From The Pages Of The Ponca City News, Friday, February
21, 1997
LOCAL
Heavy Rain Mixed Blessing For Parched Areas of State
Nearly News
EDF, Conoco Combining Efforts For Attracting New Employment
Several Coach Tours Head to P.C.
A Review: Playhouse 'Noises Off' Terrific
District Court
Order Flu Shots Now For '97
Sale of Daffodils Supports Cancer Cure Research
Fall'Dance for Heart' Square Dance Party Set Sunday
DEATHS
Arthur Virgil Shouse
Lucielle M. Waltrip
Rena Opal Adams
Ruby Melba Franks
Nora Ilene Cox
Services Pending
Lucille Warrior
Bertha M. Dixon
Funerals
Emma Plunkett
NEWS BRIEFS
LIFESTYLES
Aqua Jog Class Schedules Listed For YMCA Pool
Desk & Derrick Club Awareness Month is March
Mozart Music Club Members Performing
Laureate Phi Chapter Meets
RELIGION
Former Pastor Returns to First Baptist Church
Church Briefs
The Praise Singers of Ouachita Baptist Appearing in Concert Here Saturday
PM
ROCK Youth To Host Youth Week Here
First UMC Hosting Annual Meet-The-Composer Series
EDUCATION
PTC Health Science Class Completes Service
DECA Organization Sponsors Contest
Northern Plans Parents' Night 1997
SPORTS
Lady Mavs, Mavericks Both Fall at Seminole
New Disc Golf Course Opens
Kids, Inc Joins Little League
Frontier Wins In A Regional
Ninth JV Boys End Season
From Staff and AP Reports
A spring-like storm system that brought much-needed moisture to dry Oklahoma, produced violent thunderstorms and heavy rains, killing four people, injuring several others and knocking out power to thousands in eastern Oklahoma and western Arkansas.
Most of Oklahoma had been under a Red Flag alert due to the recent warm, dry conditions. A number of grass fires erupted earlier in the week throughout the state.
In the 12 hours ending at 7 a.m., 3.19 inches of rain fell on Ponca City and 3.28 in Enid. Other area amounts included 2.77 inches in Red Rock, 2.15 at Newkirk and 2.53 at Burbank.
Ponca City also experienced steady high winds with a peak gust of 46 miles an hour at 4:32 a.m. today. Meanwhile the temperature began to slip from spring-like levels, reaching 39 degrees at 7 a.m. and climbing little throughout the morning.
The steady rains are responsible for three road closings in the surrounding Ponca City area.
Hubbard Road west of Waverly Street is closed. In addition, Braman Road east of Interstate 35 and Bender Road three miles north of Newkirk have also been closed, according to county commissioners.
County Commissioner Rex Purdy said Thirteenth Street from Blackwell to Tonkawa was closed during the night, however, is open today. County crews are out putting up high water signs and moving tree limbs from the roads.
In addition, water was reported over the Lake Ponca spillway, said Risk Management Operator, Tom Montgomery.
Meanwhile, crews worked through the night to restore power to several thousand people who lost power after thunderstorms packing strong, straight-line winds roared through LeFlore County and western Arkansas Thursday evening.
Several mobile homes were destroyed in the area and some people suffered injuries. The number of those hurt was not immediately known, but their injuries were minor.
''There were several trailers destroyed, along with damage to other buildings as far as the roofs and windows broken out,'' Alan Vickers, an emergency management official in Heavener, Okla., said this morning.
''There were several gas leaks from the trailers being blown away and emergency personnel are taking care of that and working on the power.''
LeFlore County Undersheriff Bob Campbell said about 3 inches of rain fell in about one hour. Tree limbs broke, power lines fell and lean-to sheds collapsed, he said.
''I don't believe it was a tornado,'' Campbell said. ''I believe it was straight-line winds and rain. The rain was very, very, very heavy.''
Pocola Public Schools canceled classes today after the middle school's roof was peeled back. An American Red Cross emergency station was set up at the high school.
Pat Smith, school business manager, said she was mopping up 3 inches of water from the central office this morning. Ceiling tiles fell and desks, computers and filing cabinets - containing academic records - were damaged, she said.
''We've got all kinds of volunteers up here,'' Ms. Smith said. ''We've just got to take care of it and go forward.''
Ms. Smith was convinced a tornado caused the damage. A coach at the middle school gym said he saw a funnel cloud, she said.
Paul Renfrow, a spokesman with Oklahoma Gas & Electric Co., said thousands of customers were initially out of power in Fort Smith, Ark. Other hard-hit areas were Heavener and Cameron in Oklahoma, where hundreds lost power.
Renfrow said outages were scattered by mid-morning. But he said a lot of people were getting to work and finding that the lines had been torn away from the buildings.
''We still have a number of people off, but it's certainly not anything like it was last night,'' Renfrow said.
Another 3,500 customers in northwest Oklahoma City were without power for several hours this morning because of strong winds. The power was restored by about 6 a.m.
Meanwhile, in western Arkansas, a woman was killed when strong winds from a storm toppled her trailer home.
The woman and her family were inside when strong winds crushed the structure, said Logan County, Ark., Sheriff Ray Gack. Other family members were taken to a Booneville hospital to be treated for injuries.
Their identities were not immediately released.
''His house was blown straight away,'' Gack said. ''Damage in the county looks to be pretty extensive.''
Earlier on Thursday, the storms dumped heavy rain on southern, central and northeastern Oklahoma. Road conditions in the storm's aftermath were blamed for three deaths.
The Oklahoma Highway Patrol said Heather M. Leroi, 18, of Oklahoma City died Thursday morning when the car she was driving hydroplaned on Interstate 44 in south Oklahoma City and struck an overpass support beam. She was wearing her seat belt.
The patrol said two people and a dog died late Thursday night in Tulsa County when their car collided with a pickup truck on a rain-slickened road. Three other people were injured in the crash.
The patrol said the name of the car's driver was being withheld pending notification of relatives. Passenger Caleb L. Baker, 21, of Hammond, Ore., was killed in the crash. A scottish terrier in the car also died.
Five people were injured in a multiple-car accident earlier Thursday in Tulsa. The rain was a factor not only in the accident but also in the rescue efforts.
''We were right in a ditch, and water was flowing about a foot deep,'' said Tulsa Fire Department Capt. Bill Painter, the incident commander.
Ben Frizzell, a spokesman for the state Office of Emergency Management, said Garvin County officials reported minor wind damage at two homes as storms moved through the area.
The severe weather came on a day when the state agency and some of its county offices were conducting disaster drills.
Latimer County emergency management officials sent the state office a message about 2:25 p.m. pulling out of the drill because they needed to pay attention to the developing weather and needed to ''quit this play acting stuff,'' Frizzell said.
Other rainfall amounts included 1.87 inches at Hobart, 1.97 at Lawton, 2.04 at Weatherford, 3.12 at Marshall, 2.81 at Okemah, 2.40 at Shawnee, 2.47 at Chandler, 2.75 at Byars, 3.44 at Calvin, 2.08 at Okmulgee, 2.32 at Fort Cobb, 3.02 at Ardmore, 3.37 at Pauls Valley, 3.11 at Ringling, 2.79 at Tishomingo, 2.85 at Waurika, 2.88 at Broken Bow and 2.46 at Wilburton.
Oklahoma City said a new record rainfall for the day with 1.55 inches recorded at Will Rogers World Airport. The mark broke the old total of 1.31 inches on Feb. 20, 1985.
