Saturday, Jan. 8th
Ex-con on Probation is a Suspect Connected to New Crimes
A man on probation for committing violent crimes is a suspect in some new crimes just weeks after he was released from prison. He is also believed to be the man injured in an officer-involved shooting near Verden last week. 33-year old Garrick Boyiddle was released from prison last September. He served five years of a nearly nine-year sentence for assault with a weapon. Caddo County authorities issued arrest warrants for Boyiddle in November and December in connection with two separate investigations by Anadarko police. The most recent investigation was after Boyiddle was identified as a suspect who shot a man outside the Anadarko Dollar General Store on Christmas Eve. Then just a few days later, Boyiddle is reported to have been the driver of a vehicle that led authorities on a pursuit from Anadarko to Verden - where the driver was hospitalized after being injured in the officer-involved shooting. Boyiddle remains in the hospital with non-life threatening injuries and will be taken into custody when he's medically cleared. The OSBI is investigating the officer-involved shooting. Grady County authorities say one of their deputies, and officers from the Verden and Anadarko police departments were involved in the shooting. None of them have been identified. A state trooper involved in the pursuit was not involved in the officer-involved shooting.
Crash Injures Two Drivers, One in Serious Condition
A Caddo County man is in serious condition and another suffered minor injuries in a Friday traffic accident. 67-year old Michael Roper of Hinton was taken to an Oklahoma City hospital with internal injuries. 62-year old William Bartlebaugh of Ft. Cobb was taken to a Yukon hospital where he was treated and released. The accident happened on State Highway 152 between Cogar and Minco near the Grady and Caddo county line just before 8:00 a.m. Friday. The highway patrol reports that Roper attempted to make a U-turn and his truck was broadsided by the van driven by Bartlebaugh. Both men were wearing their seat belts.
Energy Firm Issued Drilling Permits; Announces Well Completion
An Oklahoma-based energy company has been issued permits to drill for oil and gas in the region. Citizen Energy of Tulsa has the go-ahead to drill five wells including three on a single pad south of Mustang. That’s just north of the Canadian River along State Highway 4. The company has also received a permit to drill a few miles northwest of that location, and an amended permit to drill south of Union City. Citizen also filed a completion report for a well on the same Union City site. The well is bringing in more than 200 barrels of oil and more than 1,500 Mcf of natural gas per day. The well was drilled to a depth of nearly 19,000 feet.
Talk Show Topics
Here's what we're talking about this weekend. Matt Whetzel with the Intervention and Crisis Advocacy Network is on our KOOL Konversation program. Andy Maher and Jamie Jones with the Grady County Fairgrounds are on Real Estate Today. Find links to both programs under the Community tab on this website.
Friday, Jan. 7th
Hospitals Say Don't Go to the Emergency Room for COVID Testing
Grady Memorial Hospital is among many hospitals across the state urging people to not go to the emergency room if they want a COVID-19 test. Officials say due to the mutation of the virus some infusions are not effective against the omicron variant. Hospital officials say to get coronavirus testing at their primary care physician, quick-care clinics, or local health departments.
Verden Casino Held-up at Knife-point
Someone held up the Kiowa Casino near Verden at knife-point earlier this week and investigators are offering a big reward for information about the individual(s) responsible. The Bureau of Indian Affairs is offering $2,000 for tips that lead to the arrest and capture of the suspect. BIA Chief Micah Ware said a masked individual walked into the casino about 12:40 a.m. Tuesday, January 4th. An undisclosed amount of cash was taken mainly in denominations of $20 and $100 bills. There is video surveillance of the individual who is believed to be a short male. Anyone with information is asked to call Chief Ware at 405-638-4413 or BIA Dispatch in Anadarko at 405-247-6712. You will not have to give your name.
Crews Battle Frigid Weather to Repair Water Line Break
A water line break near Grand Elementary School kept Chickasha city crews busy during the bitter sub-freezing temperatures yesterday. The break was reported about 9:00 a.m. and crews isolated the problem to 15th Street between Grand Avenue and Missouri Avenue. Traffic in the area was detoured because of the icy conditions caused by the freezing water running down the street. An undetermined number of homes had low or no water pressure until the break was repaired. Officials say they were able complete the project just before 2 o'clock yesterday afternoon.
Two Chix Police Officers Earn Promotions
Two Chickasha police officers have been promoted following the retirement of Lt. Scott Weaver. Gillian O'Brien was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant and Lauren Jewell was promoted to the rank of Sergeant. It's the first time in the history of the department for women to be in all ranks of leadership. Chief Dee Rowell said she struggled her way throughout her career and says there are still barriers for women in law enforcement today. Nationwide only about one in eight full-time police officers are women. O'Brien has been with the department for nearly 14 years and is now the commander of one of the midnight shifts. She will continue helping get grants for the communications department while training Jewell on recruiting and training processes. Jewell has been with the department for nearly 12 years and will be supervising the communications department and training others to manage the sex offender registry.
