Susan McCann was the guest speaker at the Kingfisher County Democrats meeting Tuesday November 15th. Susan McCann is the director of Change Oklahoma which opened its headquarters in Oklahoma City last August. She spoke to the group on how to build our democratic base. Susan also said “The Voter ID law will be in effect with this next election. The voter ID is being used to intimidate and discourage minority and elderly voters that tend to vote Democratic. So we must educate those voters on what they will need.” Another guest Diane Azbell went over what types of IDs will be acceptable. For those who do not have a driver’s license the most inexpensive ID will be the voter identification card. Even though it does not have a photo it will be accepted. Voter ID cards can be obtained at no cost by contacting the State Election Board.
Joe Farrell, Senator Tom Ivester and Paula Lambert
Senator Tom Ivester was the guest speaker at the October 18th Kingfisher County Democrats meeting. He served in the army and graduated from law school joining the family law firm in Sayre. His grandfather was an Oklahoma Senator back in the 1930’s. He was elected to the Oklahoma Senate in 2006.
Senator Ivester said that starting in November 2012 portions of Kingfisher County including most of the city of Kingfisher will be in his senate district. The redistricting has him representing Blaine, Beckham, Roger Mills, Custer and Caddo Counties, including Elk City and Anadarko. It is over a two hour drive to Kingfisher from Sayre just to give an idea of how spread out his district is.
When asked about what we could expect from the next session, He said more of the same. The Republican controlled legislature will continue to cut social services like senior nutrition centers and “meals on wheels”.
He said although he likes Governor Fallin, there is a big difference in what she says and what she does. She stated we need more college graduates to attract businesses to Oklahoma, which Senator Ivester agrees with, but then she will turn around and meet with other legislators to discuss how to cut higher education. Another example is Governor Fallin saying we need to improve roads and bridges and then how to cut the Department of Transportation.
When Senator Ivester was asked to comment on Governor Fallin rejecting the 54.6 million dollar federal grant to set up an Oklahoma health care exchange, he said it was a matter of pride they rejected it. It would be different if the monies that were rejected would go to reduce the national deficit, but it will just go to another state.
Mary Haney, Trav Robertson and Essie Sterne
Trav Robertson, executive director for the ODP was the guest speaker at the last Kingfisher County Democrats meeting. Trav gave us an update on what is happening at the state level, saying they have caught up past bills and created a professional team to lead the party.
Trav said we have a rapid response to current events, when Labor Commissioner Mark Costello compared public employees to “feral hogs” the party made a press release calling for his resignation. Another example was when Superintendent of Education Barresi’s Chief of Staff Jennifer Carter called educators “dirtbags” on twitter. Chairman Wallace Collins said “It’s morally wrong for those elected to demean fellow members of their department.” Chairman Collins compared it to bullying.
Trav asked fellow Democrats to be patient while they continue to build the infrastructure for the party. He also said that funds donated to the State Party will not be wasted. We will have a professional organization Democrats can be proud of.
Ben Odom and Don Russell
Ben Odom was the guest Speaker August 16th at the Kingfisher County Democrats monthly meeting. He said there are many things that the Democratic Party is doing right. As progressives we want to extend opportunity to the poor and minorities. And by extending those opportunities we all share in their success. Government can be an incubator to build projects that will bring economic opportunity for everyone. Democrats are also at the forefront of environment, health and safety.
And at the state level he is very happy with the new leadership of the Democratic Party. Although we cannot completely bounce back from the last election cycle the Democratic Party will make a lot of progress through 2012. Mr. Odom said he loves debating his political opponents, as he does on KTOK each Monday morning at 7:30.
Mr. Odom is encouraging all Democrats to get involved in the smaller races like school boards and city level offices. We didn’t lose our majority overnight and it will take some time to get it back. Our next meeting will be Tuesday September 20th.
Dana Orwig, Vice Chair of the Democratic Party, was the guest speaker at the Kingfisher County Democrats meeting Tuesday July 19th. Dana has been active in the Democratic Party running for her House District 87 seat last year losing to incumbent Rep Jason Nelson. Despite the setback she is embracing the opportunity to serve as Vice Chair and will bring her skills as a retired educator to the office. Her motto is to Rebrand, Rebuild and Restore the Democratic Party. By rebranding Dana said we cannot allow the Republicans to define who we are or our issues. She said the Republican “tax relief” is actually taking away vital services. Her motto to rebuild is to recreate a professional and efficient organization from the precinct level to the state offices. And by restore she means to bring our party to a place of prominence, dignity, and influence in Oklahoma politics. Dana Orwig said many Oklahomans identify and agree with many of the Democratic Party issues; it is a matter of communicating to the voters.
Arrel and Velm Reed, retired teachers with Rep. Scott Inman
House Minority Leader Representative Scott Inman was the guest speaker at the Kingfisher County Democrats meeting Tuesday June 21st. He said this last session was the darkest in Oklahoma’s history. Republicans occupy all of the state offices and have a super majority in both houses, and they passed many of their resolutions this year. These new laws hurt teachers, children, firefighters, those injured on the job and everyday working Oklahomans.
The tort reform bill put a cap of 350,000 regardless of gross negligence or severity of injury.
This tort reform is not going to attract the types of businesses we want in Oklahoma. This session also took away collective bargaining for fire fighters and policemen who risk their lives for our safety. Our school teachers no longer have “trial de novo” that protected them against unscrupulous school board decisions.
