IN THIS ISSUE: ONF INTERNSHIPS: PG 06 | Don’t miss out on an intern at your newspaper POLITICAL CANDIDATES: PG 9 | Campaign expenditure reports show you the money. OPA PAST PRESIDENTS: PG 10 | Keeping in touch with those who served the OPA Official Publication of the Oklahoma Press Association Vol. 80, No. 12 • Sixteen Pages • December 2009

Download The Oklahoma Publisher in PDF format at www.OkPress.com/the-oklahoma-publisher OPA MID-WINTER CONVENTION 32 will discuss how they use nor Brad Henry will make ing wars from the front social media sites to find his seventh appearance at line. Boettcher, who is WEEKS until the news and engage readers. an OPA convention at a serving a one-year term as Primary Election Thursday’s events con- question-and-answer ses- a visiting professor at the clude at a welcome recep- sion. University of Oklahoma’s tion with entertainment Following the awards Gaylord College, is recog- provided by Billy Crynes luncheon, select one of nized as one of the most Who will from the University of two concurrent sessions to experienced foreign cor- Oklahoma. Crynes will attend – “Alternative Story respondents. buy the most PUBLISHING IN THE INFORMATION AGE present a lively presenta- Forms” or “Creating New Oklahoma’s Congres- newspaper tion about the history of Revenue Streams” – fol- sional delegation will join advertising in If you’re looking for Titled “2010: Publish- outhouses titled “Outhous- lowed by the popular daily OPA members for a ques- some new ideas to help ing in the Information es: A Passing Americana.” and weekly roundtables. tion and answer session at the primary? you thrive in the informa- Age,” the convention fea- “How Much Content The Awards Banquet, 10 a.m. tion age, don’t miss the tures sessions on all forms Are You Giving Away?” including the anxiously Don’t miss this oppor- Feb. 4-6, 2010, OPA Mid- of publishing – including begins at 9:30 a.m. Fri- awaited announcement of tunity to attend the Mid- Winter Convention. print and Web. day morning. A panel of the OPA Better Newspaper Winter Convention – at the This year’s three-day Don’t miss the Social experts will discuss how Contest winners, begins at same registration price as event will be held at the Media Strategy for News- much content you should 7 p.m. last year! Complete regis- Sheraton & Reed Center at papers session at 4 p.m. share for free and how Veteran network news tration information is in 5750 Will Rogers Road in Thursday, Feb. 4, where much you should be charg- reporter Mike Boettcher the mail and on the OPA See Survey Inside Midwest City. a panel of OPA members ing for. takes the stage at 9 a.m. website at www.OkPress. Page 5 Also on Friday, Gover- Saturday to discuss cover- com/convention. Oklahoma newspapers bringing comfort and joy to communities From coats to toys to readers. Many times, it is Candle for Cleveland” tion drive and donated a food and money, newspa- the rallying point for com- event. The promotion start- portion of the funds to the pers and charitable organi- munity causes and events, ed as a one-time benefit, Grace Center at Commu- zations all over Oklahoma the eyes, the conscience but has since grown into an nity Action Resource and are teaming up to bring less and sometimes a source of annual tradition. Development. Readers who fortunate folks a bit of joy. comfort. This year, four organiza- donated items received a ’Tis the season… that’s The Edmond Sun is tions that will benefit from $5 discount off their news- what they say. ’Tis the sea- involved with its annual Light a Candle. For a mini- paper subscription during son to give, the season to Christmas Samaritan Fund mum $20 donation at the November. spread cheer, the season Drive. Last year’s drive newspaper’s office, donors In a similar drive, to volunteer. Of course, generated $150,000 for will receive a battery-op- Wagoner Tribune readers ’tis always the season for HOPE Center, a charitable erated candle. The original donated canned food to Oklahoma’s newspapers to group founded by Edmond idea was to ask residents to the Wagoner Area Neigh- be involved in their com- churches. This year’s goal show the lit candle in their bors, a local food charity, munities. is $150,000 for the food windows as a sign of com- in exchange for $5 off their A newspaper is often and clothing center. munity support. subscription price. The Tri- more than the primary The Cleveland Ameri- The Coweta American bune said that a number of source of local news for its can is doing its “Light a held its annual subscrip- Continued on Page 3 2 THE OKLAHOMA PUBLISHER, December 2009 OPA PRESIDENT’S COLUMN Voices of community newspapers From everyday life to life changing events, Oklahoma newspapers keep readers informed about what’s happening in their community. Following are samples of what’s appearing CatseyeBYBY GLORIA TRTROTTER,OTTER, in Oklahoma newspapers. PPublisherublisher ooff The CountCountywideywide & SuSunn I KNOW what it’s like to win, I READ WITH SOME astonishment and to lose. Sometimes when you’re former Mayor Wren Stratton’s Nov. 22 Greetings of the season! competitive, you don’t get over a column, in which she claimed that we, If you’re like me, you have mixed feelings about this time of year. Of course it is loss quickly. You always feel there is the taxpayers, were the source of the wonderful and exciting and heart-warming, but it’s also frantic and exhausting. At this something you shoulda, woulda, coulda “perceived problems” and that the good- writing, only two weeks before Christmas, I have exactly two gifts on hand. Hope you’re done. It takes some time to lick your old-boy system doesn’t exist because no in better shape! wounds, but it’s an experience you won’t one can name them. No one can name It will be nice when things slow down a bit next month, except that it also means busi- forget quickly. It teaches us lessons. It who belongs to the good-old-boy system ness will slow down. But we knew that, didn’t we? At least it gives us some time to take makes us think about what we could have because it’s not made up of specific stock and make plans for the coming year. As you do that, make a resolution to finally done differently, or will do differently individuals. It’s made up of certain get going with that web page if you don’t already have one, and fill out that form so OPS next time. And there will be a next time. individuals who hold a certain attitude can gear up to sell web ads. Barb Walter, Column about being in power. Those individuals After all, 2010 is an election year, and those web ads should be a very appealing addi- The Hennessey Clipper, 12-10-2009 come and go but the “institutional tion to our sales arsenal, both statewide and locally. This edition includes some fascinat- symptoms” remain fairly consistent. ing information on candidate fundraising so far, as well as your own special ballot to vote IF PARENTS HAVE CONCERNS Mark Hughes, Editorial on who you think will spend the most money with newspapers. Don’t forget to vote! about a film or video game, they are Muskogee Phoenix, 11-27-2009 MEANWHILE, GET READY FOR THE MID-WINTER CONVENTION in early February. The certainly encouraged to utilize rating Education Committee and the OPA staff have a great program lined up, based on your systems imposed on most forms of media IN THIS COUNTRY, we have seen responses to the needs survey. And of course there will be roundtables and all those and art and do the proper research before youths committing unconscionable acts informal discussions that are so valuable. exposing their children to something of violence. In the latter years of the I’ve never come back from an OPA convention without at least a couple of ideas to that may affect them in the future. A last century, violent crime among youths make more money or do things better. Often it’s something I picked up from another good thing to ask about most forms of increased dramatically. It has declined newspaper in one of those hospitality room visits. You just can’t put a price on the value expression, however, is, “Why would in this decade, but a rise in violent of that networking. I not allow myself or my children to crime in 2006 nationwide was attributed But the best part is seeing old friends and making new ones. No one understands us experience documented realities or to youths and gang violence. Just as like other newspaper folks, and I for one count on that love and support from my OPA complex emotions?” Some children are adults are capable of shocking crimes, family. not ready to rationally deal with these so are juveniles. They should be held Times are tough, but I promise you it will be worth squeezing out those extra dollars. things. There may be reasons to not accountable and rather than lessen the You should have your registration form by now, and of course everything is online at the allow a child to watch the most recent monstrosity of the crime, we should OPA website as well. Hope to see you there. war movie, but at what point are we allow judges and juries to exact true restricting access to these things at the justice for for those crimes on a case-by- WE HAD A DELIGHTFUL “FAMILY REUNION” at the Past Presidents Dinner last month. It cost of denying reality? case basis. was great to visit with some of the folks we don’t see very often, like the Bellattis and Justin Lofton, Editorial Editorial the Heftons and the Ferrells and the Hancocks and, of course, the Blackstocks. Lots of Ada Evening News, 11-18-2009 memories were shared, and some funny stories told. As usual, it was a special evening — Muskogee Phoenix, 11-15-2009 although we missed those who couldn’t be there. YOU SHOULD ALSO HAVE RECEIVED A MAILING ON THE NEW FOUNDATION PROGRAM, “Pages For Tomorrow.” The foundation came up with this idea — well, sort of borrowed it — to ONF asking member newspapers to donate space address the need for a broader base of donations to satisfy IRS regulations. Pages for Tomorrow is a new pro- ning for political office or involved in We know money’s tight, so instead we’re asking you to donate some ad space, which gram being implemented by the Oklahoma political campaigns. will then be sold to raise the money for the foundation. The details are in the mailing you Newspaper Foundation that will allow the “The revenue will go to ONF,” said received, and at right. foundation to continue offering education- Wayne Trotter, an ONF trustee and pub- Don’t just stick this under that big stack of stuff on your desk and forget about it. al training and materials to members. lisher of The Countywide & Sun. It’s important. We need to protect ONF’s tax status so it can continue its valuable work. Member newspapers are being asked to “This is a win-win solution for our Remember that ONF has pretty much taken over the many low-cost educational programs donate a quarter-page space for the foun- newspapers, for ONF, for OPS and for the offered to OPA members. Then there are the scholarships and the intern program. These dation’s use once a quarter in 2010. new clients this will attract.” things are essential to our association, now and in the future. ONF will turn that space over to the Newspapers participating in the pro- Speaking of the internship program, dig out that application form you got a couple Oklahoma Press Service to sell as a one- gram will receive a donation-receipt letter of weeks ago and fill it out. My newspaper has been lucky enough to have a couple of time special for advertisers who have at the end of the year for tax purposes. ONF interns, and it was a wonderful experience. Not only did we have an extra staffer to either not been using newspapers or have Members received a sign-up form to help cover summer vacations, but we got to help introduce those young people to the real forgotten how effective newspaper adver- participate in ONF’s Pages for Tomorrow world of community journalism. It was a great experience all around. Be sure to put your tising is. program in mid-December. name in the hat this time around. The ad space will be sold as a one-time If you have questions about the pro- ENOUGH FOR NOW — you and I both have lots to do. Until next time, I hope your holidays special to advertisers that are not currently gram, contact Member Services Director are warm and wonderful, and your New Year the best ever. publishing in newspapers and are not run- Lisa Potts at (405) 499-0026 or by e-mail at [email protected]. 3 THE OKLAHOMA PUBLISHER, December 2009 OPA Nominating Grady County Assessor Committee to meet The Oklahoma Press Association Nominating Committee will meet at fights records decision ISSN 1526-811X 1:30 p.m. on Jan. 14, 2010, at the OPA Official Publication of the office in Oklahoma City. Grady County Assessor Bari Firestone schedule is only voluntary – assessors are OKLAHOMA PRESS The committee will make nomina- is challenging a judge’s ruling that says she not required to follow it. ASSOCIATION tion recommendations for OPA officers must provide electronic property records While the updated fees schedule pro- and board directors for 2010-2011. to a California company that sued her. If duced a lower fee than the original esti- 3601 N. Lincoln Blvd. The Nominating Committee is com- Firestone has her way, she’ll be charging mate, by the association’s math it would Oklahoma City, OK 73105-5499 posed of the seven most recent past significantly more than the court-ordered still cost $680 for the records. (405) 499-0020 • Fax (405) 499-0048 presidents of the OPA who are still $26 fee. Firestone told The Oklahoman that she Toll-Free in Oklahoma: (888) 815-2672 active as newspaper executives, and the In 2008, Sage Information Services’ uses the association’s schedule in deter- Web: www.OkPress.com current OPA president. Roger Hurlbert requested property records mining fees. E-mail: [email protected] Members are Joe Worley, chair, Tulsa from four Oklahoma counties. Sage Infor- The Oklahoma Open Records Act states PUBLISHER World; Ray Lokey, Johnston County mation Services repackages and sells land that “a public body may charge a fee only Capital-Democrat; Gracie Montgom- Mark Thomas records. for the recovery of the reasonable, direct [email protected] ery, Purcell Register; David Stringer, Sage sent a check for $50, regardless costs of record copying, or mechanical Norman Transcript; Stu Phillips, Semi- of what was quoted by the county for reproduction.” EDITOR nole Producer; Steve Booher, Cherokee copies of records. When county assessors However, a subsection allows for Jennifer Gilliland Messenger & Republican; and Gloria refused the check because it was less than increased fees if the copying “would clear- [email protected] Trotter, Countywide & Sun. requested, Hurlbert sued for breach of the ly cause excessive disruption of the essen- The general election for new officers Open Records Act, claiming that the coun- tial functions of the public body.” OPA OFFICERS and directors will be held at 5:15 p.m. ties were charging more than allowed for Firestone claimed that it could take Gloria Trotter, President Thursday, Feb. 4, 2010, at the Reed what should be open records. as long as an hour to copy the records to The Countywide & Sun Center in Midwest City. Nominations Judges in Wagoner, Osage and Musko- CD. Rod Serfoss, Vice President for new officers and new directors may gee counties all found in favor of Hurlbert “We’re spending money on gas, field Clinton Daily News also be made from the floor. after hearing both sides. In the Grady men, entering the information,” she told County case, Judge Richard VanDyke ren- the Chickasha Express-Star. “This is tax- Joe Worley, Treasurer dered summary judgment against Fire- payer’s money you’re dealing with.” Tulsa World Comfort and joy stone’s office when the Grady County Firestone told the Express-Star that Mark Thomas, Executive Vice President Continued from Page 1 District Attorney’s office failed to reply to much of the county assessor’s office funds Oklahoma City Neighbor Newspapers offer that opportu- Hurlbert’s suit. come directly from collecting fees for cop- Firestone initially quoted Sage Informa- ies of records. nity to their readers every year. OPA DIRECTORS Tulsa World is continuing a tradition tion Services $1,397.17 to copy to CD and “Hurlbert should be charged more mail Grady’s electronic property records. than $26 because he’s profiting from the Steve Booher, Past President that the Tulsa Tribune started as the Santa Cherokee Messenger & Republican Pal Project in 1928 and was renamed Since that lawsuit, the Oklahoma County records,” Firestone said. “We’re doing all Neediest Families in 1930. When the Tri- Assessor’s Association, a non-government the work, and Mr. Hurlbert wants to reap Rusty Ferguson, bune closed in 1992, the Tulsa World took coalition of county assessors, updated its the benefit from it.” The Cleveland American over the charity event, which is now called fee schedule. The case goes back to court on January Jeff Shultz, Garvin County News-Star the Neediest Family Fund. The charity The association admits that its fee 7, 2010. Jeff Mayo, Sequoyah County Times partnered with the Salvation Army in 1948 Jeff Funk, Enid News & Eagle and has raised $4.4 million since it began. Robby Trammell, The Oklahoman This year the goal is $300,000. Newspapers not directly involved in Dayva Spitzer, Sayre Record & charities continue to promote and report Beckham County Democrat on the efforts of local Samaritans and their SUBSCRIBE TO organizations – keeping readers abreast of THE OKLAHOMA PUBLISHER what they can do to help their community. $12 PER YEAR Most papers in the state publish Letters to Santa this time of year, not only for chil- THE OKLAHOMA PUBLISHER (USPS 406-920) dren but also for the enjoyment of adults. is published monthly for $12 per year by the Despite the sluggish economy and high Oklahoma Press Association, 3601 N. Lincoln unemployment rate – or perhaps in keeping Blvd., Oklahoma City, OK 73105-5499. Periodicals postage paid at Oklahoma City, OK. with it – Oklahoma newspapers are doing what they do best – serving their commu- POSTMASTER: Send address changes to THE nities and helping the less fortunate. OKLAHOMA PUBLISHER, 3601 N. Lincoln Blvd., ’Tis always the season. Oklahoma City, OK 73105-5499. 