The Oklahoma Publisher Official Publication of the Oklahoma Press Association

www.OkPress.com Vol. 88, No. 2 www.Facebook.com/okpress 12 Pages • February 2017

INSIDE OPA members gather for Legislative Summit NNA LOGO CONTEST Members of the Oklahoma WINNER: A staff member Press Association met with at the Bartlesville Examiner- their representatives and sena- Enterprise wins NNA logo tors during the February 9 OPA contest. Legislative Summit at the State PAGE 3 Capitol in Oklahoma City where SUMMIT PHOTOS: front pages of OPA member Members visit their legislators newspapers were displayed in during the OPA Legislative the Rotunda. Summit at the State Capitol in After welcoming members Oklahoma City. to the summit, OPA Executive PAGE 7 Vice President Mark Thomas reviewed a list of bills OPA is GRAB READERS’ watching this year. ATTENTION: Terry Clark “These are just a few of the shows you the importance of bills I pulled out for you to think dominant photos and headlines. about as you visit your elected PAGE 8 officials,” he said. “It’s important that you all be DONATE TO ONF to receive here to see what your legislators this Will Rogers print. Details at are dealing with,” said Thomas. OkPress.com/will-rogers. “It’s a difficult decision-making time for them and it’s great that Editors and publishers gather in a conference room at the Oklahoma State Capitol in Oklahoma City on you come here and see this so February 9 for the Oklahoma Press Association Legislative Summit. Nearly 70 members attended the you understand what they go annual meeting. through every day.” In the afternoon, leaders of the Senate and House of Rep- resentatives addressed press members. OPA President Dayva Spitzer, publisher of the Sayre Record & Beckham County Democrat, introduced Senate President Pro Tempore Mike Schulz, R-Altus, and Speaker of the House Charles McCall, R-Atoka. Schulz and McCall discussed the state legislature’s priorities for 2017. TODD BROOKS, NATHAN THOMPSON, JAMES BRIGHT, CHARLES BIGGS, One of the top priorities this Marlow Review Bartlesville The Express-Star & Tulsa Beacon year is to bring the state in com- “The summit lets our legisla- Examiner-Enterprise The Duncan Banner “I always go to the summit pliance with the federal Real ID ture know that while our town “The OPA Legislative Summit “My staff and I always find the for several reasons. It is so Act. may not be the largest in their is a great way for newspaper summit to be informative and important to hear the sum- Oklahoma opted out of the constituency, we still care, staff to engage with lawmak- entertaining. Our two papers mary of pending bills and to federal act in 2017. The Depart- and we pay attention to what ers. Those casual conversa- cover a large swath of land, be informed when I speak with goes on. For the industry, I our representatives and sena- ment of Homeland Security tions allow me to build trust but many of the legislators’ dis- think it helps show legislatures and accessibility with our tricts are in the coverage areas tors. In Tulsa, we have a long has granted several extensions newspapers are still important lawmakers to have frank — of both papers, so the summit list of lawmakers to visit and I since then, issuing a final exten- to the state. There may be sometimes difficult — discus- gives our reporters an opportu- appreciate the amount of free sion until June 2017 for the state more of us than they realize, sions about the challenges nity to expand their political time to spend with them. Sign to comply. and I think the rotunda display that face Oklahoma. As a knowledge and reach. me up for next year.” Schulz said his goal is to get showed not only the number state government writer, I Always love the newspaper a bill to the governor’s desk by of newspapers we have in this look forward to the Legislative display. Leaves our guys with March 15. state, but also the impact we Summit every year, making a sense of pride.” Other topics discussed were have. I enjoyed my visits with sure to work it into my regular judicial reform, pay raises for our local legislators. A face- visits to the State Capitol. teachers and the state budget to-face meeting can produce Newspapers are alive and more and better information crisis. well. The summit is another than an email or a phone call.” way for us to show that to the public and to our legislators.” 2 The Oklahoma Publisher // February 2017

ine Burchfiel purchased the paper and has been with The Beacon since 2000, owned it until selling to Wesner Publica- returning home after teaching history in CIMARRON TEXAS BEAVER HARPER tions in 1990. Sister newspapers include Oklahoma and Ohio schools for several Watonga, Hinton, Geary, Walters, Madill years. ELLIS and Bristow. The Cordell Beacon’s publisher, Brett Interesting column subjects of some Wesner, says, “Our goal is to furnish of those early day editions include “A readers with news they really can’t find ROGER Revised List of County Slackers,” printed any other place and do it consistently MILLS in 1918. Other columns worth mention- week after week.” BECKHAM ing were the passage of an ordinance to In addition to Wesner and Rainbolt, forbid German as a language in Cordell The Cordell Beacon has a dedicated BY OPA PRESIDENT DAYVA SPITZER GREER as well as the invasion of the Ku Klux staff that includes Cindy Banks, office Co-Publisher, Sayre Record Klan in 1922. manager; Penelope Gibbons, advertising & Beckham County Democrat HARMON Today’s editor of The Cordell Beacon, manager/legals; Vicki Salley, reporter/ Zonelle Rainbolt, believes the newspa- layout, and Mary Anderson, production. per is the community’s most visible It’s evident that editor Zonelle Rain- cheerleader. bolt believes in small town weekly pub- The Cordell Beacon thriving “There are many more good things lications as she was quoted as saying, happening in Cordell, and the county, “Don’t trust anybody who says news- than bad things, and it gives all of us papers are a dying breed. The weekly in west-central Oklahoma working here great pleasure to report newspaper, especially The Cordell Bea- on the positive,” Rainbolt said. “There con, is a valued product that has stood One of the common threads that after a post office department employee. are certainly times when we have to the test of time and continues to thrive. we have observed through investigat- Congress finally made the decision to write articles about tragic occurrences, “We remain the best, and sometimes ing the history of many of our western move the county seat to Cordell in 1900. but, more often than not, our pages are the only, place to get the news our read- weekly newspapers is that many of those Cordell’s first newspaper was the filled with the accomplishments of our ers want and the advertising avenue our publications are the oldest continuously Cordell Messenger, which first printed friends and neighbors,” she added. merchants need,” added Rainbolt. operated businesses in their respective in June of 1898. It merged with the Rainbolt, who grew up in Cordell, communities. Cordell Herald-Sentinel in 1901. The The Cordell Beacon of Washita Coun- Cordell Beacon’s earliest ancestor pub- ty also claims that very significant fact lication, The Cloud Chief Beacon, was with its beginnings tracing back to 1897. founded in July of 1897. Other early day Washita County, known first as coun- papers were the Cordell Republican and ty H, opened to settlement in the run of a German publication called The Okla- April 19, 1892, and the first newspaper homa Vowartz. Also, the Cordell News- printed in the county was the Tacola Democrat served the community but Chief, published just two days after the consolidated with The Cordell Beacon run. in 1926. The Cloud Chief Beacon, which was Historical archives tell us that a one- founded in 1897, was actually the fore- year subscription to the Beacon was sold runner of the Cordell Beacon. for four bushels of corn. An equivalent Cloud Chief was the original county of 25 cents per bushel also was accept- seat, but with the inception of Cordell as able, as well as oats if need be. The a new town on April 20, 1892, a conten- location of the news office has been at tious battle ensued to move the seat to its present location since 1924. One of The staff at The Cordell Beacon take time to pose for a photo with OPA President Dayva Cordell. With its beginnings as nothing the paper’s longest tenured editors was Spitzer. From left to right, Mary Anderson, Penelope Gibbons, Dayva Spitzer, Zonelle more than a campsite, Cordell was first Burris Penn, who started in 1928 and Rainbolt, Vicki Salley and Cindy Banks. known as Jonestown, and later named served 41 years. In 1969, Ed and Max- Ads promote notices in newspapers OPA CALENDAR OF EVENTS

The News Media Alliance, formerly When public notices THURSDAY, MARCH 2, 2017 the Newspaper Association of America, reach the public, WEBINAR: BEST PRACTICES FOR PUBLIC NOTICE has created three ads promoting public everyone benefits. notices in newspapers. 1:00 PM – Cost: $35 The ads – Fox and Hen (shown at This session will focus on the state of public notice and the best practices that every publisher Some officials want to move notices from should follow to help the industry maintain its rightful position as the publisher of official notice of right), Arrows and Classified Ads – are newspapers to government-run websites, public actions. To register, visit onlinemediacampus.com. available as full- and quarter-page sizes where they may not be easily found. in both PDF and EPS formats and can SATURDAY, MARCH 4, 2017 This is like putting the fox in be customized with your newspaper’s charge of the hen house. NEWSTRAIN WORKSHOP logo. APME’s NewsTrain workshop will be held at the Gaylord College of Journalism and Mass Com- To access the ads, go to https:// munication at the University of Oklahoma. More information and registration is available at http:// www.newsmediaalliance.org/email- www.apme.com/?page=NormanNewsTrain. gate/?submit=/research_tools/public- notice-ad/?gatval. You will be asked to FRI. & SAT, JUNE 9 & 10, 2017 put in your email address but you do OPA ANNUAL CONVENTION not need to be a member to access this Mark your calendars to join us for OPA’s Annual Convention, held at the Skirvin Hotel in content. downtown Oklahoma City. Headline speaker, Tim Harrower, author of The Newspaper Designer’s If your newspaper is looking for Handbook and Inside Reporting, will present three design sessions. some ads that promote public notices, For more information on upcoming events, visit the OPA website at take a look at these three ads created Keep Public Notices by the News Media Alliance. in Newspapers www.OkPress.com or contact Membership & Meetings Director Christine Frank at (405) 499-0040, 1-888-815-2672 or email [email protected]. The Oklahoma Publisher // February 2017 3

Examiner-Enterprise production manager wins logo contest The A logo designed Starts Here,” and had a connection to association also will pay for her reg- Oklahoma by Bartlesville the host city. istration to the Oct. 5-7 convention in Examiner-Enter- NNA wanted the design to consider Tulsa. Publisher prise Production the option of using Tulsa’s “The Center Matt Tranquill, publisher of the Manager Fawn of the Universe” tourist spot, which is Examiner-Enterprise, said he is proud