Representative Inman said that our Public School System is the greatest institution in Oklahoma. This institution is a place where all students have a chance to succeed regardless of income or race. Much of his personal success today is due to the great education he received from the Del City school system. He says the latest voucher bill that passed is a tragedy, shifting money that should go to public schools to private and helping only a few students leaving the majority behind. This bill benefits the wealthy, “and my job is not to make millionaires lives easier.”
Representative Inman said we need to hold our local representatives accountable. At the coffee shop they may say they are pro education, but look at their voting record. That is the tell tale sign if they are pro education or not.
Representative Cory Williams with Alice Mapel
Representative Cory Williams spoke at the Kingfisher County meeting Tuesday February 15th. He said many of the Republican’s agenda will be passed with majorities in the house and senate. He felt like Governor Fallin will not veto any of their measures. The Republicans are focusing on lower taxes for businesses and that is not what will make good businesses locate to Oklahoma. In one instance Oklahoma was competing for a big company, and that we had the best package as far as tax cost savings and incentives but the business chose to locate elsewhere. When pressed, the CEO said the decision was based on the quality of life. We are the 47th lowest taxed state in the nation and it shows in our roads and underfunding of our schools. We have had some great school reforms like HB 1017 but that it has never been funded, and that only half of the funds spent on education make it to the classroom.
Oklahoma needs to invest in itself just like Oklahoma City did with their Maps projects. It turned Bricktown from a place you would not want to be after dark to a showcase.
Rodney Boegel and Paula Lambert
Rodney Boegel was the guest speaker at the Kingfisher County Democrats meeting Tuesday January 18th. Rodney is the co chair for the ” Democracy for America” campaign academy. There were 113 applications nationwide for this academy so Oklahoma is fortunate to receive this opportunity. “Democracy for America” was founded by Howard Dean and offers professional training to those who are interested in assisting campaigns. The seminar will be held the weekend of March 12th and 13th at the Canadian Valley Technology Center.
Any Democrat interesting in attending can contact our county secretary Paula Lambert at 368-4111. Tuition and transportation assistance is available.
Rodney Boegel is also the bass player and leader of the all volunteer “Bean Supper Band “ that will perform at our annual fundraiser February 15th at the Kingfisher County Fairgrounds Women’s Building. The event will have homemade chili and chicken and noodles. There will be a silent auction. Our guest speaker will be District 34 House Representative and OSU graduate Cory Williams. Admission will be by donation only and all are welcome to attend.
Oklahoma Democratic Vice Chair Christine Byrd was our guest speaker at the Kingfisher County Democrats meeting Tuesday December 21st. Christine said even in hindsight of the November elections we couldn’t have done anything differently. The climate the Republican Party cultivated came to fruition. Republicans started strategizing as soon as Obama was elected. Candidates were groomed, and many who had never been involved in politics, not even as precinct chairs, were elected.
Christine said that we have to start getting ready for 2012. We can start locally by speaking out for our values, recruiting new people and encouraging candidates to run. She said she once ran for an office and was defeated, but that she was not deterred. “Even without an office I can make a difference as an individual.” And she is asking Kingfisher Democrats to do more than just vote, talk to people one on one, serve as a precinct chair and ask what issues are important.
Matt Latham was the guest speaker for the Kingfisher County Democrats on November 16th. Matt is no stranger to Kingfisher County having been the speaker for the Kingfisher County Democrats in 2009. Matt is also a graduate of Kingfisher High School. Since his last visit to the organization, Matt and a business partner started their own consulting firm called Red Dirt Strategies. His firm focuses on campaign consulting, strategic planning, fundraising, crisis communications and political action committee management. He was involved in numerous races in 2010 and has already begun work on the 2012 election cycle.
Matt said that he believes three state questions from the last election will face a significant legal battle in the state and will likely be challenged all the way to the Oklahoma Supreme Court. The English Only, Sharia Law and Voter ID questions have already seen lawsuits seeking an initial injunction. Of all the state questions this past cycle, Matt stated that Voter ID was likely to have the most political impact and was politically motivated. While even the proponents of the measure admit there has not been any evidence of voter fraud or other needs, Latham feels that the measure could still have an impact. Numerous studies have shown that Voter ID measures impact elections in favor of Republicans. They are found to frustrate the elderly, a traditionally Democratic base, with new requirements and whom may not be able to easily obtain birth records and other documents necessary to secure an ID. They have also shown to discourage and intimidate minority voters. According to Matt, studies have shown as high as a 3 to 5% swing in favor of the Republicans as a result of such measures. He also noted that the Health Care Opt would likely see a court challenge, though, at the federal level. Matt believes that each of these measures have a decent chance of being overturned by the courts.
Latham went on to say that two state questions would likely benefit the Democrats from this cycle. With all of the state offices being filled by Republicans, the new statewide term limits will actually help the Democratic Party. The Initiative Petition requirements being lowered may help both Tea Party activists and Democrats get important issues on the ballot that may be overlooked by the Republican majority.
Going forward, Matt said we need make a concerted effort to contest every race and to help build a bench of Oklahoma Democrats to run for higher offices. He said that county parties should work to have a Democratic candidate running for as many elected offices as possible. "This past election was a call to energy, not to apathy for Democrats in Oklahoma," said Latham.
Senator Susan Paddack candidate for State Superintendent of Public Instruction was greeted by local teachers, administrators and interested democrats at a campaign stop in Kingfisher Tuesday September 21st.
