grady County

Some road work will impact traffic on U.S. Highway 81 south of Rush Springs next week. Officials with the state department of Transportation say north- and southbound traffic will be narrowed to one lane from State Highway 7 south to the county line from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Officials say motorists should expect delays and urge them to use caution while driving through that area.

 

Talk  Show Topic

Drew Cooper, the youth services director with the Chickasha Public Library is on the KOOL Konversation. Find a podcasts of the program under the Community tab on this website.

 

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Friday, May 10th

 

Judge Sets High Bond for Pursuit Suspect

A woman who led a police officer on a high speed chase and rammed into the officer’s SUV has been formally charge in connection with the pursuit. 59-year old Karen Butler Christy of Comanche is facing felony charges of assault with a deadly weapon and endangering others while eluding. She was also charged with a misdemeanor for obstructing an officer. Butler was arrested early Tuesday morning after a Rush Springs officer was nearly hit head-on by Butler when she was driving the wrong way on U.S. Highway 81. She remains in jail on a $150,000 bond and an application has been filed with the court to determine Butler's competency.

 

Suspect Arrested on Minor Charges Last Fall

Now Accused of Felony Drug Trafficking

A Caddo County man is behind bars for allegedly trafficking drugs. 43-year old Donald Leroy Wright of Ft. Cobb was arrested by Anadarko police last week. He was a passenger in a vehicle that was pulled over for not having insurance. KSWO-TV cites court documents that allege a K-9 officer alerted its handler that drugs may be in the vehicle. Authorities did not find any drugs during a routine search of the vehicle, but after he was taken to jail Wright gave authorities two baggies which contained nearly 25 grams of meth. Wright was previously arrested by Anadarko police on two separate occasions last fall and charged with misdemeanors of drug possession and DUI. The district attorney’s office wants to revoke Wright’s bond on those charges and he’s now being held on a $260,000 bond.

 

Help Available for Communties Seeking Federal Grants

Applying for federal grants can be a daunting task for communities seeking funds for needed infrastructure projects. The Center for Rural Affairs has a couple of documents that can be downloaded from its website that may help. A ‘Grant Application Guide for Rural Communities’ and a 'Grant Writer Resource List' are available from the website: cfra.org/rural-resources

 

Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive Tomorrow

It's said to be the largest one-day food drive across the country. The Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive originated by the National Association of Letter Carriers is tomorrow. Letter carriers are asking their patrons to place non-perishable food items next to their mail boxes on Saturday. Plastic bags are being distributed with the mail this week that may be used or many probably have other plastic grocery bags which can be used. All the food collected will immediately be distributed to local food pantries.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $79.26 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $83.58.

Natural gas is $2.30 per million BTUs.

Gold is $2,384 and silver is $28.98.

 

Obituaries

Raymond Lovelace

 A graveside service for Raymond Lovelace, 81, of Chickasha will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, May 11th at Fairlawn Cemetery. Arrangements are with Sevier Funeral Home.

Marvin ‘Leroy' Cobb, Jr.

Funeral service for Leroy Cobb, 79, of Chickasha will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, May 14th at College Heights Baptist Church. He worked in the oilfield and retired as a drilling consultant. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.

 

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Thursday, May 9th

 

Chix Police Say Department's Phone Number is being Spoofed

Chickasha police are warning of a scam regarding fake telephone calls that appear to be coming from the police department's main phone number. It’s called Spoofing. A post on the department's Facebook page says a caller claims to be from Homeland Security and that call recipients have been involved in criminal activities. The scammer is also using badge numbers and mentioning Chief G.G. Music’s name in the call. The call appears to be coming from the department's main number of 405-222-6050. Authorities say anyone who gets such a call should hang up and not share personal information. Individuals should then call the police department to report the spoofed call. Officials say Homeland Security would never call from the police department's phone number and ask for information. The post also says neither police nor Homeland Security would ever ask for money or account information over the phone.

 

Antique Auto Spring Swap Meet Begins

One of the largest antique auto swap meets in the southwest part of the country is underway in Chickasha. The Chickasha Antique Auto Club is hosting its annual spring swap meet. Vendors began arriving yesterday to set up shop at the club's 35-acre site just east of the Grady County Fairgrounds. Several hundred vendors have numerous items as well as vehicles in various stages of restoration and even fully restored vehicles for sale or trade. There are also vendors at the Grady County Fairgrounds that will have transportation-related memorabilia and collectibles for sale. The swap meet runs through Saturday. Admission is free. There is a fee for parking with proceeds going to local charities.