Wilson-Olivarez a little-known mysterious acoustic phe- of Wilson-Olivarez’s achievement. ISSN 1526-811X was selected by nomenon. The spot in downtown Tulsa Official Publication of the the National News- is marked by a small concrete circle in Oklahoma Press Association paper Association to market and brand the middle of a larger circle of bricks. its 2017 convention, which will be held “It was only fitting that I added the PUBLISHER in Tulsa this October. Golden Driller, being that it’s one of Mark Thomas The NNA conducted the conven- Tulsa’s biggest landmarks,” Wilson- [email protected] tion logo contest among Oklahoma Olivarez said. newspapers and received more than a The Golden Driller is 75-feet tall, EDITOR dozen entries. making it the fourth-tallest statue in NNA asked that the logo incorpo- the United States. Jennifer Gilliland rate the convention theme “Innovation Wilson-Olivarez will receive $100 [email protected] from the NNA for her design. The OPA OFFICERS Dayva Spitzer, President Sayre Record & Randy Slabaugh New editor at the Okmulgee Times Beckham County Democrat The Okmulgee Times has promoted sor and graphic designer, head photog- Brian Blansett, Vice President joins McAlester Patrick Ford to news editor. Ford pre- rapher, sports editor and Mainstream Tri-County Herald cedes Herman Brown, who passed away editor. His most recent position, which Newspaper veter- in January. he held for the last 15 years, has been Rod Serfoss, Treasurer an Randy Slabaugh “While the circumstance of Patrick’s assistant editor. Clinton Daily News has joined the McAl- promotion are sad, we are excited to “I’ve gained valuable experience with ester News-Capital Mark Thomas, have him as our editor,” said Okmulgee the Times,” Ford said. “I love Okmulgee Executive Vice President, as director of audi- Times Publisher Jeff Mayo. and being part of the community. I look ence and develop- Ford began working at the newspaper forward to continuing to provide a qual- Oklahoma City ment. after graduation from Okmulgee High ity newspaper that serves as the voice of He has worked in School in 1986. In the last 20 years, he Okmulgee.” OPA DIRECTORS the newspaper industry for more than has served as composing room supervi- three decades and will now be responsi- Robby Trammell, Past President ble for boosting circulation while grow- The Oklahoman ing the overall business market. Along Bartlesville Examiner-Enterprise adds Ted Streuli, The Journal Record with his tasks at the News-Capital, Sla- baugh will also serve as audience and Ray Dyer, El Reno Tribune development director for its sister paper, new circulation manager to its staff Mike Strain, Tulsa World The Ada News. The Bartlesville Examiner-Enterprise Originally from Hutchinson, Kansas, John Denny Montgomery, “I am so glad to be here, and I’m has welcomed a new circulation man- Canter moved to Bartlesville in 2014 The Purcell Register so glad to be a part of the Community ager to its staff. Blake Canter precedes with his wife and six children. He attend- Newspaper Holdings Inc. family,” Sla- Robert Dye, who has made the decision ed the University of Kansas where he Mark Millsap, baugh said. to retire after 40 years in the newspaper studied broadcast journalism. The Norman Transcript Slabaugh’s newspaper career began industry. “I am thrilled for the improvements Barbara Vice, Drumright Gusher right out of college in the circulation “We are very excited to have Blake we want to implement and expand our department at the Boston Globe. Since on our team,” Publisher Matt Tranquill services to help subscribers experience 3601 N. Lincoln Blvd. then, he has worked at several places said. “Our subscribers can expect top- the very best in news delivery,” Canter throughout the U.S. including Ohio and notch customer service with Blake at said. Oklahoma City, OK 73105-5499 Virginia. the helm.” (405) 499-0020 Toll-Free in Oklahoma: (888) 815-2672 ATTENTION www.OkPress.com Considering a sale? [email protected] OPA BUSINESS MEMBERS W.B. Grimes & Company www.Facebook.com/OKPress has sold more than 1,500 newspapers over the SUBSCRIBE TO 2017 THE OKLAHOMA PUBLISHER years and appraised thousands of others. $12 PER YEAR PHOTO ID Gary Borders covers Oklahoma, Texas, THE OKLAHOMA PUBLISHER (USPS 406- PRESS CARDS Louisiana, New Mexico and Arizona. 920) is published monthly for $12 per year by the Oklahoma Press Association, 3601 N. are now available! [email protected] • 903-237-8863 Lincoln Blvd., Oklahoma City, OK 73105-5499. Periodicals postage paid at Oklahoma City, OK. ORDER YOURS TODAY! What’s Your Paper Worth? Find Out Today. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to ONLY To download order form, visit A free confidential consultation awaits via our website. THE OKLAHOMA PUBLISHER, 3601 N. $5 WWW.OKPRESS.COM www.MediaMergers.com Lincoln Blvd., Oklahoma City, OK 73105-5499. 4 The Oklahoma Publisher // February 2017 NewsTrain coming to Norman, OK

Journalists, students and educators fleshing out breaking news, covering a are invited to attend a training workshop beat and developing enterprise stories. at the University of Oklahoma on March Speakers for the event include Clifton 4. Adcock, an award-winning investigative NewsTrain, sponsored by Associ- reporter for Oklahoma Watch; Socrates ated Press Media Editors, will feature Lozano, the national technology coordi- sessions on social media, data, mobile nator and photojournalist for The E.W. reporting and 360-video. Scripps Co.; Joey Senat, who teaches 4 of 5 youth smokers Attendees will learn how to: media law at Oklahoma State University; • Identify the equipment and best and Daniel Victor, a senior staff editor at practices to produce 360-video inexpen- The New York Times. become adult smokers. sively. The program also includes a keynote • Use social media as a reporting tool lunchtime talk by APME President Bill and verify user-generated content. Church: “Finding the Right Leadership • Shoot short, shareable smartphone Tune.” Church is senior vice president video using a tripod and external micro- of news at GateHouse Media. phone, and sequence the best five shots NewsTrain will be held from 8 a.m. in sharp focus with high-quality audio. to 5:45 p.m. at the University of Okla- • Develop a coverage plan for break- homa’s Gaylord of College of Journal- ing news that works on multiple plat- ism and Mass Communication at 395 W. forms, starting with mobile. Lindsey St. in Norman. • Identify a data set from your beat The $85 registration fee includes light that will likely produce a story and sort breakfast and lunch. and filter in Excel to locate a potential For more information or to reg- story. ister, go to http://www.apme. • Apply an open-government state of com/?page=NormanNewsTrain. mind to find useful public records when New enterprise editor at Oklahoma Watch Jeff Raymond recently joined the career in Kerrville, Texas. He spent the staff of Oklahoma Watch as enterprise next three years on the Texas-Mexico editor. border, working for the Valley Morning Raymond will lead Oklahoma Star in Harlingen and The Brownsville Watch’s team of staff reporters, free- Herald. lance writers and visual journalists as After returning to Oklahoma, he well as doing some reporting. covered health care and education “Jeff is a smart, accomplished jour- for The Oklahoman. After leaving the nalist and natural leader who will help newspaper, he worked at the state us push further into delivering news Capitol and then at KWTV News 9 in in more creative and powerful ways,” Oklahoma City. said Oklahoma Watch Executive Editor Raymond is a University of Tulsa David Fritze. “We are excited to have graduate and has studied in Spain and Young people are more sensitive to nicotine and more likely him join our staff.” China. He is a native Oklahoman and to become addicted, making it harder and harder to quit as Raymond began his reporting grew up in the Tulsa area. they get older. There are more ways than ever for kids to get addicted… DEATHS • Cigarettes Frosty Troy, a well-known Oklahoma ton Constitution. In 1957, he joined the • E-cigarettes journalist and founding editor of The Tulsa Tribune where he spent 13 years. • Oklahoma Observer, died Jan. 19, 2017, He married Helen Nix in 1953. Frosty Smokeless tobacco in Oklahoma City. He was 83. and Helen purchased The Oklahoma • Hookah Troy began writing for The Okla- Observer in 1970 and changed it into a homa Observer in 1969. He and his journal of commentary on politics, gov- wife, Helen, later acquired ownership ernment and social issues. Each has harmful chemicals that can lead to serious of the monthly publication and operated Troy was the recipient of many hon- health problems and even death. Talk to your kids about it for nearly 40 years before selling it in ors including the Walter Cronkite Faith the dangers of tobacco. 2006 to Arnold Hamilton and his wife, and Freedom Award and the National Beverly . Champion of Children Award. He was Troy continued to write for The nominated for the Pulitzer Prize for his For tips on how to get the conversation started, Observer until May 2013, when his last writing in the field of mental health. In visit StopsWithMe.com. column was published. 1977, Troy was inducted into the Okla- He was born in McAlester on June homa Journalism Hall of Fame. 13, 1933. In 1950, he volunteered for the He is survived by daughter Marti U.S. Army and was sent to Korea. When Troy of Oklahoma City; son Phillip Troy he returned, he attended the University of Wellston; brother Dr. Jerry Troy of of Oklahoma and Tulsa University. Edmond; sister Mary Ruth Troy Men- He worked at the McAlester News- egay of Harlingen, Texas; and numerous Capital, Muskogee Phoenix and Law- nieces and nephews. The Oklahoma Publisher // February 2017 5 DEATHS HELEN BARRETT, news writer for the After her retirement from the school During retirement, she lived her life Alva Review-Courier, died Jan. 20, 2017, system, she continued to write for the to the fullest and enjoyed scuba diving, newspaper. parasailing, kayaking and more. Donate while snorkeling in the Bahamas. She was 72. Barrett won numerous awards for Barrett is survived by her son Greg Born Dec. 28, 1944, in Stockton, Kan- her photographs and articles, and was Barrett and wife Tica of Marco Island, sas, Barrett graduated as valedictorian published in several Oklahoma maga- Florida; son Ricky Barrett and wife to ONF of her class from Ulysses High School zines. She was a former member of FOI Chondra of Vinita; daughter Marissa in 1963. She worked for the Alva Review- Oklahoma’s Board of Directors and was and husband Brian Hofen of Dacoma; Courier as a full-time reporter for 15 highly regarded in the newspaper com- one brother and numerous grandchil- years before going on to work for the munity because of her knowledge of dren. Alva Schools’ vocal music department. open meeting and records laws.

