From The Pages Of The Ponca City News, Sunday, February
9, 1996
LOCAL
Keating Feels Attitude Of Legislature Changed
Keating Shares 'Slice of Life' During Area Chamber Banquet
School Election Tuesday
Inaugural Community Service Award Goes to Sue Boettcher
Nearly News
'Sailing Toward Excellence' Will be Ongoing Journey
Danny Head 'Outstanding Citizen'
Evans and Associates Named Large Industry
Oklahoma Casting Firm Honored as Small Industry
School Lunch & Calendar
School Calendars
Girl Scout Cookie Sales Last Until March 2
'Awareness' Main Objective For PCT Mutual Respect Panel
Burbank Man Hurt In Crash of Pickup
City Calendar
Oil Painting Workshop Set For Ponca City Art Center
Overdue Fines Being Collected
Area Legislators Have Mixed Reactions to Road Plans
Poncan Theatre Awards On Tap Thursday Night
County Agenda Includes Road Naming Situation
OASIS Program Set For Board Discussion
Unique Service for Area Listeners
Child Passenger Safety Week Campaign Begins
Rural Development Accepting Preservation Grant Applications
Public Hearing of City Budget On Tap for Commission Monday
Pollutant Report On City Agenda
Singing Churchmen Here Tuesday
Farm Service Agency Hosting Open House
Conoco Lends Hand in Helping PCFD Learn Use of New Helmet
Half-Cent Sales Tax Puts Funds Into Job Development Chances
Special Olympics Practice Beginning
Voters Must Apply Soon For Ballots
Police Officers Get Hurt Most During Domestic Violence Calls
Area Chapter of Quail Unlimited Set for Annual Dinner
DEATHS
Johnnie Ray McCauley
Obituaries
Nancy Kay Blair
Emmett J. Robbins
Services Pending
Pearl Cries For Ribs
NEWS BRIEFS
LIFESTYLES
Club To Hear Book Review
Youth Services Director Speaker For Presbyterians
Ponca City Woman Creates Colorful Catalog Of Jewelry
Oklahombres Editor Guest Speaker Here
Mother's Club Gives Money For Children
Laura Fisher, Craig Clark Wed in Arizona Ceremony
Pioneer Area Quilter's Guild Meets
Pair Observes Anniversary
Big Band Sound At 1947 Reunion
McCord Group Names Officers
Professionals Today List Projects
Wheatheart Nutrition Menu
Scotts Married For 60 Years
Lifeline Topic For Program
TOPS Club Meeting
Couple Wed At First Baptist Church Reside in Edmond
Lutherans Plan Salad Luncheon
Jackie Wolfkill Engaged
Chapter Hears Music Program
Mrs. Cooper To Observe 99th Birthday
Singles Network Lists Schedule For This Week
FCE Members Hear Home Tips
Ponca City Happenings
SPORTS
Lady Cats Surprise No. 7 Ranked Union
UT Feels At Home With G-I
Injuries Continue To Haunt Wildcats
Pokes Frustrate Beavers
PC Girls Make Big Turnaround
By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE
News Staff Writer
Gov. Frank Keating said he has not changed when asked by The News if he was a "kinder and gentler Frank Keating," as he had been described by an Oklahoma City radio commentator after the state of the state speech.
Keating said he felt that the attitude of the Legislature had changed since he had been elected. He said that the Democrats are now moving to adopt some of the Republican ideas and that he didn't care who took the credit.
Keating noted that in 1995 the Legislature did some watered down tort reform and some welfare reform. He noted 1996 was a good year when a number of things were accomplished.
He credited the fact that the Democrats are beginning to adopt the Republican version of business.
Asked if the Fallin Commission on Workers Compensation is "dead in the water," as Loyd Benson, Speaker of the House is reported to have said, Keating said he feels this just means that the Democrats want to take credit for reform and will come up with their own version.
Several Issues At Task
Keating's main points this year in his state of the state speech were workers comp reform; quality growth in education including stronger tougher curriculums, and an incentive program for teachers and mandated raises for career teachers.
He is also proposing tax cuts for business and industry totaling some $71 million. Keating is for repealing the corporate franchise tax, which takes $38 million from growing businesses and prevents them from hiring new workers.
Another priority is passing the truth-in-sentencing, which is another anti-crime measure. He said his budget for the state will request $46 million in additional funding for the Department of Corrections.
Keating is proposing an additional $56 million in highway funding this year to begin underwriting a $750 million highway bond program.
At this point Keating said that Ponca City should have a four lane road to the Cimarron Turnpike and that whole stretch of road should be completed instead of five or six miles here and there.
By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE
News Business Editor
Gov. Frank Keating shared "a slice of his life" Friday evening with the Ponca City Area Chamber of Commerce banquet audience. Keating chatted with Rep. Jim Newport in an informal setting and shared experiences about his life and the governorship. This proved to be a popular format and the audience appeared to enjoy the humor.
Master of ceremonies Jim Newport kept the evening moving along and decided not to give the "gold plated" introduction of Keating that was printed in the program, but to dedicate the time to the governor's portion of the program.
Keating entertained the audience at Hutchins Memorial as he related humorous stories about his public life and shared experiences about his family.
The state's chief executive officer told that he and his son Chip enjoy hunting and golfing together. He said the family is a close knit one and Sunday is family day and they attend church and then do other activities. The first Lady of Oklahoma Cathy Keating was in Hollywood with Lt. Gov. Mary Fallin, where they were hoping to attract another major motion picture to Oklahoma.
Keating revealed that one of the most embarrassing things that happened to him was in Ponca City, where the first fund raiser was held for him. He said he drove in and a lady met him at the door. He told her he was Frank Keating and she asked "Are you the caterer?"
Keating also talked about the response Ponca Citians had made in the "redo" of the Governor's Mansion. He told that is a trust and the trustees and friends of the mansion are comprised of Molly Boren, Donna Nigh, Ann Bartlett and Shirley Bellmon. All of the items in the governor's mansion have been inventoried and cataloged. He invited the public to visit the governor's mansion.
After it was announced that Danny Head, owner of Head Country Bar-B-Q was the "Outstanding Citizen," Keating told of the great job Head and others had accomplished feeding the rescue workers during the bombing crisis.
He mentioned that Ponca City had been important to him during the campaign and since he has been governor. One of the inaugural balls was held in the Marland Mansion. Keating also mentioned the Standing Bear Memorial and its importance.
Special Presentation
During the evening Genevieve Pollak of the Ponca Tribe presented Keating one of the 32-inch bronze replicas of the Standing Bear Statue for the permanent art collection for the Governor's Mansion. Pollak made the presentation on behalf of the Ponca City Native American Foundation and the 40 Native American Tribes of Oklahoma and the Ponca City Community.
Oklahoma Casting, recipient of the Small Industry Appreciation Award, presented a casting of the Pioneer Woman Statue to Keating.
Larry Felix, incoming chairman, and Tim Burg, outgoing chairman, presented gifts including an entree of the month from Thorn Apple Valley.
Burg presented the governor with a model airplane saying he "could use it anyway he wants." The governor had been in a flap with the Democrats about using state plane to campaign for Republicans.
Special guests were members of the City Commission, Rep. Jim Reese, and those representing Sen. Don Nickles. Congressman Istook and Sen. Paul Muegge, Conoco delegation from Houston and representatives from area chambers of commerce, Kaw City, Arkansas City, Newkirk, Tonkawa, Shidler and Blackwell.
The evening was a classic beginning with dinner music by the Davanzatti Duo comprised of Mary Lindsay and Carolyn Hook. The footlight area was decorated to resemble piano keys and the stage setting was banked with red roses and the tables were decorated with red and white roses. Guests dined on steak and cheese cake, served by Pioneer Technology Food Services Class, at their rose marked place markers.
Ushers were members of the Presidents Club and Ambassadors Club. The invocation was by the Rev. Kent Dorsey and sound was by Greg Brown.
By KRISTI GRABEAL
News Education Editor
Tuesday, residents of Kay County will once again go to the polls. This time, however, residents will not only decide who will be elected to their local school boards but they will decide the fate of local schools.
In Ponca City, residents will vote for Stephen Stalcup or David Kinkaid for Office 6 of the board of education. Citizens will also vote on three separate levies. The first one will be a General Fund Operational Levy of 10 mills, a 5 mill Emergency Levy and a 5 mill Building Fund Levy. These three will begin July 1 and end on June 30, 1998.
Blackwell residents will be voting for either Greg Martin or Kathleen Brown for Office 2. Residents will also be voting on three separate levies. The first one will be a 5.16 mill Emergency Levy, a 10.31 Local Support Levy and a 5.16 Building Fund Levy.
Citizens of Newkirk will only be voting on three levies. The first one will be a 5.454 mill Emergency Levy. The second levy is a 10.9065 mill Local Support Levy and finally a 5.19 Building Fund Levy.
Billings residents will vote for Tim Heinrich, Gary Unruh or Richard Lee for Office 2 of the board of education. Billings will also vote on three levies which include: a 5 mill Emergency Levy, a 10 mill Local Support Levy and a 5 mill Building Fund Levy.
Tonkawa citizens will vote for three levies as well. Levies include: a 5.37 mill Emergency Levy, a 10.74 mill Local Support Levy and a 5.16 Building Fund Levy. Residents will also vote for Mary Perks or Robert London for Office 4.
Frontier residents will vote for either Tom Hawkins or Richard Oltmann for Office 2 and Alice Kelly, Deborah Jake or Rexford Tautfest for Office 3 of the board of education. Levies to be voted on include a 5 mill Emergency Levy, a 10 mill Local Support Levy and a 5 mill building Fund Levy.
Braman Public School residents will vote for Dean Meador or Julie Ray for Office 5, a 5 mill Emergency levy, a 10 mill Local Support Levy and a 5 mill Building Fund Levy.
Deer Creek-Lamont residents will only be voting for the levies. The first one is a 5 mill Emergency Levy, the second is a 10 mill Local Support Levy and finally a 5 mill Building Fund Levy. Kildare resident will also only vote on the mill levies. The first one is a 5 mill Emergency levy, the second a 10 mill Local Support Levy and last is a 5 mill Building Fund Levy.
Kaw City residents will vote for Stephen Treat or George Ehler for Office 2. Levies to be voted on in Kaw City include a 5 mill Emergency Levy, a 10 mill Local Support Levy and a 5 mill Building Fund Levy.
Shidler residents will only vote for the levies which are a 5 mill Emergency Levy, a 10 mill Local Support Levy and a 5 mill Building Fund Levy. Peckham residents will also only vote for the levies. Those include a 5 mill Emergency Levy, a 10 mill Local Support Levy and a 5 mill Building Fund Levy.
The inaugural Community Service award was presented to Sue Boettcher by Carl Renfro. He told about the Community Service Award was created this past year to recognize an individual who had made a specific and significant contribution for the betterment of Ponca City during the past three years.
This award is given to recognize and honor those individuals who often work on specific projects in support roles or behind the scenes but have made significant contributions to the success of the project or organization.
A resounding standing ovation greeted Mrs. Boettcher, who in accepting the award, "Thank you so much. It is a real honor. Ponca City is my home and I love it here and I'll keep working." Boettcher was recognized for a number of attributes but mainly for her grant writing ability. Renfro said, "Our honoree has been one of the major reasons we had the financial resources to complete the building or renovation of many of our facilities that we all cherish.
"She was directly responsible for writing grants or securing major funding for the Poncan Theatre, Domestic Violence and Peachtree Landing."
As the first Community Service honoree Boettcher has been involved in many charitable and civic activities in Ponca City during the past the years. In fact, she has been involved in community work over the past 20 years.
