• Resources for Teachers, Parents and Students As the new school year approaches, families are busy buying supplies and making last-minute summer memories. Healthy habits can sometimes get overlooked in the rush.

The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma (CNO) is partnering with Cherokee Nation, Oklahoma Veterans United Fox program and Eagle OPS Foundation to provide an event with vital resources to assist veterans. VETS-travaganza is a vibrant mix of activities, including tribal cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, and networking which connects veterans and their families to essential benefits and claims assistance.

OKLAHOMA CITY — Thirty-four Oklahoma fifth and eighth grade teachers immersed themselves in early American history at the Colonial Williamsburg Teacher Institute in June. The renowned institute is held in and around Colonial Williamsburg, the restored capital city of 18th-century Virginia.

Choctaw Nation opens new council house ‘Okla Chukka’ TUSKAHOMA –– A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held on June 20 to mark the grand opening of Okla Chukka, “The People’s House,” in Tuskahoma. This new tribal council house, designed to foster tribal member engagement in the democratic process, stands as a testament to the rich heritage and promising future of the Choctaw Nation.

The Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH) is reporting the first human case, and death, caused by West Nile Virus (WNV) in a Southwest Oklahoma resident. The patient was hospitalized before passing away.

The American Aging Association has named Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation scientist Benjamin Miller, Ph.D., as its new president. The 54-year-old organization, also known as AGE, consists of scientists and physicians dedicated to research on aging.

• Art, education, tribal pride on display, family fun all day DURANT –– The Choctaw Cultural Center will mark its third year of sharing Choctaw history and culture, unique art exhibits, concerts by Native entertainers, school tours, and more on Saturday, July 27. The public is invited for a day of activities for all ages from 10 a.m.

A recent discovery at the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation underscores a growing belief among scientists that arthritis is linked to our digestive system. Physician-scientist Matlock Jeffries, M.D., found evidence that certain changes to our gut microbiome can protect against osteoarthritis, the nation’s most common form of disability.

The Oklahoma State Department of Health’s Woman, Infants and Children (WIC) program is asking for input from individuals about the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program’s Operations. Information shared with WIC will be considered for the State Plan of Program Operations for 2025.

Scientific discoveries typically require years of painstaking laboratory work. But sometimes, a spark of insight can arise from a chance encounter.