Editorial: To the Dreamers

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By: Scott Emigh, Editor-in-Chief

People often give up on their dreams because they don't see success right off the bat. Today marks 1 year since I launched Sanditepride.com and I've invested over $2000 thus far. I didn't get sponsorship on day 1, or month 1, or even quarter 1.

But what I did do is reach more than 30,000 people this past year. That's just individual devices. Last month alone I had more than 20,000 views. When I started I barely broke 400 in the first three months.

I'm still a long way from where I want to be, but I've met a lot of incredible people who have been so supportive to me along the way. That's why I do this, for the people. I love people, I love to hear and tell their stories and see them succeed and celebrate their success.

My team and I have seen five straight months of growth and it hasn't been easy. It's been the furthest thing from easy. I put in more than 60 hours a week on a slow week. I got 4 hours of sleep Friday night in a Super 8 motel in Oklahoma City where there were people fighting in the street, drinking in the parking lot, and I had to call the cops after midnight due to gunshots.

I'm extremely shy and yet I have to force myself weekly to talk to people I'm intimidated by. I have diagnosed anticipatory social anxiety and depression. Every time I go into public I'm scared I'm going to offend somebody. That people won't like me. And it's not a baseless fear. I've had complete strangers message me to tell me that nobody takes me seriously as a writer. That I'm a disgrace. People can be cruel. Are they just mean-natured? Or acting out of some insecurities of their own? That's not for me to decide. But that kind of stuff tears at you. You wonder if you'll ever amount to anything. You wonder if your friends and family are just humoring you, and if you're really just a big joke. You think about quitting. It's not a passing thought. It haunts you.

But I can't quit writing. It's not in me. It is me. I am a writer. I've been doing it since I was a small child. It's the only thing in me that's ever persisted. Everyone goes through phases. At points I wanted to be a veterinarian, a director, an airborne ranger--live a life filled with danger. But all of that passed, and writing always persisted.

And so I've chosen to persist, come what may. Because to leave my dreams within my pillow would be something I could never live with. Because the lows I hit when people tear me down are nothing compared to the low I would live in were I to resign myself to a regular 8-5 job building someone else's vision instead of my own. And the lows are nothing compared to the highs.

The highs of hearing a parent tell you how excited their kid was when they saw an article you wrote about them. The highs of having complete strangers talk to you at the super market like you're old friends because they read your articles every week. The highs of seeing people succeed, from athletes at State Championships to singers on American Idol. Their joy is my joy, their heartbreak is my heartbreak. In the ministry I considered every teen who walked through the doors to be "one of my kids." That attitude has carried over into this new venture. Every young person I have covered means more to me than they'll ever know. Even the one's I've only known from afar, and never met.

I dream with them, and hope that I may use my dream to further theirs. 

So I say to you, don't give up on your dreams. There will be better athletes. There will be better photographers, better singers, better actors. But the talents and passions that God has put on your heart are there for a reason. Don't ever let anyone tell you you're not good enough. Don't let someone else's insecurities contribute to your own. People who have failed to fight for their dreams like to stand in the way of other dreamers. Fight for your dreams, don't become another cynical bystander who lets life happen to them instead of making this life their own. 

“Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive, and go do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.” --Howard Thurman

Senators Jolley and Bice respond to Oklahoma Retail Liquor Association’s filing of SQ 785

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Late Tuesday, the Oklahoma Retail Liquor Association (RLAO) filed paperwork with the Oklahoma Secretary of State that would place a question on the ballot in November to allow full-strength beer in grocery stores and convenience stores, but virtually eliminate grocery stores’ ability to obtain wine licenses.  In addition, wine would not be sold in convenience stores under their proposal.

“Unfortunately, SQ 785 doesn’t fully encompass the issues most important to consumers,” said Sen. Clark Jolley.  “With no provision for wine to be sold in convenience stores and substantial limits on licensing of grocery stores, this measure is exclusionary and protectionist.  By restricting a new wine license from being issued within 2500 feet of an existing liquor store, it virtually guarantees no metropolitan grocery stores would be allowed to carry wine, which is clearly something Oklahomans are demanding.”

“As legislators, our goal in modernizing the laws dealing with Oklahoma alcohol sales is to include all invested parties in the discussion, which is why we’re addressing the issue by working through the legislative process and not through a single voice at the table,” said Sen. Stephanie Bice.  “RLAO has been included in the modernization discussions, but doesn’t approve of the direction, so they have chosen to try and limit the options of Oklahomans.  We believe the two bills currently under consideration by the Legislature this session, SJR 68 and SB383, provide the best opportunity to establish true and meaningful reform.  To exclude one component such as the availability of wine in convenience stores and place limits on grocery stores undermines the modern, comprehensive approach we are committed to uphold through this process.”

