Bleed Crimson. Orange Power. Boomer Sooner. Pistols firing. Ask any Oklahoman who their favorite college football team is, and there’s a 97% chance one of these phrases will be the response. We’ve been accused of taking college football too seriously before, but if you ever head to Norman or Stillwater on gameday, you’ll see what all the fuss is about. Before you make that drive, though, here are five things to know about college football in Oklahoma to prepare you for the gameday fanfare.

1. The Oklahoma Sooners have the 4th winningest college football program of all-time, behind only Michigan, Notre Dame and Ohio State in terms of winning percentage.
2. Boone Pickens Stadium at Oklahoma State University is the oldest in the Big 12 Conference, with football being played there since 1913.
3. Oklahoma was named the 2nd best state for college football.
4. OU and OSU are both ranked in the top 10 of the Associated Press’ 2017 preseason poll.
5. OSU’s first game is Aug. 31 against the University of Tulsa and OU’s first game is Sept. 2 against UTEP.

OU and OSU aren’t the only universities in Oklahoma where college football is popular. Programs at a number of smaller colleges are great places to find gridiron action. Here’s just a few:

1. University of Central Oklahoma Bronchos - The Bronchos have been playing football since 1902 and are currently a NCAA Division II athletic program. UCO has won two national titles (1962, 1982) and has had several players play in the NFL.
2. Southern Nazarene University Crimson Storm - The Crimson Storm is one of the newest programs in the state, playing its first game in 2000. The team has posted 11 winning seasons in its brief history. SNU is located in Bethany.
3. Langston University Lions - Located in Langston, the Lions have a strong football history, including producing NFL Pro-Bowler and Super Bowl Champion Thomas “Hollywood” Henderson.
4. Oklahoma Baptist University Bison - Playing in Shawnee, OBU has fielded a football team for more than 100 years and went 8-3 last season.

When it comes to the popularity of football in Oklahoma, the buck doesn’t stop with college. For many, that’s not even where it starts. Oklahoman’s love for football begins a little closer to home with individual town’s high school football teams. Oklahoma high schools have produced more than 400 NFL players and are consistently popular places for college football recruiters to discover fresh talent.

In many places throughout the state, gathering under the Friday night lights is a community ritual. It’s a time for communities to come together and have fun cheering on their favorite teams that strikes close to home. Check out a high school game near you to get involved with the community and see future gridiron stars in the making.

[Photo credit: Steven Christy]

Whether you’re a fan of football or, well, fútbol, OKC has a place and a team for you. The OKC Energy is the city’s professional soccer team and is part of the United Soccer League, the largest professional soccer league in the world with 29 teams. Around for only three years, the OKC Energy has already had a tremendous impact on the Oklahoma City sports scene and community through camps, youth club partnerships and more.

OKC Energy soccer is a great way to spend time with family and friends as you cheer on a team that is growing in popularity. So popular, in fact, that a new soccer stadium may be in the works that will move the Energy up to Major League Soccer.

You can take a look at the Energy’s soccer schedule on their website here. And when you go, don’t forget to practice yelling goal like this guy to get you in the soccer spirit.

Tuesday, August 29
Bricktown Beach Bash; All day; Third Base Plaza at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark; This event is free.
Kehinde Wiley: A New Republic; All day; Oklahoma City Museum of Art; 405-236-3100; Ticket prices vary.
Ray Harryhausen – Mythical Menagerie; Regular Museum Hours; Science Museum Oklahoma.
We the People: A Portrait of Early Oklahoma; Regular Museum Hours; National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum; 478-2250; Regular Museum Admission.
2017 Wheeler Criterium; 5:30 p.m.; Wheeler District; This event is free.
New Orleans Baby Cakes vs. Oklahoma City Dodgers; 7:05 p.m.; Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark; Ticket prices vary.

Wednesday, August 30
Bricktown Beach Bash; All day; Third Base Plaza at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark; This event is free.
Kehinde Wiley: A New Republic; All day; Oklahoma City Museum of Art; 405-236-3100; Ticket prices vary.
Ray Harryhausen – Mythical Menagerie; Regular Museum Hours; Science Museum Oklahoma.
We the People: A Portrait of Early Oklahoma; Regular Museum Hours; National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum; 478-2250; Regular Museum Admission.
New Orleans Baby Cakes vs. Oklahoma City Dodgers; 7:05 p.m.; Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark; Ticket prices vary.
Smash Mouth; 7:30 p.m.; Tower Theatre; Ticket prices vary.

