VeloCity April 2025

APRIL 2025 • OKCCHAMBER.COM

LOS ANGELES CITY COUNCIL OFFICIALLY APPROVES OKC TO HOST CANOE SLALOM, SOFTBALL FOR LA28 OLYMPICS

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IN THIS ISSUE: 7 8 11 14

InternOKC: Bridging the Gap Between College and Career A Day of Darkness, Decades of Light: How OKC Rebuilt and Reimagined Dowtown After Tragedy Oklahoma Seeks to Strengthen Education and Workforce Data System Spring into Action: Must-See Events in OKC This Season

LOS ANGELES CITY COUNCIL OFFICIALLY APPROVES OKC TO HOST CANOE SLALOM, SOFTBALL FOR LA28 OLYMPICS

The Los Angeles City Council voted last month to approve the LA28 revised venue proposal, relocating canoe slalom to Oklahoma City, where it will join softball in top-tier, purpose-built venues. Both OKC sports complexes are renowned for hosting premier canoe slalom and softball events and are hosting a series of international events leading up to the LA28 Games. This vote was the last step in confirming OKC’s role in the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Los Angeles. “The Los Angeles City Council voted today to approve LA28’s venues proposal, and we are incredibly grateful to the council for its consideration and approval,” said OKC Mayor David Holt. “We accept this opportunity with

the highest sense of obligation. With that final approval today, it is now official. Two sports from the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Los Angeles—softball and canoe slalom—will be staged in their entirety in America’s 20th-largest city. This is really happening. The Olympics are coming to OKC.” “Now that this is official, our work in Oklahoma City can truly begin,” Holt continued. “Hosting these events goes far beyond the venues. It is quite possible that Oklahoma City could have competitions taking place throughout the full duration of the Los Angeles Olympics, which will become clear as LA28 works to finalize their competition schedule in the coming months. This endeavor in July 2028 will be a community effort that will pull all 700,000 of us together for the next three years in a shared mission. Each of us who lives here now has the opportunity to welcome the world to Oklahoma City and to write a unique chapter in our city’s story.” The OKC Council will vote on a resolution next month outlining the city’s commitments to the effort and setting the stage for the Greater OKC Chamber to serve as the local host organization.

"Each of us who lives here now has the opportunity to welcome the world to Oklahoma City and to write a unique chapter in our city’s story." - Mayor David Holt

ReMerge of Oklahoma County, Inc. 823 N. Villa Ave. OKC OK 73101 Prism Bank 3561 W. Memorial Rd. OKC OK 73134 Brighter Strides ABA Therapy Center 3705 W. Memorial Road, Suite 702 OKC, OK 73134 Our Blood Institute 4312 Grant Blvd. OKC, OK 73099 Nexspaces 6838 N. Bryant Ave. OKC, OK 73121 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

OKC’S ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT POTENTIAL

Wednesday, May 14 | 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Petroleum Club, 34th Floor

Tuesday, June 10, 2025, 8:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. The Skirvin Hilton Oklahoma City

Register your company’s summer interns for the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber’s InternOKC event. After this one-day experience, interns will leave equipped with specific strategies and tools to help jump start their growth from college student to young professional. The event also offers interns a chance to continue expanding their professional network of peers, and even to earn a micro-badge credential in professional development in partnership with the University of Central Oklahoma. Register online at okcchamber.com/InternOKC

