A cowboy walks into a bar...

From my brother in Chicago:

A cowboy, who just moved to Oklahoma from Texas, walks into a bar and orders three mugs of Bud. He sits in the back of the room, drinking a sip out of each one in turn. When he finishes them, he comes back to the bar and orders three more.

The bartender approaches and tells the cowboy, "You know, a mug goes flat after I draw it. It would taste better if you bought one at a time." The cowboy replies, "Well, you see, I have two brothers. One is in Arizona, the other is in Colorado. When we all left our home in Texas we promised that we'd drink this way to remember the days when we drank together. So I'm drinking one beer for each of my brothers and one for myself." The bartender admits that this is a nice custom, and leaves it there. The cowboy becomes a regular in the bar, and always drinks the same way. He orders three mugs and drinks them in turn.

One day, he comes in and only orders two mugs. All the regulars take notice and fall silent. When he comes back to the bar for the second round, the bartender says, "I don't want to intrude on your grief, but I wanted to offer my condolences on your loss."

The cowboy looks quite puzzled for a moment, then a light dawns in his eyes and he laughs.. "Oh, no, everybody's just fine," he explains, "It's just that my wife and I joined the Baptist Church and I had to quit drinking." "Hasn't affected my brothers though."

PLEASE - Vote for My Friend Barry J. Moltz's Great Small Business Book

My friend Barry Moltz has written a wonderful book entitled BAM! Delivering Customer Service in A Self Service World that has been nominated by Small Business Trends as one of the best business books of the year.

PLEASE do me a favor and take less than one minute to vote for his book. Just click here to vote for BAM! (Click the box in the upper left hand corner near his book.)

If you tell him you voted (bjmoltz@yahoo.com), he will send you the a copy of his "BAM! Customer Service Dictionary." You can learn more about and order a copy of his book by clicking here.

THANKS, everyone!!!!

The Allstate Foundation and FICO Aid Domestic Violence Victims

The Allstate Foundation recently announced they are aiding domestic violence survivors with $635,000 in new economic empowerment grants for statewide coalitions against domestic violence in eleven states. The grants will be used to support a variety of local programs focused on developing strategies to move survivors of abuse toward financial independence. The grantees’ work will center on:

Financial literacy

Individual Development Accounts (IDAs)

Job readiness activities

In addition, FICO, a leading proponent of consumer credit empowerment, is donating 500 free FICO scores for survivors involved with the Economic Empowerment Grant Program.

Better yet - FICO is offering everyone 10% off any FICO standard product through January 2010. GIf you are interested, you can visit www.myfico.com and enter CTEFICO.

To learn more about The Allstate Foundation's efforts, visit www.clicktoempower.org/.

Wanda Jo Eviage of Frederick, Oklahoma, Honored for Civic Service

Frederick, OK, City Councilwoman Wanda Jo Eviage was one of four current and former local government officials recently inducted into the Oklahoma Hall of Fame for City and County Officials. Eviage is a retired teacher who has served on the Frederick City Council for Ward 3 for 26 years. She is also a former Frederick Mayor. In addition, she has served on the Board of Trustees of the Association of South Central Oklahoma Governments (ASCOG) for 19 years, including nine years on the executive committee, where she became the first female president of the 39 member board. Congratulations, Councilwoman Eviage!

Okie Gift Idea: Fat Daddy Sweets

Oklahoman Alicia Helsley makes gourmet homemade candy that even Martha Stewart loves. Her fans say it is addictive. Peanut brittle, peanut butter cups, nut clusters, dark chocolate dipped candied orange peel, caramels, English toffee, chocolate covered cherries, and numerous kinds of truffles (how does Kahlua truffles sound?). And she'll ship but if you are in Oklahoma City you can pick up and save on shipping. Visit her website at http://www.fatdaddysweets.com.

