COMMUNITY BRIEFS
OSU-OKC breaks ground on walking track
Ground was broken at a celebratory event Friday at Oklahoma State University-Oklahoma City, marking the beginnings of a new walking track for the institution and surrounding community.
The walking track is part of “Cowboy Fit: Wellness Empowerment for Underserved Populations,” an initiative to promote physical activity and healthier lifestyles, strengthen health policies and improve infrastructure. It is funded by a grant from the Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust (TSET).
TSET awarded OSU-OKC a grant up to $500,000 to renovate the campus’ deteriorating asphalt walking track, install fitness equipment and launch Cowboy Fit, a series of wellness education events open to the public.
The walking track renovations will include additional lighting, seating and security devices. As part of the grant, OSU-OKC also will install an outdoor fitness pad, including pickle ball courts, and already has launched a series of wellness educational events.
Art Moves celebrates Black History Month
Art Moves is celebrating Black History Month by showcasing local talent.
Art Moves artists perform and demonstrate their artistry from noon to 1 p.m. at popular downtown locations or livestreaming from their studio or homes.
The artists are: h Wednesday: Jaiye Farrell, abstract painter, Factory Obscura. h Thursday: Josh Watley, jazz trumpet, Oklahoma City Museum of Art. h Feb. 21: Rod Porter, RnB/soul singer, Leadership Square. h Feb. 22: Maurice Johnson, jazz guitarist, BOK Park Plaza. h Feb. 28: Tiffani Nicole, abstract painter, Devon Tower.
For more information, go to https://www.artscouncilokc.com/art-moves/
Genealogy group to host TRIAD
Senior citizens have become the favorite target for fraud and scams. The perpetrators are smart and can be very convincing.
TRIAD, a collaborative effort between the Oklahoma County sheriff’s office, local police departments and seniors, was formed to reduce and prevent crimes against seniors.
Sheriff Deputy Tara Hardin will help seniors be aware of the different types of activities that criminals use and ways to prevent becoming a victim by presenting a new in-person lesson 10 a.m. Wednesday at the Oklahoma Home and Community Education Genealogy Group meeting, in the Oklahoma County Extension office, 2500 SE 63.
Conference to focus on justice system health care
OU Health Science Center medical students organized the 16th Bridges to Access Conference, which provided a better understanding of the needs of those in the field of correctional medicine, as well as the health care needs people face after incarceration. The conference will feature two nationally known keynote speakers: Dr. Homer Venters, a physician and epidemiologist working at the intersection of incarceration, health and human rights, will give a presentation titled, “Exposing the Deadly Risks of Incarceration.”
Dr. Joseph Penn, a clinical professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, Texas, will present, “Serving the Underserved Behind Bars and Razor Wire: Mental Health Needs and Timely Strategies.”
To earn more about Bridges to Access, go to bridgestoaccess.org.
OCCC’s online study abroad program
Oklahoma City Community College received a grant from the Online Consortium of Oklahoma to purchase Terra Dotta software. This cutting-edge technology will enhance OCCC’s online study-abroad enrollment process. The Terra Dotta software will continue OCCC’s legacy of attracting and serving students interested in studying abroad and help to promote cultural exchange and diversity within the college community.
OU to offer free dental care event
The University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry in partnership with Delta Dental of Oklahoma Foundation, will hold its annual Kids’ Day event on Feb. 25, at the college, 1201 N Stonewall Ave. Children ages 4 to 12, who have been pre-registered, will receive a variety of dental services that may include cleanings, fillings and crowns, at no cost.
Under the supervision of trained dentists and faculty members, students pursuing degrees in dental professions provide a wide range of dental treatments and services. Participants must arrive at their assigned time given during registration, but should be prepared for lengthy wait times and bring any necessary items such as medications, diapers, snacks or beverages. Free parking is available in the Stonewall Garage, northeast of the college.
Children must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Proof of guardianship is necessary if the patient’s biological parent is not present to consent to treatment. Pre-registration is required.
For more information or to register, call 405-607-4755.
To be considered for this column, please email news and events with photos two weeks in advance to DLindauer@Oklahoman.com.