She was the first in her family to go to college, her son and daughter are in medical school, and she says their success is all due to public education. She said “Education can transform lives”. Senator Paddack has a Masters in Education and was a teacher until she was elected Senator in 2004. She said “I am running for State Superintendent because I believe in public education, and our children deserve a bright future whether it be college or career tech.”
Senator Paddack said “Education is under attack, many schools are being starved out before there can be any consolidation.” She said that she gets upset when she hears someone say they are going to reform education, “we do not need to reform education; there are great teachers and pockets of excellence throughout the State. We need to transform education, to take these pockets of excellence and replicate them.”
A question from an audience member asked her opinion on Charter schools. She explained charter schools receive state funds but have local governance. They are not required to have certified teachers, offer any benefits or provide transportation for their students. And although Charter schools say they do not “cherry pick” students, they weed out under performing kids. She said “Charter school are not a sustainable model, it was a failed experiment.”
In closing Senator Paddack said “I am not running for State Superintendent because I need a job, I have a great job as a Senator. I am running because I believe in public education, and I will work hard for the children of Oklahoma. I need your vote November 2nd. ”
Carolyn Dalbow, Steve Burrage and Jeremy Harris
Steve Burrage State Auditor was our featured speaker at the Kingfisher County Democrats meeting. He graduated from OU, was a partner in a CPA firm and then went into banking. As President and CEO of the First Bank of Antlers he started with 17 million in assets and 15 employees, he grew the bank to over 200 million in assets and 100 employees. He has served as a board member to the Oklahoma City branch of the Federal Reserve Bank, and he has over 35 years experience in accounting.
He was appointed as the State Auditor on July 10th 2008 by Governor Brad Henry, Mr. Burrage said “I spoke to Governor Henry and told him I would like the job”. When he started he removed many unqualified employees and replaced them with experienced accountants. He said “We are now a professional audit firm, I would put our audit team up against any of the big four accounting firms”.
Above all the state auditor must be independent, as a member of the AICPA he must abide by a strict code of conduct. “I will not allow anyone to impair my independence, integrity or judgment”. In the brief time Mr. Burrage has been in office he has uncovered four million dollars in fraud. Steve is seeking another term as our state auditor, he wants to continue working for the people of Oklahoma making sure their tax dollars are spent properly and free from waste, fraud and abuse.
Rebecca Burgin, Cassie Peters, Valerie Snow, Ethan Snow and Danielle Vogt
Young Democrats of Oklahoma President Cassie Peters and Executive Vice President Rebecca Burgin were guest speakers at the Kingfisher County Democrats meeting Thursday July 22nd.
Cassie said her goal was to reinvigorate chapters around the state.
The Young Democrats membership age is between 13 and 35. Rebecca and Cassie suggests for those who are still in high school, to find an instructor as a sponsor and meet on the school campus. For the young adults they suggest having a social event with their meeting. What works the best is to have the meetings be both fun and informative. Their chapters hold biweekly volunteer nights to help candidates. They may be stuffing envelopes, canvassing or making phone calls but they also have a dinner or some fun activity along with it. There is more information for starting a Young Democrats chapter at ydoklahoma.com
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Both speakers grew up in Republican families. When asked why they decided to become a Democrat Cassie Peters said what made up her mind was being a page at the state capitol. She loved seeing the process and was more impressed with Democrats. They care and want to help all people in the State. Rebecca said her family had open political discussions and that she had always argued for the Democrats.
Lauren Sturgeon was our guest speaker at the June meeting of the Kingfisher County Democrats. Lauren is a legislative analyst to Lt. Governor Jari Askins. A recent graduate in political science from Oklahoma State University, Lauren had changed her major many times before deciding on political science. The biggest deciding factor was her experience as an intern to Senator Jim Inhofe, she said she loved being in Washington DC.
Her job as a legislative analyst is to read all of the bills. She said “I love reading bills”. When asked by an audience member of all of the bills she has read, which one stood out as the most bizarre. Lauren said the bill to sue the Federal government over Healthcare reform was the worst; it is a no win for the State of Oklahoma. Another frustration was the republican blocking of Nick’s law, the bill that would require insurance companies to cover autism.
Lauren also does research for speeches and presentations given by the Lt. Governor. She said “Lt. Governor Jari Askins is giving a speech tonight that includes some of her research on conservation”.
Lauren’s plans are to continue her career in politics and she is considering going to law school.
Other guests in attendance were Lauren’s father Mark Sturgeon and Sandra Stuart a representative of the Garfield County Democratic Women’s Club.
Patrick Cameron, a state finance director for the Friends for Jari Askins gubernatorial campaign was our guest speaker at the Kingfisher County Democrats meeting. He said “as a member of Jari's campaign team I have been all over the state talking with people about jobs and the economy”. He has campaigned at many events from rodeos to rattle snake hunts.
He said he believes Jari Askins will be a great governor, that she grew up in Duncan and understands the needs of rural Oklahoma. She has served in every branch of government as a judge, as a representative and as our Lt. Governor and has the experience to get things done and make the best decisions for Oklahoma.
Patrick challenged us to pick a candidate and do something to support that candidate, make a contribution, march in a parade or make some phone calls, but most importantly get involved.
We had a great turnout for our first food drive and will continue that at our next meeting. Our next meeting will be May 18th.
