Scorching Summer: How Triple-Digit Heatwaves are Withering Oklahoma’s Leaves
Oklahomans and trees are suffering from triple-digit heat. Many trees’ leaves have turned brown and fallen off due to the harsh weather. KOCO 5 meteorologist Sabrina Bates asked Oklahoma Forestry Services why this happened.
Oklahoma Forestry Services blames high heat for leaf browning and dropping. The lack of soil moisture and extreme temperatures stress the trees, forcing them to survive. Trees lose their leaves to preserve energy and water, since they can no longer photosynthesise.
Heat damage to trees is both cosmetic and health-threatening. Trees provide shade, reduce air pollution, and balance the ecology. To assist trees survive the summer heat, Oklahoma Forestry Services recommends watering them frequently.
Source: Triple-digit heat in Oklahoma has negative impact on leaves
Oklahoma Lawmaker Demands Action: Impeachment Process Urged Against Ryan Walters
Democratic Representative Mickey Dollens wants legislative leaders to impeach State Superintendent Ryan Walters. Dollens says there must be no irreparable damage from Walters’ weaponization of his position. The House would start impeachment procedures, with the Senate as the jury.
The move for impeachment stems from rising concerns regarding Walters’ State Superintendent activities. Dollens thinks Walters is utilizing his position for his personal gain. The legislator says such conduct is reprehensible and requires quick response.
The Senate Pro Tempore Greg Treat’s communications director said they can’t comment until impeachment articles are before the Senate. If Dollens’ impeachment demand finds momentum, Walters may face additional action.
Source: Oklahoma Lawmaker Calls On Legislature To Begin Impeachment Process Against Ryan Walters
Oklahoma City Takes Action: Introducing Water Service Line Inspections for a Safer Future
A pilot project by the Oklahoma City Utility Department will check and classify several public and private water supply lines in the metro region. This research meets the EPA’s mandate that all water utilities catalog service lines by material type. The study customers will get a postcard advising them of the city’s inspection contractor’s upcoming visit. Beginning in June, the city’s website will provide the inspection findings by October 16, 2024. The city assures consumers that lead or galvanized lines do not affect drinking water quality, which passes federal and state regulations. The city is also reducing lead and galvanized line leaching into drinking water.
The Oklahoma City Utility Department pilot project will evaluate and catalog several metro area public and private water supply lines. This program follows the Environmental Protection Agency’s requirement that all water utilities catalog service lines by material type. Customers in the study will get a postcard notifying them that the city’s inspection contractor will be inspecting nearby. The city started inspections in June and will post the findings online by October 16, 2024. The city assures consumers that lead or galvanized lines do not affect drinking water quality, which meets federal and state regulations. Additionally, the city is taking steps to reduce lead and galvanized line leaking into drinking water.
The Oklahoma City Utility Department is piloting the inspection and documentation of thousands of public and private water supply lines. This research meets the Environmental Protection Agency’s requirement that all water utilities catalog service lines by material type. Customers in this research will get a postcard notifying them that the city’s inspection contractor would shortly be there. The city started inspections in June and will post the findings on their website by October 16, 2024. The city assures consumers that lead or galvanized lines do not affect drinking water quality, which passes federal and state regulations. The city is also reducing lead material.
Source: Oklahoma City Launches Inspections For Water Service Line Inventory
The Unsettling Case of the Oklahoma Girl Disappearance: Sheriff Claims Killer’s Involvement with 100% Certainty
Oklahoma deputies searched Dennis Rader’s Park City, Kansas, home on Tuesday. An Osage County tip about Cynthia Kinney’s 1976 disappearance triggered the search. Osage County Sheriff Eddie Virden believed Rader was responsible for Kinney’s disappearance. Officials found a shredded, old pantyhose while searching. Two prior searches in April discovered goods on the premises.
Cynthia Kinney disappeared in Pawhuska, Oklahoma, on June 23, 1976. The National Missing and Unidentified Persons System reported seeing her leave the Osage Laundromat and enter a faded beige Plymouth with two ladies. The new Rader property search has revealed further evidence linking him to Kinney’s disappearance. Sheriff Virden is “100% certain” Rader is involved.
Besides the Kinney case, investigators are investigating Shawna Beth Garber’s December 1990 death in McDonald County, Missouri. Raped, strangled, and bound, her autopsy showed. Only in 2021 were Garber’s remains identified. In this scenario, Rader’s past property search may be relevant. Authorities are investigating these horrible acts to find the truth.