Judy Love Honored by Oklahoma City University

Oklahoma City University's Meinders School of Business recently inducted five into the Oklahoma Commerce and Industry Hall of Honor. One of the honorees was Oklahoma businesswoman Judy Love who received a Lifetime Achievement Award. Judy and her husband, Tom, founded Love's Travel Stops and Country Stores. She serves on the board of many civic organizations including the Oklahoma City Community Foundation, St. Anthony Hospital, Oklahoma City University, and the Oklahoma Museum of Art.  Read more here.

Okie Women, Not Receiving Your Child Support? Try DHS

If you live in Oklahoma and are not receiving your child support payments, you might visit with the Oklahome Department of Human Services Child Support Enforcement Office. Over the last 10 years, they have tripled their collections from $96 million in 1998 to $299 million in 2008. They are authorized to intercept federal monies including tax returns, Social Security payments, unemployment benefits, and more if a parent is in arrears on child support. They can even revoke a state license to practice! Give DHS a chance to help. For more information, go to   http://www.ok.gov/dac/District_Attorneys_Council_Divisions/Child_Support_Enforcement/index.html.

WHP report issued: Benchmarking Women's Leadership

The White House Project* has issued a report entitled Benchmarking Women's Leadership.   It is 132 pages long and full of good data. It looks at women in leadership in academia, business, film and television entertainment, journalism, law, the military, the nonprofit sector, politics, religion and sports.  Each section concludes with a set of recommendations for closing the leadership gap. You can view the report as a PDF file by clicking HERE.

*The White House Project is a nonpartisan, nonprofit, 501c(3) organization that aims to advance women’s leadership in all communities and sectors—up to the U.S. presidency—by filling the leadership pipeline with a richly diverse, critical mass of women.

Media Matters: What's with all the rape talk by the media these days?

This is from Media Matters. Why does ANY ONE like using the rape metaphor at all?

300 Oklahoma City 7th Graders Attend "Girls Take Action" Summit

Today 300 middle school students in the Oklahoma City Public School District met at Douglass High School for a special program entitled "If You Think It, You Can Do It! ~ Girls Take Action Summit."

The girls were exposed to fields where women can be leaders and where women are underrepresented across our state and nation (politics, science, technology and math). They were challenged to consider how they can be a leader in their circle of influence.  They have the opportunity to become ambassadors for their schools by establishing "Take Action" after-school clubs built around 1) S.T.E.M. (science, technology, engineering and Math), 2) robotics technology, 3) forever green community action programs, and 4) healthy living.

Participants got to meet mentors (Oklahoma women leaders) who have made strides in S.T.E.M. fields, politics and community leadership. Mentors included State Representative Anastasia Pittman (pictured on the left); Terri Silver, President of the Oklahoma State Parent Teacher Association; Susan Bohl, Girl Scouts - Western Oklahoma, Inc.; and Angela Monson, Oklahoma City Public School Board Chair and former State Senator.

At Douglass High School today, the participants attended workshops centered around three themes. The first theme was S.T.E.M. and the workshops were on "Mystery Powders;" "Human Body Works," " Paper Towel Testing," "Weather;" "LEGO Robotics," and "Botball Robotics." The second theme was self-esteem  and girls could choose workshops on "Uniquely Me! Me, Myself & I;" ""Uniquely Me! The 'Me" in Media;" "Uniquely Me! Serene Scene;" and "Uniquely Me! Truth and Consequences." The third set of workshops were based on Girl Scouts Green Community Action Projects. "Green Space" let girls learn about creating green space, improving green space and integrating green space into school activities. "Waste Management" focused on composting, recycling, and other ways to help the environment.  The "Energy" workshop dealt with things the girls can do to make a difference in their own lives to help the environment.

Kuddos to those making this inaugural program possible: Girl Scouts - Western Oklahoma, Inc.; the Carl Albert Congressional Research and Studies Center's "Women's Leadership Initiative;" the Oklahoma City Public School District, and the Oklahoma State Parent Teacher Association.

Rape Kit Backlog Bill Introduced in US House of Reps

Representatives Carolyn Maloney (D-NY) and Dean Heller (R-NV) introduced a bill today in the House to address the national crisis of untested rape kit backlogs. The Justice for Survivors of Sexual Assault Act of 2009 is the House version of a Senate bill introduced earlier this month.

According to Human Rights Watch, there are approximately 200,000 reported rapes each year and, in most cases, DNA evidence is collected and stored in a "rape kit." In 2004, Congress passed the Debbie Smith Act, which authorized the use of federal funds to test DNA kits. However, the law did not specify that the DNA kits be rape kits. Earlier this year, Human Rights Watch discovered that Los Angeles had a backlog of over 12,500 untested rape kits in spite of having received about $8 million Debbie Smith Act funds. Other cities, such as Detroit, have a backlog of 10,000 untested rape kits or more.

There are no current national statistics regarding the number of untested rape kits, because no state or federal laws mandate law enforcement agencies collect this information. Some estimates suggest the total number of untested kits is over 180,000.

Congresswoman Maloney said in a press release, "Every two minutes someone is sexually assaulted somewhere in the United States. DNA evidence doesn't forget and it cannot be intimidated...By processing this evidence, we can prevent rapists from attacking more innocent victims and ensure that the survivors and their families receive justice."

If passed, financial incentives would be introduced to process rape kit backlogs quickly, require that jurisdictions receiving Debbie Smith funds use them for rape kit testing, and would mandate that these jurisdictions have a plan to reduce their rape kit backlog by 50 percent in two years. The bill also creates a mechanism for collecting national data on rape kit backlogs and addresses the lack of trained medical professionals to process the kits. The bill would eliminate the common practice of rape survivors paying for the costs of processing the rape kits.

Media Resources: Representative Carolyn B. Maloney Press Release 11/19/09; HR 4114; Feminist Daily Newswire 11/9/09; Human Rights Watch News 11/5/09

Battered Women Find Way Back Into Job Force After Abuse (YWCA-OKC)

The YWCA in Oklahoma has opened a renovated Economic Empowerment Center and is extending programming for domestic violence victims

OKLAHOMA CITY (Oct. 16, 2009)

Lack of economic resources is often cited as the number one reason victims of domestic violence return to their abuser. The YWCA Oklahoma City helps eliminate this barrier through its Economic Empowerment program, which teaches financial literacy, job readiness and computer skills to victims. With help from The Allstate Foundation, the YWCA has renovated its business technology center and put a renewed focus on economic programming to continue to help women on the road to self-sufficiency.

On November 18 the YWCA hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony for its newly renovated Economic Empowerment Business Technology Center. The center includes all new computers, flooring, desks, paint and décor along with new programming offered to women. A $10,000 grant from The Allstate Foundation and many dedicated volunteers from Allstate offices in the Oklahoma City Metro Area made the renovations possible.

“The makeover will give us the tools we need to help even more women get back on their feet after escaping abuse,” said Janet L. Peery, YWCA CEO. “From getting back into the work force to learning how to balance a check book, these skills are crucial for self-sufficiency.”

In the current economic climate, job readiness is essential for victims of domestic violence who are often left to compete for the same entry-level positions as laid-off professionals. Teaching computer programs and other job skills will be a renewed focus of the YWCA’s Economic Empowerment program.

The business technology center will have set hours for drop-ins, a weekly class schedule and will accept individual consulting appointments—all free for victims of domestic violence. Members of the community can get involved by volunteering to teach a class and share their knowledge with those in need.

The ribbon cutting ceremony was held at the YWCA Gaylord building and showcased the updates and remodel of the center, as well as an overview of the renewed programming.

The YWCA Oklahoma City is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice and dignity for all. The YWCA Oklahoma City is best known as the only shelter for battered women and children in Oklahoma County. More than 18,000 women, children and men receive help through YWCA programs, including emergency shelter for battered women and children, counseling, support groups, child care, transitional housing, financial literacy, batterer's intervention and other services. Ongoing community outreach efforts of the YWCA provide education on the issues of domestic and family violence, the empowerment of women and strategies to end racism. For more information on the YWCA Oklahoma City, visit www.ywcaokc.org.

