OMG! Seriously? Like, No Way, Dude!

Wait staff are critical to the success of any restaurant.  Service needs to be prompt, courteous, knowledgeable and enjoyable.  I know many people who have made a good living working as a waiter or waitress, so what you're about to read is in no way a discredit to those in the service industry.  But this really happened.

Decided to make a call to the local Buffalo Wild Wings locale in Edmond (not known for their prompt OR courteous service) to see if my Seattle Seahawks game or the Washington Redskins game would be broadcast on their big screens.  The conversation kind of went like this:

BWWW (Buffalo Wild Wings Waitress):  Buffalo Wild Wings.
Me:  Hey there.  I was wondering if you would be airing either the Seattle Seahawks against the Denver Broncos or the Washington Redskins against the Houston Texans this afternoon.


BWWW:  What?
Me:  Will you be showing the Seahawks or Redskins on your widescreens this afternoon?


BWWW:  Right now we have Cincinnati on and I think Dallas or something.
Me:  I meant later this afternoon.


BWWW:  What teams?  
Me:  Seattle Seahawks playing the Denver Broncos or Washington Redskins playing the Houston Texans.


BWWW:  Is that football?
Me:  Um, yes.

[At this point, my wife is laughing, asks for my cell phone.]

Wife:  Can I talk to a manager, please?
BWWW:  Sure!


BWW Manager:  This is _____ can I help you?
Wife:  Yes, will you be airing either the Seahawks or the Redskins this afternoon.


BWW Manager:  Absolutely.
Wife:  Thank you!

What a day.

Speaking of Sunday...

Seahawks.  My beloved Seattle Seahawks take on the Denver Broncos...should be an interesting game and the hope is that they will be victorious.  I remember growing up in Seattle, watching the games with unbelievable enthusiasm because they were OUR team.  I miss that atmosphere.

Fallin/Askins Flap.  This gubernatorial race has been exceptional to watch.  The RGA launches against Askins, Askins responds appropriately - calling for Mary to denounce the ads, Mary goes on the attack and blames Askins for going negative.  THEN, Mary's campaign says how they are running a positive campaign and will continue to run a positive campaign - at the very time that their consultants are putting together a negative ad to air.  When the Fallinistas are asked about how they feel regarding their fearless leader going back on their word...they follow the talking points memo to a fault and say, "But Mary didn't have anything to do with the RGA ad."  Classic avoidance.  This is only going to get better.  Jari Askins won't put up with the double-talk for very long and for the first time in her political career, she is facing a general election opponent who is well liked and has the money to get out her message.  Jari beat Drew Edmondson in a tough race, Mary needs to be very, very careful or that whistle stop train ride she's on will land her in the caboose.

Good Lobbyist/Bad Lobbyist.  I heard some talking head nutjob on Fox News the other evening talking about how bad lobbyists are and really, it's easy to hate lobbyists.  But there are two sides of the coin.  The NRA, for example, has lobbyists on the payroll.  The National Right to Life operation has a lobbying arm.  Even former governor Frank Keating is a lobbyist for the insurance industry and lest we forget, gubernatorial candidate and Congresswoman Mary Fallin's daughter is now a lobbyist - and her mom is quite proud of that fact.  Lobbyists are what they are and ultimately, we get to be lobbyists too.  Every time we head to the polling place, we get to decide which candidate will be wined and dined by lobbyists.  Exciting, isn't it?

Wronged Man.  Watched a very poorly produced film about a horrific story down in Louisiana where an African-American man (Calvin Willis) was arrested for allegedly raping a 10 year-old girl and spent 20 years in prison, only to be found innocent after the Innocence Project conducted DNA testing.  It reminded me of the Jeffrey Todd Pierce case here in Oklahoma and I often wonder why there isn't prosecution of those who knowingly sent to trial and convicted a man who clearly was not guilty.  How does that happen in this culture and society?  Jeffrey Todd Pierce's story is much like others and frankly, underscores why I am no longer a fan of the death penalty in the state of Oklahoma.  If we put to death one innocent man, it's one too many.  Jeffrey Todd Pierce received a settlement from the city of Oklahoma City, but how can we realistically think that money will cover the loss of family, loss of dignity, loss of career and God knows what kind of brutality he experienced in prison?  Based on what I know and have seen, Bob Macy and Joyce Gilchrist should be in prison themselves.   But I digress.

More Sunday thoughts later...

Something About Jari

Not one, not two but three attack ads against Lt. Governor Jari Askins from the RGA.  Three from the Republican Governor's Association, one from the Fallin campaign itself.  These things aren't arbitrary - there is a reason for the onslaught of these ads.

There's just something about Jari.

But what is it?  What is it about Jari Askins that has the Fallin campaign and the RGA so determined to knock Jari down a peg or two?  So far, the attacks have been a little misleading - as in the first RGA ad.  The Tulsa World and the Oklahoman alike (as did the majority on a few online polls) agreed that it was a ridiculous attack ad with little or no merit whatsoever.  But what was the response?  More attacks from the RGA and Fallin campaign.

So, I leave it to you...ask yourself, "Why?"  Is Jari Askins that well-liked in Oklahoma that there has to be attacks to lessen her favorable ratings?  Why is the Fallin machine afraid of Jari Askins? 

Mary Fallin spent $1.9 million to defeat State Senator Randy Brogdon.  How much will she and her supporters spend to defeat a legitimate statewide candidate?  Or rather, how much will they HAVE to spend?

You make the call.

POW/MIA Day & Constitution Day

I believe it to be more than appropriate that today is POW/MIA Recognition Day AND Constitution Day in this great country.  Men and women have raised a right hand, sworn an oath to defend the Constitution and many gave all so we could have these freedoms.  The oath means something, it has depth and transcends fraternal associations.  Here is the oath I took:

I (Name) do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; and that I will obey the orders of the President of the United States and the orders of the officers appointed over me, according to regulations and the Uniform Code of Military Justice. So help me God. I swear (or affirm) that I am fully aware and fully understand the conditions under which I am enlisting.

In many ways, our country has failed our veterans and their families.  They are morbidly underpaid (at least enlisted men and women are), their families forgotten and our missing in action get only compulsory recognition once a year.

Hell, there are candidates for public office bellowing right now about the Constitution, but have said nothing about the men and women who are or have been prisoners of war or have been classified as missing in action.  But we shouldn't be surprised...most politicians are narcissistic sociopaths who spend more time in front of a mirror in a week than most of us do in a lifetime.

Today, let's all take a moment to remember our POW/MIA military and civilians who have given all - and let us not forget their families.

Fallin v Askins: The Rumble is ON

Today, the Fallin for Governor campaign launched a new salvo on the Web with not one but two ads.  The first being a positive, "fight Washington" ad that shows Mary smiling and happy.  But the second is, well, aggressive as hell. 

Here is the link to the ad itself.


All the photographs you've seen of these two posing together, smiling and pretending like they actually like each other must have been horribly misleading because the haymakers are coming full stride. 

The fight is ON.

