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From the pages of The Ponca City News, Sunday, February 14, 1999 LOCAL DEATHS NEWS BRIEFS LIFESTYLES SPORTS LOCALCity Calendar City CalendarItems for the City Calendar should be brought in or telephoned (765-3311) to Bob Patterson, at the Ponca City News, by Thursday noon. Anytime FOLOBS (Friends of Library Ongoing Book Sale), anytime the Ponca City Library is open, North of Multimedia Room (downstairs). Alcoholics Anonymous, Alano Group, Ponca City’s first established AA Group, meets at Noon and 8 p.m., seven days a week. All noon meetings open, all 8 p.m. meetings closed except Fridays, 603 South First Street. Monday Ponca City Board of Commissioners Work Session, 2 p.m., Public Safety Center. Multiple Sclerosis Support Group, 6:30 p.m., Albright United Methodist Church, 128 South Palm, call Beth Wright, 765-6738 for additional information. United Ostomy Association, Stillwater-Ponca City Chapter, Speaker James Knight, Insurance and Medicare Issues for Ostomates, 7 p.m., Stillwater Medical Center Board Room. Young-at-Heart Dance, 7-10 p.m., American Legion, 407 West South Avenue, music by Ken Wilson and Sunshine Playboys Band. Tuesday Standing Bear Educational Committee, 11 a.m., Pioneer Bank Drive-in, interested citizens encouraged to attend. Kaw Lake Association Board of Directors, noon, Golden Corral, Ponca City. Ponca City Alliance for Youth Juvenile Crime/Southside Taskforce Subcommittee, 2 p.m., Lincoln Center, 700 West Broadway Avenue. Marland Estate Commission, 4:30 p.m., Marland Estate Conference Center. Wednesday Planning Commission Work Session, 7:45 a.m., Planning and Engineering. Cards and Pitch, join in an afternoon of fun, 1 p.m., Senior Citizens Center, 319 West Grand Avenue. Ponca City Tourism Authority, 2 p.m., Cultural Center Sunroom, 1000 East Grand Avenue. Thursday Park and Recreation Advisory Board, 5:30 p.m., Municipal Courtroom, Public Safety Center, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue. Ponca City Alliance for Youth Race Relations Taskforce Committee, 7 p.m., Board of Education Building, 111 West Grand Avenue. Friday Historic Preservation Board Work Session, noon, Planning and Engineering Conference Room, 400 East Central Avenue, Suite 305. Music Special with Pete Loshesky, good old-fashioned music, 1 p.m., Senior Citizens Center, 319 West Grand Avenue. Traffic Commission, 1:15 p.m., Public Safety Center, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue. Spaghetti Dinner, 5-7 p.m., St. Paul’s Methodist Church, adults $5, children $2, meal includes homemade bread, dessert and drink. Saturday Pancake and Sausage Feed (all the pancakes you can eat), 6:30 a.m.-10 a.m., American Legion, 407 West South Avenue, adults $3.50, children under 12 $2, children under 6 free, proceeds to World War II Memorial Fund in Washington, D.C. February 22 Young-at-Heart Dance, 7-10 p.m., American Legion, 407 West South Avenue, music by Ken Wilson and Sunshine Playboys Band. Tall Grass Prairie Preserve Slide Show, 7 p.m., downstairs Ponca City Library, public invited, more information Mary McIntyre 918-585-1117. February 24 Planning Commission Work Session, 7:45 a.m., Planning and Engineering Conference Room, 400 East Central, Suite 305. Senior Center Crafts, 1 p.m., Senior Citizens Center, 319 West Grand Avenue. Ponca City Main Street Authority Inc. Board Meeting, 1 p.m., Main Street Office, 117 North Third Street. February 26 Senior Bingo, 1 p.m., Senior Citizens Center, 319 West Grand Avenue. Alzheimer’s Support Group, 7 p.m., Conference Room A, St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. March 1 Pioneer Christian Crusaders Motorcycle Association, 6 p.m., Conestoga at I-35, U.S. 60 west of Tonkawa, more information 765-3164. Quail Unlimited banquet, 5:30 p.m., Moose Lodge, 500 West Prospect. March 4 Kay-9 Dog Training Club, 7 p.m., Ponca City Library, public welcome, more information 762-9053 or 762-7360. March 7 Pioneer Technology Center 25th Anniversary Celebration, 1-4 p.m., activities, entertainment, displays and technology demonstrations scheduled throughout the day, door prizes will also be given away, the cafeteria will be open for business from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., reservations for the first 200 people can be made, 762-8336, ext. 273. March 9 McCord Volunteer Fire Department, 7 p.m., McCord School Library. Osage Cove Volunteer Fire Department, 7 p.m., Fire Station at Keeler Road and U.S. 60. March 11 Agrarian Club, 6 p.m., Southwest meeting room, Western Sizzlin’. March 13 Pancake and Sausage Feed (all the pancakes you can eat), 6:30 a.m.-10 a.m., American Legion, 407 West South Avenue, adults $3.50, children under 12 $2, children under 6 free, proceeds to rehab program. March 15 United Ostomy Association, Stillwater-Ponca City Chapter, 7 p.m., Conference Room B (ground floor), St. Joseph Regional Medical Center, Ponca City. March 16 Standing Bear Educational Committee, 11 a.m., Pioneer Bank Drive-in, interested citizens encouraged to attend. Kaw Lake Association, noon, Kay Electric, Blackwell. March 26 Alzheimer’s Support Group, 7 p.m., Conference Room A, St. Joseph Regional Medical Center April 23 Seventh Annual Taste and Tasteless, Poncan Theatre. May 1 Booths Available at Victorian Chocolate and Craft Festival, 8 a.m.-4 p.m., for information call 762-6700, proceeds benefit youth and Grand Central Station. Kaw Lake Assocation Monthly Meeting TuesdayThe Kaw Lake Association will meet at noon Tuesday at the Golden Corral for its February board meeting. All persons interested in promoting the Kaw Lake Area through tourism, recreation, business or other interests are invited to attend. Betty Rutz will be distributing copies of the new Kaw Lake magazine to all who attend. The 50,000 copies, just received from the publishers, will be distributed by the group to Oklahoma welcome centers, area Chambers of Commerce and Visitor Centers, hotels, restaurants, convenience stores, attractions, and at all Kaw Lake campgrounds. The magazines are also distributed at area boat shows, state fairs and other events. Boat Show chairman Rich Cantillon will be reporting on upcoming boat shows and other events in Wichita, Kan., and Oklahoma City. Members of Kaw Lake Association are scheduled to participate in the Feb. 17-21 Kansas Boat Show in Wichita and will be working in a booth with the Lake Keystone Association at the Oklahoma City Tackle Show in the near future. Volunteers from the KLA and Lake Keystone association, area chamber members and representatives of the Corps of Engineers will be staffing the information booths at the shows and distribute the magazines and other literature to promote the Kaw Lake area. The Kay Lake Association is encouraging area citizens to get involved in the promotion of the Kaw Lake area and membership chairman Gordon Thompson will be presenting membership drive ideas, benefits and literature at the Tuesday meeting. Other items on the agenda include the status of a NODA grant by Wayne Leven, a KawFest report, approval of claims, and a proposal and vote on salary guidelines. Reports by Executive Director Kathy Tippen will include information from a recent Green County marketing consultation workshop she attended; possible sponsorship of a Festivals and Events Association workshop to be held in Ponca City; courses for businesses at Pioneer Area Technology; and the Economic Development Conference on Indian Tourism in Tulsa on Feb. 24-26. The purpose of the Kaw Lake Association is to build a region-wide partnership of towns, businesses, service agencies and local governments within the North Central Oklahoma Kaw Lake area. Its mission includes recruitment of a broad membership base, creation of a financial support system, addressing infrastructure needs, tourism development, broadening the business base and marketing the region as a whole. Otoe WIC Clinics Schedules Set For Area TribesThe Otoe Women-Infant-Children Clinic is scheduled to be at White Eagle Indian Health Services from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month. They will also be at the Kaw Nation health clinic in Newkirk from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. the first and third Thursdays of the month and at Otoe-Missouria Tribe health clinic, 17 miles south of Ponca City, the first Monday of the month from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Women who are pregnant, postpartum or breast feeding, and children up to the age of five who are at nutritional risk and meet the income guidelines are eligible for assistance. The income eligibility guidelines are as follows — family size of one with an annual income of $14,893; family of two with $20,073 annual income; family of three, with annual income of $25,253; family of four, income of $30,433; family of five, income of $35,613; family of six, income of $40,793; family of seven, income of $45,973; family of eight, income of $51,153; add $5,180 to the income for each additional member. Golden Villa Director Enjoys Geriatric CareBy KATHY ZEHR News Staff Writer Golden Villa, local daycare facility for adults located at 615 West Grand, recently welcomed a new director. Laura Hines RN took over her duties in January. Hines says she already has learned to love the clients and really enjoys working with them. Hines also says she is looking forward to increasing the client numbers, building on the great programs already in place, and adding some new services for the clients enjoyment and safety. The new director has a long track record of caring for others, having served as staff nurse at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center, sometimes with 16-hour shifts; caring for a busy family including husband Dwayne, and three boys, Keith, Kyle and Ken; and as a volunteer in numerous community services, including Boy Scouts. She received her degree in nursing after attending Northern Oklahoma College, Oklahoma State University and Northwestern State University at Alva. All this schooling was accomplished while caring for her husband and three growing boys. She gives them credit also and says “ they, in turn, also helped me a lot.” Most clients at Golden Villa are senior citizens who need a safe, happy, comfortable place to stay during the day while family caregivers work. However, all adults over 18 are welcomed at Golden Villa as well, say Hines. Hines says she has already grown fond of the clients who currently attend the Center. She says it’s ideal for her because she found she really enjoyed working with geriatric patients while getting her degree and working at the hospital. “They’re great, and they can give you some good advice,” she says. Hines has also taught the “I Can Cope” series for cancer victims and their families at St. Joseph; holds a special cardiac lifesaving certificate; and is in several community activities with her sons, such as sports, school activities and Boy Scouts. She feels her training as an registered nurse and the advanced CPR training are added assets for the clients at the Center. Hines talks about the advantages of having a facility like Golden Villa in Ponca City. “It’s the answer for families who need a day-care facility for parents, spouses, or adult children who cannot or do not want to be left alone while family members work or need to be free for other activities.” They can accommodate clients five days a week or on a part-time daily basis, she explained. It’s an alternative to full-time rest home care for many. Open five days a week from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30, the $35-per-day fee includes breakfast, lunch, two snacks and transportation to and from the center. Trips for medical appointments are also provided. In addition to nutritious food served by a caring staff, clients can enjoy arts and crafts, outings, health monitoring and exercise therapy according to need. Additional mental and emotional stimulation is enjoyed through birthday parties, holiday celebrations, daily discussions about current events, educational classes, and other planned activities. For persons who are self-sufficient but do not want to be alone all day, it is an excellent therapeutic program for loneliness, providing peer support and healthy social interaction in a supportive environment. Golden Villa, is a United Way agency and governed by a board of directors, who volunteer many hours each month to the agency to keep it a comfortable, safe, and enjoyable “home away from home” for clients. According to secretary Judy Zimmerman, Golden Villa will work with families or clients financially to make the facility available to almost any adult. Various service agencies, including the Department of Human Services assist with special funding. In addition to United Way, donations are also received through private gifts and donations from citizens, churches, and other organizations. Golden Villa, opened its doors in April 1987 and has enjoyed 12 years of success. Currently the Center has openings for a few clients, says Hines. 