Opinion

Cheers to Ardmore High School, which has developed a new program, Freshmen Integrating and Thriving, aka F.I.T. F.I.T.

Cheers to Paige Miller on the publication of the second edition of her book “Artmore: The Public Art of Ardmore, Oklahoma.” The book documents all of the murals, sculptures, fire hydrants and other works of art that make Ardmore a more colorful place to live. In addition to all of the artwork included in the first printing, this edition has 35 new pages of art created within the last few years. All proceeds from book sales will go to Create Ardmore to help fund future public art projects. So a big thank you goes out to Paige for spending hundreds of hours of her free time to document and preserve our city’s art.

Cheers to Ardmore City Schools Board of Education, which voted to name Andy Davis as its superintendent. Davis, who was in the interim role and had previously served as the assistant superintendent, has made it a priority to build relationships with the community as the district works to move forward. Congratulations on the new job and good luck in leading the district into a new future.

Cheers to Legacy Event Center, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary. The business, opened by Lee Ann and Quince Pirtle, is located at 309 E. Main St. and have been part of a resurgence in the Depot District. Congratulations on your success and looking forward to celebrating 20 years with y’all.

Cheers to all those who took part in the Carter County Free Fair to make it a success. County fairs are one of the best local traditions that have been passed down through generations. This year, the fair board was hoping to surpass the 2,000 entries it received last year. Add in the contests, carnival and opening ceremonies and there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Cheers to City of Ardmore employee Billy Myers for his 30 years of service to the city. Myers along with other employees were recognized this week. The work they do is often behind the scenes. But it is critical to the quality of life we have come to expect. Thank you all for your hard work.

Cheers to the American Iron Riders and the Ardmore Elks Lodge for purchasing televisions for the Ardmore Veterans Center. The groups came together to buy 18 TVs which will be given to the veterans who do not have one. Additional cheers to the Iron Riders who last Saturday took 25 local students in need back-to-school shopping last Saturday.

Cheers to Burl Webb, who retired after nearly 25 years with the Ardmore Family YMCA. Webb served as the Director of Maintenance and left a lasting impression on his co-workers. Working for organizations such as the YMCA also means having a servant’s heart. Seeing the benefits and joy that people experience at the YMCA offers immediate gratification and job satisfaction. Congratulations and good luck on your future ventures.

Cheers to all the organizations and entities that are donating school supplies to students throughout the county. Those savings truly prove beneficial to families working to make ends meet. Those savings can be spent on food and bills. Those who work and volunteer to make a difference are truly appreciated.

Cheers to the Carter County Commissioners, who approved an application for a REAP Grant in an effort to place three new storm sirens in the county. The sirens play a crucial role in notifying dangers to take cover during dangerous storms, which is part of life growing up in Oklahoma.