Today, Congressman Tom Cole and former State Representative Thad Balkman endorse Steve Russell for Senator District 45. Also, endorsing Steve Russell are former Governor Frank Keating, Representative Susan Winchester, Former Representative Kevin Calvey, Former State Senator Scott Pruitt, former Mayor Kirk Humpreys, and all three of the former candidates in the SD 45 race.
Bob
Friday, August 15, 2008
Kyle Loveless
Only eleven days left until the election and Kyle Loveless SD 45 candidate still has not paid his debt to the Cleveland County Republican Party. Kyle has owed the Party $1500.00 now for two years. Kyle has promised Chairman Warren that he would pay the County back before the election, Tuesday Aug 26th. Will he keep his word?
Bob
Bob
Power Of Prayer
Wow What A Great Idea.
ONE MINUTE EACH NIGHT
This is the scariest election we as Christians have ever faced, and from the looks of the polls, the Christians aren't voting Christian values. We all need to be on our knees. Do you believe we can take God at His word? Call upon His name, then stand back and watch His wonders to behold. This scripture gives us, as Christians, ownership of this land and the ability to call upon God to heal it. I challenge you to do so. We have never been more desperate than now for God to heal our land. This election is the scariest I remember in my lifetime. 2 Chronicles 7:14..."If my people, which are called by my name shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land." During WWII, there was an advisor to Churchill who organized a group of people who dropped what they were doing every night at a prescribed hour for one minute to collectively pray for the safety of England , its people and peace. This had an amazing effect as bombing stopped. There is now a group of people organizing the same thing here in America The United States of America and our citizens need prayer more than ever!!! If you would like to participate, each evening at 9:00 PM Eastern Time (8 PM Central, 7 PM Mountain, 6 PM Pacific), stop whatever you are doing and spend one minute praying for the safety of the United States, our troops, our citizens, for peace in the world, the upcoming election, that the Bible will re! main the basis for the laws governing our land and that Christianity will grow in the U.S. If you know anyone who would like to participate, please pass this along. Someone said if people really understood the full extent of the power we have available through prayer, we might be speechless. Our prayers are the most powerful asset we have. Thank you. Please pass this on to anyone who you think will want to join us. God Bless You!!!
ONE MINUTE EACH NIGHT
This is the scariest election we as Christians have ever faced, and from the looks of the polls, the Christians aren't voting Christian values. We all need to be on our knees. Do you believe we can take God at His word? Call upon His name, then stand back and watch His wonders to behold. This scripture gives us, as Christians, ownership of this land and the ability to call upon God to heal it. I challenge you to do so. We have never been more desperate than now for God to heal our land. This election is the scariest I remember in my lifetime. 2 Chronicles 7:14..."If my people, which are called by my name shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land." During WWII, there was an advisor to Churchill who organized a group of people who dropped what they were doing every night at a prescribed hour for one minute to collectively pray for the safety of England , its people and peace. This had an amazing effect as bombing stopped. There is now a group of people organizing the same thing here in America The United States of America and our citizens need prayer more than ever!!! If you would like to participate, each evening at 9:00 PM Eastern Time (8 PM Central, 7 PM Mountain, 6 PM Pacific), stop whatever you are doing and spend one minute praying for the safety of the United States, our troops, our citizens, for peace in the world, the upcoming election, that the Bible will re! main the basis for the laws governing our land and that Christianity will grow in the U.S. If you know anyone who would like to participate, please pass this along. Someone said if people really understood the full extent of the power we have available through prayer, we might be speechless. Our prayers are the most powerful asset we have. Thank you. Please pass this on to anyone who you think will want to join us. God Bless You!!!
Cleveland County Debate
A debate has been scheduled between SD 45 candidates, Steve Russell and Kyle Loveless. Also debating will be Cleveland County Sheriff candidates Joe Lester and Mark Hamm. Moderators for the debate will be former State Representative Doug Miller and County Commissioner District 1 Rod Cleveland. Date Friday August 22,2008
The debate is sponsored by the Cleveland County Republican Party and Mid-America Christian University located at 3500 SW 119th OKC.
The doors open at 6:30 p.m. Senate District 45 candidates debate will be from 7:00 -8:00 PM. Sheriff candidates will debate between 8:00 p.m-9:00 p.m. Public invited.
Questions contact Roger Warren Chairman Cleveland County Republican Party 912-4341. Additional information is available www.okgopcc.com
The debate is sponsored by the Cleveland County Republican Party and Mid-America Christian University located at 3500 SW 119th OKC.
The doors open at 6:30 p.m. Senate District 45 candidates debate will be from 7:00 -8:00 PM. Sheriff candidates will debate between 8:00 p.m-9:00 p.m. Public invited.
Questions contact Roger Warren Chairman Cleveland County Republican Party 912-4341. Additional information is available www.okgopcc.com
Democrats Block Efforts
For decades, Democrats have blocked efforts to responsibly develop the energy resources our country possesses, transforming vast areas of opportunity into "The No Zone."Over the past 30 years:
Democrats have blocked the development of new sources of petroleum.Democrats have blocked drilling in ANWR.Democrats have blocked drilling off the coast of Florida.Democrats have blocked drilling off of the east coast.Democrats have blocked drilling off of the west coast.Democrats have blocked drilling off the Alaskan coast.Democrats have blocked building oil refineries.Democrats have blocked clean nuclear energy production.Democrats have blocked clean coal production.
Democrats have blocked the development of new sources of petroleum.Democrats have blocked drilling in ANWR.Democrats have blocked drilling off the coast of Florida.Democrats have blocked drilling off of the east coast.Democrats have blocked drilling off of the west coast.Democrats have blocked drilling off the Alaskan coast.Democrats have blocked building oil refineries.Democrats have blocked clean nuclear energy production.Democrats have blocked clean coal production.