CHARLES ALLEN BENNETT SR., long- the late ’80s, he began delivering for the He is survived by his three daugh- time newspaper carrier for the Vinita Tulsa World. ters, Kathline Hawes and husband Glen Daily Journal, died Feb. 1, 2017. He was Eventually he began working for the of Foyil, Samantha Walton of Mount 68. Vinita Daily Journal where he stayed for Carmel, Ill. and Charli McGarrah and Bennett was born Feb. 23, 1948. A more than 35 years. husband Anthony of Vinita; three sons, native of Vinita, he graduated from Vini- Bennett was an avid sports fan. He Charles Allen Bennet Jr. of Foyil, Charles ta High School in 1966. loved to cheer on the OU Sooners and Howard of Vinita, and Tristen Widener At the age of 8, Bennett began deliv- was a Vinita Little League coach for of Vinita; and five grandchildren. ering newspapers for the Tulsa Tribune baseball and softball, and continued to and soon became known as the newspa- watch the games after he stopped coach- per man. When the Tribune closed in ing. A donation to the HERMAN BROWN, longtime editor of Okmulgee Daily Times in 1980. While at sports editor. Eventually he went back the Okmulgee Times, died Jan. 20, 2017. the Times, Brown served various roles to the Okmulgee Daily Times as editor Oklahoma Newspaper He was 60. including sports editor, reporter and in 1990. Brown was born Nov. 15, 1956, in photographer. Brown is survived by his wife Terri Foundation will support Holdenville. After graduating high After leaving Okmulgee to be a man- of Okmulgee; daughter Emily Galvez its efforts to improve the school and serving in the Army, he aging editor for the Bonham (Texas) and husband Tony of Broken Arrow; began working at the Holdenville Daily Daily Favorite, he went full-circle in daughter Amber Barricklow and hus- state’s newspaper industry News as a news writer. From there, his career. In a few months, he found band James of Chicago; daughter Lacie he went on to work for the Wewoka himself back in Oklahoma to serve as Long of Alma, Ark.; and several grand- and quality of journalism. newspaper before being hired at the editor of the Wewoka Times, then at the children and siblings. Holdenville Daily News as editor and ONF’s programs include MARY LOUISE FRICK, former reporter She worked at the Tulsa Tribune as Frick is survived by her husband for the Tulsa Tribune, died Jan. 11, 2017. a reporter where she met and married John; her daughters Ann Brown and training and education for She was 97. Tribune political reporter Nolen Bull- Mary McNeal; sons Steven Bulloch and professional journalists, Frick attended Oklahoma State Uni- och. After leaving the newspaper indus- Tom Bulloch; and numerous grandchil- versity and graduated from the Univer- try, she eventually began teaching jour- dren. scholarship and internship sity of Missouri School of Journalism. nalism and English at Oklahoma State. programs for journalism students, and Newspaper in FLOYD LINDON SANDERS, who worked trade, he worked at the Sulphur newspa- deacon and served on numerous com- in composing at the El Reno Tribune, per before going to the Wewoka Times. mittees. He also taught junior high boys Education efforts. died Feb. 7, 2017. He was 82. In 1960, he began working at the El Sunday school for many years. Sanders was born Nov. 18, 1932, in Reno Tribune, where he worked for 40 He is survived by his wife, Bertha Cromwell. After graduating high school, years. While at the Tribune, he worked Jean; daughter Cyndy Burris of Moore; ONF relies on donations he attended Okmulgee Vocational and in composing, starting out on linotype daughter Peggy Haynes and husband and memorial contributions Technical School and learned the news- before transitioning to computers. Dan of El Reno; and numerous grand- paper printing business. With his new Sanders was an active member of the children and great-grandchildren. to fund these programs. First Baptist Church where he was a If you would like to make DAVID ALLEN TRAMMELL, newspaper Tecumseh High School in 1970. He he was also the caretaker for Romulus carrier at The Shawnee News-Star, died worked at The Shawnee News-Star as a Cemetery and Baptist Church. a donation, please send a Jan. 16, 2017. He was 64. newspaper carrier for the last 18 years. Trammell is survived by Patti Tram- A Shawnee native, Trammell was Along with his duties at the paper, mell and Janell Trammell; daughter check to: born Oct. 23, 1952, and graduated from Linda Boyer; and several grandchildren. OKLAHOMA In Memory of Our Friends & Colleagues NEWSPAPER Nathan Dale Mayhar David Craighead Thomas Laroy Brown FOUNDATION Jan. 7, 2016 Jan. 19, 2016 Jan. 25, 2016 3601 N. Lincoln Blvd. Bill Lehmann Granville Clark Lawrence Jr. Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Jan. 10, 2016 Feb. 25, 2016 6 The Oklahoma Publisher // February 2017 THE OG&E PHOTO CONTEST

DECEMBER 2016 WEEKLY WINNER: JUDY KELLER The Marlow Review

DECEMBER 2016 DAILY WINNER: KIMBERLY OH, DEER: Deer peek through snow covered trees at Lake Humphrey. One to two inches of snow accumulated in the area. It did not linger long as warmer temperatures made it disappear quickly. Photo by JUDY KELLER, The Marlow Review, Dec. 29, 2016 BARKER Miami News-Record

The December 2016 contest was judged by a member of the Oklahoma Journalism Hall of Fame. View all winning photos at www.OkPress.com/OGE-Photo-Contest ENTER AND WIN A $100 CHECK FROM OGE ENERGY CORP. For more information about the photo contest, visit Santa Claus throws candy to children at the 2016 Annual Commerce Christmas Parade on Dec. 3. Photo by KIMBERLY BARKER, Miami News-Record, Dec. 4, 2016 www.okpress.com/oge-photo-contest

It’s time … for OG&E’ss new SmartHours™ Price Plans. 1-877-898-3834 OGE.COM M I D NIG H T N OON M I D N I G H T 12 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 MONEY-SAVING OFF PEAK PEAK TIME, WATCH YOUR USE PEAK OVER. START SAVING … © 2012 OGE Energy Corp. The Oklahoma Publisher // February 2017 7 Snapshots from the OPA Legislative Summit February 9, 2017 • Oklahoma State Capitol

Senate President Pro Tempore Mike Schulz speaks to OPA members at the Feb. 9 Legislative Summit. Photo by Johnny McMahan, Woodward News

Sen. Dewayne Pemberton visits with John Newby, publisher of the Muskogee Phoenix and Tahlequah Daily Press.

Speaker of the House Charles McCall is introduced at the Legislative Summit by OPA President Dayva Spitzer, co-publisher of the Sayre Record & Beckham County Democrat. Photo by Johnny McMahan, Woodward News

Carol Conner from the Fairfax Chief visits with Rep. Steve Vaughan. Susie Campbell, The Countywide & Sun; Oklahoma Rep. Dell Kerbs; and Brian Blansett, Tri-County Herald.

Oklahoma Rep. Tommy Hardin and Willis Choate, publisher of the Marietta Monitor.

Patty Miller, Kari Tompkins and Lance Moler, all from the Edmond Sun, look at front pages of Oklahoma newspapers on display in the rotunda at the Oklahoma State Capitol. OPA members look over the material distributed at the OPA Legislative Summit on Feb. 9. Photo by Johnny McMahan, Woodward News 8 The Oklahoma Publisher // February 2017 May I have your attention, please?

5'48+0)%*+%-#5*##0&)4#&;%1706;5+0%' Clark’s Critique 7KH YYYEJKEMCUJCPGYUEQO  by Terry Clark IHUR-5);JVT4LTILY-+0* ([SUHVV6WDU)TCF[%QWPV[ U0GYU5QWTEG Journalism Professor, 4HRLHKLWVZP[^P[O`V\YZTHY[WOVUL ,HZ`*VU]LUPLU[-YLL 50 cents daily • $1 Weekend Q 1 Section, 4 pages Q Chickasha, OK Q Friday, February 3, 2017 University of Central Oklahoma, House bill could [email protected] OKLA-GNOME-A: change filing Tiny gnome portraits invade Chickasha fee for future candidates %<$867,1/,77(5(// Grab my attention, please. And your 7KH([SUHVV6WDU Anyone wanting to run for office might see a change in the cost of fil- ing fees in the near future. According readers’. We’re into dominance. to Senator Lonnie Paxton, Senate Bill 323 could update the costs of fil- ing fees to help pay for special elec- tions. In other words, use a dominant photo Paxton said in the case of someone being added to the Donald Trump administration and having to resign their post, there would have to be a – bigger in size and at least one column special election. Holding a special See FILING FEE, Page 3 wider than others – on page one. Too Seminar to educate senior citizens on many of our papers are using a clutter of legal issues, scams %<-(66,&$/$1( 7KH([SUHVV6WDU postcard-sized photos, or smaller. This Although many seniors are technologically savvy, they can still be a target for scams. An upcoming seminar present- ed by Legal Aid Services of produces a front page that does not Oklahoma will discuss online and telephone scams and other Jessica Lane/The Express-Star legal issues that senior citizens face, Kade McClure, managing attract attention, and looks like a disor- %<-(66,&$/$1( of wood. greeting, although their true moti- attorney of Legal Aid Services in 7KH([SUHVV6WDU At the time of this report, the vation remains unclear. Lawton, said. term "gnome" is being used to The gnomes were first observed Legal Aid Services will hold a Chickasha residents walking describe these mysterious charac- in Chickasha on Thursday morn- seminar at 10:30 a.m. on Feb. 9 ganized checkerboard. down the alley may feel watched ters. The author is not familiar ing by an Express-Star employee. at the Rush Springs Senior Cen- by tiny painted eyes. with the proper gnomenclature for Further investigation online has ter in Rush Springs. Nailed at the base of the tele- beings in tall red hats, rosy com- revealed that others have noticed As many people get ready to phone poles on the alley on the plexions and a tendency to be the phegnomenon. fill out their tax forms, there are Just as your pages should have a south side of Chickasha Ave., accompanied by mushrooms. The Facebook page, OK Gnomes, scammers who will use someone someone has placed tiny portraits Many of the gnomes are depict- else's social security number to of gnomes painted on small blocks ed with a raised hand, as if in See GNOMES, Page 3 dominant headline – one or two sizes See SEMINAR, Page 3 OSSAA releases playoff assignments for Grady County teams bigger or one or two columns longer, BY AUSTIN LITTERELL The Express-Star