She has been a tireless worker in the Opportunity Center and Tennis Classic, Peachtree Landing, Poncan Theatre, Domestic Violence, Ponca City Humane Society, Marland Estate Commission, Friendship Feast, The Mission and Angel Festival.
She had dedicated her time and expertise and commitment to youth. She served as a volunteer for St. Mary's School Foundation and PTA, Pepperette Advisor and Oklahoma State Board of Great Expectations.
Renfro said, "Our honoree has been a resident of Ponca City for 25 years and has made it her hometown because she loves it. She has been described by her close friends as 'totally committee' to the betterment of our city.
"She is extremely well organized, efficient and gets the job done in record time while making the entire experience enjoyable. No job is too insignificant or overwhelming.
"Our recipient was a volunteer this year for the Angel Festival. She took on the responsibility of turning off the lights at the Cultural Center every night. This was not just flipping one switch but meant climbing ladders and walking the grounds every evening after 10:30 p.m., regardless of the weather."
Andree Wolf Taylor, a resident of Huntsville, Ala. with Ponca City connections, is asking NN for information concerning descendants of James "Big Jim" O. Easterday, a resident of this area in the 1800s. Big Jim was married to Susanna Wolf and the couple had 10 children - among them daughters, Easterday born Feb. 6, 1871; Zoula K., born Jan. 9, 1894; and Pauline born May 5, 1896. If any of you Ponca City genealogists have any information that might interest Mrs. Taylor, please contact her at 1807 Rankin Place, NW in Huntsville, Ala. 35816-1443 or phone her at (205) 837-2457. She will be most grateful and so will NN.
By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE
News Business Editor
Larry Felix incoming Chamber chairman said, "The theme for the plan of work of the Chamber for 1997 is 'Sailing Toward Excellence.' Ponca City has many examples of excellence to be proud of, however, excellence is not a destination, it is an ongoing journey."
"The reason that it is ongoing is that the standards by which we measure excellence constantly changes. In addition, the environment is ever changing. Therefore, our approach to sailing toward excellence must also change. We must periodically correct our course and adjust our sails to head us toward our vision of Ponca City."
He continued, "Consistent with the vision developed by Ponca City citizens and coordinated by Ponca City Tomorrow, the Ponca City Area Chamber of Commerce has developed an aggressive plan of work designed to take the business community forward.
"Along with the many successful projects and programs that are ongoing, there are new areas of focus. Among these are programs that address improvement of work ethic, improvement of product and service quality, and development of a more regional focus. Emphasis will be on adding value. Adding value to having chamber membership and adding value to customers of chamber members. This plan of work happens at the hands of hundreds of volunteers that spend their time and energy to make Ponca City and business stronger."
The new chairman added., "There are many other local organizations that also work to make Ponca stronger. It is time to assess the opportunities to collaborate and cooperate between these organizations in the interest of stretching our resources for community good. While the missions of the organizations vary in specific focus, their general missions are the same, to make Ponca City go forward and prosper.
"Just as there is synergism in the collective crew of an America's up vessel, there must be synergism in Ponca City among the various organizations working for a better Ponca City."
Felix concluded with an appeal for "participation of all business through membership input, and volunteer work. With this, much can be accomplished. Again, I am, honored to be the 1997 chairman. I will work hard this year to do what I can to help the Chamber and the community sail toward excellence."
Felix, CEO of St. Joseph Regional Medical Center, in accepting the chairmanship of the Ponca City Area Chamber of Commerce, expressed appreciation to the Chamber Board and to his employer and specifically Garry England for allowing him the time away from his hospital duties to serve in this capacity. He also thanked his family for their support.
Outgoing Chairman
Retiring Chamber Chairman Tim Burg said, "It seems that every chamber chairman has their individual cross to bear and this year was no different.
However, regardless of the obstacles we faced, this year would have been a living nightmare had it not been for two individuals who have served the chamber above and beyond the call of duty. Lisa Coy and Laura Gray made this year bearable and are wonderful individuals to work with. Their dedication and service to the Chamber is a significant reason that we enjoy its continued success."
The Chamber has been without an executive for most of the year.
Burg also told that Connie McAbee, Scott Dean and Larry Felix and been a constant source of support.
He said, "When I referred to the strength of the chamber being in our volunteers, these are some of the individuals that I am referring to. We are very fortunate to have them serving in the Chamber and many other organizations within this community. To each one of you thank you from the bottom of my heart."
Chamber Should Look To New Horizons
Burg took a different tact than most outgoing chairmen saying, "In past years outgoing chairmen have told you of Chamber accomplishments or of visions reached. I will always believe that rather than spend time on reviewing goals achieved, we should spend more time on trying to reach new horizons.
"To put it in simplistic terms, some of this is year's goals were achieved and some were not. Some of the plans and hopes we had, were realized, and other visions will continue to be our focus for years to come. The work of the Chamber will never be done or completed."
He added, "On a not so serious note, I would like to share some of the Chamber of Commerce wisdom that I have gained these past few years.
"First of all the bullet proof vest that is issued to you, does not fit the proper part of your anatomy that will most severely be attacked.
"Secondly, the drawer full of snakes kept in the Chamber, is constantly replenished by unknown parties on an hourly basis. And it only takes one snake to multiply into hundreds.
"Third, if you lead with your chin someone always takes a shot and a line will form behind them very soon.
"And lastly, at times leading the Chamber is like herding cats."
Burg said, "Regardless of the task at hand, we had a vast network of individuals and companies, who are willing to step up and make a difference. On countless occasions I have been overwhelmed by the number of individuals and or businesses who have contributed to this community and our chamber.
"I couldn't possibly mention all of the individuals that have served with distinction, for it would take the entire evening. Likewise the list of companies that support our community range from some of the strongest like Conoco and St. Joseph, to some of our newest, such as Thorn Apple Valley or Sykes. They with a host of other businesses exemplify our community in two words, dedication and strength."
He continued, "Most of the time, it is rather humbling to be included among these companies and volunteers. Their dedication to our community is the true inspiration and motivation for our successes. As we should all realize, our citizens are our greatest resource. We must challenge ourselves to nurture and grow a bank account of future volunteers and citizens who will always work to improve our quality of life."
Burg expressed appreciation to his wife Linda, his business partner Terry Pollet, and business clients for bearing with him during this year.
Burg expressed appreciation to the chairmen and committees and the staff of the chamber. He said in closing, "In my heart I will continue to maintain my priorities as God, country, family and Ponca City, Okla."
Danny Head, owner of Head Country Bar-B-Q Manufacturing, was named "Outstanding Citizen" at the Chamber banquet.
In making the Citizen Award presentation Carl Renfro, last year's recipient said, "Just one word would give away who our honoree is. One word is on what this person built a company, enriched our community, inspired hundreds to follow his lead and helped Ponca City gain a unique, national reputation.
"So I'm going to carefully avoid using that 'one' word.
"Our nominee has been described by those closest to him as a hard working, simple man with a rigid code of honor who will deliver on what he promises.
"He was born in 1947 in a small town not far from Ponca City. During his high school summers, he ran the county's best hay hauling crew and prided himself on stacking hay so square and tight one rancher complained he had to cut the bales apart to get the hay out of the barn."
Renfro continued, "He graduated from high school in 1965, despite trying hard not to learn the English language that his mother taught for over 40 years.
"During his early youth, he developed a true entrepreneurial instinct. At one time, he was running several businesses which included providing his hometown water, gas, animal control service, car wash, building barns, selling cattle, running a tree spraying operation and acquiring and selling furs."
Renfro added, "Our honoree finally settled on getting into a family-owned manufacturing business. He purchased a secret recipe from his aunt and uncle and moved the business to Ponca City in 1980. That business has since expanded the facilities twice and now has over 20 employees. His plant ships to all 50 states, Canada and Great Britain. The company was named "Small Business of the Year" in 1991.
"Head County Bar-B-Q Sauce is now Oklahoma's No. 1 selling sauce and tonight Danny Head is our No. 1 Outstanding Citizen."
A standing ovation greeted Head as he approached the podium. In typical Head style, Danny scratched his head and said "I didn't know I did all that." Head had the quip of the evening when he turned to Gov. Keating and said, "When I grow up I want to be governor." At that point Keating came over and shook hands with him.
Accomplishments Were Many
Renfro told that Head had provided outstanding leadership and assistance to many organizations. He was instrumental in restructuring and saving the former Northern Oklahoma Alcohol Rehabilitation Center now called Bridgeway.
The old shelter building had been condemned. United Way had placed the program on a conditional funding basis and the doors were ready to be permanently closed.
Renfro said, "Danny marshaled forces and organized a new Board of Directors to tackle the enormous problems. He founded the annual Bridgeway Bar-B-Q dinner fund raiser and raised over $26,000. He spearheaded the effort to move the organization to its present location on Grand. Under his guidance Bridgeway is now recognized statewide as a premiere community treatment center for the substance abuser."
Head has developed a continuing partnership in sponsoring the Bob Barry Scout Fund Raiser. He has helped raised thousands of dollars for the Scouts as well as provided many hundred hours of dedicated service over the years.
He was a guiding force in establishing the successful Bar-B-Q cook-off for Professionals Today which benefits hospice. Today this event is recognized as the Oklahoma State Championship for Bar-B-Q.
Head has brought the Ponca City Rodeo national recognition through his work on The Foundation. Since his involvement the 101 Ranch Rodeo has been recognized twice by the Professional Rodeo Cowboy Association as the best rodeo of its size for the states of Oklahoma, Nebraska and Kansas.
Renfro said "Danny has also answered the call for help from such organizations as Domestic Violence, Peachtree Landing, Ponca City Welfare Association and Ponca Playhouse. Perhaps the single event that best describes the character of the man honored tonight is the event of that day in May 1995 following the April 19th bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Building in Oklahoma City.
On that day, Danny closed his business, gathered up food and equipment and with his wife Carey and some old friends took the great spirit of Ponca City to the Oklahoma City rescuers. His mission was to fed those men and women as a "thank you" for all of Oklahoma.
"Over 3,100 volunteers and victims' families were fed free. His leadership and generosity made the farewell to the rescue party a success and put smiles on the faces that hadn't been smiling before. Please join me in recognizing and honoring Danny Head as the Outstanding Citizen of the Year."
Evans and Associates Enterprises, Incorporated was named the recipient of the Industry Appreciation Award for a large industry at the Chamber banquet.
Leading up to the award, Pat Mulligan, chairman of the Economic Development Foundation, said, "This hall is filled tonight by a lot of optimists, but, the founders of the next firm we wish to recognize were so optimistic that the founding partnership was formed on April 15. This firm has literally paved the way for most all of us to come here this evening."
Accepting the award, Jerry Evans, owner, said he was tremendously proud. "The years in Ponca City have been a great joy to me and I would like to think that we have a corporate family that is very close." He then asked his family and members of the corporate family to stand and be recognized.
Mulligan told about the beginning of the company, "The company started modestly in 1960 with 10 employees and the assets purchased from a small asphalt company owned by W.L. Auterson and a small pipeline company owned by Jess Whitlow.
"The owners found themselves hauling sand and aggregates at night to meet the next day's production. Over the next 14 years Jerry Evans and Jim Throop diversified into other related businesses including sand production, highway construction, liquid asphalt refining, ready mix concrete and trucking."
He continued, "In December 1974, Evans purchased Throop's interest and has diversified further into ranching, oil and gas, and petroleum products distribution businesses. Continuous growth from acquisition and expansion has resulted in 22 companies located in 12 communities ranging from Wichita to Southwest Missouri, to Lawton and Altus. On Feb. 14, another acquisition, Bartlesville Redi-mix, will be completed."