Among the interested and proud guests attending the dinner honoring Astronaut Shannon Wells Lucid at the Omniplex in Oklahoma City Thursday evening were Ed and Neva Wells, 2900 Pecan Road. Lucid is the niece of Ed Wells. A number of other relatives were on hand for the festivities throughout the day. Lucid, who logged 223 days in space over five flights, was inducted into the Oklahoma Women's Hall of Fame.
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Pat Jordan, News ad salesman, has once again struck paydirt in his alter ego as Super Puzzleman. Pat has received notification of acceptance of his sixth crossword puzzle by The New York Times. Way to go, Pat!
By Louise Abercrombie
and Laura Treadway
News Staff Writers
Ponca City Economic Development Foundation (EDF) agreed Thursday to enter a cooperative effort to lease available space at Conoco to attract new employers to the community.
Bill Lundeen, representing Conoco, said that the recommended approach would be to promote leasing available space at Conoco in a way that assists Ponca City's economic development effort and has the potential of reducing overhead costs for the company.
Currently there is 215,000 square foot available at the complex. This includes the North Tower Office, 140,000 square foot; Research East Lab, 60,000 square foot and 15,000 square foot in the International Office building.
Lundeen said the marketing efforts should be directed to drawing companies into Ponca City, rather than local business. He also indicated that at least two of the floors of the eight-floor North Tower need to be leased to make it cost effective for Conoco.
EDF Chairman Pat Mulligan appointed Linda Brown, Bill Rodgers, Tom Quillin, from the EDF board, and J.B. Smith, realtor, to draft a plan for the North Tower.
In other action the EDF Board agreed to fill out a preapplication for the Oklahoma Quality Building Program. This came after a slide presentation by Terry Heilig, executive director of the Zaremba Oklahoma Group.
The handout tells that the program provides new industrial shell buildings in key communities throughout Oklahoma; fast-track approach to company locations; special long-term, low-rate financing; quality buildings with custom finish options; special community assistance and incentives; benefits from other state incentives, like the Oklahoma Quality Jobs.
In a nutshell this is how the program is designed. The local community identifies need for new industrial "shell" building. Then Zaremba Oklahoma Group is contacted and jointly the community and ZOG develop overall strategy, best facility type, site and location of targeted.
EDF consultant Don Wood said Ponca City has an ideal location in the Airport Industrial Park.
Zaremba assists the community with preparation of loan application, site plan, design, contractor identification and local authorizations. Heilig said efforts would be made to work with local contractors.
Loan approval would come through Oklahoma Development Finance Authority (ODFA) and Bond Oversight Commission. The loan would be closed between ODFA, Liberty National Bank, Oklahoma City, and the community.
After building construction begins a joint targeted marketing program by the community, Zaremba, and the Oklahoma Department of Commerce.
Next the tenant is identified, financing negotiated, initiate any specific customization efforts and the building is completed and the tenant moves in.
Mulligan asked for volunteers to serve on the committee for the "spec" building project to contact after the meeting. He said in addition to board members, private citizens would be contacted.
In 1972, the forerunner of the EDF, Ponca City Industrial Foundation, financed a 20,000 square foot "shell building" in the Airport Industrial Park at Ash and Hartford.
This building was purchased by Eagle Plating, a spin-off of Huffy Bicycle and added another 20,000 square feet. That building is now a part of the Mid-America Door Complex.
Wood reported that the new building of Center Line is going up on Ash. He said a prospect is due to visit in regard to the available space at Conoco. He also told about a modular home building company from the Kansas City area that is interested in Ponca City. Wood said a memo had been written asking the city for a definition for standard incentives.
Wood reported receipt of a letter from Medclaims, an emergency claim processing service, that currently employees 12 people. He indicated the business is interested in a three-acres site in the industrial park on North Ash Street. According to Wood, the business would receive the same incentive package as Center Line and Mitchco. The credit is for additional jobs, four percent of salary for 10 years.
Rodgers said he thinks the city should establish overall guidelines for purchasing land from the city. He said there were no covenants in place. In addition, Mulligan said a determination should be made on the type of company to be offered job credits to pay off the land.
Wood confirmed that as land is sold, the purchasers can not subdivide the property. The property must be sold or leased back to the city.
An executive committee will meet with Medclaims to work out a proposal to bring back to the committee. Mulligan said the group needs more information before a recommendation can be made.
The board agreed that Wood would work with Medclaims and the land would be reserved for 90 days until details can be worked out. This was unanimously approved by the board.
In addition, Scott Dean informed the board that $30,000 would be put into the 501C3 account to set up the business telecommunication conference unit, which was hooked up two weeks ago.
It was determined non-profit conduit should be researched to determine the accounts relationship with EDF.
Rodgers presented an interim report on the restructuring of the Chamber, EDF, Ponca City Tomorrow, Main Street and Tourism Authority. He said the primary goals were to save administration costs and have a more effective organization. Rodgers has been meeting with Chamber Chairman Larry Felix, City Manager Gary Martin and Mulligan.
"This is an opportunity to get connected," said Felix. "The strength in this endeavor is getting together on the same team."
In other business, $145,209.82 was collected in February from sales tax receipts. Of that, $47,211.21 has been deposited into the collateral account 1995B Issue.
Additionally, Wood said the city clerk's office is gearing up to track how much debt is being canceled by businesses, through the job credit program.
Furthermore, Wood said a request was made to meet with city commissioners in a work session to discuss funding for EDF. However, Wood said the commissioners decided the issue was not appropriate for a work session and preferred EDF have direction before a meeting was set.
Economic indicators were unavailable at the meeting, but will be mailed to board members this week.
Among those in attendance were Robert C. Felts, Financial Services of Rural Enterprises Incorporated, and former city commissioners Hubert Watts and Bill McCann.
By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE
News Business Editor
Ponca City Tourism Authority (PCTA) approved a request by Missy Morland, coordinator, to expend $500 to join the Oklahoma Tourism Department's advertising promotion for a holiday lighting celebration campaign. The promotion would advertise the Festival of Angels held during the Christmas holidays, along with other festivals across the state.
Chairman David Zimmerman welcomed new members of the authority, Glenn Mair and Sue Wheeler.
Morland reported that 30 coach tours are already booked for this year. She told about several bookings from the Kincaid Travel Show and about a new company Sunflower Tours that she has been working with.
Impact of tourism on Ponca City's economy shows a total $6,348,945 compared to $4,454,348 in 1995. There were 153 coach tours in 1996 and 154 in 1995. In 1995-1996 a total of $105,465 was collected for the fiscal year on the three-percent motel tax that funds the PCTA. This compares with $102,504 in 1994-1995.
There was discussion on whether the PCTA should take a position on the city selling the Cultural Center (which was E.W. Marland's first home). It was the consensus of the group that a position not be taken.
Kathy Adams, former chairman of the PCTA and current executive director of the Marland Estate, Cultural Center, Cann Estate and Hutchins Memorial, said there is going to be a meeting on Monday with representatives of the various museums housed in the Cultural Center. Also the various groups meeting at the Cultural Center will be represented.
Concern was expressed about what would happen to the exhibits. Some are on loan and others are owned by the City.
In comments from board members Jan Prough, manager of the Pioneer Woman Museum, said that one large grant that had been anticipated had not materialized for the building project. The museum is currently in the process of being expanded. She said this will mean that the south 40 by 40 foot room for traveling and temporary exhibits will be eliminated unless other funds are found.
Ms. Wheeler, who has a shop on Third Street, commented that Third Street was often left out of downtown activities and that she had not had any response from the Main Street Authority. She also asked about Indian events being listed for visitors.
Betty Rutz told about the trip to Hollywood with Lt. Gov. Mary Fallin to promote movie making in Oklahoma. She and her husband Bill represented the PCTA and Ponca City in general at the promotional event, attended by producers and location managers.
