Oklahoma
Oklahoma gets third positive rating outlook
Oklahoma’s credit quality is looking up, rating agencies say, with Fitch Ratings joining Moody’s Investors Service and S&P Global Ratings in revising the state’s rating outlook to positive from stable.
Fitch, which rates Oklahoma AA, said Friday the revision reflects sustained improvements in expenditure flexibility and overall fiscal management, “particularly its adherence to conservative budgeting practices through economic cycles including the recent period of revenue volatility caused by the coronavirus pandemic.”
“The state has consistently taken timely action to address revenue shortfalls and budgets only 95% of projected operating revenues,” it added.
Moody’s, which rates Oklahoma Aa2,
State Treasurer Todd Russ said Oklahoma has worked to diversify its economy, lower its debt, and “stand strong as a leader in many industries.”
“Oklahoma has long been the best-kept secret, and the secret is out,” he said in a statement. “Fitch, S&P, and Moody’s all see that, and their positive ratings prove it.”
The outlook revisions come as Oklahoma is avoiding debt issuance by tapping a $600 million
Three projects totaling $135 million that had been slated for bond issuance through the Oklahoma Capitol Improvement Authority were authorized for these loans, according to the treasurer’s office.
As of the end of 2023, Oklahoma had no general obligation bonds outstanding, according to the annual state debt report. Lease revenue bonds issued through OCIA had outstanding principal of $1.336 billion.
The Republican governor
The proposed tax cut comes amid a trend of
Oklahoma’s tax revenue could be adversely impacted by
A decision by the high court, which heard oral arguments Jan. 17, can come at any time. In a court filing, the Oklahoma Tax Commission said a tax exemption for tribal members would result in “tens of millions of dollars in tax refunds and deprive the state of billions more in future taxes.”
Oklahoma
Looking for an adventure to kick off your summer? Explore Oklahoma’s state parks
With Memorial Day just around the corner, our parks team at the Oklahoma Department of Tourism and Recreation is gearing up for the unofficial start of summer — a season of outdoor adventures, family gatherings and unforgettable experiences.
And there’s no better way to kick off the season and make cherished memories than by exploring one of Oklahoma’s state parks.
As the director of Oklahoma state parks, I’m privileged to have the opportunity to experience the beauty of our natural landscapes every day. One of the highlights of my job is getting to introduce people to hidden gems across the state, encouraging them to discover new and novel experiences they may not have known about before.
Summertime brings first-time visitors, as well as familiar faces to our parks, and there’s no greater joy than showing them the ropes.
More: Want to get your kicks on Route 66 in Oklahoma? Passport is your road map
Whether you’re an avid hiker or camper, a fishing enthusiast or just seeking a peaceful retreat, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. We have more than 30 state parks that stretch across every corner of the state, which allows visitors a chance to take some extra time to explore our charming small towns on the way. Not only does this introduce people to our history and culture, it also supports local museums, shops and restaurants that make up the fabric of our communities.
For anyone that’s looking to make plans this Memorial Day weekend, I encourage you to gather your friends and family and explore Oklahoma from a new point of view. You can go camping under the stars, kayaking on our vast lakes, spelunking in caves or riding across sand dunes. You’re sure to create new memories that will last a lifetime.
Last summer, we welcomed over 35,000 park bookings, a 30% increase over the previous year. This year, we hope to build on that momentum and welcome even more visitors to our parks.
Many of our state parks also will be hosting special events throughout the weekend leading up to Memorial Day, including a black light egg hunt at Tenkiller State Park, a round of Fling Golf at Sequoyah State Park, and a variety of family crafts and multiple opportunities for guided hikes at different park locations. Check with your local park to see what they have planned, and if you’re looking for an overnight getaway, book your stay while lodging is still available.
Whether you’re seeking adventure or simply a moment of relaxation, Oklahoma state parks are ready to welcome you with open arms. Come join us this Memorial Day, and together, let’s celebrate the beginning of summer, and discover the beauty of Oklahoma’s great outdoors.
More: We can’t be a pro-business state if we’re not telling Oklahoma’s story | Tourism official
Shelley Zumwalt is the executive director of the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department.
Oklahoma
2024 NCAA softball bracket: Women's College World Series scores, schedule
The 2024 NCAA DI softball tournament is here. The bracket was announced on Sunday, May 12 in an ESPN2 selection show. Regional action will run May 17-19, followed by super regionals from May 23-26. The tournament culminates with the eight-team 2024 Women’s College World Series starting on May 30 in Oklahoma City.
