The Oklahoma 100 - 100 word stories & 100 second videos on topics of intrigue

Managing Business Through Summer Slump

Every business experiences the summer slump, but there are plenty of ways to liven up even the slowest of days.

Many business owners dread the summer slump. Instead, look at this opportunity to set up for a strong year-end finish, staff training and team-building fun.

Now that it’s mid-year, review the financials to ensure the company’s on track to meet year-end goals. Invest in your company by sending staff to professional conferences to learn new ideas to implement during these slow days.

Remember to have fun. Together, celebrate one of the national awareness days, such as Tequila Day on July 24 or Watermelon Day on August 3. Find more ideas at Days of the Year 2017.

— Brenda Jones Barwick, APR, Jones PR

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Health

Engineering Students Give ALS Patients a Voice Again

Students at Oklahoma Christian University have developed a device allowing one man to tell his wife, “I love you” for the first time in months.

Carl suffers from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), which affects motor skills and makes speaking difficult. A team of engineering seniors developed VisuALS to help. The eye-tracking software allows patients to “type” words and play them aloud. Users can email, browse the internet, control lights and sound alarms. VisuALS will sell for less than a quarter of the cost of similar devices.

We applaud these innovative students for bettering the lives of ALS patients everywhere.

– Tori Garrett, Jones PR

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Community

Say Hello to Oklahoma’s Favorite Forever Home

Free To Live is Oklahoma's most beloved animal sanctuary for its established belief that all animals should be free to experience their lives to the fullest.

In 1982, Bill and Pat Larson aspired to help Oklahoma’s abused pets. The Edmond couple purchased 20 acres of land and built spacious, safe havens for animals who needed it most.

The Larsons’ dream officially became a reality when Free To Live Animal Sanctuary opened its doors in August 1984.

Today, Free To Live is the largest nonprofit, no-kill animal sanctuary in Oklahoma. Over the last 33 years, the organization has placed thousands of animals in loving homes. Most admirably, any unadopted animals are welcome to live happily and comfortably at the Sanctuary, where they’re truly free to live.

— Jake Pasdach, Jones PR

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Tulsa 100

Off the Rails: BMX Takes Tulsa

USA BMX plans to build Olympic-grade arena and world headquarters for BMX racing and Olympic training in Tulsa's Greenwood District (Photo by STEPHEN PINGRY/Tulsa World).

Tulsa Mayor G.T. Bynum has announced that BMX will officially build a new indoor arena, world headquarters and hall of fame in Tulsa at the long-empty Evans Fintube industrial site in the Greenwood District, north of downtown. USA BMX is the main training facility for North American BMX cyclists who regularly compete in the X Games during the Olympics.

Funds from Vision Tulsa will help finance the project, which is expected to cost $15 million, with $11 million estimated revenue over six years. BMX hopes to be fully operational in time to host the Olympic trials in 2020.

– Christian Franklin, Jones PR

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Entertainment

The Jones Assembly Sets New OKC Standard

The Jones Assembly is Oklahoma City's newest hot spot for all things food, spirits and music. (Photo by Madison Rae Photos)

Located on the west end of downtown on Film Row, The Jones Assembly is Oklahoma City’s newest hot spot for food, spirits and music.

The 20,000-square-foot historic space, formerly part of Fred Jones Manufacturing Company, has been transformed into a 225-seat restaurant with separate downstairs and mezzanine bars with the capacity of 1,600 guests for live events. Music fans can expect around three concerts every month featuring national recording artists and local performers with weekly live music as well.

The Jones Assembly sets a new standard in Oklahoma City dining and nightlife. Learn more here.

– Ashley Ross, Jones PR

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History

Then and Now: Balloon Travel

Since 1783, balloons have filled the sky and became a novelty experience all across the world.

The first record of a hot air balloon flight carrying human passengers took place in France in 1783. Launched by the Montgolfier brothers, its flight lasted 25 minutes and traveled over five miles.

Today, hot air balloons are a novelty with festivals happening all over the world. Smartphones and drones now capture their flights, which can span multiple weeks.

