Happy New Year to all of our OK FRIDAY the subscribers. We hope we’ve improved your appreciation of everything that’s going on with our residents, from charity galas to our healthcare leaders battling COVID-19 last year.

This week, I’m in heaven with Oklahoma State’s victory over Notre Dame at the Fiesta Bowl. It hasn’t been unusual for the Cowboys to step up a gear in the second half of this year. They lost the Big 12 title game to Baylor when they were on the two inch line and time ran out. But stomping on a big name like Notre Dame when OSU were so far behind at halftime was incredible.

OU and Tulsa also won their Bowl games. OU beat Oregon in the Alamo Bowl, 47 – 32. Tulsa beat Old Dominion 30 – 17 in the Myrtle Beach Bowl. Big smiles adorn the faces of graduates from all three of Oklahoma’s universities this year.

In 2021, more than 12,500 Oklahomans died from COVID. Over 90 percent of that number was NOT VACCINATED. It doesn’t seem to bother the anti-vaccines that 11,250 Oklahomans died because they wouldn’t have been shot.

Some vaccinated people died, 1,250, mostly older with comorbidities.

The Oklahoma Department of Health reported 4,110 new cases and 27,820 active cases on Tuesday.

BUT NO ONE IS DIE FROM JUST BEING VACCINATED.

• • •

There are many beneficial areas where Oklahoma City has excelled under the leadership of Mayor David Holtthe record-breaking passage of MAPS 4, the lowest unemployment rate in modern Oklahoma City history, a booming economy, booming population growth, increased funding for basic services like the police, firefighters and streets. He is running for re-election in February with the slogan: “Let’s keep up a good thing. “

• • •

Debby hamptonCEO and President of United Way expressed moving thoughts in a note to United Way campaign workers.

“Life is a gift. Four powerful words that make us reflect on how and why we are here in the world, and what we should do with the life that has been offered to us. Sadly, for many in our community, life can quickly feel less of a gift and more of a burden.

That’s why United Way of Central Oklahoma is here to create a stronger, healthier and more compassionate community. By supporting a network of 55 local partner agencies and 102 health and social service programs, contributions are used to meet our community’s most critical needs, solve multiple problems, and offer help and hope there. where it is most needed.

• • •

In a battle of governors, Governor Kevin Stitt lost each time to the governors and chief chiefs of Oklahoma’s 39 Native American tribes.

It all started right after Stitt was elected when he proposed a sharp increase in the fees paid to the state by tribal casinos. Governor Stitt lost this battle, but continued to devote time and state resources to challenging the tribes in court on various issues. He deteriorated to the point of fighting over hunting and fishing licenses.

The Cherokee Nation is the largest tribe in the state and Tulsa benefits greatly from their generosity.

In Oklahoma City, the Chickasaw Nation Governor Bill Anoatubby generously funds everything from United Way to the National Cowboy Hall of Fame. The Chickasaw Nation supports Oklahoma City nonprofits large and small. The tribes are a blessing for the whole state.