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In this week's episode, Ginnie Graham and Barry Friedman close the curtain on 2023, discussing the achievements and failures of the state and federal governments. How will this lead into the 2024 presidential election? What will be the focus for Oklahoma's legislature and other leaders next session?

Related content:

Sixteen file for Oklahoma's 2024 presidential primary

U.S. Sen. Mullin hawks 'Anytime' T-shirts after argument with Teamsters president

A look at what Oklahoma lawmakers didn't pass this year

Teacher pay raises, private school tax credits: What to know about Oklahoma's education plan

Coverage of State Superintendent Ryan Walters

Ginnie Graham: Suggestions on how to influence arguments for Tulsa Public Schools to keep local control

Gov. Stitt: Give Tulsa Superintendent Ebony Johnson a chance

100 teacher vacancies at Tulsa Public Schools despite up to $6,000 signing bonuses

Eliminating state income tax faces same challenges it did more than two decades ago

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Note: Barry Friedman is an essayist, political columnist, petroleum geology reporter and comedian living in Tulsa. In addition to “Funny You Should Mention It,” “Road Comic,” “Four Days and a Year Later” and “The Joke Was On Me,” his first novel, “Jacob Fishman’s Marriages,” a book about the worst love story ever, was published by Balkan Press in February. His sites are barrysfriedman.com and friedmanoftheplains.com.

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Chris Bernard, the president and chief executive officer of Hunger Free Oklahoma, joins Ginnie Graham this week to discuss a local and national issue that she calls "so solvable." Bernard says that food insecurity is a problem that shouldn't exist in America. So why is it such a big problem? Bernard and Graham dig into the issue and Bernard lays out some of the ways we can address the root issue.

Opinion: We know how to solve food insecurity but need scalable resources and reach of governments

Ginnie Graham: Everyone can learn how to reduce food waste in their homes

Rep. John Waldron: Lawmakers, school districts have chance to eliminate school lunch debt for thousands of Oklahomans

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Jim Gray served as the Osage Nation chief from 2002 to 2010 and is the principal consultant at D.B.A. Gray Consultants. "I can’t escape from this history," Gray wrote in a guest column. "As an Osage, my great-grandfather, Henry Roan, is murdered in this film. As a former Chief of the Osage Nation, I had to deal with many unresolved issues that are associated with this period."

He speaks with Editorials Editor Ginnie Graham about his thoughts on having the Osage 'Reign of Terror' history told through the "Killers of the Flower Moon" book and movie.

Related

Former Osage Nation Chief Jim Gray column: 'Killers of the Flower Moon' teachable moment remains uncertain

Killers of the Flower Moon: See all our coverage going back to when scenes were shot here to reaction to the movie

A deeper look at the crimes committed against the Osage during the Reign of Terror | Late Edition: Crime Beat Chronicles podcast

Tulsa World Scene podcast: From Killers of the Flower Moon to Reservation Dogs: The future of Indigenous mainstream storytelling

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Anna Johnson is a professor and researcher at Georgetown University who has been studying education in Tulsa since 2016. She talks with Ginnie Graham about comparing third grade Oklahoma State Testing Program (OSTP) scores — the state’s standardized test — to researcher-administered developmental tests of children’s academic skills. Why might these tests not tell the full story of student skills? Would scaling back testing frequency help?

Related

Opinion column by Anna Johnson: What Oklahoma standardized third grade tests can tell us — and what they can't

2022 state test scores indicate partial academic rebound

From 2016: Tulsa's third-grade reading test results climb significantly for second year in a row

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One of the most common predictors of resisting mental health treatment is anosognosia, which is a lack of awareness of being mentally ill. Mike Brose is the former executive director of the Mental Health Association Oklahoma, adjunct university instructor and practicing licensed clinical social worker. He is a member of the Tulsa World Community Advisory Board. He speaks with Ginnie Graham about how Tulsa can help the homeless population, including those who who suffer from mental illness.

Related

Opinion column by Mike Brose: Doing the same thing over and again to reach Tulsa's most vulnerable homeless people a failing approach

Opinion column by Mike Brose: Steps to making progress to end Tulsa homelessness

Survey finds Tulsans open to other approaches to address homelessness, nonprofit says

Ginnie Graham: Grand Mental Health entering Tulsa's mental health services landscape

Opinion: Access to mental health services 24/7 key to having successful outcomes

Lawmakers asked to reform Oklahoma's eviction process

In 10 years serving Tulsa's homeless, City Lights finds 'everybody has something to give'

City seeks operator for proposed homeless shelter, case management program

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"What separates an F school from an A school? What separates the schools at the top from those at the bottom? Affluence," writes Rep. John Waldron in his latest column. He represents Tulsa’s District 77 in the Oklahoma House. Previously, he worked as a social studies and history teacher at Booker T. Washington High School. He joins Ginnie Graham to talk about why A-F grades are problematic for the state's schools and districts. They also talk about the state's "lunch debt" problem and some startling statistics on corporal punishment in schools.

Related

Rep. John Waldron: Difference between 'A' and 'F' schools is affluence

Rep. John Waldron: Will you stand up against the rotten state of affairs being foisted on Oklahoma's public schools?

From the Tulsa World archives: Coverage of State Superintendent Ryan Walters

TPS utilizing Walk to Read help students build skills

Tulsa Union's National Teacher of Year says it's a 'hard time to be in public education'

50 years after controversy of integration, magnet programs a source of pride for Tulsa Public Schools

State Department of Education seeking smaller budget in FY25

Tulsa Public Schools provides first update to State Board of Education

From 2014: Inside an 'F' school series by Andrea Eger

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From "Killers of the Flower Moon" to "Reservation Dogs," the TV and movie industry ties to Oklahoma are growing stronger lately. Justin Rawlins, Ph.D., is a professor of media studies and film studies at the University of Tulsa and the author of the forthcoming book “Imagining the Method” (University of Texas Press, 2024). He speaks with Ginnie Graham about why the WGA and SAG-AFTRA labor stoppages matter to Oklahoma, even if the Los Angeles picket lines seem far away.

Related

Opinion: A win for union workers in the media and film industry is a win for Tulsa

Opinion: I'm an American Airlines flight attendant and here's why I'm backing the union

A new breed of leaders are atop the largest US unions today. Here are some faces to know

The auto workers strike will drive up car prices, but not right away — unless consumers panic

UAW justifies wage demands by pointing to CEO pay raises. So how high were they?

Hollywood actor and writer strikes have broad support among Americans, AP-NORC poll shows

As writers and studios resume negotiations, here are the key players in the Hollywood strikes

An end in sight? Striking writers and Hollywood studios spend second full day in negotiations

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With oddball schedules and unruly passengers, air travel is not the glamorous industry some may think it is. Strikes are already impacting Hollywood and the U.S. auto industry. Is the flight industry next? Tulsa Hale and OU graduate Ron Todd is 35-year American Airlines flight attendant, flying out of Chicago, New York and currently Miami. He speaks with Ginnie Graham about a conflict getting less attention involves 27,000 flight attendants at American Airlines and more.

Related

Opinion: I'm an American Airlines flight attendant and here's why I'm backing the union

American Airlines flies to record second-quarter revenues and $1.3 billion profit

FAA says it has sent 250 cases of unruly passengers to FBI

Flight attack raises questions about security, mental health

Labor strife may become airline industry’s next big obstacle

Targeted auto strikes may spread to other states and cities as noon deadline set by union nears

A new breed of leaders are atop the largest US unions today. Here are some faces to know

The auto workers strike will drive up car prices, but not right away — unless consumers panic

UAW justifies wage demands by pointing to CEO pay raises. So how high were they?

Hollywood actor and writer strikes have broad support among Americans, AP-NORC poll shows

As writers and studios resume negotiations, here are the key players in the Hollywood strikes

An end in sight? Striking writers and Hollywood studios spend second full day in negotiations

Click here to submit a letter to the editor

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Kimberlee Wilson is a senior at Oologah-Talala High School. She recent wrote a guest column entitled "I'm a 17-year-old Oklahoma student and my peers don't see the point in voting." She speaks with Ginnie Graham about why her peers "accept that their votes don’t make a difference," why voter turnout statewide is low, and how things can change.

Related

Opinion: I'm a 17-year-old Oklahoma student and my peers don't see the point in voting

Political notebook: Tulsa County already recruiting 2024 poll workers

Editorial: Straight-party outdated, passive approach to democracy

Why advocates want to change Oklahoma's primary voting system

Oklahoma voter turnout dips in this year's elections

Amid fuss over other states' election law changes, Oklahoma said to 'strike a good balance'

Oklahoma still last in the nation in voter participation despite recent registration surge

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Lisa Kelly is CEO at The Arc of Oklahoma (formerly Centers for Disabilities). She speaks with Ginnie Graham about the challenges for people (and their families) with disabilities, including more than 5,100 Oklahomans. They are forced to wait years — 13 years on average in Oklahoma — for home and community-based services (HCBS), barriers to critical safety-net programs are too often a part of everyday life.

Related

Opinion: Caregiving crisis poses grave threat to families who depend on home-based services

Owasso woman with cerebral palsy thriving after receiving new standing wheelchair

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State Rep. Regina Goodwin of Tulsa's District 73 joins Ginnie Graham to discuss the most recent state board of education meeting, where she was allowed to speak during the public comment portion. How can the relationship between state legislators and State Superintendent Ryan Walters improve? "Allowing them access into the board room for a state board meeting would be a start. Returning phone calls would be a start to really having genuine and authentic communication." Plus, Rep. Goodwin talks about the controversial PragerU; and why HB 1775 is a "trash law."

