2 LAWTON PROUD 2019 Sunday, June 23, 2019 What is
Lawton Proud? communications Lawton Proud is an im- progress of the Lawton/Fort age campaign designed to Sill community. In a short promote the positive prog- time, the Lawton Proud so- ress of the Lawton/Fort Sill cial media presence has community. The positive expanded due in part to the initiative highlights areas of success of the bi-weekly our community to include events calendar video up- but not limited to recreation date called, the Lawton & tourism, community ser- Lineup. Each showing of- vice projects, volunteerism, fers residents an opportu- and economic develop- nity to share their event to ment. the masses and continue to promote positive activi- OK-LIC# 1427 The Lawton Proud cam- ties in the community. paign, supported by the Lawton/Fort Sill Chamber By highlighting the posi- OK-LIC#1427 of Commerce, is com- tive accomplishments and prised of a volunteer based growth within the Lawton/ The Perkins Family have been PROUDLY Servicing businesses since 1981. committee packed with Fort Sill community, it has Business Phone Systems • Voice Mail • VOIP • Audio/Video business professionals, enhanced the overall im- Computer Network Cabling • Fiber Optics • Surveillance-CCTV and community leaders ea- age of the city as a great For all your business communication needs Contact: Jack or Troy Perkins (580) 355-0156 • 1007 SW F ger to promote the positive place to eat, work and play! Sunday, June 23, 2019 LAWTON PROUD 2019 3
3 R Packag NOW ONL $169900
LARGEST SELECTION LOWEST PRICES Pictures are for illustration purposes only. Corner of Cache Rd. & Ft. Sill Blvd. Lawton Lawtonsfurnitureleader.com Hours: Monday - Saturday 9-6:30 4 LAWTON PROUD 2019 Sunday, June 23, 2019 Why I’m Lawton Proud by Ben Cooper whether its a didactic ses- can get them involved in market downtown, revi- ing trained here they know Administrative Physician sion or a planning meeting the community and meet talizing our public parks, the quality of the facilities Comanche County on how to make the resi- the people they are going or building sidewalks to and the support staff so Memorial Hospital dency better it gives you to be taking care of; they schools and community they know they can do well hope and confidence not will love this place as much bike trails as part of an what they have committed As an administrative just in the future of medi- as we do, and we can keep over $21,000,000,00 in- the rest of lives to doing as physician at Comanche cine but that the world itself here.) vestment to date in the well as can be done any- County Memorial Hospi- is in much better hands development of a Fit Kids where in the world. What’s tal, I have the opportunity, Whether its the Wichitas, than Twitter can imag- Fitness Trailway Systems more, and it’s part of their privilege actually, to work the schools their children ine. What’s even better is of handicap accessible good-heartedness, they with young physicians in are attending, having a that half of them that have walking, biking, hiking, understand and want to be our family practice resi- Target or Dicks, beautifi- graduated want to live and single track, kayaking, part of Comanche County dency. Their goodness, cation of our public places practice in Lawton. They fishing , and swimming op- Memorial Hospital’s, now their work ethic, their com- or our commitment to cre- like Lawton. They like portunities linking Lawton, almost 75 years commit- mitment to the profession ating a healthy place for Southwest Oklahoma and Fort Sill, Cache, Medicine ment to providing quality and the patients they take our children to grow up in its people. (Which was Park and Witchita Moun- health care to anyone re- care of is an inspiration on by passing city, county and the hope the hospital had tain Wildlife Refuge to- gardless of their economic a daily basis. school-wide comprehen- from the beginning: if we gether in a commitment to or social status. In these days of social can get them here and sive nicotine and tobacco health and wellness, this media negativity and frac- train them here, if they can bans, creating a com- is a place they want to live The hospital’s Lawton tiousness at all levels of get to know us and see munity garden at Cam- and raise their families. Community Health Cen- politics, just to walk into our commitment to excel- eron, funding the build- This is a place they want ter, where the residency is a room where they are, lence in medicine, if we ing a permanent farmer’s to practice medicine. Hav- continued on page 6
N CONSTIT O UT T IO AW N L 019 2 Proud To Be One of Lawton’s Original Senior Living Facilities and Voted e Best Senior Living Community In e Best Of SWOK of Readers’ Choice Awards. S R K E W O E AD IC ERS’ CHO
e Brentwood SENIOR LIVING “Come Home to e Brentwood” For a good look into everyday life at The Brentwood, 580.536.4848 • 6920 SW Lee Blvd. Lawton, OK 73505 Follow us on Facebook at The Brentwood Senior Living Sunday, June 23, 2019 LAWTON PROUD 2019 5
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continued from page 4 N CONSTIT Cache and Medicine Park. O UT T IO AW N L 1 centered, is a unique “Pub- They also understand that 20 9 lic Entity Federally Quali- the future of medicine is TThank Thhaannkk YYouYoouu fforfoorr VVotingVoottiinngg UUsUss fied Health Center” model prevention. They under- S BestB Beesstt EEstateEssttaattee SaleSSaallee SericesSSeerriicceess R K E W O E that offers access to qual- AD IC stand the health and well- ERS’ CHO ity health care based on ness of their patients is the patient’s ability to pay more than the lab, xray, di- (at the 100% poverty lev- agnosis and prescriptions el, $20/visit) and includes they provide in the office; primary care, behavioral it is about quality of life health, dental and gov- available in the communi- ernment supported pre- ties, business and schools scription plan. Begun 10 where their patients live, years ago with about 700 patients with a mix of pri- work and learn. They want vate insurance, medicare, to be involved in all of that medicaid and self pay, whether it’s Fit Kids or a there are now over 23,000 new Healthy Congregation patients (75,000 patient Healthy Living initiative visits per year) being seen the health center is doing at 10 different locations with local churches. This in Lawton and Southwest a special group of young Oklahoma including Co- professionals that see this manche, Marlow, Elgin, as a special place to live and soon to open clinics in their lives. Don’t we all? Take Care of Our Air!
You can help to Take Care of Our Air by monitoring the daily Air Quality Index number (AQI). Changing your daily routine on days when the AQI is higher can significantly help our air quality.
Here are several small actions you can take to Levels of Health The AQI (Air Quality Index) is a number used to AQI Values communicate the level of pollution forecasted to help this summer: Concern Take Care of Our Air be in the air. Turn out lights when Take your lunch 0to50 Good The AQI in Lawton usually ranges from 0 to 100 you're not using them (in the Good to Moderate ranges). Each day the to work or walk 51-100 Moderate AQI forecast can be found at CleanAirLawton.org, Go inside rather than to lunch at , in the newspaper, facebook.com/LawtonMPO using the drive thru or on radio and TV stations during weather reports. - Fuel your car Unhealthyfor Sensitive Use electric or manual 101-150 after 6 pm Groups When the AQI is forecasted to be over 100, people lawn equipment Don’t idle your car who are sensitive to the air quality (those with lung diseases, older adults and children) may begin Combine all your Ride your bike 151-200 Unhealthy experiencing adverse effects during the day and errands into one trip Ride the bus should try to avoid outdoor activities that day. 201-300 Very Unhealthy Keep your tires Plant a tree properly inflated Carpool 301 to 500 Hazardous
For more details visit cleanairlawton.org or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/lawtonmpo. Lawton Metropolitan Planning Organization, 212 SW 9th Street Lawton, OK 73501 Sunday, June 23, 2019 LAWTON PROUD 2019 7 2XU)DLWKLQ/DZWRQLV0RQXPHQWDO -XVWDIHZUHDVRQVZK\ ZHZLOODOZD\VEH/DZWRQ3URXG &'%/ ZZZFGEOLQFFRP 3URIHVVLRQDO&RQVWUXFWLRQ6HUYLFHV 8 LAWTON PROUD 2019 Sunday, June 23, 2019 Why I’m Lawton Proud by Debra Leffler My home town is full I remember the “good to live and work. We Our beautiful Wich- of loving people who ole days” and so en- have a very diverse ita Mountains Wildlife My daddy brought me care about each oth- joyed so many things population and because Refuge is just a few to Lawton when I was er. Lawton Fort Sill of- Lawton offered. I also of our military, we get to miles north of Lawton four years old. He was fers its residents many enjoy my home town rub shoulders with folks Fort Sill. The wildlife is in the United States blessings and opportu- today and am proud of from around the world. amazing and we have Army and transferred nities. It is a pleasure what we are becoming Our people are unique many recreational op- to Fort Sill. I grew up to shop and serve right and like being a part of here and have many and varied with much portunities right on the here; I love this place our community. to offer each other. We refuge and at the Fort. wonderful memories of I get to call home! Is it may not be a “big” city, We are home to the lon- Lawton. The Army sent perfect? Absolutely not! Every day we choose but we have character gest running Passion us to other places, then There are imperfections how we’ll spend that brought us right back around town, just like day. We can murmur and charm. Many peo- Play, the Arts for All, the here. I married and there are dysfunctional and complain or live ple