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Wallace Collins
Press Release
Cleveland County Republican Chairman
Roger Warren
Aug 13th
County Republican Chairman calls on wallace collins to return donations from Secretive special interest group
NORMAN, OK— Roger Warren, Chairman of the Cleveland County Republican Party, called on Wallace Collins today to return $4,000 in campaign contributions he received from a special interest group now under investigation for unethically deducting money from workers’ compensation claim checks. The money, which was intended to pay for medical expenses while workers are too injured to work, was funneled into political campaigns without the workers’ knowledge or consent.
“Wallace Collins has previously received $4,000 in donations from this secretive organization that took money from injured workers without their knowledge,” Warren said. “Collins has used this money for his own political purposes and should return that money at once.”
Cleveland County Republican Chairman
Roger Warren
Aug 13th
County Republican Chairman calls on wallace collins to return donations from Secretive special interest group
NORMAN, OK— Roger Warren, Chairman of the Cleveland County Republican Party, called on Wallace Collins today to return $4,000 in campaign contributions he received from a special interest group now under investigation for unethically deducting money from workers’ compensation claim checks. The money, which was intended to pay for medical expenses while workers are too injured to work, was funneled into political campaigns without the workers’ knowledge or consent.
“Wallace Collins has previously received $4,000 in donations from this secretive organization that took money from injured workers without their knowledge,” Warren said. “Collins has used this money for his own political purposes and should return that money at once.”
Kyle Loveless
Kyle Loveless has owed the Cleveland County Republican Party $1500.00 for almost two years. The $1500.00 is due to Kyle’s poor management of the Cleveland County Republican Party’s funds. Our County Party Chairman Roger Warren has requested numerous times for Kyle to repay his debt, via letters and phone calls. Kyle has agreed to pay the $1500 several times over the years; however he has never repaid the County Party.
Friday, August 8th, at the GOP open house, Kyle’s wife Summer gave Chairman Warren a check for $1500.00 and stated “the check is what Kyle owes the party”. The check was folded and Chairman Warren did not actually look at the check, at that time. Later he noticed the check was postdated for August 27th. The 27th is the day after the run off election for Senate District 45. The check is from Phoenix Consulting LLC even though Phoenix Consulting does not owe the Cleveland County Party any money.
Chairman Warren has returned the check to Kyle and requested immediate payment and a personal check from Kyle.
The question is why would Kyle give Chairman Warren a postdated check that could not be cashed until the day after the election? Why would Kyle write a company check for his personal debt? Only Kyle can say why he has done this.
Bob
Friday, August 8th, at the GOP open house, Kyle’s wife Summer gave Chairman Warren a check for $1500.00 and stated “the check is what Kyle owes the party”. The check was folded and Chairman Warren did not actually look at the check, at that time. Later he noticed the check was postdated for August 27th. The 27th is the day after the run off election for Senate District 45. The check is from Phoenix Consulting LLC even though Phoenix Consulting does not owe the Cleveland County Party any money.
Chairman Warren has returned the check to Kyle and requested immediate payment and a personal check from Kyle.
The question is why would Kyle give Chairman Warren a postdated check that could not be cashed until the day after the election? Why would Kyle write a company check for his personal debt? Only Kyle can say why he has done this.
Bob
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Democrats Want To Tax The Wind
This is really hard to believe. People wonder why I am a Republican.
Bob
For Immediate Release CONTACT: Randy Swanson
August 12, 2008 405.607.2971
*** NEWS RELEASE ***
LIBERAL PHILOSOPHY – ‘IF IT MOVES…TAX IT’
But Tax the Wind? Lerblance Suggests the Possibility
OKLAHOMA CITY – Just when you think there’s nothing else on which liberal Oklahoma leaders can impose a tax, we now hear of State Senator Richard Lerblance, D-McAlester, suggesting a tax on wind power.
Lerblance was quoted in the Aug 11, 2008 edition of the Tulsa World suggesting a tax on alternative energy sources as an antidote to the perceived budget shortfalls.
“Typical liberal solution,” said Randy Swanson, Executive Director of the Oklahoma Republican Senatorial Committee. “Rather than suggesting less waste or letting Oklahomans keep more of their hard-earned dollars, Richard Lerblance suggests we tax perhaps the most plentiful of Oklahoma’s natural resources – wind.”
According to theTulsa World, Lerblance noted the Legislature was ‘strapped for money’ when drawing up the FY 2009 budget, and suggested the previously unthinkable solution of taxing the wind that comes sweepin’ down the plain.
"Nobody wants to raise taxes," Lerblance observed. "But maybe we will have to tax wind power, or ethanol, switch grass, these other sources of energy."
(http://www.tulsaworld.com/news/article.aspx?articleID=20080811_16_A1_spancl570343)
“Hold on to your wallets, Oklahoma,” Swanson continued. “Now we have a senior incumbent Senator suggesting we tax wind and grass – two of our most plentiful resources.
“Who’s going to pay? You.” Swanson continued. “This just affirms the old criticism of liberal Democrat tax policy – that if it moves – tax it. And nothing moves like the Oklahoma wind.
“This could make for an awkward moment in McAlester on Wednesday, when Governor Henry introduces Boone Pickens at a town hall meeting to promote Pickens’ wind energy initiative,” he continued.
“Who gets to be the one to tell Mr. Pickens that the local State Senator wants to tax Oklahoma’s wind?” Swanson asked.
Swanson said Lerblance’s suggestion reminded him of a 1974 Top Forty hit from The Hollies.