Ward Curtin , Oklahoma representative for the Organization for America was our guest speaker for the Kingfisher County Democrats. Organizing for America, the successor organization to Obama for America, is building on the movement that elected President Obama by empowering communities across the country to bring about our agenda of change. Ward said the organization would recruit, train and empower volunteers to help engage citizens in their local community.
Ward started his political career as a campaign driver earning $500.00 a month. He later helped manage John Edwards presidential campaigns in 2004 and 2008. He also successfully managed Annise Parker’s campaign for the Mayor of Houston. His appointment to OFA has been so recent that our Kingfisher group had the honor of being Ward’s first presentation. Over the next year he will be conducting OFA presentations all over the state of Oklahoma. Our next meeting will be Tuesday April 20th.
We all had a great time at the Kingfisher County Fundraiser. Don Scales opened with information on the upcoming school Bond issue. He said we need to plan for our future while construction costs and interest rates are low, we need to build now. He gave a convincing argument to support the Bond issue March 2nd.
Next up was Third District Chair Mack Miller. He said our district does not have any representation, that Frank Lucas does not listen, and when Frank is confronted with issues all he has to say is "good point" another way of saying he has no idea.
Todd Goodman was not planning to speak so I threw him a curve ball asking him to come up. He did a great job updating us on who is running for the democrats.
Our good friends and supporters from Canadian County Jody Harlan and Rodney Boegel gave us updates for events in Canadian County. Rodney Boegel is the campaign chair for John Morris who is running for Canandian County Commissioner.
Jed Green, Jim Priest, Cassi Peters and Matt Harney
Jim Priest was the guest speaker for the Kingfisher County Democrats Tuesday January 19th. He started his speech speaking of how his father had a machine repair business; Jim admired his father but took his talent in a different direction and was the first in his family to go to college. He became an attorney and has had a law practice for thirty years. He has represented many clients from individuals to corporations but said one of his most rewarding experiences was with a wrongful termination case where his client did not have much money and after winning the case his client told him he had a friend for life and many years later he continues to get a Christmas card signed “your friend for life”.
Jim is an ordained minister in the Nazarene church, involved in his community as a director of the Regional Food Bank and Habitat for Humanity. He was inspired to run for public office after reading David Boren’s book “Letter to America” where the author calls for major reforms and responsibility. Mr. Priest sees the Attorney General’s role as an umbrella of protections for lives, liberty and land regardless of any party affiliation and he has the qualifications and experience to be Attorney General for Oklahoma.
The Attorney General is responsible for appeals, consumer issues, insurance, workmen’s comp, rate payers and environmental issues. He said there are concerns for our water being sold to other states and going after the poultry companies that are polluting our rivers. Another role is to educate the people on issues that are important to our state.
One of his motto’s is to always act better than you feel, meaning don’t be swayed by your emotions, be rational. Jim was accompanied by his campaign manager Jed Green, media director Cassi Peters and fund raiser Matt Harney. You can find out more information, volunteer or donate at his website www.jimpriest.com.
Labor Commissioner Lloyd Fields was the guest speaker for the Kingfisher County Democrats last Tuesday December 15th. Mr. Fields was born in Pawhuska, grew up in Ralston and had his own plumbing, heating and air business in McAlester before starting his political career as an Oklahoma House Representative in 1992. He was elected Labor Commissioner in 2006 and is up for re election next year. He educated us in his responsibilities starting with asbestos checks, labor and hour division, workman’s comp compliance, child labor laws and OSHA. During his tenure he has cut the operational budget by 52% while at the same time increasing the safety of Oklahoma workers. According to the federal statistics and research divisions he has reduced fatalities by 14% and injuries by 42%. He implemented that all amusement ride operators be certified increasing the safety at all of our state fairs. He also informed us of how Oklahoma is the only state where welders earn a license, which is why our welding schools are so popular. He said he is a working commissioner and runs his department like he would run his own business. We appreciate Mr. Field’s visit, he was cordial and dynamic speaker. Our next meeting will be January 19th 2010.
100% Antendees Arrel and Velma Reed, Senator Corn and Worth Lambert
Lt Governor Candidate Senator Kenneth Corn spoke to the Kingfisher County Democrats November 17th. He said his main goal as a Lt. Governor would be to attract good jobs to Oklahoma. There is a difference in creating jobs and creating good jobs. There are industries you don’t want to recruit because they do more harm than good, bringing pollution and work force problems. We want Industries that create good jobs that have living wages, healthcare and retirement for a lifetime of work. We can recruit those industries if we address the issues plaguing Oklahoma. One issue is the need to modernize our classrooms and increase the number of college graduates. In healthcare we need to keep the doctors and nurses in the rural areas of Oklahoma so patients don’t have to drive for hours to get care. He stated reforming health insurance on the state level where more dollars go to actual health care and less to administrative costs is imperative. His goals also include improving our infrastructure and increasing access to the arts.
When ConocoPhillips moved their headquarters to Houston, Senator Corn flew to Houston using his own funds to meet with CEO Archie Dunham to find out why they chose Houston over Oklahoma. Mr. Dunham told him it had nothing to do with taxes; the basis for their decision was education, healthcare and access to the arts.
Senator Corn was very cordial and gracious, staying for our entire meeting to answer questions and encourage us on building the Democratic Party in Kingfisher County. The majority of his speech was recorded and it can be seen and heard at the www.kingfishercountydemocrats.com website. Our next meeting will be Tuesday December 15th.
