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Volume 56, Issue 4 April 2018 Read us daily at www.city-sentinel.com Ten Cents

Page 11 Page 13 Pages 4 & 5 Criminal Justice Reform ‘Greater Tuna’ brings both humor and pity Heather Coyle announces candidacy for Oklahoma County District Judge By Darla Shelden City Sentinel Reporter

On March 15, Oklahoma City attorneys Mack Martin and John Coyle hosted a re- ception and fundraiser for Heather Coyle, who is a can- didate for Oklahoma Coun- ty District Judge, 7th Judicial District, Office No. 8. Ap- proximately 100 enthusiastic supporters attended the event at Broadway 10 Bar & Chop- house. “When I was made aware that Heather Coyle was con- sidering running for District Judge, I was extremely excit- ed,” Martin said. “The mag- nitude of her intelligence and Founded in 1970, Earth Day is celebrated each year on April 22. File photo. compassion combined with Assistant District Attorney Heather Coyle is running for Oklahoma County Dis- her grit to know when to do trict Judge, 7th Judicial District, Office No. 8. Photo by Payton Pettigrew. the right thing and not the Oklahoma Earth Day events scheduled popular thing are qualities She earned her Juris Doctor 2008, she has worked with al- that will make her the best from the University of Okla- ternatives to incarceration District Judge. For those rea- homa College of Law. through the Specialty Court throughout April sons and many, many, more As an assistant district at- Diversion Programs. By Darla Shelden On Saturday, April 7, screen and head out to the Ar- I am proud and honored to torney, Heather has gained She currently oversees the City Sentinel Reporter the Martin Nature Park cadia Lake Sweep on Satur- serve as her campaign chair- extensive jury trial experi- Drug/DUI Court Program; Center Earthfest will be held day, April 7 at Spring Creek man.” ence prosecuting cases deal- heads the Mental Health Since its founding in 1970, from 11 a.m. - 4 pm., at 5000 Park, S.E. 15 St., in Edmond, After 20 years of service at ing with homicide, drugs, Court; HERS program, a fe- Earth Day is a worldwide an- W. Memorial Rd., in Oklaho- from 8 - 11 a.m. Participants the Oklahoma County District property, and domestic vio- male diversion program; the nual event, celebrated on ma City. This event features a will receive a T-shirt while Attorney’s office, Heather has lence. During her tenure, she Northcare Day Reporting April 22 to demonstrate sup- celebration of the Earth with supplies last as well a hot-dog set her cap…or perhaps robe, has served under the adminis- Program; and ReMerge, the port for environmental pro- eco-friendly games, crafts and lunch. Trash bags and clean- for a higher court calling. trations of District Attorneys highly successful female di- tection. activities. A trash truck will up assignments will be given A native of Oklahoma, Bob Macy, Wes Lane and Da- version program designed to This list highlights a few of be on display for all the kids at the registration table. Heather attended the Univer- vid Prater. transform pregnant women the events scheduled through- to explore. Advanced registra- In celebration of National sity of Oklahoma where she Heather was the point per- and mothers facing incarcera- out April to raise awareness tion not required. Arbor Month – also in April received a Bachelor of Arts de- son for the District Attor- tion into productive citizens – of what Oklahomans can do to Volunteers are invited to – volunteers can help beautify gree in political science with a ney’s Domestic Violence Pro- all of which are “alternatives help protect the planet. grab their gloves and sun- continued on page 8 minor in Spanish and History. gram for two years. Since late continued on page 8 St. Baldrick’s Brightmusic: savoring memories of a OKC asks March “Montage” – anticipating April’s Oklahomans “Old and the New” By Patrick B. McGuigan mann a few precious moments quently. to again Editor in solo. He and Owens traded Ranson performed Franz “trilling” sequences both in Schubert’s “On the River” ‘brave the In wake of the stirring unison and harmony. Owens’ (Opus 119) in German, thank- “Montage of Sound” concert especially pleasing moment fully -- for this admirer – with shave’ to fight this past month, Brightmusic is came when her flute seemed to English translation provid- preparing for an April concert “echo” the bassoon’s lead. ed. With Cheng on piano, and childhood celebrating a range of “Old The evening featured two Kate Pritchett’s horn in re- and New” works building on short works – with Lisa Har- strained support, Ransom cancer the chamber mu- soared deliver- By Darla Shelden sic tradition. ing Ludwig Rell- City Sentinel Reporter The March stab’s poetic tale performance, at of a beloved’s On Sunday, April 22, shaved downtown’s St. final kiss before heads and beaming smiles will Paul’s Episco- a river journey abound as St. Baldrick’s OKC their heads in exchange for do- St. Baldrick’s Foundation is pal Cathedral, (literal or figu- will hold its annual fund-rais- nations. an all volunteer charity com- brought to stir- rative?) onto an ing event in the Western Av- “This is such an exciting mitted to funding the most ring life a diverse range of sol- vey-Reed (with Ouyang’s pi- ocean. In rational musings, the enue Corridor at VZD’s and event for everyone. It is built promising research to find id compositions, somewhat ob- ano backing) performing a program notes wondered if the Becks Garage. around making a difference in cures and conquering child- scure in some cases to all but five-minute item by Emile Pal- work was a mysterious fore- Registration will begin at the lives of so many children hood cancer so survivors can the most trained lovers of mu- adilhe; and the happy finale shadowing of Schubert’s early noon, with head-shaving start- whose lives have been touched live long and healthy lives. The sic. by Francis Poulenc which was death. ing at 1 p.m. by cancer,” St. Baldrick’s OKC foundation funds more child- The opening work (Trio in F performed by Harvey-Reed, Ransom returned for the Festivities will include committee member Carrie Hu- hood cancer research grants Major) by Gaetano Donizetti Ackmann and Amy I-Lin evening’s longest set, four head shaving, bands, games lett said. “We look forward to than any entity outside of the featured Parthena Owens on Cheng on piano. hymns from Twentieth Cen- for the kids, food trucks, and seeing all the familiar faces U.S. government. flute, Rodney Ackmann on Appropriate to the holy sea- tury composer Ralph Vaughan more. Volunteers raise mon- and many new ones who want St. Baldrick’s OKC com- Bassoon, and Ruirui Ouyang son of Lent were the vocal pre- Williams, well delivered with ey to be used throughout the to contribute to the cause of mittee member Becky Har- on piano. sentations, where tenor An- Mark Neumann’s viola and year by shaving the hair off helping kids.” continued on page 9 This lovely piece gave Ack- drew Ransom worked so elo- continued on page 13

At News9, a McGuigan Farewell A note to advertisers and potential advertisers Here is The City Sentinel print edition production schedule for next 4 months. May 2018 edition Ad space reservation: Tuesday, April 24 Ad content deadline: Thursday, April 26 June 2018 edition Ad space reservation: Tuesday, May 22 Ad content deadline: Thursday, May 24

July 2018 edition Ad space reservation: Tuesday, June 19 Ad content deadline: Thursday, June 21 August 2018 edition Preparing for the March 10 broadcast: At left, Alex Cameron of News9, the CBS News affiliate in Oklahoma, and Patrick Ad space reservation: Tuesday, July 24 B. McGuigan, founder of CapitolBeatOK, editor/publisher of The City Sentinel, and for the past eights years analyst for Ad content deadline: Thursday, July 26 “Capitol Report” on the CBS News affiliate in Oklahoma City. In their final segment, McGuigan focused on a commentary he posted by Mike W. Ray which highlighted Republican decisions to undermine legislative “germaneness” rules at the Capitol. McGuigan also gave his reasoning in opposition to proposed increases in the Gross Production Tax on oil and gas. He con- cluded with a passionate appeal for support of independent community journalism. News9 ScreenShot courtesy Jones PR. Page 2 www.city-sentinel.com April 2018 NEWS See us online, and on Facebook and Twitter Oklahoma pursues use of inert gas inhalation for executions By Darla Shelden be done. are invisible, hidden victims. City Sentinel Reporter “The move to nitrogen hy- People are not even thinking poxia apparently is based on through the fact that when an Oklahoma Attorney General the pragmatic recognition that execution is carried out, it’s go- Mike Hunter and Department reputable doctors and pharma- ing to leave another grieving of Corrections Director Joe All- cists will not supply the drugs family.” baugh announced on March needed to participate in lethal Baich stated, “The state’s 14 at the State Capitol that the injection because it violates multi-county grand jury’s rec- next method of execution in the Hippocratic Oath to do no ommendation, which was Oklahoma would be nitrogen harm.” echoed by the Oklahoma Death hypoxia. Oklahoma currently has 49 Penalty Review Commission “After many hours of re- death row inmates, including 17 (p. 196, n. 204), was that if gas search, deliberation and con- who have exhausted all appeals were to be used, experts should versations with the director, and are awaiting an execution be brought in and a best prac- attorneys, and other stakehold- date. tices study would be needed.” ers, we believe the best proto- Hunter added, “There’s a According to Hunter, be- col to develop for executions good deal of experience based fore the next execution could in the state is inert gas inhala- on inert gas inhalation used be scheduled, it would take 90 tion,” Hunter said. “I will refer with regard to assisted suicide.” – 120 days to complete the pro- to it as IGI.” Heath said, “We are not fa- tocol, then a 150 day stay for a Oklahoma is one of the 31 miliar with the data that At- federal court review, and to in- states that uses lethal injection torney General Hunter referred form the attorneys of those on as its primary method of exe- to about its use in assisted sui- death row, along with the Okla- cution. Like other states Okla- cides. We are hopeful that the homa Court of Criminal Ap- homa is finding that the drugs court challenges will take Oklahoma Attorney General Mike Hunter (at podium) and Department of Corrections Director Joe Allbaugh (right) an- peals. nounced this week during a press conference that the new method of execution in Oklahoma would be nitrogen hypoxia. needed are hard to get and of- years and that executions will Photos by Darla Shelden. Kiesel said, “The question ten extremely expensive. continue to be on hold.” Oklahomans must ask is not Allbaugh said, “It’s been a When asked what modifi- Penalty Review Commission who are challenging the state’s members of the victim’s fami- whether they support the death mad hunt for drugs, ever since cations would be need to pre- was called to study every as- execution protocol method, lies, stating, “they have waited penalty, but rather, do they I arrived at the DOC in January pare the death chamber for the pect of the death penalty, from asked, “Who are the experts on long enough for justice.” trust this government with the 2016. I was calling all around use of gas, Allbaugh replied, “I arrest to execution. nitrogen and nitrogen hypoxia Allbaugh added, “they power to kill its citizens.” the world, to the back streets haven’t the foggiest idea.” In April 2015, the commis- who will be brought in?” should not be forgotten.” Anti-death penalty activ- of the Indian subcontinent, to The Most Rev. Paul S. Coak- sion released a nearly 300-page “Oklahoma is once again This reporter asked if they ist Sister Helen Prejean took procure drugs.” ley, Archbishop of Oklahoma report containing 46 recom- asking us to trust it as officials had spoken to family members to social media saying, “The Allbaugh noted that they City said, “When available, we mendations to the state’s ex- ‘learn-on-the-job,’ through a of those on death row. “What’s suggestion by authorities that had decided to go with the IGI should choose non-lethal ways ecution protocol. The report new execution procedure and your point?” Hunter replied. this new method is ‘more hu- method about a week before the to ensure justice and to protect concluded that “without major method,” Baich said. Bill Babbit, a member of mane’ ignores the fact that it is press conference. “We’re just society. I pray for the day that changes, Oklahoma risks exe- Hunter said an “emotionally Murder Victims’ Families an untried method, human ex- beginning. We’re not sure how Oklahoma and other states will cuting innocent people.” difficult” conference call was for Human Rights (MVFHR) perimentation, practiced by the this is going to unfold.” abolish capital punishment.” Ryan Kiesel, ACLU of Okla- held earlier that morning with said, “Families of the executed state upon its citizens.” In April 2015, Gov. Mary Fal- Oklahoma’s track record homa Executive Director said, lin signed a bill allowing ni- with lethal injection has been “In the time since a moratori- trogen gas as a state execution under scrutiny since April 2014 um was placed on executions, method. after the infamous botched exe- the State has done absolutely Hunter said, “We can no lon- cution of Clayton Lockett made nothing to inspire confidence ger sit on the sidelines and wait headlines worldwide. After that they are now able to suc- for drugs. thrashing and groaning on the cessfully exercise the ultimate “Using nitrogen…will be ef- gurney, it took 43 minutes after power of any government. In- fective, simple to administer, the drug was administered be- stead, Oklahoma’s leaders have easy to obtain and requires no fore Lockett died. demonstrated new levels of in- complex medical procedures. Oklahoma has had a mora- competence. Now these same This is the safest, the best torium on the death penalty politicians are drafting plans to and the most effective meth- since October 2015 after the kill human beings with meth- od available, and we’re moving wrong drug, (potassium ace- ods that are unproven and un- forward.” tate instead of potassium chlo- tested among enlightened soci- Critics were quick to point ride) was nearly used to exe- eties.” out one problem - “We are con- cute Richard Glossip. The DOC Hunter said the adminis- cerned that Oklahoma is now later admitted that the wrong tration of the gas would prob- pursuing a mode of execution drug had also been used in ably require the use of a mask, that has not been tried any- the January 2015 execution of but “details would have to be where before,” said Rev. Don Charles Warner, who said, “My worked out.” Heath, OK-CADP chair. “We body is on fire.” Attorney Dale Baich, a feder- do not know what kind of tri- Following the Glossip fiasco, al public defender representing Oklahoma Department of Corrections Director Joe Allbaugh (at podium) and Attorney General Mike Hunter (left) discuss als on human guinea pigs will a bipartisan Oklahoma Death Oklahoma death row prisoners their decision to pursue a new execution protocol using inert gas inhalation.