She told there is some interest in shooting movies including one titled "Meet Joe Black." The movie makers were looking for a mansion and were referred to Adams, who forwarded information and photographs. Another movie in the offering is about Bill Pickett and still another is on the 101 Ranch.
By KATHY ZEHR
News Staff Writer
Still laughing and wondering "how'd they do that?" today, after watching a madcap dress rehearsal of "Noises Off," at the Poncan Theatre Thursday evening, I must say this is one of the most difficult reviews I've ever had to write. The multiple outrageous activities on stage, made it impossible to watch and see all the comical, clever portrayals of five men and four women on stage at the same time.
What a terrific way to celebrate the beginning of Ponca Playhouse's 38th year and I predict this hilarious production, directed by the talented Dr. Nancy Vunovich, will be the favorite of the season for Ponca Playhouse fans.
The play within a play by Michael Frayn, featuring both seasoned and newcomers to the Poncan Theatre stage, riveted my attention from the first, and I never left my chair - even between the three acts - where the fast-paced plots never stopped on stage - and off.
The scenes all take place at the theater, and cleverly depicts the stage-front happenings, then the same production as seen from behind the scenes. It is fascinating to a theater lover to watch, as the cleverly designed and intricate set is turned around between acts, and we get to view the dedicated production crew, 'doing their work backstage.'
I don't believe I've seen a Playhouse production where I've laughed until my ribs ached and I needed to wipe the tears from my glasses - as I did last night. Especially, during the second act when the disastrous results of intricate relationships between the loud-mouth manipulating director (Dave May) and members of his cast, results in ludicrous behavior behind scenes. At the same time, his leading players and stand-ins have their own weird inter-relationships and the whole mess results in outrageous and continuous madcap behavior. The activity backstage involves several props such as sardines, a bottle of spirits, missing clothing, a cactus plant, an axe, also being used on the stage-front production at the same time.
Seasoned performer, Ruslyn Hermanson's main character as the leading lady of the show, is that of a frumpy housekeeper obsessed with sardines, and is classic. Having seen Hermanson in some high-class performances it's hard to imagine her as a great talent in comedy, but fans will not be disappointed. Kent Carbaugh plays an amorous, nervous ne'r-do-well, never misses a cue as he takes some nasty licks, but gets in his revenge in his very athletic, scenes.
And, as one viewer put it "we get to see more of Lori May than usual," in this production, as she does a first-class portrayal and a main role as the ditzy blonde, who keeps losing her clothes. Karen Rivers, also a veteran player on the Ponca Playhouse stage, is always right-on-cue as she tries to keep "the show" on track in a professional way, but finally gives in and joins the bizarre behavior in the hopelessly lost plot.
May's stage managing girlfriend is depicted by Tari Carbaugh, who eventually gets into the madcap melee and adds more laughs for the audience as her "predicament" becomes obvious. Playhouse newcomer Josh Sroufe portrays the young assistant stage manager who gets to fill-in and really does portray his character perfectly. David Hart returns to the stage playing the dashing leading man in the "show," and is suave, but ludicrous as he has trouble with glue and keeping his trousers up. C.R. Rupert appears as the old character actor who hears too little and drinks too much, and in perfectly orchestrated scenes with a "bottle" is awesome.
Behind each person on stage, up to eight volunteers usually work backstage for a performance and it was a true pleasure to see many of them on stage with the sets lights, props and other works. Those we did not get to see, are to be highly commended and certainly added pleasure to the overall professional production.
To theatergoers, I say, if you cannot see all the Playhouse Productions this season, "Noises Off," is not the one to miss!
Show dates include Feb. 21, 22, 28 and March 1, at 8 p.m. at the Poncan Theatre. The Sunday matinee Feb. 23 is at 2 p.m. Corporate sponsors for "Noises Off" are Thorn Apple Valley and Mid-America Fence and Door Company.
Call the Ponca Playhouse box office at 765-5360 for ticket information.
Newkirk
Marriage Licenses
Robert Scott Stewart, 27, and Robyn Jean Odom, 26, both of Wichita.
Gary Adelbert Darr, 46, and Linda Kay Stump, 47, both of Arkansas City.
Stephen Matthew Kite, 24, and Jule Ann Red Leaf, 26, both of Ponca City.
James LeRoy Thomason, 19, and Brook Ann Ross, 17, both of Blackwell.
Criminal Proceedings
Hearing Set - Ricky Dale Batt, 34; Richard James Gaddis, 26, and Michael Joe Wimsett, 25, each charged with forcible oral sodomy after two or more former felony convictions in connection with an alleged attack Dec. 24 on another prisoner at the Kay County Detention Facility. Batt also is charged with assault and battery with intent to kill after two or more former felony convictions. A pre-preliminary hearing for the three defendants was set by Judge Welch for 9 a.m. April 18. If convicted, the three face sentences of 20 years to life and fines of up to $10,000 each.
Pleads No Contest - Cecil Vern Hall, 41, charged with feloniously pointing a firearm in connection with a March 10, 1996, incident involving two Ponca City residents. Hall entered a plea of no contest and Judge Boyd handed the defendant a five-year suspended sentence and a $250 fine. He faced up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
Hearing Set - James Stanley Stephens, 35, charged with possession of methamphetamines with intent to distribute, attempting to manufacture methamphetamine, and obtaining cash or merchandise by bogus check. The charges stem from alleged incidents in March and August last year. The court scheduled a 1 p.m. March 6 hearing before Judge Page. If convicted, the defendant faces sentences of as much as 20 years to life and fines of not less than $25,000.
Blackwell
Divorces Sought
Kimberly Christine Barr vs. Steven Scott Barr.
Bern L. Martin vs. Savanna J. Martin.
Travis W. Brown vs. Michelle S. Brown.
Civil Proceedings
Professional Credit Collections vs. Cynthia Shear and Clarence Shear; plaintiff seeking judgment for $7,634.59.
Ponca City
Divorces Sought
David Wayne Thomas vs. Leslie Jeanette Thomas.
Trudy DeVolder vs. Ronald David DeVolder.
Billie Gail Byrd vs. James P. Byrd.
Sheila Marie Dillard vs. Curtis Lane Dillard.
Lisa Cummings vs. David Scott Cummings.
Civil Proceedings
Anna Marie McAlister, petition to change name to Anna Marie Clark.
John Farmer vs. Paula Glenn; plaintiff seeking judgment of $10,000.
Specialty Products and Insulation Co. vs. Thorn Apple Valley, Inc.; plaintiff seeking judgment of $10,003.55.
Even though the "flu season" is hardly over, it is time for local business and industry leaders to think about ordering the flu shot vaccine for their employees for the fall of 1997.
St. Joseph Regional Medical Center will soon be ordering flu shot vaccines for local businesses. In the fall, a team of health care providers from SJRMC will come directly to your business to administer the flu vaccines ordered, if you have over 25 individuals who will receive the vaccination. If you have less than 25 employees, they may go to the Community Clinic on Tuesday or Thursday evenings to receive the immunizations.
Research shows that vaccination against influenza has substantial health-related and economic benefits for healthy, working adults. In a report in the New England Journal of Medicine, immunization has been shown to decrease the frequency of upper respiratory illnesses by 25 percent, absenteeism from work due to upper respiratory illness by 43 percent, and visits to physicians' offices for upper respiratory illness by 44 percent. This could provide a substantial savings to your company and your employees during the flu season.
Flu shots must be received on an annual basis because flu viruses change from year to year. The vaccine is developed specifically to combat the upcoming season's viruses.
