Friday Freedom Moment of Zen

One of the greatest rock songs ever written and performed...

Where's Jari?

Jari Askins surprised pundits by defeating the uber-powerful Drew Edmondson in the Democratic gubernatorial primary but now, she has vanished into the Bermuda Triangle of politics.  Daily messages on social networking sites have all but vanished, and it's leaving people wondering just what happened to our Lt. Governor.

Conversely, Congresswoman Mary Fallin has been on the airwaves, sending out press releases and has even taken a shot at Jari Askins and her record on concealed carry - painting her as an anti-gun candidate.  In the press release questioning Askins' record, there is a statement about the Lt. Governor's Turkey Hunt, implying perhaps that Askins hasn't supported or participated.  It's false, of course, but Jari never responded.

So, if you see Jari Askins anywhere, remind her that she is running for Governor.  It appears as though she may have forgotten.

Calvey Cash

Target of bloggers and the mainstream media alike, Kevin Calvey, has finally caught a break from the Oklahoman wherein the headline reads:

Kevin Calvey Has Major Cash Advantage Over James Lankford In Congressional Runoff.

Calvey has a lot more cash on hand and many are asking questions as to why he hasn't been using it up in widespread media coverage, responding to attacks from Lankford's supports.  Well, part of the answer could be that his wife just had a baby last week and contrary to popular belief, that takes up more than just a little bit of time and emotional effort.

As I have stated previously, Calvey wants this job and his campaign team wants this win more than just about any other in recent history so don't expect him to end the runoff with cash left over.

Stand by...

The Show Must and Will Go On

Hot weather, sickness, equipment issues and other maladies have crossed the path of those of us putting together the Back to School Blues Jam and Wail, but nonetheless...the show will go on August 28th, Paradise Farm.  Sometimes, there are things bigger than the mere individual, the collective good as it were and the Blues Jam and Wail will benefit the Hugs Project of Oklahoma.

The Hugs Project sends care packages to our troops and have these really fascinating cooling wraps they send to the men and women in the heat of the Middle East.  There are many non-profits working to help our men and women of the Armed Forces and the Hugs Project clearly stands out as one of the finest.

There will be musical guests including an incredible acoustic set with a good friend of mine, Tink and his cohort, the band we've put together (Blackened Blues Band) will play and then, it's an open jam for all to be a part of and we even have a massive karaoke system too.  We'll have hot dogs, plenty of shade and all you're required to bring is yourselves, your lawn chairs, beverage of choice and a few bucks to donate to the Hugs Project.  Also, I'll be posting a list of "need" items that the Hugs Project needs donated to send to our troops. 

We've been through a lot here in Oklahoma over the last couple years and it is important to note that it is nothing contrasted with what our troops are facing each and every day in the Middle East.

It's FREE.  It's FUN and it is required attendance for all who appreciate amateur musicians and great fellowship.  If you'd like to volunteer or get involved, send me a message here.

Tough Economy For Oklahoma Outfitters

The economy has turned tough for many Oklahomans and this is why so many political candidates are talking about job creation.  One of the toughest hit industries in Oklahoma has been, and continues to be, tourism.  If you notice, you'll find many advertisements on Oklahoma television stations for Branson, Vegas and even Wyoming - many of the deals struck between Chambers of Commerce to ensure a steady flow of tourism revenues streaming through our state.

But the truth of the matter is that for hunters, we have some of the finest hunting available in the country, we're just not doing a good job promoting it.

Oklahomans come from a hearty stock of hunters and anglers and in many cases, the tradition has been passed down from generation to generation.  But with the down-turn in the economy, many hunters and anglers have been selective about spending their hard-earned money and in some cases, have gone for the sexy Wyoming or Alaska hunting trips where the appeal of the exotic supersedes the inward desire to support that which is local.

I can honestly say that I have only been on one trip outside the state of Oklahoma and that was a pronghorned antelope hunt in Marfa, Texas with Ted Nugent.  It was purchased as a gift and "Bob" the antelope is usually displayed with a great deal of pride on my wall.  But what I am truly most proud of are the numerous hunts I went on right here in the great state of Oklahoma.

Killed a Corsican ram at Chain Ranch in Canton.

Killed doe and dove at J&J Ranch in Arnett. 

Killed a nice buck on a lease in Commanche.

Slayed dove and quail in Altus.

Grilled a doe from Honobia Creek.

Slaughtered a monster hog at No Mercy in Gracemont.

Shot my first feral hog with a bow in Binger.

Turkey hunted with the PVA in Miami, Oklahoma.

And the list goes on...

Oklahomans are encouraged to spend their dollars in the state of Oklahoma.  We have some of the best hunting and angling in the country right here, all within a reasonable driving distance. 

Together, we can save our outfitters.

Charlie Meadows Defends Calvey

From the OCPAC email today (emphasis, mine)...

Early on, Kevin Calvey was the front-runner in the 5th District Congressional race. Talking with Kevin months ago, he indicated he knew he would be attacked, he just didn’t know from how many directions the attacks would come.

I have believed for some time that the Oklahoman would be against Kevin. In my opinion, the multiple news articles in Sunday’s Oklahoman regarding Kevin was just the start of a subtle effort to raise doubts in the minds of voters regarding Calvey. Particularly the totally irrelevant article about stopping to help a vagrant in a driving rain storm near a park known to be a bee hive of activity for homosexuals and the fact that the vagrant told Kevin about a dead body in a vacant building… yada, yada, yada.

