VeloCity - July 2026

JULY 2026 • OKCCHAMBER.COM

THE ROAD TO LA28 BEGINS IN OKLAHOMA CITY

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Long before the Olympic flame is lit in Los Angeles, Oklahoma City will welcome elite athletes from around the world to the very venues that will host competition during the LA28 Olympic Games. This summer, two major international sporting events will showcase the city’s ability to host world-class athletes while giving fans an early look at Olympic-level venues and competition. The 2026 ICF Canoe Slalom World Championships at RIVERSPORT OKC and the USA Softball International Cup at Devon Park will bring international competitors to the city just two years before the 2028 Olympic Games. The 2026 ICF Canoe Slalom World Championships will take place July 18-25 at RIVERSPORT OKC, bringing 350 athletes from THE ROAD TO LA28 BEGINS IN OKLAHOMA CITY

more than 60 countries to compete on the same whitewater course that will host Olympic canoe slalom and kayak cross during the LA28 Games. As a qualifier for the 2028 Olympic Games, the championships represent one of the sport’s premier international competitions and will give many athletes their first opportunity to compete at the future Olympic venue. Beyond the competition, the weeklong event will showcase Oklahoma City’s culture and hospitality through opening and closing ceremonies, live music, food trucks, community art and performances from local musicians, dancers and entertainers. The Opening Ceremony on July 18 will feature a Parade of Nations, performances highlighting Oklahoma’s diverse cultural traditions and a fireworks display, welcoming athletes and visitors from around the world. Less than a week later, July 30-Aug. 3, the USA Softball International Cup returns to Devon Park for the first time since 2019. Previously known as the World Cup of Softball, the tournament will once again bring many of the world’s top national teams to Oklahoma City and the venue that will host Olympic softball during the LA28 Games.

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For decades, Devon Park has been recognized as one of the world’s premier softball venues, hosting the NCAA Women’s College World Series and numerous international competitions. The return of the International Cup reinforces Oklahoma City’s standing as a global destination for the sport while providing another opportunity for athletes to compete on the future Olympic field. Together, the two events highlight why Oklahoma City was selected to host Olympic competition. Rather than constructing temporary venues, LA28 organizers chose Oklahoma City’s existing world-class facilities, recognizing the city’s decades of experience hosting The road to LA28 doesn’t begin in 2028—it begins with opportunities like these - Adam Wisniewski

major national and international sporting events. This summer’s championships will allow local organizers, volunteers and community partners to further demonstrate the expertise that made Oklahoma City the natural choice for canoe slalom, kayak cross and softball. “The road to LA28 doesn’t begin in 2028—it begins with opportunities like these,” said Adam Wisniewski, vice president of sports development for Visit Oklahoma City. “These events allow us to welcome the world to Oklahoma City while demonstrating the expertise and hospitality that earned our community a role in the Olympic Games. Every athlete, coach and visitor who comes here this summer gets an early look at the experience we’re preparing to deliver in 2028.” The events also provide valuable opportunities to prepare for welcoming an international audience during LA28. From competition operations and hospitality to transportation and fan experiences, each championship helps strengthen the partnerships and experience that will support Oklahoma City’s role on the Olympic stage. Together, these global competitions offer a preview of the world-class experience Oklahoma City is preparing to deliver when athletes, officials and fans from around the world return in 2028.

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LEADING THE NEXT CHAPTER OF OU HEALTH

OU Health has undergone a remarkable transformation — uniting care, discovery and education to serve Oklahoma in powerful ways. That progress was not accidental. It was built through leadership and partnership. A strong foundation. A seamless transition. A bold future for Oklahoma. Welcoming OU Health's New President & CEO Jonathan W. Curtright, MBA, MHA

A leader forged in complex academic health systems. A partner in OU Health’s transformation from the beginning. And now, the steward of its next chapter.

This is not a change in direction. It is a continuation with greater focus, broader reach and renewed momentum.

