Saturday, Aug. 27th

 

More Details Released in Machete Attack

A man nearly had his arm cut off when he was attacked by someone with a machete. KOOL/RANCH News received the probable cause affidavit filed in the case. Police were called to a home in the 600 block of South 8th Street Wednesday afternoon to investigate. The victim had already been taken to a hospital in a private vehicle. The affidavit states that the victim and the suspect, Bronson Tyler Smith, got into an argument and that Smith had what appeared to be a machete and officials also found  a large, heavy duty, solid-metal pair of scissors at the scene. After the attack, Smith fled the area. The victim was taken to St. Anthony hospital for emergency surgery. Police issued a BOLO alert for Smith and the Grady County Sheriff's Office received a tip Thursday morning on his location. Deputies and police officers found him at home in the 800 block of South 16th where Smith had barricaded himself in a garage. Smith was arrested after a brief stand-off. Smith was originally arrested on complaints of assault with a deadly weapon and maiming. At his arraignment yesterday he was charged only with assault with a deadly weapon. Smith has been in and out of jail the last couple of years. Just last week he pleaded guilty to misdemeanor charges of domestic assault and disrupting an emergency phone call following an arrest this spring. Last month, he pleaded guilty to a charge of attempting to obtain drugs by an altered prescription stemming from a 2020 arrest.

 

State Gets Federal Funds for Abandoned Wellsite Clean-up

The State of Oklahoma has received millions in federal funds to continue on-going efforts to clean up abandoned oil and gas well sites. The state will get an initial grant of $25 million from the Department of Interior to plug, cap, and reclaim orphaned oil and gas wells on public and private lands. State officials say they will collaborate with federally-recognized tribes to plug wells on tribal land. Officials say they have nearly 1,200 documented orphaned wells and priority will be given to those which pose the greatest threat to health and human safety, the environment, and personal property.

 

Oklahoma to Have 'Free' Hunting Labor Day Weekend

Hunting enthusiasts in the state will be able to hunt without licenses next weekend. The State Department of Wildlife has established free hunting days for Saturday, Sept. 3rd and Sunday, Sept. 4th. Free hunting days are traditionally held the first weekend in September. The hunting seasons will be open for dove, coyote, squirrel, raccoon, prairie dogs, beaver, and even striped skunks. While no licenses will be required individuals will still have to comply with all hunting regulations. For information visit the website: www.wildlifedepartment.com

 

Talk Show Topics

Here's what we're talking about this weekend. On our KOOL Konversation we have a recording of this week's press conference with District Attorney Jason Hicks and representatives of the State Department of Environmental Quality. Officials addressed the unlawful hazardous waste disposal that occurred at the former Chickasha Manufacturing Company and other locations near the site, and the multi-million dollar fine levied to the company responsible. On Real Estate Today we have Dan Turner and Jerry Don Bray with Chickasha Public Schools.  Find links to both programs under the Community tab on this website.

 

High School Football Scores

Chickasha 20, El Reno 14

Minco 31, Dibble 12

Tuttle 39, Cache 14

Bridge Creek 32, Lexington 0

Newcastle 38, Cleveland 0

Empire 8, Rush Springs 0

Lone Grove 55, Anadarko 26

Cyril 36, Corn Bible Academy 0

Pauls Valley 21, Lindsay 12

 

 

Friday, Aug. 26th

(Burn bans are still in effect for Grady, Garvin, and Comanche counties)

 

County Commissioner 'Not Guilty' of Embezzlement

A Grady County jury took little time in finding County Commissioner Mike Walker innocent of embezzlement. The jury spent less than two hours in making its decision yesterday. The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation charged Walker for using county resources to pave a road to his Tuttle area home. Walker's attorney Bret Burns says it was a bogus claim.

              

Burns said that Walker did live on the street that was paved, but it was accepted by the county as a public street back in 1976 and had been maintained by the county for more than 25 years. Burns said the lawsuit cost Walker his job, as he lost his re-election bid this past spring. Walker is still facing charges of conspiracy and intimidating witnesses. That trial is expected be held in October.

 

Suspect Arrested for Alleged Machete Attack

(EDITOR'S NOTE - This story has been updated from the morning news)

Chickasha police have arrested a suspect in connection with attacking a man with a machete. 31-year old Bronson Tyler Smith is being held in the Grady County Jail on complaints of assault with a deadly weapon and maiming. Chickasha Police spokeswoman Lauren Jewell said police were called to a home in the 600 block of S. 8^th Street Wednesday afternoon to investigate a reported stabbing. The victim had already been taken to Grady Memorial Hospital in a private vehicle then transported to an Oklahoma City hospital where he had surgery for non-life threatening injuries. Witnesses at the home identified Smith as the attacker. Jewell said that the Grady County Sheriff’s Office received a tip Thursday morning that Smith was at a home in the 800 block of South 16^th. Jewell said Smith briefly barricaded himself in a garage, but was taken into custody after about five minutes. Prosecutors will decided if Smith will be charged with any crimes in connection with the attack.

 

Police Issue Scam Alert

Chickasha police have issued a scam alert regarding some bogus claims of residents winning a grand prize. According to a Facebook post, authorities say they have received several complaints about residents being told that in order to receive the prize, they needed to send money using gift cards and other pre-paid cards.  Officials say individuals should be cautious when receiving calls that ask for money to be sent before a prize is issued. If you can, get the number of the person who called and report the number to police.

 

County Fair Events

The Grady County Fair continues today with many of the commercial vendors opening at 10:00 a.m. The swine show will be late this afternoon and the carnival will be open this evening. Also tonight, it’s the first performance of the Thunder in Tornado Alley Tractor Pull with a second performance tomorrow night. OHCE groups will have home-made meals for the noon and evening meals in the community building with Indian tacos, cinnamon rolls, and other items in the North exhibit building. Tomorrow is the busiest day at the fair, with the poultry and rabbit shows in the morning with the beef and dairy shows in the afternoon. A couple of Bob Funk's Express Clydesdales will be at the fair tomorrow morning. Also tomorrow afternoon, the children's pet show at 4:30 and the kiddie tractor pull and 6 o'clock.

 

Volunteer Firefighter Headed to Central America

A Grady County volunteer firefighter is headed to Central America to help with an electrification program of a community. Brad Hunter is a volunteer with the Pocasset fire department. Hunter is the new Energy Trails Ambassador for Oklahoma Electric Co-op (OEC) and will be working in Guatemala. Hunter is a lineman and has worked for OEC for 14 years. Before working for OEC he was a a rodeo clown.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $92.52 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $99.34.

Natural gas is $9.37 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,762 and silver is $19.13.

 

Obituaries

Demonte Goodlow

Funeral for Demonte Goodlow, 16, of Lawton was held at 1:00 p.m. Friday, Aug. 26^th at True Love Church in Lawton. Arrangements were with Brown-Thomas Funeral Home.

Stacy Townsend

Funeral for Stacy Townsend, 62, of Chickasha, will be held at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 1^st  at Sharon Baptist Church. Arrangements are with Sevier Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to Gideon's International or St. Jude Children's Hospital.

 

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Thursday, Aug. 25th

(Burn bans are still in effect for Grady, Garvin, and Comanche counties)

 

Contractor Fined Millions for Dumping

Hazardous Materials Into the Environment

A Chickasha businessman is ordered to pay millions of dollars in fines for the illegal dumping of hazardous materials. On Thursday, officials with the State Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) announced the fine levied against Brannan Bordwine and his company and discussed the on-going investigation into the huge hand sanitizer fire that destroyed the former Chickasha Manufacturing Company. Rob Singletary is with the DEQ-

 

              

 

Singletary said he believes the fine is the largest ever issued by the DEQ. Bordwine has 15 days to submit a plan to properly dispose of the remaining sanitizer and 30 days to do so. Singletary said expired hand sanitizer is hazardous because the alcohol it contains can catch fire quickly. District Attorney Jason Hicks said anyone who may have received donations of sanitizer or purchased sanitizer from Bordwine, his employees, or associates should take it to the Chickasha fire department for proper disposal. Hicks said the multi-agency investigation into the fire continues and no formal charges have yet been filed.

 

Jury Prepares to Deliberate Fate of County Commissioner

Closing arguments in the trial of a Grady County commissioner accused of embezzlement and conspiracy are expected to be presented this morning. Testimony in the two-day trial for District 1 Commissioner Mike Walker came to an end yesterday with the judge opting to schedule closing arguments and present the jury its instructions today. Walker is facing one count of embezzlement for using county resources for personal gain and several counts of conspiracy, intimidating witnesses, and illegally using communication devices for installing cameras at the Tuttle county barn to allegedly spy on employees.

 

Father Jailed on $1 Million Bond for Alleged Child Abuse

The father of an infant is in jail on a $1 million bond for alleged child abuse. 31-year old Evander Dayle Yanito of Chickasha was arrested earlier this week after police were notified by DHS of a possible child abuse case. A probable cause affidavit from Chickasha police alleges that Yanito dropped the eight week old child on the floor which caused her to have a brain bleed. The baby also suffered a broken rib. Yanito has been charged with three felony counts of child abuse.

 

Grady County Fair Opens

The Grady County Fair officially kicks off today. It's the 107th year for the fair which will feature numerous events for the young and the young at heart. Jamie Jones is the marketing director for the Grady County Fairgrounds and said the number of commercial exhibits is on the rise.

 

             

 

Many of the commercial booths feature free give-aways and drawings for various items. The doors opened this morning while there will be an official  ceremony tonight. The cake auction will be this evening followed by the naming of the fair princess. There's lots of great food from OHCE available and the carnival will be open tonight, tomorrow night, and opens at noon on Saturday. Arm bands will be available all three days. There's live music tonight from local band Tim Brauer and First Look and there's a tractor pull both Friday and Saturday nights.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $94.89 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $101.22.

Natural gas is $9.33 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,776 and silver is $19.23.

 

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Wednesday, Aug. 24th

(Burn bans are still in effect for Grady, Garvin, and Comanche counties)

 

DEQ, DA to Discuss Hazardous Waste Investigation

Officials with the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) and the Grady County District Attorney's Office will be holding a joint press conference this afternoon to discuss the hazardous waste investigation that came about as a result of this month's fire that destroyed the former Chickasha Manufacturing Company. Officials were called in to look into the storage of an estimated 1.5 million gallons of hand sanitizer that was being kept in as many as three locations in that immediate area. The press conference will be held at District Attorney Jason Hicks Chickasha office at 1:30 this afternoon. We’ll have an update on KOOL News at 5:00 p.m.

 

Bray Defeats Beard for County Commissioner Post

Voters in the southern part of Grady County elected Gary Bray over incumbent Ralph Beard for District 3 County Commissioner in Tuesday's primary run-off election. Bray, a retired police officer, picked up 53 percent of the vote to defeat the two-term incumbent by more than 100 votes. The unofficial tally was 976 to 860. With Bray's election, there will be two new Grady County commissioners next year. Zach Davis will be the other new commissioner. He won the District One county commissioner post earlier this year defeating incumbent Mike Walker.

Chickasha School Bond Issues Pass with Flying Colors

Chickasha school district patrons overwhelmingly approved two bond issues - a $35 million proposal for numerous school improvements and a $1 million transportation bond. Both passed with more than 70 percent of the vote with at least 1,200 votes out of the nearly 1,700 ballots cast. Superintendent Rick Croslin said the district is grateful for the support and thanks voters for the opportunity to address safety and security concerns. Among the projects approved were a new library and safe room at Grand Elementary, a new gymnasium and a safe room at Lincoln Elementary, and a secured entrance at the middle school.

Voters Turn Down Alex School Bond Issues 

Several other school districts also had bond issues on the ballot and there were mixed results. At Alex, voters turned down two proposals totaling about $14 million. A bond for an agriculture building, bus barn, an indoor athletic facility, and an awning to connect the high school to the elementary school failed with 51 percent voting against the plan. A second proposal to purchase two new school buses failed to get the 60 percent super-majority needed for passage by 17 votes.

Dibble School Bond Approved

Dibble voters passed a $15.4 million proposal to build the first phase of a new high school and install new lights at all the athletic facilities. The measure passed with 61 percent of the vote just six votes over the minimum 60 percent required for school bond elections.