Here is the deal, Mark Shannon asked Kevin on air during the controversial debate regarding Maps III if he supported the extension of the sales tax? Kevin’s answer was no because he believed that during a recession, the citizens could best benefit from a tax cut. I am of the opinion, that Clay Bennett, a member of the family who owns the Oklahoman, is probably out there urging the business community to oppose Calvey and support James Lankford for Congress. It is also my understanding that former Mayor Kirk Humphreys is going to host a fund raiser for James Lankford. If that information is correct, you couldn’t have a better picture of the central planning establishment working to capture the ear and service of Lankford and thus begin their efforts to be served by a Congressman.

Even though OCPAC endorsed Kevin Calvey, I have had a great deal of respect for James Lankford and the campaign he has conducted. Up until now, his campaign has primarily been financed by people who have never before contributed to political races. He has truly brought a whole new group of people into the process, at least to a deeper level of commitment than just being a voter.

I know how seductive these powerful central planners can be and am very concerned as to whether or not James can be independent with their support should he win? Will he have the ability to say no when they want some pork for a pet project? Will James continue to care about excessive spending and huge deficits? This is where is gets really tough to be in elected office.

During the debate on Maps III, all of the then known candidates were against the proposition except Mike Thompson who told me he had a strong opinion but wouldn’t dare share it with anyone and James Lankford who wouldn’t say if he were against or for the measure as he didn’t believe a person in Congress should interject himself into local matters. I always struggled with that answer as I don’t believe that to be leadership. I suspect James’ answer was partly determined based on advice from a political consultant. Real leadership will always get out front and lead. Kevin did that and now is at risk from those special interests who may be the primary beneficiaries from the extension of the sales tax.

This run-off election could go either way, so please consider these perspectives and consider as to why the Oklahoman may not support Kevin Calvey. It is all the more reason for me to want to support Kevin as I believe he is not the candidate of what I might suggest are the OKC central planners.

Charlie has a number of good points here...

Lankford Love-In Continues, Jett Joins In

Attacks on Kevin Calvey mount and at the same time and at the same pace, James Lankford is racking up the endorsements.  Today, he added another...State Representative Shane Jett.

From the McCarville Report:

Jett said today, "On August 24th, voters have the opportunity to choose the republican nominee who will likely become our next U.S. Congressman. That day, Ana and I will be voting for James Lankford. Throughout the campaign and today, James has had only one interest in mind: to serve the residents of the 5th Congressional District.

"James has been truthful about his work experience, transparent about his motivations and never misled anyone about his professional background. With James, what you see is what you get. His sincerity, honesty and candor gives me confidence to say unequivocally and emphatically that James Lankford is the best choice for this Republican run off on August 24th. For me and my family, it comes down to one fundamental ingredient: character and more to the point integrity. My wife, Ana, and I hope you join us in supporting James Lankford with your vote, your finances and your volunteer time."

Not exactly what the Calvey campaign was expecting, I'm sure.  Calvey has been hit and hit hard by the ongoing reports in the Oklahoman and it is bordering on the bizarre.  And the fact that two legislators with whom he worked endorsing Calvey's opponent tells me that there is something horribly amiss that the average Joe like you and I are not aware of at this point.

And I don't care what anyone says, the timing for the Oklahoman stories are suspect at best.

More to follow...

The (Calvey) Hits Just Keep Coming

It started (sort of) in the primary with Rick Flanigan taking shots at Calvey for his violation of DOD directives by using his uniform in ads and Calvey survived.  Now that Lankford is the darling of the media in the run-off, Calvey is under attack yet again by the Oklahoman.

Lankford responded quickly to alleged robo-calls that have been rumored to be sent out in Northwest Oklahoma City and he did so quickly, making himself appear like a victim right off the bat and it is a brilliant political tactic.  Voters immediately feel sorry for him and it has Calvey's team scrambling to deny that they have any part in the calls.  [Read McCarville's Report on this one.]

In what is rumored to be "just the beginning" in attacks from the Oklahoman, Calvey's campaign contributions have been called into question and it all points to an equity firm run by Calvey's brother.  [Read the story here.]

Lankford has thus far campaigned as an "outsider," but he has a plethora of insiders working with his campaign and hiring the Thompson team has clearly benefited him financially and now with attacks on his opponent.  The interests of the Oklahoman are very much that which the business group supporting Thompson did as well.  More than likely, the never thought Lankford would make the run-off and that Thompson would face Calvey where thousands of dollars would be spent to defeat him.

Lankford is now their "guy."  And when special interests adopt one candidate over another who has more experience in business, you have to ask yourself why.  

But will Lankford get a "free pass?"  Will the Oklahoman call into question Lankford's experience?  His record?  Many Lankford supporters thought he was/is the CEO at Falls Creek, rather that Program Director.  Will the Oklahoman or Tulsa World take a look at some of the contributions for Lankford?  Probably not.  It doesn't serve their interests to do so.

But you can expect Calvey's team to fight back.  They don't like losing and they will hit back and when they do, it won't be pretty.  While the mainstream media is jumping on the Lankford bandwagon and ignoring the real questions of qualifications, the Calvey team will level the playing field and they have the money to do it.  If there is any dirt on Lankford, expect it to be revealed in the next 10 days.