Oklahoma reaches 17,000 active cases, Sand Springs has 103

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The Oklahoma State Department Health reported 1,878 new cases of COVID-19 on Friday, the second-highest single-day tally since the pandemic began. Thursday set the single-day record at 2,101, and the seven-day rolling average is at a record-high 1,465. Active case totals are at a record-high 17,095.

Current hospitalizations are over 1,000 for the third-straight day, but declined slightly to 1,025 from Thursday’s record-high 1,055. The state’s adult intensive care units are at 93% full, and pediatric ICU is at 72%.

The state reported 16 new deaths on Friday, bringing the pandemic death toll to 1,429. 103 Oklahomans have died in the past week, and the seven day rolling average is at 14.7. Newly reported deaths include:

  • One in Adair County, one female in the 65 or older age group.

  • One in Beckham County, one male in the 65 or older age group.

  • One in Blaine County, one male in the 65 or older age group.

  • One in Comanche County, one female in the 65 or older age group.

  • Two in Jackson County, one female in the 50 - 64 age group and one female in the 65 or older age group.

  • One in Jefferson County, one male in the 65 or older age group.

  • One in Kay County, one male in the 65 or older age group.

  • Four in Oklahoma County, two females and two males in the 65 or older age group.

  • Four in Tulsa County, one female in the 50 - 64 age group and one female and two males in the 65 or older age group.

The city of Sand Springs reached a record-high active case total of 103. The previous record was 100 on October 9th, but it had declined as low as 60 on October 29th. There are 1,518 active cases in the city of Tulsa, and 2,721 in Tulsa County.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are reporting 9,581,770 cumulative cases nationwide since the pandemic began. There have been 234,264 deaths. 117,988 new cases and 1,135 new deaths were reported in the past day. Oklahoma ranks 22nd in per capita cases in the past week.

The World Health Organization is reporting 48,534,508 cumulative cases worldwide with 1,231,017 deaths. There have been 581,679 new cases in the past day. The United States continue to lead the world in total cases, followed by India with 8,411,724 and Brazil with 5,590,025.

Oklahoma Health Department reports record-high 1026 COVID-19 hospitalizations

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The Oklahoma State Department of Health reported record-high COVID-19 related hospitalizations Wednesday, along with 1246 new cases and 17 new deaths.

There are currently 1026 Oklahomans hospitalized from the virus, up from yesterday’s record-high of 974. The adult intensive care unit is at 92% capacity, and the pediatric ICU is at 79%. There are still 740 ventilators available.

The 1246 new cases reported on Wednesday marks seven straight days with at least 1000 new cases, and the seven-day rolling average is at 1231, down from a record-high of 1348 set on October 25th. The active case total is at 15,927, slightly down from Monday’s record of 15,948.

The 17 new deaths bring the seven-day rolling average to a record-high 15.1. One of those cases was a Tulsa County man in the 50-64 age group. 106 new deaths have been reported in the past week.

Sand Springs is at 83 active cases, down from the record-high of 100 on October 9th. There are 1402 active cases in Tulsa and 2453 in Tulsa County.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are reporting 9,268,818 cumulative cases nationwide since the pandemic began. There have been 230,893 deaths. Oklahoma currently ranks 23rd in per capita cases in the past week.

The World Health Organization is reporting 47,362,303 cumulative cases since the pandemic began with 1,211,986 deaths. The United States continue to lead the world in total cases, followed by India with 8,313,876, Brazil with 5,554,206, and Russia with 1,693,454.

Incumbent Karen Keith defeats Josh Turley in Tulsa County Commissioner election

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Incumbent Karen Keith won re-election to the office of Tulsa County Commissioner for District No. 2 Tuesday, beating Republican challenger Dr. Josh Turley, again. The election was a rematch of 2016, and this time Keith got 54.56% of the 78,725 votes cast, compared to 56.96% last time.

According to her Tulsa County bio, Keith is a Muskogee native and Oklahoma State University graduate who built a successful career in broadcasting with 21 years at KJRH as an anchor, reporter, and executive producer. She also traveled the world producing documentaries, and hosted “Oklahoma Living.”

She entered politics in 2002 as the Director of Community Relations and Vision Implementation for Tulsa Mayor Bill LaFortune. She then worked for the Tulsa Metro Chamber of Commerce as the Director of Partnership Development for the Tulsa Convention and Visitors Bureau. Keith won her first election in 2008.

State Senator Allison Ikley-Freeman loses re-election bid to Republican Cody Rogers

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State Senator Allison Ikley-Freeman was defeated by Republican challenger Cody Rogers in the Tuesday election for District 37. Rogers received 67% of the 33,737 votes cast.

Rogers billed himself as a conservative businessman and political outsider in the spirit of President Donald Trump throughout his campaign. According to his website, Rogers is the owner of a pavement construction company, and he is a proponent of reeling in excessive government regulations in order to stimulate private sector job growth.

