Oklahoma COVID-19 cases rise to 1,684 with 80 deaths

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Counties in red have active cases. Counties highlighted in yellow have fatalities.

The number of COVID-19 cases in Oklahoma has risen to 1,684 with one additional fatality, bringing the statewide death toll to 80. A Sequoyah County man in the 65+ age bracket is the latest victim. There have been 415 cumulative hospitalizations.

The State Public Health Laboratory has returned 1,519 negative tests, but is still processing more than 12,000 negative results submitted by private labs.

Oklahoma County leads the state with 385 cases and fifteen deaths, followed by Tulsa County with 308 cases and sixteen deaths, and Cleveland County with 231 cases and fourteen deaths. Wagoner and Washington counties have surpassed 50 cases apiece.

The Centers for Disease Control are reporting 427,460 cases nationwide with 14,696 deaths. Oklahoma is 29th in total cases (33rd per capita) and 23rd in fatalities (18th per capita).

The World Health Organization reports 1,439,516 confirmed cases worldwide with 85,711 deaths. The United States have the highest number of cases in the world, followed by Spain with 146,690, Italy with 139,422, Germany with 108,202 and China with 83,249.

Oklahoma up to 1,524 COVID-19 cases with twelve new fatalities

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Counties in red have active cases. Counties highlighted in yellow have suffered fatalities.

The number of COVID-19 cases in Oklahoma has risen to 1,524 with 390 hospitalizations and 79 deaths, including twelve on Tuesday. The OSDH has processed 1,479 negative tests but is still working through more than 12,000 negative tests submitted by private labs.

The twelve new fatalities include:

  • Four in Oklahoma County: two males and two females, older than 65.

  • Two in Cleveland County, a male in the 36-49 age group and a male older than 65.

  • Two in Tulsa County, both males older than 65.

  • One in Adair County, a female older than 65.

  • One in Greer County, a female older than 65.

  • One in Kay County, a male older than 65.

  • One in Wagoner County, a male older than 65.

Oklahoma County leads the state with 317 cases and fifteen fatalities, followed by Tulsa County with 293 cases and sixteen deaths, and Cleveland County with 212 cases and fourteen deaths.


The Centers for Disease Control are reporting 395,011 cases nationwide with 12,754 deaths, an increase of 20,000 cases in the last 24 hours. Oklahoma is 29th in total cases (34th per capita), and 23rd in deaths (18th per capita).

The World Health Organization’s Wednesday situation report shows 1,353,361 cases worldwide with 79,235 deaths. The United States lead the world, followed by Spain with 140,510 cases, Italy with 135,586, Germany with 103,228, and China with 83,157.

Oklahoma reports 16 new deaths from COVID-19, total cases up to 1,472

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Counties in red have active cases. Counties with yellow outlines have had deaths.

Monday marked the single deadliest day of the COVID-19 pandemic in Oklahoma so far, with 16 deaths, bringing the state total to 67. There are now 1,472 confirmed cases with 376 cumulative hospitalizations.

The State Public Health Laboratory has currently processed 1,436 negative test results but is also working through 11,000 negative tests received from private labs dating back to February.

Six Tulsa County residents passed away Monday: a male in the 18-35 age group, a female in the 50-64 group, three females in the 65+ group and one man in the 65+ group. A 50-64 female and a 65+ male in Osage County have passed, as have a 65+ female in Adair County, a 65+ female in Cherokee County, a 65+ female in Cleveland County, a 65+ male in Creek County, a 65+ female in Kay County, a 65+ male in Mayes County, a 65+ female in Wagoner County, and a 65+ male in Washington County.

Oklahoma County continues to lead the state in cases with 303 and eleven deaths, followed by Tulsa County with 273 cases and fourteen deaths, and Cleveland County with 203 cases and twelve deaths. Wagoner County has surpassed 50 cases.

The Centers for Disease Control are reporting 374,329 cases nationwide with 12,064 deaths, an increase of over 40,000 cases since Monday’s report. Oklahoma is currently 29th in total cases and 34th per capita. The state is 27th in deaths and 21st per capita.

The World Health Organization’s Tuesday situation report shows 1,279,722 cases worldwide with 72,614 deaths. The United States lead the world, followed by Spain with 135,032 cases, Italy with 132,547, Germany with 99,225, and China with 83,071.

Oklahoma's Statewide Candidate Filing Begins April 8

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(Oklahoma City) – Oklahoma’s 2020 candidate filing period for federal, state, and legislative offices will occur as scheduled, Oklahoma State Election Board Secretary Paul Ziriax announced today. The three-day filing period runs 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on April 8, 9, and 10.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Secretary is encouraging candidates for federal, state, and legislative offices to file their paperwork, along with the required filing fee or petition, by mail or delivery service.

