Capitol Chamber to Host Town Hall Meeting to Focus on Education in Northeast Oklahoma City on April 22 Posted on Apri l19th, 2010
Oklahoma City, OK 4/14/2010 - The Capitol Chamber of Commerce will hold its first Community Town Hall meeting of the year starting at 7 pm on Thursday, April 22nd at Metro Tech's Springlake Campus Auditorium 1900 Springlake Dr. Residents of Northeast Oklahoma City are invited to attend and participate in a discussion about the state of education and other issues impacting the community.
While the Town Hall meeting will focus on important community issues, the primary focus for the April meeting is the current and future challenges facing Northeast Oklahoma City schools. Oklahoma City School Board Chair Angela Monson will talk about the Community Advisory Board program and the changes in school graduation requirements. In the past, graduation required only that students passed all required courses. Starting with the graduating class of 2012, the new law requires students to pass those courses in addition to four "end-of instruction exams" (EOI).
Currently in our lowest performing schools, 3 out of 5 students fail these exams. This could have serious consequences for our young people who desire to attend college and can't, placing them in a new class of under-educated citizens.
Please join the Chamber and others as we discuss this and other important issues impacting NE Oklahoma City. If you have any questions, please contact the Chamber at 405-427-4444 or email us at
capccokc@coxinet.net.
See you Thursday, April 22nd.
Africa West Region 1 Inaugural Fine Arts Celebration Receives Excellent Reviews
Posted on April 5th, 2010
Close to 800 students participated in the Capitol Chamber Africa West Student Creativity program that culminated with the first annual Africa West Region 1 Arts Celebration on Saturday, March 27th. In conjunction with Oklahoma City Public Schools Region 1 schools, the Capitol Chamber of Commerce held the celebration at Frederick Douglass High School.
Many family members and friends came out to support the participants from each school in Region 1. “This was an excellent program,” stated Tania Mitchell Africa West Chair. “The partnership with the Okla. City Piublic Schools has made this a program that will only get bigger and better each year.”
The program opened with a presentation of colors by the combined JROTC Units from Frederick Douglass and Star Spencer High Schools. This was followed by the Star Spencer vocal group Essence of Praise who performed the national anthem, the Star Spangled Banner.
From there the choirs from the elementary and middle schools joined the high schools in singing the Negro National Anthem, “Lift Every Voice and Sing”
“It was something to see,” Marian French Ware said.
Phyllis Williams anchor and reporter with Fox 25 served as mistress of ceremonies and kept the show moving reinforcing the efficiency and professionalism that the kids had put in during countless hours of rehearsal.
The morning portion of the program continued with separate choral performances from combined elementary, middle school and high school students. Student’s dancers at Moon and Thelma R. Parks Elementary also performed under the direction of the Prairie Dance Theater. They were followed by Martin Luther King Elementary students who performed ballroom dancing as seen on dancing with the stars.
 They broke for lunch and hundreds of students and parents filled the cafeteria and auditorium at Frederick Douglass High School. Concessions were sold inside and two vendors, The Ice Cream Lady and T&J’s Concession came out and provided lunch. Both will be at Africa West later this summer.
The program resumed with the announcement of the Africa West Creativity Project winners. These are the results in each category:
Essay – (K-3) 1st Camille Gordon - 3rd Telstar; 2nd Areyon Johnson - 3rd Telstar; 3rd Dymond Wilson - 3rd Green Pastures/Parker. (4-5) 1st Marquasia Simon - 5th Willow Brook; 2nd Monde Goodwin - 5th Telstar; 3rd Shanice Willis - 5th Telstar. (6-8) 1st Christian Luper - 6th MLK Elementary; 2nd Lindsley Ansley - 6th MLK Elementary; 3rd Nicole Murphy - 6th MLK Elementary.
Art - (K-2) 1st Tasia Ramsey - 1st Dunbar; 2nd Armarion Solomon - 2nd Dunbar; 3rd Ceaire Young - Kindergarten Dunbar. (3-5) 1st Kenya LaDay - 5th Telstar; 2nd Raevon Scott - 3rd Green Pastures/Parker; 3rd Alex Hudson - 4th Willow Brook. (6-8) 1st George Williams - 6th Dunbar; 2nd Zsa Zsa Hill 6th Dunbar; 3rd Jailene Marquez - 6th Dunbar. (9-12) 1st Jamar Martin - 12th Star Spencer; 2nd Brian Teschendorf - 12th Star Spencer
Speech – (6-8)1st Nylla Lyday 6th Edwards Elementary
Each winner received a savings bond and every contestant received a certificate of participation.
In between the set up and tear down of the various program components, small historical vignettes were put on by Al Bostick and Dwe Williams. Both have many years of experience in the arts community in Oklahoma. Their vignettes spanned the time frames of plantation life, to Black Wall Street and the Tulsa race riots.
The afternoon performances included dramatic interpretations and a skit from drama students at Star Spencer and Douglass High School.
This was followed by orchestra performances from students taking orchestra from elementary, middle and high school students in Region 1.
The program concluded with a combined band performance featuring Region 1 middle school students and Region 1 high School students.
Dr. Rochelle Converse who serves as the Region One Executive Director was pleased with the entire days’ events. From having all the schools come together with no incident to see so many talented students participate with their friends and family there supporting she felt it was a good and historic day for the district.
The event was a precursor to the Africa West Festival which will be held later this year on Friday, June 11th and Saturday June 12th at Springlake Metro Tech.
March Luncheon Elected Officials Panel Provide Perspectives about Future Economic Development for NE Oklahoma City
Posted on March 23rd, 2010
Before a packed lunch crowd at the Jim Thorpe Hall of Fame Museum, elected officials from the NE quadrant were on hand discussing what they felt were the needed elements to continue with the economic development renaissance in the Eastside.
Commissioner Willa Johnson, Sen. Andrew Rice, Rep. Mike Shelton and Councilman Skip Kelly all gave their assessment of the next step for the resurgence in the community.
Commissioner Willa Johnson opened the panel discussion with her primary initiative being housing. She noted that to have a successful community you must have quality housing, a place where residents feel safe and residents have access to needed amenities.
Commissioner Johnson said she continues where possible in her role at the county level to advance the economic development of the NE area. She harkened back to her time on the Oklahoma City council.
She talked about the efforts to improve the infrastructure along NE 23rd and how that was an important step that created the shift in attitude of current and future tenants in the area.
“Before we put that infrastructure there, nobody thought about painting their building. Nobody thought about putting in new little clothing stores.”
In addition to housing, Johnson noted the need for recreational facilities for the children. You are hampering your efforts, if you’re constantly worried about the welfare of your children.