He also vows to vote against any proposed regulations that prohibit or seek to limit gun ownership. He wants to make Oklahoma a top-ten state for education by investing in both K-12 and trade schools. He aims to lower prescription drug costs, and he opposes sanctuary cities.

Ikley-Freeman won her seat in a 2017 special election against former Jenks City Councilman Brian O’Hara with 50.3% of the vote, and has served the final two years of Dan Newberry’s unexpired term. That election had low turnout of less than 8,000 voters.

Sand Springs suffers two COVID-19 deaths in past week

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After going 70 days without a COVID-19 related death, the city of Sand Springs has suffered two in the past week. The town’s sixth death was reported on Sunday, and its seventh was reported Thursday. The deaths come at a time when the town’s active caseload has seen significant decrease.

Sand Springs peaked at 100 active cases on October 9th, but is currently at 60, its lowest level since September 26th. There are 1,265 active cases in nearby Tulsa, however, and 2,121 in the county.

The Oklahoma State Department of Health reported 1,041 new cases statewide Thursday, but the seven-day rolling average is at 1,101, down from a state-record of 1,348 on Sunday. The state’s active case total dipped below 15,000 for the first time in eight days. There are currently 14,968 cases, down from 15,946 on Sunday.

20 new deaths were reported on Thursday, but due to technical difficulties the OSDH Situation Report was unable to provide specific demographics. There have been 85 deaths reported in the past week, and the seven-day rolling average is at an all-time high of 12.1.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are reporting 8,834,393 cases since the pandemic began with 227,045 deaths. Oklahoma ranks 23rd in the country in per capita cases over the past seven days.

The United States continue to lead the world in total cases, followed by India with 8,040,203 and Brazil with 5,439,641. According to the World Health Organization, there have been 44,351,506 cases since the pandemic began, with 1,171,255 deaths.

Has investing become an extreme sport?

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This past weekend my family decided to be a part of a team building event at Extreme Water Sports in Oklahoma City, OK. This is a U.S Olympic and Paralympic training site that allows regular individuals to partake in many adrenaline inducing activities. Whitewater rafting, by far is the most exciting and dangerous activity offered at this facility. I avoid risk by nature and wasn’t exactly sure what I was getting into but figured I could handle it. I was not prepared for what happened next.

After listening to a short and totally inadequate safety speech by our guide, we headed out to conquer the rapids. As the roar of the rapids filled our ears our guide yelled, “We’ll go through this course three times. Do you want to go aggressive now or later?!” The six of us in the raft chose later. At the first spillway I realized I had made a big mistake. The waves smashed into my face as our guide yelled, “Row forward!”

As I thought, “Ok, that wasn’t so bad,” we hit the next rapid and I found myself ejected out of the raft and into the swirling rapid along with two others from our group. I was dunked repeatedly, and terror engulfed me as I was pulled under the raft by the raging current. I could not remember a thing from the prior safety instructions. Needless to say, I was saved and was unscathed, except for a few scrapes, bruises, and drinking gallons of river water. I am forever in the debt of our guide!

As I was reflecting on my “near death” experience I realized that as investors there are many parallels between white water rafting and what we have experienced over the past year or so. Our guide gave me some really good advice, however, in the moment I forgot it all. Here’s what he said…

“YOU HAVE TO THINK LOGICALLY!” - If you have to rescue someone that has been thrown out of the raft, you must grab them by the shoulder straps of their life jacket and dunk them under the water to get buoyancy and momentum needed to drag them into the raft.

When I was in the water I wasn’t thinking logically, I was in survival mode. I would have fought against someone trying to dunk me to pull me in the raft. The same applies to investing, when the market has dropped drastically all the investor thinks about is survival and your survival instincts scream, “Get out! You can’t recover from this! At least you won’t lose any more!” This is where retirement plans capsize and never recover. Sticking to a plan when you are going through the volatility of the market is a must if you are to make it out. Benjamin Graham summed up this sentiment best when he said, “The investor’s chief problem - and even his worst enemy - is likely himself.”

“LISTEN TO YOUR GUIDE AT ALL TIMES.” - Whether I was in the water or in the raft, it was the precise and timely instruction of the guide that got me through any situation that I was encountering. If I could hear his voice over the roar of the rapids, I was ok. Trust me, he received a big tip at the end because I felt that I owed him my life!

There is a reason you hire an advisor. It’s not for the good times, nor is it only for the bull markets; a real advisor proves his worth when the going gets rough and things get crazy. This is because he knows that he is handling your future livelihood. As long as you are able to hear your financial advisor’s voice, allow him to shred the narrative and follow his promptings. If you can do this, you will be ok. Don’t jump ship, hang in there. This is what he was trained to do. You were smart to hire your advisor so trust yourself, listen to your financial professional because they are there to help you succeed. Your financial advisor will celebrate your financial successes because when you succeed, they too are successful.

