SPAKE CARTOONS
Link: attackads.
Just when you think you have seen it all...........along comes Hal
WHAT WE STAND FOR
BUSINESS
- OBAMA STUFF
The Cleveland County democratic Party has gone to the expense of having Some Obama sings printed up. They also have Bumper Stickers and Campaign Buttons. If you or any one you know would like to purchase one or more of these Items. Please contact David Perry Chair or leave a message at the Cleveland County HQ. Number is 405-447-3366. There are 2 styles of the signs. Signs--- $ 5.00 ea Bumper stickers---- $ 2.00 ea Buttons-- $ 1.00 ea. David did mention that he would possibly make a deal if signs were ordered by quantity. So if you are needing 1 or 25 or more please call. A reminder these signs would cost 8.00 dollars if you ordered them on line. I will see if David can send me a copy of the two signs so you will know what they look like. Thanks Troy green Chair CD 4 - LL JAMES Union Printing
405-780-9224 lljames@sbcglobal.net
O-Manland
« September 2006 | Main | November 2006 »
October 2006
Ballot Issues
We've had several calls this week about the four State Questions that will appear on the November ballot. Sadly, the RAISE Oklahoma campaign to put an increase in the minimum wage did not make it to the ballot this year. But it did in eight other states. Read about it here. Thankfully the TABOR issue didn't make it either. The State Questions for November 7th, 2006 as outlined on the Oklahoma State Election Board website are as follows:
STATE QUESTION NO. 724 LEGISLATIVE REFERENDUM NO. 339
This measure amends Article V, Section 21 of the State Constitution. That Section deals with State pay to legislators. The amendment restricts State pay to some legislators. The pay restriction would apply to some legislators while in jail or prison. The pay restriction would apply to legislators found guilty of a crime. It would also apply to legislators who plead either guilty or no contest. Affected legislators must return any State pay received for time while in jail or prison.
SHALL THE PROPOSAL BE APPROVED?
FOR THE PROPOSAL — YES
AGAINST THE PROPOSAL — NO
FOR THE PROPOSAL — YES
AGAINST THE PROPOSAL — NO
STATE QUESTION NO. 725 LEGISLATIVE REFERENDUM NO. 340 This measure amends the State Constitution. It amends Section 23 of Article 10. The measure deals with the Constitutional Reserve Fund also known as the Rainy Day Fund. The measure allows money to be spent from the Rainy Day Fund. The purpose of the authorized spending is to retain employment for state residents by helping at-risk manufacturers. Payments from the Fund would be used to encourage such manufacturers to make investments in Oklahoma. All such payments from the Fund must be unanimously approved by three State officers. Those officers are the Governor and the head of the Senate and House of Representatives. Those officers could only approve payments recommended by an independent committee. Such spending is allowed in years when there is Eighty Million Dollars or more in the Fund and other conditions are met. Such spending is limited to Ten Million Dollars a year. The help given to a manufacturer is limited to ten percent of its in-State capital investments. The Legislature could make laws to carry out the amendment.
SHALL THE PROPOSAL BE APPROVED?
FOR THE PROPOSAL — YES
AGAINST THE PROPOSAL — NO
FOR THE PROPOSAL — YES
AGAINST THE PROPOSAL — NO
STATE QUESTION NO. 733 LEGISLATIVE REFERENDUM NO. 341 This measure amends the Oklahoma Constitution. It amends Article 28. This Article deals with sales of alcoholic beverages. Section 6 of Article 28 bans the sale of alcoholic beverages by package stores on certain days. Package store sales of these beverages are prohibited on election days while the polls are open. This measure would remove the ban on sales on election days. If this measure passes, package stores could sell alcoholic beverages on election days.
SHALL THE PROPOSAL BE APPROVED?
FOR THE PROPOSAL — YES
AGAINST THE PROPOSAL — NO
FOR THE PROPOSAL — YES
AGAINST THE PROPOSAL — NO
STATE QUESTION NO. 734 LEGISLATIVE REFERENDUM NO. 342 This measure amends the Oklahoma Constitution. It amends Section 6A of Article 10. This section provides an exemption from property tax. The exemption applies to goods that are shipped into the state, but which do not remain in the state for more than ninety days. This is sometimes known as the freeport exemption. This measure would allow laws to be enacted. The laws could provide for an application process to claim this exemption. The laws could require the application to be filed by a certain date. The laws could require certain information to be included with the application. The application would be filed with the county assessor.
SHALL THE PROPOSAL BE APPROVED?
FOR THE PROPOSAL — YES
AGAINST THE PROPOSAL — NO
FOR THE PROPOSAL — YES
AGAINST THE PROPOSAL — NO
TYNER CORBREAD AND BEANS - Kim KIm and Cal Speak
Link: The Norman Transcript - Democrats urgedto get out the vote.
And that's what's worrying party members, including Sen. Cal Hobson, D-Lexington.
"The only way to get beat is to beat ourselves, to not take our friends and family out to vote," Hobson said
VOTE EARLY
You can vote early at your county election board on the following days:
Friday, November 3, from 8 am to 6 pm.
