The Governor's Podium

Cathy and I will be joined by hundreds of exhibitors and volunteers on Saturday, September 9, as we host the fourth annual Septemberfest celebration at the Governor's Mansion in Oklahoma City.

We hope you and your family can join us.

When we started Septemberfest four years ago, the goal was to celebrate Oklahoma culture and commerce.

We think it's been a great success . . . this year we have more exhibitors and participants than ever, and it promises to be a fun and exciting day.

Exhibits and entertainers range from a Will Rogers impressionist to a flock of sheep -- and you can shear one! There are arts and crafts for kids, snacks to nibble and musical groups to enjoy. The format is completely informal -- come wander the Mansion grounds, take in the exhibits and activities, tour the Mansion itself -- and stop by to say hello to us. We always try to personally greet as many visitors as possible, but with some 15,000 guests last year, Septemberfest is drawing quite a crowd! This is your house -- and we are only temporary tenants. So we hope you can bring the family, even pack a picnic lunch, and enjoy Septemberfest 2000.

The Mansion gates are open from 10-5 on September 9. Of course there's no admission charge, and parking around the Capitol is also free. Entry to the grounds is through the west gate, just south of NE 23 on Phillips.

***** On an unrelated issue, I joined most Oklahomans in voting yes on the tag relief measure on August 22, on the theory that half a loaf is better than none.

I wish the measure had included real relief on excise taxes for used car buyers, but it did not.

The bill I supported, and tried to get the majority party in the Legislature to approve, cut tag costs and taxes for everyone. They said no.

Still, this is a good first step -- if we keep working. I will ask the Legislature next February to finish the job and give real tag and tax relief to ALL Oklahomans.