With the summer months approaching the need for recreational facilities for children will be crucial for the continued safety and spurring the belief in community.
“I first echo exactly what Commissioner Johnson said,” Sen. Andrew Rice said.
“If we don’t continue to not adequately fund these sorts of facilities, better infrastructures, all the good work that’s going on in housing developments is going to be hard for it to stick.”
Rice went on to add that even with all of the developments seen in the NE quadrant as well as downtown OKC won’t be sustained if the amenities aren’t there for residents.
“We’re going to have to fundamentally in a very sincere way pump public money into Northeast Oklahoma City to be able to solidify the work that’s going on in the private side with housing and otherwise,” Rice said.
“There’s a lot of pride of families that want to stay here and continue to raise their families in NE Oklahoma City. Have your kids go to Douglass and win state championships.”
The last comment produced a bit of laughter from the partisan crowd. Rep. Mike Shelton was quick to notify the crowd of not only Douglass’ basketball achievement in winning the state championship, but also Star Spencer’s football and Millwood’s basketball championship.
Rep. Shelton didn't come by to talk sports as he made use of his time to discuss what he sees as the most important ingredient to economic success, education. With quality education we will not be able to attract and keep young professionals in this community.
Councilman Skip Kelly rounded out the host of elected officials. With a representative from the city, county and state, the Capitol Chamber of Commerce tried to bring all of the players that have an impact on the state of affairs in our community.
Councilman Kelly who represents Ward 7 in Oklahoma City talked about the global development of the NE quadrant. Ward 7’s geographic boundaries extend much further than what one may traditionally call the “Eastside”. The square mileage of the ward is bigger than the city of Las Vegas and Kelly was quick to point out that there is no reason why his ward can’t experience similar economic success.
Before this success can be enjoyed though, Kelly stated that certain areas would have to be addressed first.
“There are clearly areas of Northeast Oklahoma City that I feel like have been strangled, have been stripped and have been starved to death.”
The commitment from the business owners and residents of the NE quadrant will be key in continuing the resurgence of the Eastside.
One lunch attendant who is prepared to assist with that was Michael Anderson, President and CEO of Presbyterian Health Foundation. Anderson had nothing but positives to say about the prospect of a revitalized NE Oklahoma City.
“You have a natural economic engine right here in NE OKC which is the Health Sciences Center,” Anderson said.
With 1400 employees only Tinker has more employees located at a single address.
Anderson felt that with the recent improvements along NE 23rd St. in addition to the commitment from the City with the MAPS funding, that what needs to occur now is a strategic plan to guide the progress.
“All that you’re doing needs to be put down in very specific steps,” said Anderson.
And the next step for the Capitol Chamber is just that. The next luncheon which will occur in May will unveil the NE Oklahoma City revitalization plan. Keep an eye out as the date approaches for more information about this and other Chamber initiatives.
TFCU Meet & Greet a Sweet Success
Posted on December 14th, 2009
Meet. Greet. Eat. SWEET! Those 4 words describe perfectly the gathering held at Tinker Federal Credit Union in conjunction with the Capitol Chamber of Commerce.
Spearheaded by chamber board member, Darius Jackson, the event introduced many in the Northeast business community to the newest branch in the metro area.
Wine and conversation flowed as people filed into the Altheda Anderson community room where the meet and greet was held. McNeal’s Catering with Class served shrimp, fruit, an assortment of cheeses and several bite-sized sweets.
Jackson was glad to be able to host this type of function and looks to make sure that Tinker maintains a presence in the community.
“People were out and saw what we had to offer and could see firsthand the commitment we have made to the community by building our branch on the eastside,” Jackson said.
Jackson’s sentiments were shared by many present. Della Dean with Langston-OKC, after seeing the room and meeting space quickly inquired about running financial and small business workshops out of the location.
The room which is named after their former board member is available to community groups for use during the business day as well as after hours. To reserve the room please call the branch at 319-2484.
This after hours meet and greet is a program the Capitol Chamber of Commerce wants to keep going but will need hosts. If you would like to open your business up for a meet and greet please contact the Capitol Chamber of Commerce at 427-4444 or capccokc@coxinet.net. The next meet and greet will be held the month of February, so stay tuned for more details.
NE Okla. City Welcomes Blacks Flower Shop
Posted on December 14th, 2009
Sometimes the flowers we stop to smell are so sweet that you are forced to buy them. Thanks to Charles Pollard you can now do that on the Eastside.
Black’s Flower Shop has recently opened and is positioning itself as the premier floral and gift option in the community. Offering everything from roses, to daisies and other quality gift items there literally is something here for everyone.
With Christmas around the corner they have poinsettias and other arrangements available to bring any table or home to life.
At their grand opening which was held recently, owner Charles Pollard was accompanied by his staff, friends and other well-wishers.
Pollard sheepishly admits that he doesn't’t know anything about flowers but proudly states that his mother, Vera Black, knew it all.
Pollard recounted a story from when he was 6 when his mother had him toting white Easter lilies in the back of his wagon.
The business has moved around the area. It originated at 4th and Lindsay and from there was located at 2nd and Phillips. After a brief stint out in Spencer the move was made to their current location.
“We’ll be here for a while,” Pollard stated.
You think that they would with the experienced staff Pollard has working for him. Sylvester Triplet is the floral designer and brings more than 20 years experience to the operations. Jadie Davis is the manager and oversees the day to day functions. Elaine Pollard who is retired assists in a managerial role. And if you don’t want to get out in the frigid temperatures they have Harold Burney delivering orders.
Black’s is able to assist in all areas including: funeral arrangements, birthday parties, class and family reunions, holiday gatherings and just because. They also have a pleasant selection of various art pieces, ceramics and religious figurines.
Located at 1037 N.E. 36th St., their hours are: 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Monday – Thursday and 8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. on Fridays. They are closed Saturday and Sunday. They can also be reached at 427-5715. Black’s Flower Shop is a full service flower shop located in the heart of the eastside. It’s now up to us to make them successful.
Oklahoma City Voters say "Yes" to MAPS 3
Posted on December 9th, 2009
The highly contested MAPS 3 vote is in and with 54 percent voting yes the initiative passed and the momentum our city has created can move forward.
More than 75,000 people voted in the third installment of Metropolitan Area Projects (MAPS). The first round held in 1993 brought the likes of the Ford Center, Bricktown Canal and the Bricktown SBC Ballpark. MAPS for Kids followed on its heels and led to the renovation or construction of every single school in the Oklahoma City Public School district.
