The Journal Record

06/28/2024

Ashley Bowen Murphy and Kami Huddleston have transformed the wedding industry over the past 17 years with their company, Wed Society, a premier locally-focused wedding resource. The Journal Record recently honored them as private business CEOs of the year at our Most Admired CEOs event.

Founded in 2007 with $8,000, Wed Society was born from Murphy and Huddleston's own wedding planning experiences. The company has grown to 25 employees and expanded into 10 markets across six states through a successful franchise model.

Ashley Bowen Murphy and Kami Huddleston are longtime friends who have, in the last 17 years, changed the status quo of the wedding industry.

06/28/2024

Last call! 🚨 Don’t miss the chance to be featured in Oklahoma's Boutique and Specific Practice Law Firms guide. Reach your target audience before the deadline.
🗓️ Space Deadline: July 1, 2024
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06/28/2024

Oklahoma City is poised to host Canoe Slalom and Softball events for the 2028 Olympics, pending approval from the Los Angeles City Council. This move would save extensive construction in LA, leveraging OKC's top-tier venues: Riversport OKC for canoe slalom and the renowned Devon Park for softball.

Mayor David Holt and Greater Oklahoma City Chamber Chair Teresa Rose expressed excitement about this historic opportunity. Holt highlighted the community's commitment to these venues and the economic and cultural benefits of hosting the Olympics.

City leaders are enraptured with the prospect of hosting two events for the 2028 Olympics, but the Los Angeles City Council first has to approve the relocation.

06/27/2024

The University of Oklahoma Price College of Business is launching the Price Executive Academy in early 2025, offering a range of leadership development programs from emerging leaders to executive-level professionals.

In response to the rapidly evolving business landscape, the academy aims to equip professionals with essential skills in leading change and driving innovation. Programs will be accessible online and through in-person sessions at the Gene Rainbolt Graduate School of Business in downtown Oklahoma City.

Companies today need to be adaptable since rapid technological advances and shifting markets repeatedly demand new and improved skills.

06/27/2024

The Oklahoma Board of Corrections has approved a one-year contract extension for the state to continue housing male prisoners at Lawton Correctional and Rehabilitation Facility, Oklahoma’s only private prison. The decision comes amid efforts to address ongoing issues of violence and understaffing at the facility, currently operated by The GEO Group, Inc.

Director Stephen Harpe announced plans to transition away from GEO's management, aiming to improve safety and operational standards. Recent incidents, including a tragic murder in October 2023 and a deadly fight in May 2024, have underscored the urgency for reform.

The Oklahoma Board of Corrections on Wednesday approved a one-year contract extension for the state to continue incarcerating male prisoners at Lawton Correctional and Rehabilitation Facility, Oklahoma’s only private prison, which is owned and operated by The GEO Group.

06/27/2024

Oklahoma executed Richard Rojem, 66, on Thursday for the 1984 kidnapping, r**e, and murder of his 7-year-old former stepdaughter. Rojem, the longest-serving inmate on Oklahoma’s death row, received a lethal injection at the Oklahoma State Penitentiary in McAlester.

Oklahoma executed a man Thursday who was convicted of kidnapping, ra**ng and killing his 7-year-old former stepdaughter in 1984.

06/26/2024

Filming begins this Sunday for "Masterpiece," a gripping crime thriller set in Edmond. Directed by Rick Walker, who calls Edmond home, this film marks his ninth feature in the city.

Over 200 locals, including a 71-year-old fulfilling a bucket list dream, have signed up as extras. The opening scene, set in Mitchell Hall Theatre at UCO, sets the stage with a tragic incident witnessed by a young boy.

Filming begins Sunday for a crime thriller set in Edmond and some 200 people have answered the call for movie extras.

06/26/2024

NorSun, a Norwegian solar energy company, has chosen Tulsa International Airport as the location for its new $620 million manufacturing facility in the U.S.

Gov. Kevin Stitt praised the investment, highlighting the economic benefits for Tulsa and Oklahoma, including job creation and capital infusion into the local economy.

A Norwegian solar energy company is investing $620 million to build a manufacturing facility at Tulsa International Airport.

06/26/2024

🎉 Exciting News! Introducing BTM Business Connect! 🎉

We're thrilled to launch our new program, helping firms, businesses, & organizations share their stories with the local community. Choose between a standard or featured announcement to get your news out there, both online & in print. Learn more & submit your news today!

https://journalrecord.com/btm-business-connect-submissions/

06/26/2024

In an upcoming debate, President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump will face off on key issues as they vie for the 2024 election. Biden's challenge will be to project energy and strength, while Trump must balance his combative style with a more disciplined approach.

With significant legal challenges ahead, both candidates must navigate personal and political vulnerabilities to connect with the electorate.

Rarely, if ever, has one candidate in a presidential debate had so much material to use against the other.

06/25/2024

Oklahoma Human Services announced a comprehensive plan to support the state's growing population of residents aged 60 and older. By 2034, Oklahomans over 60 are expected to outnumber children under 18. The plan sets 13 goals to enhance services, housing, transportation, and workforce for seniors.

