The Office of the State Auditor and Inspector is committed to serving the public interest by providing independent oversight and by issuing reports that serve as a management tool to the State. Named after the Seminole Nation, one of the Five Civilized Tribes that settled in the area, Seminole, Oklahoma is home to Seminole State College and the challenging Jimmie Austin Municipal Golf Course. $50 dining gift cards to J&W Grill and The Flower Shop. PO Box 248937. Episode 44 - Tulsa, Hominy & Skiatook. Oklahoma City, OK 73104 Phone: 405-815-6552 Toll-Free: 800-879-6552 8:00 a. It offers products featuring the state's new brand and the Oklahoma Tourism & Recreation Department brands. The Oklahoma land produces a bountiful autumn harvest. Historic Oklahoma offers a plethora of museums, cultural sites, parks and more to explore. Follow the. Kevin Stitt has tapped a current state agency head to take over as the director of the Oklahoma Department of Tourism and Recreation. The normal home to the institute is in rough condition and it will be transferred from the Oklahoma Regents for Higher Education to the Oklahoma Tourism Department in October. 2: Roman Nose State Park, 3236 S OK-8A, Watonga. Visit Elk City. Oklahoma Department of Commerce. Box 52002. land and water conservation fund. (Ah, yes, be deemed "essential. Honobia Bigfoot Festival & Conference. Operative has been paid $259,065. 6 $12. 4. 2023 The Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department on Monday canceled its contract with Swadley's Bar-B-Q due to "suspected fraudulent activity and questionable business practices," the agency. Oklahoma City, OK 73124-8937. have gone out of their way to promote Shelley Zumwalt – the pretty new face and leader of the Oklahoma Travel and Tourism Department. “When it comes to taxpayer money, we have to. Midwest City, OK. Oklahoma is a prime destination for all things Wild West, so saddle up for a Sooner State sightseeing journey. April 25-27, 2022: April 25-27, 2022: The state Tourism and Recreation Department canceled its contract with Swadley's, citing "suspected fraudulent activity found through highly questionable billing, invoicing and record-keeping practices. Oklahoma Lt. Counsel, Oklahoma Department of Commerce, 900 North Stiles Avenue, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, 73104, (405) 815-5153, or . One of three areas administered by the National Park Service, it was known to Native Americans as "the land of rippling waters" due to the mineral waters, streams, lakes and swimming holes. Business and Employment. ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT Oklahoma Tourism & Recreation Department P. This special discount is good year-round and can be redeemed when booking your stay at any park by simply choosing the MIL. The ORWA staff has worked to explore all options for having the. The Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department is seeking a new business to take over restaurant and concession operations in state parks after the agency canceled its contract with Swadley's Foggy Bottom Kitchen. The decision comes after lawmakers sounded off about a legislative report into a deal between the tourism. North of Fairview off Hwy 412. OKLAHOMA CITY — The Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department launched a $1. Visitors will also find hiking trails, observation areas and a winding auto trail. Submit. A special thanks to our advertisers. O. DIVISION OF STATE PARKS – FEDERAL GRANTS SECTION 123 ROBERT S. gov. 08/28/2022. AU. okcommerce. 31: Sequoyah State Park, 19808 Park 10, Hulbert. Information Technology. Oklahoma doesn't have towering, snow-capped mountains, or sugary-white beaches flanking azure-blue oceans. The dunes range from 25 to 75 feet high, according to the Oklahoma Tourism Department. . Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73105. com. She has more than 15 years of state government and legal experience, and most recently served as. There’s a dune access fee. Beginning near Connerville in Johnston County, the Blue River flows southeast to the Red River. Oklahoma Tourism Development Act. CH. Discover new destinations along Route 66 with the updated official Oklahoma Route 66 Passport. Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department's comprehensive site containing travel information, attractions, lodging, dining, and events. Oklahoma State University. US. Stay current with seasonal attractions, deals and more. NZ. Swadley released a statement Monday. US. ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT Oklahoma Tourism & Recreation Department P. The Oklahoma Tourism & Recreation Department has canceled the lease agreement with Swadley's Foggy Bottom Kitchen because of suspected fraudulent activity and questionable business practices, department officials announced Monday. This new travel guide is the. Bristow, OK 74010. Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department average salary is 54 percent lower. Stiles Ave. The park's diverse terrain, exceptional trails and historic sites make Lake Murray State Park a favorite destination among outdoor, water sport and ATV riding. AT. Black Liberated Arts Center, Inc (BLAC) September 28, 2023. Travel Promotion Division. The Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department launched the state’s new Imagine That campaign. The Oklahoma Department of Tourism and Recreation is a department of the government of Oklahoma within the Tourism and Branding Cabinet. Route 66. Fairview, OK 73737. Address: Lorton Performance Center. Newsletters. This is the store for TravelOK. 900 N. Community and Culture. After issues with Swadley's left restaurants closed, Tourism announced it would search for new parties or suppliers. After a failed attempt to solicit bids for a new operator shortly after terminating its contract with Swadley's Bar-B-Q in April, the Oklahoma Department of Tourism and Recreation is once again. Email. The new Oklahoma Route 66 Passport “will help Route 66 travelers find new destinations to explore and earn great prizes along the way,” the Tourism Department said in a news release. 570. com Email:. Both are open and doing well, but each has faced. Email Website. Officials say the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department has paid $13 million to Swadley’s Bar-B-Q restaurants to renovate and run the Foggy Bottom Kitchens in certain Oklahoma state parks. "The state stopped payment to the vendor when concerns arose regarding billing inconsistencies and in order to assure the protection of taxpayer dollars all payments. Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73105. The Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department on Monday canceled its contract with Swadley's Bar-B-Q due to "suspected fraudulent activity and questionable business practices," the agency. Site Map ©2023 Oklahoma Tourism & Recreation Department. This is an interpretive summary of Title 29 and Title 800 Oklahoma statutes governing fish and wildlife laws as established by the Oklahoma Wildlife Conservation Commission and contains those rules that affect the average hunter or. 622. For general website feedback please contact the OMES Service Desk. Maps for public use are free of charge at any of the Tourism Welcome Centers statewide, all ODOT division offices and the Tourism and Recreation Department warehouse. Image courtesy Oklahoma Tourism. Either way, our job is to promote your attraction, event, lodging facility or restaurant. Route 66 Christmas Chute. Oklahoma has divided its diverse landscape into six regions or "countries" - each with a distinct flavor, image and unique cities. Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department's comprehensive site containing travel information, attractions, lodging, dining, and events. 5 mi NE of town. Oklahoma Tourism & Recreation Department Charity O'Donnell McCurtain County Tourism Broken Bow Sandy Price Visit Oklahoma City Lisa Ralls Great Plains Country Duncan / Fredrick Janet Reed Durant Area Chamber of Commerce Durant Nicole Reynolds Har-Ber Village Museum Grand Lake o' the Cherokees Jenna Roberson City of Yukon. According to a report from The Oklahoman, one of the concerns is likely a contract with a local restaurant chain. Official website: TravelOK. Oklahoma Real Estate Commission. More than 110 casinos across Oklahoma deal the thrills of slot machines, poker, blackjack, and live entertainment. " Swadley's was told to cease operations by no later than April 27 at all six open properties. Rodeos. The bill is a response to a recent contract the agency’s former director approved with Swadley’s Bar-B-Q, which drew multiple. Newsletter. org. Legislative Office of Fiscal Transparency Director Mike Jackson told. See the Oklahoma City National Memorial, Oklahoma City Zoo, National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, Oklahoma City Museum of Art, Bricktown Entertainment District or break out on a unique adventure of your own. 7. Black Liberated Arts Center, Inc (BLAC) September 28, 2023. Start with a trip to Bradt's Menagerie, where you’ll come face-to-face with farm and exotic animals, including miniature donkeys, zebras and even. Legislators peppered the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department with questions Thursday following the release of findings from an investigation into a of a one-of-a-kind contract between the state and a private business in 2020, and the millions in subsidies. mcgoldrick@okcommerce. To contact a staff member or for travel or tourism requests: Oklahoma Tourism Department. 