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The Publisher Vol. 91, No. 7 12 Pages • July 2020 www.OkPress.com www.Facebook.com/okpress Mike Strain elected as OPA president Mike Strain, managing named president and espe- paper or reading about peo- editor of the , cially at such a crucial time ple I knew,” he said. is the new president of the in our history,” said Strain. However, the Banner Oklahoma Press Associa- “I know the pandemic has wasn’t his family’s only tion. wreaked havoc and many news source. Strain was elected on communities and papers “My grandfather lived in June 18 at the annual busi- have been hit hard. Pennsylvania, and he would ness meeting held at the “I want everyone to know regularly send us an enve- OPA office in Oklahoma the OPA board and its staff lope so stuffed full of news- City. He will serve a one- is committed to helping our paper clippings that it was year term beginning July 1. members through this time nearly bursting. It wasn’t Other officers elected with a goal to come out as fast as getting news from were John Denny Mont- stronger on the other side,” the internet but a lot more gomery, co-publisher of said Strain. exciting,” said Strain. The Purcell Register, as “In the coming months, He still remembers the vice-president; and Jeff we will be contacting mem- smell of the newsprint in Mayo, publisher of the MIKE STRAIN bers in an effort to identify the newsroom from his first Sequoyah County Times, as 2020-2021 OPA PRESIDENT the best services we can job at The Shawnee News- treasurer. provide. Star. Suzie Campbell, publish- vice president of the asso- “With all the half-truths “I remember how much er of the Countywide & Sun ciation. and misinformation on fun it was working with in Tecumseh, was elected to Strain has lived most social media and the inter- Fred Fehr, Brian Johnson a three-year term as direc- of his life in Oklahoma. net, our papers and web- and Mike McCormick,” tor. Don Mecoy, managing He graduated from Bray- sites play an even more Strain said. editor of , Doyle High School in 1985, important role. “More than 30 years was re-elected to a three- and from the University of “We’re the ones our com- later, it’s safe to say I was term as director, and Ray Oklahoma in 1989. munities trust to let them hooked.” Dyer, co-publisher of the El His first newspaper job know what’s happening. Strain has received Reno Tribune, will serve a was at The Shawnee News- I believe our role today is numerous awards for his one-year term as past pres- Star as a part-time sports more vital than at any time blog, feature writing and ident. writer. Strain joined The in my 30 years in the busi- news coverage. He has also Other members of the Oklahoman’s staff in 1990 ness.” been a speaker at Oklaho- 2020-2021 OPA board are and spent nearly 15 years Strain said he still ma Press Association and Mark Millsap, The Norman in various roles there. He remembers The Duncan National Newspaper Asso- Transcript; Zonelle Rain- joined the Tulsa World staff Banner being delivered to ciation events. bolt, Wesner Publications; in 2005 as sports editor, the farm where he grew up. Strain and his wife Kay Shauna Belyeu, The Eufaula became news editor in 2011 “I was always a sports live in Claremore and have Indian Journal; and Shei- and managing editor in fan and more than 40 years two adult sons. la Gay, Woodward News. 2014. later, I remember the thrill Mark Thomas is executive “It’s an honor to be of seeing my picture in the

AP changes writing style to The Lawton Constitution City of Edmond issues OPA computer consul- capitalize ‘b’ in Black (and donates $10,000 to help proclomation declaring tant Wilma Melot looks Indigenous). Arts for All support local July 13-18 as Edmond at more changes for arts during the pandemic. Sun Week in honor of Macs, 5G phones and the newspaper and its more. 3 5 7 employees. 9 Norman lawsuit From the President alleges violations of By Mike Strain, Tulsa World News Editor open meetings act The local chapter of the OPA President 2020-2021 Fraternal Order of Police filed a lawsuit against the A few months ago, everything changed. City of Norman on July 2. Our lives. Our neighbors’ lives. Our kids’ lives. Everyone’s life The City of Norman is was turned upside down. accused of violating the We had never heard of COVID-19; and what is this odd phrase Open Meeting Act and — social distancing? But those terms became part of our language faster than Google ever violations of the voter-ap- did. (Personally, I prefer Google over COVID.) proved Public Safety Sales To say it’s been a difficult time would be an understatement. Businesses have been Tax (PSST). devastated and our industry is no exception. For some, there have been furloughs or job According to the lawsuit, losses. For others, there has been a reduction in the number of days printing the paper. the city council violated It’s been months of tough decisions and long weeks for us and for our communities. the Open Meeting Act If you’re feeling exhausted and wondering, “Why do I keep doing this?” please pause when the agenda “did not for a moment and read an excerpt from a letter a reader sent not too long ago: refer to reallocations of “To me, these words describe a great journalist in his/her work: integrity, substance, police department budget relevance, intelligence, humor, humility, empathy, wisdom and fortitude. or defunding the police “You have them all, and then some. I am so grateful for the results of your very difficult department.” jobs every day.” The lawsuit petition I found that letter recently, and here are two things I love about it: states that the action taken First, there was no frightening twist at the end. Maybe you’ve gotten one of those let- by the council to decrease ters or emails, where it seems to be heading a positive direction, before the plot takes an the Norman Police Depart- ugly turn and the writer suddenly says: BUT WHAT YOU PUBLISHED TODAY ... ment’s budget by $865,000 Second, this letter came before the pandemic started. It was sent during the Thanksgiv- “was a willful and clear vio- ing season, and she just wanted to let us know she appreciated our work. lation of the act, and that it I have no doubt that letter could just as easily have been sent to the offices of papers is entitled to both a judicial around our state, and it’s a good reminder of why we’re doing this. declaration and injunctive We have readers counting on us. They trust us to let them know what’s happening in relief.” the community, whether it’s COVID-19 case counts, introducing a neighbor they should The lawsuit further know or sharing the inspiring story of that local student who makes us all proud. alleges a second Open You’ve probably gotten letters like that. And you’ve probably received what is among Meeting Act violation the highest of compliments — having a story or photo people want to share, whether it’s occurred when members of on Facebook, pinned to a church bulletin board or stuck to someone’s refrigerator door. the City Council discussed (There’s little real estate as valuable as the refrigerator door.) the defunding of the NPD My hope is that this column finds you well. That things aren’t harried, and you’re not prior to the meeting. exhausted from the effects of a global virus that calls no one friend. But if you’re a bit The FOP is asking the worn down, I hope that readers’ words resonate with you; because I guarantee you have court to reallocate the people who feel the same way about your work. funds back to the NPD and I hope you can pause for just a second and remember: You are making a difference in seeks recovery for court your community. costs and attorney fees. Legal publishing violation results in new election date The Weatherford Daily adequate notice to eligible The Custer County commission will now be News brought to the atten- citizens who may be inter- Election Board, after vis- required to set a new elec- tion of the City of Weath- ested in running for office. iting with legal counsel, tion date and the earliest erford the need for the city There is a 10-day prior acknowledged the error available is November 3, to publish a required legal to filing period required to and declared the filings according to the election about the change of filing make it public by publish- null and void. Candidates board. periods for city council ing it in a legal newspaper will be required to file Also as a result, Clin- races. within the city. An over- again. ton’s city commission will The purpose of the sight resulted in the legal The election had been be required to follow the legal filing is to provide not being published. set for August 25. The same procedure. July 2020 | The Oklahoma Publisher The Oklahoma | July 2020 2 OKC police claim pole-mounted videos The Oklahoma not subject to state’s Open Records Act The Oklahoman recently the Open Records Act” but act says that law enforce- Publisher ISSN 1526-811X asked to see footage from release of them could be ment agencies shall make Official Publication of the pole-mounted cameras car- revisited after the depart- available for public inspec- OKLAHOMA PRESS ASSOCIATION ried by police during pro- ment’s review is complete. tion records that include: tests in fol- Such video is restricted if “Audio and video record- OPA OFFICERS lowing the death of George the camera is not attached ings from recording President Floyd, who died May 25 in to a person or vehicle, equipment attached to law MIKE STRAIN Minneapolis police custody. Withrow said. enforcement vehicles or Tulsa World Police Capt. Larry Mark Thomas, vice associated audio recordings Vice President Withrow said the videos president of the Oklahoma from recording equipment JOHN DENNY MONTGOMERY would not be released Press Association, disputed on the person of a law The Purcell Register because investigations for the assertion. enforcement officer.” the incidents were not com- “If law enforcement feels In the case of Treasurer JEFF MAYO pleted. the need to carry a camera pole-mounted cameras Sequoyah County Times Withrow, who received in public and video the used by police, Thomas said advice from the municipal public, the public ought to the equipment is attached Executive Vice President counselor’s office, said have the right to look at it,” to a person, therefore its MARK THOMAS pole-mounted camera Thomas said. footage is subject to the videos “are not subject to The Oklahoma records Open Records Act. OPA DIRECTORS RAY DYER, Past President El Reno Tribune AP changes style to capitalize ‘b’ in Black MARK MILLSAP The Norman Transcript The Associated Press original inhabitants of a Daniszewski said the ZONELLE RAINBOLT announced that it has place. decision to change the Wesner Publications updated its stylebook to “Our discussions on writing style followed more capitalize the ‘b’ in Black style and language consid- than two years of research DON MECOY when referring to people in er many points, including and debate among AP jour- The Oklahoman a racial, ethnic or cultural the need to be inclusive nalists and outside groups SHAUNA BELYEU context. and respectful in our story- and thinkers. The Eufaula Indian Journal The lowercased black telling and the evolution of The AP is continuing SHEILA GAY refers to a color, not a per- language,” John Danisze- its discussion of whether Woodward News son. wski, AP vice president for white should be capital- SUZIE CAMPBELL The news organization standards, announced in a ized and expects to make a Countywide & Sun will also now capitalize blog post. “We believe this decision within a month. Indigenous in reference to change serves those ends.” OKLAHOMA PRESS ASSOCIATION 3601 N. Lincoln Blvd., Oklahoma City, OK 73105-5499 (405) 499-0020 You’ve Got Questions! Toll-Free in Oklahoma: (888) 815-2672 www.OkPress.com • Can I photograph minors without consent? [email protected] • Can police deny access to records by issuing a press release? www.Facebook.com/OKPress

