THIRTY PERCENT OF OKLAHOMA'S ANNUAL EXPENDITURES HAS NO TRACKING OR ACCOUNTABILITY

Nick Baker - The Prowling Owl
keeps a watchful eye on
Oklahoma state government.

THIRTY PERCENT OF OKLAHOMA'S
ANNUAL EXPENDITURES HAS
NO TRACKING OR ACCOUNTABILITY

By Nick Baker
The Prowling Owl
Posted: December 10, 2009

NORMAN, Okla. -- State officials’ use a hidden $3 Billion slush fund to repay favors and insure elections. That is our elected officials’ corruption kitty. This crony club’s corruption kitty has been operating in the closet so long elected officials view it as a necessary tool to hold their office. Break the code of silence and they are political history. Keep their mouths shut and they benefit handsomely. This has been operating so long they feel untouchable.

$3 Billion over and above our $7 Billion appropriations budget, which, unlike other states and the federal government is the only budget most Oklahoman’s are aware. Put another way Oklahoma taxpayers are funding $10 Billion per year in expenditures. $7 Billion we are aware and debate. The $3 Billion slush fund we never hear a peep about.

How many Oklahoma taxpayers have ever seen or heard of our $3 billion per year Tax Expenditures budget? While there are some legitimate programs found in Tax Expenditures, that is the cover for the rest of the more than 500 programs found there that are used as a political slush fund to hand our financial favors. That is where they hide more than 80 tax credit programs, and several other tax avoidance goodies. Programs that hand out credits that the recipient can sell for cash the minute they receive the tax credits. That little $3 billion slush fund off: the books and off the record. Off the screen and when it comes to cuts, off the table.

While other states and the federal government have Tax Expenditures budgets and use the same federal or state financial system to track and account for Tax Expenditures, Oklahoma does neither. Biannually the Oklahoma Tax Commission issues a Tax Expenditures report replete with missing and grossly under reported amounts; to prevent the public from learning how much we are being gouged. A report, few even know exists. Those that do ignore because it is totally meaningless, cryptic and intended to both hide and mislead. Only about 150 of the 500 line items even list amounts. The 350 without estimates: only showing zero, N/A, state “minimal amount” or show nothing. Estimates that have been found to be under reported from 400 to 1,400%. Example:

For the 32 tax credit programs OTC reported on Open Books; OTC’s Tax Expenditures report list $90 million for the years 2007 and 2008 combined. So far we have uncovered from various state documents those same programs cost at least $370 million, or more than four times the amount reported.

Even worse are the 4 fraud ridden rural and small business venture capital programs where the Tax Expenditures report shows $4.8 million for the same two year period. Those same state documents mentioned above show $69.5 million. That is under reported by nearly 15 times.

That is still way to low, the Incentive Review CAPCO report, another OTC report, which is only generated for these 4 programs shows $197 million was allowed for the same period. A closer examination peeling back the slew of discrepancies inserted to disguise the truth reveals that number is at least $251 million. Peeling back the layer of false reporting reveals evidence that suggest those numbers should be even higher. That will be clarified and reported later.

As a reminder the $643 million in fake First State Bank Altus loans, used by Altus Ventures and Affinity Ventures to falsely claim and receive $192 million in unearned tax credits has not appeared on any OTC reports.

Note: By no means is anyone to assume what has been reported here is anymore than the tip of a huge iceberg. It will take a full team of forensic investigators to get to the bottom. The information is intended to show reason for an outside investigation. Outside Oklahoma officials who are responsible for allowing this to occur

For any who have unfamiliar with these issue, Google “Tax Expenditures” where you will find lots of information describing the subject and how the feds and other states treat “Tax Expenditures” the same as all other public spending. Budgets and accountability! The way our constitutions requires all public funds be treated.

Then go find Oklahoma Tax Expenditures report and take a good look at that mess. If you like I can provide copies of other documents..

Now that OKC voted Maps in, If you live in Oklahoma County...

Now that OKC has voted Maps 3 in,
and if you live in Oklahoma County
you are going to be hit up for another
1 penny sale taxs for another
massive $350 million taxpayer project,
A New County Jail!

LOL

Gwin Faulconer Lippert Show
Dec. 6, 2009
KTOK

Oklahoma County voters
to face decision on tax for jailhouse
by Brian Brus
The Journal Record
December 9, 2009

OKLAHOMA CITY – Right on the heels of Oklahoma City voters’ decision on the MAPS 3 $777 million penny sales tax Tuesday, many of those same metro area residents will soon have to decide another massive taxpayer project.

It’s a $350 million proposal that Oklahoma County commissioners are dreading.

“I’m certainly interested in knowing the outcome of MAPS 3 to get a reading on the sentiment of the voters and how they feel about taking up a countywide tax,” District 2 Commissioner Brian Maughn said earlier this week. “Part of the frustration is that we don’t really even know yet what proposal we’ll introduce for voters to consider.”

And District 1 Commissioner Willa Johnson said, “I personally think it’s going to be a challenge, but I think that our people are reasonable enough to know we’ve got to do something about the jail and we can’t continue to operate the way it is.”

Commissioners and an advisory committee have been discussing how to handle problems with the Oklahoma County Detention Center, which was opened in 1991 about a mile west of the downtown district. Design flaws have plagued the building and last year the U.S. Justice Department reported that inmates receive negligent medical care in overcrowded and often violent conditions, effectively violating their constitutional rights.

