From The Pages Of The Ponca City News, Sunday, February
1, 1998
LOCAL
Melvin Schnoover Running for Mayor
School Board Elections Feb. 10
Correspondent Says Society Not Focusing on 'Real' News
D.A. Says New State Law Needs 'Different Colors'
Maddox' Assistant Ross Says New Law's Flaws Clearer Via 'Shock TV'
State D.A. Association Issues Truth Principles
104th Chamber Banquet Celebrates '97 Success
Letters
Team From TU Installs System To Heal Brine-Damaged Area
City Calendar
School Menu
School Calendar
Program To Send Valentine's Roses To Nursing Homes Residents Feb. 12
Kambour Modern Dance Group Plans Worskhop Performance
Absentee Votes Can Be Made At Election Board
Genealogical Society Meets Monday Night
Chris LittleCook Ready To Assume New Duties
Benefit Sock Hop Saturday
CAP Cadet Overcomes Hurdles on Way to Goals
Helpline Volunteer Training Features Variety of Topics
Ponca City Art Association Has Several Spring Classes
$25 Certificates Being Offered For Spay Day
Vietnam 'Wall That Heals' Exhibit Will Come to Ponca City in April
AARP Tax-Aide Service Slated Feb. 2-April 15
DEATHS
Oliver Hershal Gray
Hallie Maude Kitchel Anglin
Levona Cross
Earl James Kokendoffer
A.H. Dye
NEWS BRIEFS
LIFESTYLES
Welfare Advisory Board Raising Funds for Kids
Program To Feature American Women Composers
Reflexologist To Give Program For Fibromyalgia
Bliss Homemakers List Schedule
TOPS Chapter Members Meet
Fun and Fundamental FCE Group Meets
1978 Group Looking For Classmates To Attend Reunion
AAUW 1998 Scholarships Are Available
Exercise Classes Offered at YMCA
NODA Spelling Bee for Seniors
Singles Network Lists Calendar
Soroptimist Awards Presented Locally
Engagement Is Announced
ABWA Awards Scholarship
Andersons Mark 50 Years
Exercise Session Begins Monday
Bits and Pieces
Order of Eastern Star
Chapter EL
Wheatheart Nutrition
Chasity Ann Darrow Bride Of Cpl. John Milton Pickard
Mrs. Wathor Celebrating 80th Birthday
Burgess/Foster Vows Feb. 14
Affair of Heart Craft Show Slated Feb. 6-8
Happenings
SPORTS
Tigers Trip Cats Twice
Cornerstone Nips OCCA, 56-52
Frontier Tops Tonkawa In Two Games
Bench Big Advantage For Sophs
Cat Swimmers Second, Third
Cat Wrestlers Top Sandites
Retired city employee Melvin Schoonover has announced he will seek the office of mayor of Ponca City. In less than two weeks Schoonover's announcement brings to three the total number of candidates seeking the office of mayor.
With more than 25 years experience as a city employee, Schoonover feels he knows problems facing Ponca City and promises to improve the image and change the make-up of city government, if elected mayor.
"The mayor and commissioners needed to work with administration to earn the trust, rebuild the integrity and instill the honestly that citizen's feel has been lacking," Schoonover said. "We also need to make better working situation for city personnel - from the mayor down."
Better communication between personnel is what the candidate says will improve the working conditions of city staff. "Everyone needs to know what is going on," he says. "Improvement in communication from the top down is necessary for necessary changes to occur."
In addition to his city employment, Schoonover feels his 28 years of experience and training as an operations intelligence sergeant in the U.S. Army Reserves is what has given him the experience necessary to lead the city as mayor.
During his tenure in the reserves he supervised eight people and coordinated training support for six army units (250-300 people) throughout Oklahoma and Arkansas.
Finances of the city are also a major concern of Schoonover's. "We need to live within our means," he says. "We need to take advantage of the city-owned facilities instead of leasing space from others."
Specifically he explains that as mayor he would move city personnel, currently officing in the Commercial Federal Bank Building, to the city-owned Angela Hall at the Marland Mansion in an attempt to save tax dollars.
It may be his 15 years experience as Ponca City lake patrolman and three years working in the Ponca City Parks and Recreation Department that causes Schoonover's desire to improve the city parks and recreational areas if elected to run the city.
The candidate was born and raised in Ponca City and is a graduate of NOC with an associate degree in law enforcement. In the past he served on the Board of Directors for the Red Cross and served as Boy Scout Leader Explorer Post for 10 years. In addition he is a current member of the American Legion Post 14.
He is a past member and deacon of the Grand Avenue Church of Christ where he served as teacher, church treasurer and bus director. He is a present member of the Hartford Church of Christ where he also serves as a teacher and the deacon over assembly, ground maintenance, custodial service and the group called Older Members at Hartford Avenue (OMAHA).
Currently the candidate is employed at Lowes as an appliance/electronic specialist. Among others, his duties, he says, include supervising three workers.
The Schoonover family includes a wife of 30 years and two children, one soon to graduate from OSU and one living and working in Tulsa.
If elected Schoonover promises he will not be "the" mayor but the "people's" mayor.
"It is the people that elect the mayor," Schoonover explains. "If elected, I would be the citizen's mayor and be truthful and honest as to what is going on in the city."
The election is April 7 and all candidates must file with the Kay County Election Board between Feb. 2-4.
By KRISTI HAYES
News Education Editor
Yard signs, advertisements and radio commercials for vacant board of education positions have piqued the curiosity of many residents living in Kay County.
For the Ponca City Board of Education, a board race developed last December between incumbent Mike Kruck and Ann Kinsinger. A race for the first time ever also evolved at Pioneer Technology Center when Zane Barham filed to run against incumbent Mary Rigdon. The signs and media blitz, however, will come to a close on Feb. 10, when citizens go to the polls to elect board members.
Kruck will seek reelection for Ward No. 2. He is the board's current vice president, chairman of the curriculum committee and also serves on the finance committee.
"I am devoted to working with children and have a strong legacy to quality education, as both my parents were career public educators. These attributes have given me the motivation to serve and return to the children of Ponca City a small portion of what I received as a student," said Kruck.
Kruck went on to say that basic education in reading, writing, arithmetic, respect and responsibility are fundamental to building a foundation on which to grow. He says that without these basics, the student's foundation can crumble under the weight of additional educational programs. "We cannot allow this to happen. Every student must have the foundation that can support the weight of continuing education. We must focus on the basics and improve our literacy. Only then will we be able to successfully grow into other areas of education," Kruck commented.
Kinsinger is running against Kruck for several reasons. She states, "I have a genuine interest in and concern for the education of our children. I believe that education in this country is at a critical point and that education in Ponca City is at a crossroads as well. We need to see that our children have the opportunity to get the best education they can so that they can be the best they can be."
"We need to settle for no less than quality schools where all children can learn in a safe and caring environment. We need to see that all students learn the three r's well by the time they graduate from high school, because to graduate students who do not know how to read, write, or do simple math is unforgivable. We have done them a disservice; they leave our school system unequipped with the tools to be successful out in the real world."
Kinsinger says she wants to put the public back in public education, and states that her candidacy is one that will listen to parents, educators and citizens alike when they voice their concerns to a school board member.
PTC Race
Rigdon says she is very unique to the Pioneer Tech board. "I am a certified teacher, a student at Northwestern Oklahoma State University and a Registered Nurse. I believe this gives me a lot of insight as to what the students needs are. I try to hold a hard line on spending. I am very aware of the taxpayers role at PTC and I want to know where every dollar is being spent."
Barham says he is running because of three things: a desire to serve, a desire to lend his skills to the board and a desire to see all communities prosper.
"I have served on the Board of Regents at Northern Oklahoma College, and feel that this experience would benefit the board at PTC," said Barham.
Other Board Races
Other board races in Kay, Osage and Noble Counties are:
- Mary Cordell and Timothy B. Bradfield for Blackwell I-45 Office No. 3 (five-year term)
- Allen Miller and Dale Luce for Braman I-18 Office No. 3 (five-year term)
- Rexford Tautfest, Dennis Williams and Geary Watson for Frontier I-4 Office No. 3 (five-year term)
- Gary D. Madison and Gayle Edwards for Woodlands I-90 Office No. 6 (four-year term)
- Francis A. Murphy and Sheila Fields for Shidler I-11 Office No. 3 (five-year term)
Correspondent Says Society Not Focusing on 'Real' News
By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE
News Business Editor
"We've become a tabloid society," Mike Boettcher NBC News correspondent told the sold-out 104th annual Ponca City Area Chamber of Commerce Banquet Friday.
Speaking here in his hometown, the world traveler said that the line has been blurred between hard news and sensation.
Boettcher, who started his media career at WBBZ Radio at the age of 16, told the crowd about journalism today. He said attention should be focused on the impending GW II (Gulf War Two) instead of President Clinton's sex life.
He revealed that he will be going back to the Middle East as early as Monday to cover the crisis there. Boettcher is with NBC stationed out of Los Angeles.
He said, "The Clinton sex scandal has been the third most heavily reported story this decade after the Gulf War and the death of Princess Diana.
"In fact the scandal is surpassing the Princess Di story in the coverage that it has received. As of two days ago all three networks had 124 stories, compared to Princess Di's death of 100 stories"
Public Wants Scandal
Boettcher said, "You know something, we don't run those stories unless you watch. We are after all a business. A business that makes huge profits of hundreds of millions of dollars. In these days we don't give you anything that you don't want."
He added, "If it is good enough for the National Enquirer, it's quickly becoming good enough for us. Network newscast ratings are up 20 percent. Our cable network (CNBC) has tripled its viewership. Web sites are getting a million hits a day. But this seems to contradict the polls that show about three quarters believe we are spending too much time on this story.
"So what is going on here? Americans are telling the pollsters one thing and doing the exact opposite with the remote control. The fact of the matter is that we have become a tabloid society and we're too ashamed to admit it. This means that you really want to peek into that Globe or Star at the checkout counter and find out if Elvis really did come back in a spaceship, but don't want anybody to see you do it."
Boettcher said, "Maybe this story about Clinton will finally make us confront ourselves by looking in the mirror and seeing who we really are. And when we take a good hard look we will not like what we see. And reporters certainly will not like what they see."
Using the example of the Salt Fork River west of town eating away at the bank near the Chikaskia River where the two bodies of water join, Boettcher said, "That is what is happening to main stream journalism. The barrier between mainstream journalism and the tabloid is very and thin and is about to break through into my river and when that happens I just as well be working for Hard Copy."
Impending Air Strike in Iraq
The NBS correspondent said the news should move on from the Clinton sex story to a more important story. "In the next few days, Monday as a matter of fact, I will be going back to the Middle East, probably to Baghdad. It seems pretty certain now that we are going to launch a massive air strike against Iraq. And will this battle stay in the air? I don't think so."
Then Boettcher preceded to lay out a scenario of what could happen. "A massive air strike hitting Saddam's biological chemical warfare weapons hiding places. Believe me the Iraqis have plenty of scud missiles left and they've been making them for the last five years. They lob a few of those missiles at Israel, a few at Kuwait, maybe a few at Saudi Arabia.
"And we have said if they use weapons of massive destruction, it is very likely that we'll use tactical nuclear weapons and the Iraqis use their still significant one million man army and re-invade Kuwait they overrun our limited sources there - we have few men on the ground there - and we are back to square one."
