Saturday, June 22nd

 

No Recount Sought in Close Grady County Court Clerk Race

The results of this week's primary election were certified by the state election board last night following a three-day period where candidates could file petitions for re-counts in closely contested elections. One of those close elections was in the Republican primary for Grady County court clerk where only 73 votes separated the two candidates. Mica Selzer-Hackney collected 50.6 percent of the vote over Carolyn Bowen (2,856 to 2,783). Bowen did not file for a recount so Selzer-Hackney will be the new court clerk as no Democrats filed for the office. Selzer-Hackney, who has worked at the court clerk's office for 20 years will succeed Lisa Hannah who is retiring at the end of the year. Selzer-Hackney will officially assume the office in January.

 

Officials Search Wildlife Refuge for Another Missing Person

Another missing persons report had authorities searching the Wichita Mountains Wildife Refuge this week. Authorities say an abandoned vehicle was found in the Post Oak and Treasure Lake parking area Tuesday night. KSWO-TV reports that several law enforcements agencies joined the search effort including state troopers, the Comanche County Sheriff's Office, and the Lawton Fire Department. Drones and K9 officers were also brought in to help. Parts of the refuge were closed including Elk Mountain, Bat Cave, and Heart Rock. Authorities did not release the name of the missing person. It's the second time within the last month that authorities have conducted a search for a missing person at the refuge. 30-year old Keith Carlson of Tuttle went missing May 21st and his abandoned pickup was found in the refuge. Carlson still has not been located.

 

Father, Son Face Drug Charges After Traffic Stop

A father and son are facing drug charges after their arrests. Robert Wayne Wilkinson, Sr., 61, and Robert Wayne Wilkinson, Jr., 35, were arrested by a Grady County deputy following a traffic stop. A probable cause affidavit indicates the deputy pulled over a vehicle in a neighborhood near USAO. Both men had suspended driver's licenses and the vehicle did not have insurance. Authorities found what appeared to be methamphetamine and drug items in the car. Both men were arrested and the car impounded. Both men have been charged with misdemeanors and are out of jail after posting $2,500 bond each. Neither man has any prior convictions. Their cases have been scheduled to be on the misdemeanor disposition docket next month.

 

Veteran Ampo Teacher, Coach Dean Guthrie Dies

Longtime Amber-Pocasset teacher and coach Dean Guthrie has died. Guthrie's career spanned six decades beginning in 1974 teaching social studies and coaching baseball and basketball. He retired from teaching in 2010 but continued to drive a school bus until the end of the past school year. He was also a licensed preacher and served as deacon for the First Baptist Church of Amber. Guthrie was 76 when he passed away Thursday. He is survived by his wife of Sharon and sons and daughters-in-law Scott and Mandy; David and Amanda; and Eric and Brandi and their families. Funeral service for Dean Guthrie will be held at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, June 25th at the First Baptist Church of Amber. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.

 

Chickasha Rodeo Wraps up Tonight

The Chickasha rodeo will have its second and final performance tonight at the Grady County Fairgrounds. Before the rodeo there will be a parade in downtown Chickasha starting at 4:00 p.m. The Grand entry for the rodeo this evening will start at 8:00 p.m. The winner of the queen contest will also be announced tonight.

 

Talk Show Topics

Blanchard City Manager Robert Floyd and Parks and Recreation director Chris Wittenbach are this week's guests on the KOOL Konversation. State Rep. Dick Lowe of Amber and State Rep. Brad Boles of Marlow are the guests on Real Estate Today. Find podcasts of both programs under the Community tab on this website.

 

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Friday, June 21st

 

Project Would Get Trauma Kits in All Grady County Classrooms

Emergency management groups have launched an effort to help teachers in Grady County schools save the lives of students who might be injured in an active-shooter situation. The Grady County Emergency Management and Chickasha Emergency Management agencies have announced a campaign called 'Stop the Bleed.'  The goal is to have specialized trauma kits in every Grady County school classroom for the upcoming school year. Here is Chickasha Emergency Management Director Edward Perez-

 

 

 

The trauma kits would include essential medical supplies including tourniquets. Grady County Emergency Management Director Dale Thompson said that the average arrival times for first responders is 7-10 minutes - but that life-threatening bleeding can result in death in less than five minutes. Perez says Chickasha Fire Chief Tony Samaniego and EMTs will be meeting with Chickasha teachers before school starts this fall-

 

 

 

Perez says the kits will cost about $50 each and that there are 1,000 classrooms in Grady County. Perez said they are seeking contributions to pay for the kits. Individuals can reach out to the Grady County Emergency Management Agency to do that.

 

Two Motorcyclists Injured in Separate Accidents

Two motorcycle riders are hospitalized following separate accidents that occurred in the Elgin area last night. 63-year old Timothy Harris of Fletcher hit a deer on U.S. Highway 62 southwest of Elgin just after 11:00 p.m. He was air-lifted to an Oklahoma City hospital and admitted in fair condition. He was not wearing a helmet. In the other accident, an unidentified teenager also from Fletcher failed to negotiate a curve and ran off Porter Hill Road east of Elgin just before 8:00 p.m. The 17-year old was also air-lifted to an Oklahoma City hospital where he was admitted in fair condition. The teen was wearing a helmet.

 

Chickasha Rodeo Weekend is Here

The 85th annual Chickasha rodeo gets underway tonight. It's an open rodeo so local cowboys and cowgirls will be competing. There are three queen contestants - 16-year old Calista Castrellon, 16-year old Heidi Hembree, and 12-year old Emmy Foster. The reigning queen is Marissa McDermott who says the candidates have been working the last couple of months to promote the rodeo-

 

 

 

 

The winner of the queen contest will be named tomorrow night. Grand entry times are 8 o'clock tonight and tomorrow night at the Grady County Fairgrounds. There will be a rodeo parade in downtown Chickasha at 4 o'clock tomorrow (Saturday) afternoon.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $82.17 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $85.69.

Natural gas is $2.68 per million BTUs.

Gold is $2,377 and silver is $30.80.

 

Obituaries

Brady Lovie, Jr.

Funeral service for Brady Lovie, Jr., 82, of Chickasha will be held at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, June 29^th at the Church of the Living God, P.G. of T. Arrangements are with Brown-Thomas Funeral Home.

Billie Scott

Funeral service for Billie Scott, 59, is pending with Brown-Thomas Funeral Home.

 

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Thursday, June 20th

 

Suspect Arrested For Allegedly Selling Drugs to Informant

A Chickasha man with history of drug crimes was arrested last week after allegedly selling fentanyl to a confidential informant. Authorities arrested 42-year old Antwon Owens. A probable cause affidavit indicates that the informant was able to purchase about two grams of fentanyl from Owens for $250 at a Chickasha home back in January. Owens has been charged with two felony counts of drug trafficking in connection with this arrest and remains in jail on a $100,000 bond. Owens was previously convicted of drug trafficking in 2002, pleaded guilty to drug charges in 2008, and is awaiting sentencing in connection with a 2021 arrest for drug distribution.

 

Kidnapping, Assault Suspect in Custody

A Grady County man is facing sexual assault and kidnapping charges after allegedly breaking into a Verden home. 52-year old David James Moore was arrested after authorities were called to the victim's home over the weekend. A probable cause affidavit alleges Moore broke into the home by forcibly removing a window air conditioner, attacking the victim, and holding her against her will. After an argument Moore left the home. Moore was later taken into custody at another Verden residence. He's facing felony charges of kidnapping, sexual battery, and burglary and a judge set his bond at $75,000.

 

Summer Arrives Today; Chix Chamber Sets Christmas in July

Today we say goodbye to spring and welcome the arrival of summer. The Summer Solstice occurs at 3:50 Central Time this afternoon and we'll have more than 12 1/2 hours of sunlight. That means hot weather is on the way and the forecast is for 100 degree temperatures next week. With that in mind the Chickasha Chamber of Commerce has made plans for another Christmas in July celebration. The month-long event will include various retail campaigns to encourage shopping with local merchants, free evening movies outdoors at the leg lamp, and a Christmas Cool Down Block Party at the end of the month. The first activity will be the Parade of Stars and Handlebars the morning of July 4th at Shannon Springs Park. Entry fees are $10 per person or family, and $25 for groups or clubs. Register on-line at:

www.chickashachamber.com/christmasinjuly

 

Non-profit Group to hold Ladybug Release

There is an unusual event in Duncan tomorrow night. Thousands of ladybugs will be released to benefit a community garden. The non-profit group Think Ability will introduce 20,000 ladybugs to its garden. This is the fifth year for the project. Ladybugs are garden-friendly creatures that eat aphids which damage flowers and plants. The release will be a community event featuring family-friendly activities including ladybug corn hole, pin the ladybug on the flower, face-painting, temporary tattoos, arts and crafts, and free refreshments. You can also purchase ladybugs and similar plant-friendly bugs to help protect your garden. Think Ability helps individuals with intellectual disabilities. The event will be from 6 to 8 p.m. tomorrow night at the Think Ability Community Garden at 2109 West Beech Street in Duncan. For information see the Think Ability Community Garden Facebook page.

