Native Health & Wellness: The Cherokee Nation says its new $30 million Tahlequah Wellness Center has already signed up more than 1,000 new members since opening Aug. 4, with leaders calling it a sign investment is “bending the curve” on health gaps. Powwow Calendar: The Cherokee National Holiday Inter-Tribal Powwow returns with dance registration Sept. 4 and a Gourd Dance Sept. 5 at the Cherokee Nation cultural grounds in Tahlequah. Literacy Push: Oklahoma is expanding its HEROES Literacy Instructional Team to 24 reading coaches and six regional supervisors, with more intensive support for 120 elementary schools as new childhood literacy requirements roll out. Local Education Watch: Norman Public Schools’ spring 2026 proficiency results stay above state averages in most areas, but districtwide gains are mixed versus last year. Books & Affordability: Oklahoma bookstores report sales slipping as families feel the affordability crunch, raising fresh worries for a state already struggling with literacy. Wildlife Learning: Lake Thunderbird hosted an endangered species class focused on protecting local ecosystems and at-risk species. Sports Culture: OU linebacker Kip Lewis says the Sooners’ defense is aiming to prove it’s “the best in the country,” as the team looks ahead to a tough 2026 schedule.