get stationed here International Festival went to college in Atlan- families and work places with joy and happi- and want to “hurry and and some much more!. ta, Georgia, worked in everywhere. None of us ness—no matter what! get out of here”, only to I am truly blessed and other cities but I always are perfect. We’ve seen I choose Lawton Fort return in time because thankful the United return “home”. Yes, I am much growth through Sill and love that I can life is slower paced and States Army brought us a transplanted Okie and the years and Lawton bloom where I’m plant- it’s a good place to raise to Southwest Oklahoma right proud of Lawton! continues to progress. ed! This is a great place a family. so many years ago! Sunday, June 23, 2019 LAWTON PROUD 2019 9 Reasons to Celebrate The Lawton Fort Sill community has many reasons to celebrate from the quality of housing and education to numerous opportunities for recreation and tourism, which has not gone unnoticed. During the Second Annual Veterans Service Awards in Edmond, Oklahoma, the City of Lawton received the Pinnacle Award for Large Veteran Friendly Community—a special recognition given to Oklahoma municipalities who have excelled in service towards Oklahoma veterans. The Oklahoma City Thunder through a partnership with the Thunders Cares Foundation announced the selection of Lawton as the latest location to receive a new outdoor basketball court. The new basketball court located at Lee West Park will mark the 24th created by the Thunder Cares Foundation since 2009. Don’t Suffer in Silence Untreated hearing loss can also contribute to depression , dementia and social isolation. In general, the better your hearing health, the younger you feel. Our team of hearing experts focuses on your hearing needs. Advanced Audiology patients receive a high level of individual care and the attention and Travis Ortega treatment they deserve for long term success. Owner, Au.D. Duncan Lawton Altus 1334 Harville Rd. 5402 S.W. Lee Blvd. 1200 E. Pecan Street 580-252-5200 580-536-6122 888-518-6088 www.HearingAidsOklahoma.com 10 LAWTON PROUD 2019 Sunday, June 23, 2019 Proud of Cameron University LV/DZWRQ3URXG Cameron University is dedicated to promoting the economic and cul- tural wealth of Southwest Oklahoma. A regional public university, Cam- eron offers nearly 50 de- grees through two-year, Large Party Space four-year and graduate Seats groups from 20-90 programs emphasizing +DLO )DUHZHOOV)XQGUDLVHUV%XIIHWV the arts science and pro- %LUWKGD\3DUWLHV$Q\6SHFLDO2FFDVLRQ6SRUWV7HDPV &219(1,(17 )/(;,%/( 6$9(67,0( 60$57 fessional studies. 9LHZVWRUHZDLWWLPHVDQG 6HOHFW\RXUSUHIHUUHG6W\OLVW :DLWZKHUH\RXZDQWWRZDLW (VWLPDWHGZDLWWLPHVDUHEDVHG JHWLQOLQHEHIRUHKHDGLQJ RU¿UVWDYDLODEOH RQUHDOWLPH6W\OLVWDYDLODELOLW\DQG WRWKHVWRUH FXUUHQW&OLHQWTXHXH Founded in 1908, a year after Statehood, the uni- 75<,721<2851(;79,6,7 versity began as an agri- cultural high school. Over $9$,/$%/(21<285&20387(53+21(257$%/(712$335(48,5(' the years, junior college (*RUH%OYG/DZWRQ2. work was added, then 2SHQGD\VDZHHN 2SHQ'D\V$:HHN four-year degrees and 6DODV8UEDQ&DQWLQDZZZVDODVXUEDQFDQWLQDFRP QG6WUHHW/DZWRQ2. then graduate degrees. As its mission changed, so did its name – from the Cameron State School of Agriculture to today’s Cameron University. From its humble begin- ning serving farm fami- lies, the university now serves students from around the globe, al- though it still maintains a strong commitment Our Promise to You… to providing Southwest • Get a FREE , no-obligatin hearing evaluation using the 36 Oklahoma with access to latest state-of-the-art equipment. higher education. • FREE examination of your ears to check for wax build-up. 26 • FREE demonstration in the latest in digital hearing Cameron is committed technology. to providing its students • If you currently have hearing aids, we will clean and a top-quality education check them at not charge. from qualified faculty who care about their success. Small class sizes provide an environment where (580) 357-0400 learning is the top prior- ity. Classes are offered in face-to-face, online or hybrid formats. Sunday, June 23, 2019 LAWTON PROUD 2019 11 Proud of “We Set The Standards Others Try To Live Up To.” T ONS ITUTI N C ON TO W 9 Cameron University A 1 0 L 2 ThankYou Cameron University is Cameron offers stu- dents the opportunity to For Choosing Us Best! dedicated to promoting K E the economic and cul- participate in meaningful S O IC W O RE H tural wealth of Southwest educational experiences ADERS’ C Oklahoma. A regional such as undergraduate public university, Cam- research, internships, eron offers nearly 50 de- civic engagement, co- grees through two-year, curricular programs and four-year and graduate involvement in theater programs emphasizing and music. the arts science and pro- Cameron’s offerings fessional studies. include a fast, flexible Founded in 1908, a year and affordable degree after Statehood, the uni- completion program de- versity began as an agri- signed to help working cultural high school. Over adults complete college. the years, junior college This program combines work was added, then past college work with four-year degrees and online courses leading then graduate degrees. to a Bachelor of Science As its mission changed, degree in organizational so did its name – from the leadership with options in business, criminal jus- Cameron State School tice, military science, so- of Agriculture to today’s ciology and technology. “We Are Passionate About Our Work Cameron University. The university also offers From its humble begin- associate and bachelor’s And Committed To Excellence!” ning serving farm fami- degrees in interdisci- lies, the university now plinary studies. These serves students from programs benefit goal- around the globe, al- directed students whose David & Danny Garza though it still maintains educational needs are a strong commitment not met by one of the uni- to providing Southwest versity’s current majors. Oklahoma with access to Cameron has many higher education. scholarship opportunities Cameron is committed available to keep a de- to providing its students gree within reach. a top-quality education For more information, from qualified faculty who or to start the enrollment care about their success. process, visit www.cam- Small class sizes provide eron.edu, or call (888) an environment where 454-7600. Cameron Over 20 Years Of Experience learning is the top prior- University is at 2800 W. ity. Classes are offered Gore Blvd. in Lawton, in face-to-face, online or with a branch campus in LAWTONON 5580.591.382180 591 3821 – OOKKC 4405.246.637005 2 hybrid formats. Duncan. .G G G . 12 LAWTON PROUD 2019 Sunday, June 23, 2019 Ware On C Block Party Upon its introduction by the Lawton Fort Sill We believe that the Chamber of Commerce, Convention & Visitors best long-term and Bureau and City of Lawton in Fall 2018, rehabilitative care the Ware On C Block Party provided a great is a combination opportunity for residents to experience the of expert clinical exciting community driven activities available skills and a caring, in the Downtown area. After extending the dedicated staff. event dates from 6 to 8 months out of the year, Ware On C continues the momentum by • 24/7 Skilled Nursing Care • Pain Management • Suites and Semi-Private Rooms • Medication Management introducing new live entertainment featuring • Physical, Occupational • Life enrichment center local artists and street performers, local food and Speech erapy and activities trucks and local vendors— as part of the Shop • Dietary counseling and • Main dining room and Local and small business driven initiative. management In-room meal service Call 580.536.2866 Today! 7604 Quanah Parker Trailway • Lawton, OK 73505 www.montevistarehab.com Sunday, June 23, 2019 LAWTON PROUD 2019 13 N CONSTITU TO TI W O A N L 2019 Thank You For Voting Us SWOK’s Best HVAC S R K E E W O C A OI DERS’ CH Hometown People Pictured Back Row, Left to Right: Brandon Dorman, Hannah Clark, Mark Kellet, Cheyenne King, Zane Hawk. Front Row: Todd McClure, Marty Robinson, Micah Russell, Mike Heinlein, LAWTON PROUD! Darryl Robinson, Tammy Robinson, Nick Hebensperger, Mark Kellett, Terry Jones, Michael Bridget & Erv Randle McCracken, Jarrod England and Blake Baggett. RobinsonAirHVAC.com 82nd & Cache Rd. • 580-2802800 (580) 699-5760 www.classicchevynation.com 14 LAWTON PROUD 2019 Sunday, June 23, 2019 Proud of our Healthcare Comanche County Memorial Hospital Comanche County west OK with a compre- close to home. CCMH is is comprised of over 100 CCMH provides Home Memorial Hospital is a hensive heart program also recognized as a Baby local medical profession- Health & Hospice servic- 265-bed regional refer- and is designated as a Friendly Hospital. CCMH als from 20 specialties to es and has a free stand- ral center providing 24- Joint Commission Certi- has a dedicated Women’s include orthopedics, neu- ing McMahon Tomlinson hour comprehensive care fied Primary Stroke Cen- Center and Labor & De- rosurgery, general surgery Nursing and Rehabilita- and emergency services. ter. The and fam- tion Center with a skilled CCMH is the first and hospital is ily medi- nursing unit and a dedicat- only in the region offer- a teach- cine. Pri- ed memory care unit. The ing the Da Vinci Surgical ing facility mary Care hospital is fully accredited System; providing a num- with two services are by the Joint Commission ber of benefits to patients residency also provid- on Accreditation of Health- from smaller incisions to programs ed with The care Organizations and a quicker recovery. “The in Emer- Community the Council on Accrediting hospital continues to grow gency Health Cen- Rehabilitation Facilities. its services and provide Medi- ter clinics