City-wide garage sales accompany the swap meet

In connection with the swap meet there are city-wide garage sales going on over the next three days. Residents do not have to purchase a permit from city hall to have a sale. The Chamber of Commerce is helping out. Individuals can post their sales on an inter-active map which is posted on the chamber's Facebook page. The chamber says those with left over items can take them to Shannon Springs Park on Monday where officials with Goodwill Industries will collect them. Goodwill will also donate a portion of the proceeds to Chickasha's Festival of Light.

 

Chickasha Couple Ready for Walk to Stillwater

A Chinese proverb says the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. While a walk to Stillwater is not nearly 1,000 miles, Chickasha's Stewart and Beth Ann Meyer have taken that walk so many times over the years that they've walked nearly 3,000 miles! Since 2001, the Meyers have made the 125-mile walk from Chickasha to Stillwater to promote Oklahoma's Special Olympics. They'll start their journey tomorrow morning but tonight, they'll have an event for anyone who might want to help their cause. Their 18th annual Craig's Walk will be held at the Chickasha High School football stadium. It's a come-and-go-event and families are welcome to support their cause. T-shirts are available and proceeds will go to Special Olympics or any donation would be appreciated. There will be live music with Tim Brauer and First Look. Craig's Walk is from 5-7 tonight and then the Meyers will leave Chickasha tomorrow morning and head to Minco on the first leg of their journey. They'll arrive in Stillwater next week in time for the opening ceremonies of the state Special Olympic summer games at Boone-Pickens Stadium where more than 4,500 athletes will be taking part.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $78.99 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $84.04.

Natural gas is $2.19 per million BTUs.

Gold is $2,315 and silver is $27.84.

 

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Wednesday, May 8th

 

Father Sentenced After Pleading Guilty to Abuse of Infant

A Grady County man is to spend 10 years in a federal prison after pleading guilty to child abuse. A federal grand jury charged 33-year old Evander Dayle Yanito with child abuse in May of last year. The charge was filed after an investigation by Chickasha police in August of 2022. The Washita Valley Community News reports that an affidavit indicates Yanito told medical personnel that a two-month old was having trouble breathing. The infant was first taken to Grady Memorial Hospital and then OU Children's Hospital. While at Children's Hospital Yanito is said to have admitted to police and the Department of Human Services that he caused bodily harm to the baby. In addition to his 10-year prison sentence Yanito will also serve three years' probation. The case was heard in Federal court as Yanito is a citizen of the Navajo Nation and the crime took place within the boundaries of the Chickasaw Nation.

 

Missing Toddler Found 

There were some tense moments for a Chickasha family after a two-year old went missing. Chickasha police say the child was reported missing about 7:30 p.m. Tuesday from a home near 16th and Iowa Avenue. Lt. Gillian O'Brien said the boy was found about four blocks away near 12^th and Colorado Ave. a few minutes after the report was filed and returned home. O'Brien said that the boy sneaked his way outside of the house. She said the case has been referred to the Oklahoma Department of Human Services.

 

Legislator Re-appointed to Regional Panel

A regional state lawmaker will continue his work with a national energy committee. State Representative Brad Boles (R-Marlow) has been re-appointed to the southern office of the Energy and Environment Committee of the Council of State Governments. The council is the nation's largest non-partisan organization that serves all three branches of state elected and appointed officials. The group holds regional meetings to address shared energy and environmental concerns. Boles was first appointed to the council in 2022.

 

Former Lt. Gov. Appointed Interim President at Cameron

Former Oklahoma Lt. Gov. Jari Askins has a new job. She's been appointed to serve as the interim president of Cameron University. The Duncan native also served several years as the Democratic Leader in the State House of Representatives. Askins recently stepped down from her post as the administrative director of the courts. If her appointment is approved Askins will start July 22nd and help regents with a national search for Cameron's 19th president. Current president John McArthur will be retiring this summer.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $78.38 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $83.33.

Natural gas is $2.21 per million BTUs.

Gold is $2,321 and silver is $27.44.