AUTO-BID TRACKER: Every conference tournament champion and automatic bid
The 2023 Women’s College World Series finals ended with Oklahoma sweeping Florida State to win a third-straight national championship. Below you can find all the information about the 2024 DI softball tournament.
2024 NCAA DI softball tournament bracket
👉 Click or tap here to get a closer look at the 2024 bracket
2024 NCAA DI softball tournament schedule
Here are the key dates for the 2024 NCAA DI softball tournament:
- Selection show: May 12 at 7 p.m. ET | ESPN2
- Regionals: May 16/17-19
- Super Regionals: May 23-25 or May 24-26
- Women’s College World Series: May 30-June 6/7 in Oklahoma City
2024 DI softball regionals (May 17-19)
*All times Eastern
Austin Regional – Austin, Texas
- Friday, May 17
- Saturday, May 18
- Sunday, May 19
- Game 6: TBD vs. TBD | 1 p.m.
- Game 7 if necessary | 3:30 p.m.
Norman Regional – Norman, Oklahoma
- Friday, May 17
- Saturday, May 18
- Sunday, May 19
- Game 6 | 3 p.m.
- Game 7 if necessary | 5:30
Knoxville Regional – Knoxville, Tennessee
- Friday, May 17
- Saturday, May 18
- Sunday, May 19
- Game 6 | noon
- Game 7 if necessary | 2:30 p.m.
Gainesville Regional – Gainesville, Florida
- Friday, May 17
- Saturday, May 18
- Sunday, May 19
- Game 6 | noon
- Game 7 if necessary | 2:30 p.m.
Stillwater Regional – Stillwater, Oklahoma
- Friday, May 17
- Saturday, May 18
- Sunday, May 19
- Game 6 | 3 p.m.
- Game 7 if necessary | 5:30 p.m.
Los Angeles Regional – Los Angeles, California
- Friday, May 17
- Saturday, May 18
- Sunday, May 19
- Game 6 | 6 p.m.
- Game 7 if necessary | 8:30 p.m.
Columbia Regional – Columbia, Missouri
- Friday, May 17
- Saturday, May 18
- Sunday, May 19
- Game 6 | 2 p.m.
- Game 7 if necessary | 4:30 p.m.
Stanford Regional – Stanford, California
- Friday, May 17
- Saturday, May 18
- Sunday, May 19
- Game 6 | 5 p.m.
- Game 7 if necessary | 7:30 p.m.
Baton Rouge Regional – Baton Rouge, Louisiana
- Friday, May 17
- Saturday, May 18
- Sunday, May 19
- Game 6 | 4 p.m.
- Game 7 if necessary | 6:30 p.m.
Durham Regional – Durham, North Carolina
- Friday, May 17
- Saturday, May 18
- Sunday, May 19
- Game 6 | 1 p.m.
- Game 7 if necessary | 3:30 p.m.
Athens Regional – Athens, Georgia
- Friday, May 17
- Saturday, May 18
- Sunday, May 19
- Game 6 | 2 p.m.
- Game 7 if necessary | 4:30 p.m.
Fayetteville Regional – Fayetteville, Arkansas
- Friday, May 17
- Saturday, May 18
- Sunday, May 19
- Game 6 | 4 p.m.
- Game 7 if necessary | 6:30 p.m.
Lafayette Regional – Lafayette, Louisiana
- Friday, May 17
- Saturday, May 18
- Sunday, May 19
- Game 6 | 2 p.m.
- Game 7 if necessary | 4:30 p.m.
Tuscaloosa Regional – Tuscaloosa, Alabama
- Friday, May 17
- Saturday, May 18
- Sunday, May 19
- Game 6 | 2 p.m.
- Game 7 if necessary | 3:30 p.m.
Tallahassee Regional – Tallahassee, Florida
- Friday, May 17
- Saturday, May 18
- Sunday, May 19
- Game 6 | 1 p.m.
- Game 7 if necessary | 3:30 p.m.
Bryan-College Station Regional – Bryan-College Station, Texas
- Friday, May 17
- Saturday, May 18
- Sunday, May 19
- Game 6 | 3 p.m.
- Game 7 if necessary | 5:30 p.m.
