If you’re downtown this week, be sure to come to a complete stop at crosswalks and get ready to wear your friendly hat. Starting Thursday, and running through June 14, mayors from over 36 states across the United States will be converging on the region to take in the 78th Annual U.S. Conference of Mayors. Oklahoma City Mayor Mick Cornett will serve as the primary host, as the conference was his big get when he started serving on the Executive Committee a few years ago. Edmond Mayor Patrice Douglas and Moore’s Glenn Lewis are among the early participants slated to attend.
The mayors, their staff members and families will enjoy a weekend of forums and evening events. Some of the agenda topics include the economy, job creation and economic development, immigration, energy efficiency, the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, the growing number of vacant and abandoned properties in America’s cities, high speed rail and education reform.
Evening entertainment includes the deadCENTER Film Festival, Oklahoma City RedHawks game, a genuine Southern Plains Hoe Down, multiple parties and functions and a Sunday night, first-ever performance of the Flaming Lips with the Oklahoma City Philharmonic.
Let’s call this another huge opportunity to show the country the remarkable progress that we have made as a region, and let’s welcome all of our peers and colleagues from across the country.