4 THE OKLAHOMA PUBLISHER, December 2009 OPA CALENDAR OF EVENTS Complete Listing of Events at Stonewall refunds www.OkPress.com Attorney General revises opinion Oklahoma Attorney General Drew State Sen. Debbe Leftwich asked for 10 traffic tickets DEC. 31 Edmondson issued a revised formal opin- the opinion after The Oklahoman request- NOMINATION DEADLINE FOR ion to clarify whether public agencies ed the birth date of an Oklahoma City Due to an oversight, the city of Stone- ONF BEACHY MUSSELMAN should release birth dates of their employ- employee placed on administrative leave wall was forced to refund money for 10 AWARD & OPA CENTURY CLUBS ees. during an investigation into management traffic citations it issued over a two month Nominations may be made by anyone. The The revised opinion states that govern- of a federal grant. period. Beachy Musselman Award recognizes a ment employee birth dates are presumed When Edmondson released the origi- In response to a citizen petition regard- journalist for his or her contribution to the field open unless the public body can demon- nal opinion, he said birth dates should be ing traffic safety violations along a section of printed journalism or its related field. The of road known as Jesse Road, the Stone- recipient receives a plaque and $1,000. strate that the employee’s privacy out- open most of the time. However, language To be eligible for membership in the Half weighs the public’s interest in disclosure. within the opinion seemed to give agencies wall’s town council annexed that part of Century Club, nominees must have completed “If the exception is claimed the burden an excuse for refusing to release them. the road and began handing out tickets to any 20 years of their newspaper experience would be on the agency to demonstrate Charlie Price, a spokesman for the offending motorists. at an OPA-member newspaper. To be eligible that the employee’s personal privacy inter- attorney general’s office, told The Oklaho- The problem was that the city neglected for induction into the Quarter Century Club, to print a public notice of the petition in the nominees must have completed at least est outweighs the public interest in produc- man that Edmondson wanted to “clarify 10 years of their newspaper experience at an ing the record,” Edmondson said. the intent of the opinion.” newspaper and, as a result, had not techni- OPA-member newspaper. Complete nomination cally annexed the road before it began to criteria for the Musselman Award and OPA ticket violators. Quarter and Half Century Clubs is available The Stonewall town council subse- on the OPA website at www.okpress.com/ quently resolved the issue, but had to contests--awards. Seminole schools refuse to release audit rescind the unlawful traffic tickets. JAN. 8, 2010 – DEADLINE The Seminole Public School District last three years. All of the violations dealt ONF INTERNSHIP PROGRAM has denied access to a financial audit per- with the school’s activity fund. HOST NEWSPAPER APPLICATION formed at its request claiming the audit to School administrators did tell police OPA business members wishing to host an be a “personnel record.” that the audit found funds missing from Audit shows meeting, ONF intern in summer 2010 must submit When oddities in Seminole Public the activity fund but the amount is still not applications by Jan. 8, 2010. School’s Activity Fund became appar- publicly available. FEB. 4-6, 2010 – MIDWEST CITY ent, the district reported possible missing Stu Phillips, publisher of The Seminole records violations OPA MID-WINTER CONVENTION money from the fund’s sub-accounts to the Producer, has promised legal action if the The State Auditor and Inspector’s Mark your calendars and plan to attend the Seminole Police. audit is not released. Office has completed a citizen-requested annual convention at the Sheraton & Reed In addition, it ordered an independent “Make no mistake, financial records audit of the Town of Oakland and the Oak- Center in Midwest City. audit of the accounts by a private firm. The of a school system are public record,” land Public Works Authority. FEB. 19, 2010 – DEADLINE Seminole Producer made an Open Records Phillips said. “The attempt to keep this The agency recommends “proper legal ONF STUDENT INTERNSHIP & request for a copy of that audit, but was information from the public will need- authorities” look over the findings and SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS refused. lessly cost the school system attorney fees determine whether charges should be filed POSTMARK DEADLINE Initially, the audit was described by and court costs. for alleged infractions. Applications available at School Superintendent Jeff Pritchard as an “The shame that might have been lim- The audit details possible violations to www.okpress.com/onf. “investigative report,” not an audit. Later, ited to one person’s actions is now com- the Open Records Act, the Open Meeting FEB. 24, 26, 27 – OKC it was called a personnel record, which can bined with the school’s short lived attempt Act, possible irregularities in grant expen- OKC GRIDIRON PERFORMANCES be kept confidential under the Oklahoma to cover up those actions. ditures and utility bills and possible misap- The 2010 Oklahoma City Gridiron production Open Records Act. No confirmation has “We have retained legal council to rem- propriation of funds. will be held in the Lyric Plaza Theatre at 1727 been made that any employees are listed edy this situation,” he said. The OSAI has no jurisdiction or author- NW 16th St., Oklahoma City, OK 73106. All in the audit. The information may come out anyway. shows begin at 7:45 p.m. and seats are $25. ity in the matters and suggested that a gov- Visit www.okcgridiron.org for more information The Producer obtained copies of gener- The State Auditor and Inspector’s Office ernmental agency address the issues. al fund audits for the school from the State told The Producer that if the district attor- For more information on upcoming events, visit the website as noted in the calendar, go to the OPA website at Auditor and Inspector’s Office and found ney requests it, they will perform an audit www.OkPress.com or contact Member Services repeated violations of State Department of on the Activity Fund and that will be pub- Director Lisa Potts at (405) 499-0026, Education Policies and Procedures in the licly available from the state office. Religion editor receives award 1-888-815-2672 or [email protected]. Carla Hinton, religion editor at The Oklahoman and NewsOk.com, was recent- ly named Journalist of the Year by the Tulsa Association of Black Journalists. State employees group charges board with meeting violations Hinton, who has worked at The Okla- homan for 23 years, was selected from Oklahoma County District Attorney lic Employees Association claimed that the item titled “Discussion and Possible Action among journalists throughout the state. David Prater will look into allegations agency met, discussed the elimination of Regarding Monthly Financial Report.” The Oklahoman and NewsOk.com staff that the state Board of Mental Health and 100 jobs and some services and cut $7.3 Jeff Dismukes, spokesman for the Men- also won awards. Oklahoman journalists Substance Abuse Services violated the million from its budget, but never men- tal Health Department, said, “There was Bryan Painter, Clytie Bunyan and Jenni Open Meeting Act when it voted to cut its tioned the terminations or cuts in services no intent on the part of the board to Carlson received awards for commentary budget. on the agenda. deceive anyone.” and sports coverage and the sports staff In a letter to Prater, the Oklahoma Pub- The actions were taken under an agenda received a first place award. 5 THE OKLAHOMA PUBLISHER, December 2009 Miami News-Record welcomes new publisher James T. Abruzzo was recently named overall quality of our products, especially WHO WILL BUY THE MOST publisher of the Miami News-Record. in the print sector. We want to put out the Randy Cope, president, CEO and man- very best in our publications to serve both NEWSPAPER ADVERTISING IN THE PRIMARY? aging director of American Consolidated our readers and advertisers. Media, parent company of the News- “I want the News-Record to be our Record, made the announcement. community newspaper of choice, and striv- Which candidates do you think will spend the most on newspaper advertising “I am excited to have James join the ing for more community input to better our for the July 27, 2010, primary election? Look over the list of candidates, fill in the News-Record team,” said Cope. “Not only publications will be a high priority.” arrow and return this ballot to the Oklahoma Press Association, 3601 N. Lincoln does he have a solid understanding of the Abruzzo began his career at the Neosho business, but he also has a passion for it – Daily News in Neosho, Mo., in 1988. He Blvd., Oklahoma City, OK 73105 or fax to (405) 499-0048, or fill out the online for using what we do to improve the lives was promoted to press manager in 1990, poll at www.okpress.com/political-advertising-poll. of our readers.” production manager in 1992, and regional Abruzzo, former regional press and IT production manager in 2004. advisor for GateHouse Media, Inc., said He also assumed the role of IT manager FOR GOVERNOR FOR STATE TREASURER he looks forward to working for the News- in 2004 for GateHouse Media’s Mid-South JARI ASKINS, Democrat OWEN LAUGHLIN, Republican Record. Division. DREW EDMONDSON, Democrat KEN MILLER, Republican “I think this is a great opportunity to He has a degree in business manage- RANDY BROGDON, Republican take our print and online publications to a ment. higher level,” Abruzzo said. “As publisher, Abruzzo and his wife, Debbie, have MARY FALLIN, Republican I will be keying on more local content for been married for 24 years and have five our publications, as well as improving the children. FOR SUPERINTENDENT FOR LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR OF PUBLIC INSTRUCTION JOHN CAREY, Democrat RANDALL GORMAN, Democrat KENNETH CORN, Democrat SUSAN PADDACK, Democrat Postal service working to relieve problems TODD HIETT, Republican JANET BARRESI, Republican TODD LAMB, Republican SHAWN HIME, Republican caused by new periodicals deposit time JOHN WRIGHT, Republican POSTAL ONE FOR STATE AUDITOR FOR COMMISSIONER OF LABOR Postal Notes Currently there are 60-plus Postal One by BILL NEWELL, OPA POSTAL CONSULTANT & INSPECTOR LLOYD FIELDS, Democrat sites in the Oklahoma District. This pro- STEVE BURRAGE, Democrat JOHN M. GAMBILL, Republican gram allows periodicals permit mailers to New postal service accounting prac- JASON REESE, Republican transmit their postage statement by elec- tices, mandated by the United States Con- MARK WAYNE MULLIN, Republican gress, are causing problems for periodicals tronic means. I recommend contacting your postal FOR ATTORNEY GENERAL mailers that deposit their mailing late in JIM PRIEST, Democrat the day. software vendor to see if they are capable of utilizing this program. This, along with CLARK JOLLEY, Republican FOR INSURANCE COMMISSIONER However, provisions are being imple- RYAN LEONARD, Republican KIM HOLLAND, Democrat mented to help relieve some of the prob- the use of a centralized periodicals postage account, will allow you to have better and lems. Mail to OKLAHOMA PRESS ASSOCIATION, 3601 N. Lincoln Blvd., Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Publishers should check with their post- timelier information as to the amount of master for the permit mailings acceptance funds in your account. It also will make or fax to (405) 499-0048 or fill out online poll at www.okpress.com/political-advertising-poll cut-off, which is generally around 3 p.m. acceptance much easier and it’s paperless. Because of the time sensitivity of com- Eventually, all offices in the Oklahoma munity newspapers, the post office is District will be Postal One sites. I encour- allowing those that mail fewer than 5,000 age all publishers to move in this direction. per mailing to tender the mailing to their Feel free to contact me so I can help you office of entry after this time, but before connect with the proper postal personnel to outbound transportation leaves. assist you in implementing this program. To be accepted and dispatched, ade- POSTAGE ACCOUNT BALANCE quate funds must be in your account. Newspaper Brokers The completed postage statement 3541 It has come to my attention that some and a marked copy must be to the post publishers are having difficulty in getting office by 11 a.m. the next business day a balance on their postage account. It is Appraisers showing that day’s date. the responsibility of the permit holder to keep track of their account balance. The Mailers that exceed 5,000, but fewer Consultants than 10,000 per mailing, and want to post office is not required to provide you an ongoing balance sheet. I suggest you THOMAS C. BOLITHO EDWARD M. ANDERSON be included in this program may apply We have many years experience in with permission granted on a case-by-case contact your postmaster and ask for your P.O. BOX 849 P.O. Box 2001 current balance so you can begin maintain- ADA, OK 74821 the community newspaper market BRANSON, MO 65616 basis. (580) 421-9600 (417) 336-3457 ing your own records. [email protected] www.nationalmediasales.com [email protected] 6 THE OKLAHOMA PUBLISHER, December 2009 ONF internship program enters into third year of operation It’s time again for OPA business mem- the police beat, weekly county commis- list of weekly responsibilities, it’s time to HOST NEWSPAPER bers to apply to host a college intern for sioner meetings and a host of other events, reconsider the option,” Reid said. summer 2010. writing everything from hard news to Kerr turned out to be an asset to the INTERNSHIP APPLICATIONS An ONF selection committee soon features. newspaper covering breaking news with Applications, which were mailed to OPA will choose 17 Oklahoma newspapers to She also helped maintain the paper’s speed, accuracy and attention to detail. member newspapers, also are available at receive funding to pay an intern’s salary website and worked on a major story about This allowed the newspaper to increase www.OkPress.com/internships. for eight weeks. school stimulus funding. his responsibilities during his internship Newspapers submitting an application to This year will mark the third year of the Trotter said Brooks learned valuable period. host an intern should be faxed or postmarked internship program and also three years of lessons not available in classrooms when Ron Booth, editor of the Duncan Ban- no later than Jan. 8, 2010. success, not only in teaching real world she was turned away from an accident ner, said his paper’s intern gave the staff an Host newspaper applications require a experience to college interns but in helping scene and when deputies tried to prevent opportunity to increase its productivity and description of the intern’s responsibilities as well newspapers receive a new, fresh perspec- her from taking a camera into a commis- gain a new perspective. as a description of training the intern will receive tive on the newspaper business. sioners’ meeting. “A college student can teach the paper during the internship period. In many instances the ONF internship Trotter expressed gratitude to ONF and a few new tricks in these times of change,” Preference will be given to newspapers that can program has been considered a lifesaver to to the Ethics and Excellence in Journalism Booth said. offer interns print and multimedia experience. local newspapers. Foundation for making the internship pro- His staff was rejuvenated after watch- Each newspaper has the option of choosing “The ONF Internship program may be gram possible. ing an eager reporter go out and cover to hire an intern from the student applications the best thing that has ever been offered to Christine Reid of Kingfisher Times stories. submitted to ONF or finding an eligible intern OPA members,” said Gloria Trotter, editor & Free Press said their intern, Kevin Whether it’s boosting office morale, through its own hiring process. and publisher of The Countywide & Sun. Kerr from Northwestern Oklahoma State building new websites or covering impor- The interns’ salaries will be paid by ONF with “If ever there was a win-win, this is it.” University, helped develop a new, user- tant stories, Oklahoma newspapers defi- a grant from the Ethics and Excellence in Trotter’s intern was able to cover for friendly website. nitely consider an intern to be an asset. Journalism Foundation. a part-time reporter who was recovering “If you’ve been avoiding the oppor- The intern is also reassured of pursuing The interview process between the selected from major surgery. tunity to take on a summer intern for fear a career in the newspaper business so it is a newspapers and student will take place in March 2010. Kaylea Brooks from the University of that you’ll just be adding ‘mentoring a win-win situation for everyone involved. Central Oklahoma stepped in and covered new kid’ to your already impossibly-long