Mary's New Ad - The Pink Elephant In the Room

Mary Fallin has a new ad entitled "Stand Up."  In the ad (below), Mary talks about her willingness to "fight Washington" as Governor.  There are questions, however, that the ad simply begs.  Every molecule in the universe cries out for an answer to one very simple, yet critical question that is the big pink elephant in the room:

Mary, if you couldn't fight Washington as an insider and serving as a damned Congresswoman, what makes you think we believe you can or will here as Governor? 

There, I asked it.  Mary Fallin didn't fight anyone in Washington, except to fight for an autograph from the President...but I digress. 

The ad is brilliant, actually.  It doesn't say a doggone thing about the actual role of governor in the great state of Oklahoma and what Mary would actually be charged with AS governor.  It pleasantly avoids the fact that Oklahoma has one of the weakest governors in the country and it is so by design.  We let the legislature screw things up, not the governor.

Here's the ad.  Let me know your thoughts.



I'm With Jari

I have no clue what they ever did to us and why the RGA and Republicans in general are so upset with Jari Askins.  It seems like everytime you turn around, someone is designing a new hit/attack ad to slam Jari Askins about her support for this or her lack of support for that.  Personally, I agree with Jari Askins...

I support the Dreamsicle Act.

I don't know what it is or how it works, but Dreamsicles are delicious and a critical part of American history and culture.  There are differences between Creamsicles and Dreamsicles, but to me, they need to simply get along.  The Dreamsicle has the same sherbet shell as the Creamsicle, but the iced milk inside the Dreamsicle is clearly more healthy for all Oklahomans.

And in particular, Oklahoma children.

We need to get behind Jari Askins and her fight against the horrible attacks coming from special interests across this nation.  Join me and Jari in supporting the Dreamsicle Act.

Whatever the hell it is.

10 Reasons To Stay Away From The Polls November 2nd

Blogger Steve Fair has published "10 Reasons Why Conservatives Should Not Vote For Jari Askins," and it is very well thought out, very well researched and without a doubt, exceptionally partisan.  Which is pretty much what we have come to expect these days anyway.  It's all about the party for some but for me, as stated previously, it's about the hotness. 

So, for those of you who are tired of the same old rhetoric and talking points as to why you should or should not vote for one candidate over another, I've decided to compile my list of reasons we should just stay away from the polling places altogether and let the chips fall where they may.

10.  Grumpy Polling Volunteers.  I don't know how the election board does it, but somehow they are able to round up the most angry, pissed off and generally grumpy geriatric volunteers to check our name on their handy little list, toss us our little voting sheet and spew forth a round of instructions.  Where they find these troglodytes is anyone's guess but more than likely, recruiting takes place at the DMV - and not just from behind the counter either.  If we want abuse, we can just as easily sit home and watch American Idol Rewind and hear the melodious tones of Simon Cowell barking at wanna-be superstars.  We don't need the ghosts of Archie Bunker telling us we're douchebags if we forget our "I Voted" sticker.

9.  Hunting Season.  Deer archery season begins October 1 and goes through January 2011 and if you have archery hunted in Oklahoma during the beginning of the season, you know it's pretty hard work.  I would suggest you go on vacation beginning October 1, set up camp and wait for the big buck to come by your treestand.  About the time blackpowder season begins, you'll have at least seen a big buck or two and not had to worry about number 10, above.

8.  Partisan Poop.  At this stage of the game, anyone voting in Oklahoma should come to realize that Democrats in Oklahoma are infinitely more conservative than most of the Republican presidential nominees we've seen in the last few years.  Anyone who believes W was a true conservative probably can't even spell the word "conservative" and has kissed a final farewell to their minds shortly after Ronald Reagan died.  By the time November 2nd rolls around, you'll hear the words "liberal" and "conservative" tossed around like a salad at Souper Salad but with far less care and the excrement you'll have to wade through on television and what is left of talk radio will make you long for the elephant stalls at the Oklahoma City Zoo.  If you want to wade through poop, come by my house and I'll let you meet my Rottweiller, Cletus, and he can show you some poop.

7.  It Is Not The End Of the World.  Contrary to what Rush, Sean, Keith, Rachel, Glenn and Oprah have told you, November 3rd is not the date set for the end of humanity as we know it.  Granted, it is tempting to live in the bus buried in the back yard after listening to 15 minutes of Glenn Beck's program wherein he informs us that God is really, really pissed off that the country elected Obama as president, but it just isn't the case.   Equally difficult is listening to Sean Hannity (who thinks he IS God) tell us that he was/is right about everything ranging from the correct temperature of brownies to the fate of the IRS - but as Sean would say, "let not your heart be troubled," because while politicos are running around kissing each other on the mouth about how brilliant their candidates are, God is busy going about saving the eternal souls of those who are created in His image. 

6.  Newt Gingrich.  The fact that we somehow allowed this guy to be Speaker of the House at any time in human history should be enough to teach us that our decision-making power at the polling places are woefully lacking.

5.  Jimmy Carter.  Much like Newt, Carter was an example of everything that is wrong with the system, the way we elect leaders.  Some of us still remember the lines at gasoline stations...

4.  Absentee Voting.  Each state has rules and regulations pertaining to absentee/early voting and Oklahoma is included.  Rather than dealing with the barbarians at the polling gates, we can fill out our little voting cards and ship them to the election board wherein they will get lost, be used as toilet paper or even be utilized as art forms at the Oklahoma History Museum.  For the rich and famous living in gated communities, you need not miss your golf vacation in Florida the first week of November, you simply follow the instructions and mail in your ballot.  For the not-so-rich-and-famous, you won't have to lose your place in line at the DMV.  

3.  Mary, Todd & Ken Won't Be There.  Sorry, kids, but none of the Bold and Beautiful will be at the polling place awaiting your arrival and no, they won't be signing autographs either.  And you're not allowed to bring your Sarah Palin blow-up doll either. 

2.  Liquor Stores Open.  Liquor stores are now open in Oklahoma on election day.  Think about it - would you rather be surrounded by vintage bottles of chardonnay, merlot and pinot or would you rather be surrounded by vintage men and women whose ire is surpassed only by the scent of medicated rubs?  Exactly.

And the number one reason you should not go to the polls November 2nd....

1.  It Just Doesn't Matter.  We are polishing the brass on the Titanic, kids.  We gave Democrats control of the House and Senate and they screwed it up.  Then, we gave Republicans control of the House, the Senate and the Oval Office and they screwed it up.  At the end of the day, we get all excited about this party or that party and their myriad of "solutions" to problems they themselves have created.  We show up to the polls, draw the little line for this "conservative" or that "liberal" only to find out a few months later that they have all been manufactured at the same plant by the same people who are feeding us the same line of crap, but packaging their candidates differently - and they and their consultants gather at the Wormy Dog for drinks and an after-party at our expense.  We've been hoodwinked, we've been bamboozled and we seem to like it that way.

Enjoy!  Of course, this was largely satire...if you don't "get it," please, for the love of God don't go to the polls ever and don't breed.  Thank you for your service to our community.

Told Ya. It's about the HOT.