“I can see his Greatest Hits album now,” said Swanson. “Who could forget this all-time favorite from Dick Lerblance – ‘Sometimes…All I Need is the Air That You Breathe Just to Tax You.’
“Richard Lerblance and the liberal Democrats ideas are as current and innovative as a 1974 oldie,” Swanson concluded.
Bob
For Immediate Release CONTACT: Randy Swanson
August 12, 2008 405.607.2971
*** NEWS RELEASE ***
LIBERAL PHILOSOPHY – ‘IF IT MOVES…TAX IT’
But Tax the Wind? Lerblance Suggests the Possibility
OKLAHOMA CITY – Just when you think there’s nothing else on which liberal Oklahoma leaders can impose a tax, we now hear of State Senator Richard Lerblance, D-McAlester, suggesting a tax on wind power.
Lerblance was quoted in the Aug 11, 2008 edition of the Tulsa World suggesting a tax on alternative energy sources as an antidote to the perceived budget shortfalls.
“Typical liberal solution,” said Randy Swanson, Executive Director of the Oklahoma Republican Senatorial Committee. “Rather than suggesting less waste or letting Oklahomans keep more of their hard-earned dollars, Richard Lerblance suggests we tax perhaps the most plentiful of Oklahoma’s natural resources – wind.”
According to theTulsa World, Lerblance noted the Legislature was ‘strapped for money’ when drawing up the FY 2009 budget, and suggested the previously unthinkable solution of taxing the wind that comes sweepin’ down the plain.
"Nobody wants to raise taxes," Lerblance observed. "But maybe we will have to tax wind power, or ethanol, switch grass, these other sources of energy."
(http://www.tulsaworld.com/news/article.aspx?articleID=20080811_16_A1_spancl570343)
“Hold on to your wallets, Oklahoma,” Swanson continued. “Now we have a senior incumbent Senator suggesting we tax wind and grass – two of our most plentiful resources.
“Who’s going to pay? You.” Swanson continued. “This just affirms the old criticism of liberal Democrat tax policy – that if it moves – tax it. And nothing moves like the Oklahoma wind.
“This could make for an awkward moment in McAlester on Wednesday, when Governor Henry introduces Boone Pickens at a town hall meeting to promote Pickens’ wind energy initiative,” he continued.
“Who gets to be the one to tell Mr. Pickens that the local State Senator wants to tax Oklahoma’s wind?” Swanson asked.
Swanson said Lerblance’s suggestion reminded him of a 1974 Top Forty hit from The Hollies.
“I can see his Greatest Hits album now,” said Swanson. “Who could forget this all-time favorite from Dick Lerblance – ‘Sometimes…All I Need is the Air That You Breathe Just to Tax You.’
“Richard Lerblance and the liberal Democrats ideas are as current and innovative as a 1974 oldie,” Swanson concluded.
Democrat Senate Candidate Caught
Now that Judge Robert Murphy has returned $650 to a lawyer who sits on the Judicial Nominating Commission, isn't it time for him to avoid further conflicts and return the $5000 he received from the Working Oklahomans Alliance?
For Immediate Release CONTACT: Randy Swanson
August 12, 2008 405.607.2971
*** NEWS RELEASE ***
WHERE’S THE CHECK, BOB? HAS MURPHY LOCATED
THE $5K FROM WORKING OKLAHOMANS ALLIANCE YET?
Candidate Returns Loftis Check After GOP Pressure Applied
OKLAHOMA CITY – Only after having a contribution from a member of the Oklahoma Judicial Nominating Commission revealed by a Republican Senator, Senate Candidate Robert Murphy of Stillwater has returned $650 to a Norman attorney. Now Republicans want to know when Murphy will acknowledge the receipt of a $5000 contribution from the Working Oklahomans Alliance.
As reported in the Sunday Oklahoman on August 3, Murphy and other Democrat candidates were recipients of maximum contributions from an organization formed and managed by worker’s compensation attorneys. The monies for the PAC were obtained largely from the proceeds of worker’s compensation claims without the knowledge or permission of the recipients. (http://newsok.com/how-state-comp-funds-end-up-in-campaigns/article/3278216)
The Working Oklahomans Alliance reports donating $5000 to Senate District 21 Democrat nominee Robert Murphy, yet Murphy insists he “can’t locate” the contribution, according to a follow-up story in The Oklahoman.
“The Judge says because he can’t locate the check, it’s a ‘moot point,’” said Swanson. “It’s not moot. In fact, it’s time for the Judge to come clean about the contribution, then do the right thing and turn the money over to charity,” said Randy Swanson, Executive Director of the Oklahoma Republican Senatorial Committee. “To return the cash to the Working Oklahomans Alliance would do no good for the aggrieved worker’s comp claimants.
“We suggest that Murphy feed a few hungry Oklahomans by donating this cache of cash to the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma City, an organization that serves hungry Oklahomans throughout the state, including feeding centers in Senate District 21,” Swanson suggested.
“This is only just, as Oklahomans from across the state unknowingly and unwillingly contributed to Murphy’s campaign,” he added.
Given that Murphy has applied for his old job as a District Judge pending the results of the November 4 election, any appearance of accepting financial help from attorneys or attorney-led organizations should be avoided, as these lawyers may well be trying cases before him, should the Judicial Nominating Commission and Governor Henry reappoint him, as is the suspicion through out the legal and political communities.
“The clock is running,” Swanson said. “The contribution was made on July 3 – forty days ago. We’re waiting to see how long it takes Judge Murphy to track down that elusive check and do the right thing. We’ll be watching,” Swanson concluded.
A count-up clock is marking time on www.oksenategop.com. The clock will stop when Murphy donates the contribution to the Regional Food Bank or an appropriate charity.
