The Best Three Strategies to Manage Your Work Time 

The Best Three Strategies to Manage Your Work Time 

Photo Credit: URL: https://unsplash.com/es/fotos/aiyBwbrWWlo

Alt-Text: Person sitting in an armchair using a laptop with a clock on the floor

Caption: Time management is the best way to avoid stress at work


Managing work activities is a complex mission for anyone. Task juggling is a common problem in labor markets, regardless of the industry. It stems from poor organization and time management. There are a few ways to deal with these issues before things get out of hand.


Pew Research indicates that 39 percent of Americans left their jobs in 2021 due to working too many hours. We need efficient strategies to manage our workload. Proper time management techniques can improve your performance. We’ve listed the best three tips below to help you get things done, reduce stress, and have enough leisure time to ensure you thrive. 

Why Managing Work Time Is Necessary

The pace of work will always depend on the field. Health, law, and construction require mental agility and problem-solving skills. In these job types, tasks do not have a defined schedule, and the physical effort can be demanding.


Computer-related jobs can also be highly demanding. Data scientists manage deadlines and pressure from employers to find more efficient ways to run businesses. Dealing with troublesome customers can also drain your capacity. Software engineers often need to work with clients who enforce tight deadlines.


Time is valuable and, if not managed correctly, can affect your bottom line. Disregarding this irreplaceable commodity will affect your paycheck and your mental health. Feeling time-pressed causes stress and anxiety, and poor time management can cost you your job.

Three Effective Techniques to Manage Your Work Time 

Managing time takes planning and predicting the amount of time a task will take. You also need to evaluate your capacity levels. To master time management and avoid overload, practice the three strategies below. You'll reap the benefits of accomplishing all your activities efficiently. Let's start.

Create a Daily Job Schedule

Isolated tasks can be giant obstacles in time management. Create a work schedule with daily responsibilities to maintain control of your weekly activities. One useful strategy is the descending system. This system helps you focus on the most complex tasks at the beginning of the week, then reduce your workload to free up the weekend.


You can also download time management apps and schedule software. Some of the most well-known tools are HubSpot Meeting Tool, Doodle, Appointment, and Calendly. These platforms collect your data and sync your calendar to help you meet deadlines and weekly tasks. App development involves AI and machine learning to memorize your routines and create a work pace to suit your needs.

Only Assume Responsibilities You Can Handle

We know that assignments within a company are tools to achieve better positions. However, as employees, we must learn to say no when necessary. A good leader has the power of persuasion and a talent for delegating more tasks to employees. For this reason, you need to measure your level of commitment to know when to accept or decline.


Sometimes we struggle to say no and take on more to please people. Your work rhythm and time management will reap the rewards once you learn how to decline tasks outside your normal capacity. Your physical and mental stability are crucial components of success in your job.

Eliminate Distractions in Your Workspace

If you have time management issues, analyze how long you spend conversing with coworkers or talking on the phone. Distractions may seem harmless, but they add up and become the most common time loss ingredient.


Avoiding distractions is complicated, especially if you have extroverted and chatty colleagues. It seems impossible to ask for space without sounding rude, but there are ways to say it correctly. One technique is gently reminding a chatty colleague that you have tasks to complete. You can also continue your activities while listening to them.


Over time, your colleagues will realize you are busy. Don’t be so strict that you fail to include free time to talk, eat, and go to the bathroom. You can schedule your day and include these things without it affecting your work rhythm.


According to Statista, one of the biggest distractions remote workers struggle with is learning to juggle home life with a work schedule. You can eliminate distractions by placing phones on silent, playing soft music, and setting realistic time schedules.

Conclusion

Time management is something we all want to learn and master perfectly. Different jobs require different time and levels of responsibility. However, you have the necessary resources to fulfill your tasks efficiently and effectively. Follow our three tips above and manage your schedules like a professional.



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David Torrealba is an experienced content writer whose previous work experience includes social services, SEO writing, and journalism. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Social Communication and Print Journalism from Universidad del Zulia.

*Thank you to our article contributor from https://www.globalprassociates.com

 

Del City Chamber of Commerce Members receive business content articles like this on a regular basis on Mondays in our Business Buzz edition of the newsletter. For more information on Membership email info@delcitychamber.com, and you can visit https://business.delcitychamber.com/member/newmemberapp/ for more information and even apply for membership online!

DelQuest Class of 2022 Applications are Open!