Boettcher concluded that the public hasn't heard much discussion about the possible GW II because of the viewers and networks interest.
He said, "So let's get back to that really big story. Did President Clinton really have sex with the intern? Did he try to get her to lie about it? Do we care more about Dow Jones than Paula Jones? The answers may ultimately tell us a great deal about him, about her, and about us."
NEWKIRK - District Attorney John Maddox says the State Legislature's new Truth-in-Sentencing law has forced people to stop and think.
Now, he says, it's time to make some important changes to it that might make the new system work.
Maddox said the controversial law, which is scheduled to go into effect July 1, has major shortcomings that can be improved upon by then.
But some of his recommendations cut to the very center of the bill that was overwhelmingly approved during the last Legislative session.
Maddox cited the state's new sentencing matrix which, with multicolored levels, will dictate new sentences and new criteria for sending offenders to prison and require them to serve at least 75 or 85 percent of their sentence.
However, he says the new system has, among other things, effectively eliminated prosecutors' ability to negotiate punishments for law violators because sentences now are based upon offenses instead of offenders.
And despite the title of Truth in Sentencing, the possibility of being locked up under the new system "has been shrunk down," he said.
With the new system, offenses that fall in red zones on the chart would now be handled strictly by community corrections methods, and would be the responsibility of the individual counties. Yellow zones are similar, but the state would then pay for an offender's stay in the county jail, up to a year.
Offenses that fall in the white areas on the matrix are eligible for state prison sentences but, according to Maddox, the new sentences - even with requirements to serve 75 or 85 percent of them - will be shorter than those provided by the current statutes.
"A percentage of a smaller number is, of course, less time than before," he said.
"I don't know all of the (legislative committee's) rationale, certainly, but the leadership tells us that we, as a state, have to do something other than just lock people up when they commit crimes," Maddox said.
"They say we're going to send them to prison for so long but we only have so many prison beds. In the last 15 or 20 years, in order to keep taking people into prison, they've been kicking them out early.
"It's based on space and they don't want to build a significant amount of new prison beds," Maddox said.
"So they have done studies (to develop the matrix), based upon projections which I think are - in all fairness to them - what they believe to be the truth.
"But the matrix is erroneous, based on the history and the studies that we've done on actual people that we've sent (to prison)," he said.
"For example, you could be repeat thief who's been arrested and convicted several times and then write a bad check or even commit another burglary, but because that crime now falls in the red zone, you'd never go to prison under the law that has been passed," Maddox explained.
A major area for improvement, he said, is Schedule H, which concerns bogus check offenses.
"One of the things that our bogus check program does is collect a lot of money for merchants from people who have written hot checks.
"And I think one of the primary reasons why we're able to do that is we can send a notice to the individual and say, 'You need to contact us about making good on this check or we can prosecute you and send you to prison.'
"That's the hammer that we have - the threat makes them pay up. The threat of going to prison - 99 percent of the time - is ample.
"But with this law now, there is no hammer for that crime or for a lot of crimes.
"So here's what we (district attorneys) are thinking. The Legislature should spend money that they are already committed to spending on community corrections, and allow us to use that on first and second offenders, not all the way out here on the fifth and sixth times," he said, pointing to the matrix.
"In other words, if you keep the grids, color them differently.
"The emphasis of the community corrections arena is to make an assessment on you when you commit your crime, and to try to find out why you did it and how to change you.
"First- or second-time offenders should be given the opportunity to reform. They should be given counseling or schooling, educational tools or vocational skills or whatever they need.
"But third time offenders and on, they should go to prison.
"As a matter of fact, I really believe if you commit a felony, you ought to have the opportunity to go to jail for it," Maddox said.
He believes another problem is that the new state law still defines being in prison as being in custody of the department of corrections, which doesn't necessarily mean behind bars.
"Two thirds of the people that are going to prison right now, they say they're going to lock them up but they're not required to.
"They don't have to be in a cell, behind bars, locked up, guarded - even under the new law, and there's been a lot of criticism about that.
"We think the sentencing ranges that are on the books right now (are appropriate), where a guy is facing five to 20 years - instead of falling in a box where the low end and the high end of the sentence is just a matter of months.
"If he's charged with a crime that carries five to 20 years, then we have a lot of negotiating room."
Maddox said 95 percent of the criminal cases in District Court are resolved by plea negotiations.
In some cases, the prosecution may not have enough of a case for a jury trial, but if a plea bargain can be worked out, a criminal can see prison time where the state might not otherwise get a conviction at all, he said.
"The ranges of punishments for the various crimes the way they are right now have been working fine," he said, so he thinks the new sentencing grid system should be repealed.
"We recommend the legislators repeal the grid and use it as a guideline, and leave the law with the ranges of punishments that we've had.
"Or if they do keep the grid system, it should marry up to the reality of how many people are going (to prison) and how much time they're serving," he said.
"Our study shows that there isn't a single person that we sent to prison that shouldn't have gone."
Maddox said he thinks "some of the legislators are starting to see that they maybe overreacted to the problem (by approving the new law), and that we're going to have to spend some money for more beds if we keep people locked up longer at these higher levels.
"One of the easy ways to get from bad to better is to convince enough well-meaning legislators that the system as it stands right now is sending the right people to prison," he said.
"Do away with this chart, because the chart mandates exactly where a guy is going to go depending upon whatever the crime is, and not (depending on) who committed the crime.
"It doesn't have anything to do with what the guy's attitude is or his criminal history - if you fall in a certain color on the chart, that determines whether or not you go to prison.
"Some states have taken a grid system such as this chart and they've left all of their old statutory scheme in place.
"Oklahoma repealed all of the existing statutes effective when this chart takes effect. The five-to-20-years will be repealed and it's replaced by this chart," he said.
"We should do away with the chart or just keep it in an advisory capacity for a year or two to see whether these numbers on these grids make any sense.
"But don't make it the law."
NEWKIRK - Prosecutors in Kay County say the problems they face with the state's new Truth-in-Sentencing law can be better understood through recent news events.
First Assistant District Attorney Phil Ross cited recent televised reports of both an alleged fraud in Tulsa and a child-pornography case in Lawton to illustrate how the new state law might impede justice.
Ross said, "I always look at things on Channel 4 and Channel 3 where they put footage on the air and make a big deal out of a crime story but let's look what would happen with Truth in Sentencing."
A policeman and his wife in Tulsa "supposedly have run this scam where they collected some $43,000 because their daughter has leukemia," Ross said.
"And it turns out now that she probably doesn't have any disease - they (the parents) just basically said she had leukemia and collected all this money and spent it on themselves.
"Channel 4 thought that that was such an important thing that they took the time to run over there and take pictures of the couple and spend some time on the news with it, and it's been in the Tulsa World," Ross said.
"What is that? Well, that's a fraud - it's obtaining cash by false pretenses, and that's going to be a Schedule G crime (on the state's new sentencing matrix)."
Pointing to the sentencing grid, he said, "Well you can see right here, obviously - the guy's a police officer so we know he doesn't have a felony record - so that means he's going to be looking at six months - 4.8 months to 8.4 months would be the range of punishment.
"You can say to yourself, 'Well So what?'
"Well, the problem is we're going to ask this guy to pay back $43,000 in restitution, and how many people who live on a police salary do you think are going to come up with $43,000 in restitution in six months?"
He explained, "Because that (six months) is the maximum sentence you're going to get on him, you can't have him paying restitutions once his sentence is over.
"You don't have a hammer over him anymore (to repay the victims)," Ross said.
"Even if you gave him the maximum of 12 months (allowed on the sentencing matrix), how are you going to collect $43,000 in restitutions in 12 months?
"You see, under the present system, we wouldn't send the guy to prison, more than likely. We wouldn't send his wife to prison, more than likely.
"But what we would be able to do is say, 'Look, we're going to give you a five-year or a seven-year or a 10-year suspended sentence and that would give you time to pay the money back," Ross said.
"We may not send you to prison - we may not even send you to jail," he said, "We may ask you to do some community service or something like that, but at least you've got the ability to stretch it out here (to allow the offender to repay the debt).
"This box system, this grid system, just restricts you so greatly," he said.
Ross continued, "I mean when you look here, even at the maximum, let's assume you've got someone who's an 18-time loser. Under schedule G the maximum is - 12 plus 27, it's 39 months.
"That's three years, three months. The maximum you could ever try to collect any restitution is three years, even for a guy who's committed the same offense 30 times.
"In Schedule H, if it's a bogus check case here again, you've got 24 months as your maximum to collect restitution in," he said.
"So not only do you run up against the wall of not being able to use the hammer to (send a violator to) prison, but you also run up against the problem of how to collect restitution in that time period."
Ross said a separate state case also illustrates a problem.
Television reporters "interviewed a detective on the Lawton police department and made a big deal out of it that they had found some guy who was a motel clerk downloading child pornography off the Internet," he said.
"They made a big deal out of it - 'Oh, it's just terrible.' The detective down in Lawton said this is the worst case of child pornography. He said it's just sickening to look at these pictures," he said.
However, child pornography is now a Schedule S-4 crime.
"So again - Schedule S-4 - this guy's not going to prison and so, in fact, we're looking at zero to 12 months for a first offense, in some sort of community corrections deal.
Ross said the new grid system doesn't distinguish between a hard-core pornographer and an accidentally-got-involved pornographer.
"To me, they have almost decriminalized these acts.
"They have decriminalized child prostitution; they have decriminalized child pornography, basically. Now granted, after you get to level 6 - the gray area - they have the option of sending them to prison.
"I keep wanting to call Channel 4 and say, 'Yeah, now what you need to do is follow up this terrible story that you've just presented to the people of Oklahoma with a statement, 'Oh, and by the way, under the new Truth-in-Sentencing, this guy is not going to prison - at all,'" he said.
"If they put a story on the TV for shock value, then don't you think the additional shock value of that story is that under Truth-in-Sentencing, we're just going to put the child pornographer right back into the community?"
The Oklahoma District Attorney's Association has adopted the following 15 principles "to support criminal justice reform" related to the state's new Truth-in-Sentencing law:
A. The concept of "truth in sentencing," by requiring offenders to serve 85% of their sentence, should be retained.
B. Violent and repeat offenders should go to prison for longer terms than are currently being served.
C. Sentencing an offender to a term of imprisonment means that the sentence will be served in a secure minimum, medium and/or maximum security DOC facility.
D. Current sentence ranges should not be repealed at this time. Any reforms should apply within the current sentencing ranges.
E. Offenders with three or more felony convictions should be eligible to be sentenced to prison. This would mean that community corrections appropriations would be targeted to offenders early in their career. Judges and prosecutors should retain discretion regarding offenders with three or more felony convictions where it is believed they can be safely placed in the community.
F. Retain the concept of placing inmates into facilities appropriate for their security classification.
G. Retain and enhance the concept of local control of community corrections by local planning councils. Planning councils should be allowed to establish priorities independent from the Department of Corrections.
H. Community punishment, including county jail incarceration, must be adequately funded by the state. No burden should be placed on counties or communities without being first identified and funded.
I. An offender who violates a community sentence must be eligible to be sentenced to imprisonment to deter, punish, support treatment, and complete other requirements of the sentence.