'Shakespeare in Love' Poncan Valentine Treat“Shakespeare in Love,” a passionate, entertaining comedy about love and creativity, is perfect for Valentine’s Day. The sparkling film begins today at the Poncan Theatre on Grand.Thirteen Academy Award Nominations give significant praise to the “delightfully fast-paced” comedy about Will Shakespeare. That makes it one of the most highly acclaimed films in recent Oscar history. Recently, “Titanic” received fourteen nominations. “Shakespeare” leads the pack in the hunt for this year’s Oscars. “Shakespeare in Love” is “clever, exhilarating, ingenious,” says Janet Maslin of the New York Times. It’s “exhilarating,” says one critic. “Delightful,” says another. “Prepare to be ravished” writes a third. One critic says that the popular film about the greatest writer in the English language is really “a feel-great movie.” The film is about Shakespeare (Joseph Fiennes) as a fledgling writer. Gwyneth Paltrow, who plays Viola, the young Will Shakespeare’s love interest, is nominated for an Oscar. In the film, the playwright is working on a script about lovers, but he’s suffering from writer’s block. It seems he needs to find his muse, if you know what I mean. Viola comes along at exactly the right moment. He’s working on the draft of a comedy called “Romeo and Ethel, the Pirate’s Daughter,” and his incredible longings aren’t making it onto the written page. Viola can help. The dilemma is that Viola is betrothed to another man, the Earl of Wessex (Colin Firth). Viola has everything she might want in life. She has beauty. She has elegance. She has a dowry. Her fiance is an Earl. “But,” says Time Magazine, “what she really wants to do is act.” The two lovers, William and Viola, have a need for each other, and they enjoy every minute of exploring the possibilities. But the pressures of the world bear down upon them, and soon Will’s view of romance shifts. His playwrighting adapts, too, so that “Romeo and Ethel,” a comedy, becomes “Romeo and Juliet,” a more serious play. The delicious story of “Shakespeare in Love” draws only loosely on history. It takes a fanciful view of the lives of the characters. Part of the glory of the film is, appropriately, the delight it takes in the theater. The opening gives “a cheerful survey” of theater, says Roger Ebert. And Time Magazine writes that the film “celebrates the glories of the theater” in its “sparkling climax.” “I was carried along by the wit, the energy and a surprising sweetness,” writes Roger Ebert. Most critics would say the same. The film is nominated for Best Picture, Best Actress, Supporting Actor and Supporting Actress, Directing, Cinematography, Musical Score, and several other categories. Best Screenplay is among them. One of the co-writers, Tom Stoppard, is the extraordinarily gifted writer who created “Rosenkrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead” and other gems of the modern, witty English theater. “Shakespeare in Love,” rated R, begins Valentine’s Day at the Poncan Theatre. For show times, patrons may call the Poncan Theatre or consult the Ponca City News. The Poncan Theatre is located at 104 East Grand in downtown Ponca City. The phone is 580-765-0943. New Listeners To Be Trained By HelplineEver think about improving your listening skills? Want to become a Helpline volunteer? Interested in learning about the “helping” organizations in Ponca City? If any of these subjects interest you, you might think about joining the Helpline Volunteer Training Sessions scheduled to get under way here Feb. 22. The first class will be held at Grace Episcopal Church on Monday, Feb. 22 with additional classes on the following Monday evenings for nine weeks. According to Lori May, Helpline director, classes be held from 7 to 9 p.m. Cost for the class is $20 and sessions are hosted by area professionals. Following the completion of the instructional classes, those who plan to work as Helpline volunteers are required to observe in the Helpline office for an additional six hours. Helpline is always in need of volunteers to fill the 56 shifts each week. Please join the Helpline volunteers — improve your listening skills and learn about Ponca City’s community resources. Call 765-5551 today to sign up for the classes. Helpline is a United Way agency, serving the entire community. Millennium Timeline Tracks Achievements of MankindEditor’s Note: Once a month for the year 1999, we will print a list of major human historical events compiled by the Ponca City Millennium Committee. Each list will cover a different period of human history, culminating in December with a list of events from the Twentieth Century. The list is necessarily arbitrary, but it will focus primarily on events and people that symbolize the age, and on events that help envision daily life in the given period. 0 to 99 Birth of Jesus of Nazareth (0) Caesar Augustus dies (14) Baptism of Jesus of Nazareth (27) Crucifixion of Jesus of Nazareth (30) Hopewell Indian cultures building mounds in American Midwest Romans invade Britain and establish a settlement that becomes London (43) St. Paul begins missionary travels (45) Cake is used to celebrate marriage and symbolize fertility Romans learn use of soap from Gauls Nero becomes Emporer of Rome (54) Vesuvius erupts, destroys Pompeii (79) Colosseum is completed in Rome (80) 100 to 199 Oldest Mayan monuments are built Galen, a physician, extracts plant juices for medicine (Greece) Earliest dictionary is created (China) Easter is celebrated (Rome) Ptolemy, devises his theory of the universe (Greece) 200 to 299 Goths invade northern Mediterranean for the first time, sacking and pillaging Rome, Athens, Sparta, and Corinth First compass is in use (China) Bowling is part of religious rituals in monasteries Greek historian describes five machines in use: the cogwheel, levers, pulleys, screws, and wedges Hohokam and Mogollon Indian cultures expand, living in pit houses in Southwest America 300 to 399 Constantine unites the Roman Empire and converts to Christianity Teotihuacan is recorded in Mesoamerica Council of Nicaea formulates Nicean Creed (325) Books begin to replace scrolls Christmas is celebrated (Rome) Huns begin to invade Europe Hymn singing is introduced in Christian services First records of Japanese civilization appear 400 to 499 Atilla becomes ruler of Huns Augustine of Hippo writes “City of God” and “Confessions,” influencing values and Christian theology Anasazi Indians domesticate turkeys in American southwest St. Patrick begins his mission to Ireland (432) Chess game is invented Venice is founded (452) Mississippian Indian cultures develop along American rivers St. Benedict founds monastic communities Pacific Coast Indians begin hunting with bows and arrows Angles and Saxons invade Britain Hohokam people build American mounds similar to Mexican pyramids, and 200-foot-long ball courts Valentine’s Day is celebrated (Rome) Hindu astronomer writes a theory of roots and the powers of numbers 500 to 599 First plans of the Vatican palace are devised Cathedral of St. Sophia is completed in Constantinople Major plague spreads across Europe, killing about half the population of the continent Church bells used in France Crucifix first used as Christian ornament Buddhism is established in Japan Cathedral at Canterbury is established 600 to 699 Book printing begins in China Glass is used in windows, but only colored glass (Germany) In Italy, a monetary system replaces barter Pope Gregory introduces picture Bibles to reach the illiterate Mohammed begins dictating Koran Pretzels are invented (Italy) Petroleum is used as a fuel in Japan Porcelain is produced in China Arabs overtake Mediterranean, conquering Jerusalem and pillaging Alexandria, the center of western culture Surgery developed in India First news service organized by Moslem Caliphs Glass windows appear in a few English churches Exploding missiles used in warfare by Arabs 700 to 799 Illuminated manuscripts appear in Christian writing Water wheels are in wide use in Europe Tapestry is well established in Peru Easter eggs in use among Christians Stone replaces wood in English church construction Large urban developments appear in China Sugar is planted and propogated in Egypt Mississippian people in America build villages with central plaza, huge mounds with temples on top Chinese court orchestra uses flutes, bells, guitars, drums, and gongs First printed newspaper appears (Peking) Gregorian church music spreads across Germany, England, and France Trees are used to celebrate and symbolize Christmas (Germany) Rings begin to be given to denote engagements Wedding “banns” are used in Europe to announce weddings Handbook of tea is written in China Tea begins to be taxed in China Arab scientists separate chemistry from alchemy Dance and Vikings begin centuries of invasion of Britain Korean civilization flowers A pony express begins for royalty in France Persian literature begins Machu Pichu is built in Peru 800 to 899 Charlemagne is crowned Emporer of the Holy Roman Empire, Christmas Day, 800 First rose trees are planted in Europe Persian mathematicians develop algebra Indians in Northwest begin cultivating corn Construction begins on the Doge’s palace in Venice Debates ignite on the use of images in Christian churches Chinese paper money leads to inflation and state bankruptcy Crossbow is in use in France Hands held together becomes a symbol of prayerfulness Epidemics occur because of diseases carried in grain Earliest work with polyphonic music Iceland is discovered by Norsemen Cinderella story develops (China) Horseshoes are used as symbols of luck Alfred the Great, King of the Britains, establishes fairs, markets, a militia and a navy Candle clocks are used in England The Pope excommunicates the Patriarch of Constantinople (879) The Patriarch of Constantinople excommunicates the Pope (879) Benedictine monasteries are founded 900 to 999 Pueblos in Southwest feature houses built above ground Arabic tales of “A Thousand and One Nights” begin Castles become the seat of European nobility Arab physicians diagnose and describe infectious diseases: plague, smallpox, consumption and rabies Vikings discover Greenland London bridge is mentioned in documents Anasazi population expands and Pueblo Bonito is built in American Southwest Chinese encyclopedia is begun, culminating in over 1,000 volumes Present arithmetical notation is brought to Europe by Arabs Firecrackers are invented (China) Organ with 400 pipes is built at Winchester Abbey Vikings defeat Angles and Saxons in Britain, and Britons begin to offer cash payment to avoid warfare First canonization of saints (993) Large Iron Age settlements are active in Zimbabwe Christians anticipate the Apocalypse, creating turmoil throughout the Christian world Area Legislators Push Bills To Floor VotesBy RALPH SEWELL News Capitol Bureau OKLAHOMA CITY — As legislative committees sift through the final week of almost 1,700 bits of proposed legislation, Ponca City-area legislators are pushing to get their bills to the floor before Thursday night, the committee deadline. HB 1660, by Rep. Jim Newport, R-Ponca City, is headed to a floor vote. It would add to the definition of bogus check. Newport says if you give a hot check for a kitchen faucet, you risk prosecution. But if you pay a plumber who installs it with a hot check, it’s no crime now. His bill would make it one. Rep. Larry Ferguson, R-Cleveland, won committee approval for HB 1750, which toughens up state law against drunk driving. The bill lowers the level of blood alcohol from 0.10 to 0.08 percent when a driver is tested for drunk driving. It also toughens the penalty risked by really tipsy drivers. For first offenders, they now can go to jail for up to one year and pay up to a $1,000 fine. HB 1750 also says if the blood alcohol level reaches 0.15, the fine can be up to $2,500. In addition, a conviction by any court — not just a court of record — will result in report to the State Department of Public Safety, which in turn can bring serious insurance problems. On the other side of the Capitol’s fourth floor, The Senate killed SJR 22, proposal to call a statewide vote on amending the constitution to let school districts approve bonded debt by simple majorities, rather than the 60 percent the law now requires. The vote was 24 to 22 — two short of the needed number. Sens. Paul Muegge, D-Tonkawa, and J. Berry Harrison, D-Fairfax, voted against the proposal. The Senate author said he’ll seek a new vote on the resolution. The Senate Education committee vote on SJR 22 also was close, 9 to 8. At week’s end, Newport was still trying to get the full House Education committee to send three other bills to the House floor. All had been cleared by an Education subcommittee. His HB 1659 would let high schools teach sign language and give students who complete it foreign language credit. Newport’s HB 1763 would let school districts allow pupils to recite a voluntary good conduct pledge. And 1765 would require districts to develop character education programs. Rep. Jim Reese, R-Nardin, won 96-4 House approval for HB 1112, which would create water and wastewater handling guidelines. The bill now moves to the Senate. Also on the House calendar is Reese’s HB 1001, to allow couples to enter into “covenant marriage” contract. It aims to cutting Oklahoma’s divorce rate. It would require pre-marriage counseling for couples and require promises that if a marriage seems to be breaking up, the couple seek further consultations. The House passed a similar bill by Reese last year, but it died in a Senate committee — a fate that may greet it again this year. Reese reported sadly the Senate Judiciary committee last week killed a kindred Senate bill. Complicating the opening of the regular session of the legislature was a special session called by Gov. Frank Keating. He sought to cut the state gross production tax on oil and reduce budgets to compensate for the revenue loss. HB 1001 is the budget-cutting vehicle; HB 1003 the measure giving the oil industry tax breaks. HB 1001 first passed the House 85 to 11. The same day, the House passed HB 1003 to cut oil taxes. That vote was 95-2. Then senators voted. HB 1003 passed 42 to 6; HB 1001, 37 to 10. Ponca City-area legislators voted for them and Gov. Keating has signed both bills. Most floor votes cast last week were on appropriation bills. The margins were overwhelmingly favorable. Most were also meaningless. All were “shell” bills sent to the Senate to keep them alive so figures can be inserted later. All Ponca City-area representatives also voted for HB 1066, which would relieve counties from any responsibility for distributing or paying for food stamps. The vote was 98-0. The Senate Education committee also gave lopsided 13 to 1 approval to SJR 23, which would refer for voter approval an amendment increasing the limit on school district debt from 10 to 15 percent of the district’s total property valuation. But it may meet the same floor fate as SJR 22. The same committee voted unanimously to send to the floor a bill allowing the School for Math and Science in Oklahoma City to support advanced Math and Science programs elsewhere in the state. A pilot program, using the Drumright Vo-Tech, has been successful, the author said. If the bill gains final approval, and funds are available, the nearest math-science center to Ponca City probably would be Enid. The Senate Finance committee debated long and hard before sending SJR 12 to the floor. It calls for a voter referendum on a proposal to increase the 17-cent gasoline tax by half a cent and the diesel tax from 14 to 16 cents. The bill’s author said the $20 million a year it would generate would be used mostly as a subsidy to bring Amtrak passenger