County officials reached an agreement with the Justice Department to immediately avoid costly sanctions, but that forgiveness is contingent on the county instituting major corrections or building a new prison altogether. In other words, the county can’t afford to not do something, Maughn said; federal officials will force the issue one way or another.

In 1997, the Oklahoma City Jail merged with the county detention center to share operations. The building is 268,000 square feet and has capacity for about 3,000 inmates. Estimates for a new jail have ranged from about $300 million to $400 million, with repairs not much cheaper.

Maughn said commissioners will meet with a bond lawyer Friday to discuss funding options, which could include some combination of general obligation bonds, sales taxes and property taxes.

“I’m stressing that we don’t know yet what direction we’ll take,” he said.

Johnson said commissioners are open to suggestions from their constituents. When asked if she had a preference about whether to replace or repair the jail, Johnson instead said she would like to see the current building put to a good use.

“That may not mean keeping the county jail there,” she said. “I’m not married to any idea. But I hate to see a building that new go down.’

“Ultimately, I think we’ll get it done,” she said. “But I think it’s going to be a big challenge for the voters to decide.”

ODOT pay $7,500 and still do not know what a Twitter is

Hat Tip to OFRGnews

After ODOT pay Saxum PR (Renzi Stone) $7,500 + to teach them how to use twitter, We as Oklahoma taxpayer get this...

DESPERATE "SAPS" People

A date which will live in infamy...

PEARL HARBOR ‘SUDDENLY, DELIBERATELY ATTACKED
’69 YEARS AGO TODAY,
BEGINNING U.S. INVOLVEMENT IN WWII
By Adam Foglel

When President Franklin Roosevelt went before Congress on the morning of Dec. 8, 1941 to request a declaration of war against Japan, the outcome was a foregone conclusion. Japan had bombed the United States and killed thousands in a surprise attack at Pearl Harbor.
But Roosevelt knew history would forever remember what he said. And 67 years later, his speech continues to serve as one of the most important in American history.
Yesterday, Dec. 7, 1941 - a date which will live in infamy - the United States of America was suddenly and deliberately attacked by naval and air forces of the Empire of Japan.

The United States was at peace with that nation and, at the solicitation of Japan, was still in conversation with the government and its emperor looking toward the maintenance of peace in the Pacific.
Indeed, one hour after Japanese air squadrons had commenced bombing in Oahu, the Japanese ambassador to the United States and his colleagues delivered to the Secretary of State a formal reply to a recent American message. While this reply stated that it seemed useless to continue the existing diplomatic negotiations, it contained no threat or hint of war or armed attack.

It will be recorded that the distance of Hawaii from Japan makes it obvious that the attack was deliberately planned many days or even weeks ago. During the intervening time, the Japanese government has deliberately sought to deceive the United States by false statements and expressions of hope for continued peace.
The attack yesterday on the Hawaiian islands has caused severe damage to American naval and military forces. Very many American lives have been lost. In addition, American ships have been reported torpedoed on the high seas between San Francisco and Honolulu.

Yesterday, the Japanese government also launched an attack against Malaya.

Last night, Japanese forces attacked Hong Kong.

Last night, Japanese forces attacked Guam.

Last night, Japanese forces attacked the Philippine Islands.

Last night, the Japanese attacked Wake Island.

This morning, the Japanese attacked Midway Island.

Japan has, therefore, undertaken a surprise offensive extending throughout the Pacific area. The facts of yesterday speak for themselves. The people of the United States have already formed their opinions and well understand the implications to the very life and safety of our nation.

As commander in chief of the Army and Navy, I have directed that all measures be taken for our defense.

Always will we remember the character of the onslaught against us.
No matter how long it may take us to overcome this premeditated invasion, the American people in their righteous might will win through to absolute victory.

I believe I interpret the will of the Congress and of the people when I assert that we will not only defend ourselves to the uttermost, but will make very certain that this form of treachery shall never endanger us again.

Hostilities exist. There is no blinking at the fact that that our people, our territory and our interests are in grave danger.
With confidence in our armed forces - with the unbounding determination of our people - we will gain the inevitable triumph - so help us God.

I ask that the Congress declare that since the unprovoked and dastardly attack by Japan on Sunday, Dec. 7, a state of war has existed between the United States and the Japanese empire.

Adolf Hitler’s Nazi Germany and Benito Mussolini’s fascist Italy would declare war on the U.S. four days later. World War II would claim more than 400,000 American lives and millions more across the world.
It was a high price to pay to learn an important lesson — that we cannot sit idle while threats to our nation run rampant and unchecked. It is a lesson we must never forget.

And it all began 69 years ago today.

Oklahoma County Jail Tax Announcement This Week?

An Oklahoman County Commissioner told members of the media that the County intends to start going hard after 200 million or more in tax payer monies this week to upgrade or rebuild the Oklahoma County jail.

That would mean ANOTHER SALES TAX INCREASE or property tax increase coming to all residents of Oklahoma City MAPS tax, if it passes.

In the case of the County, voters won't have much of an option. If they don't pay the tax, the Feds will force it on the County.

VOTE NO on THIS MAPS

Hat Tip to Mark Shannon

Who Makes Money Off MAPS?

So, who benefits from MAPS 3?

Let's look...
Congressman Tom Cole - His company Cole Hargraves Snodgrass is being paid to do polling for MAPS. Cole didn't reveal that when he endorsed MAPS. He also receives campaign funds from many of the principles involved in shoving MAPS 3 down the throat of voters. It's Tom Cole's company that is behind the annoying "robocalls" and the caller "Laurie" is an employee of his company, though you're supposed to be so stupid that you think it's some "regular" housewife. I'm not even sure LAURIE lives in Oklahoma City. FAKE.

