By Constitution Staff

Oklahomans for Initiative Rights, which organized a 70 city statewide tour of Oklahoma gathering massive grassroots support for voter rights reform bills like HB 2246, was outraged by Governor Brad Henry's veto of the measure. The bill would have extended the amount of time allowed to collect signatures for a ballot initiative from 90 days to one year. "We traveled throughout the state and we heard one message: Let Oklahomans Vote. The citizens want these reforms. The legislature voted for these reforms. Governor Henry has chosen to ignore the voters who elected him and continue making Oklahoma one of the most repressive states in the nation." said Norma Sapp, executive director of Oklahomans for Initiative Rights.

Oklahoma is one of the most restrictive ballot initiative processes in the nation, having the second shortest period to collect signatures in the country and some of the toughest ballot requirements. HB 2246, which would have removed these restrictions, passed 87-1 in the House and 41-0 in the Senate. In addition to extending the amount of time allowed to collect signatures for a ballot measure, HB 2246 would have protected Oklahoma citizens collecting signatures by making harassment and intimidation against them illegal. "We will continue to work with Oklahomans to push for the essential voting rights reforms to the ballot initiative process whether it is this year in a special session or next year," said Sapp.

JUSTICE DEPARTMENT THREAT

In July, members of the Oklahoma Congressional Delegation sent a letter to U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder seeking justification and clarification for a letter the Department of Justice (DOJ) sent to Oklahoma Attorney General Drew Edmondson threatening Oklahoma with a loss of federal funding if the state passed a constitutional amendment making English the official language of the state.

The original DOJ letter, characterized by delegation members as dubiously timed at the peak of legislative debate, advises the state that "implementation of this [English-only] amendment may conflict with Oklahoma's obligations to protect the civil rights of limited English proficient (LEP) persons." Dated April 14, 2009 from Acting Assistant Attorney General Loretta King, the DOJ letter states, "As you know, recipients of federal financial assistance must comply with various civil rights statutes, including Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 which prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, and national origin."

The letter continues, "State agencies and other entities in Oklahoma that receive federal financial assistance thus would be precluded by federal law from abiding by an English-only requirement where it conflicts with their obligations under Title VI."

The Oklahoma Congressional Delegation's letter to Holder points out that several other states have passed similar legislation and asks if they too have been "accused by the Department of Justice to be in violation with Title VI, or formally threatened with funding termination." The delegation letter asks for an explanation for what prompted the DOJ to write the state of Oklahoma on this issue and seeks explanation for what funds would be eliminated should Oklahomans pass the English only amendment. The Legislature voted to place the measure on the statewide ballot next year. It is believed that the letter may have been requested by opponents of the measure attempting to block passage of the bill.

OKLAHOMA DEPORTS ILLEGALS

Nearly two dozen illegal aliens in state prisons were turned over to federal authorities for deportation on July 23rd, continuing a process that could ultimately save taxpayers close to $7 million. "For too long, Oklahoma's working families have paid the price for the federal government's failure to control our nation's borders," said state Rep. Randy Terrill (R-Moore). House Bill 2245, by Terrill, created the Criminal Illegal Alien Rapid Repatriation Act of 2009 and allowed the Oklahoma Department of Corrections to send illegal alien inmates to the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for deportation. A group of 22 inmates, all illegal aliens convicted of crimes in Oklahoma, were transferred from the John Lilley Correctional Center near Bole to ICE officials.

"We are pleased to see the operational aspects developed for Representative Terrill's bill to take effect," said Justin Jones, director of the Oklahoma Department of Corrections. The new deportation provisions apply only to illegal alien inmates who have not been convicted of major violent crimes (those requiring convicts to serve at least 85 percent of their sentence) and who have served at least one-third of their sentence in state prison. Prison officials report that 346 of the 541 illegal aliens currently in state prison will ultimately be eligible for deportation under the program, with 181 immediately eligible for deportation. Since the law gained final legislative approval in May, 32 illegal alien inmates have already been turned over to federal authorities. This group, however, was the largest single transfer to date. The state pays about $20,000 per year to house each inmate, meaning the ultimate savings generated by the repatriation program will total about $6.9 million.

