From The Pages Of The Ponca City News, Wednesday,
January 15, 1996
LOCAL
King of Swing Lives On for Ponca City Collector
Grants Offered For Nominations Of Historic Places
Storyteller Here Saturday to Sign First Book 'The Buffalo In the Mall'
Area Calendar
Ponca City Girl Scouts Active Throughout 1996
More Snow Blankets Area As Colder Weather on Way
Not Enough Votes To Pass Blackwell Bond
Assistant Superintendent Takes PTC Interim Post
Speed Limits Remain Same as Posted
Ponca City Man Dies of Gunshot
Police Continue Probe of Horse Beating Incident
Development Years Critical For Children
Family Mediation Skills Available In OKC Course
Letters Say:
Editor, The News
P&R Board Considers Lake Ponca Variance
Most Social Security Beneficiaries No Longer Submit Annual Reports
Tulsa Evangelist Returns Friday To Word of Life
OBI Officials Show Concern Of Blood Supply
Some See Promising Possibilities For New Anti-Aging Supplement
DEATHS
Alice Illean McMahon
Roy Lee McGraw
Etha Hanna McGuckin
William Kammerer
Gladys Dorothy Hadlock
Funerals
David M. Snyder
Services Pending
Tomas Jo Graber
Bobbie Jo Cranford
Danny R. Thompson
NEWS BRIEFS
LIFESTYLES
Guild Schedules Monthly Meeting
Valentine Coupons For Easter Seal Group
Wesbrook Gives Professionals Today Program
Little News
SPORTS
Cats Win Tight One in Robson, 34-32
Wrestlers Pop B-Ville In Dual Action, 53-15
Late Steal and Layup Lifts Lady Cats to Win
Charity Game Set for Monday
JV Girls Win, Boys Lose
Frontier Collects Sweep of Coyle
8th Blue Girls Blast Stillwater
Kids' Casting Contest Slated
Wildlife Watching Good in Winter
OWD Reports
"I miss you darlin' more and more every day
As heaven would miss the stars above,
And with every heartbeat I still think of you
And remember our faded love."
Bob Wills, "Faded Love."
By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE
News Staff Writer
The King of Swing lives on for Johnnie Burnett of Ponca City, who has a collection of over 600 hours of the music of Bob Wills. But Burnett's memorabilia of the great western swing musician and band leader musician doesn't stop there - far from it.
Focal point of the Wills' shrine is a jukebox filled with over 50 of his songs mostly recorded with his western swing Texas Playboys band on 45 rpm records.
Although Burnett says he's just a small collector compared to a lot of other folks, his showcase items are impressive. From one small newspaper clipping about three decades ago, Johnnie's tribute to Wills has grown to a roomful of albums, recordings, movies, photographs, books and numerous other memorabilia.
Movie bills and posters hanging on the walls all promote Wills and that wonderful back up western swing band that kept folks dancing through the 30s, 40s, 50s and 60s.
Actually Johnnie's mother put him on to collecting. It just comes naturally to gather things one likes and Burnett loved the sound of western swing. Burneet and his mother canvassed flea markets and garage sales and any other potential place, where they might turn up a treasure to add to their hobby.
Some of the rare photographs out of the 2,000 that are displayed around the Johnnie's special celebrity room and in various scrapbooks and picture frames are those of Wills in military uniform. Many of the photographs are in black and white.
Transition Was Easy
From trivia to the factual history of Wills, a Texan from Turkey, Texas, who made it big by making the transition from country to western swing music, Burnett has the information cataloged. It is work to itemize and catalog but for Johnnie he says "It has been a labor of love."
At an early age Johnnie was exposed to the music of Bob Wills through his father. Telling how the collection started, Johnnie said, "I always liked Bob Wills. I like western swing and it started out with a record or two and just sort of escalated. I saw him in later years at Ralston, where he used to play for the homecoming celebration. The band also played here for the 1939 Cherokee Strip celebration.
"His music is something that just jumped out and grabbed me, I guess you could say. I feel very fortunate that I got to know a lot of the band members - Leon McAuliffe, Al Strickland and Joe Frank Ferguson."
Johnnie admits to playing the guitar years ago, but it was "nothing to brag about." But he does have some shirt-tail relation - actually his cousin's husband, Clarence Cagle plays the piano for the Texas Playboys.
Wills and the Playboys also played for dances at Jumps at Fairfax and that is where many of the fans of western swing from this area became acquainted with the undisputed King of Swing.
Faded Love
The song "Faded Love," which was named as the official Oklahoma state western swing song through the efforts of former State Senator John Dahl of Barnsdall, came about in an interesting manner, according to Burnett.
Seems that Bob and his father John together wrote the instrumental. In later years Bob's brother Billy Jack Wills put the words to the music and it became a big hit.
Another legislative act that Sen. Dahl promoted was having the fiddle declared the state musical instrument. This was also influenced by Wills, who was not only a fiddler, but a guitar player and banjo strummer. Dahl also instigated a "Bob Wills Day" at the capital.
Not to be outdone, the governor of Texas declared an annual day dedicated to its native son. Wills' hometown of Turkey, Texas, took the celebration a step further and annually in April a celebration is held there honoring the memory of Wills and his music.
Burnett hasn't missed any of the celebrations in Turkey, since the events began in the 1970s. This is a place to hear western swing music, pick up new items for his collection and to enjoy the fellowship of those connected in any way with Wills. This includes former Texas Playboys band members, relatives and other collectors.
A welcoming sign at Turkey, which has a population of about 600, shows a western swing band in cutout metal over a street. There is only one hotel in Turkey, so in April the larger towns around, including Childress, get the overflow. Burnett says one has to call early to get reservations.
Major events are a parade and a barbecue, as well as, playing the music that is the reason for the gathering of fans from all over America. Its a time to listen, a time reminiscent and a time to collect autographs from former members of the Playboys.
Johnnie doesn't sell any of his collection, but does trade with various others who are interested. "It's interesting to get hooked on just one thing. I just like Bob's music," Burnett says.
San Antonio Rose
Deep within my heart lies a melody,
A song of old San Antone.
Bob Wills pioneered western swing and continued to dominate that musical field for nearly 40 years.
Burnett said "The biggest record that Bob ever had was San Antonio Rose. He was on the bandstand at Cain's Dancing Academy in Tulsa and he said, 'boys I've got an idea for a new instrumental song. I'll start it off and we'll put some steel rhythm in the middle and bring it back to me.'
"So in 1938 they went to Dallas and recorded 'San Antonio Rose.' It was the biggest hit he ever had. Bob was a songwriter and a real good music arranger."
Speaking of rhythm, Johnnie noted that the only movie he doesn't have that starred Wills is one titled "Rhythm Round-up."
But Johnnie says he doesn't feel too bad about this because a lot of the "big" collectors are hunting for it too. Another star in the 1947 movie included Ken Curtis.
Burnett told that Bob Wills and the Texas Playboys were the first band to be allowed to use horns and drums on the stage of the Grand Ole Opry. "Bob had a talent and ear for music that just really stood out," Burnett said.
Burnett says his friend Bob Stingley, an Osage County rancher, has a real serious collection of Bob Wills memorabilia. Much of the music Johnnie has on tape has been transferred from the reel to reel recordings of Stingley's.
A true Wills fan, Stingley had hired Bob's band to play for several dances. The Texas Playboys were hired by Stingley to produce the only gospel album titled "Play One For Mom." The cover of the album was shot at a small Kansas church.
Moves to West Coast
When Bob Wills moved to the west coast in 1941, his brother Johnnie Lee Wills took up the western swing mantle in Tulsa at KVOO and also at the Cain's Ballroom. One of his most popular songs was titled "Take Me Back to Tulsa."
"Bob was a real showman. He was cocky, but he wasn't arrogant. Before playing at a dance he would have the Playboys line up and shake hands with the crowd," Burnett said.
And pack in the crowds they did. Burnett said at one time Wills was the highest paid band director in the United States. He told that when Jimmy Dorsey, Tommy Dorsey and Glenn Miller's bands couldn't draw a crowd, someone would say, "Bob Wills must be in town."
He was a great musician, but he wasn't a good businessman, according to Burnett. He gave money away to anyone with a hand luck story, Burnett said. Also Bob had trouble with marriages. He was married five times, twice to the same woman. But his final marriage, to Betty, lasted for over three decades.
Builds Bob Wills Ranch House
In the 1950s Wills built the largest dance hall in the United States, the Bob Wills Ranch House in Dallas. The bar was covered with silver dollars and had a ramp where Wills could ride his horse Punkin up there. The supports were made shaped like cactus. In later years the club sold to Jack Ruby, who became famous after shooting Lee Harvey Oswald, who assassinated President John F. Kennedy in Dallas.
Burnett visited the Ranch House to see the ballroom when it was owned by Dewey Grahams.
Other side trips Johnnie has taken to keep in touch with the music of Wills was to Tulsa to the western store where Johnnie Lee Wills hung out. Other times he'd go over to Rogers, Ark., and listen to Leon McAuliffe.
In 1968 Bob Wills was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame. The plaque read, "Bob Wills - established himself as King of Western Swing - a living legend whose road map has chartered new pathways into the world of American stage, radio, TV, records and movies."
Wills may have departed this mortal world when he died in 1975, but he has never left the hearts of those who love western swing such as Johnnie Burnett. The grave marker for Wills appropriately reads "Deep within my heart lies a melody."
Swing western tunes such as Faded Love, San Antonio Rose and Take Me Back to Tulsa, conjure up memories of a bygone - but not forgotten era.
Matching grants for preparation of National Register of Historic Places nominations will be offered again by the State Historic Preservation Office, it was announced by Deputy State Historic Preservation Officer Melvena Heisch.
The application form and detailed instructions will be available on Feb. 1, said Heisch, with a total of $10,000 reserved for this program. The funds are part of the Fiscal Year 1997 Historic Preservation Fund allocated to the State Historic Preservation Office by the U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service.