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3520DF&RPSXWHUV Apple 1:([SUHVVZD\ ÒSpecialist 2NODKRPD&LW\2.  7 THE OKLAHOMA PUBLISHER, December 2009 All you need for Christmas is Apple’s new Mac mini server shared drive, this might be a good solution out the HP Laserjet 2025n or 2030n. The across the top of the mouse. It has some computer notes at a reasonable price. “n” stands for networking – the printers weight to it, feels good in your hand, uses This machine works well in both a PC are equipped with Ethernet ports and sup- Bluetooth and retails for $69. from the road and Mac network, although its software port Mac OSX. Finally, if you bought a new computer by WILMA MELOT is head and shoulders above the server Brother has similar units, such as the or get one for Christmas, you may notice software you’ll find on small PC servers. HL-2170W, which has wireless support, is a difference in the FireWire connection I feel like a little kid at Christmas time, At $1,000, Apple is essentially giving the network ready and also supports Mac OSX – your FireWire 400 ports are missing. dancing and jumping up and down over server software away. with drivers. You’ll need an adapter to take you from the features of Apple’s new Mac Mini In my opinion, everyone running a net- Several newspapers use Lexmark. They FireWire 400 to 800. Belkin makes one for server. Apple released this little gem for work of five computers or more, whether seem well built and start at $199. $30 that includes a cable. There are others only $1000 including the server software, Mac or PC, should look at this product. Don’t be afraid of the all-in-one print- that are just a one-inch adapter that retail which makes it truly affordable. ers/fax/scanner. They’re getting better and for about $11. The Mac mini server boasts two 500GB OTHER CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEAS many support Mac. Hope you all have a wonderful Christ- internal hard drives that can be mirrored for For those looking for my regular Christ- Maybe I’m the only one who thinks mas and New Year. the sake of secure backup, and the Snow mas column full of cool techie-type gifts, these are cool but the SATA hard drive Leopard server software makes quick file let’s talk about some of the geekier items. enclosures are a really inexpensive way SPACE HEATER CABLE WARS sharing a breeze. In software land, one of the best buys of acquiring backup storage. You simply With the cost of heating going up, many The setup is easy to administrate if you for newspapers that run Intel Macs is Pho- install an internal SATA hard drive in the folks are looking for space heaters for the simply want to use it for backup. If you’d toshop Elements. You can buy Elements enclosure and connect it to your machine office. like to do something a bit more daring and for as little as $69 and it will do almost via FireWire or USB. That’s backup space Obviously, you should look for the most complicated, you could host a website or everything you need regarding photos, for less than $1 per gigabyte. energy efficient one you can find. You also your e-mail on this machine. except convert them to CMYK. For that, The drives can be hot-swapped and need to be sure you don’t plug it into the There’s no internal DVD/CD drive; that you’ll need to keep at least taken off-site for data security. There are same outlet as your computer. space was taken by the second hard drive. one full version of enclosures that work with the smaller 2.5” In older buildings, outlets are always a There are, however, five USB ports and Photoshop in your laptop drives as well. You can find these problem. But even if you have to use an one FireWire port making it easy to con- office. at sites like otherworldcomputing.com and extension cord from a distant outlet, it’s nect external drives and peripherals. A simple work- thinkgeek.com. If ThinkGeek has them, a better solution than having a device that A 2.5GHZ Intel Core 2 flow would be to they have to be cool. cycles on and off plugged into the same Duo processor and 4GB place the corrected Last time I was at ThinkGeek, I noticed outlet as your computer. RAM give this server plenty photos on a server, something else that you might like if you It sounds like common sense, but some- of power to handle almost pull them to the full ver- spend time on the road like I do. The Pow- times we don’t think about it. any task you set it to and the sion of Photoshop and ermonkey portable charger is a device you As the new year approaches, you might video card is robust enough convert them all using a stan- charge at home and haul around with you think about a cleaning project: check that for the mini to be used as a dard setting. in case of emergency power needs. tangled mess under your desk for power workstation, if need be. Wireless network- Black and white are a mainstay of If your phone or other electronic device cords that belong to things you no lon- ing is built in. newspapers, though, and Elements does an runs down, you can charge it from the ger use. I’ve seen as many as five power You can sync your iPhone, calendar, excellent job with those. Powermonkey and get up and running. converters plugged into a surge protector address book, podcast, iChat, mail service, Many papers are phasing out tabloid- Standby charge time on the device is one under a desk and none of them were con- run a Web server along with file sharing, sized printers this year and replacing them year, so you can leave it in your camera nected to anything. giving you one place to store everything with smaller laser printers for proofing and bag or trunk for extended periods and it Unplugging and disposing of these you need. Apple has perfected the art of correction. will be ready when you need it. draws on your power is just a good idea. using a hard drive over a network. HP and Brother seem to be winning the It’s 10x more powerful than your phone The fewer things plugged into the same If you’ve thought that your office might laser printer price wars right now. HP has battery and works with many devices. power supply as your computer the better. benefit from working from one central small laser printers starting at $99. Check Retail price is $49.99. OPA Computer Consultant Wilma Melot’s column Then there’s the Apple Magic Mouse. brought to you by the Oklahoma Advertising Network This cool little mouse let’s you scroll TWO NEW WAYS TO (OAN). For information on the OAN program, contact without a scroll ball – you drag your finger Oklahoma Press Service at (405) 499-0020. MAKE MONEY WITH METRO ONLINE CALL LOUANN SORNSON AT 800.223.1600 FOR FURTHER INFO NEWSPAPER & PUBLICATION BINDING WWW.METROCREATIVECONNECTION.COM Before you have your next issue bound, give us a call. We offer exceptional quality, competitive pricing and fast turnaround times. With three generations of experi- ence, we have the knowledge and skill to get your job done. Other services TIMELY ONLINE AD include Bible binding and restoration, embossing and much more. FEATURES DESIGN TOOL MICROSITES METRO READY-TO- INTERACTIVE ACE BOOKBINDING CO. DEPLOY-AND- AD DESIGNER 825 N. Classen Blvd., Oklahoma City, OK 73106 SELL THEMED (MiAD) (405) 525-8888 or Toll-Free at 1-800-525-8896 SITES E-mail: [email protected] • www.AceBookBinding.com 8 THE OKLAHOMA PUBLISHER, December 2009 THE OGE PHOTO CONTEST