The cost of on-site vaccinations is $10 if you have less than 100 employees. If you have over 100 employees receiving the shot, the cost is $8.50. For larger companies with shift work, SJRMC health care providers will schedule vaccinations at different times to accommodate the shift workers.
If you would like to participate in this program, contact either Janet White, Wellness Coordinator at SJRMC, (405) 765-0594 or Sandy Gearhart at (405) 765-0301 by March 15. As stated before, the flu vaccine must be pre-ordered in the spring. Therefore, you must respond by March 15 to participate.
The sale of daffodils has become an annual fund raiser to support research of a cure for cancer. The 1997 American Cancer Society Daffodil Days begins Sunday and will continue through March 1.
As the first flower of spring, daffodils were chosen to promote "hope" of spring and "hope" for a cure for cancer, according to ACS.
Flowers are sold by the bunches or by the box. A bundle of 10 cut daffodils costs $5 or a box of 50 bunches can be purchased for $250.
On Friday and Saturday, daffodils will be available at United Supermarket, Albertson's, Wal-Mart and St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. Daffodils will also be available at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center Sunday afternoon.
Four dollars of each $5 donation goes towards cancer research, according to Betty Tautfest, Kay County Cancer Society Church Coordinator for Ponca City.
This Sunday, Albright United Methodist, Northeast Baptist, Prince of Peace Lutheran, Believer's Fellowship, St. Paul's Methodist and First Free Will Baptist Church are scheduled to participate in Daffodil Sunday, Tautfest said.
In addition, Dwyer's Hallmark, will donate $1 of each "Daffodil Dreamsicle" sold to the American Cancer Society Daffodil campaign.
The ACS is the nationwide community based health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by preventing cancer, saving lives from cancer and diminishing suffering from cancer.
A "Dance for Heart," square dance party will be held Sunday from 2 to 4:30 p.m. at the American Legion building, 407 West South Avenue hosted by members of the North Central Square Dance District clubs. The public is encouraged to attend and support the American Heart Fund.
Non-dancers are encouraged to come and watch, try the line dancing, join in the silent auction for several nice prizes and enjoy the refreshments.
Clubs in the North Central Square Dance District hosting the event include the Wagon Wheels of Stillwater, Pioneer Squares and Chickaskia Valley clubs of Ponca City and the Kaws and Squaws of Kaw City.
Callers for the dances will be Dick Manning, Oklahoma City and Dave Johnson, Tulsa. In addition to the squares, the two men will also be calling some line dances, where non square-dancers may also participate.
Admission to the dance is a donation to the American Heart Fund drive.
DEATHS
BLACKWELL - Arthur Virgil Shouse, longtime Blackwell resident, died Thursday morning, Feb. 20, 1997, at the Blackwell Regional Hospital. He was 77.
The funeral will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, at the Blackwell First Church of the Nazarene with the Rev. Bill Kalfas, officiating. Burial will be in the Blackwell IOOF Cemetery under the direction of Roberts and Son Funeral Home.
Arthur Virgil Shouse was born Aug. 14, 1919, in Moline, Kan., the son of J.W. "Bill" and Jennie (Zembau) Shouse. He grew up in Osage County, then moved with his family to Blackwell in 1931. He attended Blackwell schools, then was employed at the Blackwell Brick Plant and on area farms.
On Aug. 5, 1940, he was married to Dorothy Muriel Newell in Nevada, Mo., and the couple established their home in Blackwell. He then began employment with Gearhard Plumbing and later the Blackwell Zinc Company. In 1944, he began employment with Cities Service Gas Company where he worked for 37 years, retiring in 1981. Shouse was a member of the Blackwell First Church of the Nazarene. He was an avid hunter and fisherman.
Survivors include his wife, Dorothy, of Blackwell; three daughters, Dorothy Arndt of Alva, and Karen Sinclair and Beverly Conseen, both of Pryor; five brothers, Orville and Buster, both of Blackwell, Bob of Braman, Burl of Wichita, Kan., and John of Russellville, Ark.; nine grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Willard Shouse; and a sister, Jenny Marie Shouse.
Casket bearers will be Ivan Ballard, Bill Winte, A.C. Pratt, David Martin, Merrill Rickel and Bill Curtis. Honorary bearers will be Glen Beard, David Johns, Orville Brown and Walter Dotson.
Memorial contributions may be made in Mr. Shouse's name to the First Church of the Nazarene, c/o Roberts Funeral Home, 120 West Padon, Blackwell, Ok 74631.
ARKANSAS CITY, Kan. - Lucielle M. Waltrip, mother of Robert Waltrip of Newkirk, and Dean Waltrip of Ponca City, died early this morning, Feb. 21, 1997, at the South Central Kansas Regional Medical Center. She was 88.
The funeral will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday at the Rindt-Erdman Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Wade C. Graber officiating. Burial will be in Riverview Cemetery in Arkansas City.
Lucielle M. (Pierce) Waltrip was born Aug. 22, 1908, in Argonia, Kan., the daughter of Lloyd and Mary (McReynolds) Pierce. She grew up and received her education at Medicine Lodge, Kan.
On Sept. 8, 1928, she was married to Eugene W. Waltrip in Arkansas City, Kan, where the couple established their home. Mrs. Waltrip was a homemaker. She was a member of the Arkansas City First Baptist Church, where she served as Sunday School superintendent secretary, was a member of the Philathea Sunday School Class, and the Melodears. She was also a life time member of the Spencer-Ralston Post 1254 VFW Ladies Auxiliary and a member of the 8 &40 Club.
Survivors include two sons, Robert of Newkirk, and Dean of Ponca City; one daughter, Donna Jean Louderback of Arkansas City; eight grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband in 1982; her parents; and one infant brother.
Memorial contributions may be made to the First Baptist Church, c/o Rindt-Erdman Funeral Home, P.O. Box 756, Arkansas City, KS 67005.
LONE JACK - Rena Opal Adams, longtime resident of the Lone Jack Community died Wednesday, Feb. 19, 1997, at Tulsa. She was 88.
The funeral will be held at 10 a.m. in the Pawnee First Christian Church with the Rev. Tom Scott officiating. Burial will be in the Highland Cemetery under the direction of Poteet Funeral Home, Pawnee.
Rena Opal (Bodenhamer) Adams was born Sept. 22, 1908, in Stillwater, the daughter of William H. and Zelda Opal (Gudel) Bodenhamer. She moved to the Lone Jack Community at the age of 13, where she resided the rest of her life.
She was marred to Leonard H. Adams on Dec. 25, 1926, in Stillwater. Mrs. Adams was a homemaker and enjoyed reading and watching movies. She was a member of the Pawnee First Christian Church.
Survivors include two sons, Hollis and Bill, both of Pawnee; one daughter, Joyce Keeton of Maramec; eight grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; and numerous other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her husband, Leonard on July 30, 1993; her parents; one brother; and one great-grandchild.
Ruby Melba (Avey) Franks, longtime Ponca City resident, died Thursday evening, Feb. 20, 1997, at the Highland Nursing Home. She was 87.
The funeral will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, at the Trout Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Larry Heslip, minister of education, First Baptist Church, officiating. Burial will be in the Ponca City IOOF Cemetery. Friends may visit at the funeral home until 9 a.m. Saturday.
Ruby Melba (Avey) Franks was born Nov. 20, 1909 in New Nata, Ark., the daughter of John Claibourne and Edna Jane (Gower) Avey.
She married Ray O. Franks, Sept. 24, 1929, in Mountain View, Ark. and the couple moved to Ponca City in 1945. Mrs. Franks had been employed as a sales clerk for Kress Department Store and Hopkins Bakery, before retirement in 1982. She was a member of the Baptist church. She enjoyed gardening, flowers, and had been a seamstress.
