No ICU Beds At Major OKC Hospitals + Shortage Of Rapid Tests

Happy Friday, people of Oklahoma City! Here's everything you need to know to start today off on an informed note. These are the most important things going on today in Oklahoma City.

Are you a local business owner or marketer in Oklahoma City? Our premium local sponsorships will keep you at the top of inboxes around town every morning. Contact us here for the lowdown.

First, today's weather:

Windy overnight. High: 94 Low: 70.

Here are the top stories in Oklahoma City today:

1. There are no ICU beds available at major Oklahoma City hospitals for COVID-19 patients. The news comes as hospitals continue to face major challenges with COVID-19 patients in addition to the number of people needing care overall. One of the many issues is how long COVID-19 patients stay in the hospital compared to non-COVID-19 patients. (KOCO Oklahoma City)
2. A nationwide shortage of rapid COVID-19 tests is hitting Oklahoma. A national increase in COVID-19 rapid testing demand is causing supply chain issues across the country. Hospitals are being urged to use rapid COVID-19 tests sparingly. Residents are urged to avoid the emergency room and seek out non-emergent facilities to get tested. (Norman Transcript)
3. OKC Memorial Marathon will require participants to provide proof of vaccination or recent negative Covid test. (news9.com KWTV)
4. An Afghan refugee and her young daughter are safe and starting over in Oklahoma. (news9.com KWTV)
5. A new program by a local organization is hoping to offer jobs to people experiencing homelessness in Oklahoma City. (KFOR Oklahoma City)

Today's Oklahoma City Daily is brought to you by our friends at Verizon. They're building the fastest 5G network in the country. To learn how 5G is going to change life for you and your community — and to get access to this amazing technology — click here. And thank you Verizon for sponsoring this community resource in Oklahoma City!

Today in Oklahoma City:

• Vizavance Eye Screen - Moore Lodge 539 Af & Am (12:00 AM)
• Community Coffee-TMax Electric - Yukon Chamber of Commerce (7:30 AM)
• YCC Golf Tournament - Yukon Chamber of Commerce (8:00 AM)
• A Life of Selfless Service, Sacrifice, and Civic Engagement: Sept 11 - Online (9:00 AM)

Did you know you can feature your local business right here in the newsletter for just $79 a month? Click here to get started.

Alrighty, you're all caught up for today. I'll see you around! If you're liking these newsletters, consider bringing some of your friends and neighbors into the fold. You can send them this link to subscribe.

— Helen Eckhard