<![CDATA[Oklahoma Hotel & Lodging Association - Press Releases]]>Fri, 15 May 2026 12:04:10 -0700EditMySite<![CDATA[Oklahoma Hotel & Lodging Association Celebrates Industry Excellence at Annual Lodging Summit]]>Fri, 23 Jan 2026 08:00:00 GMThttps://www.oklahomahotels.org/press-releases/oklahoma-hotel-lodging-association-celebrates-industry-excellence-at-annual-lodging-summitOklahoma City, OK – January 21, 2026 – The Oklahoma Hotel & Lodging Association (OHLA) celebrated the state's hospitality professionals at its Annual Lodging Summit on January 20, 2026, at OKANA Resort & Indoor Waterpark. The premier event brought together lodging operators from across Oklahoma for networking, industry insights, and recognition of excellence in hospitality.
Event Highlights
The summit featured several signature components designed to advance the industry and honor its leaders:
Annual Membership & Board of Directors Meeting – OHLA members elected a new Board of Directors and heard from Amy Blackburn, Executive Director of the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department, who addressed opportunities in Oklahoma Tourism. Agent Kevin Connolly from the Oklahoma County District Attorney's Organized Retail Crime Ring Unit office also provided insights on fraudulent credit card incidents.
OHLA Expo – Industry professionals connected with leading providers of products and services essential to successful lodging operations, discovering innovative tools and resources.
3rd Annual Heart for Hospitality Celebration – The summit's centerpiece event honored the unsung heroes of Oklahoma's lodging industry for their exceptional contributions to the state's thriving hospitality sector.
Award Recipients
The Heart for Hospitality Awards recognized outstanding individuals and teams for their dedication and service:
  • Outstanding Lodging Employee Award: Tracey Siemsen, Northwest Inn-Woodward
  • Excellence in Leadership Award: Jeff Hartman, SJS Hospitality-Tulsa
  • OHLA Outstanding Volunteer Award: Rebecca Eastham, PHD
  • 20 Year Board of Director’s Service Award: Rex Amsler- Atrium Hospitality
Additionally, outstanding Hotel team associates were celebrated for their outstanding contributions and received over $4,500 in prizes.
 
Hotels on the Hill Scholarship Recipients
Three hospitality professionals received scholarships to represent Oklahoma at American Hotel & Lodging Association’s Hotels on the Hill in Washington, D.C.:
  • Heather Weides, Skirvin Hilton Hotel
  • Jason Clark, The Ambassador, Oklahoma City
  • Gerson Velasquez. OKANA Resort and Indoor Waterpark
Leadership Statement
"The Lodging Summit was not only a celebration of Oklahoma's vibrant lodging industry, but also a platform for collaboration and growth," said James Leewright, CEO of the Oklahoma Hotel & Lodging Association. "It was an opportunity to recognize the individuals and teams whose hard work and commitment shape the success of our industry. We were thrilled to bring our community together for another year of innovation, networking, and recognition."
Partner Recognition
OHLA extends gratitude to its partners: Visit Oklahoma City (Exclusive Presenting Partner of Distinguished Awards), Ecolab (Exclusive Partner of the Commemorative Honoree Gift), Auto-Chlor System (Grand Finale Partner), and a host of additional Heart for Hospitality Partners including 110 Events, Clearwater Enterprises, Cory's A/V, McGregor Insurance Group, OKANA Resort and Waterpark, Partners in Hospitality, Precision Linen by Spark Hospitality, Shake Rattle & Roll Audio-Visual, Total Roofing Solutions, and Versacor Managed Pest Solutions.
About OHLA
Incorporated in 1974, the Oklahoma Hotel & Lodging Association is Oklahoma's trade association for the hotel and lodging industry. The OHLA actively provides pro-active advocacy, education and resources for operators and professionals in all types of lodging businesses throughout the state of Oklahoma. Hotel guest spending in our state equals $5.5 billion, and over 78,000 guest rooms exist in Oklahoma. The OHLA is a state partner of the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA).
Contact: Oklahoma Hotel & Lodging Association- Dawn Norton, Manager, Marketing and Communications dawn@oklahomahospitality.com]]><![CDATA[Honoring Oklahoma’s Lodging Industry Heroes at the Omni Hotel OKC]]>Wed, 29 Jan 2025 18:01:13 GMThttps://www.oklahomahotels.org/press-releases/honoring-oklahomas-lodging-industry-heroes-at-the-omni-hotel-okcOklahoma City, OK – January 21, 2025 – The Oklahoma Hotel & Lodging Association (OHLA) proudly hosted its highly anticipated Annual Lodging Summit on January 21, 2025, at the Omni Hotel OKC. This premier event brought together lodging operators from across the state of Oklahoma for a day of networking, industry insights, and celebration of excellence within the hospitality sector.