Mulligan said, "Throughout all this growth, corporate headquarters have remained in Ponca City. An average of 250 are typically employed in total, and the annual payroll in Ponca City exceeds $4 million. Because of this firm, many of us here tonight have been the beneficiaries of spinoff jobs in the retail, service and supply segments of our economy over the last 37 years.
"From the first April 15, Evans and Associates Enterprises, Incorporated, has continued to be optimistic about Ponca City's future."
The Industry Appreciation Award for a small industry was presented to Oklahoma Casting President Doug MacDonnell.
Economic Development Chairman Pat Mulligan, who presented the industry appreciation awards, said "For many years, the Ponca City Economic Foundation and its predecessors, in conjunction with the Chamber of Commerce, have recognized our appreciation of basic industries in our community by selecting both a small and a large organization to receive the Industry Appreciation Awards.
"We do this because we all appreciate the fact that these companies are literally the 'heart' that pumps the economic lifeblood throughout our community. Basic economics tells us that the livelihood of our community is entirely dependent upon bringing money from outside our area in exchange for the goods and services produced by our citizens."
Small Industry Appreciation Award
The Small Industry Appreciation Award was presented to a relatively new company Oklahoma Casting Company, which manufactures decorative home accessories and gifts. The award was accepted by company president Doug MacDonnell.
MacDonnell expressed appreciation for the award and accepted it on behalf of his partners Ed Hollick and Gary Smith and acknowledge the wives of all the partners for "backing us up."
Mulligan said, "Ponca City truly appreciates Oklahoma Casting Company, and what you have done for our community and our economy. We recognize the owners who have made it possible, Ed Hollick and Doug MacDonnell, who are here tonight, and Gary Smith, who is on the road."
Mulligan in describing the company, said "This firm planted its roots in Kay County in 1991, beginning with two employees engaged in the importation business. In 1993, less than four short years ago, the company was incorporated and decided to begin manufacturing in Ponca City with four employees.
"In times when we read about jobs and payroll dollars being moved off-shore, these optimistic entrepreneurs decided that they could bring jobs and payroll to our community."
He added, "Now this firm is producing in its 12,000 square foot facility on North Ash Street. The firm currently employs 25 and expect sales in the coming year to top $2 million.
"Selling directly to top-end retailers and catalog firms all over the United States, the decorative home accessories and gifts that they produce are truly magnificent, quality works that capture all the fine details of the originals.
"Although the pictures in the catalogs are remarkably impressive, they cannot compare to the genuine beauty of the finished works. The firms products are on display in showrooms at major trade markets in North Carolina, Atlanta and Dallas."
Elementary Breakfast
Elementary Lunch
Middle School and Mid High
Breakfast
Middle School and Mid High
Available on Monday, Wednesday and Friday at the Middle School are Domino's, Taco Bell burritos and Hardees. On Tuesday and Thursday, the school offers Domino's and Taco Bell burritos. Available at the Mid-High on Monday, Wednesday and Friday are Domino's, Taco Bell burritos and Subway Sandwiches. On Tuesday and Thursday are Domino's, Taco Bell burritos and Hardees.
Lunch
High School Lunch
Available every day in the high school cafeteria, the Training Table Deli offers a Pasta Bar, Baked Potato Bar, lean items and fresh fruit. The Ala Carte Wildcat line offers Pizza Inn, Taco Bell burritos, Hardees and Subway.
All American
Training Table
McCord Breakfast
McCord Lunch
Pioneer Technology Center
The cafeteria at Pioneer Technology Center is open Tuesday through Thursday from 11:15 a.m. to noon. The cafeteria is also open to the public.
Po-Hi
February 10
February 11
February 12
February 13
February 14
February 15
It's time for communities within Bluestem Girl Scout Council to rope in their favorite flavors of cookies during the 1997 Annual Girl Scout Cookie Sale. Girls are set to blaze trails through their neighborhoods and communities through March 2.
The theme for this year's sale is "Blaze Your Own Trail." Through the Girl Scout program girls aged five to 17 are provided the opportunity to blaze trails by learning about career opportunities, new interests and making friends from all walks of life.
The Girl Scout Cookie Sale allows them to blaze their own trails as well, by setting both troop and individual goals. The sale also gives girls the chance to learn and sharpen their business techniques by making decisions, honing money management skills and communicating with the public.
ABC Cookie Company will again be supplying the cookies for the sale. Two new cookies are being introduced this year to take the place of the fat-free Cinnamon Oatmeal Raisin Bar and Strawberries in Creme. The two new flavors are Five Worlds Cinnamon with Sugar, which is a savory cinnamon cookie featuring Girl Scouting's five Worlds of Interest and the reduced fat Iced Ginger Daisies. The Daisies are ginger cookies, lightly spiced, then topped with a delicate sugar glaze.
The other cookies include: Lemon Pastry Cremes which have been reduced in fat, Thin Mints, Peanut Butter Patties, Peanut Butter Sandwich, Shortbread and Caramel deLites. The cookies will sell for $2.50 per box and some girls will be selling them direct, having the cookies in hand. Others will take orders and deliver the cookies later. Either way, individuals will be receiving the cookies in a prompt manner.
Bluestem Girl Scout Council would like to thank individuals throughout its jurisdiction for purchasing Girl Scout cookies, because the sale benefits the girls directly. Girl Scouts who sell cookies receive credit for their efforts and earn "cookie dough," which is a certificate they may use for registration fees, program events and uniform components throughout the year. They also earn other incentives and each girl receives 30 cents troop profit per box sold. The troop profit is used for special events and activities planned within the troop setting.
Bluestem Girl Scout Council encompasses 16 counties within Northeast Oklahoma and Southeast Kansas. They are: Craig, Kay, Noble, Nowata, Osage, Pawnee, Rogers and Washington in Oklahoma and Allen, Chautauqua, Elk, Labette, Montgomery, Neosho, Wilson and Woodson in Kansas. If you are not contacted by a Girl Scout please call your nearest Girl Scout office. Offices are located in Bartlesville, Ponca City and Vinita, Okla., and Neodesha, Kan. Bluestem Girl Scout Council is a United Way Agency.
By LAURA TREADWAY
News Staff Writer
Editor's note: This is the first in a series of articles relating to the nine vision goals of Ponca City Tomorrow. The visioning group hopes to obtain citizen's input in shaping the future of the city.
Ponca City citizens boast a culturally diverse population. The Mutual Respect and Community Attitude Committee of Ponca City Tomorrow, embraces the challenges of promoting community unity and inclusiveness of all citizens.
"The committee's main objective is awareness," said Benita Graham, co-chair for the committee. "Through awareness comes education. It is a journey of respect for everyone."
"There are different people and different perspectives, however, we must get past the insensitivity and intolerance," said Diane Anderson, member of the PCT Board of Directors.
Vision goals are:
- Fostering appreciation of ethnic diversity.
- Supporting diversity in the work force.
- Enhancing Black American and Native American opportunities and contributions.
- Encouraging development in Westside and Southside neighborhoods through the elimination of real estate and financial barriers.
- Developing an involved citizenry and increasing the volunteer base, coordinated through a community-wide volunteer bank.
- Building a community based on strong religious and family values.
- Encouraging all local media to take a leadership role and reflect the needs, desires and interests of the community, county and surrounding area.
- Building on the positive aspects of Ponca City.
Activities coordinated, sponsored and/or supported by this committee include: Neighbor Day Weekend, Culturefest, Multicultural Alliance and Make A Difference Day.
Additionally, the Ponca City Network Group annually sponsors a poster and essay contest through the Ponca City Schools. This effort has helped stock the libraries with Black history books.
More than 2,000 people across the city participated in Make A Difference Day last October. As a result of clean-up efforts at Attucks Park, community interest in the area has been restored.
In addition, Graham said the wheels are in motion to form a Westside Alliance to address community concerns.
A sense of community can no longer be taken for granted, according to Anderson. "Everyone can get involved at some level either by attending meetings or volunteering. We are looking for ideas and must have the community to own the vision and support it," she said.
"It is not about white and black, red or yellow; we have to own the community, all of us," Graham concluded.
The Mutual Respect and Community Attitude group meets every third Tuesday at 11:30 a.m., according to co-chair Sandy Murphy-Driggers. The next meeting will be held Feb. 18. Interested citizens are invited to attend. Contact the PCT office at 767-0823 for more information.
A 33-year-old Burbank man sustained injuries from an accident 3.9 miles south of Shidler on Oklahoma 18 at 12:45 a.m. Friday.
According to Oklahoma Highway Patrol trooper Darrell Jordan, Brad A. Tubbs was taken by Shidler ambulance to St. Joseph Regional Medical Center, where he was admitted in critical condition with head, trunk internal, trunk external, leg and arm injuries.
The victim was later transferred by Life Watch to Wesley Hospital in Wichita, Kan., where he was admitted in stable condition.
According to Jordan's investigation, Tubbs was driving a 1989 Chevy pickup southbound on Oklahoma 18. Apparently, when he came over the top of a small hill, he ran off the left side of the road and collided with a fence. The truck continued on until it collided with a large metal fence post, then rotated clockwise before coming to rest.
The trooper reported the victim was ejected from the vehicle. The victim had not been wearing a seat belt at the time of the accident.
City Calendar
Items for the City Calendar should be brought in or telephoned (765-3311) to Bob Patterson, at the Ponca City News, by Thursday noon.
Anytime
February 1-28
Today
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
February 16
February 17
February 18
February 19
February 21
February 21-22
February 23
February 24
February 25
February 26
The Ponca City Art Association is now taking registration for an oil painting workshop to be held March 20-21 at the Ponca City Art Center. Instructor for the workshop will be John Pototschnik, professional instructor and freelance illustrator for many Dallas advertising agencies and businesses.
Pototschnik was born in St. Ives, Cornwall, England in 1945, but grew up in Wichita, Kan. He received his art training at Wichita State University in advertising design, followed by instruction in illustration and design at Art Center College in Los Angeles and in film at UCLA. He moved from Los Angeles to Dallas in 1972.
Since beginning his fine art career in 1982, Pototschnik has become a popular speaker and juror among art organizations. His paintings are in many private collections from Hawaii to Rhode Island and in public collections including the City of Carrollton, Texas; Schlumberger, Houston, Texas; city of McKinney, Texas; the Wichita Sedgwick County Historical Museum, Wichita, Kan.; Leggett and Platt, Carthage, Mo.; and the Wichita Center for the Arts, Wichita, Kan.; among others.
Pototschnik now lives in Wylie, Texas with his wife and two sons, He is past president of the Artists and Craftsmen Association and has been honored with two George Washington Honor Medals from the Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge, plus many other regional and national awards.
His work has appeared in the April '96 Artists' Southwest Art and the American Artist magazines. He is also represented by the American Legacy Gallery, Kansas City, Mo.; G. Stanton Gallery, Dallas, Texas, Concetta D. Gallery, Albuquerque, N.M., and the Wichita Gallery of Fine Art, Wichita, Kan. His work is published by Guildhall, Inc. of Fort Worth, Texas.
"As an artist I'm not interested in being flamboyant, mysterious, trendy or shocking. I am interested in depicting the truth about life as I see it in a naturalistic way free of frills and bravado," says Pototschnik.
Interested students may call the Ponca City Art Center at 765-9746 or Shirley Petersen at 765-8777 for more information or visit the art center Wednesday through Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m. to register. Cost of the 3-day workshop is $105. Students must be a member of the Ponca City Art Association to participate and annual memberships are available at the art center at $10.
After only two weeks, the Ponca City Police Department has generated $13,973 in overdue fines originally issued by Municipal Court.
Sgts. Tom Cusick and Randy Empting continue their campaign to serve 1,209 remaining warrants.