A LEGACY OF RESILIENCE AND UNITY This April marks the 30th anniversary of the LEADERSHIP NOTES Oklahoma City bombing—a profound tragedy that shook the foundation of our city and nation. We honor the 168 lives lost, the survivors whose strength inspires us still and the first responders whose courage brought light in our darkest hours. From that unimaginable loss emerged a powerful and enduring legacy: the Oklahoma Standard—a global symbol of service, honor and kindness. While the events of that day will forever be part of our history, they do not define who we are. What followed—our community’s collective response—revealed the true character of Oklahoma City. In the face of adversity, our community chose unity over fear, compassion over despair. It is impressive to witness how Kari Watkins, the OKC National Memorial & Museum board and the staff intentionally ensure that spirit remains deeply woven into the fabric of our city. Today, it lives on in the way we care for one another, in how our businesses cultivate opportunity and in the collaborative leadership that drives our region forward. To the organizations and enterprises that choose to grow here— thank you. Your commitment sustains the momentum of a city built on resilience, integrity and shared purpose. As we reflect on this solemn milestone, let us also reaffirm our dedication to the values that continue to move Oklahoma City forward—together, with strength, empathy and resolve. CONTENTS 12 Los Angeles City Council Officially Approves OKC to Host Canoe Slalom, Softball for LA28 Olympics 16 Fueling the Future: OKC’s Economic Growth Potential 10 SB 987: Commerce Reform to Strengthen Oklahoma’s Economic Development 12 Q&A with Hardy Watkins, Senior Vice President of Membership and Investor Relations

CHRISTY GILLENWATER President & CEO

READ CHRISTY’S VELOCITYOKC ONLINE STORY OF THE MONTH

L.A. City Council officially approves OKC to host canoe slalom, softball for LA28 Olympics VELOCITYOKC.COM/ CHRISTYSPICK

UPCOMING EVENTS CALENDAR (Events are subject to change. Consult okcchamber.com/events for the most recent updates.) APRIL 29 - MAY 1 D.C. Visit The Dupont Circle Hotel 1500 New Hampshire Ave. NW Washington, DC 20036 OKCChamber.com/DCVisit MAY 14 100 N Broadway Ave., 34th Flooe Oklahoma City, OK 73102-8869 OKCChamber.com/MayForum JUNE 10 InternOKC 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. Skirvin Hilton Hotel 1 Park Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73102 OKCChamber.com/InternOKC JUNE 18 Chamber Forum 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. The Petroleum Club 100 N Broadway Ave., 34th Floor Oklahoma City, OK 73102-8869 OKCChamber.com/JuneForum JULY 16 State of the City 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. Oklahoma City Convention Center 100 Mick Cornett Dr. Oklahoma City, OK 73109 OKCChamber.com/City AUGUST 6 State of the Schools 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. National Cowboy & Western Chamber Forum 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. The Petroleum Club

Fueling the Future: OKC's Economic Growth Potential

On May 14, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Petroleum Club, the Chamber will host its May Chamber Forum event focused on Oklahoma City’s economic development potential, featuring insightful discussions with Chamber President and CEO Christy Gillenwater and the newly appointed senior vice president of economic development, Dennis Pruitt. The event will offer an in-depth look at the city’s economic development recruiting process, highlighting what has changed and what makes Oklahoma City an increasingly attractive destination for businesses. Gillenwater and Pruitt will share their vision for the region, explore new opportunities in the economic development pipeline, and discuss key strategies to foster growth in the community. With a growing focus on talent retention, innovative industries, and infrastructure development, the event will provide valuable insight into how the Chamber is positioning OKC for long-term success. This is a great opportunity for business leaders to understand the Chamber's efforts to attract new companies, expand local businesses, and create a thriving, diverse economy. The event promises to be an engaging conversation about the future of Oklahoma City’s economic landscape and how collaborative efforts will continue to drive the city’s success. The event is $55 for Chamber members and $65 for non-members. To inquire about tickets, email register@okcchamber.com. Thank you to our Presenting Sponsor, Cox Communications.

Heritage Musum 1700 NE 63rd St. Oklahoma City, OK 73111 OKCChamber.com/Schools

INTERNOKC: BRIDGING THE GAP BETWEEN COLLEGE AND CAREER

More than just a training day, InternOKC provides young professionals a sense of place and purpose—a message that resonated deeply with Anne Hedrick, grants manager at Inasmuch Foundation. “Through InternOKC, Inasmuch Foundation’s Community Fellows learn what makes Oklahoma City a place worth investing in—both personally and professionally,” Hedrick said. “By connecting with peers, receiving mentorship from local leaders, and accessing resources that support the transition from school to career, they see why the next generation of leaders are building their lives and careers in Oklahoma City.” InternOKC offers attendees the chance to grow their professional networks, gain insight from top local executives and learn about the unique opportunities that make Oklahoma City an ideal place to launch their careers. For many, it’s not just a day of learning—it’s a career-defining experience. With registration open through June 5, businesses throughout the metro are encouraged to invest in their interns’ development by registering them for this transformative program. The registration fee is $200 per intern for Chamber members and $300 per intern for nonmembers. To register interns or learn more, visit InternOKC. For questions or more information, contact Lee Copeland, director of talent programs and partnerships, at lcopeland@okcchamber.com. Thank you to our Presenting Sponsor, Loves Travel Stops & Country Stores.

