|
From the pages of The Ponca City News, Tuesday, January 18, 2000 LOCAL DEATHS NEWS BRIEFS LIFESTYLES SPORTS BUSINESS LOCALBoard Rewards White With New Deal Board Rewards White With New DealBy KRISTI HAYES News Education Editor After he turned down the superintendent’s position with Broken Arrow, Ponca City school board members passed an initiative Monday night that would ensure Superintendent Dr. Bill White stays put. Dr. White was offered a contract extension of three years expiring in June, 2003. If accepted, the deal would replace the existing contract which has approximately 18 months remaining. In early January, White was offered the superintendent’s post with the Broken Arrow schools, but rejected the offer. Dr. White was pleased with Monday night’s action. “I am honored the board has offered me the contract extension. I am pleased to have [the board’s] confidence,” White said. “I am pleased the board has allowed me to improve our schools.” Board president John Young expressed satisfaction the other board members voted to extend White’s contract. “[The board] offered Dr. White a three-year contract extension, and we hope he accepts the offer. He has done many great things for this community,” Young commented. During the meeting, board members complimented White and Dr. John Scroggins, assistant superintendent of curriculum and instruction, on the work they have done. “We have a team in White and Scroggins,” Young said. “We hope both of them will elect to stay with the school for a long time.” Dr. White’s tenure as superintendent, which began in 1994, has been highlighted by capitol improvement plans and marked with a number of significant changes at the high school. Over $23 million has been spent on construction costs to renovate existing facilities and build new ones. “The community has passed several bond issues to improve existing building conditions. That might not have happened if not for Dr. White,” Young commented. Among the reform measures White has helped the board pass are the expansion of the Four-Year-Old Program (allowing youngsters to begin school at age four), adding an all-day kindergarten, implementing a new trimester schedule at the high school and requiring stricter academic requirements. White also helped pass a new retention policy. “This new policy will have a major impact with our kids. They will see we are not going to keep passing [them] from one grade to the next if they don’t deserve it,” said White. The previously high dropout rate in Ponca City has shrunk over the last few years. “Our dropout rate has declined,” White stated. “Each year we see more students deciding to stay in school and that is partly because of our alternative education programs.” He added, “I am pleased with our alternative programs, especially with the Teen Mom program at First Baptist Church which allows for teen mothers to finish their high school education.” A total of 24 alternative students graduated mid-term in December. Most of those were considered fifth-year seniors and White is convinced the alternative programs helped them graduate. Young says White’s financial abilities have also helped the district. “White has good financial integrity. Our recent audit report shows a good, clean report,” said Young. “Our auditor praised the school for the substantial improvements.” Sullins Stadium Restroom Project AdvancesBy KRISTI HAYES News Education Editor A contract with Lewis Associates Architects for the Sullins Stadium women’s locker/restroom project was approved Monday night during the monthly board meeting of the Ponca City Board of Education. The project will provide additional women restrooms to be used when there are large crowds at the stadium. These same restrooms would also be used with the girls’ locker and change room for soccer and track. The building housing the restrooms and locker/change room would be placed under the south bleachers on the east end. The project will be over $40,000 and requires an architect (Lewis Associates) to design it. The project will be paid for by building fund money and is projected to be under $90,000. Audit Report Jerry Putnam, school district auditor, presented the board with the 1998-99 school year audit report. Putnam said the report was the best Ponca City has ever had. “I compliment the staff on their outstanding work. This report is probably the best audit I’ve ever seen from any of the school districts I work with,” Putnam said. Other Agenda Items Several other contract items with Universal Services were approved. Contracts include the telephone, long distance and internet services and other district needs. Authorization was given to John Young, board president, from other board members to sign the Westside Neighborhood Association petition to the city to resurface the 300 block of South Elm Street and adjacent to property owned by the school district. This petition will request that the street be resurfaced. The Child Development Center, which is owned by the schools, is on Elm Street and is the same type of petition the board voted on about 18 months ago for Osage Street. Other Items A plaque and certificate of appreciation was presented to Steve Stalcup for his years of service as a board member representing Ward 6. A reception was also held prior to the meeting for Stalcup. The January Employee of the Month Awards were presented to Arleen Jacobson, Certified Employee of the Month; Lynn Romine, Support Employee of the Month; and Dr. Sheila Combs, Friend of Education. Superintendent Dr. Bill White reminded board members of some upcoming dates of interest. A special dinner meeting will be held at the high school on Jan. 31 where principals will discuss school improvement. Another special meeting is scheduled for Feb. 7 in which board members will fill the vacancy in Ward 6. The resignation of Ron McCleary, principal of Trout Elementary, was accepted. McCleary will retire effective Sept. 1, 2000. There were no public comments. Editorial - A Bill Long OverdueAccording to a recent news release, Representative Clay Pope is introducing a bill which would require every state agency to review its fees and assessments. The purpose would be "to determine whether the amount charged or assessed adequately reflects the demonstrated reasonable costs associated with operating the program or other purpose." Put simply, Bill 2060 would require agencies to stop charging exorbitant fees to fund other agency programs. We have not read the bill to know enough detail, but it is an idea whose time is long overdue. Unfortunately, we suspect it is also an idea which will never make it to the house floor. It violates part of the latest government dodge to avoid the dreaded “T” word. As taxes became less palatable, the bureaucrats have turned to fees and other charges to fund