OKLAHOMA CITY – House Democratic Leader Cyndi Munson, D-Oklahoma City, released the following statement of condolences after the passing of Express Employment Professionals co-founder Bob Funk Sr. at 85. “My heart goes out to my friends Bob Funk Jr. and Kim Garrett-Funk and all of the family of Bob Funk Sr.” Leader Munson said. “Mr. Funk is an Oklahoma legend, helping to employ millions in Oklahoma and across our country. His work on the Oklahoma Youth Expo Board–a beloved program for those of us in the Legislature–will be long lasting. He invested in Oklahoma and our future by using his influence to give back to a state he believed in. He will be missed, and his impact will always be remembered. I will be keeping the entire Funk family and all who loved him in my prayers.” -END-
Honoring Black Healthcare Heroes and Celebrating Community Impact Across Oklahoma OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Legislative Black Caucus Foundation, Inc. (OLBCF) proudly announces the 25th Biennial A.C. Hamlin Scholarship Gala , to be held on Saturday, September 13, 2025 , at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City. This year’s theme, “Elevating Excellence in Healthcare and Community Impact,” will spotlight Black healthcare professionals, past and present, who have made lasting contributions to the health and well-being of Oklahomans. From rural clinics to urban hospitals, and across generations, the Gala will honor those who have served with purpose and compassion. This signature event is named in honor of Albert Comstock Hamlin , the first African American elected to the Oklahoma Legislature in 1907. Through scholarship, recognition, and community engagement, the gala continues the A.C. Hamlin Scholarship legacy by investing in future leaders in education, especially students attending Langston University , Oklahoma’s only Historically Black College and University (HBCU). Champions of criminal justice reform and education equity to address maternal health disparities and supporting economic development in Black communities , the OLBC is committed to legislative excellence and transformative change. The caucus also serves as an advocacy and mentoring body, to encourage civic engagement and leadership development among the next generation of Oklahomans Representative Ajay Pittman, Chair of OLBCF , emphasized the importance of celebrating those who lead by example: "The A.C. Hamlin Gala is a powerful reminder of the excellence that exists in every corner of our state. I am excited for this opportunity to come together and celebrate this year’s incredible honorees, individuals, and community organizations who do this great work every single day to uplift, heal, educate, and empower our communities,” said Pittman. “This event is about honoring their commitment, highlighting leadership, and promoting our investment in the future. I am most proud that the A.C. Hamlin gala continues to help support our state’s only HBCU, Langston University, and all of the students who carry forward a legacy of leadership, brilliance, and purpose. This Biennial scholarship banquet is more than a celebration; this is a call to keep striving toward a better, more united Oklahoma." Representative Ron Stewart, Vice Chair , shared his excitement for his first gala as a caucus leader: "It is an incredible honor to serve in the Oklahoma House of Representatives, representing the vibrant and resilient community of North Tulsa. As a proud graduate of Langston University and a freshman legislator, I am humbled by the opportunity to advocate for meaningful change. The A.C. Hamlin Gala gives us a chance to celebrate the very people who have shaped our neighborhoods and our future, from healthcare workers to educators and to community leaders. It is our responsibility and our joy to lift them up." In preparation for the event, the OLBCF is inviting the public to help identify Black healthcare professionals , living or deceased, in Oklahoma or those who were born here, and whose work has made an impact on our communities . Whether a beloved family doctor, nurse, community health advocate, or trailblazer who opened doors for others, we want to hear their stories. Please visit the website and complete the form to share your information as soon as possible. The deadline for the entries is Friday, August 15, 2025. 25th Biennial A. C. Hamlin Gala Event Details: Date: Saturday, September 13, 2025 Time: Dinner and Program at 7:00 PM Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum 1700 NE 63rd St., Oklahoma City, OK 73111 2025 Oklahoma Legislative Black Caucus Foundation, Inc. Members: Representative Ajay Pittman – Chair (District 99, Oklahoma City) Representative Ron Stewart – Vice Chair/Treasurer (District 73, Tulsa) Senator Regina Goodwin (District 11, Tulsa) Senator Nikki Nice (District 48, Oklahoma City) Representative Erick Harris (District 39, Edmond) Representative Michelle McCane (District 92, Tulsa) Representative Aletia Timmons (District 97, Oklahoma City) To learn more, visit okblackcaucus.com , email okblackcaucus@gmail.com , or call 405-557-7393 . -END-
OKLAHOMA CITY – Rep. Ross Ford, R-Broken Arrow, today expressed displeasure with the Oklahoma Department of Public Safety Commissioner’s abrupt announcement that the Oklahoma Highway Patrol will no longer provide law enforcement coverage on interstate highways in the state's two largest metropolitan areas – Tulsa and Oklahoma City – beginning Nov. 1. This would leave enforcement to local police departments. "I'm against the Patrol pulling manpower from these densely populated areas," said Ford, who serves as chair of the House Appropriations and Budget Public Safety Subcommittee. "There has to be a better way to address the department's concerns that doesn't involve putting citizens in danger. I worry about increased incidences of driving under the influence and unattended collisions on interstate highways that currently fall under the Patrol's jurisdiction. The fact is, troopers patrolling these highways saves Oklahomans lives.” Ford, a former Tulsa Police officer, said he's confident in the city's ability to pivot and address the areas of shortage left in the Patrol's absence, but it shouldn't have to. Ford said he'll be working to get more information from the Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the Highway Patrol as well as examining state statute regarding the Patrol's areas of responsibility and whether DPS has exceeded its authority in redistributing Patrol resources.