Oklahoma Horizon TV

On the Horizon: Child labor laws – We’re talking about a way of life

2012-01-20T13:36:00.003-06:00

Over Christmas I had the rare opportunity to turn the camera on my own family. I managed to escape some of the holiday madness by hiding behind my lens as my family worked throughout the holidays on our ranch in Northeast Kansas.

Few issues have ignited as much debate as the proposed child labor laws and like hundreds of other families our opinions on the issue are strong. We could think of no better way to portray this story than through the eyes of my little sister. For a few days I followed her around our ranch in Tonganoxie, Kansas, and eventually on to our grandparent’s ranch in Allen, Kansas. The story not only tackled the debate head on it may just have ended up being one of the most rewarding stories in my young career.

In this week’s video blog, the DeHoff family shows us what farming and ranching is really all about.
Courtenay DeHoff

On The Horizon: Students Taking Flight

2012-01-10T15:39:00.000-06:00

Over the years, I‘ve produced many stories about the aviation industry but the ones that stand out are when students get excited about aerospace. So many times growing up, kids want to be astronauts but as time goes by, they seem to lose interest in aviation. Oh sure, a few will go on to become airplane pilots and an even greater few will become astronauts but most will forget that particular dream.

I think it was a whole lot more popular of an idea back in the 1960s and 1970s when the space race was in full force. Nowadays, we’ve been there done that and there really isn’t that push towards space which has resulted in an aging workforce. For many aviation companies, finding someone to work on an airplane or help design one isn’t easy. Students just don’t think about going into that field, instead, they are looking at gaming software engineering or auto mechanics versus becoming an engineer or aviation mechanic. But that is slowly changing.

In this week’s video blog, meet a couple of students who may be the next generation of engineers and mechanics to work on airplanes or even go the distance right into space.
Alisa Hines

On the Horizon: Economic Upturn – Real or Hype?

2012-01-06T14:47:00.000-06:00

The 2012 Oklahoma Economic Outlook Conference was a real eye opener for me. Economists from across the state discussed the future of Oklahoma’s economy. While Oklahoma has one of the lowest unemployment rates in the country, we may not be out of the clear yet. The rising land bubble and low commodity prices may affect the state in more ways than one.

In this week’s video blog we take a look at the one thing that is running Oklahoma’s economic show...oil. The energy sector could prove to be our saving grace, but if troubles in Europe continue we may see liquid gold’s value to Oklahoma, drain away.

Courtenay Dehoff

On the Horizon: Mysterious Oklahoma

2012-01-05T14:05:00.000-06:00

It has been an interesting year. We have gone noodling, seen students compete at the world’s largest junior livestock show and tangled with some spirits from the after life. Life is never dull with at Horizon.

In this week’s video blog, we take a look at an Oklahoma author who loves telling people about the unique stories of Oklahoma. His stories include Bigfoot, paranormal activity and American Outlaw tales like the infamous Battle at Ingalls.

Andy Barth

On the Horizon: Hee Haw- A New Appreciation

2011-12-16T14:20:00.000-06:00

Maybe I was just too young to fully appreciate some of the finer aspects of the long running show Hee Haw, but in working on this week’s story I noticed something for the first time. The women on the show called the “Hee Haw Honey’s” are as we would have said in high school… Stone Cold Foxes.

I promise this week’s video blog is much more than me leering at girls in daisy duke shorts and bandana tops, but I have to admit they sure made this week’s segment a lot of fun to put together. Salute!

Rob McClendon

On the Horizon: Water for Everyone

2011-12-12T11:25:00.000-06:00

Here in the United States, we take water for granted. We turn on a faucet, out comes water. Flush a toilet, more water. Need to wash your clothes, not a problem. Unfortunately, that isn’t the case in a lot of the world. In many places, water, while being a necessity, isn’t an on-hand commodity. Many times, it has to be lugged from a well that could be a mile or two away…daily. There isn’t running water in the home or even close to the home. Women and children are the main people who have to do the lugging as part of their daily life. A lot of times this means that some children can’t even go to school because they have to help bring water to their home which could mean many trips to the well with whatever container they have to haul it in. It’s not a picture we like to think about but one we really shouldn’t ignore.

I wasn’t really crazy about going to do a story on the demonstrations being done about how to dig water wells in other countries. It was a very cold morning and I didn’t know what to expect. What I found was a group of people who were very dedicated to solving the world’s water crisis. They were very passionate about it and many of them had seen first-hand just how bad the need really is. My heart became softened as I realized just how big the problems really is and how many people it affects…especially children. Without clean drinking water, many children become sick and die. It’s a shame really because the need is really about the ability to drill for water and filtrate it to make it clean.

And that’s what this week’s video blog is about, some solutions to drill for water and clean it up in remote areas and as one person put it, available clean water equals people freed up to go to school and learn equals peace in the world. All because of clean, drinking water. My hope is for you to realize the need and that you, too, can help.

Alisa Hines

On the Horizon: Vince Orza--Entrepreneur Extraordinare

2011-12-05T13:59:00.003-06:00

Vince Orza has truly done it all and he is the type of person that I aspire to be. For years Orza called television home and then eventually took a job teaching. In the meantime, he ran for governor of Oklahoma, became the Dean of Business at Oklahoma City University and opened up a chain of restaurants. Eventually his career would come full circle and he would step back under the bright lights to save a dying television station.

If his lifetime of careers is not impressive enough, in this week’s video blog, just listening to Vince Orza is sure to enthrall you. His voice comes easy, much like you would expect from anyone working in television, but what may be surprising are his values on life and the advice by which he lives by.

Courtenay Dehoff

On the Horizon: Monumental Task

2011-12-01T14:21:00.003-06:00

Old Station Monuments and More is barely one mile from my own home and I had yet to step foot inside. Like so many people, my mom and I would always discuss what a “cute little place” it is as we flew by on Highway 33. Little did I know, there was not only a unique story about the property, but a truly unique story about the couple behind the business.

In this week’s video blog, I’ll show you the quirkiness that will keep you coming back and an atmosphere that is sure to please.

Courtenay Dehoff

On the Horizon: Prescription Addiction

2011-11-17T16:16:00.002-06:00

Across the country, pharmacy robberies are on the rise, partly because of the increasing demand for prescription drugs. According to law-enforcement, prescription painkillers rank second behind marijuana as the country's most common illegal-drug problem.

Prescription drug abuse cuts across all age groups and economic classes; often times sneaking up on people and taking over their lives. Prescription drug addiction is a problem that often does not end up in rehab; in this week’s video blog we explore the impact prescription addiction is having on our prisons.

Alisa Hines

On the Horizon: A Marine’s Love Story

2011-11-12T11:15:00.000-06:00

My experience with doing stories with war veterans is those who have seen the most, talk the least. I think there are some memories they had just rather forget.

Put Charles Migliorino in that category. It was only by chance I heard his story. He was interviewing for an associate district judge appointment, and I was a member of the Judicial Nominating Commission interviewing him. It was after the interview was over, he added, almost as epilogue, the thing he was most proud of in life was letting a sister hear her dead brother’s voice for the first time in 40 years.

I was fascinated, as I think you will be in this week’s video blog, with this Marine’s Love Story.

Rob McClendon

On the Horizon: If you build it, they will come

2011-11-07T10:25:00.002-06:00

Many rural communities around Oklahoma are building tech parks in the hopes of attracting big business and in Pryor, that gamble is paying off. Google announced in 2007 that it would build a data center right here in Oklahoma. All because of availability of land, electrical infrastructure, a very high quality excellent workforce, and a business climate that was really conducive to making things fast and simple; which is what many rural communities have to offer.

Now because of the recession, it’s taken quite a while to get up and running but just recently, they held the grand opening of their newest Google data center. In this week’s video blog, see the connections going on in Pryor, Oklahoma.

Alisa Hines

On the Horizon: Financially Strong

2011-11-01T10:32:00.000-05:00

The U.S. economy is on the minds of many Americans and is it is not a positive thought to most. From unemployment to a failing stock market, people are unsure of their future. What lies ahead? What about my children? What about my retirement?

For those living in Oklahoma there is a light at the end of the tunnel and it is a bright one. The market crash did not hit the state nearly as hard as the rest of the nation and jobs are springing up all over. In this week's video blog see how from aerospace and energy to small business the economy in Oklahoma is on the up and up.

Andy Barth

On the Horizon--Boo!

2011-10-26T15:02:00.000-05:00

We all remember those spooky stories by the camp fire and when grandpa would tell us ghost stories right before we went to bed. But what happens when those ghost stories come to life?

In today’s video blog we take you to a business in North Central Oklahoma where the past life is still present. From creaky doors to items flying off shelves, the paranormal takes spooky to whole new level. Turning skeptics (me) into believers, and believers running for their lives.

Andy Barth

On the Horizon: The New Hollywood

2011-10-24T18:49:00.000-05:00

I love going to the movies. It’s always interesting to see how they make them and where they are filmed. But I often wonder, why aren’t more films done here in Oklahoma? Especially the ones about Oklahoma, that would make sense after all. We have the wide open spaces you see so often depicted in movies and our cities are prettier than many on the East or West coast. Take Tulsa for example: I was there just the other day, up in a very tall building looking out over the city area and was amazed at all the green. Houses and buildings were interspersed throughout all the trees almost like they built them around the trees. How much prettier is that than the concrete jungle you see in most cities/movies.

Now don’t get me wrong, there have been some movies shot here in places like Tulsa, but I think most people just don’t think of Oklahoma when then think of movies. And it can be big business for Oklahoma. The Oklahoma Film and Music Office is working toward making Oklahoma the next Hollywood. What they’ve discovered is that for every dollar spent in Oklahoma’s film industry, an impact of $1.72 is made on our state’s economy. The impact just continues to grow. Due to recruitment efforts, the 2010 production of “The Killer Inside Me” was filmed almost exclusively here in Oklahoma even though the story was set in Texas. Another Red River Rivalry??? That production spent three million dollars in Oklahoma in only six weeks to make the movie and generated over five million for the state. That’s huge. Some may complain about tax rebates the film industry gets but overall, I think it’s worth it. You have to have some kind of incentive to bring the film industry out of their comfort zone and into our state.

In this week’s video blog, meet one Oklahoman who didn’t run to Hollywood to make his movie, but kept it right here in Oklahoma using local talent and local crews.

Alisa Hines

On the Horizon: Thinking in Pictures

2011-10-10T16:41:00.000-05:00

The first time I met the focus of today’s video blog, I didn’t know quite what to think. I was sitting in an out of state conference, when Temple Grandin sat down beside me. Decked out in a pair of wranglers and an embroidered pearl snap western shirt she did stand out a bit. Actually a lot.

