U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development and Oklahoma State Director Kenneth Corn announced that the department is issuing grant assistance totaling more than $24.1 million to three Tribal Nations in Oklahoma to assist in high-speed internet, higher education, tribal language preservation, and STEM courses for high school students.

Oklahoma Human Services began accepting online applications Dec. 19, for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). This federally-funded program helps income-eligible families with their winter heating utility bills. Applications are accepted online at OKDHSLive.org.

Felony 138 – Justin Od Bates: Attempted burglary, second degree. 139 – Douglas Howard Kuykendall: Possession of firearm after former felony conviction.

.

Any registered voter who wants absentee ballots mailed to them for elections in 2024 may request absentee ballots for a specific election or for a full calendar year. No excuse is needed to vote by absentee ballot. There are many ways to apply. For many voters the easiest way to apply is online through the State Election Board’s OK Voter Portal. Voters may also fill out an application at the County Election Board or simply write us a letter.

The National Institutes of Health has awarded an Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation scientist $2.9 million to better understand how genetic variants contribute to the autoimmune disease lupus. Scientists discovered the connection between genetic variations and lupus more than half a century ago.

Good news: This year’s flu vaccine appears to be particularly effective at preventing severe cases. Bad news: Only about 40% of Americans eligible for flu shots have received one.

hustles the basketball up the floor for the Hugo Buffaloes in their recent games in the Oklahoma City Star Spencer tournament. Benson and the Buffaloes will tip-off Thursday, Dec. 28 in the Idabel Winter Classic at 5:45 p.m. against Tulsa KIPP.