Two rounds of grants will be conducted, said Heisch. The deadline for the first round is 5 p.m., April 1. The second round deadline is 5 p.m., June 2.
"Each grant is limited to $500, and an equal amount in nonfederal matching funds is required," Heisch said. "The funds must be used for consultant services for preparing individual property nominations for the National Register.
"This year, preference will be given to projects resulting in nominations for properties associated with minority heritage, agriculture or energy development."
Eligible applicants include non-profit organizations, local governments, stage agencies and tribal governments.
To request an application packet, write to the State Historic Preservation Office, Oklahoma Historical Society, 2704 Villa Prom, Shepherd Mall, Oklahoma City, OK 73107, or call (405) 521-6249, or FAX (405) 947-2918.
Author Molly Levite Griffis, known to many as publisher, bookstore owner, storyteller, book reviewer and English teacher, has recently published her first book, "The Buffalo In the Mall."
Griffis will be in Ponca City Saturday from 1 to 3 p.m. at Brace Books and More to autograph copies of her greatly-illustrated new book.
Illustrated by award winning artist Kim Doner of Tulsa, "The Buffalo In the Mall" was published by Eakin Press, Austin, in October 1996.
Griffis was named "Woman in the News" by the Hospitality Club in Norman in 1989. That same year she also received a special award from Gov. Henry Bellmon for her extraordinary contributions to Oklahoma History for the publishing of 18 books about the Sooner State by Oklahoma authors. She was also presented the By-Liner Award from the Women in Communication group.
Griffis is now owner of a bookstore in Norman, "Levite of Apache," which also features Pendleton Indian blankets "to warm the body along with good books to warm the soul."
A gifted storyteller as well as a shopkeeper, Griffis was once a professional book reviewer and yoga instructor. She has also taught English to grades four through college and has performed as an artist in residence with arts and humanities groups. Her short stories have appeared in various magazines and newspapers.
Ms. Doner recently won the 1996 Oklahoma book Award from the Oklahoma Department of Libraries for "Green Snake Ceremony."
January 12-26
Ponca City Art Association Membership Show, 1-5 p.m., Wednesday-Sunday, Ponca City Art Center, 819 East Central Avenue.
January 12-15
88.7 FM and Area Churches present "Heaven's Gates and Hell's Flames," dramatized real life presentation, 7 p.m., Hutchins Auditorium, admission free, 767-1400 for more information.
January 16
Cherokee Wheelmen Bicycle Club annual meeting, election of officers and covered dish dinner, 6:30 p.m., Conoco Club House, South Fourth Street, Ponca City.
Round Grove Farmers Union No. 708 dinner meeting, election of local officers and delegates for State Farmer's Union convention Feb. 21-23, 6:30 p.m., Western Sizzlin', Ponca City.
January 17
Kaw City Senior Citizens Dance, 7-10 p.m., music by Country Fever Band, Kaw City Community Building.
January 18
Martin Luther King celebration, 6:30 p.m., Poncan Theatre, Ponca City.
Womanless Wedding, one-act comedy, 7 p.m., Kaw City Community Building, sponsored by Kaw City Chamber of Commerce.
January 19
Community Concert "Black Mountain Mail Choir of Wales," 2:30 p.m., Hutchins Memorial, Fifth Street at Overbrook Avenue, Ponca City.
January 20
Ponca City-Stillwater Ostomy Meeting, program by Vera Rogers, 7:30 p.m., Ponca City St. Joseph Regional Medical Center, Conference Room B.
January 23
Environmental Trust Authority of Northern Oklahoma, 11:30 a.m., City Manager's Office, 221 West Blackwell, Blackwell.
Alzheimer's Support Group, 7 p.m., Conference Room D, St. Joseph Regional Medical Center, Ponca City.
January 25
Free Bald Eagle Educational Program, by the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife, sponsored by Kaw City Chamber of Commerce, 10 a.m., Kaw City Community Building, a tour will follow.
"2 x 4 Productions," 7:30 p.m., Poncan Theatre, free.
January 27
Annual Kaw City Chamber of Commerce Banquet, Frosty Troy, guest speaker, 7 p.m., Kaw City Community Building.
January 29-February 22
Exhibit "Touchable Sculpture," Ponca City Art Association.
February 1
15K (9.3 miles) Groundhog Day race, and 5K fun run, 9 a.m., Lake Ponca Park, race day registration permitted, Entries obtained at Conoco or Bob Kammiller, 405-765-7855 or Don McGovern, 405-762-6106.
Robert Bluestone, classical guitar concert, 7:30 p.m., Poncan Theatre, Ponca City.
February 8
Pancake and Sausage Feed (all the pancakes you can eat), 6:30 a.m.-10 a.m., American Legion, 407 West South Avenue, Ponca City, adults $3, children under 12 $1.50, children under 6 free, proceeds to Children and Youth Activities.
88.7 FM Contemporary Christian artists Kathy Troccoli and Phillips, Craig and Dean, with special guest Chris Willis concert, 7 p.m., Hutchins Auditorium, tickets the Master's Touch, $10, call 767-1400 for more information.
"The Ambassador Choir," 7:30 p.m., Poncan Theatre, free.
Ronnie Kaye Sock Hop, benefit Kay County Council for Opportunity Center, tickets $12.50 each, from 765-6782, 8 p.m.-midnight, Elks Lodge, Ponca City.
February 10
Kay County Retired Educators Association, 11:30 a.m., Program, Mrs. Mac Bradley "Travel Tours for Seniors,", First United Methodist Church, Sixth and Coolidge, Blackwell.
March 1
Liberty PTA Sixth Annual Spring Arts and Crafts Show, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Liberty Elementary School, information call Natalie 767-1429 or Lorinda 762-0459.
March 4
Ponca City Area Chamber Orchestra and Chorus, with Children's Chorale, conducted by Cathy Byard, 8 p.m., Poncan Theatre.
March 8
Church Women United Spring Fling Arts and Crafts Show, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Unity Gym, Ponca City, to benefit Child Development Center, call Tina Barrett 765-3613 for more information.
March 9
Community Concert "Rhythm in Shoes," 2:30 p.m., Hutchins Memorial, Fifth Street at Overbrook Avenue, Ponca City.
March 15
"The Oklahoma City Philharmonic," Poncan Theatre, time to be announced, tickets required.
April 5
Laurette Willis "The Nutty 40s Radio Show," Poncan Theatre, free.
April 14
Kay County Retired Educators Association, 11:30 a.m., Program, Blackwell Police Department "Scams," First United Methodist Church, Sixth and Coolidge, Blackwell.
June 9
Kay County Retired Educators Association, 9 a.m., Installation of Officers, Irene Stone, Vice President of OREA, Music, Mark and Annie Wynn, Northern Oklahoma College, 1220 East Grand, Tonkawa.
The Ponca City Girl Scouts had an active 1996 and recently turned in reports on all activities through December.
The Daisy Girl Scouts is a program for the youngest girls, who are in kindergarten.
Troop 4 led by Donna Ramey worked on their Daisy Debut patch, Gold Medal Troop patch, Daisy Dabbler and "Litter Picker-Upper" Troop patch. They also participated in Make a Difference Day with the Lake Ponca Park Clean Up on Oct. 26. They had their investiture ceremony on Oct. 21, visited the police station and took a nature walk. Each girl also picked up litter in their neighborhoods assisted by their parents. They toured the library to earn their Library Patch and held a Christmas party.
Sheila Foxworthy's Daisy Troop also had a busy year, working on their Daisy Debut and had an investiture. They made a trip to the library.
Daisy Troop 5 at Union School is led by Elizabeth Milone. As a part of earning their cooking patches, they baked pumpkin pies in November. In December they held a Mommy and Me slumber party to make Christmas cookies and do make-overs.
Brownie Scouts
Brownie Girl Scouts is a program for girls in grades 1 through 3 and has several groups in Ponca City.
Brownie Troop 104 at McCord School worked on Girl Scout Ways, Dancercize and Art to Wear Try-its. As a service project they sent thank-you notes to the McCord School teachers for their good work. They also attended Din-O-Mite and had their own party for Juliette Lowe, founder of Girl Scouts. In December they made Christmas ornaments for McCord School faculty and staff. Leader is Dawn Knott.
Brownie Troop is 116, worked on Citizens Near and Far, Safety, Math Fun, Girl Scout Ways, Earth is Our Home, and Art to Wear Try-its. They participated in the United Way Kick-off parade, visited the fire department and had a visit from the "Brownie Bear." The girls participated in a jelly bean jar contest for all troops and celebrated Juliette Lowe's Birthday Party in October with a Court of Awards. In December they worked on Science Wonders by playing animal charades and had a visit from Steve Minor, at the City Animal Control Center. They worked on the Pride in America Patch, Gold Medal Patch and Woolaroc patches. In December they participated in the Christmas Parade, camping at Camp Wah-Sha-She Lodge and vised Woolaroc Museum. Leaders are Kate Kelly and Susan Keith.
Brownie Troop 127 at Trout School worked on their Animal, Dancercize and Art to Wear Try-its. They worked on the Pride in America patch, celebrated Juliette Lowe's Birthday with a party and visited a veterinary clinic. Leader is Kim Mead.
Brownie Troop 145 worked on the Animals Try-its and Listening to the Past Try-Its. They also worked on Sharing from the Heart council patches and completed service projects for Hospice. In October they visited the Wichita Zoo. Leader is Diane Bull.
Dressed as Angel Wings
Brownie Troop 153, First Lutheran School, worked on Pride in America Patch in September, did Carriers and Outdoor Fun Try-its in October and held a cook-out at Lake Ponca Park. In November they held an investiture and worked on Citizen Try-its. During December they participated in the Christmas Parade dressed in foil angel wings, tinsel halos and flashlights. As a service project they sang Christmas carols at Westminster Village Nursing Home. Leader is Cheryl Happ.
