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Mollman Media News Archives for 2018-06

2018, June 18th - 23rd

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In “Getting to know your Chickasha Fire Department” we meet Captain Duke Keeling.

Click Here To Hear the Story!

 

 

 

 

 

Saturday, June 23rd

 

Strong Storms Topple Semis; Cause Power Outages

Minimal damage was reported throughout central Oklahoma after strong thunderstorms  moved through the area last night. Storms packing 70 mile per hour winds caused downed power lines and tree limbs and even toppled  semis.  About 500 PSO customers in the Chickasha area were without electricity for a short time when the storms hit about 11:00 p.m. Friday. A few PSO customers were still without power Saturday morning. Some of them were west of 29th and U.S. Highway 62 and a couple were in town near Shannon Springs Park.  In the Oklahoma City metro area, about 20,000 OG&E customers were without electricity. Parts of Interstate 40 west of El Reno was shut down due to a number of semis that were blown over by the high winds.

               

Friday Storms Overturn Lake Lawtonka Campers

Strong storms that blew through southwest Oklahoma early Friday morning causing some damage at Lake Lawtonka. 50 mile per hour winds were blamed for flipping over about 10 campers and RVs. One woman was briefly trapped in her overturned camper.  She was taken to a hospital with neck and back injuries and a lot of bruises.

 

State Supreme Court Halts Petition Seeking Tax Repeal

The Oklahoma Supreme Court strikes down a petition that sought to repeal tax increases passed by the state legislature this spring. On Friday, the court ruled that an initiative petition submitted by Oklahoma Taxpayers Unite was misleading and fatally flawed. The group was seeking to repeal the taxes which were passed by state lawmakers to fund teacher pay hikes and force a statewide vote on the tax hikes. The group can file a new petition, but organizers have less than a month to get more than 41,000 signatures. The ruling does not impact the date when the new taxes are set to go into effect, which is August 1st. The increases include sales taxes on motor fuels and cigarettes, and gross production taxes.

 

Marlow Woman Wants Stolen Trailer Back

A Marlow area woman is using some unconventional language in a sign seeking the return of a stolen trailer. One of the signs at the home of Brenda Rist says “if you saw the ‘expletive’ scumbag that stole the motorcycle trailer, please call the Stephens County Sheriff's Office’.  Rist lives on State Highway 7 about two miles west of the Lawton-Duncan Y. She said she came home from the work the day after Mothers Day and noticed the trailer was gone. She said since the trailer was stolen during the day, someone had to have seen it being taken. Rist says she wants her trailer back and also wants whoever stole it to be held accountable.

 

Bridge Creek Fire District Filing Nixed

Candidates who may have thought about filing for the Bridge Creek Fire Protection District Board of Directors next week will have to wait. The filing period has been cancelled. Officials with the Grady County Election board said the timing of the filing period was a factor. It wasn't clear when the filing period will be re-scheduled. The board election is scheduled the same day as the general election in November.

 

Chickasha Rodeo Ends Tonight

The second and final go-round of the Chickasha rodeo will break out of the chute tonight. This is the 79th year for the local rodeo foundation to hold the annual event. Ahead of the action of the actual rodeo is the parade, which will get underway at 4:00 p.m. today in downtown Chickasha. The parade will run from the Rock Island Depot and go west on Chickasha Avenue to 8th Street, then circle around back to the depot east on Kansas Avenue. For the rodeo tonight, it starts with the Grand Entry kicks off at 8:00 p.m. at the Grady County Fairgrounds Rodeo Arena.

 

Militaria Show This Weekend

Also at the fairgrounds this weekend, a militaria collectible show. That runs today and tomorrow in the north exhibit building of the fairgrounds. An admission fee is charged.

 

Talk Show Topics

Here's what we're talking about this weekend: The three candidates running for district judge in Grady and Caddo counties are on our Kool Konversation program. Doug Carel, Ryland Rivas II and Kory Kirkland are on the show. On Real Estate Today with John Mosley, this week's guest is Chickasha City Manager John Noblitt. We have a links to both programs elsewhere on this website. Find them under the Community tab.

 

Sheriff's Office Most Wanted

Each week, the Grady County Sheriff's Office issues a 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 contact the sheriff's office by calling 405-224-5085.

 


Friday, June 22nd

 

Firm With SCOOP Interest Gets Millions in New Investments

A Dallas-based company with a major investment in the South Central Oklahoma Oil Province (SCOOP) picks up some big-time financial backing. Grey Rock Energy Partners collected more than $230 million in capital commitments in its first and only close of Grey Rock Energy III. The money was raised through institutional investors, many of which company officials say are repeat investors. The news was reported on the website www.okenergytoday.com

 Grey Rock officials issued a statement saying the company is well positioned to deliver healthy, risk-adjusted returns in an under-served area of the oil and gas market. Managing Director Matt Miller was quoted as saying they have assembled a savvy team with deep operational expertise, positioning the firm as a world-class partner for operators and a preferential counter-party for sellers. Grey Rock is a private equity firm with more than $450 million in assets with interests in more than 2,000 wells in the SCOOP, Permian Basin, the Bakken, and other plays.

 

Man Wanted on Child Molestation Charge Surrenders

A man charged with child molestation surrenders to authorities. An arrest warrant was issued for 38-year old Michael James Dean of Blanchard on May 30th.  Dean gave himself up by walking into the Grady County Jail yesterday afternoon. Details of the investigation by the Grady County Sheriff’s Office weren't available. Dean was arraigned on the charged in district court yesterday, and he remains in jail pending a $50,000 bond. He's to be back in court July 25th to announce his attorney with a preliminary hearing conference is scheduled for August 1st.

 

Ex-con Back Behind Bars Accused of Robbery

A Chickasha man with a lengthy criminal record remains in jail in connection with a robbery which occurred earlier this week. 25 year old Michael Ryan Shipley was arrested Monday after police were called to a Chickasha home regarding a stolen vehicle. The victim also said some items were taken from a home. A probable cause affidavit filed in Grady County District Court by Chickasha police indicates the victim was in her car talking to Shipley. It’s  alleged Shipley pulled the woman out of the vehicle, got in and sped away. The victim said she feared for her life, thinking Shipley may run over her. Shipley was arrested at his home a few hours later. He's been formally charged with second degree robbery. Just a few weeks ago, Shipley pleaded guilty to several misdemeanor drug charges and was given one-year suspended sentence with 30 days to serve. Shipley owes thousands of dollars in fines in connection with crimes dating back 10 years, including drug and assault and battery charges. Shipley remains in jail in lieu of $25,000 bond.

 

Good Turnout Reported in Early Primary Voting

Thursday saw a good turnout of early voters ahead of next Tuesday's primary election. About 150 individuals cast ballots at the Grady County Election Board and about 100 did so in Caddo County. In-person, absentee voting continues until 6:00 p.m. today. You can also vote tomorrow at your county election board from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The best times to vote are mid-morning and mid-afternoon.

 

Rodeo Cowboys Reflect on Their Careers

The 79th annual Chickasha rodeo opens tonight. Among the spectators this weekend will be a couple of brothers who spent a few years on the pro and open rodeo circuits. John and Frank Cox recalled their rodeo days with us. John, who is 68 years old, said he was a bullfighter, and was the IPRA Rookie of the Year in 1972. He recalls riding six bulls in one night in Durant and three ranked bulls during a rodeo in Amarillo. John said he rode bulls until he was 48 years old. Older brother Frank, who is 66 years old, was a saddle bronc rider. He was on the PRCA circuit for several years, winning a competition in Denver about 1978. The brothers competed in numerous states, as far away as California, and even at the prestigious Frontier Days rodeo in Cheyenne, Wyoming. Frank said witnessed the tragic death of bull rider Lane Frost in 1989 and was a pall bearer at Frosts funeral. John and Frank said they still attend a number of rodeos, and will be attending tomorrow night's Chickasha rodeo performance. The rodeo is held at the Grady County Fairgrounds. The Grand Entry is 8:00 p.m. both tonight and tomorrow night. There will be a rodeo parade downtown Chickasha tomorrow starting at 4:00 p.m.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $65.54 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $73.05

Natural gas is $2.95 per million BTU.

Gold is $1,270 and silver is $16.51.

 

Thursday, June 21st

 

Former Educator, Preacher Sentenced in Molestation Case

He pleaded no contest to several charges of lewd acts with a child. Now, former school administrator and retired preacher Jody Hilliard will be going to prison. A Stephens County judge sentenced Hilliard to 25 years with 18 of those years suspended. That means Hilliard will spend seven years behind bars. He's 73, meaning he won't be eligible for parole until he's 80. Hilliard was an administrator at Ninnekah schools a number of years ago and he spent 25 years as a preacher in Duncan. He pleaded no contest to five counts of lewd or indecent acts with a child. He was accused of molesting a 10-year old girl back in 2015. He was arrested in the spring of 2016 after Duncan police were notified of the allegations.

 

Woman Hospitalized After Crash on Wet Highway

A Chickasha woman is hospitalized after her pick up runs off a rain-slick highway and hits a utility pole. 36-year old Lyndi Lu Douglas suffered head, arm, leg, and internal injuries in the crash. She is in serious condition in an Oklahoma City hospital this morning. The accident happened in Ninnekah around 8:30 a.m.Wednesday, about a mile west of the U.S. Highway 81 and Highway 277 intersection. The highway patrol reports Douglas was eastbound on 277 when she lost control of the pickup. She was thrown out of the passenger side door when the truck hit the pole.

 

Minco Mom Pleads for Return of Son's Service Dog

A Minco mother is hoping her son's missing service dog can be found. Delaina Johnson says her 14-year old son Dyllon suffers from seizures, and that his 4-year old rottweiler named Loki has gone missing. Johnson said she took Dyllon to West Virginia last week to visit his dad, but left Loki behind with a dog-sitter. When Johnson came home, the sitter said Loki had run away. Johnson has her suspicions on whether that is true, and thinks that Loki may have been sold. There were also reports that the dog was dumped in the country. Dyllon won't be home until July 1st, and he doesn’t know Loki is missing. The dog is micro-chipped. Anyone with information is asked to call the Minco Police Department.

 

Fugitive is Back in Custody

One of the state's most wanted fugitives is back in custody. Ryland Miller, wanted on a parole violation on drug trafficking and distribution charges out of Stephens County, was caught in the Lawton area on Wednesday. News of the arrest was posted on the Department of Corrections Facebook page. No details of his arrest were available. Miller was featured in last week's Fugitive Friday program in southwest Oklahoma. He was originally arrested in 2000 following an investigation by the Duncan Police Department. He pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 30 years in prison. It's not clear when he was paroled.

 

Early Voting Underway for Primary Election

Early voting begins today ahead of next Tuesday's primary election. In-person, absentee ballots may be cast at your local county election board office. While the ballot features many statewide races like governor and lieutenant governor, there are some county elected positions on the ballot. In Grady and Caddo counties, there are three candidates for district judge. Doug Carel of Tuttle, and Ryland Rivas II and Kory  Kirkland both of Chickasha are on the ballot. Kirkland was appointed to the post last May. In Grady County, Democrats in District Three have their choices of three county commissioner candidates. Incumbent Ralph Beard is being challenged by Lee Dorman and Jeffrey Cramer. Republicans in District One also have three county commissioner candidates on the ballot. Incumbent Windle Hardy is being challenged by Billy Clapper and Michael Walker. In Caddo County, Democrats will choose a candidate for assessor.  Incumbent Edward Whitworth is being challenged by Kelly Caye Ratzlaff, with the winner to face a Republican challenger in November. In-person, absentee voting is from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. today and tomorrow, and on Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $66.22 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $74.74.