Candidates who file in-person will do so using a “drive-through” in the State Capitol parking lot. The “drive-through” will help maintain social distancing protocols in an effort to minimize risks to Election Board personnel and candidates.

Secretary Ziriax said State Election Board personnel can review declarations of candidacy and cashier’s checks or certified checks ahead of time to ensure they are in good order. Candidates who would like their information reviewed prior to filing can email documents to info@elections.ok.gov.

Candidates should visit the State Election Board’s website at elections.ok.gov for specific details about candidate filing, such as delivery instructions or information about the “drive-through” filing procedures. Candidates can also contact the State Election Board for details at (405) 521-2391 or info@elections.ok.gov.

“This is not an ideal situation for either election officials or candidates. But, with a little patience and a lot of precautions, we will get through the candidate filing period together,” Ziriax said.

Candidate filing for county offices will also be held April 8, 9, and 10 between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Candidates should contact their County Election Board for specific filing instructions.

Oklahoma COVID-19 cases up to 1,327 with 51 deaths and 340 hospitalizations

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Red counties have active cases, yellow counties have had deaths.

The number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Oklahoma has risen to 1,327 with five additional deaths since Sunday, bringing the statewide death total to 51 with 340 hospitalizations.

An Oklahoma County man in the 18-35 age range has died, marking the first victim in the state in that demographic. Also falling victim to the virus are two in Greer County, one male and one female, both over 65 years old, a 65+ female in Osage County and a 65+ male in Pottawatomie County.

Oklahoma County continues to lead the state in cases with 279 and eleven deaths, followed by Tulsa County with 249 cases and eight deaths, and Cleveland County with 180 cases and eleven deaths. Creek and Wagoner counties have both surpassed 40 cases apiece.

The Centers for Disease Control are reporting 330,891 cases nationwide with 8,910 deaths. Oklahoma is 29th in total cases and 19th per capita. There are 1,210,956 cases worldwide according to the World Health Organization with 67,594 deaths.

In an effort to prepare for medical surge and prolonged response to COVID-19 in the state, the Oklahoma Medical Reserve Corps (OKMRC) is recruiting volunteers to serve in medical and non-medical positions.

Lezlie Carter, OKMRC state coordinator, said volunteers are needed to serve in multiple capacities, but there is an increased need for those with medical training. Licensed medical professionals may be needed to assist with triage, supplementing hospital personnel, monitoring critical patients, assisting with transporting patients and providing critical care in the field.

“We are preparing for a surge to our state’s medical system,” said Carter. “It is important for us to begin processing new volunteers now so they are properly registered and trained for their role within the OKMRC.”

Other functions include specialty services such as the Stress Response Team where licensed mental health professionals provide behavioral and emotional support at hospitals, shelters, phone banks, community outreach teams, first responders and more.

Volunteers without medical training are needed for warehouse support, record keeping and administrative duties. All volunteers must be at least 18 years of age, live or work in Oklahoma, agree to a comprehensive background check and complete the OKMRC training.

Coordinated through the Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH), the OKMRC is the state’s only medical and public health volunteer program comprised of specialty teams and county units operating under the authority of local county health departments. The program has an established system to identify, train and organize medical and public health professionals, as well as volunteers from the public to supplement and support ongoing response operations and personnel.

The concept of the Medical Reserve Corps was created in 2002 after many Americans wanted to know how to help with the recovery efforts from Sept. 11, 2001. It has since evolved into a nationwide program.

To volunteer or to learn more about OKMRC functions, visit okmrc.org.

Oklahoma COVID-19 cases up to 988 with 38 total deaths

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Oklahoma is up to 988 cases of COVID-19 as of 11:00 a.m. Friday, with 38 total deaths. Four additional deaths have been linked to COVID-19 since Thursday, including three in Tulsa County and one in Cleveland County. 289 Oklahomans have been hospitalized due to the virus.

Oklahoma County leads the state with 237 cases and ten deaths, followed by Tulsa County with 175 cases and eight deaths, and Cleveland County with 130 cases and seven deaths. Wagoner, Creek, and Comanche counties have surpassed 30 cases apiece.

Counties in red have active cases. Counties in yellow have had deaths.

The Centers for Disease Control are reporting 239,279 cases nationwide with 5,443 deaths. Oklahoma is 29th in total cases and 32nd per capita with 25.2 cases per 100,000 people.

The latest situation report from the World Health Organization lists 972,303 confirmed cases worldwide with 50,322 deaths.

Number of COVID-19 cases in Oklahoma up to 719 with 30 deaths

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The number of COVID-19 cases in Oklahoma has increased to 719 as of Tuesday. The coronavirus has caused an additional seven deaths, bringing the total to 30. Greer County has reported its first case and will now be required to come into compliance with Governor Stitt’s “Safer at Home” executive order. There have been 219 hospitalizations in the state.