Senator Clark Jolley and Senator Stephanie Bice are Republicans from Edmond.

Ward 1 City Councilman Michael Phillips seeks fourth term

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Photo: Public headshot from www.sandspringsok.org

The following is a submitted letter to the citizens of Sand Springs Ward 1 by incumbent City Council Candidate Michael Phillips. Phillips is running for reelection in opposition to challenger Phil Nollan. Election will be held Tuesday, March 1st.

I am graduate of Charles Page High School and attended the University of Tulsa. I am a member of the Rotary Club and MENSA, am a leader in the local district of Boy Scouts of America, and belong to Sand Springs United Methodist Church. I have lived in Sand Springs nearly my entire life and am proud to call Sand Springs my home, along with my wife Dianna and son Walter. I own Technology Consulting Services here in Sand Springs.

For the past 10 years, I have represented you on the Sand Springs City Council, where I serve on the Public Works Committee, Legislative Committee, and the HEAL Committee. I serve as a Board Director for the Oklahoma Municipal League, where I also serve on the Reserve Fund Committee and the Service Fee Committee. I am a member of the National League of Cities Small Cities Council. I believe in representing everyone in the community and balancing sustained growth with the needs of our residents. We need to constantly evaluate the city budget and ensure that we are spending taxpayer dollars wisely. I support offering new incentives for existing businesses and industries to expand and new ones to relocate. As a City, we have achieved momentum in attracting retailers to locate in Sand Springs. We are working with Gerdau Ameristeel to market their manufacturing property, and with other landowners and stakeholders to market Sand Springs to not only retail businesses, but to manufacturing interests as well. We have streamlined the permitting process for residential development, and have worked to improve the "customer service" perspective of ALL of our employees. We have made strides to improve the quality of life in Sand Springs, from parks and recreation improvements (the Case Community Center, the 2 new spray parks, and new amenities for our soccer and baseball users, with many more improvements to come) to the refurbishment of our outstanding Page Memorial Library building (which houses our Cultural and Historical Museum) to our soon-to-be-started Billie A. Hall Public Safety Facility. We have undertaken a multi-million dollar project to improve our Waste Water Treatment Plant. As well, we have made continual improvements to our Water Treatment Plant, treated water storage facilities, and to the Skiatook Raw Water Conveyance System to ensure the availability, quality, and safety of our drinking water, and have consolidated most of our various Public Works sections to the new Spring Lake Public Works Facility.

The election March 1st is only for Ward 1, which encompasses the additions of Osage Hills, Osage Hills Country Club Estates, Shadow Creek, Village Estates, Cambridge Park, North Ridge, Lakeside, Lakeside Park, Lakeside Ridge, Renaissance, Edgewood at the Gables, the Sand Springs Home Family Village, portions of Oak Park, and Highland Crossing, Sullivan's Landing, and Gable Hills apartments. A map of the ward may be found at http://sandspringsok.org/DocumentCenter/View/49.

I humbly ask for your vote this Tuesday, March 1st.

To discuss municipal issues or concerns, I can be reached by e-mail atSSWard1@SandSpringsOK.org, or by Facebook athttps://www.facebook.com/MichaelLPhillips.SS, or by phone at (918) 245-6430.

Michael L. Phillips

"The Citizens of Sand Springs, also to include the City's 150+ mile fence line, need to stand behind Michael Phillips, there is absolutely no need nor cause for change. Michael is a seasoned and well versed Councilman, who gives 100% of his efforts towards maintaining a strong economic development program, public safety, and quality of life for the Citizens of Sand Springs." - E. Bruce Ford, former SS City Councilor, Mayor, and Assistant City Manager.

See Related: Phil Nollan running for City Council for Ward 1

Phil Nollan running for City Council for Ward 1

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SUBMITTED: Parks Advisory Board Vice-Chair Phil Nollan with wife, House Representative Jadine Nollan.

The following is a submitted letter to the citizens of Sand Springs Ward 1 by City Council Candidate Phil Nollan. Nollan is challenging incumbent councilman Michael Phillips. Election will be held Tuesday, March 1st. Nollan's wife, Jadine, is the Oklahoma House Representative for District 66 which encompasses Sand Springs.

Hi Neighbor!

I’m running for Sand Springs City Council and would like to introduce myself.  I married my college sweetheart, Jadine Cox Nollan, 35 years ago and we have three adult children Kristin, Kasey, and Kurt who attended Sand Springs Public Schools and graduated from Oklahoma colleges.  I’ve always looked for ways to give back to my community by serving in our church’s children, youth, and college ministries or by coaching little league sports teams and volunteering for Sand Springs non-profits and community events. 

I’m a nationally-certified project management professional who has served on the Sand Springs Parks Advisory Board for five years as well as Board President and officer of the Tulsa Project Management Institute for ten years.  I have a bachelor’s degree in computer science from Oklahoma State University and an executive master of business administration certification from the University of Tulsa.

I’m currently serving as Vice-Chair on the Sand Springs Parks Advisory Board.  As a Board we have completed the Case Center, built a Skate Park, expanded the Keystone Ancient Forest, and developed the bond plans for two new Splash Pads and Museum renovations. And I’m very excited to say that the Pratt-Civitan Splash Pad and the Sand Springs Rotary Super Splash Pad and Soccer/Baseball Concession will be open for business this summer!  A lot of good things are happening for Sand Springs through our City Parks Department!

I’d like to see the City carry this same positive momentum into other opportunities that will help make Sand Springs more attractive to families and businesses.  Some of the opportunities include doing everything we can to help get new sit-down restaurants, add business service providers and manufacturers, provide for faster economic development of the Sand Springs corridor and a quicker resolution to pressing issues.

We know our tax base is shrinking when we lose businesses like Cox Furniture, Morrow Gill Lumber, Kmart and Walgreens. I believe my project experience in the Fortune 100 corporate world can offer a valuable perspective to the management of Sand Springs Vision 2025 tax extension projects. In addition, my experience in housing construction, small business, and commercial leasing may serve to benefit the River West development.

Our community is really special and I love living here.  We have great schools and a beautiful natural landscape for building and development.  We just need to maximize our opportunities to help make our wonderful city even better and more attractive for our young families.  If elected, I will be a listener and a voice for my friends and neighbors in Ward 1.  We are Sand Springs and I’m proud to call myself a Sandite!

For further information email PhilNollan@cox.net, call my cell at 918.407.4201 or reach out on Facebook.  I would appreciate your vote on Super Tuesday, March 1st.  Thanks and God Bless!

See Related: Ward 1 City Councilman Michael Phillips seeks fourth term

Bill strengthening domestic violence law heads to full Senate

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A bill that could potentially save the lives of domestic violence victims has won approval by the Senate Appropriations Committee and is headed to the full Senate for a vote.  Senate Bill 1491, by Senator Bryce Marlatt said his legislation deals with how many prior convictions of domestic violence are required to establish a pattern of physical abuse.

“Under current law, an individual would have to be convicted of domestic violence three times in 12 months before the legal definition of a pattern of physical abuse is met,” said Marlatt, R-Woodward.  “But this is a crime that escalates. The potential for death increases exponentially with every incident.  That fourth time may be the last time it happens, because it could be a domestic homicide.  We need to do something to stop domestic violence offenders sooner, and that’s what my bill would do.”

Under Marlatt’s legislation, two convictions would establish a pattern of physical abuse, which is punishable by up to 10 years in prison or a fine of up to $5,000, or both.  As amended in committee, the legislation would remove the stipulation that the incidents must have taken place within the previous 12 months.

“The numbers show us this is a terrible problem. Oklahoma is ranked third in the nation for women killed by men in domestic violence situations.  One-third of all women murdered in our state are killed by their husbands.  Forty-one percent of all homicides in Oklahoma are linked to domestic violence,” Marlatt said.  “One third of all police time is spent responding to domestic violence calls.  Strengthening this law will help Oklahoma better address the crime of domestic violence.”

Sen. Holt’s “revenge porn” bill headed to Senate floor

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The full Senate Appropriations Committee has approved Senator David Holt’s legislation to make “revenge porn” against the law in Oklahoma.  Senate Bill 1257 will now advance to consideration on the Senate floor.  Approved Wednesday on a vote of 37 to 1, the measure criminalizes the dissemination of non-consensual pornography, sometimes known as “revenge porn.”  

“Non-consensual pornography is a destructive act that especially targets women, and it should be a crime,” said Holt, R-Oklahoma City. “Our statutes often don’t contemplate modern life, and this is one of those situations. I am grateful that so far my colleagues agree."

SB 1257 provides that a person commits a crime when they intentionally disseminate an image of another identifiable person who is engaged in a sexual act or is nude; they obtained the image under circumstances that would lead a reasonable person to know that the image was private; and they knew or should have known that the dissemination was nonconsensual. It exempts disseminations related to law enforcement investigations or when the exposure or sexual act was committed in public or in a commercial setting. The first offense would be a misdemeanor and the second offense would be a felony.

SB 1257 must be considered on the Senate floor by March 10.

Sen. Mazzei issues statement on Finance Committee passage of SB 1073

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Sen. Mike Mazzei issued the following statement after Tuesday’s vote by the Senate Finance Committee approving SB 1073, a measure that would delay the reduction of the state income tax top rate from 5.25 to 5 percent and eliminates “double-dipping,” which is the itemized deduction for state and local taxes.

