Saturday, Nov. 19th

 

Chickasha's Festival of Light Opens Tonight

The holiday season for Chickasha officially begins today with the opening of the Festival of Light. It's a special year for organizers as this marks the 30th year for the event at Shannon Springs Park featuring more than 40 acres of holiday lights, displays, and activities. Some of the founding families who helped to kick off the first festival in 1993 will be on hand to flip the switch to turn on an estimated 4 million lights that will shine this year. Festival of Light director Logan Lassley says the festival has expanded to use a portion of the park that hasn't been used before.

 

              

 

About a half-million blue-colored lights adorn the Frozen Forest. Visitors will be able to drive or walk through the park. Some of the highlights of the festival innclude the more than 160-foot tall lighted Christmas tree and the glimmering bridge of lights over the pond. There are family activities which include a Ferris wheel, carousel, an ice skating rink, and carriage rides. Lassley said the festival will include a lot of locally-owned companies with souvenirs and other items for sale.

 

              

 

Local food trucks will also be on hand. The festival opens nightly at 6 p.m. It's a given that many visitors will also spend some time in downtown Chickasha to check out the new 50-foot tall permanent leg lamp which is an identiical copy of the one in the classic holiday movie A Christmas Story. For details about the festival see the Festival of Light Facebook page or the website: www.chickashafestivaloflight.org

 

PSO Seeks Approval to Buy Wind, Solar Farms

An Oklahoma utility is looking to buy some new alternative energy properties. Public Service Company of Oklahoma is seeking permission from the Oklahoma Corporation Commission to buy three wind farms and three solar facilities. The price tag for the nearly 1,000 megawatts of new, cost effective renewable energy is nearly $2.5 billion. Customers would see their electric bills go up if the purchase is approved. PSO officials said the fuel-free plan would help meet projected power needs - while protecting customers from volatility in energy costs which they say has been driven by high natural gas and power prices. The website ok energy today reports that the six projects are located in and Kansas and Texas and PSO selected them after a competive bidding process. Some of the properties are still under construction. If approved - and after all the facilities are on-line by the end of 2025 - average residential electric bills for PSO customers could increase about $3.50 per month.

 

---

 

Friday, Nov. 18th

 

U.S. Highway 81 Bypass Project Slowly Progressing

The U.S. Highway 81 bypass project around Chickasha is slowly moving along. The bypass will eventually take traffic on the highway west of the city easing the big truck traffic that goes through the downtown area. The start of the actual road construction is still a couple of years away. District 7 Engineer for the State Department of Transportation Jay Earp gives an update-

 

              

 

Earp said the road construction will take place in several phases starting with dirt work in a couple of years. He's anticipating part of the bypass will be open by the end of the decade. Earp said the cost of the project is approaching $300 million.

 

Suspect Arrested After Lengthy Sexual Assault Investigation

A Chickasha man is facing rape and sexual assault charges. 38-year old Edgar 'Souk' Burrowns was arrested this week following a more than six-month investigation by Chickasha police. A probable cause affidavit indicates that an officer was summoned to Grady Memorial Hospital in March to talk to a man who alleged he was sexually assaulted by Burrowns. An arrest warrant was issued Nov. 8th and he was arrested Nov. 16th. He's facing charges of rape, sodomy, and permitting a person under 21 to possess or consume alcohol or drugs. Burrowns remains in the Grady County Jail on a $250,000 bond.

 

Anadarko Suspect Sought in Connection with Burglary, Stabbing

Caddo County authorities are seeking an Anadarko man wanted for stabbing a victim during a burglary attempt. An arrest warrant was issued for 21-year old Jeremiah Nimsey this week. A probable cause affidavit indicates that police were called to a home in the 200 block of Northwest 3rd Street last Friday morning to investigate the break-in. A victim was taken to a Lawton hospital. The victim's condition is not known. A witness told police that they saw Nimsey attack the victim. Nimsey is wanted for assault with a dangerous weapon and first degree burglary.

 

Talk Show Topics

Here's what we’re talking about this weekend. Logan Lassley with Chickasha's Festival of Light will be on our KOOL Konversation talking about the holiday light display which opens this weekend. Ray Walker with the Oklahoma Insurance Department will be on Real Estate Today program to talk about the Medicare enrollment that is underway.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $81.64 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $89.78.

Natural gas is $6.37 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,779 and silver is $21.43.

 

---

 

Thursday, Nov. 17th

 

Police Name Those Involved in Fatal Home Invasion Shooting

Chickasha police have released the names of the individuals involved in a fatal shooting in a residential area earlier this week. The shooting victim was identified as Varnell Tall, Jr. No hometown was provided. Authorities say Tall kicked in the door of a home in the Shadow Valley addition Tuesday afternoon and was shot by the homeowner identified as Logan M. Wasson. Wasson was briefly taken into custody for questioning then released. Authorities have not said why Tall was trying to break into the home and that the cause and nature of the disturbance is still under investigation.

 

Cyril Family Escapes Fire Uninjured

Fire destroys the Caddo County home of a young family with a newborn. The flames destroyed the home of Trenton Lepree and Brooke Delk of Cyril around midnight Tuesday. KSWO-TV reports that Brooke was giving the baby a bath when she smelled something burning. She  opened the bedroom door and was hit by a cloud of smoke. She woke up Trenton and all were able to get out unhurt, however a family pet perished. Brooke said the dog had been barking and believes he was trying to alert them to the fire. Investigators say the cause of the fire was a propane heater. A group out of Lawton, Ellipsis has arranged for the family to stay in a furnished home rent-free until February. A GoFundMe page has been set up to help the family.

 

Driver Hospitalized After Head-on Collision with Semi

A driver is hospitalized after she made a U-turn on the H.E. Bailey Turnpike Spur and was hit head-on by a semi. 36-year old Deserae Dowdy of Blanchard was taken by ground ambulance to an Oklahoma City hospital where she was admitted in fair condition. The accident happened just before 1 o'clock this morning. The highway patrol reports that Dowdy was traveling west on the spur near mile marker 101 about four miles south of Tuttle and missed her exit. She made a U-turn and was headed east in the westbound lanes when the accident occurred. The truck driver, 32-year old Audon Lara of Enid was not hurt. The roadway was closed for about 90 minutes.

 

Crash Closes U.S. Highway Briefly

A traffic accident that occurred near the Grady and Caddo county line shut down U.S. Highway 277 for about an hour last night. The accident happened about 6:30 p.m. near CS 2770 which is about a mile east of the county line. No details of the accident were available.

