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From the pages of The Ponca City News, Sunday, March 5, 2000 LOCAL DEATHS NEWS BRIEFS LIFESTYLES SPORTS LOCALRep. Reese Doesn’t Like Fund Odds Rep. Reese Doesn’t Like Fund OddsTobacco Issue Indicates Gov. Keating Lone Republican on BoardBy RALPH SEWELL News’ State Capitol Bureau OKLAHOMA CITY — Rep. Jim Reese, D-Nardin, doesn’t like the odds that Democrat-dominated board can be trusted to fairly spend tobacco settlement funds Oklahoma has yet to receive. That’s why Reese was one of five Republicans who voted against HB 2022, the tobacco bill the House overwhelmingly approved last week. But Ponca City Rep. Jim Newport and Cleveland Republican Larry Ferguson, Democrat Joe Sweeden of Pawhuska, joined the rest of the House in sending the bill to the Senate. HB 2022, by House Speaker Loyd Benson, D-Frederick, and Stratton Taylor, D-Claremore, the Senate president pro-tempore, would set up a trust. The bill provides the governor, state treasurer, state auditor, House Speaker, and Senate President would pick the trustees. Reese figures that’s one Republican — Gov. Frank Keating — against four Democrats. After the state attorney general gets a fee for helping forge the national settlement, the bill provides the principal would be invested. Trustees would decide how to spend the income. Both the House and Senate are working furiously to meet a deadline of March 16 to get bills to the opposite House. The House spent two hours during the week’s closing session discussing HB 2702 — a Republican bill to cut car tag costs similar to one Democrats passed earlier. The Democrat bill — HB 2663 — passed the house 58-39, with Republicans casting most of the no votes. Republicans claimed that while 2663 would cut tags to the same level as the Republican bill, because of some other features, the bill would raise fees for used car customers. Before the final vote on 2702, a Democrat member got an amendment passed to cut all tag fees to $10. The vote was 88-11. Newport, Reese and Ferguson voted against it; Sweeden for. Then 2702 passed 96-4 with all Ponca City area representatives voting yes. No one believes a $10 fee for a car tag will stay in any final bill. Meanwhile, senators passed a lot of bills, too. Sen. Paul Muegge, D-Tonkawa, won 42-0 Senate approval for his SB 888. It would create a task force on Agriculture Seed Banks. The group would report in January on how to produce, improve and store Oklahoma farm products. Sen. J. Berry Harrison, D-Fairfax, also voted for SB 888. Muegge and Harrison voted yes on SB 1419. It would limit the future use of solid waste dumps to waste produced in the county where the dump is located. It passed 29-10, and moved to the House. Neal McCaleb, Keating’s secretary of transportation, said in a western Oklahoma speech last week, that he favored a fuel tax increase to rebuild state roads. He said he had not discussed it with Keating. Some wondered if it was a trial balloon inspired by the governor. In response to a question, Ferguson doubted the legislature could get the needed 75 percent majority in each house to pass such a tax increase. But he said he personally would vote for an election to let voters decide. How They Voted Here’s how Muegge, Harrison, Newport, Reese, Ferguson and Sweeden voted on other bills: — HB 2169 spells out more specifically the rights of a juvenile in a foster home or custody to communicate with others. The vote was unanimous. — HB 2006, which passed 96-4, makes several changes in Oklahoma’s child custody laws. The author explained that in cases where a child is taken from parents because of alcoholism or neglect, grandparents are preferred custodians if they are able. Newport, Ferguson and Sweeden voted yes, Reese no. — HB 1987 is a new law prohibiting pointing a laser beam at a policeman or other person or animal with intent to harm, passed the House 97-4. Ponca area representatives voted yes. — HB 2567 makes all Oklahoma Cotton Growers subject to rules of the Oklahoma Boll Weevil Eradication. The bill passed unanimously. — HB 1920, which passed 98-3, makes it a crime to drive “aggressively.” The bill defines this as including 1) failure to obey a traffic control device; 2) passing another vehicle on the right by driving off the pavement; 5) Unsafe lane change; 4) Following another vehicle too closely. It provides fines of up to $500 and in some cases, suspending driving licenses. Newport, Reese, Ferguson and Sweeden voted yes. — HB 1921 passed unanimously. It would make it illegal to give a check returned for insufficient funds for a down payment on a car. — HB 1990 makes it the duty of highway troopers to pick up strayed animals and notify the owner, if possible. It passed the House unanimously. — HB 2590, which passed 94-7, would allow cities to punish parents or guardians of youngsters who violate the juvenile code then fail to perform ordered community service. The parent could be incarcerated in the same cell as the child. Newport, Reese, Ferguson and Sweeden voted yes. — HB 2065 passed the House unanimously. It would toughen the law against those who repeatedly commit sex offenses against juveniles. The maximum for a 3-time loser could be life in prison. — HB 2037 would increase the penalty for sexual child abuse by a parent or let another sexually abuse a child to as much as life in prison. The vote was 98-0, with all Ponca-area representatives voting yes. — SB 1326, passed the Senate 45-0. It would slant the state’s Quality Jobs program in favor of smaller counties where the jobless rate is normally higher. It would give tax benefits to employers who locate in counties where population has been decreasing, where the unemployment rate is 2 percentage points higher than the state average and the income-level is lower than 80 percent of the state average. Muegge and Harrison voted yes. — SB 1048 would extend to July, 2003 a tax break to oil well owners who use secondary recovery methods to enhance production. It passed 46-0. Muegge and Harrison voted in favor. — SB 840 would allow counties to deed unneeded land to another government or community action agency. It passed 43-3 with Muegge and Harrison voting yes. — SB 886 to allow the War Veterans Commission to provide meals to volunteer workers. It passed 46-0. Muegge and Harrison voted yes. — SB 849, which passed 46-0, would certify teachers of 4 year-olds in early childhood education classes, who have at least 5 years of experience doing so. Muegge and Harrison voted in favor. — SB 1392 would require school districts offering honors courses employ only teachers certified in that subject area. Senators approved it 35 to 9 with Harrison voting yes and Muegge no. Get Sheriff’s Backing — SB 845, which passed the Senate 42-1, would enlarge the Council on Law Enforcement and Training to include one selected by the Oklahoma Sheriffs Association. Muegge and Harrison voted yes. — SB 1062, would create a 20-member legislative committee plus a member of the Farm Bureau and the Secretary of Agriculture. It would be charged with investigating the economics of Oklahoma agriculture and recommend legislation. It passed 43-0. Muegge and Harrison voted in favor. — SB 1127 would require livestock auctions to make records open for inspection. The information would include buyers and sellers. The bill passed 37 to 7 with Muegge and Harrison voting yes. — SB 1103 would designate I-40 from Oklahoma City westbound to the Texas line as the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Highway. It passed the Senate 42-0. It also would name I-35 southbound from Oklahoma City as the World War I Veterans Memorial Highway. Muegge and Harrison voted in favor. — SB 814, which passed 48-3, would give mileage payments to members of county excise boards who live outside the county seat and travel there to attend meetings. Muegge and Harrison voted yes. — HB 2191, which passed the House 95-1, offers tax credits to insurance companies based on the number of full-time employees it has working in Oklahoma. The title first was removed. Newport, Reese, Ferguson and Sweeden voted yes. — SB 1019, which gives General Motors a tax credit for money spent in converting its Oklahoma City plant to produce light trucks, provided the firm keeps its employment level at at least 1,750 persons for 3 years. The unanimous House vote sent the bill to the governor, who has signed it. The Senate passed the bill 46-0 earlier. All Ponca-area legislators voted yes. — HB 2192 — The House had a lively debate over letting the government confiscate the automobile of anyone caught driving while his license is suspended because of alcohol or drug abuse. The bill passed 54 to 42 after foes tried without success to cripple the bill by removing its title. That would have made sure the House saw it again if Senators pass it. Reese, Ferguson and Sweeden voted in favor, Newport against. — HB 1799 passed 94-5. It extends the life of the Oklahoma Commission for Teacher Preparation until 2010. Newport, Ferguson and Sweeden voted yes; Reese no. — HB 2468 passed 56-38 but the emergency failed. It would extend the life of the Tulsa Race Riot Commission indefinitely. The riot happened in 1921. The bill also would transfer OSU land to the Oklahoma Historical Society for use as a race riot memorial park. It also creates a riot revolving fund to pay to build a memorial and pay expenses of the commission. Sweeden voted yes, Newport, Reese and Ferguson no. — HB 2728, which passed the House 99-1, contains the House idea of what should be required for high school graduation. It specifies four units of English, three units of mathematics, three units of science — which may include agriculture science — and 2 units of arts. Amendments included vo-tech course and charter schools. Ponca area representatives voted yes. — HB 1933, with a floor amendment, passed 56-43. It relates to home inspectors, their duties and how they fit in the real estate market. Sweeden voted yes; Newport, Reese and Ferguson no. — HB 2392, which passed 51-50, relates to contracts for Nursing Home Care. Reese and Ferguson voted yes; Newport and Sweeden no. Cable One National President To Be Here Monday AfternoonA discussion of customer complaints with Cable One national president Tom Might tops the work session agenda for the Ponca City Board of Commissioners Monday afternoon meeting. The session will begin at 2 p.m. in the Public Safety Center, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue. Commissioners will also take time to discuss proposed telecommunications project activity. Among other agenda items is a proposed modification to Pioneer Transit Inc. outside agency contractual services request for budget year 2000-2001. Also on the agenda is a request from J. Anthony to extend Fifth Street to the north. The commissioners are expected to discuss the addendum to the lease agreement between the Ponca City Development Authority and Unitherm Food Systems Inc. Johnny Cannot Read And, All Too Frequently, Neither Can Mommy or DaddyBy KRISTI HAYES News Education Editor Illiteracy at all levels in the United States has reached the crisis stage. America’s inability to read didn’t happen overnight; the problem has been has been brewing for decades. In a world where 27 million Americans are considered to be illiterate, we look to our school administrators and teachers both past and present for answers. How can children who attend school regularly not be able to read? Are these children simply not learning ... or are they “falling through the cracks?” According to studies, illiteracy costs Americans $225 billion annually through lost productivity, tax revenue, welfare and incarceration. It also costs $500 to teach basic literacy skills to one adult for a year. The Unites States Department of Labor says one million teenagers between 12 and 17 cannot read above the third grade level. Also, statistics say an alarming 85 percent of juveniles who come before the courts are “functionally illiterate.” Functional illiteracy refers to the inability of an individual to use reading, speaking, writing and computational skills in everyday life situations. What PC Schools Are Doing In Ponca City, educators are trying to cope with the problem by taking steps to improve literacy for all students. Last week, Ponca City students participated in the national Read Across America Day. The day places an emphasis on reading. Deputy superintendent Dr. John Scroggins said administrators and teachers have made eradicating illiteracy a primary focus. “We have 204 teachers trained in Phase I and II of our Literacy First training and we plan to have more. We are very focused on improving literacy,” Scroggins said. He added that additional classes have been added at the high school and middle school levels to improve reading capabilities. Scroggins explained, “If students in grades K-8 are not performing at or above their reading level, we perform assessment testing and develop a reading plan for each child. If the student is still below the average, we then determine what strategies should be implemented.” At the present time, a total of 797 Ponca City students (22.46 percent of K-8 students) are on Reading Sufficiency Plans and are not reading at their appropriate grade level. In November, 1999, the Ponca City Board of Education adopted a reading plan to ensure literacy for all students. If a child is not reading at or above his/her reading level, he/she must attend summer school. Scroggins projects that as many as 600 elementary students and 400 middle school students will attend summer school this year. “We want to see every student learn how to read,” he stressed. Adults Affected, Too