 

Obituaries

Judy Foster

Funeral service for Judy Foster, 74, of Chickasha will be held at 2:00 p.m. Friday, May 10th at First Baptist Church. She worked at Gabriel for a number of years. Arrangements are with Sevier Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to the First Baptist Church Building Fund or St. Jude Children's Hospital.

Jason Cole

Funeral service for Jason Cole, 54, of Chickasha will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, May 11th at Bible Baptist Church. Arrangements are with McRay Funeral Home.

Wilma ‘Sally’ Richardson

A memorial service for Sally Richardson, 82, of Cement will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, May 11th at Cement's First Baptist Church. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.

Cathy Blakley

A memorial service for Cathy Blakley, 73, of Oklahoma City will be held at noon Saturday, June 1st at the University of Central Oklahoma in Edmond. She worked at UCO in the language pathology department. Arrangements are with Sevier Funeral Home.

 

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Tuesday, May 7th

 

Chix Council OK's Road Improvement Project

The Chickasha City Council unanimously approved a road improvement project in its meeting last night. The city will partner with Grady County commissioners to improve 16th Street from Country Club Road to Pikes Peak Road. The agreement calls for the city to pay $100,000 for asphalt needed for the project. The remaining cost of the asphalt and the labor will be provided by District 3 county commissioner Gary Bray and his crew. It wasn't clear when that work might begin.

Contract with county jail also approved

The council also approved extending a contract with the Grady County Jail to house prisoners arrested by Chickasha police for fiscal year 2025. The rates will remain the same at $50 per day per inmate and $35 for prisoners who are held less than 24 hours.

YMCA denied free use of park buildings

The council denied a request by the YMCA to use the Shannon Springs Park Bathhouse and the community center at Washita Valley Park at no charge this summer. The Parks and Recreation Board recommended the denial. The Y will be able to use those facilities for its summer day care programs but will have to pay the fees associated with them which are estimated at $30 per hour.

 

Police Officers Honored for Life-Saving Work

The work of Chickasha police Officers Trenton Freeman, Walker Powell, and Christopher Butler was noted during last night's meeting. Police Chief G.G. Music announced that Freeman was presented a life-saving award from the Oklahoma Association of Police Chiefs for his efforts when he answered a call about a suicidal individual in November of last year. Music presented both Powell and Butler life-saving bars for their efforts this past January when they were called to an unresponsive person who had suffered a drug overdose. The officers used Narcan and CPR to assist the individual until paramedics arrived.

 

Wrong-Way Driver Arrested After Pursuit

A wrong-way driver who led a Rush Springs police officer on a high speed pursuit topping 100 mph is in custody. Rush Springs Police Chief Chuck Clampitt said it started about 1:30 Monday morning as Sgt. Steven Fish was returning to Rush Springs after taking an individual to the Lawton-Duncan Y. He said Fish was nearly struck head-on by the on-coming motorist. Fish pursued the suspect at speeds reaching nearly 110 miles per hour through Marlow. The chase finally came to an end south of Rush Springs near the Grady and Stephens County line at U.S. Highway 81 and Blackburn Road but not before the suspect rammed Fish's vehicle. Fish managed to take the driver into custody – and while she was being booked into jail she became combative. In custody is 59-year old Karen Butler Christy of Comanche. She's being held on numerous complaints which include eluding, assault on a police officer, and assault with a deadly weapon. She could have her initial appearance on those complaints in Grady County District Court today.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $78.48 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $83.33.

Natural gas is $2.19 per million BTUs.

Gold is $2,321 and silver is $27.44.

 

Obituaries

Dorothy Brandt

Funeral service for Dorothy Brandt, 93, of Chickasha will be held at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, May 9th at Holy Name Catholic Church. Arrangements are with McRay Funeral Home.

Georgia Burt

Funeral service for Georgia Burt, 89, of Chickasha will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, May 9th at Sevier Funeral Home. She worked at Chickasha Greenhouse.

Joyce Fink

A memorial service for Joyce Fink, 85, of Cleburne, Texas and formerly of Chickasha will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, May 11^th at Ferguson Funeral Home. She was an administrative assistant for a hospital.

 

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Monday, May 6th

 

City of Chix, Grady County to Share Cost of Road Improvement Project

A proposal for a road improvement project in the south part of Chickasha is among the items up for discussion when the Chickasha City Council meets tonight. The panel will review an inter-local agreement with Grady County commissioners regarding upgrades to 16th Street between Country Club Road and Pikes Peak Road. The agreement calls for the city to provide $100,000 to pay for the asphalt needed from the west service road at US Highway 81 to 16th Street. The county would pay any remaining cost for asphalt and all of the labor.

City expected to continue agreement with Grady County Jail

The council will also consider renewing its contract with the Grady County Jail to hold individuals arrested by the police department. The proposal calls for fees to remain the same as the current fiscal year. The cost is $50 per day per inmate and $35 for prisoners held less than 24 hours. If approved the contract would go into effect July 1st and run through June 30th of next year.

Upcoming events slated for approval

The panel will also consider approving requests for the Elks Lodge Fishing Derby at Shannon Springs Park on June 8th; the annual Juneteenth Celebration at Washita Valley Park June 14th and 15th; and the Rock Island Arts Festival and the Oklahoma Food Truck Championship Sept. 28th and 29th. The city council meets at 6:30 tonight at City Hall.

 

Chix School Board to Consider Re-newing Lease

with Washita Valley Community Action Council

The Chickasha school district's board of education also meets tonight. Normally the meeting is held the second Monday of the month but it was re-scheduled due to conflicts with some of the board members. Among the items to be reviewed are leases for the Washita Valley Community Action Council for the former West Elementary School buildings. The agreement calls for the council to make payments of $1,000 per month. The school board will also recognize several employees for what is known as ABCD awards (Above and Beyond the Call of Duty). They are Rochelle Bowens at the administration office; Debbie Bradford at the high school; Leta Pruitt at the  middle school; Amanda Overby at Lincoln; Glena Brock at Grand Avenue, and Lisa Chambon at Bill Wallace. Others include Angel Scott at the Adult Learning Academy; Darla McArthur in transportation; Kyle Horton in maintenance; and Karla Schenk in child nutrition.

 

Suspect Sought for Stealing Safe with Thousands of $ from Barn

An arrest warrant has been issued for a man wanted for stealing a safe out of a Caddo County barn. Officials are looking for Matthew Troyer, 37, of Midwest City. KSWO-TV reports that the United States Department of Agriculture was notified that a Hinton man had his barn broken into and a 900-pound safe which contained $50,000 was taken. A toolbox left behind by the suspect was taken to the OSBI for analysis which reportedly determined that Troyer's fingerprints were found on it. If arrested and convicted Troyer faces penalties of up to 15 years in prison and $11,000 in fines.

 

Weed Management Info Set for Tuesday Ag Program

Grady County ag producers will hold their first meeting in May tomorrow morning. Guest speaker is Dr. Liberty Gavin who will be talking about weed management strategies. The meetings are held the first and third Tuesdays of every month at the Grady County OSU Extension office starting at 7:00 a.m.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $78.11 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $82.96.

Natural gas is $2.14 per million BTUs.

Gold is $2,329 and silver is $27.41.

 

Obituaries

Bobby Brownen

A graveside service for Bobby Brownen, 88, of Chickasha will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, May 8th at the Tuttle Cemetery. He managed the Chickasha Transit Ready Mix Concrete company and also worked for Purdue homes. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.

Dennis Beaty

A memorial service for Dennis Beaty, 73, of Chickasha will be held at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday afternoon at First Baptist Church. Arrangements are with McRay Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to the ALS Association of Chickasha.

 

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Saturday, May 4th

 

Drug Trafficking Suspect Accused of Intimidating Witness

A Chickasha man already facing drug trafficking charges is back in jail for allegedly intimidating a witness. 67-year old Chris Elroy Loveless was taken into custody this week following an investigation by the district attorney's office. A probable cause affidavit indicates Loveless was at the Grady County Courthouse seeking a marriage license. Courthouse employees felt that Loveless was trying to force a woman to marry him. DA investigator Bill Bybee was called to the courthouse where Loveless began shouting at him and telling the woman to not answer any of Bybee's questions. Later, Bybee talked to the woman who said she was deathly afraid of Loveless and did not want to marry him. She said Loveless wanted to marry her so she wouldn't be willing to testify against him in connection with his 2022 arrest for drug trafficking. Loveless was booked into the Grady County Jail and has been formally charged with a felony for intimidating a witness. Prosecutors also asked to revoke his bond on the previous drug charges and Loveless remains in jail on a $125,000 bond.

 

Juveniles Caught After Pursuit of Stolen Vehicle

An investigation into the report of a stolen vehicle led to a pursuit by law enforcement early Friday morning. Grady County deputies were summoned to the Ninnekah area about 5 a.m. Scanner reports indicated that deputies were in pursuit of a suspected stolen vehicle. The vehicle was abandoned around U.S. Highway 81 and South 16th Street and reports indicated Chickasha police were called to help search for the suspect or suspects. Grady County Undersheriff Kori Brewer said authorities were able to locate two juveniles who were taken into custody. One was turned over to the Chickasaw Lighthorse Police and the other released to his parents. It was reported the vehicle was returned to the owner.

 

Lankford Joins Effort to Stop Tax Credits for EV Purchases

Oklahoma U.S. Senator James Lankford has joined the fight to bring an end to a federal tax credit for electric vehicles and charging stations. Officials say it would stop taxpayer money from subsidizing the purchases of luxury electric vehicles by the wealthy and corporations. It called The Eliminating Lavish Incentives to Electric Vehicles Act. The measure would repeal the $7,500 tax credit for the purchase of new and used electric vehicles and eliminate the federal investment tax credit for charging stations. It would also close what is called the 'leasing loophole' that has allowed certain taxpayers and foreign entities to evade restrictions on EV incentives. The bill is supported by a number of Republican senators but no Democratic senators are on board. The website OK Energy Today reports that the bill is supported by groups which include Americans for Prosperity and the National Taxpayers Union.

 

Obituary

Bobby Brownen

A graveside service for Bobby Brownen, 88, of Chickasha will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, May 8th at the Tuttle Cemetery. He managed the Chickasha Transit Ready Mix Concrete company and also worked for Purdue homes. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.

 

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Friday, May 3rd

 

State Marks 25th Anniversary of May 3rd Tornadoes

May 3rd, 1999 -- one of the most destructive days in Oklahoma when it comes to severe weather. Its estimated that 67 tornadoes tore across the state that afternoon and evening...leaving miles of destruction behind. Among the first tornadoes that day began near Stecker in southern Caddo County. That twister began growing and made its way into Grady County and flattened a home south of Verden. That tornado that passed north and west of Chickasha though it damaged two hangars at the city's airport. Just a few minutes later, a twister touched down southwest of Amber at 6:23 p.m. It grew in strength and moved on to Bridge Creek where numerous homes were destroyed and four people died. It continued growing and moved on to Newcastle then to Moore, Midwest City and Del City. Estimated top winds speeds in that tornado was 300 miles per hour. It was on the ground for nearly an hour and a half, carving a 38-mile path of destruction damaging 8,000 buildings, killing 46 people, and injuring 800 more. It was the costliest tornado at the time causing more than $1.5 billion in damage.

 

Chickasha High Students Help Sulphur Tornado Victims

Many Oklahoma communities continue cleaning up from tornadoes earlier this week. The southern Oklahoma communities of Sulphur and Marietta are among those with the most damage. A lot of help and support is being offered to assist including some Chickasha High School students. Cristie Oliver's internship class is collecting things like tarps, gloves, and trash bags that will be taken to Sulphur. Students are asking individuals and businesses lend a hand. Items can be taken to the Chickasha High School today or Monday morning. Arrangements can be made for the students to pick up items. Call the high school and leave a message and someone will get back to you to schedule a pick-up time. They would like to have the items in hand by Monday afternoon.

 

5K, Open Streets Set for Saturday

There are a couple of activities scheduled tomorrow. It starts with the Chickasha Rotary Club 5K and Fun Run-Walk. The theme is ‘May the 4th Be With You’ and costumes are encouraged. Registration will start at 7:00 a.m. at the Rock Island Railroad depot with the races starting at 8:30. Afterwards, the Chickasha YMCA is will have its annual Open Streets program downtown. There will be games and activities for all ages. The kids will enjoy the inflatable water slides and there will also be sidewalk chalk art, corn hole, dancing, and touch-a-truck to name a few. Food trucks will be on hand. Chickasha Avenue will be closed to traffic from the Leg Lamp to 3^rd Street from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Anadarko First Responder Meet-and-Greet Postponed

The first responder event in Anadarko with the Anadarko Police Department and FOP Lodge 118 that was scheduled for tomorrow has been postponed. A new date has not yet been scheduled.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $78.95 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $83.67.

Natural gas is $2.04 per million BTUs.

Gold is $2,309 and silver is $26.79.

 

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Thursday, May 2nd

 

Storms Continue to Cross the State

Spring weather has caused death and destruction in Oklahoma over the last week. There was more severe weather overnight but thankfully there were no tornadoes. Severe thunderstorms did bring high winds and some hail through parts of the Grady and Caddo County areas early this morning. The first thunderstorm warning for Grady County was issued just after 12:30 a.m. for storms that had 70 mile per hour winds, torrential rain, and penny-sized hail. The last of the warnings was issued about 1:45 a.m. for the northern part of Grady County. There have been no immediate reports of damage. 24-hour rainfall totals in the area from the Oklahoma Mesonet show Chickasha with about an inch of rain; Minco with nearly two inches of rain; Acme, west of Rush Springs with 1 1/4 inches; and Apache with nearly 3 1/2 inches of rain. Weather is expected to be mild much of the day with an afternoon high temperature of 78 degrees. The National Weather Service is forecasting another round of thunderstorms late this afternoon and tonight and that there will be a marginal risk for severe weather.

 

Puppy Mill Operator Convicted of Murder, Animal Cruelty

A Marlow woman is convicted of murder and dozens of animal cruelty charges. After an eight-day trial in Stephens County District Court in Duncan, a jury issues guilty verdicts to Karen Jean Pritchard. She was arrested in February of 2021 after police found the body of her former employee on Pritchard’s property. Pritchard was said to have been running a puppy mill and investigators found nearly 200 dogs in poor and unsafe conditions. Pritchard was originally charged with first-degree murder in connection with the death of Ashley Anderson but after five hours of deliberation the panel issued the guilty verdict on second-degree murder. The jury also found Pritchard guilty of 137 counts of animal cruelty. Formal sentencing is set for July 16th.

 

Ocean Cruise to be Given Away at Regional Blood Drive

The Oklahoma Blood Institute (OBI) is continuously urging individuals to roll up their sleeves and donate blood. The OBI is motivating current and new donors to come forward this Saturday. An anonymous individual has given OBI a seven-day cruise out of Galveston, Texas which will be awarded to one donor from all OBI ‘cruise giveaway’ blood drives that day. Destiny Lillich with the OBI says they need all types of blood however they can always use one specific blood type-

 

              

 

 

The OBI Bloodmobile will be in the YMCA parking lot at 7^th and Chickasha Avenue from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, May 4th. To make an appointment call George Plummer at 405-224-1560 during regular business hours.

 

4Hers Learn About Elections

As you know 2024 is a big year for elections. Voters will be casting ballots in county, state, and federal elections over the next few months. Maggie Evans is a Grady County 4Her and one of her main project areas is civic engagement. She says 4Hers are learning about the election process and that this and other lessons learned will stay with them throughout their lives.

 

              

 

 

The next election is the Primary Election June 18th, and individuals need to be registered by May 24th to cast ballots in that election. The presidential election is Nov. 5th.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $84.39 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $88.40.

Natural gas is $2.03 per million BTUs.

Gold is $2,307 and silver is $26.46.

 

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Wednesday, May 1st

 

Assault Suspect Faces New Child Neglect Charge

A man arrested after a violent outburst at a Minco home is now also accused of child neglect in connection with a separate and unrelated incident. A probable cause affidavit from a Grady County deputy sheriff indicates that 29-year old Jayson Theodore 'J.T.' Lee attacked a male relative in Minco back in March. It’s also alleged he broke several windows out of a car. A warrant was issued for Lee's arrest and he was taken into custody April 1st. He was charged with felony vandalism and misdemeanor assault and battery then released from jail on a $5,000 bond. This past weekend, Chickasha police were called to a home in the 600 block of North 17th to investigate an intoxicated individual identified as Lee. A police affidavit said Lee is the sole caretaker of his six-week old daughter and that he had gone to the liquor store. It’s alleged that Lee drank to the point that he could not care for the baby. The child was only wearing a diaper and seemed hungry. Lee was then arrested. At his initial appearance in court on Monday Lee was charged with felony child neglect and a misdemeanor for public intoxication and disturbing the peace. Lee remains in jail on a $25,000 bond.

 

Suspect In Custody for Illegally Living at Oil Field Site

A suspect wanted for illegally living at a Ninnekah oilfield site is in custody. RANCH News reported last week that an arrest warrant had been issued for 47-year old Ronnie Lynn Frick of Rush Springs. He was booked into the Grady County Jail about noon on Sunday. It's alleged Frick had been staying at the location for some time and even changed locks on a gate. Frick has been formally charged with a felony for trespassing and damage to a critical infrastructure facility. He remains in jail on a $7,500 bond.

 

Grants Available for Military Veterans Affected by Tornadoes

Military veterans impacted by tornadoes and severe storms this past weekend are eligible to receive grants from the State Department of Veterans Affairs. A statement from the agency says the grants are aimed at providing crucial support to those who have served our country and are now facing the adverse effects of the storms. The grants are part of an ongoing effort to ensure that veterans and their families receive the support and resources they need. Veterans can reach out to the state Department of Veterans Affairs by calling 405-523-4000.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $81.93 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $87.86.

Natural gas is $1.99 per million BTUs.

Gold is $2,301 and silver is $26.75.

 

Obituary

Sharon Kolzen

Funeral service for Sharon Kolzen, 71, of Sterling will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, May 3rd at Laverty Baptist Church. She was a homemaker. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.

 

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Tuesday, April 30^th

 

Free Program Available to Warn of Severe Weather

Many victims of this past weekend's storms got plenty of advance notice of the numerous tornadoes that caused massive destruction Saturday night. Grady County Emergency Management officials are urging local residents and businesses to sign up for a free program that will help warn of approaching storms. It's called the Hyper Reach Emergency Mass Notification. Grady County officials use the service which allows users to get free alerts from the National Weather Service for tornado watches and warnings, and flash flood warnings. Individuals can access the service on-line at:

 hyper-reach.com/okgradycountysignup

There is also a phone number to call or text to sign up which is 405-546-2709.

 

Driver Hospitalized After Car Crashes, Burns

A Grady County driver is hospitalized after his car crashed and burned in Dibble early this morning. 73-year old Robert Roper of Alex was air-lifted to an Oklahoma City hospital with leg and internal injuries and was last in fair condition. The crash happened just after midnight at County Line Avenue and 180th Street in McClain County. The trooper investigating the crash said that Roper failed to stop at a stop sign and left the roadway, went airborne, crashed into a ditch, and caught fire. Roper was ejected from the car about 15 feet. The trooper said the Roper was not wearing a seatbelt.

 

Vehicle Fire Shuts Down Turnpike

A portion of the H.E. Bailey Turnpike that runs through Chickasha was closed after a vehicle fire late yesterday afternoon. Both eastbound lanes of the interstate were shut down near the Chickasha Sports Complex near Mile Marker 81 just before 5:00 p.m. Both lanes were closed for about 40 minutes and the turnpike re-opened about 5:30 p.m. No information about the fire was available.

 

Dibble Middle School Hosts STEM Night

A program showing students the many career opportunities available in the energy industry will be held in Dibble tonight. The Oklahoma Energy Resources Board (OERB) will be hosting a STEM program this afternoon and evening. Lisa Schwarz with OERB talks about some of the groups that will be there and some of the hands-on projects that students can check out-

 

              

 

 

A number of colleges will also be on hand to show the energy-related degree programs they offer. The STEM night will be at the Dibble Middle School from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and energy partners will provide free food for everyone.

 

Governor Signs Permanent Daylight Savings Time Bill;

But Federal Officials to Determine if it's Implemented

A bill that would make Daylight Savings Time permanent in Oklahoma has been signed into law by the governor. SB 1200, also known as The Sunshine Protection Act, was overwhelmingly approved by both the house and senate. The measure would mean that there would be an extra hour of daylight during the winter and that Oklahomans would not have to adjust to time changes in the spring and fall. While many support the idea it will only happen if Congress approves legislation that would allow states to choose whether to lock the clock in Daylight Savings Time mode.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $82.63 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $88.49.

Natural gas is $2.03 per million BTUs.

Gold is $2,326 and silver is $26.93.

 

Obituaries

Fern Pilgrim

A graveside service for Fern Pilgrim, 94, of Chickasha was held at 11 o'clock this morning (Tuesday, April 30^th) at the Moutain View, Okla. cemetery. Arrangements were with Sevier Funeral Home. She was a homemaker.

Margaret Hair

Funeral service for Margaret Hair, 89, of Chickasha will be held at 1:30 p.m. Thursday, May 2nd at Parkview Christian Church. She and her husband Larry ran a pipeline construction company. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.

 

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Monday, April 29th

 

Numerous Tornadoes Strike Oklahoma Over the Weekend

Clean up is continuing in several Oklahoma communities this morning following Saturday's tornado outbreak. There are reports that four people died and more than 100 were injured as an estimated 30 tornadoes swirled across the state. The largest tornadoes caused catastrophic damage in the southern Oklahoma towns of Sulphur and Marietta. Reports indicated both tornados were listed as an EF-3 with winds upward of 165 mph.

Tornado warnings issued locally

Tornado warnings were issued for Grady, Caddo, Stephens, and McClain counties as a supercell thunderstorm with a reported mezzo-cyclone raced from Marlow, to Alex, Blanchard, and into the Oklahoma City metro area. Grady County Emergency Management Director Dale Thompson said winds from the storm were 60 to 70 miles per hour and there were reports of ping pong-ball sized hail. Neither Thompson nor Grady County Fire Chief Rodney Gregory had any reports of damage. Individual who have had damage should report it to the website: damage.ok.gov

Grady County deputies sent to help

Grady County Sheriff Gary Boggess says he is sending five of his deputies to Love County in southern Oklahoma to assist with clean up and security in Marietta.

 

Motorcyclist Critical After Crashing into Car

A motorcycle rider was critically injured in a crash near Minco over the weekend. 34-year old Adrian Mundy of Oklahoma City was air-lifted to an Oklahoma City hospital with head, trunk, and internal injuries. He was wearing a helmet. The accident happened on U.S. Highway 81 about three miles south of Minco just before 3:30 p.m. Saturday. The highway patrol reports that Mundy hit an SUV that was parked on the shoulder. The driver of the SUV identified as 50-year old Donny Choate of Choctaw who was not injured.

Child hospitalized after accident west of Minco

Three children were taken to a hospital and a five-year old was admitted with head injuries after a second crash near Minco. That accident happened just before 6:00 p.m. Saturday on State Highway 152 not far from the Grady-Caddo County line. The children were passengers in a small SUV that was rear-ended by a Jeep driven by 40-year old Darcy White of Minco. White was not injured. Two other children in the SUV were 13- and 14-years old and were treated and released. Two adults also in the SUV were not injured. The family is from Wyoming.

 

Cattle Producers Urged to Keep Up With Bird Flu Found in Dairy Cows

Cattle producers need to monitor what's happening in regards to bird flu found in some dairy cattle actoss the country. Michael Kelsey, executive vice president of the Oklahoma Cattlemen's Association (OCA), was in attendance at the annual Grady County Cattle Producers meeting this past Friday night.

 

              

 

 

Kelsey said OCA is working with the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) to influence USDA's response to the situation.

 

Grady County Veterans Honored with Flagpoles and Flags

A number of Grady County military veterans were honored yesterday as a group installed flagpoles and U.S. flags at their homes. A group called Flagpoles Honoring Our Veterans spent the day installing the poles and flags at the homes of 10 veterans. There were brief ceremonies afterwards. Veterans honored include Grady County Sheriff Gary Boggess, Chickasha Mayor Zach Grayson, Michael Chavers, Johnny Lewis, and Amanda Tolman. Also Josh Woods, Bill Ingraham, Marvin Shipley, George Luquette, and Willard Guffee.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $83.85 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $89.50.

Natural gas is $1.61 per million BTUs.

Gold is $2,345 and silver is $27.70.

 

Obituaries

Carron Gage

Funeral service for Carron Gage, 75, of Chickasha will be held at 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, April 30^th at Ferguson Funeral Home. She worked for Lifeline Home Health.

Peggy McGrew

A memorial service for Peggy McGrew, 82, of Ninnekah is pending with the family.

 

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