 

Nation's Top Dogs Make Stop in Chickasha

Hundreds of the top dog breeds across the country are in Chickasha to participate in the Sooner Circuit Cluster of Dog shows. A couple of regional kennel clubs, including the Town and Country Kennel Club of Norman, are hosting the shows at the Grady County Fairgrounds. Handlers are exhibiting the dogs and working to earn points to qualify for the national Eukanuba and Westminster Kennel Club Dog Shows next spring. Admission is free for spectators with competitions beginning about 8:00 a.m. each day through Sunday in the Event Center at the fairgrounds.

OHCE Celebration of Crafts Show

Also at the fairgrounds this weekend will be the Grady County OHCE Celebration of Crafts Show. More than 40 vendors will have holiday gift items available and many of them are hand-made. There will also be holiday foods available for purchase. There is also an informal quilt exhibit. The crafts show will be held in the north exhibit building of the fairgrounds. Friday hours are 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Saturday hours are 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Admission is also free.

 

Producers Asked to Take Drought Study Survey

Ag producers are encouraged to take part in a survey that officials hope will improve future drought and forage monitoring and predictions. The National Drought Mitigation Center and USDA Climate Hubs are conducting the survey for the Western Great Plains and the Southwest part of the country. Officials are asking producers to provide on-the-ground reports of end-of-season forage production in the pastures they manage or monitor. The information provided will remain confidential. It could take 10 to 20 minutes to complete the survey. The link to the survey is: ssp.qualtrics.com

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $85.59 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $92.86.

Natural gas is $6.20 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,785 and silver is $21.33.

 

---

 

Wednesday, Nov. 16th

 

Home Invasion Suspect Shot, Killed by Homeowner

Chickasha police say a home invasion suspect is dead after being shot and killed by the homeowner. Interim Police Chief G.G. Music said officers were called to a home at 3015 Westbrook about 12:30 p.m. Tuesday to investigate a disturbance. The home is in the Shadow Valley housing development in southwest part of Chickasha. Music said the homeowner told officers an individual came to the home and kicked in the door. Music said the homeowner fired a number of shots from a rifle and the suspect died at the scene. It's believed the two men knew each other but authorities have not indicated how. The victim's name has not been released as authorities were working to notify relatives. The homeowner, whose name was not released, was taken to the police department for questioning then released. Reports indicate the information from the investigation will be turned over to the district attorney to determine if any charges should be filed.

 

Drug Trafficking Suspect Jailed

Another drug trafficking arrest has been made in the on-going battle to get counterfeit pain meds off the streets. 34-year old Victoria Heskett of Chickasha was arrested Sunday night at the Maverick Inn. A probable cause affidavit indicates that Grady County Deputy Jim Peek - who also works with the Drug Enforcement Administration - and Deputy Chris Kennell went to conduct a 'knock and talk' investigation with Heskett for her alleged involvement with selling prescription pain pills with Fentanyl. She allegedly told them she was not doing so but that she was aware of a large fentanyl distributor from Oklahoma City coming to the area. Peek and Kennell obtained a search warrant and found a number of pills that field-tested positive for having Fentanyl. Heskett was taken into custody and the district attorney's office has charged her with one felony count of trafficking. Heskett remains in jail on a $250,000 bond. Also arrested was 31-year old Jaron Garrett Burton who had an outstanding warrant for a traffic ticket.

 

Grady County Property Tax Statements Mailed

Grady County property owners should be receiving their 2022 property tax statements if they haven’t received them already. County Treasurer Robin Burton said the office mailed 39,000 statements earlier this month. Most went to property owners while about 8,000 statements were mailed to mortgage companies whose customers have their property taxes included in their monthly mortgage payments. Burton said the 39,000 statements represent nearly $84 million in property tax revenue, most of which goes to school districts. Some taxes also go to fire departments and emergency medical services, health, and general county expenses. Property owners have the option of paying the entire amount due or they can pay half by January 15, 2023 with the second half due by April 15, 2023. Taxes can be paid by check through the mail or by placing them in the drop box outside the county courthouse. Taxes can also be paid in person at the treasurer’s office in the county courthouse. Individuals can pay with a credit or debit card or by e-check however fees are applied to those payments although the fees do not go to the county.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $85.92 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $93.86.

Natural gas is $6.03 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,785 and silver is $22.07.

 

Obituaries

Teddy Jo Ann Watson

Funeral service for Teddy Jo Ann Watson, 91, of Oklahoma City and formerly of Chickasha will be held at 10:00 a.m. Friday, Nov. 18th at Deer Creek Church of Christ in Edmond at Northwest 178^th and MacArthur. Viewing will be held 5:00 pm. to 7:00 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 17^th at Sevier Funeral Home.

Jack Weaver

Funeral service for Jack Weaver, 78, of Chickasha will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, Nov. 18th at Epworth United Methodist Church. He spent several years as Chickasha’s city manager in the 1970s. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.

 

---

 

Tuesday, Nov. 15th

 

Festival of Light to Begin 30th Season

The countdown is on for the opening of Chickasha's Festival of Light. The holiday attraction brings tens of thousands of people to the city every year. This is the 30th anniversary for the festival created in 1992. Organizers will be recognizing some of the founding families who provided some of the financial backing to make that first year possible. The season begins this Saturday night with an opening ceremony at the park beginning about 5:00 o'clock. There will be performances by the Chickasha and Blanchard high school choirs and individuals will give a short history of the festival. Festival of Light director Logan Lassley said a couple of favorite events are returning.

 

              

 

Officials are still looking for groups to volunteer to be part of the live nativity and groups can call 405-224-6225 for details and reserve dates and times. The ice skating rink is back as are carriage rides, a Ferris wheel, and a carousel. The gift shop will feature local vendors and concessions and some local food trucks will be available. Lassley said there will be an estimated 4 million lights in the park including the new Frozen Forest with 500,000 new lights. The festival will run nightly starting Saturday night and running through New Year’s Eve.

 

Bag of Military Uniforms Left in Chickasha Yard

A Chickasha man is hoping to find the owner of a bag of military uniforms that was left in his yard. Christopher Danforth was leaving for work one morning when he saw a black bag with a U.S. Army insignia next to a tree. Inside were two full sets of dress blues, two white shirts in plastic bags, a pair of patent leather shoes, a tie, a razor, and some old airplane tickets. Danforth told KSWO-TV that he doesn't know if someone may have stolen the bag and left it there, if somebody lost it, or if it belongs to a homeless veteran - but that it belongs to somebody. Danforth said he values military service members and their sacrifices and that's why it’s important to him to return the items to the owner. Officials at the Ft. Sill Army base in Lawton say they are also trying to find the owner or owners of the items.