• Should I alter my archives when a person demands it? SUBSCRIBE TO THE OKLAHOMA PUBLISHER July 2020 | The Oklahoma Publisher • Can I report inaccurate testimony given in open court? $12 PER YEAR • What are the laws about liquor advertising? THE OKLAHOMA PUBLISHER (USPS 406- These are questions answered by the attorneys for the OPA Legal Services Plan 920) is published monthly for $12 per year members in recent months. Newspapers always need timely legal advice on issues by the Oklahoma Press Association, 3601 N. Lincoln Blvd., Oklahoma City, OK 73105- related to newspaper publishing. 5499. Periodicals postage paid at Oklahoma City, OK. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to You should join OPA’S LEGAL SERVICES PLAN! THE OKLAHOMA PUBLISHER, 3601 N. See www.OkPress.com/LSP or contact Mark Thomas Lincoln Blvd., Oklahoma City, OK 73105- at (405) 499-0033 or toll-free in Oklahoma 1-888-815-2672 today! 5499. 3 Teachers and administrators from the Perry Public School District gath- er around the downtown square holding signs for families and students who drove around the square in support during the novel coronavirus. Photo by JASON ELMQUIST, Stillwater News Press, April 24, 2020

A Guthrie police offi cer took down the caution tape after the scene had been investigated following a shooting. PHOTO CONTEST Photo by ASHYLND HUFFMAN, Stillwater News Press, May 1, 2020 Lindsay fi refi ghter John Collins looks over the wreckage of the west wall of the Lindsay Web Press building after it collapsed on March 25. Photo by SHANNON KILE, Lindsay News, April 2, 2020

APRIL 2020 PHOTO WINNERS: JASON ELMQUIST SHANNON KILE Stillwater News Press Lindsay News Daily Division Weekly Division MAY 2020 PHOTO WINNERS: ASHYLND HUFFMAN CHELSEA WEEKS Stillwater News Press Lincoln County News Daily Division Weekly Division The April and May 2020 contests were judged by members of the Oklahoma Journalism Hall of Fame. View all winning photos at OkPress.com/OGE-Photo-Contest Shell casings fl y during the 21-gun salute at Stroud’s Memorial Day Enter and Win a $100 Check from OGE ENERGY CORP. observance. For more information about the photo contest, visit okpress.com/oge-photo-contest Photo by CHELSEA WEEKS, Lincoln County News, May 28, 2020