The Leah M. Fitch Cancer advanced technology cine and in Lawton, Center at CCMH is a part to meet the healthcare Family Comanche, of the Cancer Centers of needs of the Lawton-Fort Medicine. Elgin and Southwest Oklahoma pro- Sill community and sur- CCMH CCMH Campus Marlow. The viding advanced cancer rounding areas; keeping has the McMahon care with locations in Law- livery unit providing new patients and their families only Level II Neonatal In- Center for Breast Health ton, Altus, Duncan and at the center of everything tensive Care Unit in the comfortable birthing suites is the first and only com- Chickasha. we do,” said Brent Smith, area treating babies born with advanced amenities prehensive program in the CEO, FACHE. CCMH is at 32 weeks and older; for mom and baby. Our area with 3-D mammog- For more information, the only hospital in south- keeping mother and baby Memorial Medical Group raphy and breast MRI. visit www.ccmhhealth.com COMANCHE COUNTY MEMORIAL HOSPITAL SERVICES • Advanced Primary Stroke Center • Gastroenterology • Orthopedics Services • Ambulance Services • General & Robotic Surgery • Outpatient Surgical Services • Bariatric Surgery • Heart & Vascular Center • Pain Management • Cancer Center • Home Health & Hospice • Pastoral Care • Cardiology • Infusion Services • Pediatrics • Cardiovascular / Thoracic Surgery • Internal Medicine • Pharmacy • Center for Digestive Health • Jim Thorpe Rehabilitation Center • Podiatry • Center for Sleep Medicine • Laboratory Services • Psychiatry • Critical Care Nursing • Lawton Medi-Equip • Respiratory Therapy • Diabetes Education • McMahon Tomlinson Nursing • School of Medical Technology • Diagnostic Imaging – CT, MRI, and Rehabilitation Center • Silver Linings Geriatric Psychiatry 3-D Mammography • Neonatology • Sports Rehabilitation • Ear, Nose & Throat Clinic • Neurology • Urology • Emergency Medicine • Neurosurgery • Women’s Services • Endoscopy • Obstetrics & Gynecology • Wound Care Center & • Family Practice • Occupational Health Hyperbaric Medicine Sunday, June 23, 2019 LAWTON PROUD 2019 15 Comanche County Memorial Hospital FOR BANKING THAT’S JUST THE RIGHT SIZE There’s a reason customers stick with us for decades. We get to know you. We still believe in face-to-face communication. Handshakes. Saying please and thank you. We treat you like a big fish in a small pond. TALK TO US.FIRST. 580-536-8800 FNBOKLA.bank 16 LAWTON PROUD 2019 Sunday, June 23, 2019 Proud to Serve Lawton's Half Price Shakes Homebuying Community Everyday after 8:00pm 9HWHUDQV8QLWHG+RPH/RDQVLVWKH/DZWRQDUHD V9$SXUFKDVHOHQGHU We proudly serve all our local homebuyers by offering: 9$ȏ86'$ȏ)+$ȏ&RQYHQWLRQDOȴQDQFLQJȏFRPSOLPHQWDU\FUHGLWFRQVXOWLQJ :H UHKRQRUHGWRVHUYH\RXZKHWKHULW V\RXUȴUVWKRPH \RXUȴIWKRU\RXUWHPSRUDU\PLOLWDU\VWDWLRQ Contact Veterans United Home Loans in Lawton to learn more! (580) 699-8670 LawtonVU.com 2410 NW Cache Rd, Ste. C, Lawton, OK 73505 Lawton Proud! 9HWHUDQV8QLWHG+RPH/RDQVLVD9$DSSURYHGOHQGHU 1RWHQGRUVHGRUVSRQVRUHGE\WKH'HSWRI9HWHUDQV$DLUVRUDQ\JRYHUQPHQW 2612 SW Lee Blvd. • (580) 355-7781 DJHQF\10/6 QPOVFRQVXPHUDFFHVVRUJ Sunday, June 23, 2019 LAWTON PROUD 2019 17 Working in the Lawton City Through networking events Manager’s office gave me the and service days, I have en- Why I’m Lawton Proud opportunity to meet incred- joyed meeting other young ible Lawtonians who work in Lawtonians who are passion- by Daniel Pae these unexpected personal our municipal government. ate about service. connections demonstrate These are the folks who work When I decided to run for the powerful idea that there I am a graduate of LLFS OU student body president, behind-the-scenes to ensure is more that unites us than city operations are fully func- Class XXVIII, and throughout I did not know that my cam- divides us. Our service-ori- tional and efficient. They are one year, I became acquaint- paign manager Tim and run- ented citizens and our for- the definition of public ser- ed with leaders from vari- ous walks of life. Together, ning mate Michael would ward-thinking organizations vice. have connections to my we helped Hearts That Care are what make me Lawton Health Clinic and learned to hometown. Tim’s father was Proud. Overall, our “Lawton Ad- stationed at Fort Sill for a few vantage,” as Goodyear calls understand the value of hav- years, and his family helped With respect to Lawtonians, it, is the strength and resil- ing a long-term vision. establish a local childcare fa- we are an extremely unique ience of our citizens. YPL and LLFS are just two cility, Children of Joy Learn- community when compared The Lawton Advantage is of many phenomenal organi- ing Academy. Michael had to the rest of our state. There even stronger because of the zations in our community. never been to Lawton before, are so many individuals who forward-thinking organiza- so I invited him to visit during have a connection to Fort I am proud to call Lawton tions that empower the next my hometown. our summer break. I wanted Sill and the military. I myself helped me become a bet- generation of leaders. Two of him to meet my parents at am the son of Korean immi- ter leader and scholar. Two these groups that I have been As Lawtonians, we are their dry cleaning business, grants who wanted to pursue years ago, I committed to involved in are Young Profes- united by our common pur- Class A Cleaners, and we the American Dream and de- helping LPS with promoting sionals of Lawton (YPL) and pose to serve our fellow citi- were all surprised to learn cided to open a dry cleaners information on social media Leadership Lawton Fort Sill zens and proactively invest in that Michael’s older brother, to help our men and women regarding the $99.5 million (LLFS). the next generation. who had also been stationed in uniform. Student Investment Program, at Fort Sill, frequently visited YPL’s mission is to build Let’s always remember which I am grateful that we all this dry cleaners. Growing up in Lawton a network of young career who we are and move for- Public Schools (LPS), I met came together to pass over- bound professionals who ward together with optimism Upon reflection, I believe numerous educators who whelmingly. will invest in our community. and humility. Our complete home planning and interior design services include free estimates for all your decorating and remodeling plans. Let us turn your ordinary decor into a Providing Quality Products showplace that reflects your good taste. No matter what for new homes or remodeling projects kind of house you live in or what decorating challenges you face, our interior designers are here to assist in every Our specialty since 1967 detail. Our mission is to make your home or office as Conception to Completion! beautiful and comfortable as possible. 1010 SW D Ave • 580-248-1315 Our bradysdesigncenter.com professional Mon. - Fri. 8-5 Sat. 9-1 staff will do everything to make sure you Level One • Exotics • Remnants get the advice Natural Stone & Quartz you need to ensure the Kitchen Counters • Vanity Tops • Tile Backsplash success of your Window Sills • Fireplaces project. Free Estimates Financing Available No Interest For One Year WAC * See Store For Details. #2 SW “C” Ave. 580-357-1348 580-357-8630 1010 S W D Ave nue 18 LAWTON PROUD 2019 Sunday, June 23, 2019 Proud of our Healthcare Southwestern Medical Center SWMC History increased awareness for the need • April 15, 1979 Terrible Tuesday By the mid-80’s, Southwestern Current, notable of an actual hospital was the 1904 tornado had, once again, outgrown its fa- accomplishments: On October 17, 1907, doctors Big Prairie Fire and the tornado of In 1910, World War I brought cility and was in need of a larger James Lewis and William Turner 1905 that destroyed Snyder. After the United States School of Mus- • Only hospital in Southwest one to house new and growing Oklahoma to be dually accredit- opened Lawton’s first modern, opening, other issues Southwest- ketry to Fort Sill. By 1917, the civilian hospital, Turner & Lew- services. On March 1, 1986, al- ed by the Joint Commission and ern faced with the community population of Lawton had more the Healthcare Facilities Accred- is Private Hospital (name was most 80 years from its first grand were: itation Program (HFAP). This is opening, changed to Southwestern Hospi- a powerful demonstration of our tal in 1911). Touted as a “wonder • Spanish in- Southwestern commitment to meet or exceed of modern technology”, it was the fluenza epi- opened in its the highest national standards first building to have electricity demic in 1918 current loca- for quality and safety. and natural gas for both heating during a time tion. • The first Joint Commission and light. During that time, most when there Certified Primary Stroke Center residents only had use of elec- was a short- No other in the region tricity at night. It also featured age of doctors • The Joint Center at South- medical facili- western is the first program in patient-nurse communication de- due to World ty in SW Okla- Southwest Oklahoma and sec- vices, a record-keeping system, War I and homa has the ond in the state of Oklahoma to back-ups for heating and lights, Lawton’s pop- deep-rooted receive Advanced Certification and strict guidelines for infection ulation was for Total Hip and Total Knee Re- commitment control. overwhelm- SWMC Hospital placement by the Joint Commis- ing due to the Southwestern sion. This level of accreditation Lawton had been formed just troops’ relatives living in the area than doubled as families of the has toward the Lawton-Fort Sill ensures patients undergoing six years earlier (August 6, 1901) • 1922 tornado that destroyed the incoming troops filled the town, community. Together, both entities joint replacement surgery at our and was