Survivors include one son, Lyle R. Franks of Ponca City; seven step-grandchildren; 23 step-great-grandchildren; nine step-great-great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband on June 16, 1957; her parents; two brothers, Harmon Avey and Harlon S. Avey; and four sisters, Gurtha Zinn, Leona Cooper, Annie Gower and Lula Richardson.
Casket bearers will be Kenneth Jackson, Oley Bullard, Leon Spielbusch, Colby Spielbusch, Joe Spielbusch and Junior Odom.
Ruby Melba (Avey) Franks, longtime Ponca City resident, died Thursday evening, Feb. 20, 1997, at the Highland Nursing Home. She was 87.
The funeral will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, at the Trout Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Larry Heslip, minister of education, First Baptist Church, officiating. Burial will be in the Ponca City IOOF Cemetery. Friends may visit at the funeral home until 9 a.m. Saturday.
Ruby Melba (Avey) Franks was born Nov. 20, 1909 in New Nata, Ark., the daughter of John Claibourne and Edna Jane (Gower) Avey.
She married Ray O. Franks, Sept. 24, 1929, in Mountain View, Ark. and the couple moved to Ponca City in 1945. Mrs. Franks had been employed as a sales clerk for Kress Department Store and Hopkins Bakery, before retirement in 1982. She was a member of the Baptist church. She enjoyed gardening, flowers, and had been a seamstress.
Survivors include one son, Lyle R. Franks of Ponca City; seven step-grandchildren; 23 step-great-grandchildren; nine step-great-great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband on June 16, 1957; her parents; two brothers, Harmon Avey and Harlon S. Avey; and four sisters, Gurtha Zinn, Leona Cooper, Annie Gower and Lula Richardson.
Casket bearers will be Kenneth Jackson, Oley Bullard, Leon Spielbusch, Colby Spielbusch, Joe Spielbusch and Junior Odom.
FAIRFAX - Nora Ilene Cox, Fairfax resident, died Wednesday afternoon, Feb. 19, 1997, at the Fairfax Memorial Hospital. She was 81.
The funeral will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday at the Hunsaker-Wooten Funeral Home Chapel in Fairfax with the Rev. George Weston, pastor of Fairfax First Christian Church officiating. Burial will be in the Fairfax Cemetery.
Nora Ilene (Callaway) Cox was born Jan. 18, 1916, in Carthage, Mo., the daughter of Richard Dewitt and Etta Ilene (Evans) Callaway. She attended Fairfax schools.
Mrs. Cox was a homemaker and enjoyed sewing, crocheting and playing the piano. She was a member of the Fairfax First Christian Church.
Survivors include three daughters, Ilene McAbee of Lewisville, Texas, Betty McLemore of La Porte, Texas, and Faye Showalter of Wenatchee, Wash.; one brother, Dick Callaway of Fairfax; one sister, Leona Tate of Fairfax; eight grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents.
The family will be at the Tate home in Fairfax.
Lucille Warrior
Lucille Little Voice Warrior, Ponca City resident, died Thursday, Feb. 20, 1997, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. She was 66. Local survivors include her husband, Adolphus Warrior, of the home. A prayer service will be held today and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. at the Ponca Indian United Methodist Church at White Eagle. Other arrangements are pending at Trout Funeral Home, Ponca City.
Bertha M. Dixon
Bertha M. "Dolly" Dixon, Ponca City resident, died Friday morning, Feb. 21, 1997, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. She was 88. Arrangements are pending with Trout Funeral Home.
Saturday
Emma Plunkett - Memorial service at 2 p.m. at the Y Chapel of
Song on the University of Central Oklahoma campus in Edmond. A reception
will follow in the Broncho corral of Health and Physical Education Building.
Arrangements are under the direction of Trout Funeral Home, Ponca City.
NEWS BRIEFS
"Noises Off" - Ponca Playhouse's production of "Noises Off" opens tonight at the Poncan Theatre at 8 p.m. Tickets and memberships are available by calling 765-5360.
Benefit Auction Saturday - The First Free Will Baptist Church, 1900 East Hubbard Road, will hold a barbecue dinner at noon Saturday in the annex of the church. An auction with funds going towards a sound system with assistive devices for special singers and the hearing impaired, will be held after lunch, which includes baked beans and the trimmings, at $6 per person, with slabs of ribs available for purchase at $10. The event will be held indoors.
Theft - A Ponca City police officer took a report that a woman stole two cartons of cigarettes from Miller Market, 900 South Fourth Street, at 10:52 a.m. Thursday. The woman left in a black Chevy, according to telecommunication officers.
Accident - A 31-year-old man was arrested on charges of driving under the influence by a Ponca City police officer at the scene of a non-injury accident which occurred at Bradley Avenue and North Fourteenth Street at 1:36 p.m. Thursday.
Wreck - According to the Ponca City telecommunication officers, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol responded to an accident three miles south of U.S. 60 on U.S. 177 a 3:11 p.m. Thursday. No injuries were reported.
Dog Stolen - A resident in the 300 block of West Cleveland Avenue notified the Ponca City Police Department at 3:36 p.m. Thursday that a Rottweiler puppy was stolen. An officer took a report.
Collision - A Ponca City police officer took a report of a one-vehicle non-injury accident in the 1400 block of North Union Street at 4:07 p.m. Thursday.
Accident - A 17-year-old teen and a 47-year-old woman were injured in a four-vehicle accident in the 900 block of East Prospect Avenue at 5:09 p.m. Thursday, according to Ponca City telecommunication officers. Two Ponca City ambulance crews took the victims to St. Joseph Regional Medical Center were they were treated and released, a hospital official confirmed. Additionally, emergency medical technicians gave stuffed bears to three children, according to the ambulance report. A Ponca City police officer took a report.
Threatening - A Ponca City police officer arrested a 26-year-old man in the 800 block of North Osage Street at 11:36 p.m. Thursday for threatening language. The subject had been asked to leave the residence and refused, according to an officer.
Improper Movement - A 43-year-old woman was arrested by a Ponca
City police officer from a traffic stop at East Prospect Avenue and Turner
Street at 1:58 a.m. Friday. The woman was charged with driving while intoxicated
and improper movement from direct course.
LIFESTYLES
Aqua Jog, a deep water exercise class, will be offered Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays, at 8:15-9:00 a.m. with Susan Henning, Tuesdays and Thursdays at 5: 15-6:00 p.m. with Deena Marazas, and Saturdays at 10:00-10:50 a.m. with a rotation of instructors. Babysitting is available during the weekday morning sessions for an additional charge.
Aqua Jog is an exercise class held in the deep well at the Community Pool. Water temperature is 83-85 degrees. Participants wear a flotation belt, which is provided with the class, to keep them floating at shoulder level in the water. You do not have to know how to swim to participate. The class format includes a thermal warm-up, pre-stretch, 20-25 minute aerobic segment, upper body toning, abdominal toning, and final cool down and stretch to music.
The flotation belt for deep water exercise was originally designed in the 1980's as a water rehabilitation tool for injured people, but soon caught on with world-class athletes who were recovering from injuries. Deep water exercise allowed the athletes to recover while still maintaining a high level of fitness.
Deep water exercise has continued to increase in popularity because it offers muscle strengthening, toning, flexibility, and cardiovascular benefits without the muscle soreness, joint injury potential, and hot sweaty workout of land based aerobics. Deep water exercise can be adapted to all ages and fitness levels by using the properties of water resistance to your advantage.