J. All offenders must face the possibility of confinement sufficient to support treatment, rehabilitation, restitution and other requirements of their sentence.
K. Retain the Criminal Justice Reform Act's repeal of early release from imprisonment.
L. Stop early parole consideration for offenders sentenced for crimes committed prior to July 1, 1998.
M. Prosecutors and judges should be allowed to retain discretion to recommend sentences and impose sentences within the entire range of punishment authorized for the offense.
N. All changes in ranges of punishment must be enacted by the legislature.
O. Reduction in sentencing ranges or increases in the number of offenders sentenced to community punishment should be accompanied by a "crime and victimization impact" assessment. This analysis will enable lawmakers to consider the fiscal impact of imprisonment along with the cost of crime to society.
Crimes According to State's New Truth-in-Sentencing Matrix System
Following are examples of crimes in each schedule of the state's new sentencing matrix:
A - first degree murder
B - assault with intent to kill, first-degree arson, drive-bys, kidnapping for purpose of extortion, second-degree murder, shooting with intent to kill, solicitation for murder one.
C - Abuse or neglect by caretaker, accessory to murder, assault and battery with deadly weapon, burglary with explosives, malicious or sexual child-abuse, maiming, first-degree manslaughter, robbery with dangerous weapon.
D - Second-degree arson, assault with dangerous weapon, avoiding a roadblock, first-degree burglary, child abuse, robbery by force or fear.
D-1 - Aggravated assault and battery, carrying a weapon with intent to injure, hate crimes, kidnapping, second-degree manslaughter, second-degree robbery.
D-2 - Assaulting a police officer, leaving the scene of injury accident.
E - Second-degree burglary, third-degree arson, child endangerment, child stealing, child-support offenses, chop shop operation, wife desertion, firearm possession, grand larceny, stalking.
F - Conspiracy against state, escape, embezzlement, bail jumping, forgery, perjury, tax fraud, witness intimidation.
G - Adultery, supplying alcohol to minors, altering vehicle title, bigamy, blackmail, credit card fraud, contributing to delinquency of a minor, gambling, impersonation.
H - Bogus check, larceny of merchandise from retailer, driver's license forgery, embezzlement of rented property.
I-1 - DUI causing accident with injury to other person.
1-2 - DUI accident with personal injury (two or more convictions).
I-3 - DUI aircraft or APC (two or more convictions).
N-1 - Drug manufacturing.
N-2 - Drug trafficking.
N-3 - Drug cultivation, distribution, possession, paraphernalia.
N-4 - Illegally prescribing.
N-5 - Obtaining controlled dangerous substance by fraud.
S-1 - Aggravated rape.
S-2 - First-degree rape.
S-3 - Incest, crimes against nature, lewd molestation, prostitution, second-degree rape.
S-4 - Child prostitution, obscene material, pandering, indecent exposure.
By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE
News Business Editor
Scott Dean incoming Chamber of Commerce chairman, took his audience on verbal travel log trip saying, "We are all booked on the same journey and destined for a year of success."
"The Chamber of Commerce is Ponca City's Energy Center," Dean proclaimed. "This energy is what provides the fuel that keeps us all on course as we make plans, create dreams and take on those opportunities and challenges that occur on a daily basis. This energy helps us to be successful in our work, our business and our community."
Dean added, "Ponca City is known statewide for the number and quality of volunteers that serve. Ponca City is a Chamber town. These 'stars' illuminate the community both day and night allowing Ponca City to shine across our great state."
After paying tribute to his employer, Pioneer Technology Center headed by Dr. Sally Downey, and the Chamber staff, Dean concluded by telling the audience that "Success is a journey - not a destination."
Felix Outgoing Chairman
Summing up his year as chairman, Felix said, "It has been one of renewed collaboration, vision, change and new beginnings."
Outlining some of the changes, he noted that community leaders and business people came together and developed a new organization, a new executive leadership team and a new working relationship with city government and the community at large.
Felix said that this year the new Economic Development Advisory Board was created. Felix said, "Under the capable leadership of Linda Brown and Jan Jarrett, this function has been fanned out to take in a large cross section of Ponca Citians to generate ideas, action plans and buy in."
He added, "As a part of the changes made, resources have been pooled to make the new organization less fuel consumptive, but producing higher horsepower per gallon. Savings on an annualized basis in excess of $60, 000."
"The 1997 program of work helped to propel Ponca City forward in areas of infrastructure, legislative issues, education, health care, retail and service, leadership development, ambassadors and president's club. I am grateful to the committee chairs and committee members," Felix said.
Felix said, "My term began with more than I bargained for. With no executive staff and the business community's burning desire for change, my time commitment for Chamber work was significant.
"I am very grateful to my family, St. Joseph Regional Medical Center, and specifically Garry England for the opportunity and support that made it possible for me to serve. St. Joseph's is a major player in support of our community in the forefront as well as behind the scenes" he said.
Felix also thanked his wife, Leanna, and their children and his parents, who were in attendance.
During the course of the evening members of the Chamber staff were recognized. They include Jan Jarrett, chief executive officer; Lisa Coy, vice president; Laura Gray; Keri Lively and Betty Cutler.
Chamber treasurer for 1996 and 1997 Robert Sherer was given a table lamp in recognition of his work.
Chamber representatives from Tonkawa, Blackwell, Newkirk, Kaw City, Arkansas City and the state Chamber were in attendance. Also recognized were City Commissioners, and other city officials as well as county officials, and representatives of Sen. Jim Inhofe and Cong. Ernest Istook and Conoco visitors from Houston.
Thorn Apple Named Top Big Industry
Thorn Apple Valley was honored by the Ponca City Area Chamber of Commerce as the Large Industry of the Year for 1998.
Chairman of the Economic Development Advisory Board (EDAB) Linda Brown presented the award to Don Young, comptroller of the Ponca City facility.
Young said, "I'd liked to thank the Chamber of Commerce. I think Thorn Apple Valley and the Chamber and a lot of civic leaders are working along together to make Thorn Apple Valley a strong force in Ponca City and for Ponca City.
"I am pleased to accept this award on behalf of our corporation, especially our employees that live and work here in Ponca City. We are very happy to be in Ponca City and look forward to many more years working for the Chamber."
Telling about the firm, Brown said, "Tonight we honor a company as the Large Industry of the Year which has made a strong mark on our community, both in terms of economic impact and community service since investing $43 million in their new plant in Ponca City during their startup in 1995.
"Their company philosophy has been very low key and quiet in nature, but the results of their presence have been truly significant."
"During 1997, the company increased the number of employees at their Ponca City facility from 500 to 585, a 17-percent increase. They annually spend over $3 million with local area suppliers, thus generating a $21 million economic impact. Their annual payroll exceeds $9 million. In total, the impact of their presence in Ponca City amounts to nearly $100 million each year," Brown said.
She said, "As a corporate community partner, the company and their employees have always been there when the call went forth for help with manpower or for funding on almost every kind of community project you can imagine. From the Poncan Theatre and Standing Bear Memorial to the Rodeo, YMCA, Cancer Society, school activities, Festival of Angels, blood drives and the Domestic Violence Center, this recipient always answers the call.
"For those less fortunate and in need, the company, working through the United Way and its agencies, donated over 150,000 pounds of food during 1997 for the tables of families engaged in the struggle to simply have something to eat and make ends meet from day to day.
"It's a pleasure to announce Thorn Apple Valley as Large Industry of the Year for 1997. Not only is their facility, which processes 1.6 million pounds per week of lunch meat, spiral sliced hams, bone in hams and a new line of boneless hams, truly state of the art, their quiet, caring and effective way of recognizing and meeting their corporate responsibility to the community set an excellent example for all to see.
"Thorn Apple Valley truly deserves this recognition and expression of appreciation for an ongoing job well done and we are pleased to recognize them as Large Industry of the Year in Ponca City in 1997."
Centerline Selected Top Small Industry
The Small Industry Award for 1997 was presented to Centerline Inc. Accepting the award, which was presented by Linda Brown, chairman of the Economic Development Advisory Board (EDAB), was Michael Engster, owner.
Brown, leading up to the name of the firm, said, "The company we honor this evening was the brainchild of a man who always wanted to be a cowboy. Of course, we all wanted that when we were growing up. The difference here is that this person held his dream in Germany and gave up a six-figure job to pursue the dream of a simpler life in the southwest of the United States.
"While being a cowboy is not how our recipient makes his living today, he has moved to our country and established a growing and successful business in Ponca City.
Brown added, "In fact, the growth experienced has been outstanding. Starting in 1994 as an incubator tenant at Pioneer Technology center, the company grossed a grand total of $2,308 in sales the first month. In seven months, the company was breaking even. In 1996, the fledgling operation generated close to one million in sales.
"They moved into a brand new facility in 1997 and are now closing in on the two million mark and employ approximately 20 skilled technicians in the repair and refurbishing of spindles. (Spindles are the part of the machine that does all the work. For example, the spindle is part of a machine that cuts out airplane wings for Boeing. It's the part that grinds the metal and extracts material)."
In announcing the recipient of the award, Brown said, "When Michael Engster came to Ponca City, he had no money in his pocket and the dream of a simpler life as cowboy. He's found that new life here - and he's brought our community a fine new company as well. Three years ago, people may not have known what a spindle was. Michael Engster and Centerline Inc. are hoping to change that. We think you'll agree that he's well on his way."
Accepting the award, Engster, who was obviously surprised, said, "This is a very emotional moment for me, and by the way it is my 31st wedding anniversary." Engster thanked his wife, Sonja, for sticking with him and moving from Germany to America to allow him "to be John Wayne." He also thanked his son Stephan and noted he would not be here if it wasn't for his son.
Engster said when he goes back to Germany, he still likes it, but realizes he is ready to come home and home is in Ponca City. He expressed appreciation to Pioneer Technology Center, where Centerline was first located in the business incubator, and also to the City of Ponca City.
Evans Outstanding Citizen
Jerry Evans of Evans and Associates was named as the "Outstanding Citizen" at Friday's 104th annual Chamber banquet. The presentation was a takeoff on the Academy Awards, with Carey and Danny Head doing the honors. Mrs. Head read the nomination and Head announced the winner. Danny Head was the 1997 recipient.
In accepting the award, Evans thanked the Chamber and expressed his surprise and pleasure. He told of his love for Ponca City and thanked his wife, Pat, for her support and other members of the family. He also thanked his "corporate family." He was given a standing ovation.
Mrs. Head said, "people" are what this year's honoree considers to be his greatest asset. This commitment to people is evident in his professional life. The only prerequisite for employment is the willingness to work and the desire to learn.
"Employees then become a member of what he calls his 'corporate family,' where every employee is assured that this family truly cares and will stand by them even during difficult times. This fierce loyalty to his employees has been answered in kind. Eight members of his management team have been with the company in excess of 20 years."
Head told of Evans' random acts of kindness for individuals and of his support for number causes including Standing Bear Memorial Park, Marland Mansion, Marland Estate Foundation, United Way, Boy Scouts, Festival of Angels and YMCA.
He serves on the Church Corporation Board of Grace Episcopal Church and has also served as past senior warden and a member of the vestry.
Evans was born and raised in Cody, Wyo., and graduated from the University of Wyoming. He came to Oklahoma and accepted employment at Guymon in 1953. He later purchased a small asphalt plant here.
From this one plant and 11 pieces of equipment, Evans built a conglomerate of operations that now includes 23 operating subsidiaries and plants in 11 Oklahoma locations as well as locations in Kansas and Missouri. He encourages each plant manager to get involved in civic affairs in each of these towns.
Awards presented to Evans over the years include "25 Year Service Award," presented by Gov. George Nigh; Boss of the Year and, from the Chamber, the Industry of the Year Award.
The University of Wyoming presented Evans with the Distinguished Alumni Award. This award is presented annually to one graduate selected from all graduates for outstanding leadership and achievement.
Evans serves the Buffalo Bill Historical Center at Cody as a board member. This is comparable to the Cowboy Hall of Fame in scope. Echoing his commitment to both the Standing Bear Memorial Park and Cody Museum Evans recently donated a 32-inch Standing Bear marquette to the museum's collection.
Banquet Briefs
It was hard to tell if it was a Chamber banquet or a "Boettcher Roast," but a good time was had by all as Tom and Mike Boettcher roasted each other and their brother Fred. The prettiest Boettcher speaker of the evening was Sue, wife of Fred, last year's recipient of the Community Service Award.
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Among the "pats on the back" from the Chamber was one from mistress of ceremonies Phyllis Worley, who asked Mayor Marilyn Andrews to stand. Worley said the mayor had announced that she is not seeking another term. Worley paid tribute to Andrews for her work representing the City for the past six years. Mayor Andrews was accorded a standing ovation from the audience.
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During the course of the evening NBC Correspondent Mike Boettcher paid tribute to the late Allan Muchmore for giving him an opportunity as a youth to work for Radio Station WBBZ.
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It was announced during the banquet that beginning next year there will be a Larry Hughes Leadership award presented to a member of the previous year's Leadership Ponca City Class. The recipient will be selected by the current leadership class.
Pixie Rowland Selected Ambassador of the Year
Pixie Rowland was named Ambassador of the Year at the annual Chamber banquet. Making the presentation was Beverly Appleman, last year's recipient.
In making the award, Appleman said that the honor is presented to the Ambassador member who had given tireless effort in retaining members for the Chamber during the past year.
She said, "This year's winner has shown true leadership and great results in every area she has been involved with in our community, including outstanding and selfless volunteer work on behalf of the Humane Society, the Citizen's Police Academy, Police Department Volunteers and many more."
In naming Rowland as the honoree, Appleman said, "Our 1997 recipient is not only a great Ambassador for our Chamber of Commerce, but has also proven herself to be a truly valuable asset for our entire community.
Rowland said, "It is a really an honor to win this award. I truly enjoy what I do with the Ambassadors. We have a wonderful staff at the Chamber and they make our job easier. I look forward to working with the Ambassadors again this year."
Paul Prather Second Recipient Of Community Service Award
Paul Prather was named as the recipient of the Community Service Award, which was presented for the first time last year to Sue Boettcher. Mrs. Boettcher made the presentation to Prather.
Prather was recognized for a number of community projects and especially for his devotion to the restoration of the Marland Mansion. Boettcher said, "He is truly the keeper of the castle."
Prather had to be coaxed to the podium and was greeted by a standing ovation from the audience. He emotionally thanked the Chamber for the award.
Boettcher said, "Our honoree has made Ponca City's Palace on the Prairie a member of his family that he guards, preserves, repairs, praises, and lavishes monumental amounts of love upon.
"Since 1978, two years after the City of Ponca City purchased the Mansion from the Sisters of St. Felix and the Mansion was left bare, our honoree has made it his own individual mission to search out and return any original furnishings to his beloved Marland Mansion."
Other areas of endeavor for which Prather was recognized were Land of Country, The Marland Estate Foundation, The Ponca City History Preservation Advisory Board, the Ponca City Landmarks Conservancy and others."
Prather, who was in the paint and paper business here for many years, has used these skills to enhance and refurbish furniture and other items for the Marland Mansion. His wife, Maxine, is a retired teacher and always a part of his projects.
Protect Sovereignty
This letter is in response to the Jan. 22, 1998, article titled, "Judge Decides Smoke Shop Not Located on Indian Land."
Since this was only a preliminary judicial decision leading up to the main judgment of declaring the Ponca Indian Gray Blanket village, and or, Carbon Black, as a non-dependent Indian Community, Judge D.W. Boyd, before passing his final judgment regarding the Indian smoke shop of this village, should first consider the fact that an Indian trust land status for this Ponca Indian village in question means a great deal to us Ponca Indians living here. To that end, "Indian trust land status to us isn't just a material element, it's the very essence of our Indian culture.
As result of the police raid on the Indian smoke shop of this village, Indian trust land rights has become the most vital concern to all the Ponca Indians living in the Gray Blanket village. Without Bureau of Indian Affairs federal protection via a trust land base, the Indians here in the Gray Blanket village may be able to survive as make-believe Caucasian individuals in the dominant economy and culture of our non-Indian neighbors, but we will not be able to survive and prosper as a distinct Ponca Indian people with distinct culture and tradition.
How would Judge D.W. Boyd feel if a Ponca Indian with a flick of his fountain pen dissolved as a legal entity his community's survival, prosperity as a distinct people with distinct culture, tradition, and self-determination, while at the same time signing them over to the county like they are wards of the state who are too stupid to decide their own destiny? He wouldn't like it, and possibly would be madder than hell.
I feel the same way when I say, Ponca Indians, and not Kay County is best suitable to govern the Ponca Indian Gray Blanket village. Also Judge D.W. Boyd should reject the pernicious myths and imperialism that shapes his law and policy toward the Ponca Indians of this village and pass Indian trust land judgment in our favor.
Simon C. Eagle
Carbon Black Resident
Shopping Locally
Once again our city commissioners have seen fit to waste our money by accepting the high bid for police cars! The Ponca City Police Department bid committee recommended accepting the lower bid from Crossland Ford of Newkirk but the commission ignored that recommendation so that they could buy from a "local" business.
The commissioners used the rationale that Bowker Ford had a "local" address and Crossland Ford a Newkirk address so we should pay $500 extra per car to help out a "local" business. Doesn't Jim Crossland also own the Lincoln-Mercury dealership in Ponca City, wouldn't that make him a "local" business also? It sounds to me like the commission was making any argument it could to buy the cars at the higher bid.
I hope that the people living in Newkirk don't get the same attitude that our city commission has, to buy "local" even at a higher price. The businesses in Ponca City depend on the support of the people in the surrounding communities. The city commission needs to rethink this decision and do what is in the best interest of the community not just a local dealership. They need to show some fiscal responsibility and spend our tax dollars wisely!
Barry Walling
University of Tulsa professors and students are conducting a project to halt erosion and restore vegetation at a two-acre site in the Tallgrass Prairie Preserve near Pawhuska, home to a wild herd of 625 buffalo.
The site was contaminated with salt as the result of an accidental release of salt water associated with oil production.
The spill occurred in 1995 after a break in a pipeline carrying brine from a collection tank to a reinjection well. Approximately two acres were stripped of vegetation.
"We've set up a 'leach and drain' system," explains Tom Harris, a TU chemistry professor and research project leader. Dikes were built in December to collect rainwater, which filters down to drainage pipes buried three feet underground. This salty leachate being pumped into an existing saltwater disposal system. The topsoil was disked to increase permeability and hay will be spread on the site to keep the surface moist in the summer.
The system is being operated by Don Rainwater, pumper for E.W. Carter Oil Co., the leaseholder. TU students and professors will measure the salt in water samples collected by Rainwater.
In the spring, a portion of the site will be seeded with the salt-tolerant knotweed plant. The seeds were collected from "pioneer" plants existing on the site prior to construction of the drainage system. A fence will keep cattle and bison from eating the vegetation that will slowly colonize the site.
"We'll base our success on how well we slow or halt the salt contamination of a stock pond that receives runoff from the site and on the reduction of salinity of the contaminated soil," says Harris. He says this novel approach could be used at other sites in the preserve and across the state because of its simplicity and low cost. Harris says petroleum reservoirs typically contain a mixture of hydrocarbons and salt water, and it is fairly common for the soil near production facilities to become contaminated with salt.
The TU project is one of several in the preserve funded by a $50,000 Department of Energy grant. The public preserve, located about eight miles north of Pawhuska, covers more than 37,000 acres. It was created by The Nature Conservancy in 1989 to recreate the prairie ecosystem using fire and bison.
Anytime
Today
February 2-3-4
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
February 5-6-7
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
February 8
February 9
February 10
February 11
February 12
February 13
February 16
February 17
February 18
February 19
February 20
February 21
February 23
February 24
February 25
February 26
February 28
March 2
Elementary Breakfast
Elementary Lunch
Middle School and Mid-High
Breakfast
Middle School
Lunch
Mid-High
Lunch
High School Lunch
All American
Training Table
McCord Elementary
Breakfast
Lunch
Pioneer Technology Center
Mid-High
Feb. 2
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Feb. 5
Feb. 6
Po-Hi
Feb. 2
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Feb. 8
In recognition of American Heart Month, the American Heart Association is coordinating efforts with Kay County nursing homes to honor residents on Valentine's Day.
The AHA is offering a program called "Home with Heart," which gives family and friends the opportunity to purchase roses for the residents and help to find research and education locally, as well as nationally, for the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases.
Heart disease remains the number one cause of death in America with stroke (brain attack) being third.
For this program, it is the desire of the Heart Association that all nursing home residents receive at least one rose. In addition to purchasing roses for family and friends, miscellaneous donations will be accepted for residents who may not have family or for roses to be placed in other areas of the facility. Roses are $5 each.
Ponca Citians are urged to take a moment now to write out a check, payable to the American Heart Association, and contact the nursing facility of choice. The deadline for ordering through this program is Monday, Feb. 9. The roses will be delivered on Thursday, Feb. 12.
For more information, call Janet White 765-0594.
The Kambour Dance Theatre, founded by Tina Kambour, will perform at the Poncan Theatre Saturday. The troupe will also give a workshop for dancers the same day.
The workshop and the performance are sponsored by the Arts and Humanities Council, Conoco, and the Oklahoma Arts Council.
Tina Kambour serves as artistic director of the troupe. She moved to Oklahoma in 1991 after 12 years as a professional dancer in New York City. Ms Kambour has a master's degree from Columbia University Teacher's College, and she is certified by the prestigious Laban/Bertenieff Institute. Her choreography has been performed from coast to coast and across the Midwest.
The Kambour Dance Theatre is noted for integrating movement, voice and text. The dances created by the group are rich in humor and pathos, and the images are unforgettable.
Some of the troupe's choreography is aimed at young audiences. These dances are spectacular works that stimulate the imagination and help children learn.
The workshop for young dancers will be given at the Poncan Theatre at 10 a.m. Saturday. Students who have at least three years' dance training are urged to come work with Ms. Kambour in the workshop. The sessions will be free. For more information or to register, call the Poncan Theatre at 765-0943 and leave your name and a phone number.
The performance of the Kambour Dance Theatre is also free and open to the public. It will given at the Poncan Theatre at 7:30 pm on Saturday, Feb. 7.
