Business Installs Beef Vending Machine, Innovation District Launches Innovation Week, Everything About 2024 Tulsa State Fair: This Week’s Top News Stories

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Local Business Introduces Beef Vending Machine

Local Business Introduces Beef Vending Machine

Why would a store need a beef vending machine? Well, at 1931 Legacy Ranch in Ada, they’ve implemented just that for those customers who can’t make it in during business hours. Manager Roxanne Thompson described how this quirky machine cuts out the middlemen in order to get local beef from ranchers directly to the community well after closing time at six p.m., and it’s on till ten p.m. It uses a touchscreen and accepts credit cards plus debit cards while keeping the meat refrigerated and shrink-wrapped so it stays fresh.

Source: Local business adds beef vending machine

OKC Innovation District Starts 3rd Annual Innovation Week

OKC Innovation District Starts 3rd Annual Innovation Week

Hundreds of economically disadvantaged students spent the day at Science Museum Oklahoma experiencing flight simulators and drone competitions among many other activities. The Oklahoma City Innovation District opened its third annual Innovation Week with a highly energetic mix of career and science fairs. Organizers said it’s important to let these students know they matter and the big ideas are within their grasp right here in Oklahoma. In total, about 1,200 students will attend by the time it wraps up on October 3rd.

Source: OKC Innovation District kicks off 3rd annual Innovation Week

Tulsa State Fair 2024: Important Information

Tulsa State Fair 2024: Important Information

What’s happening in Tulsa? The 2024 Tulsa State Fair is abuzz with things to do and runs from Sept. 26 to Oct. 6. Among things to do, the fair offers games, rides, concerts and food, among other amusements as part of its “11 Days of Awesome.” Rides run until midnight on weekends and 11 p.m. on weekdays. Parking at the fair is $20, but free shuttle services are provided at TPS Education Service Center. The event is staged at 21st Street and Yale Avenue next to Expo Square.

Source: 2024 Tulsa State Fair: What you need to know

Business Perspective: Tulsa

Business Perspective: Tulsa’s Tech Scene is Thriving

What’s hot in Tulsa these days? It’s not just the weather. Over the past year, startups like Volt and Medefy have received backing from Mercury Fund, with an emerging tech scene in Tulsa. That growth was recognized by the U.S. Department of Commerce last October 2023, naming it one out of 31 Tech Hub regions awarding $51M grant to THETA for Equitable Autonomy Projects. The programs like Tulsa Remote attract talent with their offers, and angel investors along with foundations like George Kaiser Family Foundation are increasing early-stage capital for emerging ventures. It even attracted some senior executives of technology companies to the area during the post-COVID time and enriched the vigorous ecosystem present there. In addition, inclusivity is emphasized through initiatives that ensure opportunities at all levels of demography, while the collaborations of various organizations fire the rocket of continuous innovation efforts. The transformation of Tulsa into a thriving technological hub is much more than the success of short-term endeavors; it shows long-term ambition within its community, which every day remains committed to expanding the frontiers of technological advancement.

Source: Business viewpoint: Tulsa’s technology landscape is hot

Hardly Any Blind Spots

Hardly Any Blind Spots

Have you heard about concerns over safety at the Tulsa State Fair? Fights and a stabbing happened within the first few days, so 2 News spoke with the Tulsa County Sheriffs to find out what they are doing to keep people safe. Captain Mike Moore said that deputies are in zones so that they can watch over their areas and make sure fairgoers feel safe. Visible security is ramped up this year, along with hidden security, including face recognition technology, as crime prevention is a focus. While incidents do occur, crime trends are on the downtrend with watchful presence and hi-tech aid for enforcement efforts. Fairgoers themselves act as essential informants in quickly reporting suspicious activities.

Source: Very few blindspots’

Press Release: Oklahoma Employment Security Commission Hosts Employer Outreach Seminars

Press Release: Oklahoma Employment Security Commission Hosts Employer Outreach Seminars

The Oklahoma Employment Security Commission is proud to announce a series of free Employer Outreach Seminars for local employers. Set throughout the fall, the seminars will cover such topics as Veterans’ employment, federal bonding, unemployment tax, and resources available for workforce development. Participants can learn how to effectively hire veterans and understand the unemployment tax rules and regulations while networking with peers from around Oklahoma. Led by Jim Polly, discussions will center around how to connect businesses to the resources they need to succeed. The first session kicks off October 14 at Chickasha.

