Science Museum Oklahoma Demonstrates Experiment From Future Adult Science Camp On The Porch
Science Museum Oklahoma is hosting an adult science camp called “Camp Cryptid” at the end of June. The event, part of SMO 21, focuses on cryptozoology—the study of mythical animals like Bigfoot and the Loch Ness monster. Participants must be 21 or older to join in themed experiments, games, and specialty cocktails. VIP tickets cost $35 with special perks while general admission is $25 for a night full of fun activities.
Source: Science Museum Oklahoma Shows Experiment From Upcoming Adult Science Camp On The Porch
FAA Reports Southwest Plane Flew Unusually Low Over Oklahoma City Suburb
A judge’s handling of Trump’s document case raises questions, while a heat dome keeps temperatures high in the eastern U.S. A student won’t face charges for fatally stabbing a burglary suspect. Meanwhile, the FAA investigates why a Southwest Airlines plane flew unusually low over an Oklahoma City suburb, causing alerts in the control tower as NBC News’ Tom Costello reports.
Source: FAA says Southwest plane flew unusually low over Oklahoma City suburb
Man Accused of Four Murders Captured in Arkansas
An Alabama man, Stacy Lee Drake, accused of killing four people in Oklahoma and Alabama, was captured Thursday morning in Arkansas. Police found him half a mile from a Motel 6 in Morrilton, hiding in the woods. Mayor Allen Lipsmeyer praised the police for capturing Drake without incident. The suspect is linked to recent murders including two people near Gans on Highway 64 and others in El Reno and Tuscaloosa.
Source: Man accused of four murders captured in Arkansas
How OKC’s Metro Tech Aviation Brings Opportunities and People to Oklahoma
Metro Tech is filling a need in Oklahoma’s aviation workforce by investing millions into its MacArthur campus. Richard Jordan Jr., an aviation student, moved to Oklahoma for this opportunity and loves working with his hands. The school spent $1.8 million on improvements, reflecting pride in their program. With the demand for 300 mechanics each year, students like Jordan are crucial. An open house will showcase the renovations Friday morning at Metro Tech’s facility near Will Rogers World Airport.
Source: How OKC’s Metro Tech Aviation Brings Opportunities And People To Oklahoma
Looking Ahead; The Center for the Future of Work strives to ready all Oklahomans for an evolving job market
The Center for the Future of Work at Oklahoma State University helps businesses and employees prepare for future workplace changes. Based in the Spears School of Business, it offers training, development courses, conferences, and customized programs to enhance skills necessary for evolving job environments. The center also provides consulting services and collaborates with various organizations, including tribal nations. Their efforts aim to improve economic growth and well-being throughout Oklahoma by equipping people with essential skills and knowledge needed in an ever-changing world.
Oklahoma City University Will Host High School Business Academy in Late July
The Summer Business Academy at Oklahoma City University runs from July 22-24 and blends leadership training with fun activities. High school students will explore careers in business while engaging in exciting field trips, such as visiting the OKC Thunder’s operations and trying out whitewater rafting. Held at the Meinders School of Business, this event offers hands-on learning experiences to boost participants’ leadership skills and career resumes. Registration ends July 12.
Source: Oklahoma City University will host high school business academy in late July
Green Li-ion’s Plant in Atoka, Oklahoma Is a Groundbreaking Achievement in the Battery Recycling Industry – Oklahoma Department of Commerce
Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt and other leaders celebrated the opening of Green Li-ion’s new facility in Atoka, Oklahoma. The plant uses cutting-edge technology to recycle batteries efficiently, reducing greenhouse gas emissions significantly. This innovation supports the demand for electric vehicles by producing high-quality materials domestically. It also creates local jobs and strengthens community ties while aligning with national goals for sustainable energy practices. Green Li-ion’s efforts showcase a leap towards a greener future.
Showcasing OKC as a Leader in Urban Planning – The Oklahoma 100
The Urban Land Institute held its Midsummer Retreat in Oklahoma City on June 12-13, spotlighting OKC’s urban planning leadership. This marked the first time the event was hosted there. Notable panelists included former Mayor Mick Cornett and developer Gary Brooks, who shared insights about the city’s growth and achievements. The retreat provided a platform for local leaders to discuss OKC’s evolving role in urban development with attendees from across ULI’s global network.
Source: Highlighting OKC as leader in urban planning – The Oklahoma 100
Green Country Habitat Finishes 19 New Houses in Tulsa
Green Country Habitat has finished building 19 homes on a single street, the largest such project in Tulsa. The “Buena Vida” neighborhood was built by Boomtown Development using bank financing and professional labor to speed up construction. Most homes are sold with a waiting list for more. These three and four-bedroom houses have two bathrooms, garages, and start at $190,000 each; they’re aimed at creating affordable workforce housing since median home prices in Tulsa hit $230,000.
