I have not received any "Chamber Highlights" this past week, so we will have to pass on that for this edition. I truly hope many of you will give me some information that can be shared with chamber members, as well as with readers of the Fort Gibson Times.

There are so many untold stories and behind-the-scene happenings that go on with the citizens of our community, that need to be told. So, if you have a story, or know of an individual, a business, or a group that deserves to be highlighted, please let me know. Otherwise, I'll have to start making things up about my own family and friends, and you don't want that to happen. Help me out ... thanks.

We had a good turnout to our Weekly Chamber Luncheon, this past Thursday at the Courtyard Bistro. In attendance, were Daniel Miller, Mike Bradley, Denise Bain, Tonia Cooper, Cheryl Hill, Paula Foster, Linda Clinkenbeard, Liz McMahan and myself.

Paula brought us up to date on the condition of her husband Don, after his recent life-threatening heart attack. Don is resting comfortably at home, getting stronger, and probably going crazy as a result of his confinement. Don's attack included an airlift to Tulsa, and apparently happened while he was at a clinic, being checked for what he thought was a mild attack, when the major heart attack hit.

Luckily, the personnel knew it was serious and got him the attention he needed to save his life. Don helps out the chamber, the town and various other groups in town with their advertising, photography needs, and overall volunteer help. Our thoughts and prayers are with him, and we wish him a speedy recovery.

If you haven't joined us for a Weekly Chamber Luncheon yet, join us any Thursday at 11:30, for a great time. It is very casual, and everyone is invited that wants to enjoy a great lunch (dutch treat), and get in on the happenings of Fort Gibson.

For the month of March, we will meet at the Courtyard Bistro. Each month we switch to a different eatery in our town. Join us, and bring a friend ... or two.

Several events are quickly coming up in Fort Gibson. March 27 is both Public Bake Day at the Historic Site, as well as the new "Spring Fling for a Cause" 5K Run and 1 Mile Fun Run, in downtown Fort Gibson. This event will support the Special Olympics, and additional information can be obtained by calling Lisa Walkingstick, at 869-0473. The run will start at 7:30 a.m., but it is important to be there early. Entry is $20, with a T-shirt, and special "team" rates of $15, for groups. Volunteers are needed for this event, so please contact myself or Lisa, if you can lend a hand.

April 16-17, brings us the Spring Encampment and Heritage Festival at both the Historic Site, and downtown Fort Gibson. May brings us the Fort Gibson Historic Golf Tournament at Pecan Valley Golf Course, which features a four-man scramble and lots of fun and prizes.

The Fort Gibson National Cemetery will host its Memorial Day program May 31. June is full of events, with the 16th Annual Fort Gibson Car, Truck, and Motorcycle Show on June 11-12. Friday evening features the always-fun "Burnout Contest" and "Loud Pipe Contest", while Saturday features the day-long car show, followed by the new "cruise" to end the show. Always a great time for the entire family. Admission is free to all events, and vehicle entry into the show for cash and trophy awards is $20. Official T-shirts will be on sale, as well as many food and merchandise vendors. Several new attractions are being added to the show this year, that will help fill up a fun-packed day.

The end of June brings us the Second Annual Fort Gibson Corn Festival, scheduled for June 25-26. Friday evening will get things kicked off with a downtown parade, presentation of Miss and Jr. Miss Fort Gibson, and Friday night street dance. Saturday will feature many great events and competitions for the entire family, as well as great food and merchandise vendors, and the ever-popular Fort Gibson sweet corn, for everyone to enjoy and fill up on. The evening of July 4th brings us the Independence Day Fireworks Show, at the high school stadium.

So, you can see, we have a lot going on for the next few months. All chamber sponsored events are family-oriented, admission is free, and promise to be fun-filled. For additional information on any of these events, or if you are interested in giving a helping hand, either financially or physically, please give me a call at 478-4780 or 577-2069. Thanks ...