Other School Bond Election Results

Middleberg school district voters approved a bond issue with more than 68 percent of the vote, 130 to 60; voters in the Cyril school district gave nearly 70 percent approval to a $1.7 million bond issue, 162 to 70. The funds will be used to upgrade computer labs, install lights for the baseball and softball fields, build a track, and purchases vehicles. A proposal for a bond issue at Ft. Cobb-Broxton schools failed by just five votes. The yes votes outnumbered the no votes 275 to 191 but the issue only received 59 percent of the vote. A school bond issue at Bridge Creek narrowly won with 10 votes to spare, 868 to 562. A school bond proposal at Newcastle passed with nearly 69 percent of the vote, 1,655 to 754.

 

Biker Critical After Turnpike Crash

A motorcycle rider is in critical condition after crashing his bike on the H.E. Bailey Turnpike. The accident happened just before 6:00 a.m. Tuesday near Mile Marker 91 about eight miles northeast of Chickasha. The unidentified 50-year old man from Lawton was air-lifted to an Oklahoma City hospital with head and internal injuries. The highway patrol reported that for an unknown reason, the rider lost control and the bike came to rest in the inside lane. He was wearing a helmet.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $93.74 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $102.22.

Natural gas is $9.19 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,761 and silver is $19.04.

 

Obituaries

Clovis Henderson

Funeral service Clovis Henderson, 86, of Rush Springs will be held at 1:00 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 25th at the First Baptist Church of Pocasset. Arrangements are with McRay Funeral Home.

Brendolyn Dawson

Funeral service Brendolyn Dawson, 63, of Lawton will be held at 2:00 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 25th at New Hope Church of God in Christ in Lawton. Arrangements are with Brown-Thomas Funeral Home.

 

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Tuesday, Aug. 23rd

(Burn bans remain in effect for Grady, Garvin, and Comanche counties)

 

Oklahomans Heading Back to the Polls Today

A county commissioner’s race, some school bond issues, and a state senate race are some of the issues KOOL/RANCH News will be following in today's primary run-off election. The Grady County Commissioner District 3 post will be decided in the Republican primary run-off between two-term incumbent Ralph Beard and challenger Gary Bray. Only four votes separated the two in the June primary which included a third candidate.

Several School Districts Have Bond Issues on the Ballot

Chickasha school district voters are deciding the largest bond issue ever. There are two bond issues - one is for nearly $35 million that officials call the Safety and Security Bond. If approved, there will be upgrades at every school site including a new gymnasium/safe room at Lincoln School and a new library/safe room at Grand Avenue, the installation of field turf and an eight-lane track at the high school football field, and technology upgrades throughout the district. A second $1 million bond issue is for transportation needs. There are also propositions on the ballot for Alex, Bridge Creek, Dibble, Middleberg, and Bridge Creek school district voters. In Caddo County there are bond issues on the ballot for Cyril and Ft. Cobb-Broxton school district voters.

Caddo County Part of Republican State Senate Run-off

A key state senate race is in District 26 which includes all of Caddo County. Incumbent Darcy Jech is facing newcomer Brady Butler in the Republican primary. No Democrats filed for that office so the winner will serve a six-year term. Polls are open until 7 o'clock tonight. We'll post results of the elections on our Facebook page after the polls close.

 

Burn Ban Lifted in Stephens County; Extended in Comanche County

Officials in one area county have lifted a burn ban. Stephens County commissioners lifted its ban yesterday which had been in effect for the last several weeks. Much of the Stephens County area has received some good rainfall over the last week. However, Comanche County commissioners have extended a burn ban for two more weeks. That burn ban has been in place since July 25th due to low rainfall totals and increased fire danger. Burn bans are also still in place for Grady and Garvin Counties.

 

Grady County OSU Extension Educator Honored

A member of Grady County OSU Extension is recognized for her work. Ally Minor was named the outstanding new county agent in Oklahoma. She was appointed to the Grady County office in January of 2021 to serve as agriculture educator and to work in 4H and youth development. A news release from the state extension office in Stillwater shows that in her first year, Minor organized nearly 50 meetings and built upon the office’s bi-weekly ag producers meetings. She hosted experts from Texas A and M who discussed multi-species grazing and hosted John Weir to discuss prescribed burning which led to the formation of a local prescribed burning association. She worked with the OSU Research Station to put together demonstration plots of Bermuda and native grasses without fertilizer (from June to September). Minor has a bachelor’s degree in animal science from Oklahoma State and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Natural Resources Stewardship-Rangeland Ecology and Management Specialization from Colorado State.

 

Two Volunteer Fire Departments to Host Appreciation Dinner

A couple of Grady County volunteer fire department's will be hosting a community appreciation dinner. The Harold and Pocasset Stations will host the event on Sunday, Sept. 11th from 11:30 am. to 2:00 p.m. at the Pocasset Community Center. They'll be grilling hamburgers and hot dogs with drinks and sides also available. There will be a bounce house for the kids. Donations are welcome.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $90.23 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $96.48.

Natural gas is $9.68 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,752 and silver is $18.99.

 

Obituary

Anita Hudson

Funeral service for Anita Hudson, 85, of Chickasha will be at 2 o'clock this afternoon at Sevier Funeral Home. She served as the librarian at USAO for more than 20 years, retiring in 1999.

 

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Monday, Aug. 22nd

(Burns bans remain in efect for Grady, Comanche, Stephens, and Garvin counties)

 

Jury Selection Scheduled to Begin Today

for Trial of Grady County Commissioner

Jury selection is scheduled begin today for the embezzlement and conspiracy trial of District 1 Grady County Commissioner Mike Walker. Walker was charged with embezzlement in May of 2021 for allegedly using county resources to pave a private road to his Tuttle area home. In February of this year, Walker was charged with multiple counts of conspiracy, intimidation of witnesses, and unlawful use of communication for allegedly installing cameras at the District 1 county barn to spy on employees. Walker's attorney, Bret Burns, says the cameras were installed for security reasons. The prosecutor in the case is Brian Hermanson out of Newkirk and the presiding judge is Brent Russell of Duncan.

 

Fiery Crash Kills Two People

Two people died in a fiery head-on collision near Tuttle over the weekend. The accident involved three vehicles late Friday afternoon about three miles south of Tuttle on State Highway 4. Killed in the crash were 64-year old Larry Ballinger of Oklahoma City and 36-year old Derek Thomas of Moore. A third person, 39-year old Shannon Burnside of Tuttle, somehow survived without suffering serious injuries. She was taken to an Oklahoma City hospital by a private vehicle where she was treated and released. The trooper investigating the crash said Thomas was northbound on the highway at a high rate of speed when his pickup crossed the center line and struck a southbound sedan driven by Ballinger. Burnside was also southbound in her car which rear-ended Ballinger's vehicle after the initial collision.

 

Father Charged with Child Abuse for

Making Children Eat Hot Peppers

A Chickasha man is charged with child abuse for punishing his children by making them eat hot peppers. 34-year old Justin Ray Rodriguez was arrested last week after DHS turned over the results of an investigation to the Grady County Sheriff's Office. A probable cause affidavit indicates the alleged abuse occurred between January and February of this year. It's alleged that Rodriguez made two children eat jalapeno peppers with added hot sauce as discipline. He also threatened to cut one child's tongue with his knife and cut off his genitals. Rodriguez was charged with one felony count of child abuse. He is out of jail after posting a $50,000 bond. He's to announce his attorney next week and a preliminary hearing conference is scheduled Sept. 14th.

 

Chickasha Park Pond Still Closed Due to Blue-Green Algae

Blue-green algae is still a problem in the pond at Chickasha's Shannon Springs Park. Officials say the pond is closed for fishing and pets should not be allowed to swim in it. Blue-green algae blooms were detected nearly two weeks ago. The water can be toxic and cause severe illness in humans and pets. There's no word on when the restrictions will be lifted.

 

Grady County Fair Week Begins

It's Grady County Fair week. While most activities start on Thursday the fair princess and little miss contests are this afternoon and tonight. The winners will be announced Thursday. Still and mechanic show exhibits can be entered tomorrow afternoon from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. The 107th Grady County Fair begins on Thursday.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $90.77 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $96.72.

Natural gas is $9.33 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,748 and silver is $18.96

 

Obituary

Brendolyn Dawson

Funeral service for Brendolyn Dawson, 64, of Lawton is pending with Brown-Thomas Funeral Home.

 

Saturday, Aug. 20th

(Burn bans remain in effect for Grady, Garvin, Stephens, and Comanche counties)

 

Two Die in Fiery Head-on Collision

A horrific accident south of Tuttle late yesterday claimed the lives of two people and sent a third person to a hospital. The accident involved three vehicles on State Highway 4 about a mile south of Tuttle. Killed in the crash were 64-year old Larry Ballinger of Oklahoma City and 36-year old Derek Thomas of Moore. Their bodies were pinned in their vehicles for more than 2 1/2 hours before the Bridge Creek Fire Department to get them out. 39-year old Shannon Burnside of Tuttle somehow survived - she was taken to an Oklahoma City hospital where she was treated and released. The accident happened about 5:30 Friday afternoon. The trooper investigating the deadly crash said Thomas was northbound on the highway at a high rate of speed when his pickup crossed the center line and struck a southbound sedan driven by Ballinger. Burnside was also southbound and rear-ended Ballinger's car after the initial collision.

 

Trooper Finds 50+ Pounds of Illegal Pot in Traffic Stop

A traffic stop leads a state trooper to the discovery of more than 50 pounds of illegal marijuana. Trooper Zach Wallis was patrolling in the Amber area Wednesday afternoon when he stopped a motorist for speeding. Wallis stated in a probable cause affidavit that as he approached the vehicle he could smell marijuana. The driver said there wasn't any marijuana the van but Wallis said he was going to perform a probable cause search. Wallis said he found about 53 vacuum-sealed bags of pot, each weighing about a pound. The driver did have a medical marijuana transport card but no manifest. Wallis spoke with a representative from the Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Association who said the driver was in violation of state law. 38-year old De Kang Jiang of Amber was arrested on a drug complaint. Prosecutors have charged him with felony drug trafficking. Jiang is out of jail after posting a $25,000 bond. He's to announce his attorney Sept. 1st with a preliminary hearing conference set for Sept. 14th.

 

Rural Firefighters to Benefit from New State Law

A new law will go into effect later this year that is designed to give rural fire departments more help when it comes to addressing emergency situations. A bill signed into law by Gov. Kevin Stitt will remove the red tape that restricts rural fire department services. It will allow area governing bodies to enter into agreements with first responder agencies. State lawmakers worked with the state department of emergency management to develop the legislation. The law will go into effect Nov. 1st.

 

Talk Show Topics

Here's what we're talking about this weekend. Michelle Skinner with the Chickasha Library and Wendi Ilacolbello with the Friends of the Library are this week’s guests on our KOOL Konversation. And Jamie Jones with the Grady County Fairgrounds is on Real Estate Today. Find podcasts of both programs under the Community tab on this website.

 

Obituaries

Mary Stephenson

Funeral service for Mary Stephenson, 87, of Chickasha will be at 3:00 p.m. Sunday, August 21^st at the Main Street Church in Alex. Arrangements are with McRay Funeral Home.

Helen Greenroyd

Funeral service for Helen Greenroyd, 95, of Tuttle is pending with Sevier Funeral Home of Tuttle.

 

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Friday, Aug. 19^th

(Burn bans remain in effect for Grady, Garvin, Stephens, and Comanche counties)

 

Grady County Fair set Next Week

The 107th Grady County Free Fair is next week. The main events will be Aug. 25^th-27^th but some activities begin early in the week. The Fair Princess contest is on Monday however the winner won't be announced until the opening night of the fair Thursday. There is also a Little Miss contest. On Tuesday, individuals can submit items for the still and farm mechanics exhibits at the fairgrounds from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 pm. Exhibitor numbers and tags can be picked up at the OSU Extension Office today and Monday. Wednesday is the day that commercial vendors can set up their displays. The fair opens to the public at 10:00 a.m. Thursday. The carnival will have arm bands available all three days and a high-octane tractor pull will be Friday and Saturday nights. County OHCE groups will serve home-made meals in the community building and Indian tacos in the north exhibit building.

 

USAO Students Return

USAO is getting ready for a big weekend. Returning students have been moving back to campus this week with many more arriving over the next couple of days. About 350 freshmen are going through orientation today which will be capped off with a celebration on the USAO Oval. Tomorrow night, the university is inviting all of Chickasha to welcome students back to the area. Jim Cowan with the Economic Development Council says-

 

              

 

USAO classes begin on Monday.