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8B • Tuesday, June 23, 2020 NATIONALLOCAL NEWS NEWS news-star.com Shawnee News-Star 8A • Thursday, June 18, 2020 NATIONALLOCAL NEWS NEWS news-star.com Shawnee News-Star Stilwell, Lawton ConstitutionNATIONAL supports local arts The Lawton Constitution WithNATIONALCarmage unsubstantiated and Martha claim, Ann Trumpcritical sows under doubt today’s on US conelection- Westville names SenateWASHINGTON (AP)GOP — ence claimsproposes that have been said: police “RIGGED changes,2020 a mailbox and less tampered sweepingenvelope or sleeve. 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But she also said House worldwide protests over Scott said he himself to seek damages in law- ryAmerican and Culture history to create and a of the Stil- spread fraud but they also “for him contesting elec- “We will not stand by counter significant prac- of State Kim Wyman said The White House sig- Democrats “hope to work police violence, and Scott, had been stopped by po- suits. The Democratic bill lawblasted enforcement unspecified training people The gift was made avail- risk underminingnewspapers Ameri- tion results.” throughwhile history Donald Trump reck - ticalrecognizes obstacles, not least in anthe interview. value of the naled President Donald in a bipartisan way to pass a South Carolina man shot lice more than 18 times includes the provision, but curriculumor states who on “thehe said history were cans’ faith in the election, Though election records lessly undermines faith in because states say they Five states — Colorado, Trump’s support as Re- legislation that creates by police after a traffic stop — including once this year the White House has said it of“using racism Covid in thein orderUnited to well Demo- spreading the very kind obtained by The Associ- our democratic process,” are adept at differentiat- Hawaii, Oregon, Utah and publicans embraced a new meaningful change to end in 2015. Scott is not related for a failure to signal long is a line too far that Trump States.”cheat by Another using Mail-Ins!” closes a able by the Carmage and of disinformationhave beenU.S. ated Pressa part show that of,” a campaign said manager Jen ing artslegitimate ballotsin fromsociety Washington and— conduct wanted priority with the “Justice the epidemic of racial in- to the senator. enough before a turn — will not support. loopholeIt was to the prohibit type federalof rhet - authorities have warned half-dozen senior advisers O’Malley Dillon said. inauthentic ones. elections entirely by mail, Act,” the most ambitious justice and police brutality It would also establish and urged colleagues to As Senate Republicans laworic enforcement that alarmed officerselection crat-Journal foreign adversaries could to the president have voted Experts say Trump’s The ballots used by according to the NCSL. GOP policing proposal in in America.” the Breonna Taylor Noti- understand it’s “not a bi- released their 106-page fromsecurity engaging experts, in butsexual was Martha Ann Walls Founda- exploitDavid to foment doubt R.in by Stringer,mail, others in the ad- publisherdoomsday scenario is far- Colorado’sto support 64 individual But thosenearly all states, artists led who years in response to the In the Senate, McCon- fication Act to track “no- nary choice” between sup- legislation, the House actseven with cautioned those beingagainst ar by- the voting process. ministration have recently fetched. counties are printed ex- by Democratic and Repub- massive public protests nell is pushing the Repub- knock” warrants, named porting law enforcement or Judiciary Committee was resteda Republican-led or in custody. Senate and Westville Reporter. Trump accelerated his promoted the notion that “Comments like that clusively in the United lican governors alike, offer over the death of George lican bill ahead of other for the Louisville woman people of color. considering the much Expenditures for the bill tion, which allows publish- of The Constitution.demonstrate “News an ignorance- States,are distinguished struggling by some form of now. the option. committee in a report ear- attacksFloyd following and other a bruis black- statespriorities, could all be butinundated daring who was killed when police Since first proposing broader Democratic pro- would be considered on specific colors and tar- With health officials say- lier this year on Russian ingAmericans. weekend for his re- withless-than-satisfied fraudulent ballots Demo- ofused by-mail a no-knock voting warrant and the to changes five years ago, he posal before an expected an emergency basis, so as Fite served as editor ing that voting by mail can interference in the 2016 electionSenate campaign, Majority whenleader fromcrats overseas. to block the debate. technologyenter her home. associated with said,get areas the mood and of processed the coun- House vote next week. The not to count against federal ers at all Southern Newspa- aMitch lower-than-expectedpapers McConnell promised have Attorney“We are supported Generalserious aboutWil- howThe it Democraticactually all works,” bill trythrough has shifted. sensitivePublishers scanners help prevent of the eachspread presidential news election.- panel approved the bill late deficits.“Sitting officials and turnoutspeedy ataction a rally next in Tulsa, week, liammaking Barr araised law,” that said pros the- saidwould Eddie go further Perez, by changglobal- designed“America to isweed fed upout with the Wednesdayof the coronavirus, on a 24-14 many par- The rush of activity in of the Stilwell Demo- Oklahoma,when the Houseleft him will seeth also- pectGOP in leader, interviews whose in recent home directoring the federal of technologystatute gov- thisinauthentic, situation,” said Scott Secretary said in states are moving ahead candidates should use the pers Inc.-owned papers to sorts of volunteer efforts paper recommendty line vote. organiWashingtonabsolute greatest has- been amount stun- ing,be voting and ason hethe fightsDemocrat for- weeksstate of with Kentucky The New has facedYork developmenterning police atmisconduct the OSET anof Stateinterview. Jena “It’sGriswold. no lon A- withDespite plans the that differences, ease access ning since Floyd’s death. unrest over the officer-in- to include officers engaging ger African Americans, the of restraint and caution if crat-Journal from May a icsecond plan. Thatterm puts during the thetwo Times Magazine and Fox Institute, a nonprofit elec- bipartisan team of election theto mail-inGOP effort ballots. seeks Wis to - White House Press Sec- bills on a collision course, volved killing of 26-year- in “reckless” actions. black community, that’s consin recently decided to they are considering pub- choose a local non-profit to worst unemploymentsometimes since News. throughtion news technology research judgeszations conducts signature for reach funding, across the aisle to retaryand Kayleigh the McEnany but the momentum of sud- old Breonna Taylor. Both bills would seek to out there protesting. ... The send absentee ballot re- licly calling the validity of the Great Depression. The “Right now, a foreign corporation. verification and refers for Democrats in several ways. said Trump “is fully in denly shifting American The two parties’ bills take change police procedures picturefurther thatinvestigation we see today sus- quests to