I made a commitment to myself to make time to give back to the community when I felt I could make a difference.

Such an opportunity is upon us but the window will be open for a brief period.

An investment now could leverage forward for Oklahoma what Oklahoma Cityans already know.

I pledged to raise at least $10,000 for Jim Roth because I believe in Jim. Mark Henricksen, Randy Tate and Richard Ogden each also agreed to raise $10,000. You are invited to our home June 17 to witness and participate in a fund raiser like no other. If you will email me your address I will make sure you receive an invitation.

Would you today consider becoming a listed sponsor of this fund raiser by a donation to Roth's campaign of $250? Couples can be listed as sponsors if each partner gives half ($125 each).

Our print deadline is May 30, so I'd need to hear from you by then to include your name. Your name appearing on the invitation has a huge impact as the "pre-raised money" is the all important number in determining a fund raiser's success.

Your money won't be wasted. Jim proves -- again and again -- that he is a good campaigner. Jim raised $270 thousand for his first campaign, and more than $340 thousand for his successful reelection. His goal now is $1.5 million.

Jim's honorary campaign Co- Chairs reads like a "Who's-who" of straight allies: Clay and Louise Bennett, Aubrey and Katie McClendon, George and Cookie Kaiser (Tulsa) and Harold and Sue Ann Hamm (Enid).

For more information go to Roth2008.com or I have condensed for you some highlights:

Governor Brad Henry last year appointed two-term County Comm. Jim Roth to the state Corporation Commission. Roth succeeded Denise Bode, who resigned the seat for a job in the private sector.

Gov. Henry called the 38-year-old Roth an ideal choice to serve on the commission, which governs two-thirds of Oklahoma's economy -- regulating oil and gas drilling, utilities and telecommunications.

"Jim Roth has the intellect, the integrity and the dedication to public service needed to be an outstanding Corporation Commissioner," Gov. Henry said. "Not only does he exemplify the highest ethical standards, but he is a consensus-builder who recognizes the importance of bipartisanship and working together. I am confident that Jim's fair- mindedness, honesty and attention to detail will make him an excellent addition to the commission."

Roth was first elected county commissioner in 2002 winning 56 percent of the vote and won reelection in 2006 with more than 63 percent of the vote. Prior to his term in office, he served eight years as a chief deputy and attorney to the Oklahoma County Clerk.

The Oklahoman wrote in an editorial, "Cliche as it may be, but we have to say it anyway -- Oklahoma County's loss is Oklahoma's gain with the selection of Jim Roth to succeed Denise Bode on the state Corporation Commission, Roth has been an outstanding public servant as District 1 county commissioner. He handily won a second term last year, wowing voters with his professional approach. The corporation commission is in good hands as Roth joins Jeff Cloud and Bob Anthony."

The Corporation Commission comprises three commissioners who are elected by statewide vote to serve six-year terms.

As always, thanks for the great support you've given to the community. And thanks for your consideration for this important next step.

Let me know by May 30 if you will become a listed sponsor of this event by a donation to 'Roth for Corporation Comm.' of $250 (or $125 each for a couple).

Respectfully,

Mike McLain