Saturday, November 4, from 8 am to 1 pm.
and
Monday, November 6 from 8 am to 6 pm.
HIETT TURNS TO HENRY FOR HELP
Lisa Pryor, Oklahoma Democratic Party Chairman, said today the GOP’s candidate for Lt. Governor, Todd Hiett, is misleading Oklahoma voters by running ads that suggest a strong connection between Hiett and popular Democratic Governor Brad Henry. She said the advertisement is a thinly veiled attempt to distract voters from the Republican’s failed record in the last legislative session.
“This is a simple act of desperation by a Republican trying to plug into the success of a an extremely popular Democratic Governor. If House Speaker Todd Hiett spent more time working for Oklahoma families and less time obstructing progress and playing partisan games, the last legislative session would not be remembered as one of the least productive in Oklahoma history,” Pryor said. “Republicans like Hiett are so desperate to win, they will do and say anything to distract voters from their deceitful and divisive legacy of pay to play."
Pryor said Democrats have a real leader in Lt. Governor Jari Askins. A Lt. Governor candidate who can truly work with Governor Henry and who will get Henry’s vote on Nov. 7. Hiett, in two head-to-head debates with Askins, has avoided answering who he will vote for in the Governor’s race – Henry or challenger Ernest Istook, a fellow Republican.
“He avoids answering a simple question. What else is he hiding from Oklahoma voters? We deserve a Lt. Governor who cares about education and health care access for all Oklahomans,” Pryor said. “Jari Aksins, a candidate committed to job creation and fiscal responsibility, can honestly team with Governor Brad Henry and lead our state forward.”
email: jasonmccarty@okdemocrats.org
phone: 405.427.3366
SENATE REVIEW by Senator Randy Bass
When you talk about making our state the best it can be, one of the most important issues for many Oklahomans is having access to quality health care. We've made tremendous strides in this area, creating programs to help small businesses offer affordable insurance to their employees. We've created programs to help Oklahomans in need obtain low-cost or free prescription medications. We've also made tremendous strides in helping Oklahomans gain greater access to screening and treatment for breast cancer.
One thing that's important to realize is that breast cancer is not just a woman's disease. Not when you take into account how many people are impacted by this illness. Just ask the father who is raising his children alone. A woman fighting breast cancer is someone's daughter. She is a sister, a wife, a mother and a friend. In that light, ultimately, breast cancer impacts all of us.
According to the AmericanSociety, one of eight women will develop breast cancer. It is the most common form of cancer in American women, and the leading cause of cancer death for women 40-55 years of age. But there's been tremendous progress in the treatment of this disease, with better outcomes for patients all the time. The key is early detection and then of course access to treatment.
As of 2004, Oklahoma was the only state in the entire nation not to take advantage of a federal program to help make sure women with little or no insurance would have access to life-saving breast and cervical cancer treatment. That session, legislators worked together to help Oklahomans take advantage of that treatment program and the bill was passed and signed into law.
Oklahoma's breast and cervical cancer treatment program officially got underway in January of 2005. As of this date 2,600 women had received help through this program. As of the end of September of this year, nearly 8000 women had been helped. Those are individuals who may not have had access to cancer treatment otherwise.
In addition, the State Health Department began breast and cervical cancer screening. Last year, more than 6,000 women were screened—an increase of nearly 2,000 over the previous year.
There's no doubt in my mind these important programs are saving thousands of lives across our state. That's good medicine for all of Oklahoma. For more information, you can contact the "Oklahoma Cares" hotline at 1-866-550-5585 or email OKCares@health.ok.gov. As always if you have a question about a legislative matter, please do not hesitate to contact my office at (405) 521-5567 or by email at bass@oksenate.gov.
Oct. 25, 2006
Oklahoma Republicans Must Change Course Not RhetoricLisa Pryor, Oklahoma Democratic Party Chairman, today said the Republican philosophy of “stay the course” continues to hurt America and Oklahoma. The Center for American Progress Action Fund today released a report card on the Bush Administration's failing record in Iraq. The report gave the Republican Administration two D's and three F's on their inability to create security and stability, governance and democracy, economic reconstruction and the impact on U.S. national security. The report comes out at the same time as a story in the Washington Post which says the Administration will no longer use the phrase "stay the course" in talking about their failed strategy in Iraq.
“President Bush needs to provide Americans a plan, not more rhetoric, which is carefully crafted in response to plummeting poll numbers on the eve of Election Day,” Pryor said. “Oklahoma soldiers, their families and the American people deserve better. We want to defeat the enemy in Iraq and keep America safe. But, the Bush Administration's failed Iraq policy is feeding terrorism, not fighting it.”
But President Bush isn't the only one who has advocated the stay the course strategy even in the face of evidence of its failure. Oklahoma Congressional Republicans Tom Cole, John Sullivan, Frank Lucas, as well as nominee Mary Fallin, have continued to spout Washington Republican talking points, refusing to admit that the Bush Administration's current policy on Iraq, the war on terrorism, and the economy is just not working. Now that even the Bush Administration has backed off from their failed rhetoric, will Oklahoma Republicans flip flop too?