Christine O'Donnell.  She won.  She's hot.  Enough said.

I'm excited too, Christine. 

Mary Needs Help

RGA launches a salvo against Jari Askins that pretty much everyone believed was a pile of steaming horse manure, Jari responds quickly and decisively, encouraging Congresswoman Mary Fallin to tell the RGA to pound sand and throws a little jab about the TARP bailout. 

Now, Mary Fallin needs help in combating the response to the RGA ad.  From Mary's Campaign Manager:

Dear Friend,

It didn't take long for our opponent to launch her first attack against Mary. As soon as someone started asking tough questions about her statements and votes on illegal immigration, Jari Askins attempted to change the subject by launching an attack on Mary.

And on top of her attack, she's now claiming to be a conservative! A conservative doesn't oppose tax cuts, vote against "concealed carry" or refuse to take a stand against the big-government takeover of health care. All of which Jari Askins has done.

We need your help TODAY to fight back! Click here to support Mary with a donation to our campaign so we can go on the air with our campaign ads ASAP!

Our opponent has spent her millions trying to win elected office in Oklahoma. And she's at it again with her first attack against Mary. Please help us respond to this attack by giving to our campaign TODAY!


Thanks for all you do!


Sincerely,

Denise Northrup
Campaign Manager

I had no idea Jari opposed "concealed carry."  Fascinating what you learn from emails and press releases.

Conservative Hotness Wins

Time for some brutal honesty here, my friends.  Conservative candidates are going to be the rage in November and again in 2012 because they are better looking than their opponents.  It doesn't really matter whether or not they can be considered intelligent, able to grasp the real issues facing this country, nor does it matter whether or not they have the ability to complete one or two coherent sentences.  They are hotter and hotness always wins.  The breaks are out, no point in steering.  If we're going down like the Titanic, we might as well have something pretty to look at on the way down...

Lest we forget, John McCain was clearly a more qualified candidate for President, but B-Rock Obama's charm and what some considered to be good looks won the day.  McCain's running mate, Palin, is hotness personified but she wasn't at the top of the ticket and we want the hotness on top in this country.

Even here in Oklahoma, no one would argue that Randy Brogdon was somehow lacking in intellect nor in his grasp of Constitutional issues.  Mary was just hotter.  She wears skirts everywhere she goes, she has a pretty face, a warm and welcoming smile...Randy just looked pissed off.  The hotness quotient overcame Randy and there was no looking back.  It's part of the Oklahoma "vayues."

Now, we look to Delaware where the Tea Party candidate is giving the Republican establishment candidate fits.  Christine O'Donnell is a conservative Tea Party candidate who has championed the cause of hardcore conservatism and a social conservative message that tickles the fancy of the religious community and her smile and attractive features appeal to the rest of the Delaware GOP electorate.  She is much hotter than her opponent - which goes without saying - and he knows it.  The GOP establishment is intensely pissed off about the fact that a candidate with some real experience may be beaten by a hottie who has difficulty putting thoughts together without cue cards.  In Delaware, real experience matters to the GOP.  Not so much in Oklahoma...but I digress.  Christine is adorable, though, and would make a great running mate for Sarah Palin in 2012. 

Speaking of Sarah...she has been endorsing candidates, appearing at $250/per person events with radio/television host Glenn Beck and doing as many Fox News interviews as humanly possible.  Why?  Duh.  She is gearing up for her run for President in 2012 and I, for one, will vote for her in a heartbeat.  I realize that she's not exactly America's brain-trust, but as I mentioned previously, real qualifications for office don't mean squat these days and the electorate are tired of "real issues" anyway.  Never before in the history of this great country have we had a potential candidate for the Oval Office who has legs that could rival Angelina Jolie (yes, I used Palin and Jolie in the same paragraph).  Sarah is approachable, which adds to the hotness factor because in our twisted minds, men tend to relate approachability to opportunity.  She hunts (hot).  She isn't a member of Mensa (hot - see statement on "opportunity").  And she isn't really afraid to speak her mind about what she perceives as evil in the world - red meat for the John Birchers.  And she's from Alaska - the last frontier of the Americas and you know she's rugged and it's cold there, so she probably likes to snuggle.  Who wouldn't want to do some snuggling with Sarah?  I mean, really.  Sarah is, by far, the most attractive person in the Republican Party and it will make her the nominee.  I mean, think about it...Romney is handsome and has a hotness quotient, but he is too polished and that scares us.  Newt is losing his mind and reports are that he doesn't even believe his own hype and Republicans haven't completely checked out intellectually just yet on a national level.  I want Palin/O'Donnell on the ticket in 2012.

Now, we turn to Oklahoma where the hotness factor applies in state races, not Congressional races.  Take the Bold and Beautiful of the statewide races, for example.  Ken Miller and Todd Lamb are polished, handsome and could easily be on the cover of Political GQ Magazine.  They have warm smiles, look good in photographs and have surrounded themselves with hotties in their campaigns as well.  They are the new, the fresh, the young and the attractive of the Oklahoma GOP.  In a debate with his rival Kenneth Corn, Lamb could easily respond to every question with a smile, a wink and say, "Yeah, but I look gooood," and women in the audience would swoon.  Much the same for Ken Miller who has similar charm.  Ken doesn't even really have an opponent - his good looks scared off even Scott Meacham from running for re-election.  Meacham probably came to the realization that the hotness factor would pimp-slap him come November.  It scared him so much that the long time Democrat came out and actually endorsed Miller.  Now that is hotness personified. 

So, that's my take on how the hotness factor comes into play this November and again in 2012.

Enjoy. 

Note:  There was some sarcasm included in the above blog entry...so, don't take it (or yourself) too seriously.

Prediction: Lankford Sails

Bottom line:  Oklahoma will elect its first ever Baptist Church Camp Program Director as a Congressman.  Coyle is an attorney and a Democrat and even the Blue Dogs will have a tough time getting behind giving the Democrats another seat in the House.

Dave White, former Navy SEAL and former Republican, announced today that he is supporting James Lankford - and that will help with some of the veteran's votes and will probably take some of the veterans away from Coyle, who is a Marine.

We live in strange times, friends.

Lankford came out of nowhere and no one planned for his meteoric rise to fame in the GOP.  No one.  He brings to the table enormous support from the Baptist community in Oklahoma and those resources have proven to be invaluable. 

But hey.  Looks like the Sooners and Cowboys both are going to have stellar seasons.

Dave White Endorses Lankford

At a joint press conference at the GOP headquarters, former Indpendent candidate for Congress Dave White pulled out and endorsed Republican James Lankford and may even do some public appearances on behalf of James.

White plans to switch his registration back to Republican.

Remembering, Living

Nine years later, the visuals of the planes crashing into the Pentagon, the Twin Towers and the news of the plan downed in Pennsylvania are still heart-wrenching.  They still evoke pain and anguish.  They anger us - or at least, they should.

Americans should never forget the attacks on our soil, nor should we forget the images of our troops being burned and dragged through the streets...we should never forget.

