Taxes Or Fees?

Residents of Shawnee have the opportunity to vote on a 0.5 percent tax increase on Jan. 10. A yes vote will raise the overall taxes within the city limits to 9.995 percent. This includes state (4.5 percent) and county taxes (1.495 percent).

Reflecting On Year Two In Congress

As this year comes to an end, I’ve taken time to reflect on my first term in the United States Congress. Two years ago, I came to Washington as the Freshman Class President eager to learn and lead.

Nowhere To Hide In Tiny House Living

“I hab a bad code in my node.” sniff, cough, ah-CHoo! Sorry, but that’s how I sound right now with a head cold; an irritating cold that I caught from Mr. Right. No blame in that statement. Tiny house living leaves nowhere to hide from germs.

Cows & Cabbage

“And that’s how the cow ate the cabbage!” Our community has lost several great people over the past week. I didn’t know them all, but I did know one and I will say that that one touched many lives. We’ve all had teachers that are forever etched in our minds and in our hearts.

Capitol Comments

The most wonderful time of the year is in full swing. Americans across the country are last minute gift shopping, cooking festive meals, and traveling to visit family. Although this is typically a joyous and busy time for many, it’s important to pause and remember the true meaning of Christmas.

Samples Of When Every Day Was Spring

It has previously been reported that I taught American Defense Policy (1973-76) at the University of Kentucky. This was one of the most enjoyable assignments in my 20-year Air Force career. Here are samples of that experience when every day was spring.

Night Sky Report

The weather/atmospheric conditions play a big part in our ability to do any meaningful observing in the range of the visible spectrum. Quality of the image in telescopes is affected by a multitude of factors with the biggest hindrance being clouds, but there are other factors, too.

Her Only Child Is Getting Married

Lately, my son is on my mind a lot. He’s my only child, other than my stepdaughter who is of my heart. My son is a natural born scientist. He spent his early educational years with his head buried in books and scribbling mathematical equations on a dry-erase board.

Protecting The Rights Of Our Servicemembers

Last week, the House passed the James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act. This is the single most important piece of legislation to come out of the Armed Services committees annually.

A Prayer For Oklahoma And Our Nation

Rather than a typical editorial, let us shift from the anger and struggle in our world to a focus on the only One who can calm the storm and give real Christmas cheer. Would you join me in prayer? Lord, we come to You with grateful hearts because we know You provide every good gift.