Source: Sheriff ‘100% certain’ killer involved in Oklahoma girl disappearance
Revamping the Oklahoma County Detention Center: Exciting Upgrades in Progress
Renovations are underway at the Oklahoma County Detention Center to satisfy Oklahoma State Department of Health requirements. The correctional crew has spent five days scrubbing cell walls to address health concerns. The refurbishment involves replacing lights with LED bulbs and sealing concrete gaps to prevent offenders from transferring objects between cells and bed bugs from hiding. The prison and health department settled in June for $175,000 to put the facility into compliance. Due to preparations for a new prison, certain upgrades are essential.
The Oklahoma County Detention Center’s cells will be bright and graffiti-free after repairs. The health agency has regularly fined the facility for lighting issues, and the new LED lamps will assist. Improved illumination will also help monitor convicts. Sheriff Garner, who is managing the rehabilitation project, said these changes are important since a new prison may take years to build. The idea is to make convicts and employees safer and more comfortable.
The health department provided $175,000 to the Oklahoma County Detention Center to meet state criteria. The repair project will clean cell walls, replace lighting with LED fixtures, and cover concrete holes using this financing. These modifications target health issues and improve correctional conditions. Sheriff Garner was pleased with the development and would feel more comfortable bringing a family member to this prison than others. Despite the need for a new prison, these repairs are required for inmate and staff safety.
Source: Upgrades Underway At The Oklahoma County Detention Center
Man Linked to Oklahoma Police Chase Now Suspected in Murders Across Ohio and Tennessee
The Ohio and Tennessee authorities are charging a Texas man with kidnapping and murdering a woman and leading police on a pursuit over state borders. Lance Miller, detained by the Oklahoma Highway Patrol last month, is currently in Tennessee prison. Miller kidnapped and killed 36-year-old Kaitlyn Lynch before traveling to Tennessee, according to court records acquired by Cincinnati TV station WCPO. When Tennessee authorities halted the automobile, Lynch’s corpse was inside. On August 18, Miller shot and murdered Lynch before his Tennessee arrest, according to Ohio authorities.
A police pursuit at Northwest Pennsylvania Avenue and Memorial Road concluded Miller’s earlier Oklahoma arrest. The Oklahoma County Detention Center booked him for carrying an open container, endangering others while fleeing police, DUI, and illegal vehicle usage. An internet review of Oklahoma court records found no charges against Miller for the pursuit.
Miller faces Ohio and Tennessee abduction and murder charges for Kaitlyn Lynch. Authorities are currently investigating the crime’s motivation. Miller remains in custody awaiting judicial processes as the inquiry proceeds.
Source: Man Involved In Oklahoma Police Chase Now Accused Of A Killing In Ohio, Tennessee
Oklahoma City Police on the Hunt for Suspect Involved in Two Bait-and-Switch Scams
Local residents may expect hot and sunny weekend weather. Meteorologists predict 94 degrees on Saturday and 101 degrees on Sunday. The unexpected temperature rise has caused health professionals to warn of heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
Residents must take care to remain cool and hydrated as temperatures rise. Experts suggest remaining inside during the warmest hours of the day and avoiding vigorous outdoor activity. Also, drink plenty of water and wear light, breathable clothes. For individuals without air conditioning, local officials have opened cooling facilities around the city.
The intense weather will linger all weekend, with nighttime temperatures in the upper 80s. Residents should check on elderly and heat-vulnerable neighbors. Pet owners should also water their pets and avoid leaving them in hot automobiles. Safety and safeguards are essential as the community prepares for the heat.
Source: Oklahoma City police seek man linked to two separate bait-and-switch cases | KOKH
Unveiling the Truth: Haystack’s New Report Tackles Oklahoma’s Housing Crisis
A new Legislative Office of Fiscal Transparency study highlights an affordable housing dilemma in Oklahoma. The research cites market circumstances, affordability, and excessive demand that exceeds housing supply. Senator Julia Kirt stressed that growing housing prices restrict aid. She stressed the need for affordable housing for low-income families and those around the minimum wage.
The research examined the Oklahoma Housing Finance Authority (OHFA), which funds affordable housing for qualified families. Senator Kirt thinks the OHFA should do more to solve the low-income and multi-family housing crisis. She emphasized addressing the core cause of affordable housing shortages to avoid additional homelessness. The Oklahoma Housing Finance Agency accepted the findings and pledged to address housing shortages.