Brownie Troop 163, a city-wide troop worked on Hobby Try its, and the Caring From the Heart patch. As a service project they collected pop tabs to donate to the Shriners to pay for kidney dialysis equipment for children at the Burns Hospital and Ronald McDonald House. The girls filled and turned in a five-gallon container filled with pop tabs to the Tangier Shrine Temple in Omaha, Neb. They also made wooden calendars for Christmas presents and baked sugar cookies. Leader is Susan Copple.
Brownie Troop 165, Union School worked on earning the Animals, Girls Scout Ways and Food Try-its. In October they finished the Food Try-it and started Caring and Sharing Try-its. They also participated in the Juliette Lowe Birthday party. Leaders are Jodi Pierce and Carol McGaughey.
Adventurous Journey
Brownie Troop 172 at St. Mary's School, sent "Brownie the Girl Scout Bear," on an adventurous journey to visit Girl Scout Troops in other communities, states and countries. They also dedicated themselves to giving service to St. Joseph Regional Medical Center emergency room, where they made friendship bracelets for the emergency room in September. They also had an ice-cream and bowling party, worked on the Play Try its and participated in the United Way parade in September. In October they made Halloween bats and spiders for the emergency room and participated in Skillfest and the Juliette Lowe Birthday Party. Leader is Nora Slaughter.
Kildare Activities
Brownie Troop 171 and Junior Troop 376 at Kildare. Brownies worked on Arts and Crafts Try-its and the Junior Troop worked on the Girls Scouts in the USA Badge.
Activities of other Junior Troop Girl Scouts, Cadettes and Senior Girl Scouts will be listed at a later date.
From Staff and AP Reports
Ponca City and north central Oklahoma escaped the dreaded "sleet and freezing rain" part of the forecast today but woke up to a "winter wonderland" with about an inch of new snow covering the landscape.
Schools in western Osage County closed due to the weather but Ponca City schools remained open. Closing today were schools at Shidler, Burbank and Fairfax (Woodland). Kaw City also cancelled classes today.
Meanwhile, after a week's worth of bitterly cold temperatures, Oklahomans found a new word in today's forecast: thaw.
But not before a round of snow and freezing rain closed schools and snarled traffic across the state.
Motorists along Interstate 40 from Sallisaw to the Arkansas border moved at a snail's pace because of icy conditions in eastern Oklahoma and western Arkansas. The slow movement at times gave the appearance the highway was closed.
Terry Angier, a spokeswoman for the Oklahoma Transportation Department, said the highway was like a ''parking lot and people couldn't pass'' for a time. Road crews had trouble getting to the areas to salt and sand because of the traffic volume.
Near Henryetta, I-40 was closed for a time because of the slick conditions. ''Our own crews were having trouble,'' Ms. Angier said. ''I can only imagine what was happening with cars.''
She said the department strongly discouraged travel through that area until the weather improves.
Lt. Mark Warren of the Oklahoma Highway Patrol in Tulsa said roads across the entire region were slick and hazardous this morning. Several accidents with minor injuries occurred, he said.
''The interstates are still passable. Nothing closed,'' Warren said. ''Tell everybody to leave themselves plenty of time to get where they're going.''
Classes were canceled at schools including Muskogee, Jay, Sallisaw, Pawhuska, Pawnee, Oklahoma City, Edmond and the University of Central Oklahoma.
Morning commuters in Tulsa crept through snow and slush that covered icy streets. But police Sgt. Mike Garner said the number of accidents was not inordinately high because the traffic was so slow.
''It's moving pretty smoothly,'' Garner said. ''Everybody's driving reasonable.''
In Oklahoma City, the worst part of the commute was for drivers along Interstate 240 in eastern sections of the city where an icy glaze coated the roadway.
Trooper Donnie Robbins, patrol spokesman, said only about a dozen accidents had been reported to the patrol in the Oklahoma City area. Some of those likely would turn out not to be crashes, but cases where vehicles slid off into ditches.
The clouds that brought sleet and freezing rain to eastern Oklahoma were expected to move out of the state and thermometers were forecast to climb into the 40s.
The thaw offered a brief reprieve after another day of temperatures below freezing in much of the state left many Oklahomans searching for an escape from the chill.
Tammy Fore, owner of Fore Landscape in Ardmore, said the warm-up would allow her company to return outdoors to install sprinkler systems and other lawn maintenance.
''If it gets above freezing and the ground thaws out a little bit, we can get back to work,'' she said.
Scattered sleet, freezing rain and light snow fell across parts of southern and eastern Oklahoma on Tuesday.
The National Weather Service placed much of eastern Oklahoma under a winter weather advisory through the day and into the evening.
Southeast winds brought increasing moisture to eastern Oklahoma and held afternoon highs below freezing.
By KRISTI GRABEAL
News Education Editor
Blackwell residents fought the cold weather and spoke out again Tuesday as a light turnout voted down both school bond issues.
Residents were asked to pass two bond issues to build and equip a fieldhouse at the high school complex in the special election.
Proposition 1 was for a $1.25 million bond to build the shell and Proposition 2 was for a $500,000 bond to equip it.
Proposition 1 fell short of the necessary 60 percent with a vote of 55.82 percent - 724 people voted "yes" on the bond with 573 voting "no."
Proposition 2 also failed with 55.93 percent voting "yes;" 722 residents voted "yes" and 569 voted "no."
In Shidler; however, residents passed their school bond election by a vote of 197 to 76. The bond was for $600,000 to provide funds for constructing, equipping, repairing and remodeling school buildings, acquiring school furniture, fixtures and equipment and acquiring and improving Shidler school.
Ponca City residents will go to the polls in February to vote on school board members and on the school levies. This election will take place on Feb. 11.
By KRISTI GRABEAL
News Education Editor
Dr. Sally Downey, assistant superintendent, accepted the job of interim superintendent at Pioneer Technology Center's regular board meeting Tuesday night.
The board approved the hiring of Downey and set a salary during executive session. The board declined to comment on the amount of the salary saying it is not for public knowledge.
The audit report released by Clifton Scott, state auditor and inspector, was also discussed briefly at the board meeting. Board members reviewed the audit report, which revealed that Velta Reed-Johnston was clear of all charges. Board members had already seen the report and decided to discuss the audit more at the next board meeting.
Financial reports were heard and included the general fund, sinking fund, treasurer's report and the school activity fund.
Downey gave brief reports about the next regular board meeting scheduled for Feb. 11.
Dr. Margaret Bouvinger, Enid, was unable to attend the meeting due to the weather and could not give her report about engaging in third assistance with the superintendent search. She will give her report at the next board meeting. The board decided to postpone discussion of several issues pertaining to the hiring of a new superintendent until the weather clears up.
The board went into executive session at 8:15 p.m. and discussed the employment of Debbie Blenden and Tony Watkins. After returning from executive session, the board approved the hiring of Blenden as the new STW secretary and Watkins as the new custodian.
The board adjourned at 9:30 p.m. and set the next regular board meeting for Feb. 11 at 8 a.m.
By MARK GALVIN
News Staff Writer
Objects at roadside are not larger than they appear, at least when it comes to the numbers on the speed limit signs, a state department of transportation official clarified this week.
Although various county officials were sure of a recent increase, speed limits on Oklahoma's four-lane highways have not been raised from 65 to 70 mph.
Some officials said they understood the speed limits on the major state roads such as U.S. 60 and U.S. 77 to have been increased recently to 70 mph, and that the only delay in letting motorists know was the time required for state workers to replace the old signs.
If changed, the speed limits would have matched the new 70 mph signs on Kansas highways, such as on U.S. 77 past the state line between Newkirk and Arkansas City.
David Klein of the state DOT said the speed limits have not changed, although changes were considered last fall.
The only change to speed limits, which occurred in October or November, was when the state discontinued the reduced speed limit of 55 mph at night, Klein said.
There was talk then of raising state four-lane divided highways and super two-lanes from 65 to 70 but the idea ultimately was rejected. That move would also have raised the 70 mph speed limits on the interstates to 75 mph.
Klein also said it would be wrong for motorists to assume that speed limits would be different than those posted.
When speed limits are changed on state highways, he said the public will quickly know it, because such changes are top priority and the department can make the changeover promptly.
A 33-year-old Ponca City man died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound at his residence Tuesday night.
Ponca City police officers found Danny Ray Thompson dead when they arrived in the 900 block of North Third Street at 11 p.m. According to Ponca City Medical Examiner M.V. Farquharson, the victim died from a gunshot wound to the head.
Three officers answered an emergency call to the residence earlier in the evening and took the victim into custody for domestic assault and battery. He was later released on bond, according to the PCPD.
The Ponca City Police Department continues its investigation of the assault on a horse in the area of Sunset Park Dec. 28.
Lt. Barbara White said Rain Drop was pinned in a stall and severely beaten about the face and legs. A tendon and blood vessel was severed on the right rear leg and the left rear leg was slashed. The horse also received scratches and cuts to his face and his teeth were knocked loose.
Crime Stoppers offers a reward of up to $1,000 for information about this or any other crime. Details can be provided anonymously by calling 762-5100.
In addition to this reward, the Oklahoma City office of Volunteers for Animal Welfare Inc., is offering a $500 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible. Contact Lt. White at 767-0370.
A child's development during early years is critical to their later success in school and in life, Julie M. Fox, MA, CCC, Speech-Language Pathologist and Stacy Thompson, JS, Child Development Specialist, pointed out recently.
To help parents ensure that their child's development is on track, the Kay County Health Department is offering free developmental screenings for children ages birth to five years.
These screenings are being scheduled during January and February, and are designed to assess language, cognition, fine motor, gross motor, social skills, and hearing.
The screenings will be offered by appointment only and will take approximately 45 minutes to complete.
Any questions that the parent might have regarding their child's development will also be addressed. To schedule an appointment, call 763-0100.
A four-day course designed to train therapists, lawyers, and other professionals to mediate family and divorce matters will be held in Oklahoma City on Jan. 23 through Jan. 26. The course meets the training requirements for professional mediators to qualify for several court related mediation programs.
Family judges throughout Oklahoma are referring disputes to mediation in the hope that couples might resolve matters on a voluntary basis. Individuals who complete the course will be equipped to assist couples involved in divorce or disputes over child custody.