“SOMETIMES ALL YOU CAN DO IS HUNKER DOWN” - There were times our guide would yell, “GET DOWN!” This meant to lock your feet in, hunker down, and hold on because we were about to hit a massive rock or rapid. He was diligent in watching out for what we were approaching, and his verbal commands were an indication of his concern for our safety. Most importantly, he knew that in that moment, we were safest in the vessel and by not jumping ship.

There are times when the best course of action is hunkering down. No one knows the exact future of the markets, the economy, or what the results of the elections will be. Choosing a financial advisor is like selecting a long-term whitewater rafting guide, but more personal because you are selecting an individual to build an intimate relationship with based upon your future financial needs and/or goals. You have to trust that your advisor will guide you through the process of putting together a strategy that will be ready for such a time as this. You also have to trust that you have been properly allocated and diversified before any indications of a market decline. Through carefully selected and diversified investments, your advisor will guide you through hunkering down and holding on for the ride. You’ll pray it ends sooner rather than later, but if you listen to your financial advisor, you’ll be able to hold on and come out safely on the other side.

Daran Tucker, ChFC
LPL Investment Advisor Representative
www.f-p-r.com

Oklahoma reaches 15,000 active COVID cases and record 910 hospitalizations

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The COVID-19 pandemic is reaching record heights in Oklahoma. The Oklahoma State Department of Health reported a record single-day increase of 1,628 new cases Thursday, bringing the seven-day rolling average to a record-high 1,235. The active case total has set new record-highs in eight of the past nine days, and is currently at 15,017.

Current hospitalizations reached a record-high for the third straight day, now at 910. A previous record of 663 held from late July till October 6th, and since then it has gone up ten times. There were 870 hospitalizations on Wednesday and 821 on Tuesday.

The OSDH reported eleven additional deaths on Wednesday, including one in Tulsa County. Of the 11, only two were under 65 years of age, and all were over the age of 50. There have been 48 deaths reported in the past three days, bringing the seven-day rolling average to a record-high 11.1. The previous record average was 10.4 in late August.

While numbers are going up across the state, they are slowly declining in Sand Springs. The city reached a record active total of 100 on October 9th, but is down to 64 now, the lowest level since September 27th. There are 1,428 active cases in Tulsa, and 2,318 in Tulsa County.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are reporting 8,312,667 cases nationwide since the pandemic began, with 221,438 deaths. Oklahoma ranks 15th in the country in new cases per capita over the past week.

The World Health Organization is reporting 41,104,946 cases worldwide since the pandemic began, with 1,128,325 deaths. The United States continue to lead the world in cumulative cases, followed by India with 7,706,946 and Brazil with 5,273,954.



Oklahoma reports record-high active COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations

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The Oklahoma State Department of Health reported several new record-high COVID-19 statistics Friday afternoon, including 1,524 new cases. The previous single-day record was 1,401 on July 27th. There are 13,515 active cases in the state, surpassing the September 28th record of 13,379.

Hospitalizations set a new record for the third time in the past four days, up to 749. The death rate continues to remain below record-highs, however. The seven-day rolling average was 10.4 on August 30th and is currently at 6.7.

Sand Springs reached 100 active cases for the first time after 25 new cases were reported in the past 48 hours. There are 1,253 active cases in Tulsa, and 2,016 in Tulsa County.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are reporting 7,583,200 cumulative cases nationally with 212,111 deaths. There have been 322,741 new cases reported in the past seven days. Oklahoma ranks 22nd in total cases per capita and is ninth in per capita cases in the past seven days. The state is 38th in per capita deaths and 26th in per capita deaths in the past week.

The World Health Organization is reporting 36,361,054 cumulative cases worldwide with 1,056,186 deaths. The United States continue to lead the world in total cases, followed by India with 6,906,151, Brazil with 5,000,694, and Russia with 1,272,238.

Oklahoma reports record-high COVID-19 hospitalizations

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The Oklahoma State Department of Health reported 1,006 new cases of COVID-19 Wednesday afternoon, and though active cases are below the state’s record-high, current hospitalizations have hit a new peak for the second-straight day.

Oklahoma’s last record-high hospitalization number was 663, set on July 29th when there were only 6,714 active cases in the state. For two months active case total continued to climb, while hospitalization declined, but on Tuesday that number rose to 699, and on Wednesday it hit 738.

There are 13,066 active cases in Oklahoma, down from a record of 13,379 set on September 28th. The seven-day rolling average for new cases is 1,022, down from a peak of 1,136 on September 25th.

There have been 1,075 deaths from the virus in Oklahoma, and nine more were reported Wednesday, including one in Tulsa County. The seven-day rolling death average is 6.3, down from a peak of 10.4 on August 30th.

The city of Sand Springs reported a record-high single day increase of 21 cases on Tuesday, bringing the town’s active total to a record-high 87, but no new cases were reported Wednesday and the total declined to 81. There have been five deaths in the town. There are 1,769 active cases in Tulsa County and 1,108 in the city of Tulsa.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have reported 7,475,262 cases nationwide since the pandemic began with 210,232 total deaths. There have been 307,191 cases in the last seven days.