JONATHAN W. CURTRIGHT, MBA, MHA President & Chief Executive O cer

The foundation is strong. The moment is here. The work is never finished. The standards we hold ourselves to are ones that no one else can define for us. For all 77 counties. Never Done. Never Outdone.

LEADERSHIP NOTES

Momentum built through intentional investment Oklahoma City’s continued growth is the result of visionary leadership and strategic mindset. For decades, our community has made intentional investments designed to strengthen our economy, improve quality-of-life and position our region for long-term success. Today, national recognition across a variety of measures reflects the impact of those efforts. Recently, Oklahoma City and the state of Oklahoma have received national recognition in areas ranging from affordability and workforce development to livability, sports business and economic competitiveness. These accolades reinforce what many people in our community already know: Oklahoma City continues to build momentum. That momentum is not the result of a single project, industry or moment in time. It reflects decades of visionary leadership, intentional investment, collaboration and a shared commitment to creating opportunities for future generations. Oklahoma City has consistently taken a long-term approach to growth. Through initiatives like MAPS, strategic economic development efforts and investments in education, workforce and infrastructure, our community has worked to create an environment where businesses can succeed and residents can thrive. The result is a city that continues to generate new investment, welcomes more than 24 million annual visitors, attracts new residents, and gains national attention for its economic strength and exceptional place to live. More importantly, it is a city that remains focused on what comes next. As our region grows, complacency is not an option. Sustaining this momentum will require continued investment in talent, infrastructure and quality-of-life initiatives that strengthen our competitiveness and ensure opportunity remains accessible to all who call Oklahoma City home. The Chamber remains committed to advancing policies and initiatives that support long-term prosperity and position Oklahoma City for continued success. Thank you for your partnership and for helping build a community of hope whose greatest achievements still lie ahead.

CHRISTY GILLENWATER President & CEO

READ CHRISTY’S VELOCITY ONLINE STORY OF THE MONTH

MAPS 4 Diversion Hub expands services for residents navigating the criminal legal system VelocityOKC.com/ ChristysPick

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UPCOMING EVENTS CALENDAR (Events are subject to change. Consult okcchamber.com/events for the most recent updates.) JUL 15 (WED) State of the City OKC Convention Center 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. AUG 5 (WED) State of Education & Workforce National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. SEP 1 (TUE) State of the Region National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. Petroleum Club 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. OCT 21 - 23 InterCity Visit 2026 San Diego NOV 4 (WED) State of the Economy National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. OCT 7 (WED) Chamber Forum

STATE OF EDUCATION & WORKFORCE TO SPOTLIGHT GROWING PRIORITIES IN OKC

As Oklahoma City continues to grow, conversations around education and workforce readiness are becoming increasingly important to the region’s future. Those discussions will take center stage at the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber’s annual State of Education & Workforce event on Wednesday, Aug. 5. Held at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, the event brings together business leaders, educators and community stakeholders to discuss opportunities to strengthen public education in the Greater Oklahoma City area and better prepare students for their futures. This year’s event will also unveil a workforce strategic plan developed through the Chamber’s partnership with CivicLab. The plan is focused on strengthening connections between business, education and

community leaders to align education and workforce needs and strengthen career pathways to prepare our region’s next generation for success in a competitive, dynamic and thriving economy. State of Education & Workforce will also feature broader conversations surrounding workforce development, education outcomes and the future of learning in Oklahoma City. As employers across key industries continue seeking skilled workers, collaboration between schools, businesses and community leaders will remain critical to the region’s long-term competitiveness and growth. Registration is now open. For more information, contact register@okcchamber.com. Special thanks to Presenting Sponsor University of Oklahoma Health Campus and Platinum Sponsor Cox Communications, and School Supply/Centerpiece Sponsor American Fidelity Assurance Company.