The course is sponsored by the Mediation Institute, a private, non-profit organization based in Oklahoma City. For more information call Jim Stovall at 528-1121.
(Letters appearing in The News do not necessarily reflect the editorial policies or beliefs of The News. Letters will be accepted only with written signatures and must include address and phone number of writer. Unsigned letters will be discarded. All letters submitted become the property of The News. No letter will be returned. We reserve the right to reject or to correct letters considered unsuitable. Letters may be edited to conserve space. We specifically decline letters for or against candidates for office.
Editor, The News:
The Ponca people have suffered for many years under corrupt and inept Tribal governments and the mismanagement of our assets by the B.I.A. One of the principle reasons this has continued for so many years is that Indian issues are not covered by our local newspaper, The Ponca City News. This is also true of the local TV and radio stations but the print media has historically been more of a guardian of the peoples right to know and democratic process.
Recently I had a conversation with the former mayor of Ponca City Ken Holmes. I asked him how the people of Ponca City would react if he proposed eliminating all public records acts and open meeting laws so city officials would be free to operate in total secrecy. The mayor would by law be given all legislative, executive and judicial powers. In addition he would eliminate all budget requirements and allow city officials to merely spend money as it comes in, never reporting to the public or accounting to anyone. Of course he would give all jobs to close relatives and pay them exorbitant salaries. All Federal monies and programs would be operated as patronage and used to cover the mayor and his cronies salary. No inventory would be kept so all publicly owned material, from tools, to lawn mowers, to heavy equipment, could be stolen with impunity. He would operate a loan program for himself and a few select others using Federal and local money, which would keep no records, charge no interest, seek no repayment and be kept secret. To aid in this corruption he would be backed by an all-powerful Federal entity (The B.I.A. in our case).
Mr. Holmes, with some amusement, said the citizens of Ponca City would either run him out of town on a rail or at least laugh him out of town, but this has been the situation with the Ponca Tribe for many years. Our tribe has never had a budget in the 47 years since our incorporation! Never! Our federal programs, paid for by all taxpayers, are so mismanaged that it is impossible to audit them properly. Our bingo enterprise nets over $600,000 per annum which is spent willy-nilly without accounting. We estimate a theft rate of about 50 percent of the net income, most of the rest goes to the salaries of the Tribal Council and their families.
Millions of dollars pass through our Tribe in tax money, oil, gas and lease money, Narconon payments, H.U.D. grants, B.I.A. programs, etc. All are corrupted and operated in secret to benefit a few while the Ponca people remain the poorest of the poor in Kay County.
It seems to me that an enterprising reporter could, as a trained professional, uncover a lot more. I know for sure that if this were happening to white people The Ponca City News and all media would be up in arms.
But not only the media turns it back on my poor people, not one elected official will take a strong interest in bringing democracy to the Ponca. Sen. Nickles has been appealed to for help many times but he has been deaf to our pleas. The U.S. attorney, the office of the inspector general of the B.I.A. and other officials have likewise been blind to the criminal actions which have been reported to them.
What must the Ponca people do in order to gain the same freedoms most American citizens take for granted? The corrupt Council is willing to spend any amount of our money to maintain their grip on power and money. They hire lawyers and accountants to cover up for them while they continue to loot. They control the police forces and use them to intimidate and arrest any who dare to desert. Some Ponca's are willing to use force to fight for our rights, some elders are even willing to lead a takeover of the Tribal Headquarters. But in my experience that usually brings in the Feds against the citizens and in support of the corrupt officials.
Here is the "catch 22" we face; without media pressure, elected Federal officials won't act, without pressure from elected officials neither Law Enforcement or the responsible Federal bureaucracy will act, without gunplay or something else spectacular the media won't bother. One Tulsa TV station said our story wasn't big enough yet, but if someone took up arms and staged a takeover they would be glad to send an entire crew in with us.
Frustration and anger are building within the Ponca Tribe, the corrupt Council is now taking steps to kick out the one Council person who has called for reform, by using unfounded charges on which they are judge, jury and executioner. Soon the oppression will become too much to bear and the people will react.
If Sen. Nickles, The Ponca City News and the U.S. Attorney continue to ignore what is going on bad things are sure to happen.
Carter Camp
Editor, The News
I read with interest that all of us deer hunters were confused about when antlerless deer hunting was allowed.
Amazing! My son and I have been hunting for years and we always know when antlerless season is. In all their wisdom the wildlife commission figured out how to take the confusion out of it, just charge $16.75 for an antlerless permit then, just like magic, the confusion is gone.
Why all the bull? Just come out and say they want more money. This is easier to swallow than saying everyone is confused. What we need in politics is the truth, not the run around and lies.
Ron Shelton
A request for a variance in the Standard Operating Procedures for Lake Ponca will be considered by the Ponca City Park and Recreation Advisory Board at its meeting Thursday at the Public Safety Center, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue, at 6 p.m.
A couple propose installation of a closed system for gray water at their private cabin on the west side of Lake Ponca. Director Jim Sindelar contacted the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality and the Director of Public Works to provide guidance for the advisory board in its decision-making process.
In new business, the members will consider revising Section 23-34 of the code to exclude two students from the board. Over the past year, students did not attend regularly, which affected the board's ability to hold meetings. Recently, several meetings were canceled due to lack of quorum.
Social Security has eliminated the need for most people who receive Social Security benefits to file an annual report of their earnings, according to Roy Janzen, district manager.
Instead, the agency will adjust benefits as required under the Social Security annual earnings test based on the amount of earnings reported to the Federal Government by the employer or self-employed individuals. The new process begins with the reporting year 1996 and could save up to 330,000 public reporting hours.
Under the new procedure, beneficiaries will need to file annual reports only when their earnings for purposes of the Social Security earnings test are not the same as the earnings reported on their W-2 and/or self-employment tax return. This could happen in special situations such as the following:
* Earnings shown on the W-2 are incorrect or were not earned in the year from which the report is made;
* Earned wages exceed the exempt amount and there was a net loss from self-employment;
* Wages were reported on a W-2 that will be included on a self-employment tax return. If you are eligible to receive benefits under the monthly earnings test or your situation is unusual, call our toll-free number 1-800-772-1213 and discuss your situation with one of our teleservice representatives or contact your local Social Security Office to find out whether you must file an annual report.
Dave Martin, an evangelist from Tulsa, is returning to Word of Life Christian Center on Friday at 7 p.m. to minister to the people of Ponca City and surrounding area. For the past six months, Dave has been preaching at Word of Life during its Revival.
Bob Innis, Senior Pastor, says God has used Dave around the world to bring revival with an outpouring of God's love. Do you find yourself in need of healing - whether it be physical, spiritual, or even emotional? Innis invites the public to come and trust God to meet you where you're at.
Pastor Innis points out you can trust God to be a friend who will never leave you. Pray about the good things God has planned for your life and consider fellowshipping with Word of Life Christian Center.
A nursery will be provided. The church is located at 3401 North Union. For more information, phone 762-4376.
While many parts of the nation are experiencing severe blood shortages, officials at the Oklahoma Blood Institute are concerned about the local blood supply.
"Between the inclement weather and widespread flu, our supplies are lower than we'd like," said Ronald O. Gilcher, MD, OBI president and CEO. "While we are still able to take care of local hospitals, we are virtually unable to answer calls for help from other states." The Blood Institute is receiving an average of 20 calls per day from other blood centers.
With more snow predicted for this week, the Oklahoma Blood Institute asks that the community make time to donate today, tomorrow or as soon as possible to help maintain safe blood supply levels.
For more information, please contact the Oklahoma Blood Institute , Ponca City Center, 518 North Fourteenth, (405) 762-9488.
By LAURA TREADWAY
News Staff Writer
Three of four Ponca City chiropractors contacted, see promising possibilities for a new anti-aging supplement, although other health professionals still have concerns.
A supplement known as DHEA has become the latest controversial drug of choice for a growing number of consumers. Scientists have known about DHEA, or dehydroepiandrosterone, since 1934. It is a steroidal hormone which has been sold nationwide without prescription for weight management, enhanced sex life, anti-aging, and auto immune functions. It has even been said to prevent or slow the progression of Alzheimer and Parkinson diseases.
However, no evidence has been submitted to the Federal Drug Administration which substantiates those claims. In addition, no benefits have been demonstrated in large random placebo-controlled clinical trials.
Humans and apes are the only mammals who show the patterns of having high prenatal serum levels of DHEA that drop after birth, rise sharply at puberty and reach high levels during young adulthood. The levels decrease progressively after age 30 and by 80, most people have one-fifth the DHEA they had in their youth.
In the body, DHEA is naturally produced by the adrenal glands as are many other hormones. The fact that our body produces less DHEA as the body ages, makes sense that a natural substance could be a pharmacologic treatment.
Still, scientific studies have not determined what effect reintroducing this concentrated bodily excess might have, said the FDA. Experts are concerned that the body will adapt and decrease its own manufacturing of the hormone.
In 1985, the FDA stopped the sale of DHEA. At the time, the substance was considered a drug under the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act, because it served a nonfood purpose and was intended or advertised to affect the body's normal functioning.
According to Robert Moore, PhD, senior regulatory scientist in the FDA's Office of Special Nutritionals, Washington, D.C., the FDA hasn't formally reviewed data concerning DHEA. "We would advise physicians to recognize that this substance isn't an approved drug for any indication," he said.
Currently, distributors and manufacturers circumvent FDA regulation by marketing DHEA as a dietary supplement. Under the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act of 1994, the FDA must prove that a nutritional supplement is harmful before the agency can regulate its sale. Since DHEA is now classified as a dietary supplement, it can be purchased without a prescription at local pharmacies, retail outlets and general health stores as well as by mail-order.
According to Maria Velasco, Public Affairs specialist for the FDA, DHEA has not been proven to be safe and effective for its intended use. Furthermore, regardless of bottle label or supplier claims, a consumer has no way to be certain what is in a "dietary supplement."