As OHLA’s most exciting event of the year, the Lodging Summit provided lodging professionals with the opportunity to connect with colleagues and industry leaders, gain valuable knowledge, and foster partnerships that contribute to their continued success. The day included several key highlights:

The Annual Membership & Board of Directors Meeting featured the election of OHLA’s new Board of Directors and included a special address by Oklahoma Labor Commissioner Leslie Osborn, who shared insights on workforce issues impacting the hospitality industry.

The OHLA Vendor Expo provided attendees with a chance to engage with top providers of products and services essential to running a successful lodging operation. It was a unique opportunity to discover new tools, resources, and innovations for the industry.

The 2nd Annual Heart for Hospitality Celebration was a significant highlight of the day, where the unsung heroes of Oklahoma’s lodging industry were honored for their exceptional contributions. The celebration featured a keynote address from Lt. Governor Matt Pinnell, who recognized the outstanding achievements of those who have made a significant impact on Oklahoma's thriving hospitality sector.

During the Heart for Hospitality Awards, individuals and teams who demonstrated exceptional dedication and service in the lodging industry were recognized for their contributions to the growth and development of Oklahoma's hospitality community.

This year, Mackenzie Plank of The Skirvin Hilton Hotel was honored with the Outstanding Lodging Employee Award, recognizing her unwavering dedication and exceptional service. Additionally, Blane Thompson of the Ellison Hotel received the Excellence in Leadership Award, acknowledging his outstanding leadership and vision in shaping the future of the industry. Both awards reflected the highest standards of excellence, and it was an honor to recognize them among their peers.

We also congratulated Micha Krodel of Cory's A/V, who received the OHLA Outstanding Volunteer Award for her tireless efforts and dedication to supporting the OHLA community. Micha’s invaluable contributions have been pivotal to the association’s success, and her volunteerism has greatly enriched the lodging industry in Oklahoma.

In addition, we were proud to celebrate our three scholarship recipients who will represent Oklahoma at Hotels on the Hill in Washington, D.C.:

Brandi Thomas of Hilton Garden Inn Lawton Ft. Sill, who won her scholarship from OKWIL.
Michael Grisar of Choctaw Resorts, who received his scholarship from the OHLA.
Dena Jones of Champion Hotels, who also won a scholarship from the OHLA.

These exceptional professionals will have the opportunity to advocate for Oklahoma's lodging industry on a national stage, and we wish them great success as they represent our state in Washington, D.C.

Finally, we were excited to announce Hilton Garden Inn Lawton Ft. Sill as the recipient of the $1,000 prize, recognizing their outstanding contributions to the success of the Lodging Summit.

James Leewright, CEO of the Oklahoma Hotel & Lodging Association, emphasized the significance of the event: "The Lodging Summit was not only a celebration of Oklahoma’s vibrant lodging industry, but also a platform for collaboration and growth. It was an opportunity to recognize the individuals and teams whose hard work and commitment shape the success of our industry. We were thrilled to bring our community together for another year of innovation, networking, and recognition."

As we conclude this memorable celebration, we would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to our incredible partners for their unwavering support. A special thank you to our Exclusive Presenting of Distinguished Awards partner, Visit Oklahoma City, and our Exclusive Commemorative Honoree Gift sponsor, Ecolab. We also appreciate the generosity of our Heart for Hospitality Partner, 110 Events, and the dedication of Burggraf Disaster Restoration, Clearwater Enterprises, Integrated Payment Systems, McGregor Insurance Group, Omni Hotels & Resorts Oklahoma City, Partners In Hospitality, Precision Linen by Spark Hospitality, Shake Rattle & Roll Audio-Visual, and Versacor Managed Pest Solutions. Last but certainly not least, we are grateful to our Grand Finale Partner, Auto-Chlor System, for their essential role in making this event a resounding success.

Together, these outstanding partners helped bring this event to life, exemplifying the spirit of collaboration and excellence. Thank you for your continued support and commitment to our community and industry. We look forward to future opportunities to work together and celebrate excellence once again.

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Incorporated in 1974, the Oklahoma Hotel & Lodging Association is Oklahoma's trade association for the hotel and lodging industry. The OHLA actively provides pro-active advocacy, education and resources for operators and professionals in all types of lodging businesses throughout the state of Oklahoma. Hotel guest spending in our state equals $5.5 billion, and over 78,000 guest rooms exist in Oklahoma. The OHLA is a state partner of the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA).
]]><![CDATA[Industry Alert: Hotel Tax Increase Passes!]]>Thu, 12 Sep 2024 16:05:52 GMThttps://www.oklahomahotels.org/press-releases/industry-alert-hotel-tax-increase-passes
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Hotel Tax Increase Passes!