government. These fees have turned into a major funding source. What makes the bureaucrats so excited is that they do not have to get voter approval. Fees have become the new and preferred method of funding anything that the legislature is afraid to acknowledge publicly. Fees are used to pay for essential areas that appear to be reasonable at first glance so it is hard to argue against them. But, with those fees in place, the taxes we pay can be used for those programs and projects which we might not feel as essential. There are fees for everything, especially on businesses. Not many of us complain even though we realize that prices rise to cover those fees. It's taxation without any voting. Even better, the fees more than cover the cost of doing business and the profit can fund areas neither the public nor the legislature have approved. No legislator can be held responsible and they like it that way. For those reasons, we don't expect this bill to get anywhere. Even so, it does bring attention to the growing problem of using fees to avoid taxes. The only problem with it, it doesn't go far enough. TM DEATHSBetty L. Pittman Betty L. PittmanGladstone, Mo. — Betty L. Pittman, former resident of Ponca City, died Saturday, Jan. 15, 2000, at the Hillcrest Specialty Hospital in Tulsa. She was 68. The funeral is scheduled for 1 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 19, 2000, in the D.W. Newcomer’s White Chapel Funeral Home of Gladstone, Mo. with burial in the White Chapel Memorial Gardens in Gladstone. Betty L. Pittman was born Aug. 15, 1931, in Nashville, Tenn., the daughter of Julian Potts and Margaret J. (Kulick) Potts. She was a member of American Business Womens Association and Missouri Realty Association. Survivors include her mother of Ava, Mo.; two daughters, Celeste Schmidt of Parkville, Mo. , and Estelle L. Keele of Sarasota, Fla.; one brother, John Potts Sr. of Ava, Mo.; one sister, Delores Barnum of North Port, Fla.; seven grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Edwin; and daughter Margaret “Peggy” Muzingo. Mary Estelle AndersonMary Estelle Anderson, resident of Ponca City, died Sunday afternoon, Jan. 16, 2000, at the Shawn Manor Nursing Home. She was 70. A memorial service is scheduled for 2 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 19, 2000, at the Burbank Cemetery with the Rev. Mickey Baldwin officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Grace Memorial Chapel. There will be no visitation at the funeral home. Mary Estelle Anderson was born Aug. 29, 1929, in Grove, the daughter of Thomas Jefferson Melton and Mary Elizabeth (Morgan) Melton. She spent much of her life as a homemaker. She was a member of the Assembly of God Church in Fairfax, and she enjoyed her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, music and attending church. She is survived by one son, Rusty Davis of Ponca City and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, three brothers and four sisters. Memorial contributions may be made in her name to Wright Track Ministries, 405 East Grand, Tonkawa, Okla. 74653 or to Mickey Baldwin World Impact Network Inc., 700 West Broadway, Lincoln Center, Ponca City, Okla. 74601. James Burton SearsBlackwell — James Burton Sears, resident of Blackwell, died Monday evening, Jan. 17, 2000, in the Veterans Administration Hospital in Wichita, Kan. He was 66. A graveside service is scheduled for 2 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 19, 2000, at the Mount Olive Cemetery in Nardin with the Rev. Rick Longcrier of the First Baptist Church of Blackwell officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Roberts and Son Funeral Home. James Burton Sears was born May 12, 1933, in Deer Creek, the son of James Verle and Freda May (Bruce) Sears. He grew up in Chase, Hoisington and Palco, Kan., and attended school in all three communities. Following his schooling, he drove a truck in the oil field. He then entered the United States Army, where he served during the Korean War. Following his discharge, he returned to the oil fields near Liberal, Kan. He traveled the country extensively before moving to Blackwell in 1978. While in Blackwell, he worked in lawn maintenance. He was a member of the American Legion and VFW. Survivors include two daughters, Louise Sears of Valley Center, Kan., and Wanda Sears of Wichita, Kan.; one son, Oad Sears of Stafford, Kan.; two sisters, Muriel Louise Mader of Ponca City and Viola May Leaman of Independence, Mo.; one grandchild; and one great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by his parents. Memorial contributions may be made in his name to Hospice of Ponca City, 1904 North Union, Suite 103, Ponca City, Okla. 74601. Gladys Esther Bourn CarpenterTONKAWA — Gladys Esther Bourn Carpenter, resident of Tonkawa, died Monday, Jan. 17, 2000, in Shawn Manor Nursing Home in Ponca City. She was 91. A graveside service will be held 2 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 19, 2000, at the Tonkawa IOOF Cemetery with the Rev. Dr. John Bartlett officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of McCafferty-Bolick Funeral Home. Gladys Ester Bourn Carpenter was born on Dec. 12, 1908, in Caldwell, Kan., the daughter of Harry and Mae Moore. She married Cecil Bourn in Perry in 1929; he preceded her in death Feb. 6, 1967. She was employed as a receptionist for the late Dr. Glenn and Dr. Russell Kreger and worked as a waitress and helped her husband in Cecil’s Diner. She was a member of the First Christian Church in Tonkawa and was a homemaker. She married Forrest Carpenter in November of 1969; he died Nov. 25, 1981. She is survived by one son, Jim Bourn of Wichita, Kan.; two stepchildren, Donna Carpenter and Gary Carpenter; three brothers, Forrest Moore of Nampa, Idaho, Donald Moore of Quartz Hill, Calif., and Andrew Moore of Ontario, Ore.; five sisters, Dorothy Martin of Bay City, Ore., Naoma Houger of Grangeville, Idaho, Wilma Miller of Pendleton, Ore., Marjorie Cummings of Spanaway, Wash., and Virginia Asbaugh of Astoria, Ore.; six grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents; two sisters, Ethel Reeves and Hazel Hess; two brothers, Lawrence Moore and Harley Moore. William Perry StillWINFIELD, Kan. — William Perry Still, longtime Winfield resident, died Monday, Jan. 17, 2000, at Walnut Hill Nursing Center in Winfield, Kan. He was 100. The funeral will be at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 20, 2000, at Miles Funeral Service in Winfield with burial at Highland Cemetery. Friends may call at the funeral home from noon to 9 p.m. Wednesday. William Perry Still was born Nov. 23, 1899, in Exeter, Mo., the son of Daniel Asbury and Laura Belle Lankford Still. He moved to Kansas in 1916 with his parents and family, and they moved to Winfield in 1919, where he