Not only does illiteracy plague children, by extension it also devastates the American workforce. In the 1970s, when slightly more than half of the adult population had high school educations, a nationally-conducted government study showed that 44 percent of adults could not tell whether they met the qualifications of a help-wanted ad. Two decades later, three-fourths of America’s adults are high school graduates, but a similar study found that nearly half of them have problems writing a letter about a billing error on a credit card account. Family life may be the single most significant factor in the spread of illiteracy — and its prevention. Study after study has found that parents who read to their children produce better-reading children. Scroggins agrees with the studies. “I can’t stress how important it is for parents to be involved and to read to their kids,” he said. “Children learn from their surroundings. It’s important they see their parents reading as well.” In America — the land of the free — 19.8 million immigrants enter our communities every year. Of that number, 1.7 million, age 25 and older, have less than a fifth grade education. PTC’s Plan to Help Pioneer Technology Center has tried to cope with the high numbers — realizing that people who don’t speak English will have a difficult time finding jobs and providing a better life for their children. The vo-tech has implemented an Adult Basic Education (ABE) program. Students in the program can work on receiving a General Education Degree or learning the English language through the English as a Second Language (ESL) program. The ESL classes are offered for adults who speak minimal English and want to improve their ability to speak, understand, write and read the English language. Student Marie Pando, an immigrant, is making progress in learning English. “I have lived in Ponca City for seven years. My kids learned English when they came to Ponca City schools. I know if they can do it, I can too,” she said. Pando also says it’s important to learn the English language. “I want to go to work one day and I realize that being able to understand English is very important when it comes to getting a job.” A Family Literacy program is also available at PTC coinciding with Early Childhood programs. Cable TV Questions Highlight ForumCity Commission Candidates Reply To Audience During Friday SessionBy LOUISE ABERCROMBIE News Staff Writer The highlight of Friday’s City Commission candidate forum came when people in the audience began asking questions about whether the city should get in the TV cable business and if $50,000 of taxpayer money should be expended for a study on high technology to prepare the city for the future. Both Keni Ray, incumbent for the No. 4 position, and challenger Pamela Johnson, responded to the questions before an audience of over 50 gathered in the Public Safety Center. The question on cable TV was apparently generated from a rumor about the city possibly entering the cable business. Ray answered, “I don’t know. I haven’t thought about it a lot. I would be in favor of competition. In Blackwell they have two cable TV services and I don’t know why if Blackwell can have two, why we can’t have two. I think [the cable business] is the position for private industry. “I don’t think that is something that city government should be involved in,” Ray continued. “I certainly would take that under advisement. There may be experts in that area who would say there is a good financial reason that maybe the city could provide a service like that more economically and give better service to the community.” Johnson’s answer was, “I’m in favor of free enterprise and I don’t think the city should be in [the cable business].” About the high tech study, Johnson said, “I’d have to research it, but I wouldn’t be against it. That is for certain. We’ve got kids coming up who are having to show us how to get on the Internet. I would not be against it, but I would want to research it.” Ray, who has served about 18 months on the Commission, said, “I would support the study. I think that we really need to take a good look at that. We need to involve Craige Baird, the information director for the city, who needs to play a key role in looking at the study. “The key to me is who is doing to do the study. I would want to know a lot about the people we were going to hire or entity or organization that we would hire to do that study for that kind of money. I wouldn’t do it casually.” Ray concluded, “I think we need to bring somebody in who is willing at least to put a proposal on the table and tell us what they could do for us for free. And, if we think their credentials are good and they have a good reputation or track record and could give us a good feasibility study, then I think it would pay big benefits.” Candidates Agree Listening Is Key to Being ResponsiveBy LOUISE ABERCROMBIE News Staff Writer City Commission candidates, Pamela Johnson and incumbent Keni Ray who are vying for position No. 4 on the Board of City Commissioners agreed at the Friday Forum that listening to the citizens is a key to being responsive to the entire community. The candidates fielded questions from moderator Connie McAbee at Friday’s forum and others at the forum, sponsored by the Legislative Review Committee of the Ponca City Area Chamber of Commerce. The audience was made up of about 50 citizens, city employees, department heads, Chamber officials and civic leaders. Other City Commissioners scattered in the audience were Mayor Tom Leonard, Lyn Boyer, Chris Hand and Dick Stone. Responding to the qualities that made him qualified for the job, Ray said he had done a lot of volunteer work and served on advisory boards during 24 years including the school system. “This gives me an insight and the experience of the last year and a half as a City Commissioner has been valuable.” Johnson, responding to the same question said, “I have desire to learn and to be involved and to listen. I’ve been involved in the hospital, reengineering ways to cut costs and I’m involved in the Quarterback Club and school system. I am willing to prioritize and fit this job into my life. It is a desire to learn more about the city and to know about the issues and to share what you learn with the public.” Answering what is the main issue or concern in or around Ponca City, Johnson said, “The main issue has been to entice business to locate here. One of my big concerns is that with this growth that we do not lose certain things that are important to us about our town. That we do not want to make it a place that people do not want to come to. I would like to see a lot of job opportunities in Ponca, as far as our building and construction go out of town. I’d like see the town not change.” Ray responding to the main concern said, “One of the key issues for growth in Ponca City is to continue the efforts of economic development and to continue to diversify our economy. We’ve had an excellent community for many years and I don’t want the core value of this community to ever change. But we do have to address change in a very positive and progressive way. Things are not going to stay the same in Ponca City or anywhere else that I know of if it is going to get better or it is going to get worse. “I think we must continue to work to improve the economy and to improve the quality of life, particularly with the school system, with the opportunities for distance learning, things technology brings to us and we must continue to explore and I think that is all connected with economic development.” Next question was are you a supporter of unions, is there a need for other city employees to be represented by unions such as the policemen and firemen? Ray said, “I know that union organizations have been an important part of the United States for many, many years and I would not attempt to debate the pros and cons of union organizations. I know that they have many advantages for the people that choose to be a part of those organizations. I don’t think that is a decision for the Commission to make. That is a decision that is involved with the department heads and professional staff of the city.” Johnson said, “When it comes to unions for policeman or firemen, those jobs require a lot of dedication and those people can’t be as involved in issues that pertain to them such as salaries and benefits. The union is not for us to determine it is something for them to determine themselves.” Other questions related to how to help the Hispanics in the community; should a new convention center be sought; deregulation of electricity; changes in the Lew Wentz Golf Course; affordable housing, tourism and controlling the city department budgets. Prosthetic, Orthotic Services Available Through SJRMC on a Regular BasisProsthetic and orthotic services are available in Ponca City at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center’s Physical Therapy/Wellness Center on a regular basis. These services are offered by Hanger Prosthetics and Orthotics. Hanger staff members are trained to evaluate, fit, and fabricate orthotic and prosthetic devices by qualified professionals dedicated to meeting the individual needs of the patient. Hanger also offers service and repair on all prostheses and orthoses. Gary Kester, Certified Orthotist, provides care for orthotics patients. His primary service is with developing and manufacturing braces for people who have had strokes resulting in drop foot or diabetic patients who have pressure sores or ulcers. Kester also designs braces for individuals with cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, or other neurological conditions. All types of custom made orthoses are available including specialized sports orthoses, conventional metal thermo-molded and thermo plastic. Tim Carlton, Certified Prosthetist, provides artificial limbs for individuals with an amputation. High-tech, lightweight prosthetic materials are available such as flexible sockets, energy storage systems, high strength graphite components and titanium structural modules. Myeolectric upper extremity, conventional upper extremity prosthesis and specialized sports prosthesis are also available. Hanger prosthesis are uniquely designed for each individual’s needs, assuring comfort, function and ease of movement. After fitting is complete, the physical therapy staff at SJRMC will prepare the patient to take on a whole new world. Training is initiated with the new prosthesis or orthotic and an exercise program is developed. SJRMC is here to serve the community and surrounding area with services in coordination with Hanger. For more information about these services call SJRMC’s Physical Therapy/Wellness Center at 580-765-0518 or Hanger at 1-800-475-7654. Always, Patsy Cline Performance Set at NOCTONKAWA — Always ... Patsy Cline, Ted Swindley’s musical sensation based on the life of the legendary country singer, comes to the Northern Oklahoma College Tonkawa campus March 23. Tickets for the performance produced by Amarillo Little Theatre will be available beginning Monday from the Northern business office, the Tonkawa Chamber of Commerce and Ponca City businesses Buy for Less, Mrs. Brown’s Attic, PC Sports Shack and The Lost Legend Restaurant. All seats are $10 general admission. Curtain time is 8 p.m. in the Northern Performing Arts Center Thursday, March 23. The show will travel to the Enid campus for an 8 p.m. performance Friday, March 24, in Briggs Auditorium. Tickets for the Enid performance will be available at the college business office in Hallie Gantz Center and at Enid merchants Simpsons Mercantile and Way Out West Western Store. Tammy Hysmith recreates the look and the sound of the legendary Cline while Cindi Bulla portrays Louise Seger, the friend who corresponded regularly with Patsy from 1957 until the singer’s untimely death in a light plane crash in 1963. More than 20 Cline songs are interwoven through a 90-minute monologue that covers Cline’s musical and professional career. A star for only five years, at the time of her death she was one of the nation’s leading recording artists, a headliner on the country circuit and a regular at the Grand Ole Opry. She was the first female country singer to cross over into pop music with such hits as Walkin’ After Midnight, Crazy and I Fall to Pieces. Cline amassed a total of nine Top 40 hits in less than five years and scored nine more hits posthumously. The album Patsy Cline’s Greatest Hits is still the biggest-selling solo female greatest hits country album ever released. Her expressive voice has left a legacy that is now a permanent and treasured part of America’s musical landscape. Special Activity Set at Lutheran Church, SchoolThe First Lutheran Church and School will celebrate National Lutheran Schools Week March 6-12. A number of activities are scheduled for all the students. Each day will begin with devotions in the gym, and the last day will be the spring musical presented by the sixth through eighth grades. The public is invited to attend this program at 7 p.m. on Friday, March 10. National Lutheran Schools Week is held annually to call attention to the qualities of Lutheran Schools. With 2,296 early-childhood, elementary and high schools nationwide, Missouri Synod congregations operate the largest Protestant school system in the United States. The theme this year is “Lutheran Schools: Shine Like Stars.” Also taking part in the week-long celebration will be Lutheran schools in Australia, China and Canada. For more information about local activities contact the school at 762-4243. State Education Head To Speak at RotaryBy KRISTI HAYES News Education Editor Education of the past, present