Former Mayor Kirk Humphrey on the Oklahoma River that is/has been improved by MAPS 3. He bought it three years ago, but it remains undeveloped. Why do you suppose he's waiting? Hmm.

MAYOR Mick Cornett is directly paid by Ackerman McQueen, who is a MAPS supporter and who has produced commercials and public relations for MAPS 3. Cornett's salary is also being paid by clients of A-M such as THE OKLAHOMAN, OGE, The State Fair Board, The OKC Chamber of Commerce, Baptist Integris, and Chesapeake, among others. All who are pushing MAPS. The Mayor is ON THE TAKE, legally or otherwise, by MAPS 3 supporters.

Some of his clients do business with the city. Anyone see anything UNETHICAL about that? CORNETT'S CONFLICTS

Billionaire Aubrey McClendon/Chesapeake owns property along the OK River, which will directly benefit from MAPS 3.

OG&E reportedly might stand to gain "big time" depending on where the Convention Center is built. It has something to do with the "need" of a new power sub-station, though I'm unclear about the details.

State Fair Board, who receives money from the HOTEL MOTEL TAX, gets even more money. How much profit do they make? How much do they pay their members or employees? How much money does this so-called NON-PROFIT make off the State Fair and the shows there? Where does it go? Two members of Ackerman-McQueen are on their board, as is Clay Bennett and other YESMAPS money backers.

DEVON already received a special TIFF to subsidize the building of their 50 story office building. This TIFF draws off taxes that normally would go to the school district.

THE OKLAHOMAN has benefitted enormously from expensive FULL PAGE ads, already gets heavy money from the STATE FAIR, (to the point most people think the OKLAHOMAN owns the FAIR,) and the Oklahoman publisher is the head of the Chamber, and heading up the MAPS 3 tax increase.

The CITY GOVERNMENT will grow as a result of MAPS. That means more taxes, more salaries, more control. I guess Oklahomans only care about the size of government when it's Obama's government?

And, the only UNION that benefits is not the police or firefighters, but the UNION that represents State, City, and County municipal employees.

And that's just the connections I am aware of, without doing any serious digging. Too bad a certain newspaper, (which is in the MAPS TANKS) doesn't do some real journalism about the "corruption" in this city.

If You Vote - THIS MAPS is Over!

If I had any doubt about the numbers I've been receiving show THIS MAPS failing miserably, I no longer do.

The people of Oklahoma City have sent a loud and clear message to the pollsters, owned and operated by Congressman Tom Cole's CHS company, funded by a group of clients of Mick Cornett's employer, Ackerman-McQueen:

NOT THIS MAPS....NOT NOW....ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!!

The evidence that confirms what I'm saying? The MAPS campaign has gone negative! (As predicted in this column earlier this week.)

Their most recent TV commercials now call our Police and Firefighters BULLIES!

These people are desperate.

To refer to these overstretched and understaffed members of public safety as BULLIES is not only complete "B.S." - it's just unbelievable!

AND...its' all a SMOKE SCREEN.

The police and firefighters aren't the issue. The bad timing of many bad projects that will only grow the burden already felt by Oklahoma City taxpayers is the issue.

Swimming pools for seniors that are not needed and who will compete with privately-owned athletic facilities, not to mention the YM and YWCA's.

A whitewater rafting "fantasy" that does will not make break even. (And if it could should be built by private investment, not government.)

A downtown park, which might look good, but which will further burden city government that can barely keep up with what we have already, and that the city cannot provide security for due to the undermanned and overworked OKC Police Dept. (And absolutely no one can fail to see that it will be a gathering place for the homeless and criminal element that already fills that area of the city, and who have already made the nearby Myriad Gardens their home.)

Voting NO will not undue any of the progress this city has made.

It won't stop the building of the DEVON TOWER, it won't send the NBA back to Seattle, it won't hurt Bricktown at all, (in fact many in Bricktown oppose MAPS 3 because it will draw retail away from the still lacking retail business in that part of the city.)

Oklahoma City (the Mayor tells us) is already a BIG LEAGUE CITY, and yet in the middle of the worst recession most of us can remember, at a time when unemployment continues to grow in the city and revenues to the city are down, these disgusting politicians and millionaires want the taxpayers of the city to spend another 777 million dollars for projects the city DOES NOT NEED and in many cases will continue to cost taxpayers long after the 777 million dollars is spent.

Mick Cornett and his clients at A-M and his fellow politicians should be ashamed of themselves, asking taxpayers for more when they don't even know if they'll have a job next week. Not to mention referring to the heroes of April 19, 1995 and the tornados that have torn across this community as "BULLIES."

When your priorities as Mayor appear to be your advertising clients and not the voters who put you where you are, there are consequences.

Especially at election time.

And the first chance to send that message is TUESDAY. VOTE NO.

Norman Mayoral, council seats up for grabs

Norman City Council seats for Wards 2, 4, 6 and 8 will be up for grabs in early 2010.

Filing dates for interested candidates will be Jan. 11-13, 2010. The election is scheduled for March 2, 2010.

Council members Tom Kovach (Ward 2), James Griffith (Ward 6) and Dan Quinn (Ward 8) all said they expect to run again. Calls to Carol Dillingham (Ward 4), weren't returned, although Kovach says he believes all the council members, including Dillingham, will run again.