Ritze Proposed Legislation to Prevent Sex Offenders From Getting Light Sentences

OKLAHOMA CITY (November 20, 2009) –

State Rep. Mike Ritze announced today that if a special session of the Legislature is called, he plans to introduce legislation that would prevent sex offenders from receiving ludicrously light sentences, such as in the David Earls case in Pittsburg County.

“David Earls, a child rapist, should not have under any circumstances received a one-year sentence for such a heinous crime,” Ritze, R-Broken Arrow, said. “I are going to ensure that such a case cannot again occur in Oklahoma by filing legislation to mandate legislative overview in such a case.”

David Earls was convicted of raping a 4-year-old child but through an agreement with the district attorney, received only a one-year sentence.

“This case made national news and certainly got my attention,” Ritze said. “We would be remiss not to take steps to prevent such a further occurence of injustice.”

Source. Oklahoma House of representatives Media Division

Dec 8, Noon, OKC: Free Lecture on Why Families Have Children But Choose Not to Commit to Marriage

Edin to Discuss the Instability and Complexity of Families

OKLAHOMA CAPITOL -- Kathy Edin, Ph.D., will open a dialog on why families have children but choose not to commit to marriage at noon, Dec. 8 at the Oklahoma History Center , 2401 N. Laird Ave. , Oklahoma City .

Through research on poverty and family relationships, Edin will provide insight on why many poor families choose not to marry. She will also discuss the basis for the Family Expectations program currently being utilized by the Oklahoma Marriage Initiative.

Edin is a professor of public policy at the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University . She received her doctoral degree in sociology from Northwestern University . Her research focuses on urban poverty and family life, social welfare, housing policy, child support, non-marital childbearing and the economic lives of the poor. Her recent publications include “Unmarried Couples with Children” and “Promises I Can Keep: Why Poor Women Put Motherhood Before Marriage.”

All lectures are sponsored by Oklahoma Department of Human Services Office of Planning, Research and Statistics and University of Oklahoma Center for Public Management. In addition, this lecture is sponsored by Oklahoma Marriage Initiative and OKDHS Family Support Services Division. This yearlong series provides thought-provoking presentations by experts in their fields on Oklahoma ’s emerging policy issues, trends and best practices. The lectures are free and open to the public.

For additional information, visit http://oucpm.org/lectureseries or contact Cecilia Tannehill at (405) 521-3552.

Dec 2-3 Summit on Violence Against Indian Women in Oklahoma

Please spread the word about "Journey to Justice" -- a summit on violence against Indian women in Oklahoma that will be December 2 and 3, 2009 in Oklahoma City at the Sheraton Hotel. This event is sponsored by the Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) and is being coordinated by the Institute for Native Justice (INJ) of the American Indian Resource Center in Tahlequah, OK.

On December 2nd from 9:00 a.m. until noon there will be pre-conference training for Oklahoma Indian country professionals who would like to learn more about how to appropriately identify and respond to the needs of Indian victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault and stalking.
On December 2, 2009 at 1:00 p.m., Summit opening ceremonies will begin.

The purpose of the Summit is to bring together key stakeholders and representatives from tribal, state, local, and federal agencies to discuss how to improve the systemic response to violence against Indian women in Oklahoma. Tribal leaders, law enforcement officers, prosecutors, judges, victim advocates, and others are invited to join us to share information about the unique challenges that they face in addressing incidents of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking that occur in Oklahoma Indian country.

On the evening of the 2nd, a reception will be held to honor Lt. Governor Jefferson Keel of the Chickasaw Nation and newly elected President of the National Congress of American Indians. Lt. Governor Keel will deliver the summit keynote on December 3rd. The reception is sponsored by the Oklahoma Gaming Commission. All Summit participants are welcome.

