Gabe Calloway, a junior at Coleman High School, paged in my Capitol office last week.
This was a bit of a different week for House pages as the House operated with just a few members Monday through Wednesday. We formally gaveled in each day opening our clerk’s desk in case we received any bills from the Senate, but that chamber chose not to come into session any of the three days. Both chambers only came into full session on Thursday, allowing us to complete some final work before adjourning sine die.
Barring being called back into special session, we won’t convene again until the first Monday of February next year.
Watching the very brief sessions online, House pages could be seen filling the seats where representatives would normally sit in the House. The pages still did participate in their mock legislative session, where they write, present and debate their own bills. They also go to attend several meetings and go on special tours at the Capitol and in the city. I’m hopeful this proved a fun and enlightening experience for Gabe. He at least got to see how the Legislature works and at times how the process bogs down. Gabe is the son of Kristy Calloway. He’s a member of the National Honor Society, and he’s ranked first in his class, holding a 4.12 grade point average. He’s been an FFA officer for three years and a public speaking FFA competitor. After high school, he plans to attend Conners State College for two years then move to Oklahoma Panhandle State University to finish his degree in agriculture. He also would like to be involved in his community as well as state government.
I hope this experience at the Capitol gave him a greater depth of knowledge about what that might look like for him going forward. Gabe is a very bright and talented young man. I know whatever he pursues, he will do well.
One of the last actions taken by the Legislature was to approve amendments on House Bill 1370. President Trump earlier in the week encouraged Congress to suspend the federal gas tax. This legislation will allow Oklahomans to enjoy those savings as well once this is signed into law.
Also on our last day, the House and Senate convened in joint session to express appreciation to our veterans and members of our military. We heard several very touching stories of bravery and acts of heroism, including from our own majority floor leader who was shot in Afghanistan but rescued by the brave actions of a comrade in arms. The willing sacrifice of our service members is one we should never forget or take for granted. The price of staying safe and free in this world is very high. I’m grateful for those who have answered the call to serve in this way, and I will always honor their actions.
Cody Maynard serves District 21 in the Oklahoma House of Representatives. His district includes parts of Bryan and Marshall counties.