Natural gas is $2.96 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,265 and silver is $16.28.

 

 

Wednesday, June 20th

 

 

Chickasha Schools GED Program Placed on Probation

The Adult Basic Education courses offered through Chickasha Public Schools will continue through next school year. However, the program has been placed on probation for one year. The Chickasha school board took the action during a special meeting last night. The program was reportedly out of compliance following an audit. The school board issued a mandate saying administrators must be up-to-date on practices, monitor spending more closely, and teachers will be required to spend at least 12 hours of face-to-face time with students. Program coordinator Lisa Johnson said corrective actions have already begun. The program offers GED and English as a Second Language courses in both Grady and Canadian counties. The program has helped about 1,000 students over the last 10 years, and has been around about 50 years. School Board President Doug Brown said they will do everything they can to ensure the program stays in Chickasha and is successful.

 

Jack Herron to Remain as Chix School Superintendent   

Interim Chickasha School Superintendent Jack Herron will be staying with the district. He was hired as the permanent superintendent in last night's special school board meeting. Herron was hired in January following the turmoil that erupted in the aftermath of former superintendent Dave Cash’s term as Superintendent Emeritus and his eventual resignation. Several school employees were suspended for blowing the whistle regarding allegations of grade and attendance tampering with the district's personalized learning curriculum, which remain under investigation by the OSBI and the state department of education. Others were suspended over allegations of abuse of a special needs student. Those accused of abuse were cleared of wrong-doing. Of those suspended, all have resigned with the exception of special education director Pam Huggins, who was re-hired for the upcoming school year. It's reported that Herron was awarded a two-year contract. Contract terms were not immediately available.

 

Chickasha Water Pressure Issue Resolved

Parts of Chickasha spent much of Tuesday with low water pressure. A leaking pipe joint at one of the city's three water towers was to blame.  Customers in the south and southwest part of the city, including USAO, were affected. Crews had to replace a dismantling joint on a 16-inch water line in the tower at 11th and Alabama. Workers from the city and its contracted water treatment company USW spent several hours replacing the joint. A replacement part was available from a supplier in Norman at a cost of $350. Water service had returned to normal for most water customers by mid-afternoon.

 

Police Department Phone Upgrade Postponed

The Chickasha Police Department did not get its new computer software installed on its telephone system yesterday. Communications Supervisor Kory Brewer said some unexpected problems came up, so the project was postponed. Brewer said they may try again next week.

 

Livestock Forage Program Enrollment Continues

Livestock producers impacted by the recent drought might consider taking part in USDA's Livestock Forage Program. Amanda Tye with the Caddo County Farm Service Agency says-

 

                

 

Tye said producers must have owned the livestock and be able to provide a lease or deed to prove they had access to the grazing land.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $65.07 a barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $75.08.

Natural gas is $2.90 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,274 and silver is $16.26.

 

Tuesday, June 19th

 

 

New Chickasha School Superintendent May be Hired

A new superintendent for Chickasha Public Schools could be announced tonight. The school board interviewed what was believed to be the fifth and final candidate for the post during a special meeting last night. Another special meeting is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. today at the school administration building. The group will go behind closed doors to discuss the candidates, and after the executive session there's an item to vote on the possible employment of the superintendent. Jack Herron has served as interim superintendent for the past five months.

 

Future of Adult Basic Education Course Under Review

The future of Chickasha school's Adult Education Program will also be discussed in a closed-door session of the school board in today’s meeting. The item on the agenda calls for the school board and its attorney to discuss a Career Tech review of the program. Adult Education Director Lisa Johnson tells KOOL/RANCH News she's afraid the program is in danger of being discontinued. Johnson said the program was put on a corrective action plan and that career tech has approved a one-year extension to make sure they stay in line with their requests. Johnson said the district has already signed the grant for the Adult Education Program for the upcoming school year.

 

Chix City Council OK's $15 Million General Fund Budget

A $15.1 million general fund budget for the City of Chickasha for the 2019 fiscal was approved by the city council last night. That's a slight increase over the current fiscal year budget which ends next week. The budget passed with a 7-1 vote, with Councilman Mark Keeling providing the lone vote against the measure.

 

                

 

He said the council must be willing to make tough decisions. Keeling is opposed to the council's lease with the YMCA, which is a dollar a year for the old National Guard Armory where the YMCA is housed. He’s also not in favor of an assistant chief for the fire department, or $20,000 for contract labor with the Main Street Association.

 

Man Charged with Child Sexual Abuse

An investigation into a case of alleged child molestation lands a man in jail. 47-year old Steven James Denton of Chickasha is charged with two counts of the sexual assault of two children under the age of 16. Following last week’s investigation by Chickasha police and questioning of the alleged victims by a third party, an arrest warrant was issued for Denton. He was taken into custody Saturday afternoon. He was arraigned on two felony counts of child sexual assault in Grady County district court yesterday. He remains in jail in lieu of $100,000 bond. Denton is to be back in court August 1st for a preliminary hearing conference.

 

Child Abuse Suspect Released; Investigation Continues

In a KOOL/RANCH News follow-up, the investigation into a reported case of child abuse is continuing, but a suspect arrested in connection with the case has been released from jail with no charges filed against him at this time. Chickasha police arrested a man on a child abuse complaint last week but he was released from jail Friday afternoon. The Grady County District Attorney's office would only say that the investigation into the allegations is on-going. An emergency protective order has been granted against the suspect. A hearing on that matter is scheduled next week.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $65.85 a barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $75.34.

Natural gas is $2.95 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,282 and silver is $16.38.

 

Monday, June 18th

 

 

Shortfall Expected for City of Chickasha's 2019 Budget

The City of Chickasha is projected to have a $1.3 million shortfall in the general fund budget for the 2019 fiscal year which starts next month. Projections from City Manager John Noblitt show total revenues expected to be just over $15 million with total expenses about $16.4 million. The largest increases are for police and fire salaries. Police salaries will grow by 20 percent to $4.2 million, an increase of about $650,000. Fire department salaries will increase about 12.5 percent to about $2.8 million, an increase of about $370,000. General government costs are expected to increase 5 percent to $6.2 million, an increase of about $250,000. The shortfall would leave the city with only $13,000 to carry over to the 2020 fiscal year. It's the third straight year the city could operate with a shortfall. The council is also expected to consider awarding a bid of more than $470,000 for a sewer extension project in the 1800 block of South 9th Street to H and H Plumbing.The council meets at 6:30 tonight at city hall.

 

Interviews for Chix School Superintendent Continue

Also tonight, another candidate for Chickasha school superintendent is to be interviewed by the school board. That brings the number of candidates interviewed over the last week to  five. A second round of interviews is expected with some of the candidates over the next couple of weeks. School board president Doug Brown said there's no clear timetable on when to have a new superintendent in place, however, the contract for interim Superintendent Jack Herron expires next week.Tonight's interview to be held behind closed doors as part of a special meeting of the school board. It begins at 5:30 p.m. at the school administration building.

 

Security Searches Begin at Grady County Courthouse

Today's the day that security will be tightened at the Grady County courthouse. Everyone entering the courthouse - including employees - will have to go through a metal detector. Any handbags, back packs, and tote bags will be searched, and anyone bringing a lap top with them will be asked to turn it on. Some delays should be expected while officials implement the new security checkpoint.

 

Phone Outage Expected at Police Department; But Not 9-1-1

The installation of some new software may impact some phone calls made to the Chickasha Police Department tomorrow. Lt. Scott Weaver says there may be some possible interruptions of non-emergency lines tomorrow morning, starting about 10 a.m. and continue for several hours. Weaver said that the department’s 9-1-1 service will not be affected as those lines will be transferred to another system.

 

Anadarko Looks to Increase Tourism

Anadarko city and business leaders will be more pro-active in promoting their community. A number of state officials and media were on hand for an Anadarko tourism day, including representatives from the state department of tourism and the state department of commerce. Anadarko City Manager Kenneth Corn.

 

                

 

A number of events are scheduled in the coming months, including Anadarko’s Honor America Day on Saturday June 30th and the American Indian Expo which is a big attraction in August.

 

Early Voting for June 26th Primary Opens Thursday

The June 26th primary election is now just eight days away. Voters may cast ballots early, instead of going to their local precinct. In person, absentee voting can be done at county election board offices. You have to vote at your local county election board. Early voting can be done Thursday and Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m and even on Saturday, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. You'll have to sign some documents indicating that you're voting early, and you may have to show your voter registration and ID.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $65.06 a barrel.

London-based Brent is $73.44.

Natural gas is $3.02 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,283 and silver is $16.61.

 

 

Thursday, June 21st

 

Former Educator, Preacher Sentenced in Molestation Case

He pleaded no contest to several charges of lewd acts with a child. Now, former school administrator and retired preacher Jody Hilliard will be going to prison. A Stephens County judge sentenced Hilliard to 25 years with 18 of those years suspended. That means Hilliard will spend seven years behind bars. He's 73, meaning he won't be eligible for parole until he's 80. Hilliard was an administrator at Ninnekah schools a number of years ago and he spent 25 years as a preacher in Duncan. He pleaded no contest to five counts of lewd or indecent acts with a child. He was accused of molesting a 10-year old girl back in 2015. He was arrested in the spring of 2016 after Duncan police were notified of the allegations.

 

Woman Hospitalized After Crash on Wet Highway

A Chickasha woman is hospitalized after her pick up runs off a rain-slick highway and hits a utility pole. 36-year old Lyndi Lu Douglas suffered head, arm, leg, and internal injuries in the crash. She is in serious condition in an Oklahoma City hospital this morning. The accident happened in Ninnekah around 8:30 a.m.Wednesday, about a mile west of the U.S. Highway 81 and Highway 277 intersection. The highway patrol reports Douglas was eastbound on 277 when she lost control of the pickup. She was thrown out of the passenger side door when the truck hit the pole.

 

Minco Mom Pleads for Return of Son's Service Dog

A Minco mother is hoping her son's missing service dog can be found. Delaina Johnson says her 14-year old son Dyllon suffers from seizures, and that his 4-year old rottweiler named Loki has gone missing. Johnson said she took Dyllon to West Virginia last week to visit his dad, but left Loki behind with a dog-sitter. When Johnson came home, the sitter said Loki had run away. Johnson has her suspicions on whether that is true, and thinks that Loki may have been sold. There were also reports that the dog was dumped in the country. Dyllon won't be home until July 1st, and he doesn’t know Loki is missing. The dog is micro-chipped. Anyone with information is asked to call the Minco Police Department.

 

Fugitive is Back in Custody

One of the state's most wanted fugitives is back in custody. Ryland Miller, wanted on a parole violation on drug trafficking and distribution charges out of Stephens County, was caught in the Lawton area on Wednesday. News of the arrest was posted on the Department of Corrections Facebook page. No details of his arrest were available. Miller was featured in last week's Fugitive Friday program in southwest Oklahoma. He was originally arrested in 2000 following an investigation by the Duncan Police Department. He pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 30 years in prison. It's not clear when he was paroled.