 

Grady County Fire Board Meets Tonight

Discussions on open meeting act procedures and rulings by the Oklahoma State Firefighter Pension Board are on tap for the monthly Grady County Fire Board meeting tonight.  The panel will also get an update on American Rescue Plan Act or ARPA funds. The group will go behind closed doors to discuss the acknowledgement of two new volunteers - Dallas Smith at Naples and Kimberly Ashbey at Friend. They will also discuss applications of new firefighters Leonard Santos at Ninnekah and Brandi Martinez at Acme. The fire board will meet at 7 o'clock tonight in the conference room of the Grady County Emergency Management Office.

 

Masonic Lodge to Hold Historic Cornerstone Ceremony

(Editor's Note: This is a corrected version of one that was previously published. The time of the ceremony has been changed) A special ceremony will be held by the Chickasha Masonic Lodge this weekend. Members of Lodge No. 94 will dedicate a cornerstone on the historic Masonic Lodge building in downtown Chickasha. The ceremony will be identical to the one that President George Washington performed when laying the cornerstone of the U.S. Capitol in 1793. Chickasha Mayor Chris Mosley is to issue a proclamation for the event which will be held at noon this Saturday, Nov. 19th at the lodge located at 112 1/2 South 6^th Street. State Masonic Lodge officials will be on hand for the ceremony which is open to the public. The cornerstone will be set with a time capsule to include a variety of items which will be opened sometime in the future.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $85.87 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $93.14.

Natural gas is $5.93 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,779 and silver is $21.99.

 

Obituary

Mary Naney

Funeral service for Mary Naney, 87, was held at 1:00 p.m. today (Tuesday, Nov. 15^th) at Sevier Funeral Home.

 

---

 

Monday, Nov. 14th

 

Chix Schools May Seek Grants to Help Pay for Safe Rooms

Among the projects included in a $35 million bond proposal for Chickasha Public Schools that passed this summer are new safe rooms at Lincoln Elementary and Grand Elementary schools. Superintendent Rick Croslin said the costs of the projects are rising so they are looking at applying for additional federal funds that may be available to help pay for them.

 

              

 

The gymnasium at Lincoln Elementary and the library at Grand Elementary will double as safe rooms.

 

Chix Schools Site Teachers-of-the-Year Named

Five Chickasha teachers will be recognized for their work in the classroom. The Site Teachers of the Year are Allison Cofer at the high school; Cheryl Music-Sweeden at the middle school; Mandy Brooks at Lincoln Elementary; Lisa Youngblood at Grand Elementary; and Brandi Mantooth at the Bill Wallace Early Childhood Center. All will be introduced during tonight’s board of education meeting and are candidates for the District Teacher of the Year Award with the winner to be selected next spring. Also during the school board meeting tonight, a couple of Lincoln school employees will be honored as the Chicken Express Employees of the Month. The certified employee is Mike Elliott and the support employee is Janice Cockrum. The school board meets at 6 o'clock tonight at the school administration building.

 

Trio of USAO Alums Honored

Three USAO alumni were noted for their efforts during recent Homecoming ceremonies on campus. Chris Willard and Lonnie Iannazzo were inducted into the Alumni Hall of Fame and Reagan Elkins received the young alumni award. Willard graduated in 2007 and is currently a senior vice president with Warner Brothers Discover. Ianazzo is a 2004 graduate and is a technology producer for a special effects company. Elkins is a 2013 graduate and began his own production company, Intellego Media. He produces commercials and music videos and worked closely with the producers of A Cowgirl's Song, the movie that was filmed entirely in Chickasha two years ago.

 

Tuttle Road Project Delayed

A utility project in Tuttle that will close down a portion of State Highway 92 has been delayed. A portion of the highway south of Main Street in Tuttle was to be closed this morning for utility work to be done by the city of Tuttle. The State Department of Transportation says the project is now scheduled to begin tomorrow, weather permitting.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $88.96 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $95.99.

Natural gas is $5.88 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,758 and silver is $21.57.

 

Obituary

Patricia Smith

Funeral service for Patricia Smith, 74, of Chickasha will be at 1:00 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 17^th at the Ninnekah Church of Christ. Arrangements are with Sevier Funeral Home.

 

Saturday, Nov. 12^th

 

Navy Veteran Addresses Veterans Day Gathering

A Grady County ceremony recognizing the men and women who served in the U.S. Armed Forces was among many events held on Veterans Day across the country yesterday. The ceremony is usually held at the Grady County Veterans Memorial in Chickasha's Shannon Spring Park but was moved indoors to the Chickasha Elks Lodge due to cold weather. Navy Veteran Ron Pearson was the guest speaker. Pearson served three tours in Vietnam and suffers from the effects of Agent Orange, a chemical used to burn foliage in the conflict.  Pearson said while all those who served and those who died while in the armed forces fought and continue to fight for the freedoms America enjoy - individuals don't have to join the military to protect them.

              

Pearson said the battle to preserve freedom is as simple as voting and speaking out about injustices. Grady County is the home of one of the oldest military veterans in the state. Burrel Gamble of Chickasha - now 101 years old - served as a pilot in World War Two and the Korean War.

 

County Fairgrounds Hosting Alpaca and Dog Shows

The Grady County Fairgrounds hosts a number of unique events throughout the year. And a couple of them are happening over the next two weeks. This weekend it's an event for Alpaca ranchers across the country called the Alpaca Blast-Off. Debbie Ashley is the president of Alpacas of Oklahoma and gives a description of the animals.

 

              

 

This is the second consecutive year for Alpacas of Oklahoma to hold this event in Chickasha. The event runs today and tomorrow and admission is free and open to the public. Vendors will have Alpaca fleece items for sale. Next weekend, the fairgrounds will host the Sooner Circuit Cluster of Dog Shows, where many top breeds from across the country will be competing for points to qualify for prestigious competitions such as the Westminster and the Eukanuba national dog shows.

 

'The Imaginaries' Release New Music

One of Grady County's favorite local recording groups, The Imaginaries, has released some new songs for the holidays. Maggie McClure and Shane Henry released them this week and debuted one of them at the grand opening of the new downtown park last week. They include This Christmas; Things are Gonna Be Alright; and several songs from the movie A Cowgirls Song including Oklahoma Stars;  Don’t Fence Me in; and Just Breathe with Darci Lynne.

 

Talk Show Topics

Here's what we're talking about this weekend. Shirley Burns and Tammy Watts with the Grady County OHCE, which is the Oklahoma Home and Community Education group will be on our KOOL Konversation. On Real Estate Today are Chickasha School Superintendent Ric Croslin and Director of School Operations Dan Turner. There are podcasts of both programs under the Community tab on this website.

 

---

 

Friday, Nov. 11th

 

Chix Police Department Announces Promotion

A four-year veteran of the Chickasha Police Department has earned a promotion. Officer Scott Ely was promoted to the rank of sergeant in a ceremony at the police department yesterday. Interim Police Chief G.G. Music said Ely was among three candidates who applied and went through a rigorous process of testing and interviews.