"These officers are doing a wonderful job tracking subjects with warrants stemming from overdue fines as well as subjects who have failed to appear in court," said Court Clerk Nancy Hunt.
Fines are collected through the Municipal Court Clerk's Office and deposited into the general fund for city operations, she said.
Those who have a warrant are encouraged to contact the court clerk's office to resolve the matter. Subjects have the option of paying the fine in full, securing bail or serving time in jail. The amount of time to be served depends on the amount owed.
In addition, the court clerk confirmed that warrants can also be served outside the city limits. The Blackwell Police Department has already assisted with several arrests.
Furthermore, the effort will continue until the warrant file is down to a minimum, according to Hunt.
By RALPH SEWELL
News Capitol Bureau
OKLAHOMA CITY - Sen. Paul Muegge, D-Tonkawa, is the legislature's top advocate for a clean environment - no one disputes that.
Then how come Muegge is authoring and pushing SJR 11, which would tell federal environmentalists to back away from the tougher Air Quality rules they are about to impose on the country?
"They'd be a disaster for Oklahoma," he said. " We just couldn't meet them and that would be a disaster for our economy."
Approval of SJR 11 by both legislative bodies should come quickly, Muegge says. That's because comments on the Air Quality rules must reach Washington by a mid-April deadline set for protests.
Originally, the federal agency had set Feb. 18 as the deadline. But last week, it was moved to April. Apparently, Oklahoma is not the only state complaining about the rules and/or the deadline.
If passed, Oklahoma's SJR 11 will go to Oklahoma congressmen as well as the federal environmental agency.
Session Issues
How do area legislators feel about some of the issues that have surfaced so far?
They have mixed reactions to Senate Democrat leaders' plans to have the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority borrow $750 million to build free roads and lease them to the state. Gov. Keating indicated he'd be willing.
Statewide, most legislators fear the money would go to fix highways in the two big metropolitan areas.
Rep. James Newport, R-Ponca City, who represents the district served by Poncan Jim Holt for more than two decades, is skeptical. So is House Republican Leader Larry Ferguson, R-Cleveland. He doubts his legislative district would gain much from such bonds.
Ferguson says the hard fact is that if the highway commissioner for his district is allocated the 20 percent maximum of the bond money, almost all of the $150 million would be spent in Tulsa County.
He adds he doesn't particularly quarrel with that allocation. Those roads carry more traffic than those in the western part of his district.
Rep. Jim Reese, R-Deer Creek, agrees with Ferguson that's how the bond money would be spent. But he doesn't think that's necessarily bad. He feels if bond money fixes superhighways in Oklahoma and Tulsa counties, appropriated funds could be used on other roads.
The eventual cost of the roads to taxpayers would be about $1.5 billion. That also brought a skeptical response from Muegge and area representatives.
The plan would borrow from future tax collections. Advocates contend growing state revenues would pay off the bonds. Others worry what if there's no growth revenue - or even declining tax receipts? Would funding for highways, for education, or other functions be cut to pay the turnpike debt? Or would free roads become toll roads?
Newport recognizes having the Turnpike Authority borrow the money is a scheme to avoid constitutional requirement that the state may not go into debt unless an election is held and voters authorize it. And the constitutional ban on borrowing is important to him, says Newport.
Ferguson also questions whether the State Transportation Department has designers and inspectors to look after such a massive construction plan.
All recognize the need for highway money. But all also want to know what spending would happen in their district. Newport would like to make all of U.S. 77 four lanes wide. Muegge would also like to see that. But he also feels the road isn't in that bad shape now.
Campaign Conflicts
While Ferguson gets along with his Democrat counterparts in the House, he wishes Democrat leaders would leave last year's campaign behind.
He says he agrees with them and with Gov. Frank Keating that rules are needed to cover how the state-owned aircraft is used. But he also complains Democrats won't put aside their campaign rhetoric about it.
As Ferguson sees it, when the legislature provided funds for the plane, it didn't set any rules of how it should be used.
"It's kind of like a dad throwing the car keys to his teen-aged son and saying 'have a good time,' then complaining when the kid returns and the dad finds he's driven 200 miles," says Ferguson.
He also theorized it's difficult for Democrats to accept that all Oklahoma's congressmen now are Republicans.
He added that the national Democrat party funneled big money via state legislators into the losing 2nd and 4th district congressional campaigns of Glen Johnson and Ed Crocker. "I don't think they accept the losses," he said.
Area Republicans put Worker Compensation Reform at the top of their wish list for this session. They say the bills as introduced are top notch. But they wonder how they will look when they emerge from committees.
Ferguson cites Keating's figures that Oklahoma has the fifth highest rates nationally for Workers' Compensation insurance, yet injured employees are 35th in the country in terms of benefits paid.
"Too much of the money is skimmed off by the middlemen - trial lawyers and doctors," Ferguson said. "Unfortunately, legislators believe what trial lawyers tell 'em, so they are misled."
Reese reported the House Education Committee has approved for a floor action a bill banning Oklahoma schools from teaching ebonics. Two Oklahoma City representatives - both African American - said following the example of the Oakland, Calif., schools would be an insult to Oklahoma blacks.
Kay County residents and their neighbors should find willing, neighborly and effective ears in Oklahoma's 46th Legislature.
Both senators, Muegge and J. Berry Harrison, D-Fairfax, are Democrats, as is James Hager, D-Pawhuska. Democrats control the House and State Senate.
But Republicans - three of the four area House members - have power also. They'll have the ear of Frank Keating, governor at least through 1998. As in 1995 and 1996, Republicans have 36 House votes. That's more than one-third and enough to uphold Keating vetoes when Republicans stick together.
Although Republicans have relatively less Senate strength, the 36 votes they have in the House will be a key factor again. Bipartisan state government is possible, though any prediction is risky at this point.
Muegge also is sponsoring legislation to let the Oklahoma Historical Society charge admission at Ponca City's new Pioneer Woman Museum.
Committee Assignments
Most work during opening legislative week is done in committees. Ponca-area legislators are well-placed to be heard there.
Newport and Ferguson also are members of the education subcommittee of the House Appropriations Committee. That's where funding decisions are made.
On the separate Education committee which Hager heads, Newport belongs to subcommittees on common schools and vo-tech - both important to Ponca City.
The minority leader - Ferguson - also holds other committee posts. He's a member of Rules - the House leadership group. Other committee assignments are Agriculture, Tourism and Recreation and Transportation.
Reese is on the general government subcommittee of the Appropriations committee. He is also vice chairman of the committee on retirement laws, as he was last year. He's also on the Agriculture committee.
Besides chairing the House Education committee, Hager is a member of Banking and Finance, Rules and Corrections.
Newport is assigned to Transportation; Small Business; Commerce; Industry and Labor; Energy, Environment and Natural Resources, and Transportation.
The Senate has only 48 members so all senators are on its budget committee. Muegge is assigned to the subcommittee on natural resources; Harrison is on the one covering select agencies.
Muegge also chairs the committee handling legislation which will affect agriculture and Harrison is a member of the committee. He's also a member of the Senate's Finance and Business and Labor committees.
Harrison chairs the Senate Sunset Review committee. That's a committee to decide if agencies or activities should continue to exist or be discontinued. Other Harrison committees include Education, Economic Development and Transportation.
Poncan Theatre members and volunteers who hold membership playing cards will be treated to a movie "Big Night," Thursday at the theater's annual "thank you night" for all volunteers and members.
Volunteers will be honored at 7 p.m. by Sandy James and Laurie McReynolds, chairmen of the awards program. The special volunteers will be presented with certificates and service pins for hours of dedication to the theater.
The movie will start at approximately 7:30 p.m. Popcorn and soft drinks will also be served free to members and volunteers.
According to Nancy Taylor, the evening will also be the first time the new projector and platter system will be used.
The movie "Big Night," is a comedy starring Tony Shalhoub and Stanley Tucci about two brothers, believing in the American Dream. They open an Italian restaurant and figure, because their food is so good, they will be rich any minute. Wrong! It is the 1950s on the Jersey shore and they've plunked their new cafe down across the street from Pascal's - an already-established popular restaurant. So they decide to throw a feast to squelch the competition once and for all. The movie is rated R for language.
One reviewer said the dinner they throw makes Babette's feast look like a snack. Another reviewer calls the picture "spectacularly confident film making ... a completely delicious movie." Time Magazine list's the movie second on it's top 10 best pictures for 1996.
"Big Night," will be open to the public Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m.
NEWKIRK - The Kay County Board of County Commissioners has arranged some time Monday to conduct any further business concerning the names of county roads for emergency 911 or postal purposes.
In their regular weekly 9 a.m. Monday meeting, the commissioners plan to follow up, if necessary, their action last week in appointing a board of emergency workers, postal officials and city leaders for a coordinated county-wide response system.
In other business, they will discuss and consider action on a resolution pertaining to the North Central Area "C" Private Industry Council and Opportunities, Inc.
The board also will consider action regarding a "circuit engineering district," and discuss uses of the community room in the county courthouse.
By KRISTI GRABEAL
News Education Editor
Ken Holmes and Kathleen Stoeckley will address the Ponca City Board of Education in regard to the OASIS Program at the Mid-High. The board meeting is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Monday evening in the Administration Building.
February Employee of the Month awards will be given to include: Belinda Stevenson, certified teacher; Emma Bryer, support teacher; and Marsha Engle, friend of education. Jeff Denton will also present certificates of honor to the child nutrition employees.
Several discussion topics are on the agenda and include reports from Linda Thompson, School-to-Work Program; John Scroggins, Valedictorian Committee; Janet Goll, Blue Ribbon Committee; Mike Kruck, Board Curriculum Committee; Steve Stalcup, Board Finance Committee; and Gary Bracken, School Attorney.
The consent calendar on the agenda includes a travel request made by Carolyn Berry to attend the National Service Learning Conference in Orlando on March 19-22. Gifts will also be discussed at this time and include $800 donated from Conoco to Garfield Elementary School and $4,080 donated by Thorn Apple Valley to be used for limited English proficient students.
Also up for approval from the board will be a possible partnership with the Grand Avenue Church of Christ to offer additional opportunities for limited English students. The Grand Avenue Church of Christ has a full-time Spanish Ministry with a growing population of Spanish speaking members. In addition to the Spanish speaking minister Raul Salcedo, there are other individuals in the congregation who are bilingual and speak Spanish. The church is interested in forming a partnership with Ponca City Public Schools to promote additional opportunities for students of limited English to receive assistance.
The board will also consider the awarding of the bid to construct the Ponca City Public Schools' Weight Room Facility. Bids were opened at 4:30 p.m. Feb. 6, for the construction of a boys and girls weight room for the secondary students. Eight construction companies have received bid documents. If the base bid is approved, the target date for completion will be June 1.
A proposal from the Blue Ribbon Committee will be voted on by the board and includes the possibility of moving the kindergarten students back to their home schools and to locate the Four-Year-Old Preschool Program at the old Lincoln School. The savings will be $26,000 in rent for Angela Hall and one custodian position. The west half of the building will have to be demolished at an approximate cost of $50,000.
Consideration will be given a new schedule at the high school for 1997-98. The High School Scheduling Committee is recommending to develop a "flexible schedule" that requires six classes but permits a student to take a seventh class. The committee recommends that athletes be placed in the final period (7th) with the athlete who wants only six classes arriving on campus for 2nd hour. The committee is also open to the investigation of the Jenks extended period, two days a week, after the high school renovation and commons is complete. The parents on the committee are strongly opposed to "block scheduling" and they all support "extended period scheduling."
