January 13, 2023

1/13/2023

WITH OUR THANKS…Tuesday’s election effectively extending PCDA for five more years is now in the books. Thank you. At a time when opinions seem to be more or less dived 50/50 on everything, an almost two to one margin is humbling. Elections such as this are first and foremost about trust. PCDA never forgets that this means public funds must be properly handled. People can agree to disagree on how to grow a local, rural economy in post pandemic 2023 but managing public funds is something more universal. The controls, the public decision making, the accountability, financial transparency and keeping faith with everyone in Ponca City (voters and non-voters alike) is a pledge that PCDA eagerly makes once again.

PCDA looks forward to pursuing the goals and action steps in the new PCDA strategic plan, and we continue to welcome discussions on how to grow our community even more. For now, we simply say thank you. We have never forgotten the trust and faith put into PCDA by the public…and we never will.

BEFORE DAWN.... last week, staff captured this great picture of the concrete pour at the Duke Building. This was the first pour of several to complete the base of this 39,000 square foot building. But really, how cool is this picture!?! Good Job Laurence. He is the only one hanging around with the concrete crew before sunrise in the AIP.

JUST IN CASE.... you need an introduction to Laurence, he is also the Zone 5 Board of Education Board Member for Pioneer Technology Center. PCDA has an extremely strong partnership with our friends at Pioneer Tech, so naturally LB jumped at the chance to be a board member. Need a part machined? He knows a guy. Looking for a contract manufacturer? Here's a phone number. Looking for new contracts to grow diversity at your company? Laurence is your guy. What can staff say? He is everywhere. Really early. Before dawn even (see above). Thanks Laurence for being "the guy".

CITY CENTRAL..... is home to the John McNeese Art Gallery in the first floor lobby area. The Gallery is hopping this week as the coolest installation opens: an immersive Seed Reef. The pictures do not do it justice. Local artists lent their talents to create the creatures and backgrounds. Children (and there have been all ages of students coming through this week) as well as adults are invited to participate. Visit the Seed Reef Tuesdays - Fridays 12-6 pm and Saturdays 12-4 pm until February 18th. Active arts for the family. This is quality of life stuff right here.