Studies on humans remain premature. Although tests at the University of California School of Medicine indicate remedial effects with respect to DHEA's ability to induce anabolic growth factor, increase muscle strength and lean body mass, activate immune function and enhance the quality of life in aging men and women.
If DHEA levels are low, physicians may recommend 5-10 mg doses for men and women over 40. Experts agree that DHEA is unwise for adults under 30. Also, supervision by a health care practitioner is recommended. The standard form to test DHEA levels of a consumer is through a blood test.
Local chiropractors recommend obtaining the purist pharmaceutical grade of DHEA, in this unregulated market. Also, look for finely grained, better prepared, good quality products.
Be aware that pure DHEA taken orally is mainly converted to male hormones and could produce unwanted androgenic effects. DHEA precursors such as the Mexican or wild yam are not effective and will not boost DHEA levels, according to research.
The FDA has few adverse reaction reports on the drug, but said the risks from long-term use are unknown. Side effects reported by DHEA consumers include mild acne, growth of facial hair and irritability. If these conditions occur, the supplement should be reduced or stopped.
According to Arthur Schwartz, PhD, at Temple University School of Medicine in Pennsylvania, virtually nothing is known about DHEA's interactions with other drugs. Schwartz has been studying metabolic effects of DHEA since the 1970s.
"The low doses, people are now taking as supplements (25-50 mg) are sufficient to raise serum levels in elderly to levels normally found in young adults, probably are not androgenic. But, the supplements are probably not very effective either," said Schwartz.
"Although results of human DHEA studies appear promising, ... they need to be confirmed in large-scale and properly controlled studies ... without confirmed beneficial actions in humans and a better understanding of associated risks, it does not seem reasonable to dispense DHEA," said John E. Nestler, M.D. and endocrinologist at the College of Virginia, in Richmond.
At a recent conference at the New York Academy of Sciences, researchers reported a pilot study suggesting DHEA may improve mood, energy, libido and memory performance in the elderly. Owen M. Wolkowitz, M.D., with the University of California, informed the group that larger trials are underway.
Though grateful the hormone is receiving more scientific attention, Elizabeth Barret-Connor, epidemiologist at University of California, in San Diego, says DHEA still has a lot to prove before qualifying as a legitimate anti-aging therapy.
The FDA recommends that consumers who use dietary supplements should
read product labels. It is also a good idea to seek advice from a health
professional first. The professional can determine the value of any health
care product.
DEATHS
BLACKWELL - Alice Illean McMahon, longtime Blackwell resident, died Tuesday, Jan. 14, 1997, in the Blackwell Nursing Home. She was 77.
A memorial graveside service will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, in the Blackwell IOOF Cemetery with the Rev. Steve Reeves, pastor of the First Free Will Baptist Church, Blackwell, officiating. Arrangements and cremation were under the direction of Hackler Funeral Home.
Alice Illean (Raney) McMahon was born Oct. 29, 1919, at Treece, Kan., the daughter of Allison Theodore and Mary (Bohannon) Raney. She grew up on the family farm south of Drumright, and attended rural schools.
In 1942 she was married to James Joseph McMahon, and the couple lived at several military bases in the U.S. during World War II. After her husband's discharge from military service, the couple established a home in Hobbs, N.M., where they operated the local airport. The couple then moved periodically and managed airports in Cushing from 1955 to 1962, in the Stroud area from 1962-1973, then were first managers at the Blackwell-Tonkawa area airport. Mrs. McMahon attended the First Free Will Baptist Church in Blackwell.
Survivors include one son, Jim McMahon of Blackwell; three grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband James; her parents; five brothers; and one granddaughter.
Roy Lee McGraw, Kaw City resident, died Saturday, Jan. 11, 1997, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center in Ponca City. He was 47.
The funeral will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday at Faith Tabernacle Church with the Rev. Don Stanton, pastor, officiating. Burial will follow in Longwood Cemetery, east of Ponca City, under the direction of Grace Memorial Chapel.
Roy Lee McGraw was born Oct. 9, 1949, in Red Rock, the son of Roy N. and June Mae (Carter) McGraw. He grew up and received his education in Ponca City, graduating in 1969 from Ponca City High School. He attended Northern Oklahoma College while working for his father at Royal Paint and Body Shop, Ponca City.
On Nov. 7, 1969., he was married to Jan Osborne. McGraw was a skilled master glazier and had been employed by several glass companies in Oklahoma, Kansas and California during his career. He was later married to Ginger Jointer and Pam Alexander. McGraw enjoyed dirt biking, jet skiing, and sports, especially football.
Survivors include one daughter, Holly McGraw of Tulsa; his parents, Roy N. McGraw of Ponca City and June Mae McGraw of Kaw City; one sister, Lora Young of Tulsa; two brothers, Larry Joe of Kaw City and Vance of Ponca City; and his paternal grandmother, Alpha Burdick of Hulah. He was preceded in death by one brother, David Charles "Tugg" McGraw; his maternal grandparents and paternal grandfather; and one niece.
Casket bearers will be Larry McGraw, Vance McGraw, Mike Hopkins, Ben Boggs, Eddie Northcutt, and Billy Honeyman. Honorary bearers will be Larry Martin, G.W. Birdwell, John Chitwood Scott Walker, David Lockwood Jr. and Kerry Young.
The family will be at the Vance McGraw home, 424 South Peachtree.
BLACKWELL - Etha Hanna "Foxy" McGuckin died early Tuesday morning, Jan. 14, 1997, in St. Joseph Regional Medical Center in Ponca City. She was 91.
Memorial services will be conducted Friday, Jan. 17, 1997 at 2 p.m. in the First Baptist Church in Tonkawa with the Rev. Richard Thomasson, pastor, officiating. The committal service will be Friday, Jan. 17, 1997 at 11 a.m. in Blackwell Cemetery in Blackwell with the Rev. Richard Thomasson officiating. Roberts and Son Funeral Home, Blackwell is in charge of arrangements.
Etha Hanna "Foxy" McGuckin was born on March 11, 1905, in Norman, Okla., the daughter of John Abraham and Columbia Anne (Henegar) Fox. She grew up in a family of eight brothers and sisters, attended Norman High School and following graduation attended the University of Oklahoma where she majored in elementary education. After receiving her degree, she moved to Tonkawa in 1927 and taught elementary school for six years.
She and Paul Newell McGuckin of Tonkawa were married on Aug. 22, 1932, in Sayre, Okla. by their former pastor, the Rev. John T. Daniel. Following their marriage, the couple settled in Tonkawa, Okla.
She was preceded in death by her husband on Jan. 16, 1989, and by a daughter, Columbia Angeline Ellis in 1990.
Mrs. McGuckin was a member of the First Baptist Church in Tonkawa, where she taught Sunday School for many years. She was also very active in the Women's Missionary Organization and taught in Vacation Bible School.
She loved flowers and furnished many beautiful arrangements for the church.
Surviving are a son, John of Madera, Calif.; one sister, Saloma Lorene Fox Tucker of Amarillo, Texas; seven grandchildren, and one great-grandson. In addition to her husband and daughter, she was preceded in death by four sisters and two brothers.
Memorial contributions may be made in Mrs. McGuckin's name to the First Baptist Church of Tonkawa.
DUBLIN, Ohio - William Kammerer, former Ponca City resident, died unexpectedly in Sarasota, Fla. while enjoying a winter respite. He was 80 and a resident of Dublin, Ohio at the time of his death.
Mass of Christian Burial is set for 9 a.m. Friday, Jan. 17, 1997 in Holy Trinity Church in Norwood, Ohio. Vorhis Funeral Homes, Inc., of Norwood, Lockland and Springdale, Ohio is in charge of arrangements.
William Kammerer was born at Norwood (Cincinnati) Ohio on Sept. 30, 1916. He attended Purcell High School in Cincinnati, Ohio and graduated from the University of Cincinnati with a B.S. Chemical Engineering degree.
He was commissioned in 1943 in the U.S. Navy, serving his country on the USS Pasadena as Lt. (j.g.) in the Pacific Theater.
He attended and graduated from Brooklyn Law School in New York in 1954. He was employed as a chemical engineer and patent counsel for American Cyanimid Corp. in White Plains, N.Y., Patent Counsel for Continental Oil Co. in Ponca City and since 1968 as Senior Patent Counsel for Ashland Chemical Co. in Dublin, Ohio until he retired in 1986.
Mr. Kammerer was a member of the American Bar Association, and the American Intellectual Property Law Association.
He was preceded in death by his father, William Kammerer, his mother, Nan Carr Kammerer, and his step-mother, Clara Niermann Kammerer.
Surviving are his wife of 54 years, Augusta Mary Sanzone and his children, Mary MacAlpine of Houston, Texas, David Kammerer of Hutchinson, Kan., Patricia Ann Kammerer Goodman of Houston, Texas, William Joseph Kammerer of Upper Arlington, Ohio, Barbara Clark of Charleston, W.Va., and Joanne Cantrell of Powell, Ohio; 14 grandchildren, and three sisters, Sister Dorothy Kammerer of Dayton, Ohio, Sister Elizabeth Kammerer of Maria Stein, Ohio, and Lois Wall of Plymouth, Mich.
Memorial contributions may be made in Mr. Kammerer's name to the American Cancer Society.
Gladys Dorothy (Wright) Hadlock, longtime Ponca City area resident, died Monday, Jan. 13, 1997, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. She was 90.
The funeral will be held graveside at 10 a.m. Thursday at Grandview Cemetery in Kaw City. The Rev. Blaine Herron, pastor of Foursquare Gospel Church, will officiate. Arrangements are under the direction of Grace Memorial Chapel, Ponca City. Friends may visit at the funeral home until 8:30 a.m. Thursday.
Gladys Dorothy (Wright) Hadlock was born Dec. 31, 1906, in Janestown, Wis., the daughter of James and Jessie (Terwillegar) Wright. She moved with her family by covered wagon to the Ponca City area in 1916, and grew up in the Charley Creek area in Osage County. She received her education at the Charley Creek School.
