Oklahoma City Safe For Small Business, Firefighter Challenge Returns To Oklahoma City, Local Filmmakers Gear Up For deadCenter: This Week’s Top News Stories

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Oklahoma City Named One of the Safest Places to Start a Small Business - The Oklahoma 100

Oklahoma City Named One of the Safest Places to Start a Small Business – The Oklahoma 100

What makes Oklahoma City a great place for starting a small business? Forbes Advisor ranks it as the second least risky city in the U.S. because of lower costs for supplies and equipment, plus reduced cybercrime and retail crime rates. The city’s economic stability is boosted by its above-average GDP growth and positive population trends, making it an ideal environment for new businesses to flourish.

Source: Oklahoma City ranked one of the least risky places to start a small business – The Oklahoma 100

Firefighter Challenge Classic Comes Back to Oklahoma City

Firefighter Challenge Classic Comes Back to Oklahoma City

OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) – The Southwest Regional Firefighter Challenge Classic, known as the toughest two minutes in sports, is back this week. Captain Jacqueline Belluomini shared that it began as a firefighter candidacy test and evolved into a global contest. Competitors wear heavy gear, climb stairs with 45-pound packs, pull weights, use mallets to move beams, drag hoses weighing up to 250 pounds, and finish by rescuing “Rescue Randy.”

Source: Firefighter Challenge Classic returns to Oklahoma City

Local Filmmakers Get Ready for 24th deadCenter Film Festival in Oklahoma City

Local Filmmakers Get Ready for 24th deadCenter Film Festival in Oklahoma City

Are you ready for the 24th deadCenter Film Festival in Oklahoma City from June 6 to June 9, 2024? It’s the state’s biggest film festival. Last year, “Fancy Dance” won Best Narrative Film. This time, Tulsa filmmaker Cheyenne Scarborough will debut her short film “Vivian.” Cheyenne was a Set Dresser on “Fancy Dance,” but now she’s taking center stage as a writer and director. Don’t miss out!

Source: Local Filmmakers Prepare For 24th deadCenter Film Festival In Oklahoma City

May: Oklahoma City Home Prices Rise, Days on Market Increase & Insights

May: Oklahoma City Home Prices Rise, Days on Market Increase & Insights

In May, Oklahoma City saw a moderate rise in home prices with a median listing price of $292,000. The number of listings dropped by 7%, and homes are selling faster than last year. Prices per square foot increased by 0.9% compared to the previous month but lagged behind the national increase of 1.3%. With 1,206 homes for sale and an average market time of 38 days, OKC’s trends contrast with national figures.

Source: May Oklahoma City Home Prices Up, Days on Market Growing & Insights

Oklahoma City Housing Market 2024: Trends and Predictions

Oklahoma City Housing Market 2024: Trends and Predictions

What makes the Oklahoma City housing market so attractive for investors? Unlike high-stakes markets, it offers stability and reliability with steady returns. For instance, in March 2024, closed transactions increased to 1991 from February’s 1592. Even though there was a slight dip compared to March 2023’s 2047, the total dollar volume rose significantly to $583 million. Prices showed growth as well: average prices went up to $293k while median prices stayed at $250k. Listings expanded too, giving buyers more choices. This balanced environment benefits both buyers and sellers alike.

Source: Oklahoma City Housing Market 2024: Trends and Forecast

Parks Jones Realty: Oklahoma Has Highest Homeowners Insurance Cost in Country

Parks Jones Realty: Oklahoma Has Highest Homeowners Insurance Cost in Country

In Lawton, Oklahoma, Parks Jones Realtors reported 348 homes listed for sale at an average price of just over $238,000. Over the past year, 1,562 homes sold with an average price around $188,000—an increase of nearly $12,000 from the previous year. Additionally, Oklahoma has the highest homeowners insurance cost in the country; residents with excellent credit pay about $3,941 annually.

Source: Parks Jones Realty: Oklahoma has highest homeowners insurance cost in country

Oklahoma City Council Removes Height Restrictions That Would Have Limited Nation

Oklahoma City Council Removes Height Restrictions That Would Have Limited Nation’s Tallest Building

What if the tallest building in the United States was in Oklahoma City? The Oklahoma City Council lifted height restrictions for a Bricktown development, sparking excitement from Ward 7 Councilwoman Nikki Nice and developers. They plan to build America’s tallest skyscraper at 1,907 feet after three smaller towers. While some residents worry it might be an eyesore, many believe it will boost tourism and help grow the city’s economy.