NEWKIRK - Registered voters in Kay County who want to vote by absentee ballot in the Feb. 10's statewide election on casino gambling and the annual school election can still receive and cast a ballot by going to the Kay County Election Board this Thursday, Friday or the following Monday.
A two-member, bipartisan absentee voting board will be on duty from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. each of the three days to assist in-person absentee voters.
Election Board Secretary Carol Stafford said in-person absentee voters will complete an application form when they arrive at the office.
"They are not required to state a reason for voting in-person absentee. They are required to swear that they have not voted a regular mail absentee ballot and that they will not vote at their polling places on election day," Stafford said.
The absentee voting board will verify the voter's registration information, then will issue the correct ballots.
The voter will mark the ballots in the privacy of a voting booth and insert them into a polling device, similar to the activity at a precinct polling place.
For more information, contact the Kay County Election Board office at the courthouse at 580-362-2130.
The Pioneer Genealogical Society will be meeting at a new location this week at Albright United Methodist Church, 128 South Palm.
The meeting, which begins at 7 p.m. Monday, will feature a panel of genealogists who will field questions from members and guests and a special program on Swedish research.
The special program by Lois Rence, great-granddaughter of a Swedish immigrant is entitled "The Leather Packet Story." Rence will recount her adventures during a search for the origin of a packet of old "mystery" letters in her possession.
The PGS treasurer will also be on hand to receive the 1998 dues from members. Dues and Newsletter subscriptions are due each year in January.
Also on the agenda will be some discussion about the upcoming Everton Genealogy Workshop. Cost for the workshop will be $35 in advance to Pat Martin or $40 after March 15.
The Albright United Methodist Church is handicap accessible.
By KRISTI HAYES
News Education Editor
Chris LittleCook will be filling the vacancy of Office No. 4 of the Ponca City Board of Education after the Feb. 10 school board elections are held. Janet Goll, the current board member, decided not to run again.
LittleCook works for the Ponca tribe as director of the Johnson O'Malley (JOM) and Youth Outreach programs. Both of these programs deal directly with students involved in public education.
LittleCook graduated from Ponca City High School in 1978 and began working as a drafter for Conoco. He was transferred from Ponca City to Houston and moved back to the area in 1996. "I am already involved with several components of the Ponca City School System and with Native American students, and I recognized some problems. When my district became vacant, I decided to run for the school board," said LittleCook.
"I think one of the major problems in our area is the high drop-out rate. I also feel that reading skills must be stressed in our elementary grades. If a child is not a strong reader then they become more and more frustrated with school and this sometimes leads to dropping out of school. Ponca City also has some discipline problems and I believe we need to think of creative ways to deal with them. When I take over Office No. 4 for the board, I would like to see us reduce the number of drop-outs and give teachers more control over the students in their classes."
LittleCook also added, "I think some of the students who are causing problems are struggling to find themselves and they make bad choices. This all goes back to discipline problems. Kids sometimes view being suspended from school as some sort of vacation."
When asked how he thinks the current school board is doing, he replied, "I think the school board is trying to do the right thing. I am pleased with the efforts of Ponca City's teachers and administrators. The school system is much better here than it was in Houston. We have many alternative education programs that help our kids."
LittleCook has served on several committees, include the Intertribal Council of Houston, Parent Committee of Title IX and JOM Fund raising Committee in White Eagle.
"I don't have any school board experience, but I have had experience in other situations. Serving on various committees has given me insight on how to work with others to achieve goals," he added.
"I am looking forward to serving on the board and serving the citizens of Ponca City."
When asked how he feels about School-to-Work (STW) he commented, "I think that students who aren't planning on going to college need to have alternative options, and I believe the school system already offers that. My kids are very young and some of them already have Career Days in their schools. I am, however, against cutting off paths by directing kids at an early age. I really hate to see kids being limited in the elementary schools."
By KATHY ZEHR
News Staff Writer
The Ronnie Kaye Sock Hop is returning to Ponca City Saturday at 7 p.m. at the Elks Lodge. All proceeds will be used for the Opportunity Center.
Citizens are invited to attend the favorite dance and fun-time and reminiscence to the music and era of the old sock hops of the early '60s. Participants are encouraged to dress in '60s style in bell-bottom trousers and tie-dyed shirts. Dance contests including the "twist" while Hoola Hoop, bubble gum and other contests will be a part of the fun. Free soft drinks, snacks, and a cash bar are included.
Tickets for the event are $10 and are available at the Opportunity Center. Crowd capacity is limited at the site, so early reservations are suggested. Previous years sock hops have been sold-out events.
Ronnie Kaye is currently a part-time DJ with KOMA and currently runs the highest midday ratings in the USA with his " Oldies" program.
Kaye got his start in radio at age 10 when he and his brother talked their parents into a low-wattage AM transmitter from Sears Roebuck. By word-of-mouth, neighbors learned to tune in to the Kaye boys singing and playing the piano, doing skits, and later, play-by-plays of the county basketball tournaments.
He worked at a radio station in Blytheville, Ark., while attending college and witnessed live in-station performances by Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, Conway Twitty, Johnny Cash, and others of that era, who visited in person as they were just beginning their rise to famous musical careers.
Kaye later worked at Lawton at KSWO radio and TV, then to WKY radio in Oklahoma City. He gathered the highest ratings ever reported anywhere in the U.S.A. for his 1964-1968 radio show there. In 1966 he hosted "The Scene," a teen variety show on WKY-TV. Dancers from his popular show won national contests on the Dick Clark national bandstand show in the 1970s.
He was later promoted to news and public affairs director at KOKE-TV until his retirement in 1991. He now enjoys hosting sock hops, class reunions, and works part-time at various shifts at KOMA radio in Oklahoma City.
At age 18, Rachel E. Vogt is a leader head and shoulders above most of her peers, even though that talent is in a tiny frame.
Vogt, a senior at Sequoyah High School in Claremore, was in Ponca City at Camp McFadden recently to help instruct and take leadership training with Oklahoma's top 20 Civil Air Patrol cadets.
In spite of battling Hodgkins disease in January 1997, and undergoing brain surgery for arterial venus malformation in 1996, Vogt already has her private pilot's license and is certified to fly Civil Air Patrol corporate planes. CAP pilots requirements include grid searches and other intensive training skills. Vogt is now working on her commercial pilot's license
Her 4.0 gpa has kept her on several honor rolls, including the dean's list at Rogers University where she is a concurrent freshman. She will serve as the 1998 valedictorian of the Sequoyah High School graduating class this spring.
She enjoys music and sports and plays first chair baritone saxophone with the band, lettered in varsity track and toured professionally with a dance company.
According to Capt. Rebecca LeClaire-McGinley of Ponca City, "Vogt calls herself a 'visionary' and her goal is to be an astronaut and the first woman on Mars. I believe she will make that dream come true because she demonstrates the ability to set her goals and outline her path to reach them.
Cadet Vogt says the "secret" is to stay focused and keep your priorities straight." She joined the Civil Air Patrol in July 1995.
The Civil Air Patrol Leadership Training was held Jan. 23-25 at Camp McFadden. Purpose of the CAP training was to enhance leadership skills and provide quality leaders of good character for the country's future. The cadets received training in effective listening, writing, speaking, time management, and numerous other leadership skills.
Cadets enjoyed forming teams and competing against each other in various skits, and team presentations.
The Civil Air Patrol programs include three missions, leadership, emergency service and aerospace education. For more information about CAP call Col. David McGinley at 580-762-7854.
The Helpline Volunteer Training Class, scheduled to begin Monday will be held at Grace Episcopal Church, 109 North Thirteenth, from 7 to 9 p.m. Cost of the class is $20 payable to Helpline Inc.
The first class, Introduction to Helpline and Reflective Listening, will be led by Rod Hand and Beverly Roedel, and will be taught for four nights, Feb. 2, 9 and 16, and March 2, it was announced.
Dr. Bill Hamilton, MD, psychiatrist, will lead the class on Depression at the Feb. 23 meeting. Other classes will include Grief on March 9, led by Steve Huston of Trout Funeral Home; Department of Human Services on March 16, led by Amy Oldfield, social worker; March 23, Children and Youth, taught by Claudia Todd-Sonnichson and Byron Tribble; March 30, Family Problems with Dr. Bruce Lutz, psychologist, Kay County Health Department; April 6, Crisis Intervention, led by Dr. Dan Smith, clinical psychologist, and April 13, Chronic Mental Illness, taught by Darrell Burns, Edwin Fair Mental Health Clinic.
Those interested in becoming telephone volunteers will be asked to observe in the Helpline office for at least six hours following completion of the class, according to Pat Hand, Helpline director.
This schedule for newcomers will be arranged toward the end of the training. Please call Helpline to register for the class or for additional information - 765-5551. Helpline is a United Way Agency, serving all of Kay County.
Enrollment for spring art classes sponsored the Ponca City Art Association is now open. Interested students may enroll at the Ponca City Art Center, 819 East Central Wednesday through Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m. Most class sizes are limited so early enrollment is advised.
Teachers, times and fees, and lists of necessary supplies are available at the art center, along with other information. Some classes are already in progress. A list of classes to start soon follows.
Feb. 2, Ray Cantwell will teach an evening oil painting class to meet each Monday for eight weeks from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Fee for the class is $100.
Feb. 3, Cantwell is also beginning an eight-weeks daytime class in oil painting from 9 to 11:30 a.m. Fee is $100.
Beginning Feb. 5, Ruth Loucks will teach a watercolor class each Thursday from 7 to 9 p.m. The fee for the six-weeks class plus a make-up class is $50.
Ongoing youth art classes taught by Cindy Rasche and Anna Adams are taught each Wednesday after school from 3:30 to 5 p.m. Youth, ages 7 and up, are encouraged to participate. Enrollment is accepted in some classes.
A variety of mediums are taught in the youth art classes throughout the year, including pottery, sculpture, painting with acrylics, drawing, collage´ and mixed media, sculptural clay, some art history and use of various art tools. Two mediums or more are usually offered by Adams and Rasche each month and fees are due the first of each month. In February Adams will offer drawing or painting with acrylics and Rasche will be offering some clay sculpture. No experience is necessary. Parents or grandparents are encouraged to take the classes with their children as well.
All students must be members of the Ponca City Art Association and annual family memberships are available at $10. The annual membership may be purchased with enrollment in a class and is active through September 1988.
All classes are held at the Ponca City Art Center.
The fourth annual "Spay Day USA," a national campaign to reduce pet overpopulation, will take place Tuesday, Feb. 24, 1998.
The Ponca City Humane Society will be among the hundreds of agencies encouraging pet owners to spay and neuter as many dogs and cats as possible during the national event.
To encourage local participation, at least 64 $25 certificates will be issued to citizens in Ponca City on a first-come, first-serve basis on Feb. 24, at the Ponca City Humane Society office, 900 West Prospect.
The project was created by the Washington, D.C.-based Doris Day Animal League. During "Spay Day USAs" first three years, more than 150,000 animals have been altered, including more than 78,000 in 1997. For 1998, the Doris Day Animal League has set a goal of completing at least 100,000 spays and neuters.
The 150,00-plus spays and neuters performed in conjunction with the first three "Spay Day USAs" have already resulted in the prevention of millions of unwanted births. One unaltered cat and her offspring can produce 420,000 cats in seven years and one unaltered dog and her offspring can produce 67,000 dogs in six years.