As February is beginning, the playoffs are that the others, the same is true of nearing for high school basketball. The Oklaho- ma Secondary School Activities Association released district assignments for Classes 2A-4A on Thursday. Several area schools will get to photos. host. Chickasha is in Area III and will be on the road. They will play at Perkins-Tryon. The main site for the regional tournament will be in Cush- Why? Two reasons. ing. The sub-site will be at Perkins-Tryon. Blanchard, Tuttle and Bridge Creek are in the same area as Chickasha. Blanchard and Tuttle will be playing their district games at home. First, quit taking your readers’ atten- Blanchard will host Bridge Creek. Tuttle will host McLoud. Harrah will be the main site for the regional tournament. Blanchard is the other site. Stillwa- tion for granted. We are more visual than ter will host the area tournament. Four of the five area schools in 2A will get to host a district tournament. Those four schools are Amber-Pocasset, Ninnekah, Dibble and Rush ever – all ages. You need to grab your Springs. Minco will have to travel. All five schools are in the same area. Minco will be competing at Cashion. Cashion and Oklahoma Bible Academy are the other two schools. site. other two schools. readers’ attentions. Surely one photo- Amber-Pocasset will be hosting Boone-Apache Dibble will be hosting Silo and Walters. Nin- The main site for the regional tournament will and Navajo. nekah will be hosting Mangum and Vanoss. be Latta. The sub-site is Walters. Minco will be the main site for the regional Rush Springs will get to play at home with Chickasha will host the area tournament. graph is better or more important than tournament with Amber-Pocasset being the sub- Elmore City-Pernell and Carnegie being the All Cinch Jackets and Vests 20% Off the other. All Ladies Western Belts 1/2 Off All Mens and Childrens Belts 20% Off Entire contents copyright 2012, The Express-Star, P.O. Drawer E, So, go ahead, choose one, put it at Entire Stock of Purses 1/2 Off Chickasha, OK, 73023. 405-224-2600 the top of the page. Get up close when 405-224-3410 • 410 Choctaw Avenue • Chickasha • Mon-Fri 9:00-6:00 Sat. 9:00-5:00 www.chickashanews.com taking the photo in the first place. Then Newspapers featured this month are the OSU O’Colly, The Express-Star, Frederick Press- crop out the stuff that isn’t important. was something of a daredevil, riding in Leader, The Davis News, Guthrie News Leader, The Edmond Sun. Vian Tenkiller News As Robert Capa, the war photographer, planes, fast cars and parasailing. She and The Healdton Herald. said, “If your photos aren’t good enough, died when doing something she loved, snorkeling. May we all go like that. you’re not close enough.” nal, “OSU students, faculty impacted by Others: Second, larger photos make your job executive order on immigration.” • Tulsa Beacon reports 130 casinos HEAD’EM UP AWARDS: easier in laying out the paper and thus The Norman Transcript, “Civil Unrest,” from 31 Oklahoma tribes, bring in First place, The Oklahoman, on Josh save you time. Boren and students, Mack Burke, Adam $4.75 billion. Dulaney’s story about the shortage of Good examples abound: The Davis Troxtell. • The Ponca City News reports first funeral directors: News. Kathleen Guill at Frederick Press- The OSU O’Colly. county flu death. A DYING BREED Leader. Mark Schlachtenhaufen at the Stillwater News Press, Beau Simmons, • Seminole Producer, Ken Childers runs Second place, Tulsa World, on Bill Guthrie News Leader. The Countywide & “The Resistance.” Wewoka city salaries. Sherman’s report of the student protest Sun. And notice the coverage of the stu- Tahlequah Daily Press, Sean Rowley, • Great readership idea in The Okarche at OU: dent protests. Dominant photos. in a two-part series on executive orders, Chieftain, “Question of week” with six STATE OF ANXIETY LOOKIN’EM OVER: reports on Northeastern State Univer- mug shots and answers. Third place, tie, Cherokee Messenger How have you covered the protests? sity’s president email response. & Republican, on a photo of a closed Good stories. bridge: I’ve not seen anything like this since The Oklahoman, “Campuses react to • The Healdton Herald, on wishing com- Vietnam and the Civil Rights move- immigration order.” TROUBLED BRIDGE OVER WATER… munity icon Kenneth Eck a 100th Lawton Constitution, Deborah New- ment… especially in Oklahoma. First Tulsa World, “State of Anxiety.” birthday. You only get this in commu- the Women’s March and then college Sheri Gourd, also at Tahlequah, pro- born: nity journalism. HOW TO GET A BETTER NIGHT’S SLEEP students against the Muslim travel ban filed another group, Indigenous Women • Perry Daily Journal, Gloria Brown, that has effects around the state. Rise, including a local woman, who took WITH HIKING BOOTS, TENT local women featured in photographs Honorable mentions: Sequoyah Coun- (Note – UCO, OU, OSU and oth- part in the Women’s March on Wash- of visiting Smithsonian exhibit on ers have significant international stu- ington. ty Times, “Here’s what will happen – telephone operators. Should George Gorman win mayor’s dent communities – bringing a lot of Story ideas you can use, localizing. • Vian Tenkiller News, Amie Remer, “It’s money, passion and intelligence to the Education woes abound, in your race,” Roy Faulkenberry, about some- not always a man’s world,” about first one not seeking the office but on the bal- state. They are great students so this schools and nearby colleges: local female police officer. becomes personal on most campuses. • Bartlesville Examiner-Enterprise, high lot; Midwest City Beacon, “Up for debate,” Personal note. Helen Barrett’s death about elementary school debate team; Thus news.) That’s in addition to the school to cut administrators? deprived Oklahoma of one of its most attacks on the press. We all have a stake • The Ardmoreite, Stephen Lamar, Chickasha Express-Star, Jessica Lane, dedicated journalists. I first met her “Okla-gnome-a,” about tiny gnome por- in the First Amendment. school series, including scheduling when Harry Heath and I were conduct- Examples? changes, “It’s a matter of time.” traits around town; Stillwater New Press, ing OPA workshops 25 and more years Kieran Steckley, “City going back to Elisabeth Slay in The Edmond Sun, • The Ada News, Carl Lewis, on revenue ago. She covered everything at the Alva “We are home.” woes at East Central. square one,” on vision for a city block; Review-Courier, and was a constant force Broken Arrow Ledger, John Ferguson, Stephen Lamar, The Ardmoreite, “It’s • Enid News & Eagle, Emily Summars, for her readers, for open government, my country.” with legislature, “Figuring ways to “Out of this world,” about an astronaut to the dismay of many officials. But she speech. Van Mitchell, in The Perkins Jour- pay for things.” most enjoyed writing feature stories and The Oklahoma Publisher // February 2017 9

Clark’s Critique Continued from Page 8 Terry Clark retires from UCO you’ll find that if you’re leaving for the January 11, 2017 124th year, No. 28 Davis, Oklahoma right reasons, you’re going to miss

The Davis News 50¢ some things. You’re going to have Your hometown newspaper since 1894

Chambers of mixed feelings. That’s a good sign.” Commerce Banquet is Feb. 2 Clark began his journalism career The Murray County Joint Cham- bers of Commerce will host their annual banquet on Feb. 2, 2017 at the Murray County Expo Center. The annual event honors businesses of the in 1968 at the Clarinda Herald-Journal year, as well as citizens of the year. The evening will begin with hors d’ouvres at 6 p.m., and dinner will be served at 6:30 p.m., followed promptly by the program. in Iowa. He left Iowa in 1972, moving The banquet serves to honor contributions of individuals and businesses to help make Murray County a better place to live, work, play and stay. The theme of the banquet is “Trea- to Duncan, Okla., where he worked sures of Murray County”, and while the county is home to many destina- tions that could be considered trea- sures, the chambers recognize that the individuals are truly the gems of at the Duncan Banner. In 1974, he the communities. Tickets will be sold in advance only, and are $25 each. Businesses or groups can purchase an entire table of 8, $200 or 10, $250. became owner and publisher of the Tickets will be sold by banquet committee members, and can also be RWTEJCUGFCVVJG%JCODGT1HſEGU Sulphur Chamber of Commerce, 717 W. Broadway Ave, Sulphur, OK 73086, Phone (580) 622-2824 or A FROZEN WONDERLAND. The falls in Turner Falls Park became weekend as many made the journey to see the icy beauty in person. This Waurika News-Democrat until selling Davis Chamber of Commerce, 100 a destination for nature enthusiasts after the weekend’s inclement weekend’s forecast is predicting more bad weather. Be careful over the E. Main, Davis, OK 73030, Phone weather. The frozen falls appeared on Facebook many times over the weekend when exploring. (580) 369-2402. News 5EJQQN%JQKEG5WOOKVCPF Council says YES to the newspaper in 1986. Clark also Briefs . . . 'ZRQKP1MNCJQOC%KV[QP Midground Creators Commodities Commodities will be distributed January 26 OCPCIKPI%TQUU$CT4CPEJ worked part-time at The Oklahoman today from 12:30 to 3 p.m. at the First Hundreds of parents, educators and advocacy. Councilmen voted 3 to 2 to allow birthday) when the council voted to Baptist Church. Please use the south Participants will include local ed- May 1 marks the day Dr. Terry school choice advocates will gather Midground Creators to manage sell him lot 5 in the City’s Industrial gym entrance. at the OCCC Visual and Performing ucators, current and former lawmak- Cross Bar Ranch and meeting at- Park for $3,500. He plans on storing Sheriff’s Tip Hotline Arts Center on Thursday, Jan. 26 ers, and education reform advocates tendees couldn’t help but show their GSWKROGPVVJGTGVJGſTUV[GCTCPF Do you have tips that could help HQTVJGſTUVGXGT1MNCJQOC5EJQQN and experts. approval by clapping after the vote. after that building tiny homes from and The Journal Record in Oklahoma the Murray County Sheriff’s De- Choice Summit and Expo. A complete agenda will be released The approval of the contract containers. partment solve a crime? Call (580) The conference will work to raise later this month. for Justin Ramsey, John Pletcher Chris Angel, from Angel, John- Clark is retiring from his position as 622-5110. public awareness for the many The keynote address will be de- and Danny Miller, who make up ston, Blasingame, P.C. presented educational options available for livered at 8:30 p.m. by Dr. Steve Midground Creators, to lease and the 2014 -14 budget. He noted issues Chickasaw children, including traditional public Perry, a nationally renowned school manage Cross Bar Ranch was the with the budget and said that the City City. schools, public charter schools, mag- choice advocate, frequent CNN and last item on the agenda. might’ve already addressed these is- net schools, online learning, private MSNBC contributor, principal of the Monday night’s meeting was held sues this year but it is unknown until University of Central Oklahoma mass Nation to host schools, and homeschooling. Capital Preparatory Magnet School at the Davis Chamber of Commerce they look over this year’s numbers. The program will include several in Hartford, Conn., and author of to accommodate the possibility of The resolution for this year’s City workshop panels discussing topics such as: “Push Has Come to Shove: Getting large crowds, 73 people attended the council election was approved. Dar- The Chickasaw Nation is offering innovative educational models; Our Kids the Education They De- hour and a half meeting. ryl McCurtain and Stan Jones are up Clark said he plans to continue a Within My Reach workshop from public policies aimed at increasing serve – Even If It Means Picking a The group began working with for re-election. Information will be communications professor. 6-8 p.m. Jan. 10, 17, and 24 at the choice for low-income Oklahomans; Fight.” the City sometime last year with the printed in next week’s paper. Purcell Outpatient Services location the charter school model; and the The summit is being organized and intent to lease and manage Cross City Manager Tom Graham said at 1726 N. Green Ave. importance of parent-led grassroots hosted by ChoiceMatters. Bar Ranch. They have plans to turn that the City is working with the The workshop is designed to teach the Ranch into an ATV/off-roading Development Group on possibly pro- writing his monthly column for The participants the skills needed to attain destination for people throughout viding lighting for both sides of Hwy. relationship success. “I Can Only Imagine” the United States, develop the park’s 7 into City limits. He also mentioned Clark has worked for UCO for 27 Participants who attend all three hiking and walking trails, allow the possibility of a stop-light being UGUUKQPUYKNNTGEGKXGCEGTVKſECVGQH announces cast and primitive, RV and tent camping, de- placed on Hanover Rd. The city is completion. velop an outdoor music venue, and working with ODOT. Oklahoma Publisher, and may still be The workshop is open to the public host events that will bring national Municipal Authority at no charge. TGUWOGUſNOKPIKP1MNCJQOC exposure to Davis (in May the group Trustees asked to remove a claim years. During that time, he has been will host the Ultra 4 racing event made by George Johnson for the For more information, or to regis- After a holiday break, principal Kevin Downes. “With its long sun- Cl i Sh (405) at Cross Bar that will be nationally amount of $20 780 for cost of the a professor, department chair and on campus as an adjunct professor. director of the Oklahoma Journalism “I’m sad to be losing him,” said fel-