On behalf of Visit Oklahoma City and the nearly 35,000 locals that work in hospitality, I want to thank the citizens of OKC for voting in support of tourism and the vital role it plays in our community and economy. 

Our 24 million annual visitors are the lifeblood of hotels and attractions, plus small businesses – from restaurants to retail to our many distinct districts. Visitors also
generate revenue for city investments such as the convention center, coliseum, arena and premier sporting venues in all parts of OKC. 

Thank you for taking the time to support this campaign in big and small ways. From speaking at City Council to writing letters of support to activating your networks and ultimately casting your vote – we appreciate all you do to move our city forward.

I also want to thank Mayor Holt and the OKC City Council for their understanding and support of how visitors impact our quality of life as residents.

Together, we’ve built a dynamic destination and now it’s time to tell the world! 

Zac Craig  
President
Visit Oklahoma City
]]><![CDATA[Hospitality Day at the Capitol: Uniting for Oklahoma's Future]]>Wed, 26 Jun 2024 16:17:48 GMThttps://www.oklahomahotels.org/press-releases/hospitality-day-at-the-capitol-uniting-for-oklahomas-future
Oklahoma City, OK – In a remarkable demonstration of unity and advocacy, Hospitality Day at the Capitol and the "A Tasteful Affair" Legislative Reception have successfully brought together industry leaders from the Oklahoma Restaurant Association (ORA), Oklahoma Travel Industry Association (OTIA), and Oklahoma Hotel & Lodging Association (OHLA) alongside state legislators. These events underscored the significant role of the restaurant, tourism, and lodging sectors in enhancing Oklahoma’s economy.

The Day at the Capitol saw an impressive participation of 225 attendees, highlighting the dedication of our industry to engage with policymakers on critical issues. This was an exciting opportunity to discuss the contributions our sectors make in generating tax revenue, creating jobs, and supporting local communities throughout Oklahoma.
Building on the day's momentum, the Embassy Suites by Hilton Oklahoma City Downtown/Medical Center provided a wonderful setting for the "A Tasteful Affair" Legislative Reception. Which welcomed 420 guests, facilitating invaluable interactions between members and legislators. The reception showcased the best of Oklahoma's culinary scene and craft brewing, symbolizing the vibrancy and diversity of our state's hospitality offerings.

We extend our gratitude to all participants and, notably, to our partners whose support was instrumental:
Presidential Partner:
  • Asian American Hotel Owners Association
Congressional Partners:
  • 110 Events
  • Clearwater Energy Services
  • Embassy Suites by Hilton Oklahoma City Downtown/Medical Center
  • Republic National Distributing Company
  • Superior Linen Service
  • US Foods
Advocate Partners:
  • Auto-Chlor System
  • Ben E. Keith
  • Cintas
  • Ecolab
  • GoFresh
  • Heartland
  • McGregor Insurance Company
Their contributions not only facilitated these remarkable events but also reinforced the collective ambition to promote growth, innovation, and collaboration. We hope that the success of these gatherings inspires continued dialogue and partnership across all sectors involved in our state's vibrant hospitality landscape.

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About ORA
Founded in 1933, the Oklahoma Restaurant Association is the trade association of restaurants and foodservice operations, the state's largest private industry employer. Representing more than 4,500 restaurants and members, the ORA actively monitors legislation and regulatory agencies; helps foodservice owners and management develop and strengthen business operations; and inspires membership to do together for the industry what cannot be done individually.
 
About OTIA
Founded in 1987, the Oklahoma Travel Industry Association (OTIA) was formed primarily to provide tourism education and lobby on behalf of the tourism industry as well as support the efforts of the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department in its funding of the State's tourism promotion campaign. OTIA now serves as the trade association for the travel and tourism industry. Representing tourism entities, operators, and members across the state, the OTIA develops the membership to do together for the industry what cannot be done individually.
 
About OHLA
Incorporated in 1974, the Oklahoma Hotel & Lodging Association is Oklahoma's trade association for the hotel and lodging industry. The OHLA actively provides pro-active advocacy, education and resources for operators and professionals in all types of lodging businesses throughout the state of Oklahoma. Hotel guest spending in our state equals $5.5 billion, and over 78,000 guest rooms exist in Oklahoma. The OHLA is a state partner of the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA).
                                                                                                                 ###
 
]]><![CDATA[Oklahoma Hotel and Lodging Association Announces 2024 Board of Directors]]>Wed, 26 Jun 2024 16:13:46 GMThttps://www.oklahomahotels.org/press-releases/oklahoma-hotel-and-lodging-association-announces-2024-board-of-directors
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OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla.,— The Oklahoma Hotel and Lodging Association (OHLA) announced its 2024 Board of Directors at its annual Lodging Summit on January 17, 2024, at the Skirvin Hilton Oklahoma City.
 