Thursday, August 31
Bricktown Beach Bash; All day; Third Base Plaza at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark; This event is free.
Ray Harryhausen – Mythical Menagerie; Regular Museum Hours; Science Museum Oklahoma.
Kehinde Wiley: A New Republic; All day; Oklahoma City Museum of Art; 405-236-3100; Ticket prices vary.
We the People: A Portrait of Early Oklahoma; Regular Museum Hours; National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum; 478-2250; Regular Museum Admission.
New Orleans Baby Cakes vs. Oklahoma City Dodgers; 7:05 p.m.; Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark; Ticket prices vary.

Friday, September 1
Kehinde Wiley: A New Republic; All day; Oklahoma City Museum of Art; 405-236-3100; Ticket prices vary.
Ray Harryhausen – Mythical Menagerie; Regular Museum Hours; Science Museum Oklahoma.
We the People: A Portrait of Early Oklahoma; Regular Museum Hours; National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum; 478-2250; Regular Museum Admission.
First Fridays on the Paseo; 6 to 10 p.m.; Paseo Arts District; 525-2688; This event is free.

Saturday, September 2
Kehinde Wiley: A New Republic; All day; Oklahoma City Museum of Art; 405-236-3100; Ticket prices vary.
Ray Harryhausen – Mythical Menagerie; Regular Museum Hours; Science Museum Oklahoma.
We the People: A Portrait of Early Oklahoma; Regular Museum Hours; National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum; 478-2250; Regular Museum Admission.
Talib Kweli; 8 p.m.; Tower Theatre; Ticket prices vary.

Sunday, September 3
Kehinde Wiley: A New Republic; All day; Oklahoma City Museum of Art; 405-236-3100; Ticket prices vary.
Ray Harryhausen – Mythical Menagerie; Regular Museum Hours; Science Museum Oklahoma.
We the People: A Portrait of Early Oklahoma; Regular Museum Hours; National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum; 478-2250; Regular Museum Admission.
Lil’ Boozie; 8:30 p.m.; The Criterion; Ticket prices vary.

Monday, September 4
Bricktown Beach Bash; All day; Third Base Plaza at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark; This event is free.
Kehinde Wiley: A New Republic; All day; Oklahoma City Museum of Art; 405-236-3100; Ticket prices vary.
Ray Harryhausen – Mythical Menagerie; Regular Museum Hours; Science Museum Oklahoma.
We the People: A Portrait of Early Oklahoma; Regular Museum Hours; National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum; 478-2250; Regular Museum Admission.
New Orleans Baby Cakes vs. Oklahoma City Dodgers; 7:05 p.m.; Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark; Ticket prices vary.

As a loyal TBL reader, you know we’re all about making new residents feel at home. If you are new to Oklahoma City or know someone who is, the Welcome Guide is a must-read publication. What is a Welcome Guide? It packs all the most important info a new resident could want into one handy, dandy guide. Between that, this blog and our website, newcomers to our great city should feel at home in a jiffy. Don’t forget to share it with friends who are new to the area or who may be thinking about their next move.

Welcome Guide 2017

You don’t have to live in Oklahoma City long to realize people here love their sports. Be it Thunder, Cowboys, Sooners, Energy, Dodgers or anything in between the people here are fanatic about their favorite teams. The Sporting Life section of our website gives you a great snapshot of athletics in the 4-0-5. Team sports not your bag? We (really Oklahoma City) have you covered. On the page you can also find info on golf courses, lakes, the Oklahoma River, running, cycling and more. Do you see something we missed? Be sure to let us know and we will get it added.

We know just how critical educational opportunities are any time someone relocates to a new community. Here at Better Life HQ we want to help answer any questions you have about education in OKC. Check out the education tab on our website to get more info on everything from public schools, private schools, charter schools, universities and childcare.

With more than 18 public and private schools with 125,000 college students, we believe Greater OKC offers an educational fit for every type of student. Be sure to visit the university section of our website for more information and links on the schools we talked about and more.