 

              

 

The promotion process also included an interview with the chief and an oral board assessment where candidates had to complete 10 tasks under time and pressure. Ely will be one of the first-line supervisors on the night shift beginning this weekend.

 

Utility Work to Temporarily Close SH 92 in Tuttle 

A construction project in Tuttle will close down a portion of State Highway 92 next week. The turn lanes from Main Street which is State Highway 37 on to southbound State Highway 92 to Rabbit Road will be closed. That will start at 8:00 a.m. Monday and run through Wednesday. The reason for the closure is to allow the City of Tuttle to perform some utility work.  The intersection is expected to re-open next Thursday.

 

Anadarko Couple's Baby Born on the way to the Hospital

An Anadarko couple is celebrating the early birth of their baby girl. Natalie and Toby Anderson were on their way to a Lawton hospital Tuesday night when the child decided to enter the world before they reached their destination. KSWO-TV reports that Toby was at the wheel and they were near Lake Ellsworth when Natalie said the baby was coming. They had no choice but to pull over to the side of the road where Toby was able to assist with the delivery. The couple then called 9-1-1 and Apache EMS, the Porter Hill Fire Department, and the Comanche County Sheriff's Office all responded to take them the rest of the way.  Little Stella Kate checked in weighing 8 pounds and 9 ounces and everyone is doing fine.

 

Brewery Earns Awards at International Beer Competition

A Chickasha brewery earns some world-wide recognition in a recent beer competition. The Canadian River Brewery (CRB) received three medals during the Denver International Beer Competition. CRB's Baumholder brew, a Belgian Abbey Style Ale earned two medals - a gold medal in its category and a bronze medal in the Best of Show category. CRB’s Remediator brew which is a collaboration with Viridian Coffee also earned a bronze medal. The Denver competition has become one of the largest and most prestigious beer competitions in the country with more than 800 beers from more than 300 breweries entered. CRB co-owner Nigel Dunham said it is a great honor to receive this kind of validation at such a prestigious international competition.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $86.47 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $93.67.

Natural gas is $6.24 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,762 and silver is $21.58.

 

---

 

Thursday, Nov. 10th

 

Consumer Spending Down Slightly in Grady County

Consumer spending at retail outlets throughout Grady County was down about 5 percent from July to August of this year. July has been the best month for consumer spending to date for 2022 – estimated at $95.5 million. The August estimate was $94.4 million. The estimate is based on the county’s monthly sales tax revenue. In October, the county received $708,000 which was sales taxes collected on purchases made in August. Here's the breakdown of how the sales tax revenue is spent (as approved by county voters): The Grady County Fairgrounds received $236,000; Grady Memorial Hospital received $209,000; $118,000 was divided equally among seven senior nutrition centers and each received $17,000; another $118,000 was divided equally among the 20 fire districts and each received $5,900; Tuttle EMS received $22,000; and Rush Springs EMS collected $5,400.

 

More Drought Relief Approved for State Ag Producers

Another $12 million in drought relief has been approved for Oklahoma ag producers. The state's Emergency Drought Commission allocated the funds in a meeting yesterday. State Ag Secretary Blayne Arthur –

 

              

 

The application deadline for this latest round of drought relief is Monday, Nov. 28th. Arthur said that $4.5 million remains in the drought relief fund and the commission will have another meeting next month to consider distributing those funds.

 

National Guard Unit Joins Battle Against Fentanyl

Some Oklahoma National Guard troops were among groups to get some specialized training to learn about opioid and Fentanyl-related deaths.  Members of the 63rd Civil Support Team attended recent training offered by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). The agencies shared information on how to combat the drugs. A press release issued by the National Guard stated that over the last 10 years the Center for Disease Control and Prevention says the number of opioid and Fentanyl overdose deaths has risen from 2,600 per year to more than 75,000 per year. Officials say they want to raise awareness on how severe Fentanyl can be and educate Oklahomans that it doesn’t take much to place the deadly drug into what looks like candy that kids can get a hold of.

 

Veterans Day Ceremonies This Weekend

Veterans Day is tomorrow and many ceremonies and parades will be held throughout the country. In Chickasha, the forecast for chilly weather will move the ceremony indoors. Instead of holding the ceremony at the Grady County Veterans Memorial at Shannon Springs Park, the Oklahoma Veterans Recognition Committee will move the program to the Chickasha Elks Lodge at 1818 W. Country Club Rd. The ceremony is open to the public and it will begin at 11:00 a.m. The Elks Lodge will serve a free lunch to veterans and their guests afterwards. Tomorrow morning, Verden Public Schools will hold a breakfast for veterans and active military at 8:00 a.m. and a program will be held at the school gymnasium at 9:00 a.m.  On Saturday, the town of Blanchard will hold its annual Veterans Day Parade starting at 10:30 a.m.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $85.83 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $92.65.

Natural gas is $5.86 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,710 and silver is $21.21.

 

Obituaries

Olivia Craine-McDowell

Funeral service for Olivia Craine-McDowell, 97, of Anadarko will be at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 19^th at Grace Christian Fellowship Church in Anadarko. Arrangements are with Brown-Thomas Funeral Home.

Arthur Slinkard

A memorial service for Arthur Slinkard, 74, of Chickasha will be held at 10:00 a.m. Friday, Nov. 11th at Holy Name Catholic Church. Arrangements are with Sevier Funeral Home.

 

---

 

Wednesday, Nov. 9^th

 

Oklahoma Governor Wins Re-election

Gov. Kevin Stitt will serve another four years at the state capitol. With more than 1.1 million Oklahomans going to the polls, Stitt was re-elected to his second term in office, collecting more than 55 percent of the vote to defeat Democratic challenger Joy Hoffmeister and two other candidates. In Grady County, nearly 18,000 voters went to the polls and Stitt picked up more than 68 percent of the vote. In Caddo County, more than 7,000 voters cast ballots and Stitt received nearly 59 percent of the vote. In McClain County, 15,000 ballots were cast with the governor receiving 67 percent of the vote; In Garvin County, there were more than 8,000 votes and Stitt received 68 percent. In Stephens County, 13,000 votes were cast and Stitt won that county with 68 percent.

Caddo County District 3 Voters Elect New Commissioner

There was a county commissioner race in Caddo County. Voters in district three elected Democrat Robert Weaver to the post. Weaver received more than 54 percent of the vote to defeat Republican Ricky Schuermann. Unofficial results show Weaver winning 1,491 to 1,234.

