The June 2011 issue of This Land is indeed a machine that demands accountability. But it also delivers some of the most free-spirited and downright hysterical offerings to be had in Oklahoma.

With this special issue, This Land Press unveils its first investigate report based in Tulsa. Reporter Joshua Kline offers an unflinching look at the Tulsa Police Department and its penchant for excessive force. It’s the kind of tale that’s long overdue.

For you non-believers, the Norse God THOR may not hold much sway–that is until he builds a house in your backyard. James Vance reminds us of the time Thor built a home in Western Oklahoma.

ALSO: Carol Johnson is afraid of poets and with good reason. Scott Aycock has a poem that buzzes and wails, and Jonathan Taylor reminds us that it’s worth taking a look back at the BOK tower now that Bin Laden’s gone.

This Land afficionados may also wish to note that our June 2011 issue represents the first time we’re publishing in a new dimension. We’ve choppped off two inches from the width of our paper, but haven’t sacrificed an ounce of flesh. This Land is still the largest-format publication out being printed in Oklahoma. And hey, thanks to strong showings at both the Society of Professional Journalism awards and the Great Plains awards, we’re now an award-winning home to great Oklahoma literature.