If you can’t find the info you are looking for on our website, give us a shout on Facebook, Twitter or the comments below, and we will help you gain more knowledge on the wealth of educational opportunities in our region.

Moving can be stressful … moving and then trying to find a job? Forget about it. The good thing is Oklahoma provides some great resources and tools for those looking for employment. We’ve got a good rundown of available tools in the employment section of our website. Be sure to check out the info on OKJobMatch. The website allows you to upload your resume, search for jobs and allows employers to search for you. We also have a good list of local headhunting firms, staffing companies and more.

Tuesday, August 22
Bricktown Beach Bash; All day; Third Base Plaza at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark; This event is free.
Kehinde Wiley: A New Republic; All day; Oklahoma City Museum of Art; 405-236-3100; Ticket prices vary.
Ray Harryhausen – Mythical Menagerie; Regular Museum Hours; Science Museum Oklahoma.
2017 Wheeler Criterium; 5:30 p.m.; Wheeler District; This event is free.

Wednesday, August 23
Bricktown Beach Bash; All day; Third Base Plaza at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark; This event is free.
Kehinde Wiley: A New Republic; All day; Oklahoma City Museum of Art; 405-236-3100; Ticket prices vary.
Ray Harryhausen – Mythical Menagerie; Regular Museum Hours; Science Museum Oklahoma.

Thursday, August 24
Bricktown Beach Bash; All day; Third Base Plaza at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark; This event is free.
Kehinde Wiley: A New Republic; All day; Oklahoma City Museum of Art; 405-236-3100; Ticket prices vary.
Ray Harryhausen – Mythical Menagerie; Regular Museum Hours; Science Museum Oklahoma.
Omaha Storm Chasers vs. Oklahoma City Dodgers; 7:05 p.m.; Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark; Ticket prices vary.

Friday, August 25
Bricktown Beach Bash; All day; Third Base Plaza at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark; This event is free.
Kehinde Wiley: A New Republic; All day; Oklahoma City Museum of Art; 405-236-3100; Ticket prices vary.
Ray Harryhausen – Mythical Menagerie; Regular Museum Hours; Science Museum Oklahoma.
Fiesta Friday; 7 p.m.; Historic Capitol Hill; 632-0133; This event is free.
Omaha Storm Chasers vs. Oklahoma City Dodgers; 7:05 p.m.; Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark; Ticket prices vary.
Josh Abbott Band; 8 p.m.; The Criterion; Ticket prices vary.

Saturday, August 26
Bricktown Beach Bash; All day; Third Base Plaza at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark; This event is free.
Kehinde Wiley: A New Republic; All day; Oklahoma City Museum of Art; 405-236-3100; Ticket prices vary.
Ray Harryhausen – Mythical Menagerie; Regular Museum Hours; Science Museum Oklahoma.
Western Avenue Cars and Coffee; 10 a.m.; Sushi Neko; (719) 398-9176; This event is free.
Floating Films at RIVERSPORTS Rapids-Jurassic World; Dusk; RIVERSPORT Rapids; This event is free.
Omaha Storm Chasers vs. Oklahoma City Dodgers; 7:05 p.m.; Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark; Ticket prices vary.

Sunday, August 27
Bricktown Beach Bash; All day; Third Base Plaza at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark; This event is free.
Kehinde Wiley: A New Republic; All day; Oklahoma City Museum of Art; 405-236-3100; Ticket prices vary.
Ray Harryhausen – Mythical Menagerie; Regular Museum Hours; Science Museum Oklahoma.
Omaha Storm Chasers vs. Oklahoma City Dodgers; 7:05 p.m.; Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark; Ticket prices vary.
Arts Council of OKC’s Twilight Concert; 7:30 p.m.; Myriad Botanical Gardens, Great Event Lawn; 445-7080; This event is free.

Monday, August 28
Bricktown Beach Bash; All day; Third Base Plaza at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark; This event is free.
Kehinde Wiley: A New Republic; All day; Oklahoma City Museum of Art; 405-236-3100; Ticket prices vary.
Ray Harryhausen – Mythical Menagerie; Regular Museum Hours; Science Museum Oklahoma.
New Orleans Baby Cakes vs. Oklahoma City Dodgers; 7:05 p.m.; Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark; Ticket prices vary.