Source: Green Country Habitat Completes 19 New Homes In Tulsa
“Promote Literacy”: Oklahoma City Housing Authority Hosts Summer Kickoff Book Giveaway
Over 10,000 books were given to the Oklahoma City Housing Authority (OCHA) through a partnership with the Book Rich Environments Initiative. On June 17, OCHA began distributing these books to children at one of its south OKC developments. Lacy McClain emphasized their commitment to literacy and education. The giveaway offered various genres and aimed to address low literacy rates in Oklahoma. Kimberly Boldt highlighted how vital book giveaways are for kids without library access.
Source: Promote literacy’: Oklahoma City Housing Authority hosts summer kickoff book giveaway
Oklahoma Housing Stability Program: A Great Chance for New Home Construction
Do you want to help expand housing options in Oklahoma? The Oklahoma Housing Finance Agency (OHFA) is hosting a webinar on June 19 at 2 p.m. for the Oklahoma Housing Stability Program, which provides 0% interest construction loans. This initiative supports building new homes and rental properties with $215 million in funding, marking the state’s largest-ever investment in housing infrastructure. Register on OHFA’s website to join this informative session and learn more.
Source: Oklahoma Housing Stability Program: A Golden Opportunity for New Housing Construction
Short School Year Hurting Oklahoma Students
New research indicates that shorter school years, especially in Oklahoma with four-day weeks and virtual days, significantly harm student learning over time. A report found that differences in school schedules contribute to educational inequality. Another study revealed negative effects on reading and math achievement due to the four-day week. Despite investments by taxpayers, many districts reduce instructional days via virtual learning, prompting legislative efforts to limit such practices for emergencies only.
Source: Short school year hurting Oklahoma students
Ryan Walters Asked About Federal Money, Student Testing
At a hearing in Oklahoma City, State Superintendent Ryan Walters faced questions from Rep. Melissa Provenzano about delayed federal funding notifications to schools. During the meeting with the Legislative Office of Fiscal Transparency, it was revealed that some grants expired or were not utilized properly. Walters defended his administration’s handling of grant applications and mentioned ongoing efforts to secure a $60 million literacy grant for students. Lawmakers expressed concerns over transparency and administrative issues within the Department of Education.
Source: Ryan Walters questioned about federal funds, student testing
Oklahoma Education Department’s PR Contract Raises Questions Under New Executive Order
The Governor’s Executive Order banning the use of tax dollars for self-promotion is raising concerns. An investigation revealed over $100k went to Vought Strategies, an out-of-state PR firm, to promote Superintendent Ryan Walters. The Department avoided competitive bidding by keeping salaries low but later sought bids; only Vought applied. While the order prohibits sole source contracts and self-promotion, Walters claims compliance. The Attorney General and Governor’s offices declined comments as OMES reviews the situation further.
Source: Oklahoma Education Department’s PR contract raises questions under new executive order
A Proposed Settlement on Mental Health Is a Win for All Oklahomans, But Kevin Stitt Can’t See That
The Pawnee County Jail is pictured on Saturday. Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond and lawyers for indigent, mentally ill people announced a significant settlement agreement to improve care for incarcerated defendants deemed incompetent to stand trial. The plan includes reducing wait times for mental health treatment, increasing beds and staffing, implementing a screening program, and timely competency evaluations. If the state doesn’t comply with these terms, it will face financial penalties.
Payment Issues as Oklahoma Transitions to SoonerSelect Medicaid
Why is Oklahoma’s new SoonerSelect program causing so much concern? Launched three months ago, the Oklahoma Health Care Authority claims it will enhance patient outcomes and save money by moving from fee-for-service to managed care. However, rural health providers report payment delays and claim rejections. State Sen. David Bullard criticizes the rollout for its lack of provider training. Though $230 million has been paid out in Medicaid claims since April 1st, many issues remain unresolved according to Bullard.
Source: Payment concerns as Oklahoma moves to SoonerSelect Medicaid
Oklahoma County Mothers at Risk: Sharp Increase in Blood Pressure During Pregnancy
Please subscribe to access premium content. If you already have a subscription, log in or sign up on our website to continue reading. We hope you enjoy our free articles! The weather forecast: partly cloudy with a high of 91°F and winds from the ESE at 10-15 mph; overnight lows around 73°F with SSE winds at 5-10 mph. Dr. Adriana Davis discusses rising chronic hypertension rates during pregnancy and stresses monitoring blood pressure for Oklahoma mothers’ health.
Source: Oklahoma County Moms at Risk: Sharp Rise in Blood Pressure During Pregnancy Uncovered. Dr. Explains