Source: Oklahoma City Council clears height restrictions that would have hampered nation’s tallest building

ACE Thermal Systems Grows Operations in Seminole, Oklahoma, Creating Jobs and Boosting Economic Growth - Oklahoma Department of Commerce

ACE Thermal Systems Grows Operations in Seminole, Oklahoma, Creating Jobs and Boosting Economic Growth – Oklahoma Department of Commerce

ACE Thermal Systems, formerly Enviro Systems Inc., is expanding in Oklahoma after winning the Quality Jobs contract from the state’s Department of Commerce. This milestone highlights their dedication to job creation and economic growth. Over five years, they aim to create over 60 jobs at their Seminole facility, which already employs 165 people. President Sameer Madan expressed pride in contributing to the local economy and supporting community development initiatives through this expansion.

Source: ACE Thermal Systems Expands Operations in Seminole, Oklahoma, Creating Jobs and Stimulating Economic Growth – Oklahoma Department of Commerce

‘You Don’t Realize How Bad It Is’: Small Business Administration Tours Sulphur, Offering Thousands to Victims

After a tornado devastated Sulphur, Oklahoma in April, the Small Business Administration is assessing damage and aiding recovery efforts. The Mix Mercantile, a local boutique hit hard by the storm, plans to rebuild with SBA support. Co-owner Christy Morris has started working with contractors and architects on reconstruction. SBA Administrator Isabel Casillas Guzman emphasized the importance of small businesses for community recovery and announced various disaster loans available until 2025.

Source: ‘You don’t realize how bad it is’: Small Business Administration tours Sulphur, offering $1000s to victims

Applications Now Open for Fall 2024 Activate Oklahoma Rural Development Cohort

Applications Now Open for Fall 2024 Activate Oklahoma Rural Development Cohort

Do you want to help rural Oklahoma businesses grow? The Activate Oklahoma cohort, part of the Oklahoma Farm Bureau’s program, offers training and resources for innovative entrepreneurs. Starting in September, participants can attend boot camps that provide business growth tools. They also get a chance to pitch their ideas for equity investment opportunities. Applications are open until August 2nd at okfarmbureau.org/AcceleratorApp.

Source: Applications now open for fall 2024 Activate Oklahoma rural development cohort

Bill Aims to Establish Business Courts in Oklahomaswoknews.com

Bill Aims to Establish Business Courts in Oklahomaswoknews.com

Sun and clouds mix with a high of 97F and SSE winds at 15-25 mph. Tonight will be generally clear with a low of 76F and S winds at the same speed. Senate President Pro Tem Greg Treat spoke on Feb. 8 during the Oklahoma Press Association Legislative Summit. The Oklahoma Senate passed a bill to create business courts in Tulsa and Oklahoma City, awaiting House consideration as lawmakers try to wrap up their work this week.

Source: Bill seeks to create business courts in Oklahoma swoknews.com

Oklahoma Will Stop Following World Health Organization Rules Under New Law

Oklahoma Will Stop Following World Health Organization Rules Under New Law

On June 6, 2024, Oklahoma’s Gov. Kevin Stitt signed a new law stopping the state from enforcing any mandates or guidelines from the World Health Organization, United Nations, and World Economic Forum. This includes rules about masks, vaccines, medical testing, and collecting information on residents. Stay informed with breaking news and updates delivered straight to your inbox by News on 6!

Source: Oklahoma Will No Longer Enforce World Health Organization Mandates Under New Law

Mental Health Assistance Now Available at 12 MedWise Urgent Care Clinics

Mental Health Assistance Now Available at 12 MedWise Urgent Care Clinics

MedWise Urgent Care and Family and Children’s Services have teamed up to make mental health services more accessible in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Patients can now visit any of the 12 MedWise clinics to connect with a mental health professional through COPES Crisis Call Center support, which aids over 14,000 people annually. Dr. Jon Hamilton emphasizes that this partnership addresses both physical and mental health needs efficiently.

Source: Mental health help now offered at 12 MedWise Urgent Care clinics

Community Health Connection Receives $100K Grant to Improve Medical Outcomes News

Community Health Connection Receives $100K Grant to Improve Medical Outcomes News

Community Health Connection received a $100,000 grant to improve medical outcomes in their communities. Aflac teamed up with them to provide accessible healthcare, especially for adolescents and homeless youth in Tulsa. CEO Kate Neary expressed gratitude for the unexpected gift that will help cover costs for uninsured patients and support new clinic services starting June 18th.