 

In-Person, Absentee Voting Continues

Early voting continues today ahead of next Tuesday's primary run-off election.  Voters can cast in-person, absentee ballots at their county election board and don't need a special reason to do so. In-person, absentee voting is available until 6 p.m. today and from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. tomorrow.

 

Registration Open for Rock Island Ride Bicycle Tour

As we look at the calendar the Labor Day Weekend is just a couple of weeks away. Not long after that will one of the busiest weekends in town. Sept. 30th through Oct. 2nd is the Rock Island Arts Festival which will also include the Rock Island Ride Bicycle Tour and the Oklahoma Food Truck Championship. Johnny Trammel is one of the organizers for the bicycle tour and says it has become of favorite of bike enthusiasts.

 

              

 

There are family-friendly rides in town and rides of more than 60 miles throughout the county, including a couple of routes on gravel roads. The ride is on Saturday, Oct. 1st and proceeds benefit local charities. Riders can sign up in advance by going to the website: www.bikereg.com/Chickasha

 

Blanchard Hosts Bluegrass Festival

Bluegrass music fans will be in Blanchard this weekend for the town’s annual bluegrass festival. The festival runs over two days at Lions Park and the music begins at 5 o'clock this afternoon and at 3 o'clock tomorrow afternoon. On stage will be The Hunt Brothers Band, Cliff Top, Bazemore Bluegrass, Graystone Music Revival, Bluegrass Express, The Horn Family, Southbound Mule, and there will be a jam session. Admission is free and organizers recommend individuals take lawn chairs and blankets. Food trucks will be on hand.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $90.50 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is 96.59.

Natural gas is $9.19 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,763 and silver is $19.23.

 

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Thursday, Aug. 18th

(Burn bans remain in effect for Grady, Garvin, Stephens, and Comanche counties)

 

Early Voting Begins Ahead of Next Tuesday's Election

Oklahomans can cast their ballots before next Tuesday's primary run-off election if they want to. Voters can go to their county election boards for in-person, absentee voting from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. today or tomorrow or 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Saturday. In Grady County, there are bond elections for voters in Chickasha, Alex, Dibble, Middleberg Bridge Creek, and Newcastle school districts. The District 3 Grady County Commissioner race between incumbent Ralph Beard and challenger Gary Bray is only on the Republican run-off ballot for residents in District 3 of Grady County. In Caddo County, there are school bond propositions for voters in Cyril and Ft. Cobb Broxton school districts. Polls on Tuesday, Aug. 23^rd will be open from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

 

Caddo County Wildfire Burns 4,500+ Acres

A huge wildland fire burned thousands of acres in Caddo County. The fire charred about 4,700 acres west of Apache in the area of State Highways 58 and 19. Volunteers from Grady County Volunteer Fire Departments were among the more than 230 firefighters and 80 trucks that were dispatched. The Grady County Task Force says part of the battle included back-burning deep canyons which could not be accessed by fire trucks. Comanche County Emergency Management officials said there were no reports of injuries or structure damage.

Kiowa Housing Authority to Build New Homes

It's been more than 20 years since the Kiowa Housing Authority has been able to build new homes for tribal members. That will be changing soon as the authority has received a $5 million federal grant from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). HUD officials reported that the Anadarko area was in great need for new homes saying the region was 1,200 homes short for its population of Kiowa Tribe members. Housing Authority Executive Director Billy Komacheet told KSWO-TV that they have done a lot of work over the last three years to get the grant and they look forward to the new construction. Tribal Development Consultant Brandi Liberty said it was a group effort by working with county commissioners and others. She said the plan is to have even more homes built for low-income Kiowa families through other funding sources they will apply for over the next five years.

 

4Her Shares Internet Safety Tips

A Grady County 4Her is sharing some Internet safety tips. Matthew Lam is with the Rock Island 4H Club.

 

                             

 

He also recommends not clicking on any links, or opening attachments, or accepting gifts from people you don't know. They can contain spyware which allows others to see the same thing the user is seeing or even access the camera and literally spy on you.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $88.11 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $93.65.

Natural gas is $9.24 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,783 and silver is $19.88.

 

Obituaries

Charles Eldon Self

A private family memorial service will be held for Charles Self, 86, of Chickasha and previously from Texas. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.

Gary Burns

Funeral service for Gary Burns, 57, of Chickasha is pending with Brown-Thomas Funeral Home.

 

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Wednesday, Aug. 17th

(Burn bans remain in effect for Grady, Garvin, Stephens, and Comanche counties)

 

DEQ Probe of Hand Sanitizer Storage

Began Days Before Fire Erupted

A state agency began looking into concerns of large amounts of hand sanitizer being stored at the former Chickasha Manufacturing company last month - about two weeks before a massive fire destroyed the plant and 1 1/2 million gallons of hand sanitizer that was being stored inside.  Records on file at the Grady County Courthouse show that the State Department of Environmental Quality issued an injunction against Bordwine Development Company on July 22nd. DEQ investigators allege they saw sanitizer stacked at three locations, all in the area of the former Chickasha Manufacturing Company. The document also indicates investigators saw an area near the road where a pit had been dug and liquid was standing in it; and officials determined that sanitizer had drained down the ditch at a distance of more than 700 feet which is the length of 2 1/2 football fields. Bordwine Development officials said the pit had been dug to expand the drive area into the property to make it easier to accommodate semis, but they encountered ground water and decided not to expand the drive area. KFOR-TV reports that officials have taken a lot of soil and water samples and that those samples are currently being analyzed. After the fire, DEQ investigators said they found two manholes to the City of Chickasha's sanitary sewer main were open and that there was a presence of the sanitizer in the sewer line. The DEQ also said the company has a history of previous environmental violations and non-compliance. Bordwine Development's attorney told KFOR that recycling hand sanitizer does not require hazardous waste permits and protocols for transportation, storage, and recycling.

 

$1 Million Bond Set for Woman who Shot Two People

The woman accused of barricading herself in a deputy sheriff's SUV and shooting at deputies has been formally charge with three counts of shooting with intent to kill. Rachel Zion Clay was arraigned on the charges in Grady County District Court yesterday and a judge set her bond at $1 million. Clay was arrested last Friday at a home in rural Bridge Creek. Authorities were called to the home to do a welfare check on a woman. Deputies detained Clay, put her in handcuffs, and in the back of the deputy's SUV. She managed to get free of the handcuffs and get an AK-47 that was inside. Clay fired 10 rounds through a window of the SUV at two deputies and a bystander. The bystander and one deputy were injured and taken to a hospital but neither were seriously injured. Clay is to announce her attorney Sept. 1^st and a preliminary hearing conference is set for Sept. 14th.

 

Mom Arrested For Not Sending Child to School

A Grady County woman is arrested for not making her child go to school. An arrest warrant was issued last week for 38-year old Kelly Ann Robisch of Blanchard. A probable cause affidavit filed at the Grady County Courthouse indicates that Robisch was contacted three times during last school year because her young child was missing too many days. The last contact was just before school was released in May and the child had missed 58 days and 48 of them were unexcused. Robisch told investigators the child had been sick and one time went 36 hours without sleeping. Robisch was arrested earlier this week and was formally charged with two misdemeanor counts of neglect or refusal to compel the child to attend school. She is out of jail after posting a $1,500 bond. The case has been scheduled for disposition Sept. 9th.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $86.53 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $92.34.

Natural gas is $9.33 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,788 and silver is $20.00.

 

Obituary
Eddie Juarez

A memorial service for Eddie Juarez, 58, of Chickasha will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, August 27th at Southern Oaks Church of Christ. Arrangements are with McRay Funeral Home.

 

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Tuesday, Aug. 16th

(Burn bans remain in effect for Grady, Garvin, Stephens, and Comanche counties)

 

Waste Connections Seeks Contract Revision with Chickasha

The company that provides trash pickup services for the City of Chickasha is asking for larger price increase than is allowed in its current contract. Brittany Eagleston of Waste Connections told the city council last night that the reason for the request is due to an increase in the Consumer Price Index.  She said the current contract allows for a maximum 3.5 percent increase. Based on the current CPI, Eagleston said they are operating at a deficit of about 6 percent. The company said the price increase, if approved, would be spread out over a five-year period. The council will consider the proposal in a future meeting. It wasn’t clear if an increase in the contract price would mean an increase in costs for residents and businesses.

Approval Given for New Internet Service Provider to Offer Services

The council approved a non-exclusive franchise agreement with Dobson Technologies to allow the sale of broadband data, video services, and voice-over Internet service in the city. The panel postponed decisions two issues related to the Badgett Dog Park. One was to accept the project as complete and the other to make a final payment of more than $41,000 to the park’s contractor Brannan Bordwine. Officials say a maintenance bond and other needed documents to consider the project complete have not yet been received. The panel also approved a proposal to publicize the public sale of mineral rights on more than 3,700 acres of land the city owns at Lake Chickasha. This was a house cleaning measure which combines several tracts into one document.

 

Apache Man Dies After Being Injured in July Crash

A Caddo County man who was critically injured in an accident between a UTV and an SUV last month has died. 29-year old Chandler Pettit of Apache died last Thursday as the result of the injuries suffered in the crash. The accident occurred Thursday, July 28th on State Highway 58 about eight miles south of Carnegie. The highway patrol reported that Pettit was driving a UTV and failed to yield from a stop sign on a country road and his UTV was hit by the SUV.

 

Former Ampo Superintendent W.L. Jackson Dies

Longtime Amber-Pocasset school superintendent W.L. Jackson has died. Jackson was 87 when he passed away on Sunday. He spent more than 30 years at Ampo. He was born in Burns Flat and went to high school there where he helped his baseball team win back-to-back state titles in 1950 and 1951. He attended Southwestern Oklahoma State University on a baseball scholarship and set several records, some of which are still intact. Jackson was a 60-year Mason and a member of the Oklahoma Association of Retired Administrators. Survivors include his wife of Gwen. The couple would have celebrated their 66th anniversary in a couple of weeks. Funeral service for W.L. Jackson will be at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, August 18th at the First Baptist Church of Pocasset. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.

 

Grady County Burn Ban Extended

Grady County Commissioners have extended a burn ban.  Officials signed a resolution at their meeting Monday to continue the ban through August 29th. The ban was first implemented July 18th due to extreme heat and drought. Much of the region had significant rainfall last week, however the region continues to be very dry, afternoon temperatures still hover around the 100-degree mark, and minimal rain chances are forecast over the next week. Burn bans also remain in effect for Comanche, Stephens, and Garvin counties.

 

Grady County Fire Board to Consider Equipment Purchase

A proposal to purchase gas sniffers and monitors for volunteer fire departments will be discussed during tonight's Grady County Fire Board meeting. The panel will also get an update on American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds and grants, and will welcome Dustin Wynn as the new Farwell Department board member. The group will go behind closed doors to discuss applications for new firefighters at Ninnekah, Farwell, and Cox City and to release one fire fighter from Farwell. The fire board meets at 7 o'clock tonight at the Grady County Emergency Management Office community room.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $89.41 per barrel.

London-based Crude oil is $95.10.

Natural gas is $8.73 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,791 and silver is $20.17.

 

Obituary

Shirley Bozarth

Funeral Service for Shirley Bozarth, 77, of Tuttle were held at 10:30 this morning (Tuesday, Aug. 16^th) at Sevier Funeral Home of Tuttle.

 

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Monday, Aug. 15^th

(Burn bans remain in effect for Grady, Garvin, Stephens, and Comanche counties)

 

EPA Joins Work in Sanitizer Fire Aftermath;

Several Agencies to be Part of the Investigation

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has been called in to help with the removal of any of hand sanitizer that may be remaining in the aftermath of the massive fire that destroyed a former manufacturing plant in Chickasha last weekend. In addition, District Attorney Jason Hicks announced a joint investigation to include city, county, and state agencies to look into the matter. The agencies include the DA's office, Chickasha Police and Fire Departments, Chickasha City Hall, the Grady County Sheriff's Office, the State Fire Marshal, the State Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), the OSBI, the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics, and the Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Authority. Hicks said there are multiple issues that must be resolved. As the result of the initial investigation, The DEQ issued an emergency order to immediately cease receiving hand sanitizer and all transporting, or the causing to transport sanitizer unless it is in accord with state and federal law, and to immediately cease all improper disposal of sanitizer. The order was directed to Brannan Bordwine, Bordwine Development, and any unknown affiliated entities - requiring that no sanitizer be moved or accepted. Chickasha Police Chief Dee Rowell served the order on Bordwine last Friday night. The EPA is currently at multiple sites assessing the situation and will then begin the process of moving the sanitizer. All efforts are to ensure the safety and well-being of Grady County citizens.

