Despite Efforts, New World Screwworm Continues Northward

Dr. Burke Healey, USDA’s APHIS Executive Director for Veterinary Services’ Strategy and Policy division, recently spoke about the New World screwworm situation in southern Mexico.

EIA reports U.S. coal production declined over past 2 decades

WASHINGTON – The same day President Trump signed an executive order to increase U.S. coal production, the federal government issued a report from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) showing America’s coal production had tumbled over the past two decades.

Oklahoma sees heavy rains over weekend

From staff reports Heavy rains were received across much of the state over the Easter weekend, with some areas reporting damaging winds, hail, and tornadoes, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service. Rainfall totals in Oklahoma averaged 2.19 inches.

Rig Report: National oil, gas rig numbers show increase

From staff reports The nation saw a slight gain in the number of active oil and gas rigs in the past week while numbers in Oklahoma were steady, according to the latest Baker Hughes rig count.

City administration, Lawton firefighters union clash about overtime

A statement about overtime expenses apparently heightened the squabble between the City of Lawton and municipal firefighters that has persisted for at least two months over staffing levels and wages. As a consequence, their disagreement was dialed up a notch on April 16.

Court hearing May 20 for Lawton ex-councilman charged with rape

LAWTON – A preliminary hearing is scheduled on May 20 for former Lawton City Councilman Jay Ron Burk, who is charged with first-degree rape of an unconscious man and exhibiting/distributing obscene material involving that individual.

County hires auditor to check jail’s PREA compliance

LAWTON – The Comanche County Facilities Authority has hired an auditor to check the Comanche County Detention Center’s compliance with a federal law aimed at eliminating sexual assaults and misconduct in correctional facilities.