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 Click here to submit a letter to the editor Contact us Editorial Editor Ginnie Graham: Email | Twitter | Follow her stories Subscribe to this podcast at: Apple | Google | Spotify

"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 Click here to submit a letter to the editor Contact us Editorial Editor Ginnie Graham: Email | Twitter | Follow her stories Subscribe to this podcast at: Apple | Google | Spotify

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.   Subscribe to this podcast at: Apple | Google | Spotify 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? Contact us Editorial Editor Ginnie Graham: Email | Twitter | Follow her stories Subscribe to this podcast at: Apple | Google | Spotify

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 Click here to submit a letter to the editor Contact us Editorial Editor Ginnie Graham: Email | Twitter | Follow her stories Subscribe to this podcast at: Apple | Google | Spotify

"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 Click here to submit a letter to the editor Contact us Editorial Editor Ginnie Graham: Email | Twitter | Follow her stories Subscribe to this podcast at: Apple | Google | Spotify

"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. Click here to submit a letter to the editor Contact us Editorial Editor Ginnie Graham: Email | Twitter | Follow her stories Subscribe to this podcast at: Apple | Google | Spotify

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 Ginnie Graham: Holocaust education gives lessons to make sense of today's difficult times Ginnie Graham: Making choices, human behavior at the center of Holocaust education Editorial: Holocaust education opens door to hard discussions, true history 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 Click here to submit a letter to the editor Contact us Editorial Editor Ginnie Graham: Email | Twitter | Follow her stories Subscribe to this podcast at: Apple | Google | Spotify

"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? Related content: 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 Click here to submit a letter to the editor Contact us Editorial Editor Ginnie Graham: Email | Twitter | Follow her stories Subscribe to this podcast at: Apple | Google | Spotify

"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. Related content: 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 Click here to submit a letter to the editor Contact us Editorial Editor Ginnie Graham: Email | Twitter | Follow her stories Subscribe to this podcast at: Apple | Google | Spotify

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. 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. 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 Click here to submit a letter to the editor Contact us Editorial Editor Ginnie Graham: Email | Twitter | Follow her stories Subscribe to this podcast at: Apple | Google | Spotify

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 Contact us Editorial Editor Ginnie Graham: Email | Twitter | Follow her stories Editorial Writer Bob Doucette: Email | Twitter | Follow his stories Click here to submit a letter to the editor Subscribe to this podcast at: Apple | Google | Spotify

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 Contact us Editorial Editor Ginnie Graham: Email | Twitter | Follow her stories Editorial Writer Bob Doucette: Email | Twitter | Follow his stories Click here to submit a letter to the editor Subscribe to this podcast at: Apple | Google | Spotify

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 Contact us Editorial Editor Ginnie Graham: Email | Twitter | Follow her stories Editorial Writer Bob Doucette: Email | Twitter | Follow his stories Click here to submit a letter to the editor Subscribe to this podcast at: Apple | Google | Spotify

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? 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. 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? Click here to submit a letter to the editor Contact us Editorial Editor Ginnie Graham: Email | Twitter | Follow her stories Subscribe to this podcast at: Apple | Google | Spotify

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 2022 midterm elections: Follow all of our local coverage here 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 Click here to submit a letter to the editor Contact us Editorial Editor Ginnie Graham: Email | Twitter | Follow her stories Editorial Writer Bob Doucette: Email | Twitter | Follow his stories Subscribe to this podcast at: Apple | Google | Spotify

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 2022 Oklahoma election coverage: Previews from statewide and local races 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) Contact us Editorial Editor Ginnie Graham: Email | Twitter | Follow her stories Editorial Writer Bob Doucette: Email | Twitter | Follow his stories Subscribe to this podcast at: Apple | Google | Spotify

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? 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. 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 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 Contact us Editorial Editor Ginnie Graham: Email | Twitter | Follow her stories Subscribe to this podcast at: Apple | Google | Spotify 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)

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 Contact us Editorial Editor Ginnie Graham: Email | Twitter | Follow her stories Editorial Writer Bob Doucette: Email | Twitter | Follow his stories Subscribe to this podcast at: Apple | Google | Spotify 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)

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 Contact us Editorial Editor Ginnie Graham: Email | Twitter | Follow her stories Editorial Writer Bob Doucette: Email | Twitter | Follow his stories Subscribe to this podcast at: Apple | Google | Spotify 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)

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 Contact us Editorial Editor Ginnie Graham: Email | Twitter | Follow her stories Editorial Writer Bob Doucette: Email | Twitter | Follow his stories 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)

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 Contact us Editorial Editor Ginnie Graham: Email | Twitter | Follow her stories Editorial Writer Bob Doucette: Email | Twitter | Follow his stories 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)

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 Contact us Editorial Editor Ginnie Graham: Email | Twitter | Follow her stories Editorial Writer Bob Doucette: Email | Twitter | Follow his stories 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)

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 Contact us Editorial Editor Ginnie Graham: Email | Twitter | Follow her stories Editorial Writer Bob Doucette: Email | Twitter | Follow his stories 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)

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 Contact us Editorial Editor Ginnie Graham: Email | Twitter | Follow her stories Editorial Writer Bob Doucette: Email | Twitter | Follow his stories 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)

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. 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. Related content: 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 Contact us Editorial Editor Ginnie Graham: Email | Twitter | Follow her stories Click here to submit a letter to the editor

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: Higher education deepens inequities, and government must fix it Ginnie Graham: Banning books all the rage in conservative circles Contact us Editorial Editor Ginnie Graham: Email | Twitter | Follow her stories Editorial Writer Bob Doucette: Email | Twitter | Follow his stories 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)

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 owed a full explanation of what happened in Afghanistan One year after Afghanistan evacuations, local services help Tulsa refugees build new lives Editorial: Senate does veterans wrong by stalling toxic burn pit legislation $150k grant, other funding to help Afghan refugees in Tulsa with transportation Editorial: Don't forget refugees as victims of war They fled Afghanistan for their lives. Now, two refugee brothers, 13 children, have a home, new hope in Tulsa Biden's first year furiously denounced by Oklahoma's political leaders D.C. Digest: Inhofe wants more Afghanistan hearings Oklahoma's high-ranking count of Afghan refugees a 'testament' to state's heart, official says Rep. Mullin resurfaces, says he's OK and 'helping get Americans out of Afghanistan' State lawmakers who served in Afghanistan have mixed feelings about troop withdrawal Watch Now: Oklahoma Gov. Stitt responds to President Biden's address on Afghanistan 2 Oklahoma congressmen clash with White House over student loan forgiveness Student loan crisis awaits new generation despite Biden plan City Council puts homeless ordinances on hold, establishes working group to examine issue Editorial: TPS needs champions to defend against unfair political targeting Watch Now: State Board of Education denies HB 1775 accreditation challenges from TPS, Mustang Ryan Walters calls to revoke certification of Norman teacher who resigned over HB 1775 Ginnie Graham: Banning books all the rage in conservative circles Contact us Editorial Editor Ginnie Graham: Email | Twitter | Follow her stories Editorial Writer Bob Doucette: Email | Twitter | Follow his stories 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)

Total bans versus allowing exceptions on abortion can become a question of religion, science, rights and politics. Ginnie Graham interviews author Barry Friedman about the issue in this week's bonus podcast. 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. 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 Contact us Editorial Editor Ginnie Graham: Email | Twitter | Follow her stories Click here to submit a letter to the editor

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 Five Tulsa city councilors reelected; three others face runoffs Tulsa voters approve amendments to City Charter Watch Now: Stitt’s secretary of education wins GOP runoff in state superintendent race Markwayne Mullin, Madison Horn celebrate Senate runoff victories Osborn, Russ, David advance from runoffs in state secondary office races Seifried defeats Jackson in state Senate District 2 GOP runoff Brecheen edges Frix in runoff for Markwayne Mullin's congressional seat Ginnie Graham: TCC bucking trend through its success with student services Contact us Editorial Editor Ginnie Graham: Email | Twitter | Follow her stories Editorial Writer Bob Doucette: Email | Twitter | Follow his stories 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)

Banning books is back in style. Ginnie Graham interviews author Barry Friedman about the issue in this week's bonus podcast. 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. 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 Contact us Editorial Editor Ginnie Graham: Email | Twitter | Follow her stories Click here to submit a letter to the editor

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 Nine City Council seats, three charter amendments on the ballot beginning Thursday We asked every City Councilor candidate the same 11 questions. Here are their answers on a variety of topics facing Tulsa Editorial: Tulsa voters ought to support upcoming three City Charter amendments Endorsement: For Jeannie Cue in Tulsa City Council District 2 Endorsement: For Connie Dodson for Tulsa City Council District 6 Endorsement: For Lori Decter Wright for Tulsa City Council District 7 Endorsement: For Phil Lakin for Tulsa City Council District 8 Superintendent, three other statewide races to GOP runoff Primary runoff races include labor commissioner, state treasurer 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 From the Enid News & Eagle: Superintendent clarifies Enid Public Schools stance on removing books from libraries Bob Doucette: Today's anti-government rhetoric dangerously close to that of 1995 Bob Doucette: Four questions about the FBI's search of Mar-a-Lago Ginnie Graham: Back to school is getting more expensive Contact us Editorial Editor Ginnie Graham: Email | Twitter | Follow her stories Editorial Writer Bob Doucette: Email | Twitter | Follow his stories Click here to submit a letter to the editor (Note: endorsement letters will not be published from Saturday-Tuesday ahead of an election, including the Aug. 23 runoff)

Representative John Waldron joins Ginnie Graham and Barry Friedman to discuss the problems with this bill, and there are many. Related Click here to read the bill Tulsa schools' violation cited in legal challenge to HB 1775 Audio from TPS implicit bias training was a voice reading presentation slides verbatim Editorial: State Education Board's vote illustrates pitfalls of HB 1775 Ginnie Graham: Don't let the public school bullies win Watch Now: Stitt signs controversial bill that limits in-school instruction on race, gender and history Contact us Editorial Editor Ginnie Graham: Email | Twitter | Follow her stories Editorial Writer Bob Doucette: Email | Twitter | Follow his stories Click here to submit a letter to the editor

Don't mess with librarians? Ginnie Graham notes that the FBI search of Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago residence for National Archives documents was similar to librarians seeking overdue checkouts. Bob Doucette cautioned against quick responses and rhetoric. Plus, more on HB 1775 worries with Tulsa Public School accreditation and state funding of agencies versus tax cuts (that are easy to approve, but difficult for legislators to overturn). 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 Contact us Editorial Editor Ginnie Graham: Email | Twitter | Follow her stories Editorial Writer Bob Doucette: Email | Twitter | Follow his stories Click here to submit a letter to the editor

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. 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. 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 Contact us Editorial Editor Ginnie Graham: Email | Twitter | Follow her stories Click here to submit a letter to the editor

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 Contact us Editorial Editor Ginnie Graham: Email | Twitter | Follow her stories Editorial Writer Bob Doucette: Email | Twitter | Follow his stories Click here to submit a letter to the editor

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? 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. 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 Contact us Editorial Editor Ginnie Graham: Email | Twitter | Follow her stories Click here to submit a letter to the editor

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 Contact us Editorial Editor Ginnie Graham: Email | Twitter | Follow her stories Editorial Writer Bob Doucette: Email | Twitter | Follow his stories Click here to submit a letter to the editor

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? Contact us Editorial Editor Ginnie Graham: Email | Twitter | Follow her stories Editorial Writer Bob Doucette: Email | Twitter | Follow his stories Click here to submit a letter to the editor

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 Contact us Editorial Editor Ginnie Graham: Email | Twitter | Follow her stories Editorial Writer Bob Doucette: Email | Twitter | Follow his stories Click here to submit a letter to the editor

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 Contact us Editorial Editor Ginnie Graham: Email | Twitter | Follow her stories Editorial Writer Bob Doucette: Email | Twitter | Follow his stories Click here to submit a letter to the editor

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 Contact us Editorial Editor Ginnie Graham: Email | Twitter | Follow her stories Editorial Writer Bob Doucette: Email | Twitter | Follow his stories Click here to submit a letter to the editor

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 Contact us Editorial Editor Ginnie Graham: Email | Twitter | Follow her stories Editorial Writer Bob Doucette: Email | Twitter | Follow his stories Click here to submit a letter to the editor

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 Contact us Editorial Editor Ginnie Graham: Email | Twitter | Follow her stories Editorial Writer Bob Doucette: Email | Twitter | Follow his stories Click here to submit a letter to the editor

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 Contact the writers Editorial Editor Ginnie Graham: Email | Twitter | Follow her stories Editorial Writer Bob Doucette: Email | Twitter | Follow his stories Click here to submit a letter to the editor

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 Contact the writers Editorial Editor Ginnie Graham: Email | Twitter | Follow her stories Editorial Writer Bob Doucette: Email | Twitter | Follow his stories Click here to submit a letter to the editor

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 Contact the writers Editorial Editor Ginnie Graham: Email | Twitter | Follow her stories Editorial Writer Bob Doucette: Email | Twitter | Follow his stories Click here to submit a letter to the editor

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 Contact the writers Editorial Editor Ginnie Graham: Email | Twitter | Follow her stories Editorial Writer Bob Doucette: Email | Twitter | Follow his stories Click here to submit a letter to the editor

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 Contact the writers Editorial Editor Ginnie Graham: Email | Twitter | Follow her stories Editorial Writer Bob Doucette: Email | Twitter | Follow his stories Click here to submit a letter to the editor

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 Contact the writers Editorial Editor Ginnie Graham: Email | Twitter | Follow her stories Editorial Writer Bob Doucette: Email | Twitter | Follow his stories Click here to submit a letter to the editor

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 Contact the writers Editorial Editor Ginnie Graham: Email | Twitter | Follow her stories Editorial Writer Bob Doucette: Email | Twitter | Follow his stories Click here to submit a letter to the editor