By Senator James Leewright
This past week, I had the great privilege of helping honor Drumright Police Officer Gerad Poole. Some of you may be familiar with the recent events that took place in that community. Back in March, Officer Poole put his own life on the line after he saw a home in flames. He stopped to see what was going on and heard someone screaming for help. Two women were trapped inside, unable to find their way out because of the smoke and flames. Without hesitation, Officer Poole entered the house and got both women out without serious injury, then called for medical assistance. Without his quick, heroic action, this story would undoubtedly have had a tragic ending.
Officer Poole was honored this past week, and I was so glad to have the opportunity to recount his heroism in a Citation of Recognition from myself, Governor Stitt and Representative Ty Burns. It’s inspiring to realize even in challenging times like these, there are heroes living and working in our communities, making life better for all of us through their selfless service.
We had the opportunity to honor even more of those everyday heroes this past week at the state Capitol as we gathered in a joint session for our annual Oklahoma National Guard and 45th Infantry Division Appreciation Day.
There are more than 8,000 men and women who serve in the Oklahoma National Guard, from communities in District 12 and throughout the state. They’re family, friends, neighbors, members of our local churches, employees and business owners – some even serve in the Oklahoma Legislature. They make a positive difference around the world, and right here in our state, cities and towns.
April 14 marked the deadline for Senate committees to work on bills sent over from the House of Representatives, just as they’ve wrapped committee work on legislation that was approved in our chamber.
Both chambers are continuing to work through a slate of bills to help us fight the increasing problems resulting from black market marijuana and illegal grows. I want to stress we’re not pursuing this legislation to be punitive to the medical marijuana industry – quite the contrary. This effort is about protecting legitimate businesses that are working diligently to follow the law. It’s about protecting law-abiding citizens from dangers that may arise in their communities as a result of illegal grows and crimes committed by drug cartels. It’s also about addressing the impact on agriculture operations from the proliferation of illegal grows throughout the state.
I thank you for the privilege of being your voice at the state Capitol. If you have any questions or concerns about legislation or other issues at the state level, please feel free to contact my office by calling 405-521-5528, or email James.Leewright@oksenate.gov.