Oklahoma County citizens struggle to afford stable houses due to the affordable housing problem. Commissioner Carrie Blumert noted the housing need for low-to-moderate income persons. The Oklahoma County Home Finance Authority (OCHFA) gave local organizations and home developers $2 million in American Rescue Plan Act cash to solve this problem. Commissioner Blumert is working to offer thousands of county citizens with safe, affordable homes. She stressed that affordable housing should be a human right.
The study and Senator Kirt and Commissioner Blumert’s remarks emphasize Oklahoma’s need for affordable housing. To help people find affordable houses and prevent homelessness, the state’s Housing Finance Agency and local programs need additional funding and action.
Source: New report addresses Oklahoma’s housing crisis Haystack
Shocking Incident: Oklahoma Third-Grade Teacher Arrested for Allegedly Teaching Under the Influence
Thursday’s arrest of a third-grade teacher for drunkenness shocked Perkins-Tryon Intermediate School in Perkins, Oklahoma. Police arrested Kimberly Coates after suspiciously asking the school resource officer to give her a breathalyzer test. The test showed Coates had alcohol, and she was detained and removed from the school. The Perkins Police Department is investigating, and Coates may face public drunkenness charges.
The superintendent of Perkins-Tryon Public School District said the district is collaborating with law authorities and committed to providing a secure learning environment. The school resource officer moved quickly to protect everyone after hearing about Coates’ actions. Police discovered that Coates had drunk wine on her way to work that morning. She was three times above the legal alcohol limit on the breathalyzer. Her backpack had an alcohol-scented cup in the classroom.
The event has prompted issues about school district recruiting and supervision. Parents and community members want tighter steps to avoid similar events. The Perkins Police Department is investigating and anticipated to discipline Coates. The event highlights the necessity of safe and professional educational environments.
Source: Oklahoma third-grade teacher arrested for allegedly being drunk at work – CW Atlanta
Oklahoma Public Employees Pension System Challenges Banking Law: A Closer Look at the Implications
Oklahoma Public Employee Retirement System (OPERS) board decided to get a financial exemption from a new rule prohibiting state pension systems from doing business with oil and gas-hostile banks. By adopting the exemption, OPERS won’t have to sell more than 60% of BlackRock Inc., one of the six remaining restricted banks. State Treasurer Todd Russ cautioned that the exception might expose the pension system to legal challenges, but the decision was made. Russ claimed that the exemption did not cover trading losses or brokerage costs, which accounted for majority of the anticipated losses.
The trustees approved the exception 9-1, with Russ voting no. The pension system’s employees and Verus convinced other trustees. The trustees also approved a BlackRock contract amendment that will reduce management costs by $75,000 per year. Before divesting from BlackRock or State Street, the pension system had issued requests for proposals from other financial corporations. Russ believed the examination process was insufficient since the statute requires compelling and persuasive evidence to exclude fiduciary duties.
The Energy Discrimination Elimination Act prohibits state pension systems and other institutions from doing business with energy-discriminatory banks. Republican state treasurers and financial authorities who feel giant banks’ climate initiatives hurt oil and gas support it. Several Republican-led states have approved anti-energy-industry discrimination measures recently, including Oklahoma. The rule also applies to towns and counties having restricted list bank contracts above $100,000. Bank of America’s inclusion forced Stillwater to postpone a project. However, Attorney General Gentner Drummond says towns may exercise an exception if the next-best bank loan offer would incur considerable expenditures.
Source: Oklahoma Public Employees Pension System Takes Exemption to Banking Law – Oklahoma Watch
Preserving Healthcare: How Two Western Oklahoma Cities are Fighting to Save Their Hospitals
Clinton Regional Hospital’s emergency department will reopen on October 30 for Clinton, Oklahoma residents. AllianceHealth, a private hospital management business, shuttered the facility last year. City authorities considered alternative possibilities after the shutdown left the population without crucial healthcare services. With voter approval and a state hospital operating license, the facility will reopen under a local board. The city may lease the hospital to a bigger hospital or hire a management business.
During an operational change later this year, hospital services in Woodward, Oklahoma, should continue smoothly. AllianceHealth, which runs Woodward Hospital, will leave on November 30. The hospital will switch to INTEGRIS Health on December 1. With INTEGRIS Health taking over hospital operations and keeping employees, the transfer should be seamless. Woodward municipal manager Shaun Barnett said the INTEGRIS Health agreement would make Woodward a regional healthcare hub.