SING FOR low Mass Communication instructor JOY: The Five Irish Hall of Fame. Tenors to visit Armstrong Desiree Hill. “He is a treasure to our The EdmondServing Sun Edmond for 128 years Auditorium. “We have a really good program B6 $1.50 www.edmondsun.com facebook.com/edmondoksun @edmondsun department, but he has impacted so Saturday that I’m proud of,” Clark said. “We’ve February 4, 2017 ‘Probably the best place in the world to live’ Police Chief Bob Ricks retires after 13 years you are going to find in said. Police Department has law enforcement any- Edmond Police succeed been overwhelming, he many students that his spirit will be in NOTABLE the community he calls where. They’re dedicated at their job because of added. come a long way.” SOMEONE TO KNOW JAMES COBURN home. Friday was Ricks’ to the city to make it a safe community support. The Edmond responded THE EDMOND SUN last day as police chief and prosperous city. They department’s men and when assaults and homi- Long-time Edmond after 13 years of leader- understand they are part women are the best of any cides were taking place electrician and business Retiring Edmond Police ship. of the city — that their law enforcement organi- against police officers in our department always.” owner Robert Baxter is Chief Bob Ricks said it has “I think we have the salaries are paid for by the zation, Ricks said. the U.S. Residents of the owner of his namesake been a privilege and honor most professional, courte- city — and that we are ser- The support Edmond The decision to retire was not made Robert Baxter Electric. to serve as police chief in ous, well-trained people vants for the city,” Ricks has given the Edmond In 1976 he made SEE RICKS | A2 Edmond his home. Prior to accepting a professorship “I love the people lightly, but he knew it was time. and the generosity Demonstrators say of people,” at the University of Central Okla- Baxter said. “One day it was just crystal clear. I He has been a member of the Edmond Area Chamber they are home of Commerce and also Edmond dentists homa, Clark served as an assistant enjoyed being chairman of a past treating free in said, ‘Clark, it’s time,’” he said. annual chamber auction, Baxter said. “I love their Woodward generosity. The people professor at Oklahoma State Univer- are incredible. They make a lot of money, WOODWARD — About half of “I’ve put it off because I enjoy what but they give a lot of Oklahomans lack dental insurance. money away,” Baxter For many, the Oklahoma Mission of said. “That’s good.” Mercy, a free, two-day dental clinic, He has known a lot is a life-changing event. sity in Stillwater. of Edmond residents Approximately 2,000 people are I do,” he said. “With any decision, during his 40 years in expected to attend this year’s eighth town. Many people annual Oklahoma Mission of Mercy have gotten to know at the Woodward County Event him through the years Center which began at 5 a.m. Friday and repeatedly use his and continues today (Saturday). business, Baxter said. Twenty of the volunteer dentists are “If I go someplace from Edmond. else they wouldn’t The Woodward event space will be know who I am,” transformed into a fully-functional Baxter said. dental facility with volunteer dental He was honored in professionals offering cleanings, fill- 1990 as the National ings, extractions and anterior root Association of canals. The free clinic is for people of American Business all ages. There are no appointments Club’s Project Manager being taken, and no questions are of the Year. asked. As a past AMBUCS, Edmond volunteers are the follow- he was also named the ing: Dr. Marc Arledge, Dr. Jeannie local AMBUCS of the Bath, Dr. Abhinav Bhatnagar, Dr. Year and placed ELISABETH SLAY | THE EDMOND SUN Bryan Blankenship, Dr. Blaire second for the same Indra Rex (with sign) was one of numerous people who took part in a protest on the campus at Bowers, Dr. Steve Carson, Dr. honor on a national the University of Central Oklahoma to represent immigrant rights and raise awareness Shannon Griffin, Dr. Michael level. for diversity. Hansen, Dr. Krista Jones, Dr. Mhd The son of a Kouzbari, Dr. Mitchell Kramer, Dr. preacher, Baxter said BY ELISABETH SLAY was to show their support for representatives of various Robert Lamb, Dr. Daryn Lu, Dr. Mary he draws his strength THE EDMOND SUN diversity. minority groups who expressed Martin, Dr. Dan McNair, Dr. Paul from God. “(Our mission is) just to raise their belief in the movement. Mullasseril, Dr. Sneha Patel, Dr. “This is what democracy awareness of the support that is Mercy Chair of Islamic Shaista Sheharyar, Dr. Sam Ward, Dr. looks like.” “Where are we? We here and just to raise awareness Studies, Imad Enchassi, was Dan Wilguess, and Dr. Carla Whitney are home.” to others and just to let them one of those who gave a Yeates. OUTSIDE These and several other know they’re not alone. speech, in which he described “Oklahoma Mission of Mercy TODAY’S WEATHER chants echoed across the cam- Whether you’re Muslim, his experiences in America. brings together industry and non- pus of the University of Central Christian or Hispanic we’re all Enchassi said that he and industry professionals to serve and Oklahoma during a “No ban. American in the end,” said other supporters of the cause provide dental care to the Woodward No wall” protest. Wednesday, Crystal Sweiss, president of the have been attending other community at no cost,” said Feb. 1. UCO Arab Student protests in various parts of the Oklahoma Mission of Mercy 2017 The event was planned by the Organization. state. Chair Dr. Trent Yadon. “We are UCO Arab Student A crowd of about 50 gathered WINDY Organization whose main goal near Broncho Lake including You’ve Got Questions! SEE PROTEST | A3 SEE MERCY | A3 High 56 | Low 42 Gavin Harris John Ross Elementary Fourth grade Infant Crisis Services to receive Santa Fe DWDW funds BabyMobile tops list of needs INSIDE BY PATTY MILLER review of all of the charities TODAY’S EDMOND SUN THE EDMOND SUN that applied,” said Stu-Co CALENDAR ...... A11 Junior Vice President Zach COMICS ...... B12 Santa Fe High School’s Dillon who in charge of • Can I photograph minors without consent? CROSSWORD ...... B8 Double Wolf Dare Week this year’s fundraising. OBITUARIES ...... A7 scheduled for Feb. 27 “Myself and the other OPINION...... A4 through March 3 is all members of Student SPORTS ...... B1,B2 about making a difference Council loved their mission TRAVEL...... A12 when it is needed most. and thought it would be a WEATHER ...... A2 Co-Chairs Marissa Baird, perfect organization that Student Council president; the school would love as TWO SECTIONS Quinn Campbell, publicity well.” 24 PAGES chair; and Zach Dillon, Zach said they had about VOLUME NO. 128, NO. 10 junior vice-president; will 30 applications from which © THE EDMOND SUN be leading the Wolf pack as to choose. they coordinate the Wolves’ “I love Infant Crisis 2017 DWDW. Services because I think we • Can police deny access to records This year the school’s often forget how important Student Council chose the early development of a Infant Crisis Services to child is. It almost seems receive the efforts of their that if you don’t face the community fundraising. struggles of being hungry PHOTO PROVIDED “We chose Infant Crisis Santa Fe High School senior Ian Stone and Ariana Ahmadi, junior, participate in the Services after an extensive SEE DWDW | A3 Pie in the Face booth during Santa Fe High School’s 2017 DWDW Carnival Jan. 21. by issuing a press release?

Happy 100th birthday, Kenneth Eck!! >QIV?ZM[\TMZ[ • Should I alter my archives 0MIL\W*ZQ[\W_ LITTLE THE HEALDTON