DelQuest is a fun-filled, three day session that every leader of tomorrow needs to attend. This is an exciting and insightful program in which selected participants will receive hands-on leadership training. This year’s session is scheduled for our Mentor Dinner on October 25, 2022 and the program November 16-18, 2022.

The Del City Chamber of Commerce in conjunction with the City of Del City offers DelQuest annually in the fall. Our students are able take advantage of all they experience and apply it to the rest of this school year and, more importantly, into their senior year of high school and beyond.

They will tour civic and business facilities and interact with elected officials to solve community-wide issues. DelQuest provides the tools and information that every leader needs to reach success!

An application and selection process is used to choose twenty high school juniors from public, private and home schools in Del City, Oklahoma. DelQuest has seen hundreds of students graduate the program which covers an intense two and a half days with local business leaders learning about the internal operations of local businesses and local government. The students encounter thought provoking, team-building exercises, motivational speakers, and interaction with leaders of the community which will help them to grow as an individual and become a better leader themselves. With so much negativity surrounding our young people, this program will re-establish their confidence in the future, and in themselves, as they prepare to lead the way as the leaders of tomorrow. The November 2021 program will begin in early mornings and involve activities into the evening hours. 2021 will not have overnight stays.

If you want to be part of this exclusive group you will need to submit your application by August 31, 2022.

DelQuest Class of 2021 Highlights!

SBA Disaster Loan Assistance for May Weather - OKLAHOMA COUNTY Contiguous Counties eligible


Disaster Loan Assistance

Federal Disaster Loans for Businesses, Private Nonprofits, Homeowners, and Renters

Disaster Declaration Details

Severe Storms, Tornadoes, and Flooding

Disaster #OK-00157

Effective Date6/29/2022

Incident Period5/2/2022 through 5/8/2022

States Affected OKLAHOMA, ARKANSAS

Counties Eligible Primary Counties:

OKLAHOMA

  1. ADAIR, CHEROKEE, MUSKOGEE, OKMULGEE, POTTAWATOMIE, SEMINOLE, TULSA

Contiguous Counties:
ARKANSAS

  1. BENTON, CRAWFORD, WASHINGTON

OKLAHOMA

  1. DELAWARE, SEQUOYAH, WAGONER, MAYES, MCINTOSH, HASKELL, CREEK, OKFUSKEE, CLEVELAND, OKLAHOMA, MCCLAIN, LINCOLN, PONTOTOC, HUGHES, OSAGE, PAWNEE, ROGERS, WASHINGTON

Files

OK 17499-01 Press Release (en Espanol)117.87 KB

OK 17499-01 Press Release113.92 KB

Disaster Declaration79.13 KB

OK 17499 Fact Sheet170.90 KB

OK 17499 Fact Sheet (en Espanol)164.94 KB

Resources for Businesses (en Español)156.75 KB

Resources for Businesses185.95 KB

OK 17499-02 Press Release85.71 KB

OK 17499-02 Press Release (en Español)93.09 KB

Locations to receive assistance106.41 KB

https://disasterloanassistance.sba.gov/ela/s/disaster-details?recordId=a0et000000AIX7zAAH

How Can the Chamber of Commerce Help Your Business

This week, I came across a video on Smallbiztrends.com that suggested for a small business to get the most value out of a chamber of commerce membership, it shouldn’t ask about what the benefits are, but rather ask themselves “how can I help the chamber help me.”

Help the Chamber Help You

I can rattle off many benefits behind chamber membership but it’s likely there’s one thing in your business that’s really bothering you. There’s one problem or goal you have in your business that if the chamber could solve for you, you’d be a die-hard member forever, right? If you’re already a loyal member, then you know there’s something the chamber does that you couldn’t do without them.

 

So, let’s talk about that.

 

Member or not, what is it you need in your business? What are you missing? What direction do you want to take over the next year? What can the chamber take off your plate?

 

That last one is a doozy, right?

 

We all have more than we can handle these days. We’re doing more with less, trying to figure out how we will pay for our necessities as prices skyrocket. What if there was something the chamber could do to take something off your plate, to help you do more with less time? Whether you are a small or large business, wouldn’t that be great? Who couldn’t use a helpful partner in your success?

 

That partner is waiting. You just need to do one thing first to enrich that partnership.