COURT WEBSITE QUESTIONED

Oklahoma citizens now have to pay for public information about criminals that have been convicted in the District Court system. State Rep. Mike Reynolds (R-Oklahoma City) says that a new method to fleece the taxpayers has been implemented after being approved by many of the county court clerks in Oklahoma. Reynolds discovered the pay requirement while researching the David Earls case. He was shocked to find out that those public records regarding Earls weren't available without paying a fee to view them. Earls is the man who was sentenced to one year for raping and sodomizing a 4 year old girl, making national headlines.

Kellpro, a company out of Duncan, Oklahoma, hosts a website (www.odcr.com) that maintains public court records for 61 Oklahoma counties. Research shows that Kellpro will be paid $1.3 million in taxpayer dollars this year for their work regarding this system. Kellpro was "authorized" to charge the public to view these records by "the Kellpro Users Group," a group apparently made up primarily of elected county officials.

"I was also told that hundreds of thousands of dollars would be credited to the counties if Kellpro receives the revenues they expect to from this sweetheart deal," Rep. Reynolds stated. "This may explain why these counties have refused to participate in the Oklahoma Supreme Court Network website (www.oscn.net), which provides free court records for the large Oklahoma counties that are not Kellpro clients."

18th ANNUAL ROSE DAY

On February 4, Oklahomans celebrated the 18th Annual Rose Day at the State Capitol which is a day for those believing in the sanctity of human life to express their convictions to their legislators. This year, over 1,000 activists crammed into the State House Chamber to listen to a riveting speech delivered by Jane Brennan. Brennan is a former militant, anti-Catholic feminist, N.O.W. member and Planned Parenthood volunteer, who now speaks about the hurt and shame of abortion. A post-abortive woman herself, she delivered a heart-wrenching testimony of healing and hope after abortion and her conversion when she attended Mass during her search for faith. Prior to Brennan speaking several state representatives and senators were honored for their pro-life voting records.

Rose Day was established in 1992 to give pro-life supporters an opportunity to positively impact legislation by individually visiting their state representative, senator, and the governor in their respective offices, presenting them with a rose and encouraging them to protect the life of the unborn. In 1997, the Ethics & Religious Liberty Committee of the Baptist General Convention of Oklahoma decided to broaden Rose Day participation beyond Southern Baptists. They formed a Rose Day Steering Committee with representatives from major Christian denominations, local Christian media and other groups supporting the right for life such as Oklahomans For Life. Rose Day has become a multi-denominational event with Catholics, Assemblies of God, Nazarenes, Churches of Christ, Free Will Baptists, and Southern Baptists joining hands to plan and implement each year's Rose Day event.

FREEDOM 21 CONFERENCE

Learn about the Federal Reserve System, climate change, sustainable development, and continuing threats to U.S. sovereignty, public education, and free-enterprise at the 10th Annual Freedom 21 National Conference. The conference this year will include discussions on international policies and treaties like the U.N.'s Agenda 21 and its policy of Sustainable Development -- a top down control that stamps out private property, limited government, and free enterprise. Other topics will include the assault on Health Freedom; the threat of an International ID system through Real ID; the scam called Climate Change; the new state Sovereignty movement; how private property can end poverty; gun rights; doing away with the Federal Reserve; the real reasons children aren't learning in the public classrooms; how the Trans Texas Corridor is being defeated on the local level; and much, much more. August 13-15 at the Reed Conference Center in Midwest City, Oklahoma. For more information go to www.freedom21.org

CONSTITUTION DAY LIBERTY GALA

The Oklahoma Council of Public Affairs (OCPA) will host Dr. J. Rufus Fears at the organization's Liberty Gala on the evening of September 17, 2009 at the Tulsa Doubletree Hotel at Warren Place. His topic, "Securing the Blessings of Liberty to Ourselves and Our Prosperity: Is It Still Possible?" is significant because the event coincides with Constitution Day. Dr. Fears is a highly acclaimed Professor of Classics at the University of Oklahoma with 25 awards for teaching excellence, including: the Medal for Excellence in College and University Teaching from the Oklahoma Excellence Foundation, UCEA's Great Plains Region Award for Excellence in Teaching, and UCEA's National Award for Teaching Excellence.