still trying to attract pio- facility are receiving safe, high south end of the hospital thus beginning the long-standing have supported each other during neers to homestead in what they quality care. • Economic hardship during the relationship between Southwest- times of prosperity and growth, called the “Wonder City of the depression ern and Fort Sill, which continues • SWMC also holds sepa- Southwest”. Having access to a as well as economic hardships • World War II explosion of troops still, to this day. rate Joint Commission accredi- hospital would not only be attrac- and historic natural disasters. As and families, Ft. Sill hospital tations in Ambulatory Health tive to potential settlers, a modern As Lawton continued to grow, Lawton looks to ensure economic Care and Laboratory Services. closed services to relatives for hospital would address the grow- so did Southwestern. By 1960, growth, Southwestern will, just as three years. Surgeons went from • First in the area to re- ing need to curtail the spread of Southwestern had grown from a it did over 110 years ago, rise in an average of 12 cases a day 12-bed to a 200-bed facility, al- ceive CARF (Commission on contagious diseases and provide support by continuing efforts to Accreditation of Rehabilitation a safe, clean environment to per- to 40 to 60 and hospital admis- ways remaining at the forefront sions rising from 1,124 per year of modern technology and health- ensure the community has ac- Facilities) accreditation. form surgeries and other medical cess to the safest, most modern procedures. to 2,135 and only 40 beds to ac- care. In 1963, they were Okla- • Named one of the Top commodate them. homa’s largest privately owned, and highest-quality healthcare Workplaces in Oklahoma for six Other factors believed to have • Polio epidemic in 1949 non-denominational hospital. available. years in a row. WTON CON LA ST Visit Us: IT U 20 T 1 I 9 O 6746 NW Cache Rd., Lawton N 580.510.3242 V o S R 129 Main St., Duke, OK t E e A W D d E O K 580.679.3310 RS # ’ CH ICE e 1 F O or urn e St DarbysFurniture.com itur Locally Owned | Non-Commissioned Sales Sta | Free Delivery Sunday, June 23, 2019 LAWTON PROUD 2019 19 Proud of our Southwestern Medical Center Lawton Public Schools Lawton Public Schools community has shown Committed to excel- (LPS) is Oklahoma’s its unwavering support lence and education, our ninth largest district and for students by invest- educators, parents and serves approximately ing $142 million with the partners proudly unite 14,000 students. Com- passing of two school each day to accomplish prised of 27 education- bonds and the City sales a common goal: inspire al sites in the heart of tax. The current projects and motivate young Southwest Oklahoma, – replacement of Eisen- minds. this premier school dis- hower Middle School, trict operates on four addition of functional Keep up with LPS guiding Principles: Pre- safe rooms in seven el- news and information paring Career Bound ementary schools, up- by liking our Facebook Citizens; sharing profes- grades in areas of tech- (@LawtonPS), follow- sional ideals; promoting nology and classroom ing our Twitter (@Law- healthy lifestyles; and equipment, as well as, tonSchools) and sub- advocating communica- new textbooks for all scribing to our YouTube tion, collaboration and core subject areas – are (LPSTV17). Learn more transparency. all possible because of about LPS by visiting the commitment from the www.lawtonps.org. We LPS employs approxi- Lawton community. are LPS! mately 2,300 adminis- trators, teachers and Established in 1991 support personnel who serve a diverse student population that is 38% We are a family owned company proudly Caucasian, 22% African serving the Lawton, Oklahoma and American, 20% Hispan- Wichita Falls, Texas areas with the highest ic, 5% Native American, quality building supplies since 1961. Pacific Islander 1% and 14% two or more races. Garage Doors, Entry Doors, Windows, Fireplaces, Investing in both stu- Masonry, Brick And Vacuums dents and educators, RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL For Commercial And Residential Properties LPS sets the standard of academic excellence Please call today for sales, service, and installation. in Southwest Oklaho- LAWTON (580) 355-0860 ma. In keeping with the mission of preparing career-bound citizens, LPS offers a wide-range PROUD! of extra-curricular activi- ties, community partner- 101 E. Gore Blvd.• Lawton, OK 73501 ship opportunities and a 522 SW McKinley, Lawton • 580.351.9866 variety of study topics at Lawton and Surrounding Areas hallbuildingproducts.com each grade level. www.shillingselectric.com New Location in OKC 2708 S. Meridian In three short years, the 20 LAWTON PROUD 2019 Sunday, June 23, 2019 Why Choose Lawton Fort Sill With an abundance of availability of housing, evaluate quality of life and brought Bridget and Ervin improvements are be- amenities from recre- recreational opportuni- business opportunities. Randle to Lawton-Fort ing made to many local ational opportunities to ties like water skiing in Sill, too. schools and a brand new We visited every week- state-of-the- art health middle school is being Lake Lawtonka or hiking end for eight months,” “We had an opportunity care facilities and highly- built, and we have two in the Wichita Mountain Billingsley said. “I told to purchase the existing ranked schools and uni- great hospitals as well as Wildlife Refuge and find- my children we were go- Chevrolet store and we versities, there’s a lot to the Leah M. Fitch Cancer ing a secure and progres- ing on an adventure and opened our business, love about Lawton-Fort Center. From the time we sive place to raise our if they weren’t having Classic Lawton Chevro- Sill and it shows. The city arrived we’ve loved every daughter all added up fun, we wouldn’t stay. let, in 2015,” earns kudos for highly af- minute of living in Law- to Lawton. We looked at The kids loved it and now fordable housing, cultural Bridget said. “The city ton. People are warm and schools, places to go and Lawton-Fort Sill is our for- and historic assets, a is moving in a direc- welcoming and everyone things do and the busi- ever home. We couldn’t central location, easy ac- tion of strategic growth; is friendly.” ness outlook for opening have found a better place cess to air travel and so the insurance firm. We for our multi-generational much more. discovered that Lawton business and the Ford “My husband’s par- was the perfect fit.” and Hyundai dealerships ents retired here and Janie Billingsley, mar- our family owns. The city we moved from London, keting director of the Bill- still retains a hometown England, to Lawton-Fort ingsley Family of Dealer- feeling, while being very up and coming with its Sill to come home,” said ships, moved to Lawton own airport and central Yvonne Landmark. “We nearly 23 years ago from location.” opened two new busi- a neighboring city and nesses here, The UPS • Research-Based. Sylvan programs are research-based and aligned to took plenty of time to Business is what national standards. Store and my husband’s • Certified Teachers. Students are taught by state-certified teachers who technology consulting are also Sylvan certified. • Low teacher-pupil ratio. SylvanSync programs utilize a teacher-student business, and both are New Hope Church of God in Christ ratio that is never greater than 1:3. going extremely well. We • Positive Reinforcement. Our staff builds student confidence through positive – never negative – reinforcement. were ready to leave the • Diagnostic/Prescriptive. We utilize nationally recognized assessments hustle bustle behind us and target instruction to each student’s identified needs. • Mastery Learning. Each student is taught his/her prescribed skills until and feel very positive and mastery is demonstrated. No-skill left behind! happy about the move. • Daily Updating. Each SylvanSync prescription is updated after each day of instruction. Lawton’s future is very • Parental Support. We meet with parents monthly to review academic bright and moving in all progress. • School Collaboration. Sylvan meets to compare notes with the student’s the right directions.” teacher at his/her school. • Digital Platform – Sylvan’s 21st-Century digital platform enables our For Vincent Saylor and tutors to teach students efficiently. Most Sylvan students work from IPads his family, the decision Pastor Mike Cross which we provide. & Vernita Cross • Cost Effective – Sylvan is less expensive than classroom instruction to choose Lawton two because students make more rapid progress than in a classroom setting. • Z ero-Interest Loans – Most financial planners say that people should not years ago was practically Sunday School ...... 9:30 AM borrow money except for three items: housing, transportation, and seamless. Morning Worship ...... 11:00 AM education. Ask us about our popular interest-free student loan program . Wednesday Bible Study...... 7:00 PM “I was practicing law & Youth Services Your child can start the school year with in a Birmingham firm for the assistance of the best after-school eight years before the Let your light so shine before men that they may tutoring program on the planet: move, but my wife and I see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. really wanted to open our Matthew 5:16 own business,” said Say- lor, owner of Vincent Say- lor State Farm in Lawton. 