Also on the agenda is an item amending the Mid-High Cheerleading organization structure for the upcoming school year. Currently, the top twenty cheerleaders are on the Varsity squad and the next twenty cheerleaders selected are placed on the Junior Varsity squad. The cheerleaders would like to have twenty cheerleaders selected from the ninth grade and twenty selected from the 8th grade, with the top twenty cheerleaders attending the National Competition. This would also permit both grades to cheer for their classmates at the games.
The board will also convene into executive session to discuss the renewal or non renewal of contracts of the Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction, Assistant Superintendent of Operations, and the Administrator for the Division of Finance for the 1997-98 School Term.
Ponca City's Christian Radio Station KLVV 88.7 FM is sponsoring a unique service to Ponca City area listeners every Tuesday from 5 to 6 p.m.
The new public service allows listeners to talk with a minister, or at various times a Christian CPA, doctor, lawyer, or other guest professional.
This Tuesday, Dr. Michael Walker will be answering questions by phone at the radio station. Callers may tune in to KLVV between 5 and 6 p.m. for the number to call.
Since the line may get very busy, callers are encouraged to listen to the radio and be informed when the line is open for the next caller.
Phone conversations between caller and the professional will be private and not broadcast on the air.
"Everyone buckled. Kids in the back" is this year's National Child Passenger Safety Week campaign, which begins today.
In conjunction with this crusade, the Ponca City Police Department will join with law enforcement agencies across the nation to encourage the proper use of child safety seats and the use of safety belts by all vehicle occupants.
Child Passenger Safety Week is an annual effort to remind the public to "buckle-up" children while traveling in a vehicle. A major issue of this year's campaign focuses on child passengers and air bag safety.
Air bags save lives, according to the police department. However, they work best when everyone is buckled and when children ages 12 and under are properly restrained in the back seat. An infant riding in a rear facing child seat must never be put in the front seat of a vehicle with a passenger side air bag.
Motor vehicle injury is the leading killer of children more than one year of age. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), child safety seats, when used correctly, can reduce fatalities among children less than five years of age by 71 percent.
Children must rely on their parents to use safety seats correctly. NHTSA recommends that a child ride in the back seat using rear-facing seats until a child is 20 pounds and/or is at least one year old. Forward-facing seats should be used for one-year-old's and/or toddlers from 20 pounds to 40 pounds.
In addition, booster seats should be used until the child can use the vehicle's lap/shoulder belts. Parents need to read the information provided in their vehicle owner's manual regarding child safety seat placement in the vehicle along with the proper use instructions included with their child safety seat.
The Rural Housing Service, an agency of Rural Development, announced that it is soliciting competitive applications under its Housing Preservation Grants (MPG) program according to Charles P. Rainbolt, State Director of Rural Development.
In the Jan. 7, 1997 Federal Register, the agency announced it would accept preapplications for HPG funding from Jan. 7, 1997 to April 7, 1997. "This 90 day period will be the only time during the current fiscal year that interested organizations may apply for this program," Rainbolt said.
The objective of the program is to repair or rehabilitate individual housing, rental properties, or co-ops owned and or occupied by very low and low income rural persons. Successful grantees will provide eligible homeowners, owners of rental properties, and owners of co-ops with financial assistance through loans, grants, interest reduction payments or other comparable assistance for necessary repairs and rehabilitation.
"Eligible entities for these competitively awarded grants include state and local governments, non-profit corporations, federally recognized Indian Tribes, or groups of eligible entities," said Rainbolt.
The terms of the grant can vary from 1 to 2 years, depending on the available funds and demand. While no maximum or minimum grant levels have been set, the HPG program regulations state that no grantee receive more than 50 percent of the state allocation which is $100,000.
Applications from organizations will need to indicate whether the proposal is to assist individual homeowners, rental properties, or cooperative housing projects. Applicants may not combine proposals to assist both homeowners and rental properties.
By LAURA TREADWAY
News Staff Writer
With an already lean city budget, the city may be looking. at cutting services and additional personnel for the 1997-98 fiscal budget. Therefore, citizens are encouraged to attend the first public hearing for the city budget, which is scheduled during the Ponca City Board of Commissioners meeting Monday.
The budget process is officially beginning, according to Kate Kelly, director of finance. The hearing is planned at the beginning of the budget process so that citizen input can be used in developing a fiscally sound and responsive financial plan for the city, according to Kelly.
Over the past three years, the city has cut the operating budget by 13 percent and reduced personnel by 40 employees, according to City Manager Gary Martin.
"We estimate cutting an additional 10 percent, which could be as much as $1 million, should commissioners adopt the strategies discussed at Wednesday's special session."
"We want to be able to do what the public wants with the limited amount of money available," Martin said. "The citizens told us they want the city to maintain the buildings, however, with increased emphasis on public safety, unfunded mandates, environmental issues, training and certification, the downturn in the community and competition in the electric industry, revenue is shrinking," he said.
"We will learn to live with what the people will provide us in revenues. The city will learn to downsize and prepare to live with a balanced budget," he said.
While other operating costs have decreased or remained constant, the cost of public safety continues to increase each year. City officials plan to analyze the growths in police and fire expenses. Citizens are reminded that the $6.5 million in sales tax revenue does not cover public safety, according to the city manager.
Martin explained that $1.3 million of operating revenue is kept as a 30 day working capital (cash flow) to assist the city in making payroll and keep the city solvent.
"The city has to make payments on time whether or not the people pay their utility bills," he continued.
Though not required, the city wants citizens to have the opportunity to make recommendations on the use of public funds to be expended during the 1997-98 fiscal year. City officials are interested in which services the citizens want to be provided or discontinued as well as other expectations.
This is the second year the city has held a public hearing before the budget process begins. However, officials were disappointed at the low turnout last year.
"This is the proper forum for citizens' concerns," said Kelly. "This is the time to lay it on the table."
An additional public hearing is planned during June, prior to the adoption of the annual budget.
Citizens unable to attend the public hearing are encouraged to contact Kelly at 767-0303 or Martin at 767-0339 with recommendations.
By LAURA TREADWAY
News Staff Writer
The National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Compliance Inspection Report will be submitted to the Ponca City Board of Commissioners Monday at the Public Safety Center, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue, at 5:30 p.m.
In other new business, members will consider designating and confirming Mayor Marilyn Andrews' nomination for the Historical Preservation Board, Traffic Commission, Tourism Authority and Planning Commission. In addition, amending the operating budgets of various funds for 1996-97 will be discussed.
Also, commissioners will decide whether to award a contract to Clark-Tech Environmental Systems, Inc. of Oklahoma, to complete the Asbestos Abatement of the Lyde Marland House, for a cost of $1,700. Furthermore, the Marland Estate submitted recommendations to contract services for an ongoing cleaning plan for the mansion.
Additionally, the board will review payment of claims totaling $2,051,172.08 for payroll and various claims for invoices processed from Jan. 24 through Feb. 6.
On the consent agenda, the Ponca City Tourism Authority requests making a $2,000 grant for the Herb Festival.
The board will reconvene as the Ponca City Utility Authority to consider executing a change order with Dondlinger and Sons Construction Co. for the Wastewater Treatment Plant, Phase 2 Improvements Project in the total add-on amount of $120,811.25.
On the consent agenda, PCUA will consider approving the following with one motion of the board:
- Submission of the monthly operating statement to the Oklahoma Water Resource Board.
- Consider purchasing 60 batteries (125 VDC) and battery charger from Southwestern Battery for $9,340.
- Consider International Transformer bid for two transformers for $16,190.
- Authorization of state revolving fund partial disbursement request no. 3 for the Wastewater Treatment Plant Improvements, Phase 2, totaling $218,737.09.
- Consider approval of payment to Chapman, Parr & Gill, Inc. for preliminary design work performed on the Union Street waterline project for $1,451.75.
- Vote on purchasing a transformer from International Transformer Co., Inc. for $34.143.
Furthermore, Chairman of the Standing Bear Foundation, Carl Renfro, will make a presentation to the city and Andrews plans to proclaim this week as "Child Passenger Safety Awareness Week."
Northeast Baptist Church, 2200 Pecan Road, will host the Singing Churchmen of Oklahoma on Tuesday at 7 p.m. according to Guy Cooper, Northeast Baptist's minister of music.
A group composed of over 270 ministers of music in the state, the Singing Churchmen have divided into seven smaller choirs with 30 to 35 men in each choir, and will be performing at various locations throughout the state at the same time as the performance at Northeast.
Organized in 1985, The Churchmen was the first group of its kind to be formed. Since that time almost every state in the Southern Baptist Convention has organized its own group of singing men.
The Oklahoma Churchmen have performed on various SBC programs, at the Medallion Concert Series in Minneapolis, Minn. Gaither Praise Gatherings in Cincinnati, Ohio and in Indianapolis, Ind., the Baptist World Alliance in Tokyo, Japan, and PraiSing II in Nashville, Tenn. They have made two mission trips to Spain, and an historic mission tour through Russia, Estonia and Latvia in 1993.
In April of 1996, The Churchmen continued their mission endeavors in China and Hong Kong. The tour included performances at the Hong Kong Cultural Center, the Sun Yat Sen Memorial Hall in Guangzhou, the Beijing Concert Hall and the Municipal Memorial Hall in Shanghai, in addition to singing in approximately 25 churches and ministering to the seminaries in Hong Kong, Guangzhou, Shanghai and Beijing. A highlight of the trip was a visit and concert at the leper colony in Guangzhou.
The group has recorded 18 albums and made numerous appearances on television and radio broadcasts throughout the nation.
Each member of The Churchmen is dedicated to the ministry of the gospel of Jesus Christ through music in the local church, said Dr. Bill E. Green, associate Church and Family Equipping Division, of the Baptist General Convention of Oklahoma, director of the group.
NEWKIRK - The Kay County Farm Service Agency Committee and office staff will introduce new County Executive Director J.D. Elwood, Jr., and his family in hosting an open house from 2 to 4 p.m. Thursday at the FSA office, 115 S. Maple.
Elwood, with his wife Natalie and son Trey, moved here from Norman last fall after he replaced the retiring Garry Bilger as director of the office.
The committee asked that all area farmers, businessmen, friends and neighbors take time to visit the office for the open house.
A recent cooperative training exercise at Conoco gave Ponca City Fire Department personnel an opportunity to train with their new Cairns-Iris thermal-imaging helmets.
The entire 63-member firefighting force participated in the three-day training event.
"We are grateful to Conoco's safety personnel for assisting us in this training effort," said Gary Reed, PCFD training officer. "When we received the new helmets, only 10 firefighters attended the training session in Stillwater."
"Thanks to Conoco, all of our firefighters were able to work with this new equipment," he added.
Imagine being able to see footprints left by someone who walked out of a room or see through the walls of the office and trace the electrical conduit. Sound like something out of a science fiction movie? Fire Department personnel now have that capability using the new thermal-imaging helmets.
Non-toxic training smoke filled the basement of Conoco's vacant Refinery Office Building where firefighters located "safe" heat sources throughout the area during the training.
Everything gives off heat, according to Keith Humphrey, Conoco emergency response shift coordinator, who coordinated the training activities. During the training, firefighters started learning what heat signatures certain things put off. They learned to differentiate different levels of heat absorption and recognize what they were seeing.
Images seen through the helmets range from black to gray to white - there is no color. The hotter the source, the "whiter" the image.
"Smoke does not exist when using these helmets," Humphrey noted. "When firefighters lifted the helmets, they couldn't see their hand in front of their face with the helmet they could pick out the electrical wiring of the room they were in."
Firefighters gained experience in determining heat signatures from various sources and learned their physical limitations wearing the heavier equipment. The helmets weigh 14 pounds and are attached to a waist belt battery pack for power.
