Good morning, this is Tulsa Local Pulse for January 19, 2025. We're starting the day with some significant news from our city council. Just a few days ago, the Tulsa City Council voted 8-1 to end prayer before meetings, opting for a moment of silence instead. This decision came after a pagan woman gave the opening invocation last fall, which drew significant criticism. Councilor Laura Bellis proposed the change, citing concerns that some prayers might make attendees uncomfortable. The council will have a few more invocations before ending the practice in May.

Moving on to our job market snapshot, Tulsa's tech scene is booming. With a 27% growth in software developer roles and an average salary of $88,448, it's an exciting time for tech professionals. Major companies like Boeing and PwC are investing heavily in AI and cybersecurity, creating numerous job opportunities. The Tulsa Remote program is also attracting remote workers with a $10,000 grant and additional benefits. We're seeing a significant shift in hiring practices, with employers focusing on high-demand skills like cloud computing and cybersecurity.

In real estate news, there haven't been any major commercial or residential property sales announced recently. However, new development projects are on the horizon, and we'll be providing updates as more information becomes available. The Tulsa Metropolitan Area Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment have introduced new application fees, effective January 14, 2025, to provide a more transparent and customer-friendly approach for applicants.

Today, an emergency training exercise will take place at the Tulsa Premium Outlets from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. The Jenks Police Department, Jenks Fire Department, and EMSA will conduct the exercise, which may include simulated emergency sounds. Residents living near the mall should be aware of the activity, and only first responders, outlet mall employees, and credentialed media will be allowed access during this time.

Weather-wise, today is looking sunny with a high of 59 degrees. However, we're expecting some changes in the long-term forecast, so stay tuned for updates.

New business activity includes the upcoming Tulsa High Performance Racing Auction Trade Show & Swap Meet at the Tulsa Expo Square. Vendors will fill Central Park Hall with merchandise, new and used parts, and other hard-to-find items perfect for car enthusiasts.

Upcoming community events include the Tulsa Martin Luther King Jr. Parade on January 20, 2025, starting at N Detroit Ave & John Hope Franklin Blvd. The parade honors Dr. King and celebrates freedom with the community. Theatre Tulsa is also presenting "Oliver!" at the Tulsa Performing Arts Center until January 26, 2025. Don't miss this timeless tale based on Charles Dickens' classic novel.

In local school achievements, we're proud to see our students excelling in various fields, though we'll have to skip detailed reports today due to time constraints.

On a feel-good note, the Tulsa Remote program has been a game-changing success story, offering a $10,000 grant and additional benefits to remote workers. Participants are bringing in an average income of $104,600, and 88% have at least a bachelor's degree. The program's impact is projected to add $500 million in new local earnings by 2025 and create around 5,000 high-impact jobs.

Today's crime report includes the ongoing search for a 19-year-old murder suspect in a November shooting. Tulsa police are urging anyone with information to come forward. Additionally, the FBI is investigating the radicalization and premeditated actions of the New Orleans attacker.

This has been Tulsa Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI