Monday, April 21, 2025 at 2:10 AM

Sign in

Opinion

Reflecting on Independence Day

Reflecting on Independence Day

Last Thursday, on July 4th, we celebrated our nation’s independence and freedom. It was the 248th anniversary of when the Declaration of Independence was signed, and the United States of America officially became an independent nation, and no longer a colony of England. 07/11/2024 05:00 AM

What you need to know about the Strengthen Oklahoma Homes program

What you need to know about the Strengthen Oklahoma Homes program

Last month, Gov. Kevin Stitt signed House Bill 3089, the Strengthen Oklahoma Homes Act, into law and kick-started the Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) into organizing the program that will help Oklahomans fortify their homes and reduce homeowners insurance rates. The Strengthen Oklahoma Homes Program is set to begin early next year, so this month, I want to answer some key questions about the program’s timeline and criteria. 07/11/2024 05:00 AM

A triumph for religious liberty

A triumph for religious liberty

Oklahomans are celebrating a tremendous victory for religious liberty after a recent ruling by our state Supreme Court. At issue in the case was a fundamental question: Should taxpayers be forced to fund religious teachings that violate their own deeply held beliefs? 07/11/2024 05:00 AM

Vital role of OROS

Vital role of OROS

The Organization of Rural Oklahoma Schools (OROS) is working to preserve rural education by promoting and protecting Oklahoma Rural Schools. OROS stands as a beacon of support and advocacy for these schools, offering a myriad of services to foster growth and excellence within their communities. 07/04/2024 05:00 AM

‘Jumping the Shark’ as bad in politics as on TV

‘Jumping the Shark’ as bad in politics as on TV

Growing up as a child in the 1970s, I enjoyed my fair share of television shows. One of my favorites was “Happy Days,” celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. 07/04/2024 05:00 AM

Drug education, prevention programs help local communities

Drug education, prevention programs help local communities

It seems as if every community, big or small, has been impacted by the problems associated with substance use and drug overdose. Within these communities, these problems extend into the family unit, with people becoming addicted and dying because of drugs. 07/04/2024 05:00 AM

Rotary Club helping retire worn out flags

Rotary Club helping retire worn out flags

Many people proudly display the American flag at their home or business. It is a symbol of glory, honor, sacrifice and freedom. 06/27/2024 05:00 AM

Bringing light to a dark chapter in history

Bringing light to a dark chapter in history

From the mid-seventeenth century till the early twentieth century, Indian boarding schools were used as a tool to assimilate Native American children away from their rich culture. Yet, for far too long, the history, policies and devastating impacts of these schools have been unknown. As an enrolled member of the Chickasaw Nation of Oklahoma and the longest serving Native American in the House of Representatives, it is not lost on me the duty I have to educate and spread awareness about Indian boarding schools and other tribal issues. 06/27/2024 05:00 AM

City smoke testing to look for sewer leaks

City smoke testing to look for sewer leaks

Sewer smoke testing has been underway this week in Newcastle. On Monday, the Newcastle Public Works Department began the testing and they’ll continue tests from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. each business day through Tuesday July 2. 06/27/2024 05:00 AM

Fighting for those who fight for us

Fighting for those who fight for us

S ince the founding of our great nation, patriotic men and women have selflessly chosen to serve our country as a part of the Armed Forces. These brave men and women are deserving of all our respect and appreciation, and we must make it a priority of ours in Congress to fight for the service members who fight for us. 06/20/2024 05:00 AM

Phonics push a quiet win of session

Phonics push a quiet win of session

For years, teachers’ unions and even officials at state colleges of education have resisted efforts to improve reading instruction in Oklahoma public schools. That’s why this year’s passage of legislation focused on reading instruction is such a significant victory. 06/20/2024 05:00 AM