THUMBS UP

Youth and Family Services, opened in 1974 as a youth center where children could go in case of family problems, recently dedicated a new facility named after its founder, Thelma J. Gungoll.

The new Thelma J. Gungoll Youth and Family Services Center encompasses 12,100 square feet and provides 18 beds for boys and girls who have left their homes because of a difficult family situation.

Thumbs up to Youth and Family Services, and to all who contributed to build this much-needed facility.



THUMBS UP

A number of Enid-area residents filled up on chili Friday during the annual United Way Chili Cook-off.

This year’s event featured more than 40 participating organizations, 11 of which were new. The cook-off is annually one of the organization’s big fundraisers. Last year’s event raised $13,000.

Thumbs up to all who participated in this year’s cook-off, chili cooks and samplers alike.



THUMBS UP

There are any number of buildings in Enid that used to house businesses, but which now stand vacant.

Such is not the case with the old Carmike Cinema Twin theater at 3517 W. Garriott.

The facility that used to provide entertainment now houses a law firm and other businesses, including medical offices and a laboratory.

An open house for the building is planned 3-5 p.m. Friday.

Thumbs up to the law firm of Mitchel, Gaston, Riffel and Riffel, which purchased the old theater building and kept it occupied and productive, rather than empty and lifeless.



THUMBS UP

Bringing the Good News to those who need it is the calling of any preacher, but Joe Wilson is helping bring the word of God to those in dire need of comfort and encouragement.

Wilson is domestic coordinator of World Mission Builders, which recently built a chapel at Dr. Eddie Warrior Correctional Center in Taft.

There were more than 200 women on the waiting list for a faith-based healing program at the prison.

The chapel will provide space for the program.

Thumbs up to Wilson and his organization for this admirable project.



THUMBS DOWN

Lies trip off the tongue easily, but often have devastating consequences.

Such is the case with Oklahoma State’s star receiver Dez Bryant, who has been suspended for lying to the NCAA about a summer visit to the home of former NFL star Deion Sanders.

It seems OSU head coach Mike Gundy did some lying of his own. Bryant was held out of the Cowboys’ game with Grambling, according to a press release, because of a shoulder injury.

It turns out he was held out due to the NCAA investigation into the Sanders’ visit.

Thumbs down to both Bryant and Gundy.

Lying in any form is wrong.