Mayor Cindy Rosenthal announced Monday that she will seek another term. Councilman Hal Ezzell, Ward 3, said last week that he would run against Rosenthal in the mayor's race.

City council seats and the mayor's office are up for re-election every two years. Next year, odd-numbered ward seats will be up for re-election.

Cindy Rosenthal has announced that she would seek a second term as Norman's mayor

Cindy Rosenthal has announced that she would seek a second term as Norman's mayor.

"It has been an honor and a privilege to work with citizens across our community to try to sustain the outstanding quality of life that we have come to expect in Norman," Rosenthal said. "While we have accomplished a lot as a city and a community over the past two and a half years, we face a critical set of challenges that we can tackle by pulling together."

Rosenthal pointed to several accomplishments during her first term, including passage by voters of a public-safety sales tax, which has allowed the city to implement a community-oriented policing strategy and improve fire services. "Plans are well under way for construction of two new fire stations, and we have developed a five-year strategic plan for community-oriented policing that will put more police officers on neighborhood patrols and increase community partnerships aimed at preventing crime," she said. She added that other public safety initiatives include plans to improve city streets, enhance bicycle safety, and replace the city's outdoor warning system, which will be brought to the voters for approval in March.

"I have been privileged to lead a hard-working City Council that has passed a number of new, comprehensive policies to improve public events, animal welfare, ethics, maintenance of public facilities, and energy efficiency," Rosenthal said. "Citizens also soon will benefit from technological improvements that make City Council meetings more accessible on the Internet and other efforts to help ensure city government is more transparent and responsive."

Under Rosenthal's leadership, the city has launched curbside recycling, adopted a fleet management policy utilizing CNG and alternative fuels vehicles, promoted health and recreational initiatives, begun inclusive community dialogues, conducted its first comprehensive citizen satisfaction survey, and promoted beautification efforts that include a master plan for bridge designs in the I-35 corridor.

"We have major challenges ahead on which I hope to work with Council and our citizens during a second term," she said. "We continue to work on the management of storm water to protect water quality in Lake Thunderbird and to mitigate the periodic flooding that threatens homes and businesses. In addition, we have begun the important work of assessing our park and recreation needs, identifying opportunities for trails and greenways for both pedestrians and bicyclists, and evaluating strategies to revitalize the Porter Corridor."

Rosenthal recently was elected vice president of the Oklahoma Municipal League and also serves on the steering committee of the Regional Transit Dialogue sponsored by the Association of Central Oklahoma Governments.

"Norman must be a leader in addressing some of the critical issues facing the metropolitan area, including the creation of a 21st century public transit system and dealing with such long-range challenges as water supply and air pollution," she said.

Rosenthal noted that as Norman deals with the effects of the current economic downturn in the coming months, responsible and transparent management of city resources will be a high priority.

"Norman has been recognized by various national media as a great city and our citizens tell us that they are very pleased with city services. Nonetheless, we can always make improvements, and that will be the goal of my second term working with the Council, the City Manager and our citizens," she said.

Twice elected to represent Ward 4 before winning the mayoral election in 2007, Rosenthal also is the director of the Carl Albert Congressional Research and Studies Center at the University of Oklahoma and a professor of political science and public administration. In 2009, she was awarded the distinguished public service award by the Oklahoma chapter of the American Society of Public Administration.

Sheriff Joe Would Be Leading GOP Contender for Ariz. Governor

Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio (R) performs best among a field of Republican candidates in hypothetical match-ups for next year's Arizona governor's race, a Rasmussen Reports poll conducted Nov. 18

In the survey of likely Arizona voters, Arpaio was the only GOP candidate to top likely Democratic nominee Terry Goddard, the state's current attorney general, 51 to 39 percent. Goddard led state Treasurer Dean Martin (R) 40 percent to 38 percent and incumbent Gov. Jan Brewer (R) 44 percent to 35 percent. The margin of error was 3 percent.

Arpaio, who is not in the race but has not ruled it out, benefits from the national profile he has earned by taking a hard line against illegal immigration in his county. Though controversial nationally, he remains popular in Arizona -- 63 percent of likely voters rated him favorably including 43 percent very favorably. Thirty-one percent viewed him unfavorably.

And 64 percent said they think Arpaio is doing the right thing by trying to work around federal law and track down illegal immigrants.

Goddard is the only other candidate polled who was regarded favorably by a majority of the electorate -- 51 percent to 35 percent unfavorably. Brewer, who has had a rocky tenure in the governor's mansion since filling the post in January, had a 44 to 48 percent favorable-to-unfavorable ratio.

Martin was the least known of the prospective candidates -- 32 percent had no opinion of him. Forty-one percent regarded him favorably to 27 percent unfavorably.

Brewer is the only declared candidate in the race, though Goddard is widely expected to run and Martin is actively considering it.

Hal Ezzell to run for Mayor of Norman

It look like Ward 3 Councilman Hal Ezzell has jump off the cilff and is running for Mayor of the People's Republic of Norman

Ezzell is making phone calls all over Norman and has call most of the City Council telling them that He is running for Mayor.

Councilman Ezzell has lived in Norman for over 30 years. Hal is an attorney in private practice specializing trusts, estate planning and taxation. He began his service on City Council in July of 2007. Council Member Ezzell currently serves on the Council Finance Committee and the Board of Trustees of the City of Norman Retirement System.

Hal graduated from Norman High School. Hal received his Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of Central Oklahoma, and his Juris Doctor from the University of Oklahoma College of Law.