But we must survive, we must move on and we bitch-slap the terrorists by living and doing so victoriously.  They bottom-feeding piles of human waste whose very existence is a pimple on the ass of humanity, are nothing more than terrorists with great jealousy and fear.  They are jealous of the freedom we experience, they are afraid of the power and strength of free men and women.

Today, we remember and today, we live.  We honor the memory of those who were lost some nine years ago by continuing our resolve to be free, to have and bathe in so great a liberty given to us by the Creator himself.

Amen?

Jari Fights Back

Enjoy...

Weekend Movie Rentals

As the weekend approaches, one of the things the cash-strapped Black household does is head either to the Red Box or to Family Video to round up some movies for the weekend.  It's a long standing tradition and I thought I would share some of the good, the bad and the ugly with you.

The Good
Sherlock Holmes:  Doesn't matter how many times you watch this movie, there will always be something new that you may have missed.  And, it's kid-friendly.

After Life:  Completely NOT kid-friendly, but an excellent movie that is scary at moments, but also intellectually stimulating.  The contemplation of what takes place after death is fascinating.   Ricci is nude throughout most of the movie as the majority of the scenes take place in a mortuary after a horrible car accident wherein she is being prepared for burial.  Liam Neeson plays the odd mortician in this very strange and twisting movie.  Put the kids to bed and enjoy.

The Wicker Man:  Cage is phenomenal in this film, with plot twists that keep you going until the ending.  Not for everyone, but the movie has moments that just suck you in - you feel the anguish of a man on the hunt for a girl whom he learns is, in fact, his daughter.  

The Book of Eli:  Denzel is, well, Denzel and this movie has action and a plot that is absolutely phenomenal.  Most of you have probably already seen it, but I recommend watching it again.

I Am Sam:  Okay, Sean Penn is a liberal wack-job who even most liberals can't stand but he is a great actor and he portrays a developmentally disabled man who has a daughter and chronicles his fight to keep his daughter.  I didn't want to watch this one but the girls in the house convinced me.  I ended up really enjoying this film even though I did catch myself weeping a bit.

Clockwork Orange:  A cult classic and always good for a late evening with the spouse or significant other.  Twisted, yes.  Sick, yes.  But a film that will make you think and clearly, was way ahead of its time. NOT kid-friendly.

Avatar:  Forget the whole hyper-conservative hooplah about the movie being "anti-this" or "anti-that."  It's truly a good movie that is long, but at the end, you're glad you watched it.  I thought it was well produced and had story lines that were clearly unbelievable, but very entertaining nonetheless.

The Bad

Abandoned:  Brittany Murphy's last film and it is bad.  If you are in the $1 rental aisle, and have nothing better to do with your time, this would be a good one for you.  Murphy's boyfriend disappears in a hospital and the first half of the movie meanders through her search.  It has good moments, but generally speaking, this is a terrible movie.  Murphy looks like she is at the end of her life and it is truly sad. 

8 Must See Horror:  You've seen the videos with the labels, "8 Must-See" blah blah blah.  They are certainly NOT must-see.  These movies are produced with the quality of an 8th grade technology class and are absolutely deplorable.  Don't waste your money.  If the box says, "must see," the only place you must see it is in the trash heap.

Mama Mia:  If you're an ABBA fan, you'll love the movie's music.  If you're a man, you'll want to drive an ice pick into your ears by the time the opening credits roll.  There are plenty of GOOD chick-movies out there (The Notebook, Little Black Book, Fried Green Tomatoes) to watch, and this isn't one of them.

New Moon:  I agree with my step-daughter, Annamarie.  Vampires are not supposed to "sparkle."  They are supposed to kill, maim and do very bad things.  They are the undead, they are blood suckers.  As a matter of fact, the whole Twilight series is an embarrassment to all good (and bad) vampire flicks.

Bruno:  Don't.  Don't even look at the box it comes in.  As a matter of fact, strike it from your memory and forget I even posted it. 

The Ugly

Note -  Ugly doesn't mean necessarily "bad."  Ugly means not a movie for the kids by any stretch of the imagination.

Fight Club:  This is one I love so much, I purchased the DVD.  A timeless movie that takes on "the system" as we understand it and has so many plot twists, you have to drink a pot of coffee to keep up.  Plus, Helena Bonham Carter plays the leading lady in the film.  Bonus.  Bloody throughout, raunchy in some scenes, the movie is not for the faint of heart nor is it for the kiddos.  Not only send them to bed, but make them put in their iPods.

Grindhouse Flicks:  There are two - Planet Terror and Grindhouse.  Tarantino makes two very wild exploitation movies here and they are bloody, filthy and sexually charged.  TOTALLY not for the kids but if you're a Tarantino fan, you'll enjoy these.   Rose McGowan, Bruce Willis, Cheech Marin, Josh Brolin, Kurt Russell and more have cameos that surprise and yes, are very, very sick and twisted.

Have fun at the rental store...

Batman Returns

Apparently, my blog has amazing power, sending out signals into the atmosphere much like the Bat-signal because sure enough, his name was mentioned and he called on the Bat-phone.  That would be Representative Randy Terrill.

After catching up on personal issues, Representative Terrill and I had a lengthy discussion about House Bill 1804, and some of the wrangling that went on therein.  It seems as though not all is as it appears out here in the blogosphere, some of the stories have been laced with inaccuracies and how the bill itself came to fruition and the negotiations were pretty heated at times.

Randy sent me a couple links to audio files that tell more of the story.  I'll let you decide whether or not what has been presented by the media and other blogs to be accurate or not.

This first is the introduction of the bill itself.
http://204.126.144.31/AudioArchives/2007/3/7/1021_HB1804%20Immigration%20Reform%20Questions.mp3

Here is the audio file of the debate...
http://204.126.144.31/AudioArchives/2007/3/7/1021_HB1084%20Immigration%20Reform%20Debate.mp3

Soon, I'll have a follow up story, predicated on the emails and calls on the Bat-phone received over the weekend.

RGA Ad Backlash?

Mike McCarville posted an attack ad earlier this week, bought and paid for by the Republican Governor's Association (RGA) that attacks Lt. Governor Jari Askins on the issue of illegal immigration.  Some would say it is a smart move because illegal immigration is an 80 percentile issue.  80% of the Oklahoma population believes there to be a serious illegal immigration problem.  And they would be correct.

Unfortunately, the RGA fails to recognize that under the United States Constitution, immigration is largely a federal problem - one that Congresswoman Mary Fallin vowed to tackle back in 2006 when she was elected.  Much like Ernest Istook arguing that Brad Henry was soft on illegal immigration, Henry pointed out the fact that after 14 years in Congress, Istook failed to accomplish anything about the issue he himself trumpeted.

The bill under scrutiny by the RGA ignores the reality that even Representative Randy Terrill's HB1804 protected the policies regarding illegals and their education status.  Let's not forget that many of Mary Fallin's supporters in the business community have very loudly opposed HB1804, but Mary has said nothing about it.