CORRECTION ‘Ladies in the News’ scheduled for April 6 honors Staff Report Due to a schedule change, The City Sen- Several Oklahoma women tinel March 2018 print are scheduled for recognition edition article titled, “First as “Ladies in the News” at the Unitarian Church to host Oklahoma Hospitality Club diversity focused book (OHC) event scheduled for club,” should have listed Friday, April 6 at the Oklaho- the Session 1 moderator ma City Country Club. Funds as Dr. Michael Snyder, raised at the luncheon and Professor of English at style show held in conjunction Oklahoma City Commu- with the awards will benefit the Oklahoma Foundation for nity College, author of the Disabled and the Oklahoma Joseph Matthews: Life of City Metro Alliance Women’s an Osage Writer (Univ. of Firstep. Okla. Press), and several The 2018 award winners in- Suzanne Broadbent Terri Cornett Gale Box Willa Johnson articles on American and clude Suzanne Broadbent, Gail Indigenous writers. Box, Cheryl Borelli, Terri Cor- tal prescription drug overdose. cal contractor’s license, De- An inductee into the state Af- opment, and community rela- nett, Maxine Decocq, Jennifer Gail works to prevent other cocq’s roots go back to the 1889 rican-American Hall of Fame, tions. She is on the board of the Grigsby, Cynthia Henderson, families from experience the Run. Maxine has served on the she garnered an Honorary Central OK Humane Society/ Willa Johnson, Lisa Kalman, pain of losing a loved one boards of: Edmond Chamber of Doctorate from Oklahoma City Treasurer and Oklahoma Phil- Robin Stephenson-Bratcher, Known as “Noni” to her Commerce, Edmond Fine Arts, University. harmonic Society and active in Donita Thomas, and Kelly Fry. grandchildren, Borelli has and Edmond Historical Soci- Kalman is a ‘closing special- the Downtown Rotary Club of In her legal career, Broad- been in the banking industry ety. She chairs Christian Wom- ist’ in the world of real estate. Oklahoma City and the Okla- bent has worked in all three for 35 years, rising to the po- en of Oklahoma City and was With over 29 years of expe- homa Venture Forum. branches of state govern- sition of Senior Vice-President named Edmond Federation of rience, 15 of those years with Kelly Fry, editor of The ment. She is past president of at BancFirst in Oklahoma City. Republican Women’s Woman Chicago Title. Lisa has risen to Oklahoman newspaper, is also the American Association of Cheryl has also served on sev- of the Year in 2017. the top two percent nationally an honoree. University Women (Oklaho- eral non-profit boards, includ- Grigsby is Executive Vice in her field. Awardees will model fash- ma), was active in the League ing Oklahoma City Metro Al- President & Chief Financial Of- Stephenson-Bratcher, holds ions from Dillard’s Penn of Women Voters, and served liance, YWCA of Oklahoma ficer of Ascent Resources, LLC, a master of divinity, master of Square. Raffle Baskets, for $5 a on the board of Neighborhood City, Harding Fine Arts Acad- an independent natural gas and science in psychology, and a chance, will be part of the pro- Alliance. In 2016, she was ap- emy, and Villa Isenbart/Trin- oil company. doctor of divinity. Robin was gram. Last year’s raffle alone pointed to the local Historic ity Place (Catholic Charities’ State Regent for the Daugh- an Air Force aircraft mechanic garnered $5,000 for OHC’s Preservation Commission. low income housing for the el- ters of the American Revo- and Army reserve transporta- charities. Box is co-founder of the Aus- derly). lution, Henderson has also tion specialist until 1991, then Tickets are $75 per person. tin Box “12” Foundation – in Cornett worked on the sales served as the Chapter Regent returned to serve in the Air Corporate table sponsorships remembrance of her son, Aus- team at KTUL-TV, Tulsa for 21 for Oklahoma City. She was Force as a Chaplain from 1998- were set at $1,100. Information tin, who died from an acciden- years – the last seven as a Sales awarded the National DAR 2014. She led debriefings for is available from Ann Simank Manager. She has served on the Outstanding State Chairman first responders/victims of the at 405-833-7626. Co-chairs for national board for American for Women’s Issues in 2009 and Murrah Building bombing and this year’s event are Simank Women in Radio and Televi- Oklahoma DAR Outstanding has worked in support of the and Becky Ivins. OHC con- sion (AWRT), and serving as Chapter Regent in 2012. children of incarcerated par- sists of local women using their the Southwest Area Director, A Former member of the ents. time and talents to benefit wor- board chair for Prevent Blind- Oklahoma City Council, John- The Senior Vice President thy causes in Central Oklaho- ness Oklahoma and in several son is preparing to retire after and Director of the Business ma. board positions with Christian honorable service as a County Banking Group for MidFirst, Women’s Club. Commissioner. Johnson was Thomas works in commercial NOTE: Editor Patrick B. Mc- The first woman in Okla- the first African American banking, client relationship Guigan contributed to this re- homa to receive a mechani- woman elected to the Council. management, business devel- port. CHECK OUT OUR WEB SITE www.City-Sentinel.com Page 3 www.city-sentinel.com April 2018 OPINION/GOVERNMENT See us online, and on Facebook and Twitter Trade organization COMMENTARY working with Families, communities and the economy depend on dreamers business would be devastating, not only values and want our economy for Dreamers, but for the U.S. to continue to grow, they’ll vote and medical economy and its workers as for a bill to help the Dreamers. well. A handful of politicians have Failure to pass a Dreamer insisted a Dreamer bill be com- communities to bill would tear families apart. bined with permanent reduc- Three-quarters of DACA re- tions to legal immigration. The develop regulations cipients have a spouse, child, majority of voters don’t sup- or sibling who is an Ameri- port this idea. According to can citizen. While DACA ben- the most recent Gallup survey for medical eficiaries would be deported on this question, two in three to countries they don’t remem- Americans think current legal cannabis ber, their husbands and wives, immigration levels should stay daughters and sons and broth- the same or even increase. vere and dangerous epileptic ers. Scott said NHSO would By Brenda Hernandez ers and sisters would live in That’s because Americans New Health Solutions seizures. These are the people collaborate with law enforce- the United States without their ultimately know that immigra- that State Question 788 is de- ment and mental health profes- Oklahoma (NHSO) March 5 was the day the De- loved ones. Can you imag- tion is good for this country. signed to help.” sionals on public policy. NHSO partment of Homeland Security ine Congress splitting up your Americans know that, today, Focused on a Safe, Oklahoma voters will have is also committed to reaching Deferred Action for Childhood family? immigration brings in young an opportunity to legalize out to opponents of S.Q. 788 Regulated Medical Arrivals (DACA) program was In addition, more than 90 workers who help offset the medical cannabis on June 26, and medical cannabis to hear to end. With no solution being percent of DACA recipients are large-scale retirement of the Marketplace 2018 when they vote on State their concerns and address presented, our nation’s Dream- currently employed. In Okla- nation’s baby boomers. Staff Report Question 788. A recent Soon- them with responsible legisla- ers are still awaiting an answer. homa, they pay at least $17.4 Now it’s time for Congress erPoll found that fully 62 per- tion and rule-making. President Donald Trump has million in state and local tax- to realize these facts, and act New Health Solutions Okla- cent of Oklahomans support “Whether or not you sup- repeatedly asked federal law- es each year. The non-parti- on them. The USA Act would homa, Inc. (NHSO), a new the ballot measure. port State Question 788, we makers to pass a bill that would san Cato Institute estimates let our Dreamers stay in this trade association which de- Scott said his organization can all agree that fair, respon- give the country’s 1.8 million that, nationwide, it would cost country and it would improve scribes itself as “dedicated to will work with the business sible and enforceable rules Dreamers, who were all eligi- American employers $6.3 bil- border security so we don’t advancing emerging public and medical communities as and regulations are important ble for DACA, the opportunity lion to replace workers who are face this problem in the future. health and economic develop- well as the Oklahoma Legisla- for any medical product,” said to earn U.S. citizenship. De- enrolled in DACA. It’s time to abandon other ideas ment sectors in Oklahoma,” ture to ensure that, should S.Q. Scott. “My invitation to skep- spite the fact that members of Six percent of DACA re- that have no hope of helping announced in March its in- 788 pass, the state has the le- tics of medical cannabis and Congress have offered multiple cipients have started their the Dreamers, or our economy. tention to advocate for the re- gal infrastructure needed to opponents of S.Q. 788 is this: bipartisan pieces of legislation own companies, which means Representative Tom Cole, it’s sponsible and timely imple- support the implementation of share your concerns and let’s to do so, Congress still has not they’re producing jobs for na- time to pass this bill. mentation of a medical canna- a safe, fairly regulated medical see if we can’t address them passed a single bill. tive-born Americans. Hun- NOTE: Brenda Hernandez bis program in Oklahoma. cannabis program. through proactive legislative If Congress continues to kick dreds, like Carlos R. who is serves as the Co-Founder and “Medical cannabis products For example, NHSO is ac- work.” the can down the road, these enrolled at the University of for Community Relations at have been successfully used to tively working with the med- Scott said his legislative ad- young people eventually could Oklahoma, are studying in our Tango PR. A recent legal deci- provide relief and comfort to ical community to develop vocacy is taking place now, be- be deported. state’s colleges and universities sion has effectively given more cancer patients, veterans with model language for legislation fore the vote on S.Q. 788, to en- Oklahoma’s representatives so they will be able to contrib- time to “dreamers” and their severe PTSD, and tens of thou- and regulations that would en- sure that responsible rules and in Washington must acknowl- ute to our economy and com- supporters, but that timeframe sands of men and women suf- sure that only qualified medi- regulations are in place prior edge that there’s no such thing munities in the future. is of indeterminate length. fering from debilitating pain cal professionals could rec- to the transition to legalized as a perfect bill. Not everyone If our representatives in and illness,” said Bud Scott, ommend medical cannabis as medical cannabis. will be satisfied, but inaction Washington believe in family www.CapitolBeatOK.com the group’s executive direc- a treatment, and that enforce- tor. “Research has also shown ment measures were in place that medical cannabis admin- to prevent abuse or overuse. istered in liquid form can pro- NHSO is also working with vide potentially life-saving the business community to treatment to children with se- protect the rights of employ- Sentinel Elected Attorneys Officials Guide host event supporting Natalie Mai for District Judge By Darla Shelden City Sentinel Reporter

A campaign kickoff fund- raiser to support attorney Nat- alie Mai in her bid for District Judge took place on March 27. The event, hosted by at- torneys Peter Scimeca, Danny Williams and Scott Adams, Attorney Natalie Mai is running for was held at Mickey Mantle Oklahoma County District Judge, Dis- trict 7, Office 5. Photo provided. Steakhouse in downtown Okla- homa City. continued on page 9

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Patrick B. McGuigan Ed Shadid Oklahoma City Councilman Ward 2 Publisher, Editor [email protected] [email protected] phone: (405) 297-2402 email: [email protected] Sales and for advertising information: [email protected] web site: www.edshadid.org facebook: www.facebook.com/EdShadid Darla Shelden Reporter [email protected]

Lee Vincent Content and Graphics Director [email protected]