Oklahomans can experience balloon travel in just a few weeks in Shawnee. The FireLake Fireflight Balloon Festival will bring 20 balloons and a renowned Balloon Meister to the Citizen Potawatomi Nation Pow Wow Grounds August 4-6. For more information, click here.

– Kelly Hughes, Jones PR

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Food

Meal Kits: Food of the Future?

In an increasingly fast-paced world, meal delivery kits have capitalized on consumers' demands for quick and easy meals. (Photo courtesy of Blue Apron)

Thanks to popular companies like HelloFresh and Blue Apron, the meal kit delivery industry is becoming a lucrative field.

Meal kits include fresh ingredients with unique recipes, pre-measured ingredients and step-by-step instructions delivered to your door in an insulated box with cooling gel packs to ensure freshness. This system can also help build the confidence of aspiring culinarians and simultaneously provides experienced chefs with fresh ingredients.

Typically, subscribers can determine which meals they want and how often. Say goodbye to take out and the spontaneous (and inconvenient) weeknight grocery trips. Become your own head chef and enjoy!

– Tori Garrett, Jones PR

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Tulsa 100

The Last Video Chain: Surviving the Era of Streaming

When bigger video rental chains shut their doors, Family Video remained afloat and continues to grow. (BRENDAN SULLIVAN/THE WORLD-HERALD)

With the emergence of streaming services like Netflix and Hulu, some may assume video rental companies have entered the age of the dinosaur.

Crystal Craig, manager at Family Video on 31st St. in Tulsa, continues to welcome customers with a friendly smile. Craig believes in-person interaction allows her to assist customers in finding exactly what they want.

When Blockbuster closed almost all locations in 2013, it was shocking, but Keith Hoogland, Family Video president, said, “They went out of business because of their business models.” Hoogland understands customers still crave the experience and instant connection through American movie culture.

– Jake Pasdach, Jones PR

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Food

July: the Sweetest Month of the Year

This tasty month-long celebration is sure to cool you down during the July heat.

President Reagan designated July as National Ice Cream Month in 1984. Reagan recognized ice cream to be a fun, nutritious treat over 90 percent of the population enjoys. Reagan suggested citizens celebrate with appropriate activities.

Here are some fun ice cream facts:

• Chocolate syrup is the world’s most popular ice cream topping.

• Rocky Road was the first widely available flavor other than vanilla, chocolate and strawberry.

• About 9 percent of milk produced in the U.S. is used to make ice cream.

• It takes about 50 licks to finish a single scoop.

Celebrate at your favorite local ice cream shop!

– Ashley Ross, Jones PR

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the arts

Philbrook Museum of Art Showing WWI Propaganda

Philbrook Museum's new exhibit displays some of America's most well-known illustrators' creations for the war effort. (I Want You, James Montgomery Flagg)

The Philbrook Museum of Art in Tulsa is featuring a special exhibit, “Hope & Fear: Propaganda of the Great War.”

To commemorate the 100th anniversary of America’s entry into World War I, the Philbrook is showcasing propaganda art from that time period. One of the exhibit’s galleries shows highly positive and nationalistic pro-war posters used by the government to persuade citizens to embrace U.S. involvement in what many saw as “Europe’s War.” Another gallery features lithographs by George Bellows, which show brutalities of the “Great War.”

Learn about this fascinating time in history before the exhibit leaves in November.

– Tori Garrett, Jones PR

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History

Explore History at Sequoyah’s Cabin

The interior of the historic Sequoyah’s Cabin located near Sallisaw (Photo by Jim Argo)

Oklahoma takes pride in its Native American history and culture, especially the Cherokee Nation.

The Cherokee Nation just debuted Sequoyah’s Cabin Museum, its newest museum attraction in Sallisaw. Sequoyah was a vital part of Cherokee history, as he invented the syllabary they used for communication and writing.

Opened on June 29, Sequoyah’s Cabin was an elaborate project from the Cherokee Nation. In November of 2016, the Oklahoma Historical Society signed over operations for the project to the Cherokee Nation in order to finish construction on the cabin.

The Cherokee Nation exhibits are open Tuesday through Saturday from 10AM to 4PM.