“Since 2004, when I first came to the Senate, we’ve reduced taxes by about $1.5 billion, thanks to a 25 percent drop in the top income tax rate, the elimination of estate taxes, the increase in the standard deduction, higher exemptions for retirement income, fewer companies subjected to the franchise tax, and the 100 percent exemption for military.

“The fact is the bench mark of $6.9 billion to lower the income tax rate from 5.25 to 5 percent was never actually achieved, because the trigger was based on the December certification, not the final certification in February the Legislature must use for writing the budget.  The General Revenue Fund is now more than $1 billion below the bench mark. Furthermore, you can’t continually decrease taxes and also increase special interest tax breaks—these have ballooned to $2 billion, making the current financial situation much worse.  It is unwise to lower the income tax rate in this environment.

“We are facing a shortfall of $1.3 billion.  If we don’t delay this reduction and adopt other reforms, education funding, which makes up some 50 percent of the budget, will have to be cut by approximately $400 million.  Other core services will also be slashed.  Ultimately everyone in the state will be negatively impacted.

“As a fiscal conservative, I would much rather delay a tax cut than vote to increase taxes and start new taxes,” –Senate Finance Chairman Mike Mazzei, R-Tulsa.

Senate honors Cherokee Nation

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Oklahoma State Senate honors Cherokee Nation. (Left to right) Senate Minority Leader John Sparks, Senate President Pro Tempore Brian Bingman, Victoria Vazquez, Deputy Speaker of the Tribal Council, Deputy Principal Chief S. Joe Crittenden, Miss Cherokee Ja-Li-Si Pittman, Principal Chief Bill John Baker, Little Cherokee Ambassadors Nathan Lowrey, Max Purget, Maysi Fields, Logan Dreadfulwater, Kashyah Teehee and Jr. Miss Cherokee Madison Whitekiller listen as a Senate Citation honoring the Cherokee Nation is read in the Senate Chamber.

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Tuesday marked Cherokee Nation Day at the Capitol, and representatives of the tribe were honored on the floor of the Senate.  The Cherokee Nation is the largest federally recognized tribe in Oklahoma and in the United States.  Senate President Pro Tempore Brian Bingman presented a Citation of Congratulations, co-authored by Minority Leader John Sparks, on behalf of the chamber.  Both Bingman and Sparks are citizens of the Cherokee Nation.

“The Cherokee Nation, its culture, and language, are all part of Oklahoma’s identity as a state—we’re partners and we value the cultural and economic contributions the Nation and its citizens make,” said Bingman, R-Sapulpa.  “It’s always a pleasure to welcome representatives of the tribe to the Oklahoma State Senate.”

Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Bill John Baker asked all the Cherokees in the Chamber to stand, which included many guests in the visitors’ gallery as well as several senators on the floor who are also members of the tribe. 

"It's important for the Cherokee Nation to maintain our visibility and presence at the State Capitol, to better protect the interests of our sovereign nation. We are here today advocating for core services including education, health care and infrastructure enhancement," Baker said.

Other tribal officials welcomed to the floor included Deputy Principal Chief S. Joe Crittenden, Tribal Council Deputy Speaker Victoria Vazquez, Miss Cherokee Ja-Li-Si Pittman, Jr. Miss Cherokee, Madison Whitekiller, and several youth ambassadors.

“The Cherokee Nation has thrived, culturally and economically, creating jobs and partnering with local cities for projects that benefit all Oklahomans,” said Sparks, D-Norman.  “It’s an honor to welcome Chief Baker and everyone to the Capitol and acknowledge the Cherokee Nation’s importance to our state’s past and our future.”

Sen. Kyle Loveless’ statement on the Personal Asset Protection Act

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“It is unfortunate the Personal Asset Protection Act was not given a fair hearing in the Senate Judiciary Committee. Oklahomans of all walks of life and political ideologies support civil asset forfeiture reform. However, Chairman Sykes did not think their voice should count in the political process. I am disappointed but not discouraged.  I am resolute and will work to make sure real reforms are put in to place to protect the private property of Oklahomans.

“Our nation was founded to protect life, liberty and property equally and no chairman’s gavel can change that. Oklahoma’s current civil asset forfeiture laws are an affront to this principle. I ran for the state Senate to reduce government overreach and to stand up for everyday Oklahomans—I will continue this fight.

“Instead of hearing the Personal Asset Protection Act, the judiciary committee Tuesday took a modest step toward reform. SB 1113, which allows a citizen to receive attorney’s fees if they successfully contest a forfeiture, passed out of committee unanimously with no questions and no debate.

“However, this bill doesn’t go nearly far enough in correcting the major issues with Oklahoma’s civil asset forfeiture laws. The bill will still allow for private property to be forfeited without a criminal conviction, has no reporting or transparency requirements and will continue to allow law enforcement agencies to keep the proceeds from each forfeiture they perform. 