Councilman Ezzell has served on the board for the Center for Children and Families and is previously served on the board of Independent Living Services for Youth (ILSY). Hal is also on the Board of Directors for the First Presbyterian Church of Norman Foundation. Hal is a member of the Norman Chamber of Commerce and a graduate of the Leadership Norman Class in 2005.

OKLAHOMA SENATE REPUBLICAN CAUCUS CALLS ON GOV BRAD boy TO BRING LEGISLATURE IN FOR DECEMBER SPECIAL SESSION

More Cuts ‘Inevitable,’
Better to Act Sooner Rather than Later

The Oklahoma Senate Republican Caucus today called on Governor Brad Henry to call the Legislature into special session in December, rather than waiting until January, as he suggested earlier this week.

“It’s very clear that more reductions in spending are inevitable,” said Senate President Pro Tem Glenn Coffee, “and agency heads are awaiting our direction as to how much their budgets will be reduced.

“We believe it is prudent, given the fiscal crisis facing all state agencies, to come in, examine the numbers as an entire body, and make the hard decisions sooner rather than later,” he continued. “We have a good feel for the direction revenues are heading, so why wait any longer?”

Coffee pointed out that Senate Appropriations Subcommittees have been meeting over the past weeks, and getting reports from agency heads projecting how cuts of 5%m 7.5% and 10% would impact their agencies.

“Agency heads are willing to make the tough calls,” Coffee said. “They just need to know when and how much. It’s not a pleasant task, but we all understand the reality of the times in which we’re operating.”

Coffee said that families across the state are prioritizing their needs and making hard personal budget decisions around their kitchen tables, and government needs to act accordingly. “This won’t be easy or fun, but this is an opportunity for Oklahoma’s elected leaders to assess our needs alongside our available resources, and look at state spending through critical eyes.”

Under the Oklahoma Constitution, the Governor can call a special meeting of the State Equalization Board, who would declare a budget failure, at which time the Governor could call a Special Session of the Legislature.

“We hope the Governor will act with great urgency on this matter,” Coffee said. “Our caucus will stand with him in support of his call, and will take on this important matter with equal urgency.”

Senator Clark Jolley Files Paperwork to Seek GOP Attorney General Nomination

With a clear record of promoting a pro-growth environment in Oklahoma, Edmond State Senator Clark Jolley has filed paperwork with the Oklahoma Ethics Commission to begin the process of soliciting support for election to the office of Oklahoma's Attorney General.

The position is an open seat being vacated by Attorney General Drew Edmondson, who is seeking the Democratic nomination for Governor. "We desperately need a pro-jobs, pro-growth Attorney General in Oklahoma," said Jolley. "People in our state have lost their jobs because of an Attorney General's decision to sue companies in our state.

As a Senator who has a proven record of supporting job creation and reducing needless litigation in Oklahoma, I believe those qualities are needed in the next Attorney General."

Jolley also stated his intention to see vigorous prosecution of those who hurt the most vulnerable of our citizens–the elderly and children: "Oklahoma's Senior Citizens have been the targets of crime through identity theft and fraud. Our children are being hunted on the Internet and abused by those they trust.

I will ensure the Attorney General's office responds quickly and decisively against those who prey on those who have very little protections of their own.

I have stood for the rights of the victim in the State Senate and I will stand for their rights in our courthouses as well."

As a staunch opponent of increased regulations and higher taxes on businesses and individuals, Jolley also will champion the freedom of Internet use from greedy bureaucrats wanting to tax bandwidth usage and services. "We can't afford to allow the economic downturn we face turn into an opportunity for bureaucrats to invent new taxes on vital services such as Internet use.

With other countries blowing past the United States in broadband speeds and access, we can't let government discourage growth, especially for rural areas of our state."

Jolley has been honored as an inductee in the Child Advocates Hall of Fame under two categories, Child Health & Safety and Education. He has also been recognized for his leadership by DNA Saves, a national victim's rights organization. He has been honored by the Research Institute for Economic Development for his support of business issues in the state and has been selected by his fellow Senators to serve as one of their Assistant Majority Leaders in the present session.

Jolley was elected to the Senate in 2004 by a large margin and was overwhelmingly re-elected in 2008.

His wife, Verlyne and two children live in Edmond. Jolley also named Edmond CPA James R. Hale as his campaign treasurer.

Contact: info@clarkjoll 405.650.1582

59% of GOP Voters Say Sarah Palin Shares Their Values

Sarah Palin will visit Norman Dec 3, for a book signing at Hastings.

Fifty-nine percent (59%) of Republican voters say former Alaska Governor Sarah Palin shares the values of most GOP voters throughout the nation.

A new Rasmussen Reports national telephone survey finds that just 21% of Republican voters disagree and think the 2008 vice presidential candidate does not share their values. Twenty percent (20%) are undecided.

By contrast, 74% of Republicans say their party’s representatives in Congress have lost touch with GOP voters nationwide over the past several years.

Only 18% of Republican voters believe their elected officials have done a good job representing the base.

The findings in these two surveys highlight the political debate within the Republican Party.

(RINO) Party leaders worry that Palin is pushing the GOP too far to the right to win general elections by aligning herself with Tea Party voters frustrated with both parties in Washington and the big government policies they have produced.

Still, just 18% of Republicans - and 26% of voters nationwide - see Palin as a divisive force within the GOP.

A plurality believes Palin is representative of a new direction for the Republican Party.

That view is held by 57% of Republicans and 41% of all voters.

