LEADERSHIP NOTES
Oklahoma City is a premier visitor destination, and the recent vote to increase the hotel motel tax will further amplify our city’s appeal on a national and international scale. It’s clear our voters remain deeply committed to progress and are dedicated to maintaining our status as a top 20 city. Oklahoma City’s hotel motel tax had remained unchanged since 2005 and its increase was vital for Oklahoma City. The shift from a 5.5% tax to a 9.25% tax will enable critical investments in improving key venues, sponsoring events, promoting tourism, and enhancing our marketing and advertising efforts. Visit OKC, our city’s official destination marketing organization, is instrumental in strengthening our position as a leading destination for convention, sports and leisure travel. A recent annual report acknowledged prominent features in global publications and remarkable progress and growth. Oklahoma City has been secured as a host site for several high- profile marquee events, such as the nationally televised Sprouts Farmers Market Collegiate Quad at the Paycom Center in January 2025 and the USA Gymnastics Development Program National Championships at OKCCC in May 2026. Oklahoma City remains on top as the Horse Show Capital of the World, hosting 13 premiere equine events and two distinguished livestock events last year alone. The Oklahoma City Council voted to rename Will Rogers World Airport to OKC Will Rogers International Airport, enhancing our city’s international profile and setting the stage for continued prosperity to support air services. We appreciate the hard work and partnership of volunteers, businesses and partners who supported this important campaign. Thank you to the citizens of Oklahoma City for voting YES on August 27. Your support ensures that Oklahoma City will continue to prosper and thrive in all we do. CONTENTS 12 OKC FAME+OMADA International: Transforming our future manufacturing workforce 16 Devon Energy and Mark Twain Elementary Mark 20 Years of Educational Partnership With Thunder Court Dedication 10 Oklahoma City’s historical and ongoing influence on softball 13 Greater Oklahoma City Region Property Tax
CHRISTY GILLENWATER President & CEO
READ CHRISTY’S VELOCITYOKC ONLINE STORY OF THE MONTH
The Verge OKC: A Collaborative Hub for Entrepreneurial Growth in Oklahoma City VELOCITYOKC.COM/ CHRISTYSPICK
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