A Recap Of 2008's Oklahoma Headlines

By Jennifer Pierce, NEWS 9

OKLAHOMA CITY -- As 2008 comes to a close, we reflect on the most memorable Oklahoma stories that made the headlines.

From gas prices and the economy, to politics and sports, the past 12 months were definitely a year of ups and downs.

The year started off with skyrocketing gas prices, reaching historic heights by mid-year as Oklahoma drivers shelled out nearly $4 a gallon, but it wasn't all bad for Oklahoma's energy giants Devon and Chesapeake.

"Oklahoma City is a great place to do business," said Larry Nichols of Devon Energy.

Devon proved the sky is limit by announcing plans to build a 54-story building, which would be Oklahoma City's tallest skyscraper.

"Oklahoma City Thunder, Oklahoma City and Oklahoma welcome to the NBA," said David Stern of the NBA.

Thunder rolled into town as Oklahoma City officially became part of the NBA family, but parts of the state were heartbroken over a murder mystery.

The year brought heartache for the family and friends of two Weleetka girls. Their murders are still unsolved.

A disaster in the form of twisters destroyed a pig farm and the northeast Oklahoma town of Picher, claiming six lives.

Also in Northeast Oklahoma, an E-coli outbreak sickened hundreds and killed one person, while political storms hovered over the state capital.

"I honestly think it's the biggest threat that our nation has," said Representative Sally Kern (R-District 84) in regards to homosexuals in America.

State Representative Sally Kern made the national spotlight with her anti-gay remarks posted on YouTube. Kern compared the gay lifestyle to terrorism.

For the first time in state political history, the Republicans gained control of both house of the Oklahoma legislature. It is a story that will continue to develop as the state heads into the New Year.

The year of 2008 was also a time of celebration, friends and family welcomed home the Oklahoma National Guard's 45th Infantry Brigade.

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