The Governor's Podium: The Year That Was

Remember one year ago, as we approached the end of 1999? I spent part of the last night before the millennium in the state's emergency command post, ready for problems that never happened. It was one of those moments for the history books, and we all wondered that the millennial year would bring.

It's interesting to look back and recognize the truth of the old saying: No matter how much things may change, they remain pretty much the same.

At the beginning of 2000, we knew we'd be electing a new president. We just didn't realize how LONG it would take. But in spite of all the turmoil, our system and our nation proved once again why it is the best and strongest in history. We endured.

Here in Oklahoma, we uncovered and fixed a serious scandal at our State Health Department. At year's end things were better for elderly Oklahomans in nursing homes, and corruption had been exposed and prosecuted. That's how government is supposed to work.

The local elections moved us a big step closer to two-party government, which benefits everyone. No matter what your party loyalty may be, it's a bad thing for one party to dominate a state for 93 years.

Overseas, the world was still a messy place, with trouble in the Middle East and elsewhere. Some good and brave Oklahomans from our 45th Brigade are spending the holidays keeping the peace in Bosnia, and as you read this, Cathy and I hope to be visiting them to deliver some holiday packages from their families.

At our house, it was an eventful millennial year. I was honored to be considered for the vice presidency and a cabinet job, but the high point was the marriage of our oldest daughter, Carrie, to a fine young man named Ryan Leonard.

Of course Oklahomans were thrilled with a great OU football season, and we also said farewell to a good man named Bob Simmons up at Stillwater.

There's class at both ends of I-35.

So from the Keatings to your house . . . Have a wondrous and joyful holiday season!