Wednesday, August 5, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum 1700 NE 63rd St., Oklahoma City, OK 73111

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UPDATE

Understanding how Oklahoma City works—and where business leaders can make an impact—is key to helping the region continue its momentum. The Greater Oklahoma City Chamber and Leadership Oklahoma City are partnering once again to offer OKConnect, an exclusive orientation program designed to introduce executives to the people, organizations and initiatives shaping the community. Geared toward top-level executives, senior managers, newcomers to the region and professionals taking on new or expanded leadership roles, OKConnect provides participants with a behind-the-scenes look at Oklahoma City’s history, growth and future through four interactive sessions. Throughout the program, participants will gain insight into the city’s evolution, explore the partnerships OKCONNECT HELPS BUSINESS LEADERS BUILD STRONGER COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS

driving economic growth and learn how they can become more engaged in civic and community leadership. The program also offers opportunities to build relationships with fellow business leaders and community stakeholders. The program is co-chaired by Brooke Haneborg, director of business development at Manhattan Construction, and Dr. Quintin Hughes, executive director of Northeast Oklahoma City Renaissance. Participation is limited to 60 individuals, allowing for meaningful discussion and networking throughout the program. The cost is $500 for employees of Greater Oklahoma City Chamber member companies and $600 for non-members. To learn more or register for OKConnect, visit www.okcchamber.com/okconnect.

Program dates: • Wednesday, Aug. 26 • Wednesday, Sept. 30 • Wednesday, Oct. 28 • Wednesday, Nov. 18 Capacity: Limited to 60 participants.

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Oklahoma City will welcome thousands of veterans from across the country in 2032 after being selected to host the American Legion National Convention, a milestone that underscores the city’s growing reputation as a destination for major national meetings and events. The weeklong convention, which will serve as the organization’s centennial gathering, is expected to generate more than $12 million in local economic impact and approximately 17,000 hotel room nights while bringing thousands of American Legion members, their families and supporters to Oklahoma City. The event will celebrate 100 national conventions while providing opportunities for veterans to connect, conduct organizational business and recognize military service. The city was selected following a competitive bidding process led by Visit Oklahoma City, the tourism division of the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber. OKLAHOMA CITY SELECTED TO HOST 2032 AMERICAN LEGION NATIONAL CONVENTION

Oklahoma City ultimately prevailed over finalist cities Spokane, Washington, and Reno, Nevada, earning the opportunity to host one of the nation’s largest annual gatherings of veterans. “This is an extraordinary win for our city,” said Shaun Yates, senior vice president of tourism development for Visit Oklahoma City. “What stood out most to the client throughout the site visit was not just our facilities or our proposal, it was our people.” According to Visit Oklahoma City, the selection committee experienced firsthand the hospitality and collaboration that have become hallmarks of the region’s tourism industry. During a site visit that coincided with a major winter snowstorm, representatives saw local organizations work together to ensure every aspect of the visit remained on track, demonstrating the community’s ability to deliver exceptional service even under challenging circumstances. That spirit of collaboration helped distinguish Oklahoma City throughout the selection process and reinforced the city’s reputation as a destination capable of hosting major national events. For Steven Charles Thomas II, department commander for the American Legion Department of

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Oklahoma, helping secure the convention represents one of the proudest accomplishments of his time as state commander. “One of the biggest [highlights] will be something that will be part of Oklahoma’s legacy for generations to come: being the commander who helped secure the 2032 National Convention bid,” Thomas said. Thomas credited the Visit Oklahoma City team and community partners for their work throughout the bidding process. “Their passion for the city, knowledge of its history and strategic planning the city has done to make Oklahoma City a top-tier destination is what I believe pushed us to the top,” Thomas said. Thomas said he’s excited to welcome fellow Legionnaires from around the world and give them the opportunity to experience Oklahoma City’s hospitality, history and vibrant culture firsthand. Landing the convention continues Oklahoma City’s momentum in attracting nationally significant meetings and events that create lasting economic impact while introducing new audiences to the city. It also reflects years of investment in visitor experiences, hospitality

infrastructure and partnerships that have strengthened Oklahoma City’s reputation as a premier destination. As preparations begin for 2032, Visit Oklahoma City and its community partners will work alongside the American Legion to welcome thousands of visitors and showcase the people, places and experiences that continue to elevate Oklahoma City’s profile on the national stage. Their passion for the city, knowledge of its history and strategic planning the city has done to make Oklahoma City a top-tier destination is what I believe pushed us to the top. - Steven Charles Thomas II