"Oklahomans already know that staying the course in Iraq is not an option," Pryor said. “The rubber- stamp set of Cole, Sullivan and Lucas must do more than just change the way they talk about Iraq, they must change their permanent commitment to a failed strategy on the economy, the war on terror, privatizing social security and failing to fund education."
email: jasonmccarty@okdemocrats.org
phone: 405.427.3366
| ||||||
ECONOMIC POLICY NEWS- Another 247 Billlion
Friends,
Here is my latest column. As always,feel free to forward to anyone you think might be interested. And make sure you share your thoughts with me also!
I hope all is well.
Mickey A. Hepner, Ph.D.
Associate Professor & Director of UCO Policy Institute
University of Central Oklahoma
Department of Economics
100 N. University Dr.
Thatcher Hall, Room 222
Edmond, OK 73034-5209
Phone: 405.974.2829
Fax: 405.974.3853
Number 2006-40
Another Year, Another $247 Billion
October 16, 2006
Eager to discuss anything other than the Foley sex scandal cover-up, the mounting death toll in Iraq , or the surging numbers of uninsured Americans, Republicans are clinging to any scrap of good news they can. Thus, it was no surprise this week when Republicans lauded the latest news on the budget deficit. However, the news is certainly not as good as they would lead you to believe.
The Bush Administration announced this week that the federal budget deficit for the fiscal year (which ended September 30) was $247.7 billion—the lowest in four years. This is proof, they argue, that the Republican economic plan of tax cuts for the wealthiest Americans is working. There are two reasons, though, why I do not buy the spin coming from Republicans.
Continue reading "ECONOMIC POLICY NEWS- Another 247 Billlion" »
ELECTION DAY IN THREE WEEKS - Jimmy Beene
Only three weeks remain before we mark our ballots in this election year. There are two state agencies that impact every segment of our every day lives. Yet, we don’t seem to ever think about them. One is the Oklahoma Corporation Commission. Our choice this year is deciding if we will elect Bob Anthony to continue for another six years or if we return Cody Graves to allow the commission to do more to build our state economy and help create jobs. Within the last few days, endorsements from former commission members were heaped on Graves. In fact, every Democrat and Republican former commissioner joined in to say Graves is best suited to serve and protect taxpayers’ interests at the commission.
Continue reading "ELECTION DAY IN THREE WEEKS - Jimmy Beene" »
OPEN DOOR POLICY - Rep Joe Dorman
Currently, the House of Representatives is reviewing potential bills for introduction that are being presented by members returning to the Capitol. Tuesday, presenters appeared before the Revenue and Taxation Committee to discuss breakdowns in policy regarding illegal immigrants. There are many areas that need change in both policy structure and legal definition. This will be a very important topic to discuss this next year and both Democrats and Republicans alike will be working for some sensible changes through debate and discussion. While much of the policy change must come at the federal level, there will still be many things we can do to improve the system at the state level.
Friday, I had the honor of speaking to the Women in Agriculture Conference held at Canadian Valley Career Tech in Chickasha. I was able to present ideas on upcoming legislation and the potential election outcomes. I did a visual demonstration to the conference participants that shows how important it is to participate. While I can't do that through my column, it is important to understand how much your vote counts. Fewer than 25% of the public that is elibible to vote because of age will show up at the polls in two weeks. This apathy leads to the majority of the public not determining the policy makers for new laws.
Please go to the polls and cast your vote. By law, you are allowed one hour off work to vote, so schedule this time with your supervisor in advance if you need. The polls are open 7 AM to 7 PM on election day. You can also vote the Friday, Saturday and Monday prior to the election at the County Election Board. Call them to find out the times they are open if you will be too busy on Election Day.
One potential change we might see next year is taking the polling places out of school buildings. With the increase of violent acts at schools, there is a fear that strangers coming to the schools on election day might not be noticed. Because of the high traffic, it would be easier for persons to navigate the buildings unlike on a regular day when persons must check in with the administration. Schools are going to be on alert this election day, but this change of venue might be made next year to make things safer for the students and teachers.
It is an honor to represent your views at the State Capitol. If you wish to contact me and discuss one of these or another issue, I can be reached at my office in Oklahoma City toll-free at 1-800-522-8502, or directly at 1-405-557-7305. I can be reached locally at (580) 476-2626, my e-mail address is joedorman@okhouse.gov at work.
COLE VOTES NO ON TRICARE FOR GUARD AND RESERVE
Posted on demookie.com
| Tom Coles representative today, attending the Oklahoma Rehabilitation Council "Meet the Candidates" said that Tom Cole supported Tricare... LIE...SHAME ON YOU TOM COLE! TRICARE FOR GUARD AND RESERVE“ (House of Representatives - May 25, 2005) [Page: H3900] GPO's PDF (Mr. TAYLOR of Mississippi asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.) Mr. TAYLOR of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, we have a lot to remember on Memorial Day. Today in south Mississippi, four families will be receiving death notices. Every one of those families had a young guardsman over in Iraq who was killed yesterday. Last Friday, I visited Walter Reed. Five young soldiers were wounded, four of them amputees, every one of them Guardsmen Or Reservists. Just last week the Committee on Armed Services passed an amendment that would allow Guardsmen and Reservists to buy TRICARE insurance for themselves and their families. Somewhere between the committee, where it passed, and the Committee on Rules, where it failed, it was blocked on a straight party-line vote. So as we remember Memorial Day, I hope every Guardsman in America will remember the gentleman from California (Mr. Dreier), the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Lincoln Diaz-Balart), the gentleman from Washington (Mr. Hastings), the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Sessions), the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Putnam), the gentlewoman from West Virginia (Mrs. Capito), the gentleman from Oklahoma (Mr. Cole), the gentleman from Connecticut (Mr. Bishop) and the gentleman from Georgia (Mr. Gingrey), eight of the nine who never served a day in uniform who voted to see that our Nation's Guardsmen and Reservists cannot buy Federal health insurance. |
Ready to put your words into ACTION? http://dfa.meetup.com/63/ |
CHANNEL FLIPPER - Who is this person?
Saw Jari and Todd Sunday morning on Flashpoint. Jari gave Todd his now biweekly verbal spanking. She is getting better at it at every meeting. Todd looked like he is still trying to figure out who this short person is that follows him around and is constantly making him look bad.
You go girl!
CHANNEL FLIPPER - Please don't go there Barak.
I watched Sen. Obama charm America on Meet the Press Sunday morning. Did an excellent job on a wide range of subjects..........but he seemed to have changed in the past six months. When they ran the clip on his appearance earlier this year, I recognized what it was. His style of speaking had changed. I had heard the new style somewhere before. During the commercial break, I flipped channels and there sat John Kerry rambling on about why he changed his vote on invading Iraq, or somethting else. I now know what was happening. In only two years, Obama has started speaking in the low mumbling whiney style of a US Senator.
Please don't go there Barak.
OBAMA WILL BE ON MEET THE PRESS THIS WEEKEND. CHECK TV GUIDE FOR TIME.
Exclusive! Senator Barack Obama (D-IL), the man TIME magazine dubbed "The Future of the Democratic Party" and the "man who could be the next president" joins us to discuss domestic politics, foreign policy, and his new book, "The Audacity of Hope: Thoughts on Reclaiming the American Dream."
Editor: Women should not watch this show. They are usally are worthless to do housework for a week after watching him.
LCC FORUM CONFUSING CONSERVATIVE CANDIDATES
I was watching the TV rerun of the Lawton Chamber of Commerce Candidate Forum for Local Candidates and after several minutes I noticed a pattern arising. This is my summary of what I heard and saw when questions of the audience were read:
(a) Would you support state money for city improvements for building the BRAC infrastructure if you get elected?
(b) Would you support state money for economic development to bring industry into the state if you get elected?
(c) Would you support state money for present industry to keep them operating in the state?
(d) Would you support state money for us for the Centennial Celebration and the tourism it will bring in.?
(e) Would you support state money for the Southern Bypass Loop and a improved highway from I44 to I 35?
(f) Would you support getting more state money for vo-tech education and less for college education from the lottery proceeds?
(g) Would you support getting state money for the downtown economic development area (another name for urban renewal)?
Now folks these questions put confused looks on the faces of the conservative candidates. These questions were coming from and audience of twenty old bald heads, that by history, put money and political support into grinch candidates that want to cut state spending and swear TABOR is the gospel truth.
Here were business conservatives asking candidates to commit to spend spend spend!
You can’t have it both ways Lawton Chamber of Commerce. Balanced spending for worthy local projects require a sane and realistic approach to state government.
Support Democratic candidates.
REASON FOR REPUBLICANS TO WORRY
Another quote from TailgatePolitics run by Keith Gaddie and Kyle Loveless:
Reason for Republicans to Worry
The other evening, after Kyle and I got off the air, I went to my kid's elementary school for a PTA event (a fun festival) that preceded the big fundraiser the next day (they make the kids run laps for money until they can't run anymore -- it is very 19th century, child labor running in circles to supplement the system). Anyhow, as I was hanging out with some of the other dads and moms, people started talking politics. In a fit of discipline, I listened. Now, let me note, this is Republican central of Norman, the northwest side where the Hummers outnumber every other car in the carpool line. What did I hear?
(1) We Love Brad Henry: All these Republican dads and moms are voting for Brer Governor. Why? All day-kindergarten. Pre-K funding. Tax cuts. He tried what he said he'd try, and then did it. And they are not getting any alternative message.
(2) We Hate Incumbents: Old-line veterans who are life-long Republicans tell me they are tired of a lack of accountability on the war, so they are pulling levers against incumbents. One guy wants to find a way vote against Inhofe (they really hate Inhofe) even though he isn't on the ballot this year. While I do not think this endangers Tom Cole, I do think it is indicative of a change in mindset among even conservative Republicans, that they are tired of the exercise of power without accountability.