 

USAO Regents Honor Employee of the Year

A human resource specialist at USAO has been named the university's employee of the year. Jana Ware was recently honored by USAO regents. Ware has worked at USAO for five years and previously worked  in the admissions office and the assessment office. She's held her current post since last fall where she is responsible for recruiting new faculty and staff. By the way, she's also a USAO alum. USAO president Kayla Hale said that Ware shows kindness, patience, loyalty, honesty, and extraordinary work ethic.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $81.60 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $85.33.

Natural gas is $2.87 per million BTUs.

Gold is $2,348 and silver is $30.60.

 

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Wednesday, June 19th

 

Primary Election Results

Grady County

Sheriff Gary Boggess gets a landslide victory in yesterday's Republican primary election. Boggess, who was appointed to the post last year, picked up nearly 75 percent of the vote in his race with Jeff Franklin. Boggess says he'll be working to get more deputies in the field-

 

 

 

 

Boggess wins the post since no Democrats filed for the office.

Locke wins re-election

County Clerk Jill Locke was re-elected as she picked up 60 percent of the vote over challenger Neva Ford. Locke talks about what she'll focus on in her next term-

 

 

Like the sheriff's race, no Democrats filed to run for county clerk.

Commissioner races goes to a run-off

The District Two County Commissioner race will go to a run-off. Incumbent Kirk Painter and Ruth Bingham were the top two vote-getters of the three candidates on the ballot but neither received a majority of votes. Bingham picked up 691 votes or about 39 percent and Painter received 674 votes or about 38 percent. The third candidate, Garland Terry, received 410 votes or about 23 percent of the vote. The commissioner race will be decided in the August 27^th Republican run-off election as no Democrats filed for that office.

Court Clerk race goes down to the wire

The court clerk's race was the closest of the contests with less than 75 votes separating the two candidates. Unofficial results show Mica Selzer-Hackey with 50.6 percent of the vote with 2,856 - and Carolyn Bowen with 49.4 percent with 2,783. Bowen has until Friday afternoon to decide if she wants to file for a recount.

Caddo County

Sheriff Spencer Davis wins re-election collecting 62 percent of the vote over Brynn Barnett in the Republican Primary. No Democrats filed for that office.

 

Tip Leads to Recovery of Stolen Farm Equipment

Grady County deputies have recovered more than $100,000 in stolen farm equipment. Undersheriff Kori Brewer tells KOOL/RANCH News that authorities spent much of the day yesterday at an undisclosed location south of Ninnekah where they found trailers, cattle equipment, an ATV, and other items. A post on the sheriff's office Facebook page indicates that Deputy Danny Booth with the county's agriculture crime unit got a tip about the stolen equipment and obtained a search warrant for the property. When authorities arrived a suspect fled in a stolen vehicle and deputies gave chase. The pursuit was ended after officials say it got too dangerous. At last report investigators were working to get an arrest warrant for the suspect.

 

Two Seriously Injured in Dibble Crash

Two people are hospitalized with one in critical condition after a pickup crashed near Dibble yesterday. A passenger, 61-year old Oseas Barron-Torres was air-lifted to an Oklahoma City hospital where he was admitted in critical condition. The driver, 28-year old Roberto Castellan-Iglesias was admitted in good condition. Both men are from Dibble. The accident happened just before 2:30 yesterday afternoon on State Highway 76 about a mile south of the Dibble Crossroads. The highway patrol did not report what happened saying the accident is still under investigation.

 

Suspect Faces Drug Trafficking Charges After Traffic Stop

A traffic stop leads to the arrest of Cement man who is now facing charges of drug trafficking and distribution. A Grady County deputy pulled over 53-year old Jeffrey Remy early Monday morning after he failed to dim his high beams. A probable cause affidavit says he was detained because his driver's license was expired and his explanation didn't add up. The deputy found more than 10 grams of fentanyl and meth as well as drug items in the vehicle. Remy remains in the Grady County Jail in lieu of a $100,000 bond.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $81.57 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $85.33.

Natural gas is $2.91 per million BTUs.

Gold is $2,342 and silver is $29.89.

 

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Tuesday, June 18th

 

State's Primary Elections Underway 

Polls are just now opening for primary elections taking place today. Republicans and Democrats will cast ballots in their respective primaries to select candidates for the general election this fall. Some local races only have Republican or Democratic candidates.

Grady County

There are only GOP candidates for four county offices and Democrats cannot vote in the Republican primary. There is a race for sheriff, as Grady County Sheriff Gary Boggess is on the ballot with Jeff Franklin. Boggess was appointed to the post last year. Both have served in law enforcement for many years. There are also county-wide elections in the Republican Primary for county clerk where incumbent Jill Locke is facing Neva Ford; and for court clerk where current court clerk employees Mica Selzer-Hackney and Carolyn Bowen are running for the post held currently by Lisa Hannah who is retiring. Also on the ballot are three Republicans for District Two County Commissioner. Incumbent Kirk Painter is being challenged by Garland Terry and Ruth Bingham.

Caddo County

There is one county office on the Republican ballot as Sheriff Spencer Davis is being challenged by Brynn Barnett. There are a few state representative and state senate seats as well as for corporation commission and U.S Congressional offices. Polls are open until 7 o'clock tonight. KOOL/RANCH have special election coverage of the Grady and Caddo County elections after the polls close.

 

Chix Council Approves 2025 Budgets

The Chickasha City Council approved 2025 fiscal year budgets for the various entities at city hall in its meeting last night. The panel made no changes to the budgets all of which had public hearings at a city council meeting last week. The budgets passed by 8-1 votes with Councilman Charlie Burruss abstaining from voting on each of the proposals.

Software program approved for police department

The council also approved a grant for the police department to obtain software than can track the locations of police officers and other city employees in the field. Known as the GeoSafe program, the software can pinpoint the location of individuals and share the information with other law enforcement groups that also have the software. It would allow those agencies to respond quicker to emergencies. Chickasha Police Chief G.G. Music said he has written a grant that would pay for two years of the service. It allows up to 50 licenses which could be obtained by Chickasha firefighters and employees in the Community Development Department. Music said it is an important piece of equipment.

 

              

 

Music said other agencies that have the subscription include the Grady County Sheriff’s Office, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol and a number of regional police departments.

Planning Commission, Library Board appointments OK'd

The council also approved the appointment of Eric Anderson to serve on the Planning Commission. He'll replace longtime commission member John Grote. The panel also approved the re-appointment of Annick Bellemain to the library board, and appointed Sandra Thompson and Deb Abraham to the library board. All their terms are for three years through June 30, 2027.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $80.33 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $84.23.

Natural gas is $2.80 per million BTUs.

Gold is $2,326 and silver is $29.26.

 

Obituary

Allen ‘Doug’ Meeks

Funeral service for Doug Meeks, 72, of Minco will be held at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, June 20^th at Friendship Methodist Church. He worked at Delta Faucet, hauled gravel for Grady County, and was also the fire chief at the Harold Fire Station for many years. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.

 

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Monday, June 17th

 

Chix City Council to Consider Budgets

(EDITOR'S NOTE - A previous version of this story contained erroneous information about public hearings on the budgets. We apologize for the misinformation)

A more than $75 million budget for all the entities at Chickasha City Hall for the 2025 fiscal year will get one more look at tonight's city council meeting. The panel will consider resolutions to approve the spending plans. There are three main sections of the budget – The General Fund, The Chickasha Municipal Authority, and the Airport. The budget includes expenses of more than $27 million from the general fund; nearly $24 million from the municipal authority; more than $10 million from the Capital Improvement Project dedicated sales tax fund; and more than $4 million from another Capital Project Fund. In addition to the budget the council will also consider approving a pay request of more than $164,000 for the ongoing construction of new airport hangars; a final payment of more than $100,000 for water line improvements; and consider a new fee schedule for the coming year. The city council meets at 6:30 tonight at city hall.

