WIXLIB

MEMBERSHIPECONOMYHIGHLIGHT:Ask the ECONOMISTThe Chamber’s first membersWHO WERE SOME OF THE FIRSTAREA COMPANIES TO JOINTHE CHAMBER? EACH ISSUE,WE HIGHLIGHT OUR LONGESTSTANDING MEMBERS.TULSA-Have a quefor the “A stionEconomis sk thet” column?Q: What is the economic impact of The ForgeEmailbobball@tulsachamber.comwith “Askthe Economist”in the subject line.TYPros’ business incubator?A: Bob Ball, economist and economic researchmanager, Tulsa Regional ChamberThe Tulsa Regional Chamber’s roleis to foster economic developmentWhy has your companybelieved in investing in theChamber since 1960?in nor theast Oklahoma. An organization started by the Chamber is Tulsa’sYoung Professionals (TYPros), whichBecause investing in the chamber is an investment in our future. We became a member ofthe Tulsa Chamber after our first year in business and have remained an active memberever since. Over the years, the Chamber hasconsistently represented our business andthe business needs of Tulsa in our State Capitol, provided avariety of programs and resources to help us grow and givenus a myriad of opportunities to connect and network withother area business. For World Travel, that combination hasalways added up to a wise investment strategy for us andour employees.WEhas grown to a membership of morethan 7,000 strong, and one which, in2010, launched The Forge as a businessincubator by young professionals, foryoung professionals. The Forge existsto accelerate the development and suc-How does your company strive to improveand contribute to the Tulsa community?Although we are now a national Travel Management Company,our roots are firmly here in Tulsa so we feel it is important to give back to the community that contributesso much to our success. The Tulsa Regional Chamberhelps us give back to Tulsa through our participation inPartners In Education and Tulsa’sYoung Professionals. In addition, everyyear World Travel conducts a weeklong United Way campaign and participates in the Family & Children’sServices Holiday Assistance Programthat provides Tulsa area familieseverything from necessities, to gifts,to hope.OUR VOLUNTEERSJANUARY VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTHLisa Waterman - Waterman InsuranceFEBRUARY VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTHJeff Moore - Safety First Supply Co., LLCDescribe your company’sgoals and mission.QUOTA MASTERS4forgeTenants impact on the Tulsa-area economy1059%EMPLOYEeS ofForge tenantsaffordable downtown Tulsa office space,a gathering place for entrepreneurs andaccess to business advisers and men-support income earnedthroughout the Tulsa-areaeconomy ofeconomic activity at the Forgeaccounts for 59 percent of the 949,000 in local goods andservices produced or supportedby The ForgeSupport theemployment offive additionalpeople in thetulsa areacess of start-up businesses. In providing 563,000 tors, The Forge grows tenant companiesthat contribute much the same as moreestablished, more mature companies 1contribute: with direct jobs that produceA dollar earned through a Forge-based businesssupports 0.72 elsewhere in the economy.goods and services and incomes spentand saved throughout the Tulsa-areaeconomy, supporting other jobs in othersupports 0.72 elsewhere inbusinesses.the economy.Currently, there are four tenants at»» The economic activity at TheThe Forge with significant impact on theForge accounts for 59 percentTulsa-area economy.of the 949,000 in local goods»» The tenants employ 10persons/owners whoseannual operations support theemployment of five additionalpersons elsewhere in the Tulsa-Direct and Multiplier Effectsof The Forge Tenants:Income and Goods/Services ProducedDIRECT Effectsupported by The Forge.»» Total taxes paid or supportedby the economic operations atThe Forge are 24,000. 900 800 600 500Our goal, our mission, our reason for be-area economy, two of whoming is to help our clients solve complexwork in companies with whomthat are “just getting off the ground.”Allyson HowardSeed Technologies, Inc.Tianna RogersTulsa Federal Credit Uniontravel-related challenges by providingthe tenants do business.Eventually, they will outgrow The Forge. 