nearly all voters. an upcoming election into 2001 through Novem- rhetoric, coming as states country could print up tens “There are more proto- It includes one long-sought support of” the GOP bill. attitudes is driving both. similar but far-from-iden- cols— doing than away people with are choke prob- is,pected America instances says enough of dou is- Michigan, another swing question,” the report said. receive funds each year. scramblecoverage, to adjust voting of thousands or perhaps of counterfeit adver- foundation’sbill to make board lynching a fed- ofAt atrust Rose Garden- event Half of adults now say po- ballots,tical approaches and (it would) to the core be ablyholds, aware which of, whichare already would enough.”ble-voting. state, has taken that step ___ processes because of the eral hate crime and anoth- this week on his executive coronaviruslice violence pandemic,is a serious veryissues hard of forpolice us toaccount detect- makebanned such by an many attack depart rather- ButAnd Democrats in Washington roundly as well. Associated Press re- ber 2004. Prior to that, er to launch a study of the actions, Trump declared representsproblem, according a two-track to an whichability wasand theprocedures right and as difficult,”ments, or hemandating added. the criticizedstate, each the county Republican is re- That trend has agitated porters Brian Slodysko in Carmage Walls found- tising and donations. We’re ees vote onsocial statusdistribution. of black men himself “committed to approachAssociated of tryingPress-NORC to both whichCongress was delvesthe wrong into bal the- useThough of body fraud cameras in absen — and- legislation,sponsible for with printing Senate its Trump, who even before Washington and Nicholas and boys that has been working with Congress on she served as editor blockpoll. mail-in balloting in lot,”problem Barr toldof excessive Fox in an usein- teebolster balloting training is rare, to prevent that’s Democraticown ballots, leader which Chuck are Monday has openly railed additionalRiccardi measures.”in con- Schumer saying it “does touted by Pelosi. ed Southern Newspapers, advance“Weglad hear and you,” setting saidthe Sen.the terviewWallsof force that and aired the treatmentfamily Sunday. notofficers to sayand therefrom aren’t engaging more in placed insideIn a securitythe pastagainst absentee 10 votyears,ing. tributed to ___this report. Tim Scott of South Caro- of people of color. excessive force or racial not rise to the moment” The Republican pack- stage for challenging the The president tweeted pedestrian problems that Associated Press writers lina at a press conference Central to both packages profiling. and would provide less age — dubbed the “Just of the Westville news- results once it’s over. Monday a news report on could arise as people vote Kevin Freking, Jim Mus- with GOP colleagues at the is a beefed-up database on While the Republican accountability than the and Unifying Solutions To which owns 12 commu- “It’s Southerna way of trying to Barr’s continue remarks as well as thatby the mail, includingleg- bal- the foundation has giventian, Colleen Long and Capitol. The only black Re- use-of-force incidents, so package simply encourages House Democrats’ version. Invigorate Communities turn the foreign interfer- a separate message that lots that are intercepted in Padmananda Rama and publican senator, he had officers’ records can be many of the changes in House Judiciary Commit- Everywhere Act of 2020” paper for more than a nity newspapers in Texas askedacy leadership and for a say historytracked even when of they commupolicing tactics, by- either tee almostChairman Jerrold Na$3- — alsomillion includes a bipar to- video the journalist Hilary in the bill and was tapped transfer from one depart- taking away funds if de- dler called the GOP bill a tisan Senate proposal to Powell contributed to this establish a National Crim- report. year. and Oklahoma, including DIDto craft nityYOU it. KNOW? support.ment to another. It’s It’s alsoespecially partments fail to comply “sham.”Yourcommunities safetyRep. Karen is important Bass, to us. Walls-ownedWe are observing social • MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD: You can write a letter to the editor for the News-Star’s distancing, performing regular cleanings throughout the day, “Renee is a very opinionDID page.YOU Send KNOW? letters to [email protected]. Please include name and ǁĞĂƌŝŶŐŵĂƐŬƐĂŶĚŝŶƐƚĂůůĞĚƐŶĞĞnjĞŐƵĂƌĚƐĨŽƌLJŽƵƌƉƌŽƚĞĐƟŽŶ͘ The Lawton Constitution. contact number. Letters should be no longer than 400 words. newspapers serve. • CELEBRATE LIFE EVENTS: You can send in announcements for births, engagements, • MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD: You can write a letter to the editor for the News-Star’s opinion Wepage. have Send lettersre-opened to [email protected]. to our regular hours: Please include name and con- enthusiastic, dedicated weddings, and anniversaries for the Weekender Lifestyles section. Send your information tact number. Letters should be no longer than 400 words. to [email protected]. Please include a contact number and photo (optional). 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Hundley to staff Some of the features of The This reimagined digital environment is your destination for trusted content you rely on to get the most the new website and apps important news, inform your decisions and ignite your passions. Our articles have a new, more readable McAlester are: format, allowing for easier navigation to additional content. Looking for news on-the-go? Download or update our new mobile app to easily check in before your morning coffee and throughout the day. News-Capital • Blazingly fast site recently wel- speeds with quicker loading Faster. Bolder. More efficient. More nimble. More defined. Blazing site speed More prominent, Redesigned Scrolling through Tags to indicate comed Jill with quicker load easier-to-read navigation highlights headlines is select content, like pages, photo galleries and times headlines top content speedier Opinions Hundley to its staff. videos. Hundley fills a • More prominent, easi- Reporting you can trust. hybrid position with er-to-read headlines with a An experience you’ll love. composing responsi- larger type size and modern bilities and some sales font. duties. • Homepage that makes A lifelong resident it easier to find content of McAlester, Hundley July 2020 | The Oklahoma Publisher readers care about. graduated from Okla- • Faster scrolling To announce the new website, The Shawnee News-Star created this ad, which showcases all the new features. homa State University through today’s top head- in 2016. lines. She replaces Denise with friends and family streamlined experience for • Prominent labels for Cantrell, who retired across social media. readers withJuly 8, 2020 a 12:13 modern pm / look specific content. from the composing The top priorities in the and feel. • More mobile-friendly department on July 3 redesign were to create a Visit the new website at newsletters. after 27 years at the faster, better organized www.news-star.com. • Easier to share content paper. site that provides a more 5 From your office... We want to see what’s going on at your newspaper office. Send a photo from your office to news@ okpress.com. Please include newspaper name and names of staff members in the photo.