 

Early Voting Underway for Primary Election

Early voting begins today ahead of next Tuesday's primary election. In-person, absentee ballots may be cast at your local county election board office. While the ballot features many statewide races like governor and lieutenant governor, there are some county elected positions on the ballot. In Grady and Caddo counties, there are three candidates for district judge. Doug Carel of Tuttle, and Ryland Rivas II and Kory  Kirkland both of Chickasha are on the ballot. Kirkland was appointed to the post last May. In Grady County, Democrats in District Three have their choices of three county commissioner candidates. Incumbent Ralph Beard is being challenged by Lee Dorman and Jeffrey Cramer. Republicans in District One also have three county commissioner candidates on the ballot. Incumbent Windle Hardy is being challenged by Billy Clapper and Michael Walker. In Caddo County, Democrats will choose a candidate for assessor.  Incumbent Edward Whitworth is being challenged by Kelly Caye Ratzlaff, with the winner to face a Republican challenger in November. In-person, absentee voting is from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. today and tomorrow, and on Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $66.22 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $74.74.

Natural gas is $2.96 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,265 and silver is $16.28.

Friday, June 22nd

 

Firm With SCOOP Interest Gets Millions in New Investments

A Dallas-based company with a major investment in the South Central Oklahoma Oil Province (SCOOP) picks up some big-time financial backing. Grey Rock Energy Partners collected more than $230 million in capital commitments in its first and only close of Grey Rock Energy III. The money was raised through institutional investors, many of which company officials say are repeat investors. The news was reported on the website www.okenergytoday.com

 Grey Rock officials issued a statement saying the company is well positioned to deliver healthy, risk-adjusted returns in an under-served area of the oil and gas market. Managing Director Matt Miller was quoted as saying they have assembled a savvy team with deep operational expertise, positioning the firm as a world-class partner for operators and a preferential counter-party for sellers. Grey Rock is a private equity firm with more than $450 million in assets with interests in more than 2,000 wells in the SCOOP, Permian Basin, the Bakken, and other plays.

 

Man Wanted on Child Molestation Charge Surrenders

A man charged with child molestation surrenders to authorities. An arrest warrant was issued for 38-year old Michael James Dean of Blanchard on May 30th.  Dean gave himself up by walking into the Grady County Jail yesterday afternoon. Details of the investigation by the Grady County Sheriff’s Office weren't available. Dean was arraigned on the charged in district court yesterday, and he remains in jail pending a $50,000 bond. He's to be back in court July 25th to announce his attorney with a preliminary hearing conference is scheduled for August 1st.

 

Ex-con Back Behind Bars Accused of Robbery

A Chickasha man with a lengthy criminal record remains in jail in connection with a robbery which occurred earlier this week. 25 year old Michael Ryan Shipley was arrested Monday after police were called to a Chickasha home regarding a stolen vehicle. The victim also said some items were taken from a home. A probable cause affidavit filed in Grady County District Court by Chickasha police indicates the victim was in her car talking to Shipley. It’s  alleged Shipley pulled the woman out of the vehicle, got in and sped away. The victim said she feared for her life, thinking Shipley may run over her. Shipley was arrested at his home a few hours later. He's been formally charged with second degree robbery. Just a few weeks ago, Shipley pleaded guilty to several misdemeanor drug charges and was given one-year suspended sentence with 30 days to serve. Shipley owes thousands of dollars in fines in connection with crimes dating back 10 years, including drug and assault and battery charges. Shipley remains in jail in lieu of $25,000 bond.

 

Good Turnout Reported in Early Primary Voting

Thursday saw a good turnout of early voters ahead of next Tuesday's primary election. About 150 individuals cast ballots at the Grady County Election Board and about 100 did so in Caddo County. In-person, absentee voting continues until 6:00 p.m. today. You can also vote tomorrow at your county election board from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The best times to vote are mid-morning and mid-afternoon.

 

Rodeo Cowboys Reflect on Their Careers

The 79th annual Chickasha rodeo opens tonight. Among the spectators this weekend will be a couple of brothers who spent a few years on the pro and open rodeo circuits. John and Frank Cox recalled their rodeo days with us. John, who is 68 years old, said he was a bullfighter, and was the IPRA Rookie of the Year in 1972. He recalls riding six bulls in one night in Durant and three ranked bulls during a rodeo in Amarillo. John said he rode bulls until he was 48 years old. Older brother Frank, who is 66 years old, was a saddle bronc rider. He was on the PRCA circuit for several years, winning a competition in Denver about 1978. The brothers competed in numerous states, as far away as California, and even at the prestigious Frontier Days rodeo in Cheyenne, Wyoming. Frank said witnessed the tragic death of bull rider Lane Frost in 1989 and was a pall bearer at Frosts funeral. John and Frank said they still attend a number of rodeos, and will be attending tomorrow night's Chickasha rodeo performance. The rodeo is held at the Grady County Fairgrounds. The Grand Entry is 8:00 p.m. both tonight and tomorrow night. There will be a rodeo parade downtown Chickasha tomorrow starting at 4:00 p.m.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $65.54 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $73.05

Natural gas is $2.95 per million BTU.

Gold is $1,270 and silver is $16.51.

Saturday, June 23rd

 

Strong Storms Topple Semis; Cause Power Outages

Minimal damage was reported throughout central Oklahoma after strong thunderstorms  moved through the area last night. Storms packing 70 mile per hour winds caused downed power lines and tree limbs and even toppled  semis.  About 500 PSO customers in the Chickasha area were without electricity for a short time when the storms hit about 11:00 p.m. Friday. A few PSO customers were still without power Saturday morning. Some of them were west of 29th and U.S. Highway 62 and a couple were in town near Shannon Springs Park.  In the Oklahoma City metro area, about 20,000 OG&E customers were without electricity. Parts of Interstate 40 west of El Reno was shut down due to a number of semis that were blown over by the high winds.

               

Friday Storms Overturn Lake Lawtonka Campers

Strong storms that blew through southwest Oklahoma early Friday morning causing some damage at Lake Lawtonka. 50 mile per hour winds were blamed for flipping over about 10 campers and RVs. One woman was briefly trapped in her overturned camper.  She was taken to a hospital with neck and back injuries and a lot of bruises.

 

State Supreme Court Halts Petition Seeking Tax Repeal

The Oklahoma Supreme Court strikes down a petition that sought to repeal tax increases passed by the state legislature this spring. On Friday, the court ruled that an initiative petition submitted by Oklahoma Taxpayers Unite was misleading and fatally flawed. The group was seeking to repeal the taxes which were passed by state lawmakers to fund teacher pay hikes and force a statewide vote on the tax hikes. The group can file a new petition, but organizers have less than a month to get more than 41,000 signatures. The ruling does not impact the date when the new taxes are set to go into effect, which is August 1st. The increases include sales taxes on motor fuels and cigarettes, and gross production taxes.

 

Marlow Woman Wants Stolen Trailer Back

A Marlow area woman is using some unconventional language in a sign seeking the return of a stolen trailer. One of the signs at the home of Brenda Rist says “if you saw the ‘expletive’ scumbag that stole the motorcycle trailer, please call the Stephens County Sheriff's Office’.  Rist lives on State Highway 7 about two miles west of the Lawton-Duncan Y. She said she came home from the work the day after Mothers Day and noticed the trailer was gone. She said since the trailer was stolen during the day, someone had to have seen it being taken. Rist says she wants her trailer back and also wants whoever stole it to be held accountable.

 

Bridge Creek Fire District Filing Nixed

Candidates who may have thought about filing for the Bridge Creek Fire Protection District Board of Directors next week will have to wait. The filing period has been cancelled. Officials with the Grady County Election board said the timing of the filing period was a factor. It wasn't clear when the filing period will be re-scheduled. The board election is scheduled the same day as the general election in November.

 

Chickasha Rodeo Ends Tonight

The second and final go-round of the Chickasha rodeo will break out of the chute tonight. This is the 79th year for the local rodeo foundation to hold the annual event. Ahead of the action of the actual rodeo is the parade, which will get underway at 4:00 p.m. today in downtown Chickasha. The parade will run from the Rock Island Depot and go west on Chickasha Avenue to 8th Street, then circle around back to the depot east on Kansas Avenue. For the rodeo tonight, it starts with the Grand Entry kicks off at 8:00 p.m. at the Grady County Fairgrounds Rodeo Arena.

 

Militaria Show This Weekend

Also at the fairgrounds this weekend, a militaria collectible show. That runs today and tomorrow in the north exhibit building of the fairgrounds. An admission fee is charged.

 

Talk Show Topic

Here's what we're talking about this weekend: The three candidates running for district judge in Grady and Caddo counties are on our KoolKkonversation program. Doug Carel, Ryland Rivas II and Kory Kirkland are on the show. We have a link to the program elsewhere on this website. Find it under the Community tab.

 

Sheriff's Office Most Wanted

Each week, the Grady County Sheriff's Office issues a 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 contact the sheriff's office by calling 405-224-5085.

2018, 11th - 16th

Your News provided by

 

 

 

In “Getting to know your Chickasha Fire Department” we meet Captain  John Carpenter.

Click Here To Hear the Story!


 

Saturday, June 16th

 

 

Deputies Honored for Saving Life of Shooting Victim

A couple of Grady County deputies are recognized for saving the life of shooting victim. Sgt. Terry Alexander and Corporal Chris Kennell were awarded citations from the Oklahoma State Legislature for their heroics. The deputies responded to a shooting in January of 2017 where Donnie Shelton suffered a critical injury. Alexander and Kennell performed life-saving measures on Shelton until paramedics arrived. Later, doctors said had it not been for the two deputies, Shelton probably would have died. Shelton's wife Clarissa contacted State Representative David Perryman in order to thank the two deputies. Perryman recently presented both Alexander and Kennell with their citations.

 

Police Officers Recognized for Bravery

Two Chickasha police officers have been awarded for their work with the department. Sgt. Matt Schoolfield and officer Fidencio Ramirez were presented the Kiwanis International Voice of Chickasha award. Chickasha Kiwanis Club president Jason Pruner thanked the two officers for risking their lives, and that their bravery, dedication, hard work, and commitment to the community are great assets.

 

Officers Step Up Efforts to Stop Drinking and Driving               

Law enforcement officials will make a concerted effort to get drinking drivers off Grady County roads. An END DUI campaign will be held starting at 7:00 p.m. tonight and run through 3:00 a.m. Sunday. The Chickasha Police Departrment, Grady County Sheriff's Office, the Chickasaw Lighthorse Patrol and the Oklahoma Highway Patrol will all participate. The highway patrol reports that 21 people were killed in Grady County traffic accidents  in 2012 and that eight of them were involved in alcohol-related crashes. Law enforcement officials say whenever individuals decide to drink, they should have a designated driver, or use a cab, Uber, or Lyft service.

