Oklahoma City University at Christmas – Bringing Cheer and Good Tidings Staff Report Dec

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Volume 53, Issue 19 December, 2015 Read us daily at www.city-sentinel.com Ten Cents

Page 5 Page 6 Page 8 Positive Tomorrows 25th Annual Sonja Martinez Christmas AIDS Benefit Paseo Events Local Amnesty group plans letter writing event for human rights By Darla Shelden ed to partic- City Sentinel Reporter ipate. “ D u r i n g The world’s largest annual the Write human rights event, Amnes- for Rights ty International’s (AI) Global event we Write-A-Thon, will take place will write from Dec. 4-18 in schools, cof- letters on fee shops, community centers, behalf of and street corners around the prisoners of globe. conscience The Oklahoma City affili- all over the ated chapter will hold a Write world,” said for Rights event on Saturday, John Wal- Dec. 5 at Full Circle Book Store, ters, Legis- lative Coordina- “By taking part in the Write 1900 N.W. Expressway, from 10 tor, Amnesty USA-OKC Chap- for Rights Write-A-Thon you a.m. - 1 p.m. The public is invit- ter. continued on page 2

Vespers Concert Sings Christmas Praises Oklahoma City University at Christmas – bringing cheer and good tidings Staff Report Dec. 4 through 12. Performance times are 8 p.m. Tickets for all performanc- Dec. 11 and 4 p.m. Dec. 12. Oklahoma City University es are available for purchase The OCU Symphony Or- will give the gift of entertain- online at okcu.edu/tickets chestra will perform with ment with three productions or by calling 405-208-5227. four OCU vocal ensembles: by its performing arts schools OCU’s Christmas shows are University Singers, Ad Astra in music, dance and theater in sponsored by The Oklaho- Women’s Chorus, the Uni- December. man and Newsok.com. versity Men’s Chorus and the The Wanda Bass School of Chamber Choir. Music will present its annual Vespers Concert Sings “Among the many ways Christmas Vespers concert Christmas Praises that these talented students Dec. 11 and 12; the Ann Lacy More than 250 Oklahoma contribute to the community, School of American Dance & City University singers and perhaps none is more mov- Entertainment will bring it orchestral musicians will cel- ing than the combining of all “Home for the Holidays” Dec. ebrate the 37th annual Christ- of our choirs with our sym- 10 through 13; and the School mas Vespers concerts at First phony orchestra and organ of Theatre will invite “The Presbyterian Church of Okla- at Christmas Vespers,” said This year, from Dec. 4-18, members of Amnesty International will write letters to Prisoners of Conscience all over the world Man Who Came to Dinner” homa City, 1001 N.W. 25th St. continued on page 4 during the annual Write for Rights - Amnesty’s Global Write-A-Thon event. Photo provided. Annual PAMBE Ghana Global Market offers fair trade goods for holiday shoppers By Darla Shelden City Sentinel Reporter

The 8th annual PAMBE Ghana’s Global Market, a seasonal fair trade shop, is now open from 12 - 6 p.m., Tuesdays through Saturdays through Dec. 23. The market is held at 6516 N. Olie in Oklahoma City and provides destination shopping for unusual holiday gifts, including a wide selection of folk art from around the world. Staffed entirely by volunteers, the Global Market sells products from around Last month a celebration of PAMBE Ghana themed “Red Dirt Rising” took place at St. Paul’s Cathedral, in Oklahoma City, featuring dinner, music and a pho- the world purchased directly tographic presentation of the La’Angum Learning Center by Executive Director On Friday, Dec. 25 the annual Red Andrews Christmas Dinner held at the Cox Convention Center in Oklahoma City will pro- from artisans or from certified Alice Iddi-Gubbels. Photos provided. vide a holiday meals for those in need plus new toys for children of all ages. Photo provided. members of the Fair Trade Fed- eration. tend the Global Market Grand as Guatemala, Haiti, Peru, Gha- Annual Red Andrews Dinner offers the A non-profit organization Opening on Friday, Nov. 13 na, Burkina Faso, India and In- based in Oklahoma City, PAM- from 6 - 8 p.m. Executive Di- donesia. Christmas spirit to Oklahomans in need BE Ghana is a partnership with rector Alice Iddi-Gubbels, This year, there is a special By Darla Shelden the Event Hall on the south- taken with Santa and each will local communities in north- founder of PAMBE Ghana and focus on products made by City Sentinel Reporter west corner of the Cox Conven- receive a toy. ern Ghana. Its name stands the La’Angum Learning Center Nepali artisans, who were ad- tion Center, at 1 Myriad Gar- Board Chair Robert Gold- for “Partnership for Mother located in northern Ghana, will versely affected by that coun- The Red Andrews Din- dens. man said, “It has been incred- Tongue-based Bilingual Educa- be in attendance. try’s deadly earthquakes in ner will once again take place “Last year we fed approxi- ible to witness Oklahomans tion” in West Africa. Products at the Global Mar- April and May. in Oklahoma City on Christ- mately 7,000 people and gave working together in the spirit The public is invited to at- ket come from countries such continued on page 2 mas Day. It has been provid- away thousands of toys,” said of serving our neighbors. We ing warm meals for those in volunteer Mary Blankenship are all united in that we recog- need and toys for children since Pointer. “The Red Andrews’ nize what a highly-valued and the 1940s. Christmas Dinner is our gift to impactful event this has been Members of the Red An- the community, it is free and on the community for many drews family, local community open to the public. People from decades. members and event volunteers all walks of life attend.” “Last year a donor gave us a are preparing to serve needy Everyone attending will one time donation of 1200 coats Oklahomans on Friday, Dec. 25 receive a warm meal of tur- which we gave to our guests. from 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. key with all of the trimmings. We are trying to at least du- The dinner will be held in Children will have their photos continued on page 5

A note to advertisers and potential advertisers Here is The City Sentinel print edition production schedule for Dec. and the first three months of 2016.

January 2016 edition March 2016 edition Ad space reservation: Friday, Dec. 18 Ad space reservation: Friday, Feb. 19 Ad content deadline: Tuesday, Dec. 22 Ad content deadline: Tuesday, Feb. 23

February 2016 edition April 2016 edition Ad space reservation: Friday, Jan. 22 Ad space reservation: Friday, Mar. 18 Ad content deadline: Tuesday, Jan. 26 Ad content deadline: Tuesday, Mar. 22 Last summer, women at the Go Home project, in Gambaga, entertain PAMBE Ghana visitors in West Africa. Page 2 www.city-sentinel.com December, 2015 NEWS See us online, and on Facebook and Twitter Local Amnesty group plans letter writing event for human rights