– Christian Franklin, Jones PR

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marketing

Podcasts: Changing the Game

Apple's plans to make analytics available for podcasts could be a game-changer.

In today’s digital marketing age, analytics are everything.

And soon, the power of analytics to shape and rank content is coming to podcasts – already a medium with millions of listeners. Until now, podcasts have had few metrics, but when Apple launches podcast analytics later this year, marketers will gain valuable insights into how a podcast’s audience is engaging, such as:

– when and where people listen;

– if and when they stop listening;

– and whether they stay tuned for ads.

Analytics should make podcasts more appealing to marketers, in turn increasing financial support for podcasts – a win for marketers, producers and listeners.

– Kyle Parks, The Tampa Bay 100

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Fitness

Steps: The New Digital Currency

Brisk walking is one of the top exercises recommended to keep your heart healthy.

Walking is good for your health, and it can also be good for your wallet.

Some employers have been incentivizing employees to get moving — and become healthier — with fitness trackers. While FitBits and other wearable devices are great, fitness classes that provide a sense of community and highlight current workout trends are even more popular. Regardless of the perks, people won’t take part if it’s not convenient, personalized and fun.

Rewards for being active can come to employees in the form of gift cards, prizes or discounts on health insurance premiums. That’s why steps are becoming a new digital currency.

– Ed Buckley, III, Ph.D., Peerfit

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The 100 Gal

Oklahoma Company Named Leading Healthcare IT Innovator

PatientLink Enterprises founder Debi Willis is proud to be one of the nation's "11 Leading Innovators."

An Oklahoma company makes another national innovator list. PatientLink Enterprises was selected by healthcare IT executives, policy makers and industry innovators as one of the “11 Leading Innovators” leading the digital disruption of healthcare.

Health Data Management magazine editors profiled these leaders as visionaries that are seeking better ways to use technology to improve patient care.

Founder Debi Willis has pioneered the exchange of data between patients, their physicians and research. “Our newest product, MyLinks, puts a personalized electronic medical record in the hands of every patient … multiplying the impact of electronic information and sharing — a game changer!” said Willis.

— Brenda Jones Barwick, APR, Jones PR

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Tulsa 100

A Gathering Place: Tulsa’s Transforming Waterfront

From ruling royal towers to sliding down flying fish, children will be able to go on journeys far beyond Tulsa. (Photo courtesy of A Gathering Place)

An exciting new park is transforming Tulsa’s waterfront. A Gathering Place, which was developed by the George Kaiser Family Foundation, has been under development along the Arkansas River since 2014. The first phase, which is about 66.5-acres that include a five-acre children’s playground, should be completed later this year.

The entire 100-acre park will include a boathouse with a full-service restaurant, nature walks, concert lawn and more, all designed to provide visitors a place to play and relax.

With these incredible features, A Gathering Place will be a park all Tulsans can be proud of.

– Tori Garrett, Jones PR

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Community

Oklahoma City Unveils Name of MAPS 3 Park

Students from John Rex Elementary School helped announce the name of the new MAPS 3 downtown park.

On June 29, Oklahoma City leaders gathered to announce the newest downtown park, Scissortail Park. The park will span 70 acres and will be split into two sections: north and south.

“The MAPS 3 Park will be a gathering place for generations in Oklahoma City, and it needs a timeless name that’s meaningful to our community,” Mayor Cornett said. “The new park will be a place people will meet to enjoy the trails and water features, gather for concerts and events, spend time with their children, family and friends in a natural setting in the heart of a thriving city.”

– Jake Pasdach, Jones PR

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living

Student Granted Citizenship During Immigrant Heritage Month

Gomez (pictured here after his Naturalization Ceremony) is a Marketing Major at the University of Oklahoma.

Born in Mexico, Gerardo Gomez came to the United States as a child. On June 14, Gomez became an American citizen. This date was only fitting as it fell in the middle of June, which is celebrated across the country as Immigrant Heritage Month. Gomez commemorated the month by honoring the sacrifices his family made by coming to America. Gomez culminated Immigrant Heritage Month by celebrating the country he now calls home on Independence Day.