1502 SW Monroe Ave. • 580-647-6370 “We could have chosen multiple places, but the Sunday, June 23, 2019 LAWTON PROUD 2019 21 Things to do While Living in Lawton Lawton • Roller Skating at Laugh Out Loud • Bison Auction • Wichita Wildlife Refuge • The Living Christmas Tree at • Eagle Watching Tours At The First Baptist Church Wildlife Refuge • Apache Casino Hotel Hot Air Balloon Festival • Elmer Thomas Park • Wichita Mountains Hiking Trails • Apache Casino Hotel 4th of July • Homecoming at Cameron University • Polar Bear Plunge Celebration • Take a stroll at our Lawton Farmers market • Native Flute Fest in Med Park • Apache Casino Hotel Concert Series • Gobble Wobble Annual Thanksgiving Day • Swimming/Trout Fishing Medicine Creek Walk/Run • Museum of the Great Plains • Christ Kindl Market • Annual Christmas lighting at the Park and • Lawton Philharmonic Orchestra • Wichita Mountains Wildflower and the Parade • Lawton Community Theater Fall Foliage Tours • Freedom Festival-4th of July/Lawton • Tour of the Mattie Beal Home • Red Dirt Fest • Playing Golf at Lawton Country Club • Tomato Festival • Kayaking-Lawtonka • Oktoberfest at the Great Plains Coliseum • Wichita Mountains Bugling Elk Tour • Farmers Market and at Fort Sill • Guided Wildlife Tours • Research-Based. Sylvan programs are research-based and aligned to • Spirit of Survival • Comanche Nation Fair and PowWow national standards. • Certified Teachers. Students are taught by state-certified teachers who • 580 Roller Girls • Comanche County Free Fair are also Sylvan certified. • Low teacher-pupil ratio. SylvanSync programs utilize a teacher-student Fort Sill ratio that is never greater than 1:3. • Arts For All • Blue Moon Theater • Positive Reinforcement. Our staff builds student confidence through • U.S. Army Field Artillery Museum positive – never negative – reinforcement. • Attend Ware on C Block Party • Polar Bear Plunge • Diagnostic/Prescriptive. We utilize nationally recognized assessments • U.S. Army Air Defense Artillery and target instruction to each student’s identified needs. • International Festival • Frost Ya’ Fanny Race • Mastery Learning. Each student is taught his/her prescribed skills until mastery is demonstrated. No-skill left behind! • Fort Sill National Historic Landmark • Armed Forces Day Parade • Great Plains Winter National Hog, • Daily Updating. Each SylvanSync prescription is updated after each day and Museum of instruction. Sheep & Goat Show • Parental Support. We meet with parents monthly to review academic • Lawton Rangers Rodeo progress. • Playing Golf at Fort Sill Golf Club • Scuba Diving- Lake Elmer Thomas • School Collaboration. Sylvan meets to compare notes with the student’s • Comanche National Museum and teacher at his/her school. • Change of Command • Digital Platform – Sylvan’s 21st-Century digital platform enables our Cultural Center • Chautauqua tutors to teach students efficiently. Most Sylvan students work from IPads • Kayak, Pedal Boats, Canoe, Water which we provide. • Leslie Powell Gallery • Climb Mount Scott • Cost Effective – Sylvan is less expensive than classroom instruction Slide And Miniature Golf At LETRA because students make more rapid progress than in a classroom setting. • Z ero-Interest Loans – Most financial planners say that people should not • Cameron University Basketball • Star Gazing Tour At The Wildlife Refuge borrow money except for three items: housing, transportation, and . • Fort Sill Prehistoric Tar pit education. Ask us about our popular interest-free student loan program • Cameron University Baseball • Tour of the Wichitas Bike Race • Old Post Quadrangle-Fort Sill and Your child can start the school year with • Cameron University Softball • Longhorn Auction the assistance of the best after-school Candle Light Stroll tutoring program on the planet: • Cameron University Tennis • Holy City of the Wichitas and Easter Pageant • Flippers Ditch • Cameron University Volleyball • Medicine Park • Native American Cemeteries • Bring A Lawn Chair For The Chamber on the Move • The Mayors Blues Ball • Medicine Bluff, Fort Sill 22 LAWTON PROUD 2019 Sunday, June 23, 2019 Why Choose WE ARE LAWTON PROUD! Lawton to Start Remodeling & J&I General Construction a Business SSinceince 11969969 VA Modifications Whether they moved and Dallas area. We The owners of another here from London or love the international car dealership – Ervin • Double Tilt Thermopane lived in Lawton all their flair, the convenience and Bridget Randle of Insulated Windows lives, whether they to fly anywhere with Classic Lawton Chev- • Air Duct Cleaning came from the big city our American Airlines rolet –came from very • Ceiling & Wall Insulation or a sharecropper farm, airport, and the ease • Outdoor Kitchens different paths before • Room Additions entrepreneurs have of getting to two large landing happily in Okla- • Remodels: Kitchens found Lawton-Fort Sill metro areas within a homa. Bridget grew up & Bathrooms an ideal place to build a couple of hours. in middle-class Minne- • We accept insurance business – and a family. claims “I also love that you apolis-St. Paul. Ervin When Craig and Janie can go anywhere in grew up in a two-room Licensed shack with no running Bonded Billingsley decided to Lawton and hear so Insured Sewer Or expand their auto deal- many different languag- water in rural Texas, his Water ership into Lawton- Fort es and cultures. And we father a share cropper Damage Sill in 1997, they decid- love supporting our Fort and his mother a maid. 580-357-4699 ed to move their fam- Sill soldiers that come www.jibuild.com When Disaster Ervin made a major [email protected] ily there too. “I told our from all over the world life change when he Strikes, Strike Back! children that we were and their families that NO JOB TOO SMALL played NFL football for • Fire or water pack-out, r going on an adventure come with them.” After hours ende Lawton Proud! the Tampa Bay Bucca- Call 580-591-1076 cleaning, deodorizing and al L and if we were not hav- LLocaloc Lender Billingsley said Law- neers and Kansas City FAX 357-0346 climate controlled storage. ing fun as a family, we • Water extraction, carpet and ton-Fort Sill also proved Chiefs in 1985- 1993. would move on,” Janie structural drying. to be a fertile ground for He then married Bridg- said. “We have never • Sewer back-up cleaning. the family’s portfolio of et and began a second • Carpet cleaning & deodorizing looked back and had auto-related business- career selling cars in • Truck mounted & portable cleaning a wonderful, fun ride units. es spread across Okla- Dallas. all the way. Our chil- A+Rating • Mold Remediation homa – four car dealer- dren thrived here when “I had always been ships, three insurance younger and are now a big-city girl,” Bridget offices and a car main- thriving as adults. Randle said. “But when tenance center. Law- the Chevy dealership in Water Damage Restoration “This area is a perfect ton-Fort Sill provided 580-353-4434 • 580-591-1076 Lawton became avail- KATHY SUTTLES fit for our down-to- Earth the Billingsleys with 120 able in 2015, we decid- I’m committed to finding the perfect loan for personalities,” she said. of their 220 employ- ALAN HAD LEY Branch Manager, ed to buy it. 25 Years Experience your dream home! NMLS#233437 ONS “When we first moved ees, filling their need N C TITU Insured, Licensed & Bonded TO T W IO Derrell Black • VA • FHA • USDA • BOND/REI A N Direct L 2019 580.956.8686 here, people welcomed for skills ranging from “We debated wheth- President • HUD 184 • Rehab/Renovation • Investor Programs After hours 580-591-1076 Mobile 580.695.7555 us with open arms. Our finance officers to ser- er to keep our dream 1016 SW C Ave., Lawton son and his wife chose vice techs, from janitors house in Dallas and just 618 “G” Avenue • Lawton, OK S [email protected] om R K E W O E AD IC to return here after liv- to securities-licensed rent a house in Lawton. Email: [email protected] • Website: jibuild.com ERS’ CHO ing in both the OKC insurance agents. continued on page 25 Gateway Mortgage Group is a registered service mark of Gateway Mortgage Group, LLC NMLS 7233. Al l loans subject to program guidelines and final underwriting approval. Contact local branch for deta ils. Mortgage Lender License #ML002658 Sunday, June 23, 2019 LAWTON PROUD 2019 23 Want to Get Involved? Visit us at If you would like to join sor Saturday’ featured post Lawton Proud as a busi- on the Facebook Page swoknews.com ness, there are three an- - Pop-up ad on website nual partnership levels advertising your business available. Listed below is as a sponsor each level and how your - Picture of your business business is represented at bum of the Facebook page featured in the partner al- each level. bum of the Facebook page - Entry page ad on the Bronze level Gold Level website - Business logo on the - Business logo on the - Business logo featured Lawton Proud website Lawton Proud website at the end of the company partnership page partnership page video on website 4401 NW Cache Rd. • Lawton Open 10am-9pm - Business logo on ‘Spon- - Business logo on ‘Spon- To find out more about sor Saturday’ featured post sor Saturday’ featured post Lawton Proud or to get on the Facebook Page on the Facebook Page involved with helping to Silver level - Pop-up ad on website - Business logo on the advertising your business spread positive news in the Lawton Proud website as a sponsor community, visit Lawton- partnership page - Picture of your business Proud.com or Facebook. - Business logo on ‘Spon- featured in the partner al- com/LawtonProud. r Lende Lawton Proud! LLocalocal Lender Lawton Proud N CONSTIT TO UT W IO KATHY SUTTLES A N L 2019 I’m committed to finding the perfect loan for Branch Manager, your dream home! NMLS#233437 N CONSTIT TO UT W IO • VA • FHA • USDA • BOND/REI A N S L Direct 580.956.8686 R K 2019 E W O E AD IC • HUD 184 • Rehab/Renovation • Investor Programs Mobile 580.695.7555 ERS’ CHO 1016 SW C Ave., Lawton S [email protected] om R K E W O E AD IC ERS’ CHO Gateway Mortgage Group is a registered service mark of Gateway Mortgage Group, LLC