continued from page 1 can help bring about the re- lease of a prisoner of conscience or an end to the harass- ment of someone standing up for Human Rights.” Every year, close to Human Rights Day on Dec. 10, hundreds of thousands of people around the world each send a message to someone they’ve never met to demonstrate their support. For 54 years, Amnesty Inter- national’s human rights cam- paigns have been instrumental The Oklahoma City chapter of Amnesty International will hold its annual Write for Rights, Write-A-Thon event on Saturday, Dec. 5 at Full Circle Book Store, from 10 in obtaining freedom for pris- a.m. - 1 p.m. Participating last year are (L-R) Bill Bryant, Doug Latham and John PAMBE Ghana’s Global Market, a seasonal fair trade shop, opens Thursday, Nov. 5, from 12 - 6 p.m., Tuesdays through oners worldwide through pres- Walters. Saturdays through Dec. 23. Photos provided. sure from letters, faxes, and e- Photo by John Walters mails written by Amnesty In- ing a letter. nesty International OKC chap- ternational activists. “At this event we will also ter project. Annual PAMBE Ghana Global Market AI has 3 million supporters write Christmas cards to all “It is one more way we can who take action each year in prisoners on Death Row in let those prisoners on Oklaho- offers fair trade goods for holiday this event. Oklahoma.” ma’s death row know that they “You are joining your voice Currently Oklahoma has 49 are not forgotten. I hope with with others around the world inmates on death row. all my heart that it also signals shoppers to demand that the rights of Adam Leathers, OK-CADP to them that we are working continued from page 1 individuals be respected and spokesperson, “The Oklaho- tirelessly to end this travesty of protected,” Walters said. “You ma Coalition against the Death ‘killing people who kill’ to show “These items are something have the power to change Penalty (OK-CADP) is proud to that killing people is wrong.” you can feel good about buy- someone’s life by simply writ- participate in this annual Am- Oklahoma death row in- ing,” said Linda Temple, mar- mates Richard Glossip, Benja- ket volunteer product coordi- min Cole and John Grant were nator. all scheduled to be executed Fair trade principles in- this fall. After a mix up in the clude a guarantee that artisans drug protocol on Sept. 30, Glos- are paid a fair price in the lo- siip’s execution was stayed by cal context when the products Gov. Mary Fallin. The state leave their hands. They also re- has now granted an indefinite ceive assistance with quality stay for the three men. Now, control, design, and improved AI encourages people to write working conditions. to these 3 men and others on “The many products we of- Oklahoma’s death row. Located at 6516 N. Olie in Oklahoma City, the PAMBE Ghana Global Market sells fer are all handmade by in- products from around the world purchased directly from artisans or from certi- Tens of thousands of indi- dividuals who are paid a fair fied members of the Fair Trade Federation. viduals, imprisoned because wage for their work. They are es in developing this innova- Home project provides a refuge of their beliefs, gender, sexual beautiful and make great per- tive method in different com- and skills training to women orientation, race or ethnicity, sonal use and gift items,” said munities where there are no that have been accused of be- have been released from jail, Temple. schools, my intention is to sup- ing witches and are cast out of rescued from torture, or aided “Purchases from the Market port existing public schools in- their villages. in other ways following actions give triple benefits by pleasing terested in adapting and apply- “Women living in the Go like AI’s Wright For Rights the recipient, supporting the ing this approach.” Home project and others in campaign. artist who made it, and bene- Alice continued, ”I want to Ghana wear clothes made of From Ethiopia, Mideksa fiting PAMBE Ghana,” Temple make a contribution to my na- wax batik cotton fabric. Shop- Birtukan is one of those who added. tive community. It contributed pers at the Global Market can has benefited has from the Alice stated, “The educa- to who I am now, and I want always find a nice collection of Write for Rights event. tional program, which began to give back in a way that will batik yardage, placemats, and Birtukan said, “Through in 2008, teaches children in have a significant impact.” table runners.” your work on behalf of thou- grades pre-K through sixth to This summer, PAMBE Ghana Wheeler added, “This year, sands of prisoners of con- become proficient in English public relations representative we have some special items for science around the world, Am- and in the language of their vil- Jane Wheeler and other mem- pet lovers. One of our fellow nesty International continues lage. bers and supporters of the or- travelers, Kristin Williamson, to be the conscience of human- “I am passionate about qual- ganization were able to visit the has made dog leashes and col- ity. ity basic education for children Learning Center lars out of the colorful fabric “You have a hallowed mis- that starts with and builds on Wheeler said, “PAMBE Gha- and donated them to the Mar- sion to protect people wherev- the local language and culture na’s Global Market features ket.” er justice, freedom, truth and in poor, rural and under served necklaces and bracelets made For more information, con- dignity are denied. Your let- areas. by the women of the Go Home tact Linda Temple at 405-478- ters, phone calls, and petitions “As PAMBE Ghana progress- project in Gambaga. The Go 4936 or visit PAMBEGhana.org. were my protection during the months I spent in solitary con- finement. You were my voice when I had none,” Mideksa Go green for Christmas tree this year? continued. Staff Report viding wildlife habitat. The Write for Rights cam- A –After the holidays, you don’t paign empowers individuals to The Oklahoma Forestry Ser- have to find a place to store a take action against these viola- vices is encouraging Oklaho- real tree. tions. mans to experience the many L – Locally grown trees support Walters said, “We will have benefits of a real tree. According Christmas tree farmers across all you need including the let- to a press from the staff, an arm the state. ters and postage. You just need of the state Department of Agri- to sign, and write custom let- culture, Food and Forestry, those T – Two or three more trees will ters on cases you select. But if benefits include: be planted for each harvested you can, please bring a book of Christmas tree. stamps to contribute to the ef- R - Recycling opportunities such R – Real trees give you a unique fort.” as making mulch for gardening Christmas tree every year. To participate in the AI or chipping for hiking trails and E – Every tree at a Christmas Write-A-Thon, contact John playground materials. tree farm is planted for the pur- Walters at 405-720-6467. To E – Environmental benefits of a pose of becoming someone’s learn more, visit write.am- real tree include supplying oxy- Christmas tree. nestyusa.org . gen, absorbing carbon and pro- E – Experience a fun, family out- ing by visiting a Christmas tree farm to choose your tree. Many offer wreaths and greenery for sale along with free hot choco- late. S - You can’t beat the scent and beauty of a real tree! Oklahoma agritourism website at oklahomaagritourism.com. “Consider getting a real About Oklahoma Forestry Ser- Christmas tree this year,” said vices, a division of the Oklahoma State Forester George Geissler. Department of Agriculture, Food “It’s good for the environment, and Forestry. OSF is committed our local economy and it’s a fun to conserving, enhancing and holiday experience for your fam- protecting Oklahoma’s 12.5 mil- ily to pick out a special tree to- lion acres of forests and wood- gether.” lands. Since 1925, Oklahoma For- For more information about estry Services has worked with where to purchase an Oklahoma- individuals and communities grown tree and how to care for throughout the state to create re- it, visit Oklahoma Forestry Ser- silient landscapes, fire-adaptive vices’ website at forestry.ok.gov/ communities and provide wild- christmas-trees. Additional re- fire response. Headquartered in sources include the Oklahoma Oklahoma City, the division also Christmas Tree Association has regional offices in Golds- at okchristmastrees.com and by, Broken Bow, Wilburton and Christmas tree farms are list- Tahlequah. For more informa- ed under Specialty Crops on the tion, visit forestry.ok.gov. Page 3 www.city-sentinel.com December, 2015 OPINION/GOVERNMENT See us online, and on Facebook and Twitter COMMENTARY In joy, thankfulness, praise: Remembering John Fitzgerald Kennedy and Ronald Wilson Reagan By Patrick B. McGuigan Reagan continued: cause it reminds us that history Editor “Everything we saw him do is a living thing that never dies. seemed to show a huge enjoy- ... Several years ago, during ment of life; he seemed to grasp “History is not only made by one of her visits to Oklahoma from the beginning that life is people, it is people. And so his- City for a speech, I spent time one fast-moving train, and you tory is, as young John Kennedy with columnist Peggy Noon- have to jump aboard and hold demonstrated, as heroic as you an, a friend from my decade of on to your hat and relish the want it to be, as heroic as you work in Washington, D.C. sweep of the wind as it rushes are.” Ted Kennedy had died a few by. You have to enjoy the jour- Free people can preserve days before. Our conversation ney, it’s un-thankful not to. I the Constitutional Republic turned not to Ted, but to Ron- think that’s how his country re- that Benjamin Franklin, James ald Reagan’s relationship with members him, in his joy.” Madison and the Founders the Kennedy family in general, In the years they overlapped gave us. and respect for John F. Kenne- in the nation’s capital, the pride The Constitution forged in dy in particular. of Massachusetts, Democrat great minds, the heroic history Peggy, who can write bet- Jack Kennedy, had a sincere that elevated George Washing- ter than just about anyone, re- friendship with Mr. Conserva- ton, Thomas Jefferson and John mains in awe of Reagan’s writ- tive, Republican Barry Gold- Adams led to the trials and tri- ing and communication abili- water of Arizona. They had umphs of Jack Kennedy and ties during the years she served quietly reached an agreement, Ron Reagan, and to today. him in the nation’s capital. assuming each was the 1964 I am thankful to have lived One speech she helped Rea- presidential nominee of their in the times of both JFK and gan with, in 1985, was delivered respective parties, to travel the RWR. at Ted Kennedy’s home in sub- nation and hold a series of one- I study them, pondering urban McLean, Virginia, at a on-one debates. their examples, more with each tribute to JFK. Those would have been sub- passing year. Reagan said that night that stantive exchanges, we can be With the benefit of hindsight President Kennedy always certain, on matters of principle it is not their faults that stand seemed “a man of the most in- and policy. out, but their patterns of civil- Paintings of John F. Kennedy and Ronald W. Reagan, by Aaron Shikler teresting contradictions, very Reagan reflected on the two ity, amidst a fair share of policy American contradictions. … men. Their friendship demon- interactions, is that’s not quite edly critical of my favorite that we can still find ways to successes. It is hard to discern He was both self-deprecating strated, among other things, right. He was extraordinarily president. celebrate, in respect and peace, similar graces or substance and proud, ironic and easily the wisdom and character of kind -- offering a coaster or a Reagan never mentioned the the strength our varied beliefs among those leading the com- moved, highly literate yet ut- his hero, whose presidential napkin or making some small criticisms, and encouraged oth- and practices can bring to the petition to become the next terly at home with the common campaign redefined Republi- gesture to those on each side, ers to read my book, to learn public square. president of the United States, speech of the working man. … can politics. chatting about everything from lessons for the future. On that long-ago night with but time will tell. He could cuss a blue streak — In their respective eras as the weather to last weekend’s Some things in life cannot be the Kennedy family, Reagan The Republic which Frank- but then, he’d been a sailor.” national leaders, first JFK, then ball games. avoided. waxed lyrical as he shared sto- lin promised survives. But can “As a leader, as a president,” Reagan, practiced a hopeful In moments of grace, he re- The calendar comes to Nov. ries about the roll call of presi- we keep it? Reagan said John Kennedy brand of politics. Their man- membered (without note cards) 22 every year, that awful day dents who in some mysterious Both Kennedy and Reagan “seemed to have a good, hard, ners attracted me as a young little things about certain visi- when, in 1963, a young presi- way still reside at 1600 Penn- loved the blessed land in which un-illusioned understanding of man, comforted me in middle tors that endeared him. I’ve en- dent died in Dallas. When nuns sylvania Ave., including JFK. Madison’s constitutional de- man and his political choices.” age, and now sustain me in my countered a few women politi- of the Mercy Order at Bishop The conservative president sign functions. With such peo- Reagan did not seek false latter years. cians with similar disarming John Carroll School said Jack told a tender kind of White ple in mind, may we lift our friendship in papered-over dif- They have become an ar- charm, but no other man quite Kennedy had been murdered, House ghost story: hearts each day in thankful- ferences about things that mat- mor against the disappoint- like Reagan. my classmates and I went into “Walk softly now and you’re ness and praise, petitioning our ter. He knew that ideas have ment, betrayal and heartbreak One of my most prized pos- shock. It was quite some time drawn to the soft notes of a pi- Creator to sustain the nation consequences. He never backed of “the real political world.” My sessions is Reagan’s generous before we refocused on being ano and a brilliant gathering in they served. John Kennedy, yet grace found politics are more like Reagan’s letter encouraging people to children, and things were dif- the East Room, where a crowd Note: Portions of this essay a way to bridge the gap: “When than JFK’s, yet often I ponder read my 1990 analysis of the ferent when we did. surrounds a bright young pres- have appeared previously at the the battle’s over and the ground their common graces. failed effort to confirm Judge And, joyfully, the calendar ident who is full of hope and CapitolBeatOK.com and Watch- is cooled, well, it’s then that Some say Reagan was an or- Robert Bork to the U.S. Su- each year comes to Thanksgiv- laughter. I don’t know if this is dog.org websites, in The City you see the opposing general’s dinary man. My view, based preme Court. ing Day, America’s celebration true, but it’s a story I’ve been Sentinel newspaper and at city- valor.” on several meetings and other The book I wrote was point- of civic religion, a time to hope told, and it’s not a bad one be- sentinel.com. At Capitol ceremony, Democrats make it official: Independents can vote in primary elections Staff Report in Oklahoma,” Hammons said Democratic leaders in the o truly make a difference, we declare themselves as politi- pendents, almost 882,700 regis- during a State Capitol news state House of Representatives must not act like some on the cal independents,” Inman con- tered Democrats, and 886,000 On Nov. 16, the 108th Okla- conference Monday morning. and Senate, along with party other side of the aisle who lis- tinued. “[Y]our voice and your Republicans. homa Statehood Day, the state However, because of closed leaders and supporters, “under- ten only to a loud and vocal mi- vote matter. And from this day Below is the prepared text Democratic Party officially primaries, Independents “have stand that the solutions to the nority of voters.” forward, we welcome you to of Democratic House Leader opened its door to political In- no say” in the selection of can- problems facing our great state Oklahoma can’t be improved share them with us. The future Scott Inman’s comments at the dependents. didates by the two major par- don’t come from one political by “excluding the voices and of our state depends on it.” Nov. 16 state Capitol event: State Democratic Party ties in Oklahoma: Democrats party or one political ideology,” opinions of thousands of our State Election Board records “Today marks a historic mo- Chairman Mark Hammons and Republicans. said House Minority Leader Oklahoma friends and neigh- indicate Oklahoma has more ment in Oklahoma political signed, and delivered to the Delegates to a Democratic Scott Inman, D-Del City. “[T] bors just because they dare to than 261,000 registered Inde- continued on page 5 State Election Board, a letter Party gathering on July 25 vot- announcing that voters regis- ed to open the party’s primary tered in Oklahoma as Indepen- elections to Independents. dents will be allowed to vote Chairman Hammons said at in Democratic Party primaries the Capitol ceremony the party and runoff primaries. decision was intended “to help Independents are “the fast- us move Oklahoma to a new era Sentinel Elected est growing group of voters of leadership and openness.” Officials Guide