"Our personnel were dragging their feet to the training exercise," Reed said. "They soon realized this was not a 'new gimmick of the week' training exercise but legitimate, useful equipment -we had to literally push them out of there when they were done training."
Reed said there are thousands of different possibilities for situations where the helmets would be used including incidents involving hazardous materials. He mentioned chimney fires and electrical fires in particular.
"The use of these helmets in fighting these types of fires will minimize the collateral damage done when seeking the source of the fire," he explained. "In the future, it would be ideal to have one of these thermal-imaging helmets on every truck in the department."
Humphrey agreed and noted that while everyone hopes it is never necessary, they would be extremely useful when accounting for personnel in the event of a catastrophe at Conoco.
Next step for the firefighters will be practice with the helmet at actual fire scenes.
"Thanks to this training session at Conoco, we're ready to put the helmets into service on a limited basis," Reed said. "However, they won't be used by the first person in - this equipment does not replace the need for our firefighters to always rely on their learned instincts.
"We want to avoid any 'superman syndrome' that could risk the life of a firefighters."
By LAURA TREADWAY
News Staff Writer
Almost $4 million has been raised from the Economic Development half-cent sales tax.
According to the summary of Economic Development Sales Tax Activity Report, the city collected $3.9 million from April of 1994, through January of 1997. An additional $26,123 was collected from interest earnings trust accounts.
The sales tax was approved to develop the current industrial park site and construct a shell building, to provide an example for businesses considering a move to Ponca City. Revenue was also to provide incentives to companies considering expansion or relocation.
In 1995, sales tax receipts were more than $1 million. Receipts increased to $1.4 million in 1996.
According to City Manager Gary Martin, these funds have been and will continue to be spent in open meetings. Controller Leda Conner tracks the revenues and expenses of the sales tax.
In the report, project incentives for Thorn Apple Valley totaled more than $9.6 million. The incentives include:
- $6.5 million in job credits for 10 years, assuming the business provides an average of 433 jobs per year.
- $228,500 in soil stabilization costs.
- $105,000 for 42 acres of land purchased.
- $2.9 million in financing.
For Sykes Enterprises, Inc., $1.5 million was allocated in project incentives for the building, with the agreement that 70 jobs will be provided for 10 years. Financing and issuance fees shared with the Unitherm Project total $204,031.
In addition, a total of $452,085 was awarded to Unitherm to purchase a facility, make building improvements and for an environmental study.
An additional $9,826 was spent in soil testing, aerial photos and engineering fees for the West Highland Industrial Park Development. Also, $301,928 was spent for the Airport Industrial Park Development. This figure includes land appraisals, engineering fees, soil testing, 108 acres of land and the associated fees.
Due to Thorn Apple Valley and Sykes, the city was able to acquire federal and state grant money to support the infrastructure of the industrial park, according to Assistant City Manager Tom Short.
Additionally, the businesses are good solid waste customers. Though utilities were extended, these costs will be paid back within a couple of years through the business' utility usage, the city officials confirmed.
The Ponca City Board of Commissioners will review the revenues and expenditures of the Economic Development Sales Tax Monday during their regular meeting.
Anticipating the Kay County Special Olympics, athletes will begin track and field practice Saturday at the Ponca City Middle School gym from 10 a.m. until noon.
Anyone attending a part time special education class, who is at least eight years old, can participate. Applications, information and schedules will be available at the first meeting. Parents must complete paper work for under age athletes.
Participants should wear comfortable, casual attire since a light workout and practice is scheduled. Track equipment will be available at practices, according to co-coordinator Debbie Meyer.
"This is a time for athletes to excel and have fun. It's an area in which they can have success," she said.
Additionally, the Kay County Special Olympics will be held at Sullins Stadium on April 5. On April 12, the regional meet will be held at Frontier School in Red Rock.
Only those athletes who compete at Red Rock are eligible to compete at the state level. The Oklahoma Special Olympics is scheduled for May 14 through 16 in Stillwater.
The Kay County Council of the Mentally Retarded, Conoco, Ambucs and Fred Boettcher sponsor the Kay County meet.
Responsible youths and adults are needed to volunteer to assist the athletes during practice and competition. Citizens are also encouraged to help run the area meet. The athletes appreciate cheerleaders, too said Meyer.
For more information, contact Meyer at 765-8303 or Linda Hemingway, 767-1508.
NEWKIRK - Voters in Newkirk and Braman School District who want to have absentee ballots mailed to them for the Special School Bond for Newkirk and Braman Election should apply now, Kay County Election Board Secretary Carol Stafford announced.
Although the County Election Board can accept applications for absentee ballots until 5 p.m. on Feb. 26, Stafford urged voters who want to vote by absentee ballot to apply early. Absentee ballot application forms are available at the County Election Board office located at the Kay County Courthouse in Newkirk.
"At least two mail transactions must be made," Stafford said. "The County Election Board must mail the ballots to the voter and the voter must return the voted ballots by mail." Ballots must be in the hands of the County Election Board by 7 p.m. on election day in order to be counted.
Stafford said that any registered voter may vote by absentee ballot in any election in which he or she is eligible to vote. It is not necessary to give a reason or excuse for voting absentee. "While anyone can vote absentee without giving a reason, the law still provides several excuses and it is to the advantage of some voters to use one of them," Stafford said. By stating one of the following reasons on their applications, these voters can activate some special conditions that make it easier for them to use absentee ballots.
The reasons are:
* Voters who are physically incapacitated and voters who care for physically incapacitated persons who cannot be left unattended may vote absentee. They may apply only by mail or by telegraph.
* Voters who are confined to nursing homes in the county may vote absentee. An Absentee Voting Board actually goes to the nursing home a few days before the election, sets up a small polling place and allows these persons to vote under circumstances similar to those at a regular precinct polling place.
* Military personnel and residents of the county living overseas and the spouses and dependents of each group are eligible to vote absentee without being registered. These voters may apply only by mail. Military personnel should contact the Voting Service Officers in their units for application forms and additional information. Residents of Oklahoma living overseas can obtain the same materials from any United States military installation and from United States Embassies and Consulates.
By LAURA TREADWAY
News Staff Writer
Thirty-three percent of all injuries to police officers occur during domestic violence calls.
According to Ponca City patrol officer Dale Henshaw in his presentation to the Ponca City Citizen Police Academy, an officer's first job is to stop violence and protect the victim. The law mandates that an officer take action.
Domestic violence can be the result of physical or emotional injury, an alcohol/narcotic addiction or the pattern of learned behavior.
Victims are no longer required to sign a complaint against their assailant, according to Henshaw. This responsibility is now bestowed on the officer investigating the call.
Domestic violence knows no economic or racial barriers. However, crisis prone people usually have low self-esteem, are short on money, have no support system and are unable to relate to others. Typically, they are substance abusers, have a non-fulfilling job, a history of address changes, failure to learn from previous mistakes and a problem with authority figures.
Henshaw said that recent accidents, arrests, changes in living accommodations, changes at work, a death in the family, divorce, retirement or physical illness can produce a crisis situation.
Aggressors usually blame others and are obsessed and jealous. They are desperate of not having the victim around and suffer from low self-esteem. In addition, they are often non-aggressive outside the home, extremely remorseful after the event, but use threats to control.
Normally, the aggressor experiences four stages of behavior in each crisis situation that results in violence: anxiety, defensiveness, acting out and tension reduction.
Henshaw described domestic violence occurrences as verbal, physical, emotional, aggressive and loud. If possible, two officers are assigned to respond.
According to Capt. Clayton Johnson, citizens are more apt to be harmed by and hurt more severely by someone they know, as opposed to a stranger.
If an officer determines probable cause of domestic violence an arrest must be made within four hours of an injury.
The North Central Chapter of Quail Unlimited (QU) is sponsoring its 11th annual dinner and auction Thursday, Feb. 20, starting at 5:30 p.m. at the Ponca City Elks Lodge.
"Every year for the past 11 years our friends and neighbors who enjoy upland game hunting - and non-hunters, too - from throughout north central Oklahoma and southern Kansas have looked forward to this evening's activities - and the anticipation already is building for this year's event," said Bill Leming, local QU chapter president. "The atmosphere is festive, but our mission is seriously dedicated to raising funds that underwrite the cost of many worthwhile local projects designed to protect the environment and enhance habitat conditions for all upland species in our region.
"Also woven into the structure of the QU dinner/auction is a value for fellowship," he added. "Old acquaintances are renewed, and new friendships are developed as QU supporters set aside one evening to collectively salute the tradition of our state's most popular upland game field sport."
Leming noted that last year's QU banquet fund raiser set a record for attendance which resulted in one of the most successful fund raising efforts in the local chapter's history.
The funds are used annually to underwrite the costs associated with a variety of area QU activities, including Kids for Quail, field-trial competition and food-plot development on public hunting lands near Kaw Lake.
Leming noted that tickets for the annual event are $35 and cover the cost of annual membership, the banquet meal and a year's subscription to the Quail Unlimited magazine.
QU also is offering a sponsorship package for individuals or businesses who wish to make a substantial contribution to the North Central Oklahoma chapter.
"For a $250 donation, these QU supporters will receive an annual membership, 20 raffle tickets and a limited edition package of QU-endorsed items including a print, hat and other items recognized in QU's national magazine," Leming said.
"We're anticipating another fantastic evening with raffles, door prizes and an exciting auction," he added. "Our chapter directors have assembled probably the greatest collection of prizes since the chapter was created in 1986."
He said that the always-popular auction again will offer a variety of attractive hunter-oriented items, including the following firearms: a Ruger Red Label 12-gauge shotgun (over/under), an American Arms Silver II 12-gauge shotgun (over/under) with custom engraving, a Beretta A390 12-gauge shotgun (super sporting automatic), a Benelli Super 90 20-gauge shotgun (automatic), a Turkish-made Uzumlu Tri-star 20-gauge shotgun (over/under) and a Ruger Red Label M-77 .270-caliber stainless steel/composite rifle with scope.
For the young hunter, an H&R 12-gauge single-shot youth shotgun will be offered in the silent auction.
"We've also added a new impressive auction item this year, one that has never been offered before - an attractive emerald green with gold trim Remington firearm safe that holds 18 rifles/shotguns and a dozen handguns," Leming added. "It is padded and compartmentalized to hold ammunition and other valuable items."
He also noted that tickets purchased by Feb. 13 will qualify the ticket holder for a chance at several "early-bird" drawing prizes, including a new Mossberg 12-gauge camouflage field pump shotgun.
QU members unable to attend the annual banquet but who desire to renew their membership for 1996 are encouraged to contact any chapter director.
"Effective and rewarding fund raising programs and active member participation have earmarked the success and growth of our local QU chapter for several years," Leming added. "Because of that established level of involvement, the North Central Chapter continues to play a significant role in partnering with U.S. Corps of Engineer and local Oklahoma Department of Wildlife law enforcement officials in enhancing upland game habitat around Kaw Lake and in other areas of our chapter region."
He noted that local chapter members have a proud heritage of having spent thousands of dollars and nearly as many volunteer hours in establishing food and cover plantings, promoting children's involvement in YIELD (Youth Involvement in Educational Land Development), assisting state and federal officials in managing prescribed burns, sponsoring public education and raising funds for the purchase of needed, specialized equipment to support local wildlife law enforcement efforts.
But, he explained, such programs are not possible without the support of local chapter members, community citizens who attend the annual local fund raiser and local merchants who generously underwrite or donate many of the raffle and auction items.
"We don't think anyone will want to miss this great evening that brings to an end another Oklahoma quail season," he continued. "And what better way to do so than by enjoying a great meal prepared by Steve Ellenwood, including 250 pounds of his special calf fries - a true delicacy long associated with our evening's event."
