2016 Issue 5
Develop, Innovate, Prosper
Brownfields Sites Economic Benefits Felt Across Oklahoma Brownfields remediation in Oklahoma has returned high-value property, including both high-traffic downtown areas and rural zones, to productive use, significantly increasing the property value of not only the remediated area but surrounding properties as well. Remediated properties contribute more than $150 million to real estate value in the state, as well as more than $5 million in property taxes. “It has been 20 years since the Oklahoma Legislature passed the Oklahoma Brownfields Redevelopment Act with strong bipartisan support. Since that time, there have been numerous new housing, retail, industrial and service-based businesses investing in previously unused or underused properties,” said Mary Fallin, Governor. “These properties have generated ad valorem, sales and income tax revenue for our schools and public services.”
DEQ oversaw remediation that included removal of 12 fuel tanks; soil and sand removal for the Guthrie Green project in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Retail sales growth was increased 4300% in brownsfield sites and that impact can be felt across the State of Oklahoma not only in the Brownfields site participants but there area neighbors as well. “The brownfields program has been a terrific opportunity for Tulsa to greatly improve many areas of our city that were on a neverending spiral of neglect and eventual abandonment and destruction,” said Dewey Bartlett, Tulsa Mayor. “Without a doubt, the Guthrie Green is a showcase for the great result of the collaboration between public and private interest with Brownfields being the catalyst.” The study commissioned by the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) and completed by the Oklahoma Department of Commerce (ODOC) revealed that more than $10 million growth in state sales and income tax can be attributed to the areas of 44 brownsfield sites since 1998 and a 147% job growth in these areas.
Bricktown Canal in Oklahoma CIty included soil removal, bioremediation of soil, installation of groundwater remediation system that DEQ oversaw.
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Bryant Center Owner Shares Her Business Success Story p. 3 Main Street Award Winners Share Their Success Stories p. 4 Small Business Award Winners for 2016 Honored p. 6
THE STATE OF SMALL BUSINESS Women and Minority Owned Business Certification
Certification programs help to benefit small businesses that have traditionally faced extra barriers to market entry or
participation. Some companies and governments use certifications to ensure diversity in their selection of contractors, vendors, and suppliers.
Benefits to operating as a certified business: • Expanded contracting opportunities; • Added advantageTX when competing for contracts with TX public and private sector entities; • Entities who choose to do business with you are confident that their reporting of dollars spent with businesses will be verifiable and credible.
Women-Owned Business Certification: The Oklahoma Department of Commerce (ODOC) provides certification for women-owned business and can assist in the applicaiton process. Oklahoma currently has 238 certificatied women-owned business in Oklahoma. Any woman-owned small business is eligible to apply for certification. The business must be at least 51% owned and controlled on a day-to-day basis by one or more women. For more informaiton on Women-owned Business Certifications contact Rana Steeds at 405-815-5143 or rana.steeds@okcommerce.gov.
Minority-Owned Business Information: ODOC serves as an initial point of contact for aspiring and established business owners, including minority entrepreneurs. As with all businesses, the agency provides information on starting a business, organizations that assist small businesses, and other common questions. For more informaiton on Minority Business Certification contact Ken Talley at 405-815-5218 or ken.talley@okcommerce.gov.
Bryant Center Owner Shares Her Business Success Story Q&A Demetria Bailey-Stewart, owner of The Bryant Center and B&B Catering Demetria Bailey-Stewart, owner of The Bryant Center and B&B Catering, is carrying on the name and vision of a once legendary Oklahoma City venue and meeting place at a new location. After becoming an entrepreneur 14 years ago with her successful catering services, Bailey-Stewart, an OSU graduate, decided she wanted to open an events center as well. She has also recently won the catering contract for Metro Technology Centers’, Business Conference Center. With her family as an initial investor, or “adventure capitalists,” as she learned they are called, she was able to purchase the facility in December 2014, and with her knowledge and the help of her community, has been growing the Bryant Center back to its former glory ever since. Her success story has not come without its own unique struggles and can serve as an inspiration to all. Q: How did you first got involved with the Catering business? I have a Bachelor of Science degree from Oklahoma State University in the field of Hotel & Restaurant with a Business minor. My initial goal was to own a restaurant, after my sophomore year in college, I realized that Catering was a better fit for me and my family. Q: When did you know you wanted to start your own business? In 2000 when my son was diagnosed with brain cancer, going to St Jude Medical Research Hospital in Memphis, Tenn. He was only given 6-9 months to live. My employer at the time would not extend my FMLA. I knew then that I would never put the fate of my family in the hands of an employer who thought so little of a person who worked tirelessly. After they terminated my employment, one year later my son died, and I found myself searching for my destiny. Q: Tell us about your support network for this process and how they have influenced or helped you. My mother, Ruby Hawkins Roberson, was and has been my biggest support system. She had the investment capital while I had the dream. My siblings have also been a steady support stream. I have a daughter who is now the Sales and Office Manager for B&B Catering. My faith is where I continue to draw my strength. My faith is where my ultimate help comes from. God then uses others to fulfill His plans and desires. Q: How did you decide to call this new location “The Bryant Center”? I love learning about our history- it allows you to know who you are and where you come from. The Bryant Center of old was the place where the people in our community used to go to enjoy friends and family, a place of happiness. When I saw that the property that I was purchasing was on Bryant Avenue and when I stepped out of the front door and looked west, I could vision seeing the Old Bryant Center. I wanted to bring back something positive to our neighborhood and our community. Some place where we could come together for a special event and create lasting positive memories.