 

Weekend Crash Kills Two People Near Ft. Cobb

A deadly traffic accident claims the lives of two people near Ft. Cobb over the weekend. 45-year old Benjamin Horse and 38-year old Robin Gomez, both of Anadarko, died in the crash. The accident was discovered about 8:30 a.m. Sunday. The accident happened at The Washita River Bridge near State Highway 9 and CR 1330 north of Ft. Cobb. The highway patrol reports that the vehicle left the roadway, hit a guardrail and embankment, went airborne and landed upside down in the river.

 

Deputy Shot in Friday Confrontation Identified

A Grady County sheriff's deputy who was injured in a confrontation with a woman who barricaded herself inside a deputy’s car has been identified. Deputy Keith Williams suffered a superficial wound on his neck during the stand-off which occurred near Bridge Creek last Friday. Williams was taken to an Oklahoma City hospital where he was treated and released.  Grady County Undersheriff Gary Boggess said a bystander was shot in the chest and suffered an injury believed to be from shrapnel as no bullet was found. The unidentified bystander spent the night in the hospital and was released the next day. Authorities were initially called to the home to do a welfare check on a woman. They found her acting strangely and detailed her, handcuffing her and placing her in the back of a deputy’s car. Somehow she got out of the handcuffs, retrieved a firearm, and began shooting at people from inside the car.  The woman, identified as 36-year old Rachel Zion Clay of Tuttle, was arrested on a complaint of shooting with intent to kill and taken to the Grady County Jail. She could have her initial appearance on the complaint in Grady County District Court today.

 

Lake Chickasha Mineral Rights may be Auctioned

The Chickasha City Council will consider holding a public auction to lease the mineral rights on hundreds of acres of land the city owns around Lake Chickasha tonight. The panel will also go behind closed doors to discuss negotiations with the Chickasha Firefighters Association and the on-going search for a new city manager. The panel will also hear a presentation from a representative of Waste Connections which is the private contractor hired by the city for trash disposal. The council will also consider accepting a nearly $3,000 First Responder grant from the Gary Sinise Foundation. The council meets at 6:30 tonight at city hall and the meeting can be viewed on the City of Chickasha’s website or on Optimum (Suddenlink) Channel 3.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $92.77 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $98.15.

Natural gas is $8.77 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,792 and silver is $20.43.

Saturday, Aug. 13th

(Burn bans remain in effect for Grady, Garvin, Stephens, and Comanche counties)

 

Deputy OK After Being Shot

While Performing a Welfare Check

An hours-long stand-off between law enforcement and a woman came to a peaceful end yesterday. It happened in the Bridge Creek area where a Grady County deputy sheriff and a bystander were both shot by the woman who authorities say was acting erratically. The shooting victims were taken by ground ambulance to an Oklahoma City hospital. The deputy was treated and released and will be OK. The bystander's injury was unclear but officials say he was walking and talking. OHP Trooper Eric Foster spent the afternoon updating the media about the situation and tells how it all started.

 

              

 

After firing the weapon the woman barricaded herself inside the deputy’s car. Numerous law enforcement agencies and a tactical team responded. The woman eventually surrendered peacefully about 4:45 p.m. She has been identified as 36-year old Rachel Zion Clay of Tuttle who was taken to the Grady County Jail and is being held on a complaint of shooting with intent to kill. The names of the deputy and the bystander who were injured were not released.

 

Plant Fire Info Turned Over to District Attorney

Information regarding the fire that destroyed the former Chickasha Manufacturing plant has been turned over to the district attorney. Chickasha fire officials presented their information to Grady County District Attorney Jason Hicks for his review. Investigators say that more than 1.5 million gallons of hand sanitizer had the raging fire burning for several days. Another stockpile of hand sanitizer in a dumpster in the same area also caught fire this week. Officials with Bordwine Development, the company that was leasing the building, say they were storing the sanitizer for future recycling. Our partners at KWTV News 9 received a statement from the company's attorney that said the firm was helping the nation recycle the unprecedented stockpile of hand santizer created by the COVID-19 crisis. The statement said they are working with state and local officials to safely and quickly recycle and/or dispose of the remaining stockpile according to applicable state and federal law. News 9 quoted an anonymous source as saying according to California the company was recycling the sanitizer. and according to Oklahoma the company was disposing it.

 

Cyril Man Faces Numerous Child Sex Crime Charges

A disturbing report of child sex crimes as a Cyril man is facing numerous charges of sexually abusing a 5-year old. Caddo County authorities have filed more than a dozen charges that include rape and forcible sodomy against 32-year old Jeffery Reginald Moyer who was formally charged with 14 felonies in Caddo County District Court in Anadarko yesterday including three counts of rape, seven counts of forcible sodomy, and four counts of lewd acts to a child. Judge David Stephens set Moyer's bond at $700,000. Moyer is to return to court Oct. 17th to announce his attorney and a preliminary hearing conference is tentatively scheduled for Oct. 27th.

 

Rush Springs Hosts Annual Watermelon Festival 

The Rush Springs Watermelon Festival is underway. This is the 77th year for the event as the community celebrates the regional crop. A 5K, 10K, and watermelon relay run were held early this morning. There is a carnival and a car show, more than 100 arts and crafts vendors, and officials expect to serve about 25 tons of watermelon and it will be free after 4 o'clock. Billy and Wilma Pittman are being honored with this year's Pioneer Award. Many area producers will have several varieties of watermelon for sale, including the much heralded Black Diamond melon which is almost exclusively grown around Rush Springs. It’s a mostly round melon with a dark green rind with red ‘fruit’ inside. It's much different that the Jubilee which is the oblong dark-green-and-light-green-striped melon you see in stores.

 

Talk Show Topics

On our KOOL Konversation this week are the Republican candidates for District 3 Grady County Commissioner – incumbent Ralph Beard and challenger Gary Bray (There is no Democratic candidate). On Real Estate Today this week's guests are Jim Cowan and Johnny Trammell with the Chickasha Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Council discussing the upcoming Leadership Chickasha course and other events. There are podcasts of both programs under the Community tab on this website.

 

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Friday, August 12th

(Burn bans remain in effect for Grady, Garvin, Stephens, and Comanche counties)

 

Consumer Spending on the Rise in Chickasha

Consumer spending at Chickasha retail merchants is showing a steady increase. The most recent numbers available show that spending topped $34.2 million from mid-June to mid-July. That's up 8.5 percent from the previous month and an increase of more than 17 percent compared to the same time last year. Jim Cowan with the Economic Development Council says some of the increase may be due to inflation. The City of Chickasha collected more than $1.2 million in sales tax revenue from that consumer spending which ranks 27th among cities in the state. Cowan's monthly economic report also shows a slight increase in the jobless rate from 2.6 percent in May to 3.2 percent in June. The report also shows the City of Chickasha issued more than 45 building permits last month. There were 38 residential permits issued including 31 for new homes and seven permits for re-modeling projects. There were eight commercial building permits issued including two new projects and six for re-modeling work.

 

New Embezzlement Charge Filed Against Contractor

Another embezzlement charge has been filed against a Grady County contractor accused of fraud. The State Attorney General's Office filed the charge against Norman 'Buddy' Gomes, owner of BNV Construction. The Consumer Protection Unit of the attorney general's office began investigating Gomes more than a year ago after receiving a number of complaints. The website OK Energy Today reports that Gomes is now accused of stealing nearly $50 million from six customers by requesting money up front for home repair projects he never started. Gomes is facing six charges of embezzlement and one charge of a pattern of criminal offenses in Grady County District Court. If convicted he faces up to 28 years in prison and more than $50,000 in fines along with have to pay restitution to his victims.

 

Group to Discuss 'Convention of States'

to Consider Amending U.S. Constitution

Many Americans are concerned about the federal government's appetite for taxes, access to personal data, and power. There has been some debate about whether the country is ready for an Article V Convention of the States, which would allow the states to amend the U.S. Constitution. The Grady County Republican Party will host a meeting next week to discuss the issue. Larry McCall, who represents the Convention of States, will explain the national effort to discuss proposing amendments to the Constitution which include limiting the federal government’s power and jurisdiction, and to impose term limits on officials and members of Congress. The meeting is open to the public and will be held  Thursday, Aug. 18^th at 6:30 p.m. at Canadian Valley Technology Center.

 

Grady County 4Hers Earn Nearly $5,000 in Scholarships

Several Grady County 4Hers were honored for their work at the 101^st State 4H Roundup. Hunter Kelsey of Amber was awarded two $1,200 scholarships - one from the Oklahoma Extension Association of Family and Consumer Sciences and one from the Oklahoma Association of 4H Youth Development Professionals. Courtney Evans of Cement received a $1,200 scholarship by the Rule of Law Scholarship Fund. And Maggie Evans also of Cement was awarded a $1,200 Mike Synar Memorial Scholarship. In addition, Maggie Evans, Ben Tindle, and Katie Jones combined to win the 4H Food Showdown and will represent Oklahoma at the National 4H Food Challenge in Dallas in October.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $94.34 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $99.60.

Natural gas is $8.87 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,801 and silver is $20.24.

 

Obituary

Patricia Schwemley

A graveside service for Patricia Schwemley, 89, of Oklahoma City and formerly of Chickasha will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, August 13^th at Chickasha's Rose Hill Cemetery. Arrangements are with Sevier Funeral Home.

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Thursday, Aug. 11th

(Burn bans remain in effect for Grady, Garvin, Stephens, and Comanche counties. Also there is an Ozone Alert for Central Oklahoma including Grady, McClain, Cleveland, Oklahoma, and Canadian counties.)

 

Blue-Green Algae Blooms Found in Shannon Springs Park

Chickasha city officials say blue-green algae has been found in the pond at Shannon Springs Park. Because of that, fishing at the pond has been suspended until the problem clears up. Blue-green algae are microscopic organisms that can form visible algae blooms which can produce toxins that may contaminate the water which can cause illness in humans and animals.

 

Chickasha Schools Are Back in Session

Students are returning to Chickasha school classrooms today. It is the first day of school throughout the district and officials are reminding motorists to slow down in the school zones and to watch for children waiting for school buses in neighborhoods.

 

Reward Offered for Information

about Lawton-Area Woman's Murder

A reward is being offered for information about a young mother found murdered in Comanche County more than five years ago. A $5,000 reward is being offered by the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI) about the death of 21-year old Ci’Lina ‘Cici’ Bell-Deloney. Her body was found in the middle of a road in Cache January 16, 2017. She had been shot multiple times. The OSBI said she was last seen alive at a Wal-Mart in Lawton that morning and that she left the store with people she knew. Anyone with information about Bell-Deloney's murder can e-mail anonymous information to: tips@osbi.ok.gov or by calling 800-522-8017.

 

Popular Grady County Deputy Moves On 

A Grady County sheriff's deputy who became a popular figure after receiving a kidney transplant is moving on. Sgt. Corey Loftice, who spent 10 years with the sheriff's office, accepted a new position with the Marlow Police Department. The sheriff's office posted the news on its Facebook page yesterday. You may remember that Loftice was diagnosed with Stage 4 liver failure in 2016 and in 2017 received a kidney from an Oklahoma City  donor. Loftice was back on the job just three months later. The sheriff's office post said that Loftice served the citizens of Grady County with professionalism, honor, and dedication and that he will always be a member of the sheriff's office.

 

Rush Springs Prepares for Watermelon Festival

Rush Springs is getting ready for the town's annual watermelon festival. This is the 77th year for the event which will be held all day this Saturday, August 13th. Taylor Abbott, a senior at Rush Springs High School this year is the queen of the festival. She says it’s a day to recognize the local water melon producers - many of whom have spent years in the watermelon patch.

 

             

 

The day-long event gets started with a 5K, a 10K, and a watermelon run - where a team of three runners will tote about a 10-pound watermelon through the streets of Rush Springs. There is live entertainment all day, including a seed-spitting contest. They’ll serve watermelon starting at 10 a.m. ($2 for a large wedge) and it will be free after 4:00 p.m. There will also be more than 100 arts and crafts vendors. There is a rodeo tonight and tomorrow night and a parade before the rodeo tomorrow night. See more information on the Rush Springs Watermelon Festival Facebook page.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $91.93 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $97.40.