 

Summer Projects Underway at Chix Public Schools

Maintenance crews at Chickasha Public Schools are spending the summer getting all school sites ready for when classes begin in August. Among the projects include painting at the middle school and the installation of big-screen TVs in classrooms at both the middle school and high school. Teachers in both schools will also be receiving new laptops that will have wireless connection to the 75-inch TVs. The laptops can be used like a tablet with touch-screen capabilities and can connect to the TVs from anywhere in the classroom. A post on the school district's Facebook page says it will elevate classroom dynamics for teachers and students by allowing ultimate flexibility for instruction.

 

State Group Awards Chix Chamber Tourism Promotions

Efforts to promote tourism in Chickasha garners more state recognition. The Oklahoma Tourism Industry Association presented a number of Red Bud Awards at its annual convention. The highlight was the tourism initiative developed by the Chamber of Commerce called Visit Chickasha, which was awarded the Organization of the Year in the small budget category. The chamber also won a Merit Award for the best website for Visit Chickasha.com; best marketing campaign for Christmas Town; and a Merit Award for Best Partnership for the Rock Island Weekend. Also, the publication Oh-18 received a Redbud Award for Best Marketing Publication in the small budget category. Chamber President Jim Cowan said Chickasha continues to exceed visitor expectations for a town of its size and it’s a testament to all the great things that are happening.

 

Norge, Pioneer Fire Dep't to Hold Founder's Day Celebration

The Town of Norge will hold its annual Founders Day Celebration and Pioneer Fire Department appreciation dinner at the end of the month. According to the Oklahoma Historical Society, the community was settled about 1907 and was initially called Norden. It was changed to Norge in March of 1908. Activities will be Saturday, June 29th with a parade from Norge to Pioneer School and back. There will be a lot of activities at Royce Park after the parade with inflatable games and other activities for the kids as well as the fire department's appreciation dinner.

 

Aquaculture Specialist to Headline Ag Producer Meeting

Grady County agriculture producers will gather tomorrow morning for the second of their two monthly meetings. Guest speaker will be OSU Extension Aquaculture Specialist Marley Beem. The group meets the first and third Tuesday mornings at 7 a.m. at the extension office at 9th and Choctaw.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $78.45 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $82.62.

Natural gas is $2.88 per million BTUs.

Gold is $2,334 and silver is $29.27.

 

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Saturday, June 15^th

 

Foster Mother Allegedly Abandons Child at Gas Station

A Chickasha woman has been charged with child neglect for allegedly abandoning an 8-year old foster child at a gas station. 31-year old Jessica Renee Smallwood was taken into custody after the child was found wandering around the fuel pumps at Murphy’s Gas Station near Wal-Mart on Wednesday. In a probable cause affidavit filed by Chickasha police, the boy said they had pulled into the station to get gas - and he had gotten out of the vehicle to go to the bathroom. When he came back, Smallwood was gone. A couple of Grady County deputies happened to be there and they called Chickasha police to investigate. While authorities were checking video surveillance, a friend of Smallwood showed up to get the child. She said Smallwood had called her after realizing the boy was not in the vehicle.  When investigators contacted Smallwood, she said she was distracted while having an argument on the phone and was also distraught because her biological child had recently been diagnosed with autism. Investigators said that video surveillance showed her looking in the back seat of the car several times before leaving the gas station. Smallwood was charged with a felony count of child neglect then released after posting $5,000 bond. She faces up to a year in jail and a $5,000 fine if convicted.

 

Jury Convicts Grady County Man of Child Molestation

A Grady County jury convicts a suspect of child molestation. The panel found 60-year old Ronald William Merritt of Ninnekah guilty of two counts of lewd acts to a child following his trial this week. Merritt was arrested in January of 2021 after it was alleged he molested a 10-year old girl in October and November of 2020. The jury recommended a 25-year prison sentence and a $10,000 fine on each count. A pre-sentencing investigation was ordered and formal sentencing is set for August 4th.

 

Another Fatal Traffic Accident in Blanchard

A deadly multi-vehicle crash that occurred in Blanchard Thursday is still under investigation. The accident claimed the life of 29-year old Raquel Anderson of Blanchard. Two others were injured in the crash including a 7-year old girl who was a passenger in Anderson's car. The other person injured was 19-year old Alicia Soudry of Oklahoma City. Both were treated and released from Oklahoma City hospitals. The accident involved two cars and pickup and happened just after 1:00 p.m. Thursday afternoon at North Council Road and Windmill Avenue. The driver of the pickup identified as 69-year old Lewis Metcalf of Blanchard was not hurt. It is the latest of a number of traffic accidents involving fatatlies that have occurred in the Blanchard area over the last few weeks. 

 

Talk Show Topics

Here's what we're talking about this weekend. The two Republican candidates for Grady County Court Clerk, Carolyn Bowen and Mica Selzer-Hackney, are on the KOOL Konversation. Chickasha Police Chief G.G. Music and Fire Chief Tony Samaniego are guests on Real Estate Today. Find podcasts of both programs under the Community tab on this website.

 

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Friday, June 14th

 

Chickasha Crime Numbers Lower in 2024 

Chickasha Police Chief G.G. Music said overall crime is down in the city for the first five months of the year. While there have been some high-profile crimes Music said for the most part there have been fewer violent crimes this year compared to the first five months of 2023.

 

              

 

He did say that homicides and burglaries are about the same as last year while sexual assaults were down. Unfortunately, Music said motor vehicle theft is up 18 percent. He said residents can help reduce that number simply by locking their car doors.

 

One Dead, Others Injured in Multiple Thursday Accidents

A deadly crash in McClain County claims the life of a Ninnekah man. 45-year old Prescott Sims died in the accident that happened northeast of Pauls Valley near the town of Byars. The accident happened just after 10:00 a.m. Thursday. The highway patrol reports that Sims was driving a van that crossed the center line of the roadway and hit a pickup. The driver of the truck identified as 43-year old Justin Green of Seminole was not seriously injured.

Caddo County Man Hospitalized

A Cyril man is hospitalized after the SUV he was driving ran off the road and hit a tree in Medicine Park. 41-year old John McIntosh was last in serious condition after the crash that happened just before 7:00 a.m. Thursday. The highway patrol is still looking into the cause of that accident.

Two Hospitalized After Elgin Collision

A traffic accident north of Elgin sends two people to the hospital. That accident happened about 1:00 p.m. Thursday. The highway patrol reports that a Jeep ran a stop sign and crashed broadside into a pickup. The driver of the Jeep identified as 19-year old Alyssa Beuttel of Wanette and a passenger identified as 18-year old Jakob Raines of Fletcher were taken to a Lawton hospital where they were admitted in stable condition. The driver of the pickup identified as a 17-year old male from Rush Springs - whose name was not released - was not injured.

 

Chix, Darko to Hold Juneteenth Celebrations

Many Oklahoma communities will be holding Juneteenth celebrations this weekend. Juneteenth marks the anniversary of the end of slavery in the United States. The official date is June 19^th which was the day in 1865 that slaves in Texas were finally notified that they were free – which came two years after President Abraham Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation. Both Chickasha and Anadarko will host events.

Chickasha

Tonight there are activities at Washita Valley Park including a free movie at dusk. Tomorrow a parade will start at 10:00 a.m. at Lincoln School and go to the park with opening ceremonies there at 11:00 a.m.; and beginning at noon lots of games, activities, and live entertainment.

Anadarko

Tonight there will be dominos, card games, and Jenga at the Baldwin Building at the Caddo County Fairgrounds ($2 fee per person to play); tomorrow from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. the Wichita and Affiliated Tribes will hold a Juneteenth walk; then from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. free activities at Rotary Park.

 

2nd Friday Art Walk Downtown Chix Tonight

Also in Chickasha tonight is the Second Friday Art Walk downtown. Amanda Lack helps to coordinate the event and talks about some of the vendors which will include some live music-

 

              

 

The art walk will be along Chickasha Avenue from the Leg Lamp to 3^rd Street from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. USAO's Art Wrecker Studio will be open. There is no cost to attend however vendors will have items for sale.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $78.62 per barrel.

London-based Brent Crude is $82.60.

