PF)--The cause of an explosion and a fire at the ONEOK natural gas plant in Medford on Saturday remains under investigation. The Oklahoma Highway Patrol was notified of the explosion at the liquids fractionation facility shortly before 2:30 Saturday afternoon, and shortly after multiple area fire crews responded to fight and contain the fire, which was brought under control and fully contained by Sunday afternoon. While no injuries or deaths were reported, the fire resulted in the evacuation of residents, homes and structures within a 2-mile radius of the plant, as well as multiple highway and road closures in the area. Medford and the surrounding area also experienced power outages for hours before power was restored. Officials said the evacuation area was reduced to a one-mile radius on Sunday.
--00-- 11 July 22 8a
DG)--An Enid man is facing a charge of feloniously pointing a firearm after allegedly brandishing a gun at people from a silver pickup in the parking lot of a local restaurant. 65 year-old Arthur Kliewer was charged with the single felony count on Thursday, and his bond was set in the amount of $250,000. Enid Police responded on July 1 to the local Mexican restaurant in reference to a weapons-in-progress. Dispatch said a reportedly “drunk” man inside a silver truck had presented and pointed a firearm at other patrons of the restaurant while in the parking lot. After talking to a number of witnesses at the restaurant, officers went to the residence where the truck was registered and saw it parked in the driveway. After speaking to Kliewer and his wife, officers arrested him, as well as recovered a pistol and other evidence from the truck.
--00-- 11 July 22 8a
HA)--A Heat Advisory has been issued for this afternoon and this evening for all of northcentral Oklahoma. Daytime highs are expected to be near 100, with the Heat Index in the triple digits. The hot temperatures and high humidity can result in heat illnesses. Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, stay in an air-conditioned environment if possible. If you must be outdoors, avoid the hottest parts of the day and be sure to take plenty of breaks. Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances. The excessive afternoon heat across the area is expected each afternoon through the upcoming weekend.
--00-- 11 July 22 7a
PP)--YWCA Enid is selling tickets and seeking auction items for its annual luncheon and purse auction set for next month. Purses with Purpose, YWCA’s major fundraiser, will be 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Thursday July 14 at Stride Bank Center. Courtney Strzinek, executive director of YWCA, said the funds raised go toward maintaining YWCA’s programs and services for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking. Last year’s event raised around $42,000. During the event YWCA Enid will recognize its Volunteer of the Year and honor the 2022 Woman of the Year at the event. Individual tickets for Purses with Purpose are $60, and tables of eight are $500. Strzinek said an extremely limited number of tickets, tables and event sponsorships are available, and anybody interested in purchasing tickets, or needing more information should contact the YWCA by calling (580) 234-7581 or by emailing cstrzinek@ywcaenid.com.
--00--