Natural gas is $8.20 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,805 and silver is $20.48.

 

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Wednesday, Aug. 10th

(Burn bans remain in effect for Grady, Garvin, Stephens, and Comanche counties)

 

Rush Springs Police Seeks Trio Following Pursuit

Three suspects are on the run following a high-speed chase through southern Grady County. Rush Springs Police Chief Chuck Clampitt said one of his officers made a traffic stop on a vehicle about 2:00 a.m. Tuesday for speeding. The officer made contact with the driver who had a suspended license. The driver sped away and headed south on U.S. Highway 81. Grady County deputies were called to assist and the pursuit went south and east of Rush Springs on a county road where the vehicle crashed. Two men and a woman then fled from the scene and the vehicle was impounded. Authorities searched the area for several hours but were unable to locate them. Clampitt said they have the identity of the driver who has a lengthy rap sheet but did not want to disclose his name. The names of the other two people weren't known. If you have information about any of the three individuals you can reach out to the Rush Springs Police Department or call Grady County Crimestoppers at 405-224-TIPS. You can also leave anonymous tips on the Grady County Crimestoppers Facebook page.

 

ARPA Funds to Assist Grady County Volunteer Fire Dept's

Grady County volunteer fire departments will benefit from American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds. County commissioners this week approved nearly a half-million dollars for equipment and station improvements. The Express-Star reports the county department will use about $370,000 to upgrade its cascade system and $85,000 for washer and dryer systems. The Rush Springs Station will receive more than $40,000 to replace its jaws-of-life; the Harold Station will get nearly $28,000 for a truck monitor; and the Pioneer Station will receive nearly $24,000 for bathroom and station renovations. The funds come from nearly $11 million in federal ARPA funds received by the county. Other funds have been awarded to Grady Memorial Hospital to hire new doctors. The Grady County Fairgrounds has also applied for ARPA funds and officials are currently reviewing that application.

 

Three to be Honored at Grady County Fair

The Grady County Fair is now about two weeks away. Three long-time fair supporters will be honored. Clara Green, Paul Horton, and Steve Calhoun will be recognized this year. Green worked for OSU Extension for many years organizing many of the fair events; Horton is being honored for his support of the fair with Ross Seed and True Value; and Calhoun, a farmer and rancher and also long-time employee with Ross True Value has helped with many fair events. The 107th Grady County Fair will run Thursday, August 25th through Saturday, August. 27th at the Grady County Fairgrounds.

 

Blood Drives in Chickasha and Anadarko Today

There are a couple of area blood drives today. In Grady County, the annual Boots and Badges blood drive for supporters of local law enforcement and fire fighters. That will be held at Chickasha's Bible Baptist Church from 12:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. and walk-ins are welcome. Donors get a limited edition Boots and Badges t-shirt. In Anadarko today, there's a community blood drive at the First United Methodist Church. That is from noon to 6 p.m. and walk-ins are also welcome there. For information on upcoming blood drives in your area check out the Oklahoma Blood Institute website at obi.org.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $90.50 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $96.31.

Natural gas is $7.83 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,805 and silver is $20.36.

 

Obituary

Toye Yoder

A memorial service for Toye Yoder, 87, will be held at 10:00 a.m. Friday, Aug. 19th at First Baptist Church of Chickasha. Arrangements are with McRay Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to Helping Paws in Blanchard, the Oklahoma Baptist Home for Children, or the Oklahoma Food Bank.

 

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Tuesday, Aug. 9th

(Burn bans remain in effect for Grady, Garvin, Stephens, Comanche, and Canadian counties)

 

Plant Destroyed by Fire Not 'Up to Code'

Officials with the Chickasha Fire Department and the State Fire Marshal's office say the former Chickasha Manufacturing Company that burned over the weekend was not up to code. Judah Sheppard with the fire marshal's office tells KWTV News 9 that from their exterior investigation it appeared the building was not up to code to use as a storage facility. The building had been vacant for years and if a company wanted to do business they would have to get permits. Chickasha Fire Chief Tony Samaniego said they never issued any occupancy permits for the building. Samaniego estimated that 1.5 million gallons of hand sanitizer was being stored in the building which caught fire on Sunday. Samaniego said because of the hazardous nature of the materials and to avoid creating a bigger risk and potentially contaminating ground water, they decided to let the fire burn itself out. The fire department issued a lengthy Facebook post thanking all the agencies that responded, including the Chickasaw National Emergency Management Service as well as the Salvation Army which serves Grady and Caddo Counties and the Red Cross.

 

Teen Hospitalized After Semi Crash

A semi crash in northern Oklahoma that sent a Chickasha teenager to a hospital is under investigation. The accident happened just before noon yesterday on I-35 near Braman - about 10 miles south of the Oklahoma- Kansas border. The driver of the semi, 48-year old Lisa Lujan, also of Chickasha was not injured. The 15-year old boy (whose name was not released) was taken to a Wichita, Kansas hospital where he was admitted with leg injuries. He was last in good condition.

 

Union City Police Find Drugs, Grenades in Traffic Stop

Police in Union City find drugs and grenades in a recent traffic stop. An officer pulled over a vehicle for crossing over the center line on Main Street over the weekend. Police Chief Adam Taylor said when searching the vehicle they found more than 400 Xanax pills, more than 25 ounces of methamphetamine, weapons, a couple of tear gas grenades, and even a rubber-ball riot grenade. The Highway Patrol bomb squad was called in to get the grenades. Authorities arrested Heath Gates and Amber Cape who were taken to the Canadian County Jail. Taylor said Gates also had outstanding warrants out of Oklahoma County for kidnapping, weapons, and assault charges.

 

Chix Teachers Begin In-Service Work

Chickasha teachers returned to school yesterday for some in-service training, ahead the first day of classes which will be Thursday. Later today, many schools are holding meet-and-greets for parents and students as they get ready for classes to begin. At Bill Wallace, Kindergarten students and parents can stop by starting at 5:15; with first grade students and parents starting at 6:15. Grand Elementary has meet and greet from 5:30 to 7 tonight; and Lincoln School has meet-and-greet from 6 until 7:30. For the middle school there's a 7th grade student and parent meeting at 5 p.m. followed by the schedule pick-up. For 8th grade students, schedule pick up is tomorrow afternoon from 1-3. At the high school, a freshman orientation will get underway at 5:30 at the activity center followed by a tour of the high school campus.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $90.76 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $96.65.

Natural gas is $7.59 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,807 and silver is $20.63.

 

Obituary

Chestina Cruinkshank-Conti

Funeral service for Chestina Cruinkshank-Conti, 76, of Lawton is pending with Brown-Thomas Funeral Home.

 

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Monday, Aug. 8th

(Burn bans remain in effect for Grady, Garvin, Stephens, Comanche, and Canadian counties)

 

Fire Destroys Former Manufacturing Plant

A former manufacturing company in Chickasha is destroyed by an intense fire that broke out Sunday. Nearly 100 firefighters and more than 25 trucks from at least 15 departments were dispatched to the blaze at what was once Chickasha Manufacturing. Crews responded from not only the Chickasha Fire Department but also more than a dozen Grady County Volunteer departments. Chickasha Fire Chief Tony Samaniego believes that 1.5 million gallons of alcohol-based hand sanitizer fueled the fire. Flames were seen from as far away as Pocasset. Samaniego said the 120,000 sq. ft. facility was filled half-way up to the ceiling with about 8,000 pallets of sanitizer. The Oklahoma State Fire Marshal's Office is helping to look into not only what caused the fire but also the storage of the hazardous liquid. An official with that agency told our partners at KWTV News 9 that the building was not permitted to be occupied. The official said they have received information that other warehouses and other large buildings are being used for warehouse storage for products being shipped in from out of state. Brannan Bordwine, the owner of the company leasing the building, told News 9 said that he was using the facility to store the hand sanitizer which was to be recycled at another location. He said they would un-box the product and separate the liquid which went into a tanker for disposal. Bordwine said he lost all of his equipment and livelihood in the fire. The fire is expected to burn for several days. The Grady County Fire Department is asking for donations of water, energy drinks, non-perishable food items, baby wipes, chapstick, eye drops, and gift cards that can be used to purchase fuel.

 

Chix School Board to Consider Policy Updates

Updates to the sexual harassment policy and the grading, promotion, retention, and graduation of students policy are among items up for consideration for the Chickasha School Board when that panel meets tonight. Superintendent Rick Croslin said the update to the sexual harassment policy includes new definitions from the Center for Education Law for supportive measures, reporting, and the investigation of sexual harassment matters. For the grading and promotion policy, Croslin said it is to remove a statement that is no longer needed. The school board will also consider revisions to the policy regarding student discipline, including updates to the short-term suspension appeals process. Appeals would still be conducted by a neutral site panel. The group will also consider a memorandum of understanding with the district's two unions - the Chickasha United Teaching Association and the Chickasha Association of Support Employees. It concerns hiring four teaching assistants in Kindergarten and first grade classrooms. The school board meets at 6 o'clock tonight at the school administration building. The meeting will be streamed on the school district's website.

 

Public Forum Set for Chix Schools' Special Bond Issues

Chickasha school officials will be holding a public forum on the Safety and Security Bond issue that will be decided by school district voters in a couple of weeks. A nearly $35 million bond proposal and a $1 million transportation bond will be reviewed during the forum set for next Monday night, August 15th at 6:00 p.m. at the school administration building at 9th and Choctaw. All the proposals for improvements to all school sites will be available and those attending will be able to ask questions about the plans. The measures will be on the Aug. 23^rd primary run-off election ballot.

 

Chix Ward 1 Council Reps to Meet with Constituents

Chickasha residents who live in Ward 1 can meet with their city council representatives tonight. Councilors Kia Ginn and Brian Gerdes will meet with constituents for an informal session in the city council chambers at city hall tonight at 6:30. Residents can discuss any concerns and share their views about the future of the city.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $89.01 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $94.92.

Natural gas is $8.06 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,792 and silver is $20.09.

 

Obituary

Mary Ratliff

Funeral service for Mary Ratliff, 80, of Chickasha will be held at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, August 9th at Ferguson Funeral Home.

Saturday, August 6th

(Burn bans remain in effect for Grady, Garvin, Stephens, Comanche, and Canadian counties)

 

Information Sought in Caddo County Cold Case

The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI) is looking for information regarding a more than 40-year-old cold case out of Caddo County. 27-year old Herman Toppah was found murdered in Carnegie on August 23rd of 1980. Toppah's body was found in an alley and the state medical examiner determined that Toppah died after being hit in the head with a blunt instrument. Anyone with information is asked to contact the OSBI anonymously by e-mail at tips@osbi.ok.gov or by calling 1-800-522-8017.

 

Charges Filed in Connection with

Anadarko Break-in, Robbery

Two people are facing robbery and burglary charges following a recent Anadarko break-in. 37-year old Gerron Haywood of Apache and 40-year old Tonya Gan of Minco are both in the Caddo County Jail charged with the crimes. The Lawton Constitution cites court documents filed by Anadarko police that indicate the two broke into an apartment to steal money that was owed to them. Both Haywood and Gan remain in the Caddo County Jail on $10,000 bond each.

 

Energy Firm Expands Vapor Recovery Work to El Reno

El Reno is home to a new energy plant. Oklahoma City-based Flo-gistix has expanded its manufacturing capabilities and has hopes of adding 150 new jobs. The website OK Energy Today reports the expansion means the company will have nearly 260,000 sq. ft. of space for Vapor Recovery Units (VPUs) and other compression technology. Vapor recovery technology reduces the need to vent and flare because emissions that would normally be burned or released are instead captured and then sold. Flo-gistix officials say they provide atmospheric solutions that are an effective tool for de-carbonization and crucial to providing reliable and affordable energy to the world. The company operates in almost every U.S. shale play and basin and provides service through 14-regional field offices and warehouses in seven states.

 

Veteran Duncan High School Tennis Coach Dies

Longtime Duncan High School tennis coach Phil (P.T.) Barnes has died. Barnes spent 36 years with Duncan High School tennis teams and won seven state championships. He was 65 when he passed away this week. Barnes is in a number of Halls of Fame including the USAO Athletic Hall of Fame and was recently inducted into the Oklahoma Coaches Association Hall of Fame. He attended USAO on a tennis scholarship and graduated from there in 1981. He coached at Chickasha and Elgin before beginning his lengthy career in Duncan in 1985.  Memorial contributions may be made to the Duncan High School tennis program.