Leming explained that 60 percent of the funds raised by QU chapters are for local projects based on local priorities.
Of the remaining 40 percent, 20 percent is earmarked for state wildlife agencies, 10 percent goes to chapter development and the remaining 10 percent goes to national projects.
Leming noted that the public is cordially invited.
QU is a 50,000-member national, non-profit conservation organization dedicated to the preservation and reestablishment of crucial wildlife habitat essential to sustain healthy populations of quail and other upland species.
The 200-member North Central Chapter covers Kay and neighboring counties and includes members across the state line in Kansas. It is one of 350 QU chapters located throughout the United States and one of 22 in Oklahoma.
For more information about the North Central Chapter of QU, its many
local projects or its upcoming dinner/auction, individuals may contact Leming
(762-1362), Bob Schuster (7621217) or Bob Wilson (762-6857).
DEATHS
Johnnie Ray McCauley, Ponca City resident, died Friday, Feb. 7, 1997 at his home in Ponca City. He was 62.
Funeral services will be held at the Kaw Tribal Complex at Kaw City at 2 p.m. Feb. 10. Burial will be at the Washunga Cemetery at Newkirk. Arrangements are under the direction of Grace Memorial Chapel of Ponca City.
Johnnie McCauley was born June 6, 1934 at Washunga near Kaw City and was given the Indian name Was-She-Sta. He was the son of Felix McCauley and Mary Katherine Mehojah McCauley. He received his education in the Washunga Elementary School, later attended the Pawnee Indian School and then graduated from the Chilocco Indian School in 1952. After his graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy, serving four years before his honorable discharge.
Mr. McCauley was united in marriage to Melba Kay Hickey on Oct. 1, 1965 at Enid, where the couple made their first home. Mr. McCauley moved to Ponca City in 1990 and began employment as a substance abuse counselor with the Kaw Tribe. He retired in 1996. Mr. McCauley was the youngest full blood member of the Kaw Tribe and was a member of the Ponka Clan of the Kaw Tribe. He has served two years as the chairman of the Kaw Nation Pow Wow Committee and was a former member of the Kaw Tribal Museum committee.
He is survived by one son, John Michael McCauley, Las Vegas, Nev.; four daughters, Phyllis Jean McCauley Prickett, Danita Kay McCauley and Karen Lynn McCauley, all of Edmond, and Mary Katherine McCauley Regier, Cordell, Okla.; two grandsons with another grandchild expect in two weeks. He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Willie George McCauley.
Casket bearers will be George Turner, Monty Adler, Louis Green, Joe Warren, Tom Trueblood and Billy Dale. The casket will be closed and lying in state at 152 Sequoia in Kaw City.
HOUSTON, Texas - Nancy Kay (Lutz) Blair, was born Sept. 12, 1939 and died Friday, Feb. 7, 1997.
Nancy grew up in Ponca City, Okla., and became skilled as a classical pianist and organist at a young age. In her early teens she was appointed organist at the First Baptist Church in Ponca City, as well as teaching piano privately. She studied piano and organ at Oklahoma State University and at the University of Oklahoma where she met her husband, Ed.
Nancy and Ed were married in 1958 and she left the University to follow Ed in his career as a Petroleum Engineer and to pursue a dual career as mother to two sons, Craig and Brent, as well as piano teacher, church organist, performing artist and choral director. She served as a church organist/choirmaster in several churches in Houston, Dallas and Midland, Texas from 1960-1974.
The family moved to Los Angeles, Calif. in 1974 and during the 1974-77 period Nancy taught Choral Music at the Chaminade Private School in the San Fernando Valley.
Nancy and Ed commenced an international assignment in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia in 1977 where Nancy became organist and choirmaster at the International Church of Kuala Lumpur. In one of her most rewarding experiences she formed a high school choral music program at the International School in Kuala Lumpur, and her school choirs performed numerous concerts in several cities in Southeast Asia.
Nancy and Ed moved to London, England in 1981 where she became involved in promoting established choirs in this culturally rich city. In one of Mrs. Blair's most significant achievements, she organized and promoted in 1986 a coast-to-coast tour of the USA for the boy's choir of the St. George's Chapel. The boys are students of the fourteenth century school of the Windsor Castle, and the choir is known as the "Queen's Choir" of England.
Nancy also promoted the Metropolitan Police Choir of London. In 1983 Nancy developed cancer and underwent successful treatment both in Houston and also at the Charing Cross Cancer Hospital in London. While associated with the Charing Cross Hospital she began counseling cancer patients at the invitation of the doctors there, which she continued for nine years. As an expansion of this effort she also established a community sharing program sponsored by the American Church of London. Nancy's involvements in these programs continued until 1993 when she was faced with the recurrence of cancer.
She and Ed moved back to Houston in 1994 where she had been under the care of the M.D. Anderson Cancer Hospital. During this period she exhibited undaunted courage which, combined with her deep faith in God, served to enrich the lives of all around her.
The family is forever indebted to the caring staff of M.D. Anderson, The Hospice at the Texas Medical Center, and to the numerous friends, including the "special support" group who surrounded Nancy with love and caring.
She was preceded in death by her father, William Emery Lutz, and her mother, Nan from Ponca City, Okla. and is survived by Ed, her husband of 38 years; two sons, Craig and wife, Norma of Fort Worth, Texas, and Brent of Los Angeles, Calif.; two granddaughters, Ashley and Andrea; a sister and brother-in-law, Peggy and Ralph Brenneman of Ponca City, Okla.; numerous other relatives and a host of wonderful friends located in the USA and abroad.
Friends may call at Geo. H. Lewis & Sons, 1010 Bering Drive in Houston, from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 8, 1997, where the family will be present for visitation. Funeral services will be conducted at 2 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 9, 1997 in St. Paul's United Methodist Church, 5501 Main Street in Houston, with the Rev. L. James Bankston and Dr. James S. Riley officiating. Interment will follow in Forest Park Westheimer Cemetery. Active pallbearers will be Bev Blackwood, John Breed, Ron Bruce, Dave Catlett, Joe Green, George Uthlcut and Sam Welker. Honorary pallbearers will be Bill Clifton, Bill Cowan, Gary Edwards, Larry Farmer, John Jones, Preston Mason, Jim Shanks, Tom Warren and Clare Welker.
For those desiring, memorial contributions may be given to the M.D. Anderson Cancer Hospital, Breast Cancer Research, P.O. Box 297153, Houston, TX 77297-0153.
paid obituary
TONKAWA - Emmett J. Robbins, a life long resident of Tonkawa, died in his home Friday, Feb. 7, 1997 at 8:15 a.m. He was 85.
His funeral is set for 1 p.m. Tuesday in the Chapel of McCafferty-Bolick Funeral Home. The Rev. Joe Howard, pastor of the Billings Christian Church will be the officiating clergy. Burial will be conducted in the Mt. Vernon Cemetery near Salt Fork under the direction of McCafferty-Bolick Funeral Home of Tonkawa.
Mr. Robbins was born Oct. 1, 1911 in rural Kay County near Tonkawa. He was the son of Edward Ullyses and Emma (Morris) Robbins. He was raised near Tonkawa and attended rural schools, later graduating from University Preparatory School at Tonkawa.
On July 23, 1932 he married Ferne Miller at Guthrie. After marriage he continued to reside in Tonkawa and worked at Conoco in Ponca City as a mechanic until he retired in 1974. He continued to do mechanic work at his home.
He was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Tonkawa and had served for many years in the Oklahoma National Guard.
Survivors are one daughter, Sandra Harris of Tonkawa, and one son, Sonny Robbins of Albuquerque, N.M.; his grandchildren, Cindy Baca, Emmett Brett Robbins, Matthew Robbins and Vicki Maness; great-grandchildren Nicole, Lonie, Willie, T.J. and Joseph Emmett, Baca, Ashley and Brittney Robbins and Trever Maness; a niece, Maxine Waters.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Ferne in 1990; a brother, Les Robbins and a sister, Olive Gunn.
paid obituary
Pearl Jean Cries For Ribs, resident of Ponca City, died Saturday morning, Feb. 8, 1997, in St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. She was 54.
The funeral service is pending with the Trout Funeral Home, and will be announced later.
A prayer service will be conducted at 7:30 p.m. Sunday in the Ponca Indian
Cultural Center.
Valentine Salad Luncheon Set - The First Lutheran Women's Guild Annual Valentine Salad Luncheon is scheduled Thursday,, at 11 a.m. until 1:30 p.m., Lutheran Fellowship Hall, 1101 North Fourth. Adults, $5, Preschool, $1.50. Proceeds for sanctuary hearing aids.
Royal Neighbors to Meet - The Royal Neighbors of America will hold their luncheon meeting on Tuesday at noon, at the Golden Corral. All members urged to be present.
Toastmasters - The Pioneer Toastmasters Club will meet Wednesday at 11:30 a.m. in the East Auditorium, Conoco Complex, 1000 South Pine. Guests are welcome to come and discover what Toastmasters is about. For more information contact Sharon Bowen, president.
Jaycees Launch Program - Next month, the Ponca City Jaycces are planning to host the "Kid Care ID" program, in which local children are photographed and fingerprinted for identification in case of kidnapping, runaways or other emergencies. However, the Jaycees need financial support to pay for supplies. Please look for the white Jaycees canisters placed near cash registers in stores around town, and make a donation if you can. Thanks you!
Aviation Scouts- Aviation Explorer's Scout Post 96 will hold the first meeting of this year at 7 p.m. Tuesday at the PCABC Clubhouse. Further information may be obtained by calling 762-6169.
After Five Lions - The Ponca City After Five Lions Club will meet Monday at Western Sizzlin', 1209 East Prospect Avenue, at 6:30 p.m. Barbara Younger with the Ponca City Art Council is scheduled as the guest speaker. Prospective members are welcome to attend.
Accident - The Ponca City Police Department received notice of an accident one mile south of U.S. 60 on U.S. 177 at 8:42 a.m. Friday. A Ponca City ambulance took a victim to St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. According to the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, the victim was treated and released.
Larceny - An employee from a business in the 100 block of West Hartford Avenue notified the Ponca City Police Department at 9:09 a.m. Friday that an employee stole from the business. An officer took a report.
Collision - A Ponca City Police officer took a report of a non-injury accident at South Fourth Street and East South Avenue at 12:05 p.m. Friday.
Wreck - A non-injury accident occurred at North Fourteenth Street and Patton Drive at 12:20 p.m., according to the Ponca City Police Department. An officer took a report.
Shoplifter - An employee of Wal-Mart, 1101 East Prospect Avenue, informed the Ponca City Police Department that a shoplifter was in custody. An officer arrested a man at 2:09 p.m. Friday for larceny.
Accident - A Ponca City police officer took a report of a non-injury accident in the 2100 block of North Ash Street at 3:22 p.m. Friday.
Non-Injury Accident - The Ponca City Police Department received notice of a non-injury accident in the 1100 block of North Waverly Street at 3:42 p.m. Friday. An officer took a report.
Local Warrants - A 38-year-old man was arrested in the 2200 block of North Fourteenth Street at 4:16 p.m. Friday on a city warrant for failure to pay and failure to appear.
Collision - The Oklahoma Highway Patrol was advised of a non-injury accident four miles west of Waverly Street on Highland Avenue at 4:27 p.m., according to the Ponca City Police Department.
Quick Thinking - A resident in the 1900 block of Jane Street contacted communication officers at 4:48 p.m. Friday after a pot of grease caught on fire on the stove. An E911 officer advised the resident to put a lid on the pot, which extinguished the fire.