WHAT A SPECIAL edi- tion this week’s Healdton 2017 HHS Basketball Homecoming Herald is! It’s not every Kenneth Eck to day that you get to wish someone a “Happy 100th birthday”, but that’s what celebrate 100th we are blessed to do this week as we anticipate Vol. No. 29 Issue No. 23 viannews.com Wednesday, January 18, 2017 Saturday, February 4, when birthday Feb. 4 long-time Healdton resi- • Can I report inaccurate dent and oldest HHS Alum- On Saturday, February 4, nus, Kenneth Eck, turns one of Healdton's long-time 100 years young! Thanks residents who I'm certain to one of Kenneth’s dearest most know, Kenneth Eck, ‘It’s Not Always A Man’s World’ friends, Tom McNeill, and will reach a milestone that his family, we have such most people only dream Amie Remer matters is that you do She also credits Sgt. smaller department at wonderful information about—he will turn 100 Editor the job and get in there Chuck McConnell for ÀUVW ZDV D OLWWOH FRQÀQ- about Kenneth and the 100 years old! Wow! Can you tesimony given in open court? 9LDQ·VÀUVWHYHUFHU- and do what you have to teaching her the ropes ing. But everyone seems years of an amazing life he imagine the things Kenneth WLÀHGIHPDOHSROLFHRI- do.” while she worked for really nice here.” has lived thus far. has seen in his lifetime? We ÀFHU /LQGVH\ *UHHQ *UHHQ VDLG VKH EH- Adair County. Vian Police Chief Ted Kenneth has lived in the here at The Healdton Herald said law enforcement came interested in law “Chuck taught me a -RKQVRQ VDLG *UHHQ LV VA Center in Lawton since have all known Kenneth for is primarily a male oc- enforcement while at- lot,” she said. “And he DOVR 6:$7 FHUWLÀHG DQG 2010, but he received an as long as we can remember, cupation but it doesn’t tending Keys High helped me a lot.” came highly recommend- early birthday present on and we will forever be grate- discourage her – in School. “They sent me through ed from the other depart- Tuesday as he was trans- HHS CELEBRATED THE 2017 BASKETBALL HOMECOMING last Thursday eve- ful for his column, "Oil- fact, she has no prob- “We had a school re- CLEET but then there ments. ferred to the Ardmore Vet- ning, January 26, prior to the games against Fox. This year's court included (from left): patch Mania" that he wrote KENNETH ECK lem keeping up with VRXUFH RIÀFHU YLVLW WKH was an election and Da- “This makes her not erans Center where he will Alex Trent, Hannah Benton, Trey Shaw, Mayson Sullivan, King Devin Henderson, Queen for years before his health the boys at all. school and I became re- vid lost,” she said. RQO\ WKH RQO\ IHPDOH RIÀ- reside. Kenneth, Healdton Caycee Griffi n, Connor Ellis, Morgan Auld, Nate Lindsey, Bayli Thompson, Andy Jack- kept him from it. It was at Healdton. At that time, his *UHHQZKRZDV ally interested,” she said. As with every election, FHU EXW WKH RQO\ FHUWLÀHG loves you and is so proud son, and Torree Wingo. Serving as fl ower girl and crown bearer were Eliza Barnett and that time that he passed the brother-in-law, Frank John- hired as a part-time “In this occupation, it’s changes are sometimes 6:$7 RIÀFHU RQ RXU GH- to call you one of its own, Ryland Norrell. -(Staff Photo). torch to Tom McNeill, who son, owned a dry goods • What are the laws about liquor advertising? RIÀFHU IRU WKH GHSDUW- something different ev- made, which bring in partment as well,” John- continues to write a column store and also sold oil prod- ery day and I was up for new or other employees. son said. “I am very glad and once again, HAPPY ment in December is 100TH BIRTHDAY!!!! each week for us. Kenneth ucts at wholesale for Cities QRW RQO\ D SROLFH RIÀ- the challenge.” *UHHQ DORQJ ZLWK HLJKW to have her on board, moved to the Veterans Cen- Service. Kenneth worked FHUVKHLVDOVRDÀUH- She was then hired others left the depart- she has not let me down. January weather ends with average ter in January of 2010, and for Frank, occasionally ÀJKWHU DQG FXUUHQWO\ on as a jailer for the ment after Hardin’s de- Based on her resume she Municipal resided there until Tuesday, driving the gasoline truck attending an EMT Cherokee County Deten- feat. was the best candidate for tion Center, where she “Two days later, I re- the job and was the most daily high of 55°, average daily low January 31, 2017, when he to deliver the oil products class. In addition, she Candidate was transferred to the Vet- and working as janitor in also works two other worked for two years be- ceived a call from Chief TXDOLÀHGIRUWKHSRVLWLRQµ fore becoming a reserve Johnson wanting me to “Each department is of 29°; 2.86 inches of rainfall recorded erans Center in Ardmore the dry goods store. He also part-time jobs and en- where he can be closer to his delivered gasoline when- &/((7 RIÀFHU WKURXJK come to work at Vian,” different and is a change fi lings set for Wow! What another crazy absolutely beautiful, and I lower 70s to the mid-60's, joys participating in family. ever the Sinclair wholesale Cherokee County. she said. “I was use IRUPHµ*UHHQVDLG´%XW week of weather we had sure hope that everyone was which is still warm for this rodeo. Kenneth was born in dealer was hunting quail. “Law enforcement “I then went to work to working for a larger everyone at Vian has ac- February 6-8 last week! As our weather able to get out and enjoy it. time of year. Alma, Kansas, on February While working in a gas sta- LV GHÀQLWHO\NQRZQ DV for the Adair County area at the sheriff’s of- cepted me and treated Candidates for municipal reporter, Nancy Rozzell put The beginning of the work Thursday shows a small Sheriff’s Department un- ÀFH EHFDXVH ZH FRYHUHG me as one of their own. 4, 1917, and has been re- tion connected to a funeral These are questions answered by the attorneys for the OPA DPDQ·VZRUOGµ*UHHQ offi ce in Healdton, Ratliff it, "This was a week of ex- week was much the same. chance for a pop-up shower Vian Police Chief Ted Johnson presents Lindsey Green, tired from pharmacy owner- home in Healdton, Kenneth said. “But that’s not der former sheriff David  VTXDUH PLOHV WKHUH I’m thankful to have such City and Springer municipal- tremes—from a low of 16° to Monday and Tuesday were, from the front and the cooler 9LDQ·V ÀUVWHYHU IXOO\ FHUWLÀHG IHPDOH RIÀFHU ZLWK KHU ship since 1987. He sold his decided that he wanted to what matters. What Hardin,” she said. so coming to work for a a great support system.” ities may fi le Declarations of a high of 78°!" It leaves many by far, two of the warmest air. We should, however, see badge. (photo by Amie Remer) part of the corporation, Eck be a mortician. Candidacy beginning at 8:00 in the Oilpatch wondering days I can recall in January just mostly cloudy skies and Drug, to his son, Mark and After graduation in 1934 a.m., on Monday, February if we are really right in the as highs reached the mid 70's highs near normal at about Mark's wife, Sandi. Ken- from Healdton High School, 6, 2017, at the Carter County middle of winter. Yes, we are, both days. 50°. neth's parents were Clarence Kenneth enrolled in Murray Election Board Offi ce, lo- and from the forecasts I've As we entered into Wednes- Friday we will start to warm J. and Rosa Barbara Noller State Junior College (now Caughman Seeking Vian cated at 106 Hinkle Street in heard at the beginning of the day, we saw our temperatures back up to the low 50's and Legal Services Plan members in recent months. Newspapers always 0DQ7HOOV2IÀFHU+H8VHV Eck. Kenneth had only one Murray State College) in Ardmore. The fi ling pe- week, we will know it as we drop a bit thanks to a weak rain chances will range from sister, Grace Lillian, who Tishomingo. While Frank riod will end at 5:00 p.m., near the middle to the end of front which rotated our winds 20-30 percent. was married to Frank John- Johnson helped by provid- Meth In The Mornings School Board Seat on Wednesday, February 8, the work week. from the north and dropped Saturday holds our best son. ing fi nancial assistance and 2017. This past weekend was our temperatures from the (Continued on page 9) Kenneth was married he was offered a job in the Amie Remer Declarations of Candi- State Senate. in 1938 to Ouida Landon, President's offi ce, Kenneth Editor After graduation, he dacy will be accepted at the while he was working for decided to leave Murray Vian Men Arrested At Dollar General went into long-term County Election Board offi ce Vian resident Jerry State for a job back home need timely legal advice on issues related to newspaper publishing. care as Administrator of for Healdton’s at-large seat, Wade Drug Store in Heald- Wayne Caughman, 36, of at Wade Drug. Even though Amie Remer an unknown caller that mers reported that he nursing facilities. He is currently held by Linda Hill. ton. To this union were born Vian has announced his he still wanted to become a Editor Harvey and Chris Black- could smell alcohol on candidacy for Position 2 currently Clinic Admin- three sons—Alan Grantland on October 20, 1944; Mark mortician, Kenneth became Sammy R. Harvey, 56, PHU  RI 9LDQ ZHUH his breath. When asked on the Vian Board of Ed- istrator of Redbird Smith allegedly on their way if he had been drinking, ucation. Health Center in Salli- Warren on June 14, 1950; excited about the pharmacy of Vian has been charged profession by working at with two counts of pos- to purchase meth from Blackmer said that he He said he chose to saw. Deadline for and Dana Landon (Biff) on session of a controlled a known drug dealer’s had. run for the position be- Caughman serves on April 28, 1955. Ouida passed the drug store. He remained dangerous substance, home. 7KH RIÀFHU GLG D SDW cause education is a per- the Administrative Ex- Valentine's is away on September 18, there for several years, fi ll- and unlawful possession Approximately 20 down on Blackmer and sonal priority. ecutive Committee for Fri., Feb. 9 1986, due to a tainted blood ing prescriptions under the of drug paraphernalia af- minutes later, Summers found nothing, and then “Education has always Cherokee Nation Health transfusion. Kenneth later direct supervision of a phar- ter Vian Police received a reportedly saw the two told him that he had re- been a priority in my life Services; is an active The staff of The married Lorraine Rubottom macist. call that he and another and another male occu- ceived a call stating that and is a priority for my member and serves as Healdton Herald and on April 14, 1989, and she The pharmacy experi- individual were allegedly pant drive by and pull he and Harvey were al- son,” Caughman said. vice president of the Vian The Wilson Post-Dem- passed away in 2008. ence as well as knowledge on their way to purchase LQWR WKH 'ROODU *HQHUDO legedly going to buy “I am running because I Lions Club, which bene- ocrat would like to re- Except for his sopho- Kenneth gained from corre- 7KH RIÀFHU SXOOHG XS meth. Blackmer said methamphetamine. believe in a strong edu- Caughman ÀWVDQGJLYHVEDFNWRWKH mind our readers that more and junior high school spondence courses in phar- beside the vehicle and that he was only riding Harvey was formally cation for our children, Vian community; and is the deadline for the an- years in Alma, Kansas, at macy and chemistry en- asked Blackmer to to to the store with Harvey on the Carl Albert State charged on Jan. 10 and and that means ensur- the University of Okla- nual Valentine's editions the height of the "Great De- abled him, in 1940, to pass step out and speak with and the passenger, An- ing that the school with- College Developmen- the pharmacy board exami- is now scheduled for the homa, and a Masters of will be Thursday, Feb- pression," Kenneth attended March 1 felony disposi- him, and Blackmer com- thony Cain. VWDQGVWKHGLIÀFXOWWLPHV tal Foundation Board of elementary and high school nation in Nevada. He could Business Administration ruary 9, no later than You should join OPA’S plied. When Summers ap- Trustees. tion docket. ahead.” from Oklahoma Wesley- in Healdton and holds the now enter the armed forces When asked if he had proached the driver’s “A good education 12:00 p.m. THE FOX FOXES WILL CELEBRATE THE 2017 BASKETBALL HOMECOMING According to the af- Caughman received an University. honor of being Healdton's as a pharmacist. On June ÀGDYLW RQ -DQ  9LDQ anything illegal on his side of the vehicle, Har- an Associate degree from has always been impor- The cost is $10 per festivities on Friday evening, February 3, when they welcome Paoli to the Fox gymnasium. oldest living alumnus. His 16, 1942, Kenneth enlisted person, Blackmer said While at the University Valentine, so be sure 3ROLFH2IÀFHU*DU\6XP- See METH Carl Albert State College, See CAUGHMAN The coronation ceremony will begin at 6:00 p.m., followed by the fi rst of two games that work experience included a in the United States Navy he did not, but Sum- of Oklahoma, he worked PHUV ZDV QRWLÀHG E\ on page 10 Bachelor degree from for the President of the on page 10 and wish your Valentine will begin at 6:30 p.m. Members of this year's Homecoming Court include (from left): job behind a soda fountain and became a Pharmacist the very best on this spe- Bree Phelps, escorted by Senior Eusebio Rodriguez; Junior Hannah Knox, escorted by during his junior year in Mate 2nd Class. Very few cial day for everyone to Senior Payton Keithley; and Sophomore Shytanna Bivings, escorted by Senior Isiac Eaves. Alma. Most other jobs dur- drugs were available in see! Homecoming attendants will be Pre-K Students Keegan Loeffelholz and Cadence Jones ing his school years were in (Continued on page 4) We Asked Kids... Investigation Leads To Arrest Of Vian Woman and Kindergarten Students Noah Kilcrease and Rylan Richardson.-(Staff Photo).