 

It’s All About the Ask

According to Pew Research Center, women earn 84% of what men earn. There are many reasons we can explore to explain the gender pay gap, but one of them is in negotiation. Women believe if they come in and prove themselves, their manager will see their value and reward them with a raise. Men negotiate before getting the job. Part of the difference in the pay gap comes down to the ask.

 

The best way to get the most from chamber membership is simply to ask for help with your specific need. Chamber staff (and the chamber board members) have vast experience in business; many of them were or are business owners.

 

As a marketing writer, if someone comes to me and says they need content, I’m going to ask them several questions about their goals, their audience, and their past content experiences—what worked and what didn’t. Your chamber will do the same when you have conversations about membership.

 

If you are prepared for those conversations, you’ll achieve a much better return on your investment. Think about what you need. Don’t censor yourself assuming the chamber can’t help in that department. The chamber touches many areas of the business community from legislative advocacy to workforce development to tourism and a host of other things that are important to the success of businesses in your area.

 

You can still achieve great things with a chamber membership, even if you never have that conversation, and ask for what you need. But if you do initiate that dialogue, you may be astounded by the doors that open to you, or the bridges the chamber can help you build.

 

Chambers do some astounding work in the community, but they’re not mind readers. Ask yourself what you need and then ask them to help. That’s the way to get the best return on your member investment, whether you’re just now considering joining your chamber or you’ve been a member for years.

 

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Christina Metcalf is a writer/ghostwriter who believes in the power of story. She works with small businesses, chambers of commerce, and business professionals who want to make an impression and grow a loyal customer/member base. She loves road trips, hates exclamation points, and believes the world would be a better place if we all had our own theme song that played when we entered the room. What would yours be?

_______________________________________

Twitter: @christinagsmith

Facebook: @tellyourstorygetemtalking

LinkedIn: @christinagsmith

Vote Yes Tomorrow, JUNE 28th, to Fix the Jail

Don't forget to vote YES to Fix the Jail tomorrow

Oklahoma County residents have a chance to finally build a new jail facility and address the biggest remaining issue and barrier to a well-functioning, efficient criminal justice system by voting YES tomorrow for the county bond issue. This will allow construction of a new, safer, more efficient jail WITHOUT raising taxes. You can learn more at fixthejail.com.

Your polling location will be open for voting on Tuesday, June 28 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. The item for the new jail will likely be on the back of the ballot, so don't forget to complete both sides when you vote. See a sample ballot here, and visit the Oklahoma State Election Board OK Voter Portal to confirm your registration and find your polling place.

Why a new jail?

The Oklahoma County jail is just one piece of our criminal justice system. By working together we have made great strides to reduce the overcrowding in the jail. But we can't change the design and physical structure of the current facility that limits our ability to hold people who are awaiting trial in a way that is beneficial to our community and makes us safer in the long term.

The pending expiration of existing county bonds gives us the opportunity to build a new facility that better serves our needs, and is safer and more efficient, without a tax increase.

Every vote counts, so please share this message with friends and colleagues who are Oklahoma County residents and like/follow the Fix the Jail coalition on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Another Busy Month in Oklahoma County

I don’t know about you, but, May and June have flown by here.  I can’t believe we’re about to celebrate Independence Day.  Have a safe and happy Fourth of July! 

Read on for a snapshot of May and June in Oklahoma County and District One.

Mental Health Month & Treatment Court Month


May was Mental Health Awareness Month. You already know that access to mental health care is one of the issues I care most about. It is my privilege and honor to work with the fantastic providers we have in Oklahoma County.

I was thrilled to partner with SSM Saint Anthony's Behavioral Health, Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, National Alliance on Mental Illness, and Hope Community Services to recognize Mental Health Awareness Month. You can find the full text of the resolution here. 

20% of adults in the United States will experience mental illness this year and Oklahoma is ranked 45th in access to care. I am committed to working to reduce stigma and advocating for increased access to care. 

If you are interested in learning more about mental health care services in Oklahoma call the Reach-Out hotline at 1-800-522-9054. Reach-Out is the ODMHSAS's 24-hour toll-free information and referral hotline. A resource for all Oklahomans, Reach-Out is there for individuals in a crisis and for those who simply want information. All calls are free and confidential. 

May was also Treatment Court Month. Oklahoma County is lucky to have one of the most successful treatment court programs in the country. Over 80% of our treatment court participants graduate and avoid a prison sentence. Additionally, we save nearly $6,000 per person when we use a treatment court instead of incarceration.