and future will be highlighted Monday at the Ponca City Rotary Club monthly meeting. Oklahoma Secretary of Education Dr. Floyd L. Coppedge will speak at the noon meeting at the American Legion. Floyd Coppedge has strengths in school administration, math education, teacher education, instructional design and curriculum. He has published numerous works on these and other subjects. His current research and publishing interests include standards of excellence for public education, violence in the schools, the development of student leadership in secondary schools and character education. Dr. Coppedge serves on the Education Review Board of the Journal of Educational Relations and served eight years on the editorial board of The Clearing House. He co-chaired the Phi Delta Kappa Commission on Curriculum Models for Lifelong Learning. He now serves on the Executive Committee of the Southern Regional Educational Board and has been a member of the Board of Examiners for the National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) for the past nine years. As Secretary of Education, Dr. Coppedge also serves as the chief executive officer of the Office of Accountability which has responsibility for producing state, district and school performance reports. Coppedge received his bachelor’s and master’s degree from Northeastern Oklahoma State University with a major in mathematics. His doctorate is in secondary education and administration from Oklahoma University. His experience includes 30 years of teaching and administration at the secondary level and in colleges and universities. He has served on the faculties of Kansas State University, Indiana University, the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma, and Oklahoma Christian University of Science and Arts. His most recent public school assignment was as principal of Douglass High School in Oklahoma City, 1988-1991. He served as Dean of the College of Education at Oklahoma Christian University of Science and Arts, 1991-1996. He also serves as a member of Governor Keating’s cabinet. He holds membership in a number of national professional associations appropriate to his work including Phi Delta Kappa and the Association of Supervision and Curriculum Development. Buffalo Post Schedules Birthday DanceThe American Legion Ponca Indian Buffalo Post 38 has scheduled a birthday dance for Saturday, March 18, to celebrate the 81st birthday of the National Organization of the American Legion. Activities will begin at 2 p.m. with the gourd dance followed by supper at 5:30 p.m. There will be more gourd dancing at 7 p.m., and the war dance starts at 8 p.m. and continues through the evening. Special guests will Ponca tribal elders. Bethany Nell Roughface, 1999-2000 princess of Buffalo Post 38, and Eva Joann Thomas, 1999-2001 princess for the auxiliary post, will be present. All princesses, gourd dance groups and wardancers are welcome. Wilkie D. Eagle Sr. of the Ponca tribe will be head singer; Lamont Brown II, Ponca tribe, will be head man dancer, and Erika Focht of Sac and Fox tribes will be head woman dancer. Head gourd dancer will be Evans Ray Satepauhoodle, Kiowa; master of ceremonies will be Hammond Motah, Comanche; and Gilbert Samson Cole, Ponca/Seminole, will be the water boy. Concessions will be provided by the youth Oo-kee-hee Indian Club of Po-Hi; table service and chairs are needed. For additional information, call (580) 268-3204 or (580) 762-7490. School MenusElementary Breakfast Monday — Pop tart or cereal, assorted juices and milk. Tuesday — Biscuits and gravy or cereal or pop tart, assorted juices and milk. Wednesday — Pop tart or cereal, assorted juices and milk. Thursday — Egg biscuit or pop tart or cereal, assorted juices and milk. Friday — Pop tart or cereal, assorted juices and milk. Elementary Lunch Monday — Chicken fry with hot roll or barbecue brisket, rosy pears, mashed potatoes and gravy, sunflower seeds, saltine crackers, dill spears, raisins or assorted cold sandwiches, chef salad, cottage cheese salad or yogurt salad, juice and milk. Tuesday — Cheeseburger or mini corn dogs, tatter tots, lettuce and tomato salad, sliced peaches, saltine crackers, dill spears, raisins or assorted cold sandwiches, chef salad, cottage cheese salad or yogurt salad, juice and milk. Wednesday — Chicken strips with hot roll or fruit, corn, mashed potatoes and gravy, saltine crackers, dill spears, raisins or assorted cold sandwiches, chef salad, cottage cheese salad or yogurt salad, juice and milk. Thursday — Hot pockets or Rug Rat soup, scalloped potatoes, fruit, cake, saltine crackers, dill spears, raisins or assorted cold sandwiches, chef salad, cottage cheese salad or yogurt salad, juice and milk. Friday — Macaroni and cheese with hot roll or fiesta burrito, peas and carrots, mexi beans, chocolate chip cookies, saltine crackers, dill spears, raisins or assorted cold sandwiches, chef salad, cottage cheese salad or yogurt salad, juice and milk. West Middle School Breakfast Monday — French toast, pop tart or cereal, assorted juices and milk. Tuesday — Biscuits with sausage gravy or cereal or pop tart, assorted juices and milk. Wednesday — Waffles with sausage or pop tart or cereal, assorted juices and milk. Thursday — Egg biscuit or cereal or pop tart, assorted juices and milk. Friday — Cinnamon toast or cereal or pop tart, assorted juices and milk. East Middle School Breakfast Monday — Pancakes with syrup, pop tart or cereal, assorted juices and milk. Tuesday — Pop tart or cereal, assorted juices and milk. Wednesday — Biscuits with sausage gravy or pop tart or cereal, assorted juices and milk. Thursday — Pop tart or cereal, assorted juices and milk. Friday — Donuts or cereal or pop tart, assorted juices and milk. West Middle School Lunch Available on Tuesday and Thursday at West Middle School is Subway. Monday — Chicken fry with hot roll, fruit, mashed potatoes and gravy, pudding, sunflower seeds, saltine crackers, dill spears, raisins or baked potato with fixings, assorted cold sandwiches, chef salad, cottage cheese salad, yogurt salad, juice and milk. Tuesday — Mini corn dogs, lettuce and tomato salad, tatter tots, corn, fruit, saltine crackers, dill spears or baked potato with fixings, assorted cold sandwiches, chef salad, cottage cheese salad or yogurt salad, juice and milk. Wednesday — Chicken strips with hot roll, fruit, mashed potatoes and gravy, salad, saltine crackers, dill spears or potato with fixings, assorted cold sandwiches, chef salad, cottage cheese salad or yogurt salad, juice and milk. Thursday — Hot pockets, fruit, salad with ranch dressing, cake, scalloped potatoes, fruit, saltine crackers, dill spears or potato with fixings, assorted cold sandwiches, chef salad, cottage cheese salad or yogurt salad, juice and milk. Friday — Fiesta burrito, mexi beans, cheesy mexican rice, peas and carrots, chocolate chip cookies, saltine crackers, dill spears or potato with fixings, assorted cold sandwiches, chef salad, cottage cheese salad or yogurt salad, juice and milk. East Middle School Lunch Available at the Mid-High Monday through Friday are Domino’s and Subway. Monday — Chicken fry with hot roll, mashed potatoes and gravy, fruit, tossed salad, dill spears, raisins or potato with fixings, assorted cold sandwiches, chef salad, cottage cheese salad or yogurt salad and milk. Tuesday — Mini corn dogs, tatter tots, vegetarian beans, fruit, dill pickle, raisins or baked potatoes, assorted cold sandwiches, chef salad, cottage cheese salad or yogurt salad, juice and milk. Wednesday — Chicken strips with biscuit, mashed potatoes and gravy, corn, salad with ranch dressing, fruit, dill pickle, raisins or potato with fixings, assorted cold sandwiches, chef salad, cottage cheese salad or yogurt salad, juice and milk. Thursday — Hot pockets, scalloped potatoes, fruit, salad with ranch dressing, Jello, fruit, dill pickle or assorted cold sandwiches, chef salad, cottage cheese salad or yogurt salad, juice and milk. Friday — Macaroni and cheese with hot roll, peas and carrots, fruit, salad with ranch dressing, cookies, saltine crackers, raisins, dill pickles or assorted cold sandwiches, chef salad, cottage cheese salad or yogurt salad, 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. The Retro Mart features a Mexican food, bakery/deli and Italian food courts. Po-Hi Campus Mart Monday — Pizza pocket or ravioli with hot roll, broccoli with cheese, tossed salad, Rocky Road parfait, seasonal fruit, juice and milk. Tuesday — Foot long corn dog, tossed salad, Jello, tator tots with cheese, seasonal fruit, juice and milk. Wednesday — Chicken ringers with hot roll, mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans, seasonal fruit, juice and milk. Thursday — Chicken patty sandwich or cheeseburger, french fries, lettuce and tomato, baked beans, seasonal fruit, juice and milk. Friday — Sliced turkey with hot roll, mashed potatoes and gravy, dressing, green beans, seasonal fruit, juice and milk. McCord Elementary Breakfast Monday — Cereal, toast, juice and milk. Tuesday — Pancake and sausage, juice and milk. Wednesday — Scrambled eggs, toast, juice and milk. Thursday — Ham patty, toast, juice and milk. Friday — Rice, toast, juice and milk. Lunch Monday — Charburger, tator tots, pickles, onions and lettuce, pineapple, cookies and milk. Tuesday — Pigs in a blanket, macaroni and cheese, green beans, pears and milk. Wednesday — Ham and cheese sandwich, lettuce leaf, dill spear, potato chips, orange wedge, cookie and milk. Thursday — Fish, hashbrowns, mixed veggies, peaches, cornbread and milk. Friday — Grilled cheese sandwich, ravioli, corn, mixed fruit and milk. Pioneer Technology Center Tuesday — Barbecue brisket, teriyaki pork chop with apple chutney or smoked chicken halves with soup, assorted salads, vegetables, breads and desserts. Wednesday — Beef stir fry, fiesta chicken or shrimp with soup, assorted salads, vegetables, breads and desserts. Thursday — Pot roast with veggies, chicken fajitas or chicken pepperoni with soup, assorted salads, vegetables, breads and desserts. The cafeteria will be open to the public Tuesday through Thursday from 11:15 a.m. to noon. School CalendarPo-Hi March 6 Junior varsity tennis at Ponca City, 9 a.m. Varsity boys and girls golf at the Country Club, 9 a.m. Ninth grade boys and girls track at Owasso, 2:30 p.m. Junior varsity and varsity baseball against Perry, 4 p.m. Foreign Language Club meeting at 6 p.m. at Po-Hi. March 7 Foreign Language Club meeting at 8 a.m. at Assembly Center. Varsity boys and girls tennis at Po-Hi, 8 a.m. OSU representative at Howell Auditorium, 10 a.m. Varsity baseball at Sand Springs, 5 p.m. Junior varsity baseball against Sand Springs, 5 p.m. Special board meeting at Commons Area, 6:30 p.m. March 8 Nine weeks testing begins. March 9 Varsity girls golf at Guthrie, 9 a.m. Junior varsity and varsity boys and girls tennis at Bartlesville, 1 p.m. Junior varsity baseball against Stillwater, 4 p.m. Ninth grade and varsity baseball at Stillwater, 4:30 p.m. Band concert at Howell Auditorium, 7 p.m. March 10 Varsity boys and girls track at Enid, noon. Rotary Youth Conference at Commons Area, 4 p.m. Varsity boys and girls soccer at Sullins, 6 p.m. Spring Dance at girls gym, 8 p.m. March 11 Rotary Youth Conference continues at 8 a.m. Varsity baseball against Owasso, noon. Ninth grade baseball at Owasso, noon. Sen. Nickles Names Kyle Duren As Appointment to West PointWASHINGTON D.C., — U.S. Senator Don Nickles has announced that Kyle Duren of Ponca City has been appointed to the United States Military Academy at West Point. Nickles nominated Duren in December and the academy recently made the final selection. Duren, son of Don and Brenda Duren, 2607 Mockingbird, is a senior at Ponca City High School. The names of the academy nominees were submitted to Nickles by his academy selection board, which chooses the students through a strictly competitive process based on grade point average, ACT/SAT scores, extracurricular activities, honors, leadership ability and motivation to serve in the military. Duren’s academics honors at Ponca City High School include: Principal’s Honor Roll; Academic Letters, Bronze Pin, Silver Pin, 10th, 11th & 12th grades, and Who’s Who Among American High School Students. Active in sports Duren’s activities include: Varsity Wrestling Letterman, 10th, 11th & 12th grades; Varsity Wrestling Co-Captain, 12th; Selected Honorable-Mention All-Conference Wrestling, 10th; Selected All-Conference Second Team Wrestling, 11th; two-time State Qualifier, 11th, 12th. Also, 5A-Wrestling Regional Champion, 12th; third Place at State High School Wrestling Tourney, 12th; Grady Peninger Academic Award, varsity wrestling, 10th; Coach’s Wrestling Award, 11th; Who’s Who in High School Sports, 10th, 11th & 12th; set Ponca City High School Wrestling Record of Most Wins in Season with 37 Victories, 12th; Placed in 13 out of 15 tournaments throughout his high school career. Duren’s community service includes doing volunteer work for Habitat for Humanity, Hospice/Peachtree Landing Assisted Living Thrift Store. Other activities included being selected to attend Oklahoma Boys State 11th; elected by peers as a City Mayor; was fifth most physically fit Boys State delegate from a field of 730 delegates; Fellowship of Christian Athletes; Youth Soccer Referee [1991-1998]; Oklahoma State Youth Soccer Referee of the Year by the Oklahoma State Soccer Associate, 10th. Other activities include, member of First Christian Church; President of Explorer Boy Scout Post 69, 11th & 12th; Ponca City High School “Great Race,” sponsored by The History Channel, team participant, 11th, student representative to the Kiwanis Club, 