December 2014 www.okcchamber.com Oklahoma City Ranks No. 1 for Business Startups Oklahoma City continues to gain national recognition for its business climate, this time as the No. 1 city in the nation for budding entrepreneurs. Kiplinger recently ranked Oklahoma City as the top hot spot for business startups based on its strong community of small businesses, low costs of living and operating a business and its well-educated workforce. “Entrepreneurship is definitely part of Oklahoma City’s culture, and as Kiplinger’s analysis shows, our business climate allows people to see their business ideas become reality here,” said Roy H. Williams, president and CEO of the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber. “With such a strong network of resources, Oklahoma City is a perfect location for entrepreneurs to set down their roots.” Kiplinger cited Oklahoma City’s 18,600 small businesses, which is nearly Oklahoma City recently ranked double the national average for all metro areas, as well as its business costs, which as the No. 1 city for entrepreneurs are 4.9 percent lower than the national average, as indications of the area’s healthy based on its affordability environment for new businesses. Despite a tax climate which Kiplinger says “leaves and existing network of small something to be desired,” the area’s incentive programs allow businesses to offset businesses and assistance for Continued on page 5 entrepreneurs. Chamber Announces Board for 2015 The nominating committee and the board of directors of the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber are pleased to announce the 2015 officers, and members of the board of directors that were approved in November 2014. David E. Rainbolt, CEO of BancFirst, has been selected to chair the organization. Other officers for 2015 include Peter B. Delaney, OGE Energy Corp., immediate past chair; John Hart, Continental Resources, treasurer; Bruce Lawrence, INTEGRIS Health, corporate secretary; and Roy H. Williams, CCE, Greater Oklahoma City Chamber, president and CEO. Additionally, the following program vice chairs also serve as officers for 2015: Natalie Shirley, Oklahoma State University - Oklahoma City, Conventions and Visitors; Rhonda Hooper, Jordan Advertising, Economic Development; Teresa Rose, Chesapeake Energy Corporation, Education/Workforce Development; John Richels, Devon Energy Corporation, Forward Oklahoma City; Bradley W. David E. Rainbolt, CEO of BancFirst, has been elected to Krieger, Arvest Bank, Government Relations; Tom J. McDaniel, American Fidelity chair the Greater Oklahoma Foundation, MAPS Development; Percy Kirk, Cox Communications, Marketing/ City Chamber in 2015-2016. Continued on page 8 215 OK Chamber_PR.indd 1 7/24/09 3:09:53 PM 215 OK Chamber_PR.indd 1 7/24/09 3:09:53 PM Chamber CEO&President Roy H. Williams, CCE Sincerely, choices we maketodaycouldbethebraggingrightsofnextgeneration. those dreams cometofruition. We are plantingtheseedsforabetterfuture, andthe generation aftergeneration.Now isthetimetobrainstorm forabigfuture andtomake blueprint toreality. We are acitywithproven trackrecord ofmakingthingshappen, Oklahoma Cityisalsoaplacefordoers–communityofpeoplewhoseedreams asa it isessentialthatourdreams forthiscommunityexpandrightalongsideit.Luckily, Oklahoma City. MAPS 3projects andthedevelopment ofamore efficienttransitsysteminand around them. Two maintopicsofdiscussioncentered around thesignificantprogress madeon andchallengesonthehorizon andhowdiscussing opportunities we canbestmeet Oklahoma City’s future attheChamber’s Board Retreat, what isnextforourcommunity. and communityleadersgathered inNorman todiscuss been aplacefordreamers, andinNovember, Chamber way: assomeone’s dream. Oklahoma Cityhasalways City’s inthesame biggestsources ofpride–allstarted Olympic-caliber river –whatare now someofOklahoma Oklahoma City’s skyline,itsNBAbasketballteam, Turning dreams intoplans Leadership Notes

CONTENTS One keytakeawayfrom ourdiscussionswasthis:Oklahoma Cityisexpanding,and In fact,more than180peopleralliedbehind 13 10 6 Chamber Staff Meet New in OKC Developing Transit Chamber Events

16 15 14 New Members New VeloCity Magazine in 125 Years ofTransportation OKC Roy H.Williams, CCE President &CEO Oklahoma State University -Oklahoma City Vice Chair, Marketing &Communications Vice Chair, Convention & Visitors Bureau SUBSCRIPTIONS: $5peryear includedinChamber Publisher therighttorefuse reserves any advertising. Vice Chair, Forward Oklahoma City Vice Chair, Economic Development Vice Chair, Government Relations Greater Oklahoma CityChamber Vice Chair, Education/Workforce Cox Communications Oklahoma 123 Park Avenue, Oklahoma City, OK73102. Vice Chair, MAPSDevelopment Chesapeake Energy Corporation Equity Commercial Realty, LLC Vice Chair, Military/Aerospace 2014 OFFICERS Periodicals Postage paidatOklahoma City. JUDY J.HATFIELD, CCIM American Fidelity Foundation Vice Chair, Strategic Planning Vice Chair, Strategic Planning JPMorganChase Bank, N.A. ROY H. WILLIAMS, CCE Devon Energy Corporation Devon Energy Corporation Price Edwards &Company BRADLEY W.KRIEGER CLAYTON I.BENNETT Immediate Past Chairman Greater Oklahoma CityChamberor Send address changestoThe Point!, e-mail [email protected]. Vice Chair, Membership Greater Oklahoma CityChamber, DAVID A. JACKSON Kaylee McDaniel, Cynthia Reid, www.facebook.com/okcchamber BRUCE LAWRENCE ISSUE #3478-December 2014 RHONDA HOOPER TOM J.M J. LARRY NICHOLS The Point (ISSN1075-6264) is THE POINT! NATALIE SHIRLEY Advertising ratesupon request. DAVID RAINBOLT www.twitter.com/okcchamber $25 peryear withintheU.S. C Corporate Secretary OGE Energy Corp. [email protected] membership; nonmembers, INTEGRIS Health Dorchester Capital JOHN RICHELS PE Jordan Advertising published monthlyby the President &CEO TERESA ROSE ARL EDWARDS www.okcchamber.com 2014 Chairman PERCY KIRK Development TE DELANEY POSTMASTER: Arvest BankArvest Chair-Elect Jennifer Seaton Editorial staff BancFirst Treasurer Josh Vaughn 297-8900 Designer C DANIEL