Although his transition was not rankled by bureaucracy, the soon-to-be college senior noted congressional action on immigration reform is of the utmost importance

-Suzanne LaCharde

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Events

Hot Air Balloon Festival Comes to Shawnee

Oklahomans count down to the first FireLake Fireflight Balloon Festival August 4-6, 2017.

Twenty hot air balloons are set to fill the sky over Shawnee as thousands of Oklahomans will gather at the Citizen Potawatomi Nation Powwow Grounds for an exciting three-day festival in early August.

The FireLake Fireflight Balloon Festival is packed full with balloon glows, balloon launches, rides and family-friendly entertainment. Festival activities include 5K and 1K races, BMX shows, mini putt, a kids’ zone, concerts featuring local artists, food trucks and a variety of Oklahoma vendors.

Admission to the festival is free, but attendees can register for the 5K and 1K races, balloon rides, and RV parking here.

– Kelly Hughes, Jones PR

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Events

The Art of Speed: Oklahomans and Fast Cars

The Oklahoma History Center's special summer exhibition "The Art of Speed: Oklahomans and Fast Cars" will include a rare Pegaso Speedster, a Spanish car once known as the fastest car in the world. (Photo provided by the Oklahoma History Center)

If you’re a “fast and furious” kind of person, buckle up, brace yourselves and shift into gear for a fun ride.

The Oklahoma History Center is debuting “The Art of Speed,” an exhibit showcasing rare and unusual sports cars.

Gearheads will have the chance to admire 22 automobiles from the private collections of several Oklahomans. Brands such as Ferrari, Franklin, Porsche and Jaguar are just some of the names featured. The exhibit opens its doors on July 1 and runs for a short six weeks.

The Oklahoma History Center is open to the public from 10am-5pm Monday through Saturday.

– Christian Franklin, Jones PR

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Food

Summer Sweet Spots: Epic Pops

The coolest new place in town is Epic Pops in Norman. (Photo by Dennis Spielman)

This next stop is well worth the quick (or maybe slow, depending on the time of day) drive down to Norman from Oklahoma City.

Epic Pops stepped onto the gourmet dessert scene last year and quickly became a summer staple for many families. The popsicle shop serves one-of-a-kind treats made with locally-sourced ingredients whenever possible. Its most popular pops include flavors like Pink Lemonade with Gummy Bears, Chocolate Chipotle, Horchata and more.

If you’re craving a frozen treat that doesn’t come in a box, load up your friends (or kids) and visit Epic Pops in Norman.

– Kelly Hughes, Jones PR

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History

Tulsa’s Oldest House

The oldest house in Tulsa, Oklahoma, dates back to 1885, before the Land Rush of 1889.

Before the Land Rush of 1889, Reverend Sylvester Morris, a Methodist missionary, owned what is now the oldest house standing in Tulsa. The simple, side-gabled house dates back to 1885.

This historic house, originally located on the 400 block of North Cheyenne Avenue, was relocated to its current location in 1976 after it caught fire, which attracted the attention of historian Beryl D. Ford, who discovered letters to Morris dated in 1895 within the plaster walls.

Morris was reportedly shot by lawmen that mistook him for a whiskey peddler. His horses continued home, carrying his body in the carriage.

– Ashley Ross, Jones PR

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Community

Free Summer Movies at Myriad Gardens

Families crowd the Great Lawn to attend the Sonic Summer Movie each week. (Photo courtesy of Myriad Gardens)

Myriad Gardens and SONIC are bringing back a much-loved summer tradition.

Every Wednesday at 8 p.m., the two organizations will host movies on the Great Lawn at Myriad Gardens. Each week a new movie is shown and is free to the public. Food trucks and other activities also add to the fun and exciting atmosphere.

Check out this month’s movie list:

• July 12: “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them”

• July 19: “Moonrise Kingdom”

• July 26: “42,” the Jackie Robinson story

Next Wednesday evening, bring a picnic and your favorite blanket and enjoy this free, family-friendly festivity!