The aim of MAPS 3 was to address the economic development component and touch on the health and wellness aspect of our quickly aging demographic. With the proposed construction of a new convention center and downtown park the core of the city will see further enhancements as Oklahoma City seeks to supplant itself as a big league city for years to come.
In addition to these projects, senior aquatic centers that will double as community centers will be built as part of the MAPS 3 projects. Further adding to the healthy lifestyle the city is trying to foster, biking and walking trails will be built throughout the city to promote wellness. There will also be new sidewalks installed to link citizens to services. These sidewalks and trails will create an environment to make the city more user friendly for all quadrants.
Perhaps the most forward moving project of the proposal is a downtown streetcar system. It will be the groundwork for a regional high speed rail system that would connect Oklahoma City with Tulsa, Norman and eventually Dallas.
The Northeast section of Oklahoma City after seeing MAPS bring a new Douglas High School and Thelma R. Parks and Martin Luther King Elementary stands to gain as well. As the city grows, certain services will be needed from an economic development aspect, and the Capitol Chamber of Commerce is already working with developers to see that the “Eastside” continues in its current renaissance.
It’s important now that whether you supported or opposed MAPS 3 that you stay involved in the development and look of your community. The Chamber will be holding a town hall meeting soon to further discuss the long term vision and work to be proactive and not reactive when it comes to citizens needs. If you have any questions please feel free to contact the Capitol Chamber of Commerce at 427-4444 or capccokc@coxinet.net
Minority & Women's Breakfast featured program on marketing
Posted on October 9th, 2009
Click below to download power point presentation of Lean & Mean Marketing presentation:
Mayor and Council announce MAPS 3 Proposal
Posted on October 9th, 2009
Initiative includes eight projects to create jobs and improve quality of life. Click here for details
A packed house filled the Carousel Room at the Springlake Metro Technology Center to hear about the future of education in the northeast quadrant.
Posted on October 4th, 2009
Capitol Chamber of Commerce Chairman, John Hasley began the luncheon with a historical look at schools and education in the Eastside.
His presentation spanned the beginning of the educational system for blacks in would be Oklahoma City prior to statehood. In 1891, the first school in Oklahoma City for African Americans was created – a two room shack located next to a smelly livery stable at Reno and Harvey Streets, and was originally called, the “Colored School.”
This “Colored School” marked the beginning of the educational roller coaster that African Americans in Oklahoma City found themselves on. From the time of the original building for African Americans in 1891 to the recent completion of the new Frederick Douglass High School in 2006, more than 5 schools have served the African American population in the Northeast quadrant of Oklahoma City.
This period saw the emergence of educational leaders from the black community. Dr. Inman Page, F.D. Moon and J.H.A. Brazelton to name a few were all instrumental in the development of the African American education system. The religious community played a major role in the area of education often serving as the site for graduations, plays and other theatrical performances and extra class space when needed.
“It’s amazing to think about what we were able to achieve on our own,” Hasley said. Hasley marveled at the creation of curriculum as well as the involvement of the entire community in the process.
After Hasley’s presentation, Tracy McDaniel who is the principal at KIPP (Knowledge is Power Program) was next to address the attendees.KIPP’s program boasts some of the highest test scores in the Oklahoma City metro area. Teaching grades 5th through 8th, many of KIPP’s graduates head on to some of the more highly acclaimed schools in Oklahoma City. KIPP has sent students on to Classen School of Advanced Studies, Casady, Harding Charter Prep and Bishop McGuinness High School.
“The key is getting the parents to understand that it is a different ball game,” said McDaniel. Citing that the United States is no longer the leader in education on a global scale, McDaniel is trying to get his students to become the group that gets America back on top. At KIPP, students are given 2 hours of homework everyday and have access to their teachers for assistance. “It’s not rocket science.”
(Lto R, Dr. Daneen Vincent, Angela Monson & Dr. James Branscum)
With the passage of new graduation requirements in 2005, McDaniel views getting out of high school with a diploma will become tougher than ever.
To aid in this fight Metro Technology has developed Metro Career Academy (MCA) which is an exciting new school carefully designed to foster student learning and academic success, stronger families and healthier communities. Dr. James Branscum, Superintendent of Metro Technology Centers talked about how the state of Oklahoma is 9th worst in the nation when it comes to dropouts.
“It’s not ability, it’s focus.” Branscum said.
Through MCA students will be provided with a one-on-one relationship with caring adults, a safe place to learn and grow and all of the components necessary to ensure academic and life success. Dr. Daneen Vincent, with Metro Tech during the presentation provided startling information for overall economic success when she said that the number one correlate to economic development is an educated workforce.
By offering more than 100 career majors and two business incubators, Metro Technology is taking steps in the right direction to help move the country, state and economy forward.
Angela Monson, Oklahoma City Public Schools Board Chair was last to address the crowd.One of the issues that each presenter touched on was the need to get more cooperation from the community. Through partnerships with other school districts, business leaders, community agencies and concerned individuals the beginning of a world class educational system is not far behind.
Monson encouraged all participants to get involved in the Community Advisory Board initiative that each school in the Oklahoma City Public Schools district will participate. Each board is comprised of 16 people with half coming from the school and the other 8 positions coming from members in the community.
This board is the group that will be tasked with engaging families, businesses and other community members in the area. In much of the same way the African American schools began more than a century ago with buy-in from the community to ensure the overall success of the youth, that level and type of support is very much needed today.
“I think it’s outstanding that the Capitol Chamber of Commerce, would focus on education,” Monson said.
“When businesses understand how critical education is to the development of our community then we probably are more than half of the way toward the success we are trying to achieve.”
One Community Issues Forum highlighted many challenges facing Northeast Okla. City
Posted on September 28th, 2009
A community issues forum to shed light on the need for the community to become one was held this past Saturday at Metro Technology Centers.
One Community Coalition, which is an offshoot from the We Are Better Together Coalition, began their community collaboration efforts with a forum that addressed many of the issues that prevent the community from reaching its full potential.
“The real work now begins,” stated Myron Mayberry, ETI Director. “We will take what happened today and start organizing our work teams to begin developing strategies to address the many challenges that face our community.”
The forum began with an environmental scan presented by Gary Jones with Jones Consulting. His overview of the economic, educational and health statuses brought to the forefront several of the major hurdles that impact the progress of the community.
One area of concern was the staggering numbers of African-American youth being raised in single parent homes, particularly the number of single-mothers.
Jones expressed the sentiment that with only 35% of African-American children being raised in two parent homes reflects the future of the community.
“People are what they see,” stated Jones.
Jones made the point that the future of the community lies in the stability of the family structure. In citing the absence of male figures in the home by not only Jones but by other panelists it appears that any positive change will require a strong family unit.