service to Oklahoma. He also said some of the money would help improve rural bus service. An 8-7 divided Senate committee sent SB 317 to the floor. It would put a $10 cap on bank surcharges for using automatic teller machines. Perhaps the most dramatic policy debate involving Gov. Frank Keating was ignored by lawmakers last week. Apparently, they feel most of their constituents approve existing death penalty laws. Keating, a Roman Catholic, had refused to stop the execution of Sean Sellers, a triple murderer. That prompted Catholic Archbishop Eusebius Beltran to criticize the governor. Evidently, lawmakers figure such arguments are better left to churches. At least, nobody has rushed forward to offer anti-death penalty legislation. Project Promotes Safety for ElderlyOperation S.A.F.E., Smoke Alarms For the Elderly, is a free program free for any elderly, homebound, handicapped or hearing impaired person living within the city limits of Ponca City in need of installation of a smoke alarm or a new battery for an existing alarm. This is the second year , and more than 40 detectors were installed in last year’s first annual Operation S.A.F.E. Set for Feb. 20, this event is a free service provided by the Fire Prevention Advisory Council, Ponca City Fire Department, AARP and AmeriCorps. To sign up for this free service, call the Family Resource Center at 767-9509, United Way at 718-0288, or Helpline at 765-5551 before Feb. 17. Guest Lecturer Keynote Speaker At SouthwesternWinfield, Kan. — William J. Abraham, Albert Cook Outler Professor of Wesley Studies at Perkins School of Theology, Southern Methodist University, Dallas, will present the Smith-Willson lecture at Southwestern College Friday, Feb. 26, at 11 a.m. The lecture will be presented in Messenger Recital Hall in the Darbeth Fine Arts Center. Following the lecture, a lunch for pastors and interested lay persons will be held in Pounds Lounge located in the Roy L. Smith Student Center. Cost of the lunch is $5; reservations are required. The lecture is free and open to the public. Abraham has been involved in a variety of projects. The most recent is an effort to foster dialogue among United Methodists of diverse theological and ethical convictions. “Unity, Liberty, and Charity: Building Bridges Under Icy Waters,” co-edited with Donald Messer, is among his numerous publications. Abraham will speak on the use of the Wesleyan quadrilateral (John Wesley’s emphasis on scripture, tradition, reason, and experience) within denominational dialogue. The function of experience in the quadrilateral particularly will be addressed in terms of its limitations and potential. The Smith-Willson lectureship was established by Mr. and Mrs. J. M. Willson to call attention to the important moral and religious aspects of education. National leaders on various related topics are asked to speak at the annual lecture. For more information or for lunch reservations, call Alice Keith at (316) 221-8265 by Feb. 19. McCord Water Meeting TuesdayThe annual membership meeting for the McCord Rural Water District No. 3 will be held at 7 p.m. Tuesday in the McCord School Cafeteria. Topics of business will include an update on the pipeline project and election of two directors. Door prizes and refreshments will be provided. Ponca City Students Challenged by ‘Bard’Ponca City citizens can see Shakespeare brought to life Friday at 8 p.m. at the high school Howell Auditorium when local students perform “Romeo and Juliet.” The two-act condensed version using “the Bard’s” words, will also be presented for a number of Mid-High English classes at 10 a.m. Thursday and for 700 high school students at 8:30 a.m. Friday. According to Ray Lahann, who portrays the complex character of Mercutio, “I have really enjoyed getting into this character. The lines are challenging to learn, the action intense, and the overall experience memorable.” Actor Rustin Storie (Benvolio) further stated, “I look forward to going to rehearsal every night so I can continue to expand our interpretation of my part. I hope lots of community folks turn out to see our production.” Ashley Root, actress in the play and choreographer added, “It has been so fun to create the Elizabethan dances. Jeremy Stillwell has written wonderful, original music for these period dances.” Tamra Banks, stage manager, also added her comments, “Everyone has worked so hard despite bouts with the flu. I am so excited that people can see the play ‘Romeo and Juliet’ which we read in class but now have an opportunity to see come to life on stage. We are so glad that Ms. (Ginger) DuVal and Ms. (Carolyn) Berry decided that we should produce this play for students and adults alike. Please come and share our joy in presenting this timeless classic.” Tickets for the community production are $3 and are available at the door. Stress Topic For Diabetes GroupDee Brown will present a program on Stress Management when the Kay County Area Diabetes Support Group meets Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. at the Grand Avenue Church of Christ, 1300 West Grand. Brown has a master’s degree in counseling psychology and has been coordinator of the Displaced Homemaker/Single Parent Program at Pioneer Technology Center for the past 10 years. She will explore ways persons with diabetes can more effectively cope with excessive stresses. All interested persons are invited to attend. For additional information, call Pat at 765-3321, extension 600, or Carla at 363-1798. Baptist Drama Group Performs TonightNortheast Baptist Church, 2200 Pecan Road, will host the Baptist General Convention of Oklahoma drama team, “Proclamation,” this evening at 6 p.m. “Proclamation” is a theater repertoire troupe with a 12-member cast. Their mission is to lead the lost into a saving relationship with Jesus Christ and the Christian to experience a renewed sense of God’s power at work in his or her life. “Proclamation” based the name of their group on Isaiah 66:19, “They will proclaim my glory among the nations.” Dr. Larry E. Nigh, pastor of Northeast, informs the public that “Proclamation” is unique in that it is the only performing group in the Southern Baptist Convention to be comprised of adults from across the state of Oklahoma who are active in the lay leadership of their local churches. The performance season is October through May, excluding December. “Proclamation” is directed by Cara Smith, Dramatic Arts Consultant on the Church Family Equipping Team of the Baptist General Convention of Oklahoma. Workers Without Children Can Qualify for EICBy Trisha Gedon OSU Extension Service STILLWATER — It seems many tax benefits are geared toward workers who have children. However, very low-income workers who are not raising children in their home are eligible for a small Earned Income Credit (EIC). In 1997, nearly 4 million such workers received credits totaling more than $760 million, said Dottie Goss, Oklahoma State University Cooperative Extension family resource management specialist. “The credit for low-income workers not raising children is worth up to $341 for the 1998 tax year,” Goss said. “The average benefit is expected to be about $210.” To qualify, individuals must have worked full or part-time in 1998, were at least age 25 and under age 65 by Dec. 31, 1998, had earnings of less than $10,030 and were not the dependent or qualifying child of another taxpayer in 1998. “This benefit provides a financial boost to those who work at very low wages or are only able to find part-time work,” she said. Eligible workers must file a federal income tax return in order to receive the EIC benefit. They can use For 1040, 1040A or 1040EZ. To make it even easier to file, workers can simply write in “EIC” on the Earned Income Credit line and the Internal Revenue Service will calculate the amount of credit for them. Married couples must file a joint return in order to claim this credit. Goss said if the IRS figures out if the worker is eligible for EIC, the workers will receive a notice requesting additional information. The worker claims the EIC by submitting the additional requested information. Any refund owed to the worker will be received later this year. School MenusElementary Breakfast Monday — No school. Tuesday — Biscuits and gravy or cereal or honey bun, assorted juices and milk. Wednesday — Cereal or honey bun, assorted juices and milk. Thursday — French toast or cereal or honey bun, assorted juices and milk. Friday — Cereal or honey bun, assorted juices and milk. Elementary Lunch Monday — No school Tuesday — Crispy tacos or bread sticks, shredded lettuce and cheese, fresh fruit, applesauce, Mexican beans, saltine crackers, dill spears, or assorted cold sandwiches, chef salad, diet plate, juice and milk. Wednesday — Rug rat soup and batter bread or Taco Bell Chilito, au gratin potatoes, Jello, Mexican beans, saltine crackers, dill spears or assorted cold sandwiches, salads or diet plate, juice and milk. Thursday — Chicken strips with hot roll or cheese dog, mashed potatoes and gravy, rosey pears, fresh fruit, saltine crackers, dill spears, or assorted cold sandwiches, salads or diet plate, juice and milk. Friday — Meat and cheese nachos or cheese pizza, refried beans, peaches, snickerdoodle cookies, saltine crackers, dill spears, or assorted cold sandwiches, salads or diet plate, juice and milk. Middle School Breakfast Monday — No school Tuesday — Jelly donuts or cereal, assorted juices and milk. Wednesday — Ham and cheese roll up or cereal, assorted juices and milk. Thursday — Biscuits and gravy or cereal, assorted juices and milk. Friday — Waffles with bacon or cereal, assorted juices and milk. Mid-High Breakfast Monday — No school Tuesday — Biscuits and gravy or muffins or cereal, orange juice and milk. Wednesday — Ham, egg and cheese biscuits or cinnamon toast or cereal, orange juice and milk. Thursday — Biscuits and gravy or jelly donuts or cereal, orange juice and milk. Friday — Sausage and eggs with biscuit or French toast or cereal, orange juice and milk. Middle School Lunch Available on Monday through Friday at the Middle School is Domino’s Pizza. Monday — No school. Tuesday — Crispy tacos, shredded lettuce with cheese, salsa, jalapeno, mixed vegetables, applesauce, saltine crackers, dill spears or assorted cold sandwiches, salads, diet plate or potato bar, juice and milk. Wednesday — Taco Bell chilito burrito, refried beans, salsa, jalapenos, fresh fruit, strawberry Jello, saltine crackers, dill spears, or assorted cold sandwiches, salads, diet plate, potato/soup bar, juice and milk. Thursday — Chicken strips with hot roll, whipped potatoes with gravy, green beans, fresh fruit, saltine crackers, dill spears or assorted cold sandwiches, salads, diet plate or potato bar, juice and milk. Friday — Meat and cheese nachos or cheese nachos, salsa, jalapenos, onions, Mexican beans and rice, fruit, saltine crackers, dill spears or assorted cold sandwiches, salads, diet plate or potato bar, juice and milk, snickerdoodle cookies. Mid-High Lunch Available at the Mid-High Monday through Friday are Domino’s and Subway. Monday — No school. Tuesday — Teriyaki chicken breast with hot rolls, Oriental vegetables or steamed rice, fruit, saltine crackers, dill spears or assorted cold sandwiches, salads, diet plate or potato bar, juice and milk. Wednesday — Roast beef with hot rolls, mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans, fresh fruit, saltine crackers, dill spears or assorted cold sandwiches, salads, diet plate or potato bar, juice and milk. Thursday — Chicken sticks with hot roll, whipped potatoes and gravy, salad, fresh fruit, lettuce and tomato salad, saltine crackers, dill spears or assorted cold sandwiches, salads, diet plate or potato bar, juice and milk. Friday — Stuffed cheese pizza, refried beans, Italian blend vegetables, peaches, saltine crackers, dill spears or assorted cold sandwiches, salads, diet plate or pasta bar, juice and milk. High School Lunch Available every day at Campus Mart, the Training Table Deli offers a pasta bar, baked potato bar, lean items and fresh fruit. The Ala Carte Wildcat line offers Pizza Inn and Subway. Training Table Monday- Friday — Pasta bar, potato bar, deli sandwiches and salads, seasonal fruit. All-American Line Monday — No school. Tuesday — Turkey with hot roll, whipped potatoes and gravy, glazed carrots, turkey dressing, cranberry sauce, seasonal fruit, juice and milk. Wednesday — Pizza pocket, corn, Jello jiggles, tomato salad, seasonal fruit, juice and milk. Thursday — Chili dog with cheese, French fries, baked beans, seasonal fruit, juice and milk. Friday — Macaroni and cheese with hot roll, California blend vegetables, glazed carrots, seasonal fruits, juice and milk. McCord Elementary Breakfast Monday — No school. Tuesday — Cereal, toast, juice and milk. Wednesday — Scrambled eggs, toast, juice and milk. Thursday — Cinnamon toast, juice and milk. Friday — French toast sticks, juice and milk. Lunch Monday — No school. Tuesday — Mardi gras surprise, milk. Wednesday — Barbecue sandwich, fries, sill spear, mixed fruit and milk. Thursday — Spaghetti with beef, French bread, blackeyed peas, applesauce and milk. Friday — Charburgers, lettuce, fries, pickles, onions, orange wedge, cookie and milk. Pioneer Technology Center Tuesday — Chicken fried steak, Greek grilled chicken, fettucini alfredo, salad bar, soup, assorted vegetables, breads and desserts. Wednesday — Beef Diane, fiesta chicken, teriyaki pork, salad bar, soup, assorted vegetables, breads and desserts. Thursday — Smoked brisket, sweet n sour pork, chicken fajitas, salad bar, soup, assorted vegetables, breads and desserts. The cafeteria is open to the public from 11:15 a.m. to noon. Sack Distribution For Scout Drive Set for Saturday The Boy Scouts of Ponca City will kick off their “Scouting for Food” campaign Saturday by delivering special food-collection bags door-to-door to be filled by the residents and picked up by the Scouts the following Saturday, Feb. 27. Local Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts will be out early Feb. 20 to deposit the food-collection bags on doorsteps throughout the city and outlying areas. The community is being asked to fill the bags with nonperishable food, canned goods, and much-needed nutritional items and place them on their front porches by 8 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 27. Chili, fish, meats, soups, baby