12th; Technology Education Award [Architecture], 11th; Member of Young Life. Duren has been self-employed for three years in a lawn mowing operation and also has worked for three years at Pauline’s Supper Club. Marriage Special On KLVV MondayKLVV radio will air a special edition of Focus on the Family on Monday. The question for all husbands: “Is your wife your greatest treasure?” In this message “Cherish Your Wife” from Focus on the Family, Dr. Walter Larimore describes the important role a wife plays in the life of a man. The 30-minute program will air three times on Monday at 6 a.m., 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. and will help husbands learn the true meaning of loving, honoring, and cherishing their wives. KLVV is a non-profit Christian radio station that broadcasts on 88.7 FM Northern Oklahoma and Southern Kansas, 98.3 FM Enid, 106.7 FM Stillwater, and 97.3 FM Guthrie. McCord Students Force School Principal Boyd Braden to Pucker Up and Kiss a PigBy KRISTI HAYES News Education Editor Boy, what a sight... your school principal kissing a pig! That’s exactly what McCord School principal Boyd Braden did — all for the love of students and reading. Students at McCord recently celebrated Oklahoma Celebration of Reading in which several activities were held during the month-long celebration. Braden was challenged by the students to kiss a pig if the school earned a high number of Accelerated Reader points. The points were accumulated after students read books and took computer-oriented tests. In order for Braden to kiss the pig, the school had to earn a total of 800 points. On Feb. 17, that challenge was met with students earning a total of 1,200 points. The final moment of truth came for Braden that Friday when he had to pucker up his lips and kiss the pig. Other Activities Other contests held during the month included a Kick Off Contest where one student from each grade was selected to kick a football across the soccer goal with Braden receiving his turn after each student. The contest ended in a tie. McCord was visited by book characters including Max from the book, Where the Wild Things Are, and Arthur the Anteater from the popular books by Marc Brown. Several school teachers also dressed up as their favorite book characters to add to the excitement. Over 80 students were “caught” reading in their homes during one week. Teachers would call the students at home and ask them if they were reading. They would ask students questions about the title, characters and plot. If the students answered the questions correctly, they were “caught” reading. Students who participated in the event attended a cotton candy party. Western Sizzlin donated the materials and machine for the event. Fifth grade McCord students also participated in an essay contest. The theme for the essay was Reading Bridges the Centuries. Students wrote on subjects such as how we learn about history from books. Others wrote on what enjoyment they received from reading a good book. Three winners selected were Amanda Schultz, first place; Mellisa Dauzat, second place; and Shawn Calhoun, third place. Weather Personality Set for Show HereTelevision weatherman personality Jim Giles will be in Ponca City on Tuesday, March 14, for a public appearance at Hutchins Memorial Auditorium. Emergency Management Director Tom Montgomery noted that Giles will be available for questions and answers after a presentation that will also include a lecture and video at 6:30 p.m. that night. “I hope we can get the Hutchins full of people for the presentation,” Montgomery said. “Giles has had several of these shows in eastern Oklahoma for several years, and they have been well received,” said Montgomery. Giles became chief meteorologist and weather anchor for KOTV, Channel 6, in 1981 and since that time, joined forces in 1995 with KVOO AM and FM radio because of their strong emphasis on weather. He was voted repeatedly as Tulsa’s most reliable and most liked weather forecaster. His severe weather expertise has been featured nationally on CBS and syndicated programming. Giles’ Wild, Wild Weather Shows on Oklahoma storms draw thousands each year. A professional meteorologist since 1961, holder of the American Meteorological Society’s Seal of Approval for Broadcasters, a teacher and lecturer, he is no stranger to Oklahoma’s changing and sometimes violent weather. Montgomery notes that the tornadoes can happen anytime in Oklahoma, and citizens should seek shelter under an underpass, as they are exposed to the violent winds from three directions. He emphasized that families should have a disaster plan at both work and home, and what they would do if out on the highway. A severe thunderstorm watch is when conditions exist to produce severe thunderstorms. A severe thunderstorm warning is when a thunderstorm has been sighted and will impact with winds reaching 58 miles an hour or more, and hail three-quarters of an inch or larger, with severe lightning and possible flooding, and even the possibility of a tornado. A tornado watch is issued when conditions exist to produce a tornado. A tornado warning is issued when a tornado has been sighted, and citizens should take shelter in designated areas. Montgomery also notes that motorists should not drive into water over the roadway as “it takes less than two feet of water to wash a car off the road. More people die each year in the U.S. from flooding than from lightning or tornadoes, with most of the deaths coming from drivers driving into the water over the road.” SJRMC Receives High Mammography Quality RatingSt. Joseph Regional Medical Center recently received an “all items in compliance” rating following a Mammography Quality Standards Act [MQSA] inspection, according to Mike Lindsey, SJRMC Radiology director. The inspection compared specific items in six major areas including equipment performance, personnel qualifications, and outcome audits to required standards. The inspection showed all areas reviewed at SJRMC were in compliance with the required standard. The MQSA, passed by congress in 1992, established a number of requirements aimed at strengthening the quality of mammography services nationwide. Facilities must meet quality standards set by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for personnel and image quality to be certified to perform mammography. They must also be inspected annually by an FDA-trained inspector to assure continuing compliance with standards. Facilities must be certified to lawfully perform mammography and to be reimbursed by Medicare and Medicaid for mammography services. There were 3,400 mammograms performed at SJRMC in 1999. Health Department, Restaurants Combine to Prevent Hepatitis AThe Kay County Health Department and local restaurants and food service establishments have joined together in a unique project to help prevent the spread of hepatitis A in the community. The Kay County Health Department is now offering hepatitis A vaccination for employees of restaurants and food service establishments in an effort to prevent the transmission of hepatitis A to customers. “It’s a win-win situation for everybody,” said Mike O’Connor, health department administrator. “No restaurant owner or manager wants to be notified that an employee has been identified as having hepatitis A, and no customer wants to hear that they may have been exposed to hepatitis A at their favorite eating spot. This new program will provide a level of protection that will benefit everyone.” Under the health department program, owners pay $25 per dose of vaccine given to their employees. The fee covers the cost of vaccine, administration and record keeping and will be used to purchase more vaccine to continue the program. The vaccinations are given in a two-shot series, with the second vaccination approximately six months after the first. Each employee receiving the vaccination will receive a card that documents the employee has received the two-shot series. O’Connor pointed out that the potential for loss of business and long-term effects resulting from public disclosure can be disastrous for restaurant and food service establishments. “Last year the Oklahoma Legislature addressed this problem by providing a tax credit for restaurant and food service owners who pay for hepatitis A immunizations given to their employees,” he said. Hepatitis A is a commonly reported infectious disease in Oklahoma. The hepatitis A virus is found in the intestinal tract of an infected individual and is shed in the stool. Transmission of the virus occurs when an infected person touches food or another object that is then placed in the mouth of another person. O’Connor emphasized that the hepatitis A vaccine is not intended to replace adequate food safety hygiene among food service workers. “Thorough hand washing with soap and warm water after using the restroom and before preparing food is absolutely essential,” he said. “Each hand sink in the restaurant or food service establishment should be well stocked with soap and towels and a ready supply of hot water, and each employee should be taught the importance of proper hand washing.” For more information, contact Kay County Health Department at (580) 762-1641. Seminars for Understanding The Blind Will be in MarchFree “Meeting the Challenge” seminars set for march in Oklahoma City and Tulsa will help businesses, professionals and service providers better understand visual disabilities and what can be done to assure equal and effective service to customers who are blind. The seminars are sponsored by the division of Visual Services in the Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services. “Meeting The Challenge” dates and location are: Oklahoma City: Wednesday, March 15, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Clarion Meridian Convention Center, 737 S. Meridian Tulsa: Wednesday, March 22, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Doubletree Downtown, 617 West 7th Street “People with visual impairments are part of our communities, and their numbers are growing as America ages. These individuals shop at our stores, use city services, purchase goods and services from a variety of businesses, and they are among the clientele served by all agencies, both public and private,” explains Elaine Boykin, who coordinates the division of Visual Services’ instructional programs for blind individuals. “Anyone who serves the general public will at some time have a customer of client who is blind. The upcoming seminars will help people become more comfortable with blindness and direct them to useful resources,” said Boykin. Seminar topics include causes of blindness, adjustment factors, how to interact when you meet a person who is blind, adaptive devices used by the blind, simulating vision loss, the methods visually impaired people use to access the printed word, and how to guide a person who is blind. Resource information provided will direct participants to sources for braille production, support services and adaptive products that can make a business or program more accessible to individuals with vision loss. There is no charge for the seminars, but advance registration is requested by March 10. For more information or to register for a seminar, contact Marilyn Sanders in Tulsa at 918-742-8989, or Elaine Boykin in Oklahoma City at 405-951-3481. 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. Today Ponca Playhouse presents A Few Good Men, 2 p.m., Poncan Theatre, contact George Dickinson, 580-765-5360. Monday Ponca City Board of Commissioners Work Session, 2 p.m., Public Safety Center Commissioners Room, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue. Tuesday Library Preschool Program Lion’s Roar, 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m., storytimes for ages 4-7, Ponca City Public Library. Kay County Conservation District Annual Awards Banquet, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., Northern Oklahoma College, Tonkawa, call 362-2438 for reservations. Wednesday Sage, Rosemary and Thyme Garden Club, 9:30 a.m., more information call 762-9866 or 718-0314. Library Preschool Program Lion’s Roar, 10 a.m. and 10:30 a.m., storytimes for ages 2-3, Ponca City Public Library. Community Pool Committee, 4:30 p.m., YMCA. Rural Water, Sewer and Solid Waste Management District No. 3 Board Meeting, 7 p.m., District Pump House, Perch Lane, Sandy Park Estates. Thursday Ponca City Housing Authority, 10 a.m., Broadway Plaza, 201 East Broadway Avenue. Ponca City Noon Ambucs, noon-1 p.m., Ponca City Country Club, interested in joining, come by. Agrarian Club, 6 p.m., southwest meeting room, Western Sizzlin’. East Middle School PTSA Board Meeting, 6:30-7:30 p.m., East Middle School Library, questions Karen Franseen 767-1280. American Legion Huff-Minor Post 14, 7:30 p.m., Post Home, 407 West South Avenue, Ponca City. Friday-Saturday Ponca Playhouse presents A Few Good Men, 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Poncan Theatre, contact George Dickinson, 580-765-5360. March 13 Ponca City Board of Commissioners, 5:30 p.m., Public Safety Center, Commissioners’ Room, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue, Ponca City Utility Authority and Ponca City Development Authority follow. March 14 State Primary Election, includes City Commission Election, polls open 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Economic Development Advisory Board, 7:30 a.m., City Commission Chamber, Public Safety Center, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue. Library Preschool Program Patchwork Quilt, 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m., storytimes for ages 4-7, Ponca City Public Library. Ponca City