After the environmental scan, a panel that featured experts in the areas of education, economic development and adult and juvenile justice was held.
“By bringing forward the caliber of panelists we did today, we were hopeful to give credibility to the forum and legitimize its efforts,” Jones said.
One of those panelists, Mr. Earnest Ware, with All of Us or None was on hand and felt the forum was a success.
“We have people who are skilled; those who know what to do, we just don’t have the support we need from the community,” Ware said.
“But once the community gets on board I’d expect a lot of changes,” added Ware.
At the end of the panel each participant was given an opportunity to give one suggestion for improvement and a sundry of different ideas were given.
“Better alignment and more efficient use of our resources,” was the concern cited by Dennis Portis with MetroTech.
More parental involvement in the schools, more collaboration from churches and the simple fact that the community has power if they come together were other suggestions that will be touched on as the One Community Coalition moves forward.
“Closed mouths don’t get fed, and if you leave here hungry that’s your own fault,” said Jeff Jenkins, with Technical Innovative Concepts.
From here the plan is to now begin the next step in integrating some of the suggestions with actions through establishing work teams. There also is a plan to bring community information in one centralized location to avoid overlap of programs so more in the community can be involved in and support the efforts of those seeking to improve the community.
If you have questions or are interested in the One Community Coalition, please contact 286-3900 and ask for Myron Mayberry.
Capitol Chamber NE Neighborhood Coalition Holds Successful Second meeting
Posted on September 16, 2009
The second meeting of the newly created NE Neighborhood Coalition proved informative and helpful. Neighborhood Coalition attendees represented several neighborhoods in the Northeast Quadrant. The Capitol Chamber of Commerce formed the coalition to engage them in economic development and quality of life enhancement.
The meeting began with an overview of current economic development initiatives currently underway in the community. They included
- Presentation of the OKCPS Community Engagement Plan to create advisory boards for each school and district wide advisory teams
- Outline of OKC rehab and renovation housing program efforts in the Northeast Quadrant
- Update of NE 23rd Street Corridor Plan & Overlay
- NE Okla. City Business Council
- NE Okla. City Revitalization Work Group Update, next meeting on October 6th at 10 am Metro Tech Economic Development Bldg.
- NE Okla. City Investment Group Update
- NE Okla. City Real Estate Development Advisory Group Update, next meeting on September 29th at 9 am Metro Tech Economic Development Bldg.
- Tinker Federal Credit Union Grand Opening on September 26th at 10 am
- Ralph Ellison Library Grand Opening and community Block Party in October
- Northeast Livable Community Coalition (NELCC)
- NE Okla. City Community Resource Directory
- Fall Forum on October 31st at Metro Tech
Following the update, the coalition discussed future initiatives. They included the need to deal with the growing problem of Section 8 housing in the community. Many voiced frustration with the large of number of section 8 houses created problems in the neighborhood; concerned with the upkeep and appearance of the property. It was requested that the Capitol Chamber met with the Okla. City Housing Authority to talk about proactive steps that could be taken to improve the situation.
The next topic was the issue of vacant property and property that was not properly maintained. There was a request to have representatives from the City that were involved in housing rehabilitation and renovation to attend the next meeting. The coalition would like to look at ways to help push these programs in their neighborhoods.
The following neighborhood associations fall in the Capitol Chamber of Commerce’s service area: Capitol View, Carverdale, Classen's North Highland Parked, Culbertson East Highland, Edwards Community Club, John F Kennedy, Lincoln Terrace, Martin Luther King, Medical Business District, Medical Community, North Creston Hills, Park Estates North/Cashions Wildwood, Ross Heights, South Creston Hills, South Park Estates and Wildewood.
The next meeting is Tuesday, October 6th at 6:00 p.m. in Room 123 at Metro Technology’s Economic Development Center located at 1700 Springlake Dr.
September Minority & Women's Breakfast focuses on Small Business Financing
Posted on September 6, 2009
A panel that featured more than 40 years of lending for small businesses was on hand at the Capitol Chamber’s Minority and Women’s Business Breakfast. The panel consisted of Kent Faison, President of Commercial Capital - BancFirst; Jennifer Ramsey, Economic Development Coordinator - Community Action Agency; Lori Broyles, Coordinator for Women’s Business Center - Rural Enterprises Incorporated and Darla Booker, US Small Business Administration.
All were on hand to lend their expertise in the arena of securing loans for small business owners and one prevailing theme emerged and that was opportunity is out there for entrepreneurs. Kent Faison spoke on how the lending industry is cyclical. “Our business goes up when the economy goes down,” Faison stated.
For the months of May, June and July, BancFirst saw increase in loans over that time with a total of 35 loans closed in the months of July and August combined. “We’re looking for good deals,” added Faison.
What the panel emphasized too is having unrealistic expectations for what it will take to start a business. For example the myth that you can receive 100% financing for a business is just not true. There are some things that you don’t necessarily need to have, for example good credit scores, but they are helpful and go a long way in helping you to procure a loan.
The panel suggested that it isn’t a bad idea to spend a year or two working to improve your credit rating and your business plan.
Lori Broyles has encountered people who have sought to open up a non-profit but have found that they may be better joining with someone already doing that service.
Broyles said that the Sarkeys Foundation is a good resource for those who seek to start a non-profit because they are there to solely assist non-profits. At the end of the day, “any non-profit needs to be run like a business,” Broyles added.
Sharon Jackson who oversees the north side Metro Technology Incubator said that many potential owners confuse their passion for being a business. However if they get to the point where they feel they can make money and open doors as an owner then the incubator program may be suited for them.
“We offer guidance and assistance with benchmarks, coaching and teaching how to partner and not reinvent the wheel,” Jackson said.
Jackson added that, “You should know your business plan front and back.” Even with certain lending criteria the panel wanted to emphasize that you should take advantage of their resources.
“Even if you don’t have your act together, come to SBA,” Darla Booker with the US Small Business Administration said.
“Some of our loans we’re looking to process them in about a month,” Jennifer Ramsey with Community Action Agency said. “But if they’re in the beginning stages of the process it may be 6 months to a year, but we’ll work with them through that time.”
Capitol Chamber host first NE Neighborhood Coalition Meeting
Posted on August 7, 2009
A group of concerned and motivated members from northeast Oklahoma City neighborhood associations met to discuss working with the Chamber to improve the way of life in the NE quadrant. Consisting of other neighborhood association presidents, officers and leaders, the capitol chamber of commerce is reaching out in an effort to build a coalition of citizens.
The group was mixture of people who had lived in the NE side of Oklahoma City for many years and others a short time. Though despite the time lived in the area, one thing that couldn't’t be questioned is the passion to improve their situation. One area of concern that emerged was the development of the new Capitol Square Villas that the Urban League of Greater Oklahoma City is behind. The concern which was shared by many present was that another government subsidized housing development was being constructed and could potentially have a negative impact on their property values.
Lenardo Smith who is a NE resident was quite vocal about the time invested only to see suggestions from him and others to go overlooked.
The Chamber is hopeful that by working with a group of established citizens, governmental agencies and non-profit organizations that we can begin to address these citizens concerns in an effort to create win-win scenarios for all involved, John Hasley, Capitol Chamber of Commerce Board Chairman said.
This was the first meeting of the NE Neighborhood Association members and the group seemed willing to engage in the process. The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, September 1, at 6:00 p.m. at the Economic Development Center located at 1700 Springlake Dr. If you have any questions or are interested in the group please contact the Capitol Chamber of Commerce at 427-4444 or capccokc@coxinet.net
August Minority & Women's Breakfast informs about stimulus business loan program
Posted on August 7, 2009
A small business stimulus loan program and the art of the elevators speech were both featured at the monthly minority and women’s business breakfast. Andrea Marshall with the Community Action Agency presented information about a new low-interest loan program geared towards low-income individuals looking to start a business.
The program has two major guidelines: 1.) The business has to be located in Oklahoma City or Oklahoma and Canadian counties and; 2.) You must meet certain income guidelines. In addition to the household income limits that the federal government is using to assess whether an applicant qualifies, there will be 5 loan factors considered as well.
Those factors are: 1.) Viability of the project, 2.) Experience in Business, 3.) Past Payment History, 4.) Collateral on loan and 5.) Equity. Marshall stressed that a deficiency or poor outcome in one area will not automatically disqualify you for the loan.
“We’ll be looking at the whole package,” Marshall said. “If you have past due doctor bills but have a viable project and have a good payment history then we’ll take that into consideration.”
One reason why there will be a major emphasis on finding good candidates is because what the Community Action Agency lends out will be returned as a revolving loan fund to assist other businesses. There is a September 2010 deadline to have all of the money given to them loaned, so it is important to get out and get your business plan together.
“It’s going to be a challenge,” Marshall stated.
Marshall has already spoken with several potential candidates and they range from business startups to more established individuals and it truly will vary from person to person. If you are interested or would like more information you are encouraged to contact the Community Action Agency at 232-0199 and ask for Andrea Marshal or Bonnie Schwartz.
From there the breakfast crowd was introduced to the art of the 30-second elevator speech. Kathleen Watkins and Alicia Demper from Let’s Talk Toastmasters were on hand to show the crowd how to effectively communicate about yourself and your business in the time one elevator trip takes.
The key to this according to Watkins was to find out what is unique about yourself and convey that in such a manner that will intrigue someone.
One example from the crowd was Renee’ Henry with Lu’s Gourmet Popcorn which is located in Quail Springs Mall. She simply stated, “Do you like popcorn? Then come talk to me.”
Watkins gave 3 tips to develop an effective elevator speech. First, you should try to keep it simple by speaking in everyday language. Second, less is better.“A good elevator speech is about 80-90 words and 8-10 sentences,” Watkins said. The third tip is to tell the person you’re speaking to what product or service you provide.You want to be able to answer the question, “What can I do for you today?”
Upon receiving the information the group that was gathered had an opportunity to put their newly learned lesson to use. Each table’s participant had an opportunity to create their own 30-second elevator speech and have the other participants critique it. There was then a friendly competition that pitted table against table and at the end Shirley Cooks with Errands 4 U was victorious.
The Let’s Talk Toastmasters Group meets every Wednesday at 6:00 p.m. at Greater Cleaves CME Church 1609 NE 48th St.
The meeting concluded with Ken Talley from the Oklahoma Department of Commerce leaving the group with a few words. The Minority and Women’s Business Breakfast is made possible through a contract with the Department of Commerce. More than 60 people were present for the monthly breakfast. Alice Loudermilk who is a NE Oklahoma resident was one of the participants.
Loudermilk, who is trying to begin her own janitorial business found out about the meeting from a story ran in the Oklahoma City Herald and came out to hear the information regarding the business loan. “I will set up an appointment and go to that office to meet with those people to see if I qualify and go from there,” Loudermilk stated. “It was very helpful and needs to continue because this is a good resource for people in business or trying to start a business.”
Africa West 2 Day Festival was Fun, Educational and Entertaining
Posted on July 3, 2009
Spanning two summer Oklahoma days in June, Africa West 2009 brought in culture, education and entertainment to the people of Oklahoma City. Held at Metro Technology’s Springlake campus, more than 4,000 festival participants were on hand to experience African American culture at its best.
“This is really special, stated Africa West volunteer Marian Ware. “I have lived here in Oklahoma City all my adult life and it is so wonderful to see the community come together to support and celebrate Oklahoma’s African American community.”
To emphasize health and wellness, Saturday morning kicked off with a 5k run and 2k fun walk. More than 100 participants crowded the start line to run the race that resulted in 16-year-old Dustin Barrier and 55-year-old Marie Breshears, both from OKC, as the male and female winners in the 5k category.
Upon completion of the run, the festival began with an African processional that began inside Metro Tech and snaked itself outside onto the amphitheater stage. It was there where the festivities began with an opening ceremony and culture program featuring the Tulsa African Ancestral Society.
With the festival officially underway, a sundry of programs took place throughout the facility. With ample green space and building facilities, the campus was able to provide both indoor and outdoor settings for the festival.
The amphitheater was the site of a series of educational exhibits and reenactments from: The Oklahoma Science Museum, Black Town presentation, Buffalo Soldier Squadron, Freedmen Association and the Tuskegee Airmen. These components were key in telling the lesser known facts about Black history in Oklahoma.
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New Weed & Seed Program Officially Opens
Posted on April 13, 2009
Through a project with the United States Department of Justice the Oklahoma City Safe Community Coalition held a ribbon cutting ceremony at a local community center.
The Northeast Community Services Center, located at 1220 NE 33rd St, was the site of the ceremony to mark the opening of the newly revamped center.
“It was just a thought but it happened to workout,” Councilman Skip Kelly said. The blessing is to the children.”
The blessing Councilman Kelly speaks of is a community center that will serve as a safe place children can go. The center will be home to a cyber café, an 80-seat movie area, Kool-Aid bar, youth game room and computer class.
The center also will house the City County Health Department WIC Program, GED classes, the Oklahoma City Police Department Family Awareness and Community Teamwork or F.A.C.T. program, youth counselors and reentry.
