The Journal Record

2 days ago | journalrecord.com | Seth Borenstein |Carolyn Kaster |Brittany Peterson

Key Summary:Scientists collect data from inside severe hailstormsHail causes over $10 billion in damage annuallyProject ICECHIP funded by NSF and insurance partnersStudy links larger hail to climate change trendsSHAMROCK, Texas  — As severe storms once again soak, twist and pelt the nation’s midsection, a team of dozens of scientists is driving into them to study one of the nation’s costliest but least-appreciated weather dangers: Hail.

2 days ago | journalrecord.com | Heide Brandes

Key Summary:Oklahoma City ranks 3rd most affordable U.S. city per MarketWatch. Eviction filings rose to over 48,000 statewide in 2024, led by OK County. Homelessness surged 28% in one year despite economic growth. Affordable housing is scarce due to zoning limits and wage stagnation. OKLAHOMA CITY — Oklahoma City has just been named America’s third most affordable city by MarketWatch Guides, with typical homes costing just three times the local median income.

3 days ago | journalrecord.com | Heide Brandes

Summary:U.S. consumer confidence hits multi-year lows amid rising pricesMajor purchase interest in homes and cars drops sharplyConsumers cite poor quality and high costs as top concernsTariffs and economic policy contribute to uncertaintyNiko Lozos needed a house this year, so he bought one despite his reservations about the market and housing prices. But the Oklahoma City resident drew the line at other major purchases.

4 days ago | journalrecord.com | Jeff Elkins

Summary:Norman Regional will close several clinics starting July 2. Workforce reduced by 10% to address financial challenges. Operation Independence aims to maintain system’s autonomy. Impacted employees offered severance and support resources. NORMAN – Norman Regional Health System will close select clinics in July after a workforce reduction was announced earlier this week. The system cut 10% of its positions Monday.

4 days ago | journalrecord.com | Kathryn McNutt

Summary:City Council approved a $2.05B FY26 budget in a 7-2 vote. General fund decreased by 0.52% due to lower sales tax revenues. MAPS 4 projects drive a $66M increase in nonoperating funds. Budget cuts reduce workforce by 27 positions across 10 departments. OKLAHOMA CITY – The City Council approved the budget for the fiscal year that begins July 1 by a 7-2 vote Tuesday after months of budget planning meetings and public hearings.