Fast forward a few years, and I send a TV crew to Colorado to interview a leading animal behaviorist, and guess who is there in her pearl snaps. Dr. Grandin is widely credited as driving force in the humane treatment of animals in slaughter houses. (Interesting note: while many people in the meat industry refer to animal slaughter as “harvesting” Temple says such semantics are bunk. She says not only should the industry not try to “sanitize” what’s going on, but slaughter houses should have cameras set up to webcast the entire process.)

To fully understand Temple’s impact on the meat industry you need to understand her background. Grandin was born in Boston, Massachusetts, and diagnosed with autism in 1950. Having been labeled with brain damage at age two, she was placed in a structured nursery school with what she considers to have been good teachers. Grandin's mother spoke to a doctor who suggested speech therapy, and she hired a nanny who spent hours playing turn-based games with Grandin and her sister.

At age four, Grandin began talking, and making progress. She considers herself lucky to have had supportive mentors from primary school onwards. However, Grandin has said that middle and high school were the worst parts of her life. She was the "nerdy kid" whom everyone teased. At times, while walking down the street, people would taunt her by saying "tape recorder," because she would repeat things over and over again. Grandin says that, "I could laugh about it now, but back then it really hurt."

After graduating from Hampshire Country School, a boarding school for gifted children in Rindge, New Hampshire, in 1966, Grandin went on to earn her bachelor's degree in psychology from Franklin Pierce College in 1970, her master's degree in animal science from Arizona State University in 1975, and her doctoral degree in animal science from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in 1989.

Grandin is considered a philosophical leader of both the animal welfare and autism advocacy movements. Both movements commonly cite her work regarding animal welfare, neurology, and philosophy. She knows all too well the anxiety of feeling threatened by everything in her surroundings, and of being dismissed and feared, which motivates her in her quest to promote humane livestock handling processes.

Take a look at this week’s video blog. I am interested in what you think.
Rob McClendon

On the Horizon: A Mixed Bag

2011-10-03T10:19:00.000-05:00

I have a cool job. It has allowed me to travel the world and witness first hand events that most people just read about. I really enjoy international air travel in part because they put domestic airlines to shame, but also because of the people I meet and the places I get to see once I get there. Unfortunately, this week’s blog is not one of those stories.

When an OSU professor asked me to travel with a group of students and a representative of an OKC nonprofit, I assumed it would be like most of the international shoots I do…Hot, sweaty work during the day, but a clean bed and a warm meal at night. Wrong Again!

My trip to Sierra Leone, Africa was one of the hardest I have ever taken. One hundred plus degrees during the day…ninety at night, sleeping on concrete, getting bit by mosquitoes throughout the night in the malaria belt, and eating rice. Lots and lots of rice.

Despite the inhospitable conditions I am proud to say the stories I did from there are important and life changing for all involved. This week and next I am going to show you some of the things I saw. I invite you to watch and learn just as I did.

Rob McClendon

On the Horizon: Flour Made the Local Way

2011-09-30T11:06:00.001-05:00

It has been a rough year for wheat farmers…again. It seems like we’ve been saying that a lot the past few years. Some fear there is no end in sight.

Several producers in the tiny town of Hydro, Okla. may have found the light at the end of the tunnel. Whole wheat producers are running their wheat through PBar Farms’ Stone Stack Mill for a premium price. Loren Liebscher is PBar Farms’ owner and is an advocate of production agriculture and education.

Liebscher is passionate about teaching kids where their food comes from and how to eat healthy. He uses the mill and his corn maze to teach kids about the importance of agriculture.

As a lifelong agriculturalist, I have devoted much of my time to educating the public about agriculture. Whether I was in FFA or shopping in the grocery store I have always found people who do not know about the food they eat. Producing the food is not enough. We have to be advocates and educate people about what we do so there will be a future for the industry we love. In today’s video blog, see how local wheat producers are adding value to their product.

Andy Barth

On the Horizon: Below the Surface

2011-09-28T16:35:00.003-05:00

This job is amazing. It takes me so many places I never thought I would go. When I first came to Oklahoma, I was excited to see the competitive livestock and be a part of the progressive agricultural industry. What I didn’t expect was to be engulfed in the Oklahoma lifestyle.

A few months ago, I met a young man who gave a whole new meaning to the phrase “grab life by the horns.” He has wrestled steers, fought men in cages and hunted and fished for every kind of animal known in Oklahoma. I knew if I wanted to experience a different side to Oklahoma I needed to hang out with Kaleb Summers. When he told me there was a way to fish with your hands and pull out huge catfish, there was no hesitation…I had to get in the water.

Like any fishing trip, things didn’t go exactly as planned and unfortunately for us, they seemed to take a turn for the worse. Not only were water levels low and drying out the holes, but the wind kept picking up and beating us against the rocks. When the wind got to the point of being dangerous (as if getting slammed into rocks wasn’t bad enough) we decided to leave and get the boat out of the water.

While in route back to the ramp we encountered huge swells of water coming over the sides of the boat. It was a very rough ride to say the least. All of a sudden we heard a loud pop and saw mud fill the water. Our motor sputtered, choked, and then died. At that point it was all hands on deck, or more like all hands in the water. With the boat in tow, I swam to shore with the guys pushing. After getting the vessel out of the water we realized we cracked the hydraulic cylinder and tore up the prop. Since it was the beginning of the weekend this meant we were on foot for the rest of the trip.

After we got our bearings and were back out on the water, Kaleb found out how I act under pressure when I am face to face with a lifelong fear – snakes. Kaleb found a water moccasin in a rock and told me to come look at it. I freaked out and jumped out of the water. That wasn’t good enough for Kaleb and he killed it…or so he thought. All of the sudden the snake shot out of the rock and made a bee-line for Kaleb. He jumped out of the way and the snake swam to shore. I figured Kaleb’s life was spared so we would move on. Wrong again. Kaleb chased the snake down and killed it with a stick. He then tells me the snakes are starting to come out because it’s getting dark. Oh good, we have to cross a body of water to get back to the car. To avoid as much water as possible, Kaleb takes us through this grassy area above the bank. I soon realize we are trespassing through people’s back yards. I kick it in high gear as I envision people turning on their back porch with shotguns ready to shoot.

After all of this we finally made it back to the cabin and got some sleep. The next day was less eventful in terms of snakes and breaking boats, but proved entertaining in it’s own way. After fishing all day and not finding anything, we finally landed a flathead. We took our prize and went home. After experiencing what I did, most would never be caught dead noodling again. As for me, I can’t wait to get back out there and find my next under water giant.

Andy Barth

Too Hot to Handle

2011-08-29T13:16:00.000-05:00

As a member of Class XV of the Oklahoma Agriculture Leadership Program, I get to visit many places across the state of Oklahoma to learn how agriculture is done. It is a program I have wanted to be in for many years and was privileged to do so this go round. I have learned so much at times my head is spinning. You’d be surprised what really goes on down on the farm.

For example, the diversification that takes place all around you, from wheat to vegetables to fruit, sometimes all on the same farm. To remain economically viable, Oklahoma farmers are learning how to make a living year round versus just seasonally. Sometimes that means a nontraditional crop.

In this week’s video blog, I show you our state’s hottest crop from Southwest Oklahoma.

Chatatcha Later
Alisa Hines

On the Horizon: Too Hot to Handle from Alisa Hines on Vimeo.

Oklahoma Horizon TV: Plight of the Honey Bee

2011-06-30T11:20:00.002-05:00

I have been on edge around bees for as long as I can remember. It amazes me how a tiny insect can frighten so many people. But when I had the opportunity to take a look inside the sweet home of honeybees (in a bee suit of course) I jumped at the chance.

What we found inside was incredible. There were huge gaping holes in the comb and the bees were not making honey like they should have been. We may be on edge about bees, but beekeepers are on edge about varroa mites. These little critters sneak inside the hive and weaken it. Not only does it hurt the bees but the beekeepers as well. Mite damage can cost producers millions of dollars and drastic hive loss, causing a quite a sting for beekeepers

In this week’s video blog, I introduce you to the president of the Oklahoma State Beekeeper’s Association, Keith Amason, as he shows us what is buzzing in the honeybee industry. Amason is a second generation beekeeper and is an ambassador for Oklahoma beekeepers. Suit up as Keith takes us up close and personal inside the threatened life of the honeybee.

Andy

Plight of the Honey Bee

2011-06-30T10:37:00.001-05:00

In this week’s show, I introduce you to the president of the Oklahoma State Beekeeper’s Association, Keith Amason, as he shows us what is buzzing in the honeybee industry. Amason is a second generation beekeeper and is an ambassador for Oklahoma beekeepers. Suit up as Keith takes us up close and personal inside the threatened life of the honeybee.

Andy Barth

Flying high with brilliance

2011-06-24T08:51:00.002-05:00

I was not looking forward to spending an entire day listening to stuffy business men talk about the aerospace industry. First of all it’s way over my head. I chose broadcast journalism because it is just that; journalism. Math and science not included. Furthermore, how exciting can airplanes be anyway?

I was in for a wakeup call and a reminder of why my job is so cool.

They say it is like speed dating for the aerospace industry. The annual aerospace summit in Tulsa, OK, brings together officials and aerospace aficionados from around the world to discuss all the new things heading our way. As a multi-billion dollar industry, aerospace proves to be extremely important to Oklahoma’s economy. The industry provides an astounding 143,000 jobs and $12 billion dollars annually to the state.

Now back to the stuffy business men. Yeah they were all wearing suits, but it turns out these guys were more along the lines of oh…geniuses. We are talking about men and women who have walked on the moon. Astronauts so intellectually brilliant they draw complicated designs on napkins. No not squiggles and doodles, but the design plans for the B2 bomber. CEO’s of Boeing and American Airlines. Airplane pilots who have decided to retire from the grueling occupation and perfect unmanned aerial reconnaissance used for spying by the U.S. government.

The men and women of the aerospace industry are incredible. My brain will never work the way theirs do. I will never step foot on the moon or fly a fighter jet into hostile territory, but I am able to hear their stories and bring them to you. I have the opportunity to meet some of the most intriguing masterminds in the world and share with you what they are doing and what it means for Oklahoma.

So the next time you step on an airplane, remember your pilot may just be a little piece of history sitting up there in that cockpit.

Courtenay Dehoff

Rocket Man

2011-06-21T16:50:00.004-05:00

A half century has passed since President Kennedy challenged our nation to do what most thought to be impossible…Land a man on the moon. Yet in just eight years, Neil Armstrong made that giant step for mankind… thanks in great part, to the work of several Oklahomans.