was employed as a youth in area oil fields. He was employed many years for various lumber companies in the Winfield area including Comley Lumber, Shanklin and Cathcart Lumber Co., Patterson Lumber, and Everett Lumber Co. He married Mae Smith in Denver, Colo., in 1949, and they made their home in Winfield; she preceded him in death on June 9, 1968. He retired from Everly Lumber Company in 1968, and, following retirement, he was employed as a delivery man for Winfield Floral until 1983. He is survived by several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by three brothers, Lloyd, James and Charlie; and two sisters, Florence and Elzara. Memorial contributions may be made in his name to Walnut Hill Nursing Center in Winfield, c/o Miles Funeral Service, 4001 East 9th, P.O. Box 720, Winfield, Kan. 67156. ObituariesHelen Elizabeth DoyleHelen Elizabeth (Nickles) Doyle, former Ponca City resident, died Jan. 15, 2000, at Swedish Memorial Hospital in Denver. She was 84. The funeral will be held Wednesday, Jan. 19, 2000, at 2:30 p.m. at Trout Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Dr. J.D. Ward, pastor of First United Methodist Church, officiating. Helen will be put to rest at the Odd Fellows Cemetery next to her husband. Born Feb. 11, 1915, in Johnstown, Pa., she was the daughter of Clair A. and Henrietta (Brumfield) Nickles. She grew up in Ponca City. In 1942, she married James Morgan Doyle Jr. of Fife, Texas. After World War II, she lived with her family in Oklahoma City; Wichita, Kan.; Miami, Fla.; Corpus Christi, Texas; and Denver, Colo. Helen loved to paint landscapes in oil, pastel and mixed media. She won many awards with her art clubs and in art shows. She was a creative and generous homemaker who enjoyed cooking, sewing, decorating and giving of herself to friends and family. She also loved to travel with her family and visited all parts of the United States with Jim. She is survived by two sons, Timothy “Tim” Clair Doyle and his wife, Janice (Patton) Doyle, of Ann Arbor, Mich., and James Robert “Bob” Doyle and his wife, Joan “Joni” (Tanner) Doyle of Greenwood Village, Colo. Additional survivors include two sisters, Judy Basse of Brentwood, Tenn., and Barbara Boyett of McPherson, Kan.; and four grandchildren, Patton and Peter, and Katherine and Emily. The family will be at the home of Coeweene Nickles, 808 Monument. paid obituary Services PendingNelsie Juanita BennettNelsie Juanita Bennett, longtime Ponca City resident, died early Tuesday morning, Jan. 18, 2000, at Westminster Village. She was 103. Arrangements are pending with Trout Funeral Home. NEWS BRIEFSCDC Chili Supper — The annual Child Development Center chili supper is scheduled for 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Friday at the First Christian Church. Homemade bread, pie and cake accompany the chili (or hotdog) and drinks. Tickets are $5 for adults, $2 for children and are available either from a board member or at the door. The public is invited to attend and help support the CDC. Free Pregnancy test. Birth Choice cares. Confidential. Hours: Tuesday, 6-8 p.m., Wednesday, 1-3 p.m. and Thursday, 6-8 p.m. 700 West Broadway. 765-9689. adv. Night in Old West — A Night in the Old West, sponsored by the Will Rogers Council, will play at the Poncan Theatre at 7:30 p.m. Saturday. Tickets are $8 by calling 765-6669, or $10 or at the door; scouts and children under 12 are free. Every Wednesday đ price clothes and shoes, except priced items. Check our daily specials. Caboose Thrift Shoppe, First and Central. adv. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the intersection of Oak Street and West Grand Avenue at 8:46 a.m. Monday that a 35-year-old woman was being held on a city warrant for failure to appear. Mel’s Clothing and Shoe has 50% off Mels price on entire stock. adv. Missing Items Found — A man was at the Ponca City Police Department at 8:56 a.m. Monday to report that some items reported missing three months ago had been located in a pawn shop. An officer was assigned and a report was taken on false pawn declaration. Accident — The Communications Center received a 911 call at 9:58 a.m. Monday that an accident had occurred at the intersection of North Fourteenth Street and East Hartford Avenue. An officer of the Ponca City Police Department was assigned and a report was taken. Assault — A woman was at the Ponca City Police Department at 8:18 p.m. Monday to report that she had been the victim of an assault at the intersection of South Waverly Street and West South Avenue. An officer responded, contacted a man in question and another officer assisted in taking into custody a 33-year-old man for domestic assault and battery. Vandalism — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department received a request for extra patrol of the area in the 800 block of North Birch Street at 10:32 a.m. Monday as a result of spray painting vandalism going on in the area. A report was taken. Abandoned Bicycle — A woman from the 800 block of North Osage Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 11:35 a.m. Monday that a bicycle had been abandoned in the front yard. Animal Control was notified to pick up the bicycle. Forgery — An employee at Country General, 3000 North Fourteenth Street, reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 11:47 a.m. Monday that a forgery had occurred. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Bicycle Stolen — A man from the 400 block of North Fourth Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 12:01 p.m. Monday that a bicycle had been stolen. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Vehicle Stolen — A woman was at the Ponca City Police Department at 2:04 p.m. Monday to report that a vehicle had been stolen. An officer was assigned and the information was logged. The 18-year-old woman was held on a city warrant. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 600 block of West Broadway Avenue at 4:41 p.m. Monday that a woman was being held on a Kay County warrant for failure to pay. Accident — A two-vehicle accident at the intersection of Bradley Avenue and Joe Street was reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 4:48 p.m. Monday. Two officers were assigned and a report was taken. Locksmith Called — A woman reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 5:25 p.m. Monday that a baby had been locked in a residence in the 100 block of West Gary. Two officers responded and a locksmith was called to unlock the door. Entry was gained and the baby was found to be safe. Item Stolen — A man from the 500 block of East Comanche Avenue reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 5:51 a.m. Tuesday that a CD player had been stolen from his vehicle during the night. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Information was logged that the vehicle had not been locked. Cattle on the Road — A man reported to the Communications Center at 5:32 p.m. Monday that six head of cattle were on the roadway six miles east of Blackwell on Oklahoma 11. The Kay County Sheriff’s Office was notified to handle the situation. Subject Held — A woman from the 400 block of East Emporia Avenue requested assistance from the Ponca City Police Department at 10:19 p.m. Monday concerning an assault. An officer responded to the area and an 18-year-old man was held for domestic assault and battery and information was logged that a vehicle was released to his stepfather. Assault — The Communications Center received a 911 call at 10:48 p.m. Monday from the 3500 block of North Union Street that an assault had occurred. Three officers of the Ponca City Police Department responded to the area and a juvenile citation was issued. Burglary — A man from the 100 block of South Ash Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 11:20 p.m. Monday that upon returning to the residence after being gone for a few days that the television was missing. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Information was logged that entry had been gained into the residence through the bedroom window. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the intersection of North Fourth Street and East Emporia Avenue at 1:12 a.m. Tuesday that a 19-year-old man was being held on a Kay County warrant. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 400 block of North Seventh Street at 3:22 a.m. Tuesday that a 24-year-old woman was being held for DUI and having no driver’s license. Information was logged that a vehicle was released to a licensed driver. Vehicle Finally Stopped — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department requested assistance in stopping a vehicle from the intersection of North Waverly Street and West Hartford Avenue at 4:55 a.m. Tuesday. Two other officers assisted and finally got the vehicle stopped and a 24-year-old man was held for attempting to elude, carrying a concealed weapon, possession of marijuana, unlawful use of auxiliary lights, having no tag light, failing to stop at a red light, having an expired tag, and having no insurance. LIFESTYLESThe Neighborhood Chef The Neighborhood Chefby Sherry Muchmore Regardless the form custard takes, it is truly one of the finest baking forms developed in cooking. French creme brulee, quiche, flan, strata (a baked version of Swiss fondue) bread pudding and the all-American pumpkin pie are all just fancy names for simple custards with a little something added. Custards are made from milk and eggs and baked till firm and pudding-like. The firmness depends on the ratio of eggs to milk and can vary; but, the general rule, one egg per half cup of milk gives a soft baked custard that holds its shape as gelatin does. Using that general formula, you can halve, double, decrease or increase amounts and add ingredients to make anything from a nutritious entree to a creamy dessert. You can make your custard desserts taste like anything from mocha to marmalade. Just add 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of flavoring extract (vanilla, almond and rum are favorites) and/or spices. To give a hint of fresh fruit, add a little grated orange or lemon peel. Or, lace the custard with a flavored liqueur (about3 tablespoons) for an extra easy elegant touch. Use your imagination and create your own personalized dish using the basic custard and sweet custard recipes below. Basic CustardBeat together with wire whisk: 4 eggs 2 cups milk 1/2 teaspoon salt Basic Sweet Custard Beat together with wire whisk: 4 eggs 2 cups milk 1/3 cup sugar 1/4 teaspoon salt In France, a baked custard in caramel sauce is called creme brulee; in Spain, it’s the famed flan. Creme Brulee, aka FlanTo make it, heat 12 vanilla caramels and 1/4 cup milk in a saucepan till the caramels melt, stirring occasionally. Or, if you’re a chocolate lover, take 1/3 cup chocolate fudge ice cream topping straight from the jar. Spoon mixture into the bottom of an 8-inch flan pan or a round baking dish or divide among six 6-ounce custard cups. Place in a shallow baking pan. Carefully pour Sweet Custard over sauce. Place pan on oven rack. Pour hot water into pan to depth of 1 inch. Bake in a 350 degree oven for 30 to 40 minutes or till center is nearly set. Serve cool or chilled. Just before serving, invert onto dessert platter or plates. Strata is an Americanized main-dish version of the Swiss cheese fondue. It’s a combination of the basic custard with layers of bread and cheese and if desired, add about a cup and half of cooked meat and/or vegetables. Try the following for starters. This is a good use for leftover meats. Ham and Swiss Strata12 slices French bread (or use 6 slices sandwich bread cut in half) for variety, try other breads such as sourdough and wheat. 1 1/2 cups shredded Swiss cheese (or a cheese of your choice such as cheddar, etc.) 1 1/2 cups cooked meat and/or vegetables (mix ham and corn this time) 1 Basic Custard recipe (add seasonings of choice) 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard 1-2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce 1-2 teaspoons grated onion or chopped chives Prepare the Basic Custard. Whisk in seasonings and set aside. Spray a 10x6x2-inch baking dish to grease. First layer the meat and/or vegetable, sprinkle a half the cheese followed by the bread and topped with the rest of the cheese. Whisk custard and carefully pour over layers. Cover and let stand one hour at room temperature or several hours in the refrigerator. Bake at 325 degrees for 50 to 55 minutes. (Check for doneness if the center of the strata is nearly set when shaken slightly.) Let the strata stand 10 minutes before serving. Quiche is a classy cheese pie made from our basic custard recipe (only 3/4 of the recipe since that’s about all a 9-inch pie plate can handle) using a variety of meats, vegetables and spices that your imagination can create. Use cooked or canned foods and cube, slice or dice to suit your taste (bacon, ham, sausage, pork, beef, chicken, tuna, broccoli, asparagus, cauliflower, corn, carrots, mushrooms, onion, zucchini, shrimp, crabmeat or scallops). And, if you forget the herbs, just sprinkle some on the top. Ham and Mushroom Quiche1 9-inch partially baked pie shell 1/2 cup raw mushrooms 1 tablespoon butter dash of soy sauce 3 eggs 1 1/2 cups half and half 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/8 teaspoon basil dash of pepper 1 cup diced cooked ham 1 cup grated Swiss cheese Partially bake the pie shell at 450 degrees for 5-6 minutes. Do not prick the pastry. Saute the mushrooms in the melted butter. Season with soy sauce to taste. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, half and half, salt, pepper and basil. Add the mushrooms and butter. Sprinkle the ham and cheese evenly over the pie crust. Pour the custard mixture over the ham and cheese. Bake at 350 degrees for 50 minutes. Let the quiche set up for about 10 minutes before serving. There’s no nobler fate for stale bread than to wind up in a creamy rich custard. I double the basic sweet custard recipe and use french bread as my bread of preference because the texture seems better. Serve hot or cold with a lemon or whiskey sauce. Bread PuddingSprinkle 2/3’s of the bread into a large 3 quart round dish sprayed with cooking spray. Sprinkle the raisins over the bread and add the remaining bread. 1/2 pound french bread, cubed (about 5 cups) 1/3-1/2 cup dark raisins Whisk together the following and gently pour over the bread and raisins: 8 eggs 4 cups milk 1/2 teaspoon salt 2/3 cup sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Press lightly to make sure all the bread is saturated. Let stand several minutes. Bake at 325 degrees until firm about 30 minutes. Serve with the following Lemon Sauce. Lemon Dessert Sauce In a saucepan whisk together: 3/4 cup sugar 2 tablespoons cornstarch 1/4 teaspoon salt 2 cups cold water Cook over medium heat , stirring constantly, until thickened. Do not boil. Remove from heat. Stir into hot mixture: 1 teaspoon grated lemon rind 3 tablespoons lemon juice Makes about 3 cups. Send your recipes to: The Neighborhood Chef, c/o The Ponca City News, P.O. Box 191, Ponca City, OK 74602, or e-mail me at: chef@poncacitynews.com (All recipes become property of The Ponca City News.) Eta Delta Chapter Members MeetThirteen members attended the regular meeting of Eta Delta chapter of Beta Sigma Phi sorority hosted by Betty Wyatt. The City Council Valentine Dance will be held Feb. 5 and tickets are now available, said a chapter spokesperson. Announcement was also made that Founder’s Day will be April 27 at the Ponca City Country Club. As the service project for February, Peachtree Landing will receive a $50 donation from the chapter. The next social will be Jan. 22 and will be a couples’ pizza party followed by a movie. The door prize was won by Pam Lanman. Betty Wyatt presented a program on “favorite” pet peeves. She also read a story entitled, “If I Had My Life to Live Over Again.” The next meeting will be a dinner meeting on Jan. 24. BUSINESSRaising Excise Tax Could Cost Oklahoma Raising Excise Tax Could Cost OklahomaOKLAHOMA CITY — Raising the $10 excise tax for heavy truck owners who already pay thousands of dollars in state and federal taxes — could cost Oklahoma hundreds of jobs and millions of dollars in lost revenue, Rep. Larry Ferguson said Thursday. “We lawmakers should not make hasty decisions that could damage the future of the state’s trucking industry,” the Cleveland Republican said. “Oklahoma led the nation in 1997 with 362,040 combined heavy truck/trailer registrations.” Ferguson called attention to a proposal by Rep. Russ Roach, D-Tulsa, which would force truck owners to pay the same 3.5 percent excise tax that is collected on new car sales. Roach’s plan is similar to Senate Bill 1 introduced during the last session by Sen. Lewis Long, Jr., D-Glenpool. Passage of that legislation likely would force the 9,000 intrastate, private and interstate-exempt carriers licensed to operate in this state to decide whether to remain in Oklahoma or flee in search of a better tax deal, Ferguson said. Ferguson agrees the $10 fee under attack by Representative Roach doesn’t seem high enough. However, he pointed out that heavy trucks are altogether exempted from excise and sales taxes in neighboring Texas, Kansas and Missouri. Illinois, which is second to Oklahoma in the number of tractor/trailer registrations, offers a $15 license plate with no renewal fee. Virginia has a $50 registration cost and no renewal fee, according to the Oklahoma Trucking Association. Other states are becoming more aggressive after watching the creation of jobs and revenue in the Oklahoma trucking industry, Ferguson said. For example, United Parcel Service (UPS), a national trucking firm, has 1,500 heavy tractors and 17,000 trailers registered in Oklahoma, according to Paul Kovalik, UPS fleet license manager. Kovalik said UPS has 3,000 employees in Oklahoma and operates 800 brown delivery trucks that are registered in this state and do not cross state lines. Although the figures are fluid because of interstate trucking traffic, Kovalik said more than 1,000 of the 1,500 heavy UPS trucks licensed in Oklahoma do not travel inside this state. “That says something for the trucker-friendly climate that Oklahoma has to offer,” he said. “I’m told that 79 percent of America’s trucking companies have 20 or fewer vehicles and 69 percent have six or fewer trucks,” Ferguson said. “More than 6,600 family-owned and corporate trucking businesses call Oklahoma home." Roach contends that hiking the excise tax on new large truck purchases would generate $57 million annually. Of the more than 350,000 trucks and trailers registered in Oklahoma, Ferguson said, many of them are not headquartered and do not operate in this state. “UPS is a prime example of this when only about one-third of Oklahoma registered trucks actually operate in this state,” Ferguson said. “In 1996, the trucking industry accounted for only 4 percent of vehicle registrations in the state but paid $297 million or 24 percent of total highway user taxes collected in Oklahoma,” the lawmaker continued. “The total yearly payroll in 1997 for the Oklahoma trucking industry was $2.9 billion. Why would we want to jeopardize a successful industry by raising the excise tax on heavy trucks?” Trucking association figures indicate the operator of a typical five-axle tractor-semitrailer rig last year paid $8,652 in state and federal highway user taxes and vehicle sales taxes. Of that amount, $2,914 went directly to the state. Ferguson said statistics compiled by the national trade association of the trucking industry indicate federal, state and local taxes, plus the costs of government regulatory mandates, take over 34 percent — more than one-third — of the earnings for a typical tractor-semitrailer rig earning $110,000 in gross receipts per year. Although trucking operations vary, a heavy truck owner realistically could be facing a national average of $11,457 in federal taxes; $11,122 in state and local taxes; and $15,307 in government regulation costs for a total of $37,886 annually, according to statistics. “Truck hauling directly affects every goods-moving industry in Oklahoma,” the lawmaker said. “According to industry figures, trucks move freight for 4,931 manufacturing companies, supply goods to 17,779 retail stores and help stock 6,903 wholesale trade companies.” In addition, trucks moved an