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As Oklahoma City continues to attract major sporting events, conventions and visitors from around the world, Shaun Yates is helping shape the city’s next chapter. Recently promoted to senior vice president of tourism development for Visit Oklahoma City, the tourism division of the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber, Yates now leads the organization’s efforts to grow one of the region’s key economic drivers. We recently sat down with Yates to discuss his new role, Oklahoma City’s momentum and what’s ahead for the city’s tourism industry. Congratulations on the promotion. What does stepping into the role of senior vice president of tourism development mean to you? Yates: It’s incredibly humbling. I don’t see this as an individual accomplishment as much as a reflection of the team we’ve built and the relationships we’ve developed throughout the community. Those partnerships have created a foundation of trust that allows us to continue moving Oklahoma City forward together. I’m excited for the opportunity to build on that momentum. You’ve been part of Visit Oklahoma City for several years. How has your experience prepared you for this role? Yates: I’ve had the opportunity to work alongside so many talented people while helping attract meetings, SIX QUESTIONS WITH SHAUN YATES

sporting events and visitors to Oklahoma City. Every experience has reinforced how important relationships are in this industry. Working with our partners across the community has given me a strong understanding of what makes Oklahoma City competitive and where we have opportunities to continue growing. What are your top priorities as you begin leading the tourism development team? Yates: My biggest priority

is continuing to build on the culture we’ve created. We have an incredible team, and I want to make sure we’re supporting them while continuing to strengthen relationships

with our stakeholders. Those partnerships are what allow us to pursue new opportunities

and create meaningful economic impact for Oklahoma City.

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Federal officials broke ground in June on a new research facility at the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center that will help advance the future of aviation while reinforcing Oklahoma City’s role as a national aerospace hub. The Federal Aviation Administration’s Vertical Take-Off and Landing Procedures and Analysis Range (V-PAR) is an approximately $8.3 million project designed to support research, training and operational analysis for advanced air mobility aircraft, including electric and hybrid vertical takeoff and landing designs. The facility will include a vertiport, covered hangar and control-center building where the FAA and its partners will study topics including wake separation, downwash and outwash, radiofrequency interference and vertiport operations. “The FAA’s investment in the new V-PAR facility at the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center is a significant win for Oklahoma City,” said Christy Gillenwater, president and CEO of the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber. “For decades, our city has been a leader in aviation innovation, and this new testing range puts us right at the center of the next big thing in flight: electric vertical-takeoff aircraft.” The project builds on Oklahoma City’s long-standing leadership in aerospace and complements recent investments in advanced aviation research, including a $10 million U.S. Department of Transportation grant awarded to the University of Oklahoma to support unmanned aircraft systems research and workforce development. FAA BREAKS GROUND ON ADVANCED AIR MOBILITY RESEARCH FACILITY

Oklahoma City has experienced tremendous momentum in tourism over the past several years. Where do you see the biggest opportunities for continued growth? Yates: One of the things that excites me most is that we’re seeing growth across all four of our tourism sectors: meetings and conventions, sports, equine and leisure travel. That doesn’t happen everywhere. Continuing to grow each of those sectors gives us the opportunity to diversify our visitor economy while continuing to introduce new audiences to Oklahoma City. How do tourism and economic development work together to strengthen Oklahoma City’s future? Yates: Tourism and economic development really go hand in hand. Every visitor, convention and sporting event supports local businesses, creates jobs and generates economic impact. Visit Oklahoma City’s brand has reached a point where we can be even more strategic about how we leverage that recognition, and that benefits the entire community. What excites you most about where Oklahoma City is headed over the next five to 10 years? Yates: The momentum. It feels like we’re entering a really unique chapter for Oklahoma City. Opportunities like LA28 are incredibly exciting, but they’re just one piece of what’s happening here. We have strong partners, an engaged community and momentum across every part of our tourism industry. I’m excited to help make the most of this moment and continue creating opportunities that have a lasting impact on our city.