On December 3rd, the Summit will continue beginning with a networking breakfast featuring innovative programs being offered by Oklahoma tribes. This event will be followed by the keynote address by Lt. Governor Jefferson Keel of the Chickasaw Nation. Tribal, community, federal, and state participants will have an opportunity to engage in a dialogue on the issues of violence against Indian women during the late morning and afternoon breakout sessions. These work sessions will be organized according to regions that correlate with the districts of the U.S. Attorneys in Oklahoma. Our luncheon speaker is Chris Chaney, Deputy Director from the Office of Tribal Justice, Department of Justice.

The deadline to reserve a room at the special conference rate $83/night + tax is November 17, 2009. Please see the attached registration form for details. Please also complete and submit one registration form for each individual who will attend the Summit. Follow the instructions on the form to return it to INJ. The deadline for registration is November 20, 2009.Please contact Robin Gann at INJ (Email: robin.gann@aircinc.org ) if you have any questions.

Be sure to register by November 20 since attendance is limited to 300 persons.

March of Dimes 2009 Premature Birth Report Card Gives Oklahoma an "F"

Today is the release of March of Dimes' second annual Premature Birth Report Card. America receives a "D" (i.e., as a country, we are failing to give our babies the healthy start they deserve). Sadly, Oklahoma got an "F." Click here to view Oklahoma's report card.  Clearly, we have a long way to go. In fact, before the end of this year, more than half a million babies will be born too soon, some very sick.

It’s Prematurity Awareness Day® — the day when we're all focused on the terrible toll of premature birth on babies and families. The report card reminds us how urgent the problem is. But with the support of people like you, we can continue to fund lifesaving research and programs.

If you haven't already, I hope you'll visit the March of Dimes Web site and join their fight for preemies.

Edmond Women's Club hosts Holiday Home Tour and Winter Market November 21-22

The  Edmond Women's Club is hosting a Holiday Home Tour and Winter Market on Saturday, November 21 from 10am to 6 pm and Sunday November 22, 12 to 5pm. Lots of Oklahoma vendors  for your Christmas shopping. Learn more and buy tickets at http://www.ewc.org.

On Detecting Teen dating Violence

On Twitter, @startstrong says, "Hey parents! Here is your video guide to detecting teen dating abuse: http://tiny.cc/pdjl5".

Do you know what some of the warning signs are that parents should be on the lookout for with their teen?

There are also good resources at the National Youth Violence Prevention Resource Center (aka SafeYouth.org) and the Love Is Not Abuse web site sponsored by Liz Claiborne.

What local resources do you know of that can help you recognize and respond to teen dating abuse?

Men Can Stop Rape and Domestic Violence

On Twitter, @MenCanStopRape asks, "Need a gender violence prevention program at your school or youth-serving organization? Apply for MOST Club Training Jan 21-22 in Washington, DC." (see http://bit.ly/AV3ML).  According to their web site,

Men Can Stop Rape, Inc. (MCSR) is an international organization that mobilizes men to use their strength for creating cultures free from violence, especially men’s violence against women. MCSR provides agencies, schools, and organizations with direct services for youth, public service messaging, and leadership training. In contrast to traditional efforts that address men as “the problem,” MCSR’s pioneering Strength Campaign embraces men as vital allies with the will and character to make healthy choices and foster safe, equitable relationships. Our youth development programming, public education messaging, and leadership training together constitute a unified and comprehensive campaign that has been launched in states and cities around the country. Learn more about our programs here.

Yeah for them; is there a chapter in Oklahoma? If not, let's start one!

How to Help a Victim of Domestic Violence or Sexual Assault

The WomensLaw.org web site has good information for people who are trying to help victims or survivors of domestic violence or sexual assault. This includes information for professionals, as well as information for friends and family members. Check it out at http://www.womenslaw.org/simple.php?sitemap_id=8

Shoppers: Check Out the Made In Oklahoma Web Site

Thanks to Becky McCray of Alva (on Twitter as @beckymccray) for pointing out the new "Made in Oklahoma" web site; check it out at http://ow.ly/zQnk. You can follow MIO on Twitter at @MIO_Coalition and become a Fan of MIO on Facebook.