(Right) ­– Members of the Youth Volunteer Corps of Muskogee stopped by the office of the Muskogee Phoenix and presented the staff with cookies to show their appreciation for the newspaper’s employees being essential workers. Photo by Muskogee Phoenix staff writer Ronn Rowland. Reprinted with permission.

Owasso Reporter staff members watch the Oklahoma Press Association virtual Staff members at The Lawton Constitution gather in a conference room to awards announcement of annual contest award winners on June 15. Standing is watch the OPA’s announcement of contest winners. Shawn Hein, sports editor; seated is Art Haddaway, news editor.

Countywide & Sun staff members show off their newspaper pattern face masks. From The Walters Herald recently moved to 120 S. Broadway in Walters. Standing left, Jennifer Pitts, Gloria Trotter, Wayne Trotter, and Suzie Campbell, owner and pub- in front of the new office space are Herald Editor Beth Davis and Kim Hicklin- lisher of the Coutywide & Sun. Richardson, advertising. July 2020 | The Oklahoma Publisher The Oklahoma | July 2020 6 City of Edmond honors closed newspaper Dan O’Neil, mayor of the city of Edmond, Oklaho- ma, proclaimed July 13-18 as Edmond Sun Week in honor of the employees of The Edmond Sun. The Edmond Sun pre- miered on July 8, 1889, and was continuously in oper- ation for 131 years before closing on May 1, 2020. “The Edmond Sun was an avid promoter and sup- porter of many Edmond businesses, activities and organizations,” the procla- mation reads. “Over the years, the Edmond Sun won numer- ous awards and honors.” The proclamation lists the awards the newspaper received this year in the annual Oklahoma Press Mark Codner and James Coburn display a Proclamation from the City of Edmond declaring July 13-18 as Edmond Sun Week Association Better News- in honor of the employees of The Edmond Sun. The Sun ceased publication on May 1. paper Contest, including the Community Leadership presented to Codner and thank you to Mayor Dan “I hope and pray we will award for James Coburn’s Coburn at the City of O’Neil and the City Council have a replacement and series for the Samaritan Edmond’s council meeting for showing their appreci- continue documenting the Fund Drive to benefit the on July 13. ation of what’s been lost in stories James so well docu- HOPE Center of Edmond. “Edmond has a bright Edmond. mented over the years.” The proclamation future,” Coburn said at the lists staff at the time the meeting. “There’s a lot to be newspaper was closed as thankful for in the past and general manager Lance a lot to look forward to. Moler; editor Mark Cod- “I hope and pray there ner; reporters Patty Miller, will always be some- James Coburn, Kari Tomp- one here to support you, kins and Aaron Albertson; to stand by you and to account specialists Terri document the history of Bohanan and Nancy Sade; Edmond,” Coburn said. and business office workers Coburn, who worked for Catherine Hillis-Jordan, The Edmond Sun more 34 Gayle Clark, Ashley Gentry, years, was inducted into the Elaine Welch and Stepha- Oklahoma Journalism Hall nie Moler. of Fame in 2013. It also recognizes former “For 130 plus years, July 2020 | The Oklahoma Publisher Edmond Sun employees The Edmond Sun has per- who helped build the legacy formed the essential role including Ed Livermore, of keeping government Ray Hibbard, Carol Hart- accountable, helping docu- zog, Biruta Harris, Lisa ment and create our sense Shearer Salim, Karan Edi- of place, our community,” ger, Steve Patterson, Carol said Codner. Smaglinski and Brad Lyons. “On behalf of former Sun The proclamation was employees, I want to say 7 DEATHS

MARY KATHERINE ‘KAY’ DYER, a newspaper, the El Reno Daily Tri- Dyer always said one of the high- pioneering Oklahoma journalist, died bune, where she served as news edi- lights of her career was covering the June 15, 2020. She was 92. tor, publisher and editor before retir- struggle for Civil Rights led by Clara Dyer was born June 11, 1928, in ing in 1990. Luper in Oklahoma City. Oklahoma City. After graduating from She served on the advisory board Survivors include her sister-in- El Reno High School, she attended for the Ethics and Excellence in Jour- law, Pat Dyer; nieces and spouses, the University of Kansas where she nalism Foundation and was inducted Shanon (David) Eaton, Kelly (Chris) earned a degree in journalism. into the Oklahoma Journalism Hall of Fry, Tricia (Tod) Hobson, and Erin She broke barriers for future Fame in 1992. She was honored with (Daniel) Thompson, and Teresa (Jim) women journalists as the first woman a Ford Foundation Urban Journalism Kaufman; nephews, Ray Dyer and promoted to city editor at The Okla- Fellowship, and is recognized as one Sean (Donna) Dyer; and a number of homan & Times. After 21 years at of Oklahoma’s most talented journal- great nieces and nephews. OPUBCO, she joined her family’s ists.

SALLY MAXWELL, former editor for took a job at the Sequoyah County Mary Goddard Award for most prom- the Sequoyah County Times, died Times as society editor. She remained ising journalist, which allowed her to June 14, 2020. She was 77. there as a news reporter and eventual- attend an American Press Institute Maxwell was born June 14, 2020, ly managing editor for over 25 years. workshop in Los Angeles. in Hamilton, Ohio. She was raised in She joined the KXMX family as senior She is survived by daughter Tonya Indiana where she attended the Ernie news director in 2014. Maxwell of Sallisaw; sons Mark E. Pyle School of Journalism at Indiana She was inducted into the Oklaho- Maxwell of Fort Smith and Jimmy University in Bloomington. ma Press Association’s Quarter Cen- C. Maxwell of Prospect, Ky.; seven She and her family moved to Sal- tury Club in 2006. Maxwell said the grandchildren, and 12 great-grand- lisaw, Okla., in 1979, and Maxwell award she was most proud of was the children.

JERRY McCONNELL, a former editor majored in journalism, graduating in Oklahoman and the Oklahoma City at The Oklahoman, died June 25, 1951. Times. 2020, in Greenwood, Ark. He was 92. A lifelong journalist, McConnell After retiring in 1992, he and his McConnell attended Greenwood worked as a sports and news report- wife, Jo, moved back to Greenwood. schools, and although offered a full er at the Arkansas Gazette and the She died in 2018. football scholarship to the University Arkansas Democrat in Little Rock. In McConnell is survived by his son, of Arkansas, he enlisted in the U.S. 1971, he became managing editor of Mike McConnell of Seattle; and two Army. After he was discharged from the Arkansas Democrat. grandchildren. the service in 1948, he returned to In 1978, McConnell moved to Okla- the University of Arkansas where he homa City to become the executive sports editor of The Daily and Sunday

Remembering our friends & colleagues who died the previous year Irvin Lee Miller Robert Crout Robert Standish ‘Bob’ Meacham, Jr. Shelby Alice Miller June 20, 2019 July 17, 2019 July 29, 2019 July 25, 2019

Thank you to the following for their recent donations to the Oklahoma Newspaper Foundation: Tom and Sherry Muchmore in memory of Joe McBride & Jim Mayo.