Publication No. (USPS 566-340) Newspaper for City, State and County of Oklahoma. 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- out permission is prohibited. All advertising submitted is subject to content review and re- jection. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: 800 Overhead Dr., Oklahoma City, OK 73128 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. Proud Member of Page 4 www.city-sentinel.com April 2018 STATE TAXES AND BUDGET See us online, and on Facebook and Twitter COMMENTARY For neither higher, nor punitive, taxes – Many reasons to oppose expansion of state government ries are still quite high.” place Oklahoma’s unadjusted Rapier continued, “I feel like average two spots behind Tex- with the continued growth as, which currently ranks 25th in global demand; we can al- in teacher pay unadjusted for ready see the supply/demand cost of living. However, with picture tightening on the ho- cost of living taken into ac- rizon. When that becomes count, Oklahoma would rank broadly obvious, oil prices will 15th, just behind Texas, and again rise, bringing profits to second highest among our bor- the industry and higher capital dering states. Georgia would be spending on new projects. How the only southern state besides long that process takes will de- Texas to outrank Oklahoma.” termine how many oil compa- Kahler Financial, a South nies are left standing to reap Dakota business that monitors those profits.” the economy and investments, Remember, he wrote those put the Sooner State slightly By Patrick B. McGuigan words in bad times. Of course, lower, at 34th among the na- Editor now we are in a period of pric- tion’s states in terms of teacher es high enough to be a bridge purchasing power. The Oklahoma Education to more or less sustainable As for what Oklahoma can Association (OEA), the state’s profitability. But if you doubt actually afford to enact and to largest labor union, has en- there will be ups and downs in sustain, the state government couraged the Legislature to in- the future, read the above two already spends 51 percent of its crease the gross production tax paragraphs again. funds on public education at (GPT) on oil and gas to five all levels – the vast majority of percent, rather than the sev- The tax burden on oil/gas to- that on common schools (K-12). en percent desired by organiz- day ers of a ballot initiative now in Critics of oil and gas assert Dedicated funds are defi- the “field” for signature collec- that current taxes on the in- cient tion. OEA’s proposal would in- dustry range from only two As for dedicated funding, crease various other taxes to percent to 3.4 percent. I be- Schlomach says, “You can al- raise nearly $1 billion in new lieve that they miss the mark ready mandate that, at a point revenue. in restricting their attention to in time, new money be exclu- I oppose tax increases. And, “only” the GPT. sively used for teacher pay rais- a significant tax hike on oil and Oklahoma City economist es without requiring that the gas amounts to punishment of Mark Snead, speaking at the new funds be spent on teachers the state’s most successful her- 2018 Energy Summit held at the from now on. All permanent- itage industry. It is a horrible state Capitol in January, took a ly dedicating the money does idea to tie state public teacher more holistic view of taxation. is complicate the accounting – salaries primarily to one indus- Drawing from his research, from now on.” try – especially to one as vola- sponsored by the state’s oil and He continued, “In Oklahoma, tile (albeit important) to a state gas association, Snead (as re- the money practically disap- as Oklahoma’s oil and gas in- ported in Adam Wilmoth’s sto- pears from the books because dustry. ry for The Oklahoman), report- it wouldn’t be ‘appropriated.’ Significantly raising Reve- ed that Snead blended the pres- Dedicating funds in Oklaho- nue will create more situations ent GPT taxes in with ad valor- ma is paramount to being less such as what we saw at the em taxes, personal taxes paid transparent – i.e., hiding the Oklahoma State Health Depart- by the industry’s workers, and spending.” ment. That view is based on levies on personal proprietors. In 2012, George R. Crowley watching government carefully As Wilmoth reported, the and Adam J. Hoffer, economists for several decades, not on any economist “measured the tax writing for the “Mercatus on animus toward individual gov- systems in the 16 largest oil and Policy” series put it this way: ernment employees. natural gas producing states. “The practice of earmark- As outlined in recent essays While Oklahoma’s gross produc- ing, or dedicating a portion of for CapitolBeatOK, also post- tion tax rate is among the lowest tax revenue to a specific ex- ed at The City Sentinel website, in the country, the state ranks penditure category, is a popu- the profitability of oil and gas No. 8 of 16 with a total effective lar fiscal tool for state govern- production is cyclical. More rate of 10.6 percent when includ- ments. Theoretically, the pro- simply put, oil and gas is the ing all four major tax streams.” cess of dedicating tax revenues quintessential boom-and-bust (emphasis added) to specific expenditures should business. Yet, most proposals have no impact on the compo- for teacher pay hikes would fi- sition of expenditures, because nance a boost primarily with one dollar from one tax is per- big hikes in levies on the state’s fectly substitutable for one dol- key heritage industry. lar from another. Nevertheless, A commodity industry sub- previous studies have found a ject to dramatic ups and abys- range of effects of dedicating mal lows (in terms of price and revenue on expenditures, and profitability) should not be the this process remains a popu- target of punitive tax policy. lar policy option for state gov- But for many, it seems, the in- ernments. We find support for dustry’s recent success dic- the hypothesis that dedicating tates the need to punish it. Such tax revenues to specific expen- punishment would acceler- ditures can be used by policy- ate medium-to-long term con- makers to mask increases in to- sequences, most likely in the tal government spending. form of reduced production. “Our empirical results show The state’s future, includ- Brian Schlomach that dedicated tax revenues ing what we pay public school What teachers are paid, and tend to result in an increase in teachers, is too important to what that means in Oklahoma total government size but have use tax policy to punish those Another part of this never- little effect on the expenditures some consider too successful. ending story over teacher pay to which they are tied.” Punishing oil and gas would (and public employee compen- punish the Oklahoma economy. sation, more generally) is what Pragmatically, that is the defi- actual pay means in the place nition of foolishness. where they actually live – in this case, Oklahoma. Econo- Boom and Bust is the default mist Byron Schlomach wrote, setting for oil/gas -- but right in a 2016 analysis for the 1889 now Oklahoma is in a nice Institute he runs, “While it is boomlet true that Oklahoma ranks 48th Robert Rapier, writing for in average teacher pay when the Energy Trends Insider in raw numbers are compared, late 2015 observed, Oklahoma’s low cost of liv- “The history of the oil indus- ing makes a difference when try has been one of cycles, from the spending power of teach- nearly the beginning of the in- ers’ salaries is compared. Only dustry in the 1850s through to- Mississippi has a lower cost of day. In the down cycle that we living than Oklahoma.” Rep. Paul Wesselhoft are currently experiencing [in In a direct comparison to a Here’s still another view of 2015], demand rises due to low state that advocates of higher Oklahoma’s place in the teach- prices, even as oil producers be- teacher pay admire, Schlomach er pay universe. In a recent gin to cut capital expenditures. writes: “Even though Oregon’s online post, former state Rep. U.S. shale production has al- unadjusted average teacher sal- Paul Wesselhoft pointed to ready begun to decline as very ary ($60,064), ranks 12th in the the annual survey “Rich States, little shale oil production is cur- nation and is $15,000 higher Poor States,” and its step-by- rently profitable. The end re- than Oklahoma’s ($44,921), the step look at taxes and spending. sult is very predictable, even if percentage difference is just 34 In its April 2017 report, the timing is not. While there is percent, not enough to make up the American Legislative Ex- broad agreement that a great for Oregon’s much higher cost change Council (a group for deal of U.S. oil production is of living, which is 49 percent conservative state legislators) currently unprofitable, some feel higher than that of Oklahoma.” found, as Wesselhoft summa- like oil prices need to fall further The scholar contends that rized, that America’s ten best to make a bigger dent in produc- even a $5,000 pay raise for tion because crude oil invento- public school teachers “would McGuigan Commentary cont. on page 5 Page 5 www.city-sentinel.com April 2018 STATE TAXES AND BUDGET See us online, and on Facebook and Twitter COMMENTARY Oklahoma House of Representatives: Hypocrisy in Wonderland ing the substitute measure as of every four – never received a violation of the germaneness even a hearing in a committee. rule. “There is no way anyone That’s not really unusual, be- can consider this germane,” the cause so many measures are in- Chickasha Democrat said. “It’s troduced in the House each year. two separate titles [of law], two But what happened next was bla- tant, hypocritical, partisan poli- tics. House Republicans by the dozens have proclaimed repeat- edly that they support a pay Left-right: Rep. Eric Proctor, Rep. David Perryman and Minority Leader Steve Kouplen. raise for Oklahoma teachers, who haven’t seen their wages in- House Democrats praise court decision crease in nine or ten years. But when the “Step Up” plan (House allowing initiative circulation to increase Bill 1033) was brought to the By Mike W. Ray House floor for a vote Feb. 12 GPT on oil Contributing Writer during the Legislature’s second special session, a dozen Repub- Staff Report more complete revenue pack- tion tax of at least 5 percent.” In two recent instances the lican committee chairs and co- age that addresses inadequate In the debate process, some Oklahoma House of Represen- chairs voted against the mea- Several state House Dem- state agency funding and low energy executives have said Rep. Forrest Bennett tatives demonstrated yet again sure. ocrats have responded to teacher and state employee the higher rate could trigger that it is a hyper-partisan insti- separate issues.” H.B. 1033 was endorsed by an Oklahoma state Supreme pay.” layoffs or other cost-cutting tution. Rules Committee Vice Chair- a majority of the Representa- Court decision issued March In March, officials with the measures. Multiple bills authored by man Kevin West, R-Moore, who tives, 63-35 – including 10 House 19 that allows an initiative pe- Oklahoma Education Associa- “Restoring the gross pro- Republicans and heard in the presided during consideration Democrats – but because it pro- tition to increase the gross tion (OEA, the Sooner State’s duction tax isn’t about pun- House Rules Committee on of Cockroft’s bill, ruled against posed a $581 million increase in production tax (GPT) to pro- largest labor union) rejected ishing oil and gas,” said Rep. March 1 violated a House rule Perryman but offered no expla- taxes it required approval from ceed. a Republican-backed propos- Eric Proctor, D-Tulsa. “This is about germaneness. nation for how he reached that three-fourths of the House, 76 State Question 795, as the al for a $5,000 teacher pay in- about restoring funding to ru- House Rule 8.11, “Germane- conclusion. Perryman appealed members. The bill was opposed proposal is designated, would crease, and $2,500 for other ral health care so we can stop ness of House Amendments,” but the Republican-dominated by more Republicans (18) than increase the GPT tax rate from government employees. Al- the closure of rural hospitals. mandates that, “The House committee sustained the ruling Democrats (17). the present level of 2 percent. though activists pressed for a This is about ensuring teach- shall not consider any proposed Democrats who voted against The measure would, according $5,000 hike through the “Step ers in Oklahoma don’t have to amendment not germane to the the Step Up plan were notified to a press release from House Up” plan early in the current take multiple jobs to provide subject of the House bill or reso- by Republican committee chairs Democratic staff, “restore the legislative session, union lead- for their family. This is about lution.” The rule goes on to say – at the behest of House Speaker gross production tax back to 7 ers now says a $10,000 pay the Department of Corrections that the “controlling factor of Charles McCall, R-Atoka – that percent on all oil and gas wells. hike is needed. being able to hire more cor- germaneness” is the subject they should transfer their bills to The restoration of the gross However, leaders allied with rectional officers so prisons matter of the amendment and caucus members who voted for production tax will bring in the unions have characterized are adequately staffed. This is not the title of law to which the the Step Up proposal. an additional $340 million. A recent legislative majority pro- about doing what is fair and amendment applies. An example of that was House portion of this revenue would posals more favorably. what is right for the people of The dictionary defines “ger- Bill 2615, introduced by Rep. then be used to fund a $4,000 In response to the state High Oklahoma.” mane” to mean relating to a sub- Will Fourkiller, D-Stilwell. That teacher pay raise and provide Court decision, state Rep. Da- The House Democratic ject in a relevant and an appro- measure proposes to designate funding for other costs related vid Perryman, D-Chickasha, press release asserted, “Al- the second Saturday of Decem- to public education.” said, “The time is now. The though restoring the gross ber “a Day of Remembrance” “This initiative represents oil and gas industry has spent production tax doesn’t bring to honor soldiers buried at Fort the last stand for teachers,” millions of dollars to keep in enough revenue by itself to Rules Committee Vice Chairman Rep. Kevin West Gibson National Cemetery; the said Minority Leader Steve the gross production rate at 2 shore up the state’s financial observance would be “in re- Kouplen, D-Beggs. percent. Now, they are star- woes, it does provide a key ele- on a 6-3 party-line vote. membrance of their service and According to the staff press ing down the barrel at 7 per- ment to a revenue package that House Rule 8.11.6 states that, to show respect during the hol- release, “The Supreme Court’s cent. Surely, with this added could.” “The question of germaneness iday season.” H.B. 2615 passed a decision doesn’t just signal a pressure on the industry, the NOTE: Pat McGuigan con- is a question of fact to be deter- House committee only after it ‘plan b’ for teacher pay raises. Republicans inside the Capi- tributed to this report. A lon- mined by the Chair as the trier of was handed off to a Democrat It also offers leverage to al- tol can come to the table and ger version of this report can be fact.” the Republicans approved of. low the Legislature to move agree to a revenue package read online. In Lewis Carroll’s novel Yet unlike the 17 Democrats, on gross production and pass a that includes a gross produc- www.CapitolBeatOK.com “Through the Looking Glass” 12 Republican House committee (the sequel to his “Alice’s Adven- leaders who also voted against tures in Wonderland”), Hump- HB 1033 were not penalized. ty Dumpty says, “When I use Rep. Josh Cockroft They were not required to trans- For neither higher, nor punitive, taxes a word … it means just what I fer their bills nor did they lose priate way. choose it to mean…” their leadership posts. The most blatant example of And then there was the dispo- – Many reasons to oppose expansion As noted by Rep. Forrest Ben- House Rule 8.11 being disregard- sition of bills filed by Democrats nett, D-Oklahoma City, that kind ed was consideration of House who apparently angered the Re- of petty behavior effectively si- of state government Bill 3089 by Rep. Josh Cock- publican House leadership. lenced the voices of thousands their efforts to reforming our tries, in this one what goes up roft, R-Wanette, chairman of the The 28 Democrats in the continued from page 4 of Oklahomans. state budget. Most primary (a lot) must come down (and Rules Committee. House of Representatives filed Every House member repre- voters still agree that the bud- often significantly)? Does it As originally filed, House Bill 183 bills this year, an average of states for business conditions sents about 37,000 Oklahomans. get must be reformed before not make sense to take a sup- 3089 proposed to exempt “any 6.5 bills each. (House Rule 6.4 were Utah, North Dakota, In- Thus, House Democrats repre- we raise taxes.” portive approach toward such road-service vehicle” from a decrees that, with but a few ex- diana, North Carolina, Arizo- sent approximately 1,036,000 a business, tax-wise, and to state law that forbids the instal- ceptions, “no member of the na, Idaho, Georgia, Wyoming, citizens. Right now, Oklahoma gov- avoid over-reliance on it in lation of flashing lights on most House of Representatives shall South Dakota, and Nevada. ernment revenues are grow- budget planning? motor vehicles. be the principal author of more Editor’s Note: This commen- The worst states, on the oth- ing due to a strong economy Cockroft “shucked” that lan- than eight (8) bills or joint res- tary is adapted from an essay er hand, were New York, Ver- State Treasurer Ken Mill- Final thoughts, for now guage and replaced it with a olutions during a session of the first posted at CapitolBeatOK. mont, Minnesota, Connecti- er, in his most recent report Bad times will follow good substitute measure which would Legislature.”) com, an online news source, and cut, New Jersey, Oregon, Cali- on gross revenues to the state times, as surely as night fol- mandate that no wells or drill- Of those 183 bills, 30 survived at this newspaper’s website. Mike fornia, Montana, Maine, and government, said this: “Oil lows the day. To focus the is- ing would be allowed “on or un- the committee process and were Ray retired last year after a 45- Pennsylvania. and gas gross production tax sue in a practical away, think der” land acquired by the Okla- advanced to the House floor for year career as a journalist on Oklahoma fell into the broad collections brought in $593.8 this though: In a future year homa Turnpike Authority with- consideration by the full body. newspapers in Oklahoma and middle in most categories, nei- million during the 12 months, when things are not good, ec- out express prior approval from A couple of Democrat bills were Texas, two years in public rela- ther best for robust business up by $226.5 million, or 61.7 onomically -- and the oil/gas the OTA. defeated in committee votes and tions with Southwestern Bell Tele- development, nor best for ro- percent, from the previous pe- business is ailing – what be the Rep. David Perryman, the a handful were laid over for one phone, plus 19 years as a media bust government growth. riod.” That’s almost 62 per- actual result of relying over- House minority floor leader, reason or another. Approximate- director at the Oklahoma House cent. much on a boom/bust busi- lodged an objection, challeng- ly 140 of them – 76.5%, or three of Representatives. Oil and gas surges and de- ness for the funding stream clines are always more dra- behind teacher pay? matic than the ups and downs We are at a crossroads for in other business sectors. This our state government. While simply reflects the fact (hope- not popular to say, it is worth fully not belaboring the point) considering that if we have that oil and gas is a boom/bust had the recent cycle of poor business, more volatile in his- management, what will make toric terms than most. that change? Simply put, if When times are good, they we give our government more are very good. When they’re money, do you trust they will bad. … Wisdom and measured spend it appropriately? policy are needed before times NOTE: An educator and are bad and should whenever journalist, McGuigan is a mem- possible be fashioned during ber of the Oklahoma Journal- John Tidwell good times. While the days ism Hall of Fame. He is a cer- In a recent interview, John of feasting are satisfying for tified teacher in ten subject Tidwell, Oklahoma state di- many, the time of famine (alle- areas. Founder and editor of rector of Americans for Pros- gorically speaking) will come CapitolBeatOK.com, an online perity, reflected, “Passage of a again. Those who talk about news organization, McGuigan GPT increase through a state “sustainability” should be es- is also editor/publisher of The question would be an unprece- pecially sensitive to this real- City Sentinel newspaper in dented attack -- in fact it would ity. Oklahoma City. This commen- be the only constitutionally- Have I mentioned that the tary is adapted from two previ- enshrined tax increase in the oil and gas business is cycli- ous analyses that can be read, United States. We continue to cal? And that “cyclical” means in their entirety, at those web- encourage lawmakers to shift that more than for most indus- sites. CHECKOUT OUR WEB SITE www.City-Sentinel.com Page 6 www.city-sentinel.com April 2018 EDUCATION See us online, and on Facebook and Twitter