“Oklahomans understand law enforcement has a tough job, but also understand our liberties are at stake. I will continue to fight for those liberties and look forward to working with the bill’s author to create a system that protects Oklahomans’ rights and private property.”

Kyle D. Loveless is a conservative Republican from South Oklahoma City. 

Sherry Durkee approved as Superintendent of Sand Springs Schools

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The Sand Springs Board of Education ended months of speculation Monday night when they appointed Sand Springs's own Sherry Durkee as the new district superintendent, replacing Lloyd Snow effective July 1st, 2016. 

Durkee was already serving as the Assistant Superintendent and was chosen over a large field of impressive applicants, according to Board President Mike Mullins. 

Krista Polanski was re-sworn in as Board Member for another five year term. 

Mike Mullins was approved by unanimous vote as the new Board President with Church that Matters Pastor and football Chaplain Rusty Gun as Vice President. 

Senate Education Committee approves bill to eliminate ‘End of Instruction’ exams

The Senate Education Committee has given unanimous, bipartisan support to legislation to eliminate state-mandated End of Instruction exams (EOIs).  Under current law, high school students must pass four of seven EOIs in order to graduate from high school, even if they received passing grades in all required classes. 

Senator John Ford chairs the Education Committee, and is the author of Senate Bill 1170 which was approved on Monday.  He said eliminating the EOIs will save millions of dollars, and will help address the concern voiced by teachers, parents and students of too many required tests.  Under SB 1170, it would be up to each school district to certify that graduating high school students had mastered the curriculum requirements.

“One of the biggest complaints has been that teachers don’t have time to focus on teaching the curriculum because they’ve had to prepare students for too many high stakes tests,” Ford said.  “By eliminating the EOI exams, teachers and students can focus on the classes. This also ensures greater local control for the districts.”

Ford, who represents Nowata, Rogers and Washington Counties, said the State Board of Education would work with Higher Education and CareerTech to publish a list of approved assessments that would comply with the Every Student Succeeds Act and measure mastery of the state’s subject matter standards.  The state would pay for the exams. 

“Each district would choose which of those exams students would take by the end of their senior year.  It could be something like the Iowa Tests of Basic Skills, SAT, or the ACT, something most students already take, but currently, parents must pay for,” Ford said.  “This will save parents money, but because these standardized tests are much less expensive than developing exams specifically for just Oklahoma, taxpayers will also see a significant savings.”

The legislation now moves to the full Senate for further consideration.

“American Ninja Warrior” coming to Oklahoma State Capitol

Sen. David Holt, the Oklahoma City Convention & Visitors Bureau, Gov. Mary Fallin, Senate President Pro Tempore Brian Bingman, and House Speaker Jeff Hickman announced today that “American Ninja Warrior” is coming to Oklahoma for the first time and will shoot on the south plaza of the Oklahoma State Capitol.

The Oklahoma Office of Management and Enterprise Services has approved a request by the producers of the hit NBC television show to shoot at the Capitol from May 6 to 17. The approval of the application represents the culmination of a months-long recruiting effort led by the Oklahoma City Convention & Visitors Bureau, with critical support from Holt, Fallin, Bingman, Hickman, Lt. Governor Todd Lamb, the Film and Music Office, the Office of Management and Enterprise Services, and the Department of Public Safety.

“American Ninja Warrior” is an obstacle course competition show that is entering its eighth season on NBC with rebroadcasts on the Esquire Network. It is one of the highest-rated family shows on television. As part of its format, different cities each season serve as hosts for “city finals.” Oklahoma has never been the site of a “city final.” Serving as a host city leads to a direct economic impact from the influx of crew members, participants and fans. It leads to an indirect economic impact through the positive exposure for the city and state throughout the “American Ninja Warrior” season. In this unique instance, the shoot will also highlight Oklahoma’s State Capitol as it undergoes renovations and prepares for its centennial.

“It’s exciting that Oklahoma, and especially our state Capitol, will be showcased on ‘American Ninja Warrior,’” Fallin said. “This will allow viewers to get a glimpse of all the impressive things that are going on in Oklahoma City.”

“I think this is great. ’American Ninja Warrior’ is a popular, long-running prime-time show on a major network. It’s fun to watch,” Bingman said. “I think it’s very positive for Oklahoma and we’re looking forward to having the show here at the Capitol."

"We have been working to preserve our beautiful Capitol building which is a treasured gift from previous generation of Oklahomans,” Hickman said. “This national focus on our state, our capital city and the Capitol building will introduce millions more Americans to this special place we call Oklahoma."

“We are so excited and honored to be selected as an ‘American Ninja Warrior’ city for season eight,” said Sue Hollenbeck, Director of Sports Business for the Oklahoma City Convention and Visitors Bureau.  “Having a national TV shoot in Oklahoma City is not only a significant economic impact, but this is a great opportunity to show off our amazing state and specifically, our beautiful Capitol building. We are looking forward to working with the incredible production company and NBC to make this the best ‘American Ninja Warrior’ yet!”

