“The Senate Democratic Caucus was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Jarita Askins, mother of Lt. Governor Jari Askins. Many of us had the good fortune to know Mrs. Askins, and know that she lived a life of public service and of strong faith—a legacy she shared with her children.

The State Legislature honored Miss Oklahoma 2008 Kelsey Cartwright Monday. State Sen. Randy Brogdon authored Senate Concurrent Resolution 6 recognizing her many talents and accomplishments.

“I’ve had the opportunity to spend some time with Miss Cartwright, and I can tell you she is a fine lady that represents the state of Oklahoma extremely well. She is a tremendous young lady who is as beautiful on the inside as she is on the outside,” said Brogdon, R-Owasso. “We were so pleased to get to honor her and wish her all the best during her reign and in her future endeavors.”

In response to the $410 billion legislation passed by the U.S. Congress last week, State Senator Randy Brogdon has publically called on the Oklahoma Congressional Delegation to place a one year moratorium on earmarks that they insert in federal legislation.

“We are in a financial crisis right now, “said Brogdon. “And until our economy recovers, the last thing we need is pork barrel spending that ends up costing Oklahoma taxpayers more money in the long run.”

In an effort to honor the rich heritage of rodeo and the western way of life, State Sen. Joe Sweeden, D-Pawhuska, and Lt. Governor Jari Askins are working to bring the PRCA National Steer Roping Finals back to Oklahoma.

The Senate unanimously approved a resolution Monday encouraging the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to continue researching and developing new uses for natural gas. State Sen. Earl Garrison authored Senate Concurrent Resolution 9 to help bring awareness to the benefits of natural gas both financially and environmentally, and to urge the federal and state government to make necessary regulatory changes regarding natural gas for the benefit of the nation.

The Senate unveiled another original work of art commissioned by the Oklahoma State Senate Historical Preservation Fund Tuesday. The painting, by Oklahoma City artist Christopher Nick, is of Oklahoman Andy Payne who was the winner of the 1928 Trans-Continental Foot Race as well as the Clerk of the Oklahoma Supreme Court for 38 years retiring in 1973.

The Oklahoma State Senate paused to honor former State Capitol reporter John Greiner on Monday. The 66-year-old Greiner retired from “The Oklahoman” newspaper last fall. State Senate President Pro Tempore Glenn Coffee praised Greiner’s ethics and experience in covering the statehouse.

As the State Senate met its first deadline for passing bills off the floor this week, President Pro Tempore Glenn Coffee said Friday he is proud of the work Senators did for the state of Oklahoma in an unprecedented legislative week for Republicans.

A bill providing tax credits for victims of the February 10 storms that destroyed dozens of homes and businesses and caused multiple fatalities is now headed to the House of Representatives. Sen. Todd Lamb, R-Edmond, and Sen. Johnnie Crutchfield, D-Ardmore, worked together for passage of the legislation. Eight people in Crutchfield’s district died in that storm, and many others were left homeless.