"The numbers are still too high," says Jean Barnes, PCHS executive director. "In our area alone, the animal control service agency euthanized 1,690 unwanted dogs and cats in 1997. But, there is a solution to this tragedy. For "Spay Day USA" our goal is to spay and neuter at least 64 dogs and cats on and around Feb. 24 to make a difference in our community."
The 64 $25 certificates to be distributed at 10 a.m. on Feb. 24 at the Ponca City Humane Society office were made possible through a $1,000 grant from Conoco, plus cash donations from several local businesses and individuals. The certificates may be used toward the cost of spaying or neutering a cat or dog at one of the local veterinarian clinics.
"We can prevent the euthanasia of unwanted companion animals, but only if we all pull together and take responsibility for this social tragedy," says Barnes. "Spaying and neutering is the key to solving companion animal over-population."
By KATHY ZEHR
News Staff Writer
The long awaited traveling Vietnam "Wall That Heals" is coming to Ponca City in about six weeks and will be open to the public April 16-19.
During it's three-day stay, it will be available for viewing, free of charge, 24-hours-a-day at Resthaven Memorial Park Cemetery, 1901 East Hubbard Road.
The "Wall" speaks not only of the loss, but of the lives of 58,209 men and women who served in Vietnam and who were our parents, children, neighbors and friends.
Local sponsors of the large Wall exhibit, Steve and Terry Huston, have invited all citizens in the community who want to help make the traveling Wall exhibit a successful memorable experience in Ponca City to participate.
The massive traveling Wall and the 24-hour manned exhibit are a large undertaking for Ponca City and will need a lot of assistance in the form of volunteer time, supplies, and monetary donations from Ponca City area citizens to help make the exhibit successful.
"We hope everyone in the Ponca City area will want to take an active role in this educational and emotional historic exhibit," said Steve Huston.
Also located at the Ponca City site will be a comfort and first-aid facility and an informational/educational facility. Included in the opportunities to help with the Wall's visit are citizens who can volunteer to serve in security, hospitality, first aid, visitor assistance and parking on-site during the exhibit.
Donated supplies and merchandise are also necessary to include rooms/site managers, cedar mulch for the walkways, paper products, printing, first aid supplies, reflectors and/or lights, traffic barricades, video taping of the ceremonies, food, and drinks.
According to the Hustons, financial donations will also be welcome to help defray costs of bringing the massive Wall to Ponca City. All donations of time, money and supplies should be made by Feb. 27, to insure the best exhibit and public accommodations for viewers.
An opening ceremony is planned for 10 a.m. April 16 and the closing ceremony will be one hour before sunset at 6 p.m. April 19.
The traveling "Wall that Heals " is a 250-foot-wide replica of the Vietnam Veteran Memorial in Washington, D.C. The half-scale replica, exact to the letter and inch of the original has two wings, approximately 123 feet each. The wings meet at an angle of 121 degrees to raise to a height of 5-feet at their vertex. The 58,202 names on the Wall are laser-etched into panels of reflective black, powder-coated heavy aluminum.
Although millions of visitors experience the healing power of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., every year, millions more have not had the opportunity to go there to visit. Many citizens do not have the resources or other opportunity to make the journey to Washington, say sponsors.
"The 'Wall That Heals' replica is now traveling to towns and cities across the nation - taking the souls enshrined on the Memorial back to the places they called home - to exist among friends and family once more - in the comfort and peace of familiar surroundings, " says Jan Scruggs, memorial founder.
More than 100,000 people have viewed the replica since the tour began in 1996. The Wall will only travel to 40-45 communities across the U.S. this year, staying approximately tree days at each location. People from many miles around the area are expected to visit the Ponca City site.
To volunteer services, contribute supplies, or make donations, contact members of the VISION Ambucs Club or write or call Susan Ladner, manager of Resthaven Memorial Park Cemetery, P.O. Box 2185, Ponca City, OK 74602, phone (580) 762-5659.
Tax help is on the way! AARP Tax-Aide is providing free tax assistance for middle to low income taxpayers age 60 and above. However, others will be assisted as time allows.
The AARP Tax-Aide Volunteers are trained in cooperation with the IRS and are knowledgeable about federal as well as state income taxes. They are qualified to answer questions and complete basic tax forms.
The tax assistance will be available Monday-Thursday, Feb. 2-April 15 at the Ponca City Library from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Anyone seeking assistance is asked to bring their current tax records
and a copy of last year's federal and state income tax returns with them.
The volunteers will not answer phone calls so interested persons should
go directly to the library. Assistance will be provided on a first come,
first serve basis.
DEATHS
SHIDLER - Oliver Hershel Gray, resident of Shidler, died Wednesday, Jan. 28, 1998, at his home. He was 59.
The funeral will be held at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 3, 1998, in the Grace Memorial Chapel in Ponca City with the Rev. Arnold Baldwin officiating. Burial will follow in the Fairfax (Okla.) Cemetery under the direction of Grace Memorial Chapel. Mr. Gray will lie in state at the Grace Memorial Shidler Chapel until 7 p.m. Monday.
Oliver Gray was born Oct. 19, 1938, in Pawhuska, the son of John Hershal and Margaret Mattie (Walls) Gray. He received his education in the Pawhuska schools. Mr. Gray served in the U.S. Navy and later the U.S. Army and Army Reserve, being honorably discharged with the rank of staff sergeant. He attended welding and truck driving schools, and had also worked as an auto mechanic.
He and Verna C. Brandon were united in marriage on Jan. 3, 1969, in Pinehurst, Idaho. The couple made their home in Idaho for several years before moving to Shidler. He worked as a custodian and janitor at the capitol building in Idaho for a number of years. Following his return to Oklahoma he worked as a custodian for several businesses in Ponca City. The couple also operated a service station in Shidler. He was a member of the Church of Christ.
Surviving are his wife, Verna of the home; four sons, Jim Gray of Shidler, Ritchie Riley and Monte Riley, both of Idaho, and Ronnie Riley of Washington; four daughters, Mary Pierce and Roberta North, both of Idaho, Barbara Altis of Shidler, and Patty Crawford of Nevada; a sister, Debbie Shell of Springville, Utah; 25 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by two daughters, Suzan Gray and Myrtle Louise; his parents; a sister, Carol Beck; and two brothers, Jerry McNiell and Danny McNiell.
Casket bearers will be John Altis, Ed Kramer, Gene Kramer, Aaron Ford, Raymond Keller, and George Puersley. Honorary bearers will be Mike Thomas, Jim Gray and Lorren Shell.
The family will be at the home, 325 North Junior in Shidler.
Hallie Maude "Granny" Kitchel Anglin, Ponca City resident, died Wednesday, Jan. 28, 1998, at Shawn Manor Nursing Home. She was 96.
The funeral will be held at 2 p.m. Monday, Feb. 2, 1998, at Faith Tabernacle Church with the Rev. Don Stanton, pastor, officiating. Burial will follow in the Ponca City IOOF Cemetery under the direction of Grace Memorial Chapel. Casketbearers and honorary bearers will be grandsons and great-grandsons. Friends may visit at the funeral home until 11:30 a.m. Monday.
Hallie Maude "Granny" Kitchel Anglin was born Sept. 24, 1901, in Webb City, the daughter of J.W. and Sadie (Brown) Harrison. She grew up in Webb City and attended school in Foraker.
On Jan. 20, 1921, she married Charles Earl Kitchel Sr. in Pawhuska and the couple made their home in Osage County east of Ponca City. Mr. Kitchel preceded her in death in 1963.
She was married to Dave Anglin in 1978 in Hill City, Kan., and he preceded her in death in 1981. Mrs. Anglin was a homemaker and a charter member of the Pentecostal Holiness Church in Ponca City. She attended the Faith Tabernacle Church and enjoyed reading her Bible, crocheting and knitting.
Surviving are a son Charles Earl Kitchell Jr. of Ponca City; one daughter, Viola Marie Stevens of Wichita, Kan.; 14 grandchildren; 46 great-grandchildren; 53 great-great grandchildren; and two great-great-great-grandchildren. In addition to both husbands and her parents, she was preceded in death by one son, Albert Allen Kitchell; three brothers; four sisters; and two grandsons.
The family will be at the Earl Kitchell home, 4167 Sherwin Avenue.
TAHLEQUAH - Levona Cross, resident of Tahlequah since 1962 and a former resident of Ponca City, died Thursday, Jan. 29, 1998, in Muskogee Regional Hospital following a short illness. She was 93.
The funeral will be Tuesday, Feb. 3, 1998, in the Hart Funeral Home Chapel in Tahlequah with burial in the Tahlequah City Cemetery under direction of the Hart Funeral Home, Tahlequah.
Levona Cross was born Feb. 18, 1904, at Kaw City, Okla., the daughter of Fred and Maggie (Gandy) Hutchinson.
She married Harry C. Cross on Aug. 26, 1922, in Pawhuska and they resided in Pawhuska and Tahlequah until 1944 when Mr. Cross was employed at Conoco in Ponca City. After his retirement in 1962 the couple returned to Tahlequah. Mrs. Cross enjoyed painting, cooking, putting in a flower garden, growing violets and reading her Bible. She was a member of the First Baptist Church of Tahlequah where she taught Sunday School and enjoyed teaching young people about the Bible.
Surviving are three daughters, Mable Miller of Ponca City, Jean Kobs of Oklahoma City, and Shirley Farrington of Tahlequah; three sons, Harry L. Cross of Vian, Leon Cross of Ponca City and Gary Cross of Park Hill; 15 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, two sisters, Lenora Shoemaken and Lillian Thompson; one brother, Grant Hutchinson, and a grandchild.
Memorials may be made to Lifeline, in care of Hart Funeral Home, 1506 North Grand, Tahlequah, OK. 74464.
BLACKWELL - Earl James Kokendoffer, former resident of the Braman-South Haven, Kan., area, died in a plane crash in the Azores Islands Saturday, Jan. 24, 1998. He was 50.
A graveside service will be held Monday, Feb. 2, 1998, at 2 p.m. at the Braman (Okla.) Cemetery under direction of Roberts and Son Funeral Home, Blackwell.
Earl James Kokendoffer was born June 24, 1947, on the family farm near Braman, the son of James E. and Rosalie (Taylor) Kokendoffer. He lived and attended school in the South Haven, Kan., and Braman area until age 11. At that time he moved to Oklahoma City with his parents and attended Capitol Hill High School, graduating in 1965. He became a pilot when he was 17 years old.
Kokendoffer later moved to Paden, Okla., where he farmed with his brother and father. In 1984 he moved to Guymon and established the EAA Crop Dusting service with his brother. He was operating the service at the time of his death.
Surviving are a son, Bradley Kokendoffer of Oklahoma City; two sisters, Sue Lea of Oklahoma City and Diana Green of Detroit, Mich.; two brothers, Wayne Kokendoffer of Oklahoma City and Bill Kokendoffer of Paden.
ARKANSAS CITY, Kan. - A.H. "Shorty" Dye, former Newkirk area resident, died Friday, Jan. 30, 1998, at the South Central Kansas Regional Medical Center, Arkansas City, Kan. He was 72.