Senator Corn's Website
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Matt Latham and Jerry Kadavy
Matt Latham, political director for OK for Justice, was our guest speaker at the August 18th Kingfisher County Democrats meeting. Matt Latham, a Kingfisher graduate, said his love of politics started while on the debate team in High School. His first political campaign was assisting Governor Brad Henry, and has since managed campaigns in Oklahoma, Texas and Virginia.
Mr. Latham said more people get involved with the federal elections but that the state elections are really the most important. The gubernatorial race is really important with the 2011 redistricting, if Oklahoma has a republican governor and a republican controlled congress they will certainly redistrict to their favor. It is also important we elect a Democrat in the upcoming house district 55 special election to replace Ryan McMullen because it will set the tone for 2010. Matt also said to be ready for a lot of State questions next election, there are fourteen so far, since there are not enough republicans to override the Governor’s veto, they keep adding their bills to the state ballot. However some of these like the Voter ID state question, that studies have shown favor electing republicans, are so poorly written that they will be challenged in court before they ever make it to the state ballot.
We appreciate Mr. Latham travelling from Norman to speak to our group and look forward to having him join us again.
Jacque Pope and Joe Dorman
Our first guest speaker at the July 21st meeting was House Representative Joe Dorman. He was a great speaker and very gracious coming at the last minute to replace Ryan McMullen who had accepted a federal position. Joe spoke of having to battle the extremist republicans this past session, he said we were fortunate to have Brad Henry to veto all of these bizarre bills. Visit Joe Dorman at his website, www.joedorman.com.
Ben Odom was the guest Speaker August 16th at the Kingfisher County Democrats monthly meeting. He said there are many things that the Democratic Party is doing right. As progressives we want to extend opportunity to the poor and minorities. And by extending those opportunities we all share in their success. Government can be an incubator to build projects that will bring economic opportunity for everyone. Democrats are also at the forefront of environment, health and safety. And at the state level he is very happy with the new leadership of the Democratic Party. Although we cannot completely bounce back from the last election cycle the Democratic Party will make a lot of progress through 2012. Mr. Odom said he loves debating his political opponents, as he does on KTOK each Monday morning at 7:30. Mr. Odom is encouraging all Democrats to get involved in the smaller races like school boards and city level offices. We didn’t lose our majority overnight and it will take some time to get it back. Our next meeting will be Tuesday September 20th.
Dana Orwig, Vice Chair of the Democratic Party, was the guest speaker at the Kingfisher County Democrats meeting Tuesday July 19th. Dana has been active in the Democratic Party running for her House District 87 seat last year losing to incumbent Rep Jason Nelson. Despite the setback she is embracing the opportunity to serve as Vice Chair and will bring her skills as a retired educator to the office. Her motto is to Rebrand, Rebuild and Restore the Democratic Party. By rebranding Dana said we cannot allow the Republicans to define who we are or our issues. She said the Republican “tax relief” is actually taking away vital services. Her motto to rebuild is to recreate a professional and efficient organization from the precinct level to the state offices. And by restore she means to bring our party to a place of prominence, dignity, and influence in Oklahoma politics. Dana Orwig said many Oklahomans identify and agree with many of the Democratic Party issues; it is a matter of communicating to the voters.
Arrel and Velm Reed, retired teachers with Rep. Scott Inman
House Minority Leader Representative Scott Inman was the guest speaker at the Kingfisher County Democrats meeting Tuesday June 21st. He said this last session was the darkest in Oklahoma’s history. Republicans occupy all of the state offices and have a super majority in both houses, and they passed many of their resolutions this year. These new laws hurt teachers, children, firefighters, those injured on the job and everyday working Oklahomans.
The tort reform bill put a cap of 350,000 regardless of gross negligence or severity of injury.
This tort reform is not going to attract the types of businesses we want in Oklahoma. This session also took away collective bargaining for fire fighters and policemen who risk their lives for our safety. Our school teachers no longer have “trial de novo” that protected them against unscrupulous school board decisions.
Representative Inman said that our Public School System is the greatest institution in Oklahoma. This institution is a place where all students have a chance to succeed regardless of income or race. Much of his personal success today is due to the great education he received from the Del City school system. He says the latest voucher bill that passed is a tragedy, shifting money that should go to public schools to private and helping only a few students leaving the majority behind. This bill benefits the wealthy, “and my job is not to make millionaires lives easier.”
Representative Inman said we need to hold our local representatives accountable. At the coffee shop they may say they are pro education, but look at their voting record. That is the tell tale sign if they are pro education or not.
Representative Cory Williams with Alice Mapel
Representative Cory Williams spoke at the Kingfisher County meeting Tuesday February 15th. He said many of the Republican’s agenda will be passed with majorities in the house and senate. He felt like Governor Fallin will not veto any of their measures. The Republicans are focusing on lower taxes for businesses and that is not what will make good businesses locate to Oklahoma. In one instance Oklahoma was competing for a big company, and that we had the best package as far as tax cost savings and incentives but the business chose to locate elsewhere. When pressed, the CEO said the decision was based on the quality of life. We are the 47th lowest taxed state in the nation and it shows in our roads and underfunding of our schools. We have had some great school reforms like HB 1017 but that it has never been funded, and that only half of the funds spent on education make it to the classroom.
Oklahoma needs to invest in itself just like Oklahoma City did with their Maps projects. It turned Bricktown from a place you would not want to be after dark to a showcase.
