Animated Mania Sweeps OKC Theaters in June
Why does this summer’s movie lineup seem lackluster? Instead of thrilling blockbusters, theaters are filled with perplexing remakes and confusing horror flicks. However, local cinemas in Oklahoma City promise to bring excitement with a variety of animated films. One standout is indie animator Don Hertzfeldt’s double feature at Rodeo Cinema. Additionally, Pixar fans can look forward to “Inside Out 2,” while the iconic “South Park” film celebrates its 25th anniversary. For showtimes and more information, visit rodeocinema.org or okcmoa.com.
Source: Animated mania sweeping OKC theaters in June
Art in the Park: Tulsa Event Honors Community, Highlights Vendors and More
Tulsa County Parks and Recreation will host “Art in the Park” on Friday, May 31 at Buddy LaFortune Community Center. This event celebrates local teachers, foster families, and community mentors but is open to everyone. Attendees can enjoy live music, art vendors, and giveaways from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Martha Highland and artist F. Thompson will discuss this celebration on the Arca Continental Coca-Cola Southwest Beverages Porch.
Source: Art In The Park: Tulsa Event Honors Community Members, Highlights Local Vendors And More
Urgent Call: Rising PTSD Rates in US Colleges
Dr. Shelandra Bell highlights the growing mental health crisis of PTSD among US college students, emphasizing its impact on academic performance and overall quality of life. Dr. Puja Uppal stresses that early intervention is crucial for those struggling with PTSD to prevent long-term consequences like depression and substance abuse. Oklahoma County has seen a significant rise in diagnosed PTSD cases from 3.4% in 2017-2018 to 7.5% in 2021-2022, highlighting the need for accessible mental health resources for students to address this issue effectively.
Source: Oklahoma County Health News: Urgent Call to Address Rising PTSD Rates in US Colleges
Nearly 70 New Moms Graduate From Tulsa Health Program
Nearly 70 women and their toddlers graduated from the Tulsa Health Department’s “Children First” program on Friday. This initiative helps low-income families by providing a nurse to guide them from pregnancy through the first two years of motherhood, including home visits and resources. Brooke Ulibarri, one of the moms, shared how her nurse’s support helped her overcome addiction and build a stable life for herself and her daughter.
Source: Nearly 70 New Moms Graduate From Tulsa Health Department Program
Perfect Pairing: Stemcell Science Shop Relocates to Discovery Lab
Isn’t it cool how businesses grow? Terry Mudge started Stemcell Science Shop in 2016 to share his love for science. The shop outgrew its old places and now fits perfectly at Discovery Lab. Mudge wanted a store with real science stuff, not plastic kits. Discovery Lab’s Executive Director saw the chance to make the museum’s retail space better together. Now, visitors enjoy both shopping and learning!
Source: Perfect pairing: Stemcell Science Shop relocates to Discovery Lab Lifestyle
Thayer Appointed to Oklahoma DEQ Air Quality Council
Dr. Michael Thayer, director of the Professional Science Master’s in Environmental Management program at OSU-Tulsa, was appointed by Gov. Kevin Stitt to join the Oklahoma DEQ’s Air Quality Advisory Council. This week, the state senate confirmed his position where he will review air quality issues and provide expertise with other council members. Dr. Thayer brings extensive experience from NOV and has been teaching at OSU since 2017.
Source: Thayer appointed to Oklahoma DEQ Air Quality Advisory Council State University
Unraveling Baby Talk: Scientists Find Patterns in Infant Sounds
Research shows babies make unique noises like squeals and growls in patterns during their first year, which helps them learn to speak. Teams from America and Austria studied 130 English-learning infants using home recordings. They found that 40% of these sounds clustered significantly in the babies’ vocalizations. This suggests that babies practice making different noises actively, aiding language development according to Dr. HyunJoo Yoo from the University of Alabama.
Source: Unraveling baby talk: Scientists uncover patterns in infant sounds citynewsokc.com
Experts Discuss OKC Entertainment, Venue Growth
Oklahoma City is buzzing with development projects, especially in entertainment. Experts believe these will drive economic and population growth. The Paycom Center recently hosted Drake for a historic two-night event, showing the city’s potential as an entertainment hub. Mayor David Holt emphasized that making OKC attractive has always been the goal since MAPS began 30 years ago. With new venues and renovations, officials are excited about hosting more big-name artists soon.
Source: A Major Contributor To Our Growth’: Experts Discuss Oklahoma City Entertainment, Venue Growth
Donny Osmond Is Coming to Tulsa! Here’s What to Expect This August
Do you love concerts? Donny Osmond is bringing his “Direct from Vegas Tour” to Tulsa Theater on August 3rd! Get your tickets at www.Donny.com. The event promises an unforgettable experience with all the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas. Join us for a night filled with music, fun, and excitement! Don’t miss out on this incredible show featuring Donny Osmond himself. Grab your seats now!
Source: Donny Osmond is coming to Tulsa! Donny shares what you can expect this August
Commemorative Concert: Barron Ryan to Release New Album at Cain’s on June 27
Barron Ryan, a Tulsa native, is set to release his new album “There Arises Light in the Darkness” with a concert at Cain’s Ballroom on June 27. This album features three movements inspired by Psalm 88 and the Tulsa Race Massacre of 1921. Five years ago, Chamber Music Tulsa commissioned Ryan to commemorate the centennial of this tragic event. The concert will also feature violinist Christopher Whitley and cellist Alex Cox.