Source: PRESS RELEASE: Oklahoma Employment Security Commission hosts Employer Outreach Seminars

Oklahoma REALTORS® Open New Headquarters to Boost Real Estate Industry

Oklahoma REALTORS® Open New Headquarters to Boost Real Estate Industry

You might have missed it, but the Oklahoma REALTORS® entered into a new headquarters in north Oklahoma City. But what a bargain that was, as they cut the ribbon in late August with many community leaders and U.S. Representative Stephanie Bice in attendance. Spacious, this 9807 Broadway Extension takes them closer to their goal, nearly doubling their old space to 13,350 square feet! It is complete with offices and even a studio where they can create media content. This facility will really enhance professional growth and give access to much-needed resources that will help agents pass through today’s changing real estate market. With fantastic features like the video production capabilities and rooftop balcony for events, it was designed to support podcasts like “Talking Real.” Board President Renee Hoover-Payton explained this place would equip over 14,000 members with what they need to be successful statewide by deepening their connections to communities; after all, the attendees underlined that its importance went well beyond real estate. For more updates and/or information on upcoming events, visit www.okrealtors.com!

Source: New Headquarters for Oklahoma REALTORS® to strengthen Real Estate industry

Predictions for the 2024 Housing Market: When Will Home Prices Become Affordable Again? – Forbes Advisor

Predictions for the 2024 Housing Market: When Will Home Prices Become Affordable Again? – Forbes Advisor

Thinking of buying a home? Falling mortgage rates give would-be buyers hope. Down week after week, lower rates make a dream more achievable. Prices remain high, and competition remains tight, but the surging inventory is a counterbalancing factor. With fewer homes available and rising costs, some experts do not recommend waiting too long to buy, because conditions might worsen later as pent-up demand pushes the prices upwards once more. The federal reserve’s lowering interest rates could send mortgage rates even lower, yet most homeowners are still locked into their present low-rate mortgages, leaving fewer offers on the market and affecting what is affordable, negatively, despite lower mortgage payments that make homes cheaper over time as they fall further 2% from last year, according to Redfin reports, yet builders are responding to these cost challenges by building smaller houses.

Source: Housing Market Predictions For 2024: When Will Home Prices Be Affordable Again? – Forbes Advisor

Five Moons Get New Home in Tulsa Historical Society Garden

Five Moons Get New Home in Tulsa Historical Society Garden

Did you know the gardens at the Tulsa Historical Society are getting a face-lift? The Five Moons-five beautiful statues in bronze of famous Native American Oklahoma ballerinas-have been moved to a prominent location in the garden. Jonesplan Landscape and Construction added some native grasses around them, making them appear to be gracefully dancing on grass by springtime. This was indeed not only to be more visually appealing but also practical, considering drainage problems in the previous site, and these days, it also encompasses improved security after one statue was stolen in an unfortunate incident. Today, there is better lighting, including protective measures in case such an incidence were ever to happen. Several thousand dollars were raised for these changes, which also include informational signs planned for later phases; the sculptures were created by local artists Monte England and Gary Henson as gifts from generous donors Charles and Peggy Stephenson along with Billie and Howard Barnett. And their goal is as simple as this: to make people want to come see this charmer of a place!

Source: Five Moons’ get new home in Tulsa Historical Society garden

Tulsa Announces New Hotel on Route 66 at Cry Baby Hill – 102.3 KRMG

Tulsa Announces New Hotel on Route 66 at Cry Baby Hill – 102.3 KRMG

The City of Tulsa announced the Palmera Motor Court hotel project at Cry Baby Hill on Route 66. Concretely, the development entails a retro-style hotel with 45-50 rooms, including a restaurant, pool, and bar. Sharp Development is partnering with Studio 45 Architects to create this attraction for travelers. The Mayor, G.T. Bynum, shows appreciation to all people for their support; he states he is looking forward to the completion by November 2026 so that it will also coincide with the Centennial Route 66 celebration.

Source: City of Tulsa announces new hotel coming to Route 66 at Cry Baby Hill – 102.3 KRMG

Tulsa Program Uses Natural Foods to Treat Some Health Conditions

Tulsa Program Uses Natural Foods to Treat Some Health Conditions

Isn’t it cool when food can be medicine? In north Tulsa, FreshRx Oklahoma is battling health problems with a different kind of prescription. A prescription for locally grown foods to cure everything from type two diabetes even teaches them how to cook healthy meals. Hopes are that soon, it will become a covered benefit under insurance. Erin Martin with FreshRx says access to healthy food is crucial to good aging and health. The results with this program have been amazing: one participant actually went into diabetic reversal, having lost 107 pounds! This also positively impacts the economy within the community by strengthening farmers, as all produce is sourced locally. For now, it is grant-funded, although they hope to be covered by insurance someday. Oklahoma Senator James Lankford believes such programs have tremendous potential to positively change eating behaviors and address the statewide obesity crisis. He testified before the Senate Committee on the same issue not long ago, insinuating that changes could be very promising if Medicare covers the costs of natural foods for older adults with diabetes soon enough!