Watch your tongue! During a tag football game in Barnsdall, Keegan Marin ran with the OCTOBER 2009 DAILY WINNER: ball while his teammates mounted a strong defense for the gray team. BEN Photo by Misty Robbins, The Bigheart Times (Barnsdall), Published Oct. 15, 2009 WOLOSZYN Stillwater NewsPress OCTOBER 2009 WEEKLY WINNER: MISTY ROBBINS The Bigheart Times

View all winning photos at www.OkPress.com

ATTENTION PHOTOGRAPHERS: If you’re a staff photographer of an OPA member newspaper, don’t forget to enter this monthly contest! All entries for the previous month must arrive at the OPA office by the 15th of the month. See complete entry details at www.okpress.com/oge-photo-contest. Adam Martin tugs on a rope while playing tug-of-war with his classmates during the Westwood Elementary Field Day fundraiser. Photo by BEN WOLOSZYN, Stillwater NewsPress, Published Oct. 24, 2009 9 THE OKLAHOMA PUBLISHER, December 2009 POLITICAL CANDIDATES SHOW YOU

JARI AKSINS RANDY BROGDON Democrat THE MONEY Republican NEXT REPORTS DUE BY FEBRUARY 1 Oklahoma’s top gubernatorial candidates have already spent more Brogdon, Drew Edmondson and Mary Fallin. The next quarterly reports than a million dollars on election campaigns. (Oct. 1, 2009 - Dec. 31, 2009) are due to be filed electronically with the This month, The Oklahoma Publisher looks at where that money is Oklahoma Ethics Commission no later than February 1, 2010. being spent. The information was obtained from the candidate’s Con- Expense reports for all other candidates for statewide and local races tribution & Expenditure Reports as reported to the Oklahoma Ethics can be found on the Ethics website – not only for upcoming campaigns, Commission. but for previous campaigns that candidate might have run. DREW EDMONDSON From Jan. 1, 2009, to Sept. 30, 2009, the four gubernatorial candi- Instructions for obtaining the reports from the Ethics Commission’s MARY FALLIN Democrat dates have spent a total of $1,091,715. website are at the bottom of this page. Republican Following is a list of the top 10 expenditures of Jari Askins, Randy

JARI ASKINS, Democrat DREW EDMONDSON, Democrat RANDY BROGDON, Republican MARY FALLIN, Republican Total Expenditures as of Sept. 30, 2009: Total Expenditures as of Sept. 30, 2009: Total Expenditures as of Sept. 30, 2009: Total Expenditures as of Sept. 30, 2009: $245,150.70 $200,997.69 $70,303.47 $423,642.31 1. DON HOOVER & ASSOC. $41,902.02 1. FUNDRAISING MANAGEMENT $40,785.36 1. PHAME MARKETING $8,500.00 1. SAGAC PUBLIC AFFAIRS $121,092.28 Edmond, OK GROUP LLC Tulsa, OK Oklahoma City, OK Bethesda, MD 2. ORO AFFILIATES LLC $16,000.00 2. KOPCO, INC. $5,521.00 2. HOCKADAY & ASSOC. $46,323.28 Stillwater, OK 2. LAKE RESEARCH PARTNERS $34,624.40 Caney, KS Alexandria, VA 3. PATRICK CAMERON $12,717.43 Washington, DC 3. RENDA BROADCASTING $5,500.00 3. DENISE NORTHRUP $44,795.79 Piedmont, OK 3. AMERICAN EXPRESS $26,107.24 Oklahoma City, OK Oklahoma City, OK 4. REID NICHOLS $10,347.71 4. BANCFIRST $20,337.75 4. WESTERN PRINTING CO. $4,525.16 4. TARRANCE GROUP $34,491.20 Oklahoma City, OK Oklahoma City, OK Tulsa, OK Alexandria, VA 5. DOUGLAS FULMER & ASSOC. $10,000.00 5. EMILY LANG $17,603.08 5. TREVOR LYMAN $3,810.00 5. DIRECT MAIL SYSTEMS $32,171.08 Nashville, TN Oklahoma City, OK Deerfield Beach, FL Clearwater, FL 6. B. CREATIVE $9,157.00 6. LINDSEY COSTER $17,498.33 6. CATALYST PRODUCTIONS $3,070.00 6. ED GOEAS $30,000.00 Oklahoma City, OK Oklahoma City, OK Tulsa, OK Alexandria, VA 7. MICHELLE TILLEY JOHNSON $4,000.00 7. SNYDER PRINTING $16,070.89 7. CHEAPER T’S $2,398.86 7. TRAILBLAZER CAMPAIGN $19,580.00 Kingfisher, OK Oklahoma City, OK Broken Arrow, OK SERVICES, INC. Minneapolis, MN 8. HAYDEN, BLANTON & ASSOC. $3,943.23 8. IDEAL MAILING $9,796.23 8. INIT2, LLC $2,370.76 Raleigh, NC Oklahoma City, OK Broken Arrow, OK 8. JACKSON ALVAREZ GROUP $10,655.98 McLean, VA 9. MIXED MEDIA $3,150.00 9. WILL CASKEY $9,250.00 9. ELECTIONMALL Topeka, KS Chicago, Ill. TECHNOLOGIES $2,151.49 9. US POSTMASTER $9,373.87 10. CARRIE BULLARD $7,732.12 Washington, DC Oklahoma City, OK 10. U.S. POSTMASTER $2,570.64 Oklahoma City, OK 10. MAIL CONSULTANT $2,148.83 10. STEVENS & SCHRIEFER GROUP $8,665.78 Oklahoma City, OK Total: $199,805.40 Tulsa, OK Washington, DC Total: $113,788.03 Total: $39,996.10 Total: $357,149.26

To view Contribution & Expenditure Reports from the 4. To view the “Contribution and Expenditure Report,” click on the Oklahoma Ethics Commission Campaign Reporting website: “Report Type” list and select “C-1R” HOW TO GET 1. Go to: www.ok.gov/ethics/public/candidate.php 5. Hit “Search” 2. Type in the name of a candidate 6. Click on the period you want to view (reports are done quarterly) 3. Under “Full Committee Name” select the campaign 7. For Expenditures, look for Item No. 14 and click on THE REPORTS you’re interested in and click “See Attached Schedule E”