Per capita, Oklahoma has more former astronauts than any other state and many were in attendance at an event to honor the fiftieth anniversary of the race into space. Former astronauts and NASA workers gathered at the Oklahoma History Center to commemorate the 50^th anniversary of JFK’s challenge to Congress:

“I believe that this nation should commit itself to achieving the goal, before this decade is out, of landing a man on the moon and returning him safely to the earth. No single space project in this period will be more impressive to mankind or more important for the long-range exploration of space; and none will be so difficult or expensive to accomplish.” – John F. Kennedy

Few people embody Oklahoma’s pioneering spirit more than General Thomas P. Stafford…a man whose mother came to the state in the back of a covered wagon, while he later rocketed into space. The same passion that took General Stafford to the moon is still evident today in his work to educate a new generation about science and technology.

In this week's show, we visit the Stafford Air and Space Museum in Weatherford, Oklahoma to look into our country’s aerospace history, as well as, the life of an extraordinary Oklahoman.

Rob

Plight of the Wheat Farmer

2011-06-16T16:10:00.002-05:00

Do you know where your food comes from? With so many people moving off the farm and into urban areas it’s not surprising we’ve lost touch with our agriculture roots.

When farmers became capable of producing food beyond the needs of their own families, others in their society were freed to devote themselves to projects other than food acquisition. Historians and anthropologists have long argued that the development of agriculture made civilization possible. The total world population probably never exceeded 15 million inhabitants before the invention of agriculture. Now only about two percent of the population (farmers) are feeding the rest of the world. And many of those farmers are over the age of 50. What will happen when they die off? Who will step up and feed the world?

There IS a new generation of farmer. But where grandpa was solely a farmer and could make ends meet with what he earned, the new farmer has to be smarter and work harder usually at two different jobs. This week, I travel to Fairview, OK to visit with a farming family to find out just what goes into a wheat harvest and how they are combining life on the farm with life in the office.
Chatatcha later

Alisa

Red Dirt Chronicles

2011-05-19T13:52:00.001-05:00

Check us out on Friday...we will begin posting a couple of times a week on the Red Dirt Chronicles site. They showcase Red Dirt culture and their contributors are people from across the great state of Oklahoma including Oklahoma Horizon. We will post on Friday mornings and Tuesday evenings so be sure to check their site as well as our own to see what we are doing and where we are heading. This should be a very good partnership!
Chatatcha Later!
Alisa

Where the Red Fern Grows

2011-05-16T15:11:00.002-05:00

Native American legend has it that a long time ago, a little boy and a little girl were wandering through the Cherokee Hills when they were caught in a blizzard. It wasn't until Spring that their two little bodies were found lying next to each other, clasping each other's hands. Between the two little ones, a stunningly, beautiful, red fern had sprouted, leaning it's vast shade over each child. This week on Oklahoma Horizon, learn how this legend influenced Oklahoma author Wilson Rawls to write the favorite children's book, "Where the Red Fern Grows."

Have we been busy!!!

2010-07-12T14:42:00.002-05:00

You will not believe just how busy we've been. We have been running everywhere across Oklahoma gathering stories and trying to get them to you. We are a little short handed right now so that's why it's been so long since I last blogged.

Wow! We are beginning our sixth season on air and are in more locations than you can imagine. We are not only in Oklahoma, but we are nationwide on RFD-TV (which is on DirecTV and DISH Network), and even worldwide in approximately 16 different countries. In fact, we air more places and times (over 80) than any other TV show in Oklahoma. That's quite an accomplishment! Because of that, the word is getting out about just how great a state Oklahoma is. So I hope you are enjoying the show and telling your friends and family to watch too. We couldn't do this show without the support of our viewers.

Thanks for Watching!
Chatatcha Later,
Alisa

So long, fare well...

2010-01-12T15:19:00.002-06:00

The new year is here! Wow! It's hard to believe another year has come and gone. And with it...another producer. We lost Keith Smith half way through the year and gained Betiel Michaels instead. Now we've lost Russ Jowell to Washington, D.C. We wish him well but we will miss him too. The new year promises to be challenging as well since we've had a hiring freeze and can't replace Russ. So look for possibly a little different format but don't worry, we will still bring you the same type of information we always have...Good Things About the Great State of Oklahoma. Happy New Year!
Chatatcha Later!
Alisa

Where has the summer gone

2009-08-12T15:52:00.003-05:00

Summer is gone for students but not for the heat. Yesterday I was shooting a couple of stories and the sweat was just pouring off me (no I don't perspire, I sweat. I know, it's gross!). It really didn't seem that hot at first but I guess with the humidity (I was in Tulsa and they had 3 1/2 inches of rain the night before) it just added up to one very hot day. I will be so glad when winter (yes, WINTER) gets here. I only hope we have a really cold one this year. Hot flashes and hot weather don't go together AT ALL!

Well with the changing of the seasons, another "season" has left us. Keith Smith, whom it seems you just met, has left us to go to Afghanistan. While we support his decision, we will sure miss him. Good Luck Keith! Stay tuned to find out who his replacement will be.

Well, we have some good line ups coming your way so keep watching the show and I promise I'll chatatcha soon!
Alisa

Oklahoma is better than just OK

2009-05-27T12:51:00.000-05:00

I'm visiting California and it hits me, Oklahoma is a really great place to live. The cost of living is low (very affordable), the food is extremely tasty (although that taste is probably slightly fattening), and our state's budget is a balanced one. Now that may not seem important to you but consider this...California which has high priced living and high priced food, for all the money they spend there is flat broke. So much so, they are trying to sell off some of their tourist destinations (which should be making the state money) to raise money for their government. Can you imagine our government selling off the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum or Beavers Bend State Park or Grand Lake to raise money to pay our state's bills? I don't know about you, but I'm glad our legislature takes the time and effort to make sure we live within our means. It's a good lesson to learn for our own lives in the ever tightening economy.

Well it's time for our tour of San Francisco (hopefully there's something left to see). I'll chatatcha later!
Alisa

Summer is fast approaching

2009-05-21T15:39:00.005-05:00

Summer is fast approaching and now that we're out of our monsoon season (at least I hope so) it will be easier for us to go out and get more stories to show you about Oklahoma.

Recently, we went to Lawton and recorded several stories so be looking for those to air sometime this summer. We are always looking for story ideas. If you have an idea, please send it to me. I can't guarantee that we will cover it, but you never know. We have covered stories viewers have told us about. We appreciate each call or email we get because its nice to know that people are watching and care about what we show.

We also love to know what you think about the show. There's a survey to the right of this blog. Please take a moment and tell us how you like our show. We try to be relevant and current with our stories and hope you enjoy them. If not, please let me know.

School is just about out, so watch out for those young people to be running around your town. Stay safe and I'll chatatcha later!
Alisa

2009-03-02T16:32:00.000-06:00

You know, I have every intention of updating this blog more than once every 2 or 3 months, but like many good intentions, I got side-tracked. Oh well! Here's what's been going on:

We have been upgrading our studio. What that means to you...well a new look! It also means that we've been shooting in the field the last few weeks giving the show a "live" look to it. I think its been pretty cool and hopefully, we'll do more of that in the future. This week, however, we start shooting in our new studio. It is very different looking but I think you will like it. With the need to go HD for our RFD-TV and OKLA Channel viewers, we've had to make changes like using solid wood instead of foam core for our set pieces. Boy was that a challenge. Rob had this great idea in his head but we had a hard time comprehending what he was thinking. The result, he says, is exactly what he was thinking so we're relieved. It will definitely give us opportunities to try different ways of shooting to give the show more variety. Our engineers are busy trying to get the lighting just right so keep your fingers crossed they don't have too many headaches trying to do so. Be watching the week of March 15 for the new look and then let me know what you think.

Chatatcha later!
Alisa

2008-12-22T15:23:00.000-06:00

Hey there viewers! I know it's been a while so I have lots to say so bear with me.

You may be aware of the fact that there's a new face on our show in the past month. His name is Keith Smith and he comes to us all the way from Palm Springs, California (boy what a shock from desert temps to sub-arctic temps in recent days). We are very excited to have him with us. Right after he arrived in Oklahoma, he had a new addition to his family, his son Sander. He is really cute. I think you will enjoy Keith's stories. He has a way with words.

Unfortunately, he comes to us because Brian Bendele has left us for greener pastures (sorry girls!). He is now the Manager of Youth and Outreach Programs for the National Reining Horse Association. Brian has always wanted to work for them so it was the perfect opportunity for him. Good luck to you Brian, we'll miss you! Welcome aboard Keith! We look forward to your future stories.

Our 200th episode has come and gone! Whew! Now we're working on our next 200! 2009 should prove to be another great year for Oklahoma Horizon and we hope you'll be a part of it. Be looking for some new changes to the show and our website this coming year. I won't tell you what they are so keep watching to find out. Remember, we are always looking for the good stuff in Oklahoma, so feel free to contact us and let us know if you have a story for us. We may not always use your suggestions, but keep'em coming because our Oklahoma is your Oklahoma.

On a personal note, life is extremely busy. My daughter's band is going to San Francisco in May and we are doing whatever we can to raise money for the trip. I'm looking forward to the trip. Last summer, my family took a vacation through California stopping in LA and San Francisco, but since we were on a tight schedule, we didn't get to spend much time either place. So I'm hoping we get to do a little sight seeing in SF so I can see more than just Fisherman's Wharf.

Well gotta run. Have a Merry Christmas and a Wonderful New Year!
Chatatcha Next Year!
Alisa

Re: Stocks go down and Americans up their negative approval of our government, Will Roberts says.

2008-10-16T01:12:00.000-05:00

Now I am about to do something that my editors tell me I should not do with my column and that is, put a time stamp on my comments. They tell me that make sure if I want my column to have a longer shelf life, I need to make sure it is “Evergreen”. In the news industry that means; don’t date it, don’t say, today is Thanksgiving, or Lincoln's birthday. This way I can send my stories to all my different editors and news folks with out worrying about my stuff being. . . out of date. Alright, now that I have probably aged you folks by making you read my goings on. So lets get to work before my comments don’t even make sense to me.

Here is what is happening today: Today is the LAST presidential debate of the 2008 election. For the last time the two candidates get a chance to put words in each others mouths. The only two rules that I think they should enforce is: Mc Cain, no wondering around the stage and if you do we will have to chain you to your chair. Obama, no lounging in your seat, it gives us the impression that you are staring at your poll numbers, and that would make me feel relaxed if I were you to. I hear that this might be the debate that Mc Cain pulls out the old 1..2 punch. If I were Obama I would beat Mc Cain to the punch line and say: “I wont talk about your scandals and you don’t talk about mine.” I say to both of you break a leg, just make sure it is your own!