Treatment courts prove that when people are given the treatment they need our community is safer. I was proud to recognize the success of Oklahoma County's Treatment Court program and its participants. You can find the full resolution here. 

Oklahoma County's ARPA Funding


As you know, Oklahoma County was awarded $154 million in American Rescue Plan Funds, and these funds must be allocated by 2024 and spent by 2026.  While the process has been slower than I want, my team and I continue fighting to get the dollars into the community.  We have forwarded several of the needs within the community to our consultant for them to develop a comprehensive plan to address affordable housing, workforce training, mental health care, small business, and non-profit support in Oklahoma County.

Unlike the situation with our Cares Act Funding, where the BOCC was limited to spending those funds in accordance with our specific statutory authority, or that one of our beneficiary Trusts, our ARPA funding will not be subject to those same restrictions.  This is because the Oklahoma Legislature passed, and the Governor signed HB2233.  This new law, which takes effect on July 1st, allows counties to spend federal funding in accordance with federal law and their implementing guidelines.  This change in the law, which my office proposed and initially drafted, should help all Oklahoma counties meet our residents' needs when using ARPA funding.

You can find the current guidelines for ARPA funding from the U.S. Treasury Department here. 

Oklahoma County Budget

We’re nearing the end of our current fiscal year and will begin our new fiscal year on July 1st. To start the year, we’ve adopted an essentially flat budget for all departments. As the summer progresses, we will monitor our revenues and expenditures ahead of our September supplement where we will make final budget adjustments for the year. You can find the detailed budget here. 

What We Are Working On


The District One Road & Bridge Crew is working on projects across the district, including repairing parking lots for MetroTech & Jones Public Schools, constructing a driveway for Oakdale Public Schools, repaving and rebuilding Sunny Lane Road, and grading a soccer field for Astec Charter School. 

Partnering with municipalities and school districts to improve infrastructure in our community is one of the most rewarding parts of my job. I am so proud of the work our crews do. Their talent and dedication are easy to take for granted, but we all benefit tremendously from their hard work. If you see them out working, make sure to wave and tell them thank you! 

The Passing of a Legend


Oklahoma County suffered a great loss with the passing of former County Commissioner Willa Johnson. I considered Willa a friend, mentor, and role model. She dedicated her life to being a champion for our community and we have reaped the benefits of her service. Willa was a trailblazer who broke down barriers and paved the way for more diverse and reflective representation in our community. I will miss her wit and wisdom and I know I'm not the only one. 

Election Information


Oklahoma Voter Portal - find your polling location, look at your sample ballot, and check the status of your absentee ballot

Primary Early Voting in Oklahoma County
Oklahoma County Election Board - 4201 N Lincoln Blvd, OKC, OK 73105
Early Voting Dates/Times:

  • Thursday, June 23 - 8:00 am - 6:00 pm

  • Friday, June 24 - 8:00 am - 6:00 pm

  • Saturday, June 25 - 8:00 am - 2:00 pm

2022 Election Dates
Primary Election: June 28, 2022
Run-Off Election: August 23, 2022
General Election: November 8, 2022

Absentee Ballot Information

 Oklahoma County is Hiring!


Oklahoma County has several open positions, including seasonal and permanent jobs and entry-level and mid-level positions. We are an equal opportunity employer and proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package. Consider applying! 

OK County Jobs

Pet of the Month - Meet Chance!


Chance is a big fan of the city. He was adopted at an event in the 21c hotel and now lives in Deep Deuce. He enjoys long walks to the river, and all the parks, but especially hanging out in the flowers at Myriad Gardens. He is always excited to walk down a new street and maybe find a new friend or two along the way

Nominate Your Pet!

There is no need to renominate pets who have been previously nominated. 

What I'm Watching & Listening To

Night on Earth

Night on Earth is a British nature documentary series made for Netflix. The series follows animals that are active during the night using state-of-the-art, low-light camera technology.
 

Kacey Musgraves

Kacey Lee Musgraves is an American singer and songwriter. She has won six Grammy Awards, seven Country Music Association Awards, and three Academy of Country Music Awards. Musgraves is known for her progressive lyrics in the conservative country music genre. Her music has tackled controversial topics such as LGBT acceptance, safe sexual intercourse, recreational marijuana use, and questioning religious sentiment.