Source: Tulsa program treats some health conditions with natural foods fox23.com

Oklahoma Legislators Tackle Chromium-6 in Water Supply, Consider Solutions and Future Rules

Oklahoma Legislators Tackle Chromium-6 in Water Supply, Consider Solutions and Future Rules

Do you have any idea just how harmful chromium-6 is? Oklahoma lawmakers convened to discuss the toxic chemical’s contamination in their water supply. Chromium-6, known to cause cancer and organ damage, gained notoriety after PG&E used it in California and contaminated local water-documented in the film Erin Brockovich.” Lawmakers are looking toward regulatory changes that could be implemented in the future, as well as considering infrastructure upgrades and consumer protection options. Leading the effort is State Rep. Jacob Rosecrants, who wants to understand what kind of impact the communities are dealing with and how to cut down levels of chromium-6. Scientists like Tasha Stoiber raise health risks due to chromium-6, including inflammation and organ dysfunction. Meanwhile, federal regulations set years ago may be outdated. The EPA will decide by 2027 whether stricter rules are needed. Norman, Oklahoma is already preparing for any new standards that might come online, having plans for a new water treatment facility so Oklahomans have safe drinking water through these evolving challenges.

Source: Oklahoma Lawmakers Address Chromium-6 Contamination in Water Supply, Explore Solutions and Future Regulations

Chickasaws and EPA Sign Agreement

Chickasaws and EPA Sign Agreement

Ada headquarters, a Memorandum of Understanding between the Chickasaw Nation and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency established a framework which would pave the way for cooperation by both parties in sustainably managing natural resources such as water, land and air. The agreement makes joint research strategies possible on the part of the parties and offers opportunities for Tribal scientists to work jointly with EPA researchers in Oklahoma. The core goal is to sustain community health by emphasizing the protection of environmental goals, hence allowing future generations to utilize vital resources in a sustainable way, such as clean drinking water from the Arbuckle-Simpson Aquifer.

Source: Chickasaws, EPA sign agreement

"I wouldn

“I wouldn ‘t worry”: OKC Metro Stores Notice Panic-Buying of Toilet Paper

Why is Oklahoma City buying so much toilet paper? Some say a possible strike at the ports will result in shortages, but experts claim they have nothing to be concerned about. A large percentage of America’s toilet paper is produced close and does not rely on ports where strikes are happening. But when one person posts about it on social media, that concern goes wild and there are runs on the stores for no reason. Local resident Richard Anderson says shelves remain stocked despite temporary outages from shoppers ‘ behavior fueled by online rumors, insisting that supplies really aren’t at risk because most imports come via Canada and Mexico by truck or train, rather than ships. Well, some places ran out for the day due to customer frenzy this week-no big deal, according to him, since fresh stock keeps on arriving consistently, yet frantic demand just leaves empty spots temporarily until restocking occurs overnight per retailer assurances which helps keep everything balanced again soon enough after that anyway without lasting problems needing extra concern further unnecessarily adding stress over nothing tangible really seen happening now, thankfully overall indeed, still more stable than not either way, fortunately here too, hopefully already finally, period!

Source: ‘I wouldn’t worry’: OKC metro stores seeing toilet paper panic-buying

Justice Department to Start Civil Rights Review of 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre

Justice Department to Start Civil Rights Review of 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre

The Justice Department is going to investigate the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre-the bestial attack of a white mob upon the then-thriving Black enclave known as Greenwood or Black Wall Street. No one will be prosecuted because of the lapse of time; however, this historic federal investigation is about lifting the veil on a dark period in history. Descendants of survivors call the review the long-overdue justice and recognition they deserve. The DOJ plans to release findings by the end of the year, acknowledging that scores still remain from ongoing trauma due to this racial terrorism incident that left hundreds dead and thousands interred in internment camps on those horrific days in Oklahoma history. For cases before 1968, however, there are formidable legal obstacles to overcome under civil rights law. Like that, the painful past makes efforts like these important to America, proving progress through successful prosecutions brought forth via initiatives like the Emmett Till Unsolved Civil Rights Crime Act, making sure those stories don’t just disappear into the night, unseen anymore.