Natural gas is $2.96 per million BTUs.

Gold is $2,336 and silver is $29.13.

 

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Thursday, June 13th

 

Panel OK's Resolution Supporting Chix TIF Districts

In a unanimous 9-0 vote, members of the Chickasha TIF District Review Committee are recommending that two Tax Increment Finance (TIF) Districts should be created. The vote came following a 45-minute meeting at Chickasha City Hall yesterday. One district is primarily in the downtown area, while the second is along the U.S. Highway 62 corridor east of downtown to the H.E. Bailey Turnpike. Mayor Zach Grayson is the chairman of the committee and was pleased with the unanimous vote-

 

              

Funds created by the districts would be used to help pay for the installation of infrastructure projects like water and sewer lines needed to spur development in those districts. Funds could also help pay for upgrades outside the districts. It's estimated that the districts could bring in $30 million over a 25-year period which could potentially be matched with $30 million in state funds. Grayson said developers could request TIF funds to help them pay for the infrastructure needed for new business creation. He tells how developers would qualify-

 

              

The proposal now goes to the city's Planning Commission for consideration which is expected to take place in its July meeting. Later this summer it will go to the city council which will hold public hearings on the plan.

 

Projects Close Norge Highway to Through Traffic

Portions of the Norge Highway between Chickasha and Lake Burtchi will be intermittently closed over the next several weeks. District 3 Grady County Commissioner Gary Bray said crews are trimming trees along the highway and are also doing some chip-and-seal work. Bray said local traffic will be allowed to travel in the work zone but other motorist will be detoured. He urges those who normally travel that highway to find alternate routes.

 

Military Veterans' Resource Event Set Tomorrow

Officials with the state Department of Veterans Affairs will be in Chickasha tomorrow to assist military veterans and their dependents. Alan Jacobsen, the veteran's service representative for the Chickasha Veterans Center, says they will help veterans file claims and provide other services-

 

 

              

 

They'll also help veterans and dependents renew sales tax exemption cards and get approved for discounts on car tags. The event will be from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. tomorrow at the veterans center downtown Chickasha at 6th and Chickasha Avenue. Grady County OHCE will provide free lunch for those who attend.

 

In Person, Absentee Voting Underway Ahead of Primary Election

Early voting is underway ahead of next Tuesday's Primary Election in Oklahoma. Voters can cast ballots at the county election board where they are registered to vote. Offices are open from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. today and tomorrow, and also on Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. In Grady County there are local races in the Republican Primary for county sheriff, county clerk, court clerk, and district two county commissioner. In Caddo County there is a Republican Primary election for sheriff. Regular voting at county precincts will be next Tuesday, June 18th from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $78.50 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $82.60.

Natural gas is $3.04 per million BTUs.

Gold is $2,331 and silver is $29.38.

 

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Wednesday, June 12th

 

Chix Police Officers Escape Serious Injuries After Crash

Two Chickasha police officers were taken to the hospital to be treated for minor injuries after being involved in a traffic accident while on duty late Monday night. Officers Jonithan Horse and Eric Burkhart were treated and released from Grady Memorial Hospital following the crash and were able to return to work. The accident happened in a residential area at 17th and Georgia Avenue just after 11:00 p.m. Monday. A statement from Horse said he was driving south on 17th Street when a westbound 2023 model Kia Soul ran a stop sign, drove through the median, and struck the front driver's side of the 2016 Dodge Charger that he and Burkhart were in. After the collision the patrol car veered off the street and nearly hit a tree. Police Chief G.G. Music said the car had significant damage and may have to be totaled. The driver of the other vehicle, identified as 32-year old Amaris Jackson, was taken to the hospital where she was also treated and released. Jackson was ticketed for failing to yield and not having insurance.

 

Suspect Arrested After Cane Attack

A Chickasha man is accused of attacking his own brother with a cane leaving his sibling with a broken arm and a black-eye that was swollen shut. Chickasha police were called to the emergency room at Grady Memorial Hospital Sunday to talk to a patient who had been assaulted. The victim said he and his brother were at their home in the 400 block of North 4th Street when 47-year old Donald ‘Clifford’ Robertson began hitting him with the cane for no reason. A probable cause affidavit indicates Robertson was later arrested at work at a restaurant near 4th and Grand Ave. Robertson has been charged with felony assault and battery and is being held in the Grady County Jail on a $100,000 bond.

 

Couple Accused of Cattle Rustling

A Caddo County couple recently arrested on outstanding warrants are now also accused of cattle rustling. The Caddo County Sheriff's Office reported last week that 37-year old Joshua Myers and 45-year old Brandy Ingram-Myers were arrested after authorities received a tip that they were in the Ft. Cobb area. Now, Brandy is facing nearly 30 new felony counts after allegedly stealing cattle and selling them at the OKC West Livestock market. Investigators say they were able to track down the owners and all the animals have been returned. In addition to being charged with more than two dozen counts of larceny of animals, Brandy is also charged with running a con game, unauthorized use of a vehicle, and having a pattern of criminal offenses. She was also wanted for crimes out of Comanche County. Joshua Myers is facing similar charges in connection with cattle rustling as well as previous unrelated burglarl charges. Both are being held in the Caddo County Jail on $100,000 bond each.

 

Chix Animal Shelter at Max Capacity;

Asking for Help to Foster or Adopt Pets

Officials with the Chickasha Animal Shelter say the facility is at maximum capacity and is asking for the public's help. Shelter manager Layce Graham says they currently have 61 dogs but only 44 kennels. The shelter also has a number of cats in the shelter and an additional 60 animals being cared for by foster families. Graham says they urgently need families to foster some of the animals for a short time, and also would like families to adopt some of them. The shelter's hours for adoptions are from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. every Tuesday through Saturday. Adoption fees are $44 and all pets are spayed or neutered. Graham asked that no stray animals be brought to the shelter. Instead, she says to post pictures on the Chickasha Lost and Found Pets Facebook page. She also recommends taking them to a veterinarian to see if they are micro-chipped in order to find the owner.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $76.76 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $81.63.

Natural gas is $3.12 per million BTUs.

Gold is $2,330 and silver is $29.47.

 

Obituaries

Edgar Hayden

Funeral service for Edgar Hayden, 94, of Chickasha will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, June 14th at the First Baptist Church at 1st and Dakota Ave. He worked at Grady Memorial Hospital, Maremont, and Chickasha Public Schools. Arrangements are with Brown-Thomas Funeral Home.

Darryl Gaines

Funeral service for 62-year old Darryl Gaines is pending with Brown-Thomas Funeral Home.

 

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Tuesday, June 11th

 

Chix City Council Schedules Special Meeting

for Public Hearing on Proposed 2024-25 Budget

The Chickasha City Council has a special meeting tonight to hold a public hearing on the city's proposed budget for the 2024-25 fiscal year which starts next month. The budget includes projected expenses at more than $75 million. Specific details aren't provided in a one-page general overview of the budget which is posted with the agenda on the city's website. Among the largest expense accounts is the city’s general fund at $27 million. Expenses for the Chickasha Municipal Authority are estimated at nearly $24 million. Overall, the projected beginning balance is $52 million with project revenues estimated at nearly $60 million. Tonight's meeting and public hearing will get underway at 6:30 p.m. at city hall. After making any revisions the council is expected to give final approval to the budget at next week's regular meeting which is the final regular meeting before the new fiscal year begins July 1st.

 

Discussion Continues on Chix TIF District Proposals 

The city's Tax Increment Finance (TIF) District Review committee will meet tomorrow afternoon to again discuss proposed infrastructure projects and related costs. The panel will also discuss development assumptions and draft a proposed Chickasha Economic Development Project Plan. Also on the agenda is to consider a resolution recommending that the city approve the gateway plan and create two TIF Districts. The TIF committee meets at 1:30 tomorrow afternoon at city hall.

 

County Road Improvements Begin Near Tuttle

Some road improvements in the north part of Grady County are expected to impact travel in some areas over the next few days. The work will be east of Tuttle where crews will be resurfacing about 2 ½ miles of CR 1220 (Cemetery Road) starting at Fox Lane and going north. Officials expect that could take about a week, weather permitting. A second project will be about 1/2 mile of CR1196 off Cemetery Road. District One Commissioner Zach Davis says motorists can expect delays and suggests they take alternate routes.