200That’s when we’ll say “I knew them 100Deb KarstensHome CreationsLisa WatermanWaterman Insurancethat allow them to effectively manageincome earned throughoutwhen ” and the dollars they earn willtheirimplementthe Tulsa-area economy offlow through the fingers of all of us asMarvin KruegerMelaleuca, Inc.Robert WhitePlan Benefit Analysts of Tulsa, Inc.flawless meetings and experience vaca- 563,000. A dollar earnedwe spend and save in the Tulsa-areations that stay with them for a lifetime.through a Forge-based businesseconomy.6MARCH / APRIL 2014corporatebudgets,The Forge tenants are companies 393 700Carl NovaraNovara Insurance Agency»» Ten jobs at The Forge supportMultiplier Effect 1,000and services produced orKimberly AlsobrooksHoliday Inn Tulsa City Centerhonest, creative and real-world answers24KTotal taxes paid or supportedby the economic operationsat The Forgethousands of dollarsWORLD TRAVEL SERVICE 400 235 300 556 328 0laborincomecONTRIBUTION OFgOODS & sERVICESpRODUCEDTULSACHAMBER.COM THE CHAMBER REPORT7

SMALLBUSINESSECONOMICDEVELOPMENTSPOTLIGHT:SAVE Small BusinessTHE DATECouncilSMALL BUSINESSSUMMIT, CRYSTALSTAR AWARDSPROGRAM PLANNEDSmall business is a bigcontributor to the Tulsa-regioneconomy, creating two outof three new jobs. This year,the Tulsa Regional Chamberis excited to offer the SmallBusiness Summit in additionto its Crystal Star SmallBusiness Awards. The summitand awards are slated forFriday, Oct. 3 at Hard RockHotel & Casino-Tulsa.The annual CrystalStar awards honorthe region’s smallbusiness leaders,while the summitwill offer multipleeducationaland networkingopportunities,includingsessions coveringimportanttopics such ashealth care,marketing andmanagement.How long have you been asmall business owner?YOUR VALUABLE INPUT WILL HELP USSERVE THE REGION’S BUSINESSES.Though northeast Oklahoma continues to emerge as aneconomic leader, we’re always looking ahead at ways wecan improve the Tulsa-area business climate.We want to learn more about the needs of our regionalbusiness leaders and how we can assist them in achievingtheir goals. The Tulsa Regional Chamber recently launchedits inaugural Business Climate Survey to assist in that regard.We started IBT in March of 2007 andBy participating in a brief business climate survey,have been blessed with growth yearover year. Our primary goal was toyou’ll help us learn how to better serve businesses that arehelp small- and medium-sized busi-strengthening the Tulsa region. Your input will help ensurenesses get the most out of theirtechnologies so they can focus ontheir business, not the challenges ofERICRKEHMEIETIBsupporting their computer networksand telephone systems.What are the greatest challenges associated withsmall business ownership?The greatest challenge has been learning how to manage change. It is inevitablethat every business goes through new changes and improvements as they grow. Asthat northeast Oklahoma remains a leader in economicgrowth and prosperity.To participate in thebrief survey, scan theQR code or AKER HUGHES EXPANDS Baker Hughes hosted a grandopening Feb. 20 for its new, world-class artificial lift research, development and testing facility in Claremore. The facility will handle workrelated to advancing the application of artificial lift systems in technically challenging markets and represents an investment of 60 million.a small business owner, there are many times that you have to wear multiple hats toget things done.What do you find most rewarding about operatinga small business?I absolutely love creating quality jobs locally and will strive to create more jobs. Thevalue is that IBT takes care of our team, our team takes care of our clients, and ourclients will want to take care of IBT. This has always been the lifecycle that I believeshould be in place.What advice would you give to any would-be smallbusiness owners considering starting a business inthe Tulsa area?The Tulsa area is a wonderful place to start and grow a business. There are manyresources and people available to help you. Sometimes the hardest thing is knowingthe right questions to ask. I have personally reached out to many Chamber staff forguidance and they have always pointed me in the right direction. This has been a hugevalue to me and to IBT. I also suggest that you will get out of any