Science Museum Oklahoma Plans Grand Opening for Love’s Planetarium
What’s happening at Science Museum Oklahoma? They’re opening Love’s Planetarium on September 20, featuring advanced GOTO Orpheus Star Ball and hybrid planetarium with 4k projectors. This new tech lets visitors view a night sky without light pollution and explore the universe. Public showings start at 2:00 p.m., with up to eight showings on Saturdays. Marshall says it’s a milestone for the museum’s future educational experiences.
Source: Science Museum Oklahoma schedules grand opening for Love’s Planetarium
Coffee Shops Respond to Potential Starbucks in Downtown Oklahoma City
Downtown Oklahoma City might get its first Starbucks soon, and local coffee shops are hoping people will still support them. The new Starbucks is planned for the corner of Park and Broadway avenues at 100 Park Avenue. While some see this as a sign of city growth, others emphasize buying from local spots like Not Your Average Joe, which employs people with disabilities. They stress that supporting local businesses helps keep money within the community.
Source: Coffee shops react to possible Starbucks in Downtown Oklahoma City
OKC Firefighters Save Kittens and Fight Fires During Labor Day Weekend
The Oklahoma City Fire Department had a busy Labor Day weekend, starting with rescuing five kittens from a storm drain. Besides saving the kittens, they fought structure fires and managed EMS calls while also doing training. Photos shared by OKCFD showed them in action and enjoying some fun moments. They wished everyone a safe and wonderful holiday on social media.
Source: OKC firefighters rescue kittens, battle fires over Labor Day weekend
Oklahoma City-County Health Department Introduces New Mobile Clinic
Police are investigating a possible active shooting with casualties at Apalachee High School in Winder, Georgia. Meanwhile, the Oklahoma City-County Health Department (OCCHD) has introduced a new mobile clinic. This facility includes administrative and waiting areas, an examination room, a restroom, a lab station, and two counseling rooms. It aims to expand access to public health services for communities with limited options and is wheelchair accessible.
Source: Oklahoma City-County Health Department rolls out new mobile clinic
Panel to Talk About How Oklahoma City Police Handle Crisis Calls
What’s the latest in mental health resources? A panel hosted by local officials aims to connect the community with these crucial services. Set for 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Northwest Baptist Church, it will cover how officers respond to mental health calls and what signs they look for. Lt. Vanessa Hurd of OKC’s Crisis Intervention Team emphasized recognizing different signs in each person. Community members are invited to ask questions and learn more about available support.
Source: Panel to discuss how Oklahoma City police respond to crisis calls
‘A Pretty Big Deal’: First Outpatient Facility TCAR Procedure Done in OKC
Johann Theron found even simple tasks around his home in Clinton, Oklahoma, exhausting due to severe arterial blockages. A check-up at the CardioVascular Health Clinic revealed one artery was 95% blocked and another 75%. Dr. Jim Melton performed a minimally invasive TCAR procedure, marking the first time it was done in an outpatient facility in the U.S. Now Theron breathes easier and is back to work as a forklift driver.
Source: ‘Pretty big deal’: First outpatient facility TCAR procedure done in OKC
The Oklahoma State Health Department Teaches Residents About the Roles of Community Health Workers
The state health department in Oklahoma is educating residents about the crucial roles of community health workers like Misty Wilson. These workers connect people to healthcare, social services, and assist with SNAP and Medicaid applications. They’ve screened over 18,000 clients since 2022, improving many lives. Despite challenges in finding resources for all needs, their dedication helps enhance mental and physical health across communities statewide.
Source: Oklahoma State Health Department Educates Residents About Community Health Workers’ Roles
Behind the Scenes: Tulsa Zoo Conducts Health Checks on New Tiger Cubs
The Tulsa Zoo shared a video of their five Malayan tiger cubs during a routine health check. All the cubs are healthy, according to the zoo. The exam checks body temperature, weight, and overall physical condition to ensure they are well. Visitors can watch a live stream of the cubs and their mom, Ava, in the Lost Kingdom building. Sign up for Channel 8’s newsletter for more updates!