OCPA chairman Dr. David R. Brown notes, " J. Rufus Fears is one of Oklahoma's greatest intellectual treasures, as evidenced by his enormous national following. His gift for making history both exciting and relevant inspires both young and old alike. Nothing is quite as important to the defense of liberty as understanding our role in its preservation. Dr. Fears does that like no other."

Dr. Fears' books and monographs include The Cult of Jupiter and Roman Imperial Ideology and The Theology of Victory at Rome. He also edited a three-volume edition of Selected Writings of Lord Acton. His discussions of the Great Books have appeared in newspapers across the country and have aired on national television and radio programs.

OCPA is a non-profit, nonpartisan think tank which formulates public policy research and analysis consistent with the principles of free enterprise and limited government. The dinner will begin at 7:00 pm and tickets are $125 per person, seating is limited. For more information call (405) 602-1667 or visit: ocpathink.org

CLAUNCH OCPA DIRECTOR

Former state representative Forrest Claunch is the new executive director of the Oklahoma Council of Public Affairs. He fills the position recently vacated by another former legislator, Hopper Smith. Dr. David Brown, chairman of the board, stated, "Forrest has served in operations and special projects since February 2008, and will assume the duties of executive director of OCPA immediately. This appointment will enable the continuity of our work while the OCPA presidential selection committee continues the process of selecting a new president." OCPA is a non-profit, nonpartisan think tank which formulates public policy research and analysis consistent with the principles of free enterprise and limited government.

"Forrest brings detailed knowledge and a passion for the important efforts of OCPA to advance the research and analysis of public issues in Oklahoma from a perspective of limited government, individual liberty, and a free-market economy," Dr. Brown continued. "His experience in the private sector and 10 years in the Oklahoma State House of Representatives have proven an asset to OCPA." Claunch earned a 79% Conservative Index rating during his years of service in the Legislature.

DAXON FINANCIAL STUDY

Improved accounting practices and financial reporting can help improve the quality of government services and decrease the costs of government in the long term, according to a new report released by the Oklahoma Council of Public Affairs (OCPA). In the report, "Enhanced Financial Reporting for State Government: Comparing Cost to Performance," author Tom Daxon explores the relationship between government and its accounting and financial reporting standards. "Better accounting and financial reporting practices by our government can play a significant role in identifying and quantifying our problems and developing cost-effective solutions," said Daxon, a former Oklahoma Auditor and Inspector and Secretary of Finance and Revenue for former Gov. Frank Keating. Daxon also studied whether poor accounting practices have contributed to ineffective or costly government services. "In Oklahoma, lawmakers are facing falling revenues and budgetary cuts. Improved reporting standards would be a helpful tool in evaluating which programs may be wasteful or ineffective," Daxon said.

In the report, Daxon says better accounting practices would allow citizens to make better use of current transparency initiatives. OCPA Executive Director Forrest Claunch applauded the report from Daxon and said its release is the latest example of OCPA's commitment to improving government transparency.

"OCPA is committed to advancing government transparency and this latest report from Tom shows the importance of improving accounting and financial reporting standards so citizens can decide whether their tax dollars are being used properly and effectively," Claunch said. To read the entire 30-page report, visit the OCPA Web site at: www.ocpathink.org.