The high point of this day is the low point of our economy, the stock market or what I call “The ROCK market”. The Dow is down, which why the don’t just call it the DOUGH, the DOUGH is down, is beyond me. It would make it easier for us simple folks that don’t know much about how this all works, the wall street that is. We understand one thing, we reach in our pockets and if something comes out we are ahead.
We still don’t really understand the whole thing about if a man (or woman) is given 700 billion dollars of our money, why aren’t we getting a certificate that has our families names on it. You know so that when you all make the money back and then some, we would get a profit check? The way things are going now, I bet most Americans would feel a little safer if you took that 700 Billion dollars and place it on a craps game in Germany. Better yet, go on line and use an Internet casino it will save on travel cost. Hotels, meals, nice Champagne and scandals that powerful people with money tend to get in tangled with.

Maybe sometime soon we can get someone that can come out on TV and really explain how this all really works, the market, In simple-er terms, Really simple terms. Like you get two pretzels and we get two and we sneak your two pretzels and eat them when you are not looking. Then you starve and we become fatter,. . . something like that. I don’t mean to say we are stupid about how things work on wall street. But if you are the experts, should we not get our advice from the folks who are holding the loot before they jump ship, jump air ship with a golden parachute.

The American public can honestly say that we have learned two things in the last year and a half that helps us understand what is going on down on Wall Street. Two words: Down and Negative. And we did not even learn them from the high rollers on wall street. Both of these words we have learned from our presidential candidates and the executions, ooopps, elections they have been running. It is the platform that politicians run on.

Headlines: “The market drops DOWN -640 points and still rising”
I was crossing my fingers that it would either go past or below 666. If we hit that number the Republicans would have surely launched a political ad claiming that Obama was working with the devil.

Speaking of evil doers, looks like Dick Cheney had a visit to the hospital for a heart problem. Contrary to popular belief, he has one, a heart that is. It was not beating the way it should, It was misfiring, that might be a first. The saddest thing about Mr. Cheney is that he can cry wolf all he wants, I just don’t think folks would listen anymore. Cry WOLF all you want Mr. Cheney as long as the next time you go hunting you cry out DUCK!

Will Roberts
"The Good Will Tour"
www.WillRogersUSA.com
1-866-381-Will (9455)
Direct# 310-228-7105
Fax# 800-844-4259

"All I Know Is What Little I Read On The Internet!"

Stocks go down and Americans up their negative approval of our government, Will Roberts says.

2008-10-16T01:05:00.000-05:00

Now I am about to do something that my editors tell me I should not do with my column and that is, put a time stamp on my comments. They tell me that make sure if I want my column to have a longer shelf life, I need to make sure it is “Evergreen”. In the news industry that means; don’t date it, don’t say, today is Thanksgiving, or Lincoln's birthday. This way I can send my stories to all my different editors and news folks with out worrying about my stuff being. . . out of date. Alright, now that I have probably aged you folks by making you read my goings on. So lets get to work before my comments don’t even make sense to me.

Here is what is happening today: Today is the LAST presidential debate of the 2008 election. For the last time the two candidates get a chance to put words in each others mouths. The only two rules that I think they should enforce is: Mc Cain, no wondering around the stage and if you do we will have to chain you to your chair. Obama, no lounging in your seat, it gives us the impression that you are staring at your poll numbers, and that would make me feel relaxed if I were you to. I hear that this might be the debate that Mc Cain pulls out the old 1..2 punch. If I were Obama I would beat Mc Cain to the punch line and say: “I wont talk about your scandals and you don’t talk about mine.” I say to both of you break a leg, just make sure it is your own!

The high point of this day is the low point of our economy, the stock market or what I call “The ROCK market”. The Dow is down, which why the don’t just call it the DOUGH, the DOUGH is down, is beyond me. It would make it easier for us simple folks that don’t know much about how this all works, the wall street that is. We understand one thing, we reach in our pockets and if something comes out we are ahead.
We still don’t really understand the whole thing about if a man (or woman) is given 700 billion dollars of our money, why aren’t we getting a certificate that has our families names on it. You know so that when you all make the money back and then some, we would get a profit check? The way things are going now, I bet most Americans would feel a little safer if you took that 700 Billion dollars and place it on a craps game in Germany. Better yet, go on line and use an Internet casino it will save on travel cost. Hotels, meals, nice Champagne and scandals that powerful people with money tend to get in tangled with.

Maybe sometime soon we can get someone that can come out on TV and really explain how this all really works, the market, In simple-er terms, Really simple terms. Like you get two pretzels and we get two and we sneak your two pretzels and eat them when you are not looking. Then you starve and we become fatter,. . . something like that. I don’t mean to say we are stupid about how things work on wall street. But if you are the experts, should we not get our advice from the folks who are holding the loot before they jump ship, jump air ship with a golden parachute.

The American public can honestly say that we have learned two things in the last year and a half that helps us understand what is going on down on Wall Street. Two words: Down and Negative. And we did not even learn them from the high rollers on wall street. Both of these words we have learned from our presidential candidates and the executions, ooopps, elections they have been running. It is the platform that politicians run on.

Headlines: “The market drops DOWN -640 points and still rising”
I was crossing my fingers that it would either go past or below 666. If we hit that number the Republicans would have surely launched a political ad claiming that Obama was working with the devil.

Speaking of evil doers, looks like Dick Cheney had a visit to the hospital for a heart problem. Contrary to popular belief, he has one, a heart that is. It was not beating the way it should, It was misfiring, that might be a first. The saddest thing about Mr. Cheney is that he can cry wolf all he wants, I just don’t think folks would listen anymore. Cry WOLF all you want Mr. Cheney as long as the next time you go hunting you cry out DUCK!

Will Roberts
"The Good Will Tour"
www.WillRogersUSA.com
1-866-381-Will (9455)
Direct# 310-228-7105
Fax# 800-844-4259

"All I Know Is What Little I Read On The Internet!"

2008-10-03T15:26:00.000-05:00

Hey there viewers! We would like to find out from you the viewer what are your favorite stories.

Please respond to this blog with the stories you've enjoyed the most to let us know. Thanks!
Alisa

Humorist Will Roberts predicted this money mess December of last year ... Read OR listen on!

2008-10-01T16:12:00.000-05:00

Read or click here to have Will Roberts read it to you: http://thesop.org/index.php?article=8650

(Transcription of PAST Audio Podcast) December 5 2007

Well, Friday I was in Idaho doing a show for real estate professionals, now hold your boos because I went with my own motives. I had the chance to finally get the inside scoop on a group of folks that confuse me right now. Real estate folks. Now, up until that moment, I thought they all had their own interest in mind.

This fine group of people dealt in commercial real estate. Not residential real estate. The difference between the two – the commercial real estate customer knows what kind of ride they are in for and the residential folks just know they are going to be taken for a ride on an empty tank of gas, in the middle of the desert while looking for ocean front property.

Anyhow, this Christmas company get together was to recognize and to motivate these real estate sales people. Real estate people can sell you a lot and make you think it is a castle, you built it and they will come, I am convinced that was a real estate marketing slogan first.

I was brought there to entertain these folks, little rope spinning, little humor but no matter what they were going to sell me. Now, I met this gentleman named Ron. He was real set on learning the fine points of rope throwing and me not wanting to deny anyone of this skill decided to show him how. He did a pretty good job at throwing the rope around the target and an even better job at tighten the noose, said it was his real estate training and chuckled.

Well, I said we are in the same sort of biz, we chase things down until they get tired of running from us. Then we wrangle them into a pen with all the others and sort them based on how plump they are and ready for market. They only difference I can see between us is even if we don't pick um, they still have a home afterwards.

Funny thing is just the other day I got a knock on my front door only to be greeted by a real estate person asking me if I was ready to sell my home. In which I replied No thank you, I am still living in it. I found it astounding that he was standing right in front of me that I thought this must be a sign to find out what these boys were thinking, so I asked. "Is this the best time to get people to sell?" Or shouldn't you be telling me that I can get two homes for the prices of one. He explained to me that things are not as bad as they say on TV and that economist are not smart as they seem. I wont argue that second point. He then said, “We have had over 100 folks selling their homes this week alone, in this area. Selling them or turning them over I said. Did I have a sign on my back that said Sub Prime sucker, Kick me OUT, before they throw me out! No offence to the person that has to go door to door to make a living, but those 100 or so sellers (foreclosures) were met by a very happy buyer, if they even met them.

I feel sorry for the sub prime buyers. These are the folks that are making their way to a payroll express on a weekly routine, First time buyers, Bad Credit, Bankruptcy, none of which are really important on a sub prime loan, matter of fact they would rather you did not have the means, turn and burn. Now don't take what I am saying as a fact for all who sell homes, some do what you to have to for the American dream, but most get the agents that give you the American nightmare, I have been there.

This sub prime racket is a lot like gambling, only the real estate folks own the house and they know that they have the best odds, and that is even money that most will not make it through the first year. Give enough credit out and soon the whole country will be facing sub prime debt, unless you are the one passing out that American dream.

My suggestion #1. Don't sell anything (If you can hold off) until the elections are over. Your location location location is worth more than our politicians Promises promises promises.

Don't gamble on anything UNLESS your know it will win!
Good luck on that one.

Your friend . . .
Will Roberts
Www.WillRogersUSA.com
310-228-7105

Humorist Will Roberts " I am in my BLUE period "

2008-09-25T14:13:00.001-05:00

Will Roberts - Phoenix TO California.

Well I am back from Japan, Sept 18th was by far my longest day in
history. I left Tokyo at 6pm and got back to Phoenix, AZ at 9:30 pm.
Don't bother doing the math, it is around 42 hours total. The only
other people that have had a day that long might have been the folks
on Wall Street recently. I was following the steps of Wall Street USA
and Asia. Manly on the count of the fact that I was there and if we
needed someone to stand up for us Americans I would be there. I have a
feeling that all the bad happening to our country may only be the
beginning. It may not be as bad as the great depression but it sure is
depressing. The past year this cowboy humorist has been worried that
folks would not see the humor in my comments. So I have decided that
until things lighten up, I am in my BLUE period.

The President had some words for us today, but I don't think you can
call what Bush did in the last few days was a pep talk. More like a
game of peek a boo, only Americans are not laughing. If you have ever
had a typing class you must be familiar with that exercise where you
type out that paragraph about the duty of an American. "Now is the
time for all good men to come to the aid of their country . . . Mr
Bush, where is that speech? We would even take it in written form, in
an email, something. Times like this in our country deserve a
Roosevelt speech. Not a side thought, we need a friend right now. We
realize that you might have some hard times and folks don't think you
have done your job right. But here is a perfect time for you to come
out and offer help and assistants to all us Americans. My mother
always told me " If you make a mistake, work real hard the next time
to make folks forget about the last one you made." Mr. President, I
know your hands are probably tied, . . . by your own party. I bet
after all it is an election year and the Republicans platform this
time around is " Get into the open and stay out of the Bush's." I
would have said HOG tied , but Republicans are staying away from Hogs
and pigs these days.