formula and vegetables are foods which are of the greatest need. Home-canned foods cannot be used. “Scouting for Food” is one the nation’s largest food collection drives with all city and area Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts participating. Food collected in the community will stay in the community, helping to restock the shelves of nonprofit agencies which help feed people in the area. School CalendarPo-Hi Feb. 15 No school. Dug Out Club meeting in Room F103, 7 p.m. Feb. 16 P.A.C. meeting in Conference Room, 10:30 a.m. B.L.T. meeting in Assembly Center, 3:30 p.m. Junior varsity and varsity basketball in Broken Arrow, 5 p.m. Play rehearsal in Howell Auditorium from 7 to 9 p.m. Ponca Area Chamber Orchestra in Room F104, 7 p.m. Feb. 17 Writing assessment testing (juniors only) in assigned rooms, 8:50 to 10:15 a.m. Writing assessment testing (senior retakes, testing) in Library, 8:50 to 10:15 a.m. Sophomore retakes, testing, place to be announced, 1 p.m. Play rehearsal in Howell Auditorium, 7 p.m. Feb. 18 D.E.C.A. breakfast in Assembly Center, 7:30 a.m. “Romeo and Juliet” production at Mid-High, 8:30 a.m. Pilot writing prompt/CRT (juniors only) in assigned rooms, 8:50 to 10:05 a.m. Feb. 19 “Romeo and Juliet” production in Howell Auditorium, 8:30 a.m. Junior varsity and varsity basketball at Stillwater, 5 p.m. “Romeo and Juliet” production in Howell Auditorium, 8 p.m. Wrestling regional tournament at Tulsa Union, time to be announced. Feb. 20 Varsity baseball at Edmond Memorial, 11 a.m. Junior varsity baseball against Edmond Memorial at Po-Hi; 11 a.m. Black Heritage Month program in Howell Auditorium, 6:30 p.m. Wrestling regional tournament at Tulsa Union, time to be announced. Two Candidates Challenge Incumbents for City PostsBeford “Ron” Smith It is his desire to give something back to the community where he has lived for 28 years that prompted Bedford R. “Ron” Smith to run for city commission, position No. 3. He will be challenging incumbent Lyn Boyer in the April 6 election. “I wanted to give something back to the community. Ponca City has been good to me,” Smith said. “We all need to get involved and if we don’t, everyone will pay the price.” If elected he says that street repairs and safety issues would be a top priority. “Our streets are in need of repair and I would make certain that money is being spent for the proper repairs of those streets,” Smith says. “We need guidelines for repairs because streets in our city are falling by the wayside.” Although he has not worked out the particulars, Smith adds that he would like to see a procedure in place that would make smoke as well as carbon monoxide detectors available to all households, “especially those with small children.” It is an equal voice for all people that also caused Smith to run for the city commission position. “I would like to see that all people have an equal opportunity to voice their opinion in the affairs of their local government. Tax dollars are the money of the people and citizens should voice more of their opinion on how those dollars are spent.” Smith explains. “I’m not saying that isn’t the way it is now but there is a reason that voter turnout is so low.” And raising voter turnout and registration is another of Smith’s causes. “We are currently having a slump in voter turnout. People need to vote, especially in local elections,” Smith says. “It is so easy to register and I feel some people may not know the procedure to become registered. “In order to vote a person has to register 24 days prior to an election and the voter registration forms are available at Tag Agency at Ponca Plaza and at the Public Library. I encourage everyone that is not registered to take the necessary steps to exercise their right and hope that everyone will be sure to vote April 6.” Smith says that being a city commissioner would be a “learning experience” and admits he never thought he would ever run for a public office. “And I will never run again,” he adds. He has two grown and married daughters, Pam and Rhonda, who both reside in Ponca City. For the last 15 years he has been employed at Conoco as a documents clerk in the records management department. “If elected I think that my life experiences would benefit the community,” Smith says. “I would like to learn from the commissioners and hopefully they might learn from me.” Marvin Rider After two and half years of attending city commission meetings and learning about the workings of city government, Marvin E. Rider has decided to throw his hat into the ring and make a run for city commission, position No. 1. The 76 year-old Ponca City resident will face incumbent Richard “Dick” Stone in the April 6 election. “I am interested in the city of Ponca City and have been for many years,” Rider said. “The more I attended the city commission meetings the more interested I became.” The fact that a long term strategic plan is now in place in the city was also a factor in Rider’s running for office. “I like to plan ahead and for the first time a plan has been put in place, instead of piecemealing everything,” he says. “With a few revisions I support the city’s current strategic plan.” If elected, Rider says he would strive to improve Waverly Street and cut waste. “I want to see that Waverly Street is properly rebuilt, as either a very good two-lane or a four-lane,” he says. “And there is some waste in the city I would bring up to the forefront and try to find ways to trim the fat.” Additionally Rider would like more equalized fire protection. “I would definitely like to see a fire station located on South Avenue to protect the southeast and west sides of Ponca City,” Rider says. “Those people don’t have any fire protection because it’s all on the north, east and downtown areas.” Fire protection is something Rider should know about since his father was a captain in the Ponca City Fire Department. “We lived in the No. 2 Fire Station when it was brand new,” he recalls. Having run his own trucking business for eight years, Rider feels his experience as a businessman qualifies him to be a city commissioner. “I have experience in management and running a profitable business and I feel anytime you a run a business and make money you’re considered successful.” Rider is a World War II veteran and is now involved in both the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign War. He currently serves as the first vice commander of the American Legion and also serves on its executive board. He is a member of the Community Christian Church where he has served as a deacon. Rider is married and has three grow children — Terry who lives in Derby, Kan., Rick in Broken Arrow and Myrna who makes her home in San Antonio. Ponca City Millennium Logo Features Family, Past, FutureBy PATTI PFEIFFER News Staff Writer Although the millennium is many months away, the logo for the celebration has not only been created but has now been unveiled. The emblem that will be representative of the festivities surrounding the monumental occasion was released Friday by those responsible for its creation. It took a team of four artists more than a month to create the “perfect” logo, one that not only was classic, unique and representative but would also please the 20 citizens who comprise the Ponca City Millennium Commission. “We needed a spectacular design because it will represent not only the celebration but our entire community throughout this area, the state and even the nation,” Millennium Commission member Cathy Ferguson said. “We knew we had the talent for the job right here in Ponca City at Conoco’s graphic design department. They didn’t have an easy task but they did an excellent job and we are very pleased with the new logo. I have heard nothing but positive responses from those who have seen it.” Initially, each of the four members of the design team submitted several different renditions. However, the first round resulted in the artists literally being sent back to the drawing board. “It was a long and difficult process but also a rewarding one,” says Conoco Visual Communications Representative Susie Howey. “We were honored to be a part of this process. The logo will not only represent Ponca City during the celebration but will also be a part of our history.” According to Ferguson, the emblem will be used on stationery, invitations, banners — everything that is associated with the epochal event. It was Conoco graphic designer Rod Bailey who designed the logo which was ultimately chosen by the Millennium Commission. “I was pleased to be a part of this team effort to create this logo for the Ponca City Millennium,” Bailey stated. There were several specific requirements of the commission that were to be incorporated into the logo. “We wanted Ponca City and the family to be represented, as well as the past, the future and the celebration itself,” Ferguson said. “I feel the commission chose this specific design because it incorporated them all in such a unique and striking way.” Ferguson says that the Pioneer Woman Statue which is depicted in the logo is not only representative of Ponca City, but also the family and the past. Both the artistic mirror-imaged 2000 and the sunrise, which reflects through the image of the statue, stand for the future. And, of course the confetti, contained in the colorful, eye-catching emblem, is significant of the celebration the size of which is fit for a king and planned for the city of Ponca City. Newkirk Filing Begins TuesdayBy MARK GALVIN News Staff Writer NEWKIRK — The filing period begins Tuesday for candidates for Newkirk’s city commissioner of utilities post, a position now held by commissioner Bob Robinson. The position, which carries a three-year term, rotates with Newkirk’s two other city leader posts — the mayor and the commissioner of finance — with one post up for election each year. The filing period for the municipal election will run for 10 days, but one of two questions on the upcoming ballot will allow Newkirk residents to decide if the duration of the current filing period should be trimmed to a five-day filing period. The other much-more-ambitious question facing voters during the April 6 election will be whether to vote an extra penny in sales tax for a large community center with architecture similar to other buildings in Newkirk’s historic downtown. City Manager Harold Harris said the center, if approved, would be close to the downtown but the exact location is not yet determined. Harris said the extra penny of sales tax in Newkirk, where consumers currently pay only three cents of sales tax on the dollar — would generate approximately $88,000 per year to fund the center and he estimated the proposed $1.4 million structure would be paid off in 15 years or sooner. With voters’ approval, the proposed building will provide 15,000 square feet of space, with a gymnasium large enough to accommodate more than 700 people. Along with recreational facilities, it also would provide new office space for city hall to allow for expansion of the city library, Harris said. City hall and the library now share the same building in downtown Newkirk. The idea for a building large enough for community events started a few years ago with fund raisers and proceeded slowly until a committee of citizens was organized in 1997 to study the feasibility of a community center. The committee was made up of a cross section of the community, with members including Karen Deakins, Phil Ross, Bob and Rosie Coffee, Mike Griffith, Gene Neuens, Jerry Evans, Mike Landis, Ginger Weber, Verleen Johnstone, Debbie Leaming, Curtis Grace, Terry Phillips and Harold Harris. LettersMisses Ponca CityI’ve thought of writing this letter often since my family moved from Ponca City in August of 1997 but never took the time to do so. After reading the announcement of more impending layoffs at Conoco, I decided to make time. It seems an opportune moment to point out some of the wonderful, under-appreciated city treasures that my family misses so much. It’s true that you don’t know what you have until it’s taken away. I’d like to start with abundant praise for the Ponca City Library. The facilities are amazing, the collection is vast, and the staff was always very helpful. The public computer room was instrumental in the job search that led my family to Cincinnati. For comparison, the library we currently use services over 100,000 people with one main and two satellite libraries. All together, these libraries don’t come close to equaling Ponca City in any of the areas mentioned above. The collection is especially sparse. Whatever happens, the city should continue to maintain library funding. It is truly a gem to be proud of. Secondly, I’d like to encourage everyone to take advantage of the frequent and FREE (or inexpensive) cultural programs that are presented at the Poncan. Cultural programs in the big city are never free and often involve a hectic trip into the downtown area. Most often it’s just not worth the hassle. The businesses that bring these opportunities into your small community deserve much appreciation. We were fortunate during our stay in Ponca City to have compassionate, competent teachers for our children. We were always welcome in the classroom and felt that the teachers and administrators were determined to do everything in their power to help each child succeed. Our first year in Ohio was a rude awakening to teachers who guard their home phone numbers like national secrets and schools that won’t allow parent helpers inside the classroom. Volunteers were welcome to help with fund-raisers and clerical duties, but were not trusted to interact with the children. It seemed that all of the rules and policies were implemented to make life easier for teachers and administrators. We are now in a smaller, friendlier school system, but it still doesn’t compare to the schools in Ponca City. Send a note to school tomorrow thanking your child’s teachers. Show appreciation for this newspaper. Rarely will you find a newspaper with such advanced equipment in a community as small as Ponca City. You benefit from up-to-date technology while retaining the personal touch of a small-town paper. Don’t take for granted that wedding stories get more than a paragraph and that baby announcements contain more than parent names and a date. Be grateful that your sports-playing teens are very likely to get their photos published (in color) and be mentioned numerous times over their high school careers. And what a treat to have the paper online! Lastly, a brief mention of places and things we are frequently homesick for: Head Country Barbecue, carry-out service at grocery stores, Enrique’s, Rusty Barrel steaks, short lines (anywhere!), straight roads, streets that have one name all the way through town (a rare occurrence in Cincinnati), traffic jam-less driving, and the friends and history we left behind. Guard your treasures well, Ponca City! Karen Brown Protesting Drug RulesI wish to vehemently protest the change in the prescription coverage for Conoco retirees. I consider the change catastrophic for the following reasons: 1. MEDICALLY — This is a life-threatening situation to many Conoco employees and retirees. Everyone knows that many medicines have to remain at certain temperatures to retain maximum strength. Obviously, medicine which requires temperature stability will not receive proper care in the mail. I do not want some unknown druggist (or employee who is not a pharmacist) and their computers to decide for me which medication to use to fill my prescription. I do not want some unknown person deciding which brand or generic to use. Whether or not to use a generic or which brand name is often a life or death decision. The “major” ingredient is not the only consideration to consider in a prescription. One can be allergic to some catalyst or inactive ingredient in the prescription. If so, I do not want to call long distance in an emergency at night and have a machine tell me what the office hours are or to be put on “hold” and asked to select from the “menu!” I want someone I know to tell me if one medication is incompatible with another I am taking. 