Theft - An employee from Triple T, 720 South Waverly Street, notified the Ponca City Police Department at 4:57 p.m. Friday that subjects stole beer. The manager stopped the subjects on the west side of the business. Three officers responded and a petit larceny report was taken.
Failure to Pay - Ponca City police officers arrested a 34-year-old man in the 500 block of South Fourth Street at 5:44 p.m. Friday on a city warrant for failure to pay.
Robbery - The Ponca City Police Department received a report of men talking about fighting in the 1100 block of East Prospect Avenue at 9:03 p.m. Friday. Upon discovering subjects stole items from a victim, an officer and took a report of strong armed robbery.
Welfare Check - A subject in the 2200 block of North Fourteenth Street contacted the Ponca City Police Department at 9:14 p.m. Friday to request a welfare check. Two officers responded and discovered an unattended death. A report was taken.
In Custody - A 51-year-old man was arrested by a Ponca City police officer at East Cleveland Avenue and North Fifth Street at 9:36 p.m. Friday for driving under the influence and improper lane use.
Unlawful Entry - Two Ponca City police officers responded to a call of a disturbance in the 1300 block of East Scott Avenue at 11:19 p.m. Friday. Officers took a report of destruction of private property and unlawful entry.
Arrested - A woman was arrested by a Ponca City police officer at South Ninth Street and East South Avenue at 12:30 a.m. Saturday on a city warrant for failure to appear, driving under suspension and no insurance verification.
Left of Center - A Ponca City police officer arrested a 30-year-old
man at North Seventh Street and East Hartford Avenue at 1:52 a.m. Saturday
for driving under the influence, no insurance verification and driving left
of center.
LIFESTYLES
At the regular meeting of the Twentieth Century Club Feb. 14 at 1 p.m. at the Ponca City Cultural Center Mrs. Mac Hefton Bradley of Blackwell will review the book "Acquired Tastes" by Peter Mayle according to Mrs. Harold Younger, program chairman.
"I selected this book because it is light and entertaining," Bradley said. Following her retirement fom Northern Oklahoma College, where she taught English, journalism and literature for 33 years, she became Travel Coordinator for Boatman Bank. In this capacity she escorted senior citizens to Europe, on USA trips and day trips. She has recently retired from this job.
During her tenure at NOC, she wrote "From UPS to NOC: The First 75 Years of the Institution." She belongs to the AB chapter of PEO and teaches an adult Sunday School Class at First Christian Church.
Greeters for the meeting will be Mrs. Billy Irons, Mrs. Dwight Huth, Mrs. Kenneth Holmes, Mrs. George Hinds and Mrs. Jerry Evans. Refreshments will be provided by Mrs. Henry Bourne and Mrs. William Martin. Mrs. Edwin Loosley will introduce the speaker and Mrs. Charles Hollar, president, will preside over the meeting.
Veryl Caid, executive director of Northern Oklahoma Youth Services, will speak at the Presbyterian Women's luncheon on Feb. 13 in Fellowship Hall of the First Presbyterian Church.
Hostesses for the luncheon will be members of the Irene Nickless Circle with Connie Kanady, Lorene Kinslow, Helen Spore and Anna Shadan as chairpersons. Lorene Kinslow will ask the blessing and Billie Wright will present the devotional thoughts.
Caid, who has a Master's degree in counseling, has worked with youth services programs in Oklahoma for 13 years, and. has been in Ponca City for the last seven and a half years. He was with the Marie Detty Youth Center in Lawton before coming here.
Born in Carnegie, Okla., he was educated in Missouri and Kentucky. He is married and has three daughters and two grandsons.
Northern Oklahoma Youth Services is a multi-county youth and family services program for people in Kay, Noble and Pawnee counties. The agency headquarters and youth shelter is located on West Grand in Ponca City.
A temporary shelter for youths with family problems, victims of abuse or neglect, or who are runaways, the program is funded by the United Way and by grants and other donations
The Presbyterian Women's cookbook, "Feed My Sheep II", will be available for purchase at the meeting. Enough cookbooks have been sold to pay for the printing and costs, according to Frances Mathews, cookbook chairperson. Receipts from sales of the rest of the cookbooks will be donated to the Child Development Center.
Bonita James, moderator of Ponca City Presbyterian Women, invites all women of the church to attend the luncheon and guests are welcome. For luncheon reservations, call Connie Kanady at 765-8089.
By Patti N. Carmack
News Lifestyles Editor
"We, as Americans, live in a direct-mail society" says Suzanne Devinney, owner of Sterling House International. "We don't have time to shop and I am hoping to target women who don't go to the craft shows as another way to market my business" says the entrepreneur.
The home-based businesswoman recently completed a full-color catalog of jewelry she sells through special showings and at craft events. The catalog was partially printed using a local business. Specializing in sterling jewelry, Mrs. Devinney says the home-based business enables her to stay at home with daughter Laura, who is 2-years-old.
"Word of mouth has gotten me where I am, God has given me this opportunity so I can stay home and raise my daughter; Laura and Jim are the apples of my eye and I give God full credit for my success,"said this young woman of the '90s in a recent interview.
Mrs. Devinney was born in Amarillo, Tex. and is a graduate of the University of Central Oklahoma with a degree in elementary education. She taught sixth grade science before moving to Ponca City from Moore in 1994. A member of the board of the Child Development Center and an active member of First Baptist Church, she wanted to follow in the footsteps of her late mother and be a "stay-at-home" parent.
"I set my business hours around my child's sleeping schedule and someday "I hope to create more of the jewelry I sell. At this time I do most of the beadwork featured in my catalog,"she said. The dictionary defines jewelry as objects of precious metal often set with gems and worn for personal adornment. The jewelry featured in the full-color catalog created by Mrs. Devinney is made of sterling with some gold or brass accents and a few semi-precious stones. She sells the items through home sales, craft shows and, of course, through the catalog. An 800 number enables customers to order with ease.
When asked why she selected jewelry to sell, the outgoing and attractive woman, who wears her own products, said "I have always worked and I vowed when I had a child that I would stay at home so I studied franchises and all types of home-based business and I asked God to give me something to do in this field." She said also "I like jewelry and that seemed to be something a lot of women enjoyed so I started at craft shows. The very first one I did I made $26 and the booth rental was $25-so I was very discouraged."
"I listened to the competition and received very good advice from another lady in town who sold sterling and I researched my product. I go to market three or four times a year and I listen to my customers; if they ask for something special I track it down," she said. "I had to prove to the Dallas market that I was able to handle a certain volume of business and was eligible to be there by producing $10,000 worth of receipts from items I had purchased for resale in the last 12 months. That is one of the requirements and I am still under the umbrella of home-based business, so I go to market at least every six months."
"I send out invitations, sometimes more than 700, for a come and go type event where customers may look at the items and make purchases."Mrs. Devinney said. "My goal is to be a direct-mail catalog house but I will always be here for my Ponca City customers. The people of Ponca City have been so loyal and so good to me." she stated. "I send the catalog nationwide and response has been good since the first mailing in November, 1996." She stated further that "I participate in trade magazines, trade shows and craft shows-and this catalog was a tremendous undertaking for me as I have re-invested all profits and so much time into creating it."
Just in case life is not busy enough for the entrepreneur, she has scuba diving as a hobby. She and her husband, Jim, an attorney affiliated with Boettcher Law Offices, are certified scuba divers and go to foreign countries each summer to enjoy their hobby. They plan to teach their daughter when she is old enough. Mrs. Devinney is a member of the Ponca City Chamber of Commerce.
For many women in today's world the economy plays as big a role as that of wife and mother so that today's young woman must be ready to adapt to a changing role in society. Home-based business in Ponca City has been escalating and the area vocational school is offering classes to help those who are interested in small business situations. A lot of study, a lot of luck, a lot of tears and a lot of prayer created a successful situation for Suzanne Devinney, a true representative of a woman of the '90s.
The editor of the Oklahombres Journal, Dee Cordry of Oklahoma City, was guest speaker, along with Terry Whitehead of Ponca City, for a combined meeting of the Pioneer Genealogy Society and the North Central Oklahoma Historical Association, Inc. The meeting was held Feb. 3 at the program room of the Ponca City library.
Cordry has written several articles on Oklahoma lawmen and outlaws and has been published in the Chronicles of Oklahoma. He has made presentations to the National Lawmen and Outlaw History Association and to the Oklahoma Historical Society. Both Cordry and Whitehead are members of the Oklahombres board of directors and Whitehead has written local historical items for area newspapers. "Oklahombres" is a term which gained wide use following the publication in 1929 of a book by Evett Dumas Nix, former U. S. Marshal of Oklahoma Territory.
Topic for the evening was the "History of Outlaws and the Best Lawmen in Oklahoma." Cordry spoke about three U. S. Marshals, Chris Madsen, Heck Thomas, and Bill Tillman who served in the late 1800s. Madsen, a native of Denmark, became an Indian scout and later a marshal, while Thomas was a U. S. Marshal from Guthrie and reportedly brought an end to the activities of the Bill Doolin gang in 1896 near Yale. Tillman was said to be the most famous lawman in the area and was located at Guthrie until becoming sheriff of Lincoln County and later Chief of Police in Oklahoma City. Whitehead presented an informative history of local happenings dating to 1930.
Cordry said anyone interested in becoming a member of the Oklahombres or wanting more information should contact him via E-mail to dcordry@qns.com or write to Ron Trekell, secretary for the group, 8286 East 34th Street, Tulsa, Okla. 74145-1427
The mid-year meeting of the Executive Board of the Ponca City Mother's Club was held Feb. 3 at the home of Roberta Ford, president, with 15 members present. Those attending were Jayne Detten and Elizabeth Nickles, Pre-School unit; Phyllis Maxson, Evelyn Culwell and Jo Ellen Morrison, Unit I; Jerri Barnes, Theresa Bohon, Jerri Boyer and Patti Lundeen, Unit II; Mary Joan McCann, Ann Kennedy, Louise Locke, Gloria Harris and Marcene Young, Unit III.
The treasurer's report as submitted by Sandy Merrifield was given and announcement was made that $400 had been given to the Community Clinic for children and $400 to Julie's Drug for children's prescriptions.
The Spring luncheon was planned for May 16 with Ms. Young as chairman and Ms. Lundeen as program chairman. It was decided to establish a memorial for each deceased club member. Ms. Lundeen will chair the committee establishing memorial criteria.
Several changes for the next yearbook were discussed and an increase for new baby costs was approved. Those attending were reminded that nominating committees for new officers should be appointed in February in order for the slate of officers to be presented in March and be voted upon in April.
The Hyatt Regency Resort at the Gainey Ranch in Scottsdale, Ariz. was the setting for the 5 p.m. Jan. 4 wedding of Miss Laura Fisher and Craig Clark. Officiating at the double ring ceremony was the Rev. Phillip Waring.
The outdoor altar was highlighted by an archway decorated with greenery and pink roses and baskets of tulips and roses. Each aisle was marked with a candle and pink and white organza bows. A quartet from the Phoenix symphony played "Water Music," "Ave Maria," and the "Queen of Denmark's March."Attending the guest book were Miss Liz Barnes of Austin, Tex. and Miss Jenny Wadle of Chicago, Ill.
The bride is the daughter of Dr. and Mrs. R. Darryl Fisher of Oklahoma City and the bridegroom is the son of Bob and Faye Askew of Ponca City and Ben and Kay Clark of Wichita Falls, Tex.
Escorted to the altar by her father, the bride was attired in a white satin a-line styled gown featuring thin shoulder straps and back detailing of satin-covered buttons. The floor length skirting formed a chapel length train and the bride wore long white gloves. She also wore pearl earrings and necklace and carried a bouquet of white and pink tulips and roses accentuated with greenery and pink and white ribbons.
Mrs. Molly B