For Immediate Release CONTACT: Randy Swanson
August 12, 2008 405.607.2971
*** NEWS RELEASE ***
WHERE’S THE CHECK, BOB? HAS MURPHY LOCATED
THE $5K FROM WORKING OKLAHOMANS ALLIANCE YET?
Candidate Returns Loftis Check After GOP Pressure Applied
OKLAHOMA CITY – Only after having a contribution from a member of the Oklahoma Judicial Nominating Commission revealed by a Republican Senator, Senate Candidate Robert Murphy of Stillwater has returned $650 to a Norman attorney. Now Republicans want to know when Murphy will acknowledge the receipt of a $5000 contribution from the Working Oklahomans Alliance.
As reported in the Sunday Oklahoman on August 3, Murphy and other Democrat candidates were recipients of maximum contributions from an organization formed and managed by worker’s compensation attorneys. The monies for the PAC were obtained largely from the proceeds of worker’s compensation claims without the knowledge or permission of the recipients. (http://newsok.com/how-state-comp-funds-end-up-in-campaigns/article/3278216)
The Working Oklahomans Alliance reports donating $5000 to Senate District 21 Democrat nominee Robert Murphy, yet Murphy insists he “can’t locate” the contribution, according to a follow-up story in The Oklahoman.
“The Judge says because he can’t locate the check, it’s a ‘moot point,’” said Swanson. “It’s not moot. In fact, it’s time for the Judge to come clean about the contribution, then do the right thing and turn the money over to charity,” said Randy Swanson, Executive Director of the Oklahoma Republican Senatorial Committee. “To return the cash to the Working Oklahomans Alliance would do no good for the aggrieved worker’s comp claimants.
“We suggest that Murphy feed a few hungry Oklahomans by donating this cache of cash to the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma City, an organization that serves hungry Oklahomans throughout the state, including feeding centers in Senate District 21,” Swanson suggested.
“This is only just, as Oklahomans from across the state unknowingly and unwillingly contributed to Murphy’s campaign,” he added.
Given that Murphy has applied for his old job as a District Judge pending the results of the November 4 election, any appearance of accepting financial help from attorneys or attorney-led organizations should be avoided, as these lawyers may well be trying cases before him, should the Judicial Nominating Commission and Governor Henry reappoint him, as is the suspicion through out the legal and political communities.
“The clock is running,” Swanson said. “The contribution was made on July 3 – forty days ago. We’re waiting to see how long it takes Judge Murphy to track down that elusive check and do the right thing. We’ll be watching,” Swanson concluded.
A count-up clock is marking time on www.oksenategop.com. The clock will stop when Murphy donates the contribution to the Regional Food Bank or an appropriate charity.
Immigration National Anthem
This is a video and song that was very popular at the time.
It is about immigration around the 1930's. Listen close to all the words.
I think you will agree that this should be our Immigration National
Anthem.
It is about immigration around the 1930's. Listen close to all the words.
I think you will agree that this should be our Immigration National
Anthem.
Monday, August 11, 2008
Corporation Commissioner Jim Roth?
I found this article on OKPNS blog. I thought is was interesting enough to post. I particularly thought this statement was interesting "The people of Mayflower Congregational UCC church of Mayflower of Oklahoma City invite you to experience Christianity as a way of life, not a set of creeds and doctrines demanding total agreement. We take the Bible seriously, not literally".
August 11, 2008
Roth Stumping for Gay Evangelical Vote (snicker)
Openly gay appointed Oklahoma Corporate Commissioner Jim Roth was at church Sunday. Mr. Roth was attending the Mayflower Congregational Church in Oklahoma City, not to ask the Lord for forgiveness for his sins, no, Roth was there to actually deliver a sermon! We ask is this a future career move - a la Episcopalian Rev. Gene Robinson - for Mr. Roth after he loses to Dana Murphy this fall? From the Mayflower CC’s website:
The people of Mayflower Congregational UCC church of Mayflower of Oklahoma City invite you to experience Christianity as a way of life, not a set of creeds and doctrines demanding total agreement. We invite you to join us as we seek to recover the meaning of the gospel for our time, looking to scripture, faith, and reason — interpreted by love. At Mayflower we believe that what Jesus teaches us about God is more important than what the church has taught us about Jesus. We believe in the liberty of of conscience, the responsibility of every believer to work out his or her own salvation, and the obligation of faithful men and women to become partners with God in building the kingdom. We take the Bible seriously, not literally, and believe that in our time the church must recover, above all, its radical hospitality — welcoming all persons into her midst, without regard to race, age, gender, sexual orientation, or physical abilities.
The topic for Mr. Roth’s sermon at the United Church of Christ church was “quiet faith.” Here is an excerpt from his sermon. (hat tip: The Green Flame)
“Some people are more concerned about putting up giant crosses by the Interstate Highway, having loud rock and roll bands in order to attract worshippers, or trying to get lower income people to contribute large sums of money to rich evangelists than they are in trying to follow the teachings and example of Jesus.”
We wonder if “quiet faith” was what Mr. Roth was practicing the night he was pulled over and arrested for DUI after a night of gay clubbing?
Senator Nichols
Sun August 10, 2008
Lawyered up: State Senate candidates feel the love
The Daily Oklahoman Editorial
WHY would a citizen in Sallisaw care enough about a state Senate race in Norman to contribute to one of the candidates Or someone in McAlester do the same for a candidate running in Stillwater. It's a safe bet they know little about the candidates.
That doesn't matter. What matters is party affiliation in these cases, D for Democrat. The donors in both examples are attorneys who probably don't know the candidate, but do know the best way to remain in the tall cotton to which they're accustomed is to get Democrats back in control of the Senate, which has forever been the burial ground for lawsuit reform.