To decrease resistance and work, participants can bend their limbs and move slower. To increase resistance and work, participants can straighten arms and legs, cup hands, and increase speed for a full controlled range of motion. By remaining in a vertical position in the water a person increases their resistance 75% over swimming. Many people who are used to a "heart-pounding, sweaty" workout on land may not feel like they are getting as good of a workout in the water. This is due to the cooling and massaging effect of the water.
Aerobic heart rates may be 20-30 beats per minute lower in the water than for the same aerobic benefits on land. But due to the twelve times greater resistance of water over air water, exercisers can burn approximately two times the calories for a given amount of time as on land. Aqua Jog also offers a "balanced muscle" workout with resistance to opposing muscle groups, those on both the front and back of the body, at all times.
Come try Aqua Jog for a year-round, refreshing yet invigorating workout in a heated pool. Class routines and music are changed bi-monthly to continue to challenge and encourage students to "stick to" a life long exercise opportunity. For more information call the YMCA at 765-5417.
The Feb. 10 meeting of the Ponca City Desk and Derrick Club was held at the Pecan Place Clubhouse. Hostesses were Mary Faken, Joy Asbury and Georgia Donahoo. Ms. Faken gave the devotion and the business session was conducted by June Jeffries, president.
Louise Skinner discussed the 1997 budget for the group. Announcement was made that the Region VI meeting would be held at the Hotel Phillips in Bartlesville April 18-20.
Vicki Davis presented a film about the construction of an underground propane storage cavern below the Ponca City refinery in 1960. Details about the storage area were outlined.
March is Desk and Derrick Awareness Month and members made plans for its observance. The March meeting will be at a new time, 6:30 p.m., at the Pecan Place Clubhouse.
The Mozart Music Club meets Feb. 23 at the Cultural Center for the Junior Music Festival Showcase. Students enrolled in Primary I,II,III will perform 2-2:45 p.m. and Primary IV and above will perform 2:45-3 p.m.
March 1 is the date for the Junior Music Festival will will be held at the First Baptist and First Methodist churches. Anyone having questions about the group should contact Suzi Lenhart, 762-9895.
Laureate Phi chapter members of Beta Sigma Phi sorority met recently at the Ponca City Country Club for a dinner honoring Roberta Streeter, Valentine Queen for the chapter. There were nine members and five guests present. Meire K. Harris relinquished her crown to the new chapter queen and presented Ms. Streeter with a crown pin.
The next meeting of the group will be at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 24. Guests at
the special event were Dean Keating, Jim Rosenbaum, Charles Starks, Allen
Streeter and John Williams.
RELIGION
Dr. Jerold McBride, former pastor of First Baptist Church, Ponca City, will be returning Sunday as guest preacher, speaking at both the morning and evening services.
Dr. McBride's sermon topics will be "You Can Be Invincible!" with text from Philippians 4:11-13 during the morning worship service, and "Revealed By The Cross" with text from Galatians 6:14a at the evening service.
A graduate of Hardin Simmons University in Abilene and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth with a Bachelor of Divinity, Doctor of Theology and Master of Divinity degrees, Dr. McBridge pastored First Baptist here from 1964 until 1969 when he became Director of the Department of Evangelism, Baptist General Convention of Oklahoma. At the present time he is pastoring First Baptist Church in San Angelo, Texas where he has served since 1971.
Dr. McBride served as President of the Baptist General Convention of Texas from 1993-95 and is currently chairman of Texas Baptist Committed and serves on the George W. Truett Seminary Advisory Board, Baylor.
In December and January of 1995-96 he made a mission trip to Peru and Brazil to teach preaching and pastoral ministry, and through the years he has spoken at Glorieta Aspen Bible Conference, held preaching workshops in Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, Brazil, Mexico and the Ukraine and Russia, guest taught preaching at Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary, preached at Glorieta, Arkansas Baptist Assembly and taught Bible at Falls Creek.
Dr. McBride has been published on numerous occasions and been honored by Hardin-Simmons University Logsdon School of Theology and received the Distinguished Alumnus Award in 1996.
He is enthusiastic about boating, water skiing, mechanical repairs, computers, writing and music composition, after his first love of preaching the Gospel.
He and his wife, Elizabeth are the parents of three children, Renee, 34; Charlotte, 32 and Todd, 30.
Visitors are always welcome to attend services at First Baptist, and especially this Sunday to hear Dr. McBride.
Local Mormon Church Sets Open House
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is holding an Open House at the Ponca City Word Chapel, 2408 East Hartford, on Sunday, Feb. 23 from 6 to 7:30 p.m.
Elder Dullin H. Oaks of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles will speak via Satellite Broadcast from Salt Lake City, Utah.
Following the broadcast, guests will be invited to tour the Genealogy Library which is open to the public for conducting family history research. There will be presentations introducing the Book of Mormon and ways in which families can be strengthened.
Refreshments will be served in the Cultural Hall where guests may receive additional information concerning adult and youth education and activities.
Albright Methodists Hold Annual Pancake/Sausage Supper
The Annual Pancake Sausage Supper at Albright United Methodist is set for Friday evening, Feb. 28 from 5 to 7 p.m. The event will be held in Fellowship Hall at the church, and is sponsored by The Homemakers Class.
Cost will be $4 for adults and $2 for children.
Class members urge Ponca Citians to come and enjoy the food and fellowship.
First Christian Group Into Lenten Kerygma Course
First Christian Church is into a six-week Lenten Kerygma course designed to deepen appreciation of the words and music of Handel's Messiah. The course is being held on Sunday mornings from 9:30 to 10:30 through March 23 in Fellowship Hall. Gary Stephens is the leader.
Session 6 is being held this Sunday, "He Trusted God", using Psalms 22, 24 & 26, Psalms 139 and Matthew 27:27-66. Future sessions are scheduled March 2, 90, 16 and 23. For more information, please contact Roberta Shaffer, Education Director, 762-1666.
First Free Will Baptists Plan Benefit Auction
The First Free Will Baptist Church at 1900 Hubbard Road invites the public to come have lunch and stay for the fun on Saturday, Feb. 22. The doors will open at 10:30 a.m. for viewing merchandise, lunch will be served at noon and the auction will follow at 1 p.m.
Lunch will include a barbecue rib dinner with beans, coleslaw, brisket and, of course, the ribs. Cost for dinner will be $6 per person, and it was noted, slabs of ribs can be purchased for $10.
The auction is scheduled for indoors, so come rain or shine, the fun will take place. Proceeds from the sale will go to a sound system with assistive devices for special singers and the choir.
New Mt. Olive Baptists Plan Special Service
New Mt. Olive Baptist Church will be celebrating "Black History" this Sunday at 3 p.m.
They invite everyone to come and enjoy the music, poetry and readings scheduled for the afternoon.
First Pentecostal Sponsors 'Friends Sunday'
This Sunday, Feb. 23, has been designated as "Friends Sunday" at First United Pentecostal Church, 1921 East Hartford in Ponca City. All members bringing a friend to the 10 a.m. Sunday morning service will receive a special gift, and their friend will also receive a special gift.
Pastor Rick Hughes extends a warm invitation to "come visit our exciting, friendly and growing church." For more information or a ride to church, contact Pastor Hughes at 767-1482.
River of Life Church of God Tells Schedule
The River of Life Church of God, 105 North Second, took a group of their young people for a visit in Oklahoma City to Crossroads Cathedral last Monday. The youth will host the monthly Youth Rally on this Saturday at 6 p.m.
Services at River of Life at 10:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. on Sunday, Bible Study on Tuesday at 7 p.m. and a midweek prayer service on Thursday at 7 p.m.
Visitors are always welcome at River of Life Church of God.