The funeral is scheduled graveside for 2 p.m. Monday, Feb. 2, 1998, at Memorial Lawn Cemetery Chapel in Arkansas City, Kan. Burial will be under direction of Rindt-Erdman Funeral Home, Arkansas City.
A.H. "Shorty" Dye was born Oct. 14, 1925 in Rago, Kan., the son of Roscoe and Kate (Harding) Dye. He was reared and educated in the Cheney, Kan., area. During World War II he served with the U.S. Navy.
He and Bonnie Stafford were married on Nov. 26, 1949, in Newkirk. Shorty worked as a farmer and oilfield worker for many years. They moved to the Maple City, Kan., area in 1982. He was a member of the Central Christian Church in Maple City.
Surviving are his wife, Bonnie of the home; two daughters, Karen Dye of Sterling, Kan., and Laura Dye of Stillwater; one brother, Jack Dye of Ponca City; three sisters, Clara Melber of Ponca City, Bonnie Boltz of California, and Fern Lively of Blackwell. He was preceded in death by his parents; one son, Harold; two brothers, Steve and Eugene; and a sister, Tillie Hinkle.
A memorial has been established with the Memorial Lawn Cemetery Chapel
Fund, and contributions may be made through Rindt-Erdman Funeral Home, P.O.
Box 756, Arkansas City, Kan. 67005.
NEWS BRIEFS
Fire Response - At 8:13 a.m. Friday three fire engines responded to a reported fire in the 100 block of West Grand Avenue.
Semi Cited - At 8:14 a.m. Friday police cited an 18-wheeler parked in a residential area at Lansbrook Road and Prospect Avenue under the new city code amendment restricting semi-truck parking in a residential area.
Mailbox Vandalism - At 8:26 a.m. Friday police were notified that a mailbox at the Lew Wentz Golf Course had been vandalized. A report was taken.
Minor Accident - A non-injury accident at Grand Avenue and Union Street was reported at 9:23 a.m. Friday. A report was taken.
Arrest - Police arrested a 27-year-old man at 9:26 a.m. Friday from Palm Street and Cleveland Avenue for forgery and possession of forged instrument.
Harassment - At 10:15 a.m. Friday police were advised that a resident in the 1300 block of Coronado Street was receiving harassing phone calls. A report was taken.
Arrest - A 38-year-old man was arrested at 10:36 a.m. Friday on a city warrant for failure to pay.
Arrest - Police arrested a 19-year-old man at 12:08 p.m. Friday at Wal-Mart, 1101 East Prospect Avenue, for petit larceny.
Break-In - A break-in in the 1300 block of East Prospect Avenue was reported to police at 1:10 p.m. Friday. A report was taken.
Bike Stolen - A person was at the police station at 1:10 p.m. Friday to report a stolen bike. A report was taken.
Stolen Purse - At 2:43 p.m. Friday a resident in the 1000 block of West South Avenue reported a stolen purse. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Lost Horse - A woman in the 100 block of Orchard Lane called police at 3:28 p.m. Friday to report a horse at her house. The Kay County Sheriff's office was notified.
Arrest - Police arrested a 38-year-old man at 3:58 p.m. Friday from the 300 block of North Osage Street on a Kay County warrant.
Arrest - A 17-year-old boy was arrested at 4:19 p.m. Saturday in the 2500 block of East Central Avenue for destruction of city property and trespassing.
Bug Light Burglary - A resident in the 2100 block of Jane Street reported the theft of a bug light to police at 4:27 p.m. Friday.
Arrest - A 18-year-old woman was arrested at 4:42 p.m. Friday from the 1500 block of East Bradley Avenue on a city and Kay County warrants.
Door Vandalism - At 5:24 p.m. Friday a resident in the 800 block of North First Street reported that someone had kicked in the front door. An officer was assigned.
Arrest - Police arrested a 38-year-old woman at 6:17 p.m. Friday from the 1400 block of South Ninth Street for domestic assault and battery.
Arrest - A 22-year-old man was arrested at 9:20 p.m. Friday from the 300 block of South Birch Street for interfering with an officer.
Fight - A fight over a pool cue was reported at 9:30 p.m. at the Ponca Bowl, 2000 Lake Road. A report was taken.
Arrest - A 17-year-old girl was arrested at 9:40 p.m. Friday from the 300 block of South Birch Street for driving under the influence.
Arrest - Police arrested a 22-year-old man at 9:40 p.m. Friday from Ash Street and Central Avenue on a city warrant.
Police Pursuit - At 10:07 p.m. Friday a man that ran a roadblock on U.S. 77 and tried to hit a trooper was apprehended by OHP in the 1700 block of South Waverly Street.
Broken Window - At 11:06 p.m. Friday a man in the 2400 block of Windsor Road advised police that the side window of his pickup truck had been broken out. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Arrest - A 18-year-old man was arrested at 11:298 p.m. Friday from the 400 block of South Fourteenth Street for giving false information to an officer and public intoxication.
Arrest - Police arrested a 26-year-old woman from the 700 block of North Third Street for driving under the influence and speeding.
Fight - At 1:25 a.m. Saturday a fight in the 1500 block of West Grand Avenue was reported. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Arrest - Police arrested a 22-year-old woman at 2:36 a.m. Saturday from the 700 block of North Union Street for driving under the influence.
Vehicle Marked - At 3:39 a.m. Saturday a vehicle, parked in the wrong direction in the 1400 block of East Central Avenue, was marked for 48 hours by police.
Obscene Calls - At 4:48 a.m. Saturday a clerk at Conoco, 1613 West South Avenue, called police to report obscene phone calls. An officer was assigned.
Gas Drive-Off - At 4:48 a.m. Saturday a $16.39 gas drive-off was reported at Conoco, 1613 West South Avenue.
Fire - A fire was reported at 5:06 a.m. Saturday one mile south of the city landfill. A fire unit responded and the fire was extinguished.
Tuesdays Special at KLVV - Tuesdays are special days at KLVV 88.7 FM. From 5 to 6 p.m. a special guest is available to take phone calls from anyone who has a question, and this Tuesday attorney Derrin Hiatt, general civil practitioner, will be accepting calls. The phone calls are confidential and will not be aired. Those wishing to call and visit with Hiatt may call 767-1400.
Genealogical Meeting Changed - Pioneer Genealogical Society will meet at Albright United Methodist Church, 128 South Palm Street, at 7 p.m. Monday instead of the usual meeting place. Guests are welcome.
Daylily Society - Members of the Northern Oklahoma Daylily Society will meet Monday, 7:30 p.m., at the Cann Memorial Garden Center, 1500 East Grand. Judy Farabough will present the program using slides from the 1997 regional meeting in Kansas City, Mo. Anyone interested in growing daylilies is invited to attend the meeting. For more information call Lillian Williams, 762-3796, or Bill Goldsberry, 765-2390.
Class of 1949 Plans Coffee - The Ponca City High School Class of 1949 will hold their annual coffee Thursday evening, 7 p.m., at the Pioneer Drive-In Bank. For more information, call 762-2826.
Game Change - American Legion Post 14 announces the Tuesday night line-up of bingo games has been changed. Some "pots" are larger. All bingo players are invited to participate. Early games begin at 5:50 p.m. and regular starting time is 7 p.m.
Groundhog Pancake Feed - The Braman FFA and 4-H Boosters will have a all-you-can-eat pancake feed to celebrate Groundhog Day, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday at the Braman Methodist Church, Second and Eaton Avenue. $3.50 for adults, $2.50 for kids.
Candidates To Speak - After-Five Lions Club members will have the opportunity to hear candidates for Ponca City and Pioneer Technology Center during their regular meeting Monday at Western Sizzlin'. Zane Barham and Mary Rigdon, PTC candidates, will speak at 6:30 p.m. Mike Kruck and Ann Kinsinger, public school candidates, will speak at 7 p.m.
'The Wall' the Topic - Members of Noon Ambucs will hear about "The Wall," the traveling Vietnam memorial, Thursday during their regular meeting at noon at Ponca City Country Club.
Softball Parent Meeting - The Ponca City High School Girls Softball Parent Association will meet at 7 p.m. Feb. 9 at the Fourth Street Clubhouse.
Sims Serving in Egypt - Army Pfc. Danny J. Sims Jr. has been deployed on temporary duty assignment to Sinai, Egypt, as part of the Multinational Peacekeeping Forces and Observers (MFO), an independent agency responsible to the governments of Israel and Egypt. The U.S. military contingent mission is to operate checkpoints, observation posts, and conduct reconnaissance patrols. Sims is a gunner assigned to the 325th Airborne Infantry Regiment at Fort Bragg, Fayetteville, N.C. He is the son of Dan J. N. and Karol J. Sims, 111 Sequoia, Kaw City, and a 1991 graduate of Ponca City High School.
Serving in Mediterranean - Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Stanton
R. Wellington, son of Linda G. Krout of Ponca City, is currently halfway
through a six-month deployment to the Mediterranean Sea aboard the aircraft
carrier USS George Washington. During the first half of the deployment,
his ship was called to the Arabian Gulf for Operation Southern Watch, enforcing
the no-fly zone over Iraq. He had the opportunity to visit the United Arab
Emirates an Israel, where crewmembers from his ship participated in outreach
projects in the host communities. The 1992 graduate of Ponca City High School,
joined the Navy in November 1992.
LIFESTYLES
The ongoing fundraising drive being conducted by the Kay County Child Welfare Advisory Board has received an estimated $8000 to date from individuals and corporate gifts said Pat Morahan, board member. The board originated to work with DHS in dispersing money for "extras" for foster children in Kay County.
There are state funds to provide for some basic necessities, but these children depend on the board to provide gifts at Christmas, birthdays and other important occasions during the year. Extra-curricular activity fees are some of the items provided by the board from monies raised during the once-a-year fundraiser. Anyone in the community interested in contributing to the fund may send tax-deductible donations to Kay County Child Welfare Advisory Board, 1720 Christmas Tree Lane, Ponca City, Okla. 74604.
Re-organized two years ago, the current board of 18 women is serving a three-year term. New members are added to the board as needed. The group meets every three months to discuss the list of needs for children and a DHS worker addresses the board and gives additional information.
Kay County Child Welfare Advisory Board members and the towns they represent are Shawn Alexander, Karen Bemo, Edna Brown, Jo Garten, Frances Giezentanner, Andrea Gifford, Pat Morahan, Helen Pappan, Linda Rodgers and Betty Thompson, all of Ponca City; Penny Anthony of Blackwell; Doris Samuel of Kaw City; Evelyn Coyle and Sally Hays of Tonkawa; Judy Paige of Nardin; Jan Sewell and Gloria Williams of Newkirk, and Verna McKenzie of Braman.
Composers' Workshop of Ponca City Federated Music Club will present a program dedicated to American women composers at 1:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 6, at the First Presbyterian Church. The program will feature music by local composers Donna Butler, Carolyn Hook, Suzi Lenhart, Barbara Manering, and Renee Simpson. Music by Halide Smith, who has moved to Florida, will also be included.
Musicians performing on the program include Donna Butler, Carolyn Hook, Suzi Lenhart, Barbara Manering, and Renee Simpson. Also performing will be Miss Suzi's Singing School Older Home School Ensemble. Members of this group are Kaitlyn Amos, Joel Bolay, Bethany Bowen, Sarah Bowen, April Harden, Bethany Harden, Ashlee Logan, Michaela Logan, Heather Mai, LeAnna Mai, Nathan Mai, Elisa Massey, and Michelle Ricketson.