“We as a community care about youth and I think as more children see that they are cared for the more they will care for others,” Kelly said. “They’ll care for themselves and they’ll care for the senior citizens in the community.”
This center will be a hub for a lot of other programs to come through here to get children involved in some real proactive and positive events
Oklahoma City District Attorney David Prater was on hand and had nothing but positive comments. “Obviously this part of town has been neglected and I’m just thrilled to see resources coming back into this area.”
“It takes a lot of components to come together to really address the issues we’re dealing with in our communities with violence and gang activities alike, Prater said, and this is a step in that direction.”
“I thought that this would be an ideal way of showing a true partnership not only to the community but also bringing different agencies together to realize what great project we could have to benefit our children,” Kelly said.
Prater feels that law enforcement, the faith based community and anti gang groups working together to handle the issue of youth violence are all necessary for this venture to be successful.
Doris Stevenson will serve as the Program Coordinator at the Community Center and is excited about all the potential the center holds.
She wants to try to hold an event next month to introduce the entire community to the center ‘just to acquaint them to what we’re about’.
So what’s the next step?
“The next step is keep it going and don’t let it die,” Prater said. “Make sure people know where this community center is and get them involved and get the kids coming here knowing that it’s a safe place.”
Ward 7 Councilman Skip Kelly talks about NE Okla. City and it's Future!
Posted on March 21, 2009
Oklahoma City Councilman Skip Kelly was the featured guest speaker at the latest Capitol Chamber of Commerce monthly luncheon. Kelly spoke at length about his vision and plan for Ward 7 which includes the Northeast quadrant of Oklahoma City.
Kelly had just returned from a trip to Washington, D.C. where he and the other council members met with Oklahoma’s congressional delegation regarding the stimulus package recently passed. “Each one of the meetings we had, every member was impressed with our city,” Kelly said. As part of that stimulus package, Ward 7 is set to receive $9 million for infrastructure projects in the Northeast Oklahoma City. With these dollars the plan is to build upon the streetscape along NE 23rd St. and the continued efforts to increase the look of the community.
Kelly identified that one of the major issues that is having an impact on the present revitalization is the status of the property in the community. Either most of it is being rented or owned by outside entities that don’t have much of a tie to the area. In addition to the owners who aren’t in the community there is also push to get those who are in the area to do more with upkeep of their property. As part of this Kelly stated that there will be a “complete rezoning” of the area and cited the automotive entities as one of the major groups that would have to come into compliance. Kelly expects this to take the next 3-4 years.
Other infrastructure items that Kelly addressed were the decorative brick circles at the intersections along NE 23rd. Having received numerous calls from citizens who had loose bricks hit the underside of their car, Kelly decided the city needed to take action. As a result a complete refurbishing will occur with stamped concrete which will better handle the amount and different types of traffic that flows through the corridor. Kelly expects the project to be complete by the middle of July.
In addition to these projects the ever present subject of a grocery store was discussed. Kelly has met with the owners at both Otwell’s and Hometown Market and feels as if he has a firm understanding of their concerns as business owners. “We have to be mindful of our small community grocery store,” Kelly said.
Kelly spoke about these two stores serving as institutions that people in the community have grown up using as their source for goods. Despite this Kelly also stated it didn’t mean the community shouldn’t continue to investigate the opportunity should one arise. The youth and senior citizen issues remain an area of concern of Kelly’s as he tries to improve the overall quality of life in his district. As part of this Kelly spoke about the city being more proactive in regards to these groups.
“Cities have a father and mother role to the citizens and the city is not doing enough to address the concerns,” said Kelly. “We lose children because they have nothing to hold them here other than a mother and father.”
After having lunch with Oklahoma City Mayor Mick Cornett to get his views on tourism and along with that a proposed convention center, Kelly weighed in on something he sees as crucial to the citizens in not just his district but city wide. “What would really engage a lot of voters is if we built a senior citizens center,” Kelly said.
Kelly envisions a senior citizens center in every ward of the city which would serve as a resource center. As part of this center, Kelly would like to have exercise equipment and trained staff to assist with senior mobility issues and give them a place “to go during the day other than watching T.V.”
Kelly feels strongly that if the city does see another MAPS that there would be a full senior citizens center in each part of the city. It’s clear that Kelly wants to make his district more social by engaging groups at every age level. In addition to the senior center there are talks to utilize the Softball Hall of Fame, which is located in Ward 7, to help bring back baseball to the community.
Capitol Chamber of Commerce board member Darius Jackson felt that the luncheon offered good insight to what is coming down the pike. “The $9 million is a blessing for Ward 7,” Jackson stated.
“We’ve got the new Tinker Federal Credit Union coming in May, the Capitol Chamber doing things and the city is doing its part. We just need the community to get out and get involved and play a part in this effort.”
New Business Going Strong
Posted on March 16th, 2009
They say that in life there are two guarantees: Death and Taxes. But in business there is one guarantee that applies to every owner, successful or otherwise, and that is: Pay now or pay later. This concept is what led to the teaming up of four young, vibrant and experienced individuals in the creation of their own business.
Jonna Barksdale with RJ Best Bookkeeping and Amy Walling with The Marketing Company have positioned themselves as the small business for small business. Bringing more than 25 years combined experience to the table has provided instant credibility and recognized them by the Capitol Chamber of Commerce as its Featured New Business."The smart business owner probably realizes that you pay now or pay later," Walling said.
This revelation is what will allow them to position the small business clients in such a way as to run a fluid and marketable operation . Their services allow for the efficient use of ever so precious resources. By saving time and money for the small business owner, they are in turn able to focus on what it is they do best which makes this entire venture practical. "For that small business owner that's trying to do marketing themselves it's so hard, Barksdale said.
"It's really time consuming to try to do what your niche is not."What will make their business successful is that each has developed their own niche and will use that as a way to provide a quality product. The Marketing Company hopes to help position and brand the small business from the very start. Walling plans on utilizing her experience in the marketing industry combined with a diverse blend of previous clients, ranging from athletics to telecommunication to insurance, which will enhance her service. Amy looks forward to assisting them as they prepare to present themselves to the market.
"So not only with me do you get a marketing professional that's had a lot of marketing experience, but you get someone that actually has a diversified portfolio of work in different industries," Walling said. RJ Best Bookkeeping is set to handle every part of a businesses financials. From taxes, to accounts payables and receivables to financial statements they work in conjunction with one another and each brings an area of expertise to the table which makes their business run.
Barksdale is one part of the three-piece team that makes up RJ Best Bookkeeping services, and her area of expertise is accounts payables/receivables and payroll Carmell Best and Rocena Randall make up the remaining parts each specializing in their own area. Carmell specializes in small business and individual taxes while Rocena covers financial statements and payroll.