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We are OklahOmans. Our gOal is tO help make Our state a better place tO live, WOrk, and raise a family. Startups Find Resources In OKC (continued)

some of the negative tax impacts and continue to attract Oklahoma City’s high-growth sectors and innovation- new growth and investment to the region. based industries. Since 2011, the Greater Oklahoma Kiplinger also mentioned Oklahoma City’s business City Chamber Partnership has supported, developed accelerators and their support for area and raised funds for the Donald W. , Reynolds Governor’s Cup business entrepreneurs as one of the benefits of 621000 “With such a strong reasons WHY sMaLL BUsIness oWners starting a business in Oklahoma City. network of resources, plan competition and an angel funding i2E, an area business accelerator, was Oklahoma City is a competition that directly connects specifically mentioned as a resource perfect location for Oklahoma’s angel investor network sHoULD ConTaCT Us noW to entrepreneurs. The partnership for entrepreneurs. i2E works with entrepreneurs to set many partners, including the Greater down their roots.” also assists Oklahoma universities Oklahoma City Chamber, to provide in commercializing technologies -Roy H. Williams, president and and developing companies. The expertise to entrepreneurs alongside the CEO of the Greater Oklahoma City funds necessary to make new businesses Chamber. Chamber also works in tandem with blossom. organizations such as i2E, OKBio and the Oklahoma Center for the i2E offers a vast amount of resources specific Advancement of Science and Technology (OCAST) to to venture advisory services, access to capital and support Oklahoma’s growing network of bioscience and entrepreneurial development, and a joint initiative with technology entrepreneurs and investors through special the Chamber also provides assistance to entrepreneurs in programs, tradeshows and events.

Affiliate Board of Directors

Gary Trennepohl, Ph.D: Chairman of the Affiliate Dave Lopez Board and ONEOK Professor of Finance at Oklahoma State University Martha Burger: Co-Founder, Amethyst Investments, LLC An established Michael Johnson: President and CEO, J&A Group, LLC Oklahoma leader Laura Kenny: President and CEO, LIFE Senior Services Ron King: Retired Chairman, President and CEO, in community, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma For a LIMITeD TIMe, sMB aD PaCKaGes STARTING AT $295 corporate and Marc Milsten, M.D.: Practices with Urologic public affairs. Specialists of Oklahoma James Riemer, D.O.: Physician and Owner of Doctor’s Medical Center Visit oklahoman.com/vip (844) 912-1668 We are proud to welcome Dave Lopez as the newest member of our Affiliate Board of Directors For more than 74 years, local leaders have worked to build Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma into the state’s oldest and largest private health insurer, employing more than 1,000 loyal Oklahomans and providing unmatched service to more than 800,000 members. We are proud of our local heritage, community presence and strong commitment to improving the health of our state.

We are OklahOmans. Our gOal is tO help make Our state a better place tO live, WOrk, and raise a family. A Division of Health Care Service Corporation, a Mutual Legal Reserve Company, an Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association 602197.1014 December 2014 Greater Oklahoma City Chamber The Point!