Source: Community Health Connection gets $100K grant to improve medical outcomes News

Building at Oklahoma City Hospital Evacuated Because of Fire

Building at Oklahoma City Hospital Evacuated Because of Fire

Firefighters helped evacuate a building at SSM Health St. Anthony Hospital in Oklahoma City on Thursday morning due to a fire that likely started in the kitchen on the first floor. There was heavy smoke coming from the roof’s exhaust, and firefighters searched each floor. The incident occurred around 9:13 am, as reported by authorities.

Source: Building At Oklahoma City Hospital Evacuated Due To Fire

Mad Science Program Inspires Creative Learning in STEM Education

Mad Science Program Inspires Creative Learning in STEM Education

Mad Science of Central Oklahoma is sparking interest in STEM among young students with interactive, hands-on activities. Each week, KOCO 5 highlights STEM programs and educators across the state. Recently, Meteorologist Sabrina Bates discussed with Chief Mad Scientist Derick Brock how their program turns kids into budding scientists. For more details, watch the full story on KOCO 5 or download their app for updates and stories straight to your inbox.

Source: Mad Science program sparks imaginative learning in STEM education

XR Extreme Reach Recognized by Oklahoma Film Commission as a Qualified State Vendor

XR Extreme Reach Recognized by Oklahoma Film Commission as a Qualified State Vendor

XR Extreme Reach, a global tech company supporting the creative economy, has become an official state vendor in Oklahoma. This allows their film and TV clients to get payroll handling fees back through Oklahoma’s incentive program. XR offers professional services for compliance, benefits, and market regulations. The Oklahoma Film + Music Office helps filmmakers connect with local talent and resources. XR’s presence supports job creation and investment in the state’s growing film industry.

Source: XR Extreme Reach Recognized by Oklahoma Film Commission as a Qualified State Vendor

Norman Leaders to Reveal Plans for New Entertainment District at Evans Hall

Norman Leaders to Reveal Plans for New Entertainment District at Evans Hall

Norman city leaders have announced plans for a new entertainment district at Evans Hall. This project, supported by the University of Oklahoma and private investors, aims to create jobs and boost the local economy without increasing taxes. The development will include venues, restaurants, shops, offices, housing, and amenities to make Norman a top regional destination. Public funds won’t be used from general funds or raise taxes.

Source: Norman leaders to unveil plans for new entertainment district at Evans Hall

Win Concert Tickets to See Murder by Death in Oklahoma City

Win Concert Tickets to See Murder by Death in Oklahoma City

Enter to win tickets to see Murder By Death on June 13, 2024, at Beer City Music Hall in Oklahoma City. The contest ends Monday, June 10 at noon. You can also purchase tickets for the show here.

Source: Win concert tickets to see Murder By Death in Oklahoma City

SB1671 Coalition Reveals New Technology Developed for Holocaust Studies in Oklahoma Schools

SB1671 Coalition Reveals New Technology Developed for Holocaust Studies in Oklahoma Schools

The SB1671 Oklahoma Holocaust Legislation Coalition hosted an event at Tulsa City County Library to introduce a new Augmented Reality (AR) technology for Holocaust studies in Oklahoma public schools. Developed with Solaos, Inc., the educational app offers students interactive learning experiences. A 91-year-old Holocaust survivor, Eva K. Unterman, shares her story as part of this project aimed at enhancing history education through immersive tech. The app will be available next fall.

Source: SB1671 Coalition unveils new tech created for Holocaust studies in Oklahoma schools

Oklahoma City Plans Mega Site to Attract Big Business, Looks to Annex Rural Land

Oklahoma City Plans Mega Site to Attract Big Business, Looks to Annex Rural Land

Big companies are hesitant to move to Oklahoma City due to a lack of “mega sites.” To attract these employers, the City’s trust proposes acquiring 320 acres near Mustang. General Manager Kevin Tsoodle emphasizes job creation and city growth. Amanda Carpenter presented this plan to the Council, noting that annexing this flat land would help create large sites needed by big manufacturers. The City Council will vote on June 18th.

Source: Oklahoma City eyes mega site to lure big business, seeks annexation of rural land

Claremore Business Collecting Donations for Community

Claremore Business Collecting Donations for Community

Claremore, Oklahoma is partly cloudy with a slight chance of thunderstorms later and south winds at 5-10 mph. Claremore business 6:19 Nutrition is collecting donations for those affected by severe weather; items can be dropped off between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. at 983 W. Will Rogers in the Nemar Center. For storm recovery updates, check the City of Claremore’s latest information online

Source: Claremore business taking donations for community

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