The First Baptist Church of Ponca City will host The Praise Singers from Ouachita Baptist University in Arkadelphia, Ark. in full concert on Saturday, Feb. 22 at 7 p.m. in the Worship Center, located at Fifth and Central in downtown Ponca City. Admission is free and the public is cordially invited to attend.
The Praise Singers, an eight-voice select contemporary Christian vocal group, were organized in 1985 by the Bernice Young Jones School of Fine Arts, Division of Music of Ouachita Baptist University. Diana Ellis is the faculty director for this group who perform a variety of Christian music, including popular contemporary sacred, gospel and a cappella.
This year's members are: Kim Cole, student director, a senior elementary education major from Bossier City, La.; Ted Duncan, a junior vocal performance major from Houston; Jason Greenwich, senior vocal music major from Florianopolis, Brazil; Tad Hardin, sophomore piano performance major from Arkadelphia, Ark.; Preston Harris, sophomore church music major from Garland, Texas; Teresa Haynes, senior marketing major from Wynne, Ark.; Kristin Maddox, sophomore vocal performance major from Ponca City; Trevlyn Merritt, sophomore choral music education major from DeSoto, Texas, and Mark Verlander, sound technician senior youth ministry major from Dakar, Senegal, West Africa.
Kristin Maddox is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Maddox of Ponca City. A Ponca City High School graduate and an alumnus of the Po-Hi Chorale, Kristin has an older sister, Kimber, and a younger brother, K.C. She has served as a music intern at First Baptist in the summer of 1996 and was actively involved in the youth and youth music ministries of First Baptist during her Junior and Senior High years.
Kristin says she looks forward to performing before her hometown family and friends, and sharing her experiences at Ouachita Baptist University. Among graduates of Ouachita Baptist are members of the number one Christian vocal ensemble, Point of Grace.
In addition to presenting a full concert on Saturday evening, the group will also be featured during the Sunday morning worship service on Feb. 23. Music leaders at First Baptist feel young and old alike will enjoy the rich harmonies of The Praise Singers.
Doors will open at 6:15 p.m. for the Saturday concert. Admission is free, but the public is encouraged to come early for a good seat.
The ROCK (Reaching Out for Cool Kids) Youth Group of First United Pentecostal Church announces its annual Youth Week for Friday through Sunday, Feb. 21-23. The Rev. Dustin Hanson, Youth Pastor in Lone Grove and South-Central Oklahoma Regional Youth President, will be the featured speaker. Service times are 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday evenings, 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. on Sunday.
The youth will be a big part of each service, according to Pastor Rick Hughes, and the services will feature special singing, youth talks, and inspiring messages focused on young people. The theme for the youth week is "A Heart for Harvest". All services will be held at the church, located at 1921 East Hartford in Ponca City.
Pastor Hughes and the ROCK group invite both young and old alike to visit these exciting and enjoyable services. All teens not presently a part of a youth group are encouraged to "come, be a part of a growing and exciting youth group!" For more information or a ride to church, contact Pastor Hughes at 767-1482.
Michael Bedford of Tulsa, a full-time church musician since 1973, will be in Ponca City Saturday, Feb. 22 for the annual Meet-The-Composer Series at First United Methodist Church.
According to Dolan Bayless, Minister of Music at First UMC, Bedford is currently serving as organist/choirmaster of St. John's Episcopal Church in Tulsa.
The one day event for the children's choirs will take place this Saturday in the music room at First Methodist, beginning at 9:30 a.m. with Carol Choir Rehearsal, Bayless said.
The Wesley Choir will rehearse from 10:30 a.m. until noon. Following lunch at noon, the Wesley Choir will continue rehearsing until 1:45 p.m. From 1 until 2:45 p.m. the Carol Choir will hold another rehearsal.
Both Choirs will sing at the 11 a.m. worship service at First United Methodist Sunday.
Bedford plays the organ at St. John's and supervises a full graded choir program including four singing choirs, a cantors' guild, two handbell choirs and a chamber ensemble. He has held similar positions in Texas and Colorado.
In 1972, Bedford earned the Bachelor of Music and the Bachelor of Music Education degrees from Texas Christian University, and in 1975 he earned the Master of Music degree from TCU. On a Fulbright scholarship in 1972-73 he studied organ with Michael Schneider at the Hochschule fur Musik in Cologne, Germany.
He has currently completed the coursework, foreign language exam, and qualifying and oral exams toward the Doctor of Musical Arts degree in organ performance at the University of North Texas.
A long-time member of the American Guild of Organists, he is Past Dean of the Fort Worth and Colorado Springs Chapters and currently serves as Dean of the Tulsa Chapter. In May of 1991 he earned the Associate and Choirmaster certificates through the AGO examinations.
Bedford has published choral music for children's, youth and adult choirs, as well as organ collections and handbell pieces. Through eight publishing companies he now has some forty-five titles in print. He also serves as workshop leader and clinician for children's choir festivals, handbell choir festivals and organ workshops throughout the United States.
In addition to membership in the American Guild of Organists, Bedford also belongs to Choristers Guild (of which he is a current board member), the Association of Anglican Musicians, the Royal School of Church Music in America, the Organ Historical Society, the American Choral Directors Association, and the American Guild of English Handbell Ringers. In 1984 his bio was featured in "Outstanding Young Men of America", and in 1989 it appeared in the "International Who's Who in Music".
Bedford's wife, Marilyn, is an elementary school teacher in Tulsa, and they have two children, Allyson, 12 and Phillip, 5.
All of the rehearsals during the Meet-the-Composer Series are open to
parents and others to come and watch as Michael works with the children's
choirs at First United Methodist. The Helen M. Foster Memorial Endowment
has commissioned an anthem from Bedford which will be premiered at a later
date, Bayless said.
EDUCATION
Students in Pioneer Tech's Health Science Technology (HST) class recently completed several community service projects benefiting Union and Garfield elementary and the Sterling House.
The HST students participating in Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) organization spent several weeks planning activities ranging from blood pressure screenings for senior citizens to health issues to elementary school students.
The first project was organized when the students were studying the skeletal system. Dodee King, HST instructor, gave a presentation to the senior citizens on preventing disability while the students did blood pressure screenings and demonstrated techniques to slow and prevent disability from stiff joints, muscular weakness and memory loss. To enhance this project, the students go on a monthly basis to the Sterling House and assist nurses in doing monthly health screenings for the residents. The students record weight and vital signs during their visits. "They learn to communicate caring ways to others," said Dodee King. "They learn the importance of being organized and yet flexible to be of service to others."
After studying the integementary system and learning about infection prevention, the first year HST students decided to give a presentation to the elementary students at Garfield and Union about how the body fights infection and the importance of hand washing. The project concluded with a discussion about health careers. "Doing community projects helps a person to realize how much they have to offer to other people," said Katrina Stewart, HST student.
The health science technology program is available to high school students interested in health occupations. The course prepares students for skills in patient care and communication. Students also explore the different health care fields such as, physical therapy, radiology, emergency technology, veterinary assisting, dental assisting and nursing. To find out more about the HST program call 762-8336.
The Ponca City High School DECA Chapter is sponsoring a poster contest for all elementary students in the Ponca City Public Schools. The overall winner will receive a $100 savings bond. The theme of the poster contest is "Success, Turning Visions Into Reality." Rules are:
* must be 22" by 13" (which is half a poster board)
* must be made by the student that is entered
* must include the theme stated above
* must be turned into the office at the student's elementary school by Feb. 13 at noon
* all posters become the property of the Ponca City DECA Chapter
* if you have questions, you can call 767-9500 ext. 136
TONKAWA - A special night honoring Northern Oklahoma College sophomore basketball athletes and their parents is planned for Feb. 24 in Foster-Piper Fieldhouse.
