Nothing to do? Don't even get me started ... too late

Nothing to do in Enid. Wow, how many times have I heard that line.
The simple truth in most instances is that line is a cop-out for adults who don't want to take their kids to do anything in Enid.
We may not be the entertainment capitol of the world, but there is plenty to do in Enid.
Here's a pretty good start at seeing not only what is coming up but what are staples in this city: http://enidnews.com/whats2do
Most of the time, I'm missing some event Enid has to offer because I'm attending another event.
Just this week there has been activities with the hometown theater (how many cities our size boast that?) and a haunted house and there were cemetery tours, several trick or trunk events that featured games and food, a downtown Scare on the Square extravaganza, not to mention how many homes turned on their porch lights and bought hundreds of dollars of candy and treats just so costumed munchkins can live the good life and make some Norman Rockwell-style memories.
And while some may say this week was an exception I would disagree. On a normal week there is a science museum and park where kids can spend hours playing and even "hiding" from parents in a park-style maze, parks where kite-flying and playgrounds will keep children happy.
OK, those are fine for little kids, but they are easily pleased. What about older kids? Those who people say tend "to get in trouble" because there is nothing to do.
Well, the sky's not even the limit in Enid, as there is an observatory where you can view the stars (again, how many cities boast that?) and that same theater that always seems to be readying for its next production.
There are two free — did I say free? Yes, I did — splash pads and a water park that is a good place to cool off in the summer. There are go-carts and miniature golf and regular golf and bike and walking trails. There are museums and area state parks and lakes and wildlife and hiking. There is talk of a larger community park and an off-road vehicle facility.
There still is a lot for children to get involved with in this city from church missions and youth activities to sports such as karate, YMCA leagues. There are professional activities such as summer internships and jobs.
There are skating and bowling, movies and video games.
It's not easy. It's much easier to stay at home and grouse about the city and it's poor selection of activities.
But, it's not true, and staying involved in local associations, charities, schools, businesses, non-profits and even government is much more fun and fulfilling.