10 THE OKLAHOMA PUBLISHER, December 2009 and daughter Holly Hefton both members of the profession. OKLAHOMA PRESS ASSOCIATION Hilarie finished certification at the International Protocol School in Washington, DC, this year and is having great success with her start-up protocol, manners and etiquette business, all the while working full-time as a bank senior vice president. Sam and wife Kathy recently finished construction Past Presidents Report on a second home at Angel Fire, N.M. Dick was appointed by Gov. Brad Henry to serve a term on the board of regents for Rose State College in Midwest City beginning July 2009. Dick, daughter Hilarie and granddaughter Jordan Dean ran into a contingent of OPA mem- bers while touring Washington, DC, in March and joined them for an enjoyable reception with the Oklahoma delegation. Other than a modicum of business duties for Dick, it’s been lots of golf and trips to San Antonio, South Padre, Colorado Springs, Santa Fe, the Balloon Fiesta at Albuquerque and a quick Air National Guard turnaround to Honolulu. The Heftons were thrilled to host their good New Zealand friends in February and to help treat Hilarie’s Protocol classmate from Shanghai, China, in July. “We’ve all been blessed with good health for which we are eternally grateful,” said the Heftons. “We cherish our 50-year association with our friends in the press. Hilarie, Holly and Sam often express the high value they place on the nurture Past presidents of the Oklahoma Press Association met for dinner in Oklahoma City on Nov. 12 at the Waterford Marriott. Front row: Barb and lifetime friendships that grew out of the sum- Walter, Jim Bellatti, Gracie Montgomery, Don Ferrell, Sean Dyer and Wayne Trotter. Back row: John D. Montgomery, Steve Booher, Ken mer meetings they never missed.” Reid, Jim Mayo, David Stringer, Joe Hancock, Richard Hefton, Joe Worley, Ben Blackstock, Larry Wade and Jerry Quinn. 1977 PAT DYER (JACK) The Oklahoma Press Association compiles this annual Past Presidents The Pates spend most of their time going back Pat had a great trip to South Padre and Report as a way of recognizing and keeping in touch with those who and forth to doctors’ offices. Maribeth is fighting Florida this summer with some of her kids and blood clots in both lungs, but is showing marked grandkids. Pat is still able to help deliver Mobil dedicated their time and efforts to serve the press association. improvement. Jim is on kidney dialysis and takes meals, help with funeral dinners at church, and his treatments each night at home. take care of her grandchildren and great-grand- 1959 1972 The Pates have moved to Grace Presbyterian children. “Hope everyone is having a great year!” ED & MELBA LIVERMORE D. JO & HELEN FERGUSON Village in South Dallas where they have a comfort- she wrote. This will be the first Past Presidents Dinner D. Jo has lost close to 70 pounds in the last able cottage and good neighbors. They eat lunch the Livermores have missed. They sent their few months. His doctors can’t find anything at the “big house” but continue to fix their own 1979 regrets and said they wish they were able to see wrong since D. Jo says he’s in no pain and eats dinner and breakfast. “That means Maribeth does KEN & PHYLLIS REID all of you “wonderful people” and participate in pretty well. One doctor asked if “concerns” might the fixin’,” Jim said. Although dialysis limits his Over the past year, Phyllis got a new pace- the exuberant newspaper talk they’ve enjoyed so be the problem, but D. Jo forgot to mention the travels, Jim did make it to New York for grand- maker, while Ken returned to Alaska and gave many years. election. daughter Katye’s high school graduation. Katye is away his three bird dogs. “We think we hold the dubious honor (or At 87.5 years of age, the Fergusons still do a now a freshman at TCU and brother James is at Ken also sent his Cessna Cardinal RG to Pauls whatever you call it) of being the eldest member. little traveling. D. Jo still goes to the office every SMU. The Pates say it’s good to have Marti’s kids Valley where grandson Reid Colley soloed in four More’s the pity we can’t attend.” day (sometimes even on Sunday afternoons) to close to them. hours and is about to get his license. The Livermores enjoy a good life, good health, write obits, editorials and his column, and layout Their eighth great-grandson, Porter, was a family and friends. They miss traveling, but say some of the front page. D. Jo says he’s decided 1975 preemie born in August weighing in at two that’s a small price to pay for their countless he’s too old for this job. DICK & RHONDA HEFTON pounds, 10 ounces. He’s doing great and now blessings. Helen continues to play the organ at church The last twelve months have been full and weighs almost 11 pounds. The ninth great- The most exciting event of the past year was and has a busy social calendar. Rusty can tell you bountiful for the Hefton family. grandchild is due in April. the birth of a great-grand-daughter, making the about the family’s experience selling their farm at Rhonda and her daughter Ali Justus, who are The Reids’ two sons, David and Phillip, are total two girls and three boys. All healthy, bounc- auction. D. Jo and Helen send their best regards both Stephen ministers, joined 24 others on a still active in Oklahoma newspapering. ing kids – a true blessing! The Livermores look to the other past presidents. 14-day mission trip to Uganda in October where “We think they are fully aware of trends in forward to seeing everyone at the dinner next they helped open a new Presbyterian church. the business and tend to do good work in their year. 1974 Abby, Rhonda’s younger daughter, stayed home communities. We are proud of them, of course,” JIM & MARIBETH PATE with her two boys (ages 2-½ and 1-½) while the Reids wrote. 1971 her husband, Andy Lawrence, completed his Ken remembers the words of the late Seminole The Pates sent their regrets, adding that after Producer founder, James T. Jackson: “Show me a J. L. JENNINGS looking over the picture of last year’s dinner they bar exam. The Heftons find themselves long on lawyers with Hilarie’s husband, Kevin Blaney, community with a good bank and a good newspa- Unfortunately, we did not hear from J.L. this felt they wouldn’t fit in. “We’re not nearly that per and I’ll show you a growing town.” year. old,” they wrote. 11 THE OKLAHOMA PUBLISHER, December 2009