“This past summer, my kids were obsessed with ‘American Ninja Warrior’, and I wondered at the time how we might someday get it to Oklahoma,” Holt said.   “Little did I know that the Oklahoma City Convention and Visitors Bureau was already hard at work.   When they came to me last year seeking assistance at the Capitol, I was thrilled to help, and I commend all the state leaders and entities that also rose to the occasion.   The arrival of ‘American Ninja Warrior’ will present a fantastic opportunity to highlight our city, our state, and our Capitol.”

Statement from Senate Education Chair John Ford

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“Several bills dealing with school district mergers, annexations, and consolidations have been introduced this session in the Senate.  These measures take a thoughtful and pragmatic approach to streamline administrative costs to save money and improve the quality of education offered to students.  At the heart of it, the members who have worked on these bills share the goal of ensuring we’re doing the best we can to focus resources in the classroom, where they most directly benefit Oklahoma children.

“As Education Chairman, I’m grateful to the parents, teachers and school patrons who’ve taken the time to share their views and concerns with me, and with their own senators.  I’ve also had many conversations with members as well. I believe more discussion and an exchange of ideas are needed.

“Oklahomans have a vested interest in improving the quality of education offered to our children and grandchildren and in ensuring our schools are operating as efficiently and effectively as possible. With this consideration, I have decided against hearing any of these bills, including one that I have authored, in the Senate Education Committee this session.”—Sen. John Ford, Education Chairman.

Senate approves uninsured motorist bill

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OKLAHOMA CITY – Under current state law, the Department of Public Safety (DPS) suspends the license of anyone found driving without insurance.  On Wednesday, the Senate approved Senate Bill 260, by Sen. Ron Sharp, to require such offenders to provide proof of insurance to DPS in the form of an SR-22 form before their suspension for driving without insurance can be lifted.

“People are not following the law. A recent study found that Oklahoma’s uninsured motorist rate is twice the national average making it the worst in the nation,” said Sharp, R-Shawnee.  “This measure will hold citizens accountable.  If they’re not going to follow the law then there will be consequences and they won’t be able to drive until they start following the law and purchase vehicle insurance.”

A 2014 study by the Insurance Research Council estimates that nearly 26 percent of vehicles on Oklahoma roads are operating without insurance, totaling approximately 721,000 vehicles.  The national average is just under 13 percent.

An SR-22 form is a certificate issued by an individual’s insurance company affirming that the person has auto insurance that meets the state’s minimum requirements.  SB 260 requires that the SR-22 be maintained with DPS for three years.  Anyone who fails to maintain their SR-22 with DPS will have their driving privileges suspended again until proof of insurance is re-filed. 

At least 36 states use some form of SR-22 reporting as a tool to combat uninsured motorists. 

The bill also states that when an insurance company has certified an insurance policy with an SR-22, the policy can only be terminated if the company provides notice to DPS within ten days after termination.

“Current law is allowing offenders to simply buy insurance and drop it within days just to get their license back.  This bill ensures that insurance companies let DPS know when policies are dropped so that they can make sure those individuals aren’t driving without insurance,” said Sharp.  

SB 260 provides exemptions in which DPS must waive the SR-22 filing requirement including if the person dies or is incapacitated or if the person surrenders his or her vehicle registration. 

Sharp explained that uninsured motorists have a negative fiscal impact on insured motorists as well as the state overall. 

“Law-abiding motorists unfairly have to pay the price through higher rates for those who break the law and drive without insurance,” said Sharp.  “Our state’s high rate of uninsured motorists also has a negative effect on our state’s budget and pension systems because of the lost premium tax dollars.”

The Oklahoma Insurance Department estimates, based on the average statewide premium for minimum auto liability coverage and the premium tax rate of 2.25 percent, that if the uninsured motorist rate were reduced to 15 percent (still above the national average), Oklahoma would see just over $7.7 million in additional premium tax revenue. 

SB 260 will now move to the House for further consideration.  

Bill ensuring more accountability in public policy rules heads to full Senate

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State Senators Nathan Dahm and Anthony Sykes said a bill ensuring legislative input on state agency rules will create greater accountability when determining policies impacting the lives of Oklahomans.  Senate Bill 1130 clarifies Oklahoma law to ensure the Legislature’s authority to approve, amend or disapprove agency rules.

Dahm, principal author of SB 1130, said the measure was approved by the full Senate Appropriations Committee on Wednesday.

“Up until the administration of President Woodrow Wilson, our elected representatives in Washington, D.C. had the ability to change federal agency rules when needed.  Ever since then, the federal bureaucrats, who don’t have to answer to the public for their actions, have had control over public policy issues that impact the lives of private citizens and businesses in countless ways, and we know it’s often a negative impact,” said Dahm, R-Broken Arrow.  “We want to ensure that at the state level, it is those who are directly accountable to the people who have the final say and have the oversight ability to protect people and businesses from excessive agency rules.”

