Oklahoma Legislature Briefs: Ex-lawmaker gains post

Ex-lawmaker gains post

Forrest Claunch, shown above, who served 10 years in the state House of Representatives, was named Monday as the executive director of the Oklahoma Council of Public Affairs. Claunch, who was elected to the Legislature in 1994 as a Republican from Midwest City and did not seek re-election in 2004, had been serving since 2008 as director of operations and special projects for the group. He takes his new duties immediately, said David Brown, chairman of the council’s board of directors.

Teacher aid available

Lt. Gov. Jari Askins said Monday aerospace industry leaders have unveiled a new 2009-10 curriculum grant for teachers. The program’s intent is to encourage state teachers to develop innovative strategies to inspire their students. A review team will consider applications from teachers and select three Oklahoma educators who will receive awards ranging from $500 to $2,000. Teachers may apply online at www.okaero.com.

Party seeks baby items

The state Democratic Party is collecting items through Saturday for infants and toddlers. Democratic Party Chairman Todd Goodman said Monday that items collected will go to Infant Crisis Services, a local nonprofit that works to provide supplies for babies and toddlers. Most-needed items are formula, diapers and baby food, he said. Donations may be dropped off between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. at Democratic Party headquarters, 4100 N Lincoln Blvd.

Michael McNutt,

Capitol Bureau