A plurality of Democrats aren’t sure what to think of Palin’s role within the opposing party.

Among all voters, 41% say Palin shares the values of most GOP voters throughout the nation, while 30% think otherwise and 29% are not sure.

Palin has a new book, “Going Rogue,” coming out this week that gives her side of the 2008 presidential campaign and launches new battles between her and some of her running mate John McCain’s campaign team.

Palin is great for the GOP, Giuliani says

Sarah Palin will visit Norman next month for a book signing at Hastings.

Hat Tip to my twitter buddy @MMStewart

A prominent, socially moderate Republican said Sunday that former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin, who has achieved iconic status with the Republican Party's conservative base, is an asset to the GOP.

"I think Sarah Palin is great for the Republican Party," former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani said in an interview that aired on CNN State of the Union.

Giuliani said Palin generates a lot of enthusiasm for the party which has struggled to define itself and identify its leading voices after the McCain-Palin ticket lost its White House bid a year ago.

"She gets a tremendous reception even here in Democratic New York," Giuliani, who hosted Palin at a New York Yankees game, told CNN John King.

We're very far away from a 2012 election, Giuliani added, Right now, I like figures who are creating interest in the Republican Party.

"Given the decisions that the Obama administration is making, particularly on this area of terrorism which concerns me probably more than any other, we're going to need some pretty strong alternatives in 2012. I don't know if it'll be Sarah Palin or someone else. But right now it's [about] developing interest in a Republican Party and we need a two-party system and we need a healthy one.

Giuliani said he had not made any decision yet about whether he will seek the White House again in 2012 or run for New York governor. Asked when he had to make that decision, Giuliani told King, Not today, not this morning.

Texas State Rep. McCall won't seek reelection

Hat tip to The Texas Tribune





2010: McCall won't seek reelection
by Ross Ramsey

Brian McCall, a key member of House Speaker Joe Straus' leadership team, won't seek reelection next year.

McCall, a 51-year-old Plano Republican, wasn't available for comment. But he's contacting supporters and allies today to tell them of his decision.

He's the chairman of the Calendars Committee that sets the House's daily agenda and decides which bills do and don't come to a vote. And he's a member of the Polo Road Gang, a group of 11 Republicans who met on January 2 at Rep. Byron Cook's Austin house to choose their candidate for speaker. That bloc, combined with most of the House Democrats and some votes picked up later, made Straus the speaker and ousted Midland Republican Tom Craddick from the post.

He will have served 20 years in the House when his current term ends in January 2011, and he has remained popular in his district: He never got less than 65 percent in a general or primary election and usually ran without opposition. His HD-66 is solidly Republican and would be a difficult pickup for the Democrats even with McCall out of the running.

McCall has been mentioned as a possible candidate for state Senate — speculation resulting from Sen. Florence Shapiro's efforts to win a promotion to the U.S. Senate. Both are Plano Republicans, and if Shapiro were to run, McCall is in a spot to try for her job. He's played down those rumors. And now that Kay Bailey Hutchison has said she'll remain in office until after the first of the year (and the filing deadline for candidates in the 2010 elections), the fuel for that political speculation is scarce.

McCall was himself a candidate for speaker before the 2007 legislative session. He was the apparent leader among candidates to challenge Craddick that year, but stepped aside to back Rep. Jim Pitts, R-Waxahachie, who went on to lose to the incumbent. Both men backed Straus at the beginning of this year, and both were rewarded — Pitts with a new run as chairman of House Appropriations, and McCall, with the job at Calendars, his first chairmanship.

WINE LIBRARY’S GARY VAYNERCHUK HEADLINES EVENT IN OKLAHOMA CITY DUE TO MASS SOCIAL MEDIA PERSISTENCE

Gary Vaynerchuk is heading to Oklahoma City on November 20 mostly due to the resilient push via social media.

Vaynerchuk, a well known wine guru from Wine Library TV, recently launched his new book, Crush it!, and was in the process of narrowing down book-stop media tour locations as a team of Oklahoma City Vaynerchuk fans saw this as an opportunity they couldn’t pass up.

The face of this Oklahoma City push for a Gary Vaynerchuk appearance is Samuel Gordon’s Jeweler President Daniel Gordon.

“The efforts of these Oklahoman’s passion, patience, caring and ‘Hustle’ (as Gary puts it) are truly amazing. This event, which we are deeming OK Crush It, will be an incredible experience,” said Gordon.

“Once we heard that November 20 fit into Gary’s busy schedule, we jumped at the opportunity to book him at the Will Rogers Theatre.

We set the ticket price at only $25 which will include the new book by which he is promoting. A limited amount of tickets are still available at www.okcrushit.com but no promises on how long until they’re sold out.”

Oklahoma City clamors to bring Vaynerchuk in, but the feeling seems to be mutual.

"As much as the message of Crush It! is about forming communities online, it's meeting people in person that is always the biggest thrill for me,” said Vaynerchuk. “Every stop on this tour has been amazing, but I am especially looking forward to Oklahoma City. The outreach to bring me there was staggering, and ever since the city became the home of the NBA's Thunder, I've felt destined to visit and bring a little thunder of my own."