As more employers prioritize converting interns into full-time team members, preparing young talent for that transition has never been more important. InternOKC offers a one-day, high-impact experience that helps interns feel connected to their workplace and to the Oklahoma City community. Hosted by the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber, the 2025 InternOKC event will take place June 10 from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Skirvin Hilton Hotel. Designed to equip interns with practical tools and soft skills critical for workplace success, the event helps bridge the often-overlooked gap between the classroom and the professional world. “InternOKC is a great gateway for our interns to forge connections throughout the city, cultivate essential skillsets for success and showcase the vibrant opportunities Oklahoma City offers,” said Stephanie Shellabarger, executive assistant and project analyst at Love’s Travel Stops & Country Stores.

At the Greater OKC Chamber's InternOKC event, interns can hear from professionals across various industries share their experiences and offer inspiring advice on entering the workforce.

A DAY OF DARKNESS, DECADES OF LIGHT: HOW OKC REBUILT AND REIMAGINED DOWNTOWN AFTER TRAGEDY

On April 19, 1995, a devastating act of domestic terrorism shook Oklahoma City to its core. A bomb exploded at the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building, killing 168 people and injuring hundreds more. The emotional toll was immeasurable, and the physical destruction was widespread. For a time, the future of downtown OKC stood in uncertainty. But that moment became the beginning of a new chapter—one marked by resilience, unity and a vision for transformation. Thirty years later, OKC stands as a national model of recovery.

The Power of Partnership In the aftermath of the bombing, OKC faced enormous physical, emotional and economic challenges. Countless businesses were damaged or displaced, but instead of abandoning downtown, many chose to stay. The Greater OKC Chamber played a vital role in recovery efforts. Through partnerships with the City of OKC and federal agencies, the Chamber joined the Community Network Database to assist impacted businesses in relocating or rebuilding. Resources were mobilized quickly, relocation efforts were coordinated and long-term strategies were developed to ensure downtown remained strong. Federal aid went beyond recovery, funding repairs and preserving key sites. It helped save the Journal Record Building, now the OKC National Memorial & Museum, and supported nearby churches and community spaces still in use today.

A Downtown Renaissance The long-term result of these efforts is visible throughout today’s downtown area. Historic areas like Automobile Alley were revived, landmark developments like the Devon Tower reshaped the skyline and anchors like the YMCA remained downtown to anchor a resilient district. Legacy businesses—including Fashion Cleaners & Laundry, Teena Hicks Company and Walker Companies—stood firm through the uncertainty. Their commitment sparked reinvestment and revitalization, fueling a downtown renaissance that still drives growth today. Looking Ahead As OKC marks three decades since the bombing, a powerful message emerges: this city has consistently chosen light over darkness. A new commemorative installation at the Sixth Street Downtown Gateway honors that commitment. Created in partnership with the city, Downtown OKC and G&S Sign Services, the illuminated structure greets drivers with a message of hope and transformation. “We really want this to be a beacon—to remind people that’s what we’ve done the past 30 years, but also what the Memorial will continue to do for the next 30 years” said Layne Ferguson, activation team lead at Yard & Company. “Our city gets to continue to choose every day to be the light.” That same sentiment is echoed in Foreword, an expansion of the OKC National Memorial & Museum. Led by the Memorial’s original architects, the project

