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Governor Stitt Appoints Lindel Fields as Oklahoma Secretary of Education, Expanding Leadership Role

Governor Stitt Appoints Lindel Fields as Oklahoma Secretary of Education, Expanding Leadership Role

Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt has appointed Lindel Fields, the current State Superintendent of Public Instruction, to also serve as the Secretary of Education. This dual role is intended to leverage Fields' leadership to further educational progress in the state. Governor Stitt expressed confidence in Fields' ability to handle the additional responsibilities, citing his strong leadership and commitment to Oklahoma's educational system. Fields, honored by the appointment, emphasized his dedication to supporting students, teachers, and school communities. He aims to build on the progress made in the past year and strengthen the state's education system. The appointment follows the departure of Dan Hamlin, the outgoing Secretary of Education, who will assume a new role as dean at the University of Texas at Austin College of Education.

Oklahoma Governor's Runoff Debate Highlights Controversial Claims and Policy Proposals

Oklahoma Governor's Runoff Debate Highlights Controversial Claims and Policy Proposals

In a recent televised debate, Republican gubernatorial candidates Mike Mazzei and Gentner Drummond discussed various issues, including a proposed aluminum smelter in Inola, tax policy, and education reform. The debate, held in Oklahoma City and Tulsa, is part of the lead-up to the August 25 Republican runoff. The winner will face Democrat Cyndi Munson and three independent candidates in the November 3 general election. Both candidates made several claims that were scrutinized for accuracy. Drummond, the incumbent attorney general, defended his lawsuit against the smelter development, while Mazzei, a former state senator, denied any family involvement in the project. The debate also touched on the potential establishment of a federal Nuclear Lifestyle Innovation Campus in Oklahoma, which Drummond supports under certain conditions, while Mazzei focused on the oil and gas industry.

How the South became America's biggest buyer's market

How the South became America's biggest buyer's market

Just a few years ago, the United States was a major seller's market, which meant home sellers had much more power than buyers. Now, you may have heard that the U.S. is becoming a buyer's market. This is useful information in general, but national data doesn't always give us a realistic ...

Federal Officials Announce New Nuclear Waste Sites, Nevada Excluded

Federal Officials Announce New Nuclear Waste Sites, Nevada Excluded

Federal officials have announced that five states—Utah, Tennessee, Oklahoma, Louisiana, and Idaho—are being considered as potential sites for nuclear waste storage facilities. This development is seen as a significant shift away from the long-standing proposal to use Yucca Mountain in Nevada as a nuclear waste repository. Nevada officials, including Rep. Dina Titus, have welcomed the announcement, viewing it as a victory for the state, which has opposed the Yucca Mountain project for decades. The Department of Energy's decision aligns with the Nuclear Waste Informed Consent Act, which requires consent from local governments and tribes before proceeding with nuclear waste storage projects. The proposed sites could create thousands of jobs and generate significant economic growth.

Oklahoma State Superintendent Outlines Education Priorities

Oklahoma State Superintendent Outlines Education Priorities

Oklahoma State Superintendent of Public Instruction, Lindel Fields, has outlined his administration's priorities ahead of the new school year. Fields, who took office in October 2025, emphasized communication and collaboration as key elements of his leadership approach. He highlighted new state laws requiring 40 minutes of daily recess for young students and an increase in the minimum school year. Fields also addressed the decline in emergency-certified teachers and the need for competitive teacher salaries. His administration is focused on supporting new teachers and improving Oklahoma's education system through measurable goals.

Inola Smelter Project Sparks Debate in Oklahoma Gubernatorial Race

Inola Smelter Project Sparks Debate in Oklahoma Gubernatorial Race

The proposed $4 billion Emirates Global Aluminum smelter in Inola, Oklahoma, has become a contentious issue in the Republican gubernatorial runoff between Mike Mazzei and Gentner Drummond. The project, which would be the first primary aluminum production plant in the U.S. in 45 years, has raised concerns over foreign ownership and environmental safety. Drummond opposes the project, citing potential impacts on agriculture and resource consumption, while Mazzei supports it, emphasizing compliance with environmental regulations. The debate has highlighted differences in the candidates' approaches to economic development and foreign investment.

VENU Achieves Key Construction Milestones in National Amphitheater Projects

VENU Achieves Key Construction Milestones in National Amphitheater Projects

VENU Achieves Key Construction Milestones in National Amphitheater Projects

Brilliant Cleaning and Restoration Expands Water Damage Services in Four-State Region

Brilliant Cleaning and Restoration Expands Water Damage Services in Four-State Region

Brilliant Cleaning and Restoration Expands Water Damage Services in Four-State Region

Oklahoma Gubernatorial Candidates Debate Data Center Development Policies

Oklahoma Gubernatorial Candidates Debate Data Center Development Policies

Republican gubernatorial candidates Mike Mazzei and Gentner Drummond are presenting differing approaches to data center development in Oklahoma. Both candidates recognize the importance of artificial intelligence infrastructure but differ on state support for developers and protection of taxpayers and utility customers. Mazzei advocates for conditions such as locally approved industrial space and no tax subsidies, while Drummond emphasizes local control and ratepayer protection. The debate follows the approval of the Ratepayer Protection Act, which requires large energy users to pay for infrastructure and notify property owners of major projects.

Iowa State sets home men’s wrestling opponents for 2026-27 season

Iowa State sets home men’s wrestling opponents for 2026-27 season

Iowa State University has announced its seven-dual home wrestling schedule for the 2026-27 season on Monday, marking the inaugural campaign for head coach Brent Metcalf. The Cyclones will host matches at Hilton Coliseum against Bucknell, Arizona State, Wyoming, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, Stanford and Cornell. The slate is highlighted by its competitive strength, as five of […]

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ESPN sees a path for Michigan to reach the playoffs

ESPN sees a path for Michigan to reach the playoffs

ESPN sees a path for Michigan football to reach the College Football Playoff despite a daunting schedule this year.

Oklahoma Prepares for Tornado-Resilient Building Standards

Oklahoma Prepares for Tornado-Resilient Building Standards

Oklahoma, located in the heart of Tornado Alley, faces unique structural challenges due to its exposure to high wind speeds, hail, and tornadoes. According to Universal Steel, new building codes are being implemented to enhance safety and resilience. Starting September 14, 2026, the 2024 International Building Code (IBC) will require Risk Category III and IV buildings in tornado-prone regions, including Oklahoma, to be designed for the greater of tornado or ordinary wind loads. These updates aim to address wind speeds associated with 1,700- and 3,000-year return periods. Additionally, ICC 500 storm shelters are mandated for new Group E buildings in areas with mapped 250 mph shelter design wind speeds, with Oklahoma setting a trigger at an occupant load of 200. These measures are designed to improve safety and structural integrity in the face of severe weather events.