Oklahoma ranks 27th in total cases but is 15th in cases in the past seven days, and eighth in per capita cases in the past seven days. The state is 25th in per capita deaths in the past seven days.

The World Health Organization is reporting 35,659,007 cases since the pandemic began with 1,044,269 deaths. The United States continue to lead the world in total cases, followed by India with 6,757,131, Brazil with 4,927,235, and Russia with 1,248,619.

Oklahoma surpasses 10,000 active cases of COVID-19

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The state of Oklahoma surpassed 10,000 active cases of COVID-19 for the first time Monday morning, according to the Oklahoma State Department of Health situation report. The department reported 869 new cases, but zero new deaths. There are currently 499 Oklahomans hospitalized from the virus, down from a record-high 663 in late July.

The state has now processed over a million specimen and returned 70,223 positive cases for a 7.02% positivity rate overall. The seven day moving average is at 8.7% according to Johns Hopkins.

Friday’s weekly epidemiology report showed 5,673 new cases, 5,084 recoveries, and 41 deaths between September 4th and 10th. Persons aged 50 and over accounted for only 31% of cases, but 96% of deaths. 74.7% of victims suffered at least one comorbidity.

The city of Sand Springs reached 400 total cases since the pandemic began, and is currently sitting at 64 active cases, down from 74 last Tuesday. There are 1,041 active cases in the city of Tulsa, and 1,639 active cases in Tulsa County.

Oklahoma ranks 29th out of 50 states in total cases (27th per capita) but is 16th in new cases in the past seven days (4th per capita). The state is 33rd in total deaths (37th per capita) and 25th in new deaths in the past week (23rd per capita).

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are reporting 6,503,030 total cases since the pandemic began with 35,549 new cases in the past day and 241,814 cases in the past week. There have been 193,705 total deaths and 510 deaths since yesterday.

The World Health Organization is reporting 28,918,900 cumulative cases worldwide and 922,252 deaths. The United States continue to lead the world in cases, followed by India with 4,846,427 and Brazil with 4,315,687.

Oklahoma reports 8745 active COVID-19 cases and 14 new deaths

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The Oklahoma State Department of Health reported 909 new cases of COVID-19 Thursday, bringing the number of active cases to 8,745. The state record for active cases is 8,749, set on Monday. 540 Oklahomans are currently hospitalized, down from a record-high 663 in July.

835 Oklahomans have died from the virus and 14 additional deaths were reported Thursday.

  • One in Carter County, one male in the 65 or older age group. 

  • One in Johnston County, one male in the 50 - 64 age group.

  • Two in Le Flore County, one female and one male in the 65 or older age group. 

  • One in Lincoln County, one female in the 65 or older age group. 

  • One in Love County, one male in the 65 or older age group. 

  • One in Mayes County, one female in the 65 or older age group. 

  • Two in Oklahoma County, one female and one male in the 65 or older age group. 

  • One in Okmulgee County, one female in the 65 or older age group.

  • Two in Pittsburg County, two males in the 65 or older age group. 

  • One in Rogers County, one female in the 65 or older age group. 

  • One in Tulsa County, one male in 65 or older age group

Ten new cases were reported in Sand Springs, bringing the active total to 51, down from a peak of 56 on August 10th. The city of Tulsa has 995 active cases and Tulsa County has 1,504 active cases.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are reporting 6,087,403 cumulative cases nationwide with 185,092 deaths. 288,357 cases have been reported in the last seven days. Oklahoma ranks 28th in total cases and 33rd in deaths. The state is 15th in new cases in the past seven days.

The World Health Organization is reporting 25,847,521 cases worldwide since the pandemic began with 858,766 deaths. The United States continue to lead the world in total cases, followed by Brazil with 3,950,931 and India with 3,853,406. Russia became the fourth nation to surpass one million cases on Wednesday.

House approves funding for Tulsa Levee System improvements

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An Arkansas River levee holds back flood waters in Sand Springs in May of 2019.

On July 30, 2020, the United States House of Representatives unanimously passed HR 7575—the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA)—which could have significant impacts on the Tulsa-West Tulsa Levee system.

“There’s a lot to be happy about in the WRDA passing,” said Representative Kevin Hern. “Included in the bill were funds for the Army Corps of Engineers to make upgrades on the Tulsa-West Tulsa Levee System. Last year, a flood decimated parts of Tulsa. Had the aging levees failed, the devastation would have been much worse.”

The legislation includes $133.5 million in funding to improve the levees, which were rated “unacceptable” and at “very high risk of failure” 12 years ago. Next, the legislation moves forward to the Senate for approval.

“I have consistently pushed for the need to address the decrepit Tulsa-West Tulsa Levee System,” said Senator Jim Inhofe. “Passage of this legislation in the House is a major step forward and I will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that it is passed through the Senate.”

