Chris Smith

Following the re-election of Mayor Mick Cornett, some are questioning this and asking what direction we’re going. Specifically, some are questioning where we should be spending MAPS dollars. Criticizing MAPS has become a ratings bonanza for some, and it’s an easy way to attract attention in this community. However, for those of us who are […]

Republican legislative leadership recently unveiled its 2010 legislative agenda. In it, they outlined their hope of targeting reforms to Oklahoma’s education system, workers’ compensation system and modernizing state government. Additionally, individual legislators have announced specific legislation related to everything from reforming marriage to cutting taxes. However, the only issue certain to be discussed this session […]

I’ve never heard it said that a prenuptial agreement could save the world, but I’m starting to believe that it may be able to actually save a few marriages. As an attorney who works with divorcing couples on a daily basis, I’ve had a professional perspective on the issue. However, with many friends and acquaintances […]

The policy of “government knows best” in Oklahoma has created a leviathan of sorts when it comes to the massive obligation that is our state government. As such, the financial demand that is placed on individuals in Oklahoma to continue to fund too many failing systems has done little to encourage growth and economic expansion […]

It has been said that it takes a village to raise a child, and studies have continually shown real benefits to children brought up in a household with both a mother and father present. Yet Oklahoma law does little to promote such a family dynamic.   State Rep. Sally Kern, who has recently become something of […]

If you want to see a group of legislators scatter like a covey of quail, just mention the “C” word: consolidation.  Consolidation is one of the dirtiest words in politics, yet most honest observers will admit that Oklahoma has an excessive number of school districts. As of the end of the school year, Oklahoma has […]

This year marked the 200th birthday of President Abraham Lincoln. Considered by many to be America’s greatest president, he will forever be remembered for his mastery of the English language and his ability to manage the job of president while maintaining his common touch.  While he will always be remembered as the great Republican president, […]

The Oklahoma Legislature is once again taking up the issue of smoking in public places. State Sen. David Myers, R-Ponca City, has authored a bill that would ban smoking in most every bar and restaurant in Oklahoma. This comes just a short time after the 2003 state law went into effect banning smoking in restaurants […]