“The boys confirm this, in spite of all the chal- and old car collection. Coffee is always on and put out two editions on Friday, it’s hard to make them out twice a year as the museum is small and lenges,” said Ken, who wishes more youngsters visitors invited. Thursday night events,” they wrote. we need to keep it fresh,” wrote Nancy. would recognize the opportunities and pride in Sally is restoring a 1917 two-story house on She still plays bridge once a week and has building strong communities with community “Silk Stocking Row” in historic Chandler, an 1988 season tickets to the Corpus Christi Symphony. newspapers. unplanned auction purchase that is about ready Nancy says the view from her living room and “The opportunities are still there. It sure has for a new owner. LELAND & VICKI GOURLEY balcony are fantastic and she’d love to share it. been a good life for us, and our association with The Gourleys regret they won’t be at this year’s “If you ever get close to Port A give me a call and dinner, which they consider one of their favorite folks like you has been appreciated. May God 1985 we’ll visit while we sit on the balcony and share a bless us, one and all.” events, because of a previous commitment to ride bottle of wine,” she said. DONN DODD the Polly Nichols Bus to attend her induction into Unfortunately, we did not hear from Donn. the Oklahoma Hall of Fame. 1980 The most significant event in the Gourley’s 1991 TOM MCCURDY 1986 life since last year is the move from their beloved JOE & NEVILLE HANCOCK Tom reports there has been few changes in Nichols Hills back to Quail Creek in a gated com- Joe says he gave up golf since all of his his life this past year. He continues to be the daily JIM & BECKY MAYO munity called Stone Brook. “Our friend, Aubrey buddies have either passed away or moved. He caregiver for his father, who is approaching the “Thanks to our government-sponsored, sin- McClendon of Chesapeake fame, was attempting brought the golf cart to town, made it street legal young age of 98. gle-payer health plan, we are doing great,” wrote to buy all the units in our condominium complex and drives it to work. The Hancock’s two grand- Although his dad has incidents of falling, he’s the Mayos. “Not much news to report, but we and he met our tipping point, so we took the daughters are both in college. had no broken bones. “Dad is really a tough guy, feel fine.” money and moved,” wrote the Gourleys. Joe and Neville look forward to seeing every- and I admire his ability to bounce back from the Last December, the Mayos visited with their The Gourley’s three sons accompanied them one at the dinner. frequent fainting spells,” wrote Tom. “I’m deter- son, Jack, and his family in Seattle for a snow- on the latest “Friday Trip” to Africa by way of bound Christmas. After arriving in Denver, United mined to care for him and treasure each day of Dubai. Vicki’s youngest son, Brandon, gave her 1992 & 2005 his continuing long life. This is the reason I will Airlines “chickened out on flying any farther until a trip and accompanied her to Panda country in not be able to attend this year’s dinner.” the snow in Seattle stopped.” Not to be deterred, Tibet and China for Mother’s Day. “Leland wasn’t JOHN D. & GRACIE MONTGOMERY Tom said some of his most cherished friends, the Mayos found an Alaska Airlines flight that was invited. He’s not a mother, though he has been The Montgomerys got a big pay raise when including Ben and Bonnie Blackstock, are past pressing on to Seattle despite the weather. called that a time or two,” said Vicki. son Matt walked across the stage for OU gradua- presidents of the OPA. “What wonderful memo- “We haven’t decided if they are truly more The Gourleys attended the season opening tion in December. ries I have – from attending the conventions at experienced at flying in bad weather, or just stu- Ball and Concert of the National Symphony The whole family – including sons Matt, John an early age with my grandfather, James C. Nance pid,” the Mayos wrote. “The flight from Denver Orchestra in Washington, DC, with their local Denny and his wife Emily – went to Washington, – to all the many years of my newspaper life in was so hair-raising that we petrified passengers friends, Dick and Jeanette Sias. DC, in March for the NNA Government Affairs Sulphur and here in Purcell. gave the pilot a round of applause when we finally They also attended their grand-daughter’s Conference. One highlight was a tour of the “I applaud the qualities of the Past Presidents. landed on a snow-covered runway in Seattle.” graduation activities at West Point. Maxine Gourley Newseum. It’s a “must see” stop and one they say They have my best wishes for continued success Jack met the Mayos in his four-wheel drive to is now a 2nd Lieutenant in the Army Engineer they could have spent a week at. and good health,” wrote Tom. take them the remaining 20 miles to his home Corps. She is expecting early deployment to Gracie and John D. celebrated their 30th in Redmond. Afghanistan in the 82nd Airborne Division. anniversary on Aug. 4. Very few thought Gracie “Seattle is notorious for its crowded freeways, could put up with him that long. 1981 The Gourleys also reported that their dog, but not that night,” the Mayos said. “No one on FRIDAY, passed away. John D. only pulled one muscle at the Rotary JIM & LOUISE BELLATTI the six-lane highway but us and a few thrill-crazy bowling tournament. Jim and Louise Bellatti are still living in teenagers. Real white Christmases don’t match At the time the Montgomerys wrote this, they Stillwater with daughter Susie B. Glasscock living their hype.” The Mayos plan to return to Seattle 1989 were expecting a junior high class for a thrilling nearby. Susie is in her 37th year at the Stillwater this Christmas – by car. “We may get snowed in, NANCY PHILLIPS (TED) tour of the Register plant. NewsPress. but at least we’ll be on the ground.” Nancy wrote that one of the best days of her Their August trip to Seattle was snow free and life was this past June when she attended the 1993 1983 included an overnight visit to the town of Poulsbo high school graduation of her grandson, Steve A. on the Olympic Peninsula. Norwegians settled the Phillips, in Reston, Va., a suburb of Washington, ED & MARCIA LIVERMORE LARRY & MARY JANE WADE community in the late 19th century. Being half DC. The Livermores say 2009 is challenging. Larry is the current vice-chairman of the OU Norwegian, Jim felt right at home. “It’s prob- “Steve is a quadriplegic who doesn’t speak They’re building a new home in Kerrville, Texas, Board of Regents and will become chairman next ably the only place in America that you can find too clearly, but he hung in there, accomplished and anyone who has been through the process of spring. He is still head of the Elk City Education Lutefisk TV Dinners advertised,” the Mayos said. all the requirements and graduated with a regular construction knows how that goes. Foundation and has raised about $1.1 million. “We didn’t buy any, preferring to gorge ourselves diploma, not a special one,” wrote Nancy. “He’s Marcia is directing the project and is also Larry is active in fundraising for the United Fund, on pastries from a Scandinavian bakery on the such a great young man with a fantastic sense of the decorator, so she’s quite busy. Ed’s role is Elk City Band program and more. town’s main drag.” humor and a personality that those who aren’t his to support her and offer advice on decorating, Mary Jane remains on the State Arts Council The Mayo’s other son, Jeff, and his wife, Beth, grandmother love him, too.” colors, etc., although Marcia is too wise to accept and on the visitors’ boards for the OU col- continue to run the paper and make it possible The highlight of the day was Steve being it. Completion of the new abode is anticipated in leges of fine arts and education. She and the local for Jim and Becky to take it easy – “or at least named winner of the highest award given to a January. Presbyterian minister’s wife are planning piano easier.” Their six grandchildren make life a joy. high school senior at graduation, the Faculty The best news in the Livermore family in 2009 duets this fall at Christmas in Elk City and David The Mayos are looking forward to seeing Award. He was the only student called to the was the birth of their second granddaughter, born Boren’s annual Christmas party. everyone at the dinner. stage for his award. Steve is now a freshman at in late February. Chloe, whose proud parents are One daughter still lives in Raleigh, N.C. She Northern Virginia College. daughter Christy and son-in-law Paul Jagodik, and her husband joined Larry and Mary Jane in joins big sis Kaylee, who is now almost 3. The 1987 After returning home from her visit to Virginia, Dallas for the annual OU-Texas football game. Nancy fell and broke her ankle, which pretty well Jagodiks continue to live at Lake Austin, Texas. JOE & CAROLYN MCBRIDE tied up the rest of her summer. Jake, Will and Brock Livermore are prosper- 1984 The McBrides will not be able to attend the Nancy spends most of her time in Port ing with their parents, John and Christi Livermore. dinner this year. Their paper, The Anadarko Daily Aransas with activities related to the Port Aransas They live in Frisco, Texas. Jake and Will are active DON & SALLY FERRELL News, was destroyed by fire on Aug. 22, 2009, but in sports and school activities, and little brother The Ferrells remain interested in old build- Preservation and Historical Association. She is never missed a publication. The McBrides credit currently president of the group, which opened Brock is their biggest fan. ings and old cars. Don rehabbed a 1947 Pontiac the help of the El Reno Tribune with their ability The Livermore family plans a reunion in Tulsa agency building and is using the back section, a museum last year. “The museum director is to continue publishing in the days after the fire. fabulous and has built great exhibits. We change for Thanksgiving. Melba and Ed live there, and including the maintenance room, for his office Joe and Carolyn plan to rebuild at some point. “We’re sad to miss the dinner, but since we Continued on Page 12 12 THE OKLAHOMA PUBLISHER, December 2009 Shannon has taken on a new assignment with the the Bartlesville Garden Clubs and the Northeast sidering they’re now in what she refers to as the Past Presidents Report Tulsa World – breaking news response reporter. District Garden Club. When she is not busy with “Old Coot” stage of life, but adds it beats the heck Grandson Ben is now attending UCO and has the clubs, she is busy with the Quinns’ three out of not getting older. Continued from Page 11 pledged Kappa Sigma. Granddaughter Sydney is a grandsons. Twins Seth and Braydon are now six- Barb and Bill (also known as Mo-Mo and warm hearth is the ideal place for the family to sophomore at Colorado State University and has year-olds and in kindergarten; Quincy is attend- Pa-Paw) can’t wait to see everyone at the dinner gather again this year. moved into the Chi Omega house. ing pre-school. and hope everyone is healthy and enjoying life. “Our best to the OPA family, retired and “Carol still makes several trips to their house active,” the Livermores wrote. “We hope to see 1999 during the week and they all love to come and 2003 everyone at the annual dinner.” stay with Papa and Nana,” Jerry wrote. “We don’t WAYNE & GLORIA TROTTER spoil them a bit. Ha!” RAY & JENNY LOKEY 1995 It’s definitely been an eventful year for the Jenny and Ray recently started collecting Trotters. stamps. It has given them something fun and AL & JANIS HRUBY Not long after last year’s Past Presidents 2001 interesting to do other than sweat over the news- Al’s health prevents the Hrubys from attending Dinner, the Trotters and the Walters made a SEAN & DONNA DYER paper. the Past Presidents Dinner this year. They said return visit to New Orleans, their first joint adven- Sean and Donna took trips with their kids Ray was recently elected president of the they’ll miss seeing everyone and hope to return ture there since Katrina. They report that the food and grandkids this summer. They had a fabulous county humane society, which is planning anoth- next year. is just as good and the city just as fascinating as time at Table Rock Lake, Missouri, and Cozumel. er benefit concert with Tishomingo country music ever. All the kids and grandkids are doing well, the celebs Blake Shelton and Miranda Lambert in 1996 In the spring, both Wayne and Gloria were Dyers report. February. Funds from the concert held earlier LINUS & LEE WILLIAMS inducted into UCO’s Journalism Hall of Fame and They’re looking forward to seeing everyone at this year have gone to the construction of a new The Williams wrote that they have had a great gave a first-ever joint acceptance speech. It was the Past Presidents Dinner! animal shelter in Tishomingo, which, hopefully, year and how wonderful it is to have their son, a great day for them made even more special by with additional funding, will serve all of Johnston Linus Williams, Jr., in the business with them. their staff and newspaper friends. 2002 County. They have been on several trips this year Thank goodness Wayne was almost over the BARB & BILL WALTER Ray’s niece Crystal Lokey started working at including fishing in Idaho in August for a week. bout of sciatica that laid him low most of the first the newspaper office this past spring as an adver- part of the year. Now it’s Gloria who’s moaning “Gloria Trotter looks younger than me, but tising sales representative. She takes to it like a The Williams rent an RV and go way up on the she’s not,” Barb wrote in her update. “She’s days Continental Divide. They caught lots of fish, but and groaning, thanks to an apparent cracked rib duck to water and is doing very well. suffered in a fall leaving the Seminole football older.” Ray will be teaching some journalism courses do catch and release. They also visited Italy and Barb and Gloria both celebrated their 65th Croatia in the spring and fall. stadium a few weeks ago. at Southeastern in Durant this spring in addition It’s as though somebody wanted to remind birthdays in September and were welcomed to to his newspaperin’, which should be fun. Linus’ and Lee’s oldest daughter has moved Medicare and all the confusion that goes with it. back from Neufarhn, Germany, and now lives in them of their “significant” birthdays during this The Lokeys regret that they will not be able past year: Wayne turned 70 in February and “We can’t get our full Social Security until to attend the dinner this year and wish everyone Dallas so Germany is now off the itinerary. Their we’re 66-something so we’ll keep on plugging middle daughter has moved to Gravette, Ark., Gloria hit 65 in September. “This aging business the very best. is the pits!” the Trotters wrote. away at our respective newspapers, and will help with her family, which makes all their children pay for the government checks that our spouses close to them. It’s been meetings, meetings and more meet- 2004 ings since Gloria become OPA president July 1. receive (since their names have been erased “It is lovely to have everyone within driving from the payroll books),” Barb continued. JOE & MYRA WORLEY distance and great for the seven cousins,” wrote Wayne has generously kept the newspaper ship afloat while she is on the road but will be glad Barb continues to try to use the Melba Joe and Myra report all is well in Tulsa. the Williams. “We have six girls and one boy, ages Livermore method of bookkeeping by never Daughter Allison is a second-grade teacher at 9-2. They bring joy and happiness to all.” when it’s over. He keeps assuring her that being a past president is the best job of all! keeping the correct balance showing in the Kerr Elementary School in Tulsa. U.S. Army Maj. Lee completed a year of her cooking col- checkbook. “I call it reserve so that when Bill Bo Worley is about to deploy to Afghanistan while umn and now is putting out a cookbook for the The family, son Greg and wife P.J., as well as kitty cats Mr. Black and Miss Patches, are all well, wants to buy something new, I can find the his wife and two children are in Fort Bragg, N.C. Christmas season. money,” she said. “However, this past year I’ve The Williams will not be able to attend the and things are rocking along at the newspaper as well as can be expected in this economy. exhausted that reserve, but business seems to be 2006 dinner but will think of everyone with fond picking up right now and I don’t want to jinx us memories. As usual, the Trotters are proud to be part of DAVID & ALESIA STRINGER OPA and love and appreciate their OPA family. by saying it’s great.” “Our hearts go out to Carolyn and Joe and we While David completes 27 years in a business 1997 all feel it’s by the grace of God that it wasn’t us. that looks nothing like the one he started in, 2000 Alesia has returned to teaching after a venture TOM & SHERRY MUCHMORE Hats off to the McBrides,” the Walters said. JERRY & CAROL QUINN Although Barb claims she can’t remember into the home daycare business for a few years. In addition to being busy working, writing and The Stringers visited Hawaii for the first time involved in community activities, the Muchmores The Quinns’ Colorado vacation was the high- what they’ve done this past year, she believes they light of their summer. Jerry and Carol traveled had a Stay-cation instead of a trip to New Orleans and had an incredible time. They spent three days have been dusting off their parenting skills with in Waikiki and three days in Kauai. their grandson Ben spending his senior year with with longtime friends David and Eunice Godard or Mexico. “If we went, we couldn’t afford it, or and had a great time. we’re still paying for it on our VISA,” she said. Son Chris completed his fourth tour of Iraq them. this year and heads to Afghanistan in January. Sherry celebrated her 500th Neighborhood On the recommendation of an Bartlesville But the Walters have had weekend fun with Examiner-Enterprise staff member, they included the apple of their eyes – grand-daughter Emerald Daughter Melissa is finishing her senior year at Chef column for the Ponca City News, which may OSU. have been the inspiration for her and Tom to take Phantom Canyon Road in their itinerary. A real (Nick’s daughter), who is almost two and a half a course to become certified BBQ judges. adrenalin-pumper, the road connects Cripple and a “pure delight.” Sherry spent about half of the year with neck Creek (elevation 9,494 ft) to U.S. 50. The 24 Barb says it’s not as easy to get down on the 2007 problems, which have been a problem for about miles of single-lane and mirror-scraping two- floor and play with her, as it was with their two STU & CHERYL PHILLIPS 15 years. She finally decided to have surgery and lane dirt road follows the 1894 railroad route oldest grandkids, who turn 28 in November/ The Phillips expressed how much they have became the proud owner of two fusions and a of the Florence and Cripple Creek Railroad. The December. Their next-to-the-youngest grands are enjoyed their years of service to the OPA, now that two-inch titanium cage, but she got a new lease single-lane tunnels blasted from solid rock, sheer eight, 10, two 21-year-olds and then a 23-year- they’ve cycled off the board. on life. drop-offs and heart-stopping bridges combine to old. “That should add up to eight, but who’s “It’s always been a pleasure to help the news- The Muchmores say their children and grand- create the 4,000 foot drop from Cripple Creek to counting? They are, every Christmas,” she said. paper industry and I can think of no better place children are all doing well. Son Pat has finished the intersection with U.S. 50 a few miles east of “Thank goodness we have no great-grands, to do it than serving on the OPA board,” they his dissertation at CUNY. Looks like they’ll soon Canon City. although grandson Jarrod (almost 28 who lives wrote. “We will miss the annual trips to the cur- have another doctor in the Muchmore family “It was a great experience, and now I know in the greater D.C. area) is getting married in rent OPA president’s home town. We never would when he receives his PhD in Music. Daughter why there is a market for Depends,” Jerry wrote. June.” Carol has been very active doing her thing with Barb says her and Bill’s health is good, con- Continued on Page 13 13 THE OKLAHOMA PUBLISHER, December 2009 Forums engage, stimulate and captivate online readers a forum and for good reason. The forum ing the forum. I was able to set up a forum Second, by reading your own forums That InterWeb Thing allows members to create topics, expound with the Joomla extension in about two you’ll find out what local residents are by KEITH BURGIN, OPA STAFF on them and reply to other members. It’s as minutes – that’s not an exaggeration. interested in – it may give you story ideas close as you’ll get to true discussion short The upside of forums is that they allow or information you didn’t have previously. The first of the year is upon us and of a physical meeting. instant access to anyone who wants to join So who’s going to run your forum? it’s time once again for those New Year’s Forums are simple to set up. The com- the discussion. The downside of forums is Well, it could be an intern, a part-time resolutions. I’ve resolved to tell fewer lies pany hosting your website should be able that they allow instant access to anyone employee or, better yet, a reader. Social to myself, so I won’t be making any reso- to help you with information you’ll need to who wants to join the discussion. networking experts will tell you that the lutions this year. choose software. Simply put – someone has to keep tabs best forums are run by fans – readers. You, on the other hand, might consider If you’re already using a content man- on the posts to keep the ne’er-do-wells out People like to be involved… involve a this: In the coming year, what will you do agement system for your newspaper’s and to enforce content rules. few. Find a couple of trustworthy souls and to update your newspaper and make profit- website, consider contacting the maker My suggestion is that you allow off- make them your forum administrators. able use of new technology? and find out if there’s an optional forum topic posts and rambling rants so long A forum may or may not work for you, This month, I begin a short series for the system. as they’re clean and not offensive. When depending on your circumstances, but it’s in which I’ll suggest some new ways Of the most common systems OPA people feel free to express themselves, definitely a great tool for engaging readers to engage and involve readers, create members use for their websites: Bulletlink they’ll speak freely. and bringing them back. an issues-based online community and doesn’t offer a forum but allows com- That can be beneficial in a couple ways. Forums get people talking, writing and upgrade your web presence for very little, ments; Matchbin offers either a forum or First, free discussions become more lively involved; that’s part of the whole “interac- if any, cash outlay. a blog style comment system; Town News and bring readers back to your website. tive” aspect of the Web. Let’s discuss a simple, inexpensive, yet offers a couple types of forums. People involved in issue-driven forum Enjoy your Christmas and New Year’s time-tested way for readers to engage in Joomla and Wordpress offer extensions debates tend to return frequently and post celebrations – with or without resolutions. online discussion of issues – the forum. that integrate with the system and use your frequently. Get those online ads up on the Next month: Using Twitter to instantly Almost every social network includes current styles, colors and logo in display- forum pages. inform, capture and enthrall readers.