On July 18, 1925, she was married to Paul J. Hadlock in Pawhuska and the couple settled in the Charlie Creek Community. For many years, Mrs. Hadlock wrote the Charley Creek News for the Ponca City News and was later employed by Mid-American Manufacturing Co. as a seamstress for more than 20 years. She enjoyed visiting with her family, telling stories of when she was growing up, playing cards, fishing, sewing, and crocheting.
Survivors include three sons, Robert P. of Ponca City, James R. of Moore, and Larry D. of Oklahoma City; one daughter, Dorothy R. (McMahan) Hess of Ponca City; two sisters, Lottie Trodgon of Lake Elsinor, Calif., and Elsie Frame of Ponca City; 26 grandchildren; 55 great-grandchildren; and 23 great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband; one son, Louis R. Hadlock; her parents; three grandsons; one granddaughter; and one great-granddaughter.
The family will be at the Bruce McMahan home, Route 1, Box 1750.
Thursday
David M. Snyder - Funeral to be held at 2 p.m. in the Ralston First Baptist Church. Burial will be in the Riverside Cemetery in Ralston under the direction of Hunsaker-Wooten Funeral Home, Fairfax.
Tomas Jo Graber
Tomas Jo Graber, 416 North Elm Street, died early this morning at her home. She was 48. Arrangements are pending with Trout Funeral Home.
Bobbie Jo Cranford
SHIDLER - Bobbie Jo Cranford, Shidler resident, died early this morning, Jan. 15, 1996, at the Bartlesville (Okla.) Care Center. Arrangements are pending with Hunsaker-Wooten Funeral Home, Fairfax.
Danny R. Thompson
Danny R. Thompson, Ponca City resident, died Tuesday evening, Jan. 14,
1997, at his home. He was 33. Arrangements are pending with Trout Funeral
Home.
NEWS BRIEFS
Water Walking - Need a morning jump start? Go for a walk-in the water! Class meets M-W-F at 8:15 a.m. at the Community Pool, Seventh Street and East Grand Avenue. Contact the YMCA for details, 765-5417.
Deadwood Dames - Members of the Deadwood Dames will meet at 11 a.m. Thursday at the Golden Corral.
American Legion - American Legion Post 14 announces that a non-smoking area for all non-smokers for Tuesday night bingo games has been provided. The doors open at 5 p.m. with the first game starting at 5:50 p.m.
CEA Family Night Bingo Set - The next CEA Bingo will be held on Saturday. A Nifty Fifties theme has been selected. Wear your favorite fifties attire! Cash prizes will be awarded, door prizes will be given away, and lots of fun will be had! Bingo is held in the Conoco Atrium cafeteria (enter through west doors) for all CEA/CRA members. CEA/CRA cards will be checked. Bingo sheets go on sale at 6:30 p.m. and games start at 7 p.m. Come out and enjoy a fun time for the whole family.
KRA Meeting Canceled - The Kaw Reservoir Authority meeting, scheduled for Thursday, has been canceled. For more information contact Dena Kelley, KRA secretary at 918-762-2662.
Assault - A 45-year-old woman was arrested at the Ponca City Police Department at 1:50 p.m. Tuesday on two city warrants for assault and battery.
Mail Stolen - A resident in the 400 block of West Cleveland Avenue contacted the Ponca City Police Department at 3:14 p.m. Tuesday to report mail stolen. An officer took a report.
Warrants Served - A Ponca City police officer arrested a 19-year-old woman at 4:03 p.m. Tuesday on a city arrant for failure to pay. A 34-year-old man was also arrested at the police department at 5:01 p.m. on a city warrant for failure to pay.
In Custody - A 43-year-old man was arrested by a Ponca City police officer at South Oak Street and West South Avenue at 12:49 a.m. Wednesday for driving under suspension.
Burglary - A Ponca City police officer reported the lower window
of a bay door on the east side of the Take Ten building, 3015 North Fourteenth
Street, was broken. Entry was made and money taken, according to the officer.
LIFESTYLES
P.M. Patches and Pieces Quilt Guild members attended a potluck Christmas dinner recently at the home of Barbara Kegler, 1409 Academy Road. Nancy Bright was co-hostess and made fabric candles as favors for those attending.
The donation quilt was awarded to Velva Hoyt of Longton, Kan., a former Ponca Citian and Pioneer Area quilter. Anyone interested in learning about quilts and how to make them is invited to attend the guild meetings at 7 p.m. the fourth Monday of each month at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 2800 Turner Road.
The Oklahoma Easter Seal Society and participating Burger King restaurants, statewide, are presenting the fourth annual "Give A Heart That Helps" Valentine coupon book beginning Jan. 14 and ending Feb. 14. In addition to Burger King, major sponsors include Dr. Pepper and KJRH-TV 2 in Tulsa.
Each coupon book offers 10 free small fries for a dollar donation to Easter Seals. It is intended that these coupons be used as valentines promoting "Giving a Heart That Helps" for Oklahoma children. The coupons are good through May 15.
The money raised through this promotion will enable Oklahoma Easter Seals to provide free vision, hearing and scoliosis screening in schools; provide direct services such as wheelchairs, walkers, eye glasses, and hearing aids; and help maximize the independence of disabled children throughout Oklahoma.
Guest speaker for the 12 noon Thursday meeting of Professionals Today will be member Carmaleta Wesbrook, executive director of Peachtree Landing.
Various committees made reports during the business meeting on Jan. 2, presided over by president Phyllis Worley.
Moments given by Bobbie Smith was entitled "Just For Today." Participating in Roses and Raspberries were Gael Hancock and Loretta Leathers.
The secretary's report was by Melody Lahann and Mary Mitchell gave the treasurer's report. Debbie Whitener gave the executive committee report. Lynda Fox reported on the membership directory being assembled.
Worley, in the absence of Carol Ann Blackwill, told about the Christmas party at Amanda Howard's and Worley hosted a New Year's open house for the club. It was noted that member Karen Smith has married and is now Karen Hunter.
The club voted to make a nomination for the Chamber of Commerce's Outstanding Citizen Award.
Professionals Today is a women's service organization and meets at the Crown and Rose English Pub on the first and third Thursdays of the month. The club is not affiliated with any national group and spends money from dues and fund raisers such as the Cherokee Strip Cook-off.
Kevin and Misty Frame, Route 2, Box 1642, Ponca City, announce the birth of a son Jan. 2. The 6-pound 12-ounce baby was 20 and 1/2-inches long and has been named Conner Dean Frame. Grandparents are Jack and Joyce Frame and Gary and Anna Beard, all of Ponca City. The baby has a sister, Lauren Elaine Frame.
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Mr. and Mrs. Mike Ratliff of Great Bend, Kan. announce the birth of a son, Jaysen Michael, Dec. 20 at 7:25 p.m. in the Central Kansas Medical Center in Great Bend. He weighed 7-pounds, 9-ounces and was 20 inches long. He is welcomed home by a brother, Jaycob Colby.
Grandparents are Mr. and Mrs. Otis Brown and Mr. and Mrs. Vern Hoyer, all of Ponca City, and Mr. and Mrs. Mickey Ratliff of Red Rock.
Great-grandparents are Mrs. Pauline Love and Mr. and Mrs. Jim Tewell, all of Ponca City, and Mrs. Elsie Hoyer of Diamond, Mo.
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Larry and Montine Johnson of Plano, Tex. announce the birth of a son, Travis Alan Johnson. He was born at 2:13 p.m. Jan. 11 in the Columbia Hospital in Plano. He weighed 6-pounds, 15-ounces and was 20 and 1/4-inches long.
Maternal grandparents are Shirley and Paul Lelko of Plano. Paternal grandparents
are Delbert and Byrdie Johnson, 209 North Birch. Paternal great-grandmother
is Aline Weins of North Newton, Kan. Foster great-grandmother is Olive Beamgard
of Newton.
SPORTS
By DAVID BROWN
News Associate Sports Editor
In a tightly contested Frontier Conference battle between Ponca City and Sand Springs in Robson Fieldhouse Tuesday night, the Po-Hi Wildcats scored the final three points to pull out a 34-32 win.
Ponca City entered the fourth quarter trailing by a point, 23-22, but senior guard Andy Parsons scored inside a minute into the period to give the Cats a lead they would hold for four and a half minutes.
After a pair of Sand Springs misses from the free throw line, sophomore guard Kris Shores drove inside the paint and lofted in a nice little jump shot to put the Cats up 26-23.
That shot, which came at the 5:37 mark, seemed to pick up the pace of the scoring. Sand Springs came right back behind its own sophomore guard, Keith Hooks. Hooks hit a jumper to cut the lead to one and then Ponca City's Wesley Swygert answered inside off a nice feed from Shores.
Sandite forward Cortez Burdine scored down low on the other end 12 seconds later and Sand Springs was still within one, 28-27, with 4:12 to play.
Parsons and Hooks then traded treys before two foul shots by Hooks gave Sand Springs it's last lead of the night, 32-31, with 2:35 remaining.
Ponca City worked a minute off the clock after both teams spent timeouts. Parsons drove inside the paint and came up short on a difficult shot. But junior post Ryan Treadway was there to nab the miss and his follow-shot with 1:33 left gave Po-Hi a 33-32 advantage.
Burdine's baseline jumper over tough defense was off target with 56 seconds left and Ponca City worked the ball until junior guard Ryan Meyer was fouled with 27 seconds remaining.
Meyer, who opened the game with 7 quick points, got his eighth when his first free throw ripped the chords. His second was off target, however, and Sand Springs took control on an alternating possession after the 5-10 Shores tied up the 6-6 Burdine high above the floor.
Ponca City's defense was superb. Unable to penetrate inside for a tying basket, the Sandites were forced to take a three and Lamar Crawford's shot bounded off the rim and the buzzer sounded while players from both squads scrambled for the loose ball.
"This was a big win for us," said an elated Ken Chronister, head coach of the Wildcats. "This is our second conference win and we've won four out of five overall now. The kids are playing hard and doing everything we ask them to do. They are giving us a chance at the end of ball games to win."