Rodney Boegel and Paula Lambert
Rodney Boegel was the guest speaker at the Kingfisher County Democrats meeting Tuesday January 18th. Rodney is the co chair for the ” Democracy for America” campaign academy. There were 113 applications nationwide for this academy so Oklahoma is fortunate to receive this opportunity. “Democracy for America” was founded by Howard Dean and offers professional training to those who are interested in assisting campaigns. The seminar will be held the weekend of March 12th and 13th at the Canadian Valley Technology Center. Any Democrat interesting in attending can contact our county secretary Paula Lambert at 368-4111. Tuition and transportation assistance is available. Rodney Boegel is also the bass player and leader of the all volunteer “Bean Supper Band “ that will perform at our annual fundraiser February 15th at the Kingfisher County Fairgrounds Women’s Building. The event will have homemade chili and chicken and noodles. There will be a silent auction. Our guest speaker will be District 34 House Representative and OSU graduate Cory Williams. Admission will be by donation only and all are welcome to attend.
Oklahoma Democratic Vice Chair Christine Byrd was our guest speaker at the Kingfisher County Democrats meeting Tuesday December 21st. Christine said even in hindsight of the November elections we couldn’t have done anything differently. The climate the Republican Party cultivated came to fruition. Republicans started strategizing as soon as Obama was elected. Candidates were groomed, and many who had never been involved in politics, not even as precinct chairs, were elected.
Christine said that we have to start getting ready for 2012. We can start locally by speaking out for our values, recruiting new people and encouraging candidates to run. She said she once ran for an office and was defeated, but that she was not deterred. “Even without an office I can make a difference as an individual.” And she is asking Kingfisher Democrats to do more than just vote, talk to people one on one, serve as a precinct chair and ask what issues are important.
Matt Latham was the guest speaker for the Kingfisher County Democrats on November 16th. Matt is no stranger to Kingfisher County having been the speaker for the Kingfisher County Democrats in 2009. Matt is also a graduate of Kingfisher High School. Since his last visit to the organization, Matt and a business partner started their own consulting firm called Red Dirt Strategies. His firm focuses on campaign consulting, strategic planning, fundraising, crisis communications and political action committee management. He was involved in numerous races in 2010 and has already begun work on the 2012 election cycle.
Matt said that he believes three state questions from the last election will face a significant legal battle in the state and will likely be challenged all the way to the Oklahoma Supreme Court. The English Only, Sharia Law and Voter ID questions have already seen lawsuits seeking an initial injunction. Of all the state questions this past cycle, Matt stated that Voter ID was likely to have the most political impact and was politically motivated. While even the proponents of the measure admit there has not been any evidence of voter fraud or other needs, Latham feels that the measure could still have an impact. Numerous studies have shown that Voter ID measures impact elections in favor of Republicans. They are found to frustrate the elderly, a traditionally Democratic base, with new requirements and whom may not be able to easily obtain birth records and other documents necessary to secure an ID. They have also shown to discourage and intimidate minority voters. According to Matt, studies have shown as high as a 3 to 5% swing in favor of the Republicans as a result of such measures. He also noted that the Health Care Opt would likely see a court challenge, though, at the federal level. Matt believes that each of these measures have a decent chance of being overturned by the courts.
Latham went on to say that two state questions would likely benefit the Democrats from this cycle. With all of the state offices being filled by Republicans, the new statewide term limits will actually help the Democratic Party. The Initiative Petition requirements being lowered may help both Tea Party activists and Democrats get important issues on the ballot that may be overlooked by the Republican majority.
Going forward, Matt said we need make a concerted effort to contest every race and to help build a bench of Oklahoma Democrats to run for higher offices. He said that county parties should work to have a Democratic candidate running for as many elected offices as possible. "This past election was a call to energy, not to apathy for Democrats in Oklahoma," said Latham.
Senator Susan Paddack candidate for State Superintendent of Public Instruction was greeted by local teachers, administrators and interested democrats at a campaign stop in Kingfisher Tuesday September 21st.
She was the first in her family to go to college, her son and daughter are in medical school, and she says their success is all due to public education. She said “Education can transform lives”. Senator Paddack has a Masters in Education and was a teacher until she was elected Senator in 2004. She said “I am running for State Superintendent because I believe in public education, and our children deserve a bright future whether it be college or career tech.”
Senator Paddack said “Education is under attack, many schools are being starved out before there can be any consolidation.” She said that she gets upset when she hears someone say they are going to reform education, “we do not need to reform education; there are great teachers and pockets of excellence throughout the State. We need to transform education, to take these pockets of excellence and replicate them.”
A question from an audience member asked her opinion on Charter schools. She explained charter schools receive state funds but have local governance. They are not required to have certified teachers, offer any benefits or provide transportation for their students. And although Charter schools say they do not “cherry pick” students, they weed out under performing kids. She said “Charter school are not a sustainable model, it was a failed experiment.”
In closing Senator Paddack said “I am not running for State Superintendent because I need a job, I have a great job as a Senator. I am running because I believe in public education, and I will work hard for the children of Oklahoma. I need your vote November 2nd. ”
Carolyn Dalbow, Steve Burrage and Jeremy Harris
Steve Burrage State Auditor was our featured speaker at the Kingfisher County Democrats meeting. He graduated from OU, was a partner in a CPA firm and then went into banking. As President and CEO of the First Bank of Antlers he started with 17 million in assets and 15 employees, he grew the bank to over 200 million in assets and 100 employees. He has served as a board member to the Oklahoma City branch of the Federal Reserve Bank, and he has over 35 years experience in accounting.