Previous to the House passage, the Tulsa-West Tulsa Levee System was the subject of an Army Corps of Engineers “Chiefs Report” in which the Corps made formal recommendations for the necessary improvements to the system. This “Chiefs Report” followed the completion of a feasibility study that incorporated public comments regarding the identified improvements.

“I get more and more excited every time we move forward and see progress on improving our levee system,” said District 2 Tulsa County Commissioner Karen Keith. “It has taken years of effort from Senators Inhofe and Lankford, Congressman Hern and Mullen, Todd Kilpatrick our Levee Commissioner, the Corps, and so many others to get us to this point. The momentum we have now is a huge victory for the citizens and business who rely on the levees to protect them. I am looking forward to the day when the Corps can start the preconstruction and engineering design phase that this funding will kick off.”

“The news that the WRDA has been passed by the House is tremendous,” Todd Kilpatrick, District 12 Levee Commissioner, said. “Every step we make toward improving the Tulsa-West Tulsa Levee System gets Tulsans closer to being better protected from the flooding like we saw last year. We wouldn’t have gotten this far without the support of our federal delegation and the expedited work by the Tulsa Division of the Corps to complete the feasibility study that ultimately led to the signing of the Chiefs report.”

In addition to the funding potential from the WRDA, this past April Tulsa County was awarded a $3 million grant from the federal Economic Development Administration to modernize two existing pump stations in the 70+-year-old system

The full text of the bill can be read at this link.

Sand Springs minister dies from COVID-19 complications

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Jim Schrepel, right, died from complications due to COVID-19 on Tuesday.

The COVID-19 pandemic has claimed its fourth victim in the town of Sand Springs. Jim Schrepel, 74, passed away Tuesday after a month-long battle with complications arising from the virus. Schrepel was the co-founder of In Jesus Name Ministries International which hosted the annual Unity Praise gathering in Sand Springs.

Less than five months earlier, Schrepel’s wife, Stephanie, contracted the virus and was one of the first cases in Oklahoma. SEE RELATED: Surviving COVID-19 in Sand Springs.

Jim Schrepel was diagnosed and hospitalized with the virus and bilateral pneumonia in early July. He was able to return home early on, but required oxygen. Eventually his symptoms worsened to the point that he had to be admitted to the COVID intensive care unit.

Although he was virus-free by the 29th, the disease and the pneumonia had already caused severe damage to his body and he suffered a small stroke on the 30th. He passed away Tuesday surrounded by his wife and children.

Schrepel’s funeral will be held Saturday, August 8th at 10:00 a.m. The service will be held outside at Reach Church at 1402 North 81st West Avenue. Face masks will be required. The church has launched an online donation link to assist the family.

The Oklahoma State Department of Health reported 1,101 new cases Wednesday with 645 hospitalizations and 6,598 active cases statewide. There have been 17 additional deaths, bringing the statewide death toll to 583.

  • Two in Caddo County, one female and one male in the 65 or older age group. 

  • Two in Cleveland County, one male in the 50 - 64 age group and one male in the 65 or older age group.

  • One in Grady County, one female in the 65 or older age group. 

  • One in Kay County, one male in the 65 or older age group. 

  • Two in McCurtain County, two females in the 65 or older age group. 

  • One in Payne County, one female in the 65 or older age group. 

  • Six in Oklahoma County, one male in the 50 - 64 age group. Three females and two males in the 65 or older age group.  

  • Two in Tulsa County, two females in the 65 or older age group. 

Sand Springs reported 12 new cases of COVID-19 on Wednesday, bringing the number of active cases to a record-high 46. The city of Tulsa has 953 active cases and Tulsa County has 1,414.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are reporting 4,748,806 cases nationwide with 156,311 deaths. There have been 49,988 cases and 1,107 deaths in the past day. Oklahoma ranks 32nd in total cases (33rd per capita) but is 19th in new cases in the past week (13th per capita). The state is 34th in total deaths (39th per capita) and 23rd in deaths in the past week.

The World Health Organization is reporting 18,354,342 cases worldwide with 696,147 deaths. There have been 206,709 new cases and 5,116 deaths in the past day. The United States continue to lead the world in total cases, followed by Brazil with 2,750,318 and India with 1,908,254.

Sand Springs suffers third COVID-19 death, Oklahoma reports 1244 new cases

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It has been 149 days since the first documented case of COVID-19 arrived in Oklahoma. Since then, there have been 37,731 cases, 30,282 recoveries, 3,228 hospitalizations, and 549 deaths. In Sand Springs there have been 184 cases, 154 recoveries, and three deaths. On Saturday the Oklahoma State Department of Health reported the first death of a Sand Springs resident since May 6.

Sand Springs reported nine new cases on Saturday with 27 active cases. The city of Tulsa has 874 active cases, Tulsa County has 1,278 active cases, and Oklahoma has 6,900 active cases. The OSDH reported 1,244 new cases statewide on Saturday, the second-highest single day total since the pandemic began. 628 Oklahomans are currently hospitalized.