Republicans and Democrats have shared power in the Senate the past two years, the result of a 24-24 split in party membership. Both sides are going great guns to gain the majority, with three races in particular targeted. In all three, trial lawyers have been especially generous to the Democratic contenders.
In District 37, incumbent Sen. Nancy Riley of Tulsa, who was elected as a Republican but later switched parties, raised $125,065 in individual contributions during the past three reporting periods. Of that total, $85,425 came from lawyers, according to a figures provided by the head of Oklahoma Republican Senatorial Committee.
Two-term Republican incumbent Jonathan Nichols, who has served the Norman area with distinction in District 15, has seen his opponent lawyer up in a big way. Diane Drum raised $74,485 in individual donations in the past three quarters. Three-fourths of that $56,115 came from attorneys.
The open Senate District 21 seat in Stillwater, formerly held by Democratic co-President Pro Tem Mike Morgan, is another key battleground. Democratic candidate Robert Murphy's lone campaign report showed $35,900 of his $51,600 in individual donations had come from the trial bar.
To be sure, the Republicans in these races have raised funds from constituents in the business and medical professions, groups that advocate for meaningful tort and workers' compensation reform. But 70-75 percent?
Some lawyers who gave to these campaigns listed their occupations as "self employed or "consultant. We've seen "rancher and "homemaker used in other cases. This is rich. It also may help explain why "unknown was given as the occupations of many injured workers who donated ? often unknowingly ? to a political action committee run by workers' comp attorneys. How are some attorneys supposed to keep their clients' professions straight when they're not sure of their own.
GOP control of the Senate could put lawsuit reform back in play. Trial lawyers know this and are rallying their forces. Their goal is a return to the good old days when Democrats ran the Senate and ran every tort reform bill into the ground.
Lawyered up: State Senate candidates feel the love
The Daily Oklahoman Editorial
WHY would a citizen in Sallisaw care enough about a state Senate race in Norman to contribute to one of the candidates Or someone in McAlester do the same for a candidate running in Stillwater. It's a safe bet they know little about the candidates.
That doesn't matter. What matters is party affiliation in these cases, D for Democrat. The donors in both examples are attorneys who probably don't know the candidate, but do know the best way to remain in the tall cotton to which they're accustomed is to get Democrats back in control of the Senate, which has forever been the burial ground for lawsuit reform.
Republicans and Democrats have shared power in the Senate the past two years, the result of a 24-24 split in party membership. Both sides are going great guns to gain the majority, with three races in particular targeted. In all three, trial lawyers have been especially generous to the Democratic contenders.
In District 37, incumbent Sen. Nancy Riley of Tulsa, who was elected as a Republican but later switched parties, raised $125,065 in individual contributions during the past three reporting periods. Of that total, $85,425 came from lawyers, according to a figures provided by the head of Oklahoma Republican Senatorial Committee.
Two-term Republican incumbent Jonathan Nichols, who has served the Norman area with distinction in District 15, has seen his opponent lawyer up in a big way. Diane Drum raised $74,485 in individual donations in the past three quarters. Three-fourths of that $56,115 came from attorneys.
The open Senate District 21 seat in Stillwater, formerly held by Democratic co-President Pro Tem Mike Morgan, is another key battleground. Democratic candidate Robert Murphy's lone campaign report showed $35,900 of his $51,600 in individual donations had come from the trial bar.
To be sure, the Republicans in these races have raised funds from constituents in the business and medical professions, groups that advocate for meaningful tort and workers' compensation reform. But 70-75 percent?
Some lawyers who gave to these campaigns listed their occupations as "self employed or "consultant. We've seen "rancher and "homemaker used in other cases. This is rich. It also may help explain why "unknown was given as the occupations of many injured workers who donated ? often unknowingly ? to a political action committee run by workers' comp attorneys. How are some attorneys supposed to keep their clients' professions straight when they're not sure of their own.
GOP control of the Senate could put lawsuit reform back in play. Trial lawyers know this and are rallying their forces. Their goal is a return to the good old days when Democrats ran the Senate and ran every tort reform bill into the ground.
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Obama Citizen Of The World
Dear Friend,
During his recent speech in Berlin, Barack Obama tried to ingratiate himself to the foreign crowd by claiming loudly that he was “a citizen of the world.”
The problem is Obama’s self-proclaimed global “citizenship” appears to go well beyond just a rhetorical device to gain favor with a European throng full of pie-in-the-sky utopians.
It seems the Democrats’ would-be president of the United States of America really believes that the rest of the world’s problems, and approval, trump the interests of Americans when it comes to how we live our lives and where our money is spent.
While stumping for the support of his party’s leftist base, Obama proclaimed, "we can't drive our SUVs and eat as much as we want and keep our homes on 72 degrees at all times . . . and then just expect that other countries are going to say OK."
And now he’s putting your money where his mouth is.
A bill he has sponsored in the U.S. Senate, the so-called Global Poverty Act (S. 2433), would raise the amount of American tax dollars allocated to United Nations’ redistribution efforts to $845 billion.
That’s $2,500 from every American taxpayer, when many in our country already are struggling to make ends meet.
And if you think taxes and energy costs are high now, wait until Obama’s global energy and production taxes are made law by the Nancy Pelosi/Harry Reid-run Democrat Congress.
Is this what Pelosi meant when she said, “I’m trying to save the planet! I’m trying to save the planet!”?
Senator Obama and the Democrats don’t seem to understand that American prosperity is a result of the hard work of American citizens in a free market economy. And that the American people already are the most generous in the world when it comes to global aid.