 

Highway Safety Grant Awarded to Caddo County

The Caddo County Sheriff's Office will be receiving another state grant for highway safety. A post on the sheriff's office Facebook page says the grant will begin in October after it is presented to and approved by county commissioners. Officials say they have received this grant for several years. It provides salary re-imbursement to full-time deputies who work on their days off. Deputies sign up to work on various projects which are expected to focus on seatbelt safety for drivers, passengers, and child safety seats; speeding drivers; and watching for those who may be driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

 

Willowbrook Staffer to Lead State Contractor Training

A construction manager for a Chickasha firm has been selected to teach a course for aspiring construction superintendents. Gary Rosebrough will be leading the program for the Associated General Contractors of Oklahoma. It's a 10-course program that includes organization and management strategies; construction law and navigating contract documents; building knowledge and methods; project challenges; safety and quality control; and staying up-to-date with current trends and innovations. Rosebrough has 34 years' total construction experience and has been with Willowbrook for 12 years as senior superintendent. He has managed a number of multi-million dollar projects which include elementary school projects in Bixby and Tahlequah; The City of Pryor's new emergency services building and the renovation of the city's library and museum; and a multi-family development for the Tulsa Housing Authority.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $77.52 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $81.47.

Natural gas is $2.91 per million BTUs.

Gold is $2,322 and silver is $29.28.

 

Obituaries

Ricky Jenkins

Funeral service for Ricky Jenkins, 31, of Tuttle will be held at 2:00 p.m. today (Tuesday, June 11th) at Sevier Funeral Home of Tuttle. He worked as a plumber.

Rudy Cole

A graveside service for Rudy Cole, 79, of Amber will be held at 10:00 a.m. Friday, June 14th at Fairlawn Cemetery. He was a farmer and worked in highway construction operating heavy equipment. Arrangements are with McRay Funeral Home.

 

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Monday, June 10th

 

No local news today

 

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Saturday, June 8, 2024

 

Caution Urged as Hot Weather Moves in to State

Parts of Oklahoma are likely to see the hottest temperatures of the year today and officials are urging individuals to take precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Some emergency response groups have issued the first heat alert of the season. The state department of health reports that more than 85-percent of heat-related deaths over the last 10 years happen between June and August. Grady County emergency management officials say to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water before doing any outdoor activities and to continue doing so while out in the sun especially if you're not used to being outdoors for an extended period of time.  If working, take frequent breaks and try to avoid working during the hottest part of the day. Use plenty of sunscreen if you’re at the lake or the pool and wear a hat to prevent sunburn. Warning signs of heat-related illness include light-headedness, confusion, and being weak or faint. Get to a shady or cool spot and call 9-1-1 if you suspect someone is experiencing serious illness.

 

Name Change Proposed for Chickasha School

The Chickasha school board will consider a name change for one of the schools in the district. Officials are proposing changing Lincoln Elementary to Lincoln Intermediate School. In an open letter to the community last month, Superintendent Rick Croslin said the change would better capture the essence and focus of the work and student engagement that occurs among students and staff. The school would continue to serve 5th and 6th grade students. Croslin said the programming and courses will continue in their current state but did say 5th graders will begin to rotate between core subjects in the upcoming school year. The name change will be considered at Monday night's school board meeting.

 

State Rig Count Falls

There's bit of a slowdown in the state's energy sector. A weekly report from Baker-Hughes shows the rig count down by four, from 42 to 38 this past week. That's down six from the same time last year and it follows a nation-wide trend of a decreasing number of active rigs. The U.S. rig count is down by more than 100 from the same time a year ago to fewer than 600 rigs - about 500 are oil rigs and about 100 are gas rigs. Texas has the most rigs with 287. The Lone Star State and North Dakota are the only states with more than 100 active rigs.

 

Talk Show Topics

The Republican candidates for Grady County Sheriff are this week's guests on the KOOL Konversation. They are Sheriff Gary Boggess and challenger Jeff Franklin. On Real Estate Today, we have part two of a recent special meeting of the Chickasha Tax Increment Finance review committee. Find podcasts of both programs under the Community tab on this website.

 

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Friday, June 7th

 

Turnpike Authority's ACCESS Plan Includes Tri-City Area

Design work for the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority's (OTA) massive ACCESS plan continues. At this week's turnpike authority meeting officials said the first $500 million in bonds were sold last fall to fund design work plans and some initial construction projects. The tri-city area of Tuttle, Blanchard, and Newcastle is part of a 28-mile segment that will go east and cross the South Canadian River east of I-35 and connect with the Kickapoo turnpike at I-40. Officials say that will expand the mobility of the south Oklahoma City metro area and provide greater access to Moore and Norman. Officials say the design work on that section is about 60 percent complete and it remains the priority among the alignments to be built first. Property owners in the tri-city area can expect to hear from OTA about parcels of land needed for the corridor by this fall.

 

Chix Police Officer Honored by State Chiefs of Police

A Chickasha police officer earns some state recognition. Officer Trenton Freeman was presented with a Life Saving Award from the Oklahoma Association of Chiefs of Police last month and was again recognized at this week's meeting of the police chief's organization. Freeman had previously been recognized by the Chickasha City Council for his efforts when he answered a call about a suicidal individual in November of last year. Also at the police chief's meeting, Chickasha Assistant Police Chief Damian Alexander was named the Southwest Region representative on the association’s executive board.

 

Chix to Host Inaugural National Red Angus Youth Expo

The Grady County Fairgrounds is preparing for another national youth livestock show. Officials with the Red Angus Association of America will hold its first ever Red Angus Youth Expo. Officials are already in town preparing for the show. Erin Dorsey said participants will be arriving this weekend-

 

              

 

 

About 175 youth and their families from 19 states and some from Canada will be competing.

 

Grady County Treasurer's Office to Hold 'Re-Sale' Event

The Grady County treasurer's office will have what is called a 're-sale' of a number of properties where the owners have not paid property taxes in a number of years. Officials say the taxes on the properties are at least four years’ delinquent. County Treasurer Robin Burton said 23 properties are currently on the list but the number could change if the taxes are paid. Burton said it is a buyer beware sale, all properties will be sold as is, and no warranties will be given by the county nor any county employee. The properties will be sold for the taxes owed plus all costs and fees  - or two-thirds of the assessed value plus all costs and fees whichever is lower. Payment must be made at the time of the sale. The sale is Monday, June 10th beginning at 9:00 a.m. in the Grady County Election Board community room. Buyers do have to pre-register at the treasurer's office. Information is available on the website: www.ok taxrolls.com

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $73.96 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $78.41.

Natural gas is $2.76 per million BTUs.

Gold is $2,356 and silver is $30.65.

 

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Thursday, June 6th

 

Chix City Councilman Responds to Criticism

Chickasha City Councilman Kelly Boyd responds to recent criticism of his actions during a recent council meeting. At this week's council meeting, developer Chet Hitt said Boyd was a disgrace and should be removed from the panel. Boyd tells RANCH News -

 

              

 

 

Hitt said that Boyd was disrespectful to an individual who was supporting a pedestrian bridge that would connect the Grady County Fairgrounds to downtown Chickasha. Boyd voted against a proposal to make the pedestrian bridge a top priority for the city, saying the bridge over the pond at Shannon Springs Park should be at the top of the list.

 

Meet-and-Greet With County Election Candidates Tonight

The June 18th primary election is less than two weeks away and Grady County Republicans will have four county races to consider. No Democratic candidates filed for office. Sheriff Gary Boggess is facing Jeff Franklin; District Two County Commissioner Kirk Painter has two opponents in Ruth Bingham and Garland Terry; County Clerk Jill Locke is facing Neva Ford; and two candidates vying for court clerk are Carolyn Bowen and Mica Selzer-Hackney. The Chickasha Lions Club has invited all the candidates to be part of a meet-and-greet tonight with the public welcome to attend. There will not be a debate however candidates will be able to discuss issues with attendees on a one-one-one basis. The meet-and-greet will be held at the Canadian Valley Technology Center from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

 

Homelessness Forum Tonight

An open forum to discuss homelessness in Chickasha will be held this evening. The forum is hosted by The Chickasha Community Alliance which includes Life Skills Institute, the Resurrection House, and the Salvation Army. Officials with the Chickasha Police Department will also be on hand to talk about what homelessness is and isn't. The forum will be held at the Washita Theatre in downtown Chickasha tonight starting at 6:00 p.m.