PO BOX 60876 • Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73146 • 405.605.6062 www.city-sentinel.com Patrick B. McGuigan, Publisher, Editor Ed Shadid [email protected] Oklahoma City Councilman Ward 2 Stacy Martin, Managing Editor [email protected] phone: (405) 297-2402 Joan Menton, Assistant to the Editors email: [email protected] [email protected]

Pam Paul, Business Operations, Sales and for advertising information: web site: www.edshadid.org [email protected] facebook: www.facebook.com/EdShadid Darla Shelden, Reporter, Online Content Manager [email protected] Mark Rodgers, Sports Editor [email protected] Stefan A. McGuigan, Distribution Manager [email protected] 405-706-1155 phone: (405) 521-5636 Layout and Graphics email: [email protected] Lee Vincent, Creative and Content Director web site: www.votedavidholt.com [email protected] Facebook: www.facebook.com/DavidFullerHolt Publication No. (USPS 566-340) Twitter: www.twitter.com/DavidFHolt Newspaper for City, State and County of Oklahoma. Instagram: @davidfullerholt The City Sentinel is published monthly by Frost Entertainment LLC. The address of the newspaper is P.O. Box 60876, Oklahoma City, OK 73146. Published in Oklahoma County, the paper primarily serves Oklahoma City. Newsstand price is 10 cents. Complimentary copies are widely available throughout Oklahoma City. Copying or other reproduction with- Richard Morrissette out permission is prohibited. All advertising submitted is subject to content review and re- jection. State Representative POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: 800 Overhead Dr., Oklahoma City, OK 73128 District 92 The City Sentinel, 228 Robert S. Kerr Ave., Suite 500, Oklahoma City, OK 73102 Correction policy: The City Sentinel publishes corrections as soon as possible after the error has been brought to the attention of the editor. (405) 557-7404 Proud Member of

web site: www.morrissettelawok.com email: [email protected] facebook: www.facebook.com/richarddmorrissette Page 4 www.city-sentinel.com December, 2015 BUSINESS/EDUCATION See us online, and on Facebook and Twitter Oklahoma City University at Christmas – bringing cheer and good tidings continued from page 1 Love to Keep Me Warm.” “We warm Mark Parker, dean of the mu- up the whole sic school. stage just in The Vespers will include time to take America is going to be just fine an a cappella processional everyone to By Jack L. Werner, Ph.D. from 15th-century Italy as well the North A to Z Inspections as a majestic closer—the “Fi- Pole,” Row- nale” from the Vaughan Wil- an explained. Every time I get to meet liams’ “Dona nobis pacem.” Several rein- young people who are work- The concerts will feature deer, Frosty ing with AmeriCorps, I University Organist Melissa the Snowman, know that America is going Plamman and the Vespers Or- Santa and oth- to be just fine. chestra directed by Eric Gar- er character A to Z Inspections of cia, the OCU orchestral con- favorites make Oklahoma recently provid- ductor. appearances ed ladder and tool safety The narration, congrega- throughout the training for a dozen NCCC tional singing and choral mu- show, rocking (National Civilian Com- sic all contribute to a moving to high-energy munity Corps, a division of experience. A candlelight re- beats from the AmeriCorps) volunteers. cessional “Night of Silence,” 1960s and to- AmeriCorps and NCCC which incorporates “Silent day. The audi- were working with Rebuild- Night,” concludes this annual ence-favorite ing Together OKC, a fabu- favorite. “Santa Kick- lous Oklahoma City non- Tickets are $15. line” will be profit that continually helps back by popu- low income folks keep their Jack Werner, Oklahoma City entrepreneur and columnist for The City Sen- Broadway-Style Dance tinel, is pictured training AmeriCorps volunteers with Rebuilding Together lar demand. home weather-proofed. In Extravaganza Energizes Kaufman in the Burg Theatre OKC in ladder and tool safety. Photo provided. As the show draws to a this case, the group was Christmas at OCU in the Kirkpatrick Fine Arts close, dances intensify with stripping and replacing Wouldn’t you like to be part Jack L. Werner, Ph.D., Oklahoma City Universi- Center. Show times are 8 p.m. the classic Christmas themes the roof on a Midwest City of this? Contact Rebuilding owns A to Z Inspection. Jeff ty’s world-renowned Amer- Dec. 4, 5, 10, 11 and 12 with a 2 of peace, love and goodwill. woman’s home. Together OKC at 405/607- Williams is a subcontractor ican Spirit Dance Compa- p.m. matinee Dec. 6. “Our meaningful staging of We get so involved in our 0464 and/or AmeriCorps for A to Z Inspections. Jack ny will celebrate Christmas In this classic and revered the nativity is a reverent cel- lives, our jobs, complaining Oklahoma at 405/858-7278. and Jeff can be reached at through tap, jazz, ballet and American comedy from the ebration of Christ’s birth,” about government, etc., we Remember the loud guy 405/412-7861 or atozinspec- music theater dance as the an- middle of the 20th century, fa- Rowan explained. often forget how many peo- on the TV commercial, wav- [email protected]. A to Z In- nual “Home for the Holidays” mous writer Sheridan White- The show is recommended ple and organizations are ing his arms around loud- spections performs commer- Christmas show returns to side, having dined at the mid- for ages 6 and up. Show times out there trying to offer a ly, saying “Do it now! Do it cial and residential inspec- the historic Kirkpatrick Audi- dle-class home of the Stan- are 7 p.m. Dec. 10 and 11, 2 and helping hand. now! Do it now!” tions. Learn more at atozin- torium stage Dec. 10 to 13. ley’s, slips on ice on their 8 p.m. Dec. 12 and 2 p.m. Dec. Let us not become the I am asking you to call spectionsok.com. Jack has Nearly 150 dancers, under doorstep, breaking his hip. A 13. caricature of the grumpy and volunteer a few hours of a construction degree from the direction of OCU Dance tumultuous six weeks of con- Tickets are $29.20 each. old person talking about your time. Do it now! Do it OSU and was Oklahoma’s Chair Jo Rowan, will perform finement follow. The Stanley The auditorium is in the Kirk- our surgeries and “kids to- now! first designated Master In- longtime audience favorites living room is monopolized patrick Fine Arts Center at day.” Look at these young You’ll enjoy driving home, spector. He teaches inspec- and a wide array of new num- by the irascible invalid, ex- N.W. 24th St. and Blackwelder people. Consider what they thinking, for a change, tions as well as courses for bers representing scenes from convicts are invited to meals, Ave. are doing to make life a lit- “America is going to be just the Oklahoma State Home the 1860s to the modern era. and transatlantic calls bring a tle better for someone else. fine!” Builders. The show opens with a can- $784 phone bill. The arrival of dlelit ballroom and express- Play Rings Christmas strange gifts from his friends es the romance of Christmas and Dinner Bells further destroys domestic Eve, which then transcends to TheatreOCU will pres- tranquility. It would take a sto- a sparkling, icy winter won- ent the comedy play “The ical housewife to harbor pen- derland where dancers heat Man Who Came to Dinner” guins in her library, an octo- things up with “I’ve Got My by Moss Hart and George S. pus in her cellar, and 10,000 cockroaches in her kitchen. When Maggie, Whiteside’s On Nov. 17. Vice President Joe secretary, falls in love with a Biden (left) attended a Demo- local reporter, Whiteside pulls cratic National Committee fund- out all the stops to thwart the raiser in Tulsa at the downtown relationship and keep his sec- Summit Club. Over 200 Demo- retary by his side. crats participated in the event A glamorous actress, a including attorney Kalyn Free crazed movie comedian, and a and State Rep. Chuck Hoskins. mummy case all feature prom- Photo by Kendra Horn. inently in this story of love tri- umphing over all. This holiday story is appropriate for all ages. It is directed by Hal Kohlman. Tickets are $12 for adults “Home for the Holidays” Christmas show. and $8 for children.