Help us show Barack Obama that Americans don’t need foreign approval to lead their lives as they see fit, and that he ought to remember that he is running for president of the United States, not the United Nations.
During his recent speech in Berlin, Barack Obama tried to ingratiate himself to the foreign crowd by claiming loudly that he was “a citizen of the world.”
The problem is Obama’s self-proclaimed global “citizenship” appears to go well beyond just a rhetorical device to gain favor with a European throng full of pie-in-the-sky utopians.
It seems the Democrats’ would-be president of the United States of America really believes that the rest of the world’s problems, and approval, trump the interests of Americans when it comes to how we live our lives and where our money is spent.
While stumping for the support of his party’s leftist base, Obama proclaimed, "we can't drive our SUVs and eat as much as we want and keep our homes on 72 degrees at all times . . . and then just expect that other countries are going to say OK."
And now he’s putting your money where his mouth is.
A bill he has sponsored in the U.S. Senate, the so-called Global Poverty Act (S. 2433), would raise the amount of American tax dollars allocated to United Nations’ redistribution efforts to $845 billion.
That’s $2,500 from every American taxpayer, when many in our country already are struggling to make ends meet.
And if you think taxes and energy costs are high now, wait until Obama’s global energy and production taxes are made law by the Nancy Pelosi/Harry Reid-run Democrat Congress.
Is this what Pelosi meant when she said, “I’m trying to save the planet! I’m trying to save the planet!”?
Senator Obama and the Democrats don’t seem to understand that American prosperity is a result of the hard work of American citizens in a free market economy. And that the American people already are the most generous in the world when it comes to global aid.
Help us show Barack Obama that Americans don’t need foreign approval to lead their lives as they see fit, and that he ought to remember that he is running for president of the United States, not the United Nations.
Saturday, August 9, 2008
Governor Keating
Unconfirmed report say that former Governor Frank Keating is seeking a
leagal opinion if he can be elected as Governor for possibly another two
terms. Frank Keating will challenge the Okllahoma constiution which
limits Governors to two consecutive terms.
There have been rumors that Keating's Lt. Governor Mary Fallin is
looking at making a run for governor in 2010. This certainly would
make a great primary. Mary is the favorite at this time to be our next Governor.
House Republicans will run legislation again for terms limits
expanding to the all other state wide offices. This is certainly in
conflict with Keating intentions if this is correct.
Bob
leagal opinion if he can be elected as Governor for possibly another two
terms. Frank Keating will challenge the Okllahoma constiution which
limits Governors to two consecutive terms.
There have been rumors that Keating's Lt. Governor Mary Fallin is
looking at making a run for governor in 2010. This certainly would
make a great primary. Mary is the favorite at this time to be our next Governor.
House Republicans will run legislation again for terms limits
expanding to the all other state wide offices. This is certainly in
conflict with Keating intentions if this is correct.
Bob
Terrill Changes Mind about Opening His Bankruptcy
Rep. Terrill asks court to deny reopening bankruptcy petition. According to today's Transcript Terrill has changed his mind about reopening his case. Terrill's attorney filled a motion trying to stop the judge from reopening the case.
Bob
Bob
Friday, August 8, 2008
Federal Judge Reopens Terrill's Bankruptcy Case
Bankruptcy Court Reopens Terrill Case. A federal judge has reopened Rep. Randy Terrill's 2005 bankruptcy filing after reports alleged that the Republican legislator failed to disclose an asset in the form of a campaign loan the trustee claims should have been declared as an asset and shared with debtors. Federal Bankruptcy Judge T.M. Weaver reopened the case Thursday in response to a petition from bankruptcy trustee John D. Mashburn. Mashburn asked that the case be reopened because Terrill, the head of the House Revenue and Taxation Committee, failed to list as an asset money his campaign owed him. Mashburn said he expected Weaver to reopen the case. He also expects Weaver to re-appoint him as trustee to oversee the case. Mashburn said the judge's order allows creditors to try to recover additional funds from Terrill's estate. Oklahoma Ethics Commission reports show Terrill was reimbursed between $9,800 and about $11,000 for campaign expenses.
Terrill has stated that he nor his wife have a problem with the case being reviewed.
Corporation Commissioner Jim Roth Conflict Of Interest
By Jerry Bohnen/NewsRadio 1000 KTOK ~ What some observers suggested was a possible conflict of interest for State Corporation Commissioner Jim Roth (left) today might not be one, but it's awfully close. While Administrative Law Judge MariBeth Snapp held a hearing today on OG&E's proposed power lines to carry wind-generated electricity from northwest Oklahoma to Oklahoma City, Roth sat in the courtroom listening to the arguments and explanations. Roth was there as a casual observer. Among the 60 gathered for the hearing were Piedmont city officials who object to the location of the power lines. The mayor of Piedmont is Mike Fina, who happens also to be Roth's administrative aide. Before Judge Snapp allowed Piedmont protesters and others to challenge OG&E's power line plans, she made it clear that the Corporation Commission had no authority regarding the location of the power lines. The only decison the Commission could decide was whether OG&E could get a rate hike to pay for the massive power line project. So Fina and other Piedmont city officials didn't get to make their arguments to the judge. Some suggested that it might be a conflict of interest. However, Commissioner Roth will not be voting on any decision about the location of the power lines--only whether he thinks the giant utility should get a rate hike. Still, it raised a question in the minds of some observers--a commissioner listening to testimony while his administrative aide is among those protesters in the audience? With such a close link to the issue, they wonder if Roth might consider recusing himself from the question when it comes before the full commission.