If you want to take a road trip north of Oklahoma City you can find history, sports, outdoor fun and more. 

First, let’s start with the history because there is no better way to celebrate Oklahoma’s rich history than to visit the largest Historic Preservation District in the nation. Guthrie is Oklahoma’s territorial capital and home to historic museums, more than a dozen bed and breakfasts and a highly preserved historical downtown district.

After Guthrie, we suggest you keep your caravan moving north to Stillwater, one of Oklahoma’s most famous college towns. Home to the Oklahoma State University Cowboys, Stillwater is sure to show you a good time. Stillwater is home to the National Wrestling Hall of Fame, one of the best public golf courses in America, Karsten Creek, three different lakes and a downtown that looks like it belongs on a postcard.

OKC’s closest neighbor to the north is Edmond. Edmond is home to two colleges, lakes, parks and more. We suggest checking the schedule of the Armstrong Auditorium to experience this architectural gem. You can read more about Edmond in a past post here.

There is nothing like a college town, especially in the fall. Norman, home of the University of Oklahoma, makes a great day getaway from Oklahoma City. The state’s third-largest city channels both the bustle of a big city as well as the quaint charm of a college town. Be sure to check out the University of Oklahoma’s campus and catch a football game with 85,000 close friends.   

Looking to cool off from the hot Oklahoma heat? Continue your journey south to the one and only Lake Murray. Located inside the state park, Lake Murray has some of the clearest blue waters around. You can enjoy the day boating, fishing, swimming or stay the night in one of Lake Murray’s quaint cabins.

As residents of Prague like to say, “Come Czech us out!” Prague has a rich European history as it was founded by Czech immigrants who named the city after the capital of the Czech Republic. Prague hosts the annual Kolache Festival the first Saturday of May and celebrates the rich Czech culture.

You also don’t want to miss Prague City Lake, a 400-acre lake that includes a boat ramp, boat docks, picnic areas, volleyball court and playground. For hours and usage fees, go online. It is surrounded by the Prague Lake Trail, which features 30 miles of hiking, biking and equestrian trails, although you have to bring your own horse.

Oklahoma City’s next door neighbor to the West is Yukon. Yukon is a fast-growing community with roots in agriculture and a Czech history. Yukon is known as the “Czech Capital of Oklahoma” and features the historic Czech Hall, which is a national historic site and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Since 1925, the hall has hosted Czech dances every Saturday night, which you should totally go Czech out, because you knew we were going to go there with that pun, and also because you can enjoy dancing, Czech snacks, beers and meeting some new people. The famous Yukon Czech Festival occurs on the first Saturday of October, so mark your calendars now to get your hands on some of those kolaches or klobasy sandwiches you love.

Yukon also hosts the Chisholm Trail Crawfish Festival in June, which seeks to integrate a celebration of the historic Chisholm Trail with a little dash of Cajun charisma (why not?). Go get your Yukon on!

Tuesday, August 15
Bricktown Beach Bash; All day; Third Base Plaza at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark; This event is free.
Kehinde Wiley: A New Republic; All day; Oklahoma City Museum of Art; 405-236-3100; Ticket prices vary.
Ray Harryhausen – Mythical Menagerie; Regular Museum Hours; Science Museum Oklahoma.
2017 Wheeler Criterium; 5:30 p.m.; Wheeler District; This event is free.
Crowe & Dunlevy’s Summer Songwriter Series; 6 to 8 p.m.; Sandridge Commons; This event is free.

Wednesday, August 16
Bricktown Beach Bash; All day; Third Base Plaza at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark; This event is free.
Kehinde Wiley: A New Republic; All day; Oklahoma City Museum of Art; 405-236-3100; Ticket prices vary.
Ray Harryhausen – Mythical Menagerie; Regular Museum Hours; Science Museum Oklahoma.

Thursday, August 17
Bricktown Beach Bash; All day; Third Base Plaza at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark; This event is free.
Kehinde Wiley: A New Republic; All day; Oklahoma City Museum of Art; 405-236-3100; Ticket prices vary.
Ray Harryhausen – Mythical Menagerie; Regular Museum Hours; Science Museum Oklahoma.