A proposal for a transparent and Comparison of Teacher Salaries Adjusted for Purchasing Power choice-driven teacher pay hike State Purchasing Average DOL State & COL Equalized By Rod Cleveland while other teachers may not. Power Rank Salary Average Local Adj Purchasing This is a fully transparent Rank Teacher's Tax Adj Power of Here is a school choice and competitive way to give teacher pay raise idea: the increase. It also gives fair- Salary Salary There are approximately ness to school districts that 687,000 children enrolled in receive greater foundation MI 1 12 $ 61,560 9.6% 91.2% $ 61,020 public schools across Okla- state aid per pupil versus oth- WY 2 16 $ 58,846 6.9% 91.8% $ 59,679 homa (taking out 8,000 online er school districts that receive students). Take the $289 Mil- little to no foundation state aid PA 3 10 $ 64,847 10.3% 102.9% $ 56,528 lion that have been and divide per pupil. OH 4 18 $ 57,606 9.7% 92.1% $ 56,480 by the number of school-age The state should set aside children in Oklahoma and you enough state appropriated dol- DE 5 11 $ 63,256 10.1% 103.0% $ 55,211 get $420 per child. lars to fund the payroll taxes This is the amount that each that will be increased and the GA 6 22 $ 55,383 8.8% 91.8% $ 55,021 child would receive in the form increased state contributions IL 7 15 $ 59,113 10.2% 96.6% $ 54,952 of a voucher or certificate. On to the teacher pension fund. this voucher or certificate, the This should be an additional LA 8 25 $ 53,960 7.6% 93.3% $ 53,439 child and or parents can des- Rod Cleveland $36 million. KY 9 27 $ 52,498 9.5% 89.1% $ 53,323 ignate how much they want to district. The school district allocate to the teacher and/or then will add up and document Editor’s Note: Rod Cleveland MN 10 13 $ 61,307 10.7% 103.4% $ 52,947 teachers of their choice (with and send to the state to redeem is the District 1 Commissioner WI 11 17 $ 57,858 11.0% 97.4% $ 52,868 the max of $5,000). the pay increase for in-class for Cleveland County, Oklaho- They will turn the voucher instructional teachers. Some ma. This idea first appeared at IA 12 26 $ 53,308 9.3% 91.9% $ 52,612 or certificate into their school teacher might get the max CapitolBeatOK.com. ID 13 29 $ 51,837 9.5% 89.3% $ 52,534 TX 14 30 $ 51,689 7.5% 92.6% $ 51,633 IN 15 36 $ 50,077 9.5% 88.1% $ 51,441 MO 16 32 $ 51,228 9.0% 91.6% $ 50,892 MD 17 8 $ 68,114 10.6% 120.1% $ 50,703 TN 18 40 $ 49,647 7.6% 90.5% $ 50,689 AL 19 39 $ 49,875 8.7% 89.9% $ 50,652 UT 20 31 $ 51,572 9.4% 92.4% $ 50,567 RI 21 7 $ 68,821 10.5% 122.3% $ 50,364 NY 22 1 $ 76,865 12.6% 134.3% $ 50,022 AR 23 35 $ 50,344 10.3% 91.5% $ 49,354 KS 24 43 $ 48,759 9.4% 90.0% $ 49,084 VA 25 33 $ 50,874 9.2% 94.6% $ 48,830 NJ 26 5 $ 70,367 12.3% 127.4% $ 48,439 NV 27 19 $ 56,433 8.1% 107.2% $ 48,379 NB 28 42 $ 49,012 9.4% 92.8% $ 47,850

Students prepare for the 2018 Craft Beer Forum of Oklahoma, a new student-led, student-managed event to educate stu- SC 29 34 $ 50,771 8.3% 97.3% $ 47,849 dents and the public about the quality, flavor and diversity of craft beer. Photo provided. MS 30 50 $ 43,779 8.4% 84.3% $ 47,570 Inaugural Craft Beer Forum set for April CO 31 28 $ 52,147 9.0% 100.7% $ 47,124 CA 32 4 $ 70,887 11.2% 133.7% $ 47,081 7 in Stillwater WA 33 23 $ 55,317 9.4% 107.1% $ 46,795 By Darla Shelden City Sentinel Reporter OK 34 47 $ 46,216 8.5% 90.5% $ 46,727 AK 35 9 $ 66,919 7.3% 133.0% $ 46,642 The inaugural Craft Beer Forum of Oklahoma will be CT 36 6 $ 69,397 11.9% 132.7% $ 46,073 held on Saturday, April 7 at MA 37 2 $ 71,620 10.2% 140.0% $ 45,939 Oklahoma State Universi- ty. Registration will begin at VT 38 24 $ 54,102 10.5% 107.5% $ 45,043 10 a.m. in the College of Hu- MT 39 37 $ 50,003 8.6% 102.0% $ 44,807 man Sciences, on the OSU campus in Stillwater. ND 40 41 $ 49,159 8.8% 102.0% $ 43,954 This educational event is NH 41 21 $ 55,599 8.0% 117.2% $ 43,644 hosted by the OSU School of Hospitality and Tourism DC 42 3 $ 70,906 9.7% 147.6% $ 43,379 Management. It is open to the FL 43 44 $ 47,935 9.2% 100.6% $ 43,265 public with a range of events and ticket options. NC 44 48 $ 45,737 9.8% 95.6% $ 43,154 “The School of Hospitali- AZ 45 49 $ 45,264 8.9% 98.6% $ 41,821 ty and Tourism Management is proud to host this inaugu- try. Enrollment in the forum’s can Solera, Angry Scots- OR 46 14 $ 60,469 10.1% 130.5% $ 41,656 ral event as part of our con- seminars and entrance to the man Brewer, Anthem Brew- WV 47 46 $ 47,488 9.7% 103.8% $ 41,324 tinuous effort to be a leader Pint-N-Bite Tasting is includ- ing Company, Black Mesa, in hospitality education,” says ed in the lunch tickets. Tick- Coop Ale Works, Craft & Bar- NM* 48 45 $ 47,630 8.6% 107.0% $ 40,686 Ben Goh, assistant dean and ets are $50. rel, Heirloom Rustic Ales, ME 49 38 $ 49,971 10.3% 114.3% $ 39,216 school director. The event honorary chair The Indian Brewery Compa- “The 2017 Wine Forum is Eric Marshall, founder of ny, Iron Monk, Lazy Circles, SD 50 51 $ 40,641 7.1% 97.7% $ 38,644 of Oklahoma was truly a Marshall Brewing Compa- Marshall Brewing Company, HI 51 20 $ 55,757 9.6% 166.9% $ 30,200 groundbreaking event. With ny, Tulsa’s first production Prairie Artisan Ales, Elgin the addition of The Craft craft microbrewery. Marshall Park, Guinness, Renaissance Kahler Financial, a South Dakota business that monitors the economy and investments, puts the salaries of Oklahoma Beer Forum, we will continue has a degree in internation- Brewing, Roughtail Brewing teachers at 34th among the nation’s states in terms of teacher purchasing power. This chart gives an “equalized purchas- this legacy by educating stu- al business and German lan- Company, Stonecloud Brew- ing power analysis” incorporating cost of living and tax burdens in its conclusions. (kahlerfinancial.com/wp-content/up- loads/2015/10/Teacher-Salary-Chart.pdf) dents and the public on craft guage from the University of ing, Twisted Spike Brewery, beers and brewers. A natural Tulsa. He studied brewing in Vanessa House and Vortex fit for Oklahoma.” Germany and apprenticed in Brewery. The Craft Beer Forum is many breweries while there. The Student Committee St. Charles Catholic School Auction slated for an experiential learning op- The Craft Beer Forum, like includes: Jared Fimple, Nico portunity for students and the popular Wine Forum of Gerbrecht, Zoe Huffer, Reil- Saturday, April 14 the public about the quality, Oklahoma, is a student-led ly Kidwell, Dylan Koth, Mar- Staff Report The school is open to all faiths, flavor and diversity of craft and student-managed event. shall Olderbak, Christos Pa- ethnic backgrounds and so- beer. It will introduce partic- wineforumofoklahoma.com/ . padopolus, Bobbie Shields, St. Charles Borromoreo cioeconomic situations. The ipants to the innovative cul- Chris White, president Adele Wilson, Jacy Wilson Catholic School has scheduled school does not receive finan- ture of Oklahoma-connected and CEO of White Labs Inc., and Kathrine Wolfe. its popular annual auction for cial support from the state or craft brewers; and promote will welcome forum partic- Forum sponsors are: The Saturday evening, April 14. The taxes. It must pay for upgrades the responsible enjoyment of ipants. White Labs manu- McNellies Group, Hal Smith event aims to raise money for a to classrooms, books, comput- beer. facturers yeast cultures and Restaurants, Dupree Sports & variety of improvements to the ers and playgrounds through The program includes provides fermentation ser- Screenprinting, OnCue, Wil- school facility, continuing a se- annual tuition and fundraising. keynote speakers, semi- vices to brewing, wine and son Auto Family, The Ather- ries of annual changes. Plan- Information is available at nars, and lunch, all culminat- distilling industries. White ton Hotel, Keith Ashburn, Re- ners envision floor work, chair Lake Lounging chairs, fire pits the parish website (stcharle- ing in the inaugural Pint-N- is a co-author of Yeast: The becca & Kyle Eastham, and replacements, and a methodical and boating/fishing vacation sokc.org) – Click on the Bite Tasting. The range of Practical Guide to Beer Fer- Sandy Lee. switch to LED light fixtures. trips, indoor/outdoor bug zap- “School” link or cal the par- seminars includes beginner, mentation and was a co-de- Registration for seminars This year’s theme highlights pers, portable solar-powered ish office at 405-789-0224. St. intermediate and advanced signer of the popular board will begin Saturday at 11 a.m. a “Family Lake Bash.” It will in- tent lights, camping items and Charles is a tax exempt organi- sessions with a variety of ed- game, BrewMaster: The Craft If you are attending the Pint- clude hors do’oeuvres, wine & “lake necessities.” zation. Those wishing to con- ucational options for attend- Beer Game. n-Bite Tasting only, registra- beers, and silent & dessert auc- Also sought are electronics, tribute or donate items may ees. The keynote address will tion will open at 6:30 p.m. tions along with entertainment. use of a vacation home or time contact Kristen Morris at 405- The Stein-N-Snack lunch be delivered by Belgian na- Registration will be locat- A variety of sponsorship lev- share, golf packages, gift bas- 834-7646, or via email at ptc. package includes a barbecue tive, Luc “Bobo” Van Mech- ed in the Great Hall of the els (bronze, silver, gold, and kets, art and homemade/craft [email protected] to arrange box lunch, choice of enroll- elen, President of the US Sec- College of Human Sciences platinum), ranging from $50 to items, gift cards and gift certif- for pick-up of donated items. ment in each forum session, tor of Manneken-Brussels Im- North Wing. You must be 21 $250, are available to commu- icates. Individual reservations/ and entrance to the Pint-n- ports. Considered the ambas- to attend. nity members who want to help tickets are available for a $35 Donations can be mailed Bite Tasting. Tickets are $75. sador for Chimay beers, Van the institution continue the each. or shipped to the school: St. The Pint-n-Bite Grand Mechelen has led the growth To learn more about the parish educational mission. St. Charles is a non-public Charles Borromeo Catholic Tasting will include tast- of the Belgian Trappist beer Craft Beer Forum or to pur- In light of this year’s theme, school located at N.W. 50 St. School, c/o Kristen Morris/ ings from 25 breweries and 20 brand in the US. chase tickets, visit craftbeer- welcome donations include and Grove in Warr Acres (near- Auction Chair, 5000 N. Grove, chefs from across the coun- Brewers include: Ameri- forumofoklahoma.com. canopies, Adirondack/Fishing/ northwest Oklahoma City). Oklahoma City, 73122. Page 7 www.city-sentinel.com April 2018 BUSINESS See us online, and on Facebook and Twitter