TURNPIKE TOLL HIKES

State Senator Randy Brogdon (R-Owasso), Chairman of the Transportation Appropriations sub-committee, said it was time to look at reforming the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority (OTA). After the OTA approved toll hikes of 16 percent, Brogdon called for restricting the ability of the OTA to raise tolls -- especially at a time when the economy and Oklahoma's citizens are already suffering.

"Oklahoma's citizens and businesses are facing economic uncertainty. This is not the time to add to their financial burden through a decision that was essentially taxation without representation. Increasing tolls will cause a reduction in travel and commerce in our state at a time when we should be encouraging both," Brogdon said.

Turnpike revenues in Oklahoma fell by $500,000 in 2008. Projected revenues for 2009 suggest a further drop in revenue of $7 million. However, Brogdon said the projected $20 million in additional revenue over the next two years is overly optimistic because it does not take into account decreased traffic from individuals and businesses choosing to save money by avoiding toll roads. Brogdon believes the toll increase may have unintended consequences, such as forcing truck traffic off toll roads and onto two lane roads ill-equipped to carry the heavier loads, resulting in increased maintenance costs for local communities and the Department of Transportation.

SKUNK MASTER AWARD

State Rep. Paul Wesselhoft (R-Moore) awarded his fourth annual "Skunk Master Award" to House Bill 1133 -- the "stinkiest bill of the session." Wesselhoft said, "Tax payers need to know that their hard working taxes are not, I repeat not, given the highest priority by either political party. That does not mean that the legislature is not concerned about your taxes; but they are secondary to higher priorities such as economic development, pet projects, investments and what benefits legislator's districts and regions."

A prime symbolic example is HB 1133, funding of the Oklahoma Arts Council. The organization took no budget reduction when virtually all other agencies took a 7 percent reduction. Other agencies receiving no reductions included the Department of Libraries, Higher Education, Merit Protection Commission, and the ABLE Commission.

"The legislature and the governor, like children, cannot determine the difference between a need and a want," Wesselhoft said. "The Arts Council is clearly a want. The state budget reduces by 7 percent the Military Department in a time of war and the Oklahoma Indigent Defense system, which affords legal defense to poor people. What kind of a priority is this?" Wesselhoft awarded clothes pins to the courageous representatives who joined him in opposing the "stink" of the bill. Each year Wesselhoft gives the Skunk Master Award to the bill he believes exhibited the smell of waste, greed or hypocrisy.

FREEZE OUT-OF-STATE TRAVEL

In July, state Representative Richard Morrissette (D-Oklahoma City) filed a House Resolution calling for a freeze on out-of-state travel for all state agencies, the Legislature and higher education, unless deemed official state business. "In these uncertain times it is imperative that we prioritize the economic health of our most vital programs, and therefore sacrifice some of the luxuries that out-of-state meetings or conferences can provide," said Morrissette.

Since 2007 and up to July of this year House legislators have attended a variety of events and conferences which have cost the state $132,880.26 and counting. The bulk of reimbursement requests came during 2007, a non-campaign year, and totaled $98,321.12. Early in the budget process attention was given to a projected 10% decrease in travel of all but public safety agencies. The higher education system was budgeted to receive $60 million for travel, while state agencies were budgeted to receive approximately $35 million.

"I understand that only the Corporation Commission at this time has announced furloughs for their state employees, in addition to trying to cut travel by 100 miles a week," said Rep. Morrissette. "But I also know that Tulsa firefighters are being asked to take furlough days, as well as their police officers, and I believe that this trend will continue across the state as we all grapple with an increasingly dire economic climate."

TRIBAL CASINO REVENUES

The Oklahoma Office of State Finance reports that the state's 29 gaming tribes contributed nearly $106 million to the state coffers in fiscal year 2009 which ended on June 30. That figure is up from about $81 million the previous year. While most of that money goes to education,$250,000 goes to the state Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services for problem gambling assistance programs. The state receives a percentage of each tribe's revenue from card games and gaming machines under the terms of gaming compacts negotiated with tribal officials by the governor. The Chickasaw Nation paid the most to the state at $28.7 million, which increased by over a third from 2008. That increase was attributed to the expansion of its WinStar World Casino near Thackerville.