average of 209,499 tons of inbound freight and 200,187 tons of outbound freight each day in 1997. Ferguson, a member of the House Committee on Transportation, said 85 percent of all manufactured freight transported in Oklahoma was carried by the trucking industry. “It takes lots of people to keep the trucking industry on the move,” Ferguson said. In 1997, he said, 103,989 Oklahomans — or one of every 11 workers — were employed in trucking-related occupations. The average annual wage for employees was $27,752, he said. Ferguson said the state’s vehicle tax system needs improvement but doesn’t think these improvements should be financed on the backs of the trucking industry. “However, if Roach’s provisions become law, Oklahoma will be breaking a promise made more than a decade ago when it encouraged trucking companies to relocate here, expand current facilities or start new ones,” Ferguson said. Conoco Marking MilestoneHOUSTON — The year 2000 marks a major corporate milestone for Conoco — its 125th anniversary — but there’s nothing old fashioned about the way employees are celebrating. “Conoco’s 125th anniversary is a wonderful opportunity to recall the major contributions our company has made to a world economy that thrives on energy," said Archie W. Dunham, Conoco Chairman and CEO. “Significantly, the anniversary underscores the importance of continuous innovation and responsiveness to change, the impact of a powerful corporate culture based on the core values of safety, environmental excellence, high ethical conduct and valuing all people, and the immense worth of committed and talented people who drive technological progress. These attributes will surely propel us toward another 125 years of success.” Humble Beginnings From humble origins of providing kerosene to pioneer settlers in 1875, Conoco has grown into a fully integrated, global energy company of the 21st century. Still savoring its newly independent company status, Conoco’s anniversary is as much about looking forward as it is about heralding past accomplishments. In its unique style, Conoco will bring key corporate milestones to life through a creative blend of history and entertainment. Monday was the official kick-off of a 125-day countdown to the company’s worldwide birthday party planned for May 20, 2000. Gatherings will be held in 15 countries, on five continents. At midnight Monday, a 16-foot-tall wooden oil derrick, augmented with a specialized digital counter, was erected at the entrance of Conoco’s Houston headquarters. The derrick’s clock will count down 125 days until the May 20 birthday celebration. 125-Day Countdown During the 125-day countdown, colorful, life-size photo cut-outs of Conoco employees — each one representing a year from 1875 to 2000 — will be on display at the Houston complex. Employees are photographed dressed in period costume and hold a year marker sign designating a corresponding company milestone. Forming a paper-doll-like chain, the photographs will eventually extend across an entire corridor of Conoco’s multi-building complex — a quarter of a mile long. Costume design was provided by members of the University of Houston’s drama department, who ensured the authenticity of each outfit. The company is publishing a commemorative coffee table book, Conoco 125 Years of Energy, that will be given to all employees worldwide as a keepsake. Authored by Pulitzer Prize nominee Russ Banham, the 270-page book includes more than 100 in-depth interviews and never before published photographs. Conoco’s 125th anniversary comes at an extraordinary time in the company’s history Recent corporate achievements include earning the number one position in Schroders’ 1999 ranking of exploration and production results and Wood Mackenzie’s top spot for Conoco’s European downstream operations as the most profitable in Europe. Conoco’s corporate split-off from DuPont in August 1999 stands as the largest in U.S. history. Additionally, the company has brought on-line several “legacy” projects in the last 16 months — Britannia, one of the largest natural gas fields in the North Sea; Petrozuata, a $2.5 billion heavy oil joint venture in Venezuela; Melaka refinery, a 100,000 barrel-per-day refinery in Malaysia; and two of the world’s most advanced ultra-deepwater drillships. Pioneer Bank Selects Two For Outstanding ActivityStacey Engelking and Craig Myers have been named employee and officer of the year respectively, at Pioneer Bank and Trust. “With our team of employees, its almost impossible to choose one that stands out above all the rest,” said Carl Renfro, CEO and chairman of the board. “Everyone here typifies the criteria for receiving these awards, they’re professional self-starters with excellent people skills and customer loyalty. However, it is with great pleasure that we name Stacey and Craig as outstanding employee and officer of the year,” Renfro concluded. Engelking, secretary for the Commercial Loan Department, is a 20-year veteran of the banking industry. Having moved to Ponca City 13 years ago, Engelking has spent several years at Pioneer Bank in the Installment Loan Department. She is a graduate of the University of Kansas. Her husband Gary, works at Conoco and they have two boys, Mark, 14 and Ryan, 9. Engelking is a participant in the PIE program at Roosevelt. Myers is senior vice president, cashier at Pioneer Bank. He is a CPA with a degree in finance. For five years he was with KPMG, a public accounting firm specializing in financial institutions, and for eight years he was chief financial officer for two major insurance companies. Returning to Ponca City 1996 after a 20-year absence, Myers became president and manager of the Marland Estate Hotel and Conference Center. In November 1998, he Joined Pioneer Bank. Since returning to Ponca City, Myers has become involved in community activities. He is immediate past chairman of the Chamber of Commerce, is on the New Industry Committee of the Economic Development Advisory Board, a member of the Kiwanis Club and is active in his church and with the Standing Bear Foundation. Myers and his wife of 17 years, Monya, have three children, David, 14, Tiffany 12, and Jonathan, 10. Interested in golf, Myers sings and plays with the group “Chameleon” and with his father David, manages a hobby ranch where they “run a few cows.” Braudrick Printery Hosts Open House To Mark AnniversaryBraudrick Printery, 213 North Second, is hosting a customer appreciation open house Thursday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event is to mark the first anniversary of the new owners Maria Skaggs and Kay Landes. According to Skaggs and Landes, that they have had a good year. The business is the oldest still- existing commercial print shop in Northern Oklahoma. The shop began in 1923 and was owned by a Mr. Headley