to the Oklahoma Newspaper Foundation. A donation to ONF will support its Pleaseefforts to improve thedonate state’s newspaper industry and quality of journalism. ONF’s programs include training and education for professional journalists, scholarship and internship programs for journalism students, and Newspaper in Education efforts. ONF relies on donations and memorial contributions to fund these programs. If you would like to make a donation, please send a check to: OKLAHOMA NEWSPAPER FOUNDATION, 3601 N. Lincoln Blvd., Oklahoma City, OK 73105 July 2020 | The Oklahoma Publisher The Oklahoma | July 2020 8 Apple changes processors; Microsoft’s migration; 5G is coming now on the Adobe Creative One thing the Windows It will be broadly adopt- Computer Notes Cloud software, which 10 programs are trying to ed next year. The carriers from the road should work well with the change is moving every- have not completed Okla- by Wilma Newby [email protected] change since it’s always thing from the old Control homa’s roll out yet. Right updated. Panel to the Settings Panel. now, only Oklahoma City Apple made the hard For Creative Suite users This has been going on for claims to have 5G through decision to switch Mac running Adobe CS-CS6, the the last few years but now AT&T. computers to ARM proces- end is in sight for comput- the Control panel > System 5G is touted to be up to sors in 2021. ers that can run that soft- is due for the move. 1 GB per second. If that It’s not going to happen ware. Many will be forced Windows 10 insider pans out, it will blow away all at once, but the full line to move to the new Creative Preview Build 20161 was most broadband connec- will be converted in a cou- Cloud or an alternative released July 1, along with tions and make phones ple of years. software to go forward. the announcement about faster than computers. Apple controls the pro- Many developers of the change to the Control This is the 5th genera- duction of these processors, other hardware that works Panel. When the udpate is tion of wireless networks which are used in their with Apple computers released to everyone, you and will succeed 4G LTE. iPhones and iPads. will need to be updated as will have to hunt to get to What you need to know This move will stream- well. This is mainly printer the info needed. is when to buy a 5G phone. line their platform and drivers and scanners. This Currently, if a user Apple’s next lineup will be create greater control over change will not happen searches for the Control 5G, and Samsung already security and development. overnight. Apple is taking Panel it brings up famil- updated its line. If you With the integration of the it slow, perhaps learning iar settings and gives you need a new phone today, three operating systems, from other big platform more control over installing see if any of the ones being applications that run on leaps of the past. printers and other in-depth considered is 5G. the Mac computer may also If you’re planning to settings for the computer. Samsung 5G phones run on the iPad or iPhone. buy a new Apple computer As Microsoft slowly range from $600 to $1,200 Maybe we’ll be able to in the next six months, it changes to the new Win- on AT&T’s website. The make calls from the com- might be wise to hold off dows setting controls, Galaxy A71 5G is the least puter or open an InDesign until the new computers learning the workarounds expensive while the Gal- page on an iPad. are out since all the soft- as they become available is axy Note 10+ is the most This move means that ware will be written for a good idea. Carefully read expensive. The Galaxy S20 all software will need to be them in the coming years. about feature updates as 5G is the latest in the line- compiled to handle the new There are some great deals they come out. Like Apple, up for around $800. chips. Once again, a real for the Intel Macintosh Windows is trying to con- Ask lots of questions divide will be created in computers right now, but solidate the operating sys- about the phone. Is it software that runs on Intel think carefully about the tem to streamline use. mmWave? Some carriers vs. ARM computers. upcoming change and the like Verizon are only using For a time, Apple is future use of the computer. 5G IS COMING: The next this technology as they offering a software fix newest standard for the begin to roll out 5Gs. Check called Rosetta 2. It will MICROSOFT MIGRATION: world’s phone systems is your carrier’s website for let you run the software Microsoft often updates the 5G. the best information. written for Intel Macs on its operating system and the new models for a few with these big, combined OPA Computer Consultant Wilma Newby’s column is brought to you by years. That gives the soft- updates things are slowly the Oklahoma Advertising Network (OAN). For more information on the ware developers a chance moving under the hood. OAN program, contact Oklahoma Press Service at (405) 499-0020. to re-write the software for the new platform. Apple announced this at their July 2020 | The Oklahoma Publisher developers’ conference last month. LEGAL ADVICE What this mean for is just one of the benefits of being a member of the Oklahoma Press newspapers is more Association’s Legal Services Plan. Remove the worry of needing professional advice by enrolling today. For more information contact: change, but it’s not quite as painful as the move Apple OKLAHOMA PRESS ASSOCIATION’S made a number of years ago when they switched to LEGAL SERVICES PLAN Intel. 1-888-815-2672 or 405-499-0020 Many newspapers are 9 WORTH MENTIONING LONE GROVE LEDGER HIT thank the people who came and District 57 candidates cussions that focus on how BY UNEMPLOYMENT FRAUD to her rescue. Another was on June 18 at the Weather- Oklahoma City and the state Linda Hicks, owner and a woman thanking all those ford City Hall. Candidates can best bounce back from publisher of the Lone Grove who helped her and her all answered a variety of the pandemic. Expert guests Ledger, said unemployment husband while they were questions, helping the pub- focused on opening Oklaho- fraud hit the Lone Grove hospitalized. lic to make an informed ma following the pandemic. Ledger Publishing Compa- decision at the polls on Joe Dowd, interim editor of ny. OKC FRIDAY PRINTS LIST OF June 30. The full forum , mod-

Hicks said the OklahomaOklahoma City FridayMOST 07/03/2020 POWERFULCopy Reduced to 46% OKLAHOMANS from original to fit letter page was available on the WDN erated the first 45-minute Employment Security Com- CELEBRATE Facebook page, and answers long live discussion. Dowd 46 years of community mission (OESC) wrote her from the candidates were asked panelists to share OKC FRIDAYCopyright © Nichols Hills Publishing Co., Inc. okcfriday.com facebook.com/okcfriday a letter on June 19, 2020, Vol. 54 No. 8 • Five Sections 46 Pages July 3, 2020 printed in the newspaper. their thoughts about how to inform her that she had 50 Most Powerful Oklahomans quickly the COVID-19 pan- 10 days to respond to the PERKINS PUBLISHER DESCRIBES demic forced change on unemployment claim. TRAVELING DURING PANDEMIC business and life in general “It was a good thing I David Sasser, publisher in Oklahoma and advice