Faith Directory

First Baptist Church of Oklahoma City Sunday Holy Eucharist: 8, 9, 11 a.m. Human Diversity, Christian Unity “In the heart of our city with a heart for the Christian Education: 10:10 a.m. A light of love in a dark world of hurt Sunday world.” 1201 N. Robinson Saturday Holy Eucharist: 5 p.m. 9:30 am S.S., 10:50 am Worship Ph. 232-4255 www.fbcokc.org Sunday 6 pm, Wednesday 6 pm activities www. Sunday School: 9:15 a.m.; Worship: 10:30 Cathedral of Our Lady of Perpetual Help olivetbaptistokc.com a.m. Wednesday: Dinner 5p.m.; 3214 N. Lake Ave., OKC, OK 73118 First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) Bible Study 6 p.m. Thurs: SALT (Study & Lunch Ph. 525-2349 Rev. John Malget, Senior Minister Together) 11:45a.m. Pastor: Rev. John Metzinger Weekend Masses: Sat. @ 5 p.m., Sun. @ 8 a.m., 36th & N. Walker, OKC, 73118 St. Joseph Old Cathedral 10 a.m., 11:45 a.m. (V.N.) Phone: 525 -6551 307 N.W. 4th St., OKC, OK 73101 Sundays: Expressions Community Fellowship Ph. 235-4565 Church School- 9:30 Worship- 10:30 “A place where you can be who God created Weekend Masses: Sat.Vigil @ 4pm; fccokc.org you to be” Sunday @ 8 a.m., 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Worship experiences: Sundays Church of the Open Arms NOON - Spanish Service, Weekday Masses: 11 AM & 5:30 PM at 4010 N. Youngs Blvd in “No matter who you are, or where you are on Mon-Fri. @ Noon, Sacrament of Reconciliation: Oklahoma City. (405) 761-1878 life’s journey, you are welcome here!” Mon-Fri. 11:30 a.m. Sat. 3:15 p.m. or visit www.expressionsokc.com United Church of Christ 3131 N Penn, OKC 73112 St. Paul’s Episcopal Cathedral Olivet Baptist Church Fridays, 4pm- Food Pantry N.W. 7th and Robinson 1201 NW 10 OKC OK 73106 Sundays, 10:45am- Worship www.stpaulsokc.org Ph. 235-3436 Traditional Worship, Practical Ministries openarms.org Page 5 www.city-sentinel.com December, 2015 COMMUNITY See us online, and on Facebook and Twitter Annual Red At Capitol ceremony, Democrats make it Andrews official: Independents can vote in primary Dinner elections continued from page 3 done by excluding the voices and opinions of thousands of our Oklahoma friends and offers the history. For at a time in which neighbors just because they our politics have become more dare to declare themselves as polarized; at a time in which Christmas political independents. So on Republican politicians in this this, the 108th Oklahoma State- state and around the nation are hood Day, I’m honored to rep- spirit to ever more focused on appeas- resent my caucus members and ing the far-right fringe of their friends as the Oklahoma Dem- political base and ignoring the Oklahomans ocratic Party extends a warm The annual Red Andrews Dinner will take place on Dec. 25, Christmas Day at 8 issues and concerns of many, a.m. at the Cox Convention Center providing warm meals and toys for thousands invitation to the more than everyday Oklahomans. of Oklahoma City residents. Photo provided. 261,000 registered indepen- in need “It is in this time that Demo- dents in our state and opens that we didn’t have two nickels wrapped toys are now be- cratic leaders in the Oklahoma continued from page 1 our primaries to each and ev- to rub together.” ing accepted at Jackie Cooper House of Representatives and ery one of them. plicate that amount. Other or- Jones then volunteered at the BMW, 14145 N. Broadway; the Senate, along with our party Scott Inman “So to Oklahoma’s indepen- ganizations and individuals annual dinner for several years Goldman Law Firm, 222 N.W. 13 leaders and supporters, under- only listen to a loud and vocal dent voters I wish to say this: are also trying to secure coats. in the 1980’s. He plans to vol- St. in Oklahoma City; and Re- stand that the solutions to the minority of voters. And that if ‘We know your voice and your Please consider helping if you unteer every year that he can. public Bank & Trust at 401 W. problems facing our great state we are to improve and grow vote matter. And from this day can.” “I like to volunteer for the Main in Norman. don’t come from one political our beloved state, we must forward, we welcome you to Andrew’s niece, Betty Mc- dinner because it brings back Monetary donations should party or one political ideology. open our ears and our minds to share them with us. The future Cord, who has organized the really good memories. I look at be made payable to the Red That to truly make a difference those with whom we may not of our state depends on it.’ ” dinners for over 35 years, is the these kids that come today and Andrews’ Christmas Dinner we must not act like some on always agree. board’s honorary chairperson. I hope they feel as special as I Foundation, attention Mary the other side of the aisle who “But we know that can’t be www.CapitolBeatOK.com In 1958, Oklahoma City resi- felt. The Red Andrews Dinner Blankenship Pointer, Republic dent Jim Jones had his first Red is something you really can’t Bank & Trust, P.O. Box 5369, Andrews Dinner experience. put a value on for a little kid.” Norman, OK, 73070. One hun- “I thought that we were re- Jones added, “I know there dred percent of all donations Positive Tomorrows, school for homeless ally lucky to be at a dinner are hundreds of people in the go towards the dinner. like this and to get free pres- city that have the same story I Pointer added, “We will stay children, celebrates 25 years of service ents,” Jones said. “It was a neat have,” he said. “It’s a wonder- until the last person is fed. We Staff Report 22. it can accommodate while in- memory for me. My mom took ful way to give back and it’s a need approximately 500 volun- Since opening in November creasing the average child’s my brother Dan and I to it ev- great way for people without fi- teers, the crucial hours are af- Positive Tomorrows, Okla- 1990, the school has served ap- stay from eight to 85 days. ery year for several years. Of nancial resources to treat their ter 1 p.m. on Christmas Day.” homa’s only school for home- proximately 5,000 students and “We are thrilled to have course, at the time I didn’t kids to a really special day.” Volunteers are needed to less children, celebrated 25 grown from a staff of seven to made such an impact in the know how poor we were and Donations of new, un- help prepare on Christmas Eve years of service and education 22. Over the past 25 years, Posi- lives of our state’s most vul- from 9 a.m. to noon, and to during National Hunger and tive Tomorrows has more than nerable children over the past serve on Christmas Day from Homelessness Week, Nov. 14- doubled the number of students quarter century,” said Susan 8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Those want- Agel, Positive Tomorrows pres- ing to help are asked to come to ident. “Because we must turn the southwest corner entrance away more than 100 students of the Convention Center. each year due to a lack of phys- “The most important thing ical space, it is our mission for to know is that everyone is the next 25 years to further our invited to eat,” Pointer said. reach into Oklahoma’s expand- “Many people are alone, do not ing homeless population.” have family, they may not be In addition to educating able to afford to go out – It does homeless children and their not matter your circumstance.” families for life, Positive To- morrows served 26,384 meals, provided 617 individual coun- For more information, con- seling sessions and helped 91 Volunteers of the annual Red Andrews Dinner with long-time Red Andrews’ Din- tact Ms. Pointer at 405-253-8641 ner coordinator and niece of Red Andrews’, Ms. Betty McCord (blue jacket). or visit redandrewsdinner.org. continued on page 6

B illion+ Revenues from Tribal Government Gaming to the State of Oklahoma have hit the $1$1 billion mark this year in contributions toward education in Oklahoma. Those dollars have been directly deposited in the State’s education accounts in the last ten years, and the deposits and total contributions will continue to grow.

The Oklahoma Indian Gaming Association, and its membership, have commissioned and released the results of the report, “Statewide Economic Impacts from Oklahoma Tribal Government Gaming,” and the results are incredible.

Special thanks to the Steven C. Agee Economic Research and Policy Institute at Oklahoma City University and KlasRobinson Q.E.D., Inc. for their exceptional work on the report.

This report is intended to be the first of many, which will be undertaken annually, and presented to the people of Oklahoma with pride.

To read or download the full report, visit oiga.org.