Sheriff's Office Updates Wanted List
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 contact the sheriff's office by calling 405-222-5085.
Energy and Metals
Crude oil on the NYMEX is $79.46 per barrel.
London-based Brent crude is just under $82.
Natural gas is $3.81 per million BTUs.
Gold is $1,790 and silver is $22.18.
Obituary
Brandon Jackson
Funeral service for Brandon Jackson, 29, of Oklahoma City will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, January 12th at the Mt. Triumph Baptist Church in Oklahoma City. Arrangements are with Brown-Thomas Funeral Home.
Thursday, Jan. 6th
Southwest Oklahoma Firm Announces Growth
2022 is off to a great start for Hillary Communications and the Hillary Media Group. The companies have announced the acquisition of two telecommunications companies and several statewide media outlets. The communications side acquired Southwest Telephone Company and Southwest Oklahoma Telephone Company (aka SWOI Wireless) which serve southwest Oklahoma. The acquisitions have the approval of all regulatory agencies. Dustin Hillary, the managing partner of Hillary Communications, said in a press release that the acquisition continues the company's core mission to improve internet access and quality across rural America. The Hillary Media Group has acquired the Radio Oklahoma Ag Network, Oklahoma Farm Report, Oklahoma Energy Today, and Road to Rural Prosperity news sites. Their collective names will change to the Rural Oklahoma Network. Long-time ag news broadcaster Ron Hays and other well-known broadcasters including Jerry Bohnen will remain with the network.
Judge Recommends Corp. Comm. Approve PSO Plan
A plan to allow Public Service Company of Oklahoma (PSO) to spread its costs from last year's massive freeze over two decades is being recommended for approval. At the end of a day-long hearing at the Oklahoma Corporation Commission yesterday, an administrative law judge told the panel that his decision was one of the hardest of his career and that he took no pleasure in making the recommendation. The website OK Energy Today reports that Judge Dustin Mercer urged the Corporation Commission to adopt the proposal which would result in a more than $4 per month increase for ratepayers over a 20-year period. That's on top of a previously approved rate hike for PSO, meaning rate payers would see an overall increase of between $9 and $10 per month if the panel approves the recommendation. Commissioners are expected to vote on the proposal in the near future.
Suspect May Enter Plea to Child Pornography Charges
A Caddo County man is expected to plead guilty to several counts of possession of child pornography. 66-year old Dave Olen Carter of Apache is slated to enter the plea before District Judge Kory Kirkland next week. Carter was charged following an OSBI investigation that lasted for more than a year. The Lawton Constitution reports that the agency was looking into allegations of child molestation in 2018. Investigators confiscated a computer from Carter's home and arrested him in May of 2019. Carter faces up to 20 years in prison and a $25,000 fine on each of six counts.
Chix Fire Department Accepting Applications
The Chickasha Fire Department is seeking applicants interested in being a firefighter/EMT and firefighter/paramedic. A Facebook post indicates that the department is expanding for the first time in 35 years. They are seeking self-motivated, goal-oriented team players who want to work in a fast-paced environment. The application deadline is February 5th. Candidates can apply on-line at the City of Chickasha's website: www.chickasha.org
Substitute Teacher Session Set for Chix Schools
Chickasha Public Schools are always in search of substitute teachers. A workshop for new substitutes is scheduled for next week. It will be held at the school administration building Thursday, January 13th at 9:00 a.m. Candidates should contact the administration for more information office by calling 405-222-6500.
Energy and Metals
Crude oil on the NYMEX is $77.85 per barrel.
London-based Brent crude is $80.80.
Natural gas is $3.88 per million BTUs.
Gold is $1,797 and silver is $22.28.
Obituary
Julie DeBard
Funeral for Julie DeBard, 62, of Chickasha will be at 1:00 p.m. Friday, January 7th at First Assembly of God. Arrangements are with Sevier Funeral Home.
Wednesday, Jan. 5th
PSO Customers to Learn of Monthly Bill Increase
Stemming from the 2021 Polar Vortex Issue
A settlement between Public Service Company of Oklahoma (PSO) and the Oklahoma Corporation Commission regarding the tremendous heating costs related to last year’s record- breaking cold weather could be wrapped up today. The issue was supposed to be finalized during the commission’s meeting on Monday. However, the issue was postponed to today (Wednesday) as PSO and other parties wanted time to file the appropriate paperwork. PSO was asking for more than $57 million in carrying charges and a 20-year bond plan which would result in a $4 per month increase for PSO customers who use 1,100 kilowatt hours of electricity each cycle. The hearing resumes this morning in Oklahoma City.