Library Board, 11:30 a.m., Ponca City Library Board Room, 515 East Grand Avenue. AARP, 12:30 p.m., Wheatheart Nutrition Center. Weather Seminar for the Public, by Channel 6 TV weatherman Jim Giles, 6:30 p.m., Hutchins Memorial Auditorium, under the direction of Tom Montgomery, Risk Management Operator. Kaw Lake Association 2000 Board Meeting, 6:30 p.m., Kay Electric, Blackwell. McCord Volunteer Fire Department, 7 p.m., McCord School Library. Rural Water District No. 1 Directors Meeting, 7:30 p.m., Enterprise School Building, Lake Road and Enterprise Road. March 15 Library Preschool Program Patchwork Quilt, 10 a.m. and 10:30 a.m., storytimes for ages 2-3, Ponca City Public Library. Ponca City Public School Foundation, 12 noon at the Ponca City Library. Ponca City Tourism Authority, 2 p.m., Cultural Center Sunroom, 1000 East Grand Avenue. March 16 Ponca City Noon Ambucs, noon-1 p.m., Ponca City Country Club, interested in joining, come by. Park and Recreation Advisory Board, 5:30 p.m., Public Safety Center Commissioners Room, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue. KLVV 88.7 FM presents FFH and special guest Aaron Benward in concert at Enid’s Mark Price Arena at 7 p.m. Tickets go on sale Feb. 9. Call 767-1400 for more information. March 17 RSVP hosting St. Patrick’s Day meeting, 11:30 - 1 p.m., Top of Oklahoma Museum, 303 South Main, Blackwell, members invited and asked to bring a salad or vegetable dish, Ponca City members welcome to join in for good food, fellowship and fun. Traffic Commission, 1:15 p.m., Public Safety Center Commissioner Room, 200 East Oklahoma. Mark Hummel and The Blues Survivors, 7:30 p.m., Poncan Theatre, 104 East Grand, for tickets call the Poncan Monday through Friday between 1 and 5 p.m., 580-765-0943. March 20 Ponca City Board of Commissioners Work Session, 2 p.m., Public Safety Center Commissioners Room, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue. United Ostomy Association, Stillwater-Ponca City Chapter, 7 p.m., Jane Johnson, RN, CETN — ET Nurse from Enid, will present program, Conference Room B, St. Joseph Regional Medical Center, Ponca City. March 21 Marland Estate Commission, 4:30 p.m., Program Room, Ponca City Library, 515 East Grand Avenue. Osage Cove Volunteer Fire Department, 7 p.m., Fire Station, corner U.S. 60E and Keeler Road, new volunteers always welcome. DAV, 7 p.m., 401 South Lincoln Street. March 22 St. Patrick’s Day themed luncheon and card party, noon-3:30 p.m., sponsored by St. Francis Guild of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, in the church parish hall, tickets $5 each, purchased by calling Deanna Nicholas, 762-5496; Joan Slovacek, 762-5953; or Beverly Smith, 762-2695; community welcome, luncheon tables available for non-card playing attendees. March 23 Alzheimer’s Support Group, 7 p.m., Conference Room A (in cafeteria), St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. American Legion Huff-Minor Post 14, 7:30 p.m., Post Home, 407 West South Avenue, Ponca City. March 25 Church Women United Spring Fling Arts and Crafts Show, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Unity Gym, benefit for Child Development Center, a United Way Agency, booth spaces available, more information 762-9669 or 718-0019. March 27 Ponca City Board of Commissioners, 5:30 p.m., Public Safety Center, Commissioners’ Room, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue, Ponca City Utility Authority and Ponca City Development Authority follow. March 31 Howard Hanger Jazz Fantasy, 7:30 p.m. at the Poncan Theatre, sponsored by the Ponca City Arts & Humanities Council. Free admission, no tickets necessary. April 1 American Legion pancake and sausage feed (all the pancakes you can eat), from 6:30 to 10 a.m., Post Home, 407 West South Avenue, Ponca City. Adults $3.50. Children under 12: $2. Children under 6: free. Proceeds will go to children and youth activities. WBBZ Spring Expo, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Hutchins Memorial Auditorium, free admission. The Platters with The Marvelettes, 7:30 p.m., the Poncan Theatre, 104 East Grand Avenue, for tickets, call the Poncan Monday through Friday between 1 and 5 p.m. 580-765-0943. April 6 Tree Sale by the Kay County Conservation District Office, 115 S. Maple, Newkirk, 8 a.m. to noon, seedlings available, minimum order 200 in bundles of 50, variety of species available, forestry officials available for advice. Ponca City Noon Lions present the Plummer Family Country Music Show, 7:30 p.m. at Hutchins Memorial Auditorium, North Fifth and Overbrook. For tickets call 580-765-5676. April 12 Rural Water, Sewer and Solid Waste Management District No. 3 Board Meeting, 7 p.m., District Pump House, Perch Lane, Sandy Park Estates. April 13, 14, 15, 16 Annual Easter Pageant presented by First Baptist Church, “No Name Under Heaven ... Jesus!” 7 p.m. nightly, Hutchins Memorial Auditorium, tickets free but necessary and available at First Baptist Church office, Pioneer Bank and Trust, the Master’s Touch, and KLVV in Ponca City, Guy Lyall Insurance in Tonkawa and Eastman National Bank in Newkirk. April 17 United Ostomy Association, Stillwater-Ponca City Chapter, 7 p.m., business and election meeting, Stillwater Medical Center Board Room. April 18 Kaw Lake Association 2000 Board Meeting, noon, Golden Corral. April 19 Ponca City Tourism Authority, 2 p.m., Cultural Center Sunroom, 1000 East Grand Avenue. May 6 Victorian Chocolate Festival, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Grand Central Station, lunch 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., French pastries, chocolate and specialty food booths. June 3 Gary Lewis and The Playboys with Mitch Ryder, 6:30 and 9:30 p.m., the Poncan Theatre, 104 East Grand Avenue, for tickets call the Poncan Monday through Friday between 1 and 5 p.m. 580-765-0943. DEATHSIrene Mildred Stone Irene Mildred StoneBLACKWELL — Irene Mildred Stone, resident of Blackwell, died Thursday night, March 2, 2000 at the Blackwell Nursing Home in Blackwell. She was 90. Graveside services will be conducted Monday at 2 p.m., March 6, 2000 in the James W. Roberts Memorial Chapel in Blackwell Cemetery with the Rev. Kenneth Armstrong, rector of Grace Episcopal Church in Ponca City, officiating. Roberts and Son Funeral Home, Blackwell, is in charge of arrangements. Irene Mildred Stone was born July 30, 1909 in Watford, Hertfordshire, England, the daughter of Allan and Clara Jane Stone. She came to the United States with her parents in April of 1915. They made their last trip on the Lusitania which sank off the coast of Ireland on its return trip to England. Irene attended schools in Blackwell and graduated from Blackwell High School in 1928. She then attended Northern Oklahoma Junior College in Tonkawa, receiving a degree in elementary education. She began teaching in the Blackwell school system — first teaching at Lincoln School from 1930 to 1936, and then at Washington School as a kindergarten teacher from 1936 to 1975 when she retired. She was a member of the St. Mark’s Episcopal Church of Blackwell, before it joined with Grace Episcopal Church in Ponca City. She was also a member of the Oklahoma Education Association, Kay County Retired Teachers and the Book Review Club where she had served as president. Surviving are a son, Bill Stone of Aurora, Colo. and several grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, and a brother, Allan Robert Stone. ObituariesClarence HeltonTONKAWA — Clarence Helton, Tonkawa resident, died late Thursday afternoon, March 2, 2000 at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center in Ponca City. He was 80. The funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on Monday, March 6, 2000, at the United Methodist Church in Tonkawa, under the direction of McCafferty-Bolick Funeral Home. Following the service, burial will be in the Tonkawa IOOF Cemetery. Clarence Helton, a twin, was born in Morristown, Tenn. on Sept. 23, 1919, the son of William Jonas and Minnie Alice (Cullip) Helton. When he was six months old, the family moved to Missouri and later to Kansas. He attended grade school at Pleasant Center, Butler County rural school, and graduated from high school at Potwin, Kan. Clarence worked for Douglas Aircraft in Santa Monica, Calif. and at Tulsa, Okla. before entering the U.S. Air Force during World War II. After his discharge, he was a civilian employee at Tinker Air Force Base in Oklahoma City from 1947 to 1955. He owned and operated DairyLand Drive-in in Tonkawa from 1955 to 1965, and later marketed slush machines in the western United States and abroad from 1965 until retirement in 1991. He continued to do refrigeration work even during his retirement. Flying was an important part of Clarence’s life for over 40 years, and for much of that time he owned his own plane. He enjoyed fishing for crappie, and was a lifelong quail hunter, always keeping a pair of English Setter dogs. He enjoyed trapshooting for many years, winning the Oklahoma Rookie of the Year title in 1960, as well as many other trophies at registered shoots in Oklahoma and Kansas. Clarence served on the Board of Directors of the Service Bank of Tonkawa from 1968 to 1978. He also served on the Board of Directors of the Blackwell-Tonkawa Airport Trust for 10 years, acting as treasurer for most of that time. He was a member of the American Legion and Tonkawa Chamber of Commerce. Clarence and Marilee Moore were married July 12, 1947 in El Dorado, Kan. He is survived by his wife, Marilee, of the home; his twin brother, Clifford Helton of Oklahoma City, another brother, Marion Helton of Fort Dodge, Kan., and a sister, Beulah Diller of El Dorado, Kan. He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, Ellis and Henry, and two sisters, Minnie and Mary Virginia. A memorial has been established with the United Methodist Church, and contributions may be made through the church office or the funeral home, or to the American Cancer Society. paid obituary Services PendingA.C. RichesonFAIRFAX — A.C. Richeson, former long time resident of Fairfax, died Friday morning, March 3, 2000 at his home in Miami, Okla. He was 81. Services will be held at 2 p.m. Monday, March 6, 2000 at the New Hope Church in Fairfax. Other arrangements are pending with Hunsaker-Wooten Funeral Home, and will be announced later. NEWS BRIEFSClass of 1947 — The Ponca City High School graduation class of 1947 will gather Tuesday, March 7, for a planning meeting for a reunion to be held in September. All members are encouraged to attend the 7 p.m. meeting downstairs in the Ponca City Library. For more information call 762-2184. Have Pet? Can travel! In-home pet sitting service. We love them when you have to leave them! 762-4205. adv. Ponca Tribal Meeting — A Ponca tribal meeting will be held 6:30 p.m. Monday in the conference room of the Ponca Tribal Housing Authority to discuss the Ponca Tribal Dictionary Project and the new ANA language proposal application. For more information call Phyllis Russ at (580) 762-3009. Windshield Chips repaired professionally. Guaranteed and insurance approved. Ponca Glass, 300 W. Highland and Pine. 762-6522. adv. Islands of New England — Islands of New England Travel Show at 10 a.m. Tuesday with Home National Bank Heritage Club, main bank board room. Call 763-5543 for additional information. Kids Review now accepting spring/summer childrens consignments. adv. Weatherman Here —Channel 6 TV weatherman Jim Giles will hold a weather seminar for the public at 6:30 p.m., on March 14 at Hutchins Memorial, according to Tom Montgomery, Risk Management Operator. Garden gift, bird houses, statuary, and lots of bunnies! Mrs. Brown’s Attic, Ponca Plaza. adv. YMCA Schedule Change — YMCA evening Aqua Jog in the deep well will change to 5:45 to 6:30 p.m. effective Monday. 25 Cents a gallon drinking water. Pure Water Wagon 1717 N. 5th. adv. Dog Fight — The Communications Center received a call at 5:10 p.m. Friday that a dog fight in a yard of the 300 block of Warwick Road was occurring. Two officers of the Ponca City Police Department responded and Animal Control was notified to contact owners concerning rabies tags and shot records of the dogs. A report was taken and citations were issued. Awards Banquet — The Kay County conservation district awards banquet will be March 7 on the Northern Oklahoma College campus. The complementary meal will be served at 6:30 p.m. with awards to be presented at 7:30 p.m. Stormescape Shelters, perfect for garage, under vehicle, installation. $1,695. 765-2633. adv. Reunion Committee Meeting — The Class of 1965 Reunion Committee meeting will be Monday, March 6, 6:30 p.m., at 130 Elmwood. For more information, call 765-7165. Onion Plants, and sets, asparagus, broccoli, brussel sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, rhubarb, strawberry plant, bulk seed and bulbs now available. Open Sunday. Keathly Nursery. adv. Vehicle Vandalized — A woman reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 10:31 a.m. Friday that her vehicle had been kicked and vandalized last Saturday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Free Pregnancy test. Birth Choice cares. Confidential. Hours: Tuesday, 6-8 p.m., Wednesday, 1-3 p.m. and Thursday, 6-8 p.m. 700 West Broadway. 765- 9689. adv. Accident — An accident at the intersection of East South Avenue and South Fifth Street was reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 11:53 a.m. Friday. Two officers were assigned and a report was taken. Closing Sale. 50% off All clothing at Harts in The Mercantile. adv. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the intersection of South Oak Street and West Ponca Avenue at 12:36 p.m. Friday that a man was being held for two Sedgwick County, Kan., warrants. Jueschke Carpet Cleaners. For professional carpet cleaning, call the professionals. Jueschke Carpet Cleaners. 765-3421. adv. Check for Fire — The Communications Center received a report at 3:48 a.m. Saturday that a unit from the Ponca City Fire Department had responded to the 1400 block of North Seventh Street to check a house when the resident smelled smoke. The resident was to call a heat/air conditioning service as a result of the situation. Requests Assistance — An official at school, 1401 West Grand Avenue, requested assistance from the Ponca City Police Department at 1:46 p.m. Friday when a parent had been causing problems and was still in the parking lot. Information was logged. Special 40 lb. cow manure, 99 cents each. Limit 10 bags. Open Sunday. Keathly Nursery. adv. Disturbance — A man from the 800 block of North Elm Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 2:29 p.m. Friday that an other person was trying to break into a vehicle and residence. Three officers were assigned and a report was taken. Court Allen Construction. Brick, flagstone, concrete, walkway’s, patios and planters. Call 765-2720. adv. Accident — An accident at the intersection of North Fourteenth Street and East Hartford Avenue was reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 2:51 p.m. Friday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Great Fund raiser: Rent a booth at Victorial Chocolate festival. Saturday, May 6th. Chocolate and food items. Call 762-6700. adv. Assault — An employee at the emergency room of St. Joseph Regional Medical Center reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 3:57 p.m. Friday that a 14-year-old boy was being treated for injuries from a fight at East Mid-High. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Gas Drive-Off — A clerk at Citgo, 320 West Grand Avenue, reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 4:06 p.m. Friday that a subject had left without paying for $3.01 worth of gas. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Theft — A woman from the 700 block of West Otoe Avenue reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 4:07 p.m. Friday that someone had stolen her trash can. An officer was assigned and the item was returned to the owner. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 900 block of East Hubbard Road at 10:53 p.m. Friday that a 25-year-old woman was being held for furnishing alcohol beverage to a person under 21. Fight — The Communications Center received a call at 4:35 p.m. Friday that a fight had occurred in the parking lot of Miller Market. An officer of the Ponca City Police Department responded and a report was taken. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 1300 block of East South Avenue at 8:46 p.m. Friday that a 23-year-old man was being held for possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of marijuana. Gas Drive-Off — A clerk at Triple T, 201 West Hartford Avenue, reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 9:21 p.m. Friday that a subject had driven off without paying for $7.02 worth of gas. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Gas Drive-Off — A clerk from Citgo, 320 West Grand Avenue, reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 9:54 p.m. Friday that a subject had driven off without paying for $7 worth of gas. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 100 block of North Fourteenth Street at 9:56 p.m. Friday that an 18-year-old man was being held for having no driver’s license and speeding. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 1400 block of East South Avenue at 10:54 p.m. Friday that a man was being held for DWI, having no headlights and having no insurance. Subjects Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the intersection of North Fifth Street and East Highland Avenue at 1:41 a.m. Saturday that a 43-year-old man was being held for DUI and driving under suspension and a 28-year-old man was being held for public intoxication. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the intersection of North Fourteenth Street and East Overbrook Avenue at 3:30 a.m. Saturday that a 25-year-old woman was being held for DUI, driving left of center and having no insurance. Accident — A vehicle blocking the intersection of North Fourth Street and East Hartford Avenue was reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 3:54 a.m. Saturday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. The vehicle was towed from the scene. LIFESTYLESOklahoma Cookbook A Regional Favorite Oklahoma Cookbook A Regional FavoriteBy PATTI CARMACK News Lifestyles Editor Regional recipes are often the most favored ones because they are just that — regional. This means they are traditional, comfortable, and the ingredients are easily found. This is not to say that we all don’t like to try new, unusual or similar recipes upon occasion, just that familiar recipes are guaranteed successes! The most recent edition of the Oklahoma Cookbook, Golden West Publishers, features frontier favorites as well as appetizers, breakfast ideas, savory side dishes, soups, stews and salads, as well as delicious desserts. The recipes include favorites from good cooks across the state and are spiced with trivia about the sooner state. The easy-to-read format and fully-indexed cookbook will make this a favorite for your collection. Many of the recipes are familiar, yet have a taste twist that may soon be added to your family’s menu requests. The book is available through local bookstores, specialty food shops, or from the publishers. Family recipes passed from generation to generation add to the “homey” flavor of this book. The introduction of this latest Oklahoma Cookbook indicates that ethnic traditions, from Native Americans to Polish immigrants, as well as the Mennonites who settled in what was once known as Indian Territory, have contributed to the food preferences for this region. So bent on being farmers were the Mennonites that women sewed Turkey Red wheat into the hems of their dresses and carried it to their new homes in a once-hostile land. Breads of course are featured on nearly every table in the state. Oklahoma is home to three major flour mills, and boasts 33.2 million acres of farmland. Along with the recipes for great food are tidbits of Oklahoma History. Following are some of the recipes supplied by cooks in this area, including the towns of Lamont, Red Rock and Billings. Sourdough PancakesNorma Kirby, Lamont 2 cups flour 2 cups warm water 1/2 cup sourdough starter 2 tablespoons sugar 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 3 tablespoons cooking oil 2 eggs, slightly beaten 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1 tablespoon water Mix flour, 2 cups warm water and sourdough starter; beat with a wooden spoon until smooth. Cover. Let stand in a warm place overnight. Add sugar, salt, baking powder, oil and eggs to the batter; beat well. Batter will be lumpy. dissolve baking soda in 1 tablespoon water and stir into batter. Bake on ungreased griddle. Serves 6-8. The starter recipe is included in the book. Fried Green Tomatoes“My mother always made this during fresh tomato season. I still do, and it’s a favorite of our family and friends.” Jon Whitehead, Billings 6-8 large green tomatoes 2 eggs salt and pepper to taste 1/2 cooking oil flour Wash, stem and slice unpeeled tomatoes about 1/2-inch thick. Beat eggs lightly, add salt and pepper and combine. In a skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Dip slices of tomato in egg mixture, then in flour, covering well. Cook tomatoes in hot oil in a skillet, turning when tender and brown. Serves 4. Grape-Tapioca Pudding“This was the most requested dessert when my grandmother came for sunday dinner” — Glenda Riddle, The Homestead Bed and Breakfast at GT Ranch, Red Rock 1 cup minute tapioca 1 quart grape juice 1 cup sugar 1/2 cup orange juice 1 cup chopped pecans 1 1/2 cups crushed pineapple vanilla wafers Measure grape juice and tapioca into a heavy saucepan. Cook, stirring often. The tapioca will take about 20 minutes to thicken. Add the sugar slowly and stir until dissolved. Take off the stove and let it cool. Add 1/2 cup orange juice, the chopped pecans and crushed pineapple with juice. Mix well. Pour into an attractive glass serving dish and line the edges with vanilla wafers. Updated Cookbook for Sale Guild Luncheon Marks 30th YearIt was on St. Patrick’s Day, March 17, 1970, when the women of Saint Francis Guild of Saint Mary’s Catholic church sponsored their first salad luncheon and card party in the parish hall of the church. This year, on Wednesday, March 22, noon-3:30 p.m., the women of the guild will once again host the event. Tickets to the event are $5 each and may be obtained by calling Deanna Nicholas, 762-5496; Joan Slovacek, 762-5953; or Beverly Smith, 762-2695. Marking the 30th anniversary of hosting the luncheon, several guild members who participated at the beginning of the event will be contributing to the preparation and serving this year. Proceeds from the fundraising project will be used by the guild to sponsor various causes and agencies in the community. Some of the groups benefiting from the event have been Hospice, Habitat for Humanity, Peachtree Landing, Transitional Living, Birthright, Child Development Center, Ponca City Welfare, and Drug Free Youth Program. Marilyn Tharp and Rachel Taylor, who have served as chairpersons for the luncheon since the early 70s, will coordinate the event this year. All guild members participate in the event. Committee chairmen include Joan Slovacek, Deanna Nicholas and Beverly Smith, tickets; Sue Lawson, decorations, tallies and posters; Pat Courtney and Pat Lowe, coffee; Teresa Bohon and Darlene Kassen, telephone and card tables. Also Helen Quilling and Eileen Spellman, Kitchen; Maxine Griggs, rolls; Mary Joan McCann, publicity; Jan Neylon, door prizes; Del Kotarski, tablecloths; Dee Enveoldson and Joan Slovacek, table cleaning’ Millie Huth, salads; rosemary Ramsey and donna Johnson, elevator operators; Joanne Morgan, salad., rolls and cookie sales. All salads, beverages, rolls and desserts are made by guild members. An added feature for this 30th anniversary luncheon will be the availability of an updated and expanded cookbook produced by the guild. The book contains recipes for hot, cold and dessert salads, rolls and cookies served at the luncheon. Beverly Smith is in charge of compiling the recipe book. Cost for the book is $3. Prizes to be awarded at this year’s luncheon include a denim quilt, Easter and Christmas theme placemats and napkins; and jars of pickles canned by Jan Neylon. Mary Hunt of Tulsa, former guild member, has contributed an original handknit navy plaid cardigan sweater, and Joan Slovacek has donated a hand-painted birdhouse. AAUW Honors Area Women of the Year at BanquetMembers of the Ponca City Branch, American Association of University Women, held the annual Woman’s Day Banquet Thursday at the Ponca City Country Club. Several area women were honored for outstanding service to the community. Ruth Ritter was chairman for the banquet, and guest speaker and one of the honorees, was Dr. Dona Veal Scovill. The welcome address was given by Grace Chism, president of the Ponca city AAUW. Those women selected by different organizations as “Woman of the Year” are Dona Veal Scovill, the late Florence Riesen, Donna Swope, Lilly Freeman, Lilly Strickland, Darlene Platt, Eleanor Coates, Loretta Leathers, Oletta Demaree, Jaylene Soulek, Mary Anne Potter, Hollye Theobald, Sandy Graves, Louise Willison, Bonnie Nimerick, Lynda Clark, and Ruth Ritter. Ruth Ritter AAUW “Woman of the Year” is Ruth Ritter, who was introduced by Grace Chism. Well-known in Ponca City for the volunteer services she does, she is a member of St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, Stephen’s Ministry, United Methodist Women, a volunteer in mission projects (Mexico, Costa Rico, Hawaii), and chairman of the Evangelism committee. She also weeds and waters the flower beds at the church. Ritter is chairman of the pool committee at the YMCA, a board member of Meals on Wheels, board member of Retired Senior Volunteers Program, board member at Westminster Village, and a 15 year volunteer at Hospice. Louise Willison Louise Willison, Pioneer Genealogy Society honoree, was introduced by Sue Clinton. Willison was born in Sapulpa. Her father worked for Conoco, and when she was two, he was transferred to Ponca City. She and her husband, Bob, have been married 51 years and have three children, eight grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Over the years she has had many hobbies including sewing, crafting, painting, gardening, camping and traveling. Seventeen years were spent working for Continental Pipe Line Company, where she learned to work with computers. She has been active in the First Christian Church for many years, and it was there that she took a mini-course in genealogy taught by Ruth Starnes. That was when her “addiction” to genealogy began. Willison edits and types the Pioneer Genealogical Society Newsletter. She joined several others in starting a PGS Computer Interest Group. Eleanor Coates Eleanor Coates was introduced by Sandy Graves as an honoree from the North Central Oklahoma Historical Association. Eleanor did a lot of research on her, and husband Carl’s, lineage to American Revolution War Ancestors and beyond. Membership in Daughters of the American Revolution brought Eleanor into contact with the many people, with whom she exchanged genealogical information. She has served the local chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution as treasurer. Their family stories are among several published in the two-volume Kay County History Book, with Eleanor joining the team to create and fulfill a dream of many area residents. Because of deafness, the Coates have been instrumental in helping with “hearing dogs.” Mrs. Coates belongs to several organizations and is very active in promoting the history of this area. Darlene Platt Darlene Platt, also an honoree for the Northern Oklahoma Historical Association, was introduced by Paula Denson. Born and reared in Ponca City, Platt attended local schools, and earned an associate degree in business administration from Northern Oklahoma College. She enjoys local history and writing about it. Platt authored the history section of the NCOHA book and also authored articles for the Oklahoma State Troopers Magazine. She is employed by the city, working at the Ponca City Cultural Center putting in new displays and helping with renovation projects. Sandy Graves Sandy Graves was born in Ponca City and attended Ponca City Schools. She is married James R. Graves. They have four children and five grandchildren. Sandy is the honoree for Friends of the Cultural Center and was also introduced by Denson. Graves has participated in various activities from president of the Association for Children with Learning Disabilities to raising and showing Norwegian Elkhounds. Sandy also taught Tole and Folk Art Painting for over 25 years. She presently works at Pioneer Technology Center in the Business and Industry Services Division. Currently, Sandy serves on the board of North Central Oklahoma Historical Association, was president of the Pioneer Genealogical Society for the past three years, and now serves as workshop chairman for that group. She is president of the Friends of the Cultural Center Museum Foundation, Inc. Hollye Theobald Phyllis Larson was the presenter for the Opportunity Center Kay County Council Woman of the Year nominee, Hollye Theobald. She has been involved with the Opportunity Center in Ponca City since her student teaching days in 1976. A native of Bartlesville, she received a degree in special education from Oklahoma State University in 1976, and began teaching at the Opportunity Center in 1979, and continued in that role until the children in the program were moved to the public schools in 1990. She then transferred to the public schools and teaches special education at Union Elementary School. Hollye’s career change did not alter her interest in the Opportunity Center. She joined the Kay County Council for the Opportunity Center in 1990, and in addition to serving as president of the council for three years, she has been active on both the Caboose and Long Range Planning committees. During Hollye’s tenure as president, the Council purchased two new group homes. Hollye’s dedication to individuals with special needs is not limited to the children she teaches and the clients of the Opportunity Center. She has served two years as chairperson of the local March of Dimes. Lilly Freeman Soroptimist International of Ponca City Woman of the Year, Lilly Freeman, was introduced by Martha Denny. A native Oklahoman, She received a bachelor’s degree in biology at Panhandle State University. She was a member of Alpha Chi, President’s Honor Roll, and a ROTC color guard. Lilly began her training in California in 1994 and is now a certified Hellerwork Practitioner with her own business here in Ponca City called “Professional Bodyworks.” Bonnie Nimerick Woman of the Year for the American Business Women’s’ Association, Ponca City Charter Chapter, is Bonnie Nimerick. She was presented by Lana Byers. Bonnie was born and reared in Pawnee, graduating from Pawnee High School in 1955 and attending Tulsa Business School. On Dec. 12, 1955, she started working for Southwestern Bell Telephone Company in Pawnee. She transferred to the Ponca City Office In June of 1957. Bonnie worked for Southwestern Bell Telephone Company for 22 years, retiring in 1978. She married Elton W. Nimerick on May 10, 1957. She has two children, Melinda Dexter and Bret Wayne Nimerick. Bonnie belongs to Sunset Baptist Church and has taught Sunday school and worked several years as a teacher with mission friends. She also was involved in PTA at Washington school. Bonnie has been a member of ABWA since September 1969 and is currently serving as vice president. In past years she has held all of the elected offices of ABWA and been chairman of several committees as well as serving on various committees. She was a delegate for the Ponca City ABWA chapter at the National Convention in Minneapolis. During Bonnie’s year as president our chapter was awarded the “Star” Award, the highest award given to a chapter, at the Las Vegas National Convention. Bonnie was also Woman of the Year in 1990. Lynda Clark Ponca Citian Lynda Clark was honored by Court Appointed Special Advocate, Kay County, and introduced by Cynthia Linthicum. Clark, a graduate of Oklahoma State University with a bachelor of science degree in secondary education, taught school in Oklahoma City and Ponca City. She and her husband, Guy, moved to Ponca City in 1970. They have two adult children. Clark has served as a CASA volunteer and is serving a chairman of the Kay and Noble Counties CASA Advisory Board. She has been a member of the Northern Oklahoma Youth Services Center and shelter board member since 1976. Clark is a senior warden of Grace Episcopal Church, a member of the Four O’Clock Garden Club, member of the Marland Mansion Estate Commission, president of the Ponca city Country Club Tennis Association and vice president and tournament chairman of the country club Women’s Golf Association, and a member of Kappa Alpha Theta. She has been very active in various organizations in the community. Lilly Strickland The Ponca City Noon Lions Club of Lions International have recognized Lilly Strickland as Woman of the Year for 1999/2000, said Derrian Hiatt. Although Lilly has been a member of the PC Noon Lions for only two years, her leadership and hard work have made a major positive impact on our organization, said Hiatt. Lilly is serving a second term as Junior High Leo sponsor. She is one of two sponsors who started the Junior High Leo Club in 1998. Lilly is on the publicity committee and has taken the lead role in writing and submitting numerous articles on club activities to the newspaper. She was on a team of two who handled publicity and clerical organization of two club auctions. She was also co-leader of a committee to collect used eyeglasses with over 3000 pairs collected. Lilly was key organizer in a small club group that has prepared floats for four parades. She has sponsored two new members and been very active in recruiting new members. Lilly played a key roll with visits to the Boys Ranch, with the Lions club providing two complete Internet ready computer systems/printers to the Boys Ranch. In addition to Lions she is active in other community service organizations, Ponca City Leadership Class of 2000, and a member of First Lutheran Church. Lilly is married to Gary Strickland and has one daughter. Mary Anne Potter Sage, Rosemary, and Thyme Garden Club Woman of the Year is Mary Anne Potter. She was presented by Maureen Danielson. Potter was born and reared in Tulsa where she graduated from Monte Cassino High School. She graduated with honors from the University of Dallas with a bachelor of arts degree in elementary education. She received a master of arts degree from the University of Michigan and taught school for 18 years in Michigan, Iowa, Oklahoma, and Texas. She was a Learning Disabilities teacher in Ponca City at both Liberty and Trout Elementary Schools. Potter is the cofounder of the Ponca City Herb Festival which is now in its seventh year. She is past president of Sage, Rosemary, and Thyme Garden Club; is the 1999 Ponca City Council of Garden Clubs Gardener of the Year, and scholarship chairperson for the Ponca City Council of Garden Clubs. She is a member of the Tulsa Herb Society, and a past president of the Trout Elementary Parent Teacher Association. She was the United States Chiropractic Assistant of the Year and International Chiropractic Assistant of the Year. She is a member of the First Baptist Church of Ponca City where she has served on the Personnel Committee, Counseling Committee, Youth Committee, as a Sunday School Teacher, and Director of the seventh grade and singles Sunday School Department. Potter currently serves on the Board of Directors for the YMCA and has served on the Board of Directors for the Opportunity Center. Potter has traveled throughout the United States giving motivational workshops, chiropractic office procedure workshops, and herbal seminars. She is the author of Herbal Pleasures and has had several magazine articles published in both chiropractic and herbal magazines. Potter owns Herban Renewal Farms. However, she considers raising her three children her greatest accomplishment. She is married to Dr. Donald Potter, a local chiropractor. Jaylene Soulek 4-H Woman of the Year, 1999- 2000, is Jaylene Soulek. Presenter Joyce Courtney said “Kay County 4-H has chosen Jaylene Soulek of Nardin as our Woman of the Year.” Jaylene serves as the organizational leader for Blackwell’s OK Okies 4-H Club. She has been an active member of the County Parent/Leader Organization Executive Board for three years, last year serving as president. She is currently a member of the NW District Leaders Board of Directors. Jaylene is married to J.D. Soulek and has two sons. She is a Blackwell Middle School Science and English teacher. She is active in the Nardin Methodist Church. “Jaylene is an example of a dedicated leader, teacher, and mother that serves as a role model for all her members. If there is a member in need of special help, she is there. If there is a member in need of a word of encouragement, she is there. Likewise, if a member needs a little extra direction or control, she is behind them. Jaylene is an asset to the OK Okies and to the Kay County 4-H program.” Loretta Leathers Louise Abercrombie introduced Loretta Leathers as Professionals Today honoree. As chairman of this year’s cook-off benefiting Hospice of Ponca City, the event raised the most money ever for the charity. The club has found her professional marketing skills valuable. These skills were honed over the years as she served as executive director of the Durant Chamber of Commerce; first woman chairman of the Ponca City Economic Development Authority; director of the Ponca City Convention and Visitors center, and a combined nine years as vice president, marketing and security officer for First National Bank. On the state level she was a member of the Oklahoma Governor’s Industrial team; Oklahoma Chamber of Commerce executive’s board of directors; Oklahoma Chapter of Bank Marketing Association. On the local level she has served on the board of directors, as ambassador chairman and president’s club. she was public relations chairman for United Way, is a member of Rotary International. She served on the board of directors of First Christian Church, was secretary of the board, and director of cherub choir and a member of the adult choir. For Professionals Today she was a charter member, president, division chairman, cook-off chairman and advertising chairman. Professionals Today is a service organization, which expends all of its funds in the community and there are no national dues or conventions. The biggest project is a barbecue and chili cook-off with proceeds going to Hospice of Ponca City. Professionals Today gives an annual scholarship for a senior high school girl. The scholarship is based on need. Other annual projects include providing Christmas presents for Bridgeway, and paper products for Golden Villa. A number of individual’s are helped financially through the Community Service program. The club meets on the first and third Thursdays of the month at Golden Corral. Abercrombie concluded her presentation of leathers with an original poem. Donna Secrest presented a portrait of the late Florence Riesen, who was nominated posthumously as the Ponca City Art Association’s honoree. Discussing her mother’s many achievements, Ms. Secrest explained that the portrait had been painted by L. Kent Rous and donated to the art association. A bronze by Jo Saylors titled “Prairie Flower” has also been purchased as a memorial to Mrs. Riesen. Cynthia DeMarco Marries John V. Bizik at Tarp ChapelTarp Chapel and Gardens in Broken Arrow was the setting for the recent wedding of Cynthia M. DeMarco of Ponca City and John V. Bizik of Grove. their double-ring vows were officiated by the Rev. Gary Bishop in a 4 p.m. ceremony. The glass chapel was decorated with white roses and English ivy. The musical prelude included Bach’s “Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring.” The processionals was Pachelbel’s “Canon in D Major” and for the bride “Trumpet Voluntary” by Clarke was played as the processional and “Trumpet Tune” by Purcell as the recessional. All selections were played on the clavinova by Christine Devlin. David Clarida of Collinsville sang “Perfect Union” by Mathew Ward and “I Will Be Here” by Steven Curtis Chapman. He was accompanied by Devlin. The bride’s parents are Michael and Margaret DeMarco of Odessa, Texas, and Beverly and John Purdy of Honolulu, Hawaii. The bridegroom is the son of Vince and Jill Bizik of Grove. Grandfather is Joe Anderson of St. Louis, Mo. Candlelighters were Jan Boomer of Newkirk, and Tari Carbaugh of Houston, Texas. The guest book was attended by Kristin Capeheart of Tulsa. Honor attendant was Debbie Seals of Ponca City, and other