until the 1930s, when it became the News Courier Printery and was owned by the Ponca City News until 1954. Braudrick Printery came into being in 1954 and was owned by Claude Braudrick until 1971, when it was purchased by Robert Thomas, who owned it until 1999, when Skaggs and Landes purchased the business. The shop does everything from quick printing to four-color processing, including business cards, letterheads, logo designs, photo/art scans, post cards, menu’s, flyers, wedding invitations, business forms, computer forms, die cutting, rubber stamps, embossing, laminating, custom buttons and other services. The firm also offers UPS services. Water Rights Issue Key Topic for KRABy LOUISE ABERCROMBIE News Business Editor “Oil is going to cost more than water,” Kaw City Mayor Jack Rosson told the Kaw Reservoir Authority board of trustees at the quarterly meeting. Rosson was asking the trustees to address the feasibility of a water treatment plant at Kaw Lake. Rosson talked about the possibility of the Authority being able to pay off its $300,000 debt by finding grants or companies to finance a treatment plant to service other communities. He said that he had attend the Water Resources Board conference. Rosson mentioned that bottled water costs about $1 a gallon and a barrel of oil holds 55 gallon and it is not $55 a gallon. After much discussion about the feasibility of locating a water treatment plant at Kaw Lake, Ken Parr, chairman, appointed a committee study to determine if the market is there . Members include Rosson, Parr, Harold Harris, Newkirk, and Verne Bartell, Enid. Member cities of the Kaw Reservoir Authority and the dues for this year are: Blackwell, $575; Enid, $3,459; Kaw City, $24; Newkirk, $164; Perkins, $146; Perry, $380; Ponca City, $2,012; Stillwater, $2,799; Tonkawa, $238, and Morrison, $48. Water rights held by the authority was discussed. According to the minutes of the Nov. 9, 1999 meeting if KRA does not use the full allocated amount at least once in each seven consecutive years the rights will be reduced or canceled by operation of law and the water lost will revert to public waters. At that meeting the trustees voted to voluntarily surrender the water rights depending on agreement from each member city. Each trustee was mailed a copy of the Water Resources information and the trustees were to call Deana Kelley, office secretary, reporting what their city officials had decided. Total amount of water that should have been used by 1990 was 21,416 acre-feet. Since nothing was reported the permit is up for reduction to 5,354 acre-feet. If this amount is not used by the year 2000, the permit will be up for cancellation. Ken Parr was reelected chairman, and other officers elected were, Leroy Rolling, Perry; Carl Weinaug, Stillwater, secretary, and Verne Bartell, Enid, treasurer. In other action the group reviewed and approved the annual audit for 1998-99 and approved a proposal for the 1999-2000 audit preparation. Notes/QuotesODOC Wins National AwardOKLAHOMA CITY — The Oklahoma Department of Commerce marketing group has been named number one in the nation for its economic development marketing strategy in the seventh Annual Economic Development Achievement Awards sponsored by Business Facilities magazine. The award was announced in the latest issue of the national publication that is read by more than 50,000 economic development and business site section professionals and upper management corporate officials across the country. Oklahomans MovingST. LOUIS — Oklahoma’s 54 percent out-migration was the highest recorded for the state ever, according to United Van Lines’ 1999 figures. Adjoining states the van line moved more people out of Texas in 1999 than any year since 1988 (48.5 percent; and the outbound percentage for Kansas (58.7 percent) was that state’s highest since 1985. States with higher outbound figures than Oklahoma include North Dakota (73 percent); Indiana (63.7 percent), Utah (60.2 percent); Wyoming (59.7 percent) and Illinois (58.7 percent). North Star Ec Dev MeetingSKIATOOK — North Star Economic Development Council will meet 7 p.m., Thursday at the North Peoria campus of Tulsa Technology Center, 3850 North Peoria in the auditorium. Dr. James Halligan, president of Oklahoma State University, will speak on the future of expanding OSU-Tulsa services in Northeastern Oklahoma. The council is comprised of Osage Nation, Osage County, Avant, Hominy, Ramona, Skiatook, Collinsville, Owasso and other organizations or towns. A presentation will include the North Star position papers on issues such as transportation, health care and education in the region. Seller Financing May Be Great Home DealIt might be one of the best-kept secrets in real estate. It’s not the sort of thing that’s frequently advertised. But seller financing can be a great deal for both buyer and seller. “Seller financing is definitely worth exploring with your real estate agent or buyer-broker,” says Richard Roll, president of American Homeowners Association (AHA). “Ask and you might find that the home seller is willing to help finance your home loan. How’s that for one-stop shopping?” For more info, go to http://www.ahahome.com Here are several financial options: Good Return for Sellers with Paid-Off Mortgage: Say the buyer had some past credit problem that discourages traditional lenders from approving a mortgage at a decent interest rate. If the sellers’ mortgage has been paid off, they may be willing to hold the mortgage for the buyers, and still make a better rate of interest return than on a certificate of deposit, for example. Partial Second Mortgage from Seller: If the buyers don’t qualify to borrow quite enough to purchase the house, the seller may be willing to contribute with a second mortgage that makes the purchase possible. Installment Sales Contract: Here the seller continues to hold legal ownership of their property but transfers the obligation of paying mortgage, tax and insurance to the buyer. The buyer moves in, becoming the “equitable” owner. But the seller retains legal title until the buyer pays off their obligation. It works best when the seller has a loan that’s assumable. Seller financing has additional benefits in terms of reduced closing costs, the option to pay off the sellers at any time and refinance, flexible terms, no need for appraisal, and a steady income for sellers. Use your broker to investigate it. Make sure that buyer and seller fully understand their financial obligations. For more information on any aspect of buying a home, go to http://www.ahahome.com, the web site for American Homeowners Association. PCTA To Discuss Grant ApplicationsPonca City Tourism Authority (PCTA) will discuss and take action on granting $3,000 to the K-9 Dog Training Club at the 2 p.m., Wednesday meeting. The