Demetria Bailey-Stewart, owner of The Bryant Center and B&B Catering at work. Q: What does this new location of “The Bryan Center” mean to you and the future of the community? Hope, happiness and togetherness. Hope that anyone can do whatever they dream and work hard to do. Happiness in the fact that dreams do come true. Togetherness in that we as a community can accomplish great things when we come to together. Q: What is one of the best experiences you’ve had since opening your business? Being recognized as The Small Business of the Year and Entrepreneur of the Year in the same year and not expecting it. Being able to operate debt free for the first 14 years of business. Becoming a personal chef in 2008 to the likes of Kevin Durant (2010-2012), Russell Westbrook (2008-2012) as well as many of the other players, coaches and leaders of the Thunder organization. Q: What advice would you give to someone looking to strike out on their own and start a new business? Do your due diligence and know your craft. Be diligent. Be consistent. Be flexible. It’s not as easy as it seems. Be open to learn from others. Expect the worst and plan for the best. Q: How has the Oklahoma Department of Commerce helped your business grow? They have supported my business by utilizing my services, providing information and referring my business to others. Q: What kind of training or education have you found to be most valuable as a business owner? I continue to educate myself by attending seminars, trade shows, reading books, talking to peers. I don’t think I could have made the decisions early in the business that I made without my education from Oklahoma State University. Q: Do you have a personal business philosophy or mission? I always tell my employees, “Team Work Makes the Dream Work.” For more information on B&B Catering and The Bryant Center visit: bandbcateringokc.com or call 405-605-3022
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Main Street Award Winners Share Their Success Stories The Four-Point Approach continues to revitalize Oklahoma communities
Each year brings another wonderful collection of creative entries that continue to amaze and impress us with their uniqueness. ~ Linda Barnett, Oklahoma Main Street Center Director The Oklahoma Main Street Center announced the winners in 21 competitive award categories during the 27th annual Main Street Awards Banquet, May 3, at the Embassy Suites Downtown Medical Center Hotel. “Each year brings another wonderful collection of creative entries that continue to amaze and impress us with their uniqueness,” said Linda Barnett, director of the Oklahoma Main Street Center. “These award winners give us a chance to highlight many outstanding programs, projects, people and services that our Main Street communities offer their residents and visitors alike. We are thankful for all of their efforts to make each of their commercial districts a wonderful place to live, work and play. It’s a big job that requires hours of time and effort on behalf of many people and these awards pay tribute to those efforts.” The Main Street program encourages economic development in Oklahoma communities through historic preservation in ways appropriate to today’s marketplace. By refocusing efforts to bring vibrancy back to a commercial district, communities can find the self-reliance and empowerment needed to rebuild a commercial district and increase the quality of life for residents. Each award falls under one of the “Four Points” in the Main Street Approach. The Main Street FourPoint Approach™ is tailored to meet the needs and opportunities of each community. It encompasses work in four distinct areas – Design, Economic Vitality, Promotion, and Organization – that are combined to address all of the commercial district’s needs.
Organization. Main Street is a volunteer-driven program relying on the commitment of private citizens and civic leaders. Organizing your resources and efforts is a proven process helping to ensure economic revitalization. A collaborative effort between Ponca City Main Street, the Ponca City Arts and Humanities Council and the City of Ponca City resulted in new street pole banners with the theme: Ponca City is Hip-Storic. The purpose of this project was to create public art which would be fun to look at, educational, interactive and would also promote Ponca City’s historic downtown. The public art aspect of this project was to encourage that it is “hip” to be downtown. Fifty double-sided banners were created with five different designs: Abstract Expressionism, Minimalist, Font-Based, Psychedelic and Collage. Each of the five designs features a style of the pop art movement of the 50s and 60s, also known as the “hip” decades. For this effort they received an award for Best Community Education/Public Awareness Activity. Promotion. Creating a positive image that will renew community pride while communicating the district’s unique characteristics, its cultural traditions, architecture, and history and activities to shoppers, investors, potential business owners and visitors. The winner for Premier Special Event Under 1,000 Attendees was Laverne Main Street – Muddy Duck Dash. In addition to the succesful Lucky Duck Race held each year on July, Laverne Main Street added the
Best Building/Business Branding went to El Reno Main Street’s, Iron Tree Coffee Company, LLC.