Learn more about Oklahoma Indian Gaming Association at oiga.org Page 6 www.city-sentinel.com December, 2015 COMMUNITY See us online, and on Facebook and Twitter Positive Tomorrows, school for homeless children, celebrates 25 years of service

continued from page 5 tive Tomorrows will be with me every step of the way, and if you ask me what I’m going to percent of families improve do next, I’m going to be some- their housing conditions dur- thing big.” ing the 2014-2015 academic Students and faculty cel- year. ebrated the milestone at the Positive Tomorrows was school’s annual Thanksgiving funded in part by Oklahoma Luncheon, where families and City Public Schools until 2006, children unite to count their but now relies nearly entire- blessings and enjoy a tradi- ly on private donations and tional holiday meal. Positive grants that enable educators Tomorrows’ patrons will be to customize the curriculum honored on December 4, 2015 in a way that meets the unique at the school’s annual private challenges of their students. Gold Star Luncheon. Following her “Wallflower World Tour” concert at the Civic Center Music Hall in Oklahoma City, artist Diana Krall (center) “Because we are privately is photographed with John and Jacqueline Odgers during an event held for several KGOU patrons. Photo provided. funded, I can completely cus- Note: Positive Tomorrows is tomize my teaching to the in- Oklahoma’s only private, tu- Diana Krall dazzles packed house in dividual student, who may At Positive Tomorrows, teacher Shelly ition-free elementary school be three of four years behind Fryer helps her student construct a specifically serving homeless their peers academically,” classroom project. Photo provided. children and their families. Stu- OKC during Wallflower World Tour said Shelly Fryer, a third and ition-free private school that dents at Positive Tomorrows By Darla Shelden by artists including the Car- Rain.” The crowd had a strong fourth-grade teacher at Posi- still aims to integrate students receive a quality, trauma-in- City Sentinel Reporter penters, The Eagles, and Elton positive reaction to her rendi- tive Tomorrows. “The fact that back into public school by im- formed education while their John. tion of the popular tune “Route we have been thriving for nine plementing individualized parents get the support they On a misty Oklahoma City This time Krall wanted to 66,” and joined her in the years on donations and grants learning for delayed students need to create a better life. Posi- fall evening five-time Gram- record “music that I share with “Oklahoma City looks mighty is proof that Oklahomans care while offering safety, stability tive Tomorrows is a United Way my-winning jazz singer and pi- my peers” she told USA Today pretty’ portion of the song first deeply about our children and and basic necessities. Partner Agency, an Oklahoma anist Diana Krall performed to reporter Elysa Gardner. Wall- recorded by Nat King Cole. the issues of hunger and home- “I’m not going to sugar coat A+ School and is accredited by a near full house crowd at the flower is produced by fellow Krall was impeccably ac- lessness.” it, [being homeless] is scary, the North Central Association, Civic Center Music Hall. Canadian and Grammy winner companied onstage by Antho- Designed as a bridge pro- but after you get through it you a regional Accreditation Di- Her “Wallflower World David Foster. ny Wilson on guitar, Dennis gram to help homeless stu- can become something great,” vision of AdvancED. To learn Tour” presented by 35 Con- The show opened with “We Crouch on bass, Stuart Duncan dents enroll in public school, said Roshawna Stevens, a Posi- more, visit positivetomorrows. certs, wowed the audience on Just Couldn’t Say Goodbye” on fiddle, Karriem Riggins on Positive Tomorrows is a tu- tive Tomorrows alumni. “Posi- org. Nov. 15 with pop tunes from her from her “Glad Rag Doll” al- drums, and Patrick Warren on latest album as well as jazz fa- bum, which featured a large keyboards. vorites beautifully interpreted vintage radio image as the After a difficult year, endur- Former Gov. David Walters urges by her sultry, breathy and vel- backdrop. The nearly two-hour ing a bout with pneumonia and vet alto voice. concert included crowd pleas- the loss of her father, the tour Democrats to make their voices heard The 50 year old Canadian ers such as “Simple Twist of was temporarily postponed, By Darla Shelden Oklahoma City. Lieutenant Governor candi- born artist is married to British Fate,” “Temptation,” “I’m Going but she will complete the North City Sentinel Newspaper The Governor delivered his date Cathy Cummings, Central singer/songwriter Elvis Costel- to Sit Right Down and Write American leg on December 5 in message laced with his typical Oklahoma Labor Federation lo. They are parents of twin Myself A Letter,” and Bob Costa Mesa, CA before heading President of Walters Power use of wry Walters humor. President, Tim O’Connor and 8-year-old sons. Dylan’s “Wallflower,” which off to Asia and Australia. International and former Okla- OCDP Chair Joe Hartman candidate for US Congress Her first album, “Stepping inspired the new album’s title The evening, filled homa Governor, David Wal- introduced Walters and em- Tom Gui ld. Out” was released in 1993. Best track. with sumptuous entertainment, ters was guest speaker last ceed the event before a group “I’m enjoying the presiden- known for her jazz genre stan- In tune with the evening’s was a complete joy for those month at the Oklahoma Coun- of about 40 Democrats, includ- tial race, but like many of you, dards, her twelfth studio al- weather, Krall sublimely sere- fortunate enough to have at- ty Democratic Party Noon ing Oklahoma Democratic Par- I’m confused by it,” Walters bum, “Wallflower” is her first naded the audience with “Just tended, including this reporter, Luncheon. The weekly event ty (ODP) Chair Mark Ham- said. “I’ve got this terrifying pop venture. It features mostly Like a Butterfly That’s Caught who has been a fan for nearly is held at the landmark Boule- mons, former State Rep Wanda fear that our values, our pop- classics from the ’60s and ’70s in the Rain” along with “Let It 20 years. vard Cafeteria on N. Dewey in Jo (Peltier) Stapleton, former continued on page 7 25th Annual Sonja Martinez Christmas AIDS Benefit set to support Oklahoma City’s Winds House By Darla Shelden the pleasure of having some of City Sentinel Reporter Oklahoma’s best entertainers with me throughout the years. Performance artist Son- They take time out of their ja Martinez will host the 25th busy holiday schedule to give Annual Christmas AIDS Ben- the gift of love.” efit on Monday, Dec. 7, at The This year’s auction will in- Copa, 2200 N.W. 39 Express- clude tickets for three perfor- Oklahoma City performance artist way in Oklahoma City. Dinner mances of the Oklahoma City Sonja Martinez will host her 25th An- starts at 6 p.m. with entertain- Ballet donated by Ballet Master nual Christmas AIDS Benefit on Mon- ment beginning at 8 p.m. Pro- Jacob Sparso, aka Roxie Hart, day, Dec. 7, at The COPA to support ceeds go to support The Winds and Robert Mills. The Winds House. House in Oklahoma City. All tips for the entertainers Photos by Carrie Strong In addition to Ms. Marti- will also be donated to the Ben- nez, performers will include efit. John Beebe, Roxie Hart, Alison Martinez began her own Scott, Matthew Heath-Fitzger- work to help support AIDS ald and Bebe Adams. charities in 1991 after losing Martinez said, “I have had several close friends to AIDS.