Language contained in SB 1130 would codify the Legislature’s right to amend any rules as they proceed through the legislative review process and establish new agency rules directly through enactment of a joint resolution.

“When bureaucracies adopt rules that run contrary to the will of Oklahoma citizens, people get trampled. It is impossible to hold a bureaucrat accountable,” said Sykes, R-Moore.  “But I’m living proof that you can hold an incumbent accountable. This measure ensures greater accountability to the public in the policy decisions that affect their lives.”

SB 1130 will next be considered by the full Senate.

Legislation Would Create Borderless Healthcare License

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Contact: State Rep. Pat Ownbey
Capitol: (405) 557-7326

OKLAHOMA CITY – Some nurses would be able to cross the border into or out of Oklahoma without getting a new professional license under legislation approved by the Oklahoma House of Representatives Appropriations and Budget Subcommittee on Health.

House Bill 2482, by state Rep. Pat Ownbey, would establish the terms for a nurse licensure compact with other states that would allow for a multi-state license whose standards would exceed or match those of any of the individual states.

“The problem for a multi-state license is that states have different standards,” said Ownbey, R-Ardmore. “The solution in the license in this compact is that it meets or exceeds the individual standards. Those who would not qualify to practice in one state would be unable to get a multi-state license.”

The multi-state license would cost $150 with a renewal fee of $125 every two years. The Oklahoma license currently costs $85 with a renewal fee of $75 every two years.

Ownbey noted that telemedicine companies will not come to Oklahoma because the state is not part of a multi-state compact. Oklahoma is not part of a current compact in place between 25 states. The new compact is intended to include those 25 states and others, but all states must pass legislation to do so.

“Oklahoma has a lot of health care problems and we have health care professional shortages in different parts of the state,” Ownbey said. “My hope is that my legislation will be able to improve the health care picture in Oklahoma.”

Weekly Column by Senator Dan Newberry

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This week kicks off the second session of the 55th Legislature, and with a $900 million projected shortfall in the budget, this year will present many challenges for lawmakers.  As the old adage goes, the difference between stumbling blocks and stepping stones is all in how you use them.  It’s difficult to dispute that we’re facing several significant stumbling blocks this year.   With a significant shortfall and most agencies facing cuts in funding, it paints a tough situation for our state to overcome.  While this will present a unique set of budgetary circumstances this year, I choose to think of it as an opportunity to find and identify those stepping stones that can lead to meaningful change in Oklahoma.

As Oklahomans will remember, the 80’s brought the worst oil crisis our nation has faced.  The economic reality was heartbreaking, with many families facing poverty and other hardships for years while waiting for the economy to recover.  My family was one of thousands who struggled in the face of the oil crisis and I remember wondering when or if recovery would ever happen.  Even though I was young at the time, I decided I would do whatever I could to help make a difference in whatever way I could, at whatever point in my life those opportunities presented themselves.  Over the years, that same determination has helped to fuel my commitment to the people of my district and the state. 

On Monday during her state of the state address, we heard Gov. Fallin’s goals for this year’s legislature, with the budget at the top of the priority list.  In order to fix the shortfall, we must remain focused on the core government functions and ensure those are properly funded, including education and infrastructure.  Children are the future of Oklahoma, and as sacrificial givers to the future of Oklahoma, teachers are one of our most valuable resources in ensuring tomorrow’s young leaders are provided with a quality education today.  Oklahoma teachers deserve to teach in adequately funded districts and earn a salary that is competitive with other states.  This will remain one of our highest priorities this year. 

Our work is cut out for us and I encourage you to follow the process by visiting the official State Senate website at www.oksenate.gov where live audio and video streaming from the Senate Chamber, as well as from all committee rooms are available. 

            I am looking forward to kicking off the new legislative session.  There’s a lot to be done and I’m ready to get to work.  As we approach this tenuous time in the state’s history, it is important to remember we are all stakeholders in Oklahoma’s future and I’m committed to making sure your voice is heard in state government.  I always welcome your ideas and input and encourage you to contact me with any concerns. 

To contact me at the Capitol, please write to Senator Dan Newberry, State Capitol, 2300 N. Lincoln Blvd. Room 234, Oklahoma City, OK, 73105, email me at Newberry@oksenate.gov or call (405) 521-5600.

Senator Treat comments on Pre-K legislation

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OKLAHOMA CITY – The Vice-Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Sen. Greg Treat, said Thursday that his legislation to modify how Pre-K classes are funded will not be heard this session.  Senate Bill 1324 would have removed early childhood education from the State Aid formula and allowed local school districts to make decisions on Pre-K education freeing up much-needed funds for K-12 public education. 