meeting will be in the Sun Room of the Cultural Center, Tenth and Grand. On a quarterly basis PCTA considers grant applications that would bring tourists to Ponca City. Criteria to be eligible for funds depends on the project and number of overnight visitors involved. PCTA is funded by a three percent hotel/motel tax. Also on the agenda is to discuss and take action in participating in the state “Weekend Getaway Guide.” Coordinator Missy Morland is to report on the Dan Dipert Travel Show and the Millennium Giveaway. Other matters on the agenda are of a routine nature. Renaissance Extended Care Facility Developed in StillwaterGeorge Rahme of Ponca City has developed another Renaissance facility in Stillwater known as Renaissance Extended Care Residence. The Extended Care Residence addresses the needs of individuals experiencing memory-related conditions such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease and those who require a higher level of assisted living. Rahme, owner of the Renaissance of Ponca City, designed the facility’s simple, uncomplicated floor plan to create an unconfusing environment for residents. According to the press release “The Extended Care Residence is north central Oklahoma’s first special care facility designed exclusively for these residents or others who require a step beyond assisted living. The facility’s three wings are self-contained with each having 123 suites, a living/dining area, a kitchenette, a laundry room and a staff desk. Each wing provides a family-like atmosphere with its central living/dining room only a few steps away for each resident. Features of the facility, such as a small glass-enclosed memory box outside each resident’s door, shows the personalized attention each resident receives. Certified staff assist residents with medications, grooming, dressing, bathing and one-on-one activities. Each single or double suite has a secure medication cabinet, private bath and ample space for personal furnishings. A state-of-the-art monitoring system provides safe freedom of movement for residents both inside and outside the facility. A safe room has also been constructed to protect residents during severe weather. SPORTSRolling Cats To Host Union Rolling Cats To Host UnionBy FRED HILTON News Sports Editor Coaches Dana Pulley and Ron Arthur feel their Po-Hi teams are on a roll. They better be because the schedule gets tough this week. Ranked Tulsa Union comes to town tonight to test the Wildcats’ two-game win streak and the Lady Cats’ new-found offense. The girls game starts at 6:30 in Robson Field House with the boys to follow at 8. “Union may have lost some good players from last year,” Pulley says of the Lady Redskins, who are currently 3-1 in the conference and 5-5 overall, ranked 11th. “But we beat them up here last year, 48-45, when they were ranked No. 1 “I’m sure the coaches and players who were on that team remember that.” Pulley credits the Lady Cats’ tough full court press with helping break through their scoring drought. The press helped the Poncans score 24 fourth-quarter points against Bartlesville Friday and they hit a season high 56 points against Sapulpa Saturday. Both games were loses, but, “we’re on the right road,” the coach said. “we improved our scoring 100 percent. “Sooner or later that will turn into a win,” Pulley said. “It just takes a while to get over the hump.” But Pulley warned that her team can’t play a run-and-gun type of game. “If we get an easy basket off the turnover, we’ll take it,” she says. “But if we don’t get the easy shot, the girls will have to be patient, pass the ball around and look for the good shot.” With two wins under their belts for the first time this season, the Wildcats feel like there ready to take on teams like No. 4 ranked Union. Coach Ron Arthur says the Cats have now shaken off the rust following the long layoff over the holidays. At the same time, he feels some of the things the Cats worked on during that slack period are starting to pay off. “And it’s about time. The kids’ work ethic has been great.” Arthur notes his team was a little rusty in a loss to Owasso, but played well in a 64-60 win over Bartlesville Friday. There followed the Poncans’ 83-62 blowout over Sapulpa Saturday. Now all they have to do is keep it up. Arthur says Union, 5-2, 2-2, is a talented with two players already set to play Division I ball. Ralph Charles is currently the leading scorer in the Frontier Conference, averaging 21 points a game. He is headed to ORU next year. John Marlar, is set to sign at OSU. He is averaging 17.9 points an outing. The Trojans are aveaging 69.6 points a game, second in the conference behind Sand Springs. They are allowing 66.4 points perouting. Ponca City has upped its scoring average to 60.3 points while allowing 67.8. North Country Tournament Field SetSix area teams and two who will have long bus rides, make up the field of the annual North Country Invitational which starts Thursday at Northern Oklahoma College’s Piper-Foster Field House and the Tonkawa High School gym. The boys’ tournament starts play at 6 p.m. with Tonkawa taking on Alva at the high school while Lexington meets Frontier on the NOC campus. The late games, at 8:40, pit Pawnee against Pawhuska at NOC and Blackwell against Newkirk at the high school. The girls’ tournament play starts at 4:40 with Alva meeting Lexington at NOC and Blackwell facing Frontier at Tonkawa High. At 7:30, Pawhuska goes against Pawnee at NOC and Newkirk tackles Tonkawa in the Bucs’ gym. The tournament runs through Saturday with the championship finals at Piper-Foster, 7:20 for the girls and 8:40 for the boys. Blackwell will be trying to right a two-game losing steak. The Maroons dropped a 67-54 decision to Cushing Saturday to fall to 7-5 on the season. Cushing blistered the nets for 25 first-quarter points, and finished the period with an 11-point lead. Blackwell closed the gap to 40-33 at halftime and edged closer in the second half, but couldn’t get over the hump. “I was really pleased with our effort,” said Blackwell coach Mike Simpson. “the game was much closer than the final score indicted. We still shot the ball poorly (14 percent in the second half), but I thought we competed much harder than we did Friday night against Perry. “The guard play of Tyler Dyer and Jared Reese continues to improve,” the coach said. Blaine Boyd had 17 points and 12 rebounds for the Maroons while Dyer had 13 and Reese 11. Kyle Pennington was held to five points, but had 11 rebounds. Cushing 67, Blackwell 54 Blackwell 14 19 9 12 — 54 Cushing 25 15 8 19 — 67 Blackwell — Blaine Boyd 17, Tyler Dyer 13, Jarad Reese 11, Kyle Pennington 5, Ryan Penka 4, Brett Fry 2, Justin Shephard 2. Cushing — Pennel 19, Warrior 18, Shackleford 16, Thompson 10, Clark 4.
Copyright© Ponca City News, 1998 |