Ponca City jumped out to an 11-9 first quarter lead mainly on the 3-for-4 shooting of Meyer, who came in averaging less than 3 points per game but had 7 after the first eight minutes.
"Ryan Meyer hit some big shots early," commented Chronister. "It's important to get off to a good start and Ryan did that for us tonight."
After Burdine opened the scoring on a fast-break dunk 57 seconds into the contest, Meyer knocked down a jump shot and then hit a trey. Swygert scored Po-Hi's next two buckets for a 9-6 lead and then Meyer ended the quarter with a nice jumper at the six-second mark.
Sand Springs scored the first five points of the second period to take its biggest lead of the game at 14-11 and matched that later in the quarter at 16-13.
Ponca City came back with a flurry of points, however, as Jason Shelton made his second layup of the period, Parsons made a layup and Treadway scored inside to put the Cats up 19-16 at the half.
Shelton's play proved pivotal as he had to play in the stead of injured senior Sawyer Blackburn, who reinjured a knee prior to the game when he slipped in the arena.
"Jason Shelton played a position he hasn't played all year because of Sawyer being out," Chronister said. "And he did a good job."
Coach Chronister did not know the extent of the injury but there is a concern that Blackburn could be lost for the remainder of the season.
The third quarter was a low scoring one as the Poncans could manage only three points. Swygert scored early for the Cats to give Po-Hi a 21-16 lead and Parsons hit one of two free throws at the 1:58 mark for a 22-18 lead.
Burdine got hot for Sand Springs in the last 39 seconds as he scored five points. His first basket came on an improbable tip and his second was on a follow shot. He was fouled on that play and made the free throw with eight seconds left to put the Sandites up 23-22.
For the game, Ponca City was 15 of 35 from the field (42.9 percent), 2 of 6 from the line (33.3) and committed 14 turnovers.
Sand Springs was 13-for-34 from the field (38.2), 3 of 5 from the line (60.0) and turned the ball over 15 times.
Meyer, Parsons and Swygert all scored 8 points to lead the balanced Poncans. Shelton and Treadway each had 4 points and Shores added 2.
Sand Springs (1-8, 0-6) was topped by Burdine with 11 points. Hooks, the last player off the bench, added 7 points. Crawford had 5, Michael Locklear 4, Nichols 3 and Mark Mallory 2 points.
Ponca City (4-5, 2-4) travels to Bartlesville Friday for another Frontier Conference matchup. The boys will tip off first at 6:15.
By FRED HILTON
News Sports Editor
BARTLESVILLE - It's hard to get excited by a wrestling match when you're leading 44-15 against a team you're beating easily.
But Ponca City's Wildcat wrestlers were on the edge of their chairs throughout the 215-pound match Tuesday night and leaped to their feet when their teammate won 6-1.
It was Nick Steichen's second win of the season but it could have been a tournament championship by the wide smile on his face.
The Wildcats beat up on Bartlesville 53-15 to run their dual record to 5-1. But the match coach Pat Young wanted to talk about was Steichen's.
"It was a great match," the coach enthused. "It's great for Nick. He's stuck it out all of this time, I'm happy for him."
Steichen hadn't wrestled in a couple of years before coming out this year at the request of Young to help fill a void in the heavier weights,
Steichen lost seven straight matches, mostly by falls, as he struggled to relearn moves and defenses long forgotten. There were long hours in the wrestling room trying to build the confidence that didn't really show up on the mat before a crowd.
He finally broke into the win column against Shawnee's Brandon Smith just before the holidays. But Smith was an out-of-shape foe thrown into a dual that was lost before either team took to the mat.
With the new semester came three more losses, but
Steichen was learning and the confidence was coming.
That confidence was evident as he went against Bartlesville's Gregg Mueggenbord Thursday night.
Steichen showed good form as he gained a takedown in each period to beat the more experienced Bruin.
That made the trip worthwhile as the Cats braved slippery roads and sleet for the tuneup for this weekend's battles in the Sand Springs Tournament.
The dual was started early because of the weather and the Poncans went to work quickly. Phillip Gelino got a forfeit at 103 pounds and Josh Bailey won a 14-1 major decision at 112.
Bartlesville closed the gap to 10-3 with a decision at 119, but that was as close as the Bruins would come.
Matt Dodgen (130), Stockton Graves (171) and heavyweight Cory Burkett got falls for the Poncans. Jay Bentley also got a major decision, 15-6, at 189 pounds. The Poncans won five simple decisions.
There was a double forfeit at 140 pounds as Bartlesville's Justin Keller failed to make weight and Ponca City's Jacob Beck missed the bus.
"He was going to a doctor to have an injury checked," Young said of Beck. "But I haven't heard from him. He just wasn't there when the bus left."
Although the final score was lopsided, there were some close individual matches.
At 125 pounds, Mark Dodgen met Bartlesville ace Ben Newby, scoring three takedowns and a reverse on his way to a 12-7 decision.
Doug Scott built an early 5-0 lead at 135 pounds and held off Chris Brandon, 5-2.
Darren Smith made his first appearance since getting injured against Broken Arrow in the third dual of the season. He had little trouble with Bruin Jeremy Cowan, winning 7-1 at 145 pounds.
Marciano Villarruel used a second period reverse and a late escape to hold off 160-pounder Mike Grayson, 5-4.
The Wildcats face six top 10 teams in the 12-team Sand Springs Invitational this weekend.
The field includes 5A's No. 3 Broken Arrow, No. 6 Sapulpa and No. 8 Sand Springs, 3A's No. 1 and 2, Sallisaw and Bristow, along with 2A's No. 2 Sperry.
Ponca City 53, Bartlesville 15
102 - Gelino (PC) fft.
112 - Bailey (PC) md. Welch, 14-1
119 - Reinke (B) d. Ivie, 8-4
125 - Dodgen (PC) d. Newby, 12-7
130 - Dodgen (PC) p. Collinms, 4:14
135 - Scott (PC) d. Brandon, 5-2
140 - double forfeit
145 - Smith (PC) d. Cowan, 7-1
152 - Agnew (B) p. Redleaf, 5:39.
160 - Villarruel (PC) d. Grayson, 5-4
171 - Graves (PC) p. Boyle, 1:14
189 - Bentley (PC) md. Taylor, 15-6
215 - Steichen (PC) d. Mueggenbord, 6-1
Hwt - Burkett (PC) p. Barney, 1:09
By DAVID BROWN
News Associate Sports Editor
Ponca City's Lady Wildcats withstood a 10-0 late first quarter run by Sand Springs and came back to defeat the Sandites 49-46 in a thrilling Frontier Conference game at Robson Fieldhouse Tuesday night.
Desiree Cries For Ribs, a sophomore guard, turned into the hero as she scored six fourth quarter points, including the clinching layup with 8 seconds left that followed her mid-court steal.
After jumping out to an 8-3 lead over the Sandites, Sand Springs scored the final 10 points of the first period to lead 13-8 after one.
But the Poncans came back despite having leading scorer Lyndsey Warrior on the bench most of the quarter (and half) due to foul trouble.
Sand Springs' lead grew to seven points at 18-11 before Warrior started the comeback with an inside bucket at the 4:35 mark. Warrior then made one of two free throws 15 seconds later before drawing her third foul with 4:12 showing and taking a seat on the bench again.
Junior guard Natasha Anderson kept the pressure on with a trey and then the Lady Cats closed out the period on a 7-2 run to tie the game at 24-all.
"That big surge right before the half to get even was real big for us," said head coach Larry Rehl. "This was a game we needed real bad and the girls went out and got it."
Indeed they did.
Tiffani Essary and Cries For Ribs both had 5 points in the third quarter and Cries For Ribs' trey with one second left allowed the Poncans to take a 36-35 lead into the fourth quarter.
After Sand Springs went back on top with a pair of free throws, Essary, Anderson and Cries For Ribs strung together three baskets and the Cats held a 42-37 advantage with 6:12 left and they never relinquished the lead.
Sand Springs pulled within a point at 42-41, 45-44 and 47-46 but Cries For Ribs came up with a couple of big baskets and a steal at the end to win it for the Poncans.
After a three-pointer by the Sandites' Jackie Crayhan with 2:52 left narrowed Po-Hi's lead to 45-44, Cries For Ribs answered with a tough leaning jumper 25 seconds later.
Larhonda Gilyard came back with two more free throws for the Sandites with 2:13 left to close the gap to one point again. Gilyard had a chance to give Sand Springs the lead 45 seconds later but missed the front end of the one and one and Ponca City called time with 1:30 left on the clock.
The Lady Cats were able to run a lot of the time off that clock but turned the ball over with 19 seconds remaining. Cries For Ribs saved the day, though. She flew in to intercept a pass near mid court and raced in for an uncontested layup with eight seconds left to put the Cats up 49-46.
The Lady Sandites got off one trey for the tie but it missed its mark and the Lady Cats had the hard fought victory, its fourth in five games.
Cries For Ribs scored a season high 13 points and has 25 points in her last two games. Warrior had 8 points despite the foul problems and a badly sprained ankle, Essary came off the bench to net 9 points, Anderson had 7, Tee West 5 and Keesha West 5.
Kori (Rush) Williams topped the Sandites with 16 points. Crayhan and Maggie Hall added 8 points apiece, Gilyard had 6, Sarah Painter 4, Candace Daniels 2 and Jessie Raglin 2 points.
Ponca City ended up 18 of 47 from the field (38.3 percent), 11 of 16 from the line (68.8) and had 17 turnovers.
Sand Springs was 15 of 35 from the field (42.9), 15 of 21 from the line (71.4) and committed 21 turnovers.
"I really have to give credit to all our kids for this win. We didn't have Lyndsey for most of the game because of foul trouble but the kids stepped up and took up the slack tonight. It was just a great team effort."
Ponca City is now 4-5 on the season overall and 2-4 in the Frontier Conference. Sand Springs slipped to 3-6 and 1-5.