Apache Voters Approve Sales Tax Hike

Also in Caddo County, voters in Apache passed a one-half of one percent increase in the sales tax rate. Unofficial results indicate it passed with nearly 60 percent approval, 224 to 155.

 

Suspect Jailed for Lewd Acts with a Teenager

Previously Arrested Twice This Year

A man who was arrested earlier this year on separate complaints of domestic violence and larceny has been arrested again - for allegations of having an inappropriate relationship with a teenager. 21-year old Justin Joseph Gelnar was most recently arrested by Chickasha last Friday. A probable cause affidavit indicates the girl's mother came home and found him with her 15-year old daughter. Gelnar then ran out of the house. Investigators later found Gelnar at a room at the Castle Inn where – according to the the affidavit - he admitted having inappropriate relations with the teen. Gelnar was first arrested by a Grady County sheriff’s deputy in February. Prosecutors charged him with a felony for domestic assault and he was was released on bond. His second arrest was in May, when Chickasha police arrested him in connection with a larceny investigation and prosecutors charged Gelnar with a misdemeanor. He's facing two felony counts of lewd acts to a child in connection with last week's arrest and he remains in jail on a $275,000 bond.

 

Soup Kitchen Volunteers to be Recognized

The Chickasha community is encouraged to show their appreciation to the volunteers and donors who help to operate the Chickasha Soup Kitchen. The volunteers serve about 150 meals per day, five days a week. Gina Crosley is a moderator for the soup kitchen's board of directors. She says those who volunteer to cook and serve clients are true treasures. The soup kitchen is a 100-percent volunteer operation and includes individuals from religious groups, civic clubs, and businesses. A come-and-go appreciation luncheon for those individuals will be held Saturday, November 12^th from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the soup kitchen which is located at 520 West Pennsylvania Ave.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $88.91 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $95.36.

Natural gas is $6.14 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,712 and silver is $21.46.

 

Obituary

Erika Osborne

Funeral service for Erika Osborne, 79, of Chickasha will be held at 1:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 10^th at Ferguson Funeral Home.

 

---

 

Tuesday, Nov. 8th

 

Downtown Chix Lamp Shades Struck Down Again

The issue of putting lamp shades and/or angels on the lamp posts in downtown Chickasha for the holidays was a major topic of discussion during last night's Chickasha City Council meeting. The first 45 minutes of the meeting included more than dozen people addressing the panel with the majority speaking in favor of the lamp shades. Among those speaking against them and the leg lamp that was recently erected downtown was Alva Charlson.

 

              

 

Speaking for the lamp shades was Jill Brinkley.

 

              

 

During its October 17^th meeting the council voted unanimously against a proposal to buy the lamp shades. Last night, the council voted to re-consider that decision and four members changed their votes to ‘yes.’ They were Mayor Chris Mosley, and councilors Zach Grayson, Oscar Nelson, and Kia Ginn. Maintaining their ‘no’ votes were Brian Gerdes, Nate McCalla, Georgianne Hebbelthwhaite, and Dr. R.P. Ashanti-Alexander. The proposal failed on the 4-4 vote as five votes are needed to pass any issue. Councilman Kelly Boyd did not attend last night’s meeting. City attorney Amanda Mullins had recommended that the council not approve the purchase of lamp shades over a concern of copyright or trademark infringement issues. Supporters say they had done some research and believed there were no copyright or trademark issues.

Council OKs Ambulance Purchase

The council gave its approval to buy a new ambulance for the fire department. The purchase was pending approval for reimbursement from the Grady County 522 EMS District. Mayor Mosley said the District approved the reimbursement at a cost not to exceed $350,000. Fire Chief Tony Samaniego said the time-line to get the new ambulance would be between July of next year and July of 2024.

New Bay Doors OK'd for Fire Station

The council also approved the purchase of five bay doors to replace the current doors at fire station No. 1. An $84,000 bid from Duncan Overhead Doors was the winning bid.

Dispatch Center to be Moved to Police Department

 The panel also approved using $55,000 in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to move the police department's dispatch center from the basement of Fire Station No. 2 to the police department. The project was approved to ensure the health and safety of city employees.

 

Mid-Term Elections Underway

It is Election Day across the country. In the Sooner State, Oklahomans are voting for candidates which include governor, lieutenant governor, state superintendent of schools, labor commissioner, and corporation commissioner. There are also some state house and senate seats up for election. At the federal level, all five of the state’s U.S. House of Representative seats are on the ballot as are both U.S. Senate seats. Polls are open until 7 o'clock tonight.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $91.79 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $97.92.

Natural gas is $6.94 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,675 and silver is $20.82.

 

Obituaries

Pauline Smith

Funeral service for Pauline Smith, 85, of the Cement area will be held at 2:00 p.m. today (Tuesday, Nov. 8^th) at Sevier Funeral Home.

Chris Miller

Funeral service for Chris Miller, 88, of Verden will be held at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 9th at the First Baptist Church of Verden. Arrangements are with McCray Funeral Home.

Guy Huggins

Funeral service for Guy Huggins, 59, of Chickasha will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 12th at Bible Baptist Church. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to Friends Fur Change, Santa's Workshop, or the Intervention and Crisis Advocacy Network.

 

---

 

Monday, Nov. 7th

 

Federal Lawsuit Filed Against Governor, Parole Board

in Connection with a 2021 Triple Homicide in Chickasha

Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt and the state pardon and parole board are being blamed for the deaths of three Chickasha residents that occurred last year. Attorneys have filed a federal lawsuit against the governor and the parole board in connection with the case of Lawrence Paul Anderson. The Oklahoman reports that Anderson - a convicted drug offender - had his sentenced commuted even though a grand jury investigation found Anderson was ineligible for commutation. Just a few weeks after his release in January of 2021 Anderson was arrested in connection with the deaths of his uncle Leon Pye, Pye’s 4-year old granddaughter Kaeos Yates, and a neighbor, Andrea Blankenship. The story received a lot of publicity when it was reported that Anderson cut out Blankenship's heart to eat it. The governor's office calls the lawsuit a political stunt since it was filed just a few days before tomorrow's election in which Stitt is running for re-election. A spokeswoman said the lawsuit could have been filed several months ago. She said if it was a serious lawsuit it would have been filed at that time instead of waiting until four days before the election.

 

Two Teens Hurt, One Critically, in Crash

Two teenagers were injured and one of them was last in critical condition after a weekend crash. A 16-year old boy who was a passenger in the car was pinned in the wreckage for an unknown period of time before Chickasha fire and EMS were able to get him out. The teen was air-lifted to an Oklahoma City hospital. The 17-year old driver was treated and released. The names of the teens were not publicized. The accident happened at 1:45 Saturday afternoon about a mile west of the Norge Highway on Country Club Road. The highway patrol reports that the vehicle was traveling at a high rate of speed when it ran off the road, overturned several times, struck a fence, and came to rest in a field. Both teens were wearing their seatbelts.