Related

Aug. 24 video: 'Folks don't need threats. Folks need assistance,' Rep. Goodwin tells State Board of Education

Editorial: TPS Superintendent Deborah Gist moved district forward, left with grace and honor

Controversial PragerU videos, curriculum materials touted by Walters not adopted in area schools

Civil rights bill draws ire of Black state senators

House Democrats push for Ryan Walters' impeachment

Rep. John Waldron: Will you stand up against the rotten state of affairs being foisted on Oklahoma's public schools?

Terms of Gist's separation released with incoming superintendent's employment agreement

From the Tulsa World archives: Coverage of State Superintendent Ryan Walters

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Ginnie Graham and Stacey Woolley talk about a variety of public school topics ranging from Deb Gist's departure, who might be next, the fight between TPS and Ryan Walters and more.

Related

Rep. John Waldron: Will you stand up against the rotten state of affairs being foisted on Oklahoma's public schools?

Opinion: State Superintendent Ryan Walters failed his reading homework on Tulsa Public Schools

Ginnie Graham: Extremism thrives on people not checking out the daily headlines

Terms of Gist's separation released with incoming superintendent's employment agreement

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Rep. John Waldron represents Tulsa’s District 77 in the Oklahoma House. Previously, he worked as a social studies and history teacher at Booker T. Washington High School. He joins Ginnie Graham to reflect on Tulsa Public Schools under Superintendent Deborah Gist, and if the Oklahoma State Board of Education's criticism of TPS under her leadership is warranted. How can Oklahomans and the state legislature proceed after the most recent meeting?

Related

Rep. John Waldron: Will you stand up against the rotten state of affairs being foisted on Oklahoma's public schools?

More school bomb threats keep investigators busy, parents worried

TPS students, community rally to support district during accreditation vote: 'Nobody is talking to us'

Oklahoma State Board of Education to require foreign funding reports from schools

TPS board unanimously approves separation agreement with Gist

Local leaders react to TPS leadership change

Embezzlement case at TPS highlighted in Walters' state takeover threats. What happened?

Lawmakers weigh in on Ryan Walters' TPS remarks

From the Tulsa World archives: Coverage of State Superintendent Ryan Walters

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The Food and Drug Administration approved the first over-the-counter birth control pill, Opill, a progestin-only, estrogen-free method of contraception. Laura Bellis, Take Control Initiative executive director and Tulsa City Council District 4 councilor, talks about what this means for access to birth control and supporting women in having healthy births on their own terms.

Related

Laura Bellis: OTC birth control bright spot for women's health care

First over-the-counter birth control pill gets FDA approval

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Dr. Chris McNeil joins the podcast this week to explain that, in his opinion, because of a poor medical recruiting system, we are losing lives, talent and time. McNeil is the only Black male resident emergency physician in Tulsa, and starting July 1, he'll be the only one in the state. He has ideas on how and why that needs to change.

Related

Dr. Chris McNeil: Oklahoma must recruit Black physicians like it does Black athletes

People to Watch: Dr. Chris McNeil takes pride in being approachable

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Ginnie Graham talks with Michael Lapolla about the hymn "Mansions of the Lord" ahead of Memorial Day. He is a graduate of West Point, veteran of the Ia Drang Valley campaigns of the Vietnam War, member of the Oklahoma Military Hall of Fame and Tulsa resident. The hymn's first verse lyrics are as follows:

To fallen soldiers let us sing

Where no rockets fly nor bullets wing

Our broken brothers let us bring

To the mansions of the Lord

Related content:

Column by Michael Lapolla: Oklahoma POW survived with coded message

Column by Michael Lapolla: Remembering and honoring Lt. Gen. Raymond McLain

Column by Michael Lapolla: Stop excluding virtual public school charter students from state-sanctioned extracurricular activities

Column by Michael Lapolla: Celebrating honor and valor of veterans in Tulsa

Column by Michael Lapolla: Remembering and honoring Lt. Gen. Raymond McLain

Late WWII Lt. Gen. Raymond McLain honored at Tulsa high school that bears his name

Medal of Honor recipient missing 73 years to be buried Memorial Day

History of taps is focus of Memorial Day ceremony; volunteers needed for flag duty

Video of West Point Glee Club performance of "Mansions of the Lord"

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Ginnie Graham talks with David Blatt, OU-Tulsa professor of public policy and Oklahoma Policy Institute founder. What are highlights and problems with the Oklahoma legislature's historic education funding plan?

Related content:

Historic education plan advances through Oklahoma House, Senate

$625 million 'monumental education package': Oklahoma officials celebrate long-awaited agreement

Legislative budget efforts draw mixed responses from educators

Epic Charter School: Tulsa World reporting and investigating since 2019

Tulsa World Newsroom podcast: Longtime grant writer says Ryan Walters lied to lawmakers, federal grant money for Oklahoma in jeopardy

Paid maternity leave for Oklahoma teachers part of GOP education plan

Oklahoma Legislature's education dispute to spill into public forum with Treat, Walters

Stitt hopes cooler heads prevail after education face off with Oklahoma Senate

Stitt vetoes 20 Senate bills to spur approval of his education plan; senators push back

As GOP leaders spar over education funding, Stitt proposes compromise plan

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The Supreme Court on Friday blocked Oklahoma from executing death row inmate Richard Glossip for his role in a 1997 murder-for-hire after the state’s attorney general agreed Glossip’s life should be spared. Rep. Kevin McDugle, R-Broken Arrow, said that he is for the death penalty, but "if they kill Richard Glossip, you will see me running every bit of legislation to kill the death penalty in Oklahoma, because if we can't trust the system then we have to vacate what we're doing. We have to be able to trust the system."

Related content:

Richard Glossip supporters, including Dr. Phil, rally at state Capitol

DAs share concerns on Oklahoma AG's handling of death penalty case

Supreme Court blocks Richard Glossip's execution

Richard Glossip sues Pardon and Parole Board over split vote to deny clemency

Gov. Stitt indicates no plan to intervene in Glossip execution as faith leaders plead for mercy

Conservative Oklahoma lawmakers call for moratorium on death penalty

From June 2020: Oklahoma death-row inmate Richard Glossip wrongfully convicted, third-party probe finds

Rep. Kevin McDugle column from September 2020: Either we get the death penalty right, or we don't do it

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Rep. Monroe Nichols, D-Tulsa of House District 72, is chairman of the Oklahoma Black Legislative Caucus. He speaks with Ginnie Graham about HB 1397, which would direct the Oklahoma State Department of Education to develop or make available a curriculum that reflects upon the civil rights movement between 1954 and 1968 and includes the principles Martin Luther King Jr. taught concerning nonviolence, bigotry and Jim Crow laws. Rep. Nichols said the Oklahoma Black Legislative Caucus was not consulted about HB 1397, and critics said the measure goes against HB 1775, a law passed in 2021 that prohibits teaching that one race or sex is inherently superior to another and that anyone, by virtue of race or sex, is inherently racist, sexist or oppressive, whether consciously or unconsciously.

Related content:

Civil rights bill draws ire of Black state senators

From May 2021: Gov. Stitt signs controversial bill that limits in-school instruction on race, gender and history

From June 2022: Tulsa Public Schools violated state law on race, gender, history, State Education Department says

Podcast episode from August 2022 with Rep. John Waldron: House Bill 1775 is a dumb law but we're dealing with it

From September 2022: State pushes back in HB 1775 lawsuit over race, gender instruction

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April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month — a time to recognize the importance of our community working together to prevent child abuse. Ginnie Graham talks with Maura Guten, president and CEO of the Child Abuse Network in Tulsa, about how Oklahomans can protect our most valuable and vulnerable population.

People with a reason to believe that a child under 18 is a victim of abuse or neglect are required per the Oklahoma Statutes —10A O.S. § 1-2-101 — to promptly report it to the Oklahoma Department of Human Services Abuse and Neglect Hotline at 1-800-522-3511.

Related content:

Opinion column by Maura Guten: I regret not knowing more about child abuse

Breaking the Cycle: The Tulsa World's 8-day series on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)

More than $5 million pledged to Child Abuse Network expansion campaign

Column: Everyone has a role in preventing child abuse and neglect

Child Abuse Network CEO 'extremely concerned' at rise in abuse stemming from pandemic

Maura Guten: Look out for child abuse; reaching out can save a life

$9.5 million grant to help expand OSU Center for Health Sciences childhood trauma research

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"He keeps using rhetoric that's not grounded in reality, that he doesn't present evidence for... he's ignoring the very important practical day-to-day operations of the state department of education, the things that are really gonna matter to the 700,000 Oklahoma school children." Rep. John Waldron, a Democrat, represents Tulsa’s District 77 in the Oklahoma House of Representatives. He discusses the American Library Association's Rainbow List, a 190-book set of LGBTQ+ inclusive books for readers of different ages. Rep. Waldron said state superintendent for public instruction, Ryan Walters, has twice sent this list as examples of questionable books, but has neglected other job responsibilities, like the state's education budget.

Related content:

Opinion column by Rep. Waldron: Oklahomans ought to be more concerned with censorship than pornography

Ryan Walters says 'pornographic' books found in Oklahoma schools. Districts say otherwise

State school board unanimously passes rules targeting library content, disclosure requirements

Stitt, Walters pressure lawmakers to pass contested agency rules

Proposed rules on libraries, disclosure draw public criticism

Ryan Walters wants to downgrade schools with obscene library materials

Ginnie Graham: Parents getting mixed messages from lawmakers

Ginnie Graham: Brooklyn Library welcomes Oklahomans' use of QR code as free speech symbol

Editorial: Some Oklahoma lawmakers piling on to harass former teacher over books

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Marcela Swenson is the executive director of Tulsa Responds, a partner of the Goodwill VITA program. Ginnie Graham and Swenson talk about the importance of filing taxes this month, particularly for lower and middle income households, and how the community can receive free assistance to file. Plus, households can still claim last year's tax credits by filing this year.