5 UPCOMING EVENTS

Meet with Oklahoma’s Political Leaders As we approach a new legislative session, it is important for business leaders to engage in the process of improving Oklahoma City. At upcoming Chamber events, attendees will hear directly from legislative leaders as they outline their political priorities for 2015 and beyond. Chairman’s Breakfast: Dec. 15 Legislative Breakfast: Jan. 20 Hear from Oklahoma’s Senator-elect James Lankford A panel of Republican and Democratic leadership from as he outlines his priorities for his inaugural year in the the State House and the State Senate will discuss issues U.S. Senate. David Rainbolt, that will impact Oklahoma City’s businesses during the CEO of BancFirst and the 2015 upcoming legislative session. On Tuesday, Jan. 20, from Chamber chairman, will also 8-9:30 a.m. at the Cox Convention Center, attendees speak at the Chairman’s Event on Monday, Dec. 15, at the Cox will be able to meet area legislators and have a voice in Convention Center Hotel & the political process. Spa, 10 N Broadway Ave. Cost to attend is $40 for members and $60 for Tickets are $40 for Chamber nonmembers. The attendance prices also covers the members and $60 for breakfast cost for one elected official. Special thanks nonmembers. Special thanks to Signature Sponsor, The Boeing Company and Host Hear from Oklahoma’s to Signature Sponsor, Cox Sponsor, Renaissance Oklahoma City Convention incoming Senator Communications and Host Center Hotel & Spa. James Lankford at the Sponsor, Renaissance Oklahoma upcoming Chairman’s City Convention Center Hotel Breakfast on Dec. 15 & Spa.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Dec. 9 Jan. 13 Sunset Reception Sunset Reception Time: 4-6 p.m. Time: 4-6 p.m. Location: Regent Bank, Location: HeyDay Entertainment 1900 Northwest Expressway, Center, 3201 Market Place, Suite 100 Norman Dec. 11 Jan. 14 Annual Meeting State of the City Time: 11 a.m.-1p.m. Time: 11:30 a.m.-1p.m. Location: Cox Convention Center, Location: Cox Convention Center, 1 Myriad Gardens 1 Myriad Gardens Dec. 15 Jan. 20 Chairman’s Breakfast Legislative Breakfast Time: 8-9:30 a.m. Time: 8-9:30 a.m. Location: Cox Convention Center, Location: Cox Convention Center, Check out www.okcchamber.com 1 Myriad Gardens 1 Myriad Gardens for more information about upcoming events. December 2014 Greater Oklahoma City Chamber The Point!

6 Hear Mayor Cornett at State of the City

As the Chamber’s most well-attended event, the annual State of the City luncheon provides guests a chance to hear from Oklahoma City’s leaders about their vision for Oklahoma City each year. On Wednesday, Jan. 14, 2015, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Cox Convention Center, Oklahoma City Mayor Mick Cornett and 2015 Chamber Chairman David Rainbolt will review the accomplishments of 2014 and outline strategic objectives for the upcoming year. Tickets are $60 for members and $100 for nonmembers. For more information, please contact [email protected]. Special Thanks to Signature Sponsor, The Professional Basketball Club, LLC – Oklahoma City Thunder, Video Sponsor, Producers Playhouse, Entertainment Sponsor, Verizon Wireless and Host Sponsor, Bank of Oklahoma.

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Congratulations to our physicians and sta . You’re what makes e Children’s Hospital at OU Medical Center the leading pediatric health care center in Oklahoma – and one of the top in the nation.

KEEPING OKLAHOMA ALIVE & WELL

OU Medical Center | OU Physicians | The Children’s Hospital | OU College of Medicine | oumedicine.com December 2014 Greater Oklahoma City Chamber The Point!

7 Board Announcement (continued) Communications; Judy J. Hatfield, CCIM, Equity The Chickasaw Nation; James D. Bennett, SandRidge Commercial Realty, LLC, Membership; David A. Energy, Inc.; Steven Goo, The Boeing Company; John Jackson, JPMorganChase Bank, N.A., Military/ Hart, Continental Resources; Judy J. Hatfield, CCIM, Aerospace; Carl E. Edwards, Price Edwards & Company, Equity Commercial Realty, LLC; Joe Hodges, SSM Bioscience; Clayton I. Bennett, Dorchester Capital, Health Care of Oklahoma; Rhonda Hooper, Jordan Strategic Planning; and J. Larry Nichols, Devon Energy Advertising; David A. Jackson, JPMorganChaseBank, Corporation, Strategic Planning. N.A.; Percy Kirk, Cox Communications; Bradley W. The following individuals were selected to serve on Krieger, Arvest Bank; Bruce Lawrence, INTEGRIS the board beginning on Jan. 1, 2015 until Dec. 31, Health; Steve Mason, Bluebird Consulting, LLC; 2017:Beverly F. Binkowski, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Marc Maun, Bank of Oklahoma; Bradley Z. Naifeh, Oklahoma; David R. Carpenter, American Fidelity Central Liquor Company; Richard Nix, McAfee & Assurance Company; Jim R. Gebhart, Mercy Hospital Taft; Ronald J. Norick, Norick Investment Company, Oklahoma City; Steve Hahn, AT&T Oklahoma; David LLC; Tim O’Toole, Oklahoma State Fair, Inc.; Harlow, BancFirst; E. Carey Joullian, IV, Mustang Fuel Stephen M. Prescott, M.D., Oklahoma Medical Corporation; Tom J. McDaniel, American Fidelity Research Foundation; Christopher P. Reen, OPUBCO Foundation; David J. Morgan, MidFirst Bank; Ford Communications Group; John Richels, Devon C. Price, Price Edwards & Company; Natalie Shirley, Energy Corporation; Teresa Rose, Chesapeake Energy Oklahoma State University - Oklahoma City; and G. Corporation; Robert J. Ross, Inasmuch Foundation/ Rainey Williams, Jr., Kestrel Investments, Inc. Ethics and Excellence in Journalism Foundation; and W. Kent Shortridge, Oklahoma Natural Gas Company. They will join the following members who were selected in 2013 and 2014: Governor Bill Anoatubby, The following individuals were selected to serve one- year terms: M. Dewayne Andrews, M.D., University

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Check out Greater Oklahoma City Chamber's new retail site.

