THUMBS UP

In 2006, voters in the Chisholm district were asked to cast a vote for their school’s future, and they agreed

That future is now. Chisholm High School’s new science labs were built with funds from that bond issue. The labs are part of newly converted space that includes classrooms and chemical storage space.

The $3 million bond issue also paid for a multi-purpose facility at the middle school, which includes a cafeteria, band room, gymnasium and performance stage.

Thumbs up to Chisholm’s new science labs, which will give CHS students an up-to-date environment in which to learn.



THUMBS UP

Enid once again displayed its patriotism and support for the men and women serving in America’s military when hundreds of local residents turned out Wednesday to say farewell to Enid-area members of the Oklahoma National Guard’s 45th Fires Brigade.

The unit traveled first to Fort Hood, Texas, for 60 to 90 days of training, then will head for a year’s deployment to Iraq.

Flags waved and people held signs in support of the troops as they lined the streets from the National Guard Armory, through downtown Enid and east out of town on U.S. 412. Motorcyclists also followed along.

Thumbs up to all who turned out for this show of support, and may God bless the members of the 45th Fires Brigade.



THUMBS UP

Hospital patients feel the sting of needles, the squeeze of a blood pressure cuff and, at least at St. Mary’s Regional Medical Center, the chill of cold noses.

The cold noses belong to one of two therapy dogs who regularly visit patients at St. Mary’s, Belle and Obie.

This year the two canine caregivers have visited some 2,100 patients, not including visitors they have encountered in waiting rooms and corridors.

The two dogs help get patients’ minds off their illness, lift spirits and reduce stress.

Thumbs up to Belle and Obie, as well as their owner and handler, Judy Neese. Keep those tails wagging.



THUMBS UP

When a tanker truck overturned early Thursday afternoon on Chestnut just west of the Van Buren overpass, it had all the earmarks of disaster.

The truck began leaking, spilling at least 2,000 gallons of gasoline. A spark would have created a firestorm. At the very least, the fuel could have contaminated the 100 block of West Chestnut.

But thanks to the quick action of Enid police officers and firefighters, the area was secured, the gasoline contained and cleaned up.

Police secured the scene, firefighters evacuated the area and, along with a hazardous materials cleanup company from Guthrie, cleaned up the spill.

Thumbs up to everyone who took part in containing and cleaning up Thursday’s spill. Job well done.



THUMBS UP

The phrase, “You learn something new every day,” certainly applies to those taking part in Lifelong Learning Institute.

LLI is entering its 15th year of providing classes for adults 55 and older. Classes begin Sept. 16 and continue for eight weeks. Classes meet Tuesday and Thursday, and are offered in both fall and spring.

Classes, which meet at Central Christian Church, 1111 W. Broadway, involve no tests, no grades and no homework, just learning.

Thumbs up to Lifelong Learning Institute and the opportunities it provides to learn something new every day.