The casino off Interstate 35 near the Texas border now ranks as one of the largest casinos in the country. The Choctaw Nation paid the state about $21.5 million in gaming revenue, which is 20 percent more than the previous year. The Cherokee Nation, the third-largest contributor in gaming funds, did not experience a significant increase.

USDA RURAL DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR

State Representative Ryan McMullen (D-Burns Flat) took the Oath of Office July 16 as State Director of USDA Rural Development at the State Office in Stillwater. United States Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said, "Ryan McMullen will be an important advocate on behalf of rural communities throughout the state and help administer the valuable programs and services provided by the USDA that can enhance their economic success." McMullen's service as State Director of USDA Rural Development makes him the nation's youngest appointee to such a post within the United States Department of Agriculture. He spent the previous five years representing a region of rural southwest and central Oklahoma in the State Legislature. This area includes the four counties of Washita, Kiowa, Caddo, and Canadian. It is one of the top agricultural production regions in the state.

McMullen takes the reigns of the three agencies that comprise USDA Rural Development: Rural Housing Service, Rural Business Service and Rural Utility Service. Combined, these agencies administer over 50 programs that offer a variety of direct loans, guaranteed loans, and grants to rural communities, businesses and residents. USDA Rural Development maintains a nationwide portfolio of $114 billion.

Prior to beginning his federal service, Rep. McMullen submitted a letter of resignation from his seat in the Legislature to Governor Brad Henry. The governor set the filing period for the post August 3-5. The primary election will be September 8 and the general election will be October 13.

CARNUCCIO JOINS OFRG

In July, Michael Carnuccio joined the staff of Oklahomans for Responsible Government (OFRG). Carnuccio comes to OFRG from the Oklahoma House of Representatives where he worked for the last 18-months as the Director of Public Affairs. "We are pleased to be able to bring in someone with Michael's experience," said Brian Downs, OFRG Executive Director. "He will be a valuable asset for expanding our message and developing our organization in the coming years." In his role as Senior Advisor, Carnuccio will be responsible for external relations, policy development, assisting with public affairs and developing and implementing the long-term strategy of OFRG.

Carnuccio received both his Master's Degree in Political Science and his Bachelor's Degree in Broadcast Journalism from Oklahoma State University where he has also lectured as adjunct faculty in the Political Science Department. He also worked for three years with Saxum Strategic Communications, now Saxum PR, the state's fastest-growing public relations firm. Carnuccio lives in Yukon with his wife Kayla Ann.

Oklahomans for Responsible Government is a 501(c)(4) organization dedicated to promoting fiscal responsibility, transparency, and accountability in state government. For more information about OFRG, please visit www.ofrg.org.

OFRG HONORS LAWMAKERS

In July, Oklahomans for Responsible Government (ORFG) announced its selection of Lawmaker of the Year for the 2009 legislative session. Rep. Jason Murphey (R-Guthrie) is the recipient as the primary author in the House of two very important pieces of OFRG's policy agenda. Senate Joint Resolution 12 puts to a vote of the people whether statewide elected officials should be limited to just two terms in office. Senate Bill 800 is an important reform to the initiative petition process that requires legal challenges to the wording of citizen initiatives to happen before signatures are collected.

"Getting a vote on term limits has been a very important part of our agenda for the past two sessions and we're very happy that the people of Oklahoma will have a chance to do that in 2010," said Brian Downs, OFRG's Executive Director. "And making it easier for average citizens to petition their government is another victory worth celebrating."

Told of his award, Rep. Murphey said, "It has been a privilege to work with OFRG in advancing these reforms and I look forward to working with them for even more reforms in the future."