The event is scheduled for 8:00 p.m. at the Will Rogers Theatre (4322 N Western Ave Oklahoma City, OK 73118) Tickets for OK Crush It can be purchased at www.okcrushit.com

Event schedule:

7:30 VIP/Sponsor mixer
8:00 Event Begins
8:20 Gary’s Motivational Crush It Talk & winelibrary.tv Taping
9:35 Mixer & Gary’s Ping Pong Game
10:30 Last call for Food & Drink
11:00 Doors close

Excerpt from Web site:

“Join celebrity icon and social media sommelier, Gary Vanyerchuck for an enticing evening at Will Rogers Event Center . Experience exquisite wines from Putnam Wines, Paragon, Thirst OKC and Premium. Coop Ale Work beer, Gekkeikan Sake and coffee from Cafe Evoke & Elemental Coffee will whet your palate for the delightful culinary offerings from local restaurants. Award-winning establishments such as Ryan Parrott’s Season’s Catering and Iguana Grill, Bruce Rinehart’s Rococos, and Deep Fork Grill will satisfy every appetite.

Listen as Gary brings the thunder of his new book “Crush It.” Celebrate success as you watch a live taping of his Internet sensation, Winelibray.tv, and learn what makes him passionate about social media. One lucky guest will win the drawing to play one-on-one ping pong against Gary.”

Sarah Palin to visit Norman

Sarah Palin will visit Norman next month for a book signing at Hastings.

"She wanted to come into smaller towns," Hastings store manager Rob Wood said, adding that Norman will be Palin's only Oklahoma stop on her book tour.

The former vice-presidential hopeful and governor of Alaska will sign copies of her memoir, "Going Rogue: An American Life," which hits shelves Tuesday. The event will be 7 p.m. Dec. 3. at Hastings Books, 2300 W. Main St.

Wood said they've had famous authors sign books at the Norman store before, but nothing on this level of national fame.

"This is definitely our biggest we've ever had," he said.

Palin is not going to give an address, but will sign books and talk to those getting their books signed, Wood said.

"Basically how it's working is they have to purchase their book from the store," he said. Customers can buy their books from Hastings in advance and bring them to be signed as long as they bring their Hastings receipt. Wood said he expects many people to purchase more than one book to have Palin sign and then send to family members.

Gary Banz on how Veterans can get a Flag that have flown over the Oklahoma State Capitol

Oklahoma State Rep. Gary Banz (R - House 101) talking talking about how Veterans can get a U.S. or Oklahoma Flag that have flown over the Oklahoma State Capitol

Hoo-ah X-OU Bball player headed to Afghanistan

Former Oklahoma women's basketball star Captain Caton Hill says that while "there is some anxiety" about heading to Afghanistan for combat duty with the U.S. Army, she's confident she's prepared.

She spoke with bloggers and reporters on a conference call on Today, two days before she's scheduled to depart.

Captain Hill has spent the past year in Georgia training for the assignment.

After finishing her basketball career in 2004, Captain Hill went to OU Med School and decided to enlist in the Army's Medical Corps. It would pay her medical school bills in exchange for her military service.

She started her residency in family medicine last year, but after a year, she decided that she wanted to do something different.

Captain Hill, an Army flight surgeon, will be the primary care physician for the 4th Battalion, 3rd Aviation Regiment, the 3rd Infantry Division Combat Aviation Brigade. She says she'll primarily be working with pilots during her one-year tour of duty.

Captain Hill knew becoming a flight surgeon could land her on the front line. "Taking care of the people that are fighting for you is one of the most honorable things you can do," she said.

Captain Hill played for the Sooners from 1999 to 2004 and is sixth on Oklahoma's career scoring list with 1,653 points. She started for Oklahoma's 2002 national runner-up squad.

Tulsa District 4 crime rate went up last night

A newly elected city councilor had a personal lesson in policework last night when a thief ran away with her wallet during a victory party in downtown Tulsa.

Maria Barnes was celebrating her District 4 win over incumbent Eric Gomez at Casa Laredo, 403 S. Cheyenne Ave., when a man reached into her purse and made off with her billfold about 10:20 p.m., police said.

Barnes and a group of supporters chased after him to the 600 block of South Boulder, where officers took him into custody.

About five minutes later, officers arrested Jordan Lee Christ, 26. He was booked into the Tulsa Jail on complaints of petty larceny and public intoxication, according to his arrest report.

Police allege that Christ was extremely drunk and ran from the eatery after swiping the wallet.

Court records indicate that Christ has several previous convictions, including assault and battery, outraging public decency, peeping tom and larceny.

Tulsa NewsChannel 8's Burt Mummolo
was there and filed this report...

For my Buddy...

HOO-AH Businesses Honoring Veterans With Discounts

During Veterans Day Weekend, several retail businesses are raising money for programs, while other businesses are offering various discounts to veterans. VFW received the following notices about Veterans Day Specials:

Golden Corral Military Appreciation Monday Dinner, November 16, 5-9 p.m.: Golden Corral restaurants across the Country open their door and provide a free “thank you” dinner to any person who has ever served in the United States Military including the National Guard and Reserves. To date, Golden Corral restaurants have provided over 2.2 million free meals and contributed over $3.3 million to the Disabled American Veterans organization.



Applebee's Neighborhood Grill & Bar, November 11: Restaurants invite all active duty and veterans to all restaurants nationwide to pull up a chair for a delicious meal and heartfelt thanks this Veterans Day. With gratitude for their service and sacrifice, active duty and veterans will eat free on Veterans Day during regular business hours. Veterans and active duty with proof of United States military service will be able to select one complimentary entrée from a selection of delicious favorites.


Sport Clips nationwide on Veterans Day, November 11, is supporting VFW Operation Uplink™ with "The Biggest Haircut Day of the Year." On that day, Sport Clips will donate a dollar for every haircut given in our 660+ stores. Show your support for troops and veterans by getting your next haircut at Sport Clips.