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Stakeholders also emphasized the importance of strengthening connections across the cradle-to- career continuum and better aligning education with workforce needs. Employers have an opportunity to become active partners in talent development by helping students explore careers, gain real-world experience and better understand the skills needed for success in today’s economy. The recommendations developed through this process will be shared in the coming months, providing a roadmap for strengthening education and workforce outcomes across the region. Just as importantly, they will highlight examples of the collaboration already taking place and identify new opportunities for business, education and community leaders to work together. We invite you to join us for the 2026 State of Education & Workforce on Aug. 5 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. Hear why it is critical that business, education and community leaders come together to align education and workforce needs and strengthen career pathways, and how, together, we can establish and accept the shared responsibility to prepare our region’s next generation for success in a competitive, dynamic and thriving economy. The future of our region depends on the talent we develop today. We hope you’ll join us as we continue building that future together.

When the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber launched Forward OKC VII, one priority quickly rose to the top: education. The reason is simple. As Oklahoma City continues to grow and attract new employers, developing a strong talent pipeline is essential to sustaining that momentum. Education is more than a classroom issue—it is a regional competitiveness issue. Preparing students for success means preparing Oklahoma City’s future workforce, strengthening our economy and ensuring businesses can continue to grow here. Recognizing that connection, the Chamber partnered with nonprofit CivicLab to lead a regional education and workforce strategic planning initiative. Over the past several months, business leaders, educators, workforce partners and community organizations have participated in interviews, focus groups and community conversations designed to help shape the region’s long- term vision for education and workforce development. Throughout those conversations, one message has remained consistent: success requires shared ownership. Building a stronger education and workforce system cannot fall on schools alone. Business leaders, higher education, CareerTech, community organizations and public partners all have an important role to play in preparing students for future careers. FROM REGIONAL PRIORITY TO REGIONAL ACTION

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Congratulations to Chamber members on their recent Grand Openings! To see the schedule of upcoming Grand Openings or subscribe to the Grand Openings calendar, visit okcchamber.com/grandopenings. GRAND OPENINGS

Tuesday, June 16, 2026 Kanpai Sushi 1841 Belle Isle Blvd, Suite G, OKC OK 73118

Wednesday, June 17, 2026 First Liberty Bank 9520 N. May Ave., OKC OK 73120 Thursday, June 18, 2026 Skyline on Bricktown Canal 2 E. California Ave., OKC OK 73104

Tuesday, June 16, 2026 Home Place Real Estate 7909 N. May Ave., OKC OK 73120

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Oklahoma City and the state of Oklahoma continue earning national recognition for economic strength, affordability and quality of life, with recent rankings highlighting the region’s growing competitiveness. In June, Site Selection Magazine ranked Oklahoma No. 6 nationally and No. 1 in the South-Central region for workforce development, recognizing the state’s efforts to prepare talent and support business growth. Affordability also continues to distinguish Oklahoma. GOBankingRates recently ranked Oklahoma as the state with the lowest cost of living in the nation, while NATIONAL RANKINGS CONTINUE TO HIGHLIGHT OKLAHOMA CITY’S MOMENTUM

Census data showed the city ranked among the top 10 U.S. cities for domestic net migration from 2024 to 2025, continuing a trend that has seen thousands of new residents choose Oklahoma City in recent years. Oklahoma City’s growing national profile was also recognized by Sports Business Journal, which recently named the metro among its top cities for sports business. The publication highlighted Oklahoma City’s role in the LA28 Olympic Games and major sports infrastructure investments currently underway, including the future Continental Coliseum. The accolades come as Oklahoma City continues making significant investments in infrastructure and quality-of-life initiatives while maintaining a strong fiscal foundation. Earlier this year, both Moody’s Investors Service and S&P Global Ratings awarded Oklahoma City their highest possible bond ratings for the 18th consecutive year, reflecting the city’s long- standing financial stability and stewardship. Together, these recognitions reinforce Oklahoma City’s position