Republicans BEWARE , if you don't let this Republican President have a
little elbow room to move around with, you might be boxing your party
into a corner. Lately your party has been stuck on this piggy
reference, so I will lay it out that way:

One little piggy went to the market and came back with less cause his
dollar shrunk. The other piggy came back to his home it was gone
because it was foreclosed. The other little Piggy's, well they went
to a costume party, a Republican costume party and they all dressed so
they did not look like a Republican piggy. But it did not work
because all the other animals knew no matter what the piggy's did they
were still little Piggy's.

September 12 2008 Howdy from Will!

2008-09-12T21:38:00.001-05:00

Well we hit the ground running here in Japan, Sasebo, Japan. the show this
weekend is for the naval troops. However, the total run time on this little
hop, skip and jump over the water was 28 hours, not to mention the fact that
I was up the whole day before packin my ropes and packet myself full of
news. My fear was that I would not have enough of a memory of what is going
on with the two campaigns. Being that they took a break (Sept 11) from
pulling the rug out from one another. I hear that they are all back up to
speed and bumpin each other off the trail. Today I read that maybe some of
the promises that Palin has been throwing out might just be a little colored
up and not possible, Gas, and teaching kids where we came from. Anyhow, I
gotta catch a little sleep as I have to look like I know what I am doing in
the AM. These military boys and girls are real stickers about people being
the real deal ..

Your friend . . .

Will
Www.WillRogersUSA.com

I am off to Japan, but my mind is on the USA!

2008-09-12T21:35:00.000-05:00

Right now I am sitting in the Chicago airport waiting to take a flight to Japan. This cowboy is heading to the land of the "Picture opportunity". I imagine that by time I get back to the states next week I might be slightly blinded and a little stiff by all the pictures I am posing for and the flash bulbs. I hear that cowboys are big in that part of the world. If things are going real well I might throw out cowboy Bush's name to see what it does to my approval rating.
My flight is 13 hours long, which means I am going to miss this great holiday we are having today. Wait now, I mean no disrespect, I am not referring to 911 and the tragic events that happen to Americans on that day. No I am referring to this day of REST for the politicians and the POLITICAL ads we are being spared today. But luckily we can end the week on a high note because tomorrow will be biz as usual. Back to the backstabbing, name calling, misunderstanding politicians we know and love.
I will be in the air so keep me posted if something comes up that you just know this humorist can pass up for a comedy moment. This season has been the best season in history. I am like a pig in mud with all this. OOOOPS sorry, that comment was not meant for any of our political folks.
Follow my website and any of the websites you see my news on for Pictures, video, and stories of my trip.

Your friend,
Will
Www.WillRogersUSA.com

2008-09-04T14:07:00.001-05:00

Vice President nominee Sara Palin makes a direct hit on Obama's head!

Democrats, If you are not people of faith this is a good time to
become voters of faith. Last night's speech from Governor Sara Palin
was just about as aggressive as it could be without swinging a big
stick, a hockey stick.
This gram size Governor from Alaska pulled out all the punches and
socked a one two, three four, Five six . . . to Obama and his wife …
after all what are the Democrats going to do? Fight back? You can't
hit a woman, can you? And this may be just the problem the Democrats
face as their biggest challenge. How to get in there and get the job
done without looking like you are behaving in a ungentlemanly way.

Palin did just what the GOP wanted last night, she took the road that
Republicans wanted her to travel, with a monster truck, a gun rack,
and a fully loaded speech that created an awful lot of believers. Even
Jesus took 7 days to gain the respect of the world and this Messiah of
the Republican party has done it in only 6 days (Friday was her first
day of creation).

I am not sure how I feel about last nights speech, mostly it makes me
sad, because I know in the months to come that one good swipe (Rep's)
deserves another (Dem's), and another and another, that is just the
name of the game. This soul searching or witch hunt stuff should have
been done a long time ago. All this getting to know you, uncovering
and stripping naked of the candidates for public display is not
important now, the issues are. However, Folks only know 6 days of this
VP. Mr. Mc Cain this is kind of a trick on your part and it will cause
Americans to get less face time with the issues and more about who
this VP nominee is. This is the reason this whole campaign started
early and maybe the reason we are late in getting on the point. Maybe
we will never get there.

All is NOT so fair in love and war. I promise I am not going to shout
out "Can't we all get along", because it looks like we can't.
We about to get as dirty as we can possibly remember, or can't
remember. Every tactic or Attack-tics will be used to win this race.
Heck, if we would have used a fifth of the energy and skills that our
candidates have used in the last year of their campaign to fight this
war in Iraq. We just might be patting our sons and daughters on the
back and thanking them for the service they have done and not pushing
them out the door into the line of fire.
Tonight we heard Republicans do everything they can to make the
Democrats seem like they have not been part of helping to get this
country back on it's feet. And frankly this cowboy has had enough of
BOTH parties hitting below the belt.

I just wish they did not have these conventions one after another. I
wish they went back and forth on the sames days. This way at least we
would not sit at home and throw things at the TV and be forced to
dislike our country even more. This may be the reason our country is
divided. Because you politicians are not only dangling a carrot in our
faces, but you are prodding us in the backside with a hot poker as
well.

I have made a decision that I will only vote for the party that from
now until the elections plays fair. No kicking and no fighting, no
back stabbing and no lying. These are the qualities that I am looking
for in a President and a Vice President. Hmmm, I guess what I am
saying is I will probably have write in my mother and father for
President and Vice President, in that order.
Good luck to all you politicians and good luck to all of us Americans,
because we have to keep shaking our heads and crossing our fingers as
you all talk about how the other side is better than the other. Just
so you all know, we know you better than your mothers do, after all
you are politicians.

--
Will Roberts
"The Good Will Tour"
www.WillRogersUSA.com
1-866-381-Will (9455)
Direct# 310-228-7105
Fax# 800-844-4259

"All I Know Is What Little I Read On The Internet!"

2008-09-04T14:06:00.001-05:00

Lets see if this Alaskan Governor is a better aim than our New York senator Hillary Clinton.

Now as you may or may not know last week in the middle of my 12 day, 6 state tour I packed up my saddle bags and stopped off in Denver for
the DNC. Well this week to be fair and balance I got my media
credentials for the RNC. Although I may seem heavy on the Democratic
side at times, I am an independent that likes to believe I am a
little bit of both parties, at least until one party starts acting up
then I will jump ship like a pirate looking for a treasure map. Plus I
don't have a problem flip flopping on my choices. I call this
"Changing my mind" and it is one of the fine perks of being an
American, Freedom of choice. Politicians can't do this move (Flip
Flopping) because it could ruin there careers. Which makes no sense to
us Americans. As the facts change, so should your opinion. Being
stubborn is not a trait of a flexible leader, on the makeup of a
dictator. Ok, now that I have made my case for being a independent
with Democratic tendency's. Let me get back on track. If I get off
message my Republican friends finding this on line would hold it
against me.

So I was off to the RNC and then pow! Hurricane Gustav decided to have
a celebration of it's own and the only person who decided to show up
to this one is Mother Nature.

Now considering that a persons creativity is considered to be found on
the right side of the brain and logical side is the left. I would say
after what I saw last night at the Republicans convention, it looks
like they may have decided to swap brains. Democrats are supposed to
be the creative artist ones and Republicans, well, … they do the
books, the numbers, left brain logical, . . . scrap that word logical,
I don't want to have Republicans using that word to describe
themselves. Last night, I have never seen more images of America,
Flags, Red, White and BOY o BOY did they give us an eyeful. I have not
seen so much patriotism since a World War 2 movie, IN TECHNICOLOR.
Democrats plan for there convention was lets talk about it and the
words "YES WE CAN!" Mean while Republicans are playing to the base…
The base of every American that has watched a movie that that had an
underdog, a good fight, a child and a pretty woman. They are shooting
for Rocky and the Democrates are more Mr. Smith goes to Washington.
These days a good fight goes alot father than a good talk. Democrats
you better pull out all the stops because this epic made for TV movie
the Republicans is producing is trumping your "Grass ROOTS" film.

I have a plan for you Democrats, but don't let it out of the bag until
the day of the first VP debate.
PLAN: we all know that Republicans are banking on the debates.
Everyone I have talked to has said that IF Democrats come off to harsh
to the Republican VP they will look sexist. So here is what you do.
Have Biden pull out of the race for some patriotic reason, his son or
something. Then insert Hillary Clinton, have her debate Palin. This
would turn the country on it's end. Billed as the "Cat fight of the
Century. " Lets see if this Alaskan Governor is a better aim than our
New York senator Hillary Clinton.

Will Roberts
"The Good Will Tour"
www.WillRogersUSA.com
1-866-381-Will (9455)
Direct# 310-228-7105
Fax# 800-844-4259

"All I Know Is What Little I Read On The Internet!"

2008-09-04T14:05:00.001-05:00

Did McCain know what he was cooking up, or is this just another version of Half baked Alaska?

I have been hearing over and over again that folks are not sure Mc Cain knew that his female VP running mates daughter was pregnant of 5 months. I say to you, bully. If you think that a politician did not know that during an election year this type of golden opportunity was around, think again. There are two times that a politician will come upon an perfectly laid out scenario like this. #1. When they are caught in the middle of it and the media is taking advantage of it. #2. When an election year roles around and a politician is not feeling as popular as he wants the polls.

Of course, before I dress this horse up for this parade I am about to put it on. I will let you know . . . I am male, this is so you all know I know that I am limited to 10% effectiveness when it comes to dealing with an issue of the opposite sex. Why, well it is simple. For thousands of years although men have idolized the opposite sex and they have also been caught mis treating and mis speaking for them. So anything I get from these little comments of mine, I deserve.

This little issue of how a woman is running her child's life and how her child is running her FUTURE child's life should be considered out of bounds . . . uhh - umm, when it comes to a normal persons life. However, this is far from a normal woman's life. This person is, if the president is the father of our country , she would be the mother of our country.

Now maybe this cowboy is just seeing Hollywood in to this campaign. But, if you watched the VP exception speech you saw her daughter holding a baby in front of her pregnant stomach , maybe to dress up the truth or cover it. For that matter Mc Cain might just be using Palin to make himself look younger; Just do your best Mc Cain to keep her where you have her right now . . . in front of you.