Burger King restaurants in select states across the country are raising money for VFW Unmet Needs through November 30. More than 800 Burger King restaurants are participating in the “buy a burger; donate a buck” fundraiser in the following states: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New Jersey, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, Wisconsin.

McCormick and Schmick’s Seafood Restaurants November 8 Annual Veterans Appreciation Event: Present your military ID, VFW membership card, DD214 or VA ID to enjoy a complimentary lunch or dinner entrée from a special menu. Click here to find one in your area

24-Hour Fitness: Once again, 24-Hour Fitness is proud to offer Free workouts November 6-11 for ALL veterans. Visit www.24hourfitness.com for club locations. "We are so very fortunate to be Americans, and I'm honored by their humble service to our great land. I have numerous Vet's, reservists, and proud Patriots on my team who are thankful everyday for the values we hold true," said Carl Liebert, veteran and 24-Hour fitness founder.

Lowe’s Offers 10% Veterans Day Discount: Home improvement retailer Lowe’s Companies will offer a 10 percent discount to active-duty, National Guard and reserve members, retirees, veterans and their immediate family members, Nov. 8 through Nov. 15, in honor of Veterans Day. The Lowe’s discount can be used on purchases of up to $5,000, for a maximum discount of $500. It can be used only on purchases made in stores, and is not available for sales at Lowes.com. It does not apply to previous sales or purchases of services or gift cards. Customers must present a military ID card or other proof of service.

Since this list does not contain ALL discounts,
be sure and ask if the places you are patronizing Veterans Day offer any discounts to veterans

Islamist extremist at Ft. Hood? Part 2

FLASH: ABC News: Fort Hood gunman Hasan made attempts to contact al Qaeda terrorists, intelligence agencies knew months ago...

Controversial Muslim figure Anwar al-Awlaki
calls Fort Hood gunman a "hero" on his blog.
Read the blog post:

Nidal Hassan Did the Right Thing
November 9, 2009 - الاثنين 22 ذو القعدة 1430 by Anwar alAwlaki
Filed under Imam Anwar's Blog

Nidal Hassan is a hero. He is a man of conscience who could not bear living the contradiction of being a Muslim and serving in an army that is fighting against his own people. This is a contradiction that many Muslims brush aside and just pretend that it doesn’t exist. Any decent Muslim cannot live, understanding properly his duties towards his Creator and his fellow Muslims, and yet serve as a US soldier. The US is leading the war against terrorism which in reality is a war against Islam. Its army is directly invading two Muslim countries and indirectly occupying the rest through its stooges.

Nidal opened fire on soldiers who were on their way to be deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan. How can there be any dispute about the virtue of what he has done? In fact the only way a Muslim could Islamically justify serving as a soldier in the US army is if his intention is to follow the footsteps of men like Nidal.

The heroic act of brother Nidal also shows the dilemma of the Muslim American community. Increasingly they are being cornered into taking stances that would either make them betray Islam or betray their nation. Many amongst them are choosing the former. The Muslim organizations in America came out in a pitiful chorus condemning Nidal’s operation.

The fact that fighting against the US army is an Islamic duty today cannot be disputed. No scholar with a grain of Islamic knowledge can defy the clear cut proofs that Muslims today have the right -rather the duty- to fight against American tyranny. Nidal has killed soldiers who were about to be deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan in order to kill Muslims. The American Muslims who condemned his actions have committed treason against the Muslim Ummah and have fallen into hypocrisy.

Allah(swt) says: Give tidings to the hypocrites that there is for them a painful punishment –
Those who take disbelievers as allies instead of the believers. Do they seek with them honor [through power]? But indeed, honor belongs to Allah entirely. (al-Nisa 136-137)

The inconsistency of being a Muslim today and living in America and the West in general reveals the wisdom behind the opinions that call for migration from the West. It is becoming more and more difficult to hold on to Islam in an environment that is becoming more hostile towards Muslims.

May Allah grant our brother Nidal patience, perseverance and steadfastness and we ask Allah to accept from him his great heroic act. Ameen

Islamist extremist at Ft. Hood?

Sen. Joe Lieberman announced Sunday that he intends to lead a congressional investigation into the mass shooting at Fort Hood, saying the attack could qualify as a "terrorist act" rooted in Islamic radicalism -- the worst since 9/11.

The Independent Democrat, who chairs the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs, said there were "strong warning signs" that the alleged gunman, Maj. Nidal Malik Hasan, was an "Islamist extremist."

"If that is true, the murder of these 13 people was a terrorist act and, in fact, it was the most destructive terrorist act to be committed on American soil since 9/11," Lieberman told "Fox News Sunday."

Nidal Malik Hasan, the Army major suspected of killing 13 people and wounding 29 others at Fort Hood, worshipped at the same mosque as two of the 9/11 terrorists.

According to the London Sunday Telegraph, Hasan attended services at the Dar al-Hijrah mosque in Great Falls, Va., in 2001 at the same time as Sept. 11 hijackers Nawaf al-Hamzi and Hani Hanjour. Funeral services for Hasan's mother also was held at that mosque.

The FBI wants to interrogate Hasan to see if he met or knew al-Hamzi or Hanjour, reports the Telegraph.

The imam at the mosque at the time Hasan attended services there was Anwar al-Awlaki, a radical cleric who has been described as a supporter of al-Qaida. A third 9/11 hijacker attended al-Awlaki's lectures in California.