 

USAO Offers Series of Workshops for K-12 Teachers

As students and teachers get ready to return to classrooms USAO will be offering some workshops for K-12 teachers in the coming weeks. Drs. Rachel Jones and Jason Shaw will host three separate events in September and October at the USAO wildlife habitat. On Sept. 10th, Jones will have a nature walk and plant talk - introducing methods of identifying and collecting local plants that are easy for teachers to incorporate in their classrooms. On Sept. 24th, the workshop will be Citizen Science and Wildlife in the Classroom. Then on Oct. 8th, the program is Creepy Crawlies. These Saturday sessions run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and the cost is $25 each. Teachers can register online at: www.usao.edu/spe

 

Talk Show Topics

Rush Springs Watermelon Queen Taylor Abbott is this week’s guest on the KOOL Konversation talking about the watermelon festival that is next weekend. Sue Getman with the Chickasha Area Arts Council is this week’s guest on Real Estate Today talking about the upcoming Rock Island Arts Festival September 30^th through October 2^nd.  Find podcasts of both programs under the Community tab on this website.

 

Obituary

Mary Ratliff

Funeral service for Mary Ratliff, 80, of Chickasha will be held at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, August 9th at Ferguson Funeral Home.

 

Friday, Aug. 5th

(Burn bans remain in effect for Grady, Garvin, Stephens, Comanche, and Canadian counties)

 

City of Chix to Temporarily Change Water Treatment Process

A change in the way the City of Chickasha treats the raw water it receives from the Ft. Cobb Reservoir will have a short-term effect on how drinking water tastes and smells. This is a annual process done about this time of year by USW which is the company contracted by the city to treat the water before it is distributed. Much of the year the company disinfects the raw water with a combination of chlorine and ammonia called chloramines. However they cause a buildup up sediment in the water lines which officials say over time leads  to the creation of Trihalomethanes (TTHMs) and Haloacetic acids (HAA5s). The Environmental Protection Agency says they are carcinogenic and could cause cancer. To help clean the water lines of these sediments USW will use free chlorine only which is a stronger and faster disinfectant. This process will start on Monday, August 8^th and officials say the water may appear cloudy and it could smell and taste like chlorine for a short time. Throughout the process officials will be flushing fire hydrants to help move the chlorinated water through the system. Should you see the fire hydrants being flushed in your neighborhood you can open all the taps in your home or business for a couple of minutes. The company will return to the chloramine treatment in early September.

 

Suspect Arrested on Child Pornography Allegations

A Marlow man is jailed for allegedly having child pornography. 63-year old Robert Fullerton was arrested this week following a joint investigation of the OSBI and Carter County Sheriff's Office. The OSBI reports that Carter County authorities were notified by Internet Crimes Against Children that Fulton downloaded videos and images of child porn in May. Carter County officials reached out to the OSBI for assistance last month. Fullerton is facing charges of aggravated possession of child porn and violating the Oklahoma Computer Crimes Act. He remains in the Stephens County Jail in Duncan on a $500.000 bond. Officials say anyone who suspects a child is being sexually abused or exploited can contact the OSBI or the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children by calling 1-800-The Lost.

 

Longtime Banker Ray Ventris Dies

Longtime Minco area banker Ray Ventris has died. He was 84 when he passed away at his home earlier this week. He was a co-organizer and chairman of the Community Bankers Association of Oklahoma and supported numerous Minco and Union City community and school programs. He was the stat keeper for the Minco Bulldogs for 33 years, served on the Minco City Council, was a volunteer with the Union City Fire Department, and supported Minco and Union City FFA programs. Survivors include his wife of more than 63 years, Barbara Jean. Other survivors include their son Larry and wife Jeanie of Cement; son Keith and wife Michelle of Clinton; son Randy and wife Shelley of Minco; daughter Gail and husband Tony of Minco; and sister Gail Bush of Chickasha.

 

Grady County Fair Alfalfa Hay Exhibits Needed Soon

While the Grady County Fair is still three weeks away officials will be taking entries for the hay show next week. Exhibitors will need to have five small square bales or one large round or square bale. Officials remind exhibitors that only small bales will be entered in the state fair next month. Exhibitors should take their hay to the Grady County Fairgrounds from 8 a.m. to noon next Tuesday.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $88.54 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $94.12.

Natural gas is $8.12 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,801 and silver is $19.96.

 

Obituary

Terrell Gettens

Funeral service for Terrell Gettens, 31, of Lawton will be held at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, August 9th at Bethlehem Baptist Church in Lawton. Arrangements are with Brown-Thomas Funeral Home.

 

Thursday, Aug. 4th

(Burn bans remain in effect for Grady, Garvin, Stephens, Comanche, and Canadian counties)

 

Corporation Commission to Discuss Tax 'Conflict' 

Hundreds of millions of dollars in local and state taxes may be at risk as a result of those billions of dollars in bonds approved for utilities to pay the high heating costs associated with the polar freeze of 2021. The website OK Energy Today reports that the Public Utilities Division of the Corporation Commission has raised the issue which will be discussed during today's commission meeting. Commissioner Bob Anthony said it would have a major impact on cities and towns. The Public Utilities Division is asking the commission to issue an order prohibiting PSO, Summit Utilities, ONG, and OG&E from billing customers for any franchise fees, municipal fees or taxes, and/or any taxes based upon the bond-secured revenues. The costs of the bonds are being passed on to consumers.

 

Chix Community to Welcome Return of USAO Students

Students at USAO will be returning to campus in a couple of weeks and the community and the university will hold a big welcome-back party. It's called the Chickasha Street and Greet which will be held in downtown Chickasha. It will include a lot of free activities, live music, and food trucks. The event will be free and open to the public and officials invite the community to be part of the celebration. The event is a collaboration of USAO, the City of Chickasha and the Chamber of Commerce. About 1,000 students - including an estimated 350 freshman - are expected to attend. It will be Saturday, August 20th from 5:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. Any business or service organization wanting to showcase their products and services can reach out to Zoe Brown at USAO.

 

Ron Justice to Receive OSU Distinguished Alumni Award 

Former Oklahoma State Senator Ron Justice is to be recognized for his long service to the state. Justice will be presented with a Distinguished Alumni Award from the OSU Alumni Association. Justice spent 12 years in the state senate and also worked for many years with OSU Extension in Grady County. The award recognizes OSU graduates who attain distinctive success in their chosen field or profession and/or perform outstanding service to their communities. Justice and others will be honored at a reception at OSU on Friday, September 9^th and also at the OSU-Arizona State football game at OSU Saturday night, Sept. 10th.

 

CV Tech-El Reno to Offer Muscle Car History Course

Muscle car fanatics can learn about the fascinating history of the classic cars this fall. Canadian Valley Technology Center in El Reno will be offering an evening course called Age of the American Muscle Car. It's a 16-hour class to be led by Clay Fees who is a published author and a Lt. Colonel in the Oklahoma National Guard. He says the class is about the history and not the mechanics of the cars. Fees has a 1966 Pontiac GTO and a 1969 Plymouth Road Runner. It's a three-hour course that will be held every Wednesday evening and there will two sessions. The first session runs August 17th through October 5^th and the second session runs from October 12th through December 7th. Tuition is $63 for most adults but is free for U.S. military personnel and veterans and seniors 65 and older.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $90.66 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $96.78.

Natural gas climbs to $8.27 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,796 and silver is $20.22.

 

Obituaries

‘Bea’ Dunn

A graveside service for Veralyn ‘Bea’ Dunn, 93, of Chickasha will be held at 1:30 p.m. Saturday, August 6th at Fairlawn Cemetery. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.

‘Orvil’ Luther

Funeral service for Bufford ‘Orvil’ Luther, 63, of Chickasha will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, August 8th at Ferguson Funeral Home. He was a U.S. Army veteran.

 

Wednesday, Aug. 3rd

(Burn bans remain in effect for Grady, Garvin, Stephens, Comanche, and Canadian counties)

 

Early Work Begins on New Chickasha Development

Preliminary work is underway for new residential and commercial properties in Chickasha. Heavy equipment is working to clear paths for streets south of Grand Avenue between 4th and 6th Streets. The work is the beginning of what's called The Woodlands Planned Use Development (PUD) which was approved by the city council several years ago. The development is expected to include new homes and duplexes as well as space for retail stores and restaurants. This preliminary work is to build roads and infrastructure. City officials say no building permits have been issued and no building placements or designs have been submitted.

 

Drug Trafficking Suspect in Custody

A Chickasha man is jailed for alleged drug trafficking. 51-year old Jerry Lee Hewes was picked up last Thursday after a warrant was issued for his arrest. Court documents filed by a Chickasaw Lighthorse police officer indicate that an abandoned black bag with alleged drugs inside was left next to a gaming machine at Salt Creek Casino back in May. Authorities checked video surveillance and identified Hewes as the individual who left the bag. Hewes was located in the casino. Authorities allege that nearly 60 grams of methamphetamine were found in the bag and that Hewes had a stolen gun in his possession. Hewes has been charged with drug trafficking, possession of a firearm after a former conviction, and knowingly concealing stolen property. Hewes remains in jail on a $125,000 bond.

 

Chix Schools Schedule Meet-and-Greets

Chickasha schools have scheduled meet-and-greets with parents and students before school starts next week.

High School

On Monday, August 8th seniors, juniors, and sophomores can pick up their schedules between 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. or between 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. at the front office. On Tuesday at the high school, freshmen and parents will meet in the activity center at 5:30 p.m. for a meeting and schedule pick-up with a tour of the high school after the meeting.

Bill Wallace Early Childhood Education Center

Also Tuesday, there will be meet-and-greets with Kindergarten students and parents starting at 5:15 p.m. followed by first grade students and parents at 6:15 p.m. Pre-K families will be contacted by teachers to arrange for individual conferences that will be held the first day of school on Thursday.

Grand Elementary

Also Tuesday, a meet-and-greet for students and parents from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Lincoln School

Also Tuesday, a meet-and-greet for students and parents between 6:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Middle School

On Tuesday, there's a 7th grade meeting for students and parents at 5:00 p.m. followed by the schedule pick-up. For 8th grade students, schedule pick up is Wednesday, Aug. 10th from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Enrollment for all students, whether new to the district or returning is continuing. The enrollment center at 7th and Kansas Ave. is open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. through Friday or enrollment can be done on-line by visiting the Chickasha schools website.

 

Apache to Hold Caffeine and Chrome Cruise

The town of Apache will host a scenic drive through southwest Oklahoma this weekend. Officials are calling it Caffeine and Chrome Cruising the Wichita Mountains. It will be held Saturday morning with registration starting at 8:00 a.m. in Apache with coffee and donuts and selections from Rascal Flats Farmers Market available. A driver’s meeting will be held at 9:00 a.m. with the leisurely 100 mile cruise starting at 9:30 a.m. The cruise will head west to drive by Saddle Mountain, then south to the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge. The drive includes a trip up Mt. Scott and then through Medicine Park before heading back to Apache where food trucks will be on hand for lunch. For information, check out the Caffeine and Chrome Apache Facebook page.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $94.42 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $100.54.

Natural gas is $7.70 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,786 and silver is $20.07.

 

Tuesday, August 2nd

(Burn bans still in effect for Grady, Garvin, Stephens, Comanche, and Canadian counties)

 

Burn Bans Extended in Grady, Garvin Counties

Burn bans will continue through the middle of August in two regional counties after officials extend existing bans. Commissioners in both Grady and Garvin counties approved resolutions to continue the bans through Monday, Aug. 15th. With triple-digit temperatures and minimal rainfall over the last couple of weeks and similar forecasts over the next several days the bans were recommended by municipal and volunteer fire departments and county emergency management groups. No additional restrictions were added to the extension. There is to be no trash or brush burning, bonfires, campfires, or fireworks. Welding, cutting torch, and grinding activities are allowed if they are over a non-combustible surface with safeguards in place and when winds are less than 20 miles per hour. Charcoal and gas barbecue grilling is allowed as long as they are on a hard surface at least five feet away from grassy and flammable areas. Burn bans are also still in effect for Stephens, Comanche, and Canadian counties.