The Clinton Regional Hospital reopening and Woodward Hospital’s INTEGRIS Health transfer are essential for both regions. Losing a hospital might cause doctors to leave and clinics and pharmacies to close. Oklahoma rural hospitals are economic engines and major employment. Initially, 50 people will work in the Clinton hospital, rising to 100. The 87-bed Woodward hospital will continue to deliver inpatient, outpatient, medical, and surgical services under INTEGRIS Health.
Source: Two western Oklahoma cities work to preserve their hospitals
The Resignation of Oklahoma’s Largest District Leader Amidst State Takeover Talks: What Does This Mean for Education?
Tulsa superintendent Deborah Gist resigned to prevent the state from taking over the education system. It comes days before the state’s board of education votes on a move to lower the district’s accreditation. Ryan Walters, the state’s elected Republican state superintendent, has criticized the district’s academic performance, budgetary management, and leadership for months, prompting Gist’s retirement. Students, teachers, and parents have protested governmental control of the Tulsa education system, questioning its validity.
After Texas took over Houston earlier this year, Tulsa may be next. Some have called both takeovers political. Walters has spearheaded the campaign to take over Tulsa schools and has demanded Gist’s resignation. He also talked with Texas school authorities about the Houston takeover and its contentious strategy, which included reapplying instructors and changing the curriculum. Critics say Walters is exploiting the takeover to score political points.
Since 2015, Tulsa school district superintendent Gist has urged the state to collaborate with Tulsa officials to enhance student results. She feels the process is political and self-serving. Gist will resign at a special school board meeting and depart the district on September 15. The state power issue has left Tulsa children beginning the school year apprehensive. Students, professors, and parents have fought to protect the district’s accreditation, worried about academic freedoms and classroom debates.
Source: With a State Takeover on the Table, the Leader of Oklahoma’s Largest District Resigns
Ensuring Inclusivity: Oklahoma Districts Required to Submit Pronoun Policies to State
At a Thursday meeting, the Oklahoma State Board of Education ordered that schools disclose their pronoun policies and China lessons. State Superintendent Ryan Walters said the board may use the material for statewide pronoun rules or Chinese-backed lesson plans. The board approved the guidelines during a crowded meeting in Oklahoma City, requiring school districts provide them their policies.
Walters said some districts have regulations that penalize instructors who use incorrect pronouns. The board wants to discuss these regulations with instructors. Districts should also report on the impact of Chinese-funded Confucius studies programs in Oklahoma schools. Walters said that the board is considering all alternatives, including new regulations or state legislation. The Department of Education has not set a deadline for this information.
The Oklahoma State Board of Education is seeking information on pronoun use and China teaching in schools. The board wants to know how schools handle pronouns and what they teach about China to maybe create statewide regulations or involve the legislature. State Superintendent Ryan Walters stressed the significance of teacher engagement and policy revision for a complete strategy. The board has asked school districts to submit pertinent rules and documents, and the Department of Education will set a deadline.
Source: Oklahoma districts must send pronoun policies to state
Edmond’s Rising Golf Star Aims to Rewrite History at the Oklahoma Open
In this year’s Oklahoma Open, 15-year-old Edmond golfer Emerson Majma is making waves. Majma has loved golf since he was 5. Majma, at 5 feet, 4 inches and 108 pounds, is the youngest player in the tournament this week and may be the youngest ever to participate in the Oklahoma Open.
Majma qualified for the event by placing sixth in the qualification round, a remarkable performance given his age. He will now play against older, more experienced players. Former University of Oklahoma golfer Charlie Saxon is his tournament partner. Majma focuses on playing well and learning from the best despite her age.
Majma wants to learn and acquire experience from this chance. He wants to be cool and play well in the Oklahoma Open. The official website lets golfers track him and obtain tournament results. Majma’s involvement in the Oklahoma Open shows his skill and passion to golf, and he will leave a lasting impact.
Source: Edmond golf phenom looks to make history at Oklahoma Open
Harnessing the Sun: How Solar Power in Oklahoma Can Lower Your Utility Bills
Over the last two years, Oklahoma residential energy bills have risen 20%, leaving many households looking for methods to save money. Oklahomans have used solar electricity. A solar system at Bob Calvert and his wife’s house has reduced their carbon footprint and electrical expenditures. Bob may transmit surplus electricity to the grid on bright days and collect credits on overcast or dark days. Oklahoma solar equipment can resist hailstorms and heavy winds.