extends the museum’s reach while honoring its original message and design. “This is a place that has an opportunity to teach, and it always has,” said Patrick Gallagher, Memorial Museum designer. “Foreword is our opportunity, once again, to keep this message relevant, keep the stories of how this community not only healed itself but then became teachers to the rest of the world. This is our chance to really push that to the next chapter.” Today, downtown OKC is a testament to what happens when public officials, private businesses and residents unite with a shared vision. Thirty years later, the city honors what was lost and celebrates all that’s been built together. More than an economic strategy, Forward OKC stands as a living tribute—proof that progress can rise from heartbreak, and vision can shape a city’s future. FROM HEARTBREAK TO HOPE: HOW FORWARD OKC TURNED TRAGEDY INTO A 30-YEAR TRANSFORMATION In the wake of tragedy, Oklahoma City chose to look Forward. Just one day after the 1995 bombing, the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber made the difficult but deliberate decision to postpone—not cancel—the inaugural meeting of Forward OKC. The mission remained unchanged: to foster a stronger, more resilient city through job creation, capital investment and an enhanced quality of life. As a tribute to the 168 lives lost, OKC committed to keeping this vital work at the heart of its recovery—building not just for today, but for the generations to come. Over the past 30 years, Forward OKC has served as a cornerstone of the city’s economic renaissance. Backed by hundreds of business leaders, this strategic initiative has added more than 121,500 jobs in goods and services, expanded the labor force by 30%, and driven $24.3 million in new bank deposits. Oklahoma City’s population has surged, with 380,000 new jobs added and annual wages growing by 111%.

For several months, the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber has worked with Sen. Kristen Thompson, Rep. Mike Osburn, the State Chamber of Oklahoma, the Tulsa Regional Chamber, Select Oklahoma and other stakeholders on SB 987 to advance reforms to the state’s lead economic development agency, the Oklahoma Department of Commerce. SB 987 aims to establish a board that will provide steady leadership, oversight and collaboration. Creating a Department of Commerce Board is a step forward to ensure Oklahoma is effectively positioned for success in marketing the state as a top location for businesses to grow and invest. The nine-member advisory board, appointed by the Senate president pro tempore, House speaker and governor, will add accountability and strategic guidance. SB 987 includes the following provisions: • The board will work with the Legislature to review and endorse proposed economic projects with the Legislative Evaluation and Development Committee. SB 987: COMMERCE REFORM TO STRENGTHEN OKLAHOMA’S ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

• It will report annually to the Legislature and governor. • It will advise on hiring and compensation for the chief executive officer. • It will review the budget and strategic planning. • At least one appointee from the Senate president pro tempore, House speaker, and governor must live in a municipality with 50,000 or fewer residents. The bill's authors and partners intend for economic growth to benefit all areas statewide, including rural Oklahoma. SB 987 reflects collaboration among organizations involved in economic development. To ensure the state’s long-term economic success, the timeliness of the implementation of these reforms is necessary.

Oklahoma is at a disadvantage when it comes to making informed decisions on education and our future workforce. The data currently gathered by multiple state agencies within the education and workforce space is not connected, creating the inability to measure the long-term effectiveness of education programs and workforce readiness. Oklahoma is one of the few states that lacks an effective Statewide Longitudinal Data System (SLDS), which would allow the state to better track student outcomes, such as a student’s path from the classroom into the workforce. Senate Bill 224, authored by Sen. Ally Seifried, would create the Oklahoma Education and Workforce Statewide Longitudinal Data System, as well as a nine-member SLDS Governance Council to oversee development, implementation and operation. “Chamber members are valued for their input on a variety of important issues, including education and workforce development,” said Rhonda Baker, director of education for the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber. “The GOKC education policy committee members have been supportive of a statewide longitudinal data system so that policymakers, education, and business leaders can leverage real-time data analytics to quickly address challenges and opportunities within our workforce development and educational systems. We all agree that education and workforce development are connected, so we must be able to analyze data in a timely manner OKLAHOMA SEEKS TO STRENGTHEN EDUCATION AND WORKFORCE DATA SYSTEM

to provide the best educational and workforce training opportunities for our students and future workforce.” An SLDS is critical to the long-term success of Oklahoma students and workers because it integrates data from early learning systems, K-12, higher education, career tech and workforce development. Linking this data ensures better policy decisions to help measure long-term student success and the effectiveness of education policies. This will ensure data-driven education funding and program development, as well as improve workforce alignment by tracking whether Oklahoma students remain in the state for jobs. There are challenges with the current system, including: • Data is fragmented across multiple agencies. • No comprehensive tracking of student outcomes from early education through workforce participation. • Inability to measure the long-term effectiveness of education programs and workforce readiness.