"For us in accounting the worst thing we can see is when we talk to an owner and ask them where they are in their business and they say 'they don't know'."
The two, who met at the December 2008 Minority and Women's breakfast, have quickly become good friends and share a similar commitment when it comes to their clients and the Northeast side of Oklahoma City. "There's no one out there coming to them," Walling said.The two feel that the small business owner is just as important as a bigger business or corporation in Oklahoma City and that by teaming together they can present real value for your dollar."
"What we're offering is not really just a product, but more of a service and accountability that they need," Walling added.
"Look at us as an asset, not just a bill."
Local Education Leaders Challenge NE Okla. City Community to Support Schools
Posted on March 2nd, 2009
The state of education was the topic at the recent Capitol Chamber luncheon series held at Langston-OKC. It also brought out some big hitters in the area of education. Superintendent of Millwood Public Schools, Dr. Gloria Griffin served as the moderator that featured fellow superintendents Karl Springer with the Oklahoma City Public Schools, Dr. James Branscum with Metro Technology Centers and newly elected Oklahoma City Public Schools Board Chair, Angela Monson.
All four were on hand offering their expertise and insight on the problems of education and how they specifically affect the Northeast quadrant. There were two themes that emerged that became central in the discussion: Funding and having passionate teachers. “Oklahoma is number 50 per capita taxation of the 50 states,” Dr. James Branscum said. “We are the least taxed state per capita. You can’t really expect your educational process to move forward unless we are willing to pay something for it.”
Dr. Branscum stated that 7,000 students drop out everyday resulting in more than 1.5 million dropouts annually.“China graduates more Rhodes scholars than we do students,” added Branscum.
There are different tactics that schools utilize to help improve graduation numbers. Millwood for example has a freshman academy where they have isolated their freshmen from the rest of the student population to give them an opportunity for another year of maturation to grow and make better decisions in the high school years.
Mr. Springer, Oklahoma City Public Schools Superintendent felt that the biggest challenge facing our schools in the Northeast quadrant is for the community and the state to recognize that many of our schools are doing fine.
Noting a 97% graduation rate at Northeast Academy and an 87% graduation rate at Frederick Douglas High School, Mr. Springer sees the problem more as an issue of perception.
“Just looking at our schools in general and what we hear from the media and what reality is, are pretty much two different things.” Springer felt that it was important to try to maintain many of the extracurricular programs that help a student identify their niche to really be a part of that school in addition to that he expressed a need to have a greater investment in the fine arts. “I’m hoping that in the next year or two we’ll be able to have a bond election and buy some really good string instruments and brass instruments,” Springer said.
Technology is fundamentally changing the way kids are learning. “In a general way I think students learn differently today,” said Dr. Branscum.
“They’re taking their I-phone and downloading the lectures and curriculum.”
Board Chair Monson talked about how her daughter will sit at her laptop with her ear phones on and study and still make straight A’s.
“Clearly the way she’s learning is different, a whole lot different, from the way that I learned,” Monson said. “To me those kinds of changes in the way our children learn requires resources. To provide those types of upgrades requires resources. “ Challenges ranging from funding to parental involvement all present themselves as part of an overall solution that a silver bullet will not fix.
One of the solutions Dr. Branscum introduced was trying to find ways to develop partnerships to further facilitate seamless learning environments. Right now Metro Tech is partnering with OSU-OKC and Langston-OKC to just that. Oklahoma City Public Schools Board Chair, Angela Monson feels that what happens in the society as a whole are those who will speak positive things about education but refuses to act on those comments and those thoughts.
“And it begs the question, ‘Do we really in OKC and in this country value education? What is the level of importance?’”
Monson added that part of the solution involves changing the perception of the educational system by building trust in those who participate.
The way she plans on doing that is providing opportunities for people to participate in the system.
“If people do not have factual information they will make something up.”
Finding quality educators to carry out this mission will be vital in the overall success or failure of the plan.
“We have to be passionate,” Branscum said bluntly. “If you’re in education and you’re not passionate I hope you’ll get out. I hope you leave and go somewhere else, because we don’t need you. Students recognize passion. I’m not saying that all educators are that way but many are.
Incorporating the community in the educational system was another method introduced to aid in the teaching of our kids.
Superintendent Springer talked about a program that would allow a person to be employed by a school district one to two hours a day and serve in an adjunct role and teach subjects where they have real world experience but lack the certification. Dr. Branscum also talked about a mentoring program offered through MetroTech as well as the Parent Resource Center. “I don’t think we have a youth problem in America, we have an adult problem,” Dr. Branscum said.
Local legislators provide insight into legislative issues impacting NE Okla. City Business community at Chamber Luncheon
Posted February 12th, 2009
Northeast area legislators were on hand at a legislative luncheon sponsored by the Capitol Chamber of Commerce. State Senators Constance Johnson and Andrew Rice along with State Representative Anastasia Pittman joined more than 50 Chamber supporters at Langston-OKC for the first chamber event of the new year.
Each legislator was given a brief moment to talk about their concerns and plans for the current legislative session. Though this is the first time in the state’s history that both the house and senate had been controlled by Republicans, the trio felt somewhat optimistic about the possibility of getting bills passed that would have a positive impact on their districts.
Sen. Johnson is going to try to focus on assisting small and minority businesses this session. According to reports, last year the Association of General Contractors did not award any funds to African-American businesses.“Small businesses are the engine of the train,” Sen. Johnson said.
Johnson felt that entities that receive federal funds must make an effort to extend those funds to all qualified businesses.Sen. Rice echoed many of the same sentiments shared by Sen. Johnson.“A lot of what goes on in NE Oklahoma City affects a lot of my district.” Rice sees the economic stimulus plan as a way to obtain funds for the area. He was also quick to point out that votes against the stimulus package by our two state senators, Jim Inhofe and Tom Coburn, may reflect how little vigor they put into the fight of securing monies for the state.
Even though the Democrats are in the minority that is not slowing down Rep. Anastasia Pittman, who shared with the crowd a few of the bills she is sponsoring this year to help with consumers and other small businesses.
One bill, entitled “Kelly’s Law” would seek to protect the private information of the developmentally disabled population. Another piece of legislation that Rep. Pittman will be fighting for is a bill aimed at extending the amount of time funeral directors have to obtain a signature on a death certificate.
After their brief comments the time had virtually run out but that didn't’t seem to affect the people who showed.
Jalal Farzanah with Home Creations a local real estate developer was on hand with some of his partners and found the luncheon beneficial.