The OSDH released their weekly epidemiology report on Friday. From July 24 to July 30 there were 104,640 tests administered and 8.9% of those were positive. The average age of cases was 40 and the average age of the 59 victims was 75. The youngest individual to die was 13 and the oldest was over 100. Cases are up 71.6% from the previous week, hospitalizations increased 34.4%, and deaths increased 51.3%. 76.7% of victims had at least one comorbidity.

The OSDH is asking Oklahomans to continue being tested regardless of if you are symptomatic. A complete list of testing sites is available at this link.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are reporting 4,542,579 cases nationwide with 152,870 deaths. There have been 68,605 new cases and 1,371 deaths in the past day. Oklahoma ranks 32nd in total cases (33rd per capita) and 34th in total deaths (39th per capita). The state is 16th in new cases for the past seven days, and 24th in new deaths in the past seven days.

The World Health Organization is reporting 17,396,943 cases worldwide with 675,060 deaths. There have been 289,321 new cases and 6,142 new deaths. The United States continue to lead the world in total cases, followed by Brazil with 2,610,102 and India with 1,695,988.

Oklahoma reports record-high 1401 new cases of COVID-19

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For the third time in the past four days, the Oklahoma State Department of Health reported record-high single-day increases in COVID-19 cases. There were 1,204 new cases on Sunday, and 1,401 new cases on Monday. Current hospitalizations dropped from 654 to 625, however, and no new deaths were reported for the second-straight day. There are currently a record-high 6,938 active cases statewide.

A full list of testing sites can be found at this link.

Sand Springs reported a record-high single-day increase of twelve cases on Monday, bringing the active total to 31. The city of Tulsa has 1,008 active cases and Tulsa County has 1,430.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are reporting 4,163,892 cases nationwide with 145,982 deaths. There have been 64,582 new cases and 969 deaths in the past day. Oklahoma is 32nd in total cases (35th per capita) and 19th in total cases for the past seven days (14th per capita). The state is 34th in total deaths (39th per capita) and 26th in total deaths in the past seven days.

The World Health Organization is reporting 16,114,449 cases worldwide with 646,641 deaths. There have been 254,274 cases and 5,490 deaths in the past day. The United States continue to lead the world in total cases, followed by Brazil with 2,394,513 and India with 1,435,453.

Oklahoma reports record-high 1147 new cases of COVID-19 with 7 deaths

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The Oklahoma State Department of Health reported a record single-day increase of 1,147 COVID-19 cases Friday, bringing the active total to 5,355. There are currently 628 Oklahomans hospitalized from the virus.

Seven additional deaths have been linked to COVID-19, bringing the statewide death toll to 484.

  • One in Caddo County, male in the 65 or older age group.   

  • One in Creek County, female in the 50 - 64 age group. 

  • Three in Oklahoma County, one female and one male in the 50 - 64 age group and one female in the 65 or older age group. 

  • One in Rogers County, female in the 65 or older age group.

The city of Sand Springs reported seven new cases Friday, but active cases dropped from 29 to 27 with nine new recoveries. Tulsa County is currently reporting 1,082 active cases and the city of Tulsa has 740 active cases.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are reporting 4,024,492 cases nationwide with 143,868 deaths. There have been 72,219 new cases and 1,113 new deaths in the past day. Oklahoma ranks 32nd in total cases (37th per capita), but is 17th in new cases per capita over the past week. The state is 34th in total deaths (39th per capita).

The World Health Organization is reporting 15,296,926 cases worldwide with 628,903 deaths. There have been a record-high 284,196 new cases reported in the past day. There have been 9,753 new deaths reported Friday, the highest single-day total since April 17th. The United States continue to lead the world in total cases, followed by Brazil with 2,227,514 and India with 1,287,945.

Oklahoma struggles with processing COVID-19 data, reports 1714 new cases Tuesday

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The Oklahoma State Department of Health reported a record-breaking 1,714 new cases Tuesday afternoon, but many of those cases should have been reported over the past two days. After averaging over 750 new cases per day over the prior week, the OSDH reported only 209 new cases on Sunday and 168 on Monday.

“Due to technical data entry issues, case counts for Sunday, July 19 and Monday, July 20 are low and do not reflect real-time data,” read the OSDH Monday Situation Report. “OSDH’s Acute Disease Service is working diligently to resolve these technical issues and will continue to provide reporting of COVID-19 information that Oklahomans have come to expect from OSDH. In the meantime, Oklahomans who receive a positive test result through a State lab will continue to be promptly notified and connected to contract tracing efforts.”

“OSDH’s number one priority is making COVID-19 testing widely available and efficient for the public as well as operating an effective, and trusted, contact tracing program. During this time of increased demand, OSDH is prioritizing manpower and resources to communicate positive results and to provide medical guidance for quarantining and minimizing spread,” said interim Commissioner Lance Frye. “We recognize the significant challenges we’ve experienced with outdated systems, and are working to modernize processes and incorporate new technology to streamline operations and improve critical customer services during the pandemic.”

