Hospitality Day at the Capitol: Uniting for Oklahoma's 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).
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