Q&A WITH HARDY WATKINS, SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT OF MEMBERSHIP AND INVESTOR RELATIONS

Q: How has your experience—first as a chamber member, then leading another chamber, and now as senior vice president of membership and investor relations at the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber—shaped your approach to this role?

Q: From your perspective, what makes chambers of commerce valuable to businesses and communities? A: Chambers convene business and community leaders, making them the place where shared goals and ideas can help drive significant change and positive momentum. The Greater OKC Chamber has played a role in every good initiative and effort to propel our region forward, even from our earliest days. Without the Chamber’s involvement, there would be nothing like Tinker Air Force Base, long-term water supply for residents, passage of MAPS, United Way, Allied Arts, Innovation District or a growing visitor economy— the list goes on. Chambers bring businesses and the community together to help solve challenges, improve life and dream big. Q: Having been both a member and a leader, what insights have you gained about what businesses truly need from a chamber? A: Businesses need chambers to listen, lead initiatives that drive success and advocate for policies that support economic growth and quality of life. Our work to grow the economy by attracting business and investment is vital to creating a bigger customer base and bringing talent to the region. Q: How do you see the Greater OKC Chamber supporting both startups and established corporations in meaningful ways? A: I am a strong believer in the member networking opportunities our chamber offers, which benefit both startups and corporations. I see great value for our member and investor businesses in our government relations initiatives and the Chamber’s ability to connect them to policy decision-makers. There is value in the programming of our events, both large and small, which share important information about the issues and opportunities our community faces.

HARDY WATKINS SVP of Membership and Investor Relations

A: My career has presented several fulfilling opportunities, including perspectives from every angle of the chamber world. As senior vice president of membership and investor relations, I try to never lose sight of a member’s perspective. Members invest hard-earned dollars, have demanding schedules and want value at every event. They want networking opportunities to grow their businesses, connect with their professional peers and feel a sense of shared ownership as we work together to advance our region. I feel a sense of responsibility to every member to evaluate and reconsider everything we do through their perspective.

Q: Beyond membership numbers, what does true engagement look like for chamber members, and how do you foster that? A: I have a dedicated membership team of six people who work every day to help our members and investors engage through new member recruitment, renewals, investor upgrades or sponsorship and advertising sales. I encourage every member to attend as many events as their schedules allow and stay up to date with e-newsletters and other publications distributed by the Chamber. I invite our members to communicate— whether positive or not—their experiences and views with me, our membership team and the larger Chamber leadership team so we always know whether expectations are being met. Engaging with the Chamber is about engaging in our work, staying informed, sharing the interests of the business community, voting and contacting your legislator. Q: Looking ahead, what opportunities excite you most when it comes to growing and strengthening the Greater OKC Chamber’s impact? A: Right now, the opportunity for members to invest in Forward OKC VII really motivates me. It is such an exciting time for our region, with the new NBA arena, LA28 Olympic Games events, the multipurpose stadium, new retail and companies expanding or moving here. I want every member to feel they are a part of the momentum of our next five years, and Forward OKC VII provides critical funding for initiatives in our five-year strategic plan. Even though the OKC region is riding a wave of success, we now compete against a different level of cities and regions—even while our former competitors work to replicate our success. It will take all of us working together to make continued progress. Forward OKC VII is an easy and meaningful way to be connected and play a vital role in OKC's future. Q: Are there any new initiatives or strategic directions that you believe will bring even greater value to current and future members? A: From the big-picture perspective, our Chamber’s willingness to tackle hard topics—like criminal justice reform, our region’s education system, workforce alignment, capacity and growth—is critical. Each of these issues impacts our quality of life, our success attracting new jobs and investment and the ability for our existing member businesses to grow. From a closer view,