Source: Justice Department will launch civil rights review into 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre

Tribal Sovereignty Basics and Candidates

Tribal Sovereignty Basics and Candidates’ Forum Arrives in Tulsa on September 30

Are you ready to amplify Native American voices? Join United Indian Nations of Oklahoma for an action-packed evening-the Tribal Sovereignty 101 and Candidates Forum. Part of the Warrior Up to Vote Tour, a grassroots effort to unite and register Native voters in Oklahoma in advance of the state’s October 11 deadline, the event will offer all candidates an opportunity to engage with Native voters on critical issues like economic development, education, and more. Starting at 9 a.m., attendees will hear from notable speakers such as Principal Chief David Hill and Ben Barnes while enjoying events throughout the day that focus on tribal sovereignty. There’s even a networking lunch! Later in the afternoon, a forum allows candidates to share views on critical matters affecting Indian Country. Cap off the night with entertainment from Zahn McClarnon and Tatanka Means at the Warrior Up to Vote Rally. Sign up for breaking stories via Native News Online’s newsletter!

Source: Tribal Sovereignty 101 and Candidates Forum comes to Tulsa Sept. 30

Officials Talk About Economic Impact of Rock Creek Entertainment District Project

Officials Talk About Economic Impact of Rock Creek Entertainment District Project

Or maybe you have heard about the newest Rock Creek Entertainment District project in Norman. Well, it’s stirring up quite a buzz, from officials to citizens, whether or not to approve the project. The plan would build an arena, retail shops, housing and offices near I-35 and Rock Creek Rd., backed by tax increment finance districts. While city leaders say this will add to local prosperity, there are those who have financial concerns and would like the issue decided in a public vote. University of Oklahoma President Joe Harroz cited added media exposure and increased economic benefits attributed to events such as College Gameday as reasons to support the initiative. Critics say what really has driven this agenda has been OU Athletics and the interests of OU Athletics-not community needs. Mayor Larry Heikkila envisions businesses coming into Norman and spreading their wings”, but Ms. Rogers questions how effective TIF is in regard to the funding issues at hand. The residents hope to petition for a referendum on what they see as wasteful spending of taxpayer money in an ever increasingly costly Norman, and with this growing concern it may very well adjust the course of future plans.

Source: Officials discuss economic impact of Rock Creek Entertainment District project

Myriad Gardens to Host Mystical Creatures Pumpinville Oct. 4-20 Entertainment

Myriad Gardens to Host Mystical Creatures Pumpinville Oct. 4-20 Entertainment

Pumpkinville Returns to OKC’s Myriad Botanical Gardens This October with a Mystical Adventure Pumpkinville at Myriad Botanical Gardens in Oklahoma City is going to be a really magical adventure this year, thanks to the Mythical Creatures theme for 2024. More than 30,000 pumpkins in fantastic displays of unicorns, dragons and other legendary creatures will greet visitors from Oct. 4 – 20. Pumpkinville will be open Sundays through Thursdays from 10 a.m. Games, crafts, photo ops with pumpkin murals, face painting, special treats, and local vendors are on hand to round out an enchanting experience from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and until 6:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays.

Source: Myriad Gardens to host Mystical Creatures Pumpinville Oct. 4-20 Entertainment

FX picks up Sterlin Harjo and Ethan Hawke

FX picks up Sterlin Harjo and Ethan Hawke’s pilot filmed in Tulsa.

Have you heard about the new show “The Sensitive Kind”? It stars Ethan Hawke and was filmed in Tulsa. Sterlin Harjo, co-creator of the Emmy-nominated “Reservation Dogs,” is at the helm as creator and executive producer alongside Hawke. The drama got picked up by FX after being shot in Tulsa last spring, with a stellar cast including Tim Blake Nelson and Jeanne Tripplehorn. It’s described as a Tulsa noir about someone who knows too much!

Source: FX picks up Sterlin Harjo, Ethan Hawke pilot shot in Tulsa

The Tulsa Doggy Day Out Program is Rewarding for Dogs and Humans - ocolly.com

The Tulsa Doggy Day Out Program is Rewarding for Dogs and Humans – ocolly.com

Or ever curious about what a day out can do for a shelter dog like Ziggy, this exuberant blue-heeler mix? Dogs take in fun adventures with the Doggy Day Out program away from their kennels in Tulsa. It’s an effort that isn’t just decreasing nervous behaviors in dogs but increases their opportunities for getting adopted by exposing them to people who generally would not visit shelters. My adventure with Ziggy started when I was browsing online for programs and signed up through a participating shelter in the area. After picking up this energetic pup donning his “adopt me” vest, we set off on explorations around Tulsa-from busy park visits to meals on dog-friendly restaurant patios, Ziggy’s initial jitters subsided as he met new sights and sounds-and even snuggles! It also includes an overnight stay with playful moments and, on a serious note, all the valuable insights we could share with the shelter to help Ziggy find his forever home soon after our heartfelt good-bye.