I must tell you all that this little smoke and mirror or song and dance is a lot like when they take pictures of food before they put in on the menu or slap it in a magazine. They primp it up, and paint it to look juicier than it really is before they show it to the people that are buying it. Hey, it sells products, and Both sides of the parties are guilty of half baked, raw politics. But beware both you Democrats and Republicans, the American public will stick ya back in the oven if they are not sure you taste right to them.
I am all for anyone getting there chance to make it to the top. But this seems like this may not be a story book ending, but more like a bad sitcom.

Only time will uncover what we all need to know about our new VP, look what two days have done so far.

Will Roberts
"The Good Will Tour"
www.WillRogersUSA.com
1-866-381-Will (9455)
Direct# 310-228-7105
Fax# 800-844-4259

"All I Know Is What Little I Read On The Internet!"

2008-09-04T13:59:00.003-05:00

Obama supporters ready to support folks put out by Gustav! No matter how long it takes, they are in it for the long haul.

Today’s comments I did not schedule on the books, meaning that because it Labor Day I should be relaxing somewhere instead of writing this. However, we the current state of affairs in the Gulf coast I wish I had a way of going to the coast myself and bringing the three things I have an abundance of; Hope, Help, and Humor. In the coming days it will be increasingly important for all of us Americans to focus our help and energy to the folks in these devastated areas of the country. When I say ALL of our focus I mean ALL, any resources we have should go to show these folks that our country, no matter what shape it may be on the outside, inside we have a heart of Red, White and blue. I know when the Republicans see my comments for today they will be upset. I normally would not miss a chance to take a couple of stabs at the political, especially after Friday’s announcement. But what is good for the goose (Politicians) is good for the gander (ME). So I must focus as well all my energy into convincing Mother Nature to just scold the Gulf coast and not really punish um. They have enough and the Republicans well they will just have to sit back and wait for the storm to clear. Make my words, if they can blame the storm on the Democrats they will.
Recently I was in New Orleans, 2 weeks ago. I was doing a show there and while I was there I decided to shoot one of my PBS TV segments about Katrina. Now with Gustav (Katrina 2c the sequel) pounding at their door again I leave with my comments I read the day I was leaving the 9th Ward. Be safe folks and if you want to help in anyway, I bring your attention to what Mr. Obama said. He stated that any of his supporters would be willing, once all has cleared, to help in anyway they can. Funny thing is he must be physic as well as a good leader. The minute this all happened, that was the first thing I was thinking, Obama supporters love to support. If you are a Mc Cain supporter, you will have to wait until Mc Cain tells you what your next step is.

Good Luck to all of you in Texas, and the gulf coast cities.

Aug 14, 2008:
New Orleans:
I can’t image what New Orleans looked like right after Katrina hit. I know the news showed us over and over the devastation of what Mother Nature could do. But being here or any disaster area is a whole lot different than seeing it second hand. What I think blows me away the most is that there are still areas that folks are, to this date, living in. not in a RV parked next to, but living in. The conditions are well, unlivable.

I did however notice that the areas that are most improved are the areas with more money, you know better real estate value. Not the poor areas. Which seems backwards, doesn’t it. Should we not help the folks that cant afford to help themselves FIRST then get to the folks who have a little more money. Maybe it is because the people with more money have a bigger voice or maybe it is because the poor aren’t crying loud enough. I remember writing a story right after Katrina about how Bush senior and Bill Clinton did a fundraiser to fix up the supper dome. Millions of dollars were raiser in the snap of a football. Don’t get me wrong reconstruction is happening. But not at the speed it should be. Our people should always be first … and our sports acts come after we meet our needs. , Leisure should always be somewhere down at the bottom, not the reverse. After what I saw in New Orleans, the act our government is pulling is a criminal one.

Will Roberts
"The Good Will Tour"
www.WillRogersUSA.com
1-866-381-Will (9455)
Direct# 310-228-7105
Fax# 800-844-4259

"All I Know Is What Little I Read On The Internet!"

2008-09-03T13:26:00.000-05:00

I know it's been a while since I blogged, sorry. I'm really going to keep this one short since I don't have a lot of time. My next one will be longer, promise.

I want to introduce you to Will Roberts (a modern day Will Rogers) who will also be posting to our blog. He is our roving reporter who you may have seen on our show (Weekly Telegram). I love his segments and hope you do too. Anyway, he has a great sense of humor and I think you will find his posts enjoyable.

Chatatcha later!
Alisa

2008-05-15T11:10:00.000-05:00

Oh Wow! I can't believe it's been three months since I last blogged. Since Jessica left, we have been short-handed and I've been incredibly busy. But that's all changing. YEAH! We have a new producer! His name is Russ Jowell (sounds like Joel) and he's from...Texas! We'll forgive him for that (LOL). I think he is going to be a wonderful addition to our team and you'll enjoy his stories. Be watching for his first story soon.

Summer is almost here and I personally can't wait. We are vacationing in California which I have never been to so I'm really excited. Now with the high price of gas we're going to have an adventure traveling by train. I'll let you know how that goes but at least we don't have to pay for $4 gasoline along the way. I never thought I'd see the day when gas was that high. One of these days people aren't going to be able to afford to drive and you'll see cars sitting in front yards with weeds growing up around them kinda like you see in those apocalyptic films. Then there's the price of food which is going through the roof. Some are blaming if on the price of gas, some are blaming it on the use of corn for fuel but who really knows. Maybe if they didn't use fructose corn syrup in everything, the price of food might come down. They only use it instead of sugar because its cheaper. Well not anymore. Go back to sugar which is natural and better for you. Then maybe we could "lighten up" the way we eat. Okay, I'll get off my stump about the way we eat before I start lecturing to you.

A bright spot in my May, my son came home from college. (Woo Hoo, Happy Dance!) We're having to get used to each other again (LOL). He's becoming bored at home in the country because he doesn't have anything to do but work. Although there's fishing with his dad, it's not the same as being able to go next door and talk to a friend or some other campus activity. Mom just isn't the pal she was when he was little, sigh! Oh well, at least he's home and I can see his smiling face every night.

Well, gotta go. Another story calls! Enjoy the show with the new guy!
Chatatcha later!
Alisa

2008-02-19T08:41:00.000-06:00

Well another month passed me by. I tell you what, as I get older, the days just seem to fly by. I like to blame it on having children. We are always on the go. I thought when my son went off to college it would slow down, but, alas, no. I guess it's because when he left, my daughter lost her chauffeur and now I'm it (sigh). I really don't mind. It's been kinda nice with just me and her in the car together. We get to chat a lot more.

We've been really busy at Horizon too. The new year is in full swing and we are going many directions. And speaking of going, I have sad news, Jessica Lowe-Betts has taken a new position with the Tulsa Chamber as their manager of government affairs. This is an opportunity that is right up her alley and one she couldn't turn down. It's good for her and bad for us. We are going to miss her tremendously! I know I will miss all our road trips together as we were getting our stories. It was nice getting to know her and see how her life was evolving from starting her career with Horizon to getting married to becoming a mother, God is looking out for her. I know she will be good in her new job and we wish her well! So long JLO, keep in touch!

Heads up viewers, we will be pre-empted on OETA the first three weeks in March for their spring marathon but never fear, we will be on their digital channels and you can also catch us on DirecTV and DISH network on their RFD channel Thursdays at 2:30 p.m. or you can watch show segments on our website at www.okhorizon.com or catch the entire show through our podcast/vodcast (www.okhorizon.com/extras.htm and scroll down to the podcast area.). We are available about anyway you can imagine and portable as always. Enjoy the show!

Chatatcha later!
Alisa

2007-12-21T18:04:00.000-06:00

I'm sitting here getting ready to leave for my Christmas holiday and thought I would take this time to wish everyone reading my blog a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Will we have snow? Probably only if what comes in this weekend doesn't melt but this is Oklahoma so it probably will. I can only remember a couple of Christmas days that were white. I can remember several that were silvery with ice but not really snow. Let's hope it doesn't do that this year. I don't know about you, but I've had enough ice for one year.

Are you thinking about a New Year's resolution yet? If you need a little help, here goes:

1. Try being kinder to those you meet.
2. Love the one you're with even when they aren't lovable (hopefully they choose #1)
3. Pass on the second helpings (you really don't need them. If you're still hungry, try walking around a little while and then see if you're still hungry.)
4. Give: Your time, your self, your money to someone who needs it.
5. Stop fighting and say you're sorry (even if it isn't your fault). Sometimes sorry is all thats needed. We seem to lash out at the ones we love the most and that's just wrong. We should be the nicest to them. Even if you know the right button to push to get someone angry, DON'T PUSH IT! Take a deep breath and hold it for several seconds then let it out slowly then calmly discuss whatever the problem is. Fights can be averted this way.
6. Go to church and really listen instead of judging everyone there. They are all sinners just like you so they aren't any better.
7. If you see someone new at church, say hello instead of judging them by their looks. They are a sinner just like you and you aren't any better than them!
8. Take time to relax. We are all too stressed and that causes us to be short tempered (see #5).
9. Visit someone who is sick or shut in. They would love to see you.
1o. Be the kind of person you would want to be married to and see what happens!

Be safe during this holiday time and I'll chatacha next year!
Alisa

2007-11-30T15:25:00.000-06:00

Belated Happy Thanksgiving to all you! It's just like birthdays, I'm always late with the card. Oh well. I hope every one of you found something to be thankful for during the holiday. I know I did. I'm very thankful that all my family is healthy and close by. I have several friends who have life threatening illnesses and I can see first hand how that affects those around you. Please remember those who are sick in your prayers, especially around the holidays when it really can cause heartache more than usual.

If you are wondering why the website hasn't been updated yet, please be patient. My MAC has a cold and needs to be defragged (or whatever they do to MACs) and it won't happen until next week. Check around Wednesday morning for the latest stories. This also affects the podcasts so please keep checking. Sorry!
Chatatcha Soon!
Alisa

2007-11-09T16:39:00.000-06:00

I don't know about you, but my days are running together. I'm helping with our United Way campaign and it's a busy time. It's amazing the number of caring people I work with. Each year our little organization raises a lot of money to help United Way. It's impressive to watch the lengths people will go to help raise money. Some will ask you nicely, some will beg, some will get in your face, and some will just quietly do their own thing but they all do it with an air of fun around them. What we have found is that if you make if fun, people don't mind giving to something they know is worthwhile. For me, giving to United Way is something I want to do because I know that my money is going to help those who really need it the most and it doesn't even cost me all that much. I hope during this time of year when you see the United Way signs up (you know the ones with the red and white thermometer-looking graphic with the red that just keeps going up), you'll stop a moment and remember to dig deep into your pocket and pull out what you can and give it to an organization that is helping a lot of people. Give a little, give a lot, just give!
Alisa

2007-09-28T13:30:00.000-05:00

Hey! We're on You Tube! Check us out!

http://www.youtube.com/OklahomaHorizonTV

2007-09-27T09:45:00.000-05:00

Well we are only two months away from Christmas! Do you have your shopping done yet? Not me. I haven't even started yet. I'm sort of a procrastinator. I do my best work when I'm under the gun to get it done. Now I don't wait until Christmas Eve to do my shopping. That's cutting it a bit too close for my comfort but I do usually wait until December. My budget wishes I would do it throughout the year like my mom does, but my penchant for procrastination just doesn't allow for it. ;-D Oh well, sigh!