 

Lt. Gov. Praises Chickasha 'Leg Lamp'

A large crowd turned out Saturday night for the opening of the first phase of Chickasha's new downtown park which included the lighting of the permanent 50-foot tall leg lamp that stands next to the Rock Island Railroad Depot. Oklahoma Lt. Gov. Matt Pinnell was on hand for the ceremony. Pinnell is the secretary of tourism and said in order to promote growth in the state, the state must support tourism. And the leg lamp is a prime example.

 

              

 

Pinnell said tourism is the third largest industry in the state.

Meet-and-Greet Tonight for New Chix City Manager

Chickasha's new city manager was in attendance for Saturday night's celebration. Keith Johnson officially starts his new job today. Johnson was hired for the post earlier this year. He's been serving as the county administrator for Franklin County in Washington State. A meet-and-greet reception will be held prior to tonight's city meeting starting at 5:45 p.m. in the city council chambers at city hall.

 

Council May Consider Lamp Shade, Angel Compromise

Last month, the city council unanimously voted down a proposal to purchase decorative lamp shades similar to the one topping the 50-foot tall leg lamp to place on light poles in downtown Chickasha. Some residents opposed the proposal from the city’s economic development council, saying that lighted angels which had been used the last 20-years represented Christian beliefs during the holidays. The council may consider a compromise tonight as officials will propose a plan to use both the angels and the lamp shades. The council meeting will get underway at 6:30 tonight.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $92.61.

London-based Brent crude is $98.57.

Natural gas is $6.40 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,680 and silver is $20.73.

 

Obituary

‘Cabo’ Wilkerson

Funeral service for Carey ‘Cabo’ Wilkerson of Ninnekah will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 10^th at the Alex Southern Baptist Church Chapel. Viewing will be Wednesday from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 9^th at Ferguson Funeral Home. Cabo was a U.S. Air Force veteran, a long-time Chickasha firefighter, and he and his wife Tez portrayed Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus for many years. Memorial contributions may be made to the India Shrine-Transportation Fund or the Southern Baptist Disaster Relief Fund.

 

Saturday, Nov. 5th

 

Opening Ceremony for Chix Leg Lamp Tonight

A big celebration will be held in downtown Chickasha tonight for the debut of the permanent version of the gigantic leg lamp which was recently constructed next to the Rock Island Railroad Depot. The entire structure is 50-feet tall and is modeled from the leg lamp featured in the holiday movie 'A Christmas Story.' Jim Cowan with the economic development council says not everyone likes the leg lamp but it has received international attention.

 

              

 

The leg lamp is the first phase of a new downtown park that will be built in the next few years. Nearly $1.5 million in private funds were raised for this project. The opening ceremony will get underway about 5:30 this afternoon with entertainment from local children's dance studios, members of the Chickasha Community Theatre will perform excerpts from the groups upcoming holiday performance ‘A Christmas Story; The Musical’, and there will be a Red Ryder BB gun exhibit on display. Oklahoma Lt. Gov. Matt Pinnell will be on hand for the ceremony. Cowan said there are some surprises in store for the evening. The lamp will officially be lit at 7 o'clock followed by a free concert from The Imaginaries, Maggie McClure and Shane Henry, who have done a lot over the last few years to promote Chickasha in their music videos, and were co-producers of the motion picture A Cowgirl's Song which was filmed entirely in Chickasha.

 

Meet-and-Greet Set for New Chix City Manager

Chickasha's new city manager will have his first day on the job next week. Keith Johnson will officially take his post on Monday. A meet-and-greet reception for Johnson will be held before the city council meeting Monday evening, starting at 5:45 p.m. in the city council chambers at city hall. In a prepared statement, Mayor Chris Mosley said the city council is excited to have Johnson continue moving the city in a positive direction. Mosley said his experience in finances will be an asset to the city. Johnson  previously served as the county administrator in Franklin County, Washington.

 

Lamp Shades vs. Angels, Part 2

A proposal to put lampshades on some light poles in downtown Chickasha is back on the city council agenda Monday night. Last month, the council unanimously voted against purchasing some lamp shades to adorn the light poles. The lamp shades are somewhat similar to the lamp shade on the 50-foot leg lamp by the railroad depot. There were complaints at the last city council meeting about not using the lighted angels which have been a fixture during the Christmas season downtown for about 20 years. Officials say many of those angels had fallen into disrepair. Officials will ask the city council to consider a compromise by using both the angels and the lamp shades. The city council will meet at 6:30 Monday night at city hall.

 

KOOL-RANCH Radio Stations Mourn Death of Long-Time Associate

KOOL 105.5, 106.1 The Ranch and Mollman Media are saddened to hear of the death of our friend and colleague Guy Huggins. He passed away last night after having heart bypass surgery earlier in the week. Guy was part of our broadcasts of high school football games, the co-host of the Saturday morning football coaches show, and the Saturday morning Swap  Shop program. Guy was a gentle giant who loved to help people, put a smile on their faces, and share stories of his days playing football at Kansas State.  Funeral services have not yet been set.

Carey 'Cabo' Wilkerson Also Passes Away

We also have learned of the death of Carey 'Cabo' Wilkerson. He was a retired firefighter and best known as being one of Santa Claus' top assistants during the Christmas season for more than 40 years. Funeral arrangements are also pending for ‘Cabo’ Wilkerson.

 

---

 

Friday, Nov. 4th

 

What's on Area Ballots on Election Day?

As we draw closer to next Tuesday's mid-term elections there are national and state offices up for grabs but some areas have local races. That's not the case in Grady County, where voters will cast ballots in elections for governor, Lt. governor, attorney general, state treasurer, labor commissioner, state school superintendent, and corporation commissioner. There are also the two U.S. Senate seats, District 4 U.S. House of Representatives, and judicial retention posts to consider.

Caddo County

There is a county commissioner post to be filled. Republican Ricky Schuermann and Democrat Robert Weaver are on the ballot for the District 3 Commissioner seat. Voters in Apache will decide if the city sales tax should be increased by one-half of one percent.

McClain County

There is a race for District 42 State Representative between Republican incumbent Cindy Rowe and Democratic challenger Steve Jarman. There are also a couple of local judicial posts up for election. District Judge candidates are incumbent Michael Tupper and challenger Patrick Crowe. Associate District Judge candidates are incumbent Charles Gray and challenger William Devereaux.

Garvin County

There is also the district judge race between Michael Tupper and Patrick Crowe and a race for Associate District Judge between incumbent Steven Kendall and challenger Laura McClain.