the Messenger & Republican. “According to Past Presidents Report the help,” he writes, “that’s not always a good thing.” Ad Revenue Continued from Page 12 Steve says his hobby is his morning ritual at have spent quality time in Cherokee, Tishomingo, the coffee shop where he listens to the nation’s El Reno, Hennessey or Okmulgee if not for the problems, gets a good dose of conservative President’s Retreat. These towns, like our own, politics, spends 10 minutes defending President are vibrant, active communities. So often all we Obama (which is getting more difficult to do, is see is what is along the major highways.” Everywhere he adds) and reminds his friends he’s not the Stu and Cheryl said they have decided to stay antichrist. in the newspaper business. “Our timing wasn’t “I go to work and come back the next morn- really great when we listed our newspaper for ing to start the process all over again,” he says. sale just months before the recession started. In Sonya is counting the days until retirement. hindsight it was a blessing,” they wrote. Steve’s saving up for that day – not for a trip Although there have been no major trips or anything like that – but for the increase he this year, the Phillips did find time for a jaunt expects in his taxes from the new assessor. down to the gulf coast, some extra days in Dallas “I must say, sleeping with the county assessor before the Texas game and the occasional Harley all these many years has been a joy and a privi- excursion. lege, not to mention a great tax break!” Cheryl took up bicycle riding this year. Almost every day without fail she rides the trails around Seminole’s new park. She’s up to 13 to 20 miles RETIRED OPA EXECUTIVE VP per day. Son Cody finished up at Seminole State College BEN & BONNIE BLACKSTOCK and is now attending OU. He’s the fifth generation Ben and Bonnie are both in good health, Phillips to attend the University of Oklahoma. enjoy retirement and have some money left since When his great-great-grandmother Beryl attended they saved and invested with Vanguard. Wondering how you can get these brands in 1890, OU was just a two-story rock building on They’re both active in some clubs and have Main Street. the same hobbies. Ben reports that their dog, (and more) running in your publications? Beryl’s husband, J.B. Phillips, was an early Pooh, also is healthy. state representative from Norman and authored Ben thinks “socialized Medicare” is great Go to Recas.com/soon to find out! bills to build some of the buildings on the pres- without the insurance companies. “We live near ent campus. Mercy Hospital where we go for repairs,” he wrote. Asked if there was any other information he’d 2008 like to add, Ben wrote: “Go out and get those ads STEVE & SONYA BOOHER from every firm, professional, co-op and govern- Now that Steve’s in the “past” category, he ment entity. I believe most community papers are 800.348.6485, ext. 5324 finds he has a little more time to spend on doing well.” Amen, Ben. 14 THE OKLAHOMA PUBLISHER, December 2009 Questions to ask aspiring and working journalists sentence. Then perhaps an idea of what 29. Why do we always use “said,” with makes news. Add heavy doses of curios- quotes? Clark’s Critique ity and passion, a belief in freedom of the 30. What’s a beat? BY TERRY CLARK, Journalism Professor, press, and maybe you have a journalist. 31. How do you get an interview? University of Central Oklahoma Those thoughts I need to put into ques- 32. How do you prepare for an interview? [email protected] tions, to stick with the format. What do CLARK’S CRITIQUE: How did you What does it take to be a journalist? you think? Where would you start? cover Veterans Day? I saw several good What do you need to know? Anyway, at the end of the year, I think ideas you should consider for next year. Simple questions, aren’t they? But per- it’s valuable to go back to basics and take But you better not wait that long to do haps not the answers, even though some of time to think about who and what and why stories on the WWII vets in your area – them would likely be sarcastic or cynical, we are. Here are the first 32. Do you know nationwide, about 1,500 of them die every if not downright profane. the answers? Others are at http://clarkcof- day. What got me started on this was a book fee.blogspot.com, posted in November. Look at the front page of the Alva idea. Have you seen all these 101 things What am I missing? What would you Review Courier. The paper often uses books? Yoga, architecture, etc? A political change? a full page photo on page 1, and the science prof colleague suggested last year 1. Who is a journalist? Veterans Day coverage stood out. Its that we could do the same for American 2. What and why is the Fourth Estate? Nov. 20 issue in full color knocked your Government and journalism – separately, 3. What did Tom Jefferson think? eyes out with a beautiful foliage shot by and perhaps sell them. 4. How do journalists shop in the free Helen Barrett. Great idea, except no takers financially. marketplace of ideas? Robert Baron grabbed attention at the But it’s still an intriguing idea – can you 5. Do you have “fire in the belly”? Enid News & Eagle with a feature story break down the basics of any topic into Great Veterans Day coverage from the Alva 6. Why are verbs so important? for Veterans Day, “My father killed your 101 ideas that build one on top of the Review-Courier. 7. How active are you? father.” At the Elk City Daily News, Matt other? Where would you start in reducing 8. How do you grow a sentence? Meason’s story, “7 brothers, 3 wars,” also journalism to its basics and then rebuild- on story by Mark Schlachtenhaufen, “Tour 9. Why do tenses matter? focused on the local angle. ing it? seeks to melt global warming theory.” 10. Why do most sentences need to be Katie Martire took a terrific color photo I and others actually struggle with this Best headline? Oklahoma City Friday, short? of Old Glory in the Guymon Daily Her- every time we try to teach a course. What “Don’t eat the seed corn.” It’s on a front 11. Can I have too many prepositions? ald, at half-staff, and the headline was is essential? page editorial in favor of the MAPS 3 vote, 12. How do you recognize news? “Thank you.” Kevin Harvison’s photo Not some wordy textbook that nobody by Vicki Clark. 13. What are the six most important in the McAlester News-Capital captured would read, but simple one-thought pages, I’m one of the few people who appre- questions? local residents honoring the grave of a usually with some kind of art on the facing ciates front page editorials – properly 14. What do people want to know? local veteran. page. Sure it’s a gimmick, but maybe a labeled, of course. They hark back to a 15. Why is the “who” so important? The Poteau Daily News ran a first useful gimmick. I don’t know if it would time when newspapers stood for some- 16. The “what,” where and when? person story by a World War II vet, Lester help my students and other journalists or thing, and you knew it. A lot of people 17. How is writing architecture? Martin, under “A soldier’s story.” Strong not, but it sure made me think about my hated Mr. Gaylord’s front page editorials (Hemingway quote) headline in the Hugo Daily News tells craft, my career. in The Daily Oklahoman, but I suspect 18. What is the inverted pyramid? the story over Clarence Hill’s guest col- Where would you start? I’ve come up it had more to do with the political views 19. What’s a lead? umn: “Veterans Day is for ordinary people with the 101 ideas, and had a couple of rather than journalistic practice. But you 20. How is writing a process? accomplishing the extraordinary.” suggestions for changes when I posted knew where the paper stood. 21. What’s the importance of a nut graph? Other ideas. Penny Embry of the Stigler them on my blog. Newspapers need to stand for some- 22. How do you tell a story? News-Sentinel reports on a story everyone What did I leave off? Inverted pyramid, thing, and that usually only happens with 23. How do you start a story? could localize in this economy: “School which I’ve now added. And now that I’ve locally owned papers. Front page editorials 24. How do you grab attention? district prepares for the worse.” But she thought about it more, I think that’s prema- have a long tradition in American journal- 25. How long should paragraphs be? also reports on the local angel tree cam- ture. Journalism ain’t rocket science. ism. You have to have a strong identity 26. What’s a beat? paign, under “Hope in their hearts: A night So what do you have to have? First, I’d with your readers, and be willing to take 27. Why do I need sources? in the life of Angel Tree volunteers.” suggest the ability to write a simple, clear the heat if they disagree with you, but 28. What is attribution? John Clark at the Spiro Graphic wrote they’re guaranteed readership, and com- on a community forming a band to try to munity leadership. I can remember only get band back into Arkoma School, “Strike two or three front page editorials in my up the band, again.” At the Marietta Moni- years at Waurika. One was urging passage LEGAL ADVICE tor, Sandi Wolfe tells the story of a local of a bond issue for a new grade school. is just one of the benefits of being a member of the Oklahoma Press couple attacked in their yard: “Couple (It passed.) I’ve seen others occasionally Association’s Legal Services Plan. Remove the worry of needing survives bizarre deer attack.” around the state, usually in weekly news- professional advice by enrolling today. For more information contact: How to cover a school bond issue? papers, closely identified with boosting Check the professional page one layout at their communities as good citizens. I think OKLAHOMA PRESS ASSOCIATION’S The Newcastle Pacer, with story by Darla it’s good journalism. “A newspaper that Welchel. LEGAL SERVICES PLAN won’t stand for something, does stand for Terrific headline in the Edmond Sun 1-888-815-2672 or 405-499-0020 anything.” 15 THE OKLAHOMA PUBLISHER, December 2009 DEATHS OPA STAFF VIVIAN KNIGHT, who worked for in Oklahoma City. She married Jim Nich- 11, 1933. He graduated from the Univer- DIRECTORY several years at the Wewoka Times, died olson in May 1987 in Hot Springs, Ark. sity of Oklahoma with a degree in journal- Nov. 20, 2009. She was 70. She began working at the Hartshorne ism. ADMINISTRATION Sun with her husband in 1997. At the Before joining The Transcript, Weeks Knight was born Oct. 9, 1939, in Cush- MARK THOMAS, Executive Vice President ing. She married Arlis Ray Knight in paper, she did everything from writing worked as Media Public Relations Assis- Wewoka on March 1, 1955. He preceded news and feature articles to editing, work- tant at the University of Oklahoma, as [email protected] • (405) 499-0033 her in death in 2004. ing in layout and design, and in sales and sports writer and sports editor at the Lima ROBERT WALLAR, Accounting Manager advertising. News in Lima, Ohio; the Wichita Eagle Knight worked more than 15 years at [email protected] • (405) 499-0027 the Lillian Russell Garment Factory. At In addition to working at the Hart- and Beacon in Wichita, Kan., and the 40, she received a bachelor’s degree in shorne Sun, Nicholson had previously Odessa American in Odessa, Texas. SCOTT WILKERSON, Front Office/Building Mgr. journalism. In addition to working at the worked at newspapers in Clayton, Talihina He and his wife, Morayne (Micki) [email protected] • (405) 499-0020 Wewoka Times, Knight also worked at the and Wilburton. Davis, moved to Grove in 1990 and were Seminole Producer, the Eufaula Works and She is survived by her husband, Jim, of owners of a desktop publishing company MEMBER SERVICES the home; a stepdaughter, Dana Malone of from 1992-1997. the Indian Journal. LISA POTTS, Member Services Director She retired from the Eufaula Public Wilburton; and two sisters, Merry McKin- He is survived by his wife Micki; Library in 2005. ney Cheek and Janice McKinney Cheek, daughter Deborah Collum and her husband [email protected] • (405) 499-0026 Survivors include her sons, Aaron both of Nicoma Park. Jerry; and two grandsons. EMILY HOOD, Member Services Coordinator Wayne Knight and wife Graciela of Tulsa, [email protected] • (405) 499-0040 Curtis Gene Knight of Eufaula and Robert JIM WEEKS, longtime sports editor KEN E. WILSON, a former publisher at The Norman Transcript, died Nov. 21, of Tulsa County News, died Nov. 12, Agustus Knight of Eufaula; a brother; two ADVERTISING sisters and two grandchildren. 2009, at his home in Grove. He was 76. 2009. He was 71. Weeks was The Transcript’s sports edi- Wilson was born on Aug. 13, 1938, in SARAH BARROW, Ad Director JACQUE NICHOLSON, assistant tor from 1964 to 1990 after a brief earlier Elk City. [email protected] • (405) 499-0021 editor of the Hartshorne Sun, died Nov. stint as a part-time student worker at the He is survived by his three children: 11, 2009, at her home near Wilburton. She newspaper. He covered six University of Rachel Johnson, Kenneth J. and Thomas; CINDY SHEA, Media Manager was 54. Oklahoma football coaches, including all his brother, Bob Wilson, and his sister, [email protected] • (405) 499-0023 Nicholson was born on April 12, 1955, of Barry Switzer’s years at the helm. Martha Ann Geisler; and seven grandchil- Weeks was born in Muskogee on May dren. KATHY NASH, OCAN/2by2 Coordinator [email protected] • (405) 499-0025