 

Numerous Chickasha Events this Weekend

There are numerous activities going on in Chickasha this Father's Day weekend. The 25th annual Juneteenth Celebration will be held at Washita Valley Park. There's a parade from Lincoln School to the park at 10 o’clock this morning, with formal opening ceremonies at 11:00 a.m. The free family event runs from about noon to 6 p.m. The Chickasha Antique Auto Club this morning will have its monthly coffee and cars. That’s also a free event at the Rock Island Depot downtown from 9:00 a.m. to noon, and there’s free coffee and donuts while they last. The Chickasha Area Arts Council hosts Day of the Dads, with a lot of events for dad, mom, and kiddos. That's a fundraiser for the Rock Island Arts Festival. Those 17 and older get in free. Wristbands are $10 each, or $7 per child for three or more youth. TwisterFest continues at the Muscle Car Ranch all day. More than 80 bands playing on five stages. Firefall is the featured band tonight. Day passes are $20. Another concert tonight at the Legends Event Park will feature 80s southern rock band Jackyl, with tickets available at the door. And there's cage fighting tonight at the Grady County Fairgrounds. About a dozen MMA bouts are scheduled, including local combatants Taylor Wilson, Brandon Wright, and Jarod Spoon of Chickasha, Manuel De La Torre of Verden, and Big D Burchfield of Minco. Tickets will be available at the door. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. with the action starting at 7:30 p.m.

 

Planets, Moon to Align 

There will be an interesting view in the night sky this evening. Mercury, Venus, and the moon will appear to be in a straight line. Look to the west about 45 minutes after sunset. You’ll see the moon to the southwest, about 30 degrees above the horizon. Directly to the west and a little above the horizon will be the bright light of Venus. Just to the right and below will be Mercury.

 

Sheriff's Office Issues Warrant List

Each week, the Grady County Sheriff’s Office issues a list of individuals who have outstanding warrants. Here’s public information officer Lisa Hatchett.

 

        

 

If you have information on any of these individuals, you’re asked to contact the sheriff’s office by calling 405-222-5085.

 

 

Friday, June 15th

 

Arrest Made in Child Abuse Investigation

Chickasha police are looking into a reported case of child abuse. Details are scarce but we do know that a 33-year old man was arrested on a child abuse complaint. There's no word on how seriously the child may have been hurt.  Due to the serious nature of the allegations we won't publicize the name of the suspect unless prosecutors file formal charges against him. The man remains in the Grady County Jail at this time. Police records show that officers were called to the 1300 block of South 2nd about 2:30 p.m. Wednesday. On Thursday, a Grady County judge issued an emergency protective order against the suspect. We'll bring you more details on the investigation as they become available.

 

School Board Apologies Over Language in Agenda Issue

Now an update to story we had earlier this week, regarding a potential legal issue between the Chickasha Board of Education and a local resident. On its agenda for this week's meeting, the school board was to go behind closed doors to discuss possible legal action against Brannan Bordwine, and to possibly ban him from school property. It seems the school board is apologizing. KOOL News received a copy of a letter sent to Bordwine, said to have been written by school board president Doug Brown. Brown wrote than the school board apologizes for any embarrassment or inconvenience caused by the agenda item. The letter indicates the matter concerned a lease between Bordwine and the school district. Bordwine said it allows him access to about 27 acres of land for ag production. Bordwine currently has cattle on that land. Bordwine said he had a five-year lease which runs through 2010. The letter indicates that the lease is not signed by any school board member, and that Bordwine acknowledged that no school board member had any knowledge of the lease. Bordwine furnished a copy of the lease, but it wasn't clear who may have approved it. The letter said questions have arisen about the involvement of the school district's ag teachers, but stated the teachers were not involved. The letter indicates the school board took no action on the issue, and that the panel will take more time to work through the situation.

 

EDC Director Christy Elkins Resigns

City leaders are looking for a new economic development director. Christy Elkins has stepped down from the post. The EDC board of directors accepted Elkins’ resignation in its regular monthly meeting yesterday. Board chairman Jay Epperson.

 

                

 

Epperson said Elkins is stepping down due to a re-organization among the groups that make up the economic development council, which includes representatives from the City of Chickasha, the chamber of commerce and the Chickasha Industrial Authority. Epperson said the EDC may hire a head hunting firm to find a new director but did not have a time table on when a new director would be in place. Elkins' resignation is effective at the end of the month. We were unable to contact Elkins to get a comment from her.

 

WWII Vets Takes Honor Flight

A Grady County World War II veteran is in Washington, D.C. as part of the non-profit Honor Flight organization. 91-year old Walter Shaw of Alex is among 40 veterans who are making the trip. Shaw is accompanied by his daughter, Teresa Harrison, also of Alex. They flew out of Dallas-Fort Worth airport this morning. They'll get to tour memorials for World War II, Korean, and Vietnam wars as well as the navy and marine memorials. They'll also visit the Lincoln Memorial and visit Arlington National Cemetery and view the changing of the guard. Shaw joined the Merchant Marines when he was 16 and later joined the Army. He spent two years in the Army from 1944 to 1946 and was stationed most of the  time in Germany. The two will return home tomorrow night.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $66.89 a barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $75.94.

Natural gas is $2.96 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,302 and silver is $17.23.

 

 

Thursday, June 14th

 

Consumer Spending Numbers Out

Consumer spending throughout Grady County has fallen for the third straight month. It's estimated that $91.6 million in taxable goods and services were purchased in March of this year. The trend is down about 13 percent from what was a near record month for consumer spending back in December. While the month-to-month numbers are down, the figure is up substantially from March of last year, by more than 44 percent. Grady County collected $685,000 in sales tax revenue from that retail business. There is a 3/4 of a penny county-wide sales tax. Here's the breakdown of how that money is spent, all approved by Grady County voters. $229,000 is for the county fairgrounds; $202,000 is for Grady Memorial Hospital; $114,000 is divided among 20 fire districts, with each one receiving about $5,700; another $114,000 is shared by seven senior nutrition centers, with each one collecting $16,000. Tuttle Emergency Medical Services gets $21,000 and Rush Springs EMS receives $5,000. For the City of Chickasha, consumer spending was estimated at $26.6 million for March, which is up about 12 percent compared to March of 217. This month, the city collected just over $1 million in sales tax revenue.

 

Mick Cornett Campaign for Governor Stops in Chickasha

Less than two weeks remain before the June 26th primary election. Republican gubernatorial candidate Mick Cornett was in Chickasha for a fundraiser last night. We had an exclusive one-on-one interview with the former Oklahoma City mayor. He said his track record of leadership in Oklahoma City of creating jobs and new businesses gives him an advantage in the crowded field of 10 Republicans on the ballot. He says he hopes to bring together the various factions at the state capital.

 

                

 

Cornett was endorsed by the Tulsa World this past weekend. Some surveys indicate he's among the top three GOP candidates with Lt. Gov. Todd Lamb and businessman Kevin Stitt.

 

Man Charged with Assault of His Mother

A Chickasha man is arrested and charged with the assault of his own mother. 19-year old Trevor James Harrell is accused of attacking the woman at her home just outside the Chickasha city limits. Documents files in Grady County District Court indicate she told a Grady County sheriff's deputy that Harrell jumped on her back and knocked her to the ground while trying to take her cel phone. She was not seriously injured. Harrell told investigators he was trying to get a copy of his social security card. Harrell's book-in photo at the Grady County Jail shows him with a black eye and bruises all over his face. Harrell told the deputy he was hurt in a fight a couple of days earlier. Harrell was charged with a misdemeanor count of assault and battery. He remains in jail in lieu of $7,500 bond. He is on probation for pleading guilty to a 2017 misdemeanor DUI charge.

               

Veterans Served Free Breakfast on Flag Day

Today is Flag Day, and to commemorate Old Glory, military veterans can enjoy a free breakfast. The education committee of Grady County's Oklahoma Home and Community education program will serve vets at the Grady County DAV center this morning. Pancakes, sausage, and beverages will be served from 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. the DAV Center in Chickasha at 6th and Chickasha Avenue.

 

Farm Service Agency County Committee Elections Set

The county committee election process for USDA Farm Service Agencies nationwide begin this week. For most regions, the office that represents administrative area No. 1 is up for election. In Grady County, that region is the Pocasset, Minco, and Tuttle area. Mark Jackson with the Grady County FSA office.

 

                

 

The filing period for the election opens tomorrow and runs through August 1st. The election will be held later this year, with winners to serve a three-year term starting in January.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $66.64 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $76.74.

Natural gas is $2.96 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,308 and silver is $17.17.

 

 

Wednesday, June 13th

 

Missing Man's Body Found in Submerged Pick-up

Family and friends of Charles French are mourning his death. The 75-year old Ninnekah man was reported missing from Norman a couple of weeks ago. A Silver Alert was issued by Norman authorities. French's body was found in a pick-up submerged at Lake Thunderbird over the weekend. Norman police said that French had lived in the Ninnekah area for more than 30 years, and was in the process of moving to Newalla. Authorities say he had borrowed a pick-up from a friend in Norman, and he was last seen on May 2nd. Authorities say relatives would go for weeks without talking to French, so it wasn't unusual that he hadn't been heard from for an extended period of time. The state medical examiner will determine how French died.

 

One Dead in Anadarko Shooting; Suspect Being Sought

An Anadarko man has died as a result of a shooting early Tuesday. 32-year old Duane Hugar, Jr. died after he was taken to an Oklahoma City hospital yesterday. Anadarko police were called to a home in the 1500 block of American Street on the city’s east edge about 2:30 a.m. Tuesday. Hugar was initially taken to the Anadarko hospital, then air-lifted to Oklahoma City where he died about 12:30 p.m. At last report, authorities were still looking for a suspect. In a prepared statement, police said the shooting was believed to be an isolated incident and that the community was not in danger. If you have information that can help authorities with this case you're asked to call Anadarko police.

 

Body of Missing Bridge Creek Man Found

A man reported missing from the Bridge Creek area last week has apparently taken his own life. 33-year old Chris Bell was reported missing by family members last Friday morning. The Grady County Sheriff's Office reports that Bell's body was found the next day, in a wooded area about a mile from his home.

 

 

Tire Blowout Blamed on Turnpike Crash

A crash on the H.E. Bailey Turnpike Monday afternoon sent two people to the hospital. A tire blowout on a pick up was said to have caused the crash which  occurred near mile marker 60 outside Fletcher. 26-year old Jessica Graves and 42-year old Andral Clark, both of Lawton, were taken by a medical helicopter to a Lawton hospital. Graves was last in fair condition with internal injuries. She was ejected from the pick up which rolled 1 ½ times. Clark was treated and released.

 

Grand Elementary Principal Heading to Norman

We reported yesterday that Grand  Avenue Elementary School Principal Cindy Stone was stepping down at the end of the month. We talked to Stone, and she says she has accepted a similar position at Monroe Elementary School in Norman. Stone spent five years with Chickasha schools, and all of them at Grand Avenue, where she first served as assistant principal and then principal. She says she'll miss her co-workers and students, and looks forward to her new career in Norman.             