OFRG also announced the creation of a new award to be given periodically to an individual or group that has made a mark in protecting tax dollars. Rep. Leslie Osborn (R-Tuttle) gets the inaugural Taxpayer Advocate Award for her work in writing House Joint Resolution 1014 and getting it passed so it will be on the ballot in 2010. It asks voters whether a calculation for state spending should be used based on what other states are spending. "Representative Osborn should be applauded for taking this step to protect the state coffers from ideas like the proposed HOPE Initiative that would take the ability to allocate money out of the hands of the Legislature," said Downs. "Forcing Oklahoma to spend money based on what other states are spending goes against the principle of representative government."

Osborn responded, "I am honored to be given the first taxpayer advocate award from OFRG. If I could pick one issue to focus my legislative career on it would be fiscal responsibility. The potential passage of the Hope Petition, now known as State Question 744 on the 2010 ballot, would devastate our state economy in a time already economically challenging. My intent is to make sure State Question 744 is defeated, and that no other such measure can be enacted."

GIFTS FOR LEGISLATORS

State Rep. Jason Murphey (R-Guthrie) was the only lawmaker among the 101 representatives and 48 senators shown as not receiving anything of value from lobbyists. Murphey has tried to get legislation passed that would allow legislators to sign up for a "no-gifts list" that would prevent lobbyists from giving legislators any item of value. Last fall, Murphey posted a sign on the door of his state Capitol office advising lobbyists not to give him or his executive assistant any gifts.

OKLAHOMA DEMOCRAT CONVENTION

The Oklahoma Democratic Party held its 2009 state convention at the Oklahoma State Fairgrounds in May. The nearly 700 Democrats approved rules and resolutions and elected new party leaders. Citing a need to unify the party and focus on the 2010 elections, Todd Goodman was elected chair of the Oklahoma Democratic Party. "I think we have a great strategy to strengthen our party, and I'm excited about the future of the ODP," said Goodman, 36, of Oklahoma City. Prior to his election, Goodman was serving as acting executive director for the state party under past chairman Ivan Holmes who did not seek reelection to the post. He has also worked for State Sen. Andrew Rice and for INDN's List (Indigenous Democratic Network).

Oklahoma Democrats suffered a heavy defeat in the 2008 election. Not a single county went for Barrack Obama in the presidential race, and Republicans took control of the state Senate for the first time in state history. The GOP also made gains at the county level.

Goodman ran for chair as part of the ODPworks slate; all four of the slate's candidates were elected as state party officers. Joining Goodman on the party's executive committee are Vice-Chair Lauren Guhl of Edmond, Secretary James Baggett of Oklahoma City and Treasurer Linda Gray Murphy of Oklahoma City. Goodman said he will work to focus the party on issues such as expanding affordable health care, fighting poverty and hunger, growing the state's economy and expanding the state's role in promoting home-grown energy alternatives.

INMAN TO LEAD HOUSE DEMOCRATS

On May 4, House Democrats decided that for the 53rd Legislature, the highest-ranking Democrat in the House will be Rep. Scott Inman (D-Del City). "I'm honored to have the support of my colleagues and to know they believe that I will take our caucus in the right direction," said Rep. Inman. At age 30, Inman is the youngest person elected to lead the House Democrats in state history. He is also the first Democratic leader elected from Oklahoma County in over 40 years.

"I believe my colleagues saw that this election was not about age, it's about where we want our caucus, our party and our state to move in the coming years." Following the 2010 elections, Rep. Inman will replace current Democratic Leader Danny Morgan (D-Prague) as the leader of the Democratic caucus. Rep. Morgan elected not to seek another term as leader, though he does plan to seek re-election for his House seat. "Rep. Morgan has done an outstanding job as leader, and he sets a fine example for how to lead. I'm grateful that our caucus decided to create a transition period so that we have time to share our vision on how to move this caucus forward and best serve the people of Oklahoma," he stated.