1. BILL ANOATUBBY 2. CLAY BENNETT 3. 4. TRICIA EVEREST Governor, OKC Thunder Chairman, Mayor, Attorney, Philanthropist, dropped by the office on the Chickasaw Nation CEO, Dorchester Capital Oklahoma City Community Volunteer of the Perkins Journal, is about how to manage such Anoatubby still top, Gov. Stitt falls writing a four-part series a rapidly evolving crisis. day the letter arrived or this By Vicki Clark Gourley #4 Tricia Everest continues her OKC FRIDAY Publisher passion for stopping abuse against women and over-incarceration by vol- The Chickasaw Nation Gov- unteering almost full-time at Palomar, ernor Bill Anoatubby wins the #1 the Family Justice Center. A former position again in the voting, despite assistant attorney general, she now on what it’s like to travel fraud would have been col- the lawsuit between Governor Stitt serves as chairwoman of the and the Tribal Nations and the coron- Oklahoma County Jail Trust formed avirus forcing casinos to close. by the county commissioners to facili- The 250 ballots mailed to state lead- tate criminal justice reforms and pro- ers overwhelmingly selected Anoatub- vide oversight of the jail's finances and by, while the Governor plunged to #11. operations. during the coronavirus pan- PICNIC IN THE PARK BENEFITS lecting unemployment on Owner of the OKC Thunder #2 #5 David Rainbolt is the Clay Bennett remains one of the most Executive Chairman of BancFirst respected persons in the state. The Corporation. He gives much of his time OKC Thunder surprised fans and the to directing and funding medical 5. DAVID RAINBOLT sports world with an exceptional 2019- research, civil justice, criminal justice, 6. LARRY NICHOLS 7. TOM COLE 20 team. The March 11 shutdown of and common and higher education Executive Chairman, Co-founder , U.S. Representative, BancFirst Corp. FROM SUBSCRIPTON SALES Civic Leader 4th District demic. For the past couple NBA games occurred in OKC when issues, the arts and social service non- my dime,” Hicks wrote in Utah Jazz’s Rudy Gobert tested posi- profits. His financial and managerial tive for the coronavirus. Now the fans expertise is widely sought and gener- want their Thunder back on the court ously given. and winning games, even if they have #6 Larry Nichols, the co-founder of to watch it on television. Bennett has Devon Energy, is a perennial top five. of years, Sasser has taken expressed his deep concern over racial Although no longer listed on Devon’s her column titled “It got me issues in the city to the Oklahoma City board, his experience and leadership Chamber and offered suggestions. are sought continuously by the cham- The biggest gainer over last year ber, politicians and arts organizations. was #3, Mayor David Holt. OKC His family’s multi-million dollar contri- FRIDAY mailed the ballots around the butions to arts groups such as Lyric first of May. MostOKC all were returned Theatre andFriday OKC Ballet carry on a tra- featured his grandchildren, and their to thinking…”. mid-June. dition established by his late parents The vote reflected state leaders’ Mary and John Nichols. opinion of the Mayor’s handling of the # 7 Congressman Tom Cole, 4th coronavirus shutdown. Holt articulat- District, is considered the foremost 8. JAMES LANKFORD 9. JUDY LOVE 10. HAROLD HAMM ed a calm, nonpartisan approach when expert in the House on issues related U.S. Senator, Philanthropist, CEO, thethe Black Lives Matter protests“50 began. to Native Most Americans and tribal govern- Powerful parents, on a trip to visit State of Oklahoma Community Volunteer Hicks tried to call to deny He met with the protest leaders and ments. He is a member of the listened. His understanding attitude of Chickasaw nation and one of only four the BLM problems and moves to recti- Native Americans in Congress. Directory of Advertisers, Page A7 fy them has kept Oklahoma City one of Creative fundraising efforts for nonprofits, Page B1 the calmest cities in the country. See POWERFUL, Page 2 INSIDE Next Generation of Most Powerful, Pages C1-C6 the claim, but was on hold Oklahomans” in itsOur attractionsJuly are open, Page D 1-D23 some of the national parks. The celebration will march on this Fourth of July Byissue. Rose Lane Saturday Vicki at 9 a.m. Now music andClark residents are Hills Fire EngineGourley, on the Ann Taylor was the first In June, the Sasser fam- Editor known as the Ann Taylor invited to bring lawn chairs south side of the park and woman on the Nichols Hills for more than an hour. She Fourth of July Parade and and enjoy the festivities. at 9 a.m. sharp, begin a City Council and the first The festivals are march- Celebration, it will consist Those with motor vehi- short tour around the female mayor. She was ing on as Nichols Hill and of children's decorated cles are urged to line up on neighborhood. instrumental in organizing Quail Creek prepare to cel- bikes, antique and decorat- the north side of Kite Park “Attendees are urged to the Nichols Hills Fourth of ebratepublisher the Fourth of July. ed cars and pets on leashes, ofno later thanOKC 8:30 a.m. wear masks Friday, and maintain July celebration which has ily embarked on a trip to finally hungup and instead The 4th of July will be Mayor Sody Clements said. Clements said bicycles will social distancing,” marked in Nichols Hills on There will be patriotic line up behind the Nichols Clements said. See FOURTH, Page 9 sent a certified letter to said more than 250 com- the American desert south- The Weatherford Daily OESC disputing the claim. munity leaders are asked to west where they would visit News is having its annual vote by ballot for those they Zion National Park, Bryce July half-price subscription GOOD DEEDS RECOGNIZED IN consider the post powerfulJuly 8, 2020 12:10 pm / Canyon National Park and special and this year’s bene- MOUNTAIN VIEW NEWS in directing Oklahoma. The Grand Canyon National ficiary is Picnic in the Park. The Mountain View list includes those who use Park. A $5 donation is required News honors kindness by their time and/or treasure Sasser wrote about air in order to purchase the half featuring the “Good Deed to improve life in the state travel and hotel stays in his price subscription, which Doer” award in the news- and for its citizens. first article. will help feed children. paper. Readers are asked to Phillip Reid, publisher of call or write if they know of WEATHERFORD DAILY NEWS JOURNAL RECORD STARTS the Daily News, said they a deserving person. Recent HOSTS ELECTION FORUM NEW ONLINE DISCUSSIONS were able to get the price Good Deed Doers were sub- The Weatherford Daily The Journal Record for the snack lunches down mitted by a woman who had News hosted an election recently launched a new to $1 per lunch by working car trouble and wanted to forum for Custer County series of weekly online dis- with Ben E. Keith. OPA STAFF DIRECTORY ADMINISTRATION ADVERTISING CREATIVE SERVICES MARK THOMAS, Executive Vice President LANDON COBB, Sales Director JENNIFER GILLILAND, Creative Services Director [email protected], (405) 499-0033 [email protected], (405) 499-0022 [email protected], (405) 499-0028 JEANNIE FREEMAN, Accounting Manager CINDY SHEA, Advertising Director COMPUTER ADVICE [email protected], (405) 499-0027 [email protected], (405) 499-0023 WILMA NEWBY, Computer Consultant , Front Office/Building Mgr. SCOTT WILKERSON [email protected], (405) 499-0031 [email protected], (405) 499-0020 DIGITAL CLIPPING KEITH BURGIN, Clipping Director GENERAL INQUIRIES 405) 499-0024 MEMBER SERVICES [email protected], ( (405) 499-0020 LISA SUTLIFF, Member Services Director JENNIFER CATES, Digital Clipping Dept. Fax: (405) 499-0048 [email protected], (405) 499-0026 [email protected] OkPress.com CHRISTINE FRANK, Membership & Meeting Dir. SAMANTHA SMITH, Clipping / Advertising Toll-free in OK: 1-888-815-2672 [email protected], (405) 499-0040 [email protected], (405) 499-0035 July 2020 | The Oklahoma Publisher The Oklahoma | July 2020 10 Advertising is a problem-solving business BY JOHN FOUST doesn’t seem to be help- His approach illustrated uct line? Is there going RALEIGH, NC ing.” the importance of being to be a grand opening Voles are small mole-like observant. When I heard the door- of a new location? Has rodents that burrow under- His company’s customer bell ring that Saturday there been an ownership ground and feast on the database probably revealed afternoon, I did something change? bulbs and roots of plants. information about neigh- I had never done before. I borhoods with vole prob- 4. Ads in other media. bought something from a The ground in an infested Are they running ads in door-to-door salesperson. area is spongy, because lems. It was a pest control rep- their tunnels are close to And he looked for symp- other advertising out- resentative who was can- the surface. A mating pair toms when he pulled into lets? That’s a clear sign vassing the neighborhood can produce up to 100 voles the driveway. that they have a market- for new business. The logo in a year. In other words, Although selling adver- ing budget and may be on his bright green golf if voles settle in your yard, tising is not quite like sell- open to other ideas. shirt matched his truck in you’ll have a lot of them in ing pest control services, 5. Competitors. What the driveway. a short period of time. there are a number of He introduced himself That salesperson caught things to observe before products and services and said, “I see you have me at the right time to approaching an advertising are currently being pro- a vole problem. Have you make a sale, because he prospect. moted by their compet- tried anything?” was observant. Here are a few examples: itors? They’re running “How do you know He knew without a doubt 1. History. What promo- those ads now for a © there’s a vole problem?” I that there was a problem tions has your prospect reason. Maybe you could asked. that needed to be solved. run in past years? What follow their example. “When I got out of the He said his company had were the results? What Who knows? One of truck, I noticed the spongy a special treatment which lessons can be learned? ground next to the drive- was proven to have impres- these ideas might ring a 2. Time of year. Is there way. That’s an obvious sive results. bell. a prime buying season sign.” I agreed to let them give for the widgets your © Copyright 2020 by John Foust. In just a few seconds, he it a try. Within a few weeks prospect sells? People All rights reserved. had identified a problem. after their first treatment, usually don’t buy lawn- Obviously, he knew what he we could tell a difference. John Foust has conducted training mowers in the winter was doing. Although the treatments programs for thousands of newspaper or snowblowers in the “You’re right,” I said. haven’t eliminated the advertising professionals. Many ad “We’ve had voles in our problem completely (can summer. departments are using his training yard for several years. A anything do that?), it has 3. News stories. Have videos to save time and get quick company has been working dramatically reduced the they announced the results from in-house training. E-mail on the problem, but that infestation. addition of a new prod- for information: [email protected].