Oklahoma County Links & Information

 

Links

Phone Numbers

  • District 1 Main Office - (405) 713-1501

  • Social Services - (405) 713-1893

  • Court Clerk - (405) 713-1705

  • Treasurer - (405) 713-1300

Our Mission
We are accessible and responsive to all Oklahoma County District 1 residents regardless of background or circumstances. Our work positively impacts our community by providing services and infrastructure through the responsible and transparent management of taxpayer dollars. 

Copyright © 2022 Oklahoma County District 1, All rights reserved.
You are receiving this email because you opted in via our website.

Our mailing address is:
Oklahoma County District 1320 Robert S Kerr AveOklahoma City, OK 73102-3457
Add us to your address book

The Oklahoma Exhibition Cooperative Consumer Show Program for FY 2023 is now available

The Oklahoma Exhibition Cooperative Consumer Show Program for FY 2023 is now available

It was great to once again be exhibiting at shows with our tourism partners and promoting Oklahoma to the leisure traveler! According to a Center for Exhibition Industry Research survey, in-person events in 2022 continue to accelerate and demand continues to be strong. Let’s keep on marketing Oklahoma as the destination place! And what better way to sell Oklahoma than talk to thousands of potential visitors?

We have planned to attend 16 in-person events. The Oklahoma Exhibition program allows our industry to join forces and market the state together in a face-to-face endeavor. Each partner can choose the show that best fits their efforts at different participation levels as described in the program. For program information and sign-up forms, please click here.

Program Notes:

  • It is essential to have commitments for the October shows as soon as possible: Crappie Classic and DFW Ultimate Women’s Expo. We need to determine how much booth space to secure by July 15th.

  • There are four shows that are TBA. Dates have not been announced.

  • There are several shows on the schedule that we have not attended before. In the process of exhibiting and working with new show management, some obstacles can arise. If you sign-up for a new show, I will communicate any changes, including participation level and costs and verify commitment.

  • After the last several years, I am going to put in the disclaimer - “Program is Subject to Change.”

Send completed forms to Charlinda.Wallar@TravelOK.com.

About the Oklahoma Tourism & Recreation Department
The Oklahoma Tourism & Recreation Department works to preserve, maintain and promote the state’s natural assets and cultural richness through tourism. The Department’s Travel Promotions division administers programs designed to build awareness of the state as a destination and educates on the economic importance of the Oklahoma travel and tourism industry. The staff also oversees the agency’s marketing and promotions efforts along with operating Tourism Information Centers located at major entry points around the state. To learn more about the Department, visit TravelOK.com. 

Page 1 of program information. CLICK HERE for more.

Registration now open for free summer professional development

Carrie Burkhart
Director of Communications
(405) 521-3371, c: (405) 760-7881
carrie.burkhart@sde.ok.gov

Erin Corbin
Communications Specialist
(405) 521-3375
erin.corbin@sde.ok.gov

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Registration now open for free summer professional development

OKLAHOMA CITY (May 27, 2022) – The Oklahoma State Department of Education’s (OSDE) annual professional development conference will be back on the road this summer. EngageOK on the Road will travel to seven high schools in July offering free training for educators. 

More than 100 sessions will be offered at each of the conferences. Stops include: 

  • July 11 – Woodward High School 

  • July 12 – Elk City High School 

  • July 13 – Lawton High School 

  • July 14 – Southmoore High School 

  • July 18 – Jenks High School 

  • July 19 – McAlester High School

  • July 20 – Durant High School 

State Superintendent of Public Instruction Joy Hofmeister will open each conference by moderating a panel discussion with local high school students. Some of the other sessions include Creating Connections with Work-Based Learning, Using Digital Tools for Launching Instruction, Safety at the Schoolhouse: What Educators Need to Know, and Integrating Elementary Content Areas through Real-World Investigations. 

2023 Oklahoma Teacher of the Year Rebecka Peterson will also be presenting two sessions: Creating a Connected Classroom and Engagement Strategies for the Secondary Classroom.  

While the conference is free for educators, registration is required. To see the agenda and register, go to engage.ok.gov/on-the-road. 

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Peace Officers Memorial Day Recognition with flags at Half Staff until 5/15/22 5:00PM

This morning Governor J. Kevin Stitt signed EXECUTIVE ORDER 2022-07, in recognition of Peace Officers Memorial Day. The Order hereby directs the appropriate steps be taken to fly all American and Oklahoma flags on State property at half-staff from 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, May 15, 2022, to acknowledge our hardworking law enforcement officers and in honor of Federal, State, and local officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.