(3) "We Hate Incumbents" Is Bad for Istook: Ernest is running as a challenger, but he is an incumbent. He's spent the last 20-odd years in public office, and nearly 30 years in public service. And, he is tied to the least-popular institution in America. And, as I noted yesterday, his advertisements look like incumbent-congressional ads. My lovely wife, the advertising scholar, says it looks like an introductory ad one runs at the beginning of a primary, not an ad for the closing week of a campaign. The moms and dads simply did not find Mr. Istook to be credible.
I have to wonder how far down these effects will reach. The Democrats have a clear course to win at least half of the constitutional offices in the state, and nationally the prospect of a Democratic majority in congress is high. Down-ticket, the question is whether or not voters identify Republican candidates with the successes of a Democratic governor, or the failures of a Republican congress.
___________________
CYA Obnoxious Quote of the Week from a Significant Republican Activist: "We've got Bilbo Baggins at the top of the ticket and everyone else is scurrying for their hobbit-holes."
ITS THAT TIME AGAIN
Read this on the TailgatePolitics web site run by Kyle Loveless and Keith Gaddie:
Time to scare the **** out of the country again . . .
The GOP is going to start campaigning this week on the prospect of new terror attacks, and how these are the stakes for the coming election.
Glad they brought that up . . . I guess I missed the last five years and needed reminding again.
Folks, I do not mean to be cynical, but don't you think it is a little funny that DHS decides to release information on a "non-credible" threat to pro football stadiums just before the rollout of such an advertising campaign? I'm not suggesting conspiracy, but I feel of late as if I am living inside "wag-the-dog."
SENATE REVIEW by Sen Randy Bass
We are fortunate to have men and women in our communities who are willing to risk everything to protect the lives and property of their fellow citizens—I'm talking about our local firefighters.
Throughout the month of October, firefighters across Oklahoma will be working to educate citizens about how to prevent fires in the first place, and what to do if they should occur. Its part of Fire Prevention Month, held each year in October.
One of the easiest ways to protect your life and those of your loved ones is to make sure you have working smoke alarms in your home. You need to have one outside of each sleeping area and on each level of your home.
But a smoke alarm that does not work properly or that has dead batteries can't save anyone. That's why it is important to use the test button to check each of your alarms about once a month. It's also important to remember to replace the batteries at least once a year. Smoke alarms should also be replaced every ten years. It's also a good idea to have one or two fire extinguishers in your house.
It's also important to have a plan before an emergency strikes including making sure everyone has at least two ways to escape from every room, and to have a place outside the house where all the family members can meet to help ensure everyone got out okay. If you have a second floor, it is always a good idea to have an escape ladder incase a fire blocks access to the staircase.
Once you've made it out safely, it is critical not to go back inside the house. Another thing—if you have a fire inside your home, don't stay inside to call 911—leave right away and call outside from a cell phone or from your neighbor's phone.
To learn more about keeping safe in the event of a house fire, please contact your local fire department. I know they would be happy to help provide you with more safety tips to make sure you and your loved ones don't become another statistic.
As always if you have a question about a legislative matter, please do not hesitate to contact my office at (405) 521-5567 or by email at bass@,oksenate.gov.
HELP DREWRY STOP THEFT
It has become perfectly clear that the District 62 Representative race is the victum of an attempt by unnamed outside groups to buy the race. The campaign so far has been very expensive.......more expensive than the usual State Representative race. There is an indication more outside money will be pouring into Janice's opponent's checking account.
Janice and her voluteers have done an excellent job in her campaign so far. They have worked very hard. They are well organized for the final push. Door to door visits are planned. Campaign ads are in the cans and ready to be put on TV. But the money is getting low. She needs your help.
A fund raiser has been scheduled the coming Thursday at 5:30 to 7:00 at the Lawton Country Club.
Come by and leave a check. If we lose this one, Lawton will have one less representative. Representative District 62 will be owned and controlled by unknown outside groups.
Geezeweb
BLOG RAISES QUESTIONS ABOUT GOP 'VICTORY '06"
Oklahoma Political News Service has raised questions about the administration of the Oklahoma Republican Party's "Victory 2006" operation and the sum paid the woman who heads it. No comment yet from Republican State Chairman Tom Daxon.
VISIT FLOYD'S BARN
Editor: Friends(and you are my friends). This is one place you need to go to believe. In the recent history of the Democratic Party and the University of Oklahoma many ledgendary and memoriable incidents have happend here. Ask anyone "have you been to Floyd's Barn?" and they will tell you of things you wouldn't believe if you weren't talking to another Democrat. It will be worth any large contribution you can make just to say "I have been to Floyd's Barn" or "I have been to Floyd's Barn 24 times and here to tell about it."
Geezeweb
SOONER MOMENT
Reggie Smith moves to Tail Back. Modified wish bone should be installed. Defense asked to please pay attention to the game plan at practice and game day.
YOU HAVE GOT TO SEE IT!
http://www.oksenatedemocrats.com/
Oklahoma Senate Democrats have put together the neatest web site! It has the information you need on your Senator and his opponent. Plus, tons of useful practical information on campaigns.