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Show will be virtual this Wizard! July 2020 | The Oklahoma Publisher year. It's a fact that spec ads help close more sales— and yet spec ads are Oct. 1-3 is still the dates used less than 20% of the time. Now, with the real-world magic of MiAD®Wizard, for the event, which was personalizing and presenting spec ads for EVERY prospect is as easy as 1-2-3! originally scheduled in Jackson, Fla. No training. No time wasted. No more tough sells. Registration will open Go to miadwizard.com and see the magic for yourself! soon at a price of $50 per person. For more informa- [email protected] tion about the convention, ® 800.223.1600 www.metrocreativeconnection.com visit nna.org. miadwizard.com 11 OKLAHOMA NATURAL GAS CONTEST WINNERS

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE APRIL & MAY WINNERS April Column: JENNIFER PITTS, Countywide & Sun April Editorial: KIM POINDEXTER, Tahlequah Enter and Win a May Column: KIM POINDEXTER, Tahlequah Daily Press $100 Check May Editorial: DAVID STRINGER, The Lawton Constitution from Oklahoma Natural Gas! The April and May 2020 APRIL COLUMN WINNER Oklahoma Natural Gas Column and Editorial Contests KIM POINDEXTER, Tahlequah Daily Press were judged by members of the Oklahoma Journalism Hall of Fame. Public schools should get all stimulus money 1. Each month, send a tearsheet or photocopy of your best With the minds of Oklahomans on the most part send their kids to public schools – column and/or editorial to COVID-19 pandemic, it would be easy for and hand it to private institutions where the Oklahoma Natural Gas Contest, c/o OPA, 3601 N. elected officials to take actions that play greatest benefit will be to wealthy patrons. Lincoln Blvd., Oklahoma City, to their base and their donors, rather than Private schools have a place in Oklahoma, OK 73105-5499. Entries also serve the majority in this state. Any move by and parents who want to send their kids to may be emailed (full-page Gov. to funnel money toward pri- one should have that option – if they can tearsheet) to news@okpress. vate schools would fall into that category. afford it without grubbing in the pocket of tax- com. Oklahoma is reportedly in line to get $40 mil- payers. The trouble is, few can afford it, even lion in stimulus money earmarked for educa- with scholarships, grants and other monies 2. Include the author’s name, tion. But that will hardly scratch the surface, to supplement parental payments. Oklahoma name of publication, date of publication and category now that the bottom has fallen out of the oil has 227 private schools, with 38,949 schools entered (column or editorial). and gas market. Because of the insistence of enrolled, and the average tuition is just over successive regimes at the Capitol and gov- $5,000 for elementary schools and $7,031 3. Only ONE editorial and/or ernor’s mansion that the state put all its eco- for high schools. Who has that kind of money ONE column per writer per nomic eggs into one basket, it was bound to these days, especially with jobless rates at month will be accepted. happen, and it did – again. History will con- an all-time high? 4. All entries for the previous tinue to repeat itself ad nauseum, because On the other hand, public schools educate month must be at the OPA here in the Sooner state, top officials never about 700,000 Oklahoma kids, as they are learn their lesson. Many voters have a prob- office by the 15th of the required to do by law. A number of legislators current month. lem with that, too, since they keep returning seem to be as unfamiliar with the state con- to office the bootlickers of the fossil fuel stitution as some federal-level top officials 5. Winning entries will be industry, rather than moving forward with are ignorant about the contents of the U.S. reproduced on the OPA diversification like Texas has done. Constitution. In Oklahoma, all students are website at www.OkPress.com. Everyone pays the price for economic dol- guaranteed a free education. That cannot drums, which have been magnified expo- happen with private schools, no matter how Entries must nentially by COVID-19. But there’s no entity much public funding the well-heeled procure have been previously stuck with a bigger tab than public education, for it. published in print. and therein lies the rub when it comes to The Democratic Caucus offered Stitt some the stimulus money: The package gives Stitt suggestions as to ways the stimulus money Contest open to latitude to spend money on either public or could be put to good use. It’s clear that all OPA member private institutions. despite the Legislature’s attempts to fill newspapers. Especially given the dire straits Oklahoma some holes, public schools are still starving and many other states find themselves in for money – and with a $1.3 billion revenue Although Oklahoma Natural Gas right now, there is no justification for funnel- shortfall looming, the situation will worsen. Company selects representative ing money into private schools. So though Cherokee County residents should let the contest winners’ work for use they may err on some matters, as we all governor know that if he misuses this stim- in this monthly ad, the views do, the House Democratic Caucus is right ulus money, he’ll pay the price at the polls expressed in winning columns and editorials are those of the writers to lobby the governor to back off his talks – and so will any legislators who get behind and don’t necessarily reflect the to take money from taxpayers – who for the such a pie-in-the-sky plan. Company’s opinions. July 2020 | The Oklahoma Publisher The Oklahoma | July 2020 12