 

Pipe Assault Suspect Arrested 

A Chickasha man is in custody after allegedly breaking windows out of a home and threatening to beat a resident with a metal pipe. 19-year old Bryson Carter was arrested by Chickasha police late Monday in connection with the incident. Carter is facing a felony charge of assault and battery and a misdemeanor of threatening violence.  He remains in the Grady County Jail on a $17,000 bond.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $73.24 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $77.52.

Natural gas is $2.59 per million BTUs.

Gold is $2,380 and silver is $30.43.

 

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Wednesday, June 5^th

 

Chix City Councilman Criticized for Recent Actions

The actions of Chickasha city councilman were criticized in this week's city council meeting. Ward 4 councilman Kelly Boyd was called out by developer Chet Hitt for actions Hitt said violated the code of conduct for council members. Hitt made this statement during the citizen comment section in Monday night's meeting-

 

              

 

 

Hitt was referring to comments made by Johnston during the May 15th council  meeting regarding discussion of a proposed pedestrian bridge connecting downtown Chickasha to the Grady County Fairgrounds. Protocol is that council members do not reply to presentations during citizen comments but Boyd’s reaction simply was-

 

              

 

 

KOOL News failed to contact Boyd after the meeting to get his reaction.

 

Driver Critically Injured in Crash with Big Rig

A driver is critically injured after a head-on crash with a semi in Caddo County. 56-year old Rufus Boardingham of Anadarko was taken to an Oklahoma City hospital following the accident that happened just before 10:00 a.m. Tuesday about a mile and a half north of Anadarko on U.S. Highway 281. The highway patrol reports that Boardingham crossed the center line and hit the big rig. It took rescue crews 30 minutes to get him out of the truck with their jaws of life. The driver of the semi, 57-year old Beth Lacer of Anadarko, was also to taken to an Oklahoma City hospital where she was treated and released. The highway patrol reported that Boardingham was sleepy prior to the accident.

 

Tip Leads to Arrest of Burglary Suspects

Caddo County authorities have arrested two people in connection with some recent burglaries. Joshua Paul Myers and Brandi Ingram were both arrested in the Ft. Cobb area after getting a tip that the two were in that area. According to a post on the Caddo County Sheriff's Office Facebook page, authorities say both had outstanding warrants and that both are suspects in other investigations including some in other counties. On-line court records indicate a warrant for Myers’ arrest was issued a couple of weeks ago. No on-line records were immediately available for Ingram.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $73.25 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $77.52.

Natural gas is $2.59 per million BTUs.

Gold is $2,352 and silver is $29.74.

 

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Tuesday, June 4th

 

New Chix Ordinance Regulates Private Ambulance Services

A new ordinance that would put restrictions on any private ambulance service that might locate in Chickasha was approved by the city council last night. The ordinance was the subject of a lot of debate which allows the city to be the sole provider of ambulance services within the city limits with some exceptions. Fire Chief Tony Samaniego said the ordinance does not prevent a private vendor from providing the service but it would give the city the first right-of-refusal to answer a call.

 

              

 

 

Samaniego said the ordinance was patterned after similar ordinances in Guthrie and Blackwell. A private ambulance service would have to get the approval of the City of Chickasha and the Grady County 522 EMS District that the city is part of before being allowed to operate in the city limits.

 

Turnpike Crash Involving Ambulance Under Investigation

The Oklahoma Highway Patrol continues its investigation of a pile-up involving several vehicles including an ambulance on the H.E. Bailey Turnpike Monday. Four vehicles were involved in the crash which sent several people to hospitals. The accident happened in the rain just before 10:45 a.m. at mile marker 88 about five miles northeast of Chickasha. 24-year old Seth Goolsby of Oklahoma City was taken to an Oklahoma City hospital and admitted in stable condition with leg injuries. 32-year old Stormy Leonard of Prague was treated and released from a Norman hospital. 32-year old Danielle Davis of Marlow was treated and released from Grady Memorial Hospital. In the ambulance were 30-year old Tyler Thompson and 36-year old David Smith both of Blanchard and neither were injured.

 

Kidnapping Suspect Arrested After Standoff

A kidnapping suspect is behind bars after a standoff with law enforcement. 41-year old Brandon Ashley Showalter of Chickasha was arrested early Saturday morning after the standoff with Chickasha police and the Grady County Sheriff's Office Special Response Team. KSWO-TV cites court documents which indicate Showalter was initially invited into a Chickasha home. It's alleged he held the resident at gunpoint and threatened to kill him. Showalter has been charged with felonies which include kidnapping, pointing a firearm, and threatening acts of violence. Showalter has a lengthy criminal record and was ordered to be held in the Grady County Jail pending a $100,000 bond. If convicted he faces up to 40 years in prison.

 

Rain Delays Some Chix Street Upgrades

Some Chickasha street improvement projects scheduled to start this week have been delayed because of the recent rains and the forecast for more wet weather. Public Works Director Jim Crosby said the 29th Street project from U.S. Highway 62 south to Grand Avenue is now slated to start next Monday. Crosby said that work has begun on the North 4th Street project where crews are tearing up the present roadway and building up the base by as much as 12 inches. They’ll top that with about four inches of asphalt.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $74.22 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $81.86.

Natural gas is $2.76 per million BTUs.

Gold is $2,352 and silver is $30.00

 

Obituary

Charles ‘Charley’ Krone

A private family service will be held for Charley Krone, 74, of Chickasha. He was a U.S. Army veteran who served in Vietnam and was also a truck driver. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.

 

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Monday, June 3rd

 

Drainage Project with Hwy 81 Bypass Expected to Go Out for Bid

A water drainage project connected to the Highway 81 Bypass work that is underway just west of Chickasha is among the items to be reviewed by the Chickasha City Council tonight. The panel will consider going out for bids for the drainage project which includes installing new water mains. A mandatory pre-bid meeting is tentatively scheduled for July 2nd with sealed bids to be submitted July 11th. The council is also to consider a change order for the work done on recent water line repairs in the east part of the city. It calls for an additional $17,000 for various parts needed to complete the work. The panel will also consider paying more than $660,000 for the ongoing construction of new hangars at the airport and a resolution to amend the city ordinance related to the city's employee retirement system. The group will also consider approving the annual Chickasha Rodeo Foundation parade downtown on Saturday, June 22nd and the annual fireworks display at Shannon Springs Park on the 4th of July. Prior to the council meeting the group will have a work session to review the proposed 2025 fiscal year budget. The work session will begin at 5 p.m. which will be followed by the council meeting at 6:30 p.m.

 

Search for Missing Grady County Man Continues

There's still no word on a missing Tuttle man who was last seen about two weeks ago. A neighbor saw 30-year old Keith Carlson leaving his home on Tuesday, May 21st. That night his pick-up was found in the Crater Lake area of the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge. Officials said the truck was unlocked and missing its license plate. Officials used search teams and drones to try to find him but were unsuccessful. Carlson's family tells our partners at KWTV-News 9 that he was in the middle of some home renovations and never went too far unless it was to see relatives or attend NASCAR events. Carlson is Caucasian, about 5-feet, 9 inches tall, and weighs about 165 pounds. He has short, brown hair and may have a slight moustache and goatee. Anyone with information is asked to call the family at 405-822-1402.

 

State Rep Re-caps Legislative Session

State Rep. Brad Boles (R-Marlow) outlined some of the work done during the legislative session which came to a close last week. In a recent media column, Boles said the nearly $12.5 billion state budget for the fiscal year which begins next month is about 5 percent less than the current year's budget. He said they didn't cut any core services but there were some one-time expenses this year that weren't needed for next year. He said lawmakers were able to maintain state savings at a record $4.7 billion which will help in case of any future economic downturns and would also provide funding for strategic investments. He also said officials finally came to an agreement to eliminate the state sales tax on groceries. Boles also said they were able to provide the energy industry with some relief based on the federal government's carbon emission mandates that companies now have to comply with.  He also said lawmakers outlined a $15 million increase to provide services for pregnant women in crisis with some of that funding going to Life Choices of Chickasha. Lawmakers also approved $350 million for deferred maintenance at public colleges and universities, state parks, and state properties, and $45 million in disaster relief to areas impacted by the numerous tornadoes this spring.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $76.99 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $81.86

Natural gas is $2.58 per million BTUs.

Gold is $2,347 and silver is $30.47.

 

Obituary

Jay Clingman

A private family service will be held for Jay Clingman, 63, of Tuttle. He was a U.S. Navy veteran, worked in the oilfield, and was a co-owner of Production Chemical and Service Company. Arrangements are with Sevier Funeral Home of Tuttle. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

 

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Saturday, June 1st

 

Family Seeks Help in Finding Missing Grady County Man

Relatives of a missing Tuttle man are hoping someone has information about their loved one. 30-year old Keith Carlson was reported missing nearly two weeks ago. His family reported him missing Tuesday, May 21^st and later that night his abandoned pickup was found at the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge. KSWO-TV reported that search teams which included officials from the refuge, state troopers, and deputies from the Comanche County Sheriff's office were unable to find him. Carlson is Caucasian, about 5-feet, 9 inches tall and weighs about 165 pounds. He has short brown hair and may have a slight moustache and goatee. Anyone with information is asked to call the family at 405-822-1402.

 

Lindsay Woman Dies in Fatal Crash

One person has died and two others were injured after a Jeep and a pickup collide near Lindsay.  36-year old Amanda Medellin of Lindsay died in the crash that happened on SH 76 about three miles south of Erin Springs just after 8 o'clock Friday morning. The highway patrol reports she was driving the Jeep which backed out of a private drive and was hit by an oncoming pickup. An un-named 17-year girl who was passenger in the Jeep was taken to a Norman hospital where she was admitted in stable condition. The man driving the pick-up was identified as 34-year old Jonathan Bennett of Blanchard who was taken to the Lindsay hospital where he was treated and released.

 

Inmate Who Pleaded Guilty to Assault, Intimidation

Now Charged with Child Sex Crimes 

A man already in jail serving time after pleading guilty to charges of assault and battery and intimidating a witness last year is facing some new charges. 39-year old Sean Paul Crow of Rush Springs is now accused of committing child sex crimes. Last December, Crow was sentenced to a year in a the county jail followed by nine years' probation after pleading guilty to the assault and intimidating a witness charges. Earlier this week, he was charged with four counts of lewd acts to a child under 12 years old. It's alleged that Crow inappropriately touched a child between September of 2021 and October of 2023. If convicted he could be sentenced to up to 100 years in prison.

 

Talk Show Topics

Here's what we're talking about this weekend. On our KOOL Konversation program are the two Republican candidates for Grady County Clerk - current clerk Jill Locke and challenger Neva Ford. On Real Estate Today is a segment of this week's meeting of the City of Chickasha's Tax Increment Finance (TIF) District Review Committee. Nate Ellis with The Public Law Group discusses the proposals for two TIF districts. Find podcasts of both programs under the Community tab on this website

 

Obituary

Jay Clingman

A private family service will be held for Jay Clingman, 63, of Tuttle. He was a U.S. Navy veteran, worked in the oilfield, and was co-owner of Production Chemical and Service Company.  Arrangements are with Sevier Funeral Home of Tuttle. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

 

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Saturday, June 1st

 

Family Seeks Help in Finding Missing Grady County Man

Relatives of a missing Tuttle man are hoping someone has information about their loved one. 30-year old Keith Carlson was reported missing nearly two weeks ago. His family reported him missing Tuesday, May 21^st and later that night his abandoned pickup was found at the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge. KSWO-TV reported that search teams which included officials from the refuge, state troopers, and deputies from the Comanche County Sheriff's office were unable to find him. Carlson is Caucasian, about 5-feet, 9 inches tall and weighs about 165 pounds. He has short brown hair and may have a slight moustache and goatee. Anyone with information is asked to call the family at 405-822-1402.

 

Lindsay Woman Dies in Fatal Crash

One person has died and two others were injured after a Jeep and a pickup collide near Lindsay.  36-year old Amanda Medellin of Lindsay died in the crash that happened on SH 76 about three miles south of Erin Springs just after 8 o'clock Friday morning. The highway patrol reports she was driving the Jeep which backed out of a private drive and was hit by an oncoming pickup. An un-named 17-year girl who was passenger in the Jeep was taken to a Norman hospital where she was admitted in stable condition. The man driving the pick-up was identified as 34-year old Jonathan Bennett of Blanchard who was taken to the Lindsay hospital where he was treated and released.

 

Inmate Who Pleaded Guilty to Assault, Intimidation

Now Charged with Child Sex Crimes 

A man already in jail serving time after pleading guilty to charges of assault and battery and intimidating a witness last year is facing some new charges. 39-year old Sean Paul Crow of Rush Springs is now accused of committing child sex crimes. Last December, Crow was sentenced to a year in a the county jail followed by nine years' probation after pleading guilty to the assault and intimidating a witness charges. Earlier this week, he was charged with four counts of lewd acts to a child under 12 years old. It's alleged that Crow inappropriately touched a child between September of 2021 and October of 2023. If convicted he could be sentenced to up to 100 years in prison.

 

Talk Show Topics

Here's what we're talking about this weekend. On our KOOL Konversation program are the two Republican candidates for Grady County Clerk - current clerk Jill Locke and challenger Neva Ford. On Real Estate Today is a segment of this week's meeting of the City of Chickasha's Tax Increment Finance (TIF) District Review Committee. Nate Ellis with The Public Law Group discusses the proposals for two TIF districts. Find podcasts of both programs under the Community tab on this website

 

Obituary

Jay Clingman

A private family service will be held for Jay Clingman, 63, of Tuttle. He was a U.S. Navy veteran, worked in the oilfield, and was co-owner of Production Chemical and Service Company.  Arrangements are with Sevier Funeral Home of Tuttle. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

 

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Friday, May 31st

 

Huge State Budget Bill Sent to Governor 

A nearly $12.5 billion budget for the State of Oklahoma for fiscal year 2024-25 is now under consideration by Gov. Kevin Stitt. The State House of Representatives brought the legislative session to and end yesterday sending the plan to the governor. The four-month session started in February and ended a day earlier than constitutionally required. House Speaker Charles McCall (R-Atoka) said the House created a House Budget Transparency Portal, an accessible on-line method giving Oklahomans unprecedented access to the budget process. The House sent more than 430 bills to the governor which included a record $1.5 billion in new funding for public schools; $18 million for pay raises for county sheriffs and deputies; and $200 million to the Rural Economic Transportation Reliability and Optimization Fund. State lawmakers also eliminated the 4.5 percent state grocery tax.

 

Chix Airport to Host Wings and Wheels Air Show, Car Show

Final preparations are underway today for the City of Chickasha's 6th annual Wings and Wheels Air Show and Car Show. A number of activities will take place at the city's airport tomorrow including several high-flying daredevil acts. One of them is called Roll'n Thunder featuring a race between an airplane and a jet car. Mark Smith drives the jet car he calls Slayer and tells what the audience can expect-

              

 

He says they burn about 100 gallons of jet fuel during the race. The engine is out of a U.S. Navy Banshee jet which produces about 12,000 horsepower and 6,000 pounds of thrust. The day begins at 8 a.m. with registration for the car show, games and activities for kids, and free airplane rides for kids under 17. The airshow starts at noon and will run about two hours. Admission and parking are free.

 

Sherri Coale to Address Women's Conference

A program designed to help women in leadership roles balance their efforts at work and at home will be held next week. The Chickasha Chamber of Commerce will host a half-day conference called Equilibrium. Whitney Palesano with the chamber who helped develop the chamber’s monthly Professional Women's Network Program tells what to expect in next week's conference-

 

              

 

 

The conference is for women in business, government, and education and will feature former OU women’s basketball coach Sherri Coale as the keynote speaker. Other speakers include USAO president Kayla Hale and Grady County 4H Educator Liz Taylor. Equilibrium will be held at USAO next Thursday, June 6th. Palesano said the program is nearly sold out and that the last day to register is tomorrow, June 1st. Participants can register on-line:

chickashachamber.com/pwnetwork

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $77.91 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $81.86.

Natural gas is $2.57 per million BTUs.

Gold is $2,364 and silver is $31.43.

 

Obituaries

Leroy Schein

A memorial service for Leroy Schein, 76, of Pocasset will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, June 3rd at the Pocasset United Methodist Church. He worked and retired from Western Farmers Electric Co-op. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Pocasset Lions Club.

Pat Fraser

Funeral service for Pat Fraser, 82, of Chickasha will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, June 7th at Ferguson Funeral Home. She was a homemaker and a caregiver.