Shooting Suspect Sought in Anadarko
Anadarko police are looking for a man they say shot another while the victim was shopping on Christmas Eve. Authorities have issued an arrest warrant for 34-year old Garrick Boyiddle who is facing a felony charge of shooting with intent to kill. Our partners at KWTV News 9 report that Boyiddle and the victim served time in prison together. T.he victim told investigators he believed he was shot because he made a mistake while they were behind bars. The victim also said Boyiddle is a member of the Indian Brotherhood Gang. Boyiddle is still on probation for a previous assault with a dangerous weapon conviction. Anadarko Police Chief Eric Harlan said Boyiddle is not someone they want on the streets.
Chickasha Resident Joins Police Department
A new police officer was sworn in to serve and protect Chickasha residents. Marcus Nieto joined the police department a couple of weeks ago and he took his oath of office yesterday. Nieto is a Chickasha native, a graduate of Chickasha High School, and also attended USAO and St. Gregory's University. The last seven years he was employed at Livestock Nutrition Center. Nieto be attending CLEET training in Oklahoma City for the next several weeks. Marcus and his wife Rebecca have three children.
Anadarko Road Project Resumes
After several months of delays, road crews are back in Anadarko to finish work on the McLemore Road (formerly Petree Road) project between Mission Boulevard and State Highway 8. The project was put on hold after guard rails for a bridge over a creek were lost in New Orleans during Hurricane Ida in October. City officials say the work is expected to be completed next week.
Rural Areas to be Served by Health Department Mobile Units
State department of health mobile units will be in Binger, Elgin and several other southwest Oklahoma communities this month. The mobile wellness unit will make a dozen stops throughout Caddo, Comanche, Kiowa, and seven other counties. The Mobile ‘Health-on-the-Go’ unit is part of a statewide fleet developed to help under-served rural areas. The mobile unit will be in Binger next Thursday, Jan. 13th from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Church of God. It will be in Elgin on Tuesday, January 18th from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. in the parking lot of I Street and 2nd Street.
Energy and Metals
Crude oil on the NYMEX is $76.99 per barrel.
London-based Brent is $80.00.
Natural gas is $3.71 per million BTUs.
Gold is $1,820 and silver is $23.12.
Obituaries
‘Dale’ Osborn
A private graveside service was held Tuesday, January 4th for Obed ‘Dale’ Osborn of Chickasha. Arrangements were with Ferguson Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to Special Young Adults in Chickasha.
Marvin Harvey
Funeral for Marvin Harvey, 65, of Chickasha were scheduled for 2:00 p.m. today (Wednesday, January 5th) at Sevier Funeral Home.
Ronnie Pyles
Funeral for Ronnie Pyles, 39, of Lawton are pending with Brown Thomas Funeral Home.
Brandon Jackson
Funeral for Brandon Jackson, 29, of Oklahoma City are pending with Brown-Thomas Funeral Home.
Tuesday, Jan. 4th
Driver Admits Drinking Prior to Causing Fatal Crash
A driver accused of causing a head-on crash near Purcell that killed three people last month is reported to have been drinking before the crash occurred. Reports indicate that 39-year old Patricia Lynn McCloed was drinking THC-laced vodka for medical reasons. McCloed was recently released from the hospital after being treated for injuries she suffered in the crash. Our partners at KWTV News 9 reported that McClain County prosecutors have charged her with three counts of manslaughter and she surrendered to authorities after she left the hospital. Her bond was set at $200,000. Court records indicate that McCloed's blood-alcohol level was 0.10. The accident claimed the lives of 39-year old Kimberly Hartline and two teenagers, 18-year old Madysun Faber and 15-year old Tyler Durham, all of whom were affiliated with the Dibble school district.
Burn Bans Extended in Several Counties
Burn bans remain in effect for many counties along the U.S. Highway 81 corridor and throughout much of Western Oklahoma. Grady County Commissioners yesterday extended ban for another week and will review the status each Monday morning until the fire threat eases. There are now 22 Oklahoma counties with burn bans in effect. In addition to Grady County, others along U.S. Highway 81 area with burn bans include Canadian, Stephens, and Jefferson counties. Other counties in the region with burn bans are Caddo, Comanche, and Garvin counties.
Chix City Council OKs Internet Provider Change
Improved internet service at Chickasha City Hall is expected to be available this week. Last night, the city council approved a contract with Hillary Communications to provide internet service at all city buildings. The contract is for just under $17,000. City Manager Tyler Brooks says the internet service from current provider Suddenlink has not been up to par.
City Hall, public works, the library, the sports complex, and the two fire stations will all be switching over to Hillary Communications internet service over the next few weeks.