 

Grady County Participates in Farm to Food Bank Effort

A local USDA office is teaming up with the Regional Food Bank to offer healthy farm-fresh foods to hungry families. The Grady County Conservation District is growing things like spinach, lettuce, kale, and collard greens. The crops are given to the food bank as part of the Farm to Food Bank Project. This is the first year for the Grady County office to participate. About two acres of the vegetables were planted on the Oscar Nelson farm north of Chickasha. The conservation district office is looking for volunteers to help glean the crops tomorrow. Officials say not only are the crops important for a healthy diet, the crops also play an important role in soil health and water quality. If you have some time to help, they'll be gathering the crops starting about 8:00 a.m. tomorrow. Contact the Grady County Conservation District for more information.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $66.36 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $75.88.

Natural gas is $2.94 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,298 and silver is $16.90.


Tuesday, June 12th

 

Interviews Underway with 

Chix School Superintendent Candidates

A new superintendent is being sought for Chickasha Public Schools. The contract for the current interim superintendent, Jack Herron, expires at the end of this month. Herron was hired following the resignation of previous superintendent, Dave Cash. The board of education held a special meeting last night to interview three candidates. A fourth candidate is expected to be interviewed tonight during the regular monthly meeting of the board. All the candidates are being interviewed behind closed doors, and the candidates have not been identified.

 

Admininstrative Changes for CPS Expected              

In addition to a new superintendent, some administrative changes are being made throughout the district for the school year that begins in August. At the high school, the school board is expected to name Rhonda Snow as principal. She and Jerry Don Bray had been serving as co-principals for the last several months. Bray is expected to be named the district's athletic director, following the resignation of long-time athletic director Yohance Brown. There will also be a new principal at Grand Elementary. Cindy Stone will step down from that post at the end of the month. A new principal won't be named until later this summer. Dan Turner will remain as principal at the Middle School, R.P. Ashanti-Alexander remains as principal at Lincoln School; and Tressia Meeks remains as principal at Bill Wallace. The school board is expected to retain Cindy Schmidt as assistant superintendent, and Pam Huggins as the district's special education director. Huggins is the only employee remaining among those were suspended amid the controversy surrounding the district's personalized learning curriculum last December.

 

School Board to Discuss Possible Lawsuit vs. Contractor

Also, the school board is expected to deal with a legal issue regarding local contractor, Brannan Bordwine. A discussion will be held behind closed doors on the matter, and the group will vote in open session whether to file a lawsuit against him and seek compensation for past use and damage to school property. The panel may also ban him or any related or unrelated business entities or interests from school property. The reason behind the proposed legal action is not included on the agenda for tonight's meeting. The meeting is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. at the school administration building.

 

New Construction Permits Down in May

New construction in Chickasha slowed considerably in May, compared to the first four months of 2018. 13 permits totaling $380,000 were approved by the city's Community Development Department last month. New construction topped $1 million in each of the previous four months. The largest commercial project approved last month was for the remodeling of the First National Bank branch at 6th and Grand Avenue. Willowbrook Development received a permit for about $231,000. The lobby of the bank is closed through next Monday, while that work is underway. Another commercial project was also awarded to Willowbrook Development, to renovate the facade of a building at 117 Chickasha Avenue. Nine permits for residential construction or remodeling totaled about $60,000 were also approved. Total new construction in Chickasha since the first of the year is just over $16 million.

 

DA to Speak Against Medical Marijuana State Question

District Attorney Jason Hicks will hold a town meeting tonight on SQ 788, the proposal to legalize medical marijuana. Hicks is opposed to the passage of the state question. The program is hosted by the Grady County Republican Party, and will get underway at 6:30 tonight on the Chickasha Campus of the Canadian Valley Technology Center. No one is scheduled to speak in favor of the question, which is on the ballot for the June 26th primary election.

 

Tips for Preserving Summer Harvest

Home food preservation will be starting up in a few weeks. Freezing is among the easiest, most convenience, and least time-consuming ways to preserve the summer harvest. When it comes to freezing fruits, Susan Routh with Grady County OSU Extension suggests.

 

                

 

She says be sure to wash and sort fruit before freezing, and to throw away fruit that is not yet ripe or is of poor quality.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $66.10 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $76.46.

Natural gas is $2.95 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,301 and silver is $16.88.

 

 

Monday, June 11th

 

One Dies, One Critically Hurt in Sunday Night Accident

A crash in northern Grady County last night claims the life of one man, and another is in critical condition. Jacob Gordon, 25, of Oklahoma City died in the accident that happened about 9:00 p.m. last night southwest of Tuttle, near the intersection of CR 1210 and CS 2920. A passenger in Gordon's car, Shaine Coffman, 24, of Tuttle, was air-lifted to an Oklahoma City hospital. He was last in critical condition with head, trunk, and internal injuries. The highway patrol reports that Gordon was driving a car that was eastbound, when he lost control and went left of center, colliding with a pick-up driven by an unidentified 16-year old male from Tuttle. The teen was taken by ambulance to an Oklahoma City hospital, where he was treated and released. Traffic in the area was diverted for nearly two hours. The trooper investigating the crash said that neither Gordon nor Coffman were wearing seat belts, but the teen in the pick-up was buckled up.

 

Fiery Crash on Turnpike Under Investigation

A fiery crash on the H.E. Bailey turnpike southwest of Chickasha this morning shut down the interstate for about an hour and a half. It was a one-vehicle accident that happened about 12:30 a.m. in the westbound lanes of the turnpike near mile marker 68. We don't have any information regarding that crash. The dispatcher with the Lawton Highway Patrol office said no report was available.

 

New Security Entrance Opens at Grady County Courthouse

Starting today, anyone going to the Grady County Courthouse will have to use the new northeast entrance that has been under construction for the last several months. It’s part of the new enhanced security entrance at the courthouse. Grady County Sheriff Jim Weir says starting today, the only entry and exit to and from the courthouse will be the new addition crews have been working on. Even courthouse employees will have to use this one entry and exit point. The previous main entrance on the south side of the courthouse off of Choctaw Avenue will only be used for emergency exits. Weir says the new elevator that has been installed is operational. Weir said deputies won't begin security checks until Wednesday. The new deputies hired to provide the added security will be searching handbags, backpacks, totes, and similar items. Weir said three new deputies that were hired as part of the security improvements have been on staff for about six months and have attended training.

 

Anadarko Tourism Day Set

Officials in Anadarko are hosting a day-long event to promote tourism in that community. The City of Anadarko and the Anadarko Chamber of Commerce will be showing recent improvements. State officials and the media have been invited to the program that will be held Thursday. They'll start with a continental breakfast at City Hall, then take an overall tour of the city. There are stops at the National Hall of Fame of Famous American Indians, the Southern Plains Indian Museum,  the Anadarko Heritage Museum, and the Wichita Tribal History Center. The group will visit local art galleries, have a wine tasting, and a bus tour of Randlett Park.

 

Mick Cornett Fundraiser in Chickasha this Week

The June 26th primary election is just over a couple of weeks away. A few candidates for state office are continuing to make their way to the Chickasha area. Republican gubernatorial candidate Mick Cornett will be in the city for a fundraiser Wednesday evening. The former mayor of Oklahoma City will be at the home of Hank and Alison Ross from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. that evening.

 

Primary Election Nears

Sample ballots for the primary election are available at county election board offices. There are some county races to be decided. In Grady County, Republicans in District One have three candidates running for county commissioner. Democratic voters in District Three also have three candidates to choose from. All voters in both Grady and Caddo County will decide among three candidates for District Judge. Republicans and Democrats also have a number of candidates running for state house of representative posts, and there are numerous candidates for both parties running for state offices including governor and lieutenant governor. Voters can cast ballots early, either by mail. or in-person-absentee. Those wishing to vote by mail need to have applications in by next Wednesday, June 20th. Applications are available on the state election board website at www.elections.ok.gov

In-person absentee voting can be done at election board offices from 8:00 a.m to 6:00 p.m. on Thursday or Friday, June 21st and 22nd, or Saturday, June 23rd from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

 

Soil Test Helpful in Garden, Landscape

If the veggies you planted this spring don't seem to be doing well, or the plants in your landscape are having issues, there may not be enough nutrients in the soil. You can find out what nutrients your soil is lacking by sending a sample to Oklahoma State University for testing. That's as easy as contacting your local OSU Extension Office. Shiann Burns with the Grady County office in Chickasha says the test is a valuable tool.

 

                

 

Routine soil tests are $10, and it usually takes a week to 10 days to get results.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $65.74 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $76.46.

Natural gas is $2.89 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,298 and silver is $16.79.

 

 

 

 

 

2018 June 4th - 9th

Your News provided by

 

 

In “Getting to know your Chickasha Fire Department” we meet Driver John Clift better known as Mark.

Click Here To Hear the Story!

 

 

 

 

Saturday, June 9th

 

Two Hospitalized, One Critical Following Head-on Crash

Two people were air-lifted to an Oklahoma City hospital following a head-on collision near Lindsay. The driver of one of the cars, 17-year old Valley Schoate of Wynnewood, was last in critical condition with head and internal injuries.  The driver of the other vehicle, 56-year old Dannita McCullough of Lindsay, was last in serious condition with internal, trunk, and leg injuries. A passenger in Schoate's car, 17-year old Aiden Williams of Lindsay, refused treatment. The accident happened on State Highway 59B about three miles northeast of Lindsay just after 8:00 p.m. last night. The Highway Patrol reports that Schoate ran off the highway and over-corrected, came back on the highway and crashed in to McCullough's SUV. Schoate was pinned in the car for about 20 minutes. Everyone was wearing their seat belts and air bags deployed in both vehicles. The trooper investigating the crash said inattentive driving caused Schoate to drive off the highway.

 

Woman Charged for Allegedly Biting Policeman

A combative Chickasha woman is arrested and is now facing a felony charge for biting a police officer. 28-year old Haley Lynn Barry was taken into custody on Tuesday of this week after police were called to her home in the 1300 block of Utah. Officers were dispatched there to do a welfare check on a child. Witnesses had claimed that Barry threw a child off the porch. Officers found the girl hiding in some nearby bushes, and she told police she was terrified. Police ran a warrant check on Barry, and found she is wanted for an unknown felony out of Houston, Texas. As officers tried to arrest Barry, it’s alleged she resisted, bit one officer on his arm, and tried to bite him several more times, before she was finally subdued. In addition to being charged with a felony for assault on an officer, she faces a misdemeanor count of resisting arrest. Barry remains in jail on a $75,000 bond.

 

Stalking Suspect Arrested Again

Tuttle police have arrested a man twice in the last four months for allegedly stalking his ex-girlfriend. 49-year old Brian Beutler of Norman was first arrested in February, and was arrested again this week. The victim claims Beutler has been stalking her family over the past several months. The victim alleged Beutler has called or texted her up to 30 times a day and constantly drives by her house and follows her. Beutler is now facing two misdemeanor of stalking. He's back on the streets after posting bond. He has a July 13th court date.

 

Sheriff Issues Weekly Warrant List

Each week the Grady County Sheriff’s Office issues a 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 contact the sheriff’s office.

 

Talk Show Topics

Here's what we're talking about this weekend. USAO's annual summer symposium on the Civil War is coming up later this month. Associate Professor  of History James Finck is our guest on the KOOL Konversation program to talk about the symposium. On Real Estate Today with John Mosley, guests are Dayliene Saxon and John Hubbard with Home Creations. We have links to both programs elsewhere on this website. You can find them under the Community tab.