Spring curb appeal Brenda Seagroves eXp Realty

Spring is here and one of my favorite seasons. Moth- er Nature is full bloom with Are you well FORTIFIED? so many vibrant colors. Now is the time to create By Jack L. Werner, Ph.D. with the FORTIFIED Des- premiums, and greater safe- beautiful curb appeal. A To Z Construction ignation Certificate. In- ty. The focal point of your surance companies have What is not to like? house or any house is gen- No, that does not mean 30 days to get the FORTI- For more information erally the front door; so “Have you had a stiff shot of FIED program in place. about how to make your make that baby sing. A fresh whiskey?” home stronger, safer, and • You live in a high wind coat of a brilliant color, per- more resistant to high and hail area. Reducing haps electric blue or bright FORTIFIED refers to a winds, visit DisasterSafety. your risks pays in multiple yellow! If you’re not cut out new building standard de- org/FORTIFIED. It is my ways. for the bright factor, simply scene. Evergreens are al- to choose from. veloped by the Insurance understanding that FOR- stain and varnish to make ways gorgeous, especially Now that spring is upon Institute for Business & • You can get FORTI- TIFIED will be offering a it sparkle. You might also in spiral form. To me, they us, and hopefully no more Home Safety. You proba- FIED designations for your course for roofers in Oklaho- change any old or outdated exude richness and class. of that white fluffy stuff, get bly do not care much about entire home or just for the ma City on May 2. hardware. Don’t skimp on the mulch out and plant some flowers. those certifications, names, roof. As a homeowner, ask your Installing outdoor light- to tie everything together Create the wow factor ev- and designations, but you insurance agent, your roof- • Getting the FORTI- ing is not only very appeal- and make your flowers even ery potential buyer wants. will care about these things: er, or your general contract- FIED designation for your ing; it provides safety and more vibrant. Curb appeal projects are ing about the FORTIFIED • Homes/roofs built to roof is the place to start, security. Most hardware Do you have that big rated among the most valu- Designation for your home. FORTIFIED standards whether your house is new- stores have inexpensive, do mighty tree standing tall able home improvement There is a reason that Habi- have 60% less claim fre- ly constructed or over 100 it yourself kits. No need to in your front yard? A good projects. A sparkly, clean, tat for Humanity in Oklaho- quency and the severity years old, or somewhere in earn a degree. I’ve installed pruning will make a world manicured exterior can re- ma City builds all its homes of the claim is reduced by between. them myself (which is pret- of difference. Also you ally make a home stand to the FORTIFIED stan- 40%. ty awesome, I might add). might add a flowerbed out. You never get a second • The FORTIFIED des- dard. Solar lights are less expen- around the base or better chance at a first impression, • Effective April 1, insur- ignation means less risk, Jack L. Werner, Ph.D., owns sive and don’t require man- yet; skirt it with a wood- so make it count. ance companies in Oklaho- less of your property de- A to Z Inspections and can ual labor. Simply stick them en seat, for a park like feel. Call me, Brenda Sea- ma are required to begin of- stroyed, longer lasting be reached at 405/412-7861 or in the ground and…voila. Who doesn’t want to sit un- groves, Realtor with eXp Re- fering discounts for homes roofs, reduced insurance [email protected]. This may sound a little der a big ol’ shade tree? alty at 405-824-6566 or visit A to Z Inspections tedious but after a long win- Spruce up your mailbox. my website www.BrendaSe- performs commer- ter’s nap, our house can be- If it’s by the curb, I think agroves.okc.eXpRealty.com. cial and residential come dusty and dirty. Con- it’s always pleasing to have I am your historic home spe- inspections. Learn sider having a few friends greenery more at www.atoz- over to give her a good around it with inspectionsok.com. scrub down. Turn it into a a flowerpot Jack has a construc- party and offer a bbq once or two for an tion degree from the work is done. If you use extra pop of OSU and was Okla- a power washer, be very color. As for homa’s first desig- careful. You might just the mailbox- nated Master In- scrub the paint right off. es attached spector. He teaches Don’t forget the windows to the house, inspections as well (inside and out)! Sparkle like mine, add as courses for the sells. a little extra Oklahoma State Don’t forget the flow- class by up- Home Builders. ers. A beautiful flowerbed dating it from The National As- draws everyone’s attention. the generic sociation of Home Place a couple of flower- rectangle box. Builders named him pots on either side of the There are so a Master Instruc- front door for a welcoming many options tor in 2017.

ANALYSIS Finding a good contrator Houston-based company buys Lawton By Terri Matthews and slate. You will want to ranty shingle. That price Constitution, over three dozen journalists laid off TMI Contruction take in to account the style generally goes up from By Patrick B. McGuigan of the home and the look there and is dependent on Editor Reroofing a house usu- you want to achieve when the type of shingle, the ally isn’t something that deciding what roof install. slope of the roof and the Southern Newspapers, Inc., a homeowners look forward Often the smart choice is size of the roof. chain whose headquarters is in to. Between the expense, to pick a shingle type that Warranties - There are Houston, Texas, has bought The the hassle of dealing with is similar to what is already two warranties that you Lawton Constitution. The sale longer have an editorial page, will be just another general as- contractors and choosing on the home or upgrade to should be concerned with finalized earlier this month. and that any editorials that signment under the new manag- the type of roof, it can be an one that is slightly better on your new roof. The Brothers Brad Burgess and need to be written will be writ- ers at the Constitution. intimidating process. The than what is currently in- warranty most commonly Bill Burgess Jr. have owned the ten by the new publisher. Hale – Steve Metzer of Duncan, upside of going through stalled. referred to is the warranty Constitution since 2012. They has been with the Constitution a combination reporter/edi- this process is you are in- Colors - In virtually on the materials from the bought it brothers Steve and for 32+ years. He has been in tor. Admirers of The Lawton vesting in one of the most all roofing materials ex- manufacturer. A basic as- Don Bentley, who had inherited the news business for 45 years, Constitution have considered important systems of your cept wood shakes, you will phalt shingle usually starts it from their father, Bill Bentley. starting in Altus and including Metzer the newspaper’s best home that it should last for have a variety of colors to at a 25 year warranty with The elder Bentley inherited it a stint at the Muskogee Phoe- writer, or certainly among the many years. To help make choose from. Generally warranties at 30, 40 and from his father-in-law, Ned She- nix. On a personal note, I know best. He is known for his witty the decisions easier here is you want to pick a roof col- 50 years as well as lifetime pler. Mr. Hale, although we have not headlines. He is young enough a little information to help or that contrasts with the warranties available. The Southern Newspapers is a talked in several years. We did to find another job in the news get you started. main body of the house. second warranty is provid- 70-year-old privately held com- not always agree on policy is- business if that’s where he Shingle Types - There For example, you usually ed by the contractor and pany that operates 15 newspa- sues, but he is a solid journal- wants to remain, and I hope are a mul- covers the pers in Texas and Alabama; the ist, a fine writer and a commu- that somehow he will titude of contractor’s Constitution is their first paper nity-spirited reporter. He is 70 – Mike Andrews, a solid c h o i c e s workman- in Oklahoma. and has the ability to continue “desk man,” is losing his job, when it ship. This Southern required all incum- writing and reporting. The loss as are both reporters whose comes to warran- bent Constitution staffers to ap- of his voice on a daily basis in “beats” focused exclusively picking a ty is typi- ply for positions with the new southwest Oklahoma’s largest on Southwest Oklahoma area roof cover- cally for a employer. city will be grievous. beats, a young sportswriter ful- ing for our much short- Approximately 40 staffers – Jeff Dixon, a photographer, ly able at his craft, and Mike home. By er term than were not rehired. They include has been with the Constitu- Owensby, the paper’s long- far the most a manufac- editors, reporters, at least one tion 53 years; he started in high time general manager. common in turer’s war- photographer, classified per- school under the original pub- – Others departing include our area is ranty with sonnel (two of three women in lisher. individuals with irreplaceable the asphalt one and two that area), circulation personnel – Stephen Robertson, who knowledge of the city and state. shingle. As- years being and support personnel, many of succeeded David Hale as the I earn my living as an educa- phalt shin- common. whom have been at the Consti- M.E. He came to Lawton from tor and garner limited income gles come in TMI Con- tution for 25 or more years. eastern Oklahoma. Robertson from journalism. Although I styles from s t r u c t i o n The new management will is 60. Like your humble ser- was not compensated for my a traditional has been assume daily control of the vant here at The City Sentinel, work at News9 in the weekly 3-tab shin- serving res- Constitution on April 1. Robertson is too young to draw “Capitol Report,” I valued the gle to very decorative luxu- do not want to match the idential and commercial Local sources indicate the Social Security and could face relationship immensely, partic- ry shingles. Of the asphalt roof color to the brick col- property owners since 1981. newly reorganized news staff challenges securing an appro- ularly because the CBS affiliate shingles available, the lam- or. You want to choose a We possess a valid com- will be expected to be general priate position in the new busi- was an remains locally owned. inated shingle is our most different but complimenta- mercial roofing endorse- assignment reporters, no spe- ness. I have friends who have When my ties to News9 ended commonly installed shin- ry color that adds curb ap- ment from the Oklahoma cialists. been laid off from news orga- on March 10, I asked viewers to gle. The laminated shingle peal without overpowering Construction Industries nizations in recent years who support community journalism, is thicker and gives the roof the rest of the home. Board (registration num- Those departing from em- were out of work for a year or including broadcast facilities a more textured look. In Cost - Costs can vary ber 80002334) and wel- ployment at the Lawton Consti- more. I hope there is an insight- and newspapers. Oklahoma, it makes sense throughout the year and come the opportunity to dis- tution include: ful owner of a newspaper or Times change, and informa- to consider an impact rat- from region to region. In cuss your next roofing proj- – David Hale, the former other news organization who tion delivery is transforming. ed shingle that will offer our area, the cost to re- ect. For more information, managing editor who went to gives a person like Robertson, Although I remain an eternal more protection against move and replace a typical please visit TMI on the web half-time several months ago. who has much still to contrib- optimist, I am less so than some hail. Of course shingles asphalt shingle roof starts at www.tmiconstruction. Hale has been in charge of the ute, an opportunity. years ago. are available in other mate- around $200 per square com or connect with us on Constitution’s editorial page for – Mitch Meador, has been As newspapers across the rials as well such as wood (one square =100 square Facebook at www.facebook. 31 years. Local sources have in- chiefly responsible for covering land diminish, the future of shakes, metal, plastic, tile feet) for a 3-tab 25 year war- com/buildwithTMI. dicated to the author of this sto- Fort Sill, the biggest employer the Republic looks darker, less ry that Southern will have no in Lawton. Apparently, Fort Sill hopeful and more divisive. Page 8 www.city-sentinel.com April 2018 COMMUNITY See us online, and on Facebook and Twitter Oklahoma Earth Day events scheduled throughout April continued from page 1 will take place at the OSU- Month@OU during the 30 OKC Precision Driving Train- days between World Water ing Center, 3501 W. Reno, in Day (March 22) and Earth Day Will Rogers Gardens, 3400 Oklahoma City. Participants (April 22). N. 36 St., during a community will be able to test drive a The OKC Zoo’s Earth Day tree planting event on Friday, number of electric vehicle Party for the Planet will April 13. from 11 a.m. - noon. models on a closed testing take place on Friday, April Participants will help plant track. 22 from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. in the trees for the Margaret Annis The Myriad Botanical Global Plaza. The celebration Boys Arboretum, while learn- Garden Earth Day celebra- will help educate students ing about proper tree plant- tion will take place from 10 and adults to become envi- ing, pruning and care. Dead- a.m. - 12 p.m. on Saturday, ronmental and climate liter- line to register is April 12. April 21 on the Great Lawn, ate citizens who can be voices The Reaves Park Earth 301 W. Reno in downtown for change. The event is free Day Festival will be held on Oklahoma City. This event with paid Zoo admission. Sunday, April 15 at 2501 Jen- for people of all ages will in- For 2018, Earth Day Net- kins Ave., in Norman. The clude crafts, scavenger hunts work, the world’s largest re- event features family fun ac- and activities all related to cruiter to the environmental tivities teaching the impor- helping nature and the planet. movement, has developed the tance of protecting the earth Heather Coyle with her daughter Lilah, (L-R) husband Billy, son Jack and daughter Lilly. Members $2; Non-members theme “End Plastic Pollu- Photo by Payton Pettigrew. including hands-on art proj- are $3. tion.” Littering beaches and ects, musical entertainment, EarthMonth@OU2018 landscapes, to clogging waste mascots, pet adoption and will consist of a series of cam- streams and landfills, the ex- Heather Coyle announces candidacy more. The event runs from 12 pus and public activities fo- ponential growth of plastics is - 5 p.m. cused on local and global en- threatening earth’s survival. The University of Cen- for Oklahoma County District Judge vironmental concerns spon- Earth Day 2018’s response is tral Oklahoma Earth Day mental health program has her in as District Court Judge. sored by members of the Uni- to provide the information continued from page 1 Fair will be held from 10 a.m. grown from 35 participants to Most Judges are nominated versity of Oklahoma’s En- needed to help change human - 2 p.m., on Thursday, April to incarceration” programs. over 200. by the Governor, but Heather vironmental Portfolio and attitudes and behaviors con- 19 featuring several environ- In an earlier interview with She is a Master member is asking the people for their others. The university will cerning plastics. mental activities and infor- The City Sentinel, Coyle said, of the William J. Holloway support. This is a complete- highlight the importance of For more details, visit mation booths along the side- “Mental Health Court is an American Inn of Court and ly non-partisan race, which water by celebrating Earth- earthday.org. walk on the west side Broncho alternative to incarceration currently serves as Treasurer. is extremely refreshing in to- Lake, just north of the Univer- where participants receive Heather’s volunteer com- day’s dueling party system. sity Center. treatment for their mental munity involvement includes She is an excellent candidate The 13th Annual Lake health and/or substance abuse work with the Arts Council that we all can get behind.” Overholser & Stinchcomb needs. The mental health of Oklahoma City, the Boys & Heather stated, “After al- Wildlife Refuge Clean- court team provides support Girls Club of Oklahoma Coun- most 20 years serving the up will be held on Saturday, and guidance to assist partic- ty, the Pauline E. Mayer Shel- community as an assistant April 21 from 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 ipants in reaching their goals. ter, and the Regional Food district attorney, I feel called p.m. Volunteers are asked to It is amazing to see the trans- Bank of Oklahoma. She is a to continue my service as a join one of the 10 participat- formation of the participants sustaining member of the Ju- member of the bench. My ing land-based teams. Lunch into productive members of nior League of Oklahoma City 10 years of jury trial experi- will be provided courtesy the community.” and a board member for the ence, combined with almost of Earl’s Rib Palace on Reno As a prosecutor, Heath- Harn Homestead. 10 years of working in alter- and the Oklahoma City Wa- er has been part of the DA’s Heather is married to Billy natives to incarceration di- ter Utilities Trust. Meet at the Therapeutic Teams that di- Coyle, a criminal defense at- version programs, gives me a Overholser Pavilion, N.W. 14 rectly address the issues of torney with Coyle Law Firm unique perspective. I am com- & E. Overholser Dr. To reg- addiction and mental ill- in Oklahoma City. They have mitted to being fair and I will ister, call Karen Miles at 405- ness. She has been a speaker three children, Jack, Lilly follow the law. I am eager to 603-7749. at the Department of Mental and Lilah, and are members continue to serve the citizens The annual OG&E Elec- Health and Substance Abuse of Christ the King Catholic of Oklahoma County in this tric Vehicle (EV) Ride & State Specialty Court Confer- Church. new capacity.” Drive will celebrate Earth Peace House director Nathaniel Batchelder (left) and Oklahoma Sierra Club di- ence and keynote speaker for Billy said, “I am so proud of To learn more about Heath- Day from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., on rector Johnson Bridgewater both ask Oklahomans to join them in celebrating the HERS program gradua- my wife for stepping up and er, visit heathercoylefordis- Saturday, April 21. The event Earth Day during the month of April. Photo provided. tion. Under her leadership, the asking for the people to vote trictjudge.com. Page 9 www.city-sentinel.com April 2018 COMMUNITY See us online, and on Facebook and Twitter St. Baldrick’s OKC asks Oklahomans to again ‘brave the shave’ to fight childhood cancer continued from page 1 din said, “We expect every- one who comes out to have a great time while benefiting a great cause. Even if you don’t want to give up your hair, we encourage you to support this great cause either with a do- nation or by spending money with one of our sponsors. It’s all about helping these kids able including Saucee Sicil- ‘braved the shave,’ come out and we encourage everyone ian, Big Truck Tacos and Met- and see what it’s all about – to do their part.” ro Mini Donuts. Belle Isle you won’t regret it,” Hardin The event, will be hosted by Brewery, Prairie Artisan Ales, added. “There are so many local TV celebrity Chad Ste- Coop Ale Brewery, Raising great stories that come out of vens and KFOR meteorolo- Canes and Anthem Brewery this event every year and we gist Damien Lodes. It will fea- will also be donating to the are so thankful for everyone ture live entertainment that cause. who participates.” includes Mike Hosty, Every- The St. Baldricks founda- thing Goes Dance Studio, Aa- tion distributes more than To get involved in the Okla- lim Belly Dancers, and Salli. $200 million in grants to fund homa City St Baldrick’s event, Candidate for District Judge, Natalie Mai poses with her husband Dereck, their daughter Allie and Bosco, their dog. Photo Bands will perform at VZD more childhood cancer re- contact Liz Wolf at 405-822- provided. from 4 - 7 p.m. search. To learn more, visit 7799 for shaving information. Several local food truck StBaldricks.org. To volunteer, contact Theresa Attorneys host event supporting dining options will be avail- “For those who have never Hurt at 405-816-2727. Natalie Mai for District Judge continued from page 3