Friday, August 18
Bricktown Beach Bash; All day; Third Base Plaza at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark; This event is free.
Kehinde Wiley: A New Republic; All day; Oklahoma City Museum of Art; 405-236-3100; Ticket prices vary.
Ray Harryhausen – Mythical Menagerie; Regular Museum Hours; Science Museum Oklahoma.
Lake Street Drive; 8 p.m.; The Jones Assembly; Ticket prices vary.
21c Museum Hotel- New Film Series; 8 p.m.; 21c Museum Hotel; 982-6900; This is event is free.
Sinbad; 7 p.m.; Hudson Performance Hall; Ticket prices vary.

Saturday, August 19
Bricktown Beach Bash; All day; Third Base Plaza at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark; This event is free.
Kehinde Wiley: A New Republic; All day; Oklahoma City Museum of Art; 405-236-3100; Ticket prices vary.
Ray Harryhausen – Mythical Menagerie; Regular Museum Hours; Science Museum Oklahoma.
Eats on 8th Food Truck Festival; noon to 8 p.m.; 8th & Harvey; 234-7960; This event is free.
San Antonio FC vs. Oklahoma City Energy FC; 7:30 p.m.; Taft Stadium; 235-KICK; Ticket prices vary.
Marty Friedman; 8 p.m.; Tower Theatre; Ticket prices vary.

Sunday, August 20
Bricktown Beach Bash; All day; Third Base Plaza at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark; This event is free.
Kehinde Wiley: A New Republic; All day; Oklahoma City Museum of Art; 405-236-3100; Ticket prices vary.
Ray Harryhausen – Mythical Menagerie; Regular Museum Hours; Science Museum Oklahoma.
Arts Council of OKC’s Twilight Concert; 7:30 p.m.; Myriad Botanical Gardens, Great Event Lawn; 445-7080; This event is free.

Monday, August 21
Bricktown Beach Bash; All day; Third Base Plaza at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark; This event is free.
Kehinde Wiley: A New Republic; All day; Oklahoma City Museum of Art; 405-236-3100; Ticket prices vary.
Ray Harryhausen – Mythical Menagerie; Regular Museum Hours; Science Museum Oklahoma.
The 2017 Great American Eclipse; 11:30 a.m.; Myriad Botanical Gardens, Great Event Lawn; 445-7080; This event is free.

With so much to do, see and learn about in Oklahoma City, it can be tough to find the information you’re looking for. One way you can remedy this situation is to, of course, sign up for our email newsletter for a weekly 411 on the 405. There are other things you can do though too, one of the most important of which is to utilize the power of social media for the latest and greatest information. Now, we know what you’re thinking. ‘That all seems fine and dandy, but with so much information out there, which social media accounts are the best ones to follow for all the information I need?’ A great question like that deserves a great answer, so here’s our list of three social media accounts to follow for the latest and greatest on all things OKC.

1. Naturally, the first account we’re recommending is our very own Facebook page. In case you don’t sign up for our e-newsletter for whatever strange reason, our Facebook page shares the latest information from our blog each week in addition to some other cool stuff that’s fun and important. If you’re not a fan of Facebook, you can follow us on Twitter instead.
2. One common misconception about the next account to follow is that it’s only for visitors, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. The VisitOKC Instagram is filled with some spectacular photos of OKC’s coolest restaurants and attractions. They also do videos showcasing the latest upcoming events happening throughout the OKC metro. If Instagram isn’t your thing, you can follow them on Facebook and Twitter.
3. The Greater Oklahoma City Chamber Twitter is a hub for the latest business news and events happening in OKC. Beyond that, the Chamber also has a compiled list of all the accolades OKC has been recognized for in national headlines on their website. You can also take a look at their Facebook and Instagram.

If you’ve been a longtime reader of our blog, you’re probably aware of how important the arts and culture are to the fabric of life in Oklahoma City. If you’re a first-time reader, don’t just take our word for it: explore all that OKC has to offer.

The arts and culture section of our website features the most prominent artistic events, museums and fun activities throughout OKC. Or, you can get involved with the local arts scene at the Paseo Arts District, where art and culture abound around every corner.

One of the most disheartening parts about wanting to cook something new is not being able to find the ingredients you need at your typical go-to grocery store.