New Chix City Councilman Takes Oath
A new city council representative was sworn in to office last night. Nate McCalla took his oath of office to fill a vacant seat in Ward 2. McCalla is a Chickasha native who moved away for a few years but returned about five years ago. McCalla works for the sales leadership team of a medical supply company. He spent a few months on the city's Planning Commission before being asked by Mayor Chris Mosley to serve on the council. McCalla says he'll spend a few weeks learning about city government before he focuses on any specific issues.
McCalla and his wife Natalie have two small children. Natalie is also a Chickasha native.
Funerals Held for Veterans with No Claimed Relatives
Four unclaimed U.S. military servicemen will be laid to rest at the Ft. Sill National Cemetery today. They are Karl Neff, Jon Lewis, Raymond Stow, and David Bamberger – all of whom served in the Navy. Bamberger also spent some time in the Air Force. The cemetery and the Office of Veterans Affairs encouraged the public to attend the services.
Energy and Metals
Crude oil on the NYMEX is $76.08.
London-based Brent is $78.98.
Natural gas is $3.82 per million BTUs.
Gold is $1,802 and silver is $22.80.
Obituaries
Nina Cummings
A graveside service for Nina Cummings, 80, of Chickasha will be held at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, January 6th at the Ft. Sill National Cemetery. Arrangements are with McRay Funeral Home.
Keith Doss
A service for Keith Doss, 63, of Chickasha is pending with Brown-Thomas Funeral Home.
Kimberly Ross
A service for Kimberly Ross, 58, of Lindsay is pending with Brown-Thomas Funeral Home.
Monday, Jan. 3rd
New Rep May be Appointed to Chix City Council
The Chickasha City Council meets for the first time in 2022 tonight and the first time in about a month. The panel will consider appointing Nate McCalla to the vacant Ward 2 council post which was previously held by Clark Van Dyck. The panel will consider approving a nearly $17,000 contract with Hillary Communications to install broadband internet service at all city buildings. The city requested bids after having unspecified problems with current internet service provider, Suddenlink.
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Panel to Consider Upgrades to Sports Complex
Also to be considered is a proposal to spend about $94,000 for field leveling and repairs at the Chickasha Sports Complex. Officials say the bid from United Turf and Track of Arcadia, Oklahoma is about $2,500 more than the low bid submitted by Simonize Sports Field Services of Mustang. The United bid is being recommended because officials say its meets the minimum bid requirements provided in the bid package. The high bid came in at more than $230,000 from Mid America Sports Construction of Missouri.
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Motorist Claims City Streets Damaged Car
The council is expected to deny a nearly $1,800 claim from Delores Campbell who said her car was damaged due to some bad streets. The panel will also recognize recently-retired police Lt. Scott Weaver, who spent more than 20 years with the department.
Probe of Fatal Crash Continues
There's no update regarding the investigation into a double-fatality accident that occurred between Tuttle and Newcastle on State Highway 37 last Thursday. The highway patrol reports that 36-year old Mariscka McCorkle of Blanchard was one of the crash victims. She was the driver of one of three vehicles involved in the deadly crash. Also killed was 19-year old Clayton Jones of Oklahoma City who was a passenger in one of the other vehicles. Two unidentified children riding with McCorkle - a 15-year old boy and an 11-year old girl - were last in good condition at an Oklahoma City hospital. Two Blanchard residents in the third vehicle involved were not hurt. They were identified as 61-year old Steven Jevons and 23-year old Emily Jevons.
Grady County Burn Ban Back on Commish Agenda
Grady County Commissioners will meet this morning to consider extending a burn ban the panel implemented last week. Grady County is among more than 20 counties which have put burn bans into effect over the last 30 days. Canadian, Caddo, Comanche, Stephens, and Garvin counties also have burn bans enacted. A number of wildland fires erupted last week including one that burned about 1,000 acres near Fletcher. The Chickasha area received about a half-inch of rain last week which is the only measurable precipitation that has fallen in the last three months. Much of the region is experiencing severe to extreme drought conditions and are in either a D-2 or D-3 drought designation according the U.S. Drought Monitor.
Energy and Metals
Crude oil on the NYMEX is $75.21 per barrel.
London-based Brent crude is $79.20.
Natural gas is $3.37 per million BTUs.
Gold is $1,826 and silver is $23.29.
Obituaries
Harvey Berry
A memorial service for Harvey Berry, of Ninnekah was held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, January 3rd at Ferguson Funeral Home.
Valera Jean Southwell
A memorial service for Valera Southwell, 89, of Chickasha will be held at a later date. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.
Danny Buck Haile, Jr.
Funeral for Danny Haile, Jr. 69 of Chickasha was held at 1:00 p.m. Monday, January 3rd at Sevier Funeral Home.
Treva Buchanan
Funeral for Treva Buchanan, 42, of Chickasha were held at 2:00 p.m. Monday, January 3rd at McRay Funeral Home.
