Published: October 09, 2008 10:36 pm      

10-10 OKC watch

Ruptured gas line causes problems in Norman

NORMAN (AP) — A ruptured gas line in northwest Norman led to the lockdown of a nearby elementary school and evacuation of about eight homes.

No injuries were reported.

Firefighters and Oklahoma Natural Gas crews were called to the scene less than two miles west of Max Westheimer Airport shortly before 10 Thursday morning.

Students at Roosevelt Elementary School, less than half a mile east of the leak, were kept inside, and children in portable classrooms were taken to the main building.

Norman Deputy Fire Chief Jim Bailey says the line was ruptured by a bulldozer being used to clear land for a new housing development.

Governor says state finances strong

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — Gov. Brad Henry asked state Treasurer Scott Meacham Thursday to review Oklahoma’s finances to protect the state during an escalating financial meltdown.

Henry said Oklahoma’s economy, banks and revenue are strong compared to other states and that there is no cause for alarm.

“Our economy in this great state remains strong,” Henry said. “It’s very important that the people of our state remain calm.

Henry ordered the financial review the same day that the Dow Jones Industrial Index dropped more than 675 points to its lowest level in five years.

Meacham said the turmoil on Wall Street has affected state pension systems and pending bond issues.

Oklahoma retirement systems have recorded losses as the stock market has declined. But he said state pension systems remain strong and that state workers who receive a pension “have absolutely nothing to worry about.”