Neither has she done anything about illegal immigration in her four years in Congress.  Constitutional Conservatives should ask Congresswoman Fallin about her position on both HB1804 and what the proper role of the federal government is regarding immigration and why she didn't author any legislation relative to challenging the interpretation of the 14th Amendment (birthright citizenship) - as she promised to do back when she was elected to Congress in 2006.

Here is what Mary DID say about illegal immigration:  "We must insist on assimilation." 

Will there be backlash?  Probably.  The Democratic Blue Dogs who may have leaned toward Fallin will more than likely be ruffled over the ad and will support Jari as a result.  Particularly in Southwest Oklahoma where Jari is very well known and very respected.  Let's not forget that Askins was the House Representative in a District where Halliburton was/is headquartered.

To me, it's just more negative "gotcha" politics but in this case, it is without substance or without justification.  It sickens me and more than likely, there will be others sickened by it as well.  But Mary has an "out" - she can simply say that she had nothing to do with the ad and is not responsible whatsoever for the content therein. 

Unless the Askins campaign kicks it into high gear very soon, Mary's victory will be a fait au compli.  Of all the statewide races where a Democrat has a chance against a Republican, this is it.  Jari has been liked and appreciated by people on both sides of the aisle, but if she isn't more vocal and aggressive, it's done.  She can plan her trip back to Stephens County.

UPDATE FROM THE FALLIN CAMP:   The following was received via email regarding what Mary has done on the issue of illegal immigration.  Still, doesn't answer the question about Mary's promise to deal with birthright citizenship, but does say that she supported HB1804.  Neither does the email address the RGA ad.

I am a cosponsor of the bipartisan SAVE Act, legislation that offers a practical solution to the problem of unchecked illegal immigration. I continue to support this bill and push for the measures outlined within it. These measures include:

• The creation of physical barriers like walls and fences on our Southern border
• The addition of thousands of new Border Patrol agents
• The use of advanced technologies like aerial surveillance at our borders
• The creation of an employer e-verification system used to confirm the legal status of employees

If we embrace the solutions outlined in the SAVE Act, we can successfully control the flow of immigrants into the U.S. and discourage employers from hiring workers who have come here illegally. Moving forward, we should ensure that the rule of law always prevails and those who have broken our laws intentionally do not receive amnesty. Additionally, special privileges, like in-state tuition, should not be offered to those living in this country illegally.

Herein lies the problem:  These "solutions" Mary has proposed clearly do not work - and sending the National Guard to the border isn't part of the solution.  Were the National Guard to be fired upon, they cannot respond in kind - that is the role of the regular Army, not the STATE militia (i.e., National Guard).  The National Guard could protect the Oklahoma border against invading Texans, but not foreign nationals.

Sorry.  Answer insufficient.  Please drive through.

Let's address these:
"Physical border."  Where is it?  Where is the all-important fence?  Did Congress fail yet again?  And what about our northern border?  Granted, it's not like we've had a sign

"New Border Patrol Agents."  Why not authorize the use of our active duty military?  Is that not what they are trained to do?  Because we have tied the hands of Border Patrol (thank you, Congress), the only solution (if we're serious) is to allow our active duty military to protect our border which, by the way, is Constitutional.

"Advanced technologies."  Again, where are they?  A couple drones here and there has really helped hasn't it?  (Sarcasm alert.)

"E-Verification."  Teeth.  Where are the teeth?  How about punishing businesses who knowingly hire illegals?  A slap on the wrist and removal from Chamber dinner party invitations aren't enough.

The bottom line is that America deserves better and deserves more from elected officials who tend to talk out of both sides of their necks every two years - or when higher offices become available.

Welcome

Something to think about...

Mary's Whistle Stop Tour

From Alex:

Oklahoma gubernatorial candidate Mary Fallin (photo and bio attached) will be embarking on a historic “whistle stop” train tour of Western Oklahoma on Monday, September 20, taking her message of job creation and fiscal responsibility to six towns during a dawn-to-dusk day of campaigning. Mary will be visiting Thomas, Clinton, Cordell, Hobart, Snyder and Frederick by train, stopping in each town to meet residents and talk about her goals for the state (A detailed itinerary will be released early next week). The train she will be riding can seat over 100 passengers and seats are quickly filling up. A limited number of tickets to ride on the train and participate in this historic event are available and can be requested from the Fallin for Governor campaign by calling 405-778-8900. 

Fallin said that Western Oklahoma represents a key area in her campaign for governor, and the whistle stop tour gives her an opportunity to talk in person to as many voters as possible. 

“I’m looking forward to spending this exciting day in Western Oklahoma, listening to people there, and talking about my plan to move this state forward,” said Fallin. “When it comes to bringing jobs and prosperity to Oklahoma, we need a governor who will take us full steam ahead!”

Inhofe on Lankford: "Lankford exemplifies someone who is thinking right...."

The Edmond Sun once again provides journalistic leadership where the 5th District congressional race is concerned.  I say this because the other papers are simply overlooking the race, believing Lankford's bid to be a fait au compli.

What stood out to me in the article is how United States Senator Jim Inhofe was so forthcoming in his praise and support for James.  From the article:

Lankford exemplifies someone who is thinking right, has the right motives and has overcome incredible odds in the political process, U.S. Sen. James Inhofe said.

“He will be the 5th Congressional congressman and I’m very excited about it,” Inhofe told The Edmond Sun.

Of course, Senator Inhofe has been a staunch supporter of all GOP candidates and has been very vocal.  What Inhofe's praise brings is cash-flow.  Senator Inhofe knows how to raise money and every politico with money supports Jim Inhofe.  The question remains as to whether or not James will be as conservative as Inhofe.

The story also gave Democratic candidate Billy Coyle some much-needed earned media. 

Democrat Congressional 5th District hopeful Billy Coyle said he believes Republican James Lankford represents partisan politics.

“I’m convinced that Oklahomans are tired of partisan politics and James Lankford if elected is partisan politics streamlined,” Coyle told The Edmond Sun.

However, Lankford said Oklahomans don’t think typically Democrat, Republican or Independent. Lankford said he joins with Oklahomans in thinking what’s best for families and the state.

Voters will go to the polls on Nov. 2 to choose who will best represent them in the 5th District. Two Independents, Dave White of Deer Creek and Clark Duffe of Edmond, are also on the ballot.

“My preference would be for us to be able to work together as a nation. That may sound cliché but for Oklahomans, we share a lot of common values,” Lankford said. “I do think most of the issues that we dealt with in the campaign are not Republican, Democrat issues. They’re Oklahoma issues.”

Coyle said he challenges Republicans and Democrats to create more energy-related jobs in Oklahoma while focusing on a national energy plan with emphasis on oil.

“I’m going to focus on those issues and take it to the streets of the people,” said Coyle, a defense attorney and former Marine. “And I think people will be pleased to know that this race has someone who is fighting for Oklahoma.”

That's probably the most earned media Billy has received since he announced his candidacy.

Kudos to the Edmond Sun for getting after it.

Beware 2nd Amendment Wolves In Sheep's Clothing

Yes, the elections are almost upon us and like members of the media who proclaim their commitment to the 2nd Amendment, so there will also be those who desire our votes this November who argue their desire to see "shall not be infringed" remain intact.  However, there are a few facts you need to realize...