relationship what youLOOK FORare willing to put into it. I have gained many friends, business contacts and mentorsADDITIONALwho I can reach out to when I have a question and I’m always more than happy to helpDETAILS ANDHELP US HELP YOUthem whenever they reach out to me.EARLY BIRDOPPORTUNITIESWhat have you experienced through your involvementwith the Small Business Council?ANNOUNCEDAlthough it’s only been a few short months since joining the Small Business Council,IN JUNE.I have learned there is an extremely dedicated group of Chamber staff and smallREGISTRATIONbusiness owners who strive to constantly improve the local business environment andassist small businesses to become successful. It’s been amazing to see what the SmallBusiness Council has been able to achieve and is planning to achieve in the future.8MARCH / APRIL 2014TULSACHAMBER.COM THE CHAMBER REPORT9

CHAMBERNEWSChamber announces promotionsRUTH LITTLEFIELD waspromoted to the role ofsenior vice president ofmembership development& relations, and ALLISONWALDEN to the role of vicepresident of development.Littlefield has served in therole of vice president since2008, and Walden in the director of development rolesince 2010.“Promoting from withinRUTH LITTLEFIELDisapractice the ChamberSENIOR VICE PRESIDENT OFMEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENTreadily embraces, and we& RELATIONSare confident the promotions of Ruth and Allison will further strengthen continuous improvement within the organization,” said Mike Neal,president and CEO of the Chamber.Littlefield has been responsible for developing theresource and membershipdivision’s program of workto accomplish the chamber’s strategic plan throughthe recruitment and retention of new and existingmembers. She overseesand exercises control of a 2.5 million membershipdivision budget with 2,700members throughoutnortheast Oklahoma.Walden manages theALLISON WALDENdonor-relations strategiesVICE PRESIDENT OFDEVELOPMENTassociated with the Tulsa’s Future and VisitTulsacampaigns, and provides strategic direction to ancillary initiatives associated with the Chamber, includingpolitical action committees and grant writing for special projects.TULSACHAMBER.COM THE CHAMBER REPORT11

SMALLBUSINESSGOVERNMENTWhat happenswhen Craig’s Listmeets Groupon?Legislative Update: Mid-sessionThe 2014 legislative session continuesstate’s already-stressed budget fund-to progress as the governor, senate proing for core services such as educa-tempore, speaker of the house and legisla-tion, health care, transportation andtors work to pass legislation to better thepublic safety.state. A strong pro-business agenda that»» HB 2711 and SB1722, which modify theLET’S DO BUSINESS TULSAimproves Oklahoma’s ability to attract andQuality Events Act to make it moreretain businesses and grow jobs is of theimpactful, have seen positive supportLet’sDoBusinessTulsa.com is a free member benefit intendedto increase sales and help companies throughout the regiongain high-quality exposure. Let’s Do Business Tulsa allows usersto make exclusive offers, request products and services andgenerate attention for their business. Get started todayby visiting LetsDoBusinessTulsa.com.utmost importance.and forward movement as sessionGAIN EXPOSURE.community»» Share company news and learn about other local businesses»» There’s no online purchasing and no minimum inventory required»» See your offers and requests on the Chamber’s social mediaINCREASE SALES.purchased by the entire Tulsa regionLetsDoBusinessTulsa.comeducation is included in the gover-legislation’s language to optimizenor’s budget, while funding for careerthe economic impact of large eventstech is to remain the same and higherShannon announced his bid forhosted by organizations such aseducation funding is to be decreased»» T.W.U.S. Senate, stepping down from hisVisitTulsa.by 5 percent.seat as speaker of the house to focus»» During her State of the State address,on his campaign. Rep. Jeff HickmanGov. Mary Fallin reinforced her com-joined educators, parents, superinten-was elected speaker following Shan-mitment to seek an extension of Insuredents and state leaders who stronglynon’s announcement.»» TheOklahoma business communityOklahoma. However, she also