Thankfully, Oklahoma City has a plethora of options outside of your standard grocery stores. Whether you’re going organic or looking for more ethnic flavors, the metro has a place nearby that has exactly what you’re looking for.

The hardest part would be finding where these places actually are; that is, if we didn’t make things a little easier for you first. Take a look at our specialty grocery store page on our website. Do you notice any stores missing from our list that people have to know about? Let us know in the comments or on Facebook or Twitter.

Thanks to a revitalization effort that began in the 1990s, Oklahoma City has been in the midst of a multi-decade renaissance. With a low cost of living and future endeavors underway such as the creation of an innovation district, a 70-acre downtown park and more, OKC is primed for even more growth into the future.

If you want to keep up-to-date with the latest news and happenings in the 4-0-5, the newsroom on the Chamber’s site is a great tool. Bookmark it and we will pass along the latest developments involving MAPs, economic news and more.

Tuesday, August 8
Bricktown Beach Bash; All day; Third Base Plaza at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark; This event is free.
Kehinde Wiley: A New Republic; All day; Oklahoma City Museum of Art; 405-236-3100; Ticket prices vary.
Ray Harryhausen – Mythical Menagerie; Regular Museum Hours; Science Museum Oklahoma.
2017 Wheeler Criterium; 5:30 p.m.; Wheeler District; This event is free.
In the Heights; 7:30 p.m.; Civic Center Music Hall; 297-2264; Ticket prices vary.

Wednesday, August 9
Bricktown Beach Bash; All day; Third Base Plaza at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark; This event is free.
Kehinde Wiley: A New Republic; All day; Oklahoma City Museum of Art; 405-236-3100; Ticket prices vary.
Ray Harryhausen – Mythical Menagerie; Regular Museum Hours; Science Museum Oklahoma.
In the Heights; 7:30 p.m.; Civic Center Music Hall; 297-2264; Ticket prices vary.
A Day to Remember; 8:30 p.m.; Chevy Bricktown Events Center; 236-4143; Tickets are $34.50.

Thursday, August 10
Bricktown Beach Bash; All day; Third Base Plaza at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark; This event is free.
Kehinde Wiley: A New Republic; All day; Oklahoma City Museum of Art; 405-236-3100; Ticket prices vary.
Ray Harryhausen – Mythical Menagerie; Regular Museum Hours; Science Museum Oklahoma.
In the Heights; 7:30 p.m.; Civic Center Music Hall; 297-2264; Ticket prices vary.

Friday, August 11
Bricktown Beach Bash; All day; Third Base Plaza at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark; This event is free.
Kehinde Wiley: A New Republic; All day; Oklahoma City Museum of Art; 405-236-3100; Ticket prices vary.
Ray Harryhausen – Mythical Menagerie; Regular Museum Hours; Science Museum Oklahoma.
Live on the Plaza; 7 p.m.; Plaza District; 367-9403; Free.
Round Rock Express vs. Oklahoma City Dodgers; 7:05 p.m.; Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark; Ticket prices vary.
Jabee with Statik Selektah; 8 p.m.; Tower Theatre; Ticket prices vary.
In the Heights; 8 p.m.; Civic Center Music Hall; 297-2264; Ticket prices vary.

Saturday, August 12
Bricktown Beach Bash; All day; Third Base Plaza at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark; This event is free.
Kehinde Wiley: A New Republic; All day; Oklahoma City Museum of Art; 405-236-3100; Ticket prices vary.
Ray Harryhausen – Mythical Menagerie; Regular Museum Hours; Science Museum Oklahoma.
In the Heights; 2 & 8 p.m.; Civic Center Music Hall; 297-2264; Ticket prices vary.
Round Rock Express vs. Oklahoma City Dodgers; 7:05 p.m.; Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark; Ticket prices vary.
Cat Video Fest 2017; 7:30 p.m.; Myriad Botanical Gardens, Great Lawn; 445-7080.