Solar power may be cost-effective and ecologically good for households, but there are certain considerations. Contact your insurance agent to determine whether adding solar panels will influence your rates. Insurance companies may cut rates if the panels protect the roof. Avoid frauds and pick a trustworthy solar business. Experts advocate references and partnering with local providers who will remain in the neighborhood following installation.
Solar power may boost property value. Solar may increase property value by 4%–11%, according to surveys. However, local realtor Keith May urges homeowners not to add solar panels just to increase property value. He recommends it as a required energy solution rather than anticipating a dollar-for-dollar ROI. The federal government also provides a 30% tax credit for solar systems, which helps reduce the initial cost.
Solar power is growing more popular for Oklahomans trying to cut electricity costs and lessen their carbon impact. Solar energy is dependable and cost-effective in the state due to its ample sunlight. Before making a selection, homeowners should consider insurance prices, a reputed firm, and house worth.
Source: Solar Power In Oklahoma Could Offer Utility Cost Relief
Calling All Hunters: Oklahoma Declares License-Free Hunting Days in September!
Local residents could expect a weather rollercoaster this weekend. On Saturday, highs will hit 99 degrees, then dip to 88 degrees on Sunday, according to meteorologists. Locals should take care to keep safe and comfortable due to the rapid weather change.
On Saturday, sunny sky and little breeze will make outdoor activities unsafe due to the excessive heat. Public health experts advise citizens to remain hydrated, seek shade, and avoid excessive sun exposure. Check on vulnerable people including the elderly and small children, who are more prone to heat-related diseases.
However, the sweltering temperatures will soon subside. Sunday will bring lower temperatures and showers from a cold front. Prepare for the unexpected decrease in temperature, even if it may be a relief. Residents should monitor weather updates and adapt their plans to be safe throughout this weather rollercoaster.
Help the FBI Solve the Oklahoma City Bank Robbery: Can You Identify the Suspect?
The FBI needs assistance identifying an Oklahoma City bank heist suspect. The incident happened Thursday afternoon at a bank between Reno Avenue and North MacArthur Boulevard. The FBI said the guy gave the bank teller a letter before displaying a pistol and stealing an undetermined quantity of cash. The suspect escaped. Anyone with information should call the FBI or Warr Acres Police.
The FBI has requested public help identifying a suspect in an Oklahoma City bank heist. The bank heist happened Thursday afternoon between Reno Avenue and North MacArthur Boulevard. The suspect gave the bank cashier a letter and then displayed a firearm, compelling her to give over an unknown amount. The suspect escaped shortly. Anyone with information should call the FBI or Warr Acres Police Department.
The public is helping police identify an Oklahoma City bank robber. The incident occurred Thursday afternoon at a bank between Reno Avenue and North MacArthur Boulevard. The guy gave the bank teller a message before exposing a firearm and demanding money. The teller gave in, and the suspect stole an unknown sum. Please call the FBI or Warr Acres Police Department with any information.
Source: FBI Asks For Assistance In Identifying Oklahoma City Bank Robbery Suspect
Brave Oklahoma Boy’s Quick Thinking Saves the Day in Scorching Heat
An Oklahoma woman is speaking out after her 5-year-old son’s school bus driver put him off at the incorrect stop. Kelly Mullholland posted doorbell video on TikTok of her kid approaching a strange home and screaming for assistance. The event happened on a 105-degree day. The video had over 4 million views and became viral.
Mullholland says her son’s first school bus ride in the video. She describes her worry when she learned her kid and another 5-year-old were left off at the incorrect place. The bus driver, who looked clueless of the youngsters, couldn’t tell them where they took off. Mullholland was led to the youngsters’ final sighting by an older bus passenger. A hurried search located them nearly a half-mile from their destination.
The event shocked viewers and raised concerns for the children’s safety. Mullholland’s film highlights the necessity of school transportation safety for young children. The school system has not commented on the incident, but Mullholland hopes her testimony will lead to tougher procedures and improved training for school bus drivers to avoid future tragedies.
Source: Oklahoma boy rings doorbell for help after school bus makes wrong stop in 105-degree heat
