April 22, 2022

4/22/2022

END OF THE SCHOOL YEAR......events are in full swing. 2022 Grads are back to in person events, the PoHi Prom was last weekend, fundraisers are happening again (support your local org), and finally, people are planning those summer trips, gas prices be darned. As a community with a refinery, gas prices are always a topic of discussion. The weather is warming and the days are getting longer. Biking and walking are not only good exercise, but will get you from point A to point B, at least in Ponca City proper. Check out the Move This May Challenge info below.

Let us not forget the delayed, but still very proud, Chamber Banquet awards given out this week. The one PCDA staff is always jazzed about is the Industry Award and we are happy to announce.... well, keep reading for the whole story. Don't forget to get your Ponca City Grant application in while we welcome Spring in full force to Ponca CIty.

INDUSTRY OF THE YEAR…Ponca City has been on understandable edge for some time, waiting to find out who the Chamber Industry of the year will be for this year. The insufferable wait, after the Chamber Celebration was postponed in late January, came to a fitting conclusion last night when Garaga-Mid America Door was presented with the coveted honor. Garaga has increased their jobs in Ponca City by more than 35% and significantly upped their wages over the last couple of years (well, two years and now three more months thanks to the celebration’s postponement in January due to a COVID surge). The Canadian parent company has invested millions and greatly enhanced and expanded their Ponca City facility. It was hard to say whether last night’s crowd at the award ceremony held at the new Concert Hall was more about the excitement for Garaga or relief that no presenter was slapped (on stage, at least). Everyone there, however, came away with a much deeper appreciation for their garage door when they got home. PCDA joins the Chamber and the community in congratulating the men and women of Garaga Mid America Doors on this high and very well deserved honor!

PONCA CITY GRANTS..... are only open for 8 more days! Businesses with less than 20 employees and non-profits in the Ponca City limits you must apply online to receive this grant. The application is here for both; just get your information together and apply. $2500 to $10,000 is available for losses due to COVID during the March 2021 to March 2022 time frame. If you business was "in business" January of 2020, you need to apply. Call Kat or Lori if you have questions or need further information. 580.765.7070

MOVE THIS MAY.... is a free month long challenge to engage in physical activity. Participate individually or create a team of four and track your movement on the free Challenge Runner app or website. Just use the QR code to sign up or go to here to register.