Sunday, August 13
Bricktown Beach Bash; All day; Third Base Plaza at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark; This event is free.
Kehinde Wiley: A New Republic; All day; Oklahoma City Museum of Art; 405-236-3100; Ticket prices vary.
Ray Harryhausen – Mythical Menagerie; Regular Museum Hours; Science Museum Oklahoma.
Round Rock Express vs. Oklahoma City Dodgers; 6:05 p.m.; Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark; Ticket prices vary.
Arts Council of OKC’s Twilight Concert; 7:30 p.m.; Myriad Botanical Gardens, Great Event Lawn; 445-7080; This event is free.

Monday, August 14
Bricktown Beach Bash; All day; Third Base Plaza at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark; This event is free.
Kehinde Wiley: A New Republic; All day; Oklahoma City Museum of Art; 405-236-3100; Ticket prices vary.
Ray Harryhausen – Mythical Menagerie; Regular Museum Hours; Science Museum Oklahoma.
Round Rock Express vs. Oklahoma City Dodgers; 7:05 p.m.; Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark; Ticket prices vary.

Alumni associations are a great way to make new connections when you move to a city. Obviously, the two major state schools, OU and OSU, boast large alumni groups in Oklahoma City, but a quick google search will find that many universities have an alumni presence in OKC.  Not only do alumni associations offer connections to your classmates, but the opportunity to meet new people and share your knowledge with current students. Get connected with your university to learn about what’s going on and take advantage of the many opportunities they offer.

So we may be a little biased (or a lot biased) but we think Greater Oklahoma City Chamber events are the best way to make meaningful connections in your new hometown. Just about every week there is a Chamber event where you can meet the movers and shakers of Oklahoma City. You don’t even have to be a member to go to most events (although membership provides some great benefits if you truly want to be an expert networking in OKC).

Here are some recurring events that are tailored made to release your inner-networker:

• Sunset Receptions: Held once a month, this event is designed to help you make business connections. The best part is admission is always free and includes complimentary hors d’oeuvres and one drink ticket.
• SchmoozaPalooza: Schmooze with Oklahoma City's best twice a year at SchmoozaPalooza! Wind down with food and drinks, groove to live music, win prizes and enjoy entertainers while you visit other Chamber members at exhibitor booths.
• Rise & Shine: The semi-annual Rise & Shine breakfast event provides members with information about the many ways to get involved with the Chamber. It's a great way discover how to maximize membership through a wide variety of involvement opportunities.

Every Chamber event gives you the opportunity meet professionals who are interested in making Oklahoma City the best city it can be. Check out this link for a full rundown of Chamber events. From golfing to luncheons that will keep you up-to-date one the latest happenings in OKC, we promise you there is an event for you.

Another great way to get to know people is by donating your time to a nonprofit. There is no better place to start than the United Way of Central Oklahoma.

This organization partners with more than 60 organizations that contribute to the area’s health, safety, education or economic well-being of families, according to the United Way’s mission.

The United Way picks its partner organizations according to five identified “Focus Areas”: Strong Families, Successful Kids, Healthy Citizens, Independent Living and Community Preparedness. Each year, the organization raises millions of dollars to help fund these nonprofit agencies’ programs.

If you’re interested in finding ways to volunteer for these organizations, check out the United Way’s Volunteer Center.

The United Way has been serving the community for more than 90 years, and the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber is proud that it had a role in its creation decades ago.

On Sept. 12, citizens of Oklahoma City will go to the polls to decide on a bond program and two sales tax proposals.  There is going to be a lot on the ballot, so we will just give you the highlights (you can read the full ballot here):

• REPAIR AND RESURFACE STREETS: Invest $847 million in rebuilding and improving Oklahoma City's streets--the top concern of residents. Repairs include replacing bridges, resurfacing streets, building sidewalks, improving drainage, adding bike lanes and more.
• IMPROVE PUBLIC SAFETY: Hire more police officers and firefighters to keep Oklahoma City residents safe.
• IMPROVE QUALITY OF LIFE: Improve our Oklahoma City by investing in parks and civic / recreational facilities, police and fire stations, libraries, our public transit system, community and economic development programs, and more.

Oklahoma City has created a great tool that allows you to see what bond projects would happen in your area if approved.

What will this do to taxes in OKC? Property tax rates will NOT go up to fund the general obligation bond projects, and if both sales tax proposals are approved by voters, Oklahoma City’s total sales tax will be at the rate of 8.625 percent, still lower than the state average of 8.86 percent.