attendants were Janet Acree of Ponca City, Kendall Claybaker of Blackwell, Gina DeMarco of Las Vegas, Nev., and Maribeth Subramaniam of Ponca City. Each was attired in an empire-waisted full-length dress. The long-sleeved bodice was fashioned from black velvet and the straight skirt was platinum colored satin. Each attendant carried a trio of white calla lilies tied with white and silver ribbon. Shane Bowman of Irving, Texas, served as Best Man, and groomsmen were Rob Mangini of Scottsdale, Ariz., Curtis Raymond of Grove, Phil Reyburn of Kansas City, Kan., and Jim Strickland of Scottsdale, Ariz. Ushers were Chris Senn of St. Louis, Mo. and Joe Senn of St. Louis, cousins of the bridegroom. The bride wore a gown of her own design custom made by Young Burns Design of Edmond. The gown featured a full-length straight skirt, illusion and lace bodice with a high lace neckline, and a sheer button-up back bodice. She carried a cascade of white roses, calla lilies, English ivy, stephanotis and silver beads. The couple held a reception at the Tulsa Marriott Southern Hills. They reside in Ponca City. The bride is a CPA employed with Conoco, and the bridegroom is a golf professional. Lookin’ With LouBy Louise Abercrombie Going To The Dogs…Just when the clerk at the make-up counter at a local store thought she had heard everything in dealing with returns, a rather common excuse was rendered by a customer who told her the dog ate the original box. Or at least devoured most of it, as the customer brought the scraps in for proof. Next thing you know, the most wanted pictures at the Post Office will include dogs and their tag numbers. Dogs sometimes get bum raps. Remember when Lucy of the comic strip Peanuts would tell the teacher the dog ate her homework? Another doggie tale comes from a lady who has two dogs. Both the dogs escaped from the yard and, guess what — one showed up at the day care center where the youngster was, and the other went immediately to the man’s place of employment. How did they know where to go? Did the canines slip some sort of computer tracking chip in their owners’ shoes? Dog tales, no pun intended, get real weird. There is one 10-year-old family dog which insists on watching television at the same time every day. He particularly likes the garden and yard shows. Of course, when they get boring, he dozes. This schnauzer loves the Lethal Weapon movies. His favorite scenes involve loud shooting and explosion sequences. Can’t you just see it now — we’ll have dog movie critics, not unlike the old Siskel and Ebert. The dogs could put three legs up for their favorites and bury a bone on the real “dogs.” And then, of course, there would be the annual Rover Awards with golden fireplug statuettes. Another family pet, a Jack Russell, loves fishing. While his owner fishes, he sits on the bank and barks until they make a catch. If he sees a fish jump up in the water, he yips and points. When a catch is made, he retrieves the fish from the water and lays it on the shore at the feet of his master. A clever mixed-Beagle would get out of the yard and spend the day running around getting into mischief in the neighborhood. Whenever he heard the family car, he would scramble back in the yard and look so innocent. This same dog would bark at no one but his mistress. He would bark gruffly, and at the same time, wag his tail. Finally she would say “shut up,” and he would think she said “hello” and he would cease yelping and give her a contented doggie grin. Dogs can be influential on children. One friend tells about the neighbor’s dog barking whenever the doorbell rang. So the two-year-old caught on and when the door bell sounded — the toddler would bark. Garden Club Members Make Plans for Tourism PresentationThe regular meeting of the Four O’Clock Garden Club was held Feb. 23 at Verlee Gardner’s home in Newkirk, with Marcia Davis, chairman, presiding. After refreshments provided by co-hostesses Betty Whetstone and Marybeth Glass, Lynda Clark polled the members regarding the April 26 trip to Tulsa. After discussion, the Tulsa trip was postponed until next year, and several options were suggested for the April meeting to be considered at a later date. Verlee Gardner introduced Jana Shafer, guest speaker and sponsor for the Newkirk Junior Main Street, the first such organization in the nation. Under her guidance, this group of young people has received numerous awards statewide and been a role model for other such groups nationwide. Their motto is “Youth With a Mission Living in the Future To Preserve the Past.” Jana Shafer grew up in Newkirk and graduated from high school here. After graduating from college, she and her husband, Walter, decided to move back to their hometown and rear their family. She taught a number of years and later served on the Newkirk school board for 20 years. Following the program, Marcia Davis opened the business meeting with the reading of the Oklahoma Gardener’s Creed. Roll was called by Sherry Muchmore, secretary, with 16 members present. Verlee Gardner, treasurer, gave the financial report and activity for the month, with a donation made to Newkirk Junior Main Street. Annual dues of $15 are now being collected. The chairman reported on Garden Council activities. She reported that O'Reilly’s Automotive will take old car oil for disposal, and Marcia reminded members to save their plants for the May plant sale. Ms. Davis reported that Guest Day will be March 22, 11 a.m., at the Ponca City Country Club with guest speaker Jane Jayroe. Jayroe’s topic will be Oklahoma tourism in the new millennium. Reservations and cancellations must be made by March 15. The cost is $11. Carl Coates Receives Sertoma Service to Mankind AwardObserving Sertoma National Heritage Week, the Ponca City Sertoma Club hosted their annual awards banquet Feb. 26 in Derrick’s in the Rose Stone Inn. Emceed by Mike Quirey, the local Sertoma Club welcomed Mel Griffin, governor for Challenger District, as a special guest. Prior to dinner, Jan Fairchild led the Pledge of Allegiance, Rose Rathbun gave the invocation, and Griffin made the Toast to Sertoma Nations. Following dinner, Quirey gave the welcome, and Nancy Van Zant and Griffin explained “What Is Sertoma.” Community Awards presentations were the highlight of the evening, with awards going to Ponca Citians who have been outstanding in their service to the community during 1999. Receiving awards were Det. Sgt. Mike Helms, Police Officer of the Year, presented by Sherri Kremeier; Lt. Col. Tom Trueblood, Citizens Soldier, presented by Mike Quirey; Capt. Jerry Elam, Fire Fighter of the Year, presented by Lance VanZant, and Service to Mankind Award to Carl Coates, presented by Nancy VanZant. Mike Helms In presenting Helms for Police Officer of the Year, Kremeier pointed out that top of the list in Helms’ credentials was his ability to work alone most of the time, yet still have the knowledge, ability and the patience to work with other younger officers and teach them the proper ways of doing the job. Helms joined the Ponca City Police Department in March of 1979 and plans to retire on March 6, 2000. He has accepted a position with the State of Oklahoma as a probation and parole officer, but will continue to live in Ponca City. Tom Trueblood Trueblood, named Citizen Soldier, was presented his award by Mike Quirey, who gave Lt. Col. Trueblood’s military background from 1965 until he left active Army duty for a 10-year break, beginning his career in the Army Reserves in 1982. He left the service with the Oklahoma Army National Guard in 1998. While in the Oklahoma Army National Guard, he served as officer in charge of the Physical Exam Station in Oklahoma City, then as chief preventive medical officer. Jerry Elam Elam, honored as Firefighter of the Year, was presented his award by Lance VanZant. He was chosen for the recognition because of his dedication to the fire service, and his willingness to do his job and offer his services when needed. He was described as one of the finest fire ground commanders on the department. Carl Coates The coveted Service to Mankind award was made this year to Carl Coates, longtime employee of The Ponca City News and, since his retirement after 46 years of service, a devoted volunteer in the Ponca City community. Carl and his wife, Eleanor, both hearing impaired, are active participants in the Hearing Dog program (Dogs for the Deaf) in which deaf owners are paired with a trained hearing dog. Carl travels the state screening people for the program, as well as helping them adjust to their new companions once they receive them. He also goes to schools around the area demonstrating with their hearing dog, Sierra, just what the dogs are capable of doing. Nancy Van Zant made the presentation to Coates. Mary Bahruth-Poskey The coveted Sertoman of the Year Award went to a member of the board of directors since she became a member — an active and enthusiastic supporter of all of the club activities — rain or shine — Mary Bahruth-Poskey. A speech-language pathologist with St. Joseph Regional Medical Center since 1989, she is known throughout the state for her dedication and involvement in her profession. She is a member of the American Speech-Language Hearing Association, and the Oklahoma Speech, Language and Hearing Association. Mark Kremeier made the presentation. Keynote speaker for the occasion was Capt. Mark Craddock. Capt. Craddock, introduced by Nancy Van Zant, master of ceremonies for the evening, emphasized the Sertoma mission of Service to Mankind — communication of thoughts, ideas, and concepts to accelerate human progress in health, education, freedom and democracy. Alpha Chi Omega Alumnae Chapter Hears Book Review; Slates ElectionThe Alpha Chi Omega Alumnae Chapter, Delta Lambda Delta, met for their February meeting in the home of Fran Mathews. Co-hostesses were Doris Stanley and Tammie Barham. Betty Price of Duncan, was a special guest at the meeting. Mrs. Price was a member of the first formal pledge class at Gamma Epsilon Chapter at Oklahoma State University. Vice-President Pauletta Beaty introduced Chris Schilling who presented a book review on “Helen Steiner Rice: Ambassador of Sunshine.” The biography of Mrs. Rice was authored by Ronald Pollitt and Virginia Wiltse. Valorie Buss, president, conducted the business meeting. Teri Nelson, treasurer; Sandy Hudack, Panhellenic representative; and Melinda Glasgow, House Corporation Board president at Gamma Epsilon; gave reports. Mrs. Buss reported that a brick would be purchased in the Pathways to the Future program at National Headquarters. It was decided to put the chapter name, location and date the club was organized on the brick. The club first met on Oct. 19, 1928, and at that time was named the Kay County Alumnae Club of Alpha Chi Omega. The new chapter award forms were discussed and it was decided which awards members felt the Chapter would qualify for, and these will be completed and sent to National at the end of March. The awards will be presented at the National Convention in July in Indianapolis, Ind. The nominating committee, Doris Stanley, Sandy Hudack and Pauletta Beaty, presented the slate of officers for 2000-2002. Nominated were Tammie Barham, president; Fran Mathews, vice-president; Verna McKenzie, secretary, and Julie Lawrence, treasurer. Election will take place at the March meeting. Members were reminded of the meeting with Kappa Alpha Theta to be held March 7 at the home of Barbara Impson. Mrs. Buss reminded members of Hera Day on March 1 and encouraged them to remember the true meaning of the day. The next regular meeting will be March 28 at the home of Valorie Buss. The program for the meeting will be the service project and members were reminded to bring paper goods for the Domestic Violence Shelter, and to bring items for the Easter Baskets to be prepared for the children at the shelter. Bits and PiecesClass of 1947The Ponca City High School graduating class of 1947 will gather Tuesday, March 7, for a planning meeting for a reunion to be held in September. All members are encouraged to attend the 7 p.m. meeting downstairs in the Ponca City Library. For more information, call 762-2184. Chapter FNChapter FN of PEO will meet Monday, March 6, at 7:30 p.m. in the home of Cynthia Winterrowd, 915 East Overbrook. An election and installation of officers will be held. A convention delegate and alternate will also be selected. Awards BanquetThe Kay County Conservation District awards banquet will be March 7 on the Northern Oklahoma College campus. The complementary meal will be served at 6:30 p.m. with awards to be presented at 7:30 p.m. Sallie Peacheater TentThe quarterly meeting of Sallie Peacheater Tent No. 18, Daughters of Union Veterans of the Civil War, 1861-1865, will be held March 11. The meeting will begin at 10:30 a.m. at the Wiley Post Building, 2100 Lincoln Blvd., Oklahoma City. Plans for the May Memorial Day service will be discussed. All interested women are invited to attend. For more information, call Nancy Chotkey, 405-742-9598, or Leona Henning, 405-728-3500. Golden Villa Director Will Address 20th Century ClubLaura Hines, executive director of Golden Villa Adult Day Services, will inform 20th Century Club members about the purposes and goals of the Villa when she addresses the group Friday, March 10, at the Ponca City Cultural Center at I p.m.. Ms. Hines, a native of Ponca City, is a registered nurse, having studied at Northern Oklahoma College at Tonkawa and Northwestern Oklahoma University at Alva. She worked seven years at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center where she was pain management specialist and was qualified in advanced cardiac lifