Saturday, Sept. 18th
Some Sheriffs Oppose Vaccination Mandate
Grady County Sheriff Jim Weir and Stephens County Sheriff Wayne McKinney both say they will not be requiring their employees to get a coronavirus vaccination. They join a number of other county sheriffs in the state who say the vaccination is a personal choice and should not be mandated by the federal government. Statements issued by the sheriffs indicate that since the rollout of the COVID-19 vaccines, division has become more widespread and intense between those who believe in the vaccine and those who don't. They say just like the flu shot it is a personal decision and that they are appalled of the dictator-like tactics from the federal government.
Chix Dog Park Construction Begins
The City of Chickasha has broken ground on a new dog park. Contractors began clearing the way for the facility at Centennial Park in the 600 block of Oregon Avenue. A private donation from a local family is fulling funding the $100,000 project. The Badgett Family contributed the funds. Bordwine Development is the contractor and the project is expected to be completed by late October or early-to-mid-November.
First Americans Museum Opens
The long-awaited opening of the First Americans Museum has arrived. The Oklahoma City museum is a monument dedicated to the dozens of indigenous Native American tribes who lived in North America many years before the arrival of Europeans and others. The Oklahoman reports that the first ideas of the museum were discussed in the mid-1980s. It endured a number of setbacks to become a Smithsonian-affiliated destination which compares only to the National Museum of the American Indian in Washington, D.C. The 175,000 sq. ft. museum was built at a cost of $175 million. The opening was initially expected to attract 20,000 visitors but will be capped at 3,500 both today and tomorrow to prevent over-crowding and to minimize the risk of the spread of the coronavirus. There are plans for future development near the museum. The Chickasaw Nation owns adjoining land which could be turned in to commercial development and Oklahoma City officials are excited to see what the next round of MAPS 4 projects may be included to connect the museum with Bricktown.
Sheriff's Office Most Wanted
The Grady County Sheriff's Office has updated its list of individuals who have outstanding warrants. Here's public information officer Lisa Hatchett-
If you have information regarding any of these individuals you're asked to reach out to the sheriff's office by calling 405-222-5085.
DHS Warns of Possible Text-messaging Scam
Officials with the Department of Human Services are warning Oklahomans about a text-messaging scam. They say the texts specifically mentions some of the agency's benefits programs which can allow the scam artists to obtain credit and banking information. The text message congratulates the recipient as being among a select number of people who could benefit from the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program and that families on the SNAP, SSI, or TANF programs may be automatically eligible. The recipient is then asked to click on a hyper-link to a website seeking personal information including Social Security numbers and banking info. Anyone who may have provided information is urged to contact their financial institution to freeze their accounts and get new credit or debit cards. Potential victims should also contact the major credit bureaus and the Federal Trade Commission to file a complaint.
Obituaries
Mary Goodson Smith
Funeral service for Mary Goodson Smith, 82, of Chickasha will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, September 21st at Ferguson Funeral Home.
Travis Palmertree
A graveside service for Travis Palmertree, 75, of Verden will be at noon Saturday, September 25th at the Carnegie Cemetery. He was a U.S. Army Veteran. He owned Palmertree Trenching in Verden for more 40 years.
High School Football Scores
Chickasha 43, Anadarko 39
Blanchard 20, Newcastle 13
Watonga 46, Minco 41
Apache 30, Rush Springs 0
Bridge Creek 34, Lexington 6
Walters 22, Dibble 20
Davenport 48, Alex 0
Cyril 24, Temple 8
Tecumseh 27, Elgin 14
Mt. View-Gotebo 70, Waurika 38
Elmore City 2, Carnegie 0(fft)
Marlow 42, Atoka 10
Tuttle, Lindsay idle
Friday, Sept. 18th
Chix School Officials Encourage Response to Survey
Chickasha public school officials continue seeking the public's input about the district, from classrooms and curriculum to the physical condition of schools. A community meeting to help get the feedback will be held Monday evening. The district is partnering with the Oklahoma State School Boards Association and the K20 Center at OU to get detailed information about the good and bad things patrons perceive about Chickasha schools. Monday's meeting will be held at the school administration building starting at 6 p.m. and it will be live-streamed on the district’s website. Individuals can also respond to the survey on-line: www.chickasha.k12.ok.us
Vehicle Fire Shuts Down Turnpike
A vehicle fire involving a semi shut down part of the H.E. Bailey Turnpike this morning. It took place in the eastbound lanes of the turnpike near Mile Marker 91 just after 1:30 a.m. Both eastbound lanes were closed for more than 2 1/2 hours. A highway patrol dispatcher said there were no injuries.
State Senator to File Bill to Ensure Ag Sales Tax Exemption
A state lawmaker says he hopes to make it easier for farmers and ranchers to renew their state sales tax exemption cards. Sen. Casey Murdock (R-Felt) says he will file a bill to consider the proposal at the state capital next spring. The action comes following an interim study which looked into problems producers were having renewing their sales tax exemptions. That occurred when the state tax commission began requiring new information. According to a press release from Murdock's office, some producers were concerned that they might lose their sales tax exemptions altogether but Murdock said that is not the case. He said he'll do everything he can to keep the agriculture sales tax exemption intact. He said doing away with it would be a death sentence to small towns especially those that border nearby states which also offer a sales tax exemption.
Anadarko to Upgrade Historic Preservation Guidelines
The City of Anadarko is looking to update the guidelines used by the city's Historic Preservation Commission. The city has received a federal grant to help with that effort through the state historic preservation office. The city is looking for requests for proposals (RFPs) for professional services to review the current regulations. A post on the City of Anadarko's Facebook page indicates they are looking for proposals from qualified professionals who have a history and reputation in preparing design guidelines and rehabilitation techniques for historic structures. The deadline to file RFPs is November 4th and the winning bid is expected to be awarded Nov. 8th.
Two Groups Prepare for One Big Car Show
Two groups are combining efforts for one huge car and truck show tomorrow. Members of the Saturday Night Cruisers and Coffee and Cars Chickasha will be out in full force. It's the 11th annual custom and classic car show for the Saturday Night Cruisers. There will be muscle cars, street rods, antiques, and motorcycles competing for top awards. Coffee and Cars Chickasha which is normally held the third Saturday of each month will also have their antique vehicles on display. The car show is open to all who want to show off their vehicles with entry fees at $25 per vehicle. Registration starts at 8 a.m. and it will run until 2 p.m. tomorrow. The event will be held at Chickasha's 1st Baptist Church parking lot at 4th and Colorado Avenue.
Talk Show Topics
Here's what we're talking about this weekend. Blanchard City Manager Robert Floyd and Parks and Recreation Director Chris Wittenbach are on our KOOL Konversation. On Real Estate Today we have Luke Holland, chief of staff for Oklahoma U.S. Senator Jim Inhofe and 4th District Oklahoma Congressman Tom Cole. Find links to both programs under the Community tab on this website.
Energy and Metals
Crude oil on the NYMEX is $72.61 per barrel.
London-based Brent crude is $75.67.
Natural gas is $5.33 per million BTUs.
Gold is $1,765 and silver is $23.07.
Obituaries
Gary VanSant
Funeral service for Gary VanSant, 61, of Chickasha will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, September 18th at Hope Tabernacle Church. Arrangements are with Brown-Thomas Funeral Home.
Thursday, Sept. 16th
City Council Tweaks Proposed Contract
with City Manager Candidate
The Chickasha City Council continues making a few minor changes to a proposed contract that has been offered to an individual who has agreed in principal to be the next city manager. The council met behind closed doors for about 30 minutes during a special meeting last night. Afterwards, the council approved a change that would allow the candidate to live within the Chickasha school district instead of within 10 miles of the city limits. The revised contract was to be sent to the candidate for his review. Mayor Chris Mosley says the contract could be approved in the next few days and an announcement should come soon. Mosley said the candidate is expected to be in town by mid-October.
Lake Chickasha Patrons Without Fresh Water Wednesday
A few Lake Chickasha residents and campers were without fresh water yesterday. City officials say a problem developed with the pressure tanks Wednesday morning. About a dozen families were affected. After investigating it was determined that the tanks had to be replaced. A post on the city's Facebook page indicated water service was restored by about 6 o'clock last night.
Grady County Sales Tax Revenues Fluctuate
Grady County sales tax revenues continue their roller coaster ride in 2021. Sales tax numbers for August were estimated at $500,000 which is up about 10 percent from July. The total is up more than 20 percent compared to the same time last year. Here's the breakdown of how that money is spent: The Grady County Fairgrounds received $168,000; Grady Memorial Hospital collected $148,000; the 20 county fire districts shared $84,000 with each once getting 4,200; the seven senior nutrition centers also shard $84,000 and each one received $12,000; Tuttle EMS received more than $15,000; and Rush Springs EMS received about $3,900.
Tipsters Help Task Force in Catching Wanted Suspect
A Chickasha man accused of terrorizing families is in custody. 22-year old Price Lee Shells was picked up by the Grady County Fugitive Task Force after a warrant was issued for his arrest. Grady County Sheriff Jim Weir said Shells has been giving a number of families difficulties over the last few weeks. A probable cause affidavit indicates the task force got a tip about Shells location Tuesday morning. Task force members found him close to the Valero gas station and 4th and Texas...and that Shells ran into a nearby residential area. With the help of residents, officers found Shells and took him into custody. However, a handcuffed Shells managed to pull away from a deputy and again tried to run - but he was caught a couple of blocks away. Prosecutors have charged Shells with misdemeanors for obstruction, escape, and possession of marijuana. Shells was arrested back in July for possession of stolen property after it was alleged he took someone’s cell phone and is facing a misdemeanor charge in connection with that incident. He remains in the Grady County jail on an $18,000 bond.
Live Performances Return to Science and Arts
Live theatre will return to the University of Science and Arts over the next few months. That includes the annual Davis-Waldorf Performing Arts Series which will begin later this month. There were virtual performances individuals could watch on-line last year due to the pandemic. Professor of Theatre Katie Davis says the series seemed to attract a younger audience.
Davis said all students in Grady County as well as Science and Arts students on campus will again get free tickets for the upcoming season but recommends they sign up to get a season ticket as they will limit attendance to allow for social distancing. The opening performance for the Davis-Waldorf Performing Arts Series will be Thursday, Sept. 30th with an improvised unscripted show called Broadway's Next Hit Musical. The group will use suggestions from the audience to create spontaneous scenes. For ticket information and a schedule of all five shows for the upcoming season visit the website: www.usao.edu/dwpas
Energy and Metals
Crude oil on the NYMEX is $72.61 per barrel.
London-based Brent crude tops $75 to 75.46.
Natural gas is $5.46 per million BTUs.
Gold is $1,778 and silver is $23.50.
Wednesday, Sept. 15th
More Drug Trafficking Suspects In Custody
That joint investigation between the Grady County Sheriff's Office and the Drug Enforcement Administration into drug trafficking in Chickasha has led to at least five arrests in the past week. The most recent arrests include 43-year old Lantone JeQuaye Garrett of Chickasha; along with 33-year old Joshua Jovan Nickson and 33-year old Aushia Shantell Pendarvis, both of Oklahoma City. Nickson and Pendarvis are being held in the Grady County Jail on $250,000 bond each while Garrett is being held on a $100,000 bond. Two other arrests previously reported include 39-year old Antwon Laray Owens and 19-year old Kadee Lynn Hall, both of Chickasha who also remain in the county jail.
Rally Supporting Ninnekah Girls Basketball Players
Scheduled for Chickasha's Shannon Springs Park
Parents and supporters of current and former Ninnekah girls basketball players who allege they were sexually assault by coaches have organized a rally to get the word out about identifying sexual predators. A rally will be held at Chickasha's Shannon Springs Park later this month. Shelby Ross says the rally will include speakers from a number of organizations who will provide information not only on how to identify predators but also how victims can reach out for help. Among the groups expected to be on hand include the Intervention and Crisis Advocacy Network; The Red Cord; Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women; The American Indian Movement; Bikers Against Child Abuse; The Grady County Sheriff's Office; and the Chickasaw Nation Lighthorse Patrol. Ross says the group has received a permit from the City of Chickasha to hold the rally which will be at the amphitheatre at Shannon Springs Park on Saturday, September 25th from 1-3 p.m.
Jeff Boren Wins Caddo County Commissioner Race
By an overwhelming margin, Jeff Boren wins the Caddo County Commissioner District 2 post in yesterday's special election. The Gracemont Democrat picked up more than 9 out of every 10 votes in defeating Cogar Republican Belita Jo Byrd, 231 to 19. Boren will fill the unexpired term left on the office previously held by Commissioner Randy McLemore who died from COVID-19 last December. Boren has been working for the district the last five years and has been the district’s road foreman the past three years.
More Chix Police Officers Cross-Deputized with BIA
Two more Chickasha police officers have been sworn in to assist the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) with law enforcement efforts on Native American lands. Walker Powell and Andrew Kammerlocher took their oaths to work with the BIA's Special Law Enforcement Commission. Law enforcement officers across the state are being cross-deputized with the BIA as a result of the McGirt Decision by the U.S. Supreme Court. To earn the cross-deputization, officers must complete a three-day course on Criminal Jurisdiction in Indian Country Training and pass a rigorous three-hour test. Chickasha now has 15 officers who have been cross-deputized with the BIA to assist with law enforcement efforts mainly in the Chickasaw Nation, of which the City of Chickasha and segments of Grady County are a part of.
Energy and Metals
Crude oil on the NYMEX is $70.46 per barrel.
London-based Brent crude is $63.60.
Natural gas is $5.26 per million BTUs.
Gold is $1,803 and silver is $23.84.
Obituaries
Tim Lambrose
A memorial service for Tim Lambrose, 58, of Chickasha will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, September 18th at Full Gospel Church.
Richard ‘Ricky’ Pace
A graveside service for Ricky Pace, 64, of Chickasha will be at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, September 18th at Rose Hill Cemetery. Arrangements are with Sevier Funeral Home.
Gary VanSant
Funeral service for Gary VanSant, 61, of Chickasha is pending with Brown-Thomas Funeral Home.
Tuesday, Sept. 14th
New Chix City Manager may be Hired Tomorrow
The next city manager for the City of Chickasha is expected to be formally hired tomorrow night. The city council has scheduled a special meeting to formally hire the candidate who has not yet been named. The council will go behind closed doors to have final discussions to approve a contract. The meeting is scheduled for 6:00 p.m. Wednesday, September 15th at city hall. The city council has been looking for a new manager for eight months after previous city manager John Noblitt stepped down in January. Mayor Chris Mosley has been serving as the interim city manager since then.
District Two Caddo County Voters
to Elect New County Commissioner
Some Caddo County voters are going to the polls in a special election today to elect a new county commissioner. Voters in District Two are choosing between Democrat Jeff Boren and Republican Belita Jo Byrd. The winner will fill the remaining months of the term for the seat previously held by Randy McLemore who passed away last December. Polls will be open until 7 p.m. today.
Chix PD Helps Child Diagnosed with Leukemia
Here’s a nice gesture from members of the Chickasha Police Department. Officers recently stepped up to help a 9-year old boy diagnosed with leukemia. Members of the Fraternal Order of Police Local 129 provided a $500 contribution to help with the medical costs of Michael Dixon, Jr., who was diagnosed with the blood disorder on Valentine's Day of this year. Dixon was diagnosed with B-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia and has been on chemotherapy. He requires around-the-clock care through March of next year while he's under-going treatment and his immune system recovers. A GoFundMe account has been established to help. Michael is the great-grandson of lifelong Chickasha residents Roy and Clara Bryant.
New Pesticide May Help Control Feral Hog Population
Oklahoma farmers have a new weapon in their fight against feral hogs. The state department of agriculture has approved the use of a new pesticide which is said to reduce the fertility of male feral hogs. It's called HogStop which was recently registered with the ag department. Officials say male hog fertility is reduced within five days of consumption of the bait and maintained for at least 30 days after five feedings. A press release indicates it is a non-fatal bait and will not kill hogs or other animals that might consume it. Officials warn that HogStop may be harmful to humans if swallowed and that dust from the bait may cause eye and respiratory irritation. Gloves should be worn when handling. HogStop is available from a number of agriculture supply outlets.
