For several years there has been a call to encourage more volunteering, especially among the youth. Social services have become increasingly more costly, and some services are so precious that if done for reasons other than a spirit of philanthropy, neither the state nor those in need could afford them.

In recognition of this fact, The Corporation for National and Community Service, a federal organization developed to recognize and encourage volunteerism, has for several decades supported through various funding methods the RSVP— Retired Senior Volunteer Program. It records hours for those 55 years or older, and in some cases, reimburses individuals for gas outlays associated with volunteer work that reduces the burden on the state and enriches the lives of both those giving, and those receiving the care.

Listen to this interview with Karolyn Anders, who works for the City of Lawton RSVP. You will learn as we did of a very positive opportunity for giving more than money. If you find yourself inspired to lend a hand, or just to report the hand you’re already lending, contact Karolyn Anders at 580-581-3408 or kanders@cityof.lawton.ok.us.

Many cities that have universities have orchestras associated with the College of Music, but few cities find the means to have an orchestra apart from that. Surprisingly, the Lawton Philharmonic is older than the one formed in Oklahoma City (1988) and second to the one formed in Tulsa (1942). When one compares the populations of those cities to that of Lawton Oklahoma it is reasonable to conclude that for its size Lawton must be full of music lovers to be able to support a professional orchestra.

Ticket prices are held within range because of the huge amount of volunteer work done by the Lawton Philharmonic Society. Without its member’s devotion to the music enrichment of the community, the ticket prices would likely be too expensive for many of the citizens of this area. (2010-11 season http://www.lawtonphil.org ) Much effort is made to have special ticket pricing for students so that they may be enriched by the opportunity to enjoy fine music presented professionally.

Many of the professional musicians travel to Lawton for the concerts, but several are Lawton residents. A future article will include an interview with Derek Griner, a trumpet player who also teaches at Central Middle School.

The Lawton Philharmonic Orchestra is something that this hub of southwest Oklahoma can be proud of. Let us all try to support it by attending at least one if not all of the performances that it presents.

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Sharon J. Montgomery’s sculptures and multi media canvases are both an introspective look at her own emotional journey through life and celebration of the success of that journey. One of the series represented in the show contains the Lollipop Man throughout each of the multi media canvases. The Lollipop Man represents Montgomery’s interpretation of a character from Pythagorean Society that resonates with her and represents her on journey through life. He is a man with one large ear who would spend 15 years in total silence only listening and learning. Something we all could do a little more of. One of the other series in the show are artist toys that let the healed child come out and be playful in a way that shows the creativity of a life fully lived.

David Hollands paintings take a very intellectual approach to a very personal conviction.  Hollands work reminds me of a challenging art school project to produce a work of art visually showing a problem in society. Art students moan over assignments like this one because it makes them think and takes them weeks to come up with something worthwhile. However, Holland has taken a complex issue and not only come up with a painting worthwhile but an entire body of work that examines the woes of a society full of technology and stress in a way that makes us pause and look at our own lives.

Contact info:
David Holland hollandhill1@cox.net
Sharon J. Montgomeryhttp://www.sharonjmontgomery.com/

They also have a winery bistro serving grilled panini Italian sandwiches, soups and salads with their wines that is open every Saturday and Sunday 11:00am to 5:00pm.  http://www.woodsandwaterswinery.com/

Two romantic choices for Saturday Feb. 13th 2010.

Yes if you want to impress your girlfriend take her to an poetry reading even before valetines day. This is a reading at the Leslie Powell Gallery featuring Dr. John Graves Morris, a Cameron University Professor of English entitled “Riding the Curl of Light: Poems to Love”.  Let me know how it goes.  – more info

Or if you want to spend some money and have a night of dancing with your honey this event at the Best Western sounds wonderful. “A night of dinner and dancing for Valentine’s. Champagne reception with light hors d’oeuvres, spring mix salad, filet mignon with grilled jumbo shrimp, sweetheart roasted potatoes and asparagus, dinner rolls, chocolate mousse cake with raspberry sauce. Cost is $75 per couple & includes tax and gratuity.” -more info

Way to go guys this is going to be fun and we are glad it was not cancelled.

The Tour de Chocolate is a benefit event for the Lawton Community Theatre.  One of the highlights of the event is the white and dark chocolate martinis – OH wouldn’t Dean Martin just die (I know already did) for a dark chocolate martini.  Tickets are a bit pricey but we must remember it is for a good cause. For more information go to LawtonInfo.com.