I work in one of the best places in Oklahoma – the Oklahoma State Capitol Building. Everyday I enter into a museum of sorts. The artwork is unrivaled by any other art museum in the state, the architecture is breathtaking, and the best part, of course, is the people that work within its walls. Put aside your opinions that the State Capitol Building is full of long-winded politicians and lazy government employees and know that there are many good things that happen in and around the massive granite walls of this building.
Yesterday, April 15, 2009, was not exactly a typical day at the State Capitol. An estimated 5,000 tax payers rallied on the south plaza in protest to government spending. They carried flags and signs, chanted and cheered in what was called Oklahoma Tax Day Tea Party. I watched from the safety of a second floor window and snapped a couple of photos of the angry yet controlled mob.
After a few minutes of watching the protesters, I walked down a hallway on the second floor which I call the "Hall of Heads", where busts of all the past governors of Oklahoma sit on pedestals. There on the floor sat a small group of young students reading newspapers and talking. I thought it was an interesting contrast to the events unfolding outside on the south steps.
By the end of the day all the protesters, students, tourists, and most of the government workers were gone. Before leaving the Capitol complex, however, I stopped at another display sponsored by a group working to make Oklahomans aware of the number of children who have died as a result of child abuse. Each American flag represents one child. It is very sobering and touching. I took a couple of photos of the flags whipping in the Oklahoma wind.
What a great opportunity I have to work in the State Capitol Building. I would invite anyone to come and see for yourself the treasure that belongs to you!
Yesterday, April 15, 2009, was not exactly a typical day at the State Capitol. An estimated 5,000 tax payers rallied on the south plaza in protest to government spending. They carried flags and signs, chanted and cheered in what was called Oklahoma Tax Day Tea Party. I watched from the safety of a second floor window and snapped a couple of photos of the angry yet controlled mob.
After a few minutes of watching the protesters, I walked down a hallway on the second floor which I call the "Hall of Heads", where busts of all the past governors of Oklahoma sit on pedestals. There on the floor sat a small group of young students reading newspapers and talking. I thought it was an interesting contrast to the events unfolding outside on the south steps.
By the end of the day all the protesters, students, tourists, and most of the government workers were gone. Before leaving the Capitol complex, however, I stopped at another display sponsored by a group working to make Oklahomans aware of the number of children who have died as a result of child abuse. Each American flag represents one child. It is very sobering and touching. I took a couple of photos of the flags whipping in the Oklahoma wind.
What a great opportunity I have to work in the State Capitol Building. I would invite anyone to come and see for yourself the treasure that belongs to you!