This site details Oklahoma City’s low cost of living, high per- capita income levels, and ease of doing businesses – all qualities that will enable both national and local retailers to be successful. It offers potential developers a snapshot of Oklahoma City’s retail trade areas, data and demographics for some of Oklahoma City’s districts, an integrated property search feature, a business intelligence tool and success stories from Oklahoma City’s healthy retail sector— with more on the way. Let your retail and development Tammy Fate friends know about OKC’s retail intelligence destination: Manager, Retail Development and Recruitment www.okcretail.com Greater Oklahoma City Chamber twitter.com/@okcretail 405-297-8958 [email protected] December 2014 Greater Oklahoma City Chamber The Point!

8 of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center; Brenda Jones Properties; Stanley F. Hupfield, INTEGRIS Health Barwick, APR, Jones Public Relations, Inc.; Dr. Don Family of Foundations; Dave Lopez, DL Dynamics; Betz, The University of Central Oklahoma; Clay T. Gerald Marshall, Midland Asset Management; Farha, B.D. Eddie Enterprises; Jalal Farzaneh, Home Edmund O. Martin, Ackerman McQueen, Inc.; Creations; John M. “Chip” Fudge, Claims Management Frank A. McPherson; J. Larry Nichols, Devon Energy Resources, Inc.; Mark Funke, Bank SNB; Mark A. Corporation; George Nigh (life member), IBC Bank; Helm, Dolese Bros. Co.; Robert Henry, Oklahoma Lee Allan Smith, Oklahoma Events, LLC; David L. City University; John D. Higginbotham, Bank of Thompson, InvesTrust; William G. Thurman, M.D.; Oklahoma; Reginald D. Johnson, Wells Fargo Bank; and Stanton Young, Stanton L. Young Companies. Michael S. Laird, Crowe & Dunlevy; Xavier Neira, The ex-officio members serving on the 2015 Board Manhattan Construction Company; and David E. include: Mayor Mick Cornett, City of Oklahoma Rainbolt, BancFirst. Bill Schonacher, IBC Bank, will fill City; Jim Couch, City of Oklahoma City; Michelle an open position and serve for a two-year term ending in Coppedge, Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center - FAA; December 2016. Robert R. Neu, Oklahoma City Public Schools; and The past chairmen and life members are Clayton I. Meg Salyer, Accel Financial Staffing. The 2015 Chair of Bennett, Dorchester Capital; Richard H. Clements, the Board of Oklahoma County Commissioners will be Clements Food Company - Garden Club; Edward requested to serve when announced in January 2015. H. Cook; Luke R. Corbett; Peter B. Delaney, OGE Energy Corp.; William E. Durrett, American Fidelity Assurance Company; Carl E. Edwards, Price Edwards & Company; Robert A. Funk, Express Employment Professionals; Gerald L. Gamble, Gerald L. Gamble Co., Inc.; Fred J. Hall, Hall Capital, LLC; V. Burns Hargis, Oklahoma State University; Dan Hogan, Dan Hogan