Source: Tulsa Doggy Day Out program rewarding for dogs and humans ocolly.com

Castle of Muskogee Begins Yearly Halloween Event

Castle of Muskogee Begins Yearly Halloween Event

What can you do at the Castle of Muskogee’s Halloween Festival? Spooky. Different. Fun. What else can this Oklahoma event be said to have in store for all? It runs every Friday and Saturday through October 26th. More than 15 different merchants will be selling costumes, food, and unique items. Scare-free dancing greets guests in the Village Center or visiting such attractions as Monster Blaster Haunt, Enchanted Train tours, or Haunted Hayrides. While Jester’s Revenge caters to the scarier thrill-seeker with creepy clowns and Casa Morte houses eerie asylum residents, Domus Horrificus shows a twist in these fears on The Trail of Blood through haunted woods. In addition, no gate admission fees are charged, and one can wander Castle Village Marketplace anytime at no charge-except for special events, such as a canned food drive to get half-price tickets to OKC, but this offer does not include combos, or simply visit their website okcastle.com for more information, as details are updated through the season!

Source: Castle of Muskogee opens annual Halloween Festival

New Decision Brings Renewed Scrutiny to License Plate Detection Systems

New Decision Brings Renewed Scrutiny to License Plate Detection Systems

What’s all the hubbub about license plate detection systems in Oklahoma? A recent court ruling has stirred up concerns about the legality and privacy over these “tag readers” utilized by law enforcement. It declared that camera evidence can’t be presented at trials as it violates state laws and the Fourth Amendment rights against illegal searches. State Rep. Tom Gann is working to follow through with legislation regarding privacy protection, although he wasn’t successful last time. This year, he tries again with interim studies to handle concerns. Police departments, on their part, argue that these cameras have been instrumental in bringing criminals to book to make communities safe by citing success stories from homicides to recoveries of stolen vehicles using them, although they agree that instances of errors exist either due to environmental factors or because of technical glitches; they remain convinced about their utility despite ongoing debates over their legitimacy because some lawmakers feel proper legal frameworks should exist first before any more usage within certain jurisdictions around town.

Source: New ruling renews scrutiny against license plate detection systems

Health Insurance Alternative Provided to Oklahoma

Health Insurance Alternative Provided to Oklahoma’s Small Businesses by State Chamber

How’s the weather in Oklahoma City today? Warm and sunny – clear skies. The State Chamber of Oklahoma recently introduced a new health insurance offering, ChamberCare, aimed at small businesses with the desire to keep rising health insurance premiums under control. This new self-funded product will allow employers who are members of the local chambers and/or the State Chamber to obtain coverage. It’s on the Aetna network, but it doesn’t cover dental or vision.

Source: Health insurance alternative offered to Oklahoma’s small businesses by State Chamber

Grounds Blessed and Broken Before Building New Mercy Institute

Grounds Blessed and Broken Before Building New Mercy Institute

Have you heard about Mercy’s groundbreaking event for a new digestive health facility? The Kathryn Ann Meinders Digestive Health Institute, made possible by Herman Meinders’ generous gift of $7.5 million, was blessed by Reverend Jimmy James in a pre-construction ceremony. It is named after his late daughter Kathy, who loved teaching children until her untimely death at 42 in 2008. This incredible state-of-the-art institute will no doubt change the face of gastrointestinal care with its many procedure rooms and specialized services. Physicians say the increasing need for such facilities is because of the pervasive struggles of digestive ills-from heartburn to colon cancer, which is the second leading cause of cancer deaths combined among men and women. Dr. Hussein Bitar explained, “It’s the first of its kind in our state and will serve as a beacon of hope while serving as a memorial to Kathy through this lasting tribute that represents love and advancement in one structure.” Completion is expected in Fall 2026!

Source: Grounds blessed and broken ahead of construction of new Mercy institute

The OKC Innovation District begins its 3rd Annual Innovation Week.

The OKC Innovation District begins its 3rd Annual Innovation Week.

Innovation Week in Oklahoma City: A career and science fair put together thrown by the OKC Innovation District. Seventh graders get a thrill flying simulated planes, competing with drones inside Science Museum Oklahoma. There are 1,200 students in attendance for the event. Most of the kids come from low-income families. It’s very important they know what they are capable of, what their opportunities are right here in Oklahoma. It ends on October 3rd.

Source: OKC Innovation District kicks off 3rd annual Innovation Week

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