 

 

Friday, June 8th

 

State Has Record for Monthly Tax Revenue

The month of May is a record breaker for tax collections in Oklahoma. Nearly $971 million went in to state bank accounts last month. State Treasurer Ken Miller says over the past 12 months, total gross receipts are more than $12 billion; just shy of matching the all-time one-year high which was established from 2014 to 2015. Miller said oil and gas gross production taxes last month were about $74 million...which is nearly double the amount from May of 2017. He said oil and gas gross production taxes brought in nearly $674 million over the previous 12 months, a nearly 60 percent increase from the previous year. Other tax revenue amounts - sales tax revenues from cities and counties were more othan $390 million; combined corporate and individual income taxes generated nearly $282 million. Motor vehicle taxes brought in nearly $70 million.

 

Former Dental Employee Pleads Guilty to Embezzlement

A dental office clerk pleads guilty to embezzling more than a quarter-million dollars from the clinic where she worked. Annette Strailey entered the plea  in U.S. District Court. She admitted taking funds from a Duncan dental clinic where she worked as an office manager between 2012 and 2017. Under the plea, she said the total restitution due to the clinic is more than $280,000. Strailey pleaded guilty to bank fraud and signing a false federal  income tax return. She also agreed that she owes the IRS more than $54,000. On the guilty plea to bank fraud, she faces up to 30 years in prison and a $1 million fine. For pleading guilty to signing a false income tax return, she faces up to three years behind bars and an additional $250,000 fine.  Formal sentencing will be in about three months.

 

Shannon Springs Park Lake Stocked Ahead of Fishing Derby

Shannon Springs Park will be a popular place for the youngsters tomorrow morning, as the Chickasha Elks Lodge conducts its annual fishing derby. The lake was stocked with 2,000 pounds of catfish yesterday, courtesy of Steve LaForge. Hundreds of fish ranging from 1/2 a pound up to about three pounds were delivered. We have some video of the fish being released on our Facebook page.The fishing derby is for children 12 and under. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. with the derby running from 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Free hotdogs will be served as well.

 

4Hers Compete in Culinary Days

4H youth throughout the region put their food knowledge and preparation skills on display. The Southwest District Culinary Days competition was held in Duncan recently. Three separate contests were held - the Food Showdown, the Table Setting Contest, and Cupcake Wars. Caddo County 4H had both a senior and junior team in the Food Showdown. Senior team members included Tarah Douglass from the homeschool club and Madison Grifftin of Ft. Cobb-Broxton. Junior team members were Addyson Schneberger, Meredith Pye, and Devry Georgen from Carnegie. In the Table Settings contest, Addy Schneberger of Carnegie placed third in the beginner division; and Zoe Shackleford, also of Carnegie was in the intermediate division. In Cupcake Wars, Schneberger place second in the beginner division. Others taking part were Brooklyn Matlock of Anadarko and Meredith Pye of Carnegie in the beginner category; Zoe Shacklerford, again from Carnegie in the intermediate division; and home schooler Tarah Douglas was in the senior division competition.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX up to $65.95 a barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $77.32.

Natural gas up to $2.93 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,303 and silver is $16.72.

 

 

Thursday, June 7th

 

State Legislator Says Peers Ignored Key Issues This Year

State Representative David Perryman says putting out fires is no way to plan for the future. In his weekly media column, the Chickasha Democrat says so much attention was paid to public education and teacher salaries in the past legislative session, that needs in other areas were not addressed. Perryman writes that while we want business to bring good jobs to the state, those businesses want an educated and healthy workforce. And while we all want Oklahomans to have access to quality health care, he writes that lawmakers suppress health outcomes by refusing to address high uninsured rates and uncompenstated care. Because of that, Perryman says hospitals and ambulance services which must provide care - without regard to a patient's ability to pay - are closing or cutting back services. He says we shake our heads at violence, but refuse to consider allowing working Oklahomans - whose employers do not provide health insurance - to have a path toward wellness, including treatment for mental illnesses which are critical in uninsured populations. Perryman says without a plan, there is no legislative leadership.

 

Two Hurt in Ninnekah Accident

A traffic accident in Ninnekah yesterday sent two people to the hospital with possible bone fractures. The accident happened just after noon at the intersection of U.S. Highway 81 and State Highway 19.  Ninnekah Police Chief Scott Miller said a car southbound on Highway 81 had slowed and tried to turn east on Highway 19. A pick-up northbound on Highway 81 hit the car. Miller said two passengers in the car were being treated for possible fractures in their wrists and forearms, but said the injuries were not life-threatening. Their names were not released. The pick-up driver was not injured. Miller said it appeared the driver of the car may have run a red light.

 

Downtown Fire Causes Minor Damage

A fire in downtown Chickasha Tuesday morning caused some damage to one building. The fire occurred in the 200 block of South 4th. Fire Chief Brian Zalewski said the fire was contained to one room, however several adjacent office buildings had to be cleared of smoke. The fire was traced to a clothes dryer in the building. Estimated damage was about $1,000.

 

USAO Students to Lead Tours at Civil War Battleground

Some USAO history students will be helping out with weekend tours of a Civil War battle site in Oklahoma. The students have been learning about The Battle of Honey Springs from associate history professor James Finck. He says his students will be guiding tours along several trails of the historical site.

 

                

 

Finck says the battle was the largest documented Civil War engagement in Indian Territory. It’s located in Rentiesville, which is near Checotah in eastern Oklahoma.

 

 FFA Group to Attend Summer Training              

The Chickasha High School FFA chapter has a few activities scheduled over the summer. Clay Grossnicklaus is the secretary for the officer team, and tells about some of them.

 

                

 

The chapter officers, and advisors Colby and Emily Schmidt, will also attend an officer retreat in Broken Bow later this summer to prepare for next school year.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $64.73 a barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $75.36.

Natural gas is $2.90 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,303 and silver is $16.77.

 

 

Wednesday, June 6th

 

Grady County Unemployment May be at Historic Low

The jobless rate in Grady County has fallen below 3.5 percent. The Oklahoma Employment Security Commission (OESC) reports unemployment in the region was at 3.3 percent in the month of April. That's down from 3.5 percent from March, and down from 4.1 percent from April of 2017. The OESC indicated that Grady County's total labor force was about 26,300 people.The number of those without jobs and seeking work through the state office was 874. Unemployment in Caddo County for April was down slightly, to 3.9 percent; in McClain County, down to 3.2 percent; in Garvin County, the rate was steady at 3.7 percent; and in Stephens County, the jobless rate was down to 4.6 percent. In the larger counties, Comanche County unemployment was steady at 4.2 percent with a labor market of about 50,000; Canadian County was down a bit to 3.2 percent, with 71,000 individuals in the labor market.

 

ATV Driver Injured After Going off Bridge

A Blanchard man is injured after driving his ATV off of a bridge. 65-year old Terry Carr was taken by ambulance to a Norman hospital where he was last in good condition with an arm injury. The highway patrol said the accident happened on a county road northeast of Maysville about 11:00 a.m. Tuesday. Carr was trying to cross a narrow bridge, when he lost control of the ATV,  ran off the bridge and it rolled into a creek bed.

 

More Stores Selling Tobacco to Minors

A new report indicates that nearly 1 in 5 Oklahoma tobacco retailers are breaking the law when it comes to selling tobacco to minors. The report says nearly 18 percent of the state’s tobacco retailers are not complying with state law regarding underage tobacco sales. That’s a significant increase over the previous five years. Julia Cochran, director of Red Rock Behavioral Health Services, says that in 2012, the rate of non-compliance was a record low 6.8 percent. Cochran says Oklahoma could be in danger of losing funds from the Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment Block Grant. In a press release, Cochran said in order receive those funds, the non-compliance rate should not be over 20 percent. She says while the majority of retailers are complying with the law, there are some who choose to ignore it, and are risking the health of children. She says that’s unacceptable. Red Rock Behavioral Health Services can provide information to business owners and employees regarding youth access to tobacco. Call 405-422-8872 for information.

 

Chickasha Crews to Remove Some Cemetery Decorations

For individuals who placed flowers or other decorations on the graves of loved ones in Chickasha cemeteries, officials say many of those items will be removed starting this weekend. City of Chickasha officials say decorations will be removed at both Rosehill and Fairlawn Cemeteries in order that crews can mow the grass. Officials say any items placed on headstones will NOT be removed. Officials say they will start removing the decorations on Saturday.

 

Program Set to Help Seniors with Medications

Over the past year or so, the Chickasha Public Library has teamed up with the OU College of Medicine to offer a number of programs to improve the health of senior citizens. A program to help seniors use their medications safely is the next program scheduled. The Oklahoma Healthy Aging Initiative will provide a free one-hour program for seniors and their care-givers on Tuesday, June 12th starting at 3:00 p.m. at the library.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $65.52 a barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $75.38.

Natural gas is $2.89 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,299 and silver is $16.57.

 

Tuesday, June 5th

 

 

 

Family, Friends Mourn Shooting Death of Working Mother

As the Chickasha community reels from the shooting deaths of three people this past weekend, family, friends, and co-workers mourn the death of a working mom who loved and cared for her two little girls. Becky Ancheta and her boyfriend were shot and killed at Ancheta's home early Sunday morning. Law enforcement authorities say her estranged husband, Julio Eduardo Hernandez Mata, forced his way into her home. Mata himself was later shot and killed by law enforcement officials following a pursuit. Becky Anchetta was a correctional officer at the Grady County Jail, and was the mother of two girls, ages 4 and 11. The girls were home when the shooting occurred, but were not injured. A GoFundMe account has been set up in Anchetta's name to help with funeral and burial expenses. Anything left over will help raise the children, who will be cared for by their father, Brison Lipscomb, who is in the military and lives in another state.

               

Crash Critically Injures Bradley Resident

A Grady County woman was critically injured in a traffic accident near Alex Monday. 59-year old Linda Schaub of Bradley was air-lifted to an Oklahoma City hospital, with head trunk, and other injuries.  The highway patrol reports the accident happened about 8:00 a.m. Monday at the intersection of a couple of county roads southwest of Alex. It's not yet clear what happened, as the trooper called to the crash says the accident is still under investigation. We do know that Shaub was driving an SUV, and collided with a car driven by 38-year old Jonathan Mitchell of Rush Springs. Schaub was pinned in her vehicle for nearly an hour. Mitchell refused treatment at the scene. Both drivers were wearing their seat belts.

 

Waste Connections Ends Partnership with Recycle Bank

A little-used program designed to encourage Chickasha residents to recycle has been canceled. Waste Connections, the private sanitation contractor with the city, has ended its partnership with what's known as the Recycle Bank. Residents who placed items in their green recycle bins would accumulate points they could use toward discounts for purchases at retail outlets around the country. However, there weren't many local companies who participated in the program. Waste Connections was asking for its current contract with the city to reflect the change, and the Chickasha City Council approved the move last night. Waste Connections is in the process of changing its contracts with other communities it serves to reflect the end of the Recycle Bank program. It does not impact the recycling program. Residents can still recycle most any paper, phone books, aluminum and tin cans, glass bottles, and many plastic food and beverage containers. Recycling bins are picked up twice per month.