The public is invited to attend this free program. Dessert and coffee for members, guests, and performers will be served at 1 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall, and a regular business meeting will follow the program. Hostesses for the February meeting are Elma Robson, chairman; Marge Howard, Marian Hudson, Mary Irons, Bonita James, Sudie Laird, Suzi Lenhart, Mary Lindsay, and Barbara Manering.
Pat Wathen, Reflexologist and Massage Therapist, will be the guest speaker for the Feb. 2 meeting of the Fibromyalgia Support Group at 7 p.m. at the Williamsburg Parlor of the First Baptist church. For further information about this meeting or group may be obtained by calling Vivian Cross, 765-8871, Lilly Freeman, 762-9027, or Martha Long, 765-5572.
The guest speaker holds a bachelor of science degree in education with a major in health, physical education and recreation. Her minor was in the field of biology. A member of the International Institute of Reflexology and the American Massage Therapy Association, she is owner of Plus Factor Enterprises in Edmond.
The therapist has served as recreation director at Girls Town in Tecumseh and has studied a variety of techniques for reflexology. According to a spokesperson for the group Wathen will "share ideas and teaching applications for personal use."
The Jan. 21 meeting of Bliss Homemakers was called to order by Burdettya Linn, president. Maxine Tautfest gave the devotional and roll call response was "Do you read the printed information that the pharmacist gives you with each prescription?" There were 16 "yes" and 2 "no" responses. Minutes of the November meeting were read by Pat Sikes, secretary, and it was reported that Bonnie Norman would have the secretary books for 1997 in by Feb. 1 but she did need help with the summary and score card.
Soni Kodesh gave the treasurer's report and committee reports given indicated that Marilyn Balcer will continue sending out get well cards and birthday cards; new baby books and cards were given for Nicholas Ryan Schiever and the new baby of R. J. Plumly.
It was also reported that 22 coats and a check for $200 was given to Operation Blessing and that the Red Rock community was #1 and Morrison was #2 in the use of Operation Blessing. A carload of groceries to Contact Point at Christmas was delivered and a report presented on the number of trees planted.
4-H trophies for dress review champion and 2 trophies for the achievement banquet were given and the club will donate 13 trophies for the year, 4 or 5 for speech and demonstration and 7 for dress review. $50 more toward the purchase of trophies for the 4-H county events will be added to the budget.
A "Fun" committee was appointed and a report given on the District Meeting to be held on Mar. 12 at Frontier School. Registration is $2 and $6.50 for lunch. Workshops are from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Kay, Noble and Logan counties are hosting this event. Noble county is to do the set up and door prizes and mini muffins for the registration coffee. Table decoration is to be a votive candle in jar of potpourri and table favors are candy Kiss roses. March 11 at 2 p.m. is scheduled for the set up table time. The Tooth Fairy Committee will make the pillows for 41 kindergarten children. February is National Dental Health Maintenance week
The preliminary spelling bee is scheduled for Feb. 4 and the finals on Feb. 11. The county bee will be Feb. 26 at Frontier School. Chairperson for the spelling bee is Melanie Williams. Linda Short introduced Alice Kelly who gave the lesson on the different food and drug interactions.
TOPS OK 308 Chapter met Monday evening with Donna McCoy calling the meeting to order. She also gave the devotional entitled, "Can You Say?". Audrey Garroutte led the TOPS Pledge and Ruth Garroutte led the KOPS Kreed.
Delpha Clemens called the roll and Betty Flower gave the weight report. Best loser for the week was Larry Grantz and Betty Flower won the "Ha-Ha" pot. Two new members present were Marion and Larry Grantz.
Cindy Rasche gave the program, "Overeating When You're Not Hungry". Awards were presented to Loretta Riley, Division 4, first place for 1997, and Robert Oldham, Division 5, first place for 1997.
TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) is a non-profit organization whose members desire to lose or maintain weight. Brief programs are presented each week and visitors are welcome to attend the meetings. Weigh-in time is 6:15-6:55 and meetings are at 7 p.m. on Mondays. For more information contact Delpha Clemens, 762-2844 or Betty Flower, 765-5448.
Fun and Fundamental FCE group met with Nettie Cox for the January meeting. Wanda Hutcherson, president, led the group in the salute to the flag, repeating the OAFCE Creed and singing "In My Heart There Rings a Melody." The hostess read "Touch of the Master's Hand" for the devotions.
Roll call was answered by naming ways to preserve "precious memories." Plans were discussed for the 50th anniversary of the group. Health, Safety and Sewing tips given were that exercise and fresh fruits were important and to take extra precaution when sidewalks are icy. Members were reminded to take correct measurements before purchasing new patterns.
Ms. Cox gave the lesson "Creating Precious Memories." She suggested identifying and dating pictures and using acid free paper. Mary Ruth Leatherman and Ms. Hutcherson received contest prizes. The meeting was followed by a covered dish luncheon with Tammy Stewart and Misty as guests. The February meeting will be hosted by Deborah Randall and Pearl Fitch will be the lesson leader.
Members of the Ponca City High School graduating class of 1978 are planning a 20-year class reunion Labor Day weekend. Current addresses are needed for some classmates so please send information to Class of '78, 1719 North Third, Ponca City, Okla. 74601.
For more information call Barbara Fuller Millwee, 405-677-4427; Doris Steichen Love, 580-765-8437; Terri Drake Barnard, 762-9059; Mark Fox, 762-7532; Jim Kelly, 762-6002; Rick Sodowsky, 765-6419; Tony Underwood, 765-5321.
Following are the names of classmates whose location is unknown: Gary Allison, Diane Anderson, Leslie Armstrong, Byron Beebe, Donald Bell, Keith Bible, Tim Boyer, Donna Brakey, Robert Briggs, Melody Bristow, Gwendolyn Britt; Terry Britton and Charmain Burgan.
Also Jimmy Campbell, Gale Carpenter, Richard Carroll, Roscoe Conklin, Rusty Coulter, Coleann Dale, Amanda Davidson, Anthony Dewberry, Roger Ely, Trecia George; Darren Golay, Darrell Green, Joe Hapgood, Sharon Hastings, Hal Havens, Mary Hedberg, Sandy Hime, Richard Lee, Lisa Lingnau, Cameron Martin and Brian Miller.
Also Jerry Padgett, Barton Pace, Kevin Parks, Lail Parsons, Erin Patton, Don Phelps, Lori Philpott, Kent Pickrell, Carmen Picotte, Paula Poe, Torrie Preston, Ethel Price, Johnny Roland, Cheryl R. Scott, David Scott, Kyle Sharp, Jenia Shelton, Denise F. Sisco, Diana L. Sisco, Teresa K. Sisco, Adele Steeprock, Greg K. Sutton, Shannon D. Sweetwater, Tom Tate, Treasa A. Thomas, Timothy M. Thomas, Christopher A. Thornton, Tami K. Turner, Patricia A. Witteman, Chris Juneman, Susan Jones and Keith Johnson.
The Ponca City Chapter, American Association of University Women, once again is sponsoring two Scholarships: one to a current high-school senior and one to a woman who has either entered college and been forced to delay her education for no less than four years; or one who re-entering the educational arena after a delay beyond high school; or one who is who is currently enrolled in college after a delay of at least four years beyond high school.
Application blanks for the High School Senior Scholarship are available at the Ponca City High School, and are due by March 2 at the school; and the papers for the "out of school" woman are available at the Ponca City Library front desk or at Northern Oklahoma College Admissions Office.
These completed applications will be due by April 30 and should be addressed to Rosalie Bolene, AAUW Scholarship Chairman, 2116 Juanito Avenue, Ponca City, OK 74604-3813. Telephone 762-1042 for further information. "If you are interested in completing your education, please take advantage of this opportunity" said Mrs. Bolene.
Three traditional exercise formats are being offered at the YMCA with all classes taught by certified instructors. For information about fees call the Y at 765-6417.
Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 8:30 a.m., "Exercise to Music" is available. This is a high-low impact with a variety of music. Tuesday and Thursday at 8:30 a.m. "Definitions" is held. This class will focus on muscular strength, endurance and definition. This class also meets at 5:30 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Thursday. Monday, Tuesday and Thursday at 6:45 p.m. is "CardioStep" class. This is a traditional step aerobics class with a portion of the time devoted to muscular development.
Word study books are now available for the Northern Oklahoma Development Authority (NODA)Area Aging on Aging Senior Spelling Bee. The contest will be held at the Enid Senior Center, 116 East Randolph, on April 8 at 1:30 p.m. Anyone 60 years of age or older is eligible to participate.
The two top winners of this spelling bee will be eligible to compete in the Oklahoma State Senior Spelling Bee in Oklahoma City on May 6. For more information contact Sallie Shreck, NODA Area Agency on Aging, 237-2236 or 1-800-749-1149.
The Singles Network is a social and support organization for single adults who are divorced, widowed or never married. A monthly calendar is mailed to all members and dues are $10 per year. Members wish to emphasize that the group is not a dating service.
Interested persons may call Betty, 762-9776, or Dorothy, 765-1403, for more information. Plans this week include:
Sunday, Feb. 1, 6:30 p.m.: Discussion group at First Presbyterian Church with snack afterwards.
Monday, Feb. 2, 6 p.m.: Eat out at Blimpies.
Friday, Feb. 6, 6 p.m.: Bean supper. Bring dessert, salad or beverage. Call Pearl, 762-2786.
Saturday, Feb. 7, 8:30 a.m.: meet at American Legion for pancakes. Call Phil, 765-4620.
Amy Shelton of Ponca City, a 22 year-old single mother of a four year-old son, is this year's recipient of Soroptimist International of Ponca City's Women's Opportunity Awards. Shelton was given the $500 cash award at a luncheon honoring her at the Crown & Rose Restaurant on Jan. 21.
Shelton will use the award to further her educational goals at Northern Oklahoma College, where she is majoring in business administration. With her life experience, Shelton feels she can help other single mothers with the challenges they face.
Women's Opportunity Awards is a Soroptimist International of the Americas program that aids mature women (usually heads of households) who need further education to upgrade their skills or to re-enter the work force. Shelton is now eligible for the region and federation level awards.
Also honored at the luncheon was the recipient of the Soroptimist International of Ponca City's Youth Citizenship Award, Holly Ladner, a senior at Ponca City High School. Ladner was given a $250 cash scholarship award which she says will help defray college expenses at Oklahoma State University where she plans to major in Special Education and/or Genetics. Ladner's sponsors praise her for her work at Ponca City High School in the Introduction to Exceptional Students program.
The runner-up for the Youth Citizenship Award (YCA) is Sara Ryser, a Blackwell High School Senior. She will be receiving a $100 Savings Bond. Ryser is an Oklahoma Girls' State graduate and is active in other student government functions. Her plans are to attend the University of Tulsa, looking forward to a professional life in medical or in environmental law.
YCA is a Soroptimist International of the Americas program that recognizes outstanding contributions made by young people to their homes, schools, communities, countries and the world. YCA is a merit awards program and is not based on academic achievement.
Soroptimist International of the America (SIA), whose focus in "making a difference for women, "