He was appointed as the State Auditor on July 10th 2008 by Governor Brad Henry, Mr. Burrage said “I spoke to Governor Henry and told him I would like the job”. When he started he removed many unqualified employees and replaced them with experienced accountants. He said “We are now a professional audit firm, I would put our audit team up against any of the big four accounting firms”.
Above all the state auditor must be independent, as a member of the AICPA he must abide by a strict code of conduct. “I will not allow anyone to impair my independence, integrity or judgment”. In the brief time Mr. Burrage has been in office he has uncovered four million dollars in fraud. Steve is seeking another term as our state auditor, he wants to continue working for the people of Oklahoma making sure their tax dollars are spent properly and free from waste, fraud and abuse.
Rebecca Burgin, Cassie Peters, Valerie Snow, Ethan Snow and Danielle Vogt
Young Democrats of Oklahoma President Cassie Peters and Executive Vice President Rebecca Burgin were guest speakers at the Kingfisher County Democrats meeting Thursday July 22nd.
Cassie said her goal was to reinvigorate chapters around the state.
The Young Democrats membership age is between 13 and 35. Rebecca and Cassie suggests for those who are still in high school, to find an instructor as a sponsor and meet on the school campus. For the young adults they suggest having a social event with their meeting. What works the best is to have the meetings be both fun and informative. Their chapters hold biweekly volunteer nights to help candidates. They may be stuffing envelopes, canvassing or making phone calls but they also have a dinner or some fun activity along with it. There is more information for starting a Young Democrats chapter at ydoklahoma.com
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Both speakers grew up in Republican families. When asked why they decided to become a Democrat Cassie Peters said what made up her mind was being a page at the state capitol. She loved seeing the process and was more impressed with Democrats. They care and want to help all people in the State. Rebecca said her family had open political discussions and that she had always argued for the Democrats.
Lauren Sturgeon was our guest speaker at the June meeting of the Kingfisher County Democrats. Lauren is a legislative analyst to Lt. Governor Jari Askins. A recent graduate in political science from Oklahoma State University, Lauren had changed her major many times before deciding on political science. The biggest deciding factor was her experience as an intern to Senator Jim Inhofe, she said she loved being in Washington DC.
Her job as a legislative analyst is to read all of the bills. She said “I love reading bills”. When asked by an audience member of all of the bills she has read, which one stood out as the most bizarre. Lauren said the bill to sue the Federal government over Healthcare reform was the worst; it is a no win for the State of Oklahoma. Another frustration was the republican blocking of Nick’s law, the bill that would require insurance companies to cover autism.
Lauren also does research for speeches and presentations given by the Lt. Governor. She said “Lt. Governor Jari Askins is giving a speech tonight that includes some of her research on conservation”.
Lauren’s plans are to continue her career in politics and she is considering going to law school.
Other guests in attendance were Lauren’s father Mark Sturgeon and Sandra Stuart a representative of the Garfield County Democratic Women’s Club.
Patrick Cameron, a state finance director for the Friends for Jari Askins gubernatorial campaign was our guest speaker at the Kingfisher County Democrats meeting. He said “as a member of Jari's campaign team I have been all over the state talking with people about jobs and the economy”. He has campaigned at many events from rodeos to rattle snake hunts. He said he believes Jari Askins will be a great governor, that she grew up in Duncan and understands the needs of rural Oklahoma. She has served in every branch of government as a judge, as a representative and as our Lt. Governor and has the experience to get things done and make the best decisions for Oklahoma. Patrick challenged us to pick a candidate and do something to support that candidate, make a contribution, march in a parade or make some phone calls, but most importantly get involved. We had a great turnout for our first food drive and will continue that at our next meeting. Our next meeting will be May 18th.
Ward Curtin , Oklahoma representative for the Organization for America was our guest speaker for the Kingfisher County Democrats. Organizing for America, the successor organization to Obama for America, is building on the movement that elected President Obama by empowering communities across the country to bring about our agenda of change. Ward said the organization would recruit, train and empower volunteers to help engage citizens in their local community.
Ward started his political career as a campaign driver earning $500.00 a month. He later helped manage John Edwards presidential campaigns in 2004 and 2008. He also successfully managed Annise Parker’s campaign for the Mayor of Houston. His appointment to OFA has been so recent that our Kingfisher group had the honor of being Ward’s first presentation. Over the next year he will be conducting OFA presentations all over the state of Oklahoma. Our next meeting will be Tuesday April 20th.
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We all had a great time at the Kingfisher County Fundraiser. Don Scales opened with information on the upcoming school Bond issue. He said we need to plan for our future while construction costs and interest rates are low, we need to build now. He gave a convincing argument to support the Bond issue March 2nd. Next up was Third District Chair Mack Miller. He said our district does not have any representation, that Frank Lucas does not listen, and when Frank is confronted with issues all he has to say is "good point" another way of saying he has no idea. Todd Goodman was not planning to speak so I threw him a curve ball asking him to come up. He did a great job updating us on who is running for the democrats. Our good friends and supporters from Canadian County Jody Harlan and Rodney Boegel gave us updates for events in Canadian County. Rodney Boegel is the campaign chair for John Morris who is running for Canandian County Commissioner.