Stephens County

There are four judicial elections including District Judge in Office 2 of District 5 between Brent Russell and Bobby Lewis; in Office 3 of District 5 between Neil West and Jay Walker; and in office 4 of District 5 between Scott Meadors and Brad Cox. There is also a race for Associate District Judge between Anthony Sykes and Lawrence Wheeler.

 

Early Voting Continues through Tomorrow

Oklahoma voters can still cast ballots before next Tuesday's general election. In-person, absentee voting can be done at election boards until 6 p.m. today and again from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. tomorrow. Regular voting precincts will be open on Tuesday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

 

Foster Homes Needed Throughout the Region, State

There is a tremendous need for foster families in Oklahoma. There are an estimated 6,700 children in DHS custody statewide and officials say the children all need safe and secure homes. Lourie Myers is a DHS foster care recruiter for the region. She says there are 125 children from Grady and Caddo counties in foster care and most of them are under five years old. In addition, most of them are being cared for in other counties and more than 30 children are separated from their siblings.

 

              

 

For information on becoming a foster family visit the website: www.okfosters.org

 

Overturned Truck Temporarily Closed Caddo County Highway

An overturned dump truck closed down a highway near Anadarko last night. It happened at the intersection of State Highway 9 and CS 2580 six miles west of Anadarko just before 8:30 p.m. The highway patrol did not provide any details about what happened. The roadway was shut down for about an hour.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $88.17 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $94.67.

Natural gas is $5.97 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,648 and silver is $19.78.

 

Obituaries

Viola Bollman

Funeral service for Viola Bollman, 72, of Chickasha will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 5th at Sevier Funeral Home.

James ‘Sleekie’ Slater

Funeral service for ‘Sleekie’ Slater, 58, of Midwest City will be held at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 5^th at the Divine Wisdom Worship Center in Midwest City. Arrangements are with Brown-Thomas Funeral Home.

 

---

 

Thursday, Nov. 3rd

 

New Chix Park with Permanent Leg Lamp Grand Opening Set

The grand opening of the first phase of Chickasha's newest park will be this weekend. The downtown park features what officials say is the world's tallest permanent leg lamp. It’s a tribute to the leg lamp featured in the holiday movie classic "A Christmas Story." The lamp will officially be turned on Saturday night and the public is encouraged to attend. Jim Cowan with the Economic Development Council says-

 

              

 

Crews have spent the last year working on this first phase of the park which next to the Rock Island Railroad Depot. Nearly $1.4 million in private funds were raised to build this phase. Lt. Gov. Matt Pinnell will be on hand for the ceremony. Food trucks will also be available and entertainment includes actors from The Chickasha Community Theatre as they'll perform and sing segments from their upcoming performance of 'A Christmas Story: The Musical.’ Tim Elliott and Pat Brooks with the Chickasha Community Foundation will have short introduction with the flip-of-the-switch set for about 7 o'clock. Afterwards, the musical duo of The Imaginaries, Maggie McClure and Shane Henry will hold a free concert.

 

Anadarko Police Identify Suspect who Stole Ambulance

Anadarko police have identified the woman who stole an ambulance from the fire department and drove it to the hospital. 34-year old Thelma Rosalyn Sikes was taken into custody at the hospital. Police Chief Eric Harlan said the ambulance had a GPS tracker on it and they were able to find the unit within a couple of minutes after it was stolen. Harlan said she sideswiped a vehicle on Central Boulevard during the one-mile trip to the hospital. Sikes was arrested on complaints of larceny of a vehicle; leaving the scene of an accident; driving under the influence of intoxicants; and disturbing the peace. Harlan said they've had issues with Sikes before. On-line court records indicate she pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor charge of domestic assault in the presence of a minor two years ago and was sentenced to 9 months in jail. She also had previous arrests for public intoxication. Sikes told police she wanted to go to the hospital because she was constipated.

 

Cyril Teen Allegedly Shoots His Dad

A Cyril teenager has been charged as a youthful offender after allegedly shooting his father last month. 17-year old Lance Moore appeared in Caddo County District Court in Anadarko this week. He's facing a charge of shooting with intent to kill. The Lawton Constitution reports that Moore shot his father in the back Oct. 23rd. Moore is to be back in court for a preliminary hearing conference on December 1st.

 

USAO, State Regents Team up for 'Teacher Pipeline' Program

USAO has teamed up with the Oklahoma Regents for Higher Education to support what's called the teacher pipeline - an effort to encourage more individuals to be teachers. It's called the Oklahoma Future Teacher Scholarship and Employment Incentive program. It's also known as ‘Inspired to Teach’ which is a program created in the Oklahoma legislative session earlier this year. The program offers more than $5,000 scholarships to students. It includes scholarships of $1,000 per academic year for up to three years for full-time students who have earned less than 90 credit hours. The scholarship increases to $2,500 for the final academic year for full-time students with more than 90 credit hours. Dr. Sarah Layman is Dean of USAO's School of Education and also director of teacher education. She said the hope is the program will help ease the teacher shortage issue in the state by providing an incentive to attract candidates to the teaching field and help ensure they stay in Oklahoma.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is at an even $90 per barrel.

London-Based Brent crude is $96.16.

Natural gas is $6.27 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,621 and silver is $18.95.

 

---

 

Wednesday, Nov. 2nd

 

Chix PD Seeks Info on Dangerous Shoplifting Suspect

Chickasha Police are looking for information about two people involved in a shoplifting incident earlier this week and one of them should be considered armed and dangerous. A press release from the police department indicates that officers were dispatched to Wal-Mart Monday about a man and woman shoplifting. When store officials tried to make contact with the individuals a suspected identified as Justin Knight is alleged to have pulled a knife and started chasing the employee. The suspects ran out of the store and left in a green, older-model minivan driven by an unknown third person. Knight is Caucasian, about 6-1 and 140 pounds with short, black hair. He has a tattoo of an AK-47 on his right cheek, another tattoo near his right eyebrow, and another above the bridge of his nose. A photo of Knight, an unidentified woman, and the mini-van are all posted on the police department's Facebook page. Knight was just released from prison this past April after serving time for endangering others while eluding. A few weeks later, on-line court records show he was arrested on complaints of possession of a firearm after conviction and possession of a stolen vehicle but that case was dismissed. Anyone with information is asked to contact Chickasha police at their non-emergency number: 405-222-6050.

'Persons-of-Interest' Sought for Theft are Identified

Police department officials also posted on Facebook that they have been able to identify two persons-of-interest wanted for questioning in connection with a theft from a local business. Authorities say they did get some leads from the public from the photos posted on social media over the last few days. Their names were not released.