Counties in red have active cases, counties in yellow have had fatalities.

Oklahoma County leads the state in diagnoses with 192 and ten deaths, followed by Tulsa County with 115 cases and three deaths. Cleveland County is third with 87 cases and six deaths. Canadian, Comanche, Creek, Kay, and Washington counties all have 20+ cases.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are reporting 186,101 cases nationwide with 3,603 deaths. Oklahoma ranks 32nd in the nation in cases.

The World Health Organization is reporting 827,419 cases worldwide and 40,777 confirmed deaths. The United States lead the world in confirmed cases, followed by Italy with 105,792, Spain with 94,417, and China with 82,638. Italy leads the world in fatalities with 12,430.

City of Sand Springs issues Shelter in Place order

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Sand Springs Mayor Jim Spoon issued an updated “shelter in place” proclamation for the City of Sand Springs, effective on April 1, 2020, as follows:

“Based on the expanding crisis, it is important for the residents of Sand Springs to exercise extreme caution in their contact with others and to only be in public if necessary. While a number of businesses have been defined as essential by the Governor, I am also asking each essential business owner to take even more safeguards than have been required by the State, including closing if possible, for the safety of their employees and families, so that we can get through this event. It is important that we do everything possible to protect each other. If we do not see improvement, I am very concerned that additional restrictions may be necessary.”

Proclamation Declaring State of Emergency

WHEREAS, a proclamation declaring a state of emergency was issued by the Mayor of the City of Sand Springs on March 17, 2020, by virtue of the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) global pandemic; and

WHEREAS, a proclamation requesting voluntary business closing was issued by the Mayor of the City of Sand Springs on March 18, 2020, encouraging restaurants, bars, and other privately owned gathering places to limit the number of patrons and to encourage the transition to “take-out” or delivery options.

WHEREAS, a number of local businesses have implemented changes that provide protection to the public; however the Tulsa County Health Department has requested the City of Sand Springs take additional measures to protect the public, as the threat has not only continued but expanded within Tulsa County, resulting in additional exposure, illness and death.

WHEREAS, since the emergency declaration, the disease has continued to spread in multiple locations throughout the United States and the State of Oklahoma, resulting in additional protective measures imposed by Federal, State and local governments; and

WHEREAS, the state declared emergency for the State of Oklahoma is continuing; and

WHEREAS, the City of Tulsa and other municipalities have imposed executive orders with mandatory limits for certain businesses in an attempt to limit social contact; and

WHEREAS, the Governor of the State of Oklahoma issued an executive order on March 24, 2020, effective March 25, 2020, that provides additional direction to the residents of Tulsa County and other affected counties within the State of Oklahoma, said executive order confirming and further enforcing the prior proclamations issued by the Mayor of the City of Sand Springs;

WHEREAS, based on the Governor’s orders, additional direction to local residents and businesses will assist all in having an appropriate response to the continuing threat; and

WHEREAS, practicing such methods such as social distancing is believed to stop the spread of COVID-19; and

WHEREAS, the spread of COVID-19 is a disaster affecting life, health, and safety of Sand Springs residents of the City of Sand Springs and create an emergency situation within the meaning of Section 683.3 of the Oklahoma Emergency Act of 2003, as amended;

NOW, THEREFORE BY VIRTUE OF THE AUTHORITY VESTED IN ME BY THE CITY CHARTER AND STATE LAW, I, JAMES O. SPOON, MAYOR OF THE CITY OF SAND SPRINGS, OKLAHOMA, DO HEREBY PROCLAIM AND DECLARE:

SECTION ONE: The previously declared state of emergency is continuing pursuant to the original proclamation.

SECTION TWO: All citizens living in or visiting the City of Sand Springs are ordered to shelter at their place of residence. For the purpose of this Order, residences include homes, apartments, condominiums, dormitories, hotels, motels, shared rentals, and similar facilities and accommodations. All persons may leave their residences only for Essential Activities as defined herein, or to provide or perform Essential Governmental Functions as defined by the government performing the function, or to operate Essential Businesses as defined by the Governor of the State of Oklahoma, or his designee:

For purposes of this Order, individuals may leave their residence only to perform any of the following “Essential Activities”:

  1. To engage in activities, perform tasks, or obtain supplies essential to their health and safety, or to the health and safety of their family, household members, or pets (for example, obtaining necessary medical supplies, medication, food and beverage, or other products necessary to maintain safety, sanitation, and essential operation of residence, visiting a health care professional, obtaining supplies needed to work from home, or performing property maintenance).

