Tulsa Health Department Inspects Food Vendors Before State Fair Fox23.com
Do you love corn dogs and funnel cakes? At the Tulsa State Fair, visitors indulge in tasty treats while staying safe thanks to inspections by the Tulsa Health Department. Each of the 200 vendors undergoes thorough checks for things like proper food temperatures and cleanliness. Moses Betru from the health department explains that their main concerns include salmonella and E.coli. Approved vendors receive a pink sticker as proof of passing inspection.
Source: Tulsa Health Department inspects food vendors before state fair fox23.com
Tinkerfest to Attract Thousands to Science Museum Oklahoma
Science Museum Oklahoma is preparing for Tinkerfest this Saturday, expecting around 10,000 attendees. This free event focuses on hands-on STEM and STEAM learning activities for all ages. Chris Syfrett, tinkering initiatives manager, describes it as a “sampler platter” of diverse experiences. Abby Wolfe emphasizes the value of interactive learning. Highlights include dismantling full-size vehicles and exploring robotics and coding among roughly 80 activities both indoors and outdoors in the garden.
Source: Tinkerfest to draw thousands to Science Museum Oklahoma
Norman Voters Request Referendum on Entertainment District
Norman voters are pushing for a say in whether the city should build a new $1 billion entertainment district with an arena. A group is gathering signatures to force a public vote, needing over 6,000 signatures to replace the city council’s approval. Some residents argue it’s too costly and want their voices heard. The petitioners aim for 8,000-12,000 signatures by October 17 for a February 2025 ballot decision.
Source: Norman voters petition for referendum on entertainment district
Oklahoma Health Care Authority Broadens Options for People Leaving Prison
What challenges do people face when leaving prison? Health care is a major one. Oklahoma has started a new program to help improve health services for these individuals. The state was picked for the Medicaid and Corrections Policy Academy, partnering with several departments to develop plans for better care coordination. They aim to cover some services before release, hoping to enhance reentry outcomes and build a stronger community through this initiative.
Source: Oklahoma Health Care Authority Expanding Options For People Exiting Prison System
Transformational Care Coming Soon as Work Begins on Kathryn Ann Meinders Digestive Health Institute
Construction has begun on the Kathryn Ann Meinders Digestive Health Institute at Mercy Hospital in Oklahoma City, set to be completed by early fall 2026. This facility will centralize digestive health services and is unique within a 500-mile radius. Funded by a $7.5 million donation from Herman and LaDonna Meinders, it honors their late daughter Kathryn Ann. The institute aims to greatly enhance patient care for digestive health issues in Oklahoma.
Source: Transformational Care Coming Soon as Work Begins on Kathryn Ann Meinders Digestive Health Institute
Disputed Oklahoma Mental Health Decree Gets Preliminary Approval
A consent decree for the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (ODMHSAS) to offer faster community-based treatment for jail inmates got preliminary approval from a federal judge. The lawsuit Briggs v. Slatton-Hodges claims many inmates deemed incompetent to stand trial are left waiting in jails for long periods due to bed shortages at state facilities. If finalized, ODMHSAS must provide competency restoration treatment within three weeks and seek legal changes for outpatient programs in several counties.
Source: Disputed Oklahoma mental health decree secures preliminary approval
Tulsa Nonprofit Keeps Harm-Reduction Vending Machine Despite State Pulling Plug
A Tulsa nonprofit, HOPE, kept its harm reduction vending machine available 24/7 after Oklahoma cut its funding. The machine offers free supplies like naloxone, HIV self-test kits, and fentanyl test strips at the future clinic site on 51st and Yale. Despite other machines shutting down due to cost issues, demand for HOPE’s machine remains high. Executive Director Taryn Norman stressed that these supplies save lives and reduce overdose deaths by providing access to free Narcan.
Source: Tulsa nonprofit keeps harm-reduction vending machine despite state pulling plug
LeBlanc Gets $350,000 NSF Grant for STEM Education Research – The University of Tulsa
The University of Tulsa has acquired Fab Lab Tulsa to boost community access to digital fabrication tools, promoting innovation. The university also offers diverse majors in Kendall College and celebrates notable alumni like Sara Hill, the first Native American woman federal judge in Oklahoma. Additionally, Gabriel LeBlanc received a $350,000 NSF grant for STEM education research, aiming to improve science experiences for undergraduates through various initiatives and collaborations.
Source: LeBlanc receives $350,000 NSF grant for STEM education research – The University of Tulsa
Oklahoma Superintendent Ryan Walters Sued by OKC TV Station
Dan Isett, the communications director for Oklahoma’s State Department of Education, has blocked KFOR-TV reporters from entering press conferences after State Board of Education meetings. This led KFOR to file a federal lawsuit against Superintendent Ryan Walters and Isett for violating First and 14th Amendment rights by selectively excluding their journalists. The station seeks an immediate restraining order as they have been repeatedly denied access despite valid credentials and longstanding local reporting history.