According to Mick Weiberg, vice president for student services, the Feb. 24 date is special because it is the last time the sophomore members of the Lady Mavs and Maverick basketball teams, the Northern Cheerleaders and the Spirit band will all preform together on their home court. The teams will host the Rose State Raiders from Midwest City that evening.
Sophomore cheerleaders and their parents will be introduced before the women's game, followed by the introduction of sophomore Lady Mavs and their parents. Sophomore men and their parents will be introduced before the men's fame. Each group will later receive a souvenir photograph. Spirit Band sophomores will also be recognized.
An autographing party for the sophomore Lady Mavs, Mavericks and Cheerleaders
will be held.
SPORTS
SEMINOLE - Northern's men's and women's basketball teams both suffered tough losses here Thursday night in Bi-State West action. The Lady Mavs lost 77-62 and the Mavericks lost by a point on a last-second prayer, 61-60.
Northern's women entered the contest with sole possession of first place in the league standings but Seminole forged into a tie for the lead with the victory. Both teams now stand 7-1 in the Bi-State West. If both teams finish tied at the end of the regular season, Seminole will get the No. 1 seed out of the West due to its better overall record. The Belles are 21-6 on the season while Northern is 18-10.
"Seminole knew how important this game was for them." said NOC head coach Greg Krause. "They were prepared to play and were tuned in. They weren't going to beat themselves."
Northern's offense struggled throughout the contest as the Seminole defense concentrated on shutting down the inside game. The Lady Mavs couldn't score from the outside, though, making just two treys in the game - and one of those came in the final minute by Lynetta Geter, NOC's best inside player.
Geter led Northern with 27 points and Michelle Brown had 14, 13 coming in the second half. But those two didn't get much help, especially in the second half when they combined for 26 of NOC's 33 points.
Sherry Butts, saddled with foul trouble throughout, scored 6 points, T.J. Humphreys and Jill Kliewer had 5 each, Mandy Perkins 4 and Brandi McClellan added 1 point.
In addition to poor outside shooting, the Lady Mavs were just 12-for-28 from the foul line.
Seminole led 38-29 at the half.
In the men's game, NOC led by three points with 1:30 to play and was up one in the closing seconds. Seminole came down with the ball, missed a shot but got the rebound. With one second left the ball was flung back up at the goal and went into the basket as the buzzer sounded, giving the Trojans a 61-60 win.
Head coach Mick Weiberg said the game really turned at the 1:30 mark.
"Seminole had the ball and called a timeout with 1:30 to play. The official then handed Seminole the ball while we're just coming out of the huddle and gives them a layup. We were not late out of the timeout," said Weiberg. "That's the kind of thing that's been happening to this team all year. But our kids played well and had the game won. It's just not in the cards for us. But we have two games left. We need to win them both to make the tournament and then we're going to do to some teams what they've been doing to us. That's our motivation."
Blake Sonne led the Mavericks with 18 points, Mark Passley had 13, DeShawn Denson 12 and Steven Lookout 10. Also scoring were Richard Whitfield, 4; Kyle Dean, 2; and Bryan Stevens, 1.
Northern fell to 3-5 in the Bi-State West and 11-17 overall. Seminole improved to 7-1 in the league and 15-12 overall.
The Mavs and Lady Mavs conclude the home portion of their schedule Monday against Rose State and then wrap up the regular season Wednesday in Tishomingo against Murray State.
The Ponca City Disc Golf Club will christen a new disc golf course in the Conoco buy-out area on South Fourth Street with a mini-tournament on Sunday starting at 1 p.m.
"The improvement in equipment has made us outgrow our old course (in Memorial Park)," club president Freeman Marlow said. "Conoco has allowed us to put on a course in their buyout area which is more spread out and will be more challenging."
Marlow said the mini-tournament will be open to all classes of competition.
That will include, men, women, youths, amateur and open. Area disc golfers are invited to try out the new course.
Kids Inc., has been sanctioned by Little League for the 1997 season, according to Raymond Tole, President of Kids Inc.
Little League, known internationally for its baseball and softball programs, has accepted Kids Incorporated's charter and has sanctioned the local organization for the 1997 season. All baseball leagues will play by the Little League rules for the current year while softball will remain ASA.
"Last year we made a change to our T-Ball program which was a great success," Tole said. "Again this year our Co-Ed coach pitch for 5 and 6 year olds looks to be a popular league. The change last year was to begin the children watching the ball come to them and learning to hit the ball but still attaining the outfield experience by allowing the T to be brought in after a few failed swings."
The 1997 season sign-up process has begun. Sign-ups are being accepted now and will be taken until March 1. Forms were sent to the Elementary Schools and are still available in front of Wal-Mart Saturday and Sunday from noon until 4 p.m. Forms will be accepted there or can be mailed to Kids Inc. at PO Box 1065, Ponca City, OK, 74602.
Formation of teams will begin soon and games will begin March 31. All games are played Monday through Friday at Lessert Field. Leagues are available for boys and girls between the ages of 5 and 15.
WAUKOMIS - Frontier's boys and girls both advanced in the first round of the winner's bracket in the Class A Regional basketball tournament here Thursday night.
The Mustangs pounded the Cimarron boys 81-55 while the Lady Mustangs had to erase a 19-16 halftime deficit to beat Cimarron's girls 45-31.
Frontier's boys wasted no time in establishing themselves as one of the teams headed for a state tournament repeat, jumping to a 49-29 lead over Cimarron at the half.
Mitch Shiever and Dee Buxton paced the Mustangs with 17 points each while Josh Regnier had 15 and Nolan Grant 11.
In the girls' game, the Lady Mustangs fell behind in the first half but clamped down defensively after intermission, limiting Cimarron to 12 second-half points. Denise Jake had 12 points for Frontier while Elizabeth Sober had 11 and Mindy Williams 10.
The regional finals here are scheduled for Saturday.
Frontier 45, Cimarron 31 (girls)
Frontier 8 8 14 15 - 45
Cimarron 6 13 6 6 - 31
Frontier - Jake 12, Sober 11. Williams 10, Bible 9, Romero 3
Cimarron - Boice 8, Higgins 8, Kahnemund 6, Ropers 6, Maldine 2, Canaday 2.
Frontier 81, Cimarron 55
Frontier 24 25 19 13 - 81
Cimarron 12 17 15 11 - 55
Frontier - Shiever 17, Buxton 17, Regnier 15, Grant 11, Romero 4, J. Regnier 4. Burk 4, Sanders 4, Bible 3, Plumley 2.
Cimarron - Crawford 17, McFarland 8, Meadows 6, Stewart 5, Roberts 4, Bergdoll 4, Lafore 3, Meadows 1
Ponca City's ninth grade JV boys ended their basketball season with a 7-8 record.
Coach Bart Chance said his squad, playing against mostly ninth grade varsity competition, gave great effort throughout the year.
"They played hard and did what we asked of them. They improved all season long. I'm proud of them," Chance said.
In their last two games, the JVs lost 38-33 to Enid Longfellow Feb. 14 and defeated the Stillwater B team 38-35 Feb. 15.
Against Stillwater, the Poncans built a 22-13 halftime lead. Ponca City still led by nine points after three quarters and then had to withstand a final Stillwater rally.
Fred Scholey had a big game with 20 points. Michael Williams and Kyle Lindsey each added 7 points. Jacob Daniel and Aaron Perkins each scored 2 points.
Against Longfellow, Enid outscored the Poncans 10-4 in the second quarter to lead by a 23-15 score at the half. Ponca City gradually closed the gap but couldn't overtake Enid.
Williams led the way with 19 points, Lindsey had 8, Todd Stewart 4 and
Scholey 2.