With Bump has improved the property value of the Durant Main Street district and was awarded Best New Businesss.
Muddy Duck Dash in 2015.
tops and above the fireplace. Iron Tree’s branding also extends to several of the products they sell. Customers can pick up a bag of their in-house roasted coffee, or a T-shirt or hoodie. This locally grown business is a testimony to how good ideas can come to life on Main Street.
Through cooperation with a local rancher, the fire chief and many volunteers, the course was designed and constructed. More than 400 runners, ranging in age from 5-83 years old, attempted the obstacle-filled run and enjoyed music and entertainment. Many people expected an easy country run. They were surprised. Race goers and spectators alike all said they really enjoyed the new addition to the race and are looking forward to this year’s adventure! Design. The appearance of Main Street districts sets a vital first impression for each community by adding an inviting atmosphere through attractive window displays, parking areas, building improvements, signs, sidewalks, landscaping and more. Best Building/Business Branding went to El Reno Main Street’s, Iron Tree Coffee Company, LLC where, in downtown El Reno, there is a new place to meet for conversation or linger over a book.
Economic Vitality. Economic Vitality highlights each community’s existing assets while diversifying its economic base, retaining and expanding successful businesses to provide a balanced commercial mix and helps attract new businesses. The award winner for Best New Business was Durant Main Street’s With Bump. With Bump has improved the property value of the Durant Main Street district by restoring an older building, bringing a retail business to a space that has been vacant for almost 20 years and adding a thriving business to a part of the district that has low traffic and no other retail businesses on the surrounding blocks.
This coffee shop’s branding design was created locally by one of the building’s owners, Mike Garrison. The exterior branding is first visible through the 10-foot-tall cedar sign with raised metal letters, projecting from the side of the building. The other building owner, J.T. Chronister, brought the brand images to life by overseeing the construction of the sign and the work inside.
With Bump has embraced the economic development process by adding a new business for a market long ignored. Maternity and baby needs required consumers in the area to leave town, shop online or at big box retailers. With Bump also has a website with not only ecommerce but also an online baby shower registry, a monthly e-blast, and various social media pages. With Bump has started strong out of the gate as a new business for downtown Durant.
When you enter the business, the brand is tastefully exhibited on the front display case, on all the table
For a full list of 2016 award winners visit: www.okcommerce.gov/media
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Brownfields Sites Economic Benefits Felt Across Oklahoma Continued from page 1
Environmentally remediated areas display lower rates of poverty and higher incomes and degree attainment rates. The remediation of the Bricktown area in Oklahoma City was a catalyst for long-term economic growth of the city and development of the state economy and national and international image. “Brownfields redevelopment is a win-win for everyone involved, across the political spectrum. It creates jobs, it cleans up the environment and it’s pro-business and procommunity”, said Mick Cornett, Oklahoma City Mayor. Oklahoma balances its land between agricultural and an industrial uses. Remediating Brownfields sites encourages the productive reuse of land instead of the development of Greenfields. This, in turn, helps maintain farm land and quality of life in the State.
Growth in State Sales and Income Taxes Since 1998
For a full report and a research summary visit okcommerce.gov/brownfieldsreport. Clean-up loans, grants, and subgrant funding are subject to availability. Please contact DEQ Oklahoma for more information. Aron Samwel, 405-702-5100, aron.samwel@deq.ok.gov
Growth in Jobs on Brownfields and Bordering Sites 1998-2015
New Pioneer is Going All Digital, Starting with July 2016 Beginning July 1, 2016, the New Pioneer will no longer be available in a printed format. You can stay informed on the latest economic development news and important Commerce-related events in Oklahoma by subscribing to the digital version of the newsletter. Subscribe today to receive the New Pioneer monthly digital newsletter by visiting okcommerce.gov/newpioneersubscribe.
Develop, Innovate, Prosper
The latest issue can also be found at okcommerce.gov/media For assistance or questions, contact Kimberly Hickerson, Editor-in-Chief New Pioneer, at 405-815-5240 or kimberly.hickerson@okcommerce.gov.