Congratulations
WELCOME OKIEFUNK
CCDEM recently discovered www.okiefunk.com. Okiefunk recently received awards for being an outstanding blog site here in Oklahoma. Well worth bookmarking. Okiefunk is definitely written in donkeyspeak.
OPEN DOOR POLICY by Rep. Joe Dorman
Congratulations to the Sterling Lady Tigers for winning state in softball this past weekend! They defeated Depew in extra innings to take state after several years in a row of making it to the tournament. It was great to finally see them make it all the way and take home the trophy. Elgin and Fort Cobb-Broxton also made it to the state tournament and had very opponents and put up valiant efforts. All three teams are to be commended for their hard work and for even making it to the final tournament.
This past weekend also saw the annual memorial service to recognize fallen and deceased firefighters. This event, held at the firefighters' museum in Oklahoma City, was an event I was glad I had the opportunity to attend. Firefighters and their families from all over the state came together to remember loved ones and pay their final respects. I was honored to be invited this year by the Chickasha Fire Department.
I also had the chance to pay visits to two local schools this past week. Elgin and Friend Schools both welcomed me in for visits and allowed me to discuss voter involvement in the process and how state government works. I also spoke about how the students are affected by legislation directed at their age group. I hope the students came away with the realization that they can make a difference on how government is run and help to improve it.
As you can see, many of the activities I participate in are to encourage younger Oklahomans to learn more about government. I was sickened to see the events brought to light in DC this past week. As a former staff member that worked with the State House Page Program, I was disgusted to hear about Congressman Foley's actions. His removal from office should only be the beginning of his punishment. Anyone that commits such actions deserves to receive the worst punishment distributed by our judicial system.
At our state capitol, we take every precaution possible on both sides to make this a safe environment for the students. Any improper action that a page in the State House chose often led to them being sent home early from the Capitol so as not to be a bad influence on the others. Legislators in the State House are not allowed to leave the building with a page unless written authorization is given by the parents and that is only over the lunch period and it is usually with a group of legislators and pages together. If I have a page attend session from my district, I want them protected by every means possible and I want the parents to feel safe that their children are watched under close scrutiny.
It is an honor to represent your views at the State Capitol. If you wish to contact me and discuss one of these or another issue, I can be reached at my office in Oklahoma City toll-free at 1-800-522-8502, or directly at 1-405-557-7305. I can be reached locally at (580) 476-2626, my e-mail address is joedorman@okhouse.gov at work.
GRAVES RECEIVES BI-PARTISAN ENDORSEMENTS OF ALL FORMER CORPORATION COMMISSIONERS
Cody Graves receives bi-partisan endorsements of all former Corporation Commissioners
J.C. Watts and Jim Townsend lead Graves’ endorsement group Democrat and Republican commissioners join in unprecedented support
OKLAHOMA CITY – In a move unprecedented in state political history, every Democrat and Republican former Corporation Commissioner today urged Oklahoma voters to elect Democrat Cody Graves to be Oklahoma’s next commissioner, saying Graves is best suited to serve and protect taxpayers’ interests at the commission.
Two of the state’s best known former commissioners, Republicans J.C. Watts, who also served in Congress and Democratic populist Jim Townsend led the impressive list of bi-partisan former commissioners backing Graves.
Besides Townsend, Democrats Hamp Baker, Norma Eagleton, Charles Nesbitt and Rex Privett all are supporting Graves.
Former Republican commissioner Ed Apple joined Watts in breaking party ranks to back Graves, a life-long Democrat.
ECONOMIC POLICY WEEKLY - Hastert Should Go
Mickey A. Hepner, Ph.D.
Associate Professor & Director of UCO Policy Institute
University of Central Oklahoma
Department of Economics
100 N. University Dr.
Thatcher Hall, Room 222
Edmond, OK 73034-5209
Phone: 405.974.2829
Fax: 405.974.3853
Hastert Should Go
October 9, 2006
Perhaps the most fundamental concept in economics is that individuals act in ways they believe will make them better off. When someone buys a new car, the buyer must expect some happiness from the new car. When people give money to charity, they must gain some satisfaction from knowing they are helping others. And when someone covers up the actions of a sexual predator, they must be doing so for their personal benefit.
October 9, 2006
Perhaps the most fundamental concept in economics is that individuals act in ways they believe will make them better off. When someone buys a new car, the buyer must expect some happiness from the new car. When people give money to charity, they must gain some satisfaction from knowing they are helping others. And when someone covers up the actions of a sexual predator, they must be doing so for their personal benefit.
As everyone now knows, former Republican Congressman Mark Foley has resigned his position after being confronted by ABC news with the details of his communication with teenage Congressional pages. What has Washington all aflutter, though, is the news that some of Mr. Foley's Republican colleagues knew about his actions long before the story broke.
While it is always dangerous to write about fluid situations--the situation on Friday may be very different from the situation on Sunday--there are some things we know:
1. Former Congressman Mark Foley sent inappropriate messages to underage boys serving as Congressional Pages
2. Rep. Tom Reynolds (R - New York) says he spoke with Speaker of the House Dennis Hastert earlier this year about the issue. Rep. Reynolds heads the National Republican Campaign Committee which supports the elections of Republican Congressional candidates. Speaker Hastert says that he does not recall the meeting with Rep. Reynolds, but does not deny that it occurred.