A New Jail, ARPA, 2nd Chance Month & More - County Commissioner Carrie Report

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The Oklahoma County Detention Center


The Board of County Commissioners voted to place a bond issue on the June 28th ballot this month. If passed, the bond will be $260 million to construct a new detention center that will include on-site mental health and court facilities. You can find the full text of the resolution, which includes the ballot language, here.

Because some of the County's existing bonds are expiring, this new bond will not increase taxes when averaged over the bond's life.

I voted yes on this item because I believe the Oklahoma County Detention Center is the most serious issue facing our county. I sincerely hope that our legislature, judges, law enforcement officers, and district attorneys will continue to reform their practices and reduce the number of people we are incarcerating. In the meantime, I am committed to working towards a safe environment for the people detained and working in the Oklahoma County jail. The current building makes it very difficult to do that effectively or affordably.

I committed to Oklahoma County voters to do my best to address the issue of the Oklahoma County jail. I believe this is the best solution available to us at this time.

Oklahoma County's ARPA Funding


Oklahoma County was awarded $154 million from the American Rescue Plan Act. All funds must be allocated by 2024 and spent by 2026.

At this time, the Oklahoma County Board of County Commissioners has not taken any action to allocate ARPA funding. The Oklahoma County Board of County Commissioners has approved a contract with Accenture to provide federal reporting, strategic planning, and implementation services for ARPA funds.

I recently met with the team from Accenture to discuss my goals for ARPA funding.

The most significant community needs I see are:

  • affordable housing

  • workforce training

  • mental health care

  • small business and nonprofit support

  • infrastructure

I will continue to advocate for these needs and am excited to begin distributing funds. Right now, Accenture is meeting with County Directors and staff to assess our current needs.
You can find the current guidelines for ARPA funding from the U.S. Treasury Department here.

Child Abuse Prevention Month


April is Child Abuse Prevention Month. In the last fiscal year there were over 1,400 cases of child abuse or neglect in Oklahoma County involving more than 2,700 children. Oklahoma is ranked number one in the country for individuals with more than two adverse childhood experiences. Research also shows that parents and caregivers who have social networks and the know-how to seek help in times of trouble are more resilient and better able to provide safe environments and nurturing experiences for their children

I was proud to partner with the organizations leading the charge on child abuse prevention in Oklahoma County to recognize this month. Pictured are representatives from CASA of Oklahoma County, Oklahoma Human Services, Sunbeam Family Services, Citizens Caring for Children, and the CARE Center. You can find the full text of our resolution here.

I also got to participate in the CARE Center's paint the town blue campaign with a delicious Hurts Doughnut and a snow cone from Sasquatch Shaved Ice.

We can all help prevent child abuse by making sure the parents in our community have the resources they need to care for their children appropriately and making sure the children in our lives have safe adults to come to when they need help. You can report suspected cases of abuse and neglect by calling 1-800-522-3511.

Second Chance Month


April is also Second Chance Month! Seventy million Americans have a criminal record, over 19,000 Oklahomans are incarcerated, and 23,000 Oklahomans are on probation or parole.

Individuals involved in the criminal legal system often struggle to find housing, employment, or education, regain voting rights, volunteer in their community, and pay for the significant debt resulting from their contact with the criminal legal system. These barriers can contribute to recidivism, increasing victimization, and decreasing public safety.

We partnered with the Oklahoma County Criminal Justice Advisory Council, Goodwill, Center for Employment Opportunities, ReMerge, OKC Metro Alliance, STAAR Foundation, and MetroTech to recognize Second Chance Month. You can find the full text of our resolution here.

If you're interested in learning more about Fair Chance employment, you can find the Greater OKC & CJAC Fair Chance Hiring Toolkit here.

Our community is safer when we give folks the resources to succeed. Everyone deserves a second chance.

Honoring Student-Athletes

Jones Lady Longhorns 3A State Champions - AGAIN!

I was thrilled to invite the Jones High School Girls Basketball team back to recognize them for their second consecutive State Championship. The girls took state last year and were poised to do so in 2020 but did not get the chance to compete because of COVID-19. The Lady Longhorns had a fantastic season winning 24 out of 28 games, and they are positioned for a threepeat with all of their team members returning for next year's season.