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9 Leaders Study Transit Trends to Support OKC’s Growth As Oklahoma City gears up to implement a streetcar • Development of a seamless regional transit system system downtown, area leaders are looking at what’s next and governing authority; and needed for Oklahoma City’s public transportation • Dedicated funding sources and strategies; system. And on a recent InterCity Visit, many of them studied Salt Lake City’s transit system to get ideas for • Better coordination and integration of regional transit central Oklahoma. services; and Oklahoma has five or six miles of track opening for a • Improved integration between transit and land use downtown- and Bricktown-area streetcar system by 2017, development.” funded by the Metropolitan Area Projects (MAPS) 3 sales And another study initiated by ACOG in 2013, a tax passed in 2009. The intermodal hub will be at the old commuter corridors study called CentralOK!go, has Santa Fe Depot at Reno and E.K. Gaylord Boulevard. evaluated the feasibility of a regional transit system that However, current discussion includes commuter corridors about meeting the region’s between downtown Oklahoma transportation needs for the next City and Edmond, Norman 30 years is much more extensive and the Midwest City/Tinker than a streetcar system. Air Force Base area. Read more online at http://centralokgo.org. The tools are in place to create a regional transit district “We’are really trying to solve that would have taxation the region’s transit issues,” authority and other tools to Cornett said. “At some point it build and fund a regional transit stops becoming a plan on paper system, Oklahoma City Mayor and starts becoming a political Mick Cornett told Chamber reality.” board members at the recent But, like in Salt Lake City retreat. Representatives from Salt Lake City opened its first single light-rail train years ago, that political reality in 1999 and followed with a second in 2001. the Association of Central can be a difficult one. Some are Oklahoma Governments concerned that it might be a (ACOG), the city and others tough sell to convince Oklahoma City voters to fund a have studied the area’s transportation issues and come up comprehensive transit system when they don’t see traffic with a blueprint for public transportation in the years congestion as a problem … yet. (See inset.) ahead. This blueprint, called the “Fixed Guideway Study,” by the Central Existing and Planned Transit Systems, 2014 Oklahoma Transportation and Parking Authority, led to a 2030 System Plan for Central Oklahoma and recommended ways to enhance connections among public transportation services throughout identified corridors in the region. Read it online by searching for its title at www. embarkok.com. More recently, in 2009, ACOG initiated a “Regional Transit Dialogue” that brought locally elected officials, policy stakeholders, private sector leaders and the general public to build upon the 2005 Fixed Guideway Study’s plan. This group, according to ACOG’s website, http://www.acogok.org/ December 2014 Greater Oklahoma City Chamber The Point! transit, has explored: Source: Association of Central Oklahoma Governments (ACOG) 10 But as Cornett said, “at some point in our city’s investment, and taxpayers’ return on their investment in timeline, it’s going to be a necessity.” the streetcar has been 561 percent, Robin Hutcheson, Salt Lake City’s transportation director, told the InterCity Salt Lake City officials found that developing a transit group. system was well worth it, both in terms of relieving congestion and spurring new development and tax As Chamber President and CEO Roy H. Williams said dollars. at the board retreat, “transit is a conversation about the future, not about the present.” It took Salt Lake City about 15 years to open the first single light-rail train after developing the original concept Well before cars began clogging the roads, Salt Lake for one. The first one opened in 1999; the second, in City officials projected that increased traffic and pollution 2001. were going to cause problems down the line. But in campaigning for taxes to support a public transportation Since then, the Utah Transit Authority (UTA) has built system, instead of using the numbers they appealed to 140 miles of rail, which includes 90 miles of commuter drivers’ emotions in ads – i.e. using transit in order to rail, 50 miles of light rail and a new streetcar system, said get home earlier to spend more time with their families, Michael Allegra, president and CEO of the Utah Transit Williams noted. Authority, in a presentation to visitors from Oklahoma City on the Chamber’s recent InterCity Visit. Public Already the city has improved its bus routes and transportation in Salt Lake also includes buses, bus rapid launched its service under a new name – EMBARK, the transit, transit for people with disabilities and seasonal ski city entity that provides bus, ferry transit, bike share and service. downtown parking. Utah’s rail system was controversial as it opened in Moving forward, Oklahoma City stakeholders are 1999 — “Light Rail: The Solution to No Problem,” read laying the groundwork that central Oklahoma needs to one newspaper headline. But today, passengers make 42 expand its public transportation system to meet travelers’ million trips per year on the UTA’s buses, rails, etc., — needs now and in the future. 44.1 million in 2013 — and it is growing in popularity. In 2014, the American Public Transportation Authority named the UTA the Outstanding Public Transportation System. And a new streetcar line in Salt Lake City, called the YOU HAVE WORK, S-Line or Sugar House, has led to six existing or planned developments within a quarter-mile of stations along it. WE HAVE These developments represent $408 million in private WORKERS!

By The Numbers Central Oklahoma going to be a lot today includes 1.1 more congested,” million people in 27 John Johnson, Dale Rogers Training Center, an Oklahoma non-profit, provides cities in six counties. executive director of job opportunities to people with disabilities through multiple business There are 600,000 jobs the Association of services to companies nationwide, specializing in: in the area. Central Oklahoma Governments said at the • ASSEMBLY • FULFILLMENT In the last decade, the recent Chamber board • PACKAGING • SHRINK WRAPPING area has added 100,000 retreat. “We have very people and is expecting limited ability to build Contact us for a free quote! 400,000 more people in more capacity for our 405-946-4489 or www.DRTC.org the next 25 years. roadways.” “If we don’t like it Promoting Abilities for 60 Years! (traffic) today, it’s Source: Johnson with ACOG December 2014 Greater Oklahoma City Chamber The Point!

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Call today and unlock new doors of opportunity for your business. 405.843.3185 | www.accesscomtech.com Chamber Welcomes New Employees Carrie Snodgrass The Greater Oklahoma City Chamber welcomed Carrie Snodgrass as its media relations coordinator in June 2014. In that role, Carrie works with local, regional and national media to present Oklahoma City in a positive way. Carrie also works to promote Chamber events and initiatives as part of the marketing communications team. Before joining the Chamber, Carrie held a position at Gaillardia Country Club. Carrie also previously served as the marketing director for an international manufacturing company as well as a media liaison for a large nonprofit organization in Little Rock. Carrie started in the newspaper industry, serving as a beat reporter for four years and the managing editor of a small daily for two years. She has a bachelor’s degree in journalism with a public relations emphasis and a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, both from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock.

Heather Kitchen Heather Kitchen joined the Chamber in August 2014 as research analyst, and she conducts research as part of the economic development department. Heather plays a part in advancing economic development by responding to requests for information from colleagues, Chamber members and the general public. Heather was formerly a law librarian at the State Capitol for the Oklahoma Department of Libraries for six years. Heather has a master’s degree in library and information studies from the University of Oklahoma. She has a bachelor’s degree in history from Oklahoma Christian University and a Bachelor of Science degree in biology from the University of Central Oklahoma.

Jennifer Smith Jennifer Smith took the role of business development manager of business retention and expansion at the Chamber in September 2014. The main focus of Jennifer’s role in the economic development division is to meet with existing Oklahoma City businesses and make sure they are happy and have what they need to continue to grow and succeed in this community. Most recently, Jennifer was the development manager at Catholic Charities of Kansas City - St. Joseph. Previously, Jennifer worked at a local economic development organization in Kansas City. She graduated with a bachelor’s degree in political science from Oklahoma State University.