1.  Candidates are often very well prepared by their handlers on broad spectrum Constitutional issues.

2.  Just because someone is a veteran doesn't necessarily mean they are 2nd Amendment warriors by default.

3.  Spending a couple hours at the gun range/gun club for photo opportunities can be misleading.

So, here are a few questions to ask candidates who say they support our right to keep and bear arms:

1.  What impact has the Heller decision had on 2nd Amendment rights?


2.  What is the difference between single-action and double-action firearms?


3.  What is required to possess a fully automatic firearm in the United States?


4.  What is your position on background checks?

5.  Do you support the NRA or the GOA or both and why?

There is really only one correct answer for each of the questions posed and their ability to answer them quickly and without hesitation will tell you whether or not they are part of the flock or a wolf in sheep's clothing.

Shocking Development: NFIB Endorses Fallin

From the Press Release (Emphasis, commentary, completely mine...):

OKLAHOMA CITY– The state office of the National Federation of Independent Business, the nation’s leading small business association, has endorsed Mary Fallin in her campaign for governor of Oklahoma.

“Mary Fallin clearly understands the problems facing small business owners, and her commitment to solving them resonates with Oklahoma’s entrepreneurs and family-run companies,” said Benny Vanatta, state director of NFIB/Oklahoma.

[Q:  How does she "understand the problems facing small business owners" not being one herself?]

“Mary Fallin has demonstrated her leadership as lieutenant governor and, since 2007, as a member of Congress,” Vanatta said. “She has shown our members that she understands the challenges and concerns facing Oklahoma and the state's small businesses.”

[Understanding in the abstract is one thing...]

“It’s important that we elect a candidate who understands the critical roll small businesses play in Oklahoma’s economy—someone who will make it easier for entrepreneurs and small businesses to lead our state out of this recession and create jobs,” Vanatta said.

“As governor, I will focus like a laser beam on job creation and economic recovery,” Fallin said. “That means helping small businesses, which provide the vast majority of employment opportunities in Oklahoma. It also means standing up to Washington and its job-killing ‘tax and spend’ policies.

[Q:  How?  Focusing like a "laser beam" on job creation doesn't create jobs.  How will Mary help small business and in what way?  How?]

“I know Oklahoma has the potential to be one of the best places to do business in the country and in the world,” she said. “But first we need a leader who is going to fight for the kind of pro-business, common-sense reforms that create jobs and spur investment. I’m ready to be that leader, and I’m proud to have the support of the NFIB in my campaign for governor.”

[Q:  Such as?  What "pro-business, common-sense reforms?"  Without answers, these are mere platitudes.  we deserve more.]

NFIB’s political support is based on the candidate's position and record on small business issues. The endorsement comes from the NFIB/Oklahoma Save America's Free Enterprise Trust, the political action committee for NFIB/Oklahoma’s membership.

Today's endorsement puts the considerable grassroots support of the state's small businesses behind Fallin’s campaign. Small business owners and their employees vote in high numbers and are known for recruiting friends, family members and acquaintances to vote. According to NFIB polling data, small business owners and their employees make up 43% of registered voters in America.

NFIB will encourage its 3,111 members in Oklahoma to help turn out the influential small business voting bloc on Election Day.

[Q:  Will that include the Democratic business owners as well?  What if those small business owners decide to vote for Askins? Will they lose their membership credentials?]

And We Thought Book Burning Was A Thing Of The Past

What happened on 9-11 was tragic, horrific and nothing we Americans could ever have imagined taking place on our soil.  We stood in wonderment as airplanes crashed into buildings and later, the buildings falling resulting in the death of 3,000 American citizens.  And it was at the hands of Islamic extremists.

We went to war as a result.  We toppled the demonic Hussein regime in Iraq, we killed terrorists in Afghanistan and we continue to be a beacon of light, a paragon of freedom to the rest of the world.

So, what has possessed a group of Americans at a little-known church to decide that burning copies of the Koran on the anniversary of 9-11?

The truth of the matter is that we do, in fact, live in a free country wherein our freedom of religious expression allows such book-burning.  It is well within the Constitutional rights of this little 50-member church in Gainesville, Florida to do just what it plans to do.

But there are unintended consequences to those actions.  Even the top United States Commander of our troops in Afghanistan has said that it would be intensely problematic for our troops and already, Islamic nations have responded with threats and members of radical Islam have promised retaliation.

It doesn't make sense to me that members of a Christian community would do something so outrageous, knowing full well that it increases the probability of our troops being in exceptional danger - embolden the terrorists who desire their deaths - and to do so with such disregard.  With their American flag held high, the members of this little Christian church will get what they have desired.  They will get lots and lots of attention.

Isn't it ironic that the name of the church is World Outreach Center?
UPDATE:  And the church just doesn't care.

Fallin & Askins Ready To Debate At OIPA Forum

The Oklahoma Independent Petroleum Association is hosting a candidate forum in Tulsa for the two candidates for Governor.  The forum will take place during their OIPA Fall Conference.

For more information, go here.

Missed Labor Day Opportunities

Not everyone heads to the lake, spends time at the cabin or cruises around Grand Lake in their $2 million yacht.  Most Oklahomans either go camping or just stay home over the Labor Day weekend.  Many candidates missed golden opportunities to reach out to voters who are at the middle of the road in the socioeconomic highway of life. 

Knocking doors, making phone calls.   These are the staples of effective campaigns.  Today, the thought is that if a candidate can spend a bazillion dollars on television, he/she doesn't have to really work that hard.  He/she can go to the parades, wave at adoring fans and not have to do the grunt work of campaigning.  Nothing could be further from the truth.

It was hard not to notice the lack of campaign activity with a few exceptions, of course.  Gary Jones was out and about with his Jones for Auditor trailer and Mary Fallin was hard to miss as well.

But the lesser known, down-ticket candidates are flying under the radar.  More missed opportunities.

Monday (Labor Day) Musings

Dog Days:  Cletus, our Rottweiler, is an interesting specimen.  Regardless of the number of toys purchased for the critter or the amount of time spend playing with the fella, his appetite for lawn mowers, patio furniture and tree limbs seem insatiable.  Big dogs have big appetites.  Just a warning.

Losing Technology Race:  Yes, it's true.  America is losing the technology race and part of the reason is horrific American engineering - yes, I said that out loud.  Recently, there were a few conversations from the CEO of Intel where he stated quite clearly that taxes on American corporations are forcing research and development out of the country.  I am convinced that part of that R&D loss is evident in my Chevy Avalanche.  It has gone through four diagnostic tests about the "reduced engine power" problem and no one has found any decisive problems, except to prove that yes, a problem exists.  We've replaced the battery at the dealer suggestion and it worked for about three days and then again, the problem rears its ugly head.  No one seems to know what the causal factors are, so the next step is to call an exorcist - both for my truck as well as for the federal tax code.

Back To The Game Tomorrow:  My "fast" from politics ends tomorrow and as we approach the November election, there is much to discuss and much to determine about the efficacy of messages from candidates.  It's going to be fun.