2. ECONOMICS — This plan of encouraging — almost forcing — the ordering of prescriptions from a large, central, impersonal, out-of-town source will do irreparable damage to the economy of Ponca City in several ways. It will destroy the business of our local pharmacies, as well as hurting others. Ponca city’s economy has been damaged in the past few years. This will accelerate the economic decline. This will be a severe blow to many, businesses. 3.SOCIO-POLITICAL — In a free society money and power are normally decentralized to prevent loss of free choice. This kind of centralization is a dangerous step toward tyranny. Wayne Chambers DEATHSW.N. Overton W.N. OvertonHOUSTON, Texas — W.N. “Nickie” Overton, former Ponca City resident, died in Houston, Texas, Monday, Dec. 7, 1998. He was He was 75. Mr. Overton was buried in the family cemetery in Willis, Okla., under the direction of Watts Funeral Home, Madill. W.N. “Nickie” Overton was born Jan. 15, 1924, in Kingston, Okla., to W.N. and Lillian Marie (Landram) Overton Sr. He was the great-grandson of B.J. Overton, who served three terms as governor of the Chickasaw Nation. Overton was raised in Kingston by his maternal grandparents, William Clow and Myrtle Riggs Landram. He served three years in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II, stationed in the Ponca City area. He was married to Sophia Little Bear in Ponca City and the couple were the parents of six children. After his discharge, the family moved to Manteca, Calif., where Overton worked for Kraft foods for several years. They later lived in southern California where he was employed as an A&E Mechanic for American Airlines for 12 years. Overton was later employed as a mechanical engineer for the U.S. Government and traveled around the world with his job. He was married to Parn Suwandathat in Bangkok, Thailand, on Nov. 23, 1964. He was of the Buddhist faith. Survivors include his wife of Houston, Texas; four sons, Hayes N. Overton, Roger D. Overton and Ruel W. Overton, all of California and Mike A. Overton of Oklahoma; two daughters, Mickie C. Overton of Tennessee and N. Ann Overton of Florida; two half-sisters, Wanda Neil Overton and Sue Blanton, both of Texas; a half-brother, Wid De Simas of Idaho; 11 grandchildren; and 18 great-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Trevelyn Marie Huffman. Geralyn Dee HallALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Geralyn Dee Hall, former Ponca City resident, died Monday, Jan. 25, 1999, in Albuquerque, N.M. She was 63. A memorial service was held at the Albuquerque First Presbyterian Church and burial was in Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery in Albuquerque. Arrangements were under the direction of Sunrise Society of New Mexico. Geralyn Dee (Martin) Hall was born Nov. 30, 1935, in Ponca City to Gerald and Millee (Summers) Martin. After graduation from the University of Oklahoma in 1957, she moved to Albuquerque, where she taught the sixth grade at Emerson Elementary for many years. She was married to Charles Hall in the mid-1960s and the couple had celebrated 33 years of marriage before her death. Mrs. Hall also served as a deacon and was instrumental in the development of “A Child’s Garden” preschool program at First Presbyterian Church in Albuquerque. Survivors include her husband, Charles, of the home; two children, Debra and David; one sister, Janet Chaban; one granddaughter; and several other aunts, uncles and cousins. Sister M. Silveria WankoWICHITA — Sister M. Silveria Wanko ASC, former Newkirk resident, died quietly on Friday, Jan. 29, 1999, at the Health Center of the Adorers of the Blood of Christ Convent in Wichita, Kan. She was 101. A Christian wake service was held at the Wichita Province Center on Jan. 31, 1999, and a Liturgy of the Resurrection was celebrated on Monday, Feb. 1, 1999, at 11 p.m. in the Convent Chapel. Bishop Eugene Gerber of Wichita, served as celebrant and Father Thomas Welks as homilist. Burial was in the Convent Cemetery under the direction of DeVorss Flanigan-Hunt Funeral Home, Wichita, Kan. Sister M. Silveria Wanko was born March 24, 1897, the second of 12 children born to Joe and Anna Ardan Wanko. She was born on the family homestead located west of Newkirk and acquired in the Cherokee Strip land run by her parents. She attended the first Catholic School established in Newkirk in 1906, under the direction of Father John M. Kekeisen. Sister Silveria entered the convent of Adorers of the Blood of Christ in Ruma, Ill., on July 1, 1911. She later chose to be a member of the Wichita Provincial House, which was established in 1929 in Wichita. She was a professed Sister of the Order for 83 years. In 1933, Sister Silveria received a bachelor of arts in music education from Friends University in Wichita, and in 1950 completed her master’s degree in home economics at Oklahoma State University. She taught at schools in Kansas for 25 years, including St. John’s Sacred Heart Academy and Madonna High School in Wichita; at schools in Ellinwood; and at Andale High School. She retired from teaching in 1974 and continued to work for poor children in missions in Kansas, Colorado and at Crownpoint, N.M., until 1992. She is survived by several nieces and nephews in Kay County including Donald Wanko of Ponca City, Helen Caughlin of Tonkawa, Liz Maupin, Mary Schuchman, Jeannie Kafer, Naola Weber, John Wanko Jr., Larry Wanko and Lewis Wanko, all of Newkirk; and a sister-in-law Edna Wanko of Newkirk. Memorial contributions may be made in Sister Silveria Wanko’s name to Retirement of Sisters ASC, c/o DeVorss Flanagan-Hunt Mortuary, 201 South Hydraulic, Wichita, KS 67211. Doris Lillian McPhersonDoris Lillian McPherson, longtime Ponca City resident, died Sunday, Feb. 7, 1999, at her home. She was 100. A memorial service will be held at 2:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 15, 1999, at the Church of Christ Broadway Osage with Mr. Ron Hayes officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Trout Funeral Home. Doris Lillian McPherson was born on Aug. 18, 1898, in Grant County to John and Mable (Kerr) Massie. She attended North Star country school in the Deer Creek area. She and Otway McPherson were married around 1915, and the couple lived most of their married life in Welston. Mrs. McPherson was a homemaker for many years then attended nurses training. She was employed as a licensed practical nurse in California for more than 20 years before retiring and moving to Ponca City in 1972. Mrs. McPherson was a member of the Church of Christ Broadway Osage. She enjoyed sewing and fishing. She is survived by two brothers, Cliff Massie of Ponca City, and Everett Massie of Yale; one sister, Irene Turnbull of Hutchinson, Kan.; several grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, two daughters, one son, four brothers, five sisters, and one grandchild. ObituariesReva Jean FaylorReva Jean Faylor of Ponca City, died Friday afternoon, Feb. 12, 1999, at Hillcrest Manor Nursing Home in Blackwell. She was 71 years of age. Reva Jean Faylor was born Nov. 14, 1927, in Dunbar, Neb., to Elmer Avaca and Emma Ophilia (Arn) Smith. She moved to Oklahoma in the 1930s and attended school in Guthrie, where she graduated from high school in 1945. She married Lou Roy Faylor on Sept. 24, 1945, in Guthrie. They had four daughters, Sherrye Lou, Linda Jean, Carol Sue and Angela “Katie.” Mrs. Faylor owned and operated the Kwik Stop Grocery Store in Ponca City for 15 years. Following retirement she traveled extensively before moving to the Broadway Plaza apartments. Her hobbies included bowling, crossword puzzles and spending time with her good friend Maxine Spaulding. She was dearly loved by her family and will be greatly missed. Survivors include her daughters, Sherrye L. Sneed and her husband Jon, of Colleyville, Texas, Linda J. Northrup and her husband Dale, of Guthrie, Carol S. Zuniga and her husband John, of Tulsa, and Angela Kay “Katie” LaBlue and her husband Terry, of Blackwell; one sister, Janice Quickle of Midwest City; nine grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, two brothers, and two sisters. A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, Feb. 15, at the Roberts Funeral Home Chapel in Blackwell. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be given in Mrs. Faylor’s name to Trinity Lutheran Church Youth Group, 125 Vinnedge, Blackwell, OK 74631 or to a charity of choice. paid obituary NEWS BRIEFSCommittee Meeting — On Tuesday at 2 p.m., the Ponca City Alliance for Youth Juvenile Crime/Southside Project Taskforce Subcommittee will meet at the Lincoln Center, 700 West Broadway Avenue. For more information contact Michele Jean at 765-2476. Youth Race Relations — The Ponca City Alliance for Youth Race Relations Taskforce Committee will meet at 7 p.m. Thursday at the Board of Education Building, 111 West Grand Avenue. For more information contact Michele Jean at 765-2476. Fundraiser — Booths are available for the Victorian Chocolate and Craft Fair Festival scheduled May 1. Proceeds go to Grand Central Station to benefit youth in the Ponca City area. For information call 762-6700. Interested in Horses? — Individuals interested in the creation of the Kay County Quarter/Paint Horse Association, being formed to create clinics, horseshows, training and a variety of promising and rewarding activities for the entire family and their horses, or just to exchange ideas for the fun of it, call for information 580/762-1757. Rural Water Meeting — McCord Rural Water District 3 will meet at 6 p.m. Tuesday in the north building of McCord School. Free Smoke Alarms — Operation S.A.F.E., free smoke alarms for elderly, homebound, handicapped and hearing-impaired person within the city limits in need of a smoke alarm or a new battery for an existing alarm, will be Saturday. If eligible, or know of an eligible person, call Family Resource Center at 767-9509, United Way at 718-0288, or Helpline at 765-5551 by Wednesday to sign up. The service is provided by the Ponca City Fire Department, the Fire Prevention Advisory Council, AARP and Americorps. Spaghetti Dinner — The public is invited to attend a spaghetti dinner fundraiser 5-7 p.m. Feb. 19 at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 1904 North Pecan. The meal includes homemade bread, dessert and beverage. Cost is $5 for adults and $2 for children. Stolen Checkbook — At 9:26 a.m. Friday a woman reported that her checkbook had been stolen from Wal-Mart, 1101 East Prospect Avenue. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. House Fire — Fire units responded to a report of a house fire at 10:08 a.m. Friday in the 400 block of South Pine Street. The fire reportedly started with an air conditioning unit and was contained to the back of the house. Rock Throwing — Police units were alerted at 10:34 a.m. Friday to a report of 8-10 juveniles throwing rocks at vehicles near the Ponca City Country Club, 1101 North Pecan Road. Grass Fire — At 11:27 a.m. Friday a grass fire in the 600 block of West Chestnut Avenue was extinguished. Shoplifter — A juvenile shoplifter was taken into custody at Hastings, 2800 North Fourteenth Street, at 11:31 a.m. Friday. Arrest — Police arrested a 20-year-old man at 11:46 a.m. Friday from the 100 block of North Second Street for driving under suspension, no insurance and failure to pay taxes due to the state. Arrest — A 23-year-old woman was arrested by police at 11:50 a.m. Friday from Bradley Avenue and Fifth Street for no seat belt, driving under suspension and failure to secure a child. Shoplifter — At 11:56 a.m. Friday police were notified that a juvenile boy was in custody at Drug Warehouse, 2214 North Fourteenth Street, for shoplifting. He was released to his parents. Arrest — A 15-year-old boy was arrested at 12:16 p.m. Friday from the 2700 block of Meadow Lane for second degree burglary. Forgery — At 1:24 p.m. Friday Albertson’s Food and Drug Store, 2005 North Fourteenth Street, reported a forged check. An officer was assigned. Arrest — A 39-year-old woman was arrested on a city warrant for assault and battery after she turned herself into police at 2:43 p.m. Friday. Accident — A two vehicle, non-injury accident in the 900 block of East Prospect Avenue was reported to police at 3:14 p.m. Friday. Theft — Grand Olde Mercantile, 209 block of East Grand Avenue, reported the theft of jewelry to police at 4:14 p.m. Friday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Arrest — Police arrested a 43-year-old man at 5:03 p.m. Friday from the 2400 block of North Waverly Street for driving under suspension. Injury Accident — An ambulance was called to the scene of an injury accident at 5:37 p.m. Friday three miles east of Pecan Road on Lake Road. However, the injured party was taken to the hospital by a private vehicle. Missing Tag — At 6:19 p.m. Friday police were notified of a tag stolen off a vehicle in the 2000 block of North Fourteenth Street. An officer was assigned. Arrest — A 29-year-old man was arrested at 7:29 p.m. Friday from Eighth Street and Central Avenue for driving under suspension and failure to yield. Arrest — Police arrested a 37-year-old man from the 500 block of South Elm Street at 9:33 p.m. Friday for actual physical control, transporting an open container and no insurance. Stolen Purse — At 9:55 p.m. Friday police were notified that a vehicle parked at the Ponca City Country Club, 1101 North Pecan Street, was broken into and a purse was stolen. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Break-In — At 10:13 p.m. Friday a vehicle was reportedly broken into in the 100 block of North First Street. An officer was assigned. Juvenile Arrest — A 17-year-old boy was arrested at 10:25 p.m. Friday from Second Street and Grand Avenue for driving under the influence, failure to stop at a red light, illegal turn and possession of tobacco. Arrest — At 1:54 a.m. Saturday police arrested a 28-year-old man from the 700 block of South Waverly Street on city warrants for failure to obey and appear. Arrest — Police arrested a 43-year-old man at 1:56 a.m. Saturday from Fourteenth Street and Overbrook Avenue for driving under the influence. Arrest — A 19-year-old woman was arrested at 5:03 a.m. Saturday from the 1500 block of South Ninth Street for driving under suspension. LIFESTYLESKelli Masters To Present Twirling Routine Kelli Masters To Present Twirling RoutineAll area women are invited to come to a “A New Image” luncheon on Feb. 17, from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. at the Ponca City Country Club. Sponsored by the Ponca City Christian Women’s Club, the cost is $8.50. Special Feature “Here’s Looking at You,” Easy-to-care-for hairstyles, will be demonstrated by Carol Goodno, hairstylist and owner of Studio 5, with Rhonda Walker as model. Born in Garden City, Kan., Carol attended beauty college in Hutchinson and Dodge City, Kan. In the styling business for 36 years, she is starting her 16th year at her Ponca City shop. Carol and her husband, Charlie, manager of Southwest Truck and Parts Inc., have five children and four grandchildren. Sewing, water skiing, exercise, and grandkids are among her hobbies. “Musical Reflections” will feature the world-class baton twirling routine of Kelli Masters. Originally from Midwest City, Kelli spent most of her life competing in baton twirling all over the United States and in Europe. She is a five-time World Champion and Eight-time National Champion. Annette Williams, local piano teacher and owner of “The Sounds of Music Studio,” will be playing the background music for the day. Miss Oklahoma 1997, Kelli Masters, well known for her ability to captivate, motivate, and inspire audiences will share “Looking into a Mirror” as guest speaker for the day. After spending a year of her life traveling as the Official Goodwill Ambassador for the State of Oklahoma, Kelli Masters continues to speak and perform around the state and nation. As Miss Oklahoma, Kelli traveled more than 45,000 miles across the state making hundreds of appearances. She is a former feature Twirler for the “Pride of Oklahoma” Marching Band, Kelli has now returned to OU, and is in her third and final year of law school. While earning her degree in Broadcast Journalism, Kelli worked as an intern and associate producer for KWTV Channel 9 in Oklahoma City, and anchored two cable shows in Norman. During her years at OU Kelli received several major academic awards and scholarships and was named to numerous honor societies. As a law student, Kelli has been an active member of Christian Legal Society and Federalist Society. Having clerked for both a private law firm and the State of Oklahoma (for the Oklahoma court of Criminal Appeals), Kelli was listed in Who’s Who Among American Law Students for both 1997 and 1998. She also appeared in National Jurist Magazine as one of the “Top 20 Most Interesting Law Students in America.” In an effort to earn scholarships during her first year in law school, Kelli entered and won her first pageant. That win qualified her to compete in the 1996 Miss Oklahoma Scholarship Pageant, where she won the talent portion of the competition and came in first runner-up overall. In 1997, Kelli twirled her way to the top, this time winning not only the talent award, but also the title of Miss Oklahoma. She was also voted “Most Popular Contestant” in a viewer call-in poll. As Miss America 1998, Kelli was named one of seven finalists for the Quality of Life National community Service Award and received yet another award for talent. In all, Kelli earned over $75,000 in scholarship assistance during her two years in the Miss American program. The luncheon is open to all women and there are no memberships or dues. Calling Jeanette at 765-8427 or Denice at 762-2779 may make reservations for the luncheon and complementary childcare. It is necessary for reservations to be honored, canceled or used by a friend. ‘Good Bug’ Topic For Garden ClubThe February meeting of the Red Rose Garden Club was held at the home of Mrs. W. L. Martin. Co-hostesses were Mrs. Preston Gant and Mrs. Floyd Johnson. A red and white Valentine theme was used for decorations on the silver appointed table. Ann Strickland called the meeting to order and Jannie Ross introduced the program speaker, Vincie Paisley. Ms. Paisley spoke about “My Favorite Good Bug.” She said “this would be a sorry world without insects. We would have no apples, grapes, or clover; much less cotton, and fewer oranges and garden vegetables, for these and many plants rely on insects for pollination.” The speaker also said ladybugs are a good choice for aphid control, and moisture is important when attracting “beneficial” insects. Roll call response was the name of favorite “good bugs.” Mrs. Strickland gave the garden council report and announcement was made about the March 5 trip to the Wichita, Kan. garden show. and expo. The Plants for Pleasure sale will be held May 1 at the Cann Garden Center, and an Herb Sale is planned for June 5. The meeting concluded with an announcement by Sue Boettcher concerning neutering of pets. New Statewide Bridal Magazine Is PublishedOklahoma’s first statewide bridal magazine has been published by Tulsa-based Langdon Publishing Company. Oklahoma Bride is a glossy, 80-page magazine featuring more than 50 Oklahoma reception sites, comprehensive wedding entertainment listings, and beautiful full-color sections on bridal gowns, flowers, cakes and wedding rings. “Oklahoma Bride is the definitive bridal magazine in Oklahoma,” says editor Juley Roffers. “It is a very comprehensive resource guide for persons planning to marry in Oklahoma.” A total of 10,000 copies of the annual magazine have been printed. Distribution will be at the two major yearly bridal events in Oklahoma City and Tulsa and at major bookstores statewide. Cost of the magazine at bookstores is $3.95. The magazine can be ordered from Langdon Publishing, 1603 South Boulder, Tulsa, 74119 or by calling 918-585-9924 ext. 10. TOPS Chapter Members MeetTOPS OK 308 Chapter met Monday evening with Donna McCoy calling the meeting to order. The devotional was given by Delpha Clemens entitled Many Things I Am Thankful For. The TOPS Pledge was led by Fern Black, and Ruth Garroute led the KOPS Kreed. Natalie McCoy called the roll and Betty Flower gave the weight report. Best Loser was Shirley Lan, who also won the Ha Ha Pot. The program for the evening was a group sing of novelty TOPS songs. Take Off Pounds Sensibly (TOPS) is a non-profit organization whose members desire to lose or maintain weight. Brief programs are presented each week. Weigh-in time is 6:15 to 6:45 p.m. and meetings are at 6:45 p.m. on Mondays. For more information contact Betty Flower at 765-5448. Couple Celebrates 25 YearsThe children of Grant and Kathie Armstrong will be hosting a 25th wedding anniversary celebration 2-4 p.m. on Feb. 21 at Glad Tidings Assembly of God Church. The church is located 1 1/2 miles east of the New River Bridge on Highway 60 and Victory. An open invitation is extended to all friends and relatives to attend the event. The couple was married at Northeast Baptist Church in Ponca City on Feb. 16, 1974. Mr. Armstrong is self-employed in the insurance business and also operates a computer business. Mrs. Armstrong is currently employed at Hobby Lobby. Together they enjoy traveling, fishing, and spending time with their family. The Armstrong’s children are Sherry Oldfield of Dallas, Texas; Doug and Julie Simmons of Rose Hill, Kan.; Jeff Reed and Carol Payne of Mulvane, Kan.; Dan and Beth Simmons of Ponca City; Don and Wendy Simmons of Ponca City; Mike and Kristen Armstrong of Norman; and Jeff Armstrong and Rachel Beguin of Stillwater. They have 20 grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Amy Nicole Rupp EngagedMr. and Mrs. John Rupp of Perry, formerly of Ponca City, announce the engagement and approaching marriage of their daughter, Amy Nicole Rupp to Richard Scott Moore, son of Mrs. Debbie Bailey and Donnie Moore, both of Rockwall, Texas. The couple plans a March 20 wedding in the First Lutheran Church in Ponca City. The bride-elect is a 1993 graduate of Ponca City High School and has attended Northern Oklahoma College and The Art Institute of Dallas. She does freelance interior design in Dallas, Texas. The prospective bridegroom is a 1993 graduate of Rockwall High School and East Texas State. He is currently employed as Used Car Sales Manager at Big Billy Barrett in Mesquite, Texas. Kindermusik Program Available HereKindermusik Village is among the latest development experiences available for infants in this area. A weekly music and movement program, it is designed especially for lap babies, “crawlers and walkers,” age newborn to one and one-half years, accompanied by a parent or caregiver. A free demo class is scheduled for 11 a.m. Feb. 16 at St. Paul’s Methodist Church, Hartford and Pecan. For reservations and further information about the classes and fees, call Brenda Sylvester, 762-8924, or Charmaine Swearingen, 762-8734. According to the Brenda and Charmaine, the latest brain research confirms what Kindermusik has known for 25 years - cognitive and language, social and emotional, as well as physical development — all begin in a child’s very first days of life. Kindermusik Village stimulates your baby’s growth through purposeful, engaging musical activities while celebrating and nurturing the “remarkable bond you share.” The program incorporates Multi-age Activity: Kindermusik Village introduces multiple levels of activities appropriate for the different stages of development in this age range. Environments with diverse developmental stages in the first 18 months create an optimal learning setting for both children and parents. Multiple levels of age appropriate activities stimulate babies to observe, imitate and learn. It also educates parents. Throughout the classroom experience, parents can learn how activities stimulate development in every area of their baby’s brain. Kindermusik Foundations of Learning are woven throughout the lessons and are included on home activity cards that will extend your knowledge about how your baby is growing and how you can nurture that development. It also includes music and literature. Specially commissioned art in beautiful books will aid your baby’s visual tracking, shape and color recognition and language development. They’ll bring your Kindermusik Village experience home and will become a favorite addition to your child’s bookshelf for years to come. Also available is recorded music on CDs, and other quality materials. Engagement Is AnnouncedGary and Jeanene Jacobs of Felt have announced the engagement of their daughter, Danise Lyn, to Brian Thomas Brown, son of Gordon G. and Dee Ann Brown of Bartlesville. The wedding will be at 2 p.m., March 6 at the Bennett Memorial Chapel on the Oklahoma State University campus in Stillwater. Miss Jacobs graduated in 1995 from Felt Public School, in Felt, and is currently attending OSU where she is majoring in Graphic Design. She will plans to graduate in May 2000. Danise is employed with Creative Labs in Stillwater as an order entry clerk. Brown graduated in 1993 from Bartlesville High School. He is currently attending OSU where he is majoring in Management Information Systems, planning to graduate in December. He is employed with Creative Labs in Stillwater as a Computer Programmer. Danise is the granddaughter of Wayne and Florence Robinson of Felt, and the late Robert and MatieBell Jacobs. Brian is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Ron L. Frick and Mr. and Mrs. E. Lee Brown, and the great-grandson of Mrs. Faye Frick, all of Ponca City, and the late Frank Frick. Women’s Conference Set March 12 at Shangria-LaThe fourth annual Northeastern Oklahoma Women’s Conference is March 12 at Shangri-La Resort on Monkey Island near Grove. The conference will bring together intergenerational women from all walks of life, to empower them to make healthy decisions for themselves and their families. Speakers will include Shirley Garrett from Carrolton, Georgia, and author Jan Hargrave, from Houston, Texas. Registration fee is $20 which includes the luncheon. For more information or to receive a registration brochure call 580-237-2236 or 800-749-1149. Kildare FCE Has Busy ScheduleHelen Janda was the hostess when the Kildare FCE group met Feb. 10. Karen Overman called the meeting to order, and Helen Janda played the piano and led the group in singing “Let Me Call You Sweetheart.” The hostess gave the devotion “Happiness and Peace.” Nine members answered roll call by how we “revive, rejuvenate, and recruit.” Moni Neville’s sister from Germany was a guest. The Feb. 22 county association meeting was discussed and Kildare FCE will decorate the tables for the covered dish luncheon. Theme for the event is “Spring Up for 1999.” Each member is encouraged to bring a homemade article for the cultural arts display, as well as a covered dish. Karen Overman read a newsletter concerning a cooking school in April at the Poncan