During the election, the Democratic caucus unanimously resolved to support Rep. Inman as leader. The Democrats also elected designees for the following positions: Speaker Pro Tempore (Rep. Joe Dorman of Rush Springs); Democratic Caucus Chair (Rep. Jerry McPeak of Warner); and the Democratic Caucus Vice-Chair (Rep. Wallace Collins of Norman). Long-time readers of the Oklahoma Constitution might recall that Collins lost a libel suit to Constitution Editor Steve Byas following their election contest in 1996. All will officially take these positions two weeks after the 2010 General Election.

BLACK CAUCUS LEADERS

State Rep. Jabar Shumate (D-Tulsa) will serve as chair of the Oklahoma Legislative Black Caucus this year, the group announced July 20. "As chair of the Oklahoma Legislative Black Caucus, I will work to reduce the disparities that exist for African Americans in education, health, and income," said Shumate. "I also plan to focus on crime reduction and lowering Oklahoma's incarceration rates, as well as improving restorative justice programs in the state."

The caucus recently met and selected its leadership team, which also includes state Reps. Mike Shelton (D-Oklahoma City) and T.W. Shannon (R-Lawton), who will serve as treasurer and co-treasurer, respectively. The Caucus will develop its legislative agenda at the group's fall retreat. "Our plan is to craft an action agenda that addresses issues in the African American community," Shumate said, "and also benefits all the people of the great state of Oklahoma." Shumate, Shelton, and Shannon have Conservative Index scores of 34%, 22% and 69% respectively.

HEALTHY GROCERY STORES

State Reps. Seneca Scott (D-Tulsa) and Jabar Shumate (D-Tulsa) will conduct an interim study this fall to determine how best to "incentivize" the rural and urban grocers that offer healthy, affordable, locally-grown produce and products. "Oklahoma ranks poorly when it comes to healthy eating," Scott said."Though I don't believe lawmakers can force people to become healthy overnight, I think we can make it easier for them, while helping to support our local farmers and producers." Incentivizing healthy grocers helps the economy, lowers health care costs and, most importantly, means Oklahomans won't have to choose between convenience and health, Scott said.

Included in the discussion will be the Oklahoma Grocers Association, Oklahoma Food Policy Council, the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry, the Oklahoma Dietetic Association, the Oklahoma State Chamber of Commerce and any other organization that would like to take part, Scott said. The Oklahoma Healthy Corner Stores Initiative is the proposed title of the legislation Scott hopes to carry in the next legislative session. "The Oklahoma Legislature needs to help these working families and at the same time help local growers and small businesses, making it a win-win for all Oklahomans," Scott explained.

CLINTON ON MEMORIAL BOARD

The Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum announced in May that former President Bill Clinton will join other prominent figures from around the country on an honorary National Board of Trustees for the Memorial and Museum. The announcement was made at a special presentation at the Memorial Museum honoring President Clinton for his support, following the former President's first tour through the Memorial Museum. Clinton was also presented with a Beacon of Hope Award made of wood turned from a branch trimmed from the Survivor Tree last spring, placed on a base of granite salvaged from the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building. Oklahoma woodworking artist and program director at the Forest Heritage Center of Oklahoma Doug Zook crafted the piece.

The Honorary National Board of Trustees will work with the Memorial's own board and Memorial staff to further the Memorial's mission of remembrance and education on a national level. Joining Clinton on the Memorial's Honorary National Board of Trustees are former Secretary of Homeland Security Tom Ridge; Rev. Billy Graham, who led the inspirational and healing National Prayer Service on April 23, 1995; Gov. Frank and Cathy Keating, whose leadership at the time of the bombing showed the nation what Oklahomans are made of, and Lee Woodruff, author and Family/Life Contributor to Good Morning America, whose own journey as a family member of someone critically injured in a bombing incident gives her unique perspective.

The Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum is dedicated to educating visitors about the impact of violence, informing about events surrounding the 1995 bombing, and inspiring hope and healing through lessons learned by those affected. It is privately owned and operated, and does not receive any annual operating funds from the federal, state or local government. Museum admissions, store sales, the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon, earnings from an endowment and private fundraising provide the financial support. For more information on the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, visit www.oklahomacitynationalmemorial.org.