Dr. Deborah Shropshire, director of OHS, emphasized the need for concerted efforts to meet the increasing demand for senior services. The initiative includes recruiting ambassadors to help implement the plan and connect seniors with necessary resources.

As the state’s age demographics continue to shift, Oklahoma Human Services and its partners on Tuesday announced their plan to support a growing population of people at least 60 years old.

06/25/2024

Construction is set to start this summer on a $31.5 million community facility in Edmond, which will house a second public library and a new YMCA branch.

Andy Conyers, assistant city manager of administration, acknowledged the collaborative efforts of the Metropolitan Library Commission and YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City, along with consultant Steve Commons.

Construction is scheduled to begin later this summer on a $31.5 million city-owned building at 15th Street and Interstate 35 to house a second public library and a new YMCA branch.

06/25/2024

The Oklahoma Supreme Court has halted the establishment of St. Isidore of Seville Catholic Virtual School, which would have been the first publicly funded religious charter school in the U.S. The court ruled that the approval of this application by the Catholic Archdiocese of Oklahoma violated the Establishment Clause.

Gov. Kevin Stitt expressed his disappointment and remains hopeful that the U.S. Supreme Court will address the issue.

The Oklahoma Supreme Court on Tuesday stopped what would have been the first publicly funded religious charter school in the U.S., turning back conservatives and the state's GOP governor who have welcomed religious groups into public education.

06/25/2024

The Department of Labor (DOL) has updated the salary threshold for overtime pay exemption, impacting organizations nationwide. Starting July 1, 2024, the threshold will rise to $43,888 annually, and on January 1, 2025, it will increase to $58,656. Employees must meet both the salary threshold and the duties test to qualify for exemption.

Kency Duarte, CPA, a partner at Arledge, the largest locally-owned accounting firm in the Oklahoma City metropolitan area, shares insights in this op-ed on the recent updates to the U.S. Department of Labor’s salary threshold for overtime pay exemption.

In today's ever-evolving regulatory landscape, staying informed about changes to labor laws is crucial for organizations.

06/25/2024

Gov. Kevin Stitt has approved a set of education department rules, including one that links school districts’ test scores to their accreditation status, despite significant criticism from lawmakers and educators.

Superintendent Ryan Walters' controversial rule threatens the accreditation of districts with subpar annual test scores. State Rep. Melissa Provenzano, D-Tulsa, argued that tying accreditation to testing weaponizes the process, while State Rep. Amanda Swope, D-Tulsa, warned it grants the Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE) excessive power.

Gov. Kevin Stitt has approved a set of highly criticized education department rules, one of which ties a district’s test scores to accreditation.

06/25/2024

Goodwill Central Oklahoma welcomes Will Lufburrow as its new president and CEO, following Jim Priest's retirement. Lufburrow, who began on June 17, officially takes the helm on July 1.

Lufburrow brings extensive experience from Goodwill of Houston and South Texas, aligning with Goodwill's mission to provide job training and education. Priest emphasized that while many see Goodwill as a thrift store, it is fundamentally a people development organization.

Goodwill Industries of Central Oklahoma is onboarding a new leader and preparing to launch a new mobile learning lab.

06/24/2024

Time is running out! ⏳ Secure your spot in Oklahoma's Boutique and Specific Practice Law Firms feature. Showcase your expertise to potential clients and industry leaders.
🗓️ Space Deadline: July 1, 2024
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06/24/2024

The University of Oklahoma has launched 1Oklahoma, a name, image, and likeness (NIL) program designed to enhance fan engagement while supporting student-athletes.

As OU joins the Southeastern Conference on July 1, 1Oklahoma offers fans exclusive content and experiences through a subscription model. CEO Jeff Weber emphasizes enhancing fan experiences beyond traditional donations. “Rather than a fan just giving money to support NIL, they can subscribe to have access to exclusive content behind the scenes,” Weber said.

A name, image and likeness program for University of Oklahoma athletes designed to bring value to fans is now live.

06/22/2024

The GEO Group ends its contract with Oklahoma after Gov. Kevin Stitt rejects a $3 million funding increase request for the Lawton Correctional and Rehabilitation Facility.

Gov. Stitt's veto of Senate Bill 1167 was based on avoiding an unfunded mandate that would increase per diem rates, burdening taxpayers to boost salaries for private corporations with state contracts.

The private company that operates a Lawton prison has ended its contract with the state after Gov. Kevin Stitt rejected a request for a $3 million increase.

06/22/2024

Two new surveys reveal the impact of job candidates' political and personal identities on hiring decisions. A ResumeTemplates survey of 1,000 U.S. hiring managers found that 14% are less likely to hire candidates who list their pronouns, while 25% are more likely.

Career development adviser Huy Nguyen suggested employers frame discussions broadly around handling disagreements and collaboration to better assess candidates' fit and respect for differing opinions.

How do job candidates’ political and personal identity influences hiring decisions? Two new surveys give some insight.