Theatre. The group voted to contribute $20 each to the cancer and heart associations. The group will also purchase McDonald tickets from Kildare 4-H. Mrs. Overman also reported on presenting a menu to the Kildare Rural Water District board for their supper event next month. Kildare FCE and Kildare 4-H will serve. Mrs. Neville gave the lesson “Revive, Rejuvenate, and Recruit.” She stressed asking guests to the FCE meetings. Helen Janda announced the next club meeting would be at 1:30 p.m. Feb. 24 with Brenda Schneeberger. Plans were made to meet at the Pioneer Museum for a tour. Melba Irwin will give the March lesson “If Your Cup of Tea Could Talk.” During the Jan. 27 meeting Helen Janda, lesson leader, gave “Quick Cleaning Tips.” Karen Overman and Melba Irwin gave bread machine demonstrations. Natural Healing ProgramTuesday“Natural Healing 101” is a program, open to the public, being presented Tuesday, Feb. 16, at 12:30 p.m. at the Senior Citizens Center, 319 West Grand. Mickey Stavinsky, Ombudsman volunteer for the NODA Area Agency on Aging, will give the program. Lunch is available at 11:30 a.m. at a cost of $1.75 or donation for age 60 and older, and $3 for those under 60. Reservations for the meal are required and should be made 24 hours in advance by calling 767-1620. Stavinsky has attended the School of Natural Healing in Tulsa, working toward a master’s degree. Area Civil War Buffs Slate Encampment, ReenactmentRIPLEY — Civil War reenactors will gather on Feb. 19, 20, and 21 at the Washington Irving Trail Museum east of Stillwater for the fifth annual Civil War winter encampment. Last year’s encampment brought around 400 reenactors from as far away as Minnesota, and David Lebow, encampment organizer, says this year’s event is expected to draw just as many. Lebow is captain of Company C of the 22nd Arkansas Volunteer Infantry, which sponsors the encampment along with the Washington Irving Trail Museum. From noon Friday through 4 p.m. Sunday, reenactors will live like soldiers of the Civil War with authentic uniforms, weapons, and camps. The encampment is open to the public free of charge, and visitors can walk through the soldiers’ camps, both Union and Confederate, and watch military drills, sample Civil War era food, and shop at the sutlers’ tents, where Civil War gear will be sold. A Saturday and Sunday afternoons highlight will be the reenactment of the Battle of Round Mountains — the first battle of the Civil War in Indian Territory. Dale Chlouber, curator of the Washington Irving Trail Museum, says that most people think of the Civil War as affecting mainly the South, but Indian Territory was torn by the conflict as much as the rest of the nation was, with different factions within the tribes aligned with either the North or the South. The Battle of Round Mountains was fought between Creeks loyal to the Union and those who sided with the Confederacy, with the latter joined by Texas cavalry units. Chlouber says evidence points to an area near Twin Mounds in eastern Payne County as the probable site of the battle. A monument erected by the Payne County Historical Society four miles east and one mile north of Yale marks the location. An exhibit in the museum provides a summary of what is known about the battle, as well Civil War artifacts found near Twin Mounds. Activities scheduled for the encampment include drill demonstrations, weapons inspection, skirmishes, unit drills, cooking demonstrations, Sunday church services, and the battle reenactments. Throughout each day, visitors are welcome to walk through the camps, ask questions, and learn what life was like for a Civil War soldier. The encampment is open to the public free of charge. Food will be available for hungry visitors. In addition to Civil War era food sold by vendors, museum volunteers will sell longhorn sloppy joes and beans, as well as coffee and hot chocolate. The Washington Irving Trail Museum is located six miles east of Stillwater on Highway 51 and three miles south on the Mehan Road, with signs directing visitors to the encampment. For more information, call David Lebow at (918) 387-2935 or Dale Chlouber at (405) 624-9130. Fort Gibson Festival Celebrates 175 YearsFORT GIBSON — The Old Fort Days Heritage Festival, slated for April 16, 17 and 18, will commemorate the 175th anniversary of the founding of Fort Gibson. Established less than fifty years after the Declaration of Independence, the fort was the farthest military outpost on the western frontier. Highlights of the three-day festival will include living history demonstrations, battle skirmishes, Native American activities, entertainment and special children’s events. Admission to the festival and all events are free; there is a $3 per car parking fee. This event is sponsored by the Fort Gibson Chamber of Commerce and the Oklahoma Historical Society. Nicki Fowler Becomes Bride of Heath GaisfordRanch Drive Baptist Church was the setting for the recent wedding of Nicki N. Fowler and Heath D Gaisford. The double ring vows were solemnized by the Rev. Larry Calvert. Helen Ivie, pianist, played traditional wedding music. Parents of the couple are Jerry and Danna Fowler, 2640 Austin Road, and Dennis and Lola Faye Gaisford of Gage. The bride’s traditional gown was complemented by a bouquet of miniature white carnations and red roses with cascading English ivy. Sabrina Story of Buffalo was Maid of Honor and bridesmaid was Jennifer Habert of Plano, Texas. Each wore a black a-line styled dress with short sleeves and scooped neckline. They carried individual red roses accented with baby’s breath and greenery. Dennis Gaisford served his son as Best Man and groomsman was Justin Longhofer. Ushers were James and John Fowler, brothers of the bride, and John King, brother-in-law of the bridegroom. The guest book was attended by Jennifer Daine, niece of the bride. Assisting with the reception at the Ranch Drive Volunteer Fire Department were Lisa Gruver, Meri Welch, Kim Hager, and Jacquie Jones, sisters of the bride; Trina King, sister of the bridegroom. Special guests were the bridegroom’s grandparents, Irvin and Ruby Gaisford of Shattuck. The couple resides in rural Gage. The bride is band and choir director at the Mooreland Public Schools and the bridegroom is the owner/operator of Gaisford Trucking and Farms. Lookin’ with LouBy LOUISE ABERCROMBIE News Staff Writer If you have any questions about recent figures that the vehicle industry has put out about recreational trucks outselling automobiles — just try going to the car wash on Saturday or Sunday. For every car in the coin operated stalls, there are five pick-ups in the next five slots ranging from working farm vehicles to the fancy lawyer, doctor, executive, accountant wheels. Pray to be in the waiting line for the farm pick-up because it will be much faster. Washing, drying, polishing, and vacuuming can be a past time for the truck hobbyist, who can take what seems like an hour for a normal five-minute operation. Course, should the proprietor get involved in a conversation with a fellow or gal trucker next door in comparing carburetors, rpms and other pertinent data like 350s or 250s, it will take longer. Back in the old days, pickups were used for purposes relative to working — hauling hay, cattle or even moving furniture. At that point in time squirting the vehicle with the hose or getting a bucket of water out of the stock tank and splashing it was good enough. And the thought of spending a half a dollar (you do remember those coins) up to seven bucks on a wash job would have been blasphemy. But times they are a changin’. Now that typical redneck with a rifle carrier in the cab’s rear window, probably has the best sound CD system on the market and air-conditioning that would freeze on the spot any game taken in hunting. While we’re on the subject of vehicles and the necessities, how about making it mandatory for all vehicles to have the gas tank on the same side? Driving into a service station and finding the tank on the side opposite of the pump can be dangerous to your health and leave deep, embarrassing scars on the trunk. Should this happen to you ladies, use a large band aid to cover up and hope your spouse has a sense of humor. A helpful hint passed on by a reader on how to keep from losing your gas tank cap — put the cap on the shelf of the pump rather than on the trunk of the car. Then, if you drive off without the cover a passing motorist can make one of those obscene European gestures at your open gas flap. From that hint you can return to the station and maybe the cap will still be there. Laying the cap on the trunk usually results in it careening across the street into the oncoming path of an 18-wheeler. Some of the cars come equipped with attached caps made of a “silly string” plastic that comes off with the first or second tank fill up. These are akin to the dummy tires put in new cars for spares. Another piece of questionable equipment is the car jack that looks like it came out of Cracker Jacks (back when the popcorn treat had real prizes). And another thing, when is it going to be compulsory for vehicle fuel gauges to be consistent, either all going left to right or right to left between the “E” and the “F”? Bits and PiecesNewcomers Club The Ponca City Newcomers Club February meeting will be at 6:30 p.m. Thursday. Dinner will be served at 7 p.m., and will be followed by a brief program. For further information or to make reservations call Joyce Fox, 762-9578. RSVP Retired Senior Volunteer Program members will meet Feb. 16 at the Conoco Fourth Street Clubhouse. The “Winter Warm Up” event will kick off the new year. For information call 762-9412. Chapter EL Chapter EL of PEO will meet at noon Feb. 17 for dessert in the home of Jane Cornelson, 1402 Reveille Drive. Loritta Cleveland, Wanda Council and Irma Goldenstern will serve as co-hostesses. The program “Our Founders” will be given by Pat Ford. Garden Club Members of the Lilac Garden Club will meet at 9:30 a.m. Feb. 17 at 150 Parkview Lane. Spaghetti Dinner The public is invited to attend a spaghetti dinner fundraiser 5-7 p.m. Feb. 19 at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 1904 North Pecan. The meal includes homemade bread, dessert and beverage. Cost is $5 for adults and $2 for children. Chocolate Festival Booths are available for the Victorian Chocolate and Craft Fair Festival scheduled May 1. Proceeds go to Grand Central Station to benefit youth in the Ponca City area. For information call 762-6700. Garden Council The Ponca City Council of Garden Clubs will meet at the Cann Garden Center on March 3 at 9:30 a.m. Larry Buck will present the program “Bonsai.” Mrs. Oklahoma Pageant SlatedOklahoma City JDY Productions has announced plans for the 1999 Mrs. Oklahoma Pageant to be held in April in Oklahoma City. A preliminary to the Mrs. United State Pageant, the winner will represent Oklahoma at the national pageant in Las Vegas in July. Contestants must be married, a United States citizen, and at least 21 years of age. There is no upper age limit and there is no talent requirement. The ladies will be judged in personal interview, evening gown presentation, and swimsuit. The reigning Mrs. Oklahoma is Judy French of Oklahoma City. The state competition is being conducted by JDY Productions. Complete information is available by contacting David Aguilar or Gary Young at 214-339-4788 or writing to them at 8452 Fredericksburg Road #288, San Antonio, TX 78229. DAR To Celebrate American History Month at MeetingTo celebrate American History Month, the executive board members of the Ponca City Chapter of the American Revolution will host a luncheon at the Feb. 19 meeting at noon at the Cultural Center according to Audrey Jones, program chairman. The program will be a book review by Margaret Doughty Carter, chapter member, who resides in Blackwell. The book to be reviewed is “Mrs. Ike”, the story of Mamie Eisenhower’s life. It was written by Susan Eisenhower, Mamie’s granddaughter. “Margaret is a well-known reviewer, and her presentations are anticipated with pleasure,” Jones said. Mrs. Carter is a retired school teacher who, in the past, belonged to American Association of University Women, Business and Professional Woman’s Club, Delta Kappa Gamma, Delphi, and Readers. At present she belongs to Delphi-Readers, Wesleyan Service Guild, Nardin United Methodist Women, and Ponca City Chapter DAR. There will be no charge for the luncheon, but the hostesses need members to make reservations with their callers. Wheatheart NutritionVolunteers are needed to deliver meals to the home bound participating in the Wheatheart Nutrition Project. For more information call 767-1620. Wheatheart Nutrition Menus for this week are as follows: Monday, Feb. 15: Holiday Tuesday, Feb. 16: Liver and onions, buttered corn, seasoned green beans, bread with margarine, chilled peaches. Wednesday, Feb. 17: Barbecue chicken, French fries, buttered broccoli, whole wheat roll with margarine, cherry crisp. Thursday, Feb. 18: Chili Con Carne with beans, mixed fruit with citrus, crackers with margarine, cinnamon roll. Friday, Feb. 19: Sausage patty with gravy, orange juice, hash browns or potato wedges, biscuit with margarine, scalloped apples. Couple United in Marriage In Tonkawa Church VowsLinda Love and Ted Riddle exchanged wedding vows in a 4 p.m. double ring ceremony Jan. 16, 1999, at the United Methodist Church in Tonkawa with Dr. Brian Kovacs officiating. Decorations included large baskets of white gladioli, roses, lilies, forget-me-nots, and greenery. Parents of the couple are Mr. and Mrs. Lloyd Arnall of Tulsa, Anna Riddle of Tonkawa, the late Gail Lentz, and the late Lloyd Riddle. The pews were marked with white bows trimmed in silver. The decorations were designed by Sharon Jordan. A musical prelude of the couple’s favorite songs from the ‘40s and ‘50s was played by Marie Beyer, pianist. Van Hodges sang “Love of My Life” as the ceremony began, and he sang “I Do” as Christal Moody of Wichita, Kan., lighted the candles. “My Happiness” was played as the mothers of the couple were seated by Walter Lentz, brother of the bride, and Gary Hughes, brother-in-law of the bridegroom. Hodges also sang “More Than You’ll Ever Know” and “From This Moment On.” A traditional wedding processional and recessional were also played. The bride wore a frontier styled white weskit with lace insets. It was complemented