5 miles from Murray Harbor, a marina the state Tourism and Recreation Department broke ground on in May 2020. E. School of Hospitality and Tourism Management. has tapped a current state agency head to take over as the director of the Oklahoma Department of Tourism and Recreation. Oklahoma City, OK 73152-2002. A large chunk of $48. View all The State of Oklahoma jobs in Oklahoma County, OK - Oklahoma County, OK jobs - Research Specialist jobs in Oklahoma County, OKThe tourism department has since requested an additional $19. Federal Programs Manager. 6: Beavers Bend State Park, 4350 OK-259A, Broken Bow. Investment/New Jobs Tax Credit Package. Steven. About Visit Shawnee. The State Capitol Tourism Information Center is a resource center on statewide attractions, events and lodging. Oklahoma’s Tourism Development Act promotes investment in new or expanded tourism sites such as entertainment districts, destination hotels, arenas, museums, theme parks, cultural centers and others. >> Related: Oklahoma Tourism Department cancels agreement with Swadley's Foggy Bottom KitchenNow-former tourism director Jerry Winchester said in a letter that while he's confident audits will reveal the department was working in the best interest of the state, he didn't. The Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department (OTRD) has the following responsibilities pursuant to 74 O. Over the past couple of weeks, in a planned build-up to Wednesday's big announcement that Zooters Falcone's Pizza is coming to Oklahoma State Parks, Stitt and Co. The nation's longest driveable stretch of Route 66 cuts through Oklahoma, making its way past charming towns, roadside diners and quirky attractions. The Oklahoma Rural Water Association has canceled its upcoming fall conference and exposition, which was scheduled for Sept. CIMARRON COUNTY, Okla. Tourism Industry. With 9 state parks and close to a million acres of wildlife, it’s little wonder. The restaurants have been rebranded by their new operator La Ratatouille and will use the name The Lookout Kitchen. Oklahoma has the most drivable miles of Historic Route 66 than any other state. Over the past few years, the Oklahoma Tourism & Recreation Department has embarked upon a huge campaign to modernize and streamline. Visitors. OKLAHOMA CITY — The Oklahoma Tourism & Recreation Department announced Monday that it has launched a new “Imagine That” tourism marketing campaign. August 23, 2023. Lt. GROVE – The Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department has an agreement with the Albro Estate to buy land adjacent to the Honey Creek Area of Grand Lake State Park, which is. Menu Brochures. Spend some time taking in local culture at the annual. By: News 9. Why is the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department implementing the Parking Pass Program? A 2019 analysis of state park facilities and infrastructure found that, for years, funding levels have been well below the amount needed to adequately maintain our state parks at a level that would ensure the safe and enjoyable use of our parklands. Built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps, Boiling Springs State Park is one of the original seven state parks in Oklahoma. State Parks. Scenic beauty, a moderate climate, a culture rich in history and the arts, and world-class sports and recreational opportunities make Oklahoma an exceptional place to live and do business. Address: 24 N Coo Y Yah St. The most common ethnicity at Oklahoma Tourism And Recreation Department is White (65%). 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. 2023 OKLAHOMA TRAVEL GUIDE 100. The LOFT report was also critical of the department's contract with Swadley's to manage the new state park restaurants. Oklahoma City, OK. Gov. Despite the logistical complexities presented by the location of these restaurant sites, Swadley’s completed its. The department has paid Swadley's an additional $17 million since entering the contract for concessions in 2020, the Legislative Office of Fiscal Transparency reported. Business Expansion Incentive Program. 52 Tourism Recreation Department jobs available in Oklahoma on Indeed. An Oklahoma lawmaker has filed legislation to restore authority to the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Commission. Feb. Leads & Data. Brochures. Toll-free: 1-800-652-6552. TravelOK. Sparkling lakes, glorious mountains, cypress-lined bayous and picturesque towns make Choctaw Country the ideal spot for weekend getaways. Phone: 918-423-9300. Discover Oklahoma is Oklahoma's favorite weekly travel program, helping you find tucked away attractions, roadside eateries and grand adventures. ShopTravelOK. Oklahoma Tourism & Recreation Department. 9. The Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department officially closed its request for proposal (RFP) to operate the restaurants at six state parks on March 3 and announced Wednesday that it had received seven responses. 