Mai is seeking the office of Oklahoma County District Judge, District 7, Office 5. “Over the last decade, Nat- alie’s practice put her in the courtroom to protect the in- terest of business owners and individuals all over Oklaho- ma,” said Scimeca. “She knows the importance of upholding the rule of law so as to give an equal playing field to every- ma to be near her family, Mai Natalie provides free legal one in our communities. Nat- earned her Juris Doctorate work for Legal Aid Services of alie will be a great Judge and from the Oklahoma City Uni- Oklahoma and for Oklahoma someone we can all count on versity School of Law. Lawyers for Children. She has for a fair opportunity to advo- “I wanted to be a lawyer be- served as chair of the Cornell Volunteer stylists will join in to help raise money for kids with cancer during the St. Baldrick’s OKC event on April 22 at VZD cate for our clients.” cause I was fascinated with University Alumni Admis- and Beck’s Garage. St. Baldrick’s OKC Twitter photo. Oklahoma will hold nonpar- our complex legal system,” sions Ambassador Network tisan general elections for lo- Natalie said. “I have spent my in central and western Okla- cal judicial offices on Nov. 6. career helping others navigate homa since 2010. She gradu- A primary election will take their way through it. ated from the Trail Lawyers Oklahoma City University earns Tree place on June 26. District Judg- “The legal community, es- College in 2016 and from the es are elected for a four-year pecially the judiciary, is the Oklahoma Bar Association Campus USA status term. foundation of what freedom Leadership Academy in 2012. By Darla Shelden Mai said, “I will be a com- and independence means to Natalie’s husband Dereck is City Sentinel Reporter passionate, yet impartial, de- me. I was born in a country a district sales manager and cision maker who will vigor- where the law is selective in operates small businesses in Oklahoma City University ously pursue justice I under- its application and justice is retail and merchant services. was recently honored with the stand adversity and have the hard to find, so it is important They have a daughter, Allie 2017 Tree Campus USA nation- determination to overcome it.” to me that the law be enforced who is four years old. al certification from the Arbor At age 11, Mai and her moth- fairly and equally.” “It would be an honor to Day Foundation for its com- er left Vietnam and came to Natalie opened Duo Law serve the community that gave mitment to effective urban for- the United States to seek a Firm, P.L.L.C. in Oklahoma me the chance to achieve my est management. better life. After moving to City to provide personable American dream,” she said. The presentation was made Oklahoma City, she attended and affordable legal repre- “As your District Judge, I will during the Arbor Week Kickoff Westmoore High School and sentation to all members of serve you by working hard and celebration held at the Oklaho- graduated as valedictorian. the community. She primarily being prepared, while treating ma History Center. The event While attending college, practices civil, tax litigation, all with respect, courtesy, and was sponsored by the Oklaho- Natalie worked part time on immigration and criminal law, fairness.” ma Forestry Services and the campus yet earned enough but helps clients in other legal On Tuesday, April 3, attor- Oklahoma City University is home to a unique native Oklahoma tree arboretum Oklahoma Urban and Commu- featuring 40 trees from across the state. Photo provided. credits to graduate early. She areas. ney John W. Coyle, III will nity Forestry Council. also worked full time each “As an attorney, I provide host a Campaign Breakfast to “Students are eager to vol- summer in various manage- quality legal counsel to indi- Support Natalie Mai for Dis- unteer in their communities ment internships learning viduals and small-business trict Judge at Kamp’s 1910 and become better stewards sales, accounting, finance, and owners throughout Oklaho- Café, 10 N.E. 10 St., from 7:30 - of the environment,” said Matt marketing. ma,” Natalie said. “Because of 8:30 a.m. The public is invit- Harris, chief executive of the After earning a Bachelor of my family’s experiences, I un- ed to meet Natalie and learn Arbor Day Foundation. “Par- Science degree from Cornell derstand the need for effec- more about her candidacy for ticipating in Tree Campus University, Natalie worked in tive legal counsel that people Oklahoma County District USA sets a fine example for banking, advising clients in can afford. As judge, I will be Judge. other colleges and universi- and for engaging staff and stu- munity forests and strive to asset growth and wealth man- impartial, fair, and will work For more information, vis- ties, while helping to create a dents in conservation goals. ar- engage their student popula- agement. hard for the people of Oklaho- it nataliemaifordistrictjudge. healthier planet for us all.” borday.org/TreeCampusUSA . tion utilizing service learning After returning to Oklaho- ma.” com. Oklahoma observes Ar- OCU achieved the title by opportunities. bor Week the last full week meeting Tree Campus USA’s The Arbor Day Foundation of March each year, with this five standards, which include has helped campuses through- year’s being March 25 through maintaining a tree advisory out the country plant thou- 31. committee, a campus tree- sands of trees, and Tree Cam- In 2011, The Tree Bank Foun- care plan, dedicated annual ex- pus USA colleges and uni- dation planted a native tree penditures for its campus tree versities invested more than arboretum featuring 40 trees program, an Arbor Day ob- $48 million in campus forest from across the state at Okla- servance and student service- management last year. homa City University. It in- learning project. Currently Other Oklahoma Tree Cam- cludes evergreens from south- there are 344 campuses across pus USA honorees for 2017 in- east Oklahoma, oaks from cen- the United States with this rec- clude: Oklahoma City Com- tral Oklahoma and elms from ognition. munity College, Tulsa Com- western Oklahoma. The trees Tree Campus USA desig- munity College (all four cam- are labeled, providing an on- nation is available to colleges puses), Cameron University going educational opportunity and universities that effective- and Oklahoma Baptist Univer- CHECK OUT for OCU students and tree en- ly manage their campus trees; sity. thusiasts. develop connectivity with the Oklahoma Forestry Servic- OUR WEB SITE OCU President Robert Hen- community beyond campus es Director and State Forest- www.City-Sentinel.com ry said, “Trees help beautify borders to foster healthy com- continued on page 10 our community, improve air quality and offer educational opportunities for our students. Faith Directory This award recognition will inspire us to continue improv- First Baptist Church of Oklahoma City Ph. 235-4565 Sunday Holy Eucharist: 8, 9, 11 a.m. “In the heart of our city with a heart for the Weekend Masses: Sat.Vigil @ 4pm; Christian Education: 10:10 a.m. ing our campus, not only for world.” 1201 N. Robinson Sunday @ 8 a.m., 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Saturday Holy Eucharist: 5 p.m. the benefit of our students, but Ph. 232-4255 www.fbcokc.org NOON - Spanish Service, Weekday Masses: also for our community.” Sunday School: 9:15 a.m.; Worship: 10:30 Mon-Fri. @ Noon, Sacrament of Reconciliation: Cathedral of Our Lady of Perpetual Help a.m. Wednesday: Dinner 5p.m.; Now celebrating its 10th an- Mon-Fri. 11:30 a.m. Sat. 3:15 p.m. 3214 N. Lake Ave., OKC, OK 73118 niversary, the Tree Campus Bible Study 6 p.m. Thurs: SALT (Study & Lunch Ph. 525-2349 Together) 11:45a.m. USA program honors colleges St. Paul’s Episcopal Cathedral Pastor: Rev. John Metzinger and universities for effective St. Joseph Old Cathedral N.W. 7th and Robinson Weekend Masses: Sat. @ 5 p.m., Sun. @ 8 campus forest management 307 N.W. 4th St., OKC, OK 73101 www.stpaulsokc.org Ph. 235-3436 a.m., 10 a.m., 11:45 a.m. (V.N.) Page 10 www.city-sentinel.com April 2018 COMMUNITY See us online, and on Facebook and Twitter Oklahoma Faith Leaders Dr. Susan Sharp Crow to address lend support for adoption race and the death penalty at OK- protection CADP annual dinner Staff Report of Deaconess Pregnancy and By Darla Shelden es from her decades of work Adoption Services also backed City Sentinel Reporter on the death penalty and the Oklahoma’s Catholic bish- the measure. A release from criminal justice system.” ops joined leaders of the Bap- the Catholic Conference of Sociology professor and au- Sharp Crow is the author tist General Convention of Oklahoma asserted that “con- thor, Dr. Susan Sharp Crow of Hidden Victims: The Ef- Oklahoma recently in sup- trary to opposing rhetoric in will be keynote speaker dur- fects of the Death Penalty on port of Senate Bill 1140. The recent days, the bill does not ing the Oklahoma Coali- Families of the Accused (Rut- bill provides protection for change current practice for tion to Abolish the Death gers University Press, 2005) Archbishop Paul Coakley faith-based adoption servic- adoption agencies. Sen. Treat’s Penalty(OK-CADP) 27th An- and Mean Lives, Mean Laws: es needed to reduce the num- measure simply codifies the nual Meeting and Awards Oklahoma’s Women Prison- ber of children waiting to be long-standing practice of Dinner. Her topic that eve- ers (Rutgers University Press, matched with loving families. faith-based agencies adhering ning will be “The Oklahoma 2014). S.B. 1140, authored by Sen. to adoption practices that are Death Penalty Review: Race She served as chair of the Greg Treat, mirrors similar consistent with their mission.” and the Death Penalty.” Oklahoma Coalition to Abol- laws recently passed in Vir- “As Oklahoma Baptists, we The yearly fundraiser will ish the Death Penalty from ginia, Michigan, South Dako- want to voice our strong sup- be held on Saturday, April 21. 2002-2004. ta, Texas and elsewhere. Okla- port of Senate Bill 1140, which at Oklahoma City Universi- On April 21, the OK-CADP 2018 An- Oklahoma has had a mora- homa has a statutory environ- we believe is necessary to pro- ty, in the Great Hall, located nual Dinner keynote speaker Dr. Susan torium on the death penalty ment that discourages new tect the religious liberty of on the first floor of the Tom Sharp Crow will discuss race and the since October 2015 after the adoption services to open, faith-based adoption providers and Brenda McDaniel Univer- death penalty at Oklahoma City Univ- wrong drug, (potassium ac- eristy. Photo provided. specifically faith-based agen- in Oklahoma,” said Dr. Hance sity Center (Student Center). etate instead of potassium cies. Many would-be agen- Dilbeck, Executive Director- Parking is available at N.W. 25 chloride - the drug approved cies have reported that they Treasurer of the Baptist Gen- Hance Dilbeck and Florida Ave. as a part of the state’s three- fear potential religious dis- eral Convention of Oklahoma. Registration and reception drug protocol) was nearly crimination and lawsuits. The Most Rev. David will begin at 5:30 p.m., with used to execute Richard Glos- In states like Massachusetts, Konderla, Bishop of Tulsa, a buffet dinner at 6 p.m. The sip. Illinois, California and the added, “Some faith-based program will take place from The Oklahoma Depart- District of Columbia, faith- agencies are reluctant to open 6: 30 - 8 p.m. ment of Corrections later based agencies have been their doors without the legal Dr. Sharp Crow is the Emer- announced that the wrong forced to close after new regu- protections that Sen. Treat’s ita David Ross Boyd Profes- drug had also been used in lations were promulgated that bill offers. We welcome these sor and L.J. Semrod Presiden- the January 2015 execution of would have mandated changes protections and the ultimate tial Professor of Sociology at Charles Warner during which to their adoption criteria in vi- flourishing of new adoption the University of Oklahoma. he said, “My body is on fire.” olation of their religious prin- agencies in Oklahoma.” She retired in December 2016. The Oklahoma DOC is cur- ciples. The U.S. Supreme Court Her research has spanned rently working in conjunction “In Oklahoma, there are has ruled organizations that over two decades focusing on with Attorney General Mike many adoptive parents eager- receive state funds or other the impact of corrections pol- Rev. Don Heath, Oklahoma Coalition Hunter’s office to develop a Rev. David Konderla ly waiting for the opportunity support cannot be denied the icies on families of offenders. to Abolish the Death Penalty chair, new death penalty protocol. to adopt and ultimately raise right to exercise their religious used to pay agencies who dis- A former board member speaking at the 2017 Annual Meeting Until the new procedure is in a child. Part of the problem is mission. Treat’s bill would en- criminate. of the American Society of & Dinner. place, all executions will re- we lack a sufficient number of shrine this in state law. The bill passed in a Senate Criminology (ASC), and for- Photo by Darla Shelden. main on hold. agencies to provide and han- According to The Pioneer committee, then cleared the mer chair of the Division Project, now part of the Proj- During the program, three dle the adoptions,” said The (student campus newspaper full Senate 35-9 with strong on Women and Crime of the ect On Government Over- OK-CADP Abolitionists Most Rev. Paul S. Coakley, at Oklahoma City Commu- Republican support and the ASC, she is currently associ- sight (POGO), is a non-profit Awards will be given to hon- Archbishop of Oklahoma City. nity College), “Troy Steven- backing of two Democrats. ate editor of the ASC newslet- think tank that sponsors in- or those for their work to end “I applaud Sen. Treat’s lead- son, the executive director for It then went to the House of ter, The Criminologist. She has dependent, bipartisan com- the death penalty in Oklaho- ership on SB 1140, which will Freedom Oklahoma, an LGBT Representatives for consider- received numerous awards mittees to produce consen- ma. They include the Lifetime encourage new adoption ser- advocacy group, said he was ation. for her work at the universi- sus reports and recommenda- Abolitionist Award, the Opio vices and provide important completely against the bill.” ty as well as on the national tions on issues regarding the Toure Courageous Advocate protections for faith-based Stevenson asserted, “There NOTE: Editor Patrick B. Mc- level. constitution. Award, and the Phil Wahl Ab- adoption agencies.” are over 9,000 kids without Guigan contributed to this re- Dr. Sharp Crow, along with In April 2015, the Commis- olitionist of the Year Award, In The Oklahoman, Carla homes in Oklahoma,” and that port. Dr. Michael Radelet and Dr. sion released a nearly 300- which was given to Sharp Hinton reported that leaders taxpayer dollars would be www.CapitolBeatOK.com Glenn Pierce, collaborated page report and announced Crow in 2004. with The Constitution Proj- more than 45 recommenda- In response to the recent ect on the Oklahoma Death tions to the state’s execution announcement that Oklaho- Oklahoma City University earns Tree Penalty Review Commission protocol. The study conclud- ma is developing a new ex- to provide data on racial in- ed that “Oklahoma’s death ecution protocol using nitro- Campus USA status equities in applying the death penalty system is not work- gen hypoxia, Heath said, “We penalty that were incorporat- ing, and without major chang- are concerned that Oklahoma Their efforts are making a sig- it conservation and education continued from page 9 ed into the final report. es, Oklahoma risks executing is now pursuing a mode of nificant difference in their organization with the mission Their research examined innocent people.” execution that has not been er George Geissler said, “We communities by providing to inspire people to plant, nur- all Oklahoma homicide cas- “We are excited to hear Dr. tried anywhere before. We want Oklahomans to know health, recreational and envi- ture and celebrate trees. es occurring between Janu- Sharp Crow talk about the lat- are hopeful that the court about the universities that ronmental benefits.” To learn more, visit the Ar- ary 1, 1990, and December 31, est study on the correlations challenges will take years and are working hard to plant and The Arbor Day Foundation bor Day Foundation at arbor- 2012 that resulted in the death between race and the impo- that executions will continue manage trees in public areas. is a million member nonprof- day.org. penalty. They found that cas- sition of the death penalty to be on hold until the appeals es with white victims, male or in Oklahoma,” said Rev. Don are completed.” female, and cases with minor- Heath, OK-CADP chair. “She Dinner tickets are avail- March for Our Lives ity female victims are signifi- will be sharing her experienc- able through April 13 for $50; cantly more likely $15 for students. to end with a death Sponsorships for sentence in Okla- tables of eight are homa than are cas- $400. Tickets can es with nonwhite be purchased on- male victims. line at okcadp.org Based on the or by calling Anne draft of that study, Murray at 405-532- Julius Darius Jones 5443. and Tremane Wood, two Afri- To order tickets can Americans on by mail, send pay- Oklahoma’s death ments, along with row, have argued guest’s names, to: that the state’s OK-CADP, P.O. death penalty un- Box 713, Oklaho- constitutionally ma City, OK 73101. discriminates on Indicate “annu- the basis of race. al dinner” in the The Constitution memo line.

