Oklahoma City has grown our convention, hotel, tourism and event business, in part due to the increasing number of hotel rooms, improvements to State Fair Park, new attractions and increased amenities such as the Boathouse District and the Bennett Event Center. In October alone, the Oklahoma City Convention and Visitors Bureau lists 22 conventions, conferences and events expected to bring more than 50,000 visitors to our city. Some of the larger events in October include the

Oklahoma City has an opportunity to grow our economy by investing in professional development for our existing workforce. LinkedIn’s 2018 Workplace Learning Report found that 94% of employees would stay with a company longer if it invested in their career. Keeping quality employees in a tight labor market, and growing their talent and network, requires professional development. It’s also a way to protect our community’s investment. The Greater Oklahoma City Chamber, Alliance

The temperature may still be in the high 90s, but the first sign of fall is here with the arrival of the Oklahoma State Fair, which opens Thursday. The Oklahoma City tradition brings more than concerts, bull riding, art and livestock competitions, rides and corn dogs (or a honey pepper bacon dog if you’re feeling adventurous). This year, for the first time, the fair is showcasing nine local, short films at a festival on Sept. 14 at Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center Theater. A

The package of MAPS 4 projects approved by the Oklahoma City Council last week will go to a vote of the people on Dec. 10. This election is an important next step in the city’s continued development. The package of 16 projects is a synergistic solution to a wide range of some of the toughest social issues. But the projects will also have a significant economic development impact. The estimated $978 million package will bring jobs. This steady stream of construction projects o