U.S. News & World Report named Oklahoma City the No. 2 best large city to live for 2026-27. The ranking cited factors including affordability, commute times, weather and overall quality of life. As more people discover the advantages of living in Oklahoma City, new U.S.

as a community where businesses can grow, residents can thrive and investment continues to create opportunities for future success.

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Collaboration is helping transform Oklahoma into a growing destination for life sciences innovation, according to industry leaders who gathered during Life Science Oklahoma’s annual networking breakfast at the 2026 BIO International Convention in San Diego. The discussion highlighted how research, industry partnerships, workforce initiatives and strategic investment are strengthening the state’s bioscience ecosystem. Life Science Oklahoma is the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber’s statewide initiative focused on growing Oklahoma’s bioscience industry through advocacy, collaboration and strategic partnerships. Moderated by Tabari Baker, CEO of Kronos Scientifica, the panel featured Craig Shimasaki of Molecular Biosciences, Patrick Lucy of Wheeler Bio, Tom Kupiek of ARL Bio Pharma, Rose Rhomberg of Cytovance Biologics and Marcos Bazanna of Tulsa Innovation Labs. The discussion focused on the key elements of a successful life sciences ecosystem, including academic research, entrepreneurship, capital investment, workforce development and specialized facilities. BIO PANEL HIGHLIGHTS OKLAHOMA’S LIFE SCIENCES GROWTH

For Patrick Lucy, who has led biotechnology companies in Boston and San Diego before joining Wheeler Bio in Oklahoma City, the state’s collaborative approach immediately stood out. “When I came and visited, I saw all the makings of an ecosystem,” Lucy said. “There’s a lot going on in Oklahoma that a lot of people don’t know about.” Panelists highlighted organizations including the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, the University of Oklahoma, OU Health and Stephenson Cancer Center as examples of the research institutions fueling innovation across the state. They also pointed to Oklahoma’s expanding biomanufacturing infrastructure, workforce training programs and growing investment in commercialization, creating an environment where companies can discover, develop and manufacture new therapies without leaving the state. Speakers agreed that while research, infrastructure and investment are essential, Oklahoma’s collaborative culture continues to distinguish its bioscience community. Rather than viewing early-stage companies as too small to support, organizations across the state work together to help innovators move promising ideas toward commercialization. “If the people are invested in the story of this company and they see that long-term potential, then they’re willing and able to make contributions so that we can start small and we can grow forward,” Rhomberg said. The breakfast gave BIO attendees a firsthand look at how researchers, entrepreneurs, manufacturers, investors and public partners are working together to strengthen Oklahoma’s life sciences ecosystem. Panelists said a collaborative approach will continue to drive the state’s growth.

Convergence serves as the centerpiece of OKC’s Innovation District, bringing together researchers, entrepreneurs, and industry partners to accelerate innovation.

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WELCOME NEW MEMBERS

Businesses who join the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber are part of the largest coalition of businesses in the state and make the Chamber’s work in the community possible. Each member level is identified on the listing below.

PARTNER+

ADVISOR

Native Sun Energy LLC Renewable Energy Mr. Preston Porter........................(405) 339-4084 101 Park Avenue, #1337 Oklahoma City, OK 73102-7209 nativesunenergy.com

Kiehn/Sanchez Attorneys / Lawyers Mr. Matt Kiehn....................................(405) 215-9191 1415 NW 43rd St., Suite 205 Oklahoma City, OK 73118-5027 www.kslaw.group

Edward Jones Financial Services Ms. Dre’Onna Adkins................(405) 496-3368 5115 N. Shartel Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73118-6024 https://www.edwardjones.com/us-en/financial- advisor/dreonna-adkins