Kasey Gardner Kasey Gardner joined the Chamber in July 2014 as the supervisor of visitor center information for the Oklahoma City Convention and Visitors Bureau. In this role, Kasey oversees the Visitor Information Booth located in the Cox Covention Center. Kasey makes sure the booth is stocked with brochures and that the booth’s staff are up-to-date on information in order to direct visitors to their desired destination. Kasey is also an administrator of the CTA program, where she works with area CTAs to provide a great Oklahoma City experience to all visitors. Before joining the Chamber, Kasey served as director of PR and sports information at Southwestern Christian University in Bethany. She graduated in 2010 with a degree in business administration from Mid-America Christian University.

December 2014 Greater Oklahoma City Chamber The Point!

13 Chamber Supports 125 Years of Transportation Innovation companies in Oklahoma City, and the need for an organized road system was apparent. Organizations like the Chamber devised routes and plans to connect Oklahoma City with other cities, and in 1921 the Chamber proposed a plan to build hard surface roads with funds from a bond issue. As a result, Oklahoma County became one of the first with paved highways across it. The Chamber continued to work with the City to increase the miles of paved roads that connected Oklahoma City to other metropolitan areas throughout the nation. The Chamber was especially instrumental Oklahoma City’s early transportation options included horse and in acquiring the rights-of-way for new roads to be built. buggy, rail and a trolley system. Only a few automobiles existed Since City funds were lacking at the time, the Chamber in Oklahoma City at the turn of the century. frequently fronted the cost for land acquisition, For 125 years, leaders in Oklahoma City have recognized including for routes along present-day Interstates 35 that the quality of a community’s transportation and 44, and Northwest Expressway. The Chamber also infrastructure can make or break a city. Since before provided the first $25,000 for preliminary engineering statehood, the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber has costs during the construction of the Turner Turnpike and pursued transportation infrastructure improvements pursued land acquisition and initial investment for the that have increased the ease of access to Oklahoma City H.E. Bailey Turnpike in southwest Oklahoma. for both residents and businesses and allowed economic Because of the vision of Chamber leaders throughout development to continue. history, Oklahoma City became an intersection of three Weeks after organizing, leaders of the Chamber major highways and a veritable crossroads of America. pushed for railroad access as early as the summer of These transportation improvement projects were 1889. With homesteaders settled on land that was typically long-term, but many proposed routes from originally intended for railroad land, the Chamber led Chamber meetings in the 1950s are frequently used by the fight to raise funds for a new east-to-west route, Oklahoma City residents today. In Oklahoma City’s knowing that railroad access was the lifeblood for future transportation history, the determination and vision of industry and growth. The Chamber also set its sights leaders have reaped rewards for its current residents. on a direct line to St. Louis, which would connect Oklahoma City to the cattle markets of Kansas City by the Santa Fe Railroad. With no financiers outside of Oklahoma interested in the project, Chamber leaders solicited funds from Oklahoma City residents and organized the construction of the railroad bed themselves, before an agreement was reached with the Santa Fe Railroad. Their persistence and foresight were rewarded; after many conversations with railroad representatives, the railroad representatives signed a contract for the route to Oklahoma City in 1897. What no one anticipated was how the rise of the automobile would impact transportation in Oklahoma The explosion of the popularity of the automobile dramatically City. In 1905, Oklahoma City was home to only affected how Oklahoma City approached its growth and

December 2014 Greater Oklahoma City Chamber The Point! six automobiles. By 1910, there were 32 automobile development.

14 VeloCity Magazine Spotlights Oklahoma City’s Energy Sector

The rise of Oklahoma City and the renaissance energy edition of America’s energy sector are two stories MAGAZINE that are on parallel tracks. From Oklahoma OF OKLAHOMA CITY • vol 10 City’s energy entrepreneurs unlocking the shale revolution to Oklahoma City’s unconventional method of reinventing itself, Oklahoma City is all about originality. Read more about Oklahoma City’s unconventional thinking in the 10th volume of VeloCity, Oklahoma City’s BUCKING digital magazine at www.velocityokc.com. CONVENTION THE BOOM BORN HERE GE RESEARCH : HIGH-OCTANE “Oklahoma City has emerged as A GIANT ARRIVAL a hub for the new breed of energy CHANGE companies in America,” said Roy H. Williams, president and CEO of the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber. “Oklahoma City’s upsurge and the reinvention of one of its strongest sectors is a powerful story, one that is told best by its community members. This publication makes it easy for Oklahoma City’s residents to become its strongest ambassadors.” The issue’s content centers around the energy industry, with stories highlighting the arrival of GE Global Research to Oklahoma City, the major energy companies headquartered in Oklahoma City and a review of the major changes inspired by the passage of MAPS in 1993. VeloCity also includes a breakdown of Oklahoma City’s cost-of-living comparisons and highlights the philanthropic efforts and community support of generous Oklahoma City energy companies. Each article is supplemented with dynamic video and City’s renaissance to a national audience. The magazine’s photography showcasing Oklahoma City. digital nature makes it easy for Oklahoma City residents to share their community’s story with friends, family, VeloCity was launched in 2011 as an interactive coworkers and peers around the world. To view the latest publication designed to spread the story of Oklahoma issue, visit www.velocityokc.com. December 2014 Greater Oklahoma City Chamber The Point!