LANDON COBB, Account Executive Tierra Media Group plans ‘Privacy’ scare threatens to close DOBs [email protected] • (405) 499-0022 By MICHAEL MINNIS, OPA ATTORNEY criticism, the attorney general issued a MELISSA TORRES, Advertising Assistant to launch EOC publication In response to an “revised” opinion explaining in a press [email protected] • (405) 499-0035 Tierra Media Group recently inquiry, Oklahoma release that the new opinion “revised some announced plans to launch EastWord, Attorney General admittedly confusing language.” CREATIVE SERVICES a new weekly publication, for Eastern Drew Edmondson In the revised opinion, the attorney JENNIFER GILLILAND, Creative Services Director Oklahoma County. first opined that general noted that “the presumption would Tierra Media Group is the parent birth dates on pub- be that they [dates of birth] are open unless [email protected] • (405) 499-0028 company to Oklahoma Gazette and lic records were sort the exception [for privacy] is (1) claimed KEITH BURGIN, Editorial Assistant OKCBiz magazine of confidential, but, and (2) found to outweigh the public inter- [email protected] • (405) 499-0029 EastWord will publish each Wednes- after further review, est in the requested record.” He further day beginning March 1, 2010, and will he decided that birth dates were sort of wrote that a “general policy prohibiting COMPUTER ADVICE be distributed free to the public on non-confidential. disclosure would constitute a legislative racks throughout the Midwest City, Del The initial ambiguous opinion and sub- determination beyond the authority of the WILMA MELOT, Computer Consultant City, Choctaw and Nicoma Park areas. sequent revision are just the latest results public body.” [email protected] • (405) 499-0031 Its website, eastword.net, will launch of an ongoing battle between “privacy” This conflict between the public’s right Feb. 1. claims and the public’s right to know. of access to the records of its govern- POSTAL ADVICE “Readers can expect high-quality The opinion request from Sen. Debbe ment and “privacy” interests will continue BILL NEWELL, Postal Consultant local news in a great-looking format Leftwich arose after The Oklahoman asked because the word “privacy” is being used that will be convenient to pick up for the birth date of a public employee as word with an elastic, uncertain defini- [email protected] • (405) 499-0020 and interesting to read,” Publisher Bill placed on administrative leave. The public tion. Bleakley said. “We hope to make East- employee had a common name. If the public bodies continue to deny OPEN (DIGITAL CLIPPING) Word the very best source for local At first the attorney general opined that access to identifying information about LOUISE GARVIN, OPEN Manager information.” public bodies could deny access to por- public personnel, the public will be unable [email protected] • (405) 499-0032 Tierra Media Group’s former online tions of documents containing birth dates, to correctly discern from the name alone editor, Stefanie Brickman, has been if the public body determines that the who is the subject of public action. GENERAL INQUIRIES named editor of EastWord and will be release would be an “unwarranted invasion This will lead to misidentifications (405) 499-0020 • Fax (405) 499-0048 responsible for all content. of privacy.” causing more harm than the alleged pri- Toll-Free in Oklahoma: 1-888-815-2672 Then, apparently in response to media vacy claim. 16 THE OKLAHOMA PUBLISHER, December 2009

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE OCTOBER 2009 CONTEST WINNERS Column: Editorial: SUZIE BILL CAMPBELL WALTER The Countywide & Sun The Hennessey Clipper

OCTOBER 2009 COLUMN WINNER SUZIE CAMPBELL, THE COUNTYWIDE & SUN It became harder and harder to leave… Abusers use emotional, psychological and physical abuse little weight, which he hated. I wasn’t fat, but I had put on a followed by apologies, promises and affection to control their little weight. His solution was to monitor and ration my food victims. The recipients of abuse often feel they are the cause. while demanding I run a mile or two every night. Their self-esteem and self-worth has been destroyed and they Whether it is a man or woman being abused, domestic feel this is the best life they will ever have. violence cases still go unreported due to the shame involved I know I did. I felt I was damaged goods and no one else in the situation. No one wants to admit their significant other would want me. I had to try harder to please him. is a monster. I was no exception. I learned to hide the bruises People who have never been in an abusive relationship and began to withdraw from family and friends. This is exactly Enter and Win a often find it hard to understand why a person stays. They think what an abuser wants, to isolate you. I became more of a loner. the person must be weak. I was never a timid person. I was very When someone did ask, I would either lie or tell them to stay outspoken, into sports and clubs. I wasn’t afraid of anything, $100 Check from ONG! out of it. It would only make it worse. because if I got in over my head, there was always my two older brothers or my parents to help me out. What I should have done was tell someone – a trusted fam- I came from a very large, very close family. I grew up in an ily member, close friend, the police. I should have documented almost fairy-tale like atmosphere. The neighbors all looked out dates and had photos of the bruises. No one deserves to be for each other and got together often for cookouts, volleyball, abused. Ever! The abuser will promise to change and they do. 1. Each month, send a tear sheet or photocopy of your best softball or horseback riding where everyone participated from Over time it escalates, becomes more violent. column and/or editorial to ONG Contest, c/o OPA, 3601 the very young to the very old. My parents didn’t fight and if I had car windows broken out and dumped in my lap N. Lincoln Blvd., Oklahoma City, OK 73105-5499. they argued, it was behind closed doors, so I truly expected because I got caught at a red light and didn’t follow him. I had the same in my marriage. What I got was something extremely my head shoved through a plate glass window for disagreeing 2. Include the author’s name, name of publication, date of different. with him. I watched him kill a kitten by flinging it into a wall publication and category entered (column or editorial). Within weeks of the marriage, I was wondering what I because he was mad at me. 3. Only ONE editorial and/or ONE column per writer per had gotten myself into. We lived in the upstairs of his parents’ Sometimes I would get lucky and get away to hide in the house while I finished school and he worked with his dad. I was shadows of a barn, or lay in a field holding my breath, listening month will be accepted. determined to graduate and I wanted to go to college. to him look for me until he gave up and left to meet friends. 4. All entries for the previous month must be at the OPA One afternoon we were in the garage while he worked on a He would stay out ’til early morning, taking the keys to all the office by the 15th of the current month. car. Something went wrong and he went into a temper fit, hit- vehicles so I couldn’t leave. I would pretend to be asleep when ting the car and throwing things. His dad walked in as he picked he got home to avoid more fights. 5. Winning entries will be reproduced on the OPA website up a tool and flung it out of the garage. The fight started. The longer I stayed, the harder it was to leave. I was not This was not an argument; this was a brawl between father at www.OkPress.com. exactly a prisoner, but I wasn’t exactly free, either. If I went and son. I stood frozen. I had seen guys fight, but never with out with friends and was gone five minutes too long, he would this much violence. It continued to escalate. His mother came Entries must have been previously published. come after me, making a huge scene. That was embarrassing, in waving a pistol, ordering them to break it up. I was terrified, Contest open to all OPA member newspapers. but the guys responded, each going a different direction. but it wasn’t the worst. When I got home he would hit me, push I had defied my parents to marry this man but I was not me, throw me into walls while telling me what a terrible person prepared for this. Still, I wasn’t willing to admit my mistake. I was for making him do this. Although Oklahoma Natural Gas Company selects My parents had been married forever and I wasn’t going to be I believed him. It had to be my fault that he flew into representative contest winners’ work for use in this monthly divorced at eighteen. My solution was to move into a place of these fits of rage. No one really acts this way unless provoked, ad, the views expressed in winning columns and editorials our own, which we did just before I graduated. right? are those of the writers and don’t necessarily reflect the I thought this would help, but it didn’t. I began to gain a (Editor’s Note: This was the second in a series.) Company’s opinions.

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