CONSERVATIVE T-SHIRTS

There is a new conservative t-shirt company called Conservatees. They are a Oklahoma owned and operated business based in Bethany. Check out their website at: www.conservateesonline.com

CONGRESSIONAL QUARTERLY SCORES

Second district Congressman Dan Boren led the Oklahoma congressional delegation backing President Barack Obama 81 percent of the time during Obama's first six months in office. Fifth district Rep. Mary Fallin had the second-highest score in support of Obama, backing Obama's legislation 50 percent of the time. The scores were tabulated by Congressional Quarterly which reports on national politics and has been tracking presidential support in Congress since 1953. The scores were based on 26 votes cast by the House and 37 cast by the Senate where the president took a position. Third district Rep. Frank Lucas garnered the lowest presidential support score, at 27 percent. Fourth district Rep. Tom Cole scored 38 and First district Rep. John Sullivan 43. Senators Tom Coburn and and Sen. Jim Inhofe scored 33 and 43, respectively. Obama was successful on 24 of the 26 votes in the House, and on 36 of the 37 Senate votes.

ACU SCORES

Senators Jim Inhofe and Tom Coburn, and U.S. House member Frank Lucas led the Oklahoma congressional delegation with 96% conservative scores for their votes in the latest survey used by the American Conservative Union (ACU). They were followed by House members Mary Fallin (92%); John Sullivan (92%); Tom Cole (88%); and Dan Boren, at only 54%. The ACU is one of the oldest conservative organizations in the nation, and was once led by former Congressman Mickey Edwards, who represented the fifth congressional district of Oklahoma for 16 years.

FREEDOM INDEX

Considered the toughest conservative rating index is the "Freedom Index," published by the New American magazine. Since Democrat President Barack Obama's entry into the White House, and former Republican President George W. Bush's exit, Oklahoma's congressional delegation has moved sharply to the Right, with the exception of its lone Democrat, Dan Boren. Boren managed only a dismal 30% score on the Index.

Leading the Oklahoma congressional delegation were Senator Tom Coburn and Representative Mary Fallin, who both scored 90%. Next best was Senator James Inhofe at 80%. Following Inhofe were House members John Sullivan (75%); with Frank Lucas and Tom Cole both scoring 70%.

SULLIVAN RETURNS TO CONGRESS

After taking a leave of absence from congress to receive treatment for alcohol addiction, Congressman John Sullivan issued the following message:

"I have completed my treatment at the Betty Ford Center and I am now back home. Words can't begin to describe how truly grateful I am for all the prayers, letters, kindness and love that you have expressed to me and my family.

My time at the Betty Ford Center gave me the opportunity to reflect on my life and afforded me a clearer perspective on what is truly important: God, family, friends and service to others.

Although this was certainly not what I had planned for my life it has turned out to be something that has strengthened me.

I am already back to work. All of you have stood by me in this difficult time and I will stand stronger than ever for you in the US Congress."

NEW INHOFE COMMITTEE

U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe, co-chair of the Senate Taiwan Caucus, has been appointed to the Senate Foreign Relations Committee to fill the Republican vacancy left by former U.S. Sen. Norm Coleman (R-Minn.). Inhofe will become the ranking member on the East Asian and Pacific Affairs subcommittee. The subcommittee deals with strategically important countries for the United States' national security such as China, Hong Kong, Japan, Taiwan, North Korea, South Korea, and others.

Currently, the Ranking Member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, and a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, Foreign Relations becomes Inhofe's third committee. In his role on the Armed Services committee, Inhofe has travelled extensively to the African continent. He has had 108 country visits to the African continent, more than any other Senator in the history of the U.S. Senate. He has been to Iraq on 9 occasions, Afghanistan on 7 occasions, and the Central Command area of responsibility on 22 occasions.