15 WELCOME NEW MEMBERS

Advance America District on 119, LLC Mobile Shred, Inc. Loans Apartments Paper Shredding & Recycling (onsite / offsite) Ms. Ana Maria Perez...... 951-5308 Ms. Amy Becerra...... 735-5667 Ms. Katy Cowden...... 947-4040 2410 N. Meridian Ave. 605 SW 119th St. 340 N. Rockwell Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73107 Oklahoma City, OK 73170 Oklahoma City, OK 73137 www.advanceamerica.net www.districton119.com www.mobileshredokc.com Lead Investor Advance America Bronze Rank Monsters, LLC Loans Divergent Trucking, Inc. Internet - Marketing & Advertising Ms. Neonetta Owens...... 752-7524 Trucking Mr. Joey Zimmerman...... 605-8218 9300 N. May Ave., Suite 100 Ms. Kevin Bernis...... 470-0283 5908 W. Hefner Road Oklahoma City, OK 73130 8829 NW 119th St. Oklahoma City, OK 73162 www.advanceamerica.net Oklahoma City, OK 73162 www.myrankmonsters.com www.divergenttrucking.com American Lung Association Realty Links Property Management Nonprofit / Service Agencies EXIT Realty Martin & Associates & Development Mr. Jeremy Hughey...... 748-4674 Real Estate Property Management 730 W. Wilshire Blvd., Suite 105 Ms. Krista Martin...... 308-4448 Ms. Krista Martin...... 888-6655 Oklahoma City, OK 73116 3705 W. Memorial Road, Suite 1405 3705 W. Memorial Road, Suite 1405 www.lungs.org Oklahoma City, OK 73134 Oklahoma City, OK 73134 www.exitrealtymartin.com AmericInn Hotel & Suites Oklahoma City Airport Red Valley Landscape & Construction Hotels & Motels The Greens at Oklahoma City Apartments Landscape - Architects / Contractors / Services Ms. Krystle Ross...... 682-2080 Apartments Mr. Mike Freeman...... 509-2300 1905 S. Meridian Ave. Ms. Airreaunahnna Fowler...... 602-5208 820 W. Danforth Road, Suite 150 Oklahoma City, OK 73108 900 NE 122nd St. Edmond, OK 73003-5006 www.americinn.com Oklahoma City, OK 73114 www.redvalleylandscape.com www.lindseymanagement.com CASA of Oklahoma County, Inc. Renewal by Andersen Social Service Organizations D.R. Horton, Inc. Windows Ms. Lee Ann Limber...... 713-6600 Home Builders Ms. Trish DeLozier...... 608-5000 Juvenile Justice Center Building Mr. Spencer Ackenback...... 720-8344 4440 N. Cooper Ave. 5905 N. Classen Court, Suite 302 5724 NW 132nd St. Oklahoma City, OK 73118 Oklahoma City, OK 73118 Oklahoma City, OK 73142 www.renewalbyandersen.com www.okcountycasa.org www.drhorton.com Board of Advisors Rockgate Financial Partners Kaisers Diner, LLC Financial Services CIGNA HealthCare Bronze Restaurants Mr. Brett J. McGee...... 475-7887 Insurance - Health Ms. Kristen Cory...... 232-7632 700 Cedar Lake Blvd. Ms. Ashley Vander Linde...... (972) 863-5665 1039 N. Walker Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73114 1640 Dallas Parkway Oklahoma City, OK 73112 Plano, TX 75093 www.kaisersdiner.com www.cigna.com Rocktown Climbing Gym Sports Complexes & Entertainment Centers The Links at Oklahoma City Apartments Mr. Andy Chasteen...... 319-1400 CareATC Apartments 200 SE 4th St. Medical Clinics Ms. Lorna Deaton...... 936-9211 Oklahoma City, OK 73129 Ms. Sherri Couch...... (918) 779-7466 700 NE 122nd St. www.rocktowngym.com 4500 S. 129th E Ave., Suite 191 Oklahoma City, OK 73114 Tulsa, OK 74134 www.lindseymanagement.com www.careatc.com Rocktown Youth Mentoring Youth Organizations & Centers Lead Investor Mr. Steven Charles...... 487-7795 Board of Advisors Bronze Gold Main Event Entertainment 200 SE 4th St. Clayco, Inc. Sports Complexes & Entertainment Centers Oklahoma City, OK 73129 Architects Ms. Shalaina Jackson...... 751-4900 www.rocktownyouth.org Construction Companies 1441 W. Memorial Road Design - Industrial & Prototype Oklahoma City, OK 73114 Engineering Services www.mainevent.com Sears Hometown Store Real Estate Retail Mr. Robert G. Clark...... (312) 658-0174 Mr. Jake Brock...... 752-7700 35 E. Wacker Drive, Suite 1300 14040 Joel McDonald Drive Chicago, IL 60601 Oklahoma City, OK 73134 December 2014 Greater Oklahoma City Chamber The Point! www.claycorp.com www.searshometownstores.com 16 Recognizing members who take a special leadership role in financing the Chamber’s operations at significantly higher levels. Each Lead Investor is highlighted with a BLUE BOX and identified as a Platinum, Gold, Silver or Bronze Lead Investor. Board of Advisor members are identified as well.