Related content:

Opinion column by Marcela Swenson: Free tax filing services benefit families and greater community

Get Your Refund Tulsa Appointment Form

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Jesse Guardiola is an award-winning 25-year veteran Tulsa Police Officer specializing in Community Outreach Innovation Strategies and workforce development. He is also a member of the Tulsa World Community Advisory Board. In this episode, Ginnie Graham and Guardiola talk the college degree requirement for law enforcement; why they think it's important; and how the community is helping recruit potential officers to get the education they need, regardless of their background.

Related content:

Opinion column by Jesse Guardiola: College degree requirement for law enforcement is a critical standard

Column by Jerry Griffin: Get rid of bachelor's degree requirement for Tulsa Police

Editorial: Long-term thinking needed for recruiting Tulsa Police

With $15k signing bonus secured and retention help on the way, Tulsa police recruiters 'cautiously optimistic'

Tulsa's $15,000 police signing bonus 'welcome surprise' for agency still short on staff

Rotarians hear from Tulsa police chief on Saint Francis shooting, staffing shortages, gun violence

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"We meet the need." Matt Lay is the president of Tulsa Firefighters IAFF Local 176 and member of the Tulsa World Community Advisory Board. In this week's episode, Ginnie Graham and Matt Lay talk about all of the things local firefighters do besides respond to house fires, including emergency medical incidents, handling hazardous materials and more. Lay also talks about how the fire department recruits potential new firefighters and about his role as union president.

Related content:

Opinion column by Matt Lay: Tulsa firefighters a force for simple good in a complex world

Arbitrator approves Tulsa's offer for firefighters contract with varied raises

From August 2021: Tulsa Fire Department down 60 firefighters, City Council is told

From June 2020: Tulsa mayor announces Michael Baker as city's 12th Tulsa Fire Department Chief

From February 2019: Proposal would change minimum age requirement for Tulsa firefighters from 21 to 18

From May 2018: A TCC course could help train new firefighters, save taxpayer dollars

From March 2013: 29 new Tulsa firefighter grads bring force to nearly full strength

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In this week's episode, Ginnie Graham and Barry Friedman discuss the legalization of recreational marijuana, which will be voted on March 7. Will State Question 820 pass? Should it pass? What are the pros and cons? Ginne and Barry debate the different sides of a complicated issue.

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Related:

Ginnie Graham: Health insurance no guarantee to mental health access and affordability

Ginnie Graham: DEI programs are not what many people think

Oklahoma governor, attorney general oppose recreational marijuana state question

Oklahoma to vote on recreational marijuana: How would State Question 820 work?

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Ginnie Graham talks with Zack Stoycoff, executive director of the Healthy Minds Policy Initiative, about a new report showing private insurers are not providing Oklahomans with needed mental health care.

Related content:

Column by Zack Stoycoff: Ways Oklahoma lawmakers can continue building a better mental health system

Estimated 300,000 Oklahomans to lose Medicaid coverage

Editorial: Fully fund public services before cutting taxes

Among Super Bowl ads, Kristin Chenoweth PSA promotes Oklahoma's 988 mental health lifeline

From 'happy and healthy' to 'terribly wrong': Kunzweilers discuss family experience with mental illness at Republican Women's Club

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"For us to throw money at a merit-based system thinking that's going to be some magic bullet to solve the issues that we're dealing with is just not well-informed." Ginnie Graham talks with Bixby Superintendent Rob Miller about the state legislature potentially using merit pay raises for public school teachers, and why he feels the idea does not work.

Related content:

Gov. Kevin Stitt to push for tax cuts, more education funding this year

Five takeaways from Gov. Kevin Stitt's fifth State of the State speech

Oklahoma lawmakers grill state superintendent on his new education budget

State Superintendent Ryan Walters takes push for state-funded private school students, home-schoolers to rural OK

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"Everybody seems to be simmering all the time: If you don't think like me look like me, worship like me, love like me, you're wrong; and I just wasn't raised that way." Ginnie Graham talks with Oklahoma state labor commissioner Leslie Osborn about how partisan rhetoric has led to wedge issue bills taking limited session time away from important state issues; why most states no longer have straight-party balloting; and how the fringe partisanship is holding the state back from attracting businesses; and more.

Related content:

February 2023 column: Get back to governing; stop growing 'morality police state'

2022 endorsement: Supporting Leslie Osborn for labor commissioner

Leslie Osborn column from 2019: On this Labor Day, let's start working for safer workplaces. And more civil ones too.

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Ginnie Graham talks about International Holocaust Remembrance Day with Chloe Kirk, Director of Holocaust Education and Community Relations with the Jewish Federation of Tulsa. Why is education important for children and adults alike, and where can people go for information locally?

Related content:

Ginnie Graham: Tulsa physician's risky flight from the Nazis hold lessons for today

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Ginnie Graham: Making choices, human behavior at the center of Holocaust education

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Tim Stanley: Tulsa Holocaust survivor says late father's Star of David, once intended as an insult, now 'a badge of honor'

Jewish Federation of Tulsa calls out state GOP for using Star of David in vaccine dispute

Ginnie Graham: Taking teenager to Tulsa's Holocaust Center prompts deeper discussions

Tim Stanley: Marking D-Day 77th anniversary, Jewish Federation unveils memorial to Oklahoma's WW2 'liberators'

Tulsa Holocaust survivor to celebrate 100th birthday after recently beating COVID

Tim Stanley: Remembering Schindler gravesite, the story behind it, on annual Holocaust commemoration week

Ginnie Graham: Growing use of Nazi and Hitler comparisons insensitive and dangerous

Editorials Editor Ginnie Graham’s most memorable stories of 2022

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"If you're reaching youth, you have to include their voice in it." Ginnie Graham hosts Tulsa Dream Center executive director Tim Newton to discuss preventing teen crime. How do youth react to reputations of their neighborhoods? How do lack of family support, lack of money and peer pressure lead to teen crime? And finally, how can people help?

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2022 brought some 'firsts' for Tulsa Police Homicide Unit while teen gun violence trend continued

'They need to see a pathway': Area nonprofits hungry for collaboration after report on youth justice disparities

Tulsa organizations address gang violence at its roots: 'There are other avenues'

`We can serve better." Tulsa Dream Center 's A.J. Johnson provides beacon of inspiration

Editorials Editor Ginnie Graham’s most memorable stories of 2022

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"Every day is the birthday of a victim of gun violence." Ginnie Graham hosts Tulsa resident Lisa Kennedy Lawrence, who created the Facebook page called The Birthday Fairy Project. It brings celebratory tribute to victims of mass shootings by bringing attention to when their lives began, rather than when they ended.

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The Birthday Fairy Project on Twitter

Ginnie Graham: Birthday Fairy Project brings celebratory tribute to victims of mass shootings

On 10th anniversary of Sandy Hook, Biden cites 'societal guilt' over lack of action on guns

Mother of Uvalde school shooting victim files federal lawsuit

Editorials Editor Ginnie Graham’s most memorable stories of 2022

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Ginnie Graham hosts author Barry Friedman to wrap up 2022, whether you celebrate Hanukkah, Christmas, or any/all holidays this month. A look back at the year's inspirations (son's graduation), disappointments (low Oklahoma voter turnout, Elon Musk, politics in general, lack of movement on climate change and other major issues) and more.

Related content:

Ginnie Graham: Is domestic violence in Oklahoma's DNA?

Ginnie Graham: Stressing out over the annual health care enrollment plans

Ginnie Graham: Getting love lessons from a 50-year-old news series

Column: A judgmental guide to Christmas lights

Weather Wednesday: What are our odds of a white Christmas in Tulsa?

15 Jewish holiday recipes for everyone to try

At Hanukkah event, Biden condemns 'venom' of antisemitism

Six interesting facts you may not have known about Hanukkah

Editorials Editor Ginnie Graham’s most memorable stories of 2022

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PlaniTulsa is the latest group to get hit by a disturbing trend: The disruption (leading to shutdowns) of public meetings. In this week's episode, Ginnie Graham and Bob Doucette talk about public meetings now needing security and more due to those seeking a stage to perform. Also, the Oklahoma constitution does not currently allow for religious charter schools (public schools and receive taxpayer dollars). Could that change soon?

Related

Tulsa planning meeting disrupted by crowd alleging global conspiracies, officials say

Tulsa World Opinion podcast episode from July: School board's shameful sideshow of antics

Oklahoma AG opens door for tax dollars for religious charter schools

New statewide survey shows Oklahoma teacher shortage growing

Political notebook: Lawmakers begin filing 2023 legislation

Tim Chamberlin: NASA's latest Moon mission a stepping stone toward Red Planet

Column by Bixby superintendent: How would health care fare if outcomes were treated the same as public schools?

Editorial Writer Bob Doucette’s most memorable stories of 2022

Editorial Editor Ginnie Graham’s most memorable stories of 2022

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In this week's episode, Ginnie Graham and Bob Doucette talk about the Club Q tragedy, which included a victim with local ties. Can the latest mass shooting change anyone's minds about gun control laws? Is anti-LGBTQ rhetoric responsible for incidents like this? Also, hope and optimism with the Project Santa holiday assistance drive and the Oklahoma Eagle turning 100.

Related

Editorial: Grieving for Broken Arrow man killed in latest mass shooting

Loved ones in Tulsa mourn Club Q slaying victim: 'This is the worst nightmare'

Local LGBTQ allies respond to Colorado Springs shooting that killed former Tulsan

Suspect in gay bar shooting that killed 5 facing murder, hate crime charges

Editorial: Oklahoma Eagle turns 100

Editorial: Donate to the Project Santa holiday assistance drive

Landmark same-sex marriage bill wins Senate passage

NATO promises future Ukraine membership and commits more aid

LIV Golf tournament expected in May at Broken Arrow’s Cedar Ridge

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In this week's episode, Ginnie Graham and Bob Doucette talk about the homeless problem in Tulsa. They were both encouraged by recent remarks by Mayor G.T. Bynum on this issue, but Ginnie points out, too, that the public has a responsibility as well. Also discussed were great movies (Plains, Trains and Automobiles) and TV episodes (WKRP in Cincinnati, Friends) that contain a Thanksgiving theme.

Related

Mayor announces $500M housing initiative during State of the City address

Ginnie Graham: Fix dark money and Electoral College problems with one solution

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Ginnie Graham hosts author Barry Friedman and David Blatt, professor of public policy at OU-Tulsa and former executive director of Oklahoma Policy Institute, to discuss the state's election results. How much did the three Bs (Biden, borders and bathrooms) impact state voters to choose Republicans over Democrats? Why was voter turnout so low? How was polling seemingly so inaccurate?

Related content:

2022 midterm elections: Follow all of our local coverage here

Statewide, area legislative, Tulsa County and Tulsa City Council election results

Straight party option accounts for more than half of Stitt's reelection vote

Editorial: Straight-party outdated, passive approach to democracy

Oklahoma voter turnout dips in this year's elections

Bob Doucette: GOP dominates Oklahoma, but a red fizzle elsewhere

Suburban and rural voters make Stitt a winner — again

Oklahoma Watch: Can the state superintendent candidates do what they propose?

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Ginnie Graham and Bob Doucette discuss how pre-election polls were inaccurate for statewide races; the low voter turnout compared to other states; and 42% of Oklahoma voters choosing straight-party voting. How is this "team mentality" hurting quality candidates, and lowering turnout? Also, how will the election outcome impact education, specifically vouchers; and looking ahead to next year's marijuana vote.

Related

Editorial: Votes are in, winners chosen, let's move on

Bob Doucette: Fears for fate of rural schools are real

Oklahoma Watch: Can the state superintendent candidates do what they propose?

Editorial: Private school vouchers still a bad idea for Oklahoma

Editorial: Narrow Senate defeat on private school voucher bill supports public education

State House speaker says chamber won't hear school voucher bill

Suburban and rural voters make Stitt a winner — again

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Gov. Kevin Stitt sets special election for recreational marijuana state question

'Honor all veterans': Veterans Day events and restaurant specials

Veterans Day: Tulsa parade headlines day of area activities dedicated to veterans

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As people prepare to vote, Ginnie Graham and Bob Doucette discuss: Despite the rhetoric about safe suburbs, the Tulsa area has a gun violence problem. Plus, have letters to the editor been lopsided this election? Or "litter on a stick" campaign signs unfairly targeted?

Related

2022 Oklahoma election: Endorsements from Tulsa World's editorial board

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Editorial: Leaders can't promote political violence then act shocked when it happens

Editorial: Tulsa DA Steve Kunzweiler's candor about mental health ought to motivate lawmakers

Editorial: As gun violence claims more youths, a call for action

Tulsa police decry recent fatal teen shootings, spate of homicides Friday

Tulsa couple mourning suspected murder-suicide of son, daughter-in-law and six grandchildren in BA

Bob Doucette: Like it or not, we've got a gun violence problem in Tulsa

Disappearing campaign signs are a reminder that city has volunteer ordinance enforcers

Click here to submit a letter to the editor (Note: endorsement letters will not be published from Saturday-Tuesday ahead of Nov. 8's general election)

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Author Barry Friedman returns to visit with Ginnie Graham in this week's bonus podcast to recommend everyone watch the Oklahoma state superintendent debate. Was Jena Nelson not aggressive enough on issues such as a critical federal audit of $31 million in pandemic education funding? Did Ryan Walters repeat the same phrases too many times, including classrooms having porn and liberal indoctrination?

Related content:

Watch the debate: Nelson, Walters face off in only state superintendent debate of general election

Race for Oklahoma superintendent: 'We have teachers on both sides' who are polar opposites

Tulsa Public Schools accused of having books with 'inappropriate sexual material'

Ginnie Graham: Brooklyn Library welcomes Oklahomans' use of QR code as free speech symbol

Endorsement: Jena Nelson has best ideas, attitude and ability to lead public schools into next era as state superintendent

Bob Doucette: Fears for fate of rural schools are real

New federal report highly critical of Oklahoma's use of pandemic relief money for education

Higher crime in Oklahoma? Hofmeister-Stitt clash from debate needs context, expert says

Takeaways from the Oklahoma gubernatorial candidate debate

Hofmeister, Stitt face each other in gubernatorial debate

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Ginnie Graham and Bob Doucette ask: Why haven't Oklahoma lawmakers funded State Question 780 and 781? Approved by voters in 2016, the two revolutionary criminal justice reform measures reduced many nonviolent crimes from felonies to misdemeanors (780), with savings from lower incarceration rates directed to fund “community rehabilitative programs (781).” Plus, rural schools will be on November's ballot. What do they mean to a community's identity?

Related

Jails in mental health crisis, Oklahoma lawmakers told

Lawmakers pledge push to fund treatment, rehabilitation

Ginnie Graham: Steps Oklahoma lawmakers can take for a mental health system turnaround

Editorial: Lawmakers are violating the law that mandates funds to county mental health programs

Oklahoma Watch: What legislators did instead of funding voter-approved criminal justice reforms

Oklahoma Watch: Prisons plagued with staffing shortages, inefficiencies, report finds

Oklahoma Watch: Bills could doom future state question efforts, experts say

Ginnie Graham: What happened to the money that was supposed to go to local mental health programs?

From January 2020: Oklahoma's prison population dips to level not seen since 2009 but remains overflowing

From November 2019: Pardon and Parole Board approves record number of commutations

From November 2018: In one year, SQ 780 drastically reversed a 10-year upward trend of felony charges, according to Open Justice Oklahoma report

From November 2016: State Question 780 & 781: Criminal justice reform measures approved by voters

State superintendent candidates present markedly different thoughts on education

Bob Doucette: 2022 campaign a Wild West of ideas of how to govern Oklahoma

Bob Doucette: This November, the fate of public schools is on the ballot

Editorial: Private school vouchers still a bad idea for Oklahoma

Editorial: Narrow Senate defeat on private school voucher bill supports public education

State House speaker says chamber won't hear school voucher bill

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Ginnie Graham and Bob Doucette talk about the Oklahoma gubernatorial debate between Gov. Kevin Stitt and State Superintendent Joy Hofmeister, from asking if they ever smoked marijuana (one said yes, one said no) to the closing statement that brought one candidate out from behind the podium. Also, a reminder to get those letters to the editor endorsing candidates in as soon as possible!

Related

Hofmeister, Stitt face each other in gubernatorial debate

Column: 2022 in Oklahoma could possibly be the year of the ‘unstable polls’

Bob Doucette: 2022 campaign a Wild West of ideas of how to govern Oklahoma

Hofmeister, Stitt air differences at Petroleum Alliance forum

Election deniers, doubters seeking to control elections in several Western states

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How often do you get to talk to district judges? Who can name your county assessor or commissioner? Ginnie Graham and Bob Doucette give their endorsement of the idea of opinion section endorsements: Voters will become more aware of candidates at the bottom of the ballot. Plus, could a "Day of Citizenship" staffing volunteers at local precincts help on Election Day; and support for the idea of moving the animal shelter and the Tulsa Oilers ice rink at Promenade Mall.

Related

Bob Doucette: 2022 campaign a Wild West of ideas of how to govern Oklahoma

Guest columnists present health care-based arguments for governor candidates Stitt, Hofmeister

Column: Let's organize a 'Day of Citizenship' to ensure our polls are adequately staffed

Editorial: Moving animal shelter smart idea with a lot of potential

City considering moving animal shelter to new site

Editorial: Oilers turning around Promenade mall, energizing local interest in hockey

Work starts on Tulsa Oilers' new practice facility at Tulsa Promenade mall

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Ginnie Graham and Bob Doucette talk about Tulsa County District Attorney Steve Kunzweiler, who spoke passionately about the erosion of mental health services in the state after being stabbed by his daughter. If a prominent district attorney in the state cannot access proper mental health services for his family, then how does that bode for everyone else? Plus, how can the community support Tulsa McLain High School after the fatal shooting?

Related

Watch Now: Mental health crisis is 'gaping wound,' needs prioritization by Legislature, Tulsa County DA says after stabbing

Tulsa County DA's daughter arrested; DA released from hospital after stabbing

Daughter of Tulsa County district attorney charged in his stabbing

Ginnie Graham: Steps Oklahoma lawmakers can take to turnaround mental health system

Christian Costello found not guilty by reason of insanity in death of state labor commissioner

Watch Now: Superintendent addresses security at McLain after fatal shooting

Tulsa police decry recent fatal teen shootings, spate of homicides Friday

McLain High School students, staff return to class following fatal shooting

As games keep moving, TPS focused on increasing safety at football games

Bob Doucette: We need to rally around McLain

Stitt signs bill preventing gender-transition treatments for minors at OU medical facilities

Editorial: Lawmakers must work through ARPA fund hold up

Greenwood District added to National Register of Historic Places

Editorial: Greenwood District deserves placement on national historic registry

Surreptitiously obtained video targets TPS' Rogers Middle School teacher on HB 1775

Editorial: Osage Nation is right: We need to repeal HB 1775

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Oklahoma has 33,000 teachers who are certified, but choose not to teach. Ginnie Graham and Bob Doucette talk about the state's teacher shortage forcing districts to rely on emergency certifications and more. Oklahoma is 34th nationally in average teacher compensation and 46th in per pupil spending. Bringing Oklahoma's certified teachers back begins with respect. Plus, why are extremists harassing our county election board workers?

Related

Ginnie Graham: Oklahoma has 33,000 teachers choosing not to teach; we need them back

Hofmeister to ask Legislature to fund $5,000 across-the-board teacher pay raises amid worsening shortages

New statewide survey shows Oklahoma teacher shortage growing

Editorial: Some Oklahoma lawmakers piling on to harass former teacher over books

Bob Doucette: This November, the fate of public schools is on the ballot

Answering the call: Oklahoma teacher shortage requires thousands to step into the void every year

House education budget chairman calls for federal dollars to be used on teacher relocation, retention bonuses

Editorial: Evidence of Oklahoma's teacher, staff crisis found everywhere

Editorial: Elections at risk because of extremists harassing workers

Fearing harassment, election workers are quitting, Tulsa County official says

Tulsa among election boards 'working overtime' after Mike Lindell push for 2020 vote records

Bob Doucette: I've seen us at our best - and our worst - on immigration

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Oklahoma was among the first states to implement universal pre-K, programs for 4-year-olds offered by public schools. Only eight states fund pre-K for all children. Ginnie Graham and Bob Doucette talk about the positive impacts of this program and more.

Related

Two decades of Tulsa pre-K research shows widespread positive effects

Editorial: DHS grants for child care the right move at the right time

Column: Election homework assignment from Oklahoma's Teacher of the Year

Editorial: Election reforms could aid Oklahoma's suffering democracy

Editorial: 988 welcomed addition to mental health crisis care

'The gun violence is unreal': Teen shootings a headache for Tulsa investigators, heartache for families

Ginnie Graham: Brooklyn Library welcomes Oklahomans' use of QR code as free speech symbol

Bob Doucette: A water sports revolution is coming to Tulsa

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In this week's episode, Ginnie Graham and Bob Doucette talk about Ginnie's meeting with TU student leaders, the stigma that continues with mental health, the troubling political landscape in Oklahoma as campaign season heats up, the death of Queen Elizabeth and an important message from Bob about the value of disconnecting.

Related

Ginnie Graham: Voices of Gen Z have a lot to ask of candidates

Ginnie Graham: Books targeted for banning reflect cultural discomfort of that moment

Bob Doucette: We're all on edge. What we need to do is periodically unplug.

Bob Doucette: This November, the fate of public schools is on the ballot

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Sen. Jo Anna Dossett (D-Tulsa) of District 35, the self-proclaimed "least powerful member of the Oklahoma state Senate" talks about being a Democrat, woman and state Senator in the state of Oklahoma with Ginnie Graham and author Barry Friedman in this week's bonus podcast.

Sen. Dossett was elected two years ago and is not on the ballot in November.

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Oklahoma Watch: Most state legislative races not competitive

Editorial: Open primaries will lead to less extreme candidates

Abortion dominates legislative session

Sen. Jo Anna Dossett named Freshman Legislator of the Year for child advocacy efforts

Owasso brother, sister to serve in upper chamber for first time in recent history

Watch Now: Owasso’s Dossett carries inspiration from classroom to newly appointed Senate seat

Watch Now: Owasso's Dossett beats Baber for Senate District 35 seat

School transgender bathroom bill draws legal challenge

Ginnie Graham: Playing education bill whack-a-mole at the Oklahoma Legislature

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Tulsa Classroom Teachers Association Vice President LeeAnne Jimenez joins Ginnie Graham and Barry Friedman for a deep dive into what functions teachers unions serve.

Related

Editorial: TPS needs champions to defend against unfair political targeting

Ginnie Graham: Higher education deepens inequities, and government must fix it

Ginnie Graham: Banning books all the rage in conservative circles

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It’s been a little over a year since the last U.S. troops left Afghanistan. Ginnie Graham and Bob Doucette discuss the aftermath of the withdrawal; student loan forgiveness; Tulsa Public Schools' unfair political targeting; and Ryan Walters calling for a Norman teacher having her credentials revoked.

Related content:

Bob Doucette: We're playing with fire with Christian nationalism

Clergy, social workers fear fallout from Oklahoma abortion laws

Column: What Kansas vote to preserve abortion rights means for Oklahoma

Ginnie Graham: Grab 'em by the ballot box

Will abortion be on more state ballots after Kansas vote?

Republican Senate candidates defend Trump, endorse federal abortion ban

Editorial: Oklahoma congressional delegation wrong on votes against birth control, same-sex marriage

Tulsans continue to rally for abortion rights

Column: Stitt's executive order addressing 'crisis pregnancies' falls short of long-term pro-family policies

State laws on abortion, transgender issues have companies balking on coming to Oklahoma, development official says

Oklahoma Sen. Lankford blocks bill guaranteeing interstate travel for abortion

Ginnie Graham: Tulsa women getting illegal abortions before Roe entered scary, dangerous world

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Ginnie Graham and Bob Doucette recap the primary/runoff elections and more, and anticipate that public education will be "on the ballot" in November. Another factor in the general election will likely be former President Donald Trump.

Related content:

Ginnie Graham: Banning books all the rage in conservative circles

Texas school district removing, reviewing dozens of books, including the Bible

Oklahoma teachers on notice after 'watershed' vote on HB 1775 violations in Tulsa, Mustang

Tulsa Public Schools accused of having books with 'inappropriate sexual material'

Watch Now: TPS pulls challenged books from shelves until formal review can be done

Tulsa area public schools library book selection process explained

Tulsa World Newsroom podcast: How does a book end up at your kid’s school library?

Bill targeting school library books about sex passes Oklahoma Senate panel

Oklahoma attorney general reviewing books for violations of state obscenity law

Ginnie Graham: I'm glad books are being banned so I know what to read next

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Go vote! Ginnie Graham and Bob Doucette preview the upcoming city and state elections, including editorial endorsements; endorsement letters to the editor; and more.

Related content:

Bob Doucette: Four questions about the FBI's search of Mar-a-Lago

Mar-A-Lago search prompts outrage from some Oklahoma Republicans

FBI's search of Trump's Florida estate: Why now?

From September 2015: Tanking numbers in Tulsa library reading program known to CEO

From June 2016: Tulsa library spending includes trips, outside public relations

Ginnie Graham: IRS is not hiring 87,000 agents to go after everyone's taxes

Bob Doucette: Law designed to curb insider trading in Congress has holes

Tulsa schools' violation cited in legal challenge to HB 1775

Audio from TPS implicit bias training was a voice reading presentation slides verbatim

TPS board president asks state board to reconsider warning over race/gender teaching law

Oklahoma teachers on notice after 'watershed' vote on HB 1775 violations in Tulsa, Mustang

Editorial: State school board used as pawn in a political anti-public education game

Tax cuts totaling $500 million approved by Oklahoma House — but don't spend that money yet

Editorial from March 2022: Embrace fiscal responsibility: Scrap HB 3635 and its automatic tax cut triggers

Ginnie Graham: Starting to experience the little things at age 50

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Is Oklahoma still a punchline? In a bonus podcast episode this week, Ginnie Graham interviews author Barry Friedman about how outsiders view our state, beyond the musical and college football, and how we can change the narrative.

Related content:

Tulsa Public Schools accused of having books with 'inappropriate sexual material'

Kansas abortion vote gives hope to Oklahoma reproductive rights supporters

Oklahoma again ranks poorly for child well-being, annual report says

Supporters of SQ 820 turn in 164,000 signatures in effort to legalize recreational marijuana in Oklahoma

Audio from TPS implicit bias training was a voice reading presentation slides verbatim

State laws on abortion, transgender issues have companies balking on coming to Oklahoma, development official says

An innovative TU is essential to Tulsa's future, President Brad Carson says

Panasonic picks Kansas over Oklahoma for $4B EV battery facility

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In this week's podcast, Ginnie Graham and Bob Doucette discuss the targeting of Tulsa Public Schools by state officials and the majority of the Oklahoma State School Board. The accreditation vote is a warning to other districts, as one state board member even said “we need to send a message.”

Related content:

Watch Now: Tulsa Public Schools accredited with a warning over HB1775 violation

Column: State leaders exploiting differences, targeting TPS for personal gain

Editorial: State school board used as pawn in a political anti-public education game

Tulsa Public Schools accused of having books with 'inappropriate sexual material'

Hofmeister: Walters blocked unrelated early childhood contract due to TPS audit

Editorial: Evidence of Oklahoma's teacher, staff crisis found everywhere

Area schools scrambling to fill vacancies in summer's waning days

Voucher bill expected to make a comeback

Editorial: Senate does veterans wrong by stalling toxic burn pit legislation

Bill to aid veterans exposed to toxic burn pits goes to Biden

Ginnie Graham: Grab 'em by the ballot box

Editorial: Oklahoma congressional delegation wrong on votes against birth control, same-sex marriage

D.C. Digest: Oklahoma delegation wants more for defense, less for domestic spending

NFL appeals 6-game suspension for Browns' Deshaun Watson

Kansas abortion vote gives hope to Oklahoma reproductive rights supporters

ICYMI: 'Reservation Dogs' actors strut red carpet in Tulsa ahead of today's season two premiere

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In a bonus podcast episode this week, Ginnie Graham interviews author Barry Friedman about potential Republican candidates for president in 2024. Joe Biden has already proven that he can beat Donald Trump after the 2020 election, so Trump may not be the best nominee for the party. However, will President Biden even run for a second term?

Related content:

Barry Friedman column: Hoping for Trump

Republican Senate candidates defend Trump, endorse federal abortion ban

Oklahoma bakery owner charged with felony over Jan. 6 attack on Capitol

Editorial: We cannot afford to look away from the Jan. 6 committee's work

Bob Doucette: All is not well among Oklahoma Republicans

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In this week's podcast, Ginnie Graham and Bob Doucette discuss the difference between political difference in hate speech. Bigotry inspires discrimination, division and even violence against others. Extremism is what party leaders ought to want out of their tents.

Related content:

Editorial: More Republicans must stand up to hate proliferating in campaigns, public life

From The Oklahoman: Oklahoma Senate candidate Jarrin Jackson posts homophobic, antisemitic remarks on social media

House OKs bill to protect contraception from Supreme Court

D.C. Digest: Oklahoma delegation wants more for defense, less for domestic spending

Editorial: Evidence of Oklahoma's teacher, staff crisis found everywhere

Legislative report says Oklahoma public schools affected by poverty more than most but funding does not always reflect it

State laws on abortion, transgender issues have companies balking on coming to Oklahoma, development official says

Tulsa Public Schools accredited with a warning over HB1775 violation

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In this week's podcast, Ginnie Graham and Bob Doucette talk about a critical audit of Oklahoma's use of pandemic relief money for education. Ultimately, the state may be forced to repay about $653,000 that auditors said was misspent by families on noneducational items such as televisions, washers and dryers, air conditioners and Christmas trees. Are we used to federal investigations to the point that people aren't paying attention?

Related content:

Editorial: Stitt's mounting problems with fiscal oversight

New federal report highly critical of Oklahoma's use of pandemic relief money for education

Editorial: Stitt's ire toward TPS reaches new level with state audit request

Watch Now: Gist responds to Stitt's call for special state audit of Tulsa Public Schools

TPS board reverses course, approves routine items

Editorial: Apologies need to be on the TPS agenda from three board members

Future Tulsa City Hall visitors likely will pass through metal detector

Bob Doucette: Like it or not, everyone's looking at Generation X now

Ginnie Graham: COVID-19 not finished with us yet

Column: Stitt's executive order addressing 'crisis pregnancies' falls short of long-term pro-family policies

Column: Businesses need to create spaces for authentic diversity discussions to establish strong allyship

Column: What happened when 12 Tulsa 8th graders gave away $10,000?

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In this week's podcast, Ginnie Graham and Bob Doucette talk about recent Tulsa Public Schools board meetings; the Jan. 6 hearings; the recent hot weather; and how Oklahoma lost Panasonic to Kansas. Was it just about offering more money, or are our state's anti-laws deterring businesses from coming?

Related content:

Panasonic picks Kansas over Oklahoma for $4B EV battery facility

State laws on abortion, transgender issues have companies balking on coming to Oklahoma, development official says

Jan. 6 hearings: What we’ve learned, and what’s next

See the latest local weather forecasts and features fro Tulsa World meteorologist Kirsten Lang at tulsaworld.com/weather.

Editorial: Apologies need to be on the TPS agenda from three board members

Editorial: Three TPS board members choose personal grudges, politics over students

Ginnie Graham: Don't let the public school bullies win

TPS board reverses course, approves routine items

17 former Tulsa school board members issue public call for return to focus on students

Board stalemate on routine business leaves TPS in limbo

Board member calls for superintendent's resignation after contentious TPS meeting with walkout

TPS school board audience divided by party, colors during LGBTQ support comments

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In this week's podcast, Ginnie Graham and Bob Doucette talk about recent shootings during Fourth of July celebrations. With election season upon us, it is important to ask candidates questions about this safety issue.

Related content:

Red flags missed: How July 4 suspect slipped through system

Editorial: TPS offers students an early start at getting into aviation workforce

Editorial: New TPS program holds possibilities for better results for students facing trauma

D.C. Digest: Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland to begin 'Road' in western Oklahoma

Throwback Tulsa: Watergate scandal thrust ‘Little Giant’ into spotlight

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In this week's podcast, Ginnie Graham and Bob Doucette talk about the potential fallout from the U.S. Supreme Court overturning Roe v. Wade. Will pro-life be about protecting the most vulnerable, or emphasis on personal responsibility? Will there be exemptions in cases of rape and incest?

Related content:

Column: Being 'pro-life' does not end with the birth of a child

Ginnie Graham: Tulsa women getting illegal abortions before Roe entered scary, dangerous world

Bob Doucette: Discipline of the right is what doomed Roe

Editorial: Supreme Court rewrites new era around abortion, putting focus on reforming Oklahoma's laws

New York lawmakers to vote on new gun rules following ruling

U.S. Supreme Court revisits McGirt: Oklahoma can prosecute non-tribal citizens on tribal land

Primary leaves several races undecided

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In this week's podcast, Ginnie Graham and Bob Doucette talk about upcoming state elections, including "partially closed" primaries, where Republicans can vote for Republicans, but Democrats and independent-registered voters can vote for Democrats. If these are taxpayer-funded elections, shouldn't all voters get to participate?

Also discussed:

Acknowledging the Roe v. Wade decision announced Friday.
Previewing the Tuesday state primaries, including a few endorsements.
How is dark money impacting Oklahoma elections, even school board races? More than $6.5 million, most of it with untraceable origins, has poured into Oklahoma statewide and legislative primary races since April 1, according to Tulsa World's Randy Krebhiel's report.
Epic Charter Schools and an alleged elaborate scheme to defraud and embezzle from taxpayers. It was not about the education model, as Oklahoma has other charter schools that are good. It was about mismanagement of education funding at a time when the state's schools struggled.
Recapping the Tulsa Public School meeting's recently controversies at meetings, including LGBTQ training.
A Tulsa World story by Jacob Factor that received national attention on a Broken Arrow open-carry incident that raised law enforcement questions
Bob previews his column on the state's turnpikes; Ginnie Graham talks about going to Branson with her family

Related content:

Read the full Supreme Court opinion overturning Roe v. Wade

Endorsement: Leslie Osborn deserving of Republican nomination for labor commissioner

Endorsement: Political outsider Gentner Drummond best choice for attorney general

Get prepared for June 28 election in Oklahoma

Dark money pours into state races

Epic Charter Schools co-founders, former CFO charged in elaborate scheme to defraud and embezzle from taxpayers

TPS school board audience divided by party, colors during LGBTQ support comments

Broken Arrow open-carry incident raises law enforcement questions

Bob Doucette: Betting big on the Gilcrease Expressway and other state turnpikes

Ginnie Graham: Top picks for rides and food at Silver Dollar City

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In this week's podcast, Ginnie Graham and Bob Doucette tackle a variety of topics from mental health, mass shootings, gun safety and how schools factor into that discussion as well as the Office of the Independent Monitor and the issues surrounding that idea.

Related

Tulsa police chief gives new details of mass shooting response

Editorial: TPD chief shows leadership in honest discussion about gun safety

Constitutional carry, straw purchases and 'ghost guns' contributing to 'wild, wild West' environment in Tulsa, police chief says

Editorial: Create unique Tulsa model for independent civilian input to build trust with police

Police chief says he 'can always use help,' but independent monitor is not the answer

Bob Doucette: Ukraine war emboldens Biden to warn China off Taiwan

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Gun violence remains in the news, plus the impact of the Jan. 6 hearings and the awesome OU softball team.

Related

Ginnie Graham: Holocaust education giving lessons to make sense of today's difficult times

Bob Doucette: Counting the costs of gun violence

Since McGirt, Tulsa DA says he worries about cases referred to tribes, unknown outcomes

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In this episode, Ginnie Graham and Bob Doucette mainly address one topic: Oklahoma’s gun safety laws. They are nearly non-existent, and it’s killing us.

Among talking points:

From Sandy Hook in 2012 to Uvalde, Texas in May to Tulsa, Oklahoma in June: Are people becoming numb to gun violence incidents? With "only" four victims in Tulsa's mass shooting, it was said that "it could have been worse"
The Second Amendment ought to protect people. Law-abiding citizens still can have rights to own guns while laws can be improved to keep guns out of the hands of would-be killers.
Christian values is about sacrifice for the betterment of the world. The victims of gun violence are people and not merely numbers.
With the 2022 election upcoming, our editorial board will potentially make endorsements in some races after talking with candidates, including the upcoming primary.
The Tulsa Jewish Federation honored Oklahoma lawmakers that helped pass House Bill 3720, mandating Holocaust education in Oklahoma schools.
Previewing weekend columns, from both guest op-eds and staff

Related stories:

Editorial: Seize this moment to take control of the gun debate to save lives

Editorial: National epidemic of mass shootings at the door of Tulsa and Oklahoma

May 2022 editorial: After the nation grieves, what's to be done next?

Dec. 18, 2012 editorial: Terrible tragedy at Sandy Hook; Will shootings prompt change?

Taft shooting survivor recounts mass shooting aftermath; alleged shooter denied bond

Saint Francis shooting: Complete coverage from the Tulsa World

Ginnie Graham: Making choices, human behavior at the center of Holocaust education

Column: Tulsa will get through this together

Column: Arming teachers is not the answer; common sense policies are

Column: Why is the trauma of Camp Scott murders true-crime entertainment?

Bob Doucette: All is not well among Oklahoma Republicans

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In this episode, Ginnie Graham and Bob Doucette address the unspeakable tragedies of mass shootings. We’ve prayed; we’ve grieved; we’ve called for change; we’ve seen this cycle continuously repeat.

Americans remain heartbroken by the Tuesday, May 24 rampage in a fourth-grade classroom at Robb Elementary in Uvalde, Texas. Nineteen children and two teachers were killed. Seventeen others were wounded. The nation is united in mourning with the families and friends who face a lifetime of trauma.

But beyond that, what’s to be done?

Also discussed:

When a sexual abuse scandal hits the church, words from its ministers can be indicative of how bad things really are. The reputation of the Southern Baptist church is on the line, but so is the welfare of the people it serves.
Oklahoma’s priorities are outlined in the state budget approved by the Legislature (Note: This podcast was recorded before Gov. Kevin Stitt’s vetoed parts of the budget bill on Thursday, May 26). There are quite a few winners, and public education is the big loser.
Previewing weekend guest columns on homelessness, the Osage Nation's perspective of the "Killers of the Flower Moon" movie, and just in time for Memorial Day, a profile on the namesake of Tulsa's McLain High School, Lt. Gen. Raymond McLain.
Ways to help veterans this Memorial Day weekend through legislation

Related stories:

Editorial: After the nation grieves, what's to be done next?

NRA opens gun convention in Texas after school massacre

Dec. 18, 2012 editorial: Terrible tragedy at Sandy Hook; Will shootings prompt change?

Bob Doucette: For Southern Baptists, a reckoning over sexual abuse is overdue

'Heartbroken and sickened': Oklahoma church leaders react to Southern Baptist sex-abuse allegations

Gov. Kevin Stitt calls for special session of Legislature for 'real tax reform'

House sends budget to governor but postpones final adjournment

Editorial: Lots of winners in the Oklahoma budget; public education, mental health are big losers

Ginnie Graham: Oklahoma teachers showing gains in pay, but student investment sliding toward the bottom

Editorial: Of course student test scores are down, so don't starve them of resources

Editorial: Legislative leaders make bold move to seize power from governor on ARPA funds

Late WWII Lt. Gen. Raymond McLain honored at Tulsa high school that bears his name

Column: Osage citizens were shaped, not defined, by the Reign of Terror

Column: Let go of the blame game

Things to do over Memorial Day weekend

Ginnie Graham: Political middle must help America find its backbone

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In this episode, Ginnie Graham and Bob Doucette address HB 4327, which allows lawsuits against abortion providers at any point after fertilization. It is similar to one enacted by Texas a year ago, except the Texas law makes abortion illegal after six weeks of pregnancy.

What does this mean for Oklahoma families in the future? The state's youth already ranks high for dealing with Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). The state legislature's focus on anti-abortion laws takes away from dealing with other pressing issues in Oklahoma.

Also discussed:

Why is Oklahoma's legislature moving to take control of state's federal COVID-19 relief funds?
Why is there a baby formula shortage? It is easy to make it a political issue in an election year, but it is more complicated, involving trade policies and more. And please don't tell moms to "just breast feed."
Previewing guest columns as high school and college graduate time arrives, plus advice from Ginnie and Bob for the graduates
Welcome to all of our visitors for the PGA Championship, Ironman and Tulsa Tough. A reminder of what the area has to offer outside of these events, from museums to walking trails

Related stories:

Oklahoma House sends abortion bill modeled after Texas law to governor

Bob Doucette: Fox interview with Gov. Stitt exposes holes in pro-life policies

Breaking the Cycle: The Tulsa World's 8-day series on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)

Legislature moves to take control of state's federal COVID-19 relief funds

House committee opens investigation of state park restaurant deal

State to get refund for $2.6 million purchase of hydroxychloroquine

Oklahoma Watch: Families use pandemic school supply funds to buy Christmas trees, gaming consoles and Hundreds of TVs

Editorial: Oklahoma Broadband Expansion Act deserves support

Senate advances measure to deal with nursing shortage

Editorial: Baby formula shortage exposes delicate food chain ecosystem

Column: Imagine being the first class to start every tradition

Bob Doucette: My go-to places to take people who are new to Tulsa

Ginnie Graham: Oklahoma teachers showing gains in pay, but student investment sliding toward the bottom

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In this episode, Ginnie Graham and Bob Doucette address homelessness in the Tulsa area, including proposed changes to a city ordinance that would make it easier for police officers to remove homeless people from the streets or other public rights of way and would subject them to fines and possible jail time or both.

Are there housing solutions rather than just having police solve this?

Also discussed:

Roe vs. Wade: Can tribes provide abortion services in Oklahoma despite state law changes? If the SCOTUS decision overturned, it will cause a lot of uncertainty and debate.
Several Oklahoma Supreme Court justices took state Attorney General John O’Connor to task for not being more active in what some view as a $760 million ratepayer-funded bailout of OG&E for its fuel costs from the February 2021 cold snap.
With May being Mental Health Awareness Month, an opinion column by Beverly Thompson says "I want people to know I am a face of mental illness."
Data released in the past couple of weeks show Oklahoma far behind in per-pupil spending but making small steps in the rankings for teacher pay. However, the surrounding states are making greater investments in teacher salaries, opening the door to a backslide.
Among the corrections sought in the unraveling of the Swadley’s Bar-B-Q state contract is a request from Lt. Gov. Matt Pinnell to give power back to an oversight commission.
The Oklahoma Legislature is considering Senate Joint Resolution 43, which would ask voters to repeal constitutional reforms put into place after a 1967 judicial scandal that gained national attention.
Bob Doucette previews his weekend column on his go-to places to take people who are new to Tulsa
Summer is here. PGA Championship events are next week at Tulsa's Southern Hills

Related stories:

40% more people living on the streets in Tulsa, annual headcount finds

Proposed local law would allow police to remove homeless people from sidewalks, other public rights of way

Broad-daylight attack leaves ‘weird feeling’ in downtown Tulsa, says hotel manager still on medical leave

Bob Doucette: We're failing our homeless, and we're failing ourselves

Ginnie Graham: Complicated landscape for tribal nations wanting to offer abortion safe haven

Political notebook: Oklahoma House of Representatives looks at the big picture

Column: It's worth the journey of peaks and valleys to have good brain health

Ginnie Graham: Oklahoma teachers showing gains in pay, but student investment sliding toward the bottom

House committee opens investigation of state park restaurant deal

Editorial: Solution to lack of budget oversight is reinstating power to a commission

Column: Should the Oklahoma Legislature control the state's judicial branch?

Fore and before: 18 destinations to aim for during PGA Championship week in Tulsa

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In this episode, Ginnie Graham and Bob Doucette note that the editorial board has not taken a stance on abortion, but that Oklahoma law needs to follow court guidance, or federal law. Other opinions are covered in columns and letters to the editor.

Also discussed:

What will be the next big wedge issue after abortion: Marriage? Contraception?
Looking back at this week's editorials, including pandemic aid for education and trouble-plagued state vendor contracts
Tulsa’s notorious “Crossbow Killer" was mere hours from being eligible for early release from a life sentence when Gov. Kevin Stitt reversed course after a Tulsa World story
The law lifting the limit on the hours an adjunct teacher can be in a classroom will widen the applicant pool but water down professional standards.
The turnstile cycle of homelessness: What can our community do to help itself when it comes to being humane to the homeless and for public safety? Bob Doucette talks about his own encounter with a homeless man in his neighborhood in his column this week.
Ginnie Graham previews her weekend column on Mother's Day --- not just our own moms, but the motherly figures in our lives.

Related stories:

Stitt signs 'fetal heartbeat' bill as U.S. Supreme Court indicates it may be ready to overturn Roe v. Wade

Tulsa pro-choice advocates protest Supreme Court's draft opinion that would overturn Roe v. Wade

Gov. Stitt signs near-total abortion ban: 'We want Oklahoma to be the most pro-life state'

Editorial: Knowingly passing unconstitutional laws no way to govern

Ginnie Graham: Finding out the reasons why women in Oklahoma get abortions

Editorial: State must bolster financial oversight, accountability

Stitt rescinds parole for Tulsa's notorious 'Crossbow Killer'

Editorial: Adjunct teachers a short-term solution to a deepening education crisis

Broad-daylight attack leaves ‘weird feeling’ in downtown Tulsa, says hotel manager still on medical leave

Bob Doucette: We're failing our homeless, and we're failing ourselves

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In this episode, Ginnie Graham and Bob Doucette talk about how the midterm election filings ended with some crowded races, fewer than one-third of the 125 legislative offices up for election in November will be contested.

Also discussed:

Rep. Sean Roberts fought to be known as Sean “The Patriot” Roberts on the ballot for Labor Commissioner. The Oklahoma State Election Board denied the request.
The U.S. Supreme Court is unlikely to reverse its McGirt decision. The latest on tribal and state jurisdiction.
Citing safety concerns, local officials floated the need for a roughly $5 million extension of the new Tulsa County Family Center for Juvenile Justice and funding for more staffing to solve a problem created by a federal policy change.
Remember when Tulsa tried to get Tesla? The latest on Elon Musk, Twitter and free speech
Oklahoma ranks No. 8 in the rate of euthanizing dogs and cats in shelters, according to the Best Friends Animal Society. Last year, nearly 90,000 dogs and cats entered Oklahoma's shelters, and about 11,560 were euthanized.
Remembering the late Joe Worley, former Tulsa World executive editor and an advocate for open records in Oklahoma.
Join us Aug. 2 as we honor the best in area high school sports at the annual All-World Awards banquet, presented by Bill Knight Automotive. Get your tickets here.

