Local Real Estate Market Expected to See Boost After Federal Reserve Interest Rate Cut
The Federal Reserve cut interest rates by half a percent for the first time in four years, which is expected to lower costs on credit cards and home mortgages. Real estate agents in Green Country anticipate this will boost an already good housing market, leading to increased buyer activity. Loan officers suggest prequalification for buyers, as more people are likely to buy or sell homes with these favorable conditions.
Source: Local Real Estate Market Expected To See Boost After Federal Reserve Interest Rate Cut
Science Museum Oklahoma Prepares for Love’s Planetarium Opening
Love’s Planetarium at Science Museum Oklahoma in OKC will open to the public on Friday at 2 p.m. This new world-class planetarium features 4K projectors that show a night sky free of light pollution, displaying about eight million stars and recreating the Milky Way. The grand opening includes various shows throughout weekdays and weekends, offering an incredible journey through the universe with stunning realism.
Source: Science Museum Oklahoma ready for opening of Love’s Planetarium
Tulsa Housing Authority Stops Accepting Affordable Housing Applications to Reduce Wait Times
To reduce long wait times, the Tulsa Housing Authority is temporarily stopping applications for some public housing programs. Over 9,200 people are on the River West apartments’ list and over 9,800 on the Section 8 voucher program’s list. Ginny Hensley explained they will focus on current applicants whose needs are urgent. She mentioned more landlords accepting vouchers would help with delays and highlighted that promoting affordable housing in Tulsa is essential to meeting demand.
Source: Tulsa Housing Authority freezes affordable housing applications in hopes of shortening wait times
Norman City Council Approves $1 Billion Entertainment District
The Norman City Council approved a $1 billion entertainment district after a lengthy meeting that went past 1 a.m. The project includes offices, retail, hotels, homes, and an arena for OU athletics and events. While some residents opposed it due to potential harm to local businesses, funding will come from private sources and tax increment financing. Despite approval, residents can still call for a referendum to vote on the TIF district.
Source: Norman City Council approves $1 billion entertainment district
Tito Jackson’s Partners to Continue His Tulsa-Area Projects
Tito Jackson of the Jackson 5 passed away at age 70. He was planning new ventures in Tulsa, including an entertainment center and a fishing reality show. His business partner, Terry Harvey of Living the Dream Management, promised to continue their projects despite Tito’s death on September 15. Tito moved to a ranch near Claremore for peace and quiet before his passing from an apparent heart attack in Gallup, New Mexico.
Source: Tito Jackson’s partners to continue his Tulsa-area projects
Celebrate Greek Culture at the Tulsa Greek Festival this Weekend
The Tulsa Greek Festival is back for its 64th year, organized by the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church. Starting in 1960 with a banquet dinner, it has expanded significantly. Festival chairperson Anastasia Boone shared that food remains central to the event, featuring authentic Greek dishes passed down through generations. Visitors can also enjoy live music and traditional dances outdoors under a tent. Admission is $5 for adults; children under 12 enter free.
Source: Celebrate Greek Culture At The Tulsa Greek Festival This Weekend
OKC Small Businesses Struggling Citywide, Including Eastside Pizza
When Eastside Pizza House opened in 2022, it was seen as a positive addition to northeast Oklahoma City’s revitalization efforts. Unfortunately, due to low foot traffic and unmet revenue expectations, the pizzeria will close on September 30th. This closure is a significant loss for the local business community and reflects broader market trends in Oklahoma City. Councilwoman Nikki Nice emphasized the need for better support for small businesses, especially minority-owned ones.
Source: OKC small businesses struggling citywide, including Eastside Pizza
Downtown OKC has only had local coffee shops as options. That’s about to change.
When traveling, Ellen and John Broadhurst always look for Starbucks near their hotel. They’ve enjoyed coffee at locations from Seattle to London but found no Starbucks in downtown Oklahoma City during a recent visit. Fortunately, local cafes were nearby. However, this will change soon as Starbucks plans to open a store there by spring 2025. Some worry it might overshadow small businesses, but many see potential growth.
Source: Downtown OKC has had only local coffee shops as options. That’s about to change
Tulsa’s tourism industry creates a $327 million economic impact – The Oklahoma 100
Tulsa Regional Tourism’s 2023-24 report shows impressive results. From July 1, 2023 to June 30, 2024, Tulsa’s tourism industry brought in $327 million and booked over 215,000 hotel rooms. These figures surpassed their targets. Additionally, state sales tax revenue was $8.5 million and local sales tax generated $7.6 million. This success highlights the efforts of Visit Tulsa and other associated organizations under Tulsa Regional Tourism’s umbrella
Source: Tulsa tourism industry generates $327M economic impact – The Oklahoma 100
Homes of residents in the Norman area will not be taken for a toll road.
The Beauchamps, like a few others along the Indian Hills boundary between Oklahoma City and Norman, recently learned they won’t lose their property for a new toll road. Marianne expressed relief but mentioned concern for neighbors still affected. The turnpike authority’s revised plans mean fewer homes are taken, saving costs and avoiding city burdens. However, some residents remain impacted by ongoing construction near their properties.
Source: Norman-area residents’ homes will be spared seizure for toll road
Construction Begins on 191 Apartments, More Homes at Wheeler
Wheeler, a new urbanist community along the Oklahoma River, will soon see its population double with the construction of 199 apartments. The development by Urban Realty Partners is set to open in spring 2026 and offers studio to two-bedroom units averaging $1,700 monthly rent. Wheeler District includes various housing types and amenities like trails and a Ferris wheel park. Upon completion, Wheeler’s population is expected to surpass 1,000 residents.
Source: Construction is staring on 191 apartments, more homes at Wheeler
Central Oklahoma Habitat for Humanity Dedicates First Home at Cornerstone Creek
Central Oklahoma Habitat for Humanity celebrated its first home dedication at Cornerstone Creek in Oklahoma City. Chair/CEO Ann Felton Gilliland announced this milestone, highlighting the efforts of new homeowner Diamond W., a single mother and state employee. Special guests attended, including local officials and sponsors like Maxwell Supply Company, who funded the build. Community groups provided house-warming gifts, while Reverend Johnny Nubine blessed the home during the ceremony.
Source: Central Oklahoma Habitat for Humanity dedicates first home at Cornerstone Creek
‘It’s Absolutely Terrible’: Oklahoma School Threats Affect Students’ Mental Health
Parents and families in Tulsa are concerned about the rise in school threats. State Superintendent Ryan Walters acknowledged this issue, saying efforts are underway to address it. Emily Vickers, a parent with children in Union Public Schools, voiced her frustration over these threats and their impact on students’ mental health. Mental health specialist Faith Crittenden noted that constant exposure to threats desensitizes kids, increasing anxiety for students and staff alike.
Source: It’s absolutely sick’: Oklahoma school threats impact students mental health
Free Healthcare Clinic Opens for Uninsured Patients in Northwest Tulsa
A free healthcare clinic has opened in Northwest Tulsa for the medically uninsured, courtesy of Good Samaritan Health Services. Located at 2401 Charles Page Blvd., the clinic operates on the first and third Monday afternoons each month, with plans to extend hours as needed. Offering a range of primary care services including consultations, lab tests, medications, and more—all at no cost—appointments can be made by calling 918-710-4222 or visiting goodsamaritanhealth.org.
Source: Free healthcare clinic opens for uninsured patients in Northwest Tulsa
Jalen Williams of OKC Thunder Gave Keynote Address at Champions of Health Gala in Tulsa
Tulsa experienced unseasonably hot and humid weather with some clouds, winds coming from the southwest at 5-15 mph. On Thursday night, Jalen Williams from the Oklahoma City Thunder attended the Champions of Health Gala at the Cox Business Convention Center, benefiting the Oklahoma Caring Foundation. He posed for pictures with fans and signed autographs. Additionally, Tulsa’s Greek Festival returns this weekend at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, and free pet vaccinations will be available at Tulsa Zoo as part of Operation Pit Stop.
Source: Jalen Williams of OKC Thunder gave keynote address at Champions of Health Gala in Tulsa
National Voter Registration Day Events Take Place Tuesday
Have you checked your voter registration? National Voter Registration Day was marked by an event at Oklahoma State University-Oklahoma City. Dr. Steven Collins, a political science professor, stressed the importance of being informed and involved in voting. Students could register or verify their status while learning about the U.S. Constitution and precincts. Despite rising complaints about issues, many don’t vote to fix them, said student Jason Miller.
Source: National Voter Registration Day events take place Tuesday
OU Gets $5 Million Gift from Inasmuch Foundation
The University of Oklahoma received a generous $5 million gift from the Inasmuch Foundation to support initiatives in the College of Allied Health, Medicine’s Neurology Department, and Pharmacy. This grant will help enhance education, research, and workforce development at OU Health Sciences. Founded by Edith Kinney Gaylord, Inasmuch Foundation is known for its philanthropic efforts in community engagement and education. The investment will boost faculty hires, student enrollment, and innovative medical programs across Oklahoma.
Source: OU receives $5 Million gift from Inasmuch Foundation citynewsokc.com
City of Edmond Gets Funding for Mental Health Programs
The City of Edmond is receiving nearly $1 million annually for four years from the System of Care Grant by SAMHSA to bolster community mental health. Mayor Darrell A. Davis emphasized this grant will help create a supportive system for youth needs, marking the largest competitive federal funding Edmond has ever received. Additionally, the City promises $339,756 each year to support at-risk youth and expand partnerships with local schools and service providers.
Source: City of Edmond receives funding for mental health initiatives
MAPS 4 Mental Health Facility Could Be Built Near Diversion Hub in OKC
Designers are considering property near the new Oklahoma County Diversion Hub for Oklahoma City’s MAPS 4 Restoration Center. This center aims to provide mental health and substance abuse services. ADG Blatt and Allford Hall Monaghan Morris conducted a site study at 611 N Western Ave., assessing its suitability. NorthCare will manage the facility, potentially built on land donated by the Arnall Family Foundation. The $24.5 million project seeks to reduce jail overcrowding by offering crisis stabilization services.
Source: MAPS 4 mental health facility could be built near Diversion Hub in OKC
How Oklahoma Therapists Use Dungeons & Dragons to Improve Mental Health
Andrew Seng is a licensed therapist who uses Dungeons & Dragons in therapy sessions. His work bag includes a monster manual, NPC guide, map, and 14 sets of dice. He conducts two weekly groups: one for adults and another for teens aged 13 to 17. This tabletop game helps with emotional regulation, personal growth, and symptom reduction by creating custom scenarios that help patients develop coping skills while navigating fictional challenges.
Source: How Oklahoma therapists use Dungeons & Dragons to improve mental health KOSU