maintaining a membership that reflects our community means providing opportunities and information to help employees network and grow, and offering a program of events and activities to keep our business leaders informed and excited about the community and its potential. Q: For businesses that are considering joining, what would you say about the benefits of being part of the Greater OKC Chamber? A: There will always be opportunities to showcase your business to new and long-time members through networking events. You’ll have the opportunity to be well-informed about what’s happening in our community, what’s coming and what we need to focus on improving—and you can be as engaged as you choose. No matter your involvement, your dollars help improve the business climate of our region. You are behind the success of our work in economic development, advocacy, visitor development and more, as we make this a better city every day. Dollar for dollar, there is no better investment than a Greater OKC Chamber membership for every employee or leader of any type of business in our region. Q: If people want to become a member, how do they do so? A: Please email me at hwatkins@okcchamber.com or call 405-297-8948. I, or a member of my team, will respond right away to get you connected with us. Thank you.

SPRING INTO ACTION: MUST-SEE EVENTS IN OKLAHOMA CITY THIS SEASON

Spring in Oklahoma City is packed with events that showcase the city's vibrant culture, community spirit and rich heritage. From the 25th annual OKC Memorial Marathon to the return of beloved festivals like the "Festival of the Arts" and "Paseo Arts Festival," there’s something for everyone this season.

Festival of the Arts OKC’s annual "Festival of the Arts," held April 24- 27 at Bicentennial Park, celebrates visual, performing and culinary arts. Since 1967, the festival has attracted 750,000 visitors to experience the work of 144 artists, 300+ performances and a variety of culinary creations. The four-day event features artists from across the nation showcasing paintings, jewelry, photography, mixed- media and more, making it a signature event for the Arts Council and a beloved community tradition. Paseo Arts Festival The annual "Paseo Arts Festival," held May 24-26, draws over 60,000 visitors to OKC’s Paseo Arts District for Memorial Day Weekend. Celebrating 47 years in 2024, the festival supports the Paseo Arts Association’s programs and events. Featuring over 100 visual artists, 50 musicians and 20 food vendors, the event creates a vibrant, collaborative atmosphere. Free parking is available at First Christian Church, with a shuttle running to the festival throughout the weekend.

Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon The 25th annual OKC Memorial Marathon, held April 25-27, honors the lives lost in the 1995 bombing, as well as survivors and their families. Since its start in 2001, the marathon has grown from 5,000 to over 25,000 participants from across the U.S. and abroad. The event includes a 5K, Kids Marathon, Senior Marathon, Health and Fitness Expo and Finish Line Festival. The Expo, at the OKC Convention Center, offers packet pickups and merchandise. Participants receive a T-shirt and hand- cast bronze finisher’s medal. The event’s official app provides essential race information. Register at events.okcmarathon.com.

Chuck Wagon Festival Experience Western heritage at the annual "Chuck Wagon Festival," May 24-25, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum. Enjoy traditional Western cooking from local chuck wagon cooks, plus Native American food samples and culinary history. The event features activities like butter-making, artisan demos, rope making, live music, face painting and more. Guests can explore Liichokoshkomo’, Prosperity Junction and other interactive exhibits, along with live Western entertainment and re-enactments.

Women’s College World Series The 2025 "Women’s College World Series" (WCWS) will take place from May 29 to June 5 or 6 at Devon Park in OKC. This premier NCAA Division I softball tournament features eight teams competing in a double- elimination format, culminating in a best-of-three championship series. The event has been hosted at Devon Park since 1990, with the exception of 1996. Tickets are available for purchase, and the venue is cashless, with a clear bag policy in effect. Devon Park is located in OKC’s Adventure District, about 18 miles from Will Rogers World Airport and 6 miles from downtown. deadCenter Film Festival The deadCenter Film Festival, Oklahoma's largest and only Oscar-qualifying festival, celebrates its 25th anniversary from June 11-15. The event features short films, documentaries, comedies and more from filmmakers across Oklahoma and beyond. Catering to all levels of filmmakers, including icons like Sterlin Harjo and Alfre Woodard, deadCenter has earned recognition as one of the "20 Coolest Film Festivals in the World." It also partners with local arts organizations to offer year- round education and screenings, promoting creativity through film.

Prix de West "Prix de West" at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum features nearly 300 Western paintings and sculptures from top contemporary artists. Open June 6 to August 3, with the art sale weekend on June 20-21, the exhibit showcases a range of styles, from historical to contemporary works. Key pieces highlight landscapes, wildlife and illustrations. The event also includes art seminars, receptions and awards banquets, celebrating the finest in Western art. Juneteenth on the East Juneteenth, celebrated on June 19, marks the 1865 announcement of freedom for enslaved African Americans, symbolizing both the end of slavery and the ongoing fight for equality. OKC celebrates with "Juneteenth on the East," taking place June 19-21 in the East End District on NE 23rd Street. Produced by With Love OKC and local community leaders, including Jane and the Oklahoma Mural Syndicate, the event honors this historic day with cultural festivities and community engagement.

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.

EMERGING LEADER

ADVISOR

Bergman Collins Advertising / Marketing Ms. Christine Collins....................(405) 535-1476 4001 E. 30th St. 49 Mill Road Derry, NH 03038-4617 https://bergmancollins.com ASSOCIATE DSG Benefits Group, LLC Employee Benefits Specialists Mr. David Goldfarb......................(972) 842-9490 12221 Merit Drive, Suite 1015

DailyPay Payroll Services Mr. Andrew Welch.........................(347) 545-6981 55 Water St. New York, NY 10038-0004 DailyPay.com

Diagnostic Laboratory of Oklahoma (DLO) Laboratories - Testing Ms. Eva Aranda.............................(405) 608-6100 225 NE 97th St. Oklahoma City, OK 73114-6302 www.dlolab.com

ITC Great Plains Utilities Coral Lopez.....................................(620) 371-6534 204 N. Robinson, Suite 2500 100 Military Ave., Suite 115 Dodge City, KS 67801-4945 www.itc-holdings.com/itc-great-plains/

CORE

AVI-SPL Audio-Visual Production Services Mr. Justin Vaughn........................(405) 570-0537 20 N. Rockwell Ave., Suite 304 Oklahoma City, OK 73127-6151 https://avispl.com/audio-visual-solutions-and- services-for-oklahoma-city-businesses/ BTS Roofing & Construction Roofing Contractors Mr. Dillon Overton........................(833) 766-3748

Eb5 Investors Magazine Publishers - Magazine Mr. Nicolas Zampon....................(800) 997-1228 2151 Michelson Drive, Suite 188

StretchLab Fitness Centers & Training Ms. Linley Bergeron...................(405) 938-3539 9301 N. Pennsylvania Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73120-1518 www.stretchlab.com 3Nines Technologies, Inc. Information Technology - Consulting Mr. Terry D. Suellentrop...........(405) 488-8000 3031 N.W. 149th St. Oklahoma City, OK 73134-1849 www.3ninestech.com

Irvine, CA 92602-1376 www.eb5investors.com

Dallas, TX 75251-3100 www.dsgbenefits.com

Oklahoma Restaurant Supply Company Restaurant Equipment & Supplies Mr. Dan Turner...............................(405) 236-3445 2701 W. California Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73107-6805 www.orsusa.com The Pulse Apartments Ms. Maria Leiva.................................(405) 416-5101 520 W. Main St. Oklahoma City, OK 73102-2220

1917 Atchison Drive, Suite F2 Norman, OK 73072-8266 btsconstruction.org

CrossFirst Bank Banks Mr. Steve M. Foskin, CPA.........(405) 418-3750

5001 Gaillardia Corporate Place Oklahoma City, OK 73142-1868 www.crossfirstbank.com

MEMBER UPGRADES The following member companies increased their investment in the Chamber, demonstrating strong support of the Chamber’s efforts to drive the region’s economy. To increase your investment, contact the Membership Division of the Chamber at 405-297-8949 or membership@okcchamber.com.