 

Chix Police Department to get New Pistols

The Chickasha Police Department will be getting some new pistols for its officers. The city council approved a proposal to purchase a number of handguns which will be an upgrade from what is used now. The police department will trade up from the current Glock 17 Generation 4 models to Generation 5 models. The city will purchase the guns from GT Distributors under state contract and will get about $250 trade-in for each of their current pistols. The  council approved using the trade-ins and paying of up to $6,000 for 17 of the upgraded models. Police Chief Dee Rowell said the officers will get a one-day training period with the new pistols.

Firm Works to get Increased Funding for Ambulance Runs

The council also renewed an agreement with a firm designed to increase revenue to the city from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) for medical calls made by EMS. The agreement with Public Consulting Group calls for the firm to audit the fire department's budget, call volume, and resources and to present a request package to CMS. The firm charges a 13 1/2 percent fee which is discounted since Chickasha is affiliated with the Oklahoma State Firefighters Association. The city has used this firm for the last three years. Fire Chief Tony Samaniego anticipates it will bring in at additional $225,000.

Decision on New Internet Service Provider Postponed

A proposal to consider a non-exclusive franchise agreement with a company to provide the selling of broadband data, video services, and voice over Internet services to the city was removed from the city council agenda last night. The proposal is from Dobson Technologies for a company called Oklahoma Fiber.

 

Chix Chamber to Host Education Forum

As classrooms begin to re-open for schools, colleges, and career tech centers the Chickasha Chamber of Commerce will host a State of Education Forum later this month. Officials from Chickasha Public Schools, Canadian Valley Technology Center, and USAO will be on hand to discuss achievements and future plans. Speakers will be Chickasha School Superintendent Rick Croslin, Canadian Valley Superintendent Gayla Lutts, and USAO Vice President JP Audas. The program will be Tuesday, August 16th at the USAO Student Services ballroom. Tickets are $20 for chamber members and $25 for prospective members. A catered lunch will be served. Individuals should RSVP the chamber to reserve a spot.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $93.89 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $109.90.

Natural gas is $8.28 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,792 and silver is $20.27.

 

Obituaries

Larry Joe Smith

A memorial service for Larry Joe Smith of Dallas and formerly of Chickasha was held at 1 o’clock today (Tuesday, August 2^nd). Arrangements were with Sevier Funeral Home.

Jerry Campbell

A graveside service for Jerry Campbell, 90, of Chickasha will be held at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, August 3rd at Fairlawn Cemetery. He was a U.S. Navy veteran. Arrangements are with Sevier Funeral Home.

Lillie Mae Milligan

Funeral service for Lillie Mae Milligan 90, of Chillicothe, Texas will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, August 6th at the First United Methodist Church of Chillicothe, Texas. Arrangements are with Brown-Thomas Funeral Home.

Vicki Bauman

A memorial service for Vicki Bauman, 68, of Chickasha will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday August 13th at Southern Oaks Church of Christ. Arrangements are with McRay Funeral Home.

 

Monday, Aug. 1st

(Burn bans still in effect for Grady, Garvin, Stephens, Comanche, and Canadian counties)

 

Chix School Superintendent Discusses Bond Issue

Chickasha School Superintendent Rick Croslin will be spending a lot of time over the next few weeks promoting a special bond issue that will be decided by voters within the school district later this month. Croslin said the school board worked for several months to put the proposal together.

              

 

Among the projects being proposed are a new gymnasium which will double as a storm shelter at Lincoln School as well as a new library which will also double as a storm shelter at Grand Elementary. A second bond issue on the ballot will be a $1 million transportation bond. Information about the bond issue is posted on the district's website and Facebook page and information will also be available at the meet-and-greets that will be held at each school site next week. Chickasha schools will be back in session next Thursday, Aug. 11th.

 

Missing Chickasha Boy Located

There were some scary moments for a Chickasha family when a five-year old boy went missing from his home Sunday. The Chickasha Police Department posted on its Facebook page that the child was found and was OK about  5:00 p.m. No other information was available.

 

Chix City Council to get Update on City Manager Search

The search for a new Chickasha city manager is still in its early stages. The city council will go behind closed doors during tonight's regular council meeting to discuss any progress. Mayor Chris Mosley said that several candidates have applied and that all are currently employed - but no interviews will be held tonight. The council is also to consider approving a non-exclusive franchise agreement with Oklahoma Fiber which would allow the company to offer broadband data, video services, and voice-over Internet services within the city. The panel will consider declaring a number of police department service revolvers as surplus and trade them in on 17 new Glock 17, Generation 5 handguns for a purchase amount not to exceed $6,000. The city council meets at 6:30 tonight at city hall.

 

Meers Fire Nearly Contained

Numerous fire crews spent their weekend battling a fire in the Meers area north of Lawton. The fire started Thursday and has already burned about 7,000 acres. As of late Sunday officials said the fire was about 75 percent contained and they were hoping to have it 90 percent contained by the end of the day. Crews from 46 agencies and departments had responded to the region including Grady, Caddo, Comanche, and Kiowa county volunteer fire departments, Ft. Sill and Lawton departments, Wildlife Refuge fire officials, and the Oklahoma Forestry team. The Southwest Incident Support Team has been managing the command operations.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $98.62 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $110.01.

Natural gas is $8.23 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,789 and silver is $20.43.

 

Obituary

Christopher Self

Funeral service for Christopher Self, 32, of Cement will be held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, August 6th at Ferguson Funeral Home.

Saturday, July 30th

(Burn bans remain in effect for Grady, Garvin, Stephens, Comanche, and Canadian  counties)

 

More Arrests Made After Counterfeit Pain Pills Found

Verden police arrested a mother and a daughter after they were seen leaving a home where thousands of counterfeit pain pills had been found. 46-year old Chasity Diaz-Sleeper and 21-year old Raylynn Diaz were arrested Thursday. Verden Police Chief Jason Cox spotted their vehicle leaving the home and pulled them over for allegedly driving erratically. Raylynn Diaz of Anadarko has been formally charged with distribution of CDS with intent to distribute and a misdemeanor DUI. Her bond was set at $250,000. Her mother is being held on a complaint of having controlled drugs with intent to distribute but has not been formally charged. Earlier in the week, police arrested Amanda Jean Songer for alleged drug distribution after finding more than 3,000 counterfeit pain pills laced with fentanyl at the home. Songer is being held on a $1 million bond.

 

Biker Hospitalized After Crash with Pickup

A motorcycle rider is hospitalized after he ran a stop sign and was hit by a pickup. It happened south of Tuttle just before 7:00 p.m. Friday at Fox Lane and Czech Hall road about 2 1/2 miles south of Tuttle. 32-year old Blake Marek of Garland, Texas was taken by ground ambulance to an Oklahoma City hospital where he was admitted in fair condition with arm and leg injuries. The state trooper investigating the accident said Marek may have been drinking as there was an odor of alcohol. He was not wearing a helmet. The driver of the pickup - an un-named 16-year old girl from Tuttle - was not hurt. The trooper said her condition appeared normal and that she was buckled up.

 

Oil, Gas Well Completions Reported

We have some oil and gas well completions in the area to tell you about. Continental Resources reports some small producing wells in Grady County all together producing about 500 barrels of oil and nearly 6,000 Mcf of natural gas per day. These are called the Stratton wells with three of them on a single pad in Section 6 of Township 4 North and 5 West. Two others are on a single pad nearby in Section 7 of Township 4 North and 5 West. And Canvas Energy reported completion of the Marble wells in Canadian County just northeast of El Reno producing more than 1,000 barrels of oil and nearly 5,000 Mcf of natural gas per day.

 

Talk Show Topics

Here's what we're talking about this weekend. Dr. Sibin Nair is a new family practice physician at Five Oaks Medical Clinic. He's our gest on the KOOL Konversation. On Real Estate Today this week's guest is Chickasha School Superintendent Rick Croslin. He's talking about the upcoming bond issue election for the district as well as what's been happening over the summer as officials get ready to welcome students and teachers back to the classroom. Find podcasts of both programs under the Community tab on this website.

 

Obituary

Christopher Self

Funeral service for Christopher Self, 32, of Cement will be at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, August 6th at Ferguson Funeral Home.

 

Friday, July 29th

(Burn bans remain in effect for Grady, Garvin, Stephens, Comanche, and Canadian  counties)

 

Thousands of Fake Pain-killing Pills Found in Verden Home

A Verden woman is in custody after authorities find several thousand pain pills laced with deadly fentanyl in her home. Verden Police Chief Jason Cox tells KOOL/RANCH News he was dispatched to the home Wednesday to do a welfare check on two children. A press release from the Grady County Sheriff's Office indicates that authorities found an estimated 3,000 M-30 tablets in a briefcase kept in a closet. The more than 322 grams of tablets field-tested as positive for having fentanyl. Authorities were granted a search warrant for the home where authorities also found about $900 in cash and a loaded 9mm pistol with two loaded magazines. Investigators also observed a working camera facing the driveway where the woman could watch traffic coming and going from the home. In custody is 42-year old Amanda Jean Songer who authorities say admitted to selling the bogus pain pills for two years. Songer is facing formal charges including aggravated trafficking, child neglect, having a firearm in the commission of a felony, and use of electronic equipment in the commission of a felony.  A judge set Songer's bond at $1 million and she is to be back in court August 8^th with a preliminary hearing conference set for August. 10th.

 

Inventor Ordered to Repay Some Investors

as 'David vs. Goliath' Civil Lawsuit Continues

A Grady County inventor has been ordered to repay investors nearly $270,000 - even as many financial backers support what he is doing. An Oklahoma County judge ordered Stacy Wayne Travis to repay about 30 investors for funds provided for Travis' work on a gravity-powered electricity generating system. The Oklahoman reports that about 160 investors provided funds to Travis for the project between 2010 and 2015. This has been an on-going civil suit that Travis claims is a David vs. Goliath story. The Oklahoman reported that the repayment is a lesser punishment than one sought by the Oklahoma Securities Department which brought forth the lawsuit. The agency at one time wanted Travis to not only pay a civil penalty of a $250,000 for allegedly violating state and federal investment laws, but to also return more than $2.2 million to all the people who back his dream to create a commercially-viable, gravity-powered electrical generating system. At the time, officials with the securities agency claimed Travis misled investors. Videos of Travis' 'free energy' system posted on YouTube have been viewed about 1 million times since they went on-line last week.

 

UTV Driver Critical After Crash with SUV

A Caddo County man is critically injured in a crash involving an SUV and a UTV. 29-year old Chandler Pettit of Apache was air-lifted to an Oklahoma City hospital after the crash. The accident happened about 12:30 p.m. Wednesday on State Highway 58 about eight miles south of Carnegie. The highway patrol reports that Pettit failed to yield at stop sign on a county road and was hit by the SUV. Three people from Carnegie riding in the SUV were taken to a Lawton hospital where they were treated and released. The driver was identified as 43-year old Christopher McLoud. Others in the vehicle were 38-year old Tonya Langston and a 15-year old girl whose name was not released.

 

Town of Norge Gives ARPA Funds to Volunteer Fire Dept.

The Town of Norge is helping out the community's volunteer fire department. The town recently donated more than $13,000 in American Rescue Plan Act Funds to the department. Norge Fire Chief Clay Elrod said the funds will help purchase a truck that will be used as an Emergency Medical Rescue vehicle. The Grady County Fire Department is in the process of helping volunteer fire fighters county-wide to become certified Emergency Medical Technicians. Elrod said the Town of Norge is expected to donate another round of ARPA funds to his department which will also help purchase the truck.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $96.42 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $107.14.

Natural gas is $8.13 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,776 and silver is $20.00.

 

Obituaries

James Jackson

Funeral service for James Jackson, 75, of Chickasha will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, July 30^th at the First and Georgia Church of Christ. He was a longtime Chickasha firefighter, a U.S. Army veteran, and played on one of Chickasha High School's state championship basketball teams. Arrangements are with Brown-Thomas Funeral Home.

Doris Williams

A memorial service for Doris Williams, 95, of Chickasha will be held at 1:00 p.m. Thursday, August 18th at Epworth United Methodist Church. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.