NEW PIONEER IS GOING ALL DIGITAL! 7/1/2016
Small Business Award Winners for 2016 Honored The LaunchPad at Francis Tuttle Named SBA Incubator of the Year For more than 50 years, the SBA has recognized the outstanding achievements of America’s small businesses for contributions in their local communities and to our nation’s economy. Every day, they’re working to grow small businesses, create jobs, drive innovation and increase America’s global competitiveness. In recognizing the changing face of America, the SBA’s National Small Business Week awards honor individuals and businesses that reflect our nation’s rich diversity.
As you can see, you truly are the backbone of our communities and our continued economic success as a state... the diversity and resiliency we see in this room is ensuring a brighter future for Oklahoma.
~ Deby Snodgrass, Secretary Of Commerce and Tourism
The 2016 winners were honored at the Oklahoma State Capitol and at an awards luncheon held at Rose State College. The Journal Record presented the Incubator of the Year Award to the Director of The Launch Pad Francis Tuttle, Fred Green. “Fred Green and the Launch Pad i ncubator have been an invaluable asset to the development of many small businesses since its inception,” said Rana Steeds, Small Business Specialist for the Oklahoma Department of Commerce. Launch Pad is one of 37 certified small business incubators now operating in Oklahoma. In her remarks as Keynote, Deby Snodgrass, Executive Director and Secretary Of Commerce and Tourism said, “As you can see, you truly are the backbone of our communities and our continued economic success as a state. Even as we weather tough times in some sectors, the diversity and resiliency we see in this room is ensuring a brighter future for Oklahoma.” Tulsa architect Lanny McIntosh was named 2016 Small Business Person
Deby Snodgrass, Secretary Of Commerce and Tourism, Minority Champion: Award Winner, Oscar Womack, Coherent Contracts, LLC, Midwest City and Ken Talley, Small and Minority Business Coordinator of the Year by the Oklahoma District Office of the U.S. Small Business Administration.
Women in Business Champion: Lisa Riley, Power of Three Investments, Pinot’s Palette, Jenks
“Lanny McIntosh has guided his company through difficult times and continues to build a company all of Oklahoma can be proud of,” Dottie Overal, Oklahoma SBA District Director, said. “He is active in his community, works to improve his profession, and is a leader in ADA compliant design.”
The Oklahoma District Office of the SBA is responsible for providing businesses with tools for enhancing and growing their businesses. It also oversees the delivery of SBA’s programs throughout the state such as: Free counseling, advice and information on starting a business through SCORE, the Oklahoma Small Business Development Centers, and the Women’s Business Center. They also offer Veterans assistance through the Boots to Business program.
Award winners included: Veteran Champion: Sandy Stephens, Director, Small Business Development Center, Rose State College, Midwest City Family-Owned Business: Michael & Mark Tedford, Tedford Insurance, Jenks
For more information on any of these programs, contact the Oklahoma District SBA office at 405-609-8000.
Minority Champion: Oscar Womack, Coherent Contracts, LLC, Midwest City
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(PRSRT STD) US POSTAGE PD OKLA. CITY, OK PERMIT NO.41
900 N. Stiles Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73104-324
Upcoming Events SAVE THE DATE: OKLAHOMA’S 28TH ANNUAL STATEWIDE PRESERVATION CONFERENCE Wednesday, June 3-5, 2015 Enid Register online by May 20 at www.mainstreetenid.org/ preservation. Payment for online registration can be made only with a credit card. For questions about online registration, contact Kelly Tompkins at 580-234-1052 or Kelly@mainstreetenid.org. Request a registration brochure by contacting 405-521-6249 or mheisch@okhistory.org.
MEMORIAL DAY Monday, May 30, 2016 State Offices Closed INDEPENDENCE DAY Monday, July 4, 2016 State Offices Closed
NEW PIONEER A PRODUCT OF THE OKLAHOMA DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE EDITOR IN CHIEF: Kimberly Hickerson CONTRIBUTORS: Stefanie Appleton, Bryan Boone, Kelli Yadon, PHOTO CREDITS: Oklahoma Department of Commerce, Department of Enviromental Quality FOR NEW PIONEER SUBMISSIONS AND STORY IDEAS CONTACT: Kimberly Hickerson Editor-in-Chief - New Pioneer Oklahoma Department of Commerce 900 N. Stiles Ave., Oklahoma City, OK 73104 (405) 815-5240 kimberly.hickerson@okcommerce.gov facebook.com/OKcommerce @OKcommerce OKcommerce.gov issuu.com/newpioneerOK