By Jessica Davis Amie Remer, Editor ing substantial amounts of methamphetamine in the A Vian woman has now been formally charged af- area. Zaneis School receives ter a warrant was issued for her arrest regarding an Investigators Bryan Fuller and Dwayne Frizzell investigation into the distribution of methamphet- met with an informant who stated they could pur- $2,625 TSET Grant Award amine in October of last year. chase a half gram of methamphetamine from Young, Zaneis School received a to take advantage of emerg- Tamera Beth Young, 33, was charged with felony and did so at a residence after arranging to do so via grant award in the amount ing opportunities to improve distribution of controlled dangerous substance, in- text message and phone calls. of $2,625 from the Oklaho- the public's health. LEGAL SERVICES PLAN! cluding possession with intent to distribute on Janu- At the residence, investigators monitored the in- ma Settlement Endowment Superintendent Ryan Cole ary 10. formant and Young’s conversation regarding the Trust (TSET), on Friday, reported that the key compo- No court dates have been scheduled for Young as purchase of the meth for $50. January 27. nents in the grant application of press time, Monday afternoon. The informant then turned the drug over to Friz- TSET serves as a partner included the school's well- $FFRUGLQJWRWKHDIÀGDYLWLQ2FWREHUWKH6H- zell, which reportedly tested positive for metham- and bridge builder for orga- ness policy and documenta- quoyah County Sheriff’s Department began conduct- nizations working toward tion that the school provides ing an undercover drug investigation against Young phetamine and was then sent to the state crime lab for analysis. shaping a healthier future a tobacco-free, vape-free after it was reported that she was allegedly distribut- for all Oklahomans. TSET environment at all times provides leadership at the on school property and at intersections of health by school-sponsored events. See www.OkPress.com/LSP or contact Lisa Sutliff 61:5HIXJH+RVWV(DJOH:DWFK7RXUV working across the state, by The grant will be used to help cultivating innovative and purchase exercise equipment Liam Plattner, 5 Owen Plattner, 5 ZANEIS SCHOOLS WAS PRESENTED WITH A $2,625 GRANT AWARD on Friday, January 27, from the Okla- life-changing research, and for students. Vian Elementary Vian Elementary Sequoyah National tours start at 9 a.m., at gins with both adults Ford, Visitor Services by working across public Superintendent Cole and Wildlife Refuge will be the Refuge Headquarters providing continual care Specialist, said. “During homa Settlement Endowment Trust (TSET). Present for the check presentation were (from left): Kristi Combs and Sha- If you could combine If you could combine ron Howard with TSET; Zaneis Superintendent Ryan Cole; Zaneis School Board Member Michael Phelps; Joni Phelps and private sectors to devel- school board members ex- offering the public a and end by noon. Tours for the young during the the tours eagles are often op, support, implement and pressed their appreciation two animals and make two animals and make free opportunity to par- are free and no pre-reg- 11 to 12 week period un- seen soaring through the with Sooner Start; Zaneis School Board Member Buddy Withers; and Janie Horton and Susie Dillard with TSET. -(Photo at (405) 499-0026 or toll-free in Oklahoma 1-888-815-2672 evaluate creative strategies for the grant award. them into one, which them into one, which ticipate in Eagle Watch istration is required. WLOWKH\RXQJELUGVÁHGJH air, hunting for food, or Submitted). two would you choose? two would you choose? Tours – a chance to view Southern bald eagles or leave the nest attending to a nest ” 10 The Oklahoma Publisher // February 2017 February collection of computer tips for all user levels You should do this color correction ing. And please honor the intent of the can change trays. It can be quite frustrat- Computer Notes when first working on the photo. Many font’s creator. If it says for personal use ing if that little button is not discovered. from the road photos can be improved by balancing only, it’s not for use in your newspaper by Wilma Newby the colors – even if they are going to run unless you send them money. Another RANDOM TIPS Here’s some random tips for techni- [email protected] in black-and-white. good site for fonts is www.urbanfonts. com. Read the rules and have some fun. cal issues you may experience at your IMPROVING LOW RES PHOTOS Remember to restart all programs on newspaper office: Most asked question this month was Another question this month was the computer to get them to see the font how to get an overcast color out of a • If everyone in the building is hav- how to deal with low resolution photos. – or just restart your computer. photo using Photoshop. ing trouble with their computers at once, The old adage “garbage in, garbage On Windows computers the Font fold- There are many ways to approach look for the device attached to all the out”comes to mind but there are a few er to put them in is the this question, but we’re going to stick C:\Windows\Fonts computers and reset it. This could be things you can do to make it look a little folder. You can extract them directly to with some of the more tried and true something like a router or switch. better. that location if you’re the administra- methods. When you open the photo, or right tor by right clicking the zipped file and • If email is down all over the build- First up is the great eyedropper trick. after opening it, increase the resolution. going to Extract Files. Don’t go too wild ing but the internet is working, your Try changing it to 1200 DPI, under with extra fonts unless your computer email server is down. Don’t change your Image >Image Size. For photos (not line has lots of RAM memory. If it doesn’t, computer settings; just call the email art), try applying a Gaussian Blur, under it will really slow your computer down. provider or wait to see if it corrects itself. Filters > Blur. Put the slider on 0.5 and Now you’re ready to use the font in an • Shutting down your computer by see if it helps. You can use it more than ad. Once your ad is finished and proofed, holding down the power button is hard once to cut the corners off some of the turn the new font into art by going to on it and maintenance should be run 1. Open either the Levels or Curves really rough pixels. Another old trick is Create Outlines, under Edit. Select the after you restart. dialogue box, under Image menu > Adjust- to go to Lab color, under Image > Mode, line of type with the pointer tool to make ments > Curves. Choose the middle eye- • If your newspaper office is in an and blur just the channel that is most Create Outlines work. This lets whoever dropper and click on something that is older building, you may have old electri- pixillated. The “B” channel is normally built the ad pass it off without the news- known to be gray in the photo. A color cal wiring. Make sure your computer the roughest. Then switch to CMYK or room needing to install the font on their shift will happen if it works; if not, just and router are plugged into a good grayscale. If the Channels palette isn’t computer. More than likely your new use “undo” (command z) and try another surge protector. open, look for it under the Windows font will make it to the press looking as spot. menu, where most of the palettes are good as intended. • If a single computer crashes and If there are no good grays, try the listed. will not reboot, look at the devices white eyedropper and see if that works Remember to lower the resolution plugged into it. Shut down any card better. In this case click on a white spot SURVIVING SPAM back down to 200 DPI when you’re done. Many newspaper offices work with readers, USB flash drives, external hard in the photo. When working properly only one or two email accounts. But if drives, even printers and the Internet, it should shift the photo to remove the FINDING FONTS spam is a problem, think about creat- and then try to bring it back up. Some- overcast. Overcasts are most often yel- We had a big font hunt this month ing an office email account for junk. times it’s one of these little things that’s low in basketball photos. with several newspapers looking for free Create a new account at Gmail.com or preventing a clean reboot. Now listen 2. Failing the fonts to match older ads. hotmail.com and give it to everyone in carefully to the computer for loud fans easy approach try In the Apple App store there is a the office along with the password. Use or a clicking noise, which might indicate choosing Image company giving away free fonts – 550 this account to fill out forms online for that the hard drive is crashing. If this is menu > Adjust- Commercial Use Open Type Fonts. The all purchases. This will direct all the the case, do not keep rebooting it or it ments > Selective fonts download into a folder that you can spam from these sites to one location for may be impossible to get the files back. Color. With this double click on to see what they look easy removal. Once a month check that Just shut it down and call for help. command a drop- like, and whether you want to install account and clean it out without wor- down button is • If your plan is to just buy a new them. There are lots of wide fonts, which rying that you’re trashing one of your available to select just one color chan- computer and chunk the old one, note are good for ads and headlines. customers’ emails. This simple trick can nel, for instance, Yellow. Now go to the that it is often possible to move files With Mac OSX 10.6 or up just search save you hours that you spend unsub- Yellow slider and move it to the left. to the new computer even if the drive for free fonts in the App store and take scribing from emails. Carefully watch the colors in the info was crashing on the old one. Putting a look. You will need an Apple ID to dialogue box by moving the cursor that off doing something about a frequently download and administrator privileges looks like an eyedropper onto the photo. SETTING UP SOFTWARE crashing computer often causes long- to install. This is a safe way to get some Sometimes when you set up a new Check the CMYK colors on faces to term hardship. fonts without a virus attached. Mac work station for a new employee, make sure not too much yellow is taken • A little prevention will help your If downloading directly from the the programs aren’t fully set up. Make out. This is a good color balancing tool computer last longer. Try these ideas: Internet, make sure you have a good sure you show new people how to open but it’s easy to get carried away and over Don’t let your drive fill all the way up. antivirus on your computer and run it the full dialogue box in the Open, Save correct the photo. Since you can use it Don’t add 1,000 fonts to the computer – after the download. One site that col- and Print boxes. more than once, I always like making take time to look through them and find lects lots of fonts from designers is When you open those dialogue boxes, smaller moves and repeating to get the the ones you think will be used. Scroll- www.1001freefonts.com. Don’t forget to you’ll see a little button at the end of the best effect. ing through lots of fonts wastes time and check them for viruses after download- first line that lets the user view the full is harder on the programs and comput- directory without having to use the drop er. If lots of fonts are required, consider down folders button, which is limited. upping the RAM memory. A good place This makes it easy for the user to get to to buy RAM is at www.macsales.com the desktop and/or servers and gives (formerly Other World Computing). The LEGAL ADVICE all the printers’ features so they memory I’ve ordered from them lately is just one of the benefits of being a member of the Oklahoma Press works well and costs a few dollars less Association’s Legal Services Plan. Remove the worry of needing than other places. professional advice by enrolling today. For more information contact: OPA Computer Consultant Wilma Newby’s OKLAHOMA PRESS ASSOCIATION’S column is brought to you by the Oklahoma LEGAL SERVICES PLAN Advertising Network (OAN). For more informa- tion on the OAN program, contact Oklahoma 1-888-815-2672 or 405-499-0020 Press Service at (405) 499-0020. The Oklahoma Publisher // February 2017 11