“In its efforts to continuously develop robust contact tracing across the State, the OSDH will begin using text messaging in addition to phone calls to reach out to contacts. We will release more information on this new development including what contacts can expect to see in a text notification.”

Tuesday’s report brought the state’s cumulative case total to 27,147 with 20,663 recoveries and a record-high 6,023 active cases. 613 Oklahomans are currently hospitalized, down from a peak of 638 on Thursday.

Oklahoma has seen 461 total fatalities from the pandemic, including nine new deaths reported Tuesday.

  • One in McCurtain County, one male in the 50 - 64 age group.

  • One in Noble County, one male in the 65 or older age group.

  • Three in Oklahoma County, one female in the 36 - 49 age group and two males in the 65 or older age group.   

  • One in Pottawatomie County, one female in the 65 or older age group.

  • One in Rogers County, one male in the 65 or older age group.

  • Two in Tulsa County, two females in the 65 or older age group.

In Sand Springs there are 27 active cases. 129 Sandites have been diagnosed with the virus, 100 have recovered, and two have died. There are 1,174 active cases in Tulsa County and 818 in the city of Tulsa.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are reporting 3,819,139 cases nationwide with 14,630 deaths. There have been 57,777 new cases and 473 deaths reported in the past day.

Oklahoma currently ranks 32nd in total cases (39th per capita), but is 16th in per capita cases reported in the past seven days. The state is 34th in total deaths (39th per capita) and 33rd in deaths in the past seven days.

The World Health Organization is reporting 14,562,550 cases worldwide with 607,781 deaths. There have been 213,637 new cases and 4,083 deaths reported in the past day. The United States continue to lead the world in total cases, followed by Brazil with 2,098,389 and India with 1,155,191.

Oklahoma reports 5419 active cases of COVID-19 with 547 hospitalizations

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The state of Oklahoma surpassed 25,000 cumulative cases of COVID-19 on Saturday with a single-day increase of 916. There have been 19,186 recoveries and 451 deaths, leaving a record-high 5,419 active cases.

Six new deaths have been reported in the past day, and 547 Oklahomans are currently hospitalized. Hospitalizations peaked at 638 on Thursday and declined over the past two days. Of the 54,447 tests administered in the past week, 10% were positive and 9.5% of those cases resulted in hospitalizations.

Six new cases were reported in Sand Springs, and 26 cases are currently active. 91 Sandites have recovered from the virus. There are currently 1,261 active cases in Tulsa County. The City of Tulsa recently implemented a mandatory mask policy for public areas, and in an unscientific Facebook poll in the “Sand Springs Community Group,” more than 53% of the 999 respondents supported a similar measure in Sand Springs.

In the past week there have been 28 deaths in Oklahoma, and the virus continues to disproportionately affect older generations. While the average age of an infected individual was 41, the average age of a deceased victim was 75. The youngest to die this past week was 13, and the oldest was 102. Persons aged 50 and over accounted for only 32% of cases, but 96% of deaths.

On average, the median patient wasn’t hospitalized until six days after they first became symptomatic. The median time spent in the hospital for a survivor was five days, and the median fatality occurred after eight days in the hospital and 13.5 days after symptom onset. 78.5% of fatalities had at least one chronic condition.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are reporting 3,555,877 cases nationwide with a record-high 72,045 new cases in the past day. There have been 137,864 deaths total and 926 new deaths. Oklahoma ranks 32nd in total cases (37th per capita) and 34th in deaths (39th per capita).

The World Health Organization is reporting 13,876,441 case and 593,087 deaths worldwide, with a record-high 259,848 new cases in the past day. There have been 7,360 deaths in the past day - the deadliest period since May 3rd. The United States continue to lead the world in total cases, followed by Brazil with 2,012,151 and India with 1,038,716.

"The Rogues Five" drummer Jamie Oldaker dies at 68

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Jamie Oldaker performs with The Rogues Five at the 2017 Riverfest in Sand Springs.

Jamie Oldaker, a famous drummer with ties to Sand Springs, died Thursday at 68 years old. While Oldaker claimed Tulsa as his hometown, part of his rise to fame came from playing with Sand Springs band The Rogues Five in the 1960s.

Oldaker and his band of teenagers formed The Rogues Five in the 1960s and soon developed a large following in the Tulsa area. The band included I.J. Ganem, Randy Ess, Philip Wilson, and Bard Coats. They opened for Jim Morrison and The Doors and other famous bands at the Tulsa Convention Center and performed regularly on the KOTV show “Dance Party.” The band has held reunion shows over the years, including at the 2017 Riverfest in Sand Springs.

After departing Tulsa to pursue a solo career, Oldaker performed on The Ed Sullivan Show. He started the band Tulsa County, then joined the Bob Seger Band for their album “Back in ‘72.” As a session musician with Shelter Records, he recorded with Leon Russell, The Gap Band, and Georgie Fame, and later toured with Russell.