“I think it’s just fabulous the way the northeast Chamber tries to connect to the legislators and bring people together. Together we can work and try to understand how the government works and for government to understand what our needs are, and it’s just fabulous,” Farzaneh said.
The luncheon was just the first of many Chamber programs coming down the pike for 2009. The next upcoming event is a State of Education discussion set for Tuesday, February 24 at MetroTech. It will feature Superintendent Gloria Griffin with Millwood Schools; Karl Springer with Oklahoma City Public Schools; Dr. James Branscum with Metro Technology Centers; and newly elected Oklahoma City Public Schools Board Chairman, Angela Monson.
January 6th Breakfast Details Internet Options for Business Success
Posted January 9th 2009
The new year brought a new set of faces to the Capitol Chamber of Commerce’s monthly minority and women’s breakfast looking for something new. Lisa Dietrich, who has been practicing as an attorney since 1985, found the notice for the meeting in the Business section of the Oklahoman and thought she’d give it a shot.
The outcome? Mission accomplished.
“I recognized that the internet is an integral part of business today and just as the speaker said if you don’t have an internet presence, chances are you’re not going to succeed in your business” Dietrich said.
The speaker Dietrich referenced was Terrell Sanders with Main Street Enterprises. Sanders was on hand discussing the inexpensive internet technologies you can use to grow your business. Sanders spoke about four different areas in which using the internet can help with your business.
Those areas included: Social networking, Blogging, Micro-advertising and Email Newsletters.
By effectively utilizing these tools the internet would allow you to reach new prospects, build relationships, educate your market and position your brand all at low or no cost. “For a lot of people, we just need a presence,” Sanders said.
It was this revelation that spurred many questions from those in attendance who stayed after and followed up with Sanders.
The meeting concluded with many leaving knowing more than they did when they arrived. As for Dietrich she still is undecided about what it is she exactly wants to do but she is in the process of eliminating some things. Dietrich stated that there were numerous factors that led to her decision to quit practicing law but she found that she is ready to maximize her time. “Am I really doing any good in the world?” Dietrich said.
You have to start somewhere and the Chamber breakfast is a good way to get moving. As always the Capitol Chamber of Commerce Minority and Women’s breakfast are the first Tuesday of every month and the date for the next breakfast is Tuesday, February 3rd. It will also be our first ‘Let’s Do Business’ presentation and will afford you the opportunity to briefly explain about your business. If you are interested in presenting please RSVP with Felix Linden at the Capitol Chamber of Commerce at 427-4444 or capccokc@coxinet.net
Minority & Women's Legislative Summit Well Attended
Posted November 17th 2008
The Legislative Summit on State Contracting for Small and Minority Business was recently held at Springlake Metrotech.
Over a two-day span nearly 100 small and minority business owners attended the summit and learned about ways to improve their business. Starting with a history of legislative effort to support small business, State Senator Constance Johnson gave the crowd a detailed description of the legislative process.
From there, the program moved to a panel discussion that featured the expertise of four members from the community regarding the legislative process. Included in the panel were:
Marilyn Murrell, Mayor of Arcadia
Larry Bradley, Director of Marketing, High Plains Technical Services, Inc.
Ken Talley, Minority Business Coordinator, Oklahoma Department of Commerce, and
Jeffrey Belle, Lobbyist
All four echoed similar sentiments regarding what small businesses had to do in order to improve their position: Become more astute politically and work to understand every angle to do business in the state. That panel was followed by members of different chambers of commerce from the state.
Isabel Chancellor, Greater Oklahoma City Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and President of Ingenuities, Inc.
John Hasley, Capitol Chamber of Commerce
Bernadette Huber, American Indian Chamber of Commerce
A networking lunch followed and featured presentations by Carter Merkle, Director of the Oklahoma Business Assistance Network and Jeff Jenkins, Technical Innovative Concepts. Jenkins presentation touched on the process of getting contracts and some of the dos and don'ts. "If you find a proposal that works for you and it wins a contract, then use it again and again," Jenkins said. "All I say to small business is stay the course."
Upon fielding questions the afternoon portion of the program was underway and featured Rep. Anastasia Pittman who was the moderator and gave additional detail and insight into the legislative process.
She then turned it over to Col. John Richard, Director of the Oklahoma Department of Central Services. Col. Richard spoke on the various procedures and requirements for selling products and services within the state. "The businesses who do the best are the most aggressive," Richard said. Richard asked those in attendance what they're doing to make themselves as competitive and as attractive as they can be.
The program concluded with a presentation from Wilson Brewer, Assistant Director of Research at Langston University.
Capitol Chamber Honors Business Pioneers
Posted August 25th 2008
The Capitol Chamber of Commerce held its annual banquet on August 23rd at Langston’s Okla. City Urban Campus. The theme for this year’s program was, “Celebrating our Past, Honoring our Present, Looking to the Future.” For those in attendance, it was a great way to celebrate the successes of the past year.
 Capitol Chamber Chair John Hasley thanked those who attended and challenged them to help build on what had been started this year. “We have made great strides, but we still have much work to do. With your help we can help revitalize Northeast Okla. City,” said Hasley.
The banquet highlight was the recognition of Pioneer Award winners, Russell Perry with Perry Publishing and Broadcasting, Horace Stevenson with HorJean Inc and former Senator Angela Monson. All three were instrumental in helping the Capitol Chamber in the early years, especially the procurement of funding and contracts with the State and the City.
“Without their support the Chamber would have never been able to play the role it’s has played in the economic revival of Northeast Oklahoma City,” stated Gary Jones with Jones Consulting Group.
The Chamber also recognized several partners who support played an important role in this years success, they were:
- City of Oklahoma City
- Concern Clergy for Spiritual Renewal
- Department of Commerce
- Metro technology Center
- O G & E
The program also included a power point presentation that will be part of a video currently in production entitled, “Looking Back, Looking Forward.” The video chronicles the historical evolution of Northeast Oklahoma City - starting with the 200 African
Americans that participated in the 1889 Oklahoma Land Run. They settled in an area that was the beginning of Northeast Oklahoma City. Because of segregation and Jim Crow laws, African American was forced to live in this area and the video will show how this area became the economic, social and culture hub for Oklahoma City’s African American community.
The Capitol Chamber also presented the 2008-09 Goals and Objectives. Key initiatives highlighted in the presentation were the Africa West Festival to be held in June 2009, the creation of the Northeast Oklahoma City Business Advisory Group and a Northeast Oklahoma City retail development strategy.
“The banquet was a great success and will help launch our economic development efforts in 20009. We are excited and look forward to the economic renaissance of Northeast Oklahoma City,” stated Hasley.
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