highlight-support Common Core standards, stat-that would decrease theed her continued opposition to accept-ing the need for Oklahoma schools tostate’s income tax rate were unveileding federal dollars for any form of Med-properly prepare students to competein both the House and the Senate, call-icaid expansion or alternative program.with their counterparts in other statesing for a cut from 5.25 percent to 5»» Gov. Fallin’s proposed budget includespercent. The decrease would removea 12.35 million appropriation for theprovide Oklahoma businesses with aapproximately 174 million from theOSU Medical Center, which includes a 5vibrant workforce.to obtain high quality employment andSave the date fora can’t-miss tripto Portland, Ore.,Oct. 8-10, to studybest practices anddiscuss “What’sNext?” for theTulsa region.business’ products from Let’s Do Business Tulsa users»» Let’s Do Business Tulsa isn’t a “deal of the day”program; you can post as many offers as you wantat any timeSAVE MONEY.»» Shop the posted offers on LetsDoBusinessTulsa.comto find great deals on products and services yourJoin the Tulsa Regional Chamber, board chair-elect Alanbusiness needs.»» Don’t see what you need in the posted offers?Armstrong, president and CEO of Williams, area electedLet’s Do Business Tulsa will connect you with theofficials, and regional business, chamber and civic part-member businesses that can fill your request.ners as we explore Portland for the fifth annual “What’s»» Utilize your TulsaChamber.com login andNext: Intercity Visit” to study areas including talentattraction, downtown and river development, arts andpassword to access Let’sDoBusinessTulsa.com»» Hover over the “Buy” tab and select “Requestentertainment, regional visioning and visitor attraction.Registration is 1,500 (airfare not included; in-Something”»» Follow the simple on-screen instructions and clickcludes hotel accommodations and most meals).Questions? Email events director Jessica Lowe-“Submit Request”MARCH / APRIL 2014 50 million increase for commonprogresses. Both bills will tweak the»» Receive industry-specific requests that fit your12integral to the region and state.»» AINTERCITY VISIT»» Generate sales leads via purchases made onthat are ready to meet your needsthis vital health care service provider is2014»» Post offers on LetsDoBusinessTulsa.com to be viewed and»» You’ll be notified via email by local and trusted member businessespriation levels. Dedicated funding forHIGHLIGHTS DURING SESSION ASOF THE DATE OF PRINT INCLUDE:» » Proposals»» Your offers can be viewed and reserved by the entire Tulsapercent reduction from FY2014 appro-For more information, contact Jessica Flint atBetts at jessicalowe-betts@tulsachamber.com or call918.560.0265 or AMBER.COM THE CHAMBER REPORT13

CONTENTEDUCATIONTAGHERECONTENTEDUCATIONTAG HEREMENTORING canchange a child’s lifeWhyPIE:Connect hereIt’s a well-known fact even an hour of one-on-one time with a child,whether it be tutoring or general mentoring, can have a dramaticimpact on academic performance, behavioral tendencies and overallwell-being.A key component of the Chamber’s Part-spend one lunch hour a week with a stu-free and easy way to boost volunteerismdent in a friendly lunchtime environment.pany’s employees, improve communitystanding and help make a difference inthe lives of students. Mentoring can takeTulsa region’s premier network for connecting caringindividuals and organizations with local schools in need.relationship, lunch buddies need onlyners In Education program, mentoring is aand general wellbeing among your com-The 30-year-old Partners In Education program is theRecognized as some of the community’s most valuedstewards, partners help guarantee the success of theA one-time “career presentation”next generation of Tulsans.to a classroom. Students canbenefit from hearing the perspective ofA regular but brief one-on-onesions and potential careers can give aThe Honorable Dewey F. Bartlett,Jr., Tulsa mayor, First Lady VictoriaBartlett and school leaders in Februarysession with a student in whichchild direction in life.inaugurated the City of Tulsa’s new part-a number of forms, including:profession. Exposure to different profes-a mentor visits informally with the