3. Rep. John Boehner (R - Ohio) also says he spoke with Speaker Hastert earlier this year on the issue. Rep. Boehner in his position as Majority Leader is the second most powerful Republican in the House of Representatives. He also shirks responsibility for the issue by stating, "It is in his (Speaker Hastert's) corner, it is his responsibility".
4. Rep. John Shimkus (R - Illinois) told Mr. Foley last year to immediately cease contact with a page whose parents had complained about inappropriate e-mails from the Congressman. Rep. Shimkus heads the Congressional Page Board that oversees the page program.
5. No one apparently told any Democrats about the sexual predator sitting in Congress.
1. Former Congressman Mark Foley sent inappropriate messages to underage boys serving as Congressional Pages
2. Rep. Tom Reynolds (R - New York) says he spoke with Speaker of the House Dennis Hastert earlier this year about the issue. Rep. Reynolds heads the National Republican Campaign Committee which supports the elections of Republican Congressional candidates. Speaker Hastert says that he does not recall the meeting with Rep. Reynolds, but does not deny that it occurred.
3. Rep. John Boehner (R - Ohio) also says he spoke with Speaker Hastert earlier this year on the issue. Rep. Boehner in his position as Majority Leader is the second most powerful Republican in the House of Representatives. He also shirks responsibility for the issue by stating, "It is in his (Speaker Hastert's) corner, it is his responsibility".
4. Rep. John Shimkus (R - Illinois) told Mr. Foley last year to immediately cease contact with a page whose parents had complained about inappropriate e-mails from the Congressman. Rep. Shimkus heads the Congressional Page Board that oversees the page program.
5. No one apparently told any Democrats about the sexual predator sitting in Congress.
This last point is the most shocking of them all. Why would anyone purposefully keep one political party in the dark when a potential sexual predator is walking the halls of Congress? Because they believed it was in their best interest to hide the truth from Democrats (and the public). They feared that revealing the information would give Democrats an opening to win one more seat in Congress...and move one step closer to becoming the majority party. Those Republicans who shielded Mr. Foley were more interested in retaining their own power than they were in protecting the young men and women serving as Congressional pages...and that is unforgivable.
Apparently exposing his partisan view of the world, Speaker Hastert had the gall to lash out to Democrats for the leaks instead of focusing his anger on the guy preying on children (ABC News reporter Brian Ross, who broke the story, later revealed that Republicans disgusted by Mark Foley's actions were actually the source of the leaks). But this reaction by the Speaker gives us a glimpse into his character. After all, shouldn't exposing a sexual predator be something worthy of praise? Apparently, Speaker Hastert would have preferred that no one ever learned the lurid details of Mark Foley's behavior. This fact alone shows that it is time for Hastert to go.
Ironically, the cover-up intended to preserve Republican power could cost Republicans control of the House of Representatives. In a few weeks, voters across the country will go to the polls to elect the 435 members of the U.S. House of Representatives. Next January, those members will cast their first votes by choosing the Speaker and other House leaders. As things stand today, a vote for a Republican Congressional candidate is a vote to keep Dennis Hastert and his backwards priorities in power.
This fact should generate much anxiety for Republicans heading into the last few weeks of the fall campaign. With his inaction, Speaker Hastert has displayed a willingness to place his personal interest above the interest of protecting our children. As long as Congressional Republicans (and their candidates) still accept him as their leader, they are also accepting his backwards priorities...something voters should remember in November.
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CHAMBER OF COMMERCE FORUM - Wednesday
Don't forget the Chamber of Commerce Forum this coming Wednesday at Cameron College University Theater at 7:00 pm. Details on the Events Calendar. Maybe Tahrohon Wayne Shannon will have details for us.
SENIOR MOMENT ON PASSING THINGS
Read this week's issue of The Comanche County Chronicle and saw a column by your favorite congressman, Congressman Lookingood. And boy is he lookinggood. He says he has been busy busy busy protecting you in Washington by passing things. He says they passed two bills that will protect you and your loved ones. He help pass in the house The Border Tunnel Prevention Act (H.R. 4830) and then they out did themselves and passed The Secure Fence Act of 2006 (H.R. 6094). I can't tell if he is serious or making a joke.
Folks we need to consider sending to Congress someone who has some new thinking on how to protect our borders and this country. The ones we have up there now are flat out of ideas on what needs to be done.
CAPITOL REVIEW by Senator Randy Bass
Oklahoma has produced scores of men and women who have excelled in business, science, education, journalism, entertainment, and in sports. We can now add another Oklahoman to that list—Grady Brewer from Lawton.
Brewer entered season two of ESPN's boxing reality-series "The Contender" with a modest professional record, an injured shoulder and little fanfare.
A journeyman throughout most of his career, Brewer has often been thrown into fights against hot prospects on short notice, with little training. Working 12-hour shifts at the Goodyear tire plant while caring for his four children left Brewer without the training opportunities afforded to many other fighters.