EMERGING LEADER

ASSOCIATE

Revenite Financial Services Financial Services Mr. Brian Heimbecker..............(405) 237-5802 5909 NW Expressway, Suite 550

Playa Bowls Restaurants Mr. Andrew Davis..........................(817) 608-6561 6121 N. Western Avenue, Suite 200 16221 Marigold Avenue

Warr Acres, OK 73132-5155 https://revenitefinancial.com/

Edmond, OK 73013 www.playabowls.com

CORE

Calculated Hire Executive Search Consultants Ms. Blair Bender............................(214) 592-3456 511 NW 41st St.

Hexagon Commercial Finance Financial Services Mr. Frank Sewell............................(405) 507-1808 9520 N. May Ave., Suite 305 Oklahoma City, OK 73120 www.hexagoncf.com Kinser Marchant Legal Services Ms. Kelly Kinser............................(405) 400-8543

OKC Roofers Roofing Contractors Mr. Eric Aultz...................................(405) 796-8858

Tony N. Shinn Individual Members Mr. Tony Shinn................................(405) 740-3821

8901 S. Santa Fe Ave., Suite H Oklahoma City, OK 73139-8413 okcroofers.com

16416 Burgundy East Drive Edmond, OK 73013-1084

Oklahoma City, OK 73118 www.calculatedhire.com

True Care Wildlife Pest / Animal Control Services Mr. Brad McKey............................(405) 655-0850 4720 SE 18th St. Oklahoma City, OK 73115-3124 https://truecarewildlife.com/wildlife-removal- oklahoma-city/ VisionSyncLabs Consultants Mr. Manuel Zabala........................(903) 357-8719 11208 SW 32nd St.

CommunityCare Insurance - Health Ms. Cambry Barnett...................(918) 594-5200

Red Horizon Ventures, LLC Real Estate Investment Mr. Jacob Allred............................(405) 606-1959 633 SE 27th St.

2 W. 2nd St., Suite 100 Tulsa, OK 74103-3121 ccok.com

6608 N. Western Ave., PMB 1619 Oklahoma City, OK 73116-7326 kinsermarchant.com

Oklahoma City, OK 73129-4703 www.redhorizonventures.com

Dragonfly Human Trafficking Victim Services Nonprofit / Service Agencies Ms. Whitney Anderson.............(405) 212-3378 P.O. Box 94613 Oklahoma City, OK 94613 www.dragonflyok.org

MEETRA Revenue Operations Partner Consultants Mr. Michael Massad.....................(405) 777-4641 5900 N.Youngs Blvd.

Salon Wave Beauty Salons / Barber Shops / Spas Mr. John L. Watts, III.....................(405) 550-0916 617 N. Broadway Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73102-6201 www.salonwaveokc.com The Lindy Apartments Ms. Chloe Beck.............................(405) 374-6512 900 Hangar Drive

Oklahoma City, OK 73112 www.meetrasolutions.com

Yukon, OK 73099-3679 https://visionsynclabs.com

Neighborhood Alliance, Inc. Nonprofit / Service Agencies Mr. Myron Mayberry..................(405) 528-6322 1236 NW 36th St. Oklahoma City, OK 73118 www.nacok.org

Handyman In OKC Contractors - General

Home Improvement / Remodeling / Repairs Mr. Casey A. Smith.......................(405) 519-5694 2624 Denniston Drive Oklahoma City, OK 73107-2031 www.handymaninokc.net

P.O. Box 2755 Edmond, OK https://lindyokc.com

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ECONOMIC INDICATORS

OKLAHOMA CITY RANKS #2 BEST RUN LARGE CITY The Best Run Large Cities in America

OVERALL RANK

TOTAL BUDGET PER CAPITA

FINANCIAL STABILITY

CITY

ECONOMY RANK

1

MESA, AZ

3 2

16

7

2 3 4 5 6

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK JACKSONVILLE, FL RALEIGH, NC PHEONIX, AZ LOUISVILLE, KY

2

11

1

17

25

10

3

4

9 6

10

10

8

17

7

EL PASO, TX

13

30

16

8 9

INDIANAPOLIS, IN

8

5 4

1

CHARLOTTE, NC

15

3

10

ALBUQUERQUE, NM

4 18 Source: WalletHub A rank of 1 is most favorable; OKC Resident Satisfaction Survey, 2025. 22