In 1974 Oldaker recorded the album “461 Ocean Blvd” with Eric Clapton, which included the hit song “I Shot The Sheriff,” and went on to record several other albums with Clapton. He continued to divide his time touring with both Clapton and Seger. He then joined up with Peter Frampton for a tour, and recorded the album “Where I Should Be.”

In 1986 he helped launch the career of country artist Ronnie Dunn, managing and performing alongside the future Brooks N Dunn artist. Beginning in 1988 he teamed up with KISS member Ace Frehley for several tours and music videos, while continuing his work with Frampton and Clapton.

In 1988 he helped found The Tractors. The country band’s self-titled debut album was certified 2X Platinum and they received two Grammy nominations.

In 2005 Oldaker released the album “Jamie Oldaker’s Mad Dogs & Okies,” which featured guest appearances from Clapton, Frampton, Vince Gill, Willie Nelson, and other musicians he has worked with over the years.

In 2010 Oldaker was inducted into the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame alongside Sand Springs singer Sam Harris.

Oldaker battled lung cancer for years, going through chemo and radiation therapy. He died at his home in Tulsa, surrounded by family. Several of his fellow musicians posted messages on social media Thursday, in honor of their friend.

“We are overwhelmingly saddened to report that our dear friend and brother Jamie Oldaker has passed away,” posted The Rogues Five. “He will be greatly missed. Our deepest condolences go out to his wife Mary and family. Rest in Peace Jam-O.”

“Jamie Oldaker has been my dear friend and brother for over 40 years,” posted Frampton. “He was a very warm, caring, true friend with a gentle heart. HE cared about us all almost more than he did himself. Most will know him as the drummer on Eric Clapton’s albums. His playing was unique, a laid back style of drumming with an incredible feel. We traveled the world, played many wonderful shows and great recordings together. He was much loved and I will miss him for the rest of my time here. Love you Jamie.”

Oklahoma reports 1,075 new cases of COVID-19, including Governor Kevin Stitt

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For the second straight day, the Oklahoma State Department of Health reported a new record for single-day increases in COVID-19 cases. Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt and Tulsa County Commissioner Karen Keith were among the 1,075 new cases reported Wednesday. Four more deaths have been reported, bringing the statewide death toll to 432. A record-high 561 Oklahomans are currently hospitalized and there are a record-high 5,015 active cases across the state.

In Sand Springs there were no new cases reported for the first time in five days, and one new recovery dropped the number of active cases to 15. Tulsa County is reporting 1,112 active cases.

Walmart announced Wednesday that the company will be requiring masks at all Walmart and Sam’s Club locations, nationwide, beginning Monday, July 20th. According to a press release, about 65% of the company’s 5,000+ stores are located in areas where there is some form of government mandate on face coverings.

Walmart has created a new Health Ambassador position to aid in the transition. Ambassadors will be located at the entrances to the stores to inform customers of the new requirement. Ambassadors will also be trained to make exceptions in certain circumstances.

The Tulsa City Council is expected to vote on a mandatory mask ordinance Wednesday. The proposed ordinance would require “a face covering over the nose and mouth worn consistent with CDC guidelines when inside a commercial entity or other building, structure, or space open to the public, or when in an outdoor public space wherever it is not feasibly to maintain six feet of social distancing from another person not in the same household.”

A person in first-time violation of the ordinance would receive a verbal or written warning. Repeat violators would be subject to a fine of up to $100.00. There are several exceptions, however. The requirement would not apply to:

  • any person younger than 18 years of age;

  • any person with a medical condition or disability that prevents wearing a face covering;

  • any person who is consuming food or drink, or who is seated at a restaurant;

  • any person who is engaging in a physical activity outdoors and who is maintaining a safe distance from other people;

  • any person who is driving alone or with passengers from the same household;

  • any person obtaining a service that requires temporary removal of the face covering for security surveillance, screening, or a need for specific access to the face, such as while visiting a bank or while or while obtaining a personal care or dental service involving the face;

  • any person in a swimming pool, lake, or similar body of water;

  • any person who is voting, assisting a voter, serving as a poll watcher, or actively administering an election;

  • any person who is actively providing or obtaining access to religious worship;

  • any person who is giving a speech for a broadcast or to an audience;

  • any person performing work in which face coverings present or exacerbates a hazard.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are currently reporting 3,416,428 cases and 135,991 deaths nationwide, with 60,971 new cases and 773 deaths in the past 24 hours. Oklahoma ranks 32nd in total cases (39th per capita) and 34th in deaths (39th per capita).

The World Health Organization is reporting 13,150,645 cases and 574,464 deaths worldwide with 185,836 new cases and 4,176 deaths in the past 24 hours. The United States continue to lead the world in total cases, followed by Brazil with 1,884,967 and India with 936,181.