Pastor Pleads Guilty: Fraud, Tax Evasion

By David Arnett

Former Senior Pastor Keith Rydell Mayes, Sr., 63, of Tulsa, has pleaded guilty to Bank Fraud and Tax Evasion according to a release from United States Attorney, Northern District of Oklahoma, Christopher J. Nassar.

Mayes was hired as Senior Pastor of the historic Tulsa-based Vernon AME Church, in October 2021.  Mayes was responsible for various church functions, including overseeing church finances and managing church donations, collections, and disbursements of funds. Shortly after joining the church, Mayes opened a new account at the bank titled, “Administrative Expenses.”

Public photos of Former Pastor Keith Rydell Mayes from FaceBook
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Oklahoma Economy Shows Growth

By David Arnett

State Treasurer Todd Russ Monday released the August 2026 Economic Outlook Report, highlighting continued growth across several major areas of Oklahoma’s economy, with annual revenue reaching $18 billion and stronger activity in the energy and manufacturing sectors. 

“August’s numbers show Oklahoma’s economy continuing to move in a positive direction,” said Treasurer Russ. “Annual revenue has reached $18 billion, with growth across several major tax sources. We’re also seeing some moderation in inflation, even as the labor market continues to cool.” 

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Who Rewrites OK’S Constitution?

By Sooner Sentinel

Analysis: Oklahoma may be approaching one of the most consequential constitutional debates since statehood and the immediate question sounds simple: Should Oklahoma hold another constitutional convention?

That question conceals several others that may be even more important. Who possesses the authority to put that question before the voters? Who should serve as delegates if the people approve a convention? Should sitting legislators be permitted to appoint themselves to the body empowered to propose a rewriting of the Constitution under which those same legislators exercise power? And how much representation should Oklahoma’s 77 counties have in a process that could fundamentally alter state government?

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Clarion Call: Nations with Muslims

By Dr. Alex McFarland

America must do more to relieve the plight of Nigerian Christians, and we must defend our country from radical Islam

Opinion: A young Christian family was beaten and forcibly marched into the Nigerian forest by Muslim radicals, according to a recent report. Unfortunately, this tragic show of aggression is just the latest in a long line of violence towards Christ-followers, with Nigeria ranking number seven on the world watch list of Christian persecution. Kidnappings of ill-fated Christian residents by radicalized kidnapping gangs has risen 33% over last year, according to one expert, all while so-called Christian nations sit idly by. Despite previous promises to take “decisive action” to prevent such attacks, the American government (and her allies) have yet to produce tangible results.

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Sept. Federal Grand Jury Indictments

By David Arnett

United States Attorney Christopher J. Nassar, Northern District of Oklahoma today announced the results of the September Federal Grand Jury 2026-A Indictments. The following individuals have been charged with violations of United States law in indictments returned by the Grand Jury.

Dorryien Laron Adams. Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition. Adams, 20, of Tulsa, is charged with possessing a firearm and ammunition, knowing he was previously convicted of a felony. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Augustus Forster is prosecuting the case. 26-CR-325

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