• OKC ranked the #2 Best Run City out of the 39 largest cities in America (population above 500,000). The WalletHub study focused on quality of service, budget, financial stability, education, health, safety, economy, infrastructure, and pollution. Note: among all 148 cities compared, OKC is ranked 12th. • OKC performed especially well among large cities in the total budget per capita (2nd), financial stability (2nd), and economy (11th) sub-categories.

• Similarly, the most recent OKC Resident Satisfaction Survey showed that a high percentage of residents rated OKC as being either an “excellent” or “good” place to live (80%), work (74%), and raise children (67%). 72% of residents indicated that the City was moving in the right direction.

For comprehensive Economic Indicator and Regional Data, please visit your Greater Oklahoma City Chamber Economic Development Division at www.greateroklahomacity.com/economicindicators or contact Eric Long, Research Economist, at 405-297-8976; elong@

okcchamber.com DID YOU KNOW?

Get regional demographic data, consumer expenditure information, labor force data for the Greater Oklahoma City Region and more at greateroklahomacity.com.

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MARK BEFFORT Robinson Park; Vice Chair, Economic Development CLAY BENNETT Dorchester Capital; Vice Chair, Strategic Planning BOB FUNK JR. Express Employment Professionals; Vice Chair, Education & Talent DAVID HARLOW BancFirst; Vice Chair, Safe Community Initiatives BILL LANCE The Chickasaw Nation; Vice Chair, Government Relations JENNY LOVE MEYER Love’s Travel Stops; Vice Chair, Marketing & Communications 2026 OFFICERS

MIKE ROSS America Fidelity Assurance Company Corporate; Board Chair TERESA ROSE One Heartbeat Foundation; Immediate Past Chair; Vice Chair, Membership JOHN HART Continental Resources; Treasurer RHONDA HOOPER Jordan Advertising; Corporate Secretary CHRISTY GILLENWATER Greater Oklahoma City Chamber; President & CEO

RICK MUNCRIEF Muncrief Capital Management; Vice Chair, Innovation & Life Sciences LARRY NICHOLS Devon Energy Corporation; Vice Chair, FOKC & Community Issue Campaigns KENT SHORTRIDGE Oklahoma Natural Gas Company; Vice Chair, Transportation Initiatives SEAN TRAUSCHKE OGE Energy Corp.; Vice Chair, Convention & Visitors Development & LA28 TONY TYLER Tyler Media; Vice Chair, County Government & Criminal Justice

ISSUE #3616 - July 2026

Editorial staff Lynzee Misseldine, Lindsay Vidrine Designer Billy Callan 405-297-8900 okcchamber.com twitter.com/okcchamber

facebook.com/okcchamber VeloCity (ISSN 1075-6264) is published monthly by the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber, 123 Park Avenue, Oklahoma City, OK 73102. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to VeloCity, Greater Oklahoma City Chamber 123 Park Avenue, Oklahoma City, OK 73102 or e-mail thepoint@okcchamber.com.

SUBSCRIPTIONS: $15 per year included in Chamber membership; nonmembers, $25 per year within the U.S.. Periodicals Postage paid at Oklahoma City. Advertising rates upon request. Publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertising.

SAVE THE DATE FOR OUR 2026 INTERCITY VISIT ONE OF OUR MOST IMPACTFUL LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCES OF THE YEAR!

PRESENTING SPONSOR

Participation is limited. Additional details, including registration and hotel information, will be shared soon. For any questions, please contact register@okcchamber.com. OCTOBER 21 - 23, 2026

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