Source: Behind-the-scenes: Tulsa Zoo conducts health checks on new tiger cubs
The USA BMX Foundation partners with Discovery Lab to create a new exhibit
What happens when kids’ love of bikes meets education? The USA BMX Foundation and Discovery Lab have joined forces to create a new exhibit that promotes STEM learning through BMX racing. Funded by the Hardesty Family Foundation, this hands-on experience will teach children about bike physics, track design, and helmet safety using interactive displays. This innovative project aims to inspire young minds while touring museums across North America for 7-10 years.
Source: USA BMX Foundation teams up with Discovery Lab to develop new exhibit
The City of Norman Begins Public Hearings for Entertainment District
The City of Norman held the first public hearing for the Rock Creek entertainment district. This is required by the Local Development Act before voting on project plans for a Tax Increment Finance (TIF) district. The new development would include an arena, retail, housing, and office spaces. Supporters say it will create jobs and boost economic growth while opponents worry about funding costs nearing $600 million with debt financing concerns.
Source: City of Norman kicks off public hearings for entertainment district
OKC Tap Dance Festival Is Just Around the Corner
Are you ready to dust off your tap shoes? The OKC Tap Dance Festival, hosted by the Metropolitan School of Dance, will be held from Friday, September 20th to Sunday, September 22nd, 2024. This three-day celebration features talented hoofers and tap artists from Oklahoma and across the nation. There will be workshops for all skill levels at Douglass @ Page Woodson and a Saturday evening showcase in the Auditorium. Everyone is welcome!
Source: Get Ready to dust off your tap shoes!! The OKC Tap Dance Festival is just around the corner!
Performers Revealed for First Tulsa 918 Day Festival
Want to stay updated on local entertainment? Get weekly updates in your inbox! Branjae will perform at the first-ever 918 Day Festival. Downtown Tulsa Partnership announced a stellar lineup for this civic pride event, happening September 18 from 5-9 p.m. at Chapman Green. Celebrating Tulsa’s diverse heritage, the festival features nearly 100 art and food vendors with free entry and parking. Enjoy performances by talented artists like David Hernandez, Legacy Foundation Creations, Dr. Shred, Rising Buffalo Dance Group, Let’s Session, Written Quincey, and DJ Klave!
Source: Performers announced for inaugural Tulsa 918 Day Festival
Events in Tulsa Area for September 2024 Include Festivals
Want the latest on local entertainment? This September, Tulsa is buzzing with events. The Bluegrass & Chili Festival runs Sept. 6-7 in Pryor. Scotfest celebrates Scottish culture in Broken Arrow, and the First Friday Art Crawl happens monthly in the Tulsa Arts District. John Anderson performs at Hard Rock Live on Sept. 12, while baklava lovers can enjoy treats at the Greek Festival. Plus, don’t miss handmade arts at Black Moth Festival!
Source: September 2024 events in Tulsa area includes festivals
Paycom Doubled Workforce During COVID, Leads to HQ Facility Expansion
Despite the COVID pandemic causing many companies to struggle, Paycom, based in Oklahoma City, thrived. They almost doubled their workforce over five years and expanded their headquarters. From 2019 to 2023, they hired up to 1,200 employees yearly. During the pandemic peak between 2020 and 2021, employment grew by 28%. By the end of 2023, Paycom had around 4,200 employees at its Oklahoma City office with significant campus expansion underway.
Source: Paycom doubled workforce during COVID, leads to HQ facility expansion.
School Shooting Has Oklahoma Schools Rethinking Safety Measures
Following a deadly shooting at a Georgia school, Oklahoma districts are rethinking their safety measures. Experts argue that the best defense isn’t fancy technology but rather well-prepared students and staff who can identify threats. Ken Trump of National School Safety emphasizes that security success hinges on people, not gadgets. Training is crucial; being aware and knowing how to act can prevent incidents better than any new device ever could.
Source: School shooting has Oklahoma schools reevaluating safety measures
Researchers in Tulsa for Conference Using Drones to Study Oklahoma Weather
Why are researchers gathering in Tulsa? Experts from around the globe are attending an ISARRA conference to study severe weather using drones. Zach Yap and other scientists showcased a Meteodrone, which can fly up to 20,000 feet, making it cost-effective for gathering data like temperature and humidity compared to traditional weather balloons. The drone’s maker, Meteomatics from Switzerland, aims to deploy many such drones across Oklahoma due to its frequent severe weather.