Source: Oklahoma Superintendent Ryan Walters sued by OKC TV station
Dave & Buster’s Opens Redesigned Store in Tulsa on October 4
Dave & Buster’s is opening a newly revamped location in Tulsa, Oklahoma on October 4. The first 100 people in line will get free games for a year! With state-of-the-art gaming activities like High-Tech Darts and Social Shuffleboard Bays, plus the giant WOW Wall and an innovative menu, it promises to be an unforgettable experience. Doors open at 11 a.m., so don’t miss out on this exciting grand opening event!
Source: Dave & Buster’s Launches Reimagined Store in Tulsa on October 4
11 Days of Awesome Starts Today at the Tulsa State Fair
The Tulsa State Fair kicks off Thursday, September 26th, at noon and runs for 11 days. With over 70 rides inspected by the state’s labor department for safety, organizers expect large crowds. General admission is $15; youth and seniors pay $10. No outside food or drinks allowed. Oklahoma law prohibits guns on fairgrounds. On-site parking costs $20, and a shuttle service operates on weekends from TPS Service Center to the fairgrounds.
Source: 11 Days Of Awesome Starts Today At The Tulsa State Fair
Tulsa King Comes Back With Record Audience for Season 2 Premiere
Sylvester Stallone’s “Tulsa King” Season 2 premiere drew a record-breaking 5.4 million active sub households in its first week, with 2 million views on the premiere day alone. Paramount Global highlighted how this success showcased Stallone’s star power and Terry Winter’s exceptional writing. The show also saw a significant rise in online social engagements, increasing by 934% compared to the first season, adding to Paramount+’s rapid growth trajectory.
Source: Tulsa King Returns With Audience Record For Season 2 Premiere
Press Release: Women’s Empowerment Symposium Set for October 3 at Metro Tech
Metro Technology Centers in Oklahoma City will host the 6th Annual Women’s Empowerment Symposium on October 3, 2024, from 9 a.m. to noon at their South Bryant Campus. This free event focuses on “Work-Life Balance” and includes speakers, workshops, and resources for women. Highlights include a panel discussion with experts addressing career and family balance, a breast cancer awareness session by Michele Lang, and financial literacy insights from Sara Lorenzen. For more information or registration details, visit metrotech.edu/wes.
Source: PRESS RELEASE: Women’s Empowerment Symposium slated for October 3 at Metro Tech
Who Owns Downtown Tulsa?: A Look at the Property Owners Occupying Our City Center in 2024
In downtown Tulsa, the weather varies from sunny to partly cloudy with highs around 85°F and lows at 63°F. The Cities Service Co.’s skyscraper project in the 1980s stalled due to oil price drops. Afterward, ONEOK acquired the property affordably. Maurice Kanbar invested heavily but sold his holdings to Price Family Properties in 2016. Many churches also expanded their properties post-Oil Bust, transforming them into significant landowners today.
Source: Who owns downtown Tulsa?: A look at the property owners occupying our city center in 2024
New Technology Being Used at Tulsa State Fair to Keep Attendees Safe
As the Tulsa State Fair expects over a million visitors, the Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office is introducing new safety measures. They’re using advanced technology like drone dogs and mobile security units to detect threats such as weapons and hazardous materials. Sheriff Vic Regalado emphasizes safety as a top priority, aiming for a family-friendly event. Last year saw several incidents including lost children, so this year’s efforts include wristbands for kids with parents’ phone numbers.
Source: New technology being implemented at Tulsa State Fair to help keep attendees safe
Tulsa Nonprofit Helps Women of Color in Tech Turn Ideas into Profit Through 15-Week Program
Build in Tulsa, a nonprofit organization, helps women of color turn their tech ideas into profitable businesses through a 15-week program. Participants like Ashley Yearby benefit from national and international expertise and funding support. The program provides $25,000 for each business along with help in marketing, accounting, and mental health coaching. With the initiative’s success, Build in Tulsa plans to continue annually and offer applications again in 2025.
Source: Tulsa Nonprofit Helping Women Of Color In Tech Turn Ideas Into Profit Through 15-Week Program
Insurance Company ‘Not Renewing’ Some Policies in OK Due to Wildfire Risk
Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Glen Mulready announced that about two percent of Farmers Insurance customers will be affected by a new policy change, targeting those in wildfire-prone areas. Starting November, over 1,300 homeowner policies won’t be renewed due to increased fire risks. Wildfires have severely impacted Oklahoma recently, with conditions worsening and becoming harder to control. While this decision raises concerns about other insurers following suit, there’s still significant competition among the state’s 113 active insurance companies.