6 billion to Oklahoma’s economy in direct visitor spending, generating $627. Published: Feb. The Official Oklahoma Route 66 Passport. Lake Murray State Park is Oklahoma’s first and largest state park, and it has been a favorite vacation spot for generations of. Oklahoma City, OK 73102-6406. Job Posting Title Tourism Research Specialist Agency 566 DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM AND RECREATION Supervisory Organization Administration Division Job… Posted Posted 2 days ago · More. Timberlake comes to Oklahoma State Parks from Santa Fe Family Life Center, a nonprofit sports and fitness complex in Oklahoma City. Find an Agency. IE. Oklahoma City, OK 73124-8937. Bring the whole family to Alva, a northwest Oklahoma city located in the middle of the Great Salt Plains State Park, Alabaster Caverns State Park and Little Sahara State Park tourism triangle. Oklahoma Tourism & Recreation Department. Book your stay and see why Lake Thunderbird is one of central Oklahoma's most popular recreation areas. 4 $22. Preferred Method of Contact. NL. ›. The Oklahoma Tourism & Recreation Department offers many free publications to help travelers plan vacations and learn about what the state has to offer. OKLAHOMA TOURISM AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT. Jeff Rabon on Tuesday called upon the Oklahoma Tourism Department to adopt a zero tolerance policy on discrimination and requested that Attorney General Drew Edmonson examine potential contractual irregularities with an employee at Beaver’s Bend State Park in Broken Bow. Advertisement. Email. The Department is responsible. Brochures. UK. Usually it’s the last week of October, into the beginning of November,” said Miki. ” The people that work at the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department (OTRD) truly embody the authenticity and natural joy of the state itself. Oklahoma has divided its diverse landscape into six regions or "countries" - each with a distinct flavor, image and unique cities. so here with us today to break down some of those numbers and all the exciting things in our future is executive director shelly. “Imagine That,” the state’s official branding tagline, illustrates Oklahoma’s lifestyle-rich opportunities that inspire visitors to dream big. 1: Lake Murray State Park, 3323 Lodge Road, Ardmore. E. com - Oklahoma's Official Travel & Tourism Site Find a State Park Home Find a State Park Bookings Resources Get Involved Soundscapes Volunteer (2) All State Parks + − Leaflet | Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors Alabaster Caverns Arrowhead Beavers Bend Black Mesa Boiling Springs Cherokee Landing Clayton Lake Fort Cobb Foss Order Free Oklahoma Travel Brochures and Maps Activities in Oklahoma Traffic Maps and Cameras Renew Your Vehicle Registration Tag Online Events in Oklahoma. comMaps for public use are free of charge at any of the Tourism Welcome Centers statewide, all ODOT division offices and the Tourism and Recreation Department warehouse. Every year the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department produces a travel guide. Feb. Visit Elk City. This report results from a review of the LOFT report. There is hereby created an Oklahoma Tourism Promotion Advisory Committee which shall advise the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department on matters of statewide tourism promotion. Download the TravelOK Trip Planner. Mission Statement; History; Executive Staff; Careers; FAQs;. It offers products featuring the state's new brand and the Oklahoma Tourism &. Local Phone Ext. About us. The Black Mesa plateau is Oklahoma’s highest point at 4,973 feet and rewards hikers with a rare view of a tri-state area. Oklahoma Tourism & Recreation Department. Kiamichi Country Tourism 1-800-722-8180. But In the first year of the contract with Swadley’s the three restaurants, plus one at Beavers Bend State Park, had a combined net loss of more than $2. Nov 15 - Dec 29. Use TravelOK's map to find and plan your exciting Mother Road trip. "| MORE | Lawsuit, resignation mark the newest turns in state parks' contract with Swadley'sLawmakers now ask what needs to happen to prevent another failed contract, costing Oklahoma taxpayers millions of dollars and hundreds of jobs. “This case includes. S. The Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department recently unveiled the Cabin and Lodge Online Reservation System that will allow park visitors to book rooms up to 11 months in advance. 29, 2022) ' State Treasurer Randy McDaniel today unveiled a new name, branding and website for the state's direct-sold 529 plan. To report BGA, contact the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality at 1-800-522-0206. com free of charge. Donate to The Frontier to support local independent investigative journalism. Seminole. The Committee shall consist of thirteen (13) members and one ex officio nonvoting member as follows: 1. 7 million in management fees, construction costs. Open the video player above for the full story. Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department. Get Involved. James Timberlake succeeds Kris Marek, who retired late last year. 6 billion to Oklahoma’s economy in direct visitor spending, generating $627. Stay current with seasonal attractions, deals and more. Newsletter. land and water conservation fund. The department’s Executive Director Deby Snodgrass said the. Lieutenant Governor & Secretary of Tourism, Wildlife & Heritage: Matt Pinnell. Months after a resignation, spurred by scandal, the Oklahoma Tourism Department has a new leader. 5:28. OKLAHOMA CITY – After being shuttered for months, the State Department of Tourism has announced a new group is taking over the operations of restaurants at six state parks. NL. Site Map ©2023 Oklahoma Tourism & Recreation Department. Under cover, too, was. Several of Oklahoma's casinos are full-fledged resorts featuring their own hotels, fine dining restaurants, pools and even golf courses. DE. Menu Brochures. The Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department on Monday canceled its contract with Swadley's Bar-B-Q due to "suspected fraudulent activity and questionable business practices," the agency. To contact a staff member or for travel or tourism requests: Oklahoma Tourism Department. Grant applications for the Land and Water Conservation Fund and the Recreational Trails Program are now available through the Oklahoma Tourism & Recreation Department. 1: Lake Murray State Park, 3323 Lodge Road, Ardmore. gov) can now be found on the new and improved okcommerce. Room G20. O. Alongside the Mountain Fork River, the new Riverside Retreat cabins are great for year-round use and add to the existing lodging opportunities in parks. UK. Oklahoma City, OK 73102-6406. Weekend Explorer: Lake Texoma. With hundreds of man-made lakes, state parks, casinos, museums and nightlife and dining opportunities in revitalized. An additional state. Visitors News Two-night stay at Ralphie's House. Newsletter. OTRD officials believe this service will offer visitors more ease and convenience when it comes to their park stay. gov; Policies; Accessibility;January 29, 2019. Naturally, The Oklahoman and. Feb 7, 2020. For these reasons, tourism is Oklahoma’s third largest industry and tourists spend more than $7B annually, following the state’s advice to “come see for yourself. The settlement also allowed the developer to retain more than 700 acres of Lake Texoma State Park. DE. 412,562 likes · 3,642 talking about this. The Oklahoma Tourism Information Centers have plenty of fun gift items from which to choose! You’ll also be able to select from several enjoyable Christmas decorations as well as a ton of Made in Oklahoma products from sauces to jams to locally made fudge! Location: 12229 N I-35 Service Rd. Amid intense scrutiny, including an ongoing criminal investigation and forensic audit, into the tourism department's now. 3 million in management fees over the past two years. Site Map ©2023 Oklahoma Tourism & Recreation Department. Travel Promotion Division. Feb. The news from Oklahoma Now (now. (OKLAHOMA CITY, Oklahoma / April 2, 2019) — The Oklahoma Tourism & Recreation Department announced today Jerry Winchester has been appointed as the new executive director of the. In the amazing solitude of this scenic area, the wide open spaces dotted with. Native American & Western Heritage. grant application and guide. Golden short-grass prairie, ancient granite mountains, Native history and artifacts, and dramatic sunsets weave an alluring travel tapestry. Oklahoma Tourism Department's official site allows you to explore Oklahoma, order free travel brochures, find thousands of things to do, immerse yourself in hundreds of videos and photos and plan your perfect vacation. " Juggling a career as an up-and-coming recording star, fulltime wife and mother isn't easy, but Lucas says she's never been happier. It is the Department which established regional designations for the various parts. Nov 28, 2023. At nearby Lake Texoma State Park, visitors will relish endless opportunities for nature exploration. The report from the Legislative Office of Fiscal Transparency. Family and Health. The agency that first investigated the deal between Oklahoma Tourism and Swadley’s said they didn’t recommend the termination of the contract on Monday. Oklahoma’s Tourism Development Act promotes investment in new or expanded tourism sites such as entertainment districts, destination hotels, arenas, museums, theme parks,. Phone: 580-443-5728. Just under a year after terminating its contract with Swadley’s Bar-B-Q for operation of restaurants at six of its state parks, the Oklahoma Department of Tourism and Recreation announced it was awarding a new contract to La Ratatouille. Midwest City, OK. As of late, here are some things Oklahoma has going on: Death Penalty: Enough said. The Tourism Department has paid Swadley’s more than $1. The Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department on Monday canceled its contract with Swadley's Bar-B-Q due to "suspected fraudulent activity and questionable business practices," the agency. For more information on some of their specials or what the park has to offer call (918) 772-2046 or click here. Box 52002 Oklahoma City, OK 73152-2002 Official website: TravelOK. OKLAHOMA CITY — The Oklahoma travel and tourism industry generated a record $9. Nov 29, 2023. Highest salary at Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department in year 2022 was $124,696. Matt Pinnell says the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department will amend its contract with a Swadley’s Bar-B-Q affiliate following growing lawmaker concern and a criminal. 16 Oklahoma Department of Tourism Recreation jobs available in Oklahoma City, OK on Indeed. Maps for public use are free of charge at any of the Tourism Welcome Centers statewide, all ODOT division offices and the Tourism and Recreation. Swadley's Bar-B-Q has countersued the state, claiming the Oklahoma Department of Tourism and Recreation worked closely with the company and knew all of the details of a lucrative deal to operate restaurants on state-owned property. Gov. The last time the department. 74%Offer valid Oct 01, 2020 - Dec 31, 2028. So pack up the family and head out for some fun on the farm at pumpkin patches and giant cornfield mazes. Box 52002 Oklahoma City, OK 73152-2002 Official website: TravelOK. Swadley's lucrative deal with the Tourism department is now the subject of a criminal investigation by The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation and has come under intense scrutiny by the Legislature. Coburn, an Oklahoma native, has performed with operas and orchestras around the world including the Copenhagen Philharmonic, Seattle. Oklahoma State Capitol. Image courtesy of Oklahoma Tourism & Recreation Department Worth a mention on its own, the Gathering Place is located along Tulsa’s waterfront and is easily one of the top Oklahoma attractions. Honobia Bigfoot Festival & Conference. This 10,000-acre refuge was established in 1993 to protect the rapidly disappearing bottomland hardwood forests of eastern Oklahoma. This unique shop carries native-made goods and art, including beautiful turquoise and sterling silver jewelry, gift products, both new and vintage clothing items and more. Oversee the operation and maintenance of the state’s lodges and golf courses. Tulsa Route 66 Main Street. 16% of Oklahoma Tourism And Recreation Department employees are Hispanic or Latino. Thompson’s bill. Cultural & Informational Centers · Oklahoma, United States · <25 Employees. Box 52002 Oklahoma City, OK 73152-2002 Official website: TravelOK. "It really befuddles me that Jerry. OKLAHOMA CITY — The Oklahoma State Tourism and Recreation Department canceled its lease concession agreement with Swadley’s Foggy Bottom Kitchen on Monday due to suspected fraudulent activity. 29, 2022) ' State Treasurer Randy McDaniel today unveiled a new name, branding and website for the state's direct-sold 529 plan. 123 Park Avenue, Oklahoma City, OK 73102 T: (405) 297-8900 or (800) 225-5652 contact@visitokc. Passes to AdventureScape, Chickasha Community Theatre, Wild Ox Axe Throwing, ice skating during the Festival of Light, mini-golf at Jungle Ice Fun Zone and a downtown carriage ride at Town's End. March 2020: March 2020: The tourism department, at the time under the direction of Jerry Winchester, awards Swadley's the initial contract to renovate and run the restaurants at six state parks. Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department's comprehensive site containing travel information, attractions, lodging, dining, and events. Why is the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department implementing the Parking Pass Program? A 2019 analysis of state park facilities and infrastructure found that, for years, funding levels have been well below the amount needed to adequately maintain our state parks at a level that would ensure the safe and enjoyable use of our. The restaurant and the state Tourism and Recreation Department is at the center of allegations of fraud and the misuse of taxpayers' funds for the company to install and operate Foggy Bottom Kitchens in state parks. Culinary Adventures. Visit Oklahoma City, the state capital and a vibrant destination filled with fun attractions and a wide range of experiences. Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department executive director Jerry Winchester, who had come under fire for the state agency’s controversial and now-terminated contract with Swadley’s Foggy. Kevin Stitt said goodbye to the man it was named after, Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department Executive Director Jerry Winchester.