Cost Of Homelessness:  According to a story in the Oklahoman (here), the cost of homelessness in Oklahoma City is a little over $27 million per year.  The story includes commentary from City Rescue Mission and others who have their own motivations...but the truth of the matter is that the issue of homelessness could be largely solved if the faith community got involved more aggressively.  For example, a study conducted and provided to Congress a few years ago by the Trinity Foundation determined that for each mosque, church and synagogue in this country, there exists a homeless person or family.  If each faith community took on a homeless person and provided needed transportation, job training/assistance, medical care and housing, the homeless problem as we know it would cease to exist.  Sure, we'd still have the chronically transient, but the problem would no longer be a problem but rather a way to serve. 

Weekend Music

Great day to get the guys together for some jamming, but alas, it's the weekend...Labor Day weekend and everyone is super busy.  So, here's a taste of what I got to experience this weekend. 

Skillet's sound is phenomenal and incredible live.  Enjoy

Great Concert in Dallas

Superpages Center in Dallas is an excellent facility for concerts.  Period.  Oklahoma City would do well to have a venue such as this.  It's an outdoor theater with spectacular seating, large monitors on either side of the stage as well as video monitors for the lawn seating area.  Granted, we have the Ford Center, but it is either too large a venue for some bands and generally, the sound there stinks.

As you can see from the photo (right), there really isn't a bad seat in the house.  The sound is phenomenal and as mentioned, this would be a great facility for the Oklahoma State Fairgrounds.  But, hardly likely that such a venue would ever be built because we have far too much invested in the Ford Center.

For my birthday, my wife purchased concert tickets for me to see probably my favorite band of all time, Creed.  Opening for Creed was a new band out of California (Theft) followed by Skillet - a very overtly spiritual band with an amazing sound and incredible chops.  Of course, the headliners were amazing.

You either love Creed or you hate Creed.  Their history is interesting, shocking and somewhat sad.  Scott Stapp (vocals) has had his issues over the years, but after seeing them live, it was clear that this is a man and a band who has seen dark days, stared them down and survived with unsurpassed humility.  The whole concert will be one I won't soon forget and Creed is by far one of the best live bands I have ever seen - and I've seen a lot.

Thank you to my wife, Shawnnessy, for getting these tickets.  And thanks to Theft, Skillet and Creed for putting on an incredible show.

Around Town Labor Day Weekend

Bored?  Looking for something to do?  Believe it or not, there is plenty to do in the great state of Oklahoma.  Here are just a few ideas...

Dove Season Opens.  This is opening weekend of dove season in Oklahoma and if you're a hunter up for a challenge, this could be for you.  Dove hunting isn't like some of the more high-brow game bird hunting such as quail or pheasant.  Dove hunting is a serious challenge as those birds are like rockets with wings when they come in.  It's not a stalk, it's a sit-and-wait game but when they come to you, you had better be ready.  It's a blast (pun intended).

OCCC Arts Festival.  Crafts, art, cars and even some food are available at the Arts Festival at Oklahoma City Community College.  If you've driven I44 on the south side, you've no doubt seen the massive tents that are set up in the parking lot.  From what I understand, it's a big one and a lot of fun too.  Jeff Gullet, a friend of mine and former producer of talk radio on KTOK will be there with his glass art - something you really need to see.  He has an amazing talent. 

Community Walk for Suicide Prevention.  While it may not be as fun as the arts festival or slaying a few dove, there is a very worthwhile cause hosting a walk Saturday morning.  The Out of the Darkness Community Walk for Suicide Prevention takes place tomorrow morning and the weather looks good.  It starts at 8am at the Oklahoma City Zoo.  For more information, go to www.outofthedarkness.org. 

There are three things to keep you busy and out of trouble!

More On The Kelsey Briggs Case

We all remember the sweet face of Kelsey Briggs.  We remember the heartache and the thought of an innocent losing her life at the hands of the abusers.  We also remember public officials fighting over media opportunities as well.

But the stories were confusing, the accusations tough to follow and at the end of the day, Kelsey's mother and step-father were convicted - not of murder, but of something else.

The Oklahoman has ongoing coverage of the case and the most recent story (here) adds fuel to the embers still smoldering over the case.  Raye Dawn Smith, Kelsey's mother, is appealing her conviction and the latest story is that of juror misconduct. 

The stories are compelling and there are plenty of websites out there providing different sides of the stories.  There are some common factors though with other tragic cases and again, you find the Oklahoma Department of Human Services right in the middle of it.

Personally, I find myself convinced that there are a plethora of problems with this case - whether it be the District Attorney's statements leading up to the case or the grandparents involved in the middle of the whole mess, there is something horribly wrong here. 

Was Raye Dawn Smith wrongly convicted?  She was not there when the abuse that led to her daughter's death took place.

Was there a conspiracy against Raye Dawn because DHS had been involved prior?  No one with any functioning brain cells can say that DHS is one of our more effective arms of state government.

Here is a very interesting discussion on a paralegal chat board.

I hope we can find some answers.

Another Platform Explosion

Most mainstream media outlets are reporting on the most recent explosion in the Gulf of Mexico and thus far, reports are that the 13 men on the rig are all accounted for, one injured.

The rig was/is owned by Mariner Energy, and was not a a producing rig at the time of the explosion.

What does this mean?  First, it means that there will be more calls for ceasing exploration and development of energy resources offshore.  Second, it means that the NYMEX has cause to raise crude oil prices once again and lastly, we can expect gasoline prices to edge slightly higher at the pumps.

Happy Labor Day weekend, folks.

We should be thankful no one was killed.

Political Fast...Until After Labor Day

Throughout this campaign season, I have been up to my neck in it and frankly, I've missed too much of what's going on around the house.  Rather than hanging out with the kids and spending some much-needed face-time with them, I have been on the phone with this reporter or that reporter or this candidate or that candidate or this legislator or that legislator...and have missed some pretty interesting happenings in the interim.

Something I swore I wouldn't do again after the last couple campaign cycles.

This is technically the last real weekend of summer, the beginning of the hunting season as we see the dove begin their migration.  Of course, I won't be out in the field doing any hunting myself but many Oklahomans will be loading up their shotguns to down a few of the winged rockets this weekend.  Other Oklahomans will be hanging out at the lake, enjoying a three-day weekend. 

I am supposed to be heading to the Creed concert Friday night and if all goes as planned, it will be a night to remember.  From there, it's meat + fire and just some relaxing time around the house.  May even have the guys over to put together new set lists for the band.

So...I'm taking a break from politics for a few days - I'll be posting some art and entertainment oriented garbage for your reading enjoyment.

Enjoy...

Things I Miss Most

Growing up in the Pacific Northwest was really a blessing in many ways and though the rain can wear one completely slick (not to mention the exceptionally liberal political environment), there is a great deal I miss and pray that my two youngest and my stepchildren can see someday.  Here are just a few of the things I miss...

Family.  I miss my uncles, aunts and I miss my oldest, Matthew.  Haven't met my grandson yet and before I kick the proverbial bucket, would like to see him.