2024 Women’s College World Series schedule (all times ET)
May 30
- Game 1: TBD vs. TBD, noon | ESPN
- Game 2: TBD vs. TBD, 2:30 p.m. | ESPN
- Game 3: TBD vs. TBD, 7 p.m. | ESPN2
- Game 4: TBD vs. TBD, 9:30 p.m. | ESPN2
May 31
- Game 5: TBD vs. TBD, 7 p.m. | ESPN2
- Game 6: TBD vs. TBD, 9:30 p.m. | ESPN2
June 1
- Game 7: TBD vs. TBD, 3 p.m. | ABC
- Game 8: TBD vs. TBD, 7 p.m. | ESPN
June 2
- Game 9: TBD vs. TBD, 3 p.m. | ABC
- Game 10: TBD vs. TBD, 7 p.m. | ESPNU
June 3
- Game 11: TBD vs. TBD, noon | ESPN
- Game 12 (if necessary): TBD vs. TBD, 2:30 p.m. | ESPN
- Game 13: TBD vs. TBD, 7 p.m. | ESPN2
- Game 14 (if necessary): 9:30 p.m. | ESPN2
June 5
- WCWS Final Game 1: TBD vs. TBD, 8 p.m. | ESPN
June 6
- WCWS Final Game 2: TBD vs. TBD, 8 p.m. | ESPN
June 7
- WCWS Final Game 3 (if necessary): TBD vs TBD, 8 p.m. | ESPN
How the championship works: Regionals — at 16 sites — are double-elimination and scheduled for May 16/17-19. The 16 winners advance to super regionals and play a two-team, best-out-of-three series either May 23-25 or May 24-26. The eight winners earn spots in the 2024 Women’s College World Series in Oklahoma City. The WCWS begins May 30 in double-elimination format. The final two teams play a best-of-three series for the national championship beginning June 5.
How to get tickets for the Women’s College World Series
You can purchase tickets for the 2024 WCWS here. The Women’s College World Series is played at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.
Softball Championship: Future dates
REGIONALS | SUPER REGIONALS | WCWS | |
---|---|---|---|
2025 | May 16-18 | May 22-25 | May 29-June 6 |
2026 | May 15-17 | May 21-24 | May 28-June 5 |
2027 | May 21-23 | May 27-30 | June 3-11 |
Women’s College World Series championship history
Below is the complete, year-by-year NCAA DI softball national championship history since 1982.
Year | Champion (Record) | Coach | Score | Runner-Up | Site |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
2023 | *Oklahoma (61-1) | Patty Gasso | 3-1 | Florida State | Oklahoma City |
2022 | *Oklahoma (59-3) | Patty Gasso | 10-5 | Texas | Oklahoma City |
2021 | Oklahoma (56-4) | Patty Gasso | 5-1 | Florida State | Oklahoma City |
2020 | Canceled due to Covid-19 | — | — | — | — |
2019 | *UCLA (56-6) | Kelly Inouye-Perez | 5-4 | Oklahoma | Oklahoma City |
2018 | *Florida State (58-12) | Lonni Alameda | 8-3 | Washington | Oklahoma City |
2017 | *Oklahoma (61-9) | Patty Gasso | 5-4 | Florida | Oklahoma City |
2016 | Oklahoma (57-8) | Patty Gasso | 2-1 | Auburn | Oklahoma City |
2015 | Florida (60-7) | Tim Walton | 4-1 | Michigan | Oklahoma City |
2014 | *Florida (55-12) | Tim Walton | 6-3 | Alabama | Oklahoma City |
2013 | *Oklahoma (57-4) | Patty Gasso | 4-0 | Tennessee | Oklahoma City |
2012 | Alabama (60-8) | Patrick Murphy | 5-4 | Oklahoma | Oklahoma City |
2011 | *Arizona State (60-6) | Clint Myers | 7-2 | Florida | Oklahoma City |
2010 | *UCLA (50-11) | Kelly Inouye-Perez | 15-9 | Arizona | Oklahoma City |
2009 | Washington (51-12) | Heather Tarr | 3-2 | Florida | Oklahoma City |
2008 | *Arizona State (66-5) | Clint Myers | 11-0 | Texas A&M | Oklahoma City |
2007 | Arizona (50-14-1) | Mike Candrea | 5-0 | Tennessee | Oklahoma City |
2006 | Arizona (54-11) | Mike Candrea | 5-0 | Northwestern | Oklahoma City |
2005 | Michigan (65-7) | Carol Hutchins | 4-1 | UCLA | Oklahoma City |
2004 | UCLA (47-9) | Sue Enquist | 3-1 | California | Oklahoma City |
2003 | UCLA (54-7) | Sue Enquist | 1-0 | California | Oklahoma City |
2002 | California (56-19) | Diane Ninemire | 6-0 | Arizona | Oklahoma City |
2001 | *Arizona (65-4) | Mike Candrea | 1-0 | UCLA | Oklahoma City |
2000 | *Oklahoma (66-8) | Patty Gasso | 3-1 | UCLA | Oklahoma City |
1999 | *UCLA (63-6) | Sue Enquist | 3-2 | Washington | Oklahoma City |