NMLS 7233. All loans subject to program guidelines and final underwriting approval. Contact local branch for deta ils. Mortgage Lender License #ML002658 24 LAWTON PROUD 2019 Sunday, June 23, 2019 Safety First for Lawton Fort Sill The City of Lawton con- lice and Fire departments year, for the first time, tinues to advance the prior- will soon see the raising of thanks to efforts and ad- ities of citizens, to include the Public Safety Facility in vancements of both the Creating a Safer City. The downtown Lawton, which Fire and Police depart- City has worked close- will be complete by August ments, in coordination with ly with the public safety 2019, and houses a new our Water Distribution Di- unions to raise starting police department, jail, fire vision and the water treat- salaries, as well as offer house and municipal court. ment plants of the City of incentive bonus payments The 106,778 sq. ft. facil- Lawton. This topmost rat- for the third consecutive ity will be comprised of 350 ing has been achieved by year with an intended fo- work stations and serve as only two other cities in the cus of boosting retention a beacon of the commit- state and will positively af- and recruitment rates. ment to public safety ef- fect homeowners in our Kingdom Medical During the 2017 calendar forts and enhancements in area, as property insur- Equipment year, the City of Lawton our community. ance rates are expected to saw an 11.4 percent de- decrease with the attain- Since 2006, providing Lawton & Lawton also attained a Southern OK with the largest in- crease in crime. Both Po- “Class 1” ISO Rating this ment of our new rating. house selection of products for comfort, mobility & home safety. 1834 NW 52nd St. • Lawton 580-355-1511 Serving the Lawton-Ft. Sill Community Dr. Robert “Bob” Weger 7501 SW Lee Blvd. • Lawton, OK • (580)536-6272 Proudly Serving Lawton-Ft Sill & Surrounding Communities for over 50 years FOR SALE Elizabeth James Jim Ard Jill Biggs Kristi Brabaw Peggy Foster Debra Gilikeson Jenny Hargrove Ronnie Holmes John Jones CRB, CDPE, CRS, GRI GRI, CDPE, CHMS GRI GRI, Broker Owner PARKS J NES®� Dedicated to Excellence Since 1966 REALTORS Barbara Kouri Larry Liter, CRS, GRI, Tiphanie Murphy John Naberhaus Don Radford Gary Rasmussen Chris Wike Courtney Wilson e-Pro, Sales Manager GRI, General Manager (580) 357-0842 • 4301 NW Cache Rd • Lawton, OK 73505 • ParksJonesRealty.com Sunday, June 23, 2019 LAWTON PROUD 2019 25 continued from page 22 with our employees – make Lawton their But we realized that if which, they don’t work home.” for us, we’re in this to- Lawton-Fort Lawton-Fort SillSill Proud!Proud! we were going to make After Jim married Everyday 10% Active Military Discount. this work, we would gether.” Yvonne, a native of have to become part of Jim and Yvonne Louisiana, he pursued N CONSTIT O UT T IO the community.” AW N Landmark have lived an international career L 2019 Thank You For They haven’t regret- all over the world. But in information technol- Voting Us Best ! ted it, Randle said. “We when it came time to ogy. “When Jim retired S see deer and elk. It’s settle down and start a R K Boots, Hats, Western Shirts, E W O E from British Petroleum AD IC business of their own, ERS’ CHO so easy to get around three years ago, we Jeans, Hooey Caps & more! they knew there was compared to a big city. were living outside Lon- And the people are so only one place to do it – don, England,”Yvonne friendly. We know the Lawton-Fort Sill. said. “But we moved mayor and the chief of “Like a lot of people from London to Law- police. You won’t get here, my husband was that in a big city. ton and started a UPS an Army kid,”Yvonne store.” “Every day new peo- Landmark said. “Jim ple come through our was born in Germany. “Lawton-Fort Sill has T WO L OCATIO NS T O S ERVE Y OU : But on a couple of de- moderate weather. It 313 SW C Ave. | Lawton 1503 N. Highway 81 | Duncan door and we get to 580.248.2997 580.252.3220 Visit Us On know them on a per- ployments they were has mountains. It’s a Mon.-Wed. 9-6 Thurs.-Sat. 9-6 Mon.-Wed. 9-6 Thurs.-Fri. 9-6 sonal basis. We stress posted at Fort Sill and nice place to raise a Sun. 1-6 Sat. 9-6 a family atmosphere the family decided to family,” Yvonne said. www.crutcherswestern.com ® ® ® ® ® ® ® ® ® ® ® ® ® ® ® ® ® ® ® Lawton Proud! ® ® ® 1701 NW Cache Rd. Lon Parks, Broker/Owner ® ® ® Traci Green Terri Strecker Chris Weaver Ruth Merriweather Cindy McGuire Jeanne Rock Heesun Stanfi eld Max Sasseen 580-284-9364 580-512-0615 580-585-2232 580-585-2232 580-585-1087 580-585-0655 580-585-2068 580-248-8817 ® ® ® ® ® ® ® ® ® ® ® ® ® ® ® ® ® 26 LAWTON PROUD 2019 Sunday, June 23, 2019 Lawton Youth Located 1 Block North of the old Salas on 2nd & Lee Council T Trreeseeess • RiverRiiver BBiiirrcch The City of Lawton, in collaboration • ChineseChiinese PPistacheiistache • LacebarkLacebark & CCedaredar EEllm with area partners and agencies, initiated • Lacebark & Cedar Elm • ShatungShatung MaplMaplle a Lawton Youth Council, which is a 10 • BurBurrr,,, RedRed & LLiveiive OakOak month program for high school juniors and • ClevelandCllevelland SSelectellect FFlowering lloweriing PearPear seniors that is intended to teach students PPots ots & CChimineashiimiineas about roles of elected officials and the inner- • DrummondDrummond MMaplaplle workings of local government. Additionally, • BaldBalld CCyprypreessss • OklahomaOkllahoma RedRed BudBud 60%6 600%% OfOOffff in collaboration with fit kids of Southwest • MuchMuch MoMorree Oklahoma and various community partners, A llllll TTrreeeses the City hosted its fifth open streets on May & SShrubsShhrubbs Come see the largest selection of 25th—a health based initiative that temporarily • RedRed TipTiip PPhotiniahotiiniia tr ees in SW Oklahoma. • Nandina’Nandiina’’s Thousands to choose from!!! 225% 255%% OOfOffff turns city streets into public playgrounds. • ElaeagnusEllaeagnus • Abelia’sAbelliia’’s • SpirSpiireea’a’’s OOPENPEN • CrapeCrape MyrMyrtletlles All Grown Here in Lawton Mon. - Sat. 10am - 5pm • DwarDwarff CrapeCrrape MMyryrttlelles We OfOffer Planting Service 580-695-3680 Lawton-Fort Sill Proud! We can help - call today for a free initial consultation. Practice: • Criminal Law • DUI/Tickets • Court Martials • Divorce/Family Law • Personal Injury • Auto Accidents • Admin. Discharges James R. Willson Maj. Ret. ATTORNEY AT LAW 632 SW D AVENUE • 248-8886 (24 hours) Terms Available Sunday, June 23, 2019 LAWTON PROUD 2019 27 Ashley Ghrayyeb Lawton Proud! Teacher of the year Ashley Ghrayyeb is a the Cameron University committees and school teacher for Lawton Public Alumni Association and level-committees and has Susan Stricklin Schools and is the recipi- was recently recognized conducted several pro- (580) 917-0707 ent of the 2019-2020 LPS as the CUAA Teacher fessional presentations. homeslawton.com Teacher of the Year award. of the Month. Ashley is Ashley resides in Lawton She has been a teacher also a past recipient of and is raising two daugh- for 10 years and currently the LPS Extra Mile award ters, Molly and Annie, with teaches Pre-K at Crosby for going above and be- Park Elementary School, yond in the field of educa- her husband Daniel. where she was elected tion. Ashley is the former by her colleagues as the President of the Lawton Crosby Park Teacher of Area Reading Council the Year. Ashley gradu- and is currently serving ated Magna Cum Laude as the Secretary for the from Cameron University Lawton Parent Teacher Susan has years of experience with a Bachelor’s Degree Association. Ashley is a helping both buyers and sellers! in Elementary Education Pillar Member of the Law- and is certified in Early ton Public Schools Foun- Lawton’s Real Estate Specialist Since 1984! Childhood Education. dation. She has served 1511 W Gore Blvd Suite #1 Ashley is a member of on various district-wide Lawton, OK Residential & Commercial Closings Escrow Service Abstracting Title & Ownership Searches Title Insurance For more information or to discuss your closing and title services needs, call us at 580-699-8780. To discuss your abstract needs, call us at 580-353-2424 today! We look forward to the opportunity to assist you. 28 LAWTON PROUD 2019 Sunday, June 23, 2019 property management $110,000, our metropol- companies, and apart- itan area is more afford- Lawton Proud Housing ment complexes so that able than 96% of the One of the biggest as- duplexes, and apart- pied by active duty mili- they can maintain high nation! The U.S.. cen- sets of the Lawton/Ft. ments, the Lawton/Ft. tary or fort sill related standards of quality sus bureau also shows Sill area is its housing Sill area was the most workers, the fort sill off housing for tenants. that less than 25% of Lawton area homeown- market. Just this last affordable in the South post housing office and But not only rentals ers paid more than 30% January, the online web Central region of the the Lawton board of re- are affordable in the of their income towards site Zillow ranked Law- united states. altors have developed Lawton/Ft. Sill area; housing. That is also ton/Ft. Sill the second a set of guidelines that houses for sale are as Right now, the com- one of the lower totals most affordable rental munity is working on they would like invest- well. That same Zil- in the nation. market in the country new guidelines for the ment property owners low report ranked the among metropolitan upkeep of rental hous- to adhere to when pre- Lawton/Ft. Sill market Chuck Webber, chair- areas over 100,000 in ing to ensure tenants paring a rental property in the national top 20 man of the Lawton population. In addition, have quality housing. to go on the market. in affordability among board of realtors, said with an average rental Since nearly half of the Right