The Lady Cats will have another tough Frontier Conference game Friday night in Stillwater against the Lady Bruins. The boys take the court first at 6:15 and the girls' game follows at approximately 7:45.
The third annual celebrity basketball game hosted by the First Lutheran School in Ponca City will be held Monday night at the Lutheran School gymnasium on Fourth Street.
The game, which raises money for the First Lutheran School athletic program, features Lutheran School coaches against the WBBZ Wizards.
The Wizards are made up of WBBZ Radio air personalities as well as other media representatives and selected Ponca City High School coaches.
Admission to the 7 p.m. game is $2 per adult, $1 per child or $5 per family.
Many door prizes will be given away during the game and there will also be a half-court shot for a major prize.
Ponca City's JV girls held off a fourth quarter comeback by Sand Springs to defeat the Lady Sandite JVs 37-32 here Tuesday night. In boys' action, Sand Springs defeated Ponca City 34-26.
Gina Hile and Julie Schiltz led the Lady Cats in scoring with 11 and 8 points, respectively. Shari Winters and Leslie Schieber each scored 6 points, Abby Frick added 3, Erin Slater 2 and Tia Williams had 1 points.
Ponca City (2-4) led 10-1 at the end of the first quarter and 18-4 at the half. Sand Springs was able to only cut into that 14 points lead by one after three quarters but outscored the Poncans 20-12 in the fourth to get close.
"They hit a couple of late threes that they just threw up to make the score closer than it should have been," said coach Mark Huster. "I was proud of the fact we made 8 of 12 free throws in the fourth quarter. That was big for us. Gina and Julie really played well, too."
In the boys' game, Ponca City controlled the first half, leading 8-2 after one and 13-8 at the half. But Sand Springs jumped into the lead with a 12-4 advantage in the third quarter and added 12 more points in the fourth to pull away for the eight point win.
Kris Shores topped the Po-Hi JVs with 8 points and Brad Brewer had 7. Also scoring for the Poncans were Mat Stewart with 3 and four others with 2 points each - Tom Engle, Nathan Zimmerman, Scott Larrison and Scott Crabtree.
The JVs next travel to Bartlesville Friday.
Frontier continued to win big, pasting Coyle 91-71 Tuesday night at Coyle to run its record to 11-2 on the season.
The Frontier girls followed suit with a 65-31 win.
The Mustangs had five players in double figures led by Josh Regnier and Mitch Shiever with 20 and 19 points. Dee Buxton had 17 while Nolan Grant and Charles Sanders each had 10.
R.J. Plumley and Zac Clouse each had 5 points, John Burk 3 and Ronnie Bible 2.
Frontier banged in six 3-pointers with Shiever hitting two. Shiever also grabbed off 10 rebounds while Grant had seven.
The Lady Mustangs vaulted to a 28-12 halftime lead and were in front 53-14 to start the final stanza.
Elizabeth Sober and Mindy Williams had 20 and 19 points, respectively. Stephanie Romero had 8 points, Carolee Bible, Kayley Dunham and Sara Jake 4 each while April Vap and Jennifer Miller each had 2.
Frontier is scheduled to play at Morrison Friday and entertain Mulhall-Orlando Saturday.
Ponca City's eighth grade Blue girls' basketball team took command of the Northern Conference race with a 30-12 win over Stillwater here Thursday night.
The 9-1 Lady Cougars are now 5-0 in conference play with four league games left.
The Blues struck early, putting Stillwater in an 18-8 halftime hole and never looked back.
"Overall this was the girls' best game of the season," coach John Maddox said. "If I had to pick out one thing it would be our defense. The girls really shut 'em down."
The Blue Lady Cougars also got good balance on the offensive end. Emily Kuchta had 8 points, Jessica Plagman, Candace Benson and Tana Cries For Ribs each had 6 while Aubrey Kelly had 4 points.
The Blue B team did not fair as well, falling 21-15 to Stillwater. Sheka Davis had 9 points and Tyler Champlain had 6.
The Blue girls step out of conference play to host Blackwell next Monday.
Youth ages 7-10 and 11-14 will have an opportunity to test their casting, pitching and flipping skills at the educational, fun and challenging Bassmaster CastingKids Competition Jan. 25 from 1 to 3 p.m. at Wal-Mart. The contest is free
Sponsored by the Ponca City Bassmasters, the kids will be judged on their basic casting, pitching and flipping skills. Those who make the national finals will compete against kids in their own age group for $20,000 in scholarships and prizes. Each competitor will receive a free Bassmaster CastingKids Certificate of Competition and a copy of the program's official publication, Bassmaster CastingKids Magazine. Winners at the local level also receive a medallion and a Zebco rod and reel.
The contest, presented on a national level by the Bass Anglers Sportsman Society and Zebco, is based on the old football Punt, Pass & Kick competition. The contest begins on the local level where each entrant will be judged on casting, pitching and flipping in official lanes, aiming at the standard target to ensure competition uniformity. Scoring will be based on a point system with the highest points determining the winner in each of the two age groups. From there, the winners from each local competition will advance to their respective state competitions and then on to a national competition, where only 10 national semifinalists will earn the right to attend the BASS Masters Classic in August and compete for the two titles of National Bassmaster CastingKids Champion.
In addition to the $20,000 in scholarships for the top anglers, $5,000 in prizes will be awarded to BASS. Chapters and State Federations sponsoring the winners.
"The Bassmaster CastingKids program is a wonderful event that has many benefits," said Ponca City Bassmasters Chapter President Dwain Short.
"In addition to learning more about fishing, the contest will also foster in each participant an appreciation and concern for our great outdoors. Plus everyone is sure to have a lot of fun."
For more information, call 765-1431.
Winter is an excellent time to watch wildlife in Oklahoma. With the leaves off the trees, birds and mammals are easier to see.
"If you like to watch wildlife, you might want to plan a trip to one of the area lakes, state parks or public hunting areas around north Oklahoma," said Colin Berg northwest region information education specialist for the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation.If you have never seen a bald eagle, this is the time of year to see them in Oklahoma. Generally, Kaw Lake, the Arkansas River, the Great Salt Plains, Ft. Supply and Canton Lakes all have wintering bald eagles.
State Fall Hunting Seasons Mixed
Alan Peoples, assistant game chief for the Oklahoma Wildlife Department, appraised the state's fall hunting seasons at the Wildlife Commission's monthly meeting, giving only watertfowl hunting a passing grade.
Peoples said preliminary harvest figures from the close of the deer gun season show that this year's harvest was down four percent from the same time last year. More than 58,000 deer had been harvested through gun season, down from 61,000 in 1995.
Peoples said that even though the harvest was off slightly, 1996 will be the second highest harvest total ever. He added that the harvest figures indicate moving antlerless hunting opportunities to the beginning of the season appeared to accomplish the goal of decreasing the number of young bucks harvested while increasing the number of does taken.
Although quail hunting success in the southeast and northeast has been slow, on a statewide basis hunters have seen significantly better hunting this year as compared to last year. Peoples said there was a significant late hatch due to spring drought conditions, and it appears that many of those late hatched birds survived into the fall and winter.
Adequate rainfall, abundant crops and mild weather have combined to produce the best waterfowl hunting conditions that Sooner State hunters have seen in many years. This year's fall flight was the largest in 20 years, and hunter success was high. Those hunting some of the state's larger reservoirs, however, did not see the number of birds they expected, probably due to mild weather conditions which allowed birds to use ponds and other small water bodies.
Gene Gilliland, fisheries biologist stationed at the Department's Fisheries Research Lab in Norman, presented a report on the Department's efforts to collect fishing data from bass tournaments held throughout the state. Biologists compiled information from 900 tournaments held in 1996 in an 11-page report.
In addition to helping Department personnel make better informed management decisions, it also can be used by anglers to help plan their fishing outings. Ordering information can be obtained by calling the Fisheries Research Lab at (405) 325-7288.
The Commission tabled a Department request to grant approval to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to purchase 2,971 acres of Department-owned land in McCurtain County to be added to the Fish and Wildlife Service's Little River National Wildlife Refuge. The USFWS only wanted to buy 170 acres of land at this time, but the Commission instructed Game Chief Richard Hatcher to get written assurances concerning hunting and fishing access on the Refuge before providing the Service with permission to purchase the land.
In other action, the Commission voted to approve a new regulation allowing the Department to authorize special nuisance wildlife control permits relating to coyote harvest. The regulation allows the Department to issue permits that allow landowners to use non-lethal snares to catch coyotes. A provision allowing the Department to issue a nuisance control permit which would allow landowners to shoot coyotes, bobcats and foxes at night was tabled, pending further examination of the statutes and rules relating to the subject.
In his monthly report, Director Duffy told the Commission that the Department sent letters to Oklahoma's congressional delegation asking for increased hunting access at the Deep Fork National Wildlife Refuge. The Department has not yet received any responses to the letters. Duffy reported that the state's next legislative session is about to begin, with Rep. Joe Hutchison of Jay chairing the House Wildlife Committee and Sen. Frank Shurden leading the Senate Wildlife Committee. Finally, Duffy said there was a slight rise in license certifications for this year's federal aid reporting.
Also at the January Commission meeting, Gary Krug, a long-time hunter education volunteer instructor, was recognized for his $2,500 donation to the hunter education program. And in personnel items, Sam Cottrell, Bryan County game warden, was recognized for his 30 years of service with the Department.
In personnel items, Dennis Maxwell was recognized as the new assistant chief of law enforcement. Joe Coker, the previous assistant chief, recently became the Department's law enforcement training coordinator. It also was announced that Andrea LaPierre was selected for the position of responsive management specialist with the Department.
A special Commission meeting was held at Department headquarters in Oklahoma City to discuss the long range planning process that the Department is now beginning. At the special meeting, Commission members adopted two motions, one to form a committee to examine the Department's lifetime license program and one to have the Department provide a recommendation on disposing of small tracts of land which do not assist the Department in furthering its mission.
Next month's regular Commission meeting is scheduled for February 3 at 9:30, in Oklahoma City.