Related stories

Editorial: Lopsided filing leaves voters without options for Oklahoma Legislature

Oklahoma Watch: 44% of House, Senate seats already 'won' with uncontested races

Former EPA chief, Oklahoma attorney general Scott Pruitt resurfaces, files for U.S. Senate

Multiple challengers emerge for countywide offices

Candidate filings for congressional, statewide and area races

Ginnie Graham: Put the nix on allowing campaign nicknames on ballots

Criminal cases in 'Indian Country': Supreme Court hears arguments over state jurisdiction

McGirt v. Oklahoma: Supreme Court decision and aftermath

Local officials want $5 million wing added to new juvenile justice center after federal policy change adds more aggressive population

Gallery: Tesla in Tulsa? Tulsans, local officials make their pitch

Ginnie Graham: Oklahoma's latest efforts to reduce No. 8 ranking of euthanizing shelter animals

Bob Doucette: Will Elon Musk's 'free speech absolutism' allow disinformation on Twitter?

Joe Worley, longtime Tulsa World executive editor, dies at 74

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In this episode, Ginnie Graham and Bob Doucette talk about the non-partisan support of the “Large-scale Economic Activity and Development Act of 2022,” which Gov. Kevin Stitt is expected to sign Monday.

Oklahoma is reportedly trying to lure a Panasonic electric battery plant to the MidAmerica Industrial Park in Pryor, but did the $698 million incentive package get rushed and was the process too secretive?

Also discussed:

Rep. Wendi Stearman, R-Collinsville said "I don't want Oklahoma to change," but change is inevitable. Oklahoma must evolve to prosper.
The runaway contract between Swadley’s BBQ and the Oklahoma State Department of Tourism and Gov Stitt's vow to reclaim any money the state is owed
What is the mission of the Oklahoma state park system and does Foggy Bottom Kitchens fit that mission?
There is not just a teacher shortage in public education anymore, but also a superintendent shortage.
Bob talking about testing positive for COVID-19 and what the next surge will look like
Who is to blame for high gas prices? Quite a bit of reader feedback after this week's editorial.

Related stories

Editorial: Nearly $700 tax package worth gamble, but not secrecy that goes with it

State Senate OK's $698M economic Incentive bill to lure large manufacturing plant to state

House OKs up to $698M economic incentive package

MidAmerica Industrial Park reportedly in the running for huge electric vehicle battery plant

Editorial: Getting to the bottom of Swadley's BBQ debacle

DA requests forensic audit in Swadley's deal with Tourism as part of criminal probe

Ginnie Graham: Superintendent exodus from public schools on the horizon

Bob Doucette: We may be done with the pandemic, but the pandemic isn't done with us

Experts watch for potential summer COVID-19 surge as ER visits level off in Oklahoma

Editorial: It's easy to blame high gas prices on presidents, but it's not that simple

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Why is Senate Bill 0615 is a bad idea? If passed, the bill would restrict the ability of school councilors to help kids.

Another bill that is a bad idea is House Bill 3351. This bill allows for direct donations to teachers. It's an effort to get teachers more money, but this is not the way to go about it.

Many critics are blaming President Joe Biden for high gas prices. But, in reality, it's not his fault. A discussion on how gas prices work.

And, finally, faith and teenagers. What a new study reveled about kids and religion.

Related stories

Ginnie Graham: Youth aren't losing their religion, but they aren't leaning on it, either

Editorial: It's easy to blame high gas prices on presidents, but it's not that simple

Bob Doucette: Instead of more tax cuts, let's invest in ourselves

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Should regents overseeing Oklahoma higher education have a college degree, or is that "elitist?"

Also in this week's podcast, Ginnie Graham and Bob Doucette discuss:

New U.S. Supreme Court justice Ketanji Brown Jackson
Praising Oklahoma’s top legislative budget leaders saying they plan to go slow on more tax cuts
Criticism for legislators "knowingly passing unconstitutional bills" regarding abortion
Rep. Mullin fundraising letter's claim that the Biden administration "tried to kill me"
Hotly contested area school board elections
Recapping columns from earlier this week and previewing next columns.

Bob Doucette: New trails at Turkey Mountain welcomed me back to mountain biking

Ginnie Graham: Defining 'woman' isn't so simple

Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson will join more diverse and conservative Supreme Court. Here's what she can expect.

Editorial: Regents overseeing higher education ought to have obtained a college degree

Editorial: Top budget legislative leaders embrace true conservative approach

After passing total ban, Oklahoma House advances a Texas-style abortion ban bill

Rep. Markwayne Mullin fundraising letter claims Biden administration 'tried to kill me'

Bob Doucette: Contrary to popular belief, the Pax Americana isn't dead

Ginnie Graham: Making choices, human behavior at the center of Holocaust education

How to submit a Letter to the Editor (including candidate endorsement letters)

Letters are no more than 250 words (some as short as a couple of paragraphs). We ask for a name and city of residence, (like, "Ginnie Graham, Tulsa"). And those can be submitted by clicking here.

Contact Ginnie Graham and Bob Doucette (info below) to submit potential columns.

Editorial Editor Ginnie Graham: Email | Twitter | Follow her stories

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With the statute-mandated low school board pay and "the meanness that happens in public life," how can Oklahomans have good people run for office?

Also in this week's podcast, Ginnie Graham and Bob Doucette discuss school board elections, election grants, Gov. Kevin Stitt signing the bill banning transgender girl athletes and more.

Related content:

Voters in suburban school districts to decide on bond packages

Former DA, Memorial PTA president vie for school board seat

Incumbent faces challenge in TPS District 4 board race

Editorial: Shawna Keller's school board, classroom experience makes her best choice for TPS District 4

Editorial: Terry Keeling has track record in Jenks schools for collaboration, prioritizing all students

Editorial: Susan Lamkin proven TPS parent leader known for getting things done

Bob Doucette: Let's stop playing games with election security

D.C. Digest: Lankford, other Republicans continue to blast Biden border chief

Ginnie Graham: Let's talk about sexually active teens in Oklahoma and what lawmakers are doing about it

Guerin Emig: Transgender sports participation merits deeper thinking than politics as usual in OKC

Stitt signs bill banning transgender girl athletes: 'In Oklahoma, it is just common sense,' governor says

How to submit a Letter to the Editor (including candidate endorsement letters)

Letters are no more than 250 words (some as short as a couple of paragraphs). We ask for a name and city of residence, (like, "Ginnie Graham, Tulsa"). And those can be submitted by clicking here.

The last day we'll publish campaign-related letters for the area school board races is April 1.

Editorial Editor Ginnie Graham: Email | Twitter | Follow her stories

Editorial Writer Bob Doucette: Email | Twitter | Follow his stories

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How will the state pay for services from Oklahoma Highway Patrol, to public schools, to infrastructure with $500 million in proposed tax cuts?

Ginnie Graham and Bob Doucette also discuss latest state legislation, including the defeat of Senate Bill 1647, which would have let public tax dollars go to private schools.

Graham and Doucette also preview their weekend columns and talk SB 1225, a measure voted through the Oklahoma Senate would require parental consent for minors to access birth control or vaccinations.

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Ginnie Graham and Bob Doucette discuss questionable state legislation on a measure that would let tax dollars follow a student to a private school; a bill that would move school meal program administration from the State Department of Education to the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry.

Also, in the midst of high oil and gas prices, looking back at how Oklahoma has invested in alternative energy, including $15 million to electric car maker Canoo.

Finally, kudos to the state legislature for expanding women's health care with mammogram coverage and House Bill 3720 mandating Holocaust education in Oklahoma schools.

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Plus, paying more attention to who our leaders are. What if a nuclear bomb hits Tulsa? Judicial nominating committee has worked well. The proposal for homeless camps to abide by local building codes. An absurd way to fund public education. Celebrating the 80s college rock on Amazon.

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Email Ginnie at ginnie.graham@tulsaworld.com

Follow Bob Doucette: Twitter and Facebook. Read his stories here

Email Bob at bob.doucette@tulsaworld.com

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It's an election year, so some wild stuff is going on. Plus, a discussion on transgender athletes.

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From Ukraine to Inhofe, plenty to dive into this week.

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Plus, nonpartisan school board races looking more and more partisan, remaking Greenwood good for whole city, the Olympics and more.

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Plus, Ginnie Graham and Bob Doucette talk about weekend columns, including an idea to increase voter turnout through open primaries; 30 years of public education funding neglect and more.

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Ginnie Graham and Bob Doucette on where they agree and disagree with Gov. Kevin Stitt, who is up for re-election this year.

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Plus, the beauty of snow days, the Epic schools problem, student debt crisis and more.

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This week's topics: Turning 50. Book banning. The importance of libraries. Olympics getting political.

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Ginnie Graham and Bob Doucette tackle the ongoing teacher shortage, the dispute between the tribes and Gov. Stitt and more.

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In their weekly video, Ginnie Graham and Bob Doucette discuss the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and Dr. Martin Luther King.

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This week's topics: Frustration with local COVID testing, the insurrection one year later, gun violence and celebrating the lives of two Hollywood icons

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Deadly tornadoes in Midwest. Winter storms in Texas earlier this year. We need to have a serious discussions about how we're going to deal with deadly storms. Editorials editor Ginnie Graham and columnist Bob Doucette discuss.

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Tulsa World Editorial Editor Ginnie Graham and Editorial Writer Bob Doucette talk with newsmakers and op-ed contributors about the biggest issues in Tulsa and Oklahoma.

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