The Springer Company Lead Investor Payroll Services Bronze Mr. Jeremy Springer...... 753-0729 Von Maur Bronze 6413 N. College Ave. Retail Oklahoma City, OK 73132-3343 Ms. Jessica Stetler...... 751-1424 www.thespringercompany.com 2501 W. Memorial Road Oklahoma City, OK 73134 TerraStar, Inc. www.vonmaur.com Oil & Gas Field Services Mr. Bradley Wittrock...... 200-1336 6106 NW 63rd St. Oklahoma City, OK 73132-7526 www.terrastarinc.com

Triple-Double Achievement Consultants Mr. Bob Hoeffner...... (413) 329-9444 16316 Gossamer Way Oklahoma City, OK 73165 www.tripledoubleachievement.com

Perfecting the art of the business lunch.

Fast • Efficient • Affordable

Park Avenue Grill is a classic sit-down eatery and American concept kitchen set inside the historic Skirvin Hilton Hotel. Marked by original art deco tilings and hand-carved entryways, today’s Park Avenue Grill is a gateway into the hotel’s storied past. Our relaxed atmosphere and refined menu offerings were made to fit your schedule and please your palate.

405.702.8444 • one park avenue December 2014 Greater Oklahoma City Chamber The Point!

17 GRAND OPENINGS

Congratulations to the following Chamber members on their recent Grand Openings! All Chamber members are welcome to attend Grand Openings. Sears Hometown Store Von Maur 14040 Joel McDonald Dr. 2501 W Memorial Road To view more photos, see the Oklahoma City, OK 73134 Oklahoma City, OK 73134 schedule of upcoming Grand Openings or subscribe to the Grand Openings calendar, visit www.okcchamber.com/ grandopenings.

SocialCentiv Gulfport Energy Corporation 1541 NW 45th St 14313 N May Ave., Suite 100 Oklahoma City, OK 73118 Oklahoma City, OK 73134

An investment in Human Capital

Your organization’s employees are among its greatest assets. Putting the OU Medicine YourHealth program to work for you can help promote better health and increase retention of these valued employees. Find out how the YourHealth program can help your organization decrease healthcare costs, reduce absenteeism, increase productivity and decrease sick leave through the following programs:

We realize you work hard for your money. That’s why we make • Physician-guided health screening • Health risk appraisal sure the money you donate works just as hard. We support 61 • Health audit • Wellness navigator • Executive physicals central Oklahoma partner agencies who are committed to going • On-site health clinic • Wellness portal beyond helping people to helping empower them to improve their lives. So support United Way and feel great that you’re doing more than just giving to a good cause. You’re actually causing something good to happen.

unitedwayokc.org For more information, contact Christina Nguyen at (405) 271-1486;

[email protected] or visit The University of Oklahoma is an equal opportunity institution. (#89710, 7/14)

December 2014 Greater Oklahoma City Chamber The Point! http://www.oumedicine.com/ouphysicians/about-ou-physicians/yourhealth.

18 ECONOMIC INDICATORS

Oklahoma City Ranked No. 3 in Occupied Office Space Year-to-Date Growth

Newmark Grubb Knight Frank and CoStar ranked office YTD 2014 Change in Occupied Office Space markets in the United States by the year-to-date percent change in occupied space through the third quarter 2014. Rank Office Percent of Change 1 Detroit 3.3 • OKC ranked third out of 58 major markets in 2 Las Vegas 3.2 occupied office space growth. 3 OKC 2.7 • OKC occupied office space grew 2.7 percent year to 4 Phoenix 2.2 date, three times the national average. 5 Broward County 1.9 6 Atlanta 1.9 • OKC has 22.2 million square feet of surveyed office 7 Charlotte 1.9 space, class A, B, and C with a 12.1 percent total 8 Silicon Valley 1.8 vacancy rate for all classes combined. 9 San Antonio 1.8 10 Austin 1.7

Market Overview by Building Class # of Bldgs Inventory Total Total Total Vacancy (SF) Available (SF) Vacant (SF) Rate % A 22 3,587,047 307,602 117,832 3.3

B 156 10,471,689 1,185,705 1,001,562 9.6 C 107 8,157,489 1,881,655 1,564,933 19.2 Grand Total 285 22,216,225 3,374,962 2,684,327 12.1

YTD Change in Occupied Office Space, Top 10 Markets

Source: Co-Star, Newmark Grubb Knight Frank, Xceligent December 2014 Greater Oklahoma City Chamber The Point!

19 Periodicals PAID Oklahoma City, OK 731 LOOK INSIDE! 125 Years of Transportation 6 Chamber Eve 14 nts in OKC Developing Transit 10 15 New VeloCity Magazine in OKC Meet New 13 16 New Members Chamber Staff

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LEADING A RESPONSIBLE ENERGy FutuRE™

We are Chesapeake. Our work goes beyond producing the oil and natural gas America needs to grow and succeed. We’re taking best practices and finding new ways to make them better. We’re dedicated to giving back to our neighbors and making a difference in the communities we call home. This is our commitment to leading a responsible energy future.