Source: Insurance company ‘not renewing’ some policies in OK due to wildfire risk
Oklahoma Business Leaders Meet Lawmakers in Washington to Discuss Future Tax Policies
Oklahoma business leaders met with lawmakers in Washington, D.C., for the State Chamber of Commerce’s annual fly-in. They discussed concerns such as the looming expiration of Trump-era tax cuts. Chad Warmington emphasized uncertainty about 2025’s tax landscape, while Congressman Kevin Hern highlighted small businesses’ worries over future fairness. Representative Stephanie Bice and Dan Boren also shared their perspectives on supporting small businesses and understanding legislative details.
Source: Oklahoma Business Leaders Meet Lawmakers In Washington To Discuss Future Tax Policies
Oklahoma State University Celebrates $6.75 Million Gift to Department of Philosophy
Dennis Heinzig and Iona McMillan gifted $6.75 million to Oklahoma State University’s Philosophy Department, creating an endowed chair, fund for Ethics and Critical Thinking, and a general philosophy fund. This substantial donation is among the top ten ever given to a university’s philosophy department. The couple aims to enhance critical thinking and ethical reflection at OSU, hoping their contribution will equip future leaders with essential skills for navigating complex issues in our rapidly changing world.
Source: Oklahoma State University celebrates $6.75M gift to Department of Philosophy
Build in Tulsa’s Effect on Women in Business
How does Build In Tulsa impact women in business? This initiative significantly supports female entrepreneurs through mentorship and funding. It provides resources, networking opportunities, and training to help women thrive in their ventures. By focusing on women’s success, it fosters a more inclusive business environment in Tulsa, encouraging economic growth and diversity. Many women have seen notable advancements in their careers due to this support system’s dedication and efforts.
Source: Build In Tulsa’s Impact on Women in Business
DVIDS – News – Tulsa District Gives Construction Contract at Fort Sill
Brad Throckmorton, a quality assurance contractor for the Tulsa District’s Fort Sill Resident Office, discusses a barracks construction project with Capt. Alexander Burrus on July 19, 2024. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Tulsa District awarded Trumble Construction LLC., also known as RBT Construction, a $4.1 million contract to repair roofs at Fort Sill in Oklahoma. This work involves roof repairs on three buildings and is managed by the Military Construction Branch and Engineering Division.
Source: DVIDS – News – Tulsa District awards construction contract at Fort Sill
More Graduates Staying in State – The Oklahoma 100
The 2023 Employment Outcomes Report from the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education shows that more graduates are staying in Oklahoma. In 2023, 87% of grads were working and living in Oklahoma a year after graduation, up from 74% in 2018. Five years post-graduation, 75% remained compared to 65% in 2018. The highest retention rates are among Oklahoma Promise scholarship recipients with figures at 95% after one year and 84% after five years.
Source: More graduates staying in state – The Oklahoma 100
Cities with the Fastest-Growing Home Prices in Oklahoma
The real estate market, still buzzing due to the pandemic, is slowing down a bit. Buyers are jostling for limited homes, making prices go up. In August, the typical home value in America was $362,143—a 2.5% rise from last year. Higher mortgage rates have cooled things off somewhat; in some places, prices even dropped. Using Zillow data, Stacker listed Oklahoma cities with fast-rising home prices over the past year and five years.
Source: Cities With the Fastest-growing Home Prices in Oklahoma
Lot Lines: Beauty in the Built Environment
The UCO Real Estate Program is hosting a symposium on “Innovations in Construction” on October 25. The event aims to explore how beauty and functionality in buildings can enhance mental health, reduce stress, and foster community pride. Professor J. David Chapman discusses the emotional impact of aesthetically pleasing architecture, arguing that beautiful environments contribute significantly to psychological well-being and social cohesion while highlighting the importance of good design in real estate discussions.
Source: Lot Lines: Beauty in the built environment
Companies That Purchase Homes in Oklahoma for Cash
Bankrate helps people make smart financial decisions by providing tools and calculators, publishing objective content, and allowing users to compare various financial products. They offer information on money market accounts, savings accounts with bonuses, real estate agents for buying and selling homes, investment comparisons, credit card matches through quick questions, in-depth reviews of cards’ perks, building credit advice, HELOC options at variable rates or home equity loans at fixed rates based on ownership.
Source: Companies That Buy Houses In Oklahoma For Cash
TURC Students Study Tulsa Housing Problems and Suggest Solutions – The University of Tulsa
The University of Tulsa has taken over Fab Lab Tulsa to support innovation and offer the community access to digital fabrication tools. TU’s Kendall College offers diverse programs like organizational studies, which include social sciences, media, arts, and business administration. Anne Grau’s three-decade geology career highlights challenges for women in energy sectors. Alumna Sara Hill becomes Oklahoma’s first Native American federal judge. The psychology department offers extensive research opportunities for students.
Source: TURC students examine Tulsa housing issues, propose solutions – The University of Tulsa