by lightly puffed sleeves and a triple tiered broom skirt accented with white lace. She also wore lace covered boots and a white wool western hat adorned with flowers and pearls and a cascading bow in back. The bride also wore a gold cross, which had been given to her on the occasion of her 16th birthday by the bridegroom. She carried a cascade of white roses, lilacs and forget-me-nots with lace, pearl and burgundy accents. The bouquet was created by the bride and Betty Bush. Corsages and boutonnieres for the wedding party were created by the bride from similar flowers. Jan Bradford served as Matron of Honor and Best Man was Henry Riddle of Wichita, Kan. During the reception at the church Robin Dushane of Grove played a variety of music on the keyboard. Assisting with the event were Nora Carver, Pat Headley, Joella Riddle, Sharon Jordan, and Christi Garrett. The serving table was decorated with arrangements of burgundy roses, candles and bows. The wedding cake featured a western motif top and the bridegroom’s cake was in the shape of a horseshoe. A horse-drawn carriage carried the couple to their home at 1400 East North Avenue, Tonkawa. Following a wedding trip to Las Vegas, Nev., the couple attended the American Agricultural Movement Convention in Oklahoma City, and are planning an Alaskan cruise soon. A rehearsal dinner was held in the home of Ken and Diane Smith. A western decoration theme was followed ,and a poem written by the bride-elect was read to the bridegroom-elect. Sydney Kinzie Is Presented At Dallas BallSydney Lynne Kinzie was one of 36 debutantes presented during the 1999 Dallas Symphony Orchestra League’s ball Feb. 6 at the Morton H. Myerson Symphony Center in Dallas, Texas. Her Honor Guard escort was John Matthew Yeaman. Miss Kinzie is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jack Kinzie of Dallas, Texas, and the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Gale Kinzie of Ponca City. Yeaman is the son of Mr. and Mrs. John M. Yeaman of Dallas, and the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. John Rider of Ponca City. Sydney’s father is a 1966 graduate of Ponca City High School. Sydney is currently a student at the University of Georgia where she is a member of Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority. Named as a Presidential Scholar, she is in the Honors program at the business school. Her future plans include a “Semester at Sea” program and summer school at Innsbruck, Austria. Little NewsDavid and Janet Berry of Blackwell have announced the birth of their daughter. Sydney Rose Berry was born at 12:44 p.m. Jan. 28, 1999, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. She weighed 7 pounds and measured 20 3/4 inches long. Sydney has a brother, Scotty Berry, 3. Maternal grandmother is Patricia Rohrs of Lamont, and paternal grandparents are Jan Thomas of Ponca City, and Burton Berry of Oklahoma City. Great-grandmothers are Evangeline Taylor of Enid and Bonnie Lasater of Guthrie. Pair Plans July WeddingThe engagement of Sarah Elizabeth Wilson to Jesse Thomas Curry is being announced by her parents, Don and Marsha Wilson of Memphis, Tenn. The couple plans a July wedding. The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Don and Nell Wilson, and Raymond Ryan, all of Ponca City, and the late Thelma Ryan. Curry is the son of David and Marsha Curry of Marissa, Ill. The bride-to-be is a senior at Wheaton College in Wheaton, Ill., and plans to graduate in May with a degree in English literature. The prospective bridegroom is a 1998 graduate of Wheaton College where he received a degree in biology. He is currently a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and is stationed at Fort Stewart, Ga. Ponca City HappeningsSUNDAY Marland Estate Mansion, 901 Monument Road, open daily, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, 1-5 p.m. Guided tours Monday-Friday, 1:30 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 1:30 and 3 p.m. Special tour information, 767-0420. Pioneer Woman Museum, open Tuesday-Friday 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, 1-5 p.m. The museum is closed on Mondays and holidays. Ponca City Art Center, 819 East Central. Wednesday through Sunday, 1-5 p.m. Ponca City Cultural Center and Museum, 10th and Grand. Home of Ponca City Indian Museum, Bryant Baker Studio, 101 Ranch Museum and DAR Museum. Available for receptions, teas, bridge parties, etc. Open daily 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday 1-5 p.m. 767-0427. Ponca City Tourism Office, 10th and Grand. Information about all tourist attractions and events in Ponca City and the surrounding area. Open daily 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, 1-5 p.m. 763-8067. 11th Step AA meeting — open, 11 a.m.; AA Discussion meeting, 8 p.m. Harmony House, 212 South Third. AA Alano Group — Noon, open topic meeting; 8 p.m., closed topic meeting; 603 South 1st. MONDAY Al-Anon meeting, 8-9 p.m. Monday, upstairs in the Harmony House, 212 South Third. Domestic Violence Group, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Mondays. Programs for women and children of family violence. Babysitter provided. For information call 76A-BUSE. Fibromyalgia Support Group meets on the third Monday of each month at 7 p.m. in the parlor of the First Baptist Church. More information may be obtained by calling Raelene Brown, 765-5756; Mary Beth Guy, 765-9894; Martha Long, 762-5572. Multiple Sclerosis Support Group meets the third Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at Albright United Methodist Church, 128 South Palm. Call Beth Wright, 765-6738, for additional information. New Hope Group of Alcoholics Anonymous, 8 p.m., Monday. Salvation Army Community Support Center, 711 South Third. Ponca City Rotary Club, noon Monday, Marland Mansion Chapel. Simple Steps AA — closed, noon; AA Step Study — closed, 8 p.m.; Harmony House, 212 South Third. AA Alano Group — Noon, open topic meeting; 8 p.m., closed 12 by 12 study; 603 South 1st. TOPS OK 308 members are reminded that the new weigh-in time is 6 to 6:45 p.m. with meetings starting at 6:45 p.m. on Mondays. For more information call Betty Flower, 765-5448. Principles Before Personalities, Narcotics Anonymous, 8 p.m. Monday, Harmony House basement (use south entrance by parking lot). Tall Grass Prairie Preserve slide show Feb. 22 at 7 p.m. downstairs at the Ponca City Library. Public is invited. For additional information, call Mary McIntyre, (918) 585-1117. TUESDAY The American Family Support Group will meet 7-9 p.m. Tuesday at 1105 West Highland. The topic will be Child Welfare Services and child abuse. Kay County Wheatheart Sweet Adelines, 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Performing Arts Building (south entrance) Northern Oklahoma College, Tonkawa. All women welcome. For information call 765-6829, 363-1643 or 762-2885. Kiwanis Club, noon Tuesday, Marland Mansion Conference Center. New-Found Freedom Co-dependents Anonymous, 8 p.m., Tuesday, Harmony House (upstairs library). AA Discussion meeting at noon; AA Big Book Study — closed, 8 p.m. Harmony House, 212 South Third. AA Alano Group — Noon, open topic meeting; 8 p.m., closed newcomers meeting; 603 South 1st. Parent Support Group, 6-7:30 p.m. Tuesday at Northern Oklahoma Youth Services Center. Focus on parental concerns and frustrations, as well as ways to increase understanding and communications between parent and child. Support, education, coping techniques, and introduction to non-punitive parenting styles. Pioneer Water Garden Society meets the third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Cann Gardens. Anyone interested in water gardens, fish, plants or starting your own pond is welcome to attend. For more information contact Mike Welch, 765-3271, or Ray Moreland, 762-7806. Preschool storytime for 4-, 5- and 6-year-olds, 10 and 11:30 a.m. Tuesdays at the Ponca City Library. Weight Watchers meeting, 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, St. Paul’s United Methodist Church. Weigh-in begins at 6 p.m. Fanchon Chapter 53, Order of the Eastern Star, meets the first and third Tuesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. at the Masonic Temple, 1200 West Grand. Free pregnancy test is kept confidential at Birth Choice, 700 West Broadway. Hours are 6-8 p.m. Tuesday; 1-3 p.m. Wednesday; 6-8 p.m. Thursday. WEDNESDAY New Hope Group of Alcoholics Anonymous, 8 p.m. Wednesday, Salvation Army Support Center, 711 South Third. Pioneer Toastmasters Club, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Wednesday, R&D East Auditorium, Conoco Complex, 1000 South Pine. Guests welcome; public invited. For additional information, contact Bob Ennis, 767-5946. Ponca City Bahai Community Discussion Group, 7:15 p.m. Wednesday. For location call 765-5695 or 762-5529. Simple Steps AA meeting; Step Study — closed, noon. AA Discussion meeting, 8 p.m. Harmony House, 212 South Third. AA Alano Group — Noon, open topic meeting; 8 p.m., closed Big Book study; 603 South 1st. Storytime for 2 and 3-year-olds, Ponca City Library, 515 East Grand, 10 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Short stories, songs, use of flannel board. Lasts about 15 minutes. Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) support group aids veterans of the Vietnam and Gulf Wars. The group is confidential and meets at the DAV, 401 South Lincoln, Wednesdays, 7-8:30 p.m. If you are a veteran suffering with PTSD or know someone who could use help, contact 762-3851 or Steve Mallory, 762-7561. Principles Before Personalities, Narcotics Anonymous, 8 p.m. Wednesday, Harmony House basement (use south entrance by parking lot). P.E.O. Chapter FC will meet at the home of Pauletta Beaty on Feb. 17. Cohostesses will be Wanda Baumert and Betty Thompson; Barbara Younger will present the program. Senior Center activity for Feb. 17 — Cards and pitch, 1 p.m., 319 West Grand. The Ponca City Council of Garden Clubs will meet at the Cann Garden Center on March 3 at 9:30 a.m. Larry Buck will present the program “Bonsai.” Senior Center activity for Feb. 24 — Senior Center crafts, 1 p.m., 319 West Grand. THURSDAY Al-Anon at Conoco, TBTV 50 on Mezzanine between North and South Towers, 11:30 p.m. Thursday. Call Linda, 765-7045, 767-5328. AA Discussion meeting, noon; AA discussion meeting, 8 p.m., Harmony House, 212 South Third. AA Alano Group — Noon, open topic meeting; 8 p.m., closed AA literature study; 603 South 1st. Freedom Group of AA; closed Big Book Study at 8 p.m. Thursdays, Woodlands Christian Church (Room 202), Fourteenth and Hartford. Smoke-free meeting and building. We study and practice tradition. Open meeting the last Thursday of each month for birthdays. Call 762-3345 for more information. Jaycees, 7 p.m., first and third Thursday, Chamber of Commerce meeting room. Interested persons welcome to attend any meeting. Model Railroad Club, 7-10 p.m. Thursday, Stephenson Building, 113 North Third. For information call 762-8687 or 765-7996. Parent Support Group, 9:30-11 a.m. Thursday Northern Oklahoma Youth Services Center. Focus on parental concerns, frustrations, as well as ways to increase understanding and communications between parent and child. Support, education, coping techniques and introduction to non-punitive parenting styles. Ponca City Newcomers Club meets the third Thursday of each month at the Marland Mansion. For more information contact Joyce Fox, 762-9578. Story hour for school-aged children Thursday at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. at the Ponca City Library. Principles Before Personalities, Narcotics Anonymous, 8 p.m. Thursday, Harmony House basement (use south entrance by parking lot). FRIDAY Simple Steps AA — open, noon; AA speaker meeting — open, 8 p.m. Harmony House, 212 South Third. New Hope Group of Alcoholics Anonymous, 8 p.m. Friday, Salvation Army Community Support Center, 711 South Third. AA Alano Group — Noon, open 12 by 12 meeting; 8 p.m., open speaker meeting; 603 South 1st. Pioneer Rotary Club, 11:45 a.m. Friday, Marland Mansion. Principles Before Personalities, Narcotics Anonymous, 8 p.m. Friday, Harmony House, 212 South Third, basement (use south entrance). Smoke-free building. For more information call 762-3345 or 765-9459. Senior Center activity for Feb. 19 — Music special with Pete Loshesky, good old-fashioned music, 1 p.m., 310 West Grand. The public is invited to attend a spaghetti dinner fundraiser 5-7 p.m. Feb. 19 at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 1904 North Pecan. The meal includes homemade bread, dessert and beverage. Cost is $5 for adults and $2 for children. Senior Center activity for Feb 26 — Senior bingo, 1 p.m., 319 West Grand. SATURDAY AA Discussion meeting at noon Saturday. AA Discussion meeting at 8 p.m., Harmony House, 212 South Third. AA Alano Group — Noon, open topic meeting; 8 p.m., closed Big Book study; 603 South 1st. New Found Freedom Co-dependents Anonymous, 8 p.m. Saturday, Harmony House (upstairs library). Smoke-free. Order of the Amaranth meets the first and third Saturdays of each month at 7:30 p.m. at the Masonic Temple. Reorganized Overeaters Anonymous group meets 11-12 Saturday mornings at Woodlands Christian Church. The meetings are open to “anyone who desires to stop eating compulsively.” For more information call 762-2161 or 765-5958. Free Senior High Night at Grand Central Station the first Saturday of each month from 8 to 11 p.m. Music, movies, games and snacks. Call 767-TEEN for details. Free Junior High Night at Grand Central Station the third Saturday of each month from 7 to 10 p.m. Open door (can come and go) for 7th, 8th and 9th grades. Music, movies, games and snacks. Call 767-TEENS for details. Booths are available for the Victorian Chocolate and Craft Fair Festival scheduled May 1. Proceeds go to Grand Central Station to benefit youth in the Ponca City area. For information call 762-6700. SPORTSCats Fall In Second Half Slump Cats Fall In Second Half SlumpBy MATTHEW KOENIG News Sports Writer A dismal second half doomed the Wildcats against the No. 3 ranked Sapulpa Chieftains, as a 27-22 lead at halftime became a 64-45 loss in the Cats’ final home game of the season, Friday. The Chieftains erupted with 18 points in the third quarter and 24 in the fourth, and held the Cats to just 31 percent from the field (15-of-49) in the game. Sapulpa’s dynamic trio of Brian Cardwell, David Baker and R |