Source: Researchers In Tulsa For Conference Using Drones To Study Oklahoma Weather
Here Is Your Guide to the Must-See Music at Plaza Fest 25
The Plaza District in OKC has seen many changes, with new businesses and old ones moving around. This year’s 25th annual Plaza Fest on September 28 will feature a diverse musical lineup from rock to Latino pop and hip-hop, showcasing the district’s cultural variety. Performers include heavy rock trio Merry Walkers, soulful Lee Hernan, instrumental post-rock band Speak, Memory, funky Elephunk, dynamic Flow and the Wavvez, and headliners Skating Polly. For more details visit plazafest.org.
Source: Here’s your guide to the can’t-miss music at Plaza Fest 25
Rocklahoma Helps Local Economy
Rocklahoma has returned to Pryor, bringing rock enthusiasts and benefiting local businesses. Hortencia Fuentes, owner of Don Thomas Restaurant, looks forward to the busy weekend, while her son Jesus notes they always prepare extensively for Rocklahoma. Although this year saw fewer diners due to nice weather and concert-goers staying closer to the event, the crowds were still significant. Both are pleased with the turnout despite these changes.
Source: Rocklahoma boosts local economy
University Offers Resources to Help Save Local Newspaper – Newstalk KZRG
Pittsburg State University is stepping up to save the local newspaper, The Morning Sun. Graduates Josh Letner and Amy Sawyer are leading efforts to revitalize the paper. They bring their journalism experience and community passion into play, especially since newspapers nationwide face challenges. The university provides crucial support through resources like strategic planning and marketing advice from the Small Business Development Center at Block22. This collaboration aims to sustain local journalism for Pittsburg’s benefit.
Source: University contributes resources to help save local newspaper – Newstalk KZRG
Days Inn by Wyndham Oklahoma City/Moore in Oklahoma City, OK is up for sale
Are you looking for a smart investment in Oklahoma City? Jennifer Stein Real Estate, Inc. presents the opportunity to acquire Days Inn by Wyndham with 91 rooms. This hotel has steady revenue of about $927,000 annually and outperforms competitors in RevPAR. Close to major attractions like the Amazon Fulfillment Center and BNSF railyard, it offers potential growth through strategic pricing and improvements. The property includes two owner/operator apartments as well.
Source: Days Inn by Wyndham Oklahoma City/Moore Oklahoma City, OK Listed for Sale
Degree Programs Approved and Deleted by Oklahoma Higher Education Officials News
Chancellor Allison Garrett spoke at the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education meeting on June 27 in Oklahoma City. The regents approved nine new degree programs, declined one, and deleted four. New programs were given to various universities including Oklahoma State University, which will offer three new bachelor’s degrees and a doctorate program. Southeastern Oklahoma State University had a proposed degree denied due to low demand concerns. All newly approved programs must show sufficient student interest by 2026-2031 to continue.
Source: Degree programs approved, deleted by Oklahoma higher education officials News
Black Inventors Hall of Fame to Buy Mayfair Farms Property, Causes Debate in West Orange – Montclair Local
James Howard founded the Black Inventors Hall of Fame (BIHOF) four years ago to highlight African American inventors. Initially a virtual idea, it has grown into plans for a permanent museum in West Orange at Mayfair Farms. In 2021, during Tulsa’s race massacre anniversary, BIHOF held its first induction ceremony. The project is currently in preliminary phases with financial and community support necessary for success.
Newly Built Houses You Can Buy in Tulsa
Are you searching for a perfect home in Tulsa? Ashbury Park offers modern homes with high ceilings, quartz countertops, and stainless appliances. Winchester Park provides tranquility near major highways. Morrow Place features a split floor plan and stylish finishes. East Broken Arrow boasts an efficient layout and luxurious vinyl flooring. Estates at the River V offers designer finishes and green belt views. Sunset Hills has a chef’s kitchen and game room with pond views while Bixby includes custom cabinetry and solid white oak floors. Sand Springs is charming with vaulted ceilings, natural light, gas fireplace, wine fridge bar/buffet, plus more! In Tucson Village enjoy premium upgrades like recessed lighting or security systems from Shaw Homes built-in ’21 by Shaw Homes in this family-friendly neighborhood pool setting better than new executive-style construction showcasing stunning kitchens surrounded indoors/outdoor surround sound camera security system along community amenities clubhouse pickleball courts ponds pools alike!