now, the board the 500 largest united he’s seen many buyers rate of $710/month for rental properties in the of realtors is working to states cities. With a who have moved here single family homes, community are occu- get those guidelines to median sales price of continued on page 36 CONST N CONSTIT ON ITU O UT T T T IO W IO AW N A N L 2019 Than Yo Fo Y C tinue Su L 2019 S Best Frame Shop Best Gift Shop Best Locally Owned Men’s & Women’s Apparel S R K R W K E W E E O E A O IC AD IC DE O ERS’ CHO RS’ CH • Huge Frame Choices • Wedding Invitations • Suits, Sport Coats & Shoes • Kendra Scott • Photography • Bridal Registration • Custom Clothing & Shirts • Rustic Cuff • In Business Over 30 Years • Gifts For All Ages • Tuxedo Rentals • Casual Apparel • Casual, Fun Apparel Military & Custom Framing Photo Restoration 400 BLOCK OF “C”, DOWNTOWN LAWTON Join us for the next Ware on “C” Block Party Sunday, June 23, 2019 LAWTON PROUD 2019 29 Military Spouse Employment and Education by Brandi Sims Communications Manager, itary life. For one, main- station. The excitement, • Serving Lawton since 1994 Lawton Fort Sill Chamber taining relevant employ- determination, and drive • Local comprehensive and subspecialty of Commerce. ment to my educational did not go unnoticed as eye care background and experi- I was raised in Lawton, I secured many follow- • Highly respected state and national ence was very difficult. ups and callbacks for Oklahoma. I attended medical leaders interviews with various school here, to include For several years • Conveniently located in the Tomlinson organizations. I can re- graduating from Camer- I worked for various Medical Complex. on University. In fact, banking institutions, call in an interview for I often joke that’s why I non-profit organizations a managerial position Call 580.250.5855 to schedule am a strong, confident and community groups the conversation turned an appointment woman. It’s my roots assisting with the devel- quickly as the questions that give me strength opment of all aspects steered from experi- and has made me re- in marketing, branding ence and education to silient. That was impor- and public relations. By my husband’s military CONST N CONSTIT career and orders. The N ITU O UT TO T T IO tant as I chose to marry I W 2012, I had achieved O AW N A N L 019 L 019 2 2 someone on the military my Bachelors degree in expression, which I’ve Than Yo Fo Y C tinue Su and move from place to communications with an learned from the count- S Best Frame Shop Best Gift Shop Best Locally Owned Men’s & Women’s Apparel S less interviews, went R R W K W K E E O E emphasis on public re- E O C place. Often from my A IC AD OI DE HO ERS’ CH RS’ C role as a Navy spouse, lations here at Cameron from pure excitement to I grappled with the iden- University, and became disappointment. tity, concept and all that the youngest to serve on Ann Acers-Warn, MD, MBA Amongst the spouse Clinical Professor it entailed, but being a a local non profit board, groups I was associated Director American Board of Ophthalmology proud Lawtonian kept received credit for PR with, this was constant 2018 Distingushed Service Award me strong. As well, I work on a national mov- and discussion and unfortu- Past President, am proud to say I was ie database, becoming nate reality to many of Oklahoma Academy of Opthalmology a military spouse and the first public relations us. One spouse even now veteran spouse. I & marketing assistant mentioned not including stood beside my hus- for a regional bank and the military information band who diligently countless other firsts. for fear of rejection and served our country and My portfolio was packed unsurprisingly was able • Huge Frame Choices • Wedding Invitations • Suits, Sport Coats & Shoes • Kendra Scott gave support to those with relevant work ex- secure immediate work • Photography • Bridal Registration • Custom Clothing & Shirts • Rustic Cuff who otherwise would perience that I assumed opportunities. For those • In Business Over 30 Years • Gifts For All Ages • Tuxedo Rentals • Casual Apparel • Casual, Fun Apparel not have a voice. On the would assist tremen- of us with experience other end, I recognize dously in locating new and ones that sought work opportunities. Military & and remember the chal- higher education, we lenges associated with Jean R. Hausheer, MD, FACS Custom Framing Armed with what I be- often found that while Clinical Professor Photo Restoration being a military spouse. lieved to be in impres- the interest was there Immediate Past President, Handling deployments, sive portfolio in a short by the businesses, the Oklahoma State Medical Association and trainings, coast-to-coast amount of time, I eager- prospective roles would Oklahoma Academy of Ophthalmology 400 BLOCK OF “C”, DOWNTOWN LAWTON relocations with a small ly sought out business- be immediately reduced family and trying to find es immediately upon from managerial or se- 3201 W. Gore Blvd., #200 Lawton, OK 73505 Join us for the next Ware on “C” Block Party a balance within the mil- reaching our first duty continued on page 33 www.dmei.org 30 LAWTON PROUD 2019 Sunday, June 23, 2019 Lawton Proud Celebration of Arts and Humanities, our state of art museums by Brenda Spencer-Ragland the Comanche County His- tute remained in the building Comanche Cultural Experts, years of age with experiences There truly is much to be torical Society (CCHS), which as a tenant and has contin- CNMCC Will Strive to meet ranging from novice to expert proud of in our community. was formed in 1952. After ued its research, education, all of the above goals and pro- are afforded the opportunity On any given day, you can a few years of exhibiting its and publishing functions to vide visitors with a new un- to reach their highest artistic enjoy exploring the human growing collections in a build- aid the museum in its pro- derstanding of the people of talent right here in Lawton, history at the Museum of the ing on Fort Sill, the CCHS grams. The Museum of the the great Comanche Nation. thanks to the great work of Great Plains, experience the began the planning and con- Great Plains Trust Authority this great organization. The Comanche people’s rich past struction of a new permanent has become the governing Our Arts and Humanities Division partners with and/or and present in Lawton at the facility. With support from board of the museum and works diligently to provide supports: Comanche National Museum the local McMahon Founda- received 501-(c)-(3) status support and services from & Cultural Center, or taking tion, the new facility opened as an independent non-profit educators, to visual and per- • Lawton Arts & Humanities part in one of the many pro- in 1961 as the Museum of entity in 1999. Next door, ad- forming artists, to patrons, or- Council (LAHC), a public trust grams and service provided the Great Plains. The mu- jacent to the Museum of the ganizations and everyone in of the City of Lawton by the Arts & Humanities Di- seum is an 18,000-square- Great Plains we are blessed between seeking resources • International Festival now vision, For the City of Lawton. foot building located in Elmer with the presence of The Co- for education, funding, re- celebrating 40 years with Thomas Park and managed manche National Museum & search, publicity assistance estimated attendance of Our museums are state of under a public trust. In 1972, Cultural Center. The muse- as well as planning support 30,000 annually the art facilities we can all be the museum became the first um opened its doors in 2007, for arts and humanities pro- • Assist with arts programing proud of for what they offer to in Oklahoma to receive ac- and this museum features gramming for Parks & Recreation’s our community. creditation from the Ameri- programs and exhibits that The Arts and Humanities Leisure Services The Museum of the Great can Alliance of Museums. In deepen the understanding Division within the City of • Student Performances for Plains is dedicated to the 1997, again with support from and appreciation of Coman- Lawton, manages and rents elementary children for over collection, preservation, re- the local McMahon Founda- che history, culture and fine the McMahon Memorial Audi- 15 years search, interpretation and tion, the museum expanded art. The museum is home to a torium (MMA), a state of the • Ex-officio member of the exhibition of items pertaining to 25,000 square feet of gal- variety of collections including art performance venue right Arts for All, Inc. to the cultural and natural his- lery space, a foyer and a fine art, the Egli and Chibitty here in our beautiful commu- • Lawton Enhancement tory of the Great Plains region museum store. The original Collections, Fort Sill Indian nity. This beautiful location Trust Authority (LETA) – assist of North America in effort to building space was converted School and military items. supports filmmakers, screen- with their annual Eye Candy increase knowledge and un- into much-needed collections Visitors can also access a li- writers, producers, directors, Awards Events and serve on derstanding of humankind. and archival storage, a library brary and photo archives on and film production compa- their Cultural Preservation The museum’s major exhibits and research area, offices, a site. The Comanche National nies by providing location Committee. reveal the diverse cultures in- classroom and the Louise D. Museum And Cultural Cen- scouting/photos, assisting • Oklahoma Arts Council habiting the Great Plains re- McMahon Reception Hall. ter (CNMCC) Provides Com- with casting calls, and acting • Oklahoma Humanities gion beginning with the arrival munities with programs and as a resource for informa- of the Paleo-Indians known as The Institute of