Bebe Adams

Roxie Hart When Jackie and Barbara Cooper were putting together Oklahoma City’s large Red Tie event after losing their son to AIDS, it prompted Martinez to start a smaller scale benefit targeting the gay community continued on page 7 Page 7 www.city-sentinel.com December, 2015 COMMUNITY/ENTERTAINMENT See us online, and on Facebook and Twitter 25th Annual Sonja Martinez Christmas AIDS Benefit set to support Oklahoma City’s Winds House

continued from page 6

and held in a gay venue. She began hosting small dinner shows at Oklahoma City’s Gushers Restaurant and asked other local singers to perform with her. The Benefit has raised over $148,000 for the AIDS cause. Last year the event raised more money than any previous year. For the first 17 years the Alison Scott. Photos provided. Matthew Heath-Fitzgerald money was donated to Loaves Renowned anti-death-penalty activist Sister Helen Prejean was the special guest speaker at a lecture held last month at the and Fishes, a Catholic Chari- The Winds House program University of Central Oklahoma. Photo by Darla Shelden ties Meals on Wheels program. offers residents a chance to de- When Sister Gail Addis, who velop skills, find employment, was active in that program, re- seek educational possibilities, Sister Helen Prejean urges students turned to Michigan, Martinez and help in applying for SSA began donating to The Winds Disability. to get involved in abolishing the House. As a result of her many fun- “I picked the Winds House draisers and generosity toward after meeting with some of the gay community, Martinez death penalty their board members and work- has been awarded numerous By Darla Shelden penalty? sonnel, the skills they need, ers. My dear friends, John Bee- honors. City Sentinel Reporter They concluded the death the training they might require be and Richard Ogden had both She was given the Richard penalty is a moral issue and and how to handle the post been associated with the orga- May Award established by the Renowned anti-death-penal- that America should stop kill- traumatic stress which many nization. Oklahoma AIDS Care Fund in John Beebe ty activist Sister Helen Prejean ing people to show that killing have now admitted to suffering “The Winds House gave us 2009 and in 2012 she received pen.” was recently a guest lecturer at is wrong. from after being involved in ex- the option to focus our money the Cimarron Alliance Bill Winds House Vice President the University of Central Okla- Studies show a majority of ecutions.” on food, medication and other Rogers Lifetime Achievement Camden Chitwood said, “At this homa in Edmond. Americans still support the Prejean reinforced find- specific needs,” Martinez said. Award. event, you really feel the holiday The Oklahoma Scholar-Lead- death penalty, but only 32 per- ings that prosecutors are more “I liked that option, so I settled “It takes the help of many spirit and the generosity of our ership Enrichment Program cent of millennials (those born likely to seek a death sentence on the Winds House.” people to do this event,” Marti- community. We are grateful to (OSLEP), along with a class en- from the early 1980s to the ear- when a victim is white and par- Located at 1707 N.W. 17 St., nez said. “I want to thank Nick Sonja, The Copa, and all of the titled “Engaging and Informing ly 2000s) now back it. ticularly when the accused is The Winds House and The Post and the COPA staff, who performers for coming together Citizens about the Death Pen- Sr. Prejean expanded upon black. Winds Family House are owned have always been great support- to support the Winds House.” alty in the U.S.,” brought her those issues, and took ques- Students said executions and operated by the AIDS Sup- ers; Rick Moses, who has gra- Tickets are $50 per person, to campus. Conservatives and tions. She questioned how any should be public because they port Program, Inc. (A.S.P.), a ciously supplied flowers for us which includes a $25 donation Progressives United to Abolish kind of killing can be consid- are paid for with taxpayer mon- non-profit, privately funded in previous years; Tony Foss for that goes to support the Winds the Death Penalty and the UCO ered humane. ey and that the process should organization founded in the his generous donation of flow- House and $25 for the dinner Political Science Department Several states are investigat- be more transparent. 1980’s. ers this year, as well as the en- buffet. Reservations are rec- co-sponsored. ing lethal injection protocols. In Oklahoma, after the The two residences are part tertainers who make this won- ommended and can be held by Students in a two-week pro- Prejean believes it is time to botched execution of Clayton of a transitional program for in- derful show possible. credit card by calling 405-525- gram -- from Langston, OU, reconsider the ruling in a Ken- Lockett, the protocols were re- dividuals with HIV/AIDS who “Finally I want to thank my 0730. UCO, OSU, Southern Nazarene tucky case, in which the U.S. examined, yet the process be- are homeless or who are faced partner Dee, who also does a To learn more about The and East Central -- presented Supreme Court found a state le- came more secret. “Oklahoma with the imminent threat of be- great deal of the background Winds House, visit winds- findings on these issues: 1) Is thal injection protocol was not has been bad,” Prejean said, becoming homeless. work to make the event hap- houseokc.org. the death penalty moral and unconstitutional cruel and un- lieving the process is “not wor- constitutional? 2) Is race an is- usual punishment. thy of you, the people of Okla- sue? 3) Should executions be Prejean said the process re- homa.” Former Gov. David Walters urges Democrats to made public? 4) Should physi- mains secretive: “It is unclear Costs were also discussed. A cians participate? and 5) What what consideration is given to study reported by FOX News make their voices heard is the cost of using the death the selection of execution per- continued on page 8 continued from page 6 take care of Gov. Perry’s big contributor, why doesn’t she ulation and our voters in this have time to get 200,000 peo- nation are somehow shifting to ple insurance who would auto- a less compassionate, humane matically be covered under the and more a ‘who cares I’ve got ACA (Affordable Care Act), mine you go get yours’ kind of or getting our teachers off the mentality with the rise of these bottom of the national wage Republican candidates.” scale,” Walters asked. He smiled and added, “I “An automatic is to get can- use Twitter to talk about poli- didates that will speak to that tics where I’m limited to a 140 – they’re not always going to characters or I’d go on all day.” win. But let that freedom wash Walters said he felt the GOP over you, because now you can was having some problems be a truth teller. Go out there with their candidates, refer- and talk about the Affordable ring to an article in the Wash- Former Oklahoma Governor David Care Act. They only talk about ington Post that day about the Walters delivered his message at the the expense without any of the GOP leadership being on the Oklahoma County Democratic Party benefits.” Walters said. verge of hitting the panic but- Noon Luncheon laced with his typical “We want to know what we wry Walters humor. ton. “They’re just out of their Photo by Darla Shelden should do about mental health minds with what’s going on I – a hundred million dollars think.” homa is one of the first states would appear like magic in the Walters and his wife Rhonda in the nation to tax solar roof- mental heath department be- recently hosted a fundraiser at top installations and one of the cause it would free up other their home for the local chap- first to back off of solar incen- expenses that the Affordable ter of the Sierra Club, where he tives. Care Act would take care of if and others addressed environ- He said, “Many utilities we expanded Medicaid.” mental concerns in Oklahoma. companies around the world Walters says these situations “Democrats were frustrated are getting with the program are opportunities for his party with the state policies related and trying to figure out how to have their voices heard and to the environment,” Walters to promote distributive gener- that finding good candidates is said. ation and how to get involved the best way to do it. He noted that there is latent in renewables and how to take “We need truth tellers. anger and that the voters know advantage of this shift in tech- We need to find people that that they’ve been lied to. “I be- nology, but not here. will tell the truth, and spread lieve that, because you can’t go “Why not here?” he asked. the message,” he continued. from zero to 850 earthquakes Walters believes there is in- “When you lay the issues out and know that we’re inject- sufficient pressure on state of- in crystal clear detail, I think ing disposal wells full of lubri- fice holders. voters would be for it.” cants. And then walk around, “Our Sierra Clubs scrambles Walters also congratulated which we did for about five to raise a little