 

One Silver Alert Canceled; Another Still Active

A Silver Alert issued for a missing Oklahoma City man Monday has been canceled. Authorities say 85-year old George Alexander has been located, but no information was provided about where or when he was found. Oklahoma City police say he was located just before 10:00 p.m. Monday. In the meantime, a Silver Alert is still active for a man missing from the Ada area. The Pontotoc County Sheriff’s Office reports that 70-year old John Fisher went missing about 6:00 p.m. Sunday. The only description available is that Fisher is black male, and was last seen wearing blue jeans, black tennis shoes, a black veterans cap, and a navy-blue shirt. He may be driving a 2005 black Chevrolet Silverado pickup, with Oklahoma tag number HFS-184. Authorities say he could be in Texas or New Mexico, as his credit cards have been used in both states. If you come in contact with John Fisher call local law enforcement. UPDATE - Silver Alert for John Fisher has also been canceled

 

InterUrban Holds Fundraiser for Animal Shelter

A local restaurant will be helping to care for abandoned animals today. InterUrban will have its second annual fundraiser for the Chickasha Animal Shelter. All day today, one dollar from every hamburger sold will help purchase supplies, provide transportation, and the vetting of animals. In addition, there will be a silent auction of numerous items on the restaurant’s patio from 5:00 until 8:00 p.m. tonight. Silent auction items include items from Two Vets Clothing, Shollie's Sweets, Pioneer Woman, Happy Stems, Tractor Supply, PetSense, and others.

 

Divorcing Parents say Program Beneficial

Married couples who are considering divorce are required to take part in a program to ease the burden on their children. Last year, over 3,000 parents took part in Oklahoma State University's Co-Parenting for Resiliency program. Susan Routh with Grady County OSU Extension says those who have gone through the course indicate it was beneficial.

 

                

 

Routh says after attending the class, about one out of every three participants believed their marriage could be saved. The course is offered monthly in Grady County. The next one will be Wednesday, June 27th at the OSU Extension Office in Chickasha, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. To register go to the website, www.coparenting.okstate.edu

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $64.75 a barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $75.29.

Natural gas is $2.93 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,295 and silver is $16.41.

 

Monday, June 4th

 

 

 

Double-Homicide Suspect Shot and Killed by Law Enforcement

Two crime scenes were cordoned off in Chickasha and Pocasset yesterday, after two people are shot and killed at a Chickasha home - and then the suspect is shot and killed by a law enforcement following a high-speed pursuit. The OSBI was summoned to investigate. It began about 5:00 a.m. Sunday, when Chickasha police were dispatched to a home in the 900 block of North 12th. We obtained police scanner audio about the initial call. Two children were in the home.

 

                

 

The children were not hurt. As police arrived the suspect ran out of the house, jumped into his truck and led police on a high-speed pursuit on U.S. Highway 81 north to Pocasset. Here is scanner audio as the chase comes to end.

 

                

 

The suspect has been identified as 32-year old Julio Eduardo Hernandez Mata. His estranged wife, 31-year old Rebecca Mae Hernandez Mata was one of his victims. The other is 31-year old Juan Antonio Hernandez Gonzales. U.S. Highway 81 in Pocasset was closed for more than eight hours as authorities investigated that scene. Officers with Chickasha police, the Grady County Sheriff's office, and state troopers all fired their weapons at Hernandez Mata. Investigators did find a weapon at the crash site.

 

Surgeries Finally Resume at Grady Memorial Hospital

It's been almost three years since any surgeries have been performed at Grady Memorial Hospital. That is changing today, as the hospital officially opens its new surgery wing.  State and federal health officials closed the hospital’s old surgery rooms in August of 2015. Shortly thereafter, Grady County residents approved a county-wide sales tax increase to pay for the new addition, which also includes an imaging center. Hospital administrator Kean Spellman says the new surgery rooms are already booked, with new general surgeon Dr. Michael Johns joining several other surgeons and doctors.

 

                

 

The imaging center won't be open for a few more weeks. Spellman said an open house is scheduled for Sunday, July 1st.

 

Accounting Firm, Inmate Labor to be Discussed by City Council

A proposal to hire an accounting firm for the City of Chickasha for the coming fiscal year is to be considered by the city council tonight. City Manager John Noblitt is recommending the use of Crawford and Associates to assist with a move to modified accrual accounting, and to prepare financials, general accounting, and financial assistance. Hourly rates range from $45 an hour for clerical staff to $250 an hour for the firm’s president and chairman. The council is expected to renew a contract with the Department of Corrections for inmate labor; and may also approve the service contract with the Grady County Jail. The group is also to recognize Daniel Ward in the public works department as the city's employee of the month. He's worked for the city for 10 years. The city council meets at 6:30 p.m. tonight at city hall.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $65.81 a barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $77.59.

Natural gas is $2.96 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,297 and silver is $16.43.

 

 

2018 June May 28 - June 2nd

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Monday, June 4th

 

 

Double-Homicide Suspect Shot and Killed by Law Enforcement

Two crime scenes were cordoned off in Chickasha and Pocasset yesterday, after two people are shot and killed at a Chickasha home - and then the suspect is shot and killed by a law enforcement following a high-speed pursuit. The OSBI was summoned to investigate. It began about 5:00 a.m. Sunday, when Chickasha police were dispatched to a home in the 900 block of North 12th. We obtained police scanner audio about the initial call. Two children were in the home.

 

                

 

The children were not hurt. As police arrived the suspect ran out of the house, jumped into his truck and led police on a high-speed pursuit on U.S. Highway 81 north to Pocasset. Here is scanner audio as the chase comes to end.

 

                

 

The suspect has been identified as 32-year old Julio Eduardo Hernandez Mata. His estranged wife, 31-year old Rebecca Mae Hernandez Mata was one of his victims. The other is 31-year old Juan Antonio Hernandez Gonzales. U.S. Highway 81 in Pocasset was closed for more than eight hours as authorities investigated that scene. Officers with Chickasha police, the Grady County Sheriff's office, and state troopers all fired their weapons at Hernandez Mata. Investigators did find a weapon at the crash site.

 

Surgeries Finally Resume at Grady Memorial Hospital

It's been almost three years since any surgeries have been performed at Grady Memorial Hospital. That is changing today, as the hospital officially opens its new surgery wing.  State and federal health officials closed the hospital’s old surgery rooms in August of 2015. Shortly thereafter, Grady County residents approved a county-wide sales tax increase to pay for the new addition, which also includes an imaging center. Hospital administrator Kean Spellman says the new surgery rooms are already booked, with new general surgeon Dr. Michael Johns joining several other surgeons and doctors.

 

                

 

The imaging center won't be open for a few more weeks. Spellman said an open house is scheduled for Sunday, July 1st.

 

Accounting Firm, Inmate Labor to be Discussed by City Council

A proposal to hire an accounting firm for the City of Chickasha for the coming fiscal year is to be considered by the city council tonight. City Manager John Noblitt is recommending the use of Crawford and Associates to assist with a move to modified accrual accounting, and to prepare financials, general accounting, and financial assistance. Hourly rates range from $45 an hour for clerical staff to $250 an hour for the firm’s president and chairman. The council is expected to renew a contract with the Department of Corrections for inmate labor; and may also approve the service contract with the Grady County Jail. The group is also to recognize Daniel Ward in the public works department as the city's employee of the month. He's worked for the city for 10 years. The city council meets at 6:30 p.m. tonight at city hall.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $65.81 a barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $77.59.

Natural gas is $2.96 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,297 and silver is $16.43.

Saturday, June 2nd

 

 

 

 

Dr. Joe Ellis White, Lifelong Educator, Dies

Dr. Joe Ellis White, an Alex native who was a life-long educator, has died. Dr. White was 80 years old when he passed away at his Edmond home on Thursday. He spent many years in public education, and was a high school football coach at Alex, Minco, and Elk City. He spent several years as an administrator for public school districts in Elk City, Sentinel, and for a short time in Roswell, N.M. In 1975, he became president of Carl Albert State College in Poteau. Dr. Ellis hosted several U.S. presidents at the college when Albert was Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives. Those presidents included Jimmy Carter, Gerald Ford, and George H.W. Bush. Dr. White helped to build the Carl Albert State College Foundation which today has a $10 million fund. White is a member of three Oklahoma Hall of Fame organizations. The funeral for Dr. Joe Ellis White will be at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, June 6th at Santa Fe Presbyterian Church in Edmond. Burial will follow in the Alex Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Dr. Joe E. and Melba Sue White Academic Scholarship Fund at Carl Albert State College.

 

Octogenerian Leads Police on High-Speed Pursuit

High speed pursuits by law enforcement are in the news quite often, but here's one that's a little different. It involves a senior citizen on his way home from a casino. The chase started in Amber Wednesday evening, and ended a few minutes later in Chickasha. Amber Police Chief Marvin Akers said he tried to pull over the elderly driver because of erratic driving. The pursuit reached speeds of 100 miles per hour, until it came to end at a Chickasha home near 11th and Choctaw. The senior citizen told Akers he had an emergency, but did not say what it was. Authorities said that the man lived alone, and there was no emergency. 84-year old George Allen Brinkman of Chickasha was arrested on numerous complaints, including DUI. A breath test indicated Brinkman's blood-alcohol content was point-zero-eight. After his arrest, Brinkman was charged with misdemeanors of DUI and eluding. He remains in jail pending a $5,000 bond.

 

Grady, Caddo Counties Join Forces for Relay for Life

Grady and Caddo County residents are teaming up for a Relay for Life this year. The relay collects funds for the American Cancer Society. This year's combined relay will be held at the Chickasha High School football field. There are numerous activities scheduled to keep participants busy throughout the event. In previous years, some relays have run all night and wrap up early in the morning. This year, activities will finish up about 11:00 p.m. tonight. Registration for the relay starts at 3:00 p.m. this afternoon, with the relay starting at 4:00 p.m.. There are inflatable games, touch-a-truck, and other events for the kids, and a lot of creative activities for other relay participants.

 

Final Go-Round Tonight for State High School Rodeoers

The final go-round of the Oklahoma High School Rodeo Association state finals is tonight at the Grady County Fairgrounds. The top 15 contestants in each event will have a chance to improve their placings, with top four in each competition qualifying for the National High School rodeo in Rock Springs, Wyoming in July. Rodeo action starts at 6:30 p.m. tonight, with a $5 general admission. Children 12-and-under are free.

 

Sheriff's Office Releases Warrant List

Each week, the Grady County Sheriff's Office issues a 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 contact the sheriff's office.

 

Talk Show Topics

Here's what we're talking about this weekend. Improving the overall health of Oklahomans is a responsibility taken on by what's known as the TSET program. That's the Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust. Director John Woods is this week's guest on our KOOL Konversation program to talk about his group's efforts to encourage better eating habits, more exercise and ending tobacco use. On Real Estate Today with John Mosley, Grady Memorial Hospital Administrator Kean Spellman will talk about the new surgery wing that will be opening on Monday; and will introduce a new general surgeon to the hospital, Dr. Michael Johns. We have links to both programs elsewhere on this website. You’ll find them under the Community tab.