Board of Directors meeting held Nov. 20 OKLAHOMA PRESS ASSOCIATION The Oklahoma Press Association The new contest format would have 40 beginning to work on the Public Notice STAFF DIRECTORY Board of Directors met on Nov. 20, 2016, categories and entries would be submit- project. Frank will take over some of in Oklahoma City. ted online. Sutliff’s duties to allow her more time to ADMINISTRATION Officers attending were President After discussing the proposed chang- work on that project. Dayva Spitzer, Sayre Record & Beckham es, concerns were raised at changing the • Reviewed the Oklahoma State Uni- MARK THOMAS County Democrat, and Treasurer Rod format for the 2017 contest. A motion versity Foundation annual report. The Executive Vice President Serfoss, Clinton Daily News. Directors was made to begin the new contest initial donation from various publish- [email protected] • (405) 499-0033 attending were Past President Robby format and online entry for the con- ers was $152,334.52. The OSU Founda- Trammell, The Oklahoman; Ray Dyer, test period beginning Jan. 1, 2017, with tion let the money grow and it is now JEANNIE FREEMAN El Reno Tribune; Mike Strain, Tulsa awards presented at the 2018 banquet. worth about $330,000. Interest from the Accounting Manager World; John D. Montgomery, The Pur- The motion passed six to one. fund provides five $5,000 scholarships to [email protected] • (405) 499-0027 cell Register; Mark Millsap, The Nor- Sutliff presented the Education Com- juniors or seniors actively working full- man Transcript, and Ted Streuli, The mittee report in Vice’s absence. The time on the O’Colly student newspaper. SCOTT WILKERSON Journal Record. Staff at the meeting was committee is making plans for the OPA The goal of the scholarship is to support Front Office/Building Mgr. Mark Thomas, Executive Vice Presi- Convention, scheduled Friday and Sat- great students who are planning to stay [email protected] • (405) 499-0020 dent/Secretary; Lisa Sutliff, Member urday, June 9-10, 2017, at the Skirvin in the business. Services Director, and Christine Frank, Hilton Hotel in Oklahoma City. Frank • Reviewed the upcoming board MEMBER SERVICES Membership and Meetings Director. is taking over convention planning with meeting schedule for 2017. LISA SUTLIFF Vice President Brian Blansett, Tri- Sutliff assisting. Member Services Director County Herald, and Barbara Vice, In the Government Relations Com- OPS BOARD MEETING [email protected] • (405) 499-0026 Drumright Gusher, were absent. mittee report, Thomas discussed pro- At the Oklahoma Press Service meet- Spitzer called the meeting to order posed legislation affecting the news- ing, board members approved minutes CHRISTINE FRANK and asked the board to review minutes paper industry. Thomas also reported of the Sept. 8, 2016, meeting. Membership & Meetings Director of the Sept. 8, 2016, meeting. The min- that effective November 1, the Court of After Serfoss reviewed financial state- [email protected] • (405) 499-0040 utes were approved as presented. Criminal Appeals adopted a rule to pre- ments as of Sept. 30, 2016, board mem- vent documents with personal identifier bers acknowledged their receipt as pre- ADVERTISING FINANCIAL REVIEW numbers from being posted online at sented. LANDON COBB Serfoss gave a financial review of OSCN. The records would only be able Thomas presented a report on politi- Sales Director OPA’s and LSP’s financial statements, to be retrieved by visiting the county cal advertising sales for this election [email protected] • (405) 499-0022 the cash consolidated report and the courthouse. Following discussion of how cycle. The majority of OPS revenue investment report for the period ending newspapers would be affected, board came from proponents and opponents of CINDY SHEA Sept. 30, 2016. Board members acknowl- members decided to try to partner with four state questions. Additional revenue Advertising Director edged receipt of the statements and other groups interested in reversing or came from U.S. Rep. Frank Lucas and [email protected] • (405) 499-0023 reports. modifying the decision. U.S. Sen. James Lankford, as well as a Thomas provided a dues receivable public notice from the Secretary of State BRENDA POER update for OPA membership dues as of CONTRACT REVIEW on state questions on the November Advertising Assistant Nov. 2, 2016. Board members reviewed revised ballot. [email protected] • (405) 499-0035 OPA/S and LSP contracts for the legal Following the management review, ACTIVITY REPORTS services of Michael Minnis of Doerner, Spitzer told Thomas the board is excited CREATIVE SERVICES Board members also were updated Saunders, Daniel and Anderson for FY about the new emphasis on the legal JENNIFER GILLILAND on activity reports of OPA committees. 2016-17. The proposed contracts did not notice project. The board also compli- In the Awards Committee report, include a rate increase from the previ- mented staff on the work done to help Creative Services Director Strain reviewed proposed changes to ous year’s contract. The contracts were in the transition to an online newspaper [email protected] • (405) 499-0028 the Better Newspaper Contest. The accepted as submitted. contest. Spitzer commended Thomas for ASHLEY NOVACHICH committee recommended changing the his relationships with so many elected Editorial/Creative Assistant contest to encourage more participants OTHER BUSINESS officials in Oklahoma, and with newspa- and opportunities for newspapers and In other business, board members: per groups nationwide. [email protected] • (405) 499-0029 their employees to receive recognition. • Were advised that Lisa Sutliff is COMPUTER ADVICE WILMA NEWBY Computer Consultant [email protected] • (405) 499-0031 DIGITAL CLIPPING KEITH BURGIN Clipping Director [email protected] • (405) 499-0024 KYLE GRANT Digital Clipping Dept. OPASave CONVENTION the Date [email protected] JENNIFER BEATLEY-CATES BRIGHT IDEAS FOR NEWSPAPERS Digital Clipping Dept. Print & Beyond [email protected] • (405) 499-0045 GENERAL INQUIRIES JUNE 9 & 10 (405) 499-0020 SKIRVIN HILTON, DOWNTOWN OKC Fax: (405) 499-0048 Toll-free in OK: 1-888-815-2672 12 The Oklahoma Publisher // February 2017 OKLAHOMA NATURAL GAS CONTEST WINNERS

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE DECEMBER 2016 WINNERS December Column: KINDRA COFFMAN, Tri-County Herald December Editorial: KIM BENEDICT, The Ardmoreite

DECEMBER 2016 COLUMN WINNER KIM BENEDICT, The Ardmoreite Enter and Win ‘Fake News’ may be entertaining but it’s also dangerous a $100 Check

“Why haven’t you run the story on (insert subject), anyway, they can – but they’ll get another warning from Oklahoma what are you covering up? It must be true, I read that it has been disputed. Natural Gas! it on Facebook.” Let’s face it, that’s not going to stop people If we had a dollar for every time a legitimate from distributing provocative and incorrect stories. The December Oklahoma Natural multi-media company gets this comment from a People don’t seem to be overly concerned about Gas Column and Editorial Contest “concerned citizen” we could provide funding for a truth in the current environment as long as it’s was judged by a member of the Oklahoma Journalism Hall of Fame. great many charitable causes. entertaining to talk about. Here’s the real scoop, not everything you read on The kicker that pushed Facebook to really look at 1. Each month, send a tear sheet or the Internet is true. the impact of the false news being circulated is the photocopy of your best column and/ possibility that these stories and their perpetrators or editorial to Oklahoma Natural Gas And while most people know that, unfortunately, Contest, c/o OPA, 3601 N. Lincoln Blvd., there are scammers and other unscrupulous people influenced public perceptions and could have Oklahoma City, OK 73105-5499. that post stories that look and sound like legitimate swayed the U.S. presidential election. news stories. Their motives vary, but let’s just say However, Facebook is emphasizing that it’s only 2. Include the author’s name, name of they do not have high-minded objectives. going after the most egregious fake news creators publication, date of publication and category entered (column or editorial). So when it’s important to know the truth, where do and sites. So that still leaves the information people go? Established multi-media companies highway and its readers vulnerable to thousands 3. Only ONE editorial and/or ONE column that vie to be first online, but won’t rush the of scammers. per writer per month will be accepted. process if they can’t establish that the information What do you do? If you read a story that’s over 4. All entries for the previous month must is correct. the top, check a local news source or Google the be at the OPA office by the 15th of the Our news staff at The Ardmoreite works to earn subject to see if a legitimate national source has current month. the “leading news source” moniker for southern it on their site. If you can’t find it, it’s probably not Oklahoma, but we won’t print information that true. Big stories are audience builders, legitimate 5. Winning entries will be reproduced on hasn’t been confirmed or that we know is false. news outlets aren’t going to ignore them. the OPA website at www.OkPress.com. According to netnewscheck.com, Facebook There are a lot of positives to the amount of information we have access to, but like everything Entries must have been previously executives are now kinda, sorta, planning to fight published in print. Contest open to fake news. else you have to use some common sense in using all OPA member newspapers. it. The fake stories won’t be removed, but will be We appreciate our print and digital audiences and Although Oklahoma Natural Gas Company flagged as “disputed” by third-party fact-checkers, selects representative contest winners’ which will force them to appear lower down in will continue to fight the good fight for timeliness, work for use in this monthly ad, the views people’s news feeds. Users can click to learn why accuracy and diversity in our news coverage. expressed in winning columns and editorials and if they decide they want to share the story There’s no “fake news” on our horizon. are those of the writers and don’t necessarily reflect the Company’s opinions.

Thank you for continued support of “Share The Warmth” Read the Winning Columns & Editorials on the OPA website: www.OkPress.com (Under Contests)