Jed Green, Jim Priest, Cassi Peters and Matt Harney
Jim Priest was the guest speaker for the Kingfisher County Democrats Tuesday January 19th. He started his speech speaking of how his father had a machine repair business; Jim admired his father but took his talent in a different direction and was the first in his family to go to college. He became an attorney and has had a law practice for thirty years. He has represented many clients from individuals to corporations but said one of his most rewarding experiences was with a wrongful termination case where his client did not have much money and after winning the case his client told him he had a friend for life and many years later he continues to get a Christmas card signed “your friend for life”.
Jim is an ordained minister in the Nazarene church, involved in his community as a director of the Regional Food Bank and Habitat for Humanity. He was inspired to run for public office after reading David Boren’s book “Letter to America” where the author calls for major reforms and responsibility. Mr. Priest sees the Attorney General’s role as an umbrella of protections for lives, liberty and land regardless of any party affiliation and he has the qualifications and experience to be Attorney General for Oklahoma.
The Attorney General is responsible for appeals, consumer issues, insurance, workmen’s comp, rate payers and environmental issues. He said there are concerns for our water being sold to other states and going after the poultry companies that are polluting our rivers. Another role is to educate the people on issues that are important to our state.
One of his motto’s is to always act better than you feel, meaning don’t be swayed by your emotions, be rational. Jim was accompanied by his campaign manager Jed Green, media director Cassi Peters and fund raiser Matt Harney. You can find out more information, volunteer or donate at his website www.jimpriest.com.
Labor Commissioner Lloyd Fields was the guest speaker for the Kingfisher County Democrats last Tuesday December 15th. Mr. Fields was born in Pawhuska, grew up in Ralston and had his own plumbing, heating and air business in McAlester before starting his political career as an Oklahoma House Representative in 1992. He was elected Labor Commissioner in 2006 and is up for re election next year. He educated us in his responsibilities starting with asbestos checks, labor and hour division, workman’s comp compliance, child labor laws and OSHA. During his tenure he has cut the operational budget by 52% while at the same time increasing the safety of Oklahoma workers. According to the federal statistics and research divisions he has reduced fatalities by 14% and injuries by 42%. He implemented that all amusement ride operators be certified increasing the safety at all of our state fairs. He also informed us of how Oklahoma is the only state where welders earn a license, which is why our welding schools are so popular. He said he is a working commissioner and runs his department like he would run his own business. We appreciate Mr. Field’s visit, he was cordial and dynamic speaker. Our next meeting will be January 19th 2010.
100% Antendees Arrel and Velma Reed, Senator Corn and Worth Lambert
Lt Governor Candidate Senator Kenneth Corn spoke to the Kingfisher County Democrats November 17th. He said his main goal as a Lt. Governor would be to attract good jobs to Oklahoma. There is a difference in creating jobs and creating good jobs. There are industries you don’t want to recruit because they do more harm than good, bringing pollution and work force problems. We want Industries that create good jobs that have living wages, healthcare and retirement for a lifetime of work. We can recruit those industries if we address the issues plaguing Oklahoma. One issue is the need to modernize our classrooms and increase the number of college graduates. In healthcare we need to keep the doctors and nurses in the rural areas of Oklahoma so patients don’t have to drive for hours to get care. He stated reforming health insurance on the state level where more dollars go to actual health care and less to administrative costs is imperative. His goals also include improving our infrastructure and increasing access to the arts.
When ConocoPhillips moved their headquarters to Houston, Senator Corn flew to Houston using his own funds to meet with CEO Archie Dunham to find out why they chose Houston over Oklahoma. Mr. Dunham told him it had nothing to do with taxes; the basis for their decision was education, healthcare and access to the arts.
Senator Corn was very cordial and gracious, staying for our entire meeting to answer questions and encourage us on building the Democratic Party in Kingfisher County. The majority of his speech was recorded and it can be seen and heard at the www.kingfishercountydemocrats.com website. Our next meeting will be Tuesday December 15th.
Senator Corn's Website
Matt Latham and Jerry Kadavy
Matt Latham, political director for OK for Justice, was our guest speaker at the August 18th Kingfisher County Democrats meeting. Matt Latham, a Kingfisher graduate, said his love of politics started while on the debate team in High School. His first political campaign was assisting Governor Brad Henry, and has since managed campaigns in Oklahoma, Texas and Virginia. Mr. Latham said more people get involved with the federal elections but that the state elections are really the most important. The gubernatorial race is really important with the 2011 redistricting, if Oklahoma has a republican governor and a republican controlled congress they will certainly redistrict to their favor. It is also important we elect a Democrat in the upcoming house district 55 special election to replace Ryan McMullen because it will set the tone for 2010. Matt also said to be ready for a lot of State questions next election, there are fourteen so far, since there are not enough republicans to override the Governor’s veto, they keep adding their bills to the state ballot. However some of these like the Voter ID state question, that studies have shown favor electing republicans, are so poorly written that they will be challenged in court before they ever make it to the state ballot. We appreciate Mr. Latham travelling from Norman to speak to our group and look forward to having him join us again.
Jacque Pope and Joe Dorman
Our first guest speaker at the July 21st meeting was House Representative Joe Dorman. He was a great speaker and very gracious coming at the last minute to replace Ryan McMullen who had accepted a federal position. Joe spoke of having to battle the extremist republicans this past session, he said we were fortunate to have Brad Henry to veto all of these bizarre bills. Visit Joe Dorman at his website, www.joedorman.com.