1998 | Fresno State (52-11) | Margie Wright | 1-0 | Arizona | Oklahoma City |
1997 | Arizona (61-5) | Mike Candrea | 10-2 | UCLA | Oklahoma City |
1996 | *Arizona (58-9) | Mike Candrea | 6-4 | Washington | Columbus, Ga. |
1995 | *#UCLA (50-6) | Sharron Backus | 4-2 | Arizona | Oklahoma City |
1994 | *Arizona (64-3) | Mike Candrea | 2-0 | Cal State Northridge | Oklahoma City |
1993 | Arizona (44-8) | Mike Candrea | 1-0 | UCLA | Oklahoma City |
1992 | *UCLA (54-2) | Sharron Backus | 2-0 | Arizona | Oklahoma City |
1991 | Arizona (56-16) | Mike Candrea | 5-1 | UCLA | Oklahoma City |
1990 | UCLA (62-7) | Sharron Backus | 2-0 | Fresno State | Oklahoma City |
1989 | *UCLA (48-4) | Sharron Backus | 1-0 | Fresno State | Sunnyvale, Calif. |
1988 | UCLA (53-8) | Sharron Backus | 3-0 | Fresno State | Sunnyvale, Calif. |
1987 | Texas A&M (56-8) | Bob Brock | 4-1 | UCLA | Omaha, Neb. |
1986 | *Cal State Fullerton (57-9-1) | Judi Garman | 3-0 | Texas A&M | Omaha, Neb. |
1985 | UCLA (41-9) | Sharron Backus | 2-1 | Nebraska | Omaha, Neb. |
1984 | UCLA (45-6-1) | Sharron Backus | 1-0 | Texas A&M | Omaha, Neb. |
1983 | Texas A&M (41-11) | Bob Brock | 2-0 | Cal State Fullerton | Omaha, Neb. |
1982 | *UCLA (33-7-2) | Sharron Backus | 2-0 | Fresno State | Omaha, Neb. |
*Indicates undefeated teams in final series.
#-UCLA’s 1995 national championship was later vacated by the NCAA’s Committee on Infractions
Oklahoma
Sen. Lankford Pushes Bill To Increase Transparency On Foreign Farmland Purchases In Oklahoma
Lawmakers met with farmers to discuss the future of agriculture here in the state.
U.S. Senator James Lankford (R- Okla.) says it’s time to crack down on the foreign land purchases happening in Oklahoma threatening national security.
The discussion inside a closed-door roundtable revolved around the need to pass a bill sponsored by Lankford that would allow oversight and transparency on foreign purchases of U.S. farmland.
“They’re not American citizens who are purchasing the land here, affecting water, electricity, and safety. It’s a lot of people illegally present,” said Lankford.
Lankford says that Oklahoma farming land has been turned into Marijuana grow farms since the passage of the marijuana laws in 2018.
Data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture says Canadians own the most acres in Oklahoma, but Lankford’s big concern is Chinese nationals. “No one is complaining about the land owned by Canadian people because they follow the rules. But if you are talking about Chinese nationals, they are not following the rules,” said Lankford.
The SOIL Act was introduced last year. Now, he’s hoping to make more progress with it with the help of a ranking member of the Senate Agriculture Committee.
The goal is to get it inside the next Farm Bill. “Congressman Frank Lucas (R- Okla.) is also working on the House side, and I am working on the Senate side, trying to deal with what we see in Oklahoma as a major issue.”
Groundwork on the Senate’s farm bill is expected to start next week.
Inside that farm bill, they also want to see safety nets for farmers, trade tools conservation, and research.
-
Education1 week ago
Video: Police Use Pepper Spray on Protesters on G.W.U.’s Campus
-
Politics1 week ago
Ohio AG defends letter warning 'woke' masked anti-Israel protesters they face prison time: 'We have a society'
-
Politics1 week ago
Biden’s decision to pull Israel weapons shipment kept quiet until after Holocaust remembrance address: report
-
World1 week ago
A look at Chinese investment within Hungary
-
News1 week ago
The Major Supreme Court Cases of 2024
-
World6 days ago
India Lok Sabha election 2024 Phase 4: Who votes and what’s at stake?
-
News1 week ago
Tornadoes tear through the southeastern U.S. as storms leave 3 dead
-
Finance1 week ago
Spring Finance Forum 2024: CRE Financiers Eye Signs of Recovery