PARTNER+

ADVISOR

Forvis, LLP Accountants and Accounting Services Mr. Carley Williams.....................(405) 606-2580 Two Leadership Square 211 N. Robinson Ave., Suite 600 Oklahoma City, OK 73102 www.forvismazars.us

AIIM Capital Corporation Real Estate Investment Mr. W. David Cottrell..................(405) 843-0500 9520 N. May Ave.,Suite 305 Oklahoma City, OK 73120-2724 www.aiimcapital.com

ECONOMIC INDICATORS

GREATER OKLAHOMA CITY HAS 5 OUT OF THE TOP 10 FASTEST GROWTH COUNTIES IN THE STATE Greater OKC 10-County Population Growth

2023-2024 Percent change

Geographic Area

2023

2024

Canadian

176,184

181,760

3.2%

McClain

47,060

48,434

2.9%

Grady

57,493

58,353

1.5%

Logan

53,121

53,860

1.4%

Kingfisher

15,615

15,820

1.3%

Lincoln County

34,613

34,972

1.0%

Pottawatomie

73,864

74,446

0.8%

Oklahoma County

811,096

816,490

0.7%

Cleveland

301,913

303,952

0.7%

Payne

83,819

84,199

0.5%

Source: U.S. Census Mid-Year July 1 Population Estimates for 2024, Released March 2025

• From 2023-2024, 5 counties from the Greater Oklahoma City Region were among the top 10 fastest growing counties in Oklahoma. (Canadian, McClain, Grady, Logan, and Kingfisher County) • Canadian County and McClain County are the fastest growing counties in the entire state of Oklahoma.

• The 10-County region experienced a 1.1% growth rate over the past year, adding over 17,500 people. • OKC is the 42nd largest metro in the nation. Of the metros larger than OKC, OKC is growing at a faster rate than 70% of them.

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.

CLAYTON I. BENNETT Dorchester Capital Vice Chair, Strategic Planning BOB FUNK, JR. Express Employment Professionals Vice Chair, Education and Talent JUDY J. HATFIELD, CCIM Equity Commercial Realty Advisors, LLC Vice Chair, Membership RHONDA HOOPER Jordan Advertising Vice Chair, Business and Economic Inclusion BILL LANCE The Chickasaw Nation Vice Chair, Convention and Visitors Development JENNY LOVE MEYER Love’s Travel Stops Vice Chair, Marketing and Communications 2025 OFFICERS

TERESA ROSE, JD Communities Foundation of Oklahoma Board Chair MICHAEL F. ROSS INSURICA / American Fidelity Assurance Company Corporate Chair-Elect SEAN TRAUSCHKE OGE Energy Corp. Immediate Past Chair

RICK MUNCRIEF Devon Energy Corporation Vice Chair, Innovation and Life Sciences J. LARRY NICHOLS Devon Energy Corporation Vice Chair, Economic Development / Forward Oklahoma City DAVID E. RAINBOLT BancFirst Corporation Vice Chair, Government Relations W. KENT SHORTRIDGE Oklahoma Natural Gas Company Vice Chair, Military and Aerospace CHRISTY GILLENWATER Greater Oklahoma City Chamber President & CEO

ISSUE #3601 - April 2025 Editorial staff Cynthia Reid Designer Billy Callan 405-297-8900 thepoint@okcchamber.com okcchamber.com twitter.com/okcchamber

facebook.com/okcchamber VeloCity (ISSN 1075-6264) is published monthly by the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber,

JOHN HART Continental Resources Treasurer TOM J. McDANIEL American Fidelity Foundation Corporate Secretary

123 Park Avenue, Oklahoma City, OK 73102. 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.

STAY TUNED FOR EXCITING CULTURAL OPPORTUNITIES

April 29 - may 1 2025

THE INTENSIVE TWO-DAY PROGRAM INCLUDES • Briefings with members of Oklahoma’s Congressional delegation on Capitol Hill. • A reception on Capitol Hill with top Air Force leaders, Congressional members and their staff. • Off-the-hill sessions on key issues important to the business community. • Valuable networking opportunities with Oklahoma City’s top business leaders.

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