COMMENTARY Gaming expanding in return for chump change, will the ‘land fix’ be next? dice” gambling, to make trib- “land fix” that has many peo- al gaming here even more like ple inside and outside the legal the high-stakes games custom- system worried. Echoing echo- ary in places like Las Vegas. To ing observers of Indian Coun- garner several million dollars, try for decades, the worry is the state is on its way to leav- that a legal regime is emerging ing billions in revenue on the that will establish two catego- table. The practical effect of ries of citizens in the Sooner the emerging statute is to crack State, recreating on the Twen- open, two years early, com- ty-First Century map that strik- pact provisions that must and ing division between Oklaho- should be renegotiated more fa- ma and Indian Territories in vorably to smaller tribes, and to days of yore (illustrated on the the state as a whole. To add fur- front page of this newspaper ther insult to injury, the Tenth last month). Nothing is inevi- Circuit Court has ruled that en- table, but it looks more likely, By Patrick B. McGuigan forcement provisions in current with every state government On March 24, thousands of Oklahomans march to the state Capitol in support of the. March for Our Lives event that Editor compacts are unenforceable. decision to bolster the power- took place in Washington DC and over 800 locations around the world demanding gun reform. In the end, the measure that ful tribes while ignoring the Photos by Kathy Scheirman. The government of Oklaho- expanded tribal gaming may smaller tribes and the people as ma is poised to allow “ball and not afford the larger tribes a a whole. Page 11 www.city-sentinel.com April 2018 COMMUNITY NEWS See us online, and on Facebook and Twitter Oklahoma soon will be nation’s highest incarcerating state, Oklahomans for Criminal Justice Reform promise aggressive new advocacy Staff Report ers on a long-term strategy to other news organizations, re- works as a peer support spe- implement criminal justice re- cent analysis by FWD.us re- cialist at Family and Children’s With Oklahoma potentially form in Oklahoma. veals that in FY2017, Oklahoma Services in Tulsa, is married mere days away from becom- OCJR’s board of directors sent 91 percent more women to with a son, and recently be- ing the highest incarcerating also released a letter, which ap- prison per capita than the na- came a homeowner. “I hope state in the country, Oklaho- peared in advertising in The tional average and held people more people can have the same mans for Criminal Justice Re- Oklahoman and Tulsa World, in prison 80 percent longer for hand up I received through form (OCJR) have promised calling attention to the grow- drug and property crimes. similar diversion programs,” aggressive new advocacy for ing problem and urging swift The Task Force’s policies she said. long-term improvements to the action. would free up resources for About Oklahomans for state’s broken criminal justice “We are not going away be- prison alternatives and treat- Criminal Justice Reform: Co- system. OCJR’s long-term plan cause this issue is not going ment such as the highly-suc- alition leaders describe OCJR for reform in Oklahoma will be away,” said Kris Steele, chair- cessful Tulsa-based Women as a bipartisan coalition of to press for legislative approv- man of OCJR and a former in Recovery program, which community leaders and experts al, in this year’s legislative ses- Republican speaker of the keeps women out of prison from across the state work- sion, of the Oklahoma Justice Oklahoma House. “Being on while holding them account- ing to safely reduce incarcera- ACLU Oklahoma Executive Director Ryan Kiesel, former Oklahoma House Speak- Reform Task Force recommen- track to be worst in the nation er Kris Steele and banker Gene Rainbolt spoke at the Oklahomans for Criminal able as they learn how to tran- tion, save taxpayer dollars, and dations. in incarceration is the ultimate Justice Reform press conference. Behind them are graduates of the Women in sition back into society. make Oklahoma’s communities The OCJR coalition – com- motivator to get all hands on Recovery (WIR) program in Tulsa. To Rainbolt’s right is Damita Price, a woman “It was life-changing,” safer by addressing the root prised of a broad range of con- deck to solve this crisis. Our who had been serving a life sentence for drug trafficking. Governor Mary Fallin Women in Recovery gradu- causes of crime. It is comprised servative organizations and coalition is all-in this session, recently pardoned her. OCJR Photo. ate Kandice Nowak said at of some of Oklahoma’s most individuals across the state, and for important efforts to to ensure tax dollars are bet- averting the 25 percent prison the Capitol event. “Women prominent faith leaders, law including law enforcement of- come, because Oklahoma fam- ter spent while improving our population growth projected in Recovery helped me work enforcement, elected officials, ficers, elected officials, and ilies deserve and demand bet- workforce and public safety. in the next decade. OCJR will through my past trauma and health professionals, and busi- business and community lead- ter than we’re getting from our Other states have done it, and advocate strongly to pass the make healthy decisions. The ness leaders. To learn more, ers – packed a standing-room- justice system today.” so can we,” added Larry Nich- full critical components of the program taught me how to live visit okjusticereform.org/. only State Capitol event on Multiple members of the co- ols, chairman emeritus of plan. life as a healthy, productive in- Wednesday, March 7 to an- alition reiterated their dedica- Devon Energy Corp. “These bills stop the bleed- dividual again.” Nowak now www.CapitolBeatOK.com nounce its support for the full tion to evidence-based crimi- More than 30 states have ing by stopping prison growth, Task Force plan and its inten- nal justice reform policies that passed plans similar to Okla- but they don’t save the patient. tion to work with stakehold- save taxpayer dollars, safely homa’s that reinvest and redi- It’s imperative that the bills reduce in- rect resources currently spent have their full impacts includ- carceration, on lengthy prison terms in pro- ed if we want to avoid building reinvest sav- gramming to address the root more prisons,” Steele said. “We ings in al- causes of criminal behavior to know there is strong legislative ternatives reduce crime and better reinte- will to rise to the occasion even and treat- grate formerly incarcerated in- in the face of opposition from ment, and dividuals into their communi- those who seek to maintain the preserve and ties, while protecting taxpayer indefensible status quo.” strengthen dollars. With state prisons at 113 per- families. In 2016, the Task Force made cent capacity, Oklahoma is “It’s time 27 recommendations to address poised to surpass Louisiana to for Oklaho- Oklahoma’s mass incarcera- become the highest incarcer- ma to [rein] tion challenges. This session, ating state in the nation in to- in skyrock- legislation is again being con- tal incarceration. According to Larry Nichols, emeritus board chairman of Devon Energy in Oklahoma City, spoke This chart, provided by Oklahomans for Criminal Justice Re- eting pris- sidered to enact its plan, which a press release sent to Capitol- at the recent press conference of Oklahomans for Criminal Justice Reform. He was form, illustrates Oklahoma’s high rates of prison admissions. on growth will save nearly $2 billion by BeatOK, The City Sentinel and flanked by graduates of the “Women in Recovery” (WIR) program. OCJR Photo. Page 12 www.city-sentinel.com April 2018 COMMUNITY NEWS See us online, and on Facebook and Twitter Gov. Fallin, legislative leaders and district attorneys promise advance for criminal justice reform Staff Report ford to put these reforms off for for property offenses, based on another year. The business com- dollar valuations, with lower Governor Mary Fallin, joined munity is proud to support the ranges of punishments. by legislators, district attorneys beginning of criminal justice • H.B. 2286, which would cre- and business leaders, announced reforms, and looks forward to ate a streamlined administrative early last month an agreement working on these important is- parole, as well as a more com- has been reached that will allow sues in the years to come.” prehensive aging and medical six criminal justice reform mea- The Greater Oklahoma City parole. sures to advance in this year’s Chamber has been a strong ad- • Senate Bill (S.B.) 649, which legislative session, as well as de- vocate for legislation and fund- would target the nonviolent of- velop a coordinating council to ing for sentencing reforms and fenses that are driving up incar- oversee future criminal justice rehabilitation programs to ease ceration numbers with a new reform efforts. the financial drain on Oklaho- sentence enhancement structure “These reforms are targeted ma’s criminal justice system, for second and subsequent con- at nonviolent offenders, many of lessen the burden on jails and victions. whom suffer from addiction and prisons across the state and al- • S.B. 689, which would mental health issues,” said Fal- low non-violent offenders to en- amend the justice safety valve lin. “The agreement reached is a ter the workforce more quickly. provision to address long sen- huge first step forward, moving “We applaud the state of Okla- tences for drug trafficking, and our state much closer to our goal homa and other stakeholders for provides for numerous improve- of reducing the incarceration committing to meaningful crim- ments to supervision. crisis while keeping our commu- inal justice reform,” Roy Wil- • S.B. 786, which would create nities safe. Though it has been a liams, president and CEO of the a burglary in the third degree difficult process of real compro- Greater Oklahoma City Cham- charge for burglary of vehicles, Governor Mary Fallin, along with, from left Senate Majority Floor Leader Greg Treat, House Majority Whip Terry O’Donnell, mise, I am extremely proud of and District Attorneys Richard Smothermon (Lincoln and Pottatomie Counties) and David Prater (Oklahoma County), on ber, said. “Reform is a multi-fac- with a lesser range of punish- our legislators, prosecutors, and March 5 announced an agreement has been reached that will allow six criminal justice reform measures to advance in this eted challenge and these initia- ment. It also would remove the leaders of our business commu- year’s legislative session. The five also announced legislation would be fashioned for a coordinating council to oversee tives place our state on a path to mandatory minimum sentence nity, all of whom have taken bold future criminal justice reform efforts. Photo provided. see this important issue is prop- for burglary in the second de- action to reduce incarceration. erly addressed.” gree, and; can be reinvested in education, with different ideas and experi- the organization’s president and “We need to stop warehousing According to a press release • Pending legislation that health care, and mental health ences can compromise and work chief executive officer (CEO). moms and dads, sons and daugh- from the governor’s office, sent would retool the drug structure, programs that will yield further together to develop solutions to “This package puts the state on ters in prison for long sentences to The City Sentinel and other doing away with draconian pen- positive results. I appreciate this our state’s most pressing prob- the right path to make substan- compared to other states.” news organizations, “legislative alties of the war on drugs, and lems.” tial progress in reducing the Work on five of the six bills action is expected soon” on cer- bases possession with intent to District 11 District Attorney prison population and ultimate- began last year, but failed to tain bills. distribute based on weight. Kevin Buchanan, president of ly, reducing the growing costs advance. Agreed changes will • House Bill (H.B.) 2281 which the Oklahoma District Attor- within the Department of Cor- be made to all six bills, five of would create a tiered structure www.CapitolBeatOK.com neys Association, said: “The rections. Oklahoma cannot af- which remain in conference DAs are pleased to partner with committee. the governor’s office, leaders of Senate Majority Floor Leader the business community and the Greg Treat, R-Oklahoma City, State Chamber of Oklahoma, the courts, the Department of Cor- rections, the Pardon and Parole Board, the attorney general’s of- fice and others to enact crimi- nal justice reforms that promote treatment and rehabilitation while still ensuring public safe- ty. Terry O’Donnell “We continue to urge that Sharing Hometown Recipes, Cooking Tips and Coupons diverse coalition coming togeth- funding be provided for upfront By Janet Tharpe er, working through differences mental health and substance and furthering the momentum abuse treatment, diversion pro- in Oklahoma for these important grams, specialty courts, and Two Desserts, One Amazing Pecan Pie Cheesecake reforms.” other focused interventions that According to House Majority help an offender get their life Whip Terry O’Donnell, R-Catoo- back on track and avoid further “This pie is Greg Treat sa, the agreement “is the result criminal activity.” something characterized the announce- of more than two years of hard Some business leaders also ment as “huge. You have district work by many different stake- praised the agreement. special!” attorneys, legislators, the gover- holders and state and national Supporting criminal justice nor’s office, and criminal justice experts who want to reduce in- reform efforts to strengthen the reform advocates announcing an carceration rates, reduce crime workforce and protect public agreement to move forward on rates and save taxpayer dollars. safety while decreasing costs significant criminal justice re- These bills are a ‘cookbook’ full within the state’s budget is a pri- form. These bills, if passed, will of the best data-driven policies ority of the State Chamber of keep more Oklahomans as pro- that have been proven to lower Oklahoma. ductive, taxpaying citizens, and crime rates and incarceration “The State Chamber of Okla- they will slow down the pro- rates throughout the nation, and homa is pleased to support the jected growth in corrections’ I believe they will work here, criminal justice reforms pre- cost, resulting in savings that also. This is proof that people sented today,” said Fred Morgan, ecan pie and cheesecake in one bite? My oh my. PTammy Brownlow’s Pecan Pie Cheesecake will be a hit at your next gathering! You may want to consider making two pies—it’s that good. The sweetness from the pecan pie, combines with the creaminess from the cheesecake for one impressive dessert. See step-by-step photos of Tammy’s recipe plus thousands more from home cooks nationwide at: www.justapinch.com/pecancheesecake Tammy Brownlow You’ll also find a meal planner, coupons and chances to Bryan, TX win! Enjoy and remember, use “just a pinch”... (pop. 76,201) -Janet Pecan Pie Cheesecake What You Need Directions 1 pie crust 9” refrigerated • Take pie crust from Mix on low speed until or frozen refrigerator or freezer. combined. If frozen, let stand on • Add egg and vanilla PECAN PIE LAYER: counter 30-45 minutes. gently spread on top of 3 eggs • Preheat oven to 350 pecan pie layer. 1 c light corn syrup degrees. • Bake 45 minutes. 1/4 c sugar • In your mixer, • Once baked, refrigerate 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract combine 3 eggs with at least 2 hours before 1 c pecans, in pieces or 1/4 cup sugar. serving. halved • Add corn syrup and vanilla. Stir in pecans. CHEESECAKE LAYER: • Pour into pie crust. 2 pkg 8oz cream cheese, • In your mixer, beat room temperature cream cheese on 1/2 c sugar medium until light and 1/4 tsp salt fluffy. 1 egg • Add sugar and salt. The City Sentinel CHECK 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract welcomes your letters to the editor, commentaries OUT OUR Submitted by: Tammy Brownlow, Bryan, TX (pop. 76,201) and opinions. WEB SITE www.justapinch.com/pecancheesecake Please submit to: www.City-Sentinel.com [email protected] Brought to you by American Hometown Media Page 13 www.city-sentinel.com April 2018 ENTERTAINMENT See us online, and on Facebook and Twitter The latest news from ‘Greater Tuna’ brings both humor and pity, as Reed and Jordan shine By Patrick B. McGuigan Editor