Thursday, August 7, 2008
Debate Sheriff Candidates And SD 45 Candidates
Roger Warren, Chairman of the Cleveland County Republican Party announced today that the County Party will host a debate between Sheriff candidates Mark Hamm and Joe Lester. Also, a debate between SD 45 candidates Col. Steve Russell and Kyle Loveless. The location and date is still being finalized. Roger stated that the debate will also be a fundraiser for the County Party. Roger will be the moderator. Candidates will be given the format prior to the debate. The Okla City Community College will not allow fund raising. The next best location is the Moore Library. Roger is trying for August 21st or the 22nd as the debate date.
Time will be 7:00 PM -9:00 PM.
Questions contact Roger Warren 307-0016
Time will be 7:00 PM -9:00 PM.
Questions contact Roger Warren 307-0016
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
Republicans Are The Real Power
You can cut off the lights, you can cut off the mics, you can cut off the water, but you can't stop the Republicans from fighting for lower gas prices for all Americans. Drill Here Drill Now! Republicans will never be cut off.
Think about this: In order to block a vote on energy for America, Nancy Pelosi tried to cut off power to the House of Representatives
Boehner and pro-energy representatives remembered where power really comes from
However, Rep. John Boehner and many other pro-energy representatives have refused to allow Nancy Pelosi to duck the energy issue. They know that Congress derives its power from the American people. Speaker Pelosi can't order that power supply shut off.
President Bush has the power to call the Congress back into session, but so far he's said he has no plans to do so. It's up to us to change his mind. There should be no confusion as to where Nancy Pelosi and her anti-energy allies on the left stand when it comes to a common sense energy strategy the American people want. You can call the White House at 202-456-1111 to encourage the President.
Think about this: In order to block a vote on energy for America, Nancy Pelosi tried to cut off power to the House of Representatives
Boehner and pro-energy representatives remembered where power really comes from
However, Rep. John Boehner and many other pro-energy representatives have refused to allow Nancy Pelosi to duck the energy issue. They know that Congress derives its power from the American people. Speaker Pelosi can't order that power supply shut off.
President Bush has the power to call the Congress back into session, but so far he's said he has no plans to do so. It's up to us to change his mind. There should be no confusion as to where Nancy Pelosi and her anti-energy allies on the left stand when it comes to a common sense energy strategy the American people want. You can call the White House at 202-456-1111 to encourage the President.
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
Workers Comp Reform Is Needed
WORKERS COMP REFORM IS NEEDED!
Oklahoma Trial lawyers have come up with a clever way to contribute to political candidates. After an award settlement, they simply deduct some of the proceeds from their client’s award and write a check to an Oklahoma State Political Action Committee called Working Oklahomans Alliance. One lady said her attorney handed her a Working Oklahomans Alliance membership card "and told me I was a member. He had already subtracted it out of my check, so what was I to do?”
This practice is nothing new. Five years ago, The Oklahoman wrote about workers' compensation attorneys using donations from their clients to pad a fund that bankrolls liberal political causes and Democrat candidates. The donations were strictly voluntary, the attorneys claimed but their clients whose names appeared on the contribution cards said they felt pressured to do so, and others had no idea they had donated. This practice sounds a little like Stipe/Phipps/Mass/McMahan straw donor scheme. A though investigation should be pursued by the AG in Oklahoma, but don’t hold your breath. He may have come up with the scheme. Why are the lawyers so interested in keeping the Democrats in office?
The current Oklahoma's workers' compensation system is governed by the body of law found in Title 85 of the Oklahoma Statutes. This law provides for medical, indemnity and rehabilitation benefits to injured workers. Currently injured workers hire a lawyer to represent them before the Workers Compensation court.
The Oklahoma Workers' Compensation Court administers the Workers' Compensation Act. It is vested with jurisdiction to determine claims for compensation, the liability of employers and insurers, and any rights asserted under the Act. The Court's mission is to ensure fair and timely procedures for the informal and formal resolution of disputes and identify issues involving work-related injuries.
The Court is comprised of ten judges appointed by the Governor from nominees, including the incumbent judge, if any, presented by the Judicial Nominating Commission. Judges serve staggered six-year terms. A judge may be appointed to successive terms. A Presiding Judge is appointed by the Governor from among the Court's judges to serve a two-year term. Awards of the Court are final and conclusive unless appealed to a panel of three Workers' Compensation Court judges unrelated to the case, or directly to the Supreme Court. An order of the three-judge panel may be appealed to the Supreme Court.
The chief administrative officer of the court is an Administrator who, until 2005, was appointed by the Presiding Judge from a list submitted by a five-member selection committee. Thereafter, a vacancy in the position is subject to gubernatorial appointment for a six-year term. The Administrator supervises all departments of the Court. Departments include Docketing, Order Writing, Data Processing, Records, Medical Services, Insurance, Counselors, Form 3 Processing, and the Court Clerk's Office.
Because Oklahoma is one of only two states still settling workers comp disputes before court, Republicans in the State Legislature have worked for decades to reform the system. Senator Jim Williamson, R-Tulsa, introduced a bill that would have required the State Senate confirm those nominated to the court by the Governor. The bill sailed through the State House, but hit a snag in the Senate.
In April of this year, because the Senate was tied at 24, Lt. Gov. Jari Askins broke the tie and helped Senate Democrats block consideration of Williamson’s bill. This highlights once again the importance of the 2008 election cycle for both Republicans and Democrats. The tie will likely change the Senate in November- ether back to the Democrats control or the Republicans will control the Senate for the first time in state history.
According to State GOP Chairman Gary Jones, "the Workers Comp Court is currently set up just the way Brad Henry likes it: stacked with anti-business pro-trial lawyer judges." Williamson's amendment would've brought balance and fairness by requiring Senate confirmation of the judges appointed to this critical court in Oklahoma, but unfortunately Lt. Gov. Askins and Gov. Henry have once again shown their true colors by putting the interests of trial lawyers ahead of the interests of everyday Oklahoma taxpayers," concluded Jones.