Millwood Falcons 3A Boys Champions

We also honored the Millwood High School Boys Basketball team for their 3A Championship this month! This is the 16th State Title for the Falcons, and they are tied with Booker T. Washington for the most State Championships. This season they set a new record for the most number of wins at the state tournament, winning 78% of the time with 72 wins.

  


Belle Isle Library Grand Re-Opening!


I was thrilled to attend the Belle Isle Library's Grand Re-Opening! This beautiful space is an invaluable resource in our community for people of all ages in all stages of life! If you have not been yet, you should go as soon as possible. You can find all of the fantastic services and resources our library system offers at metrolibrary.org.

I also had a lot of fun doing an Instagram Live with Metro Library this month to discuss the new Belle Isle Library and everything our library system offers. You can watch that here.

Pet of the Month -

Meet Loretta!


After being adopted in February, Loretta has settled in nicely to her new home in District 1. She enjoys watching the birds out of her window, lounging on her favorite records, and attacking her human’s feet when he sleeps in past her breakfast time.

Nominate Your Pet!

There is no need to renominate pets who have been previously nominated.

Del City Chamber Annual Awards & Hall of Fame Banquet

Del City Chamber Annual Awards &

Hall of Fame Banquet

Congratulations Award Recipients

Pictures Courtesy of Jeff Harrison and the Midwest City Beacon

 

Welcome 2022 Del City Chamber Board

Thank you to our Sponsors!

Highlights and Picture from the 2022 Del City Chamber Annual Awards and Hall of Fame Banquet

Pictures Courtesy of Jeff Harrison and the Midwest City Beacon

County Commissioner News Update.

As the rates of COVID-19 infections fluctuate, we are cautiously evaluating operation policies. Here are some updates on what's happening in Oklahoma County.

Clearing OK County Roads 


Our crews were up early Thursday morning to make sure 250 lane miles of Oklahoma County's snow routes were clear to drive on. The District 1 crew also pretreated 80 intersections and 21 bridges before precipitation began.

Additionally, our crews treated and cleared parking lots for local emergency services, Oklahoma County Emergency Management, the Sheriff's Office, and the Juvenile Justice Center.

Oklahoma County's ARPA Funding


Oklahoma County was awarded $154 million from the American Rescue Plan Act. All funds must be allocated by 2024 and spent by 2026.

At this time, the Oklahoma County Board of County Commissioners has not taken any action to allocate ARPA funding. The Oklahoma County Board of County Commissioners has taken official action to hire a consultant to assist with guideline interpretation and evaluate community needs for funding. We have selected a contractor but have not finalized a contract.

I will continue to keep you informed regarding Oklahoma County's ARPA funding.
You can find the current guidelines for ARPA funding from the U.S. Treasury Department here.

Virtual Town Hall with Commissioner Carrie

Join me, Emergency Management Director David Barnes, and Jail Trust Member Loretta Radford at a virtual town hall this month! Here are the details:

Virtual Town Hall with Commissioner Carrie
February 24, 2022 - 5:30 PM
Zoom

Meet Ronda Walzer 

Appointee to the Board of Adjustments

Ronda Walzer is a Senior Manager at Love’s Travel Stops and leads the Customer Accounting Department. During her 17 years at Love’s, she has served in various roles within accounting leadership. She is also very active on the company’s Inclusion and Diversity Steering Committee.

Ronda holds a master’s degree in Accounting from Oklahoma State University and began her career in public accounting with KPMG. She was also the Chief Accountant at an electric cooperative, where she spent nine years in the accounting department. She was a key player on a major system implementation team and started the hedge accounting policies and procedures during that time.

Ronda has been involved in several community organizations throughout her professional career and currently serves as a local board member for Junior Achievement and Bella SPCA. Ronda has a passion for promoting nutrition and health awareness and helped implement the wellness program for Love’s. Ronda and her wife, Lynda, enjoy playing pickleball, golf, and traveling in their spare time.

Oakdale Activity Field & Parent Access Road

The Oklahoma County District 1 Road and Bridge Crew is working with Oakdale Public Schools to construct an access road for parents. Additionally, we are doing the dirt work for their new activity field.
Working with school districts is one of my favorite parts of this job. It is my greatest honor to help build safe places for our kids to learn and play.

COVID-19 Vaccines


Anyone over 5 is eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. I am incredibly grateful that most county employees have had the opportunity to receive it, and folks in the jail are offered the vaccine upon booking.

If you have not already received your vaccine or scheduled an appointment, I strongly encourage you to do so. These vaccines are safe and effective, and as new variants emerge, being vaccinated is your best protection against the most dangerous symptoms of the virus.

If you're still not sure, I ask that you talk to your personal doctor about the vaccine's safety and the best options for your health.

January Pet of the Month


Meet Charlie! He is a four-year-old mini Aussie. He loves to chase squirrels and tennis balls that squeak. His whole back end wiggles when he’s happy, and it often gets out in front of him, and he has to turn all the way around. He has springs in his back legs and will leap through the backyard like a deer when the mood strikes him, especially in the snow. Charlie is a grass connoisseur - if a yard is just tall enough and lush enough, Charlie will have to rub his belly and face it, but only if the grass is just right.

Nominate Your Pet!

There is no need to renominate pets who have been previously nominated.

OK County Courthouse & Annex Closed 2.3.22 (Conditions being monitored regarding Friday).

The Oklahoma County Courthouse and Annex will close today (February 3, 2022). 
 

The Oklahoma County Courthouse and Annex will be closed today, Thursday, February 3. 
 

Oklahoma County officials will continue monitoring conditions to make a decision regarding Friday.

Information about closures is available on oklahomacounty.org and your favorite local news station.

Burn Ban in Effect Until February 14, 2022

Oklahoma County's burn ban has been extended until February 14, 2022.

It is illegal to set fire to any forest, grass, range, crop, or other wildlands, build a campfire or bonfire or burn trash or other material that may cause a forest, grass, range, crop, or other wildland fire.

You can use approved cooking appliances with caution when cooking outdoors.

Violating this ban is a misdemeanor, and it is punishable by a fine of up to $500, imprisonment up to a year, or both.

Find the full text of the resolution here:https://bit.ly/3L1XZPt

SBA - Deadline Approaching in Oklahoma for SBA Working Capital Loans Due to Drought

NEWS RELEASE

Disaster Field Operations Center West

Release Date:  Jan. 21, 2022

Contact:  Richard A. Jenkins, (916) 735-1500, Richard.Jenkins@sba.gov

Release Number:  OK 17012-02

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Deadline Approaching in Oklahoma for SBA Working Capital Loans Due to Drought

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Director Tanya N. Garfield of the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Disaster Field Operations Center-West today reminded small nonfarm businesses in 19 Oklahoma counties of the Feb. 22, 2022, deadline to apply for an SBA federal disaster loan for economic injury. These low‑interest loans are to offset economic losses because of reduced revenues caused by drought in the following primary counties that began April 6, 2021.

 

Primary counties:  Caddo, Canadian, Grady and Kiowa;

Neighboring counties:  Beckham, Blaine, Cleveland, Comanche, Custer, Garvin, Greer, Jackson, Kingfisher, Logan, McClain, Oklahoma, Stephens, Tillman and Washita.

 

According to Garfield, small nonfarm businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and most private nonprofit organizations of any size may apply for Economic Injury Disaster Loans of up to $2 million to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster. “Economic Injury Disaster Loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills that cannot be paid because of the disaster’s impact,” said Garfield.

 

“SBA eligibility covers both the economic impacts on businesses dependent on farmers and ranchers that have suffered agricultural production losses caused by the disaster and businesses directly impacted by the disaster. Economic injury assistance is available regardless of whether the applicant suffered any property damage,” Garfield added.

 

The interest rate is 3 percent for businesses and 2 percent for private nonprofit organizations with terms up to 30 years. Loan amounts and terms are set by SBA and are based on each applicant’s financial condition.

 

By law, SBA makes Economic Injury Disaster Loans available when the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture designates an agricultural disaster. The Secretary declared this disaster on June 22, 2021.

 

Businesses primarily engaged in farming or ranching are not eligible for SBA disaster assistance. Agricultural enterprises should contact the Farm Services Agency about the U.S. Department of Agriculture assistance made available by the Secretary’s declaration. However, in drought disasters nurseries are eligible for SBA disaster assistance.

 

Applicants may apply online, receive additional disaster assistance information and download applications at https://disasterloanassistance.sba.gov/. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. Individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing may call (800) 877-8339. Completed applications should be mailed to U.S. Small Business Administration, Processing and Disbursement Center, 14925 Kingsport Road, Fort Worth, TX  76155.

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 About the U.S. Small Business Administration

The U.S. Small Business Administration makes the American dream of business ownership a reality. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow or expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

 

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