Town leaders talk up southeast Oklahoma at Lt. Governor’s Turkey Hunt
April 24, there’s little doubt they’ll find plenty to gobble about.
W
Comprised of industry site selectors from across the U.S., the group is arriving here for the annual Lt. Governor’s Turkey Hunt, but they’re after way more than just turkeys.
“It’s their job to seek out available buildings and potential locations for expansion for the various corporations and industries they represent,” explained Larry Smith, chairman of Oklahoma Southeast Economic Development, the organization sponsoring the hunt.
“It’s our job to highlight the advantages of our area, share information on available buildings, and build relationships with these individuals,” Smith continued.
Forty communities, several tribal, and numerous businesses are members of Oklahoma Southeast. The organization hosts four events every year including the turkey hunt; each one aims to attract site selectors to the region. “The challenge is getting them to look,” Smith said. “It’s not hard to sell Oklahoma once they are here.”
From manufacturing and distribution companies to retail franchises and other businesses, Smith noted there are plenty of companies seeking to expand in order to increase efficiency and profits.
“This is the time when we find out what they need, and they hear about what we have to offer.”
hen a small cluster of out-of-state
business professionals arrive in Hugo on
Hunting for Jobs
A balance of foods, including fresh fruits and vegetables and lean protein, is necessary for a healthful lifestyle. Source: USDA
Many rural communities are in particular need of retail businesses that will help expand the sales tax base and create jobs, Smith explains. A successful example is the new shopping mall in Seminole, which is now home to eight new retail tenants.
“A lot of our deals are small but that’s great. Ten to twenty new jobs is a welcome boost for any small town," Smith said.
—LARRY SMITH, SOUTHEAST OKLAHOMA ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
While the guided turkey hunt is the main attraction, Smith pointed out that site selectors and community leaders will
find ample time to network outside of the field. A special brunch, evening dinner and an afternoon business round-table discussion are all on the agenda. “These events are well attended by business people, community leaders, legislators and others who may not be able to participate in the full weekend,” Smith said.
The most important thing is that all participants find an opportunity to meet one another. “This is about building relationships first because that’s how it all gets started. This is the time when we find out what they need, and they hear about what we have to offer,” Smith added.
In other words, it’s time for local communities to strut their stuff. ■
8 | april 2013
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