  2. To engage in outdoor activity, provided that individuals, except those from the same household, must comply with physical distancing requirements of six feet (for example, walking, biking, hiking, or running).

  3. To perform work at an Essential Business.

  4. To care for or transport a family member or pet in another household.

  5. To move for another residence either in or outside of the City of Sand Springs.

All in-person gatherings for social, and recreational purposes, including but not limited to community, civic, public, leisure, or sporting events; parades, concerts, festivals, conventions, fundraisers and similar activities of ten or more persons are prohibited.

SECTION THREE: All restaurants, bars, and other privately owned gathering places and other dine-in service areas shall be closed to the public until the expiration of this emergency declaration, although “pick-up” and delivery service may remain open to the public and is encouraged until the expiration of this emergency declaration.

SECTION FOUR: No business shall remain open to the public and/or conducting transactions with the general public upon their premises unless specifically designated by the City of Sand Springs as an essential business. A list of essential businesses may be viewed at https://www.sandspringsok.org/COVID-19 or in person at 100 E. Broadway in the public notice display on the north side of the building. Businesses may appeal their designation status through the (Chief of Police Office or City Clerk’s Office).

SECTION FIVE: To the extent possible during this emergency, the City of Sand Springs shall devote resources, as available, to assist not only local residents, but the business community to react and adjust to the continuing threat, including but not limited to assistance with continuing business operations as appropriate.

SECTION SIX: All persons are encouraged to take precautions available to assist in alleviating the spread of the virus. All businesses should comply with all CDC and health department regulations and directives. Failure to comply may result in revocation of a business certificate of occupancy or any other legal remedy available.

SECTION SEVEN: This proclamation shall become effective 11:59 p.m. Wednesday, April 1st, 2020.

SECTION EIGHT: This state of emergency shall continue until 12:01 a.m. May 11, 2020 or terminated earlier by further proclamation.

PROCLAIMED THIS 1ST DAY OF APRIL, 2020.

Sand Springs breaks ground on new Keystone Ancient Forest Visitor Center

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Just 11 minutes west of downtown Sand Springs and 20 minutes west of downtown Tulsa sits one of Oklahoma’s most unique and beautiful nature preserves. The Keystone Ancient Forest spans 1,360 acres featuring 300-year-old post oaks and 500-year-old cedars, with wildlife, gorgeous scenery, and a fascinating history.

The City of Sand Springs recently broke ground on a new $927,000 visitor center at the preserve. The 2,000 sq. ft. facility will be funded through a 2017 general obligation bond election with philanthropic contribution from the Sharna and Irvin Frank Family Foundation.

The two-story building is designed by Studio 45 Architects of Tulsa and will feature a glassed-in multi-function observation floor and restroom facilities along with storage space for park maintenance equipment. Construction is expected to be complete by 2021 and will be contracted to Bravo Builders.

The City of Sand Springs first began acquiring the KAF land in 2001 and it opened to visitors in 2007. It has steadily grown over the years in both overall size and trail length. There are approximately eight miles of varying trail difficulties, including a 0.6 mile ADA accessible paved trail.

The park is different from hiking trails like Turkey Mountain because it is only open on specific Saturdays from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. with park staff present in order to ensure the integrity of the grounds. It is vandalism free and virtually devoid of trash. In addition to regular hikes, there are also Hike With Your Dog Days and an annual Ancient 5K run.

One of the most unique features of the park is its history. The forest is described in the journals of famed American author and explorer Washington Irving, who traveled through it in 1832 on a month-long military expedition into Indian Territory.

Also in the works for the forest is a 100-foot fire lookout tower that the City recently purchased. The disused tower was acquired at a cost of $108,000 from Cookson, Oklahoma. It is listed on the National Historic Lookout Register and will give visitors the opportunity to see from above the forest canopy. That project will go out to bid this summer.

Keystone Ancient Forest is located at 160 Ancient Forest Drive in Sand Springs, Oklahoma. Dogs are only permitted on specific days. Trail guides are on-hand to provide trail directions.

The forest is currently closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “Because of 2 recent back to back record attendance weekend hikes with more than 300-400 in attendance, and because we operate the preserve as a scheduled hiking facility, we were advised against promoting hiking as that could be considered invitation of public gatherings during this time of social distancing,” reads a statement from Parks Director Jeff Edwards. The rest of Sand Springs’s public trail system remains open.

Oklahoma COVID-19 cases rise to 481 with new death in Cleveland County

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The number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Oklahoma rose to 481 Sunday with the virus making its debut in Beckham, Cotton, and Love counties. A Cleveland County man in the 50-64 age group has passed away, bringing the number of statewide fatalities to seventeen. There have been 153 hospitalizations due to the virus.