"The OHLA Board has consistently been a gathering of the brightest minds in Oklahoma's Lodging sector," says
James Leewright, OHLA Chief Executive Officer. "This fantastic team of directors is ready and equipped to tackle the changing needs of our members and their lodging establishments while adding to OHLA's impressive track record of success."
 
The OHLA has elected the following board members who represent membership around the state:
 
Officers for 2024 include:
Chair – David Davis, Spark Hospitality, Edmond
Vice Chair – Gabby Trad, Hilton Garden Inn & Conference Center, Edmond
Treasurer – Chase Rollins, Skirvin Hilton Hotel, Oklahoma City
Secretary –Michael Grisar, Choctaw Casinos, Durant
Immediate Past Chair – Arti Patel, Pristine Hospitality, Del City
Chief Executive Officer – James Leewright, Oklahoma Hotel & Lodging Association, Oklahoma City
President – Patti Colley, Oklahoma Hotel & Lodging Association, Oklahoma City
 
OHLA Board of Directors includes:
 
Western District:
Kyle Allen, Residence Inn OKC North Quail, Oklahoma City
Kristin Chambless, Courtyard by Marriot, Oklahoma City
David Davis, Spark Hospitality, Edmond
Mike Farney, Champion Hotels, Oklahoma City
Christian Harris, Embassy Suites, Downtown Oklahoma City
Steve Keenan, Omni Hotel, Oklahoma City
Ryan Parker, Tradition’s Hospitality Group/Riverwind Hotel, Norman
Amit Patel, Pristine Hospitality, Oklahoma City
Arti Patel, Springhill Suites/Pristine Hospitality, Del City
Brandi Thomas, Hilton Garden Inn, Lawton
Gabby Trad, Hilton Garden Inn & Conference Center, Edmond
Blane Thompson, The Ellison Hotel, Oklahoma City
 
Eastern District:
Bryan Davis, West Bay Casino & Resort, Kingston
Charles DiClemente, Doubletree Hotel, Tulsa
Michael Grisar, Choctaw Casinos, Durant
Andrew Hargis, Hyatt Regency Downtown, Tulsa
Michelle Hartman, Hotel Indigo Downtown, Tulsa
Dena Jones, Wyndham Garden/Champion Hotels, Oklahoma City
Kyle Lippe, Renaissance Hotel, Tulsa
Ross Martin, Hampton Inn & Suites, Stillwater
Nora Miller, Coury Hospitality, Tulsa
Joe Martin, Stillwater Hospitality, Stillwater
Luis Nazario, The Tulsa Club, Tulsa
Kyle Reans, River Spirit Casino & Resort, Tulsa
 
At-Large Director
Jason Clark, The Ambassador Hotel, Oklahoma City
Matt Cowden, The Ellison Hotel, Oklahoma City
Jeff Hartman, SJS Hospitality, Tulsa
Chase Rollins, Skirvin Hilton Hotel, Oklahoma City
Dar Yassari, Bradford House, Oklahoma City
 
Associate Directors
Rex Amsler, Wyndham Grand, Downtown Oklahoma City
Jeff Erwin, Villa Teresa Hotel Development, Oklahoma City
John Kelly, Hensley’s Hospitality LLC, El Reno
Pete Patel, Promise Hotels, Tulsa
Jeff Penner, Champion Hotels, Oklahoma City
Robert Slater, Southern Hospitality, Oklahoma City
 
Advisory Directors
Scott Blevin, Heartland, Oklahoma City
David Cable, Auto-Chlor Services, Oklahoma City
Zac Craig, Visit Oklahoma City, Oklahoma City
Ted Holmes, HotelBrokerOne, Oklahoma City
Ed Lynn, Buffalo Wild Wings, Oklahoma City
Heather McGregor, McGregor Insurance Group, Tulsa
Loredana “Lori” Perry, Ecolab, Oklahoma City
Dr. Kevin So, OSU School of Hospitality & Tourism Management, Stillwater
                                                                              
​                                                                              ###
Incorporated in 1974, the Oklahoma Hotel & Lodging Association is Oklahoma's trade association for the hotel and lodging industry. The OHLA actively provides pro-active advocacy, education, and resources for operators and professionals in all types of lodging businesses throughout the state of Oklahoma. Hotel guest spending in our state equals $5.5 billion, and over 78,000 guest rooms exist in Oklahoma. The OHLA is a state partner of the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA).
                                                                                  ###

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