Source: Commemorative concert: Barron Ryan to release new album with Cain’s concert on June 27
The Black Keys Cancel Tulsa Tour Kickoff
What happened in New York City recently? The Black Keys played at the Love Rocks NYC concert to benefit God’s Love We Deliver. However, their world tour that was supposed to begin in Tulsa has been canceled, and refunds will be issued within 14-21 days. In other news, Verdigris Valley Electric restored power after a tornado hit Rogers County. Plus, Tulsa police arrested a man for stealing and pulling a gun on an employee.
Source: Rock duo “The Black Keys” cancel tour that was set to kick off in Tulsa News
Hinder, Uncle Kracker in 2024 Oklahoma State Fair Concert Lineup
The 2024 Oklahoma State Fair concert lineup has been announced, featuring Hinder, Jefferson Starship, and Uncle Kracker as headliners. The concerts will take place nightly at the Chickasaw Country Entertainment Stage during the fair from September 12-22. Admission to all shows is included with an outside gate ticket, and seating is first-come, first-served. Enjoy a variety of musical acts throughout this exciting ten-day event!
Source: Hinder, Uncle Kracker in 2024 Oklahoma State Fair concert lineup
Pride and Power Drive June Concerts Across the OKC Metro
What does June mean in Oklahoma? The month rolls in with heat and humidity, bringing long lake days, night markets, and Pride events. Summer concert season kicks off as venues fill their schedules with indie acts enjoying the great weather. Factory Obscura leads the way for Pride celebrations on June 1st with unique artist collaborations. Resonant Head transforms grief into art on June 7th to support local LGBTQ+ groups.
Source: Pride and power drive June concerts across the OKC metro
Red Door Grille: Tulsa Family Revives Cajun-Southern Favorites
Red Door Grille, located in KingsPointe Village, brings a funky and cozy vibe while serving Cajun-Southern cuisine. Owned by Patrick McMurchy and family, the restaurant revives beloved dishes from the old Louisiane restaurant like blackened redfish with seafood cream sauce and gumbo. The menu includes various options such as brisket sandwiches and entrée salads. Head chef Chris Parks contributes popular desserts like blackberry bread pudding. Red Door Grille aims to make guests feel at home with its warm atmosphere and delicious food.
Tulsa Woos IKEA with Unique Pop-Up Restaurant
What’s happening in Tulsa’s food scene? Et al., a group of chefs, will host Tulsmå, an IKEA-inspired pop-up restaurant from June 13-16. The menu includes Swedish meatballs and other Nordic dishes. Meanwhile, Toast on Route 66 has added dinner hours with new offerings like Shrimp Sambuca Pasta and rib-eye steak. Additionally, Restaurant Basque will feature a special Italian wine-paired dinner on June 6. Carrabba’s launched its Summer Specials menu with seasonally inspired dishes and cocktails.
Source: Tulsa’s et al. woos IKEA with unique pop-up restaurant
Restaurants That Could Expand Across Oklahoma
With recovery underway post-pandemic, despite the economic situation, there’s encouraging news for Oklahoma. Several restaurants are considering expanding into the Sooner State soon. Personally, I’m excited about more pizza options since my local Cici’s Pizza closed in 2020; I miss their $5 lunch deal. Mazzio’s is making a comeback too with new locations popping up across Northern and Northeastern Oklahoma, often at gas stations but still serving delicious pizza.
Source: Restaurants That Could Soon Expand Into and Across Oklahoma
Oklahoma Task Force to Consider OKC, Tulsa Business Courts
The Oklahoma Senate approved a bill to create business courts in Tulsa and Oklahoma City, passing it with a 37-6 vote. The bill awaits the House’s decision. Governor Kevin Stitt pushed for these courts during budget talks, promising not to veto the budget if they were created. An 11-member task force will study their implementation, reporting back by January 2026. Some lawmakers support this move while others have concerns.
Source: OKC, Tulsa business courts to be considered by Oklahoma task force
Tulsa Ports Seek More Business for Region
Have you ever thought about traveling the world from Tulsa by boat? The Port of Catoosa allows that, connecting to international waters via the Arkansas and Mississippi rivers. Dedicated in 1971, it supports vast trade networks. Each barge can hold tons of cargo, cutting shipping costs significantly compared to trucks. Officials now eye the future at the Port of Inola, which boasts 2000 acres for new businesses and advanced manufacturing projects.
Source: Tulsa Ports looking to bring more business to region
Business Viewpoint: ‘It ‘s All About the Mother Road’
Excited about the Route 66 centennial? Tulsa, known as the “Capital of Route 66,” will be buzzing with activities and events. The iconic highway’s anniversary in 2026 promises to draw crowds from everywhere, celebrating its neon signs, space cowboy statue, and rich history. With efforts like the Tulsa Route 66 Commission’s grants rejuvenating businesses, visitors can expect a nostalgic yet fresh experience. Events like AAA Road Fest further boost excitement with classic cars and interactive exhibits.
Source: Business viewpoint: ‘It’s all about the Mother Road’