Science and Arts Blood Drive Today
If you haven't donated blood in a while there is a community blood drive at the University of Science and Arts today. The university is teaming up with the Oklahoma Blood Institute. Donors will receive a limited edition Bigfoot-inspired t-shirt...with a silhouette of the legendary man-beast in front of a mountain, with the phrase ‘The Hunt is On...for Blood Donors’. Donors will also get a free A1C blood sugar tests to help them monitor their risk for diabetes. The blood drive is from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. today at the Science and Arts Student Center. To find an upcoming blood drive in your area visit the website: www obi.org
Energy and Metals
Crude oil on the NYMEX is $70.45 per barrel.
London-based Brent crude is $73.51 per barrel.
Natural gas is $5.23 per million BTUs.
Gold is $1,787 and silver is $23.59.
Obituaries
Larry Muncrief
Funeral service for Larry Muncrief, 70, of Chickasha will be at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 16th at Bible Baptist Church. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.
William ‘Larry’ Nelson
A graveside service for Larry Nelson, 69, of Tuttle will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, September 16th at Fairview Cemetery in Tuttle. Arrangements are with Sevier Funeral Home of Tuttle.
Monday, Sept. 13th
Chix City Council to Discuss Future Public Works Projects
The Chickasha City Council will be discussing possible infrastructure projects in the future during a special work session tonight. There are no specific projects listed on the agenda as the description only mentions ‘public works projects and their associated costs’. A second issue with no details listed is the ‘city's water cost, fees, and treatment’. The work session will get underway at 6:30 tonight at city hall.
Chix Utility Bills May Have Errors
Late Friday, Chickasha officials said that some utility bills that were sent out may have some errors. Authorities said there were some problems with the electronic meter reading process. The errors are on statements which were sent out Thursday, Sept. 9th. The issue mainly affected some commercial accounts. Anyone who thinks their utility bill is not correct can contact city hall during regular business hours by calling 405-222-6015.
Chix Schools Policies to be Revised Due to New State Laws
The Chickasha Board of Education meets tonight to revise a number of school policies. The adjustments are being made as a result of new state laws that have gone or will be going into effect. They include an emergency action plan for each school facility and athletic events including practices. Each sport will have to have its own plan that will be reviewed and rehearsed with school officials and local emergency personnel, and a plan that will be shared with visiting schools. Another new state law requires having a trained staff member at each site to administer or assist with seizure rescue medication for students and staff and to recognize the signs and symptoms of those issues and the appropriate action to take. That will start in January. Another revision is to require schools to make a private, sanitary, and secure location for an employee to express breast milk. Another revision relates to the enrollment of students of military families. The students must meet residency requirements before enrolling. The school board is also to consider the retirement of Bill Wallace principal Tressia Meeks which will be effective Jan. 1st if approved.
Square Dance Group Seeking New Dancers, Members
Square dancing is a unique past time that continues to be a part of mostly western American culture. For more than 50 years the Swingin' Chicks Square Dance Club has been active in the Chickasha area. The group meets each Monday night for a couple of hours and is welcoming new members who would like to learn the traditional dance. Darrell Cheshier says it takes several weeks before becoming an accomplished square dancer.
There are 70 calls that have to be learned. The first night of lessons is tonight and the group will welcome new dancers again next Monday night as well. Membership is $8 per person for the whole year, and children as young as 12 years old can be part of the group with a parent or guardian. The square dancers meet at Parkview Christian Church each Monday from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Find information on the group’s Facebook page.
Energy and Metals
Crude oil on the NYMEX is $69.72 per barrel.
London-based Brent crude is $72.92.
Natural gas is $4.94 per million BTUs.
Gold is $1,791 and silver is $23.72.
Obituaries
Tom Holding
A memorial service for Tom Holding, 82, of Blanchard was held at 2:00 p.m. Monday, September 13th at the First Baptist Church of Blanchard. He was a long-time banker, working at Oklahoma National Bank in Chickasha and at the First National Bank in Blanchard. Memorial contributions may be made to the Blanchard First Baptist Church building fund.
Joey ‘Jojo’ Bonds
Funeral service for 40-year old Joey 'Jojo' Bonds of Chickasha will be held at 2:30 p.m. Tuesday, September 14th at Bible Baptist Church. Arrangements are with Sevier Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to Helpless Hounds of Tulsa.
Larry Muncrief
Funeral service for Larry Muncrief, 70, of Chickasha is pending with Ferguson Funeral Home.