 

 

Friday, June 1st

 

 

 

USAO Softball Wins National Title

The newly crowned national champions of NAIA softball are headed home this morning. The USAO Drovers won the championship in Clermont, Florida yesterday, defeating Columbia, Missouri, 4-1. The Drovers won the title on Coach Jadyn Wallis' first trip to the series in her five-year stint as head coach. The Drovers left Orlando earlier this morning  and are on their way to Houston where they'll catch a connecting flight to Oklahoma City. They are expected to be in Chickasha about 11:30 a.m. A police escort will welcome the champs home, where a crowd of supporters is sure to be on hand when the team arrives at the USAO Fiedlhouse. It's only the second national championship for USAO. The men's basketball team won an NAIA title in 2002.

 

New Entrance to Verden Separate School Dedicated

A formal dedication and ribbon-cutting ceremony is held for the new entrance to a treasured historical school. Local and state business, education, and  government officials were on hand for the event at the Verden Separate School, which was moved to Chickasha a few years ago. Loretta Jackson spear-headed the effort to save the one-room school. It's historical significance is that it was built by a black man, on land he owned, and specifically  for the black children in the region. Jackson said there have been many individuals who have helped her along the way.

 

               

 

The school is on the national register of historic places. It's one of only two known schools of its kind in the state, and among only four in the country.

 

 

High School Rodeo State Finals Continue

The state finals of the Oklahoma High School Rodeo Association are underway. The season started last August, with the youth traveling as far as Woodward and Beaver in northwest Oklahoma and to Ardmore in the southern part of the state. Veronica Cornett is a freshman from Luther, who is competing in barrel racing, goat tying, and pole bending. She's also a candidate to serve as the association's queen next year. She talks about getting ready for the queen pageant tomorrow.

 

                

 

Cornett will also be in the national high school rodeo queen pageant in Wyoming this summer.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $67.04 a barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $77.59.

Natural gas is $2.95 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,303 and silver is $16.47.

 

Thursday, May 31st

 

 

USAO Softball to Play for National Championship

A national championship is on the line for the USAO softball team today. The Drovers advanced to the NAIA title game with a 7-6 win in 9 innings over Columbia, Mo. last night. It's the first time in team history the Drovers are in the title game. USAO will play Columbia for the championship in Clermont, Fla. Columbia earned a re-match with USAO by defeating Southern Oregon late last night. The contest set to start at 12:30 p.m. CDT. USAO has won all three games it has played so for in the NAIA College World Series. Should Columbia win, an if-necessary game would be played later this afternoon.

 

Sleepiness Blamed on Crash into Cemetery Fence

The driver who crashed his SUV through a cemetery fence last week told police he fell asleep prior to the accident. The accident report from the Chickasha Police Department indicates 24-year old Trenton Robnett of Ninnekah told officers he had worked all night the night before the crash. The accident happened at Rosehill Cemetery along Grand Avenue. Robnett's SUV crossed over three lanes of traffic without hitting any other vehicles. The SUV jumped a curb and rolled more than three times, taking out about 80 feet of the cemetery's fence and causing thousands of dollars in damage. Somehow Robnett avoided injury. Robnett was ticketrf for failure to devote full attention to driving.

 

Man Accused of Head-Butting, Choking Girlfriend

A man faces several charges including a felony for allegedly choking his girlfriend at a Rush Springs apartment. 34-year old Dylan Wayne Gill, who lists a hometown of Marlow, was arrested after the confrontation last weekend. A Rush Springs Police arrest affidavit indicates the victim said she was holding the couple's one-year old child  when an argument between her and Gill turned to physical violence. It's alleged Gill bit the woman on her shoulder, head-butted her, choked her, and threatened to kill her. The child also suffered some minor injuries.  The woman and two children were taken to a hospital for treatment. Authorities found Gill at a Duncan casino the next day, where he was arrested without incident. Gill is formally charged with a felony of domestic assault and battery, and misdemeanors of domestic abuse and threatening violence. He is being held in the Grady County Jail in lieu of $20,000 bond.

 

State High School Rodeo Finals Underway

The first go-round of the Oklahoma High School Rodeo Association state finals are set for this afternoon at the Grady County Fairgrounds.  Rough stock events like bull riding and bronc riding are up first, followed by barrel racing, goat tying, pole bending, and others. Leading the girls all-around competition is Tuttle's Kathryn Todd, who has a slim lead over Chaley Hext of Canadian. Todd is the overall leader in pole bending. She's second in break-away roping and third in goat-tying. Leading the boys all-round is Austin Christensen of Laverne, who has a wide lead over Trevor Hale of Perryton, Texas. Rodeo action starts at 2:00 p.m. this afternoon, and again tomorrow at 2:00 p.m. The top 15 in each competition qualify for the third and final go-round at 6:30 p.m. Saturday night.

 

Grady, Caddo Counties Unite for Cancer Fight

Local fights against cancer take center stage this weekend, with a combined Relay for Life to support efforts in both Grady and Caddo counties. The relay will be held Saturday at the Chickasha High School football field, with registration starting at 3:00 p.m., and the relay starting at 4:00 p.m., and wrapping up about 11:00 p.m. There will be a lot of activities for kids, from inflatable games to a touch-a-truck. Numerous teams that have spent several months raising money for the American Cancer Society will have booths set up to continue their fund-raising efforts. Among the more interesting events are a mad scientist lap, where walkers will don goggles, lab coats, and carry laboratory items; a choose-a-costume lap, where walkers can dress up as super-heroes; and a Wild West lap, with cowboy hats, ropes, and stick horses.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is to $68.21 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $77.50.

Natural gas is $2.88 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,308 and silver is $16.56.

 

Wednesday, May 30th

 

 

Man Charged With Father's Death Out of Jail on Bond

A Blanchard man accused of killing his father and trying to make it look like a suicide is out of jail after posting bond.  37-year old James Kyle Brooks posted a $400,000 bond after being charged with murder in Stephens County this past March.  Brooks’ father, Timothy Brooks, was found in his Marlow home with a fatal shotgun would to his stomach in 2012. James Brooks claimed his father shot himself. It's alleged that the younger Brooks had taken out a $500,000 life insurance policy on his father. Investigators say the elder Brooks was mentally ill.

 

DA to Speak Against Medical Marijuana State Question               

Grady County District Attorney Jason Hicks will speak at a town meeting on State Question 788, the proposal to legalize medical marijuana. Hicks will address the issue at the forum to be held by the Grady County Republican Party. The program is scheduled for Tuesday, June 12th at the Canadian Valley Technology Center at 6:30 p.m. Hicks is against the proposal. No one supporting the state question is scheduled to speak.

 

Voter Registration Deadline Nears for June 26th Primary

This Friday, June 1st is the last day to register to vote in the upcoming June 26th primary election. If you've never registered to vote before, or need to update your registration, now is the time to do so ahead of the primary. Stop by your local county election board, or applications are available at the post office, tag office, or library. Applications may also be downloaded from the state election board website, www.elections.ok.gov Sample ballots are also available at county election board offices.

 

Youth Rodeoers Arriving for State Finals

All the teens taking part in the Oklahoma High School Rodeo Association state finals will be in Chickasha today. A mandatory meeting of the contestants will be held this afternoon at the Grady County Fairgrounds. Among them is Larae Luis, who is in the cow horse and cutting competitions. Luis, from Wynnewood, just finished her junior year in high school.  Her family moved to Oklahoma from California within the last couple of years.

 

                

 

Luis qualified for the National High School rodeo competition her freshman and sophomore years, and is looking to return after missing out last year. Some 130 competitors are looking to finish in the top four of their respective competitions, in order to qualify for the National Finals. Rodeo competition is at 2:00 p.m. Thursday and Friday with a final round of competition at 6:30 p.m. Saturday.

 

Tips to Minimize Tick Problems

We're already hearing about problems associated with ticks. The bugs cause severe illnesses like Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and Lyme Disease. Shiann Burns with Grady County OSU Extension has some information to help reduce the risk of ticks around your home.

 

                

 

Burns also says to clear brush and leaf litter frequently, and keep the ground under bird feeders clean.

 

Shannon Springs Park Pool Now Open

After some delays the public pool at Chickasha's Shannon Springs Park is now open. Officials had hoped to have the pool open over the Memorial Day weekend, but ran into some issues which prevented that from happening. The pool is managed and operated by the Chickasha Area YMCA. Normal pool hours are 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday. YMCA members get free admission, while admission is $5 for non-Y members. The pool can be reserved for private parties after regular hours during the week, and on Sunday. Contact the YMCA for information.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $66.73 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $75.39.

Natural gas is $2.87 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,301 and silver is $16.39.

 

Tuesday, May 29th

 

 

Retired Green Beret Addresses Memorial Day Ceremony

A solemn ceremony at the Grady County Veteran's Memorial in Chickasha’s Shannon Springs Park Monday, as a small crowd gathered for a Memorial Day program. Guest speaker was retired Lt. Col. Mark Oschenbein, a Green Beret who spent time in special operations. He said the soldiers who laid down their lives should be honored by battling tyranny around the world, and supporting veterans who served our country.

 

                

 

Oschenbein spoke of the sacrifice of Walter Edmond Steele who was born in Chickasha and was in the Navy during the Vietnam War. Steele enlisted in the U.S. Navy and was serving on the USS Forestall when a rocket was fired from one aircraft and hit another. Steele was among more than 130 sailors who died, and another 160 were injured in the accident.

 

Retired Marine Walking Across America Attends Memorial

Also part of the Memorial Day program, retired Marine sergeant, Roy Brady. We told you about Brady last week and his mission to walk across America to support veterans with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and to further research to improve prosthetics to help veterans who lost limbs while serving. Brady said individuals must make an effort to help veterans talk about their issues.

 

                

 

Brady walks 15-20 miles per day. He's on his way to Tulsa this week. He started his journey in California in March, and will be walking more than six months. He’s raising awareness and funds for the non-profit group, Combat Wounded Veterans Challenge.

 

Energy Prices Fluctuate               

Crude oil prices were lower last week. Matt Skinner with the Oklahoma Corporation Commission explains why prices have been fluctuating.

 

                

 

Skinner said the number of rigs actively exploring for oil and natural gas in Oklahoma was up by two last week, to 140. That is an increase of 14 percent from the same time last year. Nationwide, the rig count grew by 13 to 1,059 which is also higher that for this time in 2017.

 

State High School Rodeo Finals in Chickasha This Week

The Oklahoma High School Rodeo Association state finals will be held in Chickasha this week. About 130 high school youth will be competing for spots in the national high school rodeo competition later this year. Many of the competitors will be arriving in Chickasha today. Official competition will be Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. There's even a prom for participants tomorrow night and later in the week, the selection of a new OHSRA queen.

 

Food Preservation Program Set

There have been a lot of changes in the area of food preservation over the years. A workshop to provide updates on home canning of fruits and vegetables is coming up. Dr. Barbara Brown is the state extension food specialist at Oklahoma State University. Susan Routh with Grady County OSU Extension describes what Brown will be discussing.

 

                

Dr. Brown's program will be at the Canadian Valley Technology Center on Tuesday, June 5th from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The program is limited to 25 participants, and individuals should pre-register by this Friday by calling the technology center, 405-222-7565.

               

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $67.88 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $76.44.

Natural gas is up to $2.94 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,307 and silver is $16.46.

 

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