So what do you need to do between now and Sept. 12? First and foremost register to vote. You have until August 18 to register for this election. Also, make sure you read up on the proposal so you can be informed on the vote you cast. You can learn more here.

Tuesday, August 1
Bricktown Beach Bash; All day; Third Base Plaza at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark; This event is free.
Kehinde Wiley: A New Republic; All day; Oklahoma City Museum of Art; 405-236-3100; Ticket prices vary.
The 45th Annual Prix de West Invitational Art Exhibition & Sale; All day; National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum; Ticket prices vary.
2017 Wheeler Criterium; 5:30 p.m.; Wheeler District; This event is free.
Tacoma Rainers vs. Oklahoma City Dodgers; 7:05 p.m.; Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark; Ticket prices vary.
Seether; 8 p.m.; Diamond Ballroom; 866-977-6849; Ticket prices vary.

Wednesday, August 2
Bricktown Beach Bash; All day; Third Base Plaza at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark; This event is free.
Kehinde Wiley: A New Republic; All day; Oklahoma City Museum of Art; 405-236-3100; Ticket prices vary.
The 45th Annual Prix de West Invitational Art Exhibition & Sale; All day; National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum; Ticket prices vary.
Reno 1868 FC vs. Oklahoma City Energy FC; 7:30 p.m.; Taft Stadium; 235-KICK; Ticket prices vary.

Thursday, August 3
Bricktown Beach Bash; All day; Third Base Plaza at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark; This event is free.
Kehinde Wiley: A New Republic; All day; Oklahoma City Museum of Art; 405-236-3100; Ticket prices vary.
The 45th Annual Prix de West Invitational Art Exhibition & Sale; All day; National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum; Ticket prices vary.
A Date with the Duke; 5 to 8 p.m.; National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum; 478-2250; Ticket prices vary.

Friday, August 4
Bricktown Beach Bash; All day; Third Base Plaza at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark; This event is free.
Kehinde Wiley: A New Republic; All day; Oklahoma City Museum of Art; 405-236-3100; Ticket prices vary.
The 45th Annual Prix de West Invitational Art Exhibition & Sale; All day; National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum; Ticket prices vary.
First Fridays on the Paseo; 6 to 10 p.m.; Paseo Arts District; 525-2688; This event is free.
Member/Guest mixer at The Greens Country Club; 7 to 10 p.m.; The Greens Country Club, Adult Pool; 751-6266; Admission is $10, please RSVP.

Saturday, August 5
Bricktown Beach Bash; All day; Third Base Plaza at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark; This event is free.
Kehinde Wiley: A New Republic; All day; Oklahoma City Museum of Art; 405-236-3100; Ticket prices vary.
The 45th Annual Prix de West Invitational Art Exhibition & Sale; All day; National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum; Ticket prices vary.
Oklahoma Craft Beer Summit; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Tower Theatre; Ticket prices vary.
Real Monarchs vs. Oklahoma City Energy FC; 7:30 p.m.; Taft Stadium; 235-KICK; Ticket prices vary.
My So Called Band at the Tower Theatre; 9 p.m.; Tower Theatre; Tickets are $10.

Sunday, August 6
Bricktown Beach Bash; All day; Third Base Plaza at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark; This event is free.
Kehinde Wiley: A New Republic; All day; Oklahoma City Museum of Art; 405-236-3100; Ticket prices vary.
The 45th Annual Prix de West Invitational Art Exhibition & Sale; All day; National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum; Ticket prices vary.
Arts Council of OKC’s Twilight Concert; 7:30 p.m.; Myriad Botanical Gardens, Great Event Lawn; 445-7080; This event is free.
Matchbox Twenty & Counting Crows; Oklahoma City Zoo Amphitheatre; Ticket prices vary.

Monday, August 7
Bricktown Beach Bash; All day; Third Base Plaza at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark; This event is free.
Kehinde Wiley: A New Republic; All day; Oklahoma City Museum of Art; 405-236-3100; Ticket prices vary.
The 45th Annual Prix de West Invitational Art Exhibition & Sale; All day; National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum; Ticket prices vary.
Full Moon Bike Ride and Run; 8 p.m.; Myriad Botanical Gardens, Band Shell; 445-7080; Prices to participate vary.