A quality Brewer has never lacked, as evidenced by his hard work and perseverance on "The Contender" shows, is heart. When given the opportunity to focus on improving his skills with world-class trainers in Los Angeles, Brewer rapidly improved and defeated his opponents not with flashy power and lightning speed, but with the same steady, hard-working approach that embodies his life away from the ring.
Brewer methodically worked behind his jab, utilized the kind of footwork and head movement needed to survive over 30 professional fights against top competition, and out-muscled former world champion Steve Forbes, the heavy favorite.
Brewer's victory should serve as a source of pride for Lawton. His win was more than a dramatic split-decision triumph over a former world champion - it was the kind of inspiring moment that reaffirms our faith in the value of hard work and determination. It's safe to say a $500,000 winner's purse has never been so well-deserved.
In a touching moment after the fight, Brewer thanked his supervisors and employees at Goodyear for allowing him to take the time to pursue his "Contender" opportunity. The process of filming the show and the journey toward his tournament victory were surely life-changing experiences.
It's the most unlikely of scenarios when a 35 year-old boxer is given another opportunity to become a
Contender, but Brewer made the most of his opportunity.
In the process, viewers have been able to take away more than just the joy of seeing the hometown boy emergevictorious. Brewer's performance on the television show taught us a lesson about the power of self-confidence in the face of difficult odds, about the power of hard work and that we should never lose faith in our ability to accomplish our goals, however distant they may seem.
I congratulate Grady Brewer on his win, and wish him continued success both in and outside the ring.
As always if you have a question about a legislative matter, please do not hesitate to contact my office at (405) 521-5567 or by email at bass@oksenate.gov.
Editor: Me Too!
CHANNEL FLIPPER - MEACHUM ON FLASHPOINT
I thought Meacham did an excellent job on Flashpoint. His opponent tried to make him a puppet of the Guv but failed. Meacham did a very good thumbnail of his accomplishments as Treasurer in five minutes and little was left to be said. Oklahoma is fortunate to have him as their banker. Come to think of it, thats what we are going to need in Washington in 2009; another Rubin style banker.
RELIGION AND POLITICS TO BE DISCUSSED
SUBMITTED BY TIM MAULDIN, PhD
The volatile intersection of religion and politics
Sunday, October 15th
The Rev. Dr. Charles A. Kimball will conduct a forum on “The volatile intersection of religion and politics” at First Presbyterian Church, 555 South University Boulevard in Norman (321-0933).
The event takes place from 5:30 to 7 p.m. in First Presbyterian's Alexander Hall.
Dr. Kimball has made more than 35 visits to the Middle East and worked closely with Congress, the White House, and the State Department during the past 20 years.
His articles have appeared in a number of publications, including Sojourners, The Christian Century, The Los Angeles Times, The Christian Science Monitor and The Boston Globe.
He is the author of four books, including "Striving Together: A Way Forward in Christian-Muslin Relations" and "Religion; Politics and Oil: The Volatile Mix in the Middle East;" "Angle of Vision: Christians and the Middle East ;" and "When Religion Becomes Evil," published by Harper Collins in September, 2002.
Since the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and Pentagon, Dr. Kimball has been interviewed by more than 100 television and radio stations as well as major newspapers throughout the U.S., Canada, France, Australia, and South Africa.
Kimball is professor or religion and chair of the Department of Religion at Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem , N.C. He is a graduate of Oklahoma State University and holds a master's degree in divinity from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. An ordained Baptist minister, he received his Th.D. from Harvard University in comparative religion with specialization in Islamic studies. Kimball is a frequent lecturer and expert analyst on issues related to the Middle East, Islam, and the intersection of religion and politics in the United States.
Before joining the Wake Forest faculty in 1996, Kimball taught for six years at Furman University , where he also served as the director for international education at the National Council of Churches.
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Al Gore’s Movie
An Inconvenient Truth
October 21st & 22nd
The acclaimed movie, “An Inconvenient Truth,” featuring Al Gore will be shown at Mayflower Congregational Church in Okla. City , 3901 Northwest 63rd Street
(842-8897). There will be two showings: Saturday, October 21st, 6 PM, and Sunday, October 22nd, 1 PM.
DORMAN CALLS FOR INCREASED FUNDING OF EDUCATION PROGRAM
Dorman Calls for Increased Funding of Education Program
OKLAHOMA CITY (October 6, 2006) - If the Oklahoma Legislature increases
funding for the Great Expectations teacher training program, it could
lead to a dramatic improvement in student performance across the state,
state Rep. Joe Dorman said today.
"Great Expectations is a proven program that dramatically
improves student learning," said Dorman, D-Rush Springs. "A relatively
small increase in funding could reap huge rewards for our school system
and state economy in the long run."
Continue reading "DORMAN CALLS FOR INCREASED FUNDING OF EDUCATION PROGRAM" »
HOUSE ETHICS PANEL TO MEET THURSDAY
The House ethics committee is scheduled to meet in closed session Thursday, an unusual step when Congress is not in session.
No agenda was released, b