Okay, now I'm going to get on my soap box (you've been warned!).

What's up with healthcare? Insurance in particular. Our insurance rates are fixing to go up almost twenty-five percent!!!! That's highway robbery to me. If you don't have insurance, you're doomed because of the cost of a doctor visit, or worse yet, a hospital visit. And you're doomed to paying through the nose if you do have insurance. It's a catch-22! Because of it, our insurance industry is sure making socialized medicine look pretty good to me.

I recently had a lengthy discussion with some of my in-laws about the pros and cons of socialized medicine. Their main concern was they didn't want the government to be in control of our healthcare. But my take on it is, is the government any better than the insurance industry?

The insurance industry is basically able to say what treatment you can and can't have. In some cases, refusing treatments that can really help someone or maybe even cure them. All to keep from spending the almighty buck! I think it's a shame when a company is more concerned about making money than about helping to cure illnesses. I know they have to make money, but if you take care of people correctly, wouldn't you be able to save money in the long run? Let the doctors make the decision about what treatment is needed and let the insurance company pay for it since that is why we purchase insurance in the first place. Yes, some people will use it more than others, but some people will use it less. That's just the way it works.

On the flip side, WE have to take better care of ourselves so that we don't have to be treated for something that is preventable if we just did what we already know we should:

Eat right, don't smoke or use tobacco products, exercise regularly, drink only minimally, and get regular checkups (especially when you know you have a medical history that's less than perfect).

Just like preventative maintenance on your car helps it last longer and run better, so too, taking preventative steps with your health will go a long way to keeping you out of the doctor's office and making you feel a whole lot better. Who knows, it may even help drop those insurance premiums if people didn't get sick as often because they keep such good care of themselves.

It's something to think about.

Chatatcha later!
Alisa

2007-09-05T14:23:00.002-05:00

Wow! September already, before you know it, it'll be Christmas (Yikes! I'd better start shopping now.)! I tell you what, this blogging thing is not as easy as it sounds. I keep forgetting to post to it. Life is just so busy sometimes that stuff like this just goes by the wayside.

Anyhow...where was I...oh yeah, September. This month is looking good already. School has started and story ideas are abundant. From law enforcement to farm subsidies to aerospace, our stories are sure to peak your interest. We're even going back in time to the dawn of Oklahoma with the Centennial Land Run in Sayre. That was a fun day! I love the old West and watching period action with all the costumes, horses, gun play...it was very enjoyable. I'm hoping they make it an annual event.

Did you know that we have an eagle rehabilitation center in Oklahoma? Even though the bald eagle has been taken off the endangered list, it's still protected. What's unbelievable is that some people still take pot shots at them and injure them (sometimes even kill them). This is such a shame but at least there is a place that takes care of them and trys to get them to the point of releasing them back into the wild. I'm waiting on just such occasion that will hopefully be coming up soon. We just have to wait of the vet to say yeah or nay. I'll keep you posted.

Well back to work! I'll chatacha as soon as I can remember. Keep watching Oklahoma Horizon and see you soon!
Alisa

2007-09-05T14:23:00.001-05:00

Wow! September already, before you know it, it'll be Christmas (Yikes! I'd better start shopping now.)! I tell you what, this blogging thing is not as easy as it sounds. I keep forgetting to post to it. Life is just so busy sometimes that stuff like this just goes by the wayside.

Anyhow...where was it...oh yeah, September. This month is looking good already. School has started and story ideas are abundant. From law enforcement to farm subsidies to aerospace, our stories are sure to peak your interest. We're even going back in time to the dawn of Oklahoma with the Centennial Land Run in Sayre. That was a fun day! I love the old West and watching period action with all the costumes, horses, gun play...it was very enjoyable. I'm hoping they make it an annual event.

Did you know that we have an eagle rehabilitation center in Oklahoma? Even though the bald eagle has been taken off the endangered list, it's still protected. What's unbelievable is that some people still take pot shots at them and injure them (sometimes even kill them). This is such a shame but at least there is a place that takes care of them and trys to get them to the point of releasing them back into the wild. I'm waiting on just such occasion that will hopefully be coming up soon. We just have to wait of the vet to say yeah or nay. I'll keep you posted.

Well back to work! I'll chatacha as soon as I can remember. Keep watching Oklahoma Horizon and see you soon!
Alisa

2007-07-26T17:12:00.000-05:00

Hey all! Just got back from a much needed vacation. I have discovered the one thing Oklahoma doesn't have...the ocean. Wow! We went to Padre Island and it was the first time I had ever been to the ocean. It was fabulous! There had been storms before we got there (just like here) and we had some really good waves. I had a blast playing around in the water. It was definitely a nice break but I am glad to be back.

Lots has happened since the last post. The rain stopped (sorta), YEAH! We've had some visiting journalists from Mali, Africa. If you've been watching the show, you will remember the episode Rob and other Oklahoma journalists talked about their experience when the went there in the Spring. This time it was the Malians turn to come here. They were very interesting people and I'm glad to have met a few of them. Safe journey home!

Lastly, Jessica Lowe-Betts had a bouncing baby girl! We are so excited for her. Congratulations Jess but come back soon!

It's been a busy summer. Unfortunately for my children, summer's end is fast approaching. My son is getting ready to go off to college and that's a really new experience. With the cost of college these days, you had better really want to go and study hard to make it worth while. I'm hoping he can keep his feet on the ground and make the grades. Keep me in your thoughts as fall semester starts. It may be challenging.

Well its time to go walk. You know we gotta stay in shape to keep our health on the up side. Chat atcha later!
Alisa

2007-05-27T15:58:00.000-05:00

Rain, rain go away? Well, maybe not, but maybe slow down just a little. We needed it but not all at once. Whew! Although it was very nice to listen to it this morning. I was able to open my doors and windows (since for once, it wasn't raining sideways ;-D) and just listen as it hit the trees. It was so soothing. Sometimes it's nice to just be able to lay there and enjoy nature. You should try it sometime. It's very relaxing.

Relaxing was just what I needed too. My son graduated Friday night and the week leading up to it was very hectic. I don't remember high school being so busy back when I was attending. It seems like more and more, kids are just tremendously busy. Maybe it's to keep them out of trouble, but whatever it is, it sure makes for busy times.

Then there was the after graduation party. Oh my! The senior parents have been planning this all year long (which also has made my son's senior year busy for me). We throw all the graduates an all night party with lots of games and food and even door prizes for each student with the hopes of keeping them away from other pursuits for the night. The only drawback is, the parents have to stay up all night long. I don't know about you, but I am not a night person. I value my sleep! It was worth it though. Everyone had a good time and stayed safe so a little lack of sleep wasn't too bad but it will take me a while to recover. Anyway, congratulations to all those graduates who made it though school. Good luck with your lives!
Alisa

2007-05-08T13:44:00.000-05:00

I don't know about you, but I've had enough rain for a little while (not a long time just a week or so). The ponds are full and overflowing so we could do with a little less for now. It wouldn't be so bad if I could just stay home with the windows open reading a good book while it lightly rains but torrential rains just don't make that possible. I think at this point, most of the state is out of the drought.

At least it didn't rain during the latest event from the Horizon folks. Our very own Brian Bendele got married (sorry girls, he's off the market). The weather cooperated quite nicely and the wedding was lovely. Congrats to Brian and his new wife, Andrea!

And speaking of showers, it is certainly popping up some beautiful May flowers. I think each year there are more and more wild flowers that I've never seen. Don't know where they've come from (okay, technically I know they come from God but where in the state have they blown in from) but I'm definitely glad for the splash of color I see everywhere. Farmers and gardeners would call them weeds, but I just love seeing them no matter where they've taken root. Enjoy them while they last because summer is coming and it's coming fast!
Alisa

2007-03-28T09:13:00.000-05:00

It never ceases to amaze me how just a little bit of rain can cause everything to just green up. Spring has definately sprung and I, for one, am glad. While I enjoyed a snowy winter for a change, my favorite season is Spring. Everything is so new and fresh and that splash of color everywhere just brings a smile to my face. So yeah for Spring!

Now that Spring is here, we are all hitting the road and gathering stories for Oklahoma Horizon and with this being the Centennial year, we are going to take some time and look back at Oklahoma History. You've probably already seen the Oklahoma Moments we've been having but start looking for some of our shows to reflect back on our history, where we've been and where we're going and even a trip down Route 66. It promises to be fun.

Rob is back from Mali, Africa and boy does he have some tales to tell. Watch later this summer for some of those. They just might open your eyes to how very lucky we are here in Oklahoma. Stay tuned.

Alisa

2007-03-14T14:07:00.000-05:00

Okay, where did February go?!! I can't believe it's already March. We've been so busy I didn't even notice time passing. But that's good. It means that we're out and about getting the stories you love to see. At least I hope so. I hope you still find the show interesting and occasionally fun. I know I'm still having fun and really enjoying meeting the wonderful people of Oklahoma.

Having lived for a short time in another state, I can really appreciate what fine people live in Oklahoma. People genuinely care about each other. We're not perfect by any stretch of the imagination but we Okies do try our best to get along.

And contrary to Hollywood, Oklahoma isn't as backwoodsy as they portrait us. Coming up soon on Oklahoma Horizon, you're going to learn about just how advanced Oklahoma is. From our computer technology to the cutting edge of the aerospace industry, Oklahoma has it all. We are quite diverse. We can take you from the farm to space and back again. Not many states can say that.

We're also going to take you back in time and explore some of our historical roots, from the dust bowl to Route 66 to the Grapes of Wrath. Then we'll see what's bubbling up from underneath. All in an effort to bring you a wide range of topics in this, our centennial year. Feel free to drop us a line and let us know what's interesting in your area. I can't guarantee we'll cover it, but if we don't know about, we certainly can't.

Now we've been pre-empted for a couple of weeks while OETA has their spring festival, but never fear, we will be back soon. If you've missed us, visit our website (www.okhorizon.com) and see what you've missed. It's all there. We're also on their digital channels now even when we're pre-empted. Check your local listings to find out where those channels are.