Texas enacted workers’ compensation reform in 2005. The bill addressed specific problems in the Texas workers' comp system, namely, high medical costs, poor return-to-work outcomes, and the structure of the state agency charged with administering the system. HB 7 transferred the functions of the Texas Workers' Compensation Commission (TWCC) to the newly created Division of Workers' Compensation at the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI)
The idea of moving to an administrative board to settle worker comp disputes has been proposed in Oklahoma for years. But Republicans have met major resistance from the Trial Lawyer lobby. What’s really at stack is the future payoffs for Trial Lawyers. They are unwilling to give up the workers comp income stream. The Governor is on their side and will do everything in his power to keep the disputed claims in a court he stacks. The loser in those circumstances is the Oklahoma consumer, who will pay more for goods and services due to the higher premiums paid by Oklahoma businesses.
Steve Fair is Chairman of the Stephens County Republican Party. He can be reached by phone at 405.990.7449 or by email at okgop@aol.com. His blog is stevefair.blogspot.com
Oklahoma Trial lawyers have come up with a clever way to contribute to political candidates. After an award settlement, they simply deduct some of the proceeds from their client’s award and write a check to an Oklahoma State Political Action Committee called Working Oklahomans Alliance. One lady said her attorney handed her a Working Oklahomans Alliance membership card "and told me I was a member. He had already subtracted it out of my check, so what was I to do?”
This practice is nothing new. Five years ago, The Oklahoman wrote about workers' compensation attorneys using donations from their clients to pad a fund that bankrolls liberal political causes and Democrat candidates. The donations were strictly voluntary, the attorneys claimed but their clients whose names appeared on the contribution cards said they felt pressured to do so, and others had no idea they had donated. This practice sounds a little like Stipe/Phipps/Mass/McMahan straw donor scheme. A though investigation should be pursued by the AG in Oklahoma, but don’t hold your breath. He may have come up with the scheme. Why are the lawyers so interested in keeping the Democrats in office?
The current Oklahoma's workers' compensation system is governed by the body of law found in Title 85 of the Oklahoma Statutes. This law provides for medical, indemnity and rehabilitation benefits to injured workers. Currently injured workers hire a lawyer to represent them before the Workers Compensation court.
The Oklahoma Workers' Compensation Court administers the Workers' Compensation Act. It is vested with jurisdiction to determine claims for compensation, the liability of employers and insurers, and any rights asserted under the Act. The Court's mission is to ensure fair and timely procedures for the informal and formal resolution of disputes and identify issues involving work-related injuries.
The Court is comprised of ten judges appointed by the Governor from nominees, including the incumbent judge, if any, presented by the Judicial Nominating Commission. Judges serve staggered six-year terms. A judge may be appointed to successive terms. A Presiding Judge is appointed by the Governor from among the Court's judges to serve a two-year term. Awards of the Court are final and conclusive unless appealed to a panel of three Workers' Compensation Court judges unrelated to the case, or directly to the Supreme Court. An order of the three-judge panel may be appealed to the Supreme Court.
The chief administrative officer of the court is an Administrator who, until 2005, was appointed by the Presiding Judge from a list submitted by a five-member selection committee. Thereafter, a vacancy in the position is subject to gubernatorial appointment for a six-year term. The Administrator supervises all departments of the Court. Departments include Docketing, Order Writing, Data Processing, Records, Medical Services, Insurance, Counselors, Form 3 Processing, and the Court Clerk's Office.
Because Oklahoma is one of only two states still settling workers comp disputes before court, Republicans in the State Legislature have worked for decades to reform the system. Senator Jim Williamson, R-Tulsa, introduced a bill that would have required the State Senate confirm those nominated to the court by the Governor. The bill sailed through the State House, but hit a snag in the Senate.
In April of this year, because the Senate was tied at 24, Lt. Gov. Jari Askins broke the tie and helped Senate Democrats block consideration of Williamson’s bill. This highlights once again the importance of the 2008 election cycle for both Republicans and Democrats. The tie will likely change the Senate in November- ether back to the Democrats control or the Republicans will control the Senate for the first time in state history.
According to State GOP Chairman Gary Jones, "the Workers Comp Court is currently set up just the way Brad Henry likes it: stacked with anti-business pro-trial lawyer judges." Williamson's amendment would've brought balance and fairness by requiring Senate confirmation of the judges appointed to this critical court in Oklahoma, but unfortunately Lt. Gov. Askins and Gov. Henry have once again shown their true colors by putting the interests of trial lawyers ahead of the interests of everyday Oklahoma taxpayers," concluded Jones.
Texas enacted workers’ compensation reform in 2005. The bill addressed specific problems in the Texas workers' comp system, namely, high medical costs, poor return-to-work outcomes, and the structure of the state agency charged with administering the system. HB 7 transferred the functions of the Texas Workers' Compensation Commission (TWCC) to the newly created Division of Workers' Compensation at the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI)
The idea of moving to an administrative board to settle worker comp disputes has been proposed in Oklahoma for years. But Republicans have met major resistance from the Trial Lawyer lobby. What’s really at stack is the future payoffs for Trial Lawyers. They are unwilling to give up the workers comp income stream. The Governor is on their side and will do everything in his power to keep the disputed claims in a court he stacks. The loser in those circumstances is the Oklahoma consumer, who will pay more for goods and services due to the higher premiums paid by Oklahoma businesses.
Steve Fair is Chairman of the Stephens County Republican Party. He can be reached by phone at 405.990.7449 or by email at okgop@aol.com. His blog is stevefair.blogspot.com
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