money so it can the ODP on their efforts to al- years, saying ‘If we could only be a voice, while their national low Independents to vote in figure out what was causing office files a lawsuit,” Walters Democratic primaries. this. said. “We’ve got to find a way On Nov. 16 during a press “It’s putting us in danger of to get them more resources so conference at the state Capitol, having a devastating earth- they can be our more promi- Hammons stated, “Yesterday, quake,” he stated. “They’ve got nent voice on these environ- over 260,000 registered vot- plenty of money to be able to mental matters.” ers in Oklahoma had no voice clean this water up and to stop The Governor praised Ham- selecting who would be on the this ridiculous profiteering at mons for recently challenging general election ballot. Today, our expense and at our danger. Gov. Mary Fallin. the Oklahoma Democratic Par- “I think now voters are call- Hammons submitted a com- ty is giving these Oklahomans ing BS on this and there is plaint regarding several issues, a voice.” power in riding that wave. including a possible violation A Hillary Clinton support- “Everybody feels that they’re for the involvement of the gov- er, Walters says he likes Bernie not being talked to directly ernor’s office in an investiga- Sanders and the “conscience and they understand that you tion of a Tulsa surgeon by the that he brings about base level can solve it. We are upset by Oklahoma Board of Medical issues and the passion that he the continuing assault on re- Licensure and Supervision. brings to those issues. newable generation.” “If she’s got time to go to the “I hope we can do that in our He pointed out that Okla- medical examiners board and races.” Page 8 www.city-sentinel.com December, 2015 ENTERTAINMENT See us online, and on Facebook and Twitter Sister Helen Prejean urges students 2015 Peace Festival: Celebration of life to get involved in abolishing the death penalty continued from page 7 alty in the United States”. It became a movie, an opera, and a found “a death-penalty trial play for high schools and col- costs $1 million more than one leges. in which prosecutors seek life Sister Helen later realized without parole.” that she had downplayed vic- The process risks executing tims’ families because she an innocent person, and there “didn’t know what to do.” Chal- are no “do-overs.” Prejean not- lenging Prejean, her book editor Working the Peace House table are (L-R) Anne Murray, ed that 156 people have been ex- called that an act of cowardice. Nathaniel Batchelder, Gail Sloop and Roger Harms during ACLU-OK Board Secretary James Nimmo participated in onerated from death row, ten in When she met Leblanc’s fa- the 30th Annual Fall Peace Festival held at the Civic Center the 2015 Fall Peace Festival answering questions regarding Hall of Mirrors. American civil liberties. Oklahoma. ther, he said, ‘Sister all this Photo by John Walters Photo by Darla Shelden The student group referred time you’ve been visiting with to a Kansas study finding that those boys, but you never once capital cases are 70 percent reached out to us.” He “went more expensive than compara- there with vengeance,” but ble non-death penalty cases. “didn’t like what was happening Anti-death penalty activist Sister Hel- Prejean summarized how she to himself.” en Prejean, author of “Dead Man Walk- became involved in the move- Prejean said, “He helped me ing” and “The Death of Innocence” ment: “I began working in a to understand that you forgive was guest speaker at a recent event at the University of Central Oklahoma as Catholic Parish teaching kids your enemies so that your ene- part of the Oklahoma Scholar-Leader- in the school. … The awaken- mies don’t destroy you.” ship Enrichment Program. ing was what Christianity is re- Believing that some among Photos by Darla Shelden ally about – to make our way to the six men she accompanied of attorney Don Knight, re- poor people and wounded peo- to execution were not guilty, nowned Supreme Court lawyer ple where the system is broken she wrote a second book, “The Pat Hoerth, spiritual director at Turtle Rock Farm retreat Oklahoma Coalition to Abolish the Death Penalty member Mark Olive, and Oscar winning and the people do not get what Death of Innocents: An Eyewit- center, discusses the events and programs of Green Con- Thom Gallagher informs guests of the Fall Peace Festival actress Susan Sarandon, who nections, an organization dedicated to ecological education. about the issue of capitol punishment. they need to have a dignified ness Account of Wrongful Exe- portrayed Prejean in the film Photo by Darla Shelden Photo by Darla Shelden life.” cutions.” “Dead Man Walking.” She said, “At St. Thomas, Af- As spiritual advisor to Okla- Spared death a fourth time, rican Americans became my homa death row inmate Rich- Glossip received a short stay of teachers and introduced me to ard Glossip, Prejean has cata- execution from Gov. Mary Fal- another America. All the rules pulted the issue into a global lin on Sept. 30, moments before were different for things like spotlight. he was scheduled to die. Au- healthcare and the police. Glossip was arrested in 1997 thorities disclosed one of three She became pen pal to Pat- in connection with the kill- drugs approved for Oklahoma’s rick Somnier, a Louisiana death ing of Barry Van Treese. Con- lethal injection protocol, po- row inmate convicted along fessed murderer Justin Sneed tassium chloride, had been re- with his brother Eddie of kill- ultimately testified Glossip paid placed by potassium acetate. ing two teenagers, Loretta Ann him for the murder, but Sneed Oklahoma Attorney General Bourque and David LeBlanc. offered several differing ac- Scott Pruitt then sought an in- “I never dream I’d be an ad- counts of events. After a plea definite stay for three sched- vocate,” Prejean recalled. After deal, Sneed received a sentence Sara Bana, cofounder of Ending Violence Everywhere (EVE) Oklahoma Sierra Club Cimarron Group Legislative/Political uled executions (Glossip, Benja- will partner with the OKCPD, represented by Staff Sgt. Representative Susie Shields Derichsweiler helped visitors Patrick’s execution, she wrote of life without parole. Glossip min Cole and John Grant). A re- Adam Rosko, for a summit in January to discuss taking a at the 30th Annual Peace Festival to take action regarding “Dead Man Walking: An Eyewit- was sentenced to death. leased autopsy report revealed peaceful stand against the culture of violence. issues pertaining to Oklahoma’s environment. ness Account of the Death Pen- Sr. Helen enlisted the help Photo by Darla Shelden Photo by John Walters the wrong drug had been used on Charles Warner, executed in January. Prejean challenged listen- ers to consider guards, wardens and others whose job it is to do these killings. Prejean said that in a democracy there is no way to be neutral. “If you’re not doing any- thing, then you’re supporting the status quo. Oklahoma has killed 112 people – all done in your name. So when your mind awakens and you get it, I urge you to act,” she said. Oklahoma Coalition to Abolish the Death Penalty board member, Anne Murray (left) speaks with anti death penalty activist Sister Helen Prejean at a recent For more information, visit event at the University of Central Oklahoma. sisterhelen.org. Paseo Events: First Friday Gallery Walk Dec. 4, and ‘Holidays on Paseo’ Saturday, Dec. 5 Staff Report phone and carolers. Art Gallery, Paseo ArtWorks, Classes will include card Brayer & Brush, A Jeweler’s The monthly First Friday making, necklace making, gin- Art Gallery, Bombs Away Art, Gallery Art Walk will take gerbread house and decorating. Paseo Art Space, The Purple place Dec. 4 (Friday) from 6 Santa will be there, too (from Loft, Contemporary Arts Gal- - 10 p.m. at N.W. 30 and Paseo 1 - 4 p.m.,sponsored by Foraker lery, JRB Art at the Elms, Gal- Dr. in the heart of Oklahoma Company. lery One, Studio Six, ReMod- City. Take the opportunity to vis- ern OK, Bone Dust Cowgirl, “Holidays on Paseo” puts the it Café Evoke, OKCity Grill, In Your Eye Studio and Gal- Christmas season in high gear Taste of Soul Egg Rolls, PLP lery, Paseo Pottery, and Max Dec. 5 (Saturday). From Noon - Food truck and your Paseo fa- the Barber (inside the Avalon 7 p.m. on Saturday your favor- vorites. Building). ite venues in the Paseo Historic Special events for Holi- District will be open. days on Paseo will take place For information, visit or call Join the fun for great shop- at The Project Box, The Craft Paseo Arts Association, 3022 ping, artist demonstrations, Room, SixTwelve, The Jann Paseo Dr., 405-525-2688, web- children’s activities, live saxo- Jeffrey Gallery, Summer Wine site: thepaseo.org . EXPERIENCE FIRST FRIDAY GALLERY WALK Friday, December 4, 2015 6-10pm LIVE MUSIC - LISA HUBBERT - STROLLING MUSICIAN In the Paseo Art Space: “Circus” by Claudette Torneden Showing through December Local and national art, great food, art classes and plenty of shopping! ARTS DISTRICT CHECK OUT OUR WEB SITE 405.525.2688 #FirstFridayPaseo www.thepaseo.org www.City-Sentinel.com