Well back to the grind (oh, sorry, work) ;-D. Be watching for what's coming up. We're going global again. Rob's been to Mali, Africa so be looking to see how Oklahoma is working there. Keep watching and see you soon!
Alisa

2007-01-26T15:50:00.000-06:00

Can you believe the weather the last couple of weeks! I've been saying for a while now that we are long over due a cold snowy winter and it looks like its now time to pay the piper for all the nice warm winters we've had in recent years. Not that I mind really. Maybe this winter will kill all those nasty bugs before next summer. That would really be nice.

Now, I AM tired of getting stuck in my driveway. The ice created a dam for the melting ice and has made my driveway into a swamp. I've had to be pushed/pulled out of my driveway three times in the past two weeks. I've taken to parking close to the road just to get out (I've noticed others down my road doing the same). The best thing about it is...we are finally getting some moisture, YEAH! This should help the farmers tremendously although they may not be able to put their cows on the wheat yet but maybe soon. My daughter said the other day, "haven't we had enough moisure." Unfortunately, no. Hopefully by the time summer rolls around we will but not yet.

So even if you've had enough of winter already, pray for more snow (not ice, but snow) or even rain. We really need to catch up.
Alisa

2007-01-02T15:49:00.000-06:00

Happy 2007! What a year this is going to be. I'm excited about what's coming up on the show and hopefully, how it will affect you the viewer. We are constantly trying to improve the show to make it more enjoyable and informative.

So back to the new year...have you made your new year's resolution yet? I haven't because I don't make them. Why set yourself up to fail (ha, ha). I'm of the belief that if you want to make a change, just do it. Don't talk about, don't write it down, just do it (kinda sounds like a Nike commercial doesn't it ;-D). So I'm going to just do something but I haven't a clue what it's going to be. There are times I just like to go with the flow and see what happens (other times, I can be quite on task but I'm not near as much fun like that). So if I happen to decide to do something, I'll let you know (real committal aren't I). But for those of you who make new year's resolution, I'm pulling for you. Stay the course, keep up the good work, go that extra mile and really commit. Who knows, it may be the best thing you've ever done for yourself. Have a wonderful and safe New Year!
Alisa

2006-12-19T08:54:00.000-06:00

It's the week before Christmas and all through the office...everyone's busily trying to get things done before the end of the year. Whew! Time has just flown by this year. I can't believe there is less than two weeks before 2007! These are my catch up weeks to try and accomplish everything I've put off until I have time to do them (yeah, right!) I actually like this time. Things do slow down just a little bit and I can stop and take a breath. We all need times like that. To just stop, slow down, take a look around, and just give thanks for our family and friends and the little blessings we receive every now and then, that we don't stop to think about and realize that they are blessings.

It's a time of giving to others, although to me, we should be doing that year round. Why wait until it's cold out or a holiday to give to people in need. Instead of garage sales, give your stuff to someone who needs it. There are plenty of groups out there that take in items to give to someone in need. When you do your spring cleaning and find out you have more stuff than can actually fit into your dresser, give a lot of it away. If you haven't worn it in a year, you either forgot about it (and didn't miss it) or you've outgrown it and don't need it anyway. We tend to be pack rats so instead, let's think about others while making room in our homes to just be able to breathe.

Merry Christmas!
Alisa

2006-12-07T17:27:00.000-06:00

Whew! Made it past Thanksgiving without stretching my waistline but I still have Christmas to go. It's been hard with the weather turning cold to stay away from sweets and carbs. I'm finding new ways to make my favorite desserts sugar-free and so far, I've succeeded. Splenda is a wonderful product. It's acutally made from sugar so to substitute it for sugar you just use the same amount that you would sugar. Now that's easy.

I think if more people ate like they were diabetic, we would have a lot less diabetics (at least those who eat themselves there). It's really not a bad way to eat. My only problem is I'm finicky when it comes to food. I don't like a lot of fruits and vegetables so I find myself eating the same stuff over and over and sometimes that gets a little blah! I know, I know, try new foods and I have a little but it's a slow process.

Be careful over the next several weeks, watch what you eat, exercise more, and try to kick those nasty habits before New Years. That way you can set youself an easier resolution.
Alisa

2006-11-17T13:32:00.000-06:00

Well this week we launched our new website and hopefully you will like it (www.okhorizon.com). We've tried to update it to look more like a television website and I think we accomplished that. So I would like to take this opportunity to thank Robert Breisch and Tom Phillippe who helped redesign the look and feel of our website. Thanks guys.

And with Thanksgiving coming up I also wanted to take a moment and let you know what I'm thankful for.

1) I thank God for my family who have all been so supportive of me even during those times when I have to miss something that's going on with my children because I'm on the road.
2) I'm thankful that I live in a country where I can practice my religion without being persecuted (at least currently but that's one to watch).
3) I'm thankful that I have the freedom to tell y'all what I think without being censored.
4) I'm thankful that we live in a time where even if you don't agree with the war, you still agree to support the troops who are just doing their jobs and standing between us and harm's way.
5) I'm thankful that we can have free elections without causing civil war because the side I chose didn't win.
6) and lastly, I'm thankful that you are watching our show because without you, the viewer, we wouldn't be here.

So thank you for your support. Have a safe and family-filled Thanksgiving!
Alisa

2006-11-07T10:47:00.000-06:00

Oklahoma's Centennial kick-off begins this month, November 9th through the 19th, in Tulsa but in really kinda started last Thanksgiving at the Macy's Thanksgiving parade where Oklahoma had our very own float. You can see what all the hoopla is about this week coming up on Oklahoma Horizon. Rob McClendon takes us to New York to see the float and what a float it was. It represented many aspects of Oklahoma and all Oklahomans should be proud. I know I am.

I hope each of you has as much pride in our state as I do. There was a time when I didn't live here (a very short time) and I missed it tremendously. When someone asked my why I would want to return to Oklahoma, I replied that it was the perfect place to raise my children. Lots of open spaces, clean air, and low crime rate. The people are warm and friendly and truly care about each other. You can't say that in a lot of places but in Oklahoma that is a true fact. We know how to help our neighbors even before they ask and in a time where people tend to ignore each other and say "that's not my problem," Oklahomans are different. We pitch in and let our neighbors know that your problem is my problem and I'll be there for you in a pinch. Life is at a slower pace, too, and that's just fine by me. There's something to be said for taking a step back, breathing in a clean breath of air, and watching the sun set instead of hurrying everywhere you go and not even noticing what's going on around you. You miss things that way.

So this month as our one hundred year birthday approaches, take the time to smell the autumn air, watch a sun set (or rise through the fog), and remember, we're all in this together. Help your neighbor when you can and let them help you when they can and attend one of the many, many festivals near you coming up over the next several months and help us celebrate one hundred years with this warm, friendly state. Happy Birthday, Oklahoma!

Alisa

2006-11-02T17:17:00.000-06:00

Well, things are sure hopping in Oklahoma, especially in the Panhandle. They have a new company moving in that will bring about 3,500 jobs to the area around Hooker. Now that's big considering the town only has approximately 1,700 people! But believe it of not, not everyone is thrilled about it. Some people in the small town don't want it, although most do. Coming from a small town, I can understand not wanting your town to grow very much (I happen to like my small town and want it to stay fairly small at least until my kids are grown because there's a lot fewer concerns in a small town like crime but I would hate to see my town dry up.) but walking downtown Hooker, it's clear the town is drying up. Many businesses have closed or left town. It's really kinda sad but there's hope. With the Smithfield Beef Group building a beef processing plant a few miles outside of town, this small town should start to see a lot of growth and that means other new businesses, more people, and the ability for those who grow up in Hooker to actually have the opportunity to stay there and raise their families close to home. I would think that would be the most important aspect of this new business. Hopefully, the people who don't want it will come around and see that it will benefit Hooker and maybe even them.

I love small towns. Where everyone knows everyone and looks out for each other. If you've never lived in a small town, you might not understand how good it feels to know that even if I can't watch my kids every move, there's probably someone else who will see and let me know. Boy, does that just irritate my son to no end but I think it's great!

Keep watching the show and let me know what you think.
Alisa

2006-10-17T09:42:00.001-05:00

Wow! I can't believe so much time has gone by. Between vacation and being on the road, the last several months have just flown by. I'm such a bad blogger but I'll try to do better. Things have really been hopping for us at Oklahoma Horizon. Jessica, Brian, and I have been on the road a lot lately so that means some really good stories for your viewing pleasure.

One sad note, we said goodbye to our director, Perry Thoele, in October. He decided to retire and while we are happy for him, it was really hard for me. See, he has been my mentor for the last several years and has taught me almost everything I know about videography. But he's also been my good friend. We've traveled the road together many times and he has always offered me great advice and support. So I will sorely miss him even though I know he's just a phone call away it's not the same as seeing him in the office next door. Farewell Perry, you will be missed!

On a happier side, we've got some really great shows coming up in November and December. There's the Centennial Kick-off that begins in November and then with Christmas just around the corner, you might want to watch for the Made in Oklahoma segments coming up and perhaps find something unique for your loved ones.

If you've missed an episode, not to worry. You can find each story on our website at www.okhorizon.com/programs. And for those of you living in the Northeast corner of Oklahoma, we are now in syndication each night of the week at 7 p.m. on KRSC. Life is good!

Well, I've got to start editing now so I'll chatatcha next time and don't be afraid to write. I'd love to hear from you our viewer!

Alisa

2006-06-28T10:35:00.000-05:00

Our health challenge is going well and each of us is starting to obtain our goals. Rob's weight is coming down, Jessica's blood pressure is coming down, and my blood suger level is coming down. We are working out at least three times a week and recently Rob signed us up for a Fitness Boot Camp. Oh my! That has been very challenging for us. We go twice a week and its kinda like football camp at the beginning of the season. I'm enjoying it though. The only drawback is that instead of losing more weight, I'm actually gaining weight due to muscle building and while I don't mind a little more muscle, I really need to buckle down and eat a little bit less than what I am to try and start losing again (I still have about 30 lbs to go to get to my goal). More on that later!

I would challenge each of our viewers to make a health plan to eat right and get into shape just like we are. Let me know if you do and how you are doing.

Alisa

2006-05-19T17:14:00.000-05:00

Hi there! My name is Alisa and I am one of the segment producers on the Oklahoma Horizon TV show. I started this blog because I was curious if anyone out there watchs our show and if so, what they thought of it. It's always nice to get feedback and I thought this would be the easiest way.

I've enjoyed reporting for the show and am always excited when I go on the road and meet new people and discover interesting stories that I can share with the rest of Oklahoma and beyond.

You can also visit our website at www.okhorizon.org (under programs--where our weekly segments are located) or find our podcast/vodcast on iTunes (we're under the category of Business and then the subcategory of Careers).

If you haven't seen us yet, download our vodcast and tell me what you think. I hope someone is watching!