Alva Review-Courier -

This past week Oklahomans went to the polls to vote on their U.S. representatives, members of the state legislature, as well as for governor, lt. governor and other statewide and local offices. According to the State Election Board, we had over 56 percent voter turnout, which is the highest participation in any gubernatorial year since at least 1986.

Modern records were also set for the number of candidates to file for office and for turnout in a gubernatorial year primary election as well. This is exactly what it takes to make representative democracy work, and I am grateful to each of you who took the time to fulfill this important civic duty.

Just a couple of days after the elections I was back at the Capitol to chair an interim study I had requested on the impact of eastern red cedar trees on our state. This is not a native species and the damage these trees do to the environment is significant. For one thing, they drain one of our most precious natural resources: water. A single tree can take 30 gallons of water a day from the ground. They also fuel wildfires, exploding when the flames reach them, increasing the damage from these fires. It’s an issue that merits further study and discussion and one that affects the entire state.

Another issue that merits study is eminent domain. I became much more aware of the impact this can have on people’s lives as a result of the recent Windcatcher Project push. My concern is when it becomes a situation that leaves the landowners feeling bullied and low-balled. We need to make sure there are safeguards so eminent domain isn’t abused.

On another note, we just observed Veterans Day, and the 100th anniversary of the end of World War I. Our state was only a few years old when “The War to End All Wars” was fought. There are several murals inside the Capitol building paying tribute to the Oklahomans who bravely fought in that war. Oklahomans have always been willing to step up and serve their country in the armed forces in times of war and in times of peace. For all of you who have served or are currently serving in the military, I want to thank you for all you do on behalf of your state and your country.

Finally, next week our nation will celebrate another holiday: Thanksgiving. I am extremely grateful for my family, my friends and neighbors. I’m thankful for all of the opportunities I’ve had in this great country and especially grateful for the opportunity to serve each one of you in the Oklahoma State Senate. It’s a privilege I don’t take for granted and I thank you for allowing me to be your voice at the Capitol. Happy Thanksgiving to you all.

Please feel free to contact my Capitol office regarding legislative issues or other questions about state government. You can reach me by calling 405-521-5626 or emailing [email protected].