child.Discussion topics might include schoolwork or the child’s home life, but regardless of the topic, the mentor acts as a responsible friend. Just having a stabilizingadult presence can boost a child’s gradesand instill self-confidence.Lunch buddies. An even moreinformalone-on-onea member of the workforce regardless ofmentorOpening up a workplace toguided tours for students. Muchlike career presentations to classrooms,workplace tours can be a powerful influence on a student’s career choices.GET STARTEDwherein city employees are asked toVisit TulsaChamber.com/partnersineducationspend their lunch hour with Emerson stu-Prospective partners will receive info aboutdents weekly. The partnership, detailed atthe program, detailed school profiles andthe Mentoring to the Max Breakfast withassistance in choosing the right school fornership with Emerson Elementary School,Bartlett, is a prime example of how orga-them — including through school site visitsEmail Chamber education programnizations can make an impact through theand meetings with school representatives.manager Kuma Browne at kumabrowne@Partners In Education program without atulsachamber.com for Partners In Educa-financial contribution.tion mentor opportunities.Complete the PartnerPledge FormFind the form at TulsaChamber.com.MENTORING SUCCESS STORYDetermine your potentialresources, talents and timeLOCAL COMPANY CONTRIBUTESEMPLOYEES AS MENTORSThere’s more than one way to be a partner,its dropout rate? Improve reading abili-lunch buddies, mentors, tutors, volunteersand donating money is just one. Mentor-ties? Show teacher appreciation?and a number of other resources that yourship and other forms of volunteering go aThe third-grade boy Blair Lemon mentors once a week at Hawthorne Elementary School talks a little about his home life anda little about school. Lemon isn’t just his mentor. She’s a friend.“It’s just a normal conversation,” Lemon said. “We’re hangingout; we read some; we do some math; we talk, play games. That’sall they need.”Lemon, an employee at WPX Energy, has mentored the thirdgrader for nearly two years under a program that allows her tomeet her company’s employee wellness requirements by mentoring at the company’s partner school.For 30 to 60 minutes a week, she has listened to his personaltroubles, lent the occasional word of advice and helped whereshe could with schoolwork. In the summer, she writes him lettersletting him know that she’s thinking about him.“My main focus in being involved is that I want to be consistent,”she said. “I think that any child, whether coming from a low-incomehome or not, needs to know that someone always will be there andwill show up.”14MARCH / APRIL 2014long way.GET THE MOSTOUT OF PIEUse the PIE networkThe Tulsa Regional Chamber has extensiveSarah Walker, Tulsa’s PIE chair and WPX’s manager of community affairs and administration, said her company’s partnershipwith Hawthorne is about more than time and money. It has becomea top-to-bottom, organization-wide commitment to the wellbeingof the school, its students and the future of Tulsa, she said.Lemon is one of more than 60 WPX employees serving asmentors at Hawthorne. It’s a rewarding experience that doesn’ttake as much time and responsibility as people might think,Lemon said.company can share. In some cases, Part-Visit your partner school regularlyners In Education have orchestrated fund-Evaluate the impact of your investmentraising drives among employees. Partnerswith school leaders.might also offer incentives for employeesto donate needed supplies to a school.OVERCOMINGOBJECTIONSI don’t have hours to spendvolunteering every week.If you don’t have much time during theconnections and resources for promotingPIE partnerships benefit both partnersweek (and most people don’t!), considerthe successes of your partnership andand schools, and it’s easy to help out.being a lunch or reading buddy. Thesehelping

having granted 144 degrees in the 2011-12 academic year, up from 5,884 the year before and 5,385 in the 2009-10 academic year. Those numbers only include schools based in the Tulsa metro. Branch locations such as OSU-Tulsa, NSU-Broken Arrow and OU-Tulsa cannot be calculated for the competition because their graduates are