the Great exhibits that deepen the un- tion about our area. In 2007, The McMahon Auditorium the Clovis culture at approxi- Plains (which also originated derstanding and Appreciation the City of Lawton passed Authority, a public trust cre- mately 11,500 BCE. A variety from the Comanche County of Comanche history, culture, Resolution 0705 that provides ated in 1963 for the purpose of educational programs are Historical Society) and the and fine art. Though collec- support to film, TV, and com- of overseeing the operations offered year around, and the City of Lawton jointly operat- tions, preservation, and edu- mercial production. It allows and management of the Mc- museum is one of five partner ed the museum until January cation, CNMCC seeks to be- for consideration of fee waiv- Mahon Memorial Auditorium museums in the Oklahoma 1998, when the museum was come a recognized resource ers and other city services, (MMA) so that is it utilized to Museum Network. reorganized and established for information about the Nu- equipment, and locations at the maximum extent. This as a public trust under the munuu. With the assistance no charge. Visual and per- beautiful city owned facility, The museum evolved out of laws of Oklahoma. The Insti- of tribal elders and enrolled forming artists from 1 to 100 continued on page 31 Sunday, June 23, 2019 LAWTON PROUD 2019 31 continued from page 30 provides theatre-style seating Oklahomans for the Arts (1477); projection equipment, reported that for every $1 of new state of the art sound public funding, $8 is gener- and lighting equipment. This ated. facility has been serving the Lawton Fort Sill Community Oklahoma Film and Music since 1955 when Louise D. Office reported that for film McMahon dedicated the facil- production every $1 a pro- ity to the use of the citizens duction company spends in of the Lawton Community a community, it results with for the advancement of mu- $1.72 going back into the sic, the arts, and other forms community. of educational and cultural The Oklahoma Depart- endeavors, to include being ment of Tourism reported that home to the Lawton Philhar- Lawton’s unique and diverse monic Orchestra. Arts is a culture attracts visitors from quality of life and economic many countries around the development generator for world, and Americans for the our community. Filming has Arts reports that children who increased in our community have access to Arts Educa- since 2007, support has been tion are less likely to have provided to over 22 local and problems in school and will international production com- have a measure of success panies such as AMC’s “The in other areas of life. As you Son”, “River Monsters”, and have heard it said, Preserva- Sekai No Katemake Itte Q tion of Culture and Heritage is (Japanse, Riddles at the End simply Priceless. Within our of the World). As well, across community, we can be proud the platform of our great com- that we not only work dili- munity and state, the “Arts gently to preserve arts for our & Economic Prosperity 5” of community, but we celebrate FY 2015, a project by Ameri- it with many diverse projects cans for the Arts and led by and events such as the Oklahomans for the Arts Lawton’s Birthday Cel- alongside a number of state- ebration, Public Art Projects, wide partners, reported that Outreach on Arts & Humani- Oklahoma’s Nonprofit Arts ties Management, Cultural & Culture Organizations and Program Series, Internation- Audiences: al Festival, Lawton Cultural Awards, “One to Six” Art Pur- • Had $872.8 Million total chase Award, Student Per- direct expenditures formance, Lawton Enhance- • Provided 29,165 full-time ment Trust Authority (LETA) jobs Annual Awards, Cultural • Generated $84.5 Million in Preservation Committee, total government revenue Let’s Talk About It, Oklaho- • Events attracted 12.7 Mil- ma, Lawton Fort Sill Freedom lion audience members. Festival and more! 32 LAWTON PROUD 2019 Sunday, June 23, 2019 “Auctions Work We’ve Proven It!” We Are Lawton Proud! Taking Consignments for July 20th, 2019 Equipment Auction 580-248-6676 • www.stallingsauction.com AllA Allll AAboutAbboouutt PetsPPeettss We Are Lawton Proud Dr. Wood, DVM by Appointment Only We welcome all exotic pets as well as Fido and Fluffy. Proudly Serving Lawton EZ GO is dedicated to the highest quality of customer service delivered with a sense of warmth, friendliness, individual pride and company spirit. Seven Local Stores to Serve You… • 24th and West Gore Blvd. • 52nd & West Lee Blvd. • 67th and Gore Blvd. • 64th and Cache Road • 24th and Cache Road • Flowermound & East Gore Blvd. • 52nd & Rogers Lane 309 W. Gore Blvd. (580) 357-4966 Monday - Friday 9:30 - 5:00 by Appt. www.allaboutpetsvetclinic.com FREE AIR Sunday, June 23, 2019 LAWTON PROUD 2019 33 continued from page 29 ter’s of Business Admin- be applied to entrepre- nior level positions to istration. Throughout neurship, which has administrative support that time I gained valu- continued to grow over and entry-level posi- able information about the last several years tions. We could all agree business operations, as many seek to be at times it seemed as if legal, finance and ac- self employed. Learn- we were undesirable counting, etc. that could ing new skills that can candidates due to the applied to any industry I be beneficial to profes- unpredictable nature of fell into. Since that time, sional growth and we military life. I was able to find work are fortunate to have After receiving what with the Lawton Fort Sill access to a variety of felt like hundreds of re- Chamber of Commerce resources that can con- jection letters, I finally and provide work within tribute to that growth. decided enough was my industry that is both Most importantly, cel- enough. If they weren’t rewarding and fulfilling. I ebrate the fact that here going to consider me, would encourage all mil- in my hometown, Law- then I was going to make itary spouses who are ton, Oklahoma, there myself so competitive joining or rejoining the are many opportunities and marketable that I workforce to challenge for our military spouses. can’t be ignored. I start- themselves by becom- Employers and educa- ed with education, and ing a more competitive tional institutes under- began my research for candidate with educa- stand we are a military a graduate program that tion. community, and we are was familiar with military a proud military com- families, flexible sched- Seek higher education munity. Seek out op- ule and one that could that will work for you, portunities, and like me, travel with me in the consider attending a tra- know that you can travel event of a deployment ditional college such as this world over and you or another PCS. I found Cameron University or will find no community that within a Christian a trade school such as more accepting, appre- based college, Liberty Great Plains Technol- ciative and supportive of University and gradu- ogy Center and Platt our military. That’s why ated in 2018 with a Mas- College. This can also I am Lawton Proud. 34 LAWTON PROUD 2019 Sunday, June 23, 2019 B & R Sprinklers Sprinklers and French Drains Installed and Repairs Free Estimates Call 580.695.1844 Daley’s Asphalt Paving - References in Lawton - We are now in your area! Parking Lots • Private Drives • Long Lanes We do House Driveways • Oil & Rock Chip Seal • Resurfacing Over Old Asphalt and Concrete • Commercial - Lot and Discount Sub Divisions • Blacktop Approaches with and Turnarounds this ad • Hot Rubber Crack Filler 10% Maybe you have a big area you would love to have blacktopped but you can’t afford to pave the whole thing right now. We install partial driveways. We can pave an area by your house just big enough to park your vehicles on. Or we can install as little as one load for you. Tired of a Dust Bowl in the Summer? And a Mud Hole in the Winter? DON’T FUSS - CALL US! Maybe your Asphalt Surface just needs Sealcoating Look for These Signs: Cracking • Raveling • Oil Damage Our Asphalt Sealer - Protects, Beautifies, and Preserves Renews Old Damaged Asphalt Surfaces Our Promise to you. We will beat any other licensed asphalt contractors written bid for the same job, if we do the job. Licensed • Bonded • Insured Call (580) 250-0554 • Lawton, Ok Free Estimates • Fast Service • Quality Work Sunday, June 23, 2019 LAWTON PROUD 2019 35 Visit us at lawtonfortsillchamber.com Cameron University Military Science Department Recruiting Operation Officer: Ms. Georgia Felder Contact us at [email protected], [email protected], STITUTION ON C 580-581-2340 or 580-581-2344 N O 9 goarmy.com/rotc T 1 W 0 A 2 L Cameron University Military Science Department ROTC is proud c i to call Lawton home since transitioning to a four-year degree E n Dr. James W. Toy K i granting institution. The Comanche ROTC Battalion commissioned IC l O O its first class in 1970. Since that date we have commissioned over S H C W C 370 Second Lieutenants. R S’ c Dr. Douglas M. Smith EADER t i # a c What makes Cameron University ROTC Lawton Proud? 1 C h i r o p r - Cadets dedication to community services Serving Lawton for over 35 years and voted Lawton’s favorite chiropractor time - Cadets dedication to Volunteer without no reservation and time again. Our doctors have over 75 years of combined experience in treating - Cadets who belong to fraternity Sigma Tau Gamma families for pain management, personal injuries, sports injuries and more. volunteer at the Carter Crane Homeless Shelter where they prepare meals on the first Friday of every month. Call for same day appointments 580-536-4844 Open long hours for your convenience. Monday-Friday 9am-7pm Saturday 9am-2:30pm 7HCOHEJ9 97C;HEDKD?L;HI?JO 7007 NW Cache Road toychiropractic.com ©2019. Paid for by the United States Army.All rights reserved.