 

OSBI Seeks Info on 30-year Old Chickasha Cold Case

The OSBI is asking for information about a Chickasha cold case. Kathyrine 'Mookie' Moore of Chickasha went missing in October of 1992. She was last seen about 8:00 p.m. on October 6th of that year walking from West Elementary School to her home in the 1200 block of Henderson. Her body was found five days later southwest of Ninnekah. The medical examiner determined she had been strangled. Anyone with information about the death of ‘Mookie’ Moore is asked to contact the OSBI anonymously by calling 800-522-8017 or by e-mailing information to tips@osbi.ok.gov

 

Woman Steals Anadarko Ambulance, Drives to Hospital

A bizarre incident in Anadarko yesterday where a woman stole an ambulance. A post on the fire department’s Facebook page says the unidentified woman walked into the fire station just after 10 o'clock Tuesday morning, stole the ambulance, drove down Central Boulevard to Physicians Hospital and sideswiped at least one vehicle along the way. As she attempted to enter the hospital she was taken into custody. The social media post indicates there was minor damage to the ambulance and the other vehicle but no one was injured.

 

Early Voting Underway in Oklahoma

In-person, absentee voting begins today - ahead of next Tuesday's general election. You can cast ballots at the election board in the county in which you are registered to vote. Early voting can be done today, tomorrow, and Friday between 8 a.m. at 6 p.m. and on Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. You'll need your voter registration card and an ID.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $88.37 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $94.80.

Natural gas is $5.71 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,658 and silver is $19.70.

 

---

 

Tuesday, Nov. 1st

 

Gov. Kevin Stitt Campaigns in Chickasha

Gov. Kevin Stitt discussed issues ranging from the economy to school choice to economic development during a campaign stop in Chickasha yesterday. It was the second stop of the day for Stitt who was in Burns Flat Monday morning to announce that an aerospace company will be moving its headquarters from Mexico to Oklahoma. Stitt said Premium Aerospace Center will be investing millions of dollars at the Oklahoma Air and Space Port and creating hundreds of new jobs.

 

              

 

The company is expected to upgrade commercial airplanes including 737s and larger aircraft. Stitt addressed all the negative campaign ads being aired against him over the last few weeks and said that $50 million in dark money is being provided mostly by Native American tribes which are angry at the governor for his actions regarding gaming compacts between the tribes and the state. Stitt spent a few minutes with the media following his meeting with the public and discussed how the state was able to provide $23 million in drought relieve to agriculture producers.

 

              

 

Stitt is seeking a second term in office in next week's general election. His chief opponent is Democrat Joy Hoffmeister.

 

5 Arrested in Lindsay For Allegedly Selling Prescription Meds

Five people have been arrested in Lindsay after authorities say they were selling prescription pain-killing meds. Garvin County Sheriff Jim Mullet says they believe the individuals were also selling the meds in Grady and Stephens counties. In custody are 68-year old Betty Williams who was prescribed hydrocodone, oxycodone and other meds every 30 days. Mullet said the pills could be sold on the street for up to $20 each. Also arrested were 49-year old Karen Thompson, 34-year old Matthew Johnson, 25-year old Kalyn Steakly, and 25-year old Fury Stinnett. Mullet said they could also face racketeering charges. Investigators were led to the group after carrying out a search warrant for an unrelated child pornography investigation.

 

Former CHS Football Coach Steve Shklar Dies

Former Chickasha High School football coach Steve Shklar has died. Shklar was 71 when he passed away last Thursday. He was head coach for Chickasha a couple of years back in the 1980s and an assistant for previous head coach Dennis Cavalier. Shklar left Chickasha to coach at Yukon and he also coached at Alva and most recently was the head coach in Sperry, Oklahoma where he guided the team to the semi-finals of the Class 2A playoffs in 2019. A funeral service will be held tomorrow at 4 p.m. at the Sperry High School Football Field. Arrangements are with Johnston Funeral Home in Sperry.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $85.53 per barrel.

London-based crude oil is $94.38.

Natural gas is $6.36 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,657 and silver is $19.93.

 

---

 

Monday, Oct. 31st

(Burn ban remains in effect for Oklahoma County)

 

Chickasha Police Seek Persons-of-Interest

The Chickasha Police Department is asking the public for help in locating two persons-of-interest in connection with a theft from a local business. Authorities are looking for a Caucasian male and female. In a photo posted on the police department's Facebook page, the male appears to be 25-35 years old. He has a short gray moustache and beard and appears to have brown hair. He was wearing a stocking cap and a blue-and-white plaid, long-sleeve shirt. The woman appears to be 30-40 years old with short, blond hair. She was wearing a black shirt and a blue-jean jacket and glasses. See the photo on the police department's Facebook page and if you have information about them call the police department's non-emergency number: 405-222-6050.

 

Gov. Kevin Stitt to be in Chickasha Today

Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt will be in Chickasha today for a mid-day meet-and-greet. The governor will be at Standley Systems for an informal gathering at noon. Standley Systems headquarters is at 6th and Iowa Ave. across the street from the Chickasha Library. The event is open to the public and a light lunch will be provided. Stitt is looking for a second term as governor in next week's election. His top challenger is Democrat Joy Hoffmeister with Independent Ervin Yen and Libertarian Natalie Bruno also on the ballot.

 

Early Voting Begins Wednesday for General Election

Early voting begins this Wednesday for next week's general election. Individuals can cast ballots at the election board office in the county in which they are registered to vote. Early voting is Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Early voters will have to show their ID and voter registration cards. Regular precincts will be open next Tuesday, Nov. 8th from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

 

Chickasha Ne'ewollah Festival Tonight

Downtown Chickasha will be invaded by hundreds of trick-or-treaters tonight. The Chamber of Commerce will host its annual Ne'ewollah Festival with many businesses offering treats for the youngsters and a number of activities to be held including a carnival at the YMCA, disc golf, a petting zoo, and festive photo-booth opportunities.. Trick-or-treating will only be on Chickasha Avenue between 4th and 8th Streets. There is a costume and pet parade, and a costume contest with some cash prizes awarded. The costume contest will be held in front of the KOOL-RANCH studios on the corner of 7th and Chickasha Avenue starting at 5:30 p.m. The Ne'ewollah Festival runs from 5 to 7 o'clock tonight.

 

State's Air and Space Port to Make 'Big' Announcement

State officials are being mum about what is said to be a big announcement for Oklahoma's Air and Space Port this morning. According to the OK Energy Today website the announcement is expected to bring significant jobs and investments to the region. Gov. Kevin Stitt is to be on hand for the announcement.  The facility is the former Clinton-Sherman Air Base in Burns Flat.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $87.90 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $95.77.

Natural gas is $5.68 per million BTUs.

Gold is $1,641 and silver is $19.02.