Oklahoma County leads the state in active cases with 134 infections and four deaths. Tulsa County has 65 cases and three fatalities and Cleveland County has 60 cases and six fatalities. Canadian, Comanche, Creek, Kay, Osage, Pawnee, Payne, and Washington Counties are in the 10-20 range.

Counties in red have active cases. Counties in yellow have had fatalities.

There are 140,904 confirmed cases in the United States with 2,405 deaths according to the Center for Disease Control. Oklahoma ranks approximately 33rd in active cases as a state and 18th in total deaths, according to a database compiled by The Guardian.

The World Health Organization is reporting 693,224 total cases worldwide with 33,106 death. The United States continues to lead the world, followed by Italy with 97,689 and Chine with 82,447. Italy leads the world in deaths with 10,781.

Oklahoma COVID-19 cases up to 377 with 15 deaths

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As of Saturday at 11:00 a.m. there are 377 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Oklahoma. New counties with their first cases include Le Flore and Nowata. There have been seven new COVID-related deaths in the state, bringing the total to fifteen.

The seven new deaths include a man and woman in Cleveland County, both over the age of 65, a male and female in Tulsa County, both over the age of 65, a female over the age of 65 in Oklahoma County, a female in the 50-64 age range in Sequoyah County, and a female over the age of 65 in Wagoner County.

On Thursday, COVID-19 testing supplies arrived in Oklahoma that will allow for 10,000 individuals to be tested in the coming weeks. Oklahoma State University is bringing online lab capabilities by early next week that will allow the state as a whole to process roughly 2,800 COVID-19 tests per day. The University of Oklahoma is continuing to partner with the State to expand and bring online capabilities to process a significant number of COVID-19 tests in the coming weeks.

As of March 27, new regional drive-through testing sites are open in four cities in Oklahoma as a result of a cross-country, city and state health system partnership, with two more sites being open by next week in Western Oklahoma. Information about those locations can be found here: https://coronavirus.health.ok.gov/drive-thru-testing

Oklahoma County leads the state in active cases with 107, followed by Tulsa with 57, and Cleveland with 46. Canadian, Kay, Pawnee, Payne, and Washington counties all have 10 or more active cases.

Counties in red have active cases. Counties in yellow have had deaths.

The United States now leads the world in active cases with 85,356. America is sixth in deaths with 1,943. There are 509,164 confirmed cases globally and 23,335 deaths.

Sand Springs Parks Department closes playgrounds and most sports, trails and green space remain open

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The City of Sand Springs has announced that all playground equipment at City-owned parks will be closed to the public, following similar ordinances from the City of Tulsa and the Tulsa County Parks Department. Parks themselves will remain open, but patrons are only permitted to use the trails and open green space.

Outdoor basketball, volleyball, Gaga ball, tennis, and other sports will not be allowed for the foreseeable future due to the possibility of spreading COVID-19. The skate park will also be closed. The disc golf course will remain open but players are encouraged to play alone or in small groups, and to not share or touch each other’s discs. Public gatherings of 10 or more are not allowed per an executive order from Governor Stitt, and individuals are encouraged to remain six feet apart at all times.

Oklahoma schools to remain closed for duration of school year, distance learning to be implemented

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OKLAHOMA CITY (Date) – The State Board of Education unanimously approved an order that implements a Distance Learning Plan to complete the 2019-20 school year for Oklahoma students without reopening school buildings. The approval comes as numbers grow for positive COVID-19 cases in the state. 

“Oklahoma has tremendous educators – strong, dedicated, tenacious and smart. We have faith and confidence that our districts and teachers are committed to creative and innovative ways to continue learning for their students, and they will rise to this challenge,” said State Superintendent Joy Hofmeister. “Distance Learning Plans will look different from district to district. Many districts have used online tools for some time and will be able to hit the ground running. Others have little connectivity and communities with little or no access to computer technology. I know the hard-working educators in our districts will pull together to make this adjustment to benefit all learners.”

Beginning April 6, districts will be expected to provide distance learning for the rest of the school year. District leaders will also provide assurances to the Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE) of a Distance Learning Plan and ensure services continue for English learners and special education students.

“Our education communities are tough, resilient and committed. They know, as we all do, that we are all in this together. If this pandemic underscores anything, it is that we must help one another,” Hofmeister said. “We understand the challenges all Oklahomans are facing, and we know we can count on our schools to provide the best education possible in a way that ensures the safety and health of students and everyone in the school and community.” 

OSDE will provide distance learning frameworks and resources on its website in the coming days. In addition, the agency is exploring how federal assistance could help digital connectivity for some districts. OETA, Oklahoma’s educational public TV network, will also provide help. In partnership with OSDE, OETA will broadcast instructional daytime programming for the state’s PreK-12 students. 