– Tori Garrett, Jones PR

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Community

Instacart: Grocery Delivery Arrives in Oklahoma

Shoppers in Oklahoma can now have groceries delivered in less than an hour with the Instacart app. (Photo provided by Instacart)

Customers in select cities of Oklahoma can now take advantage of an innovative new grocery delivery system sure to free up your weekly to-do list. Groceries can be selected from Instacart with options from popular retailers such as Whole Foods and Natural Grocers.

Save a trip to the market with personal shoppers that guarantee fresh groceries in as little as an hour.

How does it work?

• Pick your favorite grocery store and choose groceries.

• Second, schedule delivery in as little as an hour or next week.

• Lastly, get groceries delivered to you and enjoy!

Learn more about Instacart here.

– Ashley Ross, Jones PR

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travel

Quirky Finds in Oklahoma

Shoppers won't miss this quirky boutique when driving through Ardmore. (Photo provided by Cloverleaf)

Cloverleaf is a one-of-a-kind shopping experience in Oklahoma. Visitors can’t miss the bright pink castle decorated with rainbow-colored bicycles, old Dairy Queen signs, teal dragons and a bright pink RV.

The owners travel all over to find the items that make their shop unique. Inside, shoppers can find a charming boutique with printed flip-flops, denim, jewelry, beach towels and funky T-shirts displayed with velvet headboards or on mannequins with large wigs. The items range in cost but most are priced under $75.

Stores are located in Ardmore, Nichols Hills and inside WinStar World Casino.

– Ashley Ross, Jones PR

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History

Boise City: Oklahoma’s Surprise Bombshell

Boise City, Oklahoma made its mark in history during WWII as pilots mistook it for "target practice."

Oklahoma never fails to astonish us when it comes to history.

At the end of the longer, skinnier chunk of Oklahoma lies Boise City, a small town with less than 2,000 people. But what makes Boise City special? It may not be its location, but rather its interesting history.

On July 5, 1943, Boise City was the only continental U.S. city to be bombed during World War II. The surrounding town lights confused pilots flying B-17 Flying Fortress Bombers, making them mistake Boise City as a target for practice.

Hopefully, Boise City isn’t still holding a grudge!

– Christian Franklin, Jones PR

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public relations

Working With Influencers

Paying a trusted and respected social media influencer to post about your brand can boost your brand's credibility.

I’m a huge proponent of working with social media influencers. I believe that is where brands can get the most bang for their buck, especially with millennials.

Things to consider when working with influencers: how many followers do they have? Are their followers in your target audience? How often do they share sponsored posts? Do they have a high engagement rate?

Reaching out to someone with 100K+ Instagram followers can seem intimidating, but everyone I’ve reached out to has been kind, receptive and helpful. If it fits with your brand, consider partnering with an influencer on your next paid campaign.

– Haley Barton, The Atlanta 100

Atlanta

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Digital Age

Innovative Communications

Embracing new digital tools can enhance your company's communication strategies.

In any job, it’s important to make sure you have the right tools on hand to effectively share your message with co-workers, clients or the public. Take your company communication to the next level (beyond the traditional PowerPoint presentation) with these innovative, user-friendly programs:

• Uberflip: Transforms your PDFs into an interactive online magazine.

• Visme: Creates infographics by using a library of customizable templates and icons.

• GoAnimate: Builds animated videos in minutes, allowing you to choose your own soundtrack, cast of characters and more.

Pro tip: Track tool metrics to monitor how your audience is interacting with your content.

— Devon Chestnut, APR, CPRC, Communications Manager, Cox Communications

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Energy

Cooling Your House Without Breaking the Bank

Your home's air conditioning system can account for more than half of your monthly energy bill.

Keeping your home cool this summer doesn’t have to come with an outrageous energy bill. Here are three ways to cut costs without sacrificing comfort:

– Landscape strategically. Low-lying shrubs that keep the ground cool and strategically planted trees that shade your home can reduce energy use by 25%.

– Buy a programmable thermostat. This will allow you to program your AC to automatically adjust the temperature when no one is home and cool it down before someone returns.

– Upgrade your windows. Energy-efficient dual-pane windows keep cool air in and hot air out, making less work for your AC.

— Steve Seeger, Lennar Homes

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