 

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Thursday, May 30th

 

TIF District Review Committee Gets Update

The committee appointed to recommend - or not recommend - the creation of two Tax Increment Finance (TIF) Districts in the City of Chickasha got an update on the proposals in a special meeting at city hall yesterday. Officials are calling it ‘The Gateway to Chickasha Increment District’. Nate Ellis, representing the firm developing the plan, reminded the panel of the proposed sites. One is mainly downtown Chickasha and the other is along U.S. Highway 62 east of downtown. Ellis reminded the group on why such TIF districts are created-

 

              

 

 

He said the funds created by the districts would help pay for a portion of the more than $500 million in infrastructure improvements which have been identified city-wide. Ellis said the funds could be used to make improvements in areas outside of the TIF districts. He gave an estimate of the potential funding that might be created.

 

              

 

 

Those matching funds would come from the state from what’s knows as the Leverage Fund Act. The committee did not act on a proposed resolution to create the districts. The panel will meet again June 12th for that. The resolution would first go to the city's planning commission for consideration, then to the city council where two public hearings would be held. Those hearings could be held in as August with a final city council decision perhaps in a September meeting.

 

Former Anadarko School Employees Charged with Sex Crimes

Two former Anadarko school employees are facing sexual battery charges in connection with incidents that allegedly happened several years ago. 48-year old Jim Pahcoddy has been charged with eight counts and 52-year old Keith Knight is facing one such charge.  Both were taken into custody yesterday after arrest warrants were issued. Both men had their initial appearances on the charges in Caddo County District Court yesterday as well. On-line court records show that Pahcoddy was released on a $25,000 bond and Knight was released on a $10,000 bond. No information was available about the allegations as Judge David Stephens has sealed the documents associated with the case. Anadarko school officials say the incidents are alleged to have happened many years ago. A letter from Anadarko School Superintendent Jerry McCormick said school officials have cooperated with the investigation by the Anadarko Police Department. It also states that while the alleged incidents occurred some time ago they are taking the matter seriously and are committed to maintaining a safe and supportive environment going forward.

 

Grady County Street and Bridge Signs Stolen

Grady County authorities say a number of road and street signs have been stolen in recent days. Officials say more than 20 signs were taken between Chickasha and Minco along CS 2850 which runs north and south about two miles east of U.S. Highway 81. A post on the Grady County Sheriff's Office Facebook page says stop signs, weight limit signs on bridges, and street signs were reported stolen over the weekend. Officials ask anyone who may have information to call the District One barn at 405-381-3272. Anyone who may see signs dumped on the side of the road are asked to return them to the county barn.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $79.23 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $83.60.

Natural gas is $2.49 per million BTUs.

Gold is $2,354 and silver is $31.58.

 

Obituary

Shirley Campopiano

A graveside service for Shirley Campopiano, 76, of Chickasha was held yesterday (Wednesday) at Fairlawn Cemetery. She was a waitress and owned a residential cleaning service. Arrangements were with Sevier Funeral Home.

 

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Wednesday, May 29th

 

City of Chix Schedules Street Improvement Projects

A number of street and road improvements in the City of Chickasha will be getting underway next week. The upgrades include 29th Street from U.S. Highway 62 south to Grand Avenue; 16th Street from Country Club Road south to Pikes Peak Road; and North 4th Street from Frisco Avenue north to Tryon Avenue. Public Works Director Jim Crosby says the combined cost of the projects is about $650,000 and they are included in the city's 2023-24 fiscal year budget. Crosby said they'll be starting the 29th Street project next week. The estimated cost of that project is more than $360,000. Crosby says traffic on 29th Street will be narrowed to one lane and that there will be delays while that work is being done. He advises motorists to find an alternate route. Later in June city crews will work on the 16th Street project which has an estimated cost of $180,000. The North 4th Street project will follow with that cost at more than $100,000.

 

Chix School Officials Propose Changes for Next School Year

(Longer days starting in August, 4-day weeks next Spring)

Chickasha school officials are asking patrons what they think about some proposed changes for next school year. Among them are going to a four-day week the final two months of the year in April and May. Officials say in order to do that school days would be extended 15 minutes from the start of school in August through April, and scheduled snow days would be moved to the latter part of the year. There would be no changes to fall break, the week-long Thanksgiving break, or the break between Christmas and New Year. A post on the school district's Facebook page and website indicate the changes would help the district be more competitive in recruiting top teachers and support personnel, and provide opportutities for tutoring, enrichments, and academic growth for students on those days off next April and May.  The survey is posted on the district's website and the last day to respond is this Saturday, June 1st.

 

USAO Names New VP for Academics

A new vice president will soon be in place at USAO. Dr. David Evans will serve as the Vice President of Academic Affairs. A press release from the university indicates Evans will serve on the president's leadership team and oversee educational policy and academic programs.  Among his other duties will be building partnerships with public schools and community programs, private industry and businesses, and local and state governments. Evans comes to USAO after serving as interim president of American University in Bulgaria. He also spent time as president of Southern Vermont College, and dean of the Petree College of Arts and Sciences at Oklahoma City University.

 

Recent Rush Springs Grad Named Watermelon Fest Queen

The Rush Springs community has selected this year's royalty for the annual watermelon festival. Audrey Heath will reign over the festival coming up later this summer. Audrey just graduated from Rush Springs High School where she was a Valedictorian. She plans to attend the University of Central Oklahoma in Edmond and major in nursing. She'll spend the summer traveling the state to promote the festival with her first event this Saturday at Chickasha's Wings and Wheels Air Show and Car Show. The 79th annual Rush Springs Watermelon festival will be Saturday, Aug. 10th at Jeff Davis Park.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $79.83 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $84.22.

Natural gas is $2.59 per million BTUs.

Gold is $2,367 and silver is $32.21.

 

Obituaries

Nannie 'Nan' Kilby

Funeral service for Nan Kilby, 79, of Tuttle will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, May 30^th at Snow Hill Baptist Church in Tuttle. She worked at Cedar Springs Pharmacy for 35 years. Arrangements are with Sevier Funeral Home of Tuttle.

Lois Stinnett

A graveside service for Lois Stinnett, 81, of Chickasha and formerly of Cement will be held at 1:00 p.m. Friday, May 31st at the Cement Cemetery. She spent several years as a librarian at Rose State College. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.

 

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Tuesday, May 28th

 

Grady County Soldiers Who Died in Battle

Are Honored in Memorial Day Ceremony

Hundreds of thousands of men and women who died while serving in U.S. military branches since America was born were honored during Memorial Day ceremonies held nationwide yesterday. At the Grady County Veterans Memorial in Chickasha’s Shannon Springs Park, the names of the 158 county soldiers who died in times of war and conflict were read aloud. Marine Corps Veteran Gary McNatt, who is the commander of the local American Legion was the speaker.

 

              

 

 

The ceremony is one of two programs held at the memorial each year. There is also a program on Veterans Day.

 

One Dead, One Hospitalized Following Crash Near Carnegie

One person died and another was hospitalized following a single-vehicle crash near Carnegie last night. 48-year old Chastity Clark of Mt. View was air-lifted to an Oklahoma City hospital where she was pronounced dead of her injuries. A second passenger identified as 38-year old Justin Dirickson of Carnegie was also air-lifted to an OKC hospital where he was admitted in fair condition. The accident happened about 9:45 last night on State Highway 9 about a mile west of Carnegie in Kiowa County. The highway patrol said the accident is still under investigation and was trying to determine who was driving the vehicle.

 

Chix TIF District Committee to Consider

Resolution to Form Two Such Districts

The City of Chickasha’s Special Tax Increment Finance District Committee is expected to consider a recommendation to create two such districts when the panel meets tomorrow. The group will also discuss the proposed infrastructure projects within those districts and their related costs, and draft a Gateway to a Chickasha Economic Development Project plan. The panel meets in a special meeting scheduled for 1:30 tomorrow afternoon at city hall.

 

Energy and Metals

Crude oil on the NYMEX is $77.72 per barrel.

London-based Brent crude is $82.12.

Natural gas is $2.52 per million BTUs.

Gold is $2,345 and silver is $31.72.

 

Obituary

Scharleene Bowen

Funeral service for Scharleene Bowen, 94, of Chickasha will be held at 10:00 a.m. Friday, May 31st at McRay Funeral Home. She worked at Walmart for 25 years.

 

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Monday, May 27th

No news due to the Memorial Day holiday.

 

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