Mick Cornett became Oklahoma City’s 35th mayor on March 2, 2004. Elected at age 45, Cornett became the City’s youngest mayor since 1959.

At the University of Oklahoma he earned a Journalism degree in television news and graduated on the Dean’s Honor Roll. He spent 20 years in local television working in both news and sports, serving as reporter, anchor and manager. As a news anchor, he covered City Hall from 1997-1999.

In 1999, he left television and started his own video production business. In 2001, he won a seat on the Oklahoma City Council where he served until elected mayor in 2004.

Q1 If you had to describe Oklahoma City’s personality in just a few words, what would they be?
We’re the city that works hard and dreams big!

Q2 Oklahoma City has developed a number of unique “districts” that showcase the city’s diversity. Can you give some examples?
We have a wonderful Asian District—which offers dining and shopping to thrill all of the senses. Stockyard City gives visitors a taste of the cowboy’s life. The Paseo is a wonderful arts district.

Q3 Oklahoma City certainly has something to offer everyone! What activities would you recommend to a family of four visiting for the first time?
I’d definitely recommend a trip to Bricktown, which has something to offer everyone! Depending on the weather, they could take a ride on the canal and see the Land Run sculptures. A visit to the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum would also be on my list. And of course, they would have to see the Oklahoma City Zoo—ranked as one of the top three family-friendly zoos in the country by Child magazine.

Q4 Oklahoma City is home to a number of great museums and other cultural attractions. Can you share with our readers some of the
highlights?
We truly are fortunate to have so many world class museums in such close proximity. The Oklahoma City Art Museum, The National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum, The Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum and the new Oklahoma History Center all are all fabulous museums with very distinct personalities.

Q5 What are some “hidden treasures” that even residents tend to miss?
I think we sometimes forget what amazing architecture we have downtown. I encourage visitors and residents to explore the Civic Center, the County Courthouse and other examples of Art Deco architecture. They’re truly architectural treasures in our own backyard.

Q6 Valentine’s Day is right around the corner. What’s your idea of the perfect romantic “night on the town?”
Well, the first thing that comes to mind is a romantic carriage ride around Bricktown. While you’re there, you can dine at any of the fine restaurants in Bricktown and stroll along the beautifully lit canal. Of course, you can also go to the East Wharf and enjoy a delicious meal while watching the sun set over Lake Hefner. We also have some wonderful places in town to listen to live music…your options are almost limitless!

Q7 For sports fans, Oklahoma City is also hosting the NBA’s Hornets this season. How has professional basketball impacted Oklahoma
City?
First, there’s the immediate economic impact on the city—increased business for the hotels, restaurants, etc. But there’s also the long-term impact. This opportunity has really helped positively position Oklahoma City on a global stage. The NBA is popular not only in the United States, but in Europe and Asia as well. The world is seeing the infinite possibilities for Oklahoma City.

Q8 Oklahoma City is said to be one of the best prospects for a permanent NBA team. Any comment?
We are proud to support the Hornets and their desire to return home to New Orleans. However, I think we’ve demonstrated that Oklahoma City is capable of supporting an NBA franchise!

Q9 The development of Bricktown appears to have been a turning point for the city. What do you see as the next step for Oklahoma City?
I’d like to see continued growth and increased population downtown. As we continue to add more amenities and housing opportunities, the vitality of downtown increases dramatically.

Q10 The final question is yours…what would you like to tell our readers?
I’d like to charge each citizen to be a travel agent for our city. We have a reputation for being a warm, friendly and helpful city—I encourage every citizen to help us in maintaining that great reputation.