I sadly recommend Leo Laporte's Blog World 2009 talk

We all have our mentors and heroes. In computers and blogging, two of my biggest heroes are Dave Weinberger and Leo Laporte. In fact, I was thrilled to hear Leo was going to speak at Blog World this year. And I actually got within 6 feet of him (see pic)-- in line, waiting for my chance to say "Hello."  Just as it got to be my turn, Leo looked up and saw a friend. "Hey, good to see you," he said as he strolled over to him and they walked off together. There I stood, alone, embarrassed, crushed. So my hero morphed into just another famous name.

I still listen to his podcasts faithfully and amaze at how much he knows and how well he can make it clear to we novices. If you want to know why I think what he is doing (see TWIT TV) is so exciting, watch his presentation at  http://www.mycontent.com/blogworld#product=3784  

Oh, and yes; the reason I have such a good photo from Leo's talk is because I was sitting front row center. The glow may be gone but he is still "the man."

American Indian Culture Center And Museum

Anyone else getting excited about the American Indian Culture Center and Museum that is under construction in Oklahoma City? What are you looking forward to most?  Exhibitions?   The Smithsonian Collections? Family Discovery Center? Film & Performance Venues?  The Oral History Theater?  Check out their website HERE.

Do we need a new name for heart disease in women?

Recently cardiologists suggested that heart disease in women should be called ischemic heart disease because it is different from the coronary artery version most common in men. They said the change could help focus attention on the greater symptom burden, functional disability and adverse outcomes experienced by women. Read full article by clicking here.

Oklahoma Federation of Business Women has a Blog

It is a long story but suffice it to say what once was the Oklahoma Chapter of the National Federation of Business and Professional Women is now the Oklahoma Federation of Business Women, Inc. Here is their website and their weblog.

OSU study shows state unkind to women, despite their ballot box control

From The Stillwater NewsPress, Nov 7, 20009:

OSU study: State unkind to women despite their control of ballot box

NewsPress Staff
 
A new study shows a solid majority of Oklahoma voters are women, but that fact has not led to positive changes for women politically, socially or economically, Oklahoma State University Regents Professor Bob Darcy said.

Students in Darcy’s class randomly sampled over 15,000 voters last summer to compare party registration, age distributions and voting rates and found that women made up a solid majority of the most politically involved residents in Oklahoma, those affiliated with the two major political parties.

The statistically-viable sampling process confirmed that women accounted for an estimated 58 percent of the registered Democrats and 53 percent of the Republicans. Men, on the other hand, made up only one majority—those categorized as “less involved independents” at 53 percent. A recent example, about 153,000 more women cast ballots in Oklahoma in last November’s elections compared to men voters.

“I believe the students uncovered a paradox. We live in a state controlled by women voters with a reputation of being unfriendly to women,” Darcy said.

The study compares the students’ findings to several available statistics on women in Oklahoma, including figures that show Oklahoma has the second lowest proportion of women in its legislature (11.4 percent); it is ranked 42nd in appointing women to policy positions; it incarcerates its female population at a rate that is 143 percent higher than the national average; ranks 47th in overall women’s health; 41st in proportion of women living above the poverty level (85.6 percent); 49th in uninsured women of childbearing age (15-44) and 45th in uninsured children (under age 19).

Based on the voting analysis and overall statistics, Darcy suggested the conclusions are limited. “Either Oklahoma women want things the way they are and use their voting and political power to ensure Oklahoma stays the way it is, or Oklahoma has not offered sufficient candidates that appeal to Oklahoma women and their interests,” he said.

OSU political science students Cordon DeKock, Charles England, Evan Hadaway, Kyle Kassen and Phyllis McLemore presented the study’s findings at a recent meeting of the Oklahoma Political Science Association at East Central University in Ada.

What are "Working Women" Issues?