While education will resume on April 6 with distance learning, there will not be traditional, in-person instruction or extracurricular activities. Districts will be expected to following critical safety guidance from the Centers for Disease Control with regard to social distancing for students, staff and school families. 

For the graduating class of 2020, each district will adopt a plan that establishes the assessment or assessments those students are required to take in order to graduate.  

The State Board took action on multiple waivers – ranging from school calendars to loosening current restrictions on funds – aimed at giving districts greater flexibility to respond to the needs of their students and communities. 

Oklahoma COVID-19 cases increases to 248, two more die in Cleveland County

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Counties in red have active COVID-19 cases. Counties in yellow have had a death.

The number of COVID-19 cases in Oklahoma increased dramatically from 164 on Tuesday to 248 on Wednesday with the virus arriving in Comanche, Craig, Lincoln, Okmulgee, Ottawa, and Sequoyah counties.

Two additional deaths have been announced, both from Cleveland County: a woman in her 90s and a man in his 60s. There have been seven total deaths in the state.

The State Department of Health is advising the public to follow a “Safer at Home” executive order from Governor Kevin Stitt, which tells vulnerable populations to stay at home for everything but essential travel. Vulnerable populations include anyone over the age of 65 and anyone with pre-existing conditions like asthma or heart complications.

Of the 248 cases in Oklahoma, 86 have led to hospitalizations. There are two cases in the 0-4 age group, two cases from 5-17, 43 cases from 18-35, 52 cases from 36-49, 64 cases from 50-64, and 85 cases in the 65+ age group. 129 cases are among males and 119 females are affected.

Oklahoma County leads the state with 73 active cases, followed by Tulsa with 41 and Cleveland with 39. Creek, Kay, and Pawnee are the only other counties with 10+ cases.

As of 4:00 p.m. Wednesday there are 68,440 total cases in the United States with 994 total death. Worldwide there are 413,467 cases and 18,433 deaths.

Governor Stitt announces sweeping business restrictions to combat COVID-19

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OKLAHOMA CITY (MARCH 24, 2020) – Governor Kevin Stitt held a press conference Tuesday to provide an update on the State’s response to COVID-19 and announce amendments to Executive Order 2020-07.

“We remain committed to making decisions based on reliable data, emerging science and the advice of experts from my Governor’s Solution Task Force, the State Department of Health and the CDC on how to best slow the spread of COVID-19,” said Gov. Stitt. These new action items will allow us to ensure we remain proactive in our response to this on-going crisis. We will continue to take the necessary precautions and steps in order to prioritize the health and safety of all 4 million Oklahomans.”

The amended Executive Order provides for the following statewide measures:

  • Issues a statewide “Safer at Home” order for adults over the age of 65 and vulnerable individuals with serious underlying medical conditions.

  • Limits gatherings to no more than 10 people.

  • Prohibits visitations to nursing homes and long-term care facilities.

  • Postpones all elective surgeries, minor medical procedures and non-emergency dental procedures until April 7, 2020.

The amended Executive Order provides for the following measures in counties with community spread:

  • Requires restaurants in Oklahoma counties with confirmed COVID-19 cases to provide take-out and delivery options only and closes all bars in those counties.

  • Closes all businesses not identified as being within a critical infrastructure sector, such as gyms, salons, massage parlors and movie theaters, where counties have community spread effective March 25 at 11:59PM through April 15. Federal guidance on the essential critical infrastructure workforce can be found here: www.cisa.gov/publication/guidance-essential-critical-infrastructure-workforce. Additions may be added by Executive Order or memorandum.

During the press conference, the governor also announced the State of Oklahoma is working on a plan to designate hospitals in Oklahoma and Tulsa County to treat all COVID-19 patients. This will occur through attrition.

Sand Springs Chamber of Commerce cancels Chillin' n Grillin' BBQ Festival

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COVID-19 has claimed another cultural victim with the cancellation of the 9th Annual Chillin’ n Grillin’ festival. The BBQ and music festival was scheduled for May 28th through 30th in downtown Sand Springs.

“It is with a heavy heart that we announce that Chillin’ n Grillin’ BBQ Festival and Carnival is cancelled,” announced the Chamber on Tuesday. “We hope this action will help to keep our community safe and healthy.”

The City of Sand Springs previously canceled the April 18th Herbal Affair and Festival, which also led to the cancellation of OkieSpice & Trade Co.’s Westival event on the same day.

Chillin’ n Grillin’ is one of Sand Springs’s largest annual events and features food trucks, a BBQ cook-off, a beer garden, carnival rides, and more. Previously hosted at Case Community Park, it was moved to the heart of downtown on 1st Street last year in order to provide highway visibility.