The news from Tuna, Tex- as was as relevant and laugh- out-loud humorous as ever, but leavened with some moments of pathos and pity. Working from the original script of Jaston Williams, Joe Sears and Ed Howard, a total of twenty characters came on Tristan Decker’s lighting de- printed edition in time for the stage, miraculously brought to sign is wondrous (a favorite late March performances: life through only two perform- moment being the imagined, or Thursday, March 29, 7:30 The March concert of the “Brightmusic” Chamber music group concentrated on the beauty and power of wind instruments and piano, as well as vocal solos, in a memorable evening of excellent music. The highly anticipated April 17 concert at ers: Jonathan Beck Reed and perhaps not, arrival of friendly p.m., Friday March 30, 7:30 St. Paul’s Episcopal Cathedral downtown will include “Old and New” selections, and featured the full range of instruments Donald Jordan. aliens of the “close encounters” p.m., Saturday March 31, 7:30 available to performers. Michael Anderson’s Photo Provided by Brightmusic Chamber Ensemble. ©www.Performingarts- Once again “Greater Tuna” sort). p.m. and Sunday, April 1, 1:30 photos.com-Michael Anderson was transported to the perfor- Then there are the costumes. p.m. mance space of the Freede Lit- The old Superman flicks chal- The final lap begins Thurs- tle Theatre at The Civic Center lenged us to believe “a man can day, April 5 at 7:30 p.m., con- Brightmusic: savoring memories of Music Hall (201 N .Walker Ave., fly.” Well, Danielle Trebus’ cos- tinuing Fri. April 6, 7:30 p.m., Oklahoma City, OK 73102.) tumes designs make you be- Saturday Apr 7, 7:30 p.m. and a March “Montage” – anticipating The story’s themes and char- lieve Don Jordan is a woman, Sunday Apr. 8, 1:30 p.m. acters might press the but- and Jon Reed is a little girl. Tickets are $8 for Students, tons of some attendees, but by Deft work, that – the magnifi- Teachers and Military Person- April’s “Old and the New” and large this is a story about cence of the performers aside, nel (with ID), $25 (groups of continued from page 1 minutes with three brief parts, ry or lighter amusement. Deft people and places we likely all for the moment. eight or more), $35 (matinees) the listener was transported to work and an abrupt ending – know. Some of the people of Steve Emerson, himself a and $40 (evening performanc- Ms. Cheng’s piano backing. a place where sounds ranged great composition and brilliant Tuna meet every stereotype of great actor, directed and did es), and may be purchased by The music itself “fit” the Pas- from mournful yet peaceful, to delivery at Brightmusic. ignorance and lack of sympa- the sound design. Nicely done. calling the Civic Center Box sion themes of 400-year-old “spritely” yet disciplined. thy assigned to certain rural Other technical support Office at (405) 297-2264 or on- poems from Jeremy Taylor, Dring was British, a Twenti- Anticipating the April 17 enclaves. came from Janna Carr (wigs), line at cityrep.com. Don’t for- Isaac Watts and Richard Cren- eth Century composer, singer concert But Tuna is also a place of Kory Kight-Pagala, Whitney get, “Greater Tuna” is appropri- shaw and an unknown Greek and actress. She died young, In a press release for the women and men with memo- Hendricks, Michael Jones, ately rated PG-13. poet of the Second Century, many of her works unpub- April 17 concert, returning to ries of lost love, and promises Scott C. Hynes, Jonathan Ol- CityRep’s mission is “to A.D. lished. Thanks to her hus- the grace-filled worship space unmet, opportunities unpur- son, Marcellus Hankins, Anna serve Oklahoma’s diverse artis- Ransom returned one last band, her works survived and at St. Paul’s Cathedral (N.W. 7 sued, love unrequited. Holloway, and Sheridan McMi- tic, educational and civic needs time for one of the evening’s have subsequently and joyful- St. and Robinson Ave.), Bright- And if you think “fake news” chael. by providing dynamic profes- highlights – Benjamin Britten’s ly come to frequent notice as music’s promoters tell us, “The was invented in the last couple If this is indeed the swan sional theatre.” “Still Falls the Rain” (from po- incidental music for BBC pro- ‘old’ is Franz Schubert’s peren- of years, listen closely to the ra- song with these parts for Reed CityRep Season Sponsors in- etry by Edith Sitwell). Britten’s ductions. nially-popular ‘Trout’ quintet, dio broadcast’s of Tuna’s tiny and Jordan, they got a nice clude the Oklahoma Arts Coun- music is challenging, “mod- Ouyang’s piano work pro- written nearly 100 years ago station. start on St. Patrick’s evening, cil, the National Endowment ern” sounding with clash- vided the rhythm and frame- when Schubert was only 22. There are quite serious mo- when Oklahoma City Mayor- for the Arts, the Richard P. Du- ing sounds in Pritchett’s horn work for Dring’s composition – The ‘new’ is a World Premier ments in “Greater Tuna,” but elect David Holt presented a laney Foundation, the Chick- work and Cheng’s piano. The feminine and tender on the ear performance of a striking work for the most part the idea be- gubernatorial proclamation to asaw Nation, The Grandison agony and pain of the sacrifice – of an unusual piece of music. by Oklahoma City composer hind the script is to be slight- the Oklahoma City Repertory Inn, The Oklahoman, Cox Me- on Calvary was strongly con- The first section (Allegro con Samuel Magrill, commissioned ly over the top, to make you Theatre and the pair of sea- dia, and KWTV NEWS9. veyed in the song’s final three brio) seemed almost humor- by Brightmusic. The quartet by laugh, and perhaps to reflect on soned thespians. The City Sentinel, institu- lines, also an explicit embrace ous, certainly light and pleas- Saint-Saëns, falling somewhere a thing or two or three. Both confessed in pre-per- tionally, and your humble ser- of salvation’s promise. ant. in between, was the composer’s At the curtain call the night formance interviews that time vant, personally, are proud The written words from The second (Andante sem- second and final foray into the we saw the show, Jordan deliv- takes its toll on even the skilled to support our friends in this Sitwell were crafted in lov- plice) was contemplative, per- genre.” ered an appropriate moment of performers. To be clear, Reed mission. For more information ing tribute to a friend who had haps mournful. In this por- Performers for the April 17 homage to the dressers – David was magnificent as a teenage please visit cityrep.com or call committed suicide; they were tion, it was easy to focus the “Old and New” concert, begin- Mays, Michael J. Greene, Kris boy, and a teenage girl. Jordan (405) 848-3761. simultaneously intended as re- imagination on Dring’s obvi- ning at 7:30 p.m., include Greg- Scinski, Jon-Philip Olson and was fine as late middle-aged William Shakespeare once flection on the horror of the ously lovely mind as she com- ory Lee (violin), Mark Neu- Heidi Sue Wallace. It boggles women, and aging men.You said (and is cited in the show 1940 bombings of London in pleted this work. It incorpo- mann (viola), Jonathan Ruck the mind to imagine the layers have to see it to believe it. program), “I count myself in early stages of World War II. A rates strength and robustness, (cello), George Speed (dou- of clothing and/or rapid change This was/is the 50th collabo- nothing else so happy as in a lot was achieved in a few mo- grace and restraint all at once. ble bass), Mira Magrill (flute), artistry that is required from ration of the two men over the soul remembering my good ments. Mr Ransom and com- One yearned for more in the Amy I-Lin Cheng (piano), and the “Tuna” stories. past 40 years. friends.” pany – well done. middle as the tender duet of Samuel Magrill (piano). Ben Hall’s set design em- As for seeing it yourself, Congratulations to good wind and the piano work of ploys perfectly the stage, and many readers will get this friends, at CityRep. A favored moment in March the performer (known as “Ray Individual concert admis- This reviewer’s favorite Ray” to Brightmusic loyalists) sion is $20 per ticket. Chil- work of the stellar evening wrapped up. dren, students and active-du- came with the “Trio for Flute, Soon came the zippy (hope- ty military personnel are ad- Oboe & Piano,” by Madeleine fully a proper word for live mitted free with ID. More in- Dring. Parthena’s deft work music) final movement (alle- formation about this concert with the flute nicely blended gro giacoso) which might serve is available on Brightmusic’s with Harvey-Reed’s oboe. In 11 as theme for a detective sto- website at brightmusic.org. Celebrate spring at First Friday Gallery Walk Staff Report

The Paseo Arts District’s First Friday Gallery Walk for April will take place on Friday, April 6, 6-10 p.m. The Gallery Walk will have 20 galleries fea- turing over 80 artists who will host opening receptions, prom- ising something for everyone. Don’t miss the opening cer- emony for local photographer Jim Reznicek’s show titled Two of The Oklahoma City Repertory Theatre’s founding members carry the entire performance load (a total of 20 charac- “Hidden Treasures: Seeing into ters, both male and female) in the continuing run for “Greater Tuna” at the Freede Little Theatre in the Civic Center Music the Unseen” in the Paseo Art Hall. Photo Provided by CityRep. Space at 3022 Paseo. Deeply in- fluenced by his Christian faith, Reznicek’s fine art works in- clude landscapes, macro and still life images you will be sure Cloud of Witnesses by Jim Reznicek to love. Christian music, country music bowl and mimosas. The Paseo Enjoy the live music perfor- and rock and roll. Arts Association asserts: “Visit mance of Grant Adams, a lo- Whether you’re craving clas- Buttermilk at 605 N. 28, Suite cal singer/songwriter whose sic American cuisine or au- A, for a breakfast that is sure to “Oklahoma pop/rock” style is thentic Mexican food, the food blow you away!” influenced by contemporary trucks featured at April’s First The Paseo is Oklahoma City’s Friday will have you covered. Unique Arts Destination, locat- BlueJ’s Happy Wagon offers ed between N.W. 27th & 30th a refreshing new spin on a va- Streets and Walker & Hudson. riety of tasty American dishes Each First Friday, Paseo gal- and desserts. In the mood for leries offer special themed ex- Mexican food? Grab a street hibits, refreshments, guest art- taco, quesadilla or burrito from ists and a variety of live enter- Taco Addict. tainment- all within walking The next time you find your- distance. Four restaurants and a self hungry for brunch food, hit handful of shops round out the the Paseo’s newest breakfast Paseo’s unique atmosphere. joint, Buttermilk. Located on For more information, call the southeast corner of Pueblo the Paseo Arts Association at on Paseo, Paseo’s newest devel- (405) 525-2688 or email at aman- opment, Buttermilk offers a de- [email protected]. Visit thepas- licious selection that includes eo.org/join for membership in- Jim Reznicek biscuit sandwiches, a smoothie formation. Page 14 www.city-sentinel.com April 2018 ENTERTAINMENT See us online, and on Facebook and Twitter