In January, the State Board of Education had to make a mandatory three percent or $46.7 million cut to its budget because of the General Revenue failure for FY’16. 

“We’re facing a nearly $1 billion revenue shortfall for the upcoming fiscal year, which may require cuts to common education,” said Treat, R-Oklahoma City.  “I introduced Senate Bill 1324 to explore the option of giving local school districts more flexibility over funding streams for Pre-K. State resources are limited and this bill would allow local officials to shift funds from Pre-K to serve students in K-12.  These would not be new taxes but rather existing local funding streams that are currently restricted by state statute.”

Last month, the State Board of Education had to make a mandatory three percent or $46.7 million cut to its budget because of the General Revenue failure for the current fiscal year. 

Treat said he is disappointed that Senate Education Chairman John Ford has said he will not give the bill a hearing this year but is pleased that Sen. Ford has agreed to chair an interim study (pending approval by the President Pro Tempore) later this year to continue the discussion about Pre-K.  

“It’s disappointing we won’t have a chance this session to discuss my idea to free up much-needed funds for K-12 education but I’m pleased that Senator Ford has agreed to chair an interim study later this year to continue to look at both the effectiveness of Pre-K and whether there is a better way to fund it,” said Treat.  “I appreciate the chairman’s honest disagreement with my position and look forward to studying the issue with him moving forward.”

Treat noted that several recent studies have called into question the long-term effectiveness of Pre-K.

“Oklahomans expect us to constantly examine the effectiveness of all government programs so successful programs can be expanded and unsuccessful programs can be fixed or eliminated,” said Treat.

“This is a program that was instituted because of its reported long-term benefits in students’ academic careers as well as their success in the workforce and other areas.  If those benefits are now being proven false, then we may need to reevaluate how we approach early childhood education.”

If SB 1324 is not heard by the Senate Education Committee, it will be considered dead and cannot be brought back up this session.  Treat asks that educators and parents contact him to share their thoughts on this issue.

“The feedback I have received since I filed this legislation is welcomed and I look forward to working with educators and parents to find evidence-based ways to improve our education system,” said Treat.  “We can’t be afraid of having a frank dialogue to seek solutions that are most beneficial to the education of our children.” 

For more information, contact:
Sen. Treat: (405) 521-5632
Treat@oksenate.gov

Tulsa Community College West Sponsors Blood Donor Challenge – Thursday, Feb. 18

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February 4, 2016─ Tulsa Community College West and Oklahoma Blood Institute (OBI) invite all area residents to take the Blood Donor Challenge Thursday, February 18.  Blood given with OBI will save the lives of patients in area hospitals including Saint Francis Health System.

Healthy adults* can typically give and are welcome from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Student Activity Center. Each blood donor will receive a Blood Donor Challenge T-shirt.

“Some of our friends and neighbors face the challenge of simply staying alive every day,” said John Armitage, M.D., president and CEO, Oklahoma Blood Institute. “This event challenges those who have never given life-saving blood to step up and join the movement.  And, since our donors typically give only once or twice a year, we want to challenge them to give more often.”  Donations can be made as often as every two months or six times a year.

OBI relies on donations from an average of 1,000 donors each day to meet the needs of patients in nearly 90 percent of the state’s hospitals it exclusively serves. One single donation can save as many as three lives.

Through a special initiative to support Global Blood Fund (GBF), any donor can forgo the T-shirt offered in appreciation for giving.  In turn, OBI will make a contribution to GBF, a charity providing supplies and equipment for blood centers in the world’s poorest countries.

Appointments to donate are not required but can be made by calling (877) 340-8777 or visiting obi.org.

* 16 year olds must weigh at least 125 and provide signed parental permission; 17 year olds must weigh at least 125 pounds; 18+ year olds must weigh at least 110 pounds

CPHS seniors host Valentine's Day Fun Night fundraiser

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By: Scott Emigh, Editor-in-Chief

Church That Matters is hosting a "Valentine's Day Fun Night" Friday, February 12th, as a fundraiser for the Charles Page High School Senior Class Trip.

Senior English teacher Chelynn Broughton, along with several student mothers, will be chaperoning a Senior Class Cruise to Cozumel this summer.

The students have worked hard all year to raise money for the trip which thirty students have signed up to participate in, but are still well behind their goal.

The event will be open to all children in third though sixth grade.

In addition to the Fun Night, two other fundraisers are available.

Mrs. Broughton has created a "Go Fund Me" account where you can make a direct cash contribution at https://www.gofundme.com/4cm2ftck

Melissa Cremin Photography has pledged to donate $50 to the trip for every photoshoot that is sent her way. Just call to book your appointment and mention that you're doing it for the Senior Class Cruise. https://www.facebook.com/melissacreminphotography