What do you think of when I say "women and work issues?" It is a big issue area isn't it! Obviously there is child care, sexual harassment, paid sick leave, flex-time, access to a quality education for low-income students including single mothers, equal pay for equal work, etc. What other issues come to mind that should be included in this area?

If you'd like to learn more and stay informed about working women's issues, one good source of information at the national level is WomenEmployed.org. You can follow them on Twitter and Facebook and sign up for their newsletter HERE.  And here is a HuffPost article on women and work. 

N.E.W. Leadership Alumnae Event

Thank you to N.E.W. Leadership (NEW) graduate Leslie Blair (she is on Twitter as @lablair) for recently opening her lovely home to NEW alum, friends, donors, and supporters. NEW is one of the great programs of Oklahoma's Women's Leadership Initiative.

There was lots of reconnecting, new relationship building, and delicious food (thanks to Nonna's).
We also had brief remarks from Leslie Blair, Jenna Holt, Laura Boyd (White House Council on Women and Girls), Cindy Rosenthal and Katie Fitzgerald (with the Women's Leadership Initiative) and me! :-)

Among those present were representatives from three of our dear supporters (in alphabetical order) - Lt. Gov. Jari Askins, Attorney General Drew Edmondson and US Congresswoman Mary Fallin. Corporation Commissioner Dana Murphy was also present and many other Oklahoma women leaders.I had a blast and sincerely hope that there will be another N.E.W. Leadership alumnae gathering soon!

How About a "Ladies Night Out" in OKC at The Melting Pot on Nov 16

We are all stretched and stressed and need a break. So here is something fun you might do with some girlfriends:

WHAT: Ladies’ Night Out Featuring items from Kokopelli (12100 N May Ave)
WHERE: The Melting Pot, 4 E. Sheridan Ave., in Bricktown
WHEN: Monday, Nov 16, 2009

Ladies can shop the fun and contemporary fashions of Kokopelli, featuring chunky jewelry, eclectic and classical apparel, purses and accessories. Door prizes will be available. Enjoy four-course fondue for $35 per person, plus tax and gratuity. Call (405) 235-1000 or visit www.meltingpot.com for reservations. Reservations available all evening beginning at 5pm.

Urban League Honors Susan G. Komen of Central OK

The Urban League of Greater Oklahoma City Inc honored Central Oklahoma Susan G. Komen for the Cure at the Urban League's recent 2009 Awards Luncheon. Both are remarkable organizations led by equally remarkable women (Valerie Thompson and Lorna Palmer respectfully).  

The Oklahoman Calls for Lowering Incarceration Rates for Oklahoma Women

Kuddos to The Oklahoman for calling for reduced rates of incarceration of women in Oklahoma. We are number one in the US and in the developed world. Makes you so proud (not). See their Sunday, Nov 1, 2009 editorial, "Creative solutions a must to lower female prison rate." at http://bit.ly/3ptRCc/.

"Wilkommen zuhause" Oklahoma Rep Joe Dorman

Don't know why you were in Germany, but see from Twitter that you are home. Hope it (what ever it was) went well.

2009 Memes, "United Breaks Guitars," Flying's Not Fun Anymore

Why I love Twitter... A Tweet by Pete Cashmore of Mashable: "The Top Internet Memes of 2009" (which was actually written by Christina Warren of Mashable).  I do love "David After the Dentist" but my favorite is "United Breaks Guitars." Check out the whole list for a good chuckle at http://bit.ly/1Da6Yk!



(You know you are old when you stand in line at airports and say, "I remember when flying was fun...")

Oh - and my apologies to American Airline. I originally had the title of this post wrong; I wrote "American Breaks Guitars." Ha, ha, ha. That was surely a Freudian slip! I don't fly United much but American has managed to take the joy of flying and grind it like an old cigarette butt into the ground. Dead. Gone. Ended. Done. Over. Never to be seen again. I sort of like Southwest Air these days. How about you? Who is your least liked airline these days and who is your preferred carrier?