Ocean.  The ocean in Washington is not like what you think - the images of California beaches are just not what the Washington coastline offers.  It too is beautiful, but quite different.  The smell of the salt in the air, watching the fishing boats coming in...it's a different and marvelously refreshing visage.

Seafood.  I miss Ivar's Clam Chowder, fresh flounder and of course, the smoked salmon. 

The mountains.  Seattle is nestled between two mountain ranges and just a short drive away from the epicenter of urban life, you can find yourself surrounded by massive evergreen trees and be at the base of one of the most amazing mountains in the country - Mt. Rainier.

Pike Place Market.  You've seen the commercials of the fish throwers, no doubt, but I worked at the Market growing up for a short time and the fresh vegetables, the fresh fish and the shops therein are not only a tourist "must," but they are a staple of life in Seattle. 

Pioneer Square.  Clubs, coffee shops and turn-of-the-century architecture makes the whole environment at Pioneer Square breath-taking. 

Seattle Seahawks.  'Nuff said.

I love Oklahoma, don't get me wrong.  This is a magnificent place to raise a family, to work as well as a great place to hunt.  There's just something about the Pacific Northwest, however, that I miss very much.

Bush Beats Obama In Louisiana. Whodathunkit?

As the anniversary of Katrina comes and goes, there's some interesting surveying going on out there in Creole Country...

An excerpt:

As the five year anniversary again summons up memories of Katrina's devastation of the Gulf Coast, Louisiana voters are giving higher marks to former President George Bush for handling of the storm's aftermath and dealing with crisis than they do for President Obama's handling of the BP oil spill, according to a Public Policy Polling survey conducted Aug. 21-22.

Read the rest for yourself.

Where's Mary? She's over there...

Public Itinerary for Mary Fallin: 8/30 – 9/4
The public itinerary for Oklahoma gubernatorial candidate Mary Fallin is below. Please contact Communications Director Alex Weintz at Alex@MaryFallin.org or at 405-535-7317 to request an interview, to acquire photos or for other information.


• Monday, August 30: Perry, Ponca City, Medford, Cherokee

• Perry Public Meet and Greet

• 9 AM

• Ditch Witch Atrium, 1959 W Fir Street, Perry

• Mary will be attending a public meet and greet to talk with supporters and Perry residents

• Dorada Poultry Grand Opening

• 11:00 AM

• City Hall, 516 East Grand Avenue, Ponca City

• Mary will be attending the grand opening ceremony of Dorada Poultry to celebrate their beginning in the Ponca City community

• Ponca City Rotary Luncheon

• 12:00 PM

• 2301 N 14th Street, Ponca City

• Mary will be attending and speaking the Ponca City Rotary luncheon

• Medford Public Meet and Greet

• 2:00 PM

• City of Medford Building, 615 N Front, Medford

• Mary will be attending a public meet and greet to talk with supporters and Medford residents

• Cherokee Public Meet and Greet

• 4:00 PM

• Cherokee City County Library, 123 N Grand, Cherokee

• Mary will be attending a public meet and greet to talk with supporters and Cherokee residents


Tuesday, August 31: Okemah

• Okfuskee County GOP Meeting

• 6:30 PM

• Brickstreet Café, 104 S 2nd, Okemah

• Mary will be attend and speak at the Okfuskee County GOP meeting


Thursday, September 2: Edmond, OKC

• Edmond Republican Women Headquarters Grand Opening

• 10:00 AM

• 3409 Broadway Extension Suite 600, Edmond

• Mary will be attending the Edmond GOP Women HQ grand opening

• Tour KIPP Reach College Preparatory School

• 11:30 AM

• 1901 NE 13th St, OKC

• Mary will tour KIPP reach and meet teachers and students in their classrooms


Friday, September 3: Coalgate, Tishomingo

• Coalgate Meet and Greet

• 12:30 PM

• Community Center, 1 East Post St., Coalgate

• Mary will be attending a public meet and greet to talk with supporters and Coalgate residents

• Tishomingo Meet and Greet

• 3:00 PM

• Johnston County Library, 116 West Main Street, Tishomingo

• Mary will be attending a public meet and greet to talk with supporters and Johnston County residents



Saturday, September 4: Elk City, Norma

• PRCA Rodeo of Champions Parade in Elk City
• 2:00 PM
• Downtown Elk City (7th and Main)
• Mary will be marching in the rodeo parade

• OU vs. Utah State
• 6:00 PM Norman, Oklahoma
• Owen Field, Norman, Oklahoma

• Mary will be attending the game (the Fallin for Governor tailgate will be at Jenkins and Lindsey)

Dave White Hosts 2nd Amendment/Veteran's M&G

My good friend and fellow Navy Veteran, Dave White, is hosting a Meet & Greet this Thursday at 6:30pm at his house in Deer Creek to talk about issues important to veterans and 2nd Amendment supporters. 

Dave is a Naval Academy graduate with an economics degree (gee, kinda helpful with the economy being what it is), a Navy SEAL officer, decorated Desert Storm Veteran, a business owner who is debt-free and has a patent to his name.  Dave has been, and will continue to be, a champion of the 2nd Amendment and unlike other candidates for public office, actually knows which end of the barrel to hold.

I support Dave - not because I don't like any of the other candidates, of course - because he is probably one of the most qualified candidates we've seen running for the 5th District in ages.  His record of leadership is unmatched and with some of the garbage we're facing right now in this nation, we need someone who not only talks about the issues, but has solutions that he himself has lived and proven that can and will work. 

If you're available, you should come by this Thursday evening and meet him and his wife, Lisa (who was a reserve officer in the Air Force).  I make no bones about the fact that I am supporting and working with Dave on his campaign for Congress because when you strip away all the hyperbole, the campaign rhetoric and the partisan pabulum, you realize that Dave is the guy we need to send to DC.

What A Weekend.

My daughter's 13th birthday, my birthday, a candidate forum, friends from out of town and the Back To School Blues Jam all came bearing down over the weekend.  And it was all a phenomenal success.

My lovely daughter, Madison, is now 13 years old and it is amazing to watch how she has become so mature and caring.  She is truly incredible and is so in spite of the fact that I am her father.  She was born the day before my birthday and is the best birthday present any father could ever ask for.

Then, it was my birthday and my awesome wife not only busted her rear getting the Back To School Blues Jam off without a hitch, but she got me tickets to see my favorite band in the world...Creed.  Will be seeing them this weekend.  Absolutely amazing!

Went to a candidate forum at the Oklahoma History Center with my friend, Dave White, and he knocked it out of the park.  It was a sight to behold, I tell you.

The Back To School Jam went exceptionally well, raising almost $700 for the Hugs Project - and there were lots of folks who donated items to send to our troops.  It was a blessing to have the opportunity to play a little music, but really focus on the men and women who have put their lives on the line to protect our freedoms.  Thank-you to Pat Paradise for donating her property for the event, to Ruth Ann and her husband for coming out and representing the Hugs Project, to all the volunteers who help set up and tear down the gear and of course, to everyone who attended and donated.