As a longtime Claremore resident and relative of the J.M. Davis family, I would like to take this opportunity to clear any misconceptions about the recent lawsuit filed by the J.M. Davis Foundation against the State of Oklahoma. My job as Chair of the Foundation is to oversee the proper care and management of the largest private firearms collection in the United States. It’s an honor and responsibility that I do not take lightly.

As rightful owner of the collection, the Foundation was recently forced to take legal steps deemed unpopular by critics who don’t have or understand all the facts in this case.

Our lawsuit, which was spurred by a unanimous vote of the Foundation, represents a 40-year history of mismanagement, neglect and theft of the collection. On numerous occasions, as late as April 2008, we’ve attempted to have our concerns addressed by the J.M. Davis Memorial Commission. Time after time our concerns have been met with either a band-aid approach or no response at all.

Some of you have questioned our intentions, motives and timing of the lawsuit. Let me be clear this recourse was our last resort. We filed in Tulsa County to provide a neutral venue for the case to be heard. While individual members of the Commission were named in the lawsuit, these individuals should have nothing to fear if policies and procedures at the museum were properly followed.

The Foundation has a legal and ethical obligation to take action. We can no longer continue to ignore the glaring lack of support and interest from the State of Oklahoma. To cure even some of the ills, the State would have to make a substantial commitment of manpower and finances beyond the $140,000 mentioned in recent news articles. Does the Commission have adequate resources, time and commitment to care for the collection? The answer to date is a resounding NO.

This is no doubt an emotional issue for our community and one that must be immediately addressed. Contrary to public discourse, Foundation members would not personally profit from the sale of the collection which is estimated between $10 million to 30 million. Once items are inventoried and auctioned to collectors, the proceeds would be used for educational scholarships and programs that would benefit citizens of Rogers County.

Mr. Davis wanted the collection to be a source of education and entertainment. He also intended for it to be safeguarded and preserved. Why not put these resources to work in our community rather than collect dust on antiquated and ignored museum shelves.

It’s time to do the right thing for Mr. Davis, the museum and the people of Claremore.

To read the State Inspector’s independent report on the condition of the museum, visit www.sai.state.ok.us