 

Thursday, July 28th

(Burn bans remain in effect for Grady, Garvin, Stephens, Comanche, and Canadian  counties)

 

'Cashless' Non-Stop System In Place on H.E. Bailey Turnpike

The H.E. Bailey Turnpike is now a completely cashless system. Motorists still have to pay to drive on the toll road however they won't have to stop. From Oklahoma City, southwest through Chickasha and to Lawton, then south to the Texas border - the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority has implemented a plate-pay system. Work crews made the final conversion at the Walters toll plaza south of Lawton yesterday. Here is how the system works - cameras will take a picture of your license plate and then send the vehicle's registered owner an invoice in the mail. While it’s convenient and safer it is also more expensive. Turnpike officials recommend that motorists purchase a Pike Pass which costs less than the plate-pay system. For information, visit: www.pikepass.com

 

Suspect Jailed For Allegedly Texting Threats

A Chickasha man with a violent history is back in jail for allegedly issuing threats and violating a protective order. 51-year old Ronnie Dean Yates was picked up after a warrant was issued for his arrest earlier this month.  Affidavits filed by Chickasha police indicate officers were called to a home twice within a week's time to investigate disturbances. Last Saturday night, police were called to the home where Yates allegedly sent threatening text messages to an individual he was not supposed to have contact with in person or by phone. Yates has been formally charged with felonies for planning to perform an act of violence and violating a protective order. Officials also want to revoke his probation for previously violating a protective order this past January. Yates was serving a suspended sentenced after pleading guilty to stalking and has had previous arrests for burglary and drug possession. Yates remains in jail in lieu of a more than $100,000 bond.

 

Applications for Absentee Ballots Needed Soon

Election boards across the state are preparing for the August 23rd primary run-off elections. Officials say voters who want to cast absentee ballots by mail have just over a week to apply for those ballots. You don't have to have a reason or excuse to vote absentee however applications must be received by the close of business on Monday, August 8th. The easiest way to apply for an absentee ballot is to go to the state election board website and download an application - www.oklahoma.gov/elections - or voters can simply visit their county election board to do so. The ballots will first be mailed to voters and must be mailed back to the election board by 5 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 23rd in order to be counted for that days election.

 

Chix 'Christmas in July' Celebration Winding Down

Chickasha's Christmas in July celebration is coming to an end this week, but the best of the family events is yet to come. Tonight will be the final free Christmas movie that will be shown at the Washita Theatre. The Christmas Story is a classic 1983 film about a boy who tries to convince everyone - including Santa Claus - that a Red Ryder BB gun is the perfect Christmas present. The film stars Peter Billingsley, Melinda Dillon, and Darren McGavin. Then Saturday evening, it’s the Christmas Cool Down and Block Party downtown. Starting at 5:00 p.m. there will be kids’ arts and crafts with the Chickasha Arts Council, face painting, inflatable water slides, photos with Summer Cycle Santa. From 6-7 p.m. will be free sno-cones from Jungle Ice, and food trucks and other vendors will be on hand. The night ends with a free concert from Cade Roth and the Black Sheep, followed by George Strait tribute band King George, then a grand finale with fireworks. Families are encouraged to bring lawn chairs to the event. Also, individuals are asked to bring cases of water that will be given to the city's police, fire, street maintenance, and parks and recreation employees. All the events are sponsored by the Chickasha Chamber of Commerce and The Economic Development Council.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $97.26 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $106.62.

Natural gas is $8.68 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,757 and silver is $19.29.

 

Wednesday, July 27th

(Burn bans now in effect for Grady, Garvin, Stephens, Comanche, and Canadian  counties)

 

AARP Tells State Agency 'No New Utility Rate Hikes'

Enough is enough. That's what the AARP is telling the Oklahoma Corporation Commission about rate hikes approved for utility companies over the last year. AARP wants the panel to adopt an immediate moratorium on future rate increases. The group sent a letter to all three members of the commission highlighting the challenges utility customers are facing. The website OK Energy Today reports that the letter contains information about rate increases approved for PSO, Centerpoint Energy, Oklahoma Natural Gas and OG&E as a result of that extended polar freeze that hit Oklahoma as well as Texas in March of 2021. AARP says PSOs rate increase is represented to be $4.06 per month and the increase for Centerpoint Energy, now Summit Energy, is represented to be $4.36 per month but the actual increases are unknown. AARP wrote that senior citizens on fixed incomes are trying to buy food and medicine, families are figuring out how to afford school supplies and back-to-school clothing, and small businesses are facing rising costs and supply shortages.

 

Chickasha Dog Park Now Open

At long last Chickasha's dog park is open. Officials opened the gates yesterday after numerous delays pushed the opening back several months. The area is an extension of Centennial Park which now features two full city blocks of recreational activities for families. The construction of the park was made possible by a $100,000 contribution from the Badgett family and will be known as the Susan Dale Badgett Dog Park. There are separate areas for large and small dogs, obstacle courses, and plenty of room for them to run and play. There are also benches, picnic tables, and water stations for people and dogs. Officials ask that residents keep the park clean of dog poo. There are plastic sacks available at the gates. A formal grand opening will be held at a later date.

 

Chix Public Schools Continue Enrollment

Chickasha Public School officials say enrollment is still open for students who will be new to the district and those returning for the upcoming school year. Parents can enroll their children on-line by finding a link on the school district's website or by visiting the enrollment center located at 7th and Kansas Avenue (right across the street from the post office). Officials say enrollment needs to be completed in order for students to pick up school schedules and get other information during Meet the Teacher events that will be held before school starts. The enrollment center will be open today and tomorrow but will be closed Friday. Next week, the enrollment center will be open Monday through Friday. Chickasha schools open two weeks from tomorrow, Thursday, Aug. 11th.

 

Beautiful Day Foundation Benefit Ends Soon

A regional group that shows a lot of love to elementary school students is also preparing for the school year. The Beautiful Day Foundation holds parties throughout the year at all three Chickasha elementary schools, to remind the kids that the day they were born was a beautiful day. The group is holding a fund raiser where two individuals will receive a side of beef. For a $20 donation your name goes into a drawing that will be held later. Text the word ‘tickets’ to 940-452-0333. Sunday, July 31st is the final day. For information, contact Kelly Wilkerson.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is just under $95 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $104.40.

Natural gas is just under $9 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,739 and silver is $18.65.

 

Obituaries

Nettie Hodges

Funeral service for Nettie Hodges, 89, of Chickasha will be held at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, July 28^th at the First Baptist Church of Amber. She worked as a marketing consultant at KWCO Radio for many years and also worked at USAO, Oklahoma National Bank, and Chickasha Bank. Arrangements are with Sevier Funeral Home.

Deloris Hall

No services are scheduled at this time for Deloris Hall, 85, of Chickasha. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.

 

Tuesday, July 26th

(Burn bans  now in effect for Grady, Garvin, Stephens, Comanche, and Canadian  counties)

 

OSBI Implicates Three Men After Body Dumped Near Lindsay

An ongoing investigation by the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI) has led to three men being implicated in the death of a man whose body was found near Lindsay earlier this year. The body of Phillip Clifton was found along the Washita River back in April wrapped in plastic and a blanket.  The OSBI has arrested Homer Trout, who is accused of the fatal shooting of Clifton. Also in custody is Randall McClendon who is alleged to have taken Clifton’s body to the Lindsay area. An arrest warrant was issued out of Oklahoma County last Friday for Richard Spencer who is facing a charge of accessory to murder. As of last night he has not been arrested.

 

Suspect Enters Blind Plea to Lunch Line Assault

A Caddo County man has entered a blind plea for punching a man waiting in line for a senior citizen's meal and for assaulting a police officer. 32-year old Steven Duece Moats Roy of Carnegie entered the plea in an Anadarko courtroom last week. Roy was arrested in April of 2021 and charged with aggravated assault and battery and battery on a police officer. He's had previous assault arrests in 2016; 2018; and 2019. On-line court records indicate formal sentencing is set for September 21st.

 

Vaxes Encouraged Before School Starts

As public schools prepare to welcome students for the upcoming school year parents are encouraged to make immunization appointments for their children as soon as possible to make sure the kiddos are ready. Officials with the state health department say they would like parents to avoid the back-to-school rush since health department offices can be very busy this time of year. Officials say immunizations are one of the best ways to protect the health of children against vaccine-preventable diseases like whooping cough and measles. Back-to-school immunizations are offered at a low cost and no one is turned away due to an inability to pay. Children through the age of 18 are eligible to get free vaccines if they are Medicade-eligible, uninsured, Native American, or their insurance policy does not cover immunizations. Some health departments will partner with local schools and organizations for back-to-school events or families can visit their local county health departments for routine immunizations or screenings and might call ahead to make an appointment.

 

Library's 'Let's Talk About It' Series to Begin

The Chickasha Public Library is teaming up with several groups to offer a monthly series of scholar-led readings and discussions. It's called 'Let’s Talk About It' and the theme for the series is Civil Rights and Equality: A Pulitzer Prize Centennial Series. It is a free program that is open to the public. Beginning next week, the series will meet once a month through December to discuss a theme-related book. Library patrons are encouraged to pick up a copy of the first book to be discussed which is "The Known World" by Edward P. Jones. Then next Thursday night Aug. 4th the Library will host Dr. Kalenda Eaton - a professor of African-American Studies at OU - to lead the discussion of the book. There is limited space at the library for the program so participants are asked to register in advance. The books can be checked out from the library or from the Oklahoma virtual library.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $96.70 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $105.15.

Natural gas is $8.73 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,736 and silver is $18.45.

 

Obituaries

Lisa Smith

Funeral service for 63-year old Lisa Smith of Chickasha was held at noon today at Shepherd Street Christian Church.

John Cannedy

Funeral service for John Cannedy, 83, of Yukon will be held at 2:00 p.m. Thursday, July 28th at the First Baptist Church of Verden. Arrangements are with McRay Funeral Home.

‘Bryant’ Bickerstaff

Funeral service for William 'Bryant' Bickerstaff, 53, of Chickasha will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, July 30th at Grand Assembly of God. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.

 

Monday, July 25th

(Burn bans  remain in effect for Grady and Stephens counties)

 

Cyclist, Pedestrian Die in Separate Weekend Accidents

Two people died on area roadways in separate accidents this weekend. An elderly Cyril man riding his bicycle was killed by a hit-and-run driver - and a pedestrian died after being hit by a motorist. 72-year old Gaylon Pahdocony died when he was struck by an unknown driver while he was riding his bike near Elgin about 3:00 a.m. Saturday. The Highway Patrol is investigating and hopes someone can provide information about the driver. Family members told KSWO-TV that Pahdocony was an avid cyclist and was using his bike to get around while his car was being repaired. Pahdocony's brother, Shawn Barhart, said the accident happened on some back roads where motorists drive 60 mph or faster. Pahdocony was active in the Cyril community, an activist with the American Indian Movement, and an actor who has appeared in a number of films.

Pedistrian Killed Near Maysville

In Garvin County, a pedestrian is struck and killed by a motorist south of Maysville. Jamie Aikerman, whose age and hometown were not known, died in the accident that happened about 11:30 p.m. Saturday on State Highway 74 about two miles south of Maysville. The highway patrol reported that Aikerman was standing in the road when she was hit by a car driven by 48-year old Fredia Reames of Elmore City. Reames was taken to a Pauls Valley hospital where she was treated and released.

 

Chickasha Street Closed for Repairs

A portion of a Chickasha street will be closed today as crews make some needed repairs. One block of 3rd Street south of Minnesota Avenue will be shut down from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. while that work is being done. Motorists can easily avoid the area by detouring at Iowa Avenue on the north and Dakota Avenue on the south.

 

Agency Helps Victims of Domestic Violence

A regional agency provides a lot of help for victims of domestic violence. The Intervention and Crisis Advocacy Network (ICAN) serves Grady and Canadian counties. ICAN Director Matt Whetzel describes some of their services when an individual makes the decision to leave a violent relationship.

 

              

 

ICAN has a 24-hour hotline for domestic violence victims to call to get help - 405-222-1818.

 

Productive Wells Reported near Mustang, El Reno

Some well completions reported in Canadian County are bringing nearly 1,400 barrels of oil and more than 9,000 Mcf of natural gas per day. Citizen Energy reports two wells on a single pad southwest of Mustang in Section 7 of Township Range 10 North and 5 West were drilled to depths of about 17,000 feet. The spud dates were late December of last year with completion this past April. Citizen Energy also reports a well completion near El Reno in Section 8 of Township Range 11 North and 8 West which was drilled to a depth of just over 20,000 feet. The spud date on that well was April of 2020.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $94.70 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $103.20.

Natural gas is $8.30 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,750 and silver is $18.65.

 

Obituary

Angela Kirk

A graveside service for Angela Kirk, 65, will be held at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday,, July 26^th at Westview Cemetery in Rush Springs. Arrangements are with Sevier Funeral Home.