06/21/2024

Do you know an outstanding woman who exemplifies leadership in her profession and community? It's time to celebrate her achievements! 🌟

Nominate her by July 5 for the Journal Record’s Woman of the Year program, which honors Oklahoma's remarkable women who inspire and lead by example. Let's recognize their incredible contributions and impact.

Help us highlight the women making a difference by submitting your nominations at this link: https://bit.ly/4bQnQXV!

06/20/2024

Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt has nominated Jennifer Callahan to the OSU Board of Regents, replacing his previous nominee, Mike Holder. This nomination comes after the Senate adjourned a special session without confirming Holder due to questions about his qualifications.

The nomination process will follow the usual vetting procedures. No date has been set for the Senate to reconvene the Fourth Special Session of the 59th Legislature to consider the nomination.

A week after the Senate adjourned a special session without confirming Gov. Kevin Stitt’s nomination of Mike Holder to the OSU Board of Regents, the executive tapped attorney and agriculture advocate Jennifer Callahan for the position.

06/18/2024

The Oklahoma Corporation Commission (OCC) held the second of three special meetings on Tuesday to discuss OG&E's proposed rate hike. Originally requesting a $332.5 million increase, a tentative settlement of $126.6 million is under consideration.

Kimber Shoop, OG&E’s Director of Regulatory Policy and Planning, highlighted that with a lower fuel charge for residential customers, overall summer costs will be less compared to last year.

The Oklahoma Corporation Commission on Tuesday held the second of three special meetings this week pertaining to energy rates for Oklahoma Gas and Electric Company customers.

06/18/2024

Don't miss out on the ultimate celebration of excellence in Oklahoma - The Journal Record's Reader Rankings! Rub elbows with top-performing businesses across various industries in the state. Secure your tickets now before they're all gone at https://bit.ly/3yH4cyM . Hurry and join us to recognize and applaud the best of the best - you won't want to miss this chance!

06/18/2024

Oklahoma City is set for a transformative economic boost with the adoption of the Classen Corridor Revitalization Project Plan. The plan, approved by the City Council, targets four tax increment finance districts (TIFs) along Classen Boulevard and adjacent areas, projected to generate between $46.9 million and $74.7 million in new ad valorem taxes over 25 years.

Kenton Tsoodle, president of The Alliance for Economic Development of Oklahoma City, highlighted the plan's focus on enhancing private investment to combat blight and stimulate economic growth. "We're already seeing interest and engagement from stakeholders," Tsoodle noted.

A large swath of properties along Classen Boulevard and intersecting streets are targeted for economic development under the Classen Corridor Revitalization Project Plan adopted Tuesday by the Oklahoma City Council.

06/18/2024

A groundbreaking lithium-ion battery recycling plant has opened in Atoka. Green Li-ion’s first commercial-scale facility in North America processes recycled battery materials into battery-grade products using their patented Green Hydrorejuvenation technology.

“Green Li-ion is leading the charge in the sustainable battery economy,” stated Lucas Marks, VP of Business Development. The facility's innovative process reduces greenhouse gas emissions by 90% and aligns with the Inflation Reduction Act’s incentives for domestic battery manufacturing.

A first-of-its-kind lithium-ion battery recycling plant in North America is now operational in south Oklahoma.

06/18/2024

Exciting developments are underway at the Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden! Construction on the new marine mammal habitat, Shore to Sea, is set to begin this summer, with completion expected in 2027. This 270,000-gallon exhibit will feature California sea lions, harbor seals, and African penguins, offering visitors unique top-level and underwater views.

"Any time we do an informal poll and ask people what they want to see, penguins are at or near the top," shared zoo Executive Director Dr. Dwight Lawson. "People have been requesting penguins for a long time, so we’re excited to get that going."

Construction should begin in late summer on Shore to Sea, the new marine mammal habitat at the Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden slated to open in 2027.

06/17/2024

U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy advocates for warning labels on social media platforms, likening them to those on cigarette boxes. Murthy asserts that social media contributes significantly to adolescent mental health issues, urging Congress to act swiftly.

"Social media is associated with significant mental health harms for adolescents," Murthy emphasized in The New York Times, citing parallels with to***co warning labels to raise awareness and potentially alter behavior.

The U.S. surgeon general has called on Congress to require warning labels on social media platforms similar to those now mandatory on cigarette boxes.

06/17/2024

Attention law firms! 🌟 Feature your boutique or specific practice law firm in Oklahoma's premier guide. Reach in-house counsel and executives looking for specialized legal services.
🗓️ Space Deadline: July 1, 2024
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06/14/2024

The Norman Planning Commission has approved the development plan for a $1 billion entertainment district after extensive deliberation. The project, which promises to bring thousands of new jobs, housing, boutique dining, and live entertainment to north Norman, received a 7-1 vote in favor.

Danny Lovell, CEO of The Rainier Companies, assured that the $230 million TIF financing will not pose a risk to the city. “We will be issuing bonds and taking the risk on those bond payments,” Lovell stated, highlighting the project's funding strategy and anticipated economic benefits.

After five hours of presentations, public comments and discussion, the Norman Planning Commission approved the development plan for a $1 billion entertainment district.