COVID-19 Situation Update: 164 cases in Oklahoma, 5 deaths

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Oklahoma counties with active cases.

According to the Oklahoma Health Department the number of active cases of COVID-19 in Oklahoma has risen to 164 as of 7:00 a.m. Wednesday. New counties with cases include Adair, Bryant, Carter, Creek, Delaware, Osage, Pottawatomie, and Stephens County.

The in-state death toll has risen to five total with the loss of two males: one in his 70s and one in his 40s.

Active cases are split 88 male and 76 female. There are 2 cases in the 0-4 age range, 1 case in the 5-17 range, 32 in the 18-35 range, 34 in the 36-49 range, 40 in the 50-64 range, and 55 in the 65+ range.

Oklahoma County leads the state with 55 active cases, followed by Tulsa and Cleveland with 27 apiece. No other county has more than 7.

As of 4:00 p.m. Tuesday the United States totals stand at 54,453 cases and 737 deaths, including all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, and the US Virgin Islands.


Hofmeister proposes State Board of Education approve distance learning for students starting April 6, school buildings to remain closed

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OKLAHOMA CITY (March 23, 2020) – State Superintendent of Public Instruction Joy Hofmeister announced today that she will propose a Continuous Learning Plan to the State Board of Education this week to complete the school year for Oklahoma students without reopening school buildings during the global pandemic. While the education of schoolchildren will resume with distance learning, there will not be traditional, in-person instruction or extracurricular activities, instead following critical safety guidance from the Centers for Disease Control with regard to social distancing for students, staff and school families.

The Board will hold a special meeting on Wednesday, March 25. Board members will meet virtually.

In the course of a week, Hofmeister noted, the Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE) has secured federal waivers removing the burden of statewide assessments and permitting the delivery or curbside pick-up of nutritional meals for qualifying students for the remainder of the school year.

"Our districts have begun planning their alternative delivery methods to support student learning as they prepare to reconnect students with their teachers in adaptive ways,” she said.

“We are determined to support our Pre-K through high school students as well as English learners, special education students and those who need reinforced skills or additional enrichment. We recognize this reality will present challenges for many families and districts, but these are extraordinary times that call for extraordinary measures. This coordinated, swift and thoughtful action will help safeguard the health and well-being of our communities, students and professionals in public schools. We must do absolutely everything in our power to reduce transmission of coronavirus.”

Beginning April 6, districts will be expected to provide distance learning for the remainder of the school year. How that learning occurs, Hofmeister said, will vary widely according to the capacity and needs of districts and their communities. Districts would start once they have provided assurances to OSDE of a distance learning plan as well as special services for English learners and special education students.

“I have faith in the commitment, innovation and creativity of Oklahoma educators and administrators,” Hofmeister said. “Many districts across our state have utilized online instruction already and likely will be able to hit the ground running. Other districts have significant technology limitations, while some might opt for instructional materials delivered to students. There will be a wide range of approaches and it will be far from ideal, but necessary as we embrace these changes and even sacrifice to protect the public health of our communities.”

She said the OSDE will offer a panoply of resources and guidance for districts to pursue distance learning. In addition, the agency is exploring how federal assistance could bolster digital connectivity for some districts. OETA, Oklahoma’s educational public TV network, will also provide help. In partnership with OSDE, OETA will broadcast instructional daytime programming for the state’s PreK-12 students.

Hofmeister noted the top priority for districts should be ensuring that high school seniors who are on track to graduate this school year receive the help they need. The State Board is expected to ensure district boards of education fulfill graduation requirements but in such a way that students are not negatively impacted by the pandemic.

Moreover, the State Board is poised to take action on a host of waivers – ranging from school calendars to loosening current restrictions on funds – aimed at giving districts greater flexibility to respond to the needs of their students and communities.

Late last week, the U.S. Department of Education granted waivers allowing the state to suspend standardized testing and Oklahoma School Report Cards for the 2019-20 school year.

Oklahoma Dept. of Education receives federal waiver to halt assessments amid pandemic

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The U.S. Department of Education tonight approved waivers requested by the Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE) to suspend assessments and Oklahoma School Report Cards for the 2019-20 school year.

State Superintendent of Public Instruction Joy Hofmeister requested the waivers to help schools navigate the uncertainty caused by the coronavirus pandemic. At Hofmeister’s request, the State Board of Education on March 16 closed public schools until April 6 to help reduce community spread of COVID-19.

“Our schools have the unprecedented challenge this school year of educating students while absolutely guarding their health and well being, as well as that of our educators and communities,” said Hofmeister. “These waivers provide some measure of stability and flexibility for  our schools to move forward during this period of uncertainty.”  

The waivers mean Oklahoma schools will not administer academic assessments in English language arts, mathematics and science for grades 3-8 or to high school juniors.

Similarly, the OSDE will not issue Oklahoma School Report Cards, the state’s accountability system that factors in assessments and other indicators.

The Board of Education will hold a special meeting Wednesday, March 25, to determine whether to extend the school closure, among other pressing Board actions.

Sand Springs orders shut down of all restaurants, bars, massage parlors, gyms, etc.

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The Sand Springs City Council voted Friday to to close numerous local business due to the COVID-19 pandemic, including: bars, restaurants, gyms, entertainment venues, tattoo and massage parlors, and private clubs. The proclamation will last until May 11th, 2020.

Below is the full text of the proclamation.

“WHEREAS, a proclamation declaring a state of emergency was issued by the Mayor of the City of Sand Springs on March 17, 2020, by virtue of the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) global pandemic; and

WHEREAS, a proclamation requesting voluntary business closing was issued by the Mayor the City of Sand Springs on March 18, 2020, encouraging restaurants, bars and other privately owned gathering places to limit the number of patrons and to encourage the transition to “take-out” or delivery options.

WHEREAS, a number of local businesses have implemented changes that provide protection to the public; however, the Tulsa County Health Department has requested the City of Sand Springs take additional measures to protect the public, as the threat has not only continued but expanded within Tulsa County, resulting in additional exposure, illness and death.

WHEREAS, since the emergency declaration, the disease has continued to spread in multiple locations throughout the United States and the State of Oklahoma, resulting in additional protective measures imposed by Federal, State and local governments; and

WHEREAS, the state declared emergency for the State of Oklahoma is continuing; and

WHEREAS, the City of Tulsa and other municipalities have imposed executive orders with mandatory limits for certain businesses in an attempt to limit social contact; and

WHEREAS, additional direction to local residents and businesses will assist all in having an appropriate response to the continuing threat; and

WHEREAS, practicing methods such as social distancing is believed to slow the spread of COVID-19; and

WHEREAS, the spread of COVID-19 is a disaster affecting life, health, and safety of Sand Springs residents and non-residents alike; and

WHEREAS, the pandemic conditions constitute a threat to the safety and welfare of the residents of the City of Sand Springs, and create an emergency situation within the meaning of Section 683.3 of the Oklahoma Emergency Act of 2003, as amended;

NOW, THEREFORE, BY VIRTUE OF THE AUTHORITY VESTED IN ME BY THE CITY CHARTER AND STATE LAW, I, JAMES O. SPOON, MAYOR OF THE CITY OF SAND SPRINGS, OKLAHOMA, DO HEREBY PROCLAIM AND DECLARE:

SECTION ONE: The previously declared state of emergency is continuing pursuant to the original proclamation.

SECTION TWO: All in-person gatherings for social, spiritual and recreational purposes, including but not limited to community, civic, public, leisure, faith-based, or sporting events; parades, concerts, festivals, conventions, fundraisers and similar activities are strongly discouraged until the expiration of this emergency declaration. Pursuant to directives from state and federal health authorities, all gatherings of more than ten persons are strongly discouraged.

SECTION THREE: All restaurants, bars, and other privately owned gathering places and other dine-in service areas shall be closed to the public until the expiration of this emergency declaration, although “pick-up” and delivery service may remain open to the public and is encouraged until the expiration of this emergency declaration.

SECTION FOUR: Local gyms and exercise facilities, entertainment venues, tattoo and massage parlors, and private clubs are prohibited from operating or opening to patrons until the expiration of this emergency declaration.

Additionally, tattoo and massage parlors, barber shops, haircut and styling shops, and spas can operate only under the following conditions: by appointment only with no walk-in customers; appointments cannot be scheduled and held withing 15 minutes of the preceding appointment; the individual client cannot bring any other persons, including children, to be present within the facility during an appointment; and that all workstations are hereby required to have a minimum of six (6) feet of space from the adjoining workstation, to promote social distancing. Cleaning between customers shall be required.

SECTION FIVE: To the extent possible during this emergency, the City of Sand Springs shall devote resources, as available, to assist not only local residents, but the business community to react and adjust to the continuing threat, including but not limited to assistance with continuing business operations as appropriate.

SECTION SIX: All persons are encouraged to take all precautions available to assist in alleviating the spread of the virus. All businesses should comply with all CDC and health department regulations and directives. Failure to comply may result in revocation of business license.

SECTION SEVEN: This proclamation shall become effective 11:59 P.M. Friday, March 20, 2020.

SECTION EIGHT: This state of emergency shall continue until 12:01 AM May 11, 2020, or terminated earlier by further proclamation.

PROCLAIMED THIS 20th DAY OF MARCH, 2020.”