I just returned from three delightful days in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Despite excessive heat warnings and daily highs of 108, everyone was upbeat and extremely hospitable.

I had the opportunity to conduct media/communications sessions for athletes at University of Tulsa. I enjoyed staying at the newly refurbished Marriott Southern Hills, recently the host hotel for the PGA championship at Southern Hills. We had no time to play on this trip, although we did drive by, and I was reminded it’s deceivingly hilly.

I was particularly impressed the hotel’s M Club concierge lounge was open 24/7, a rarity these days, and they actually had newspapers, the Tulsa World and The Wall Street Journal. I always appreciate that on the road.

I really appreciated the welcome sign posted on the elevator doors: very sophisticated and not preachy. Nicely done, Marriott! I also gained historical perspective as we toured the area known as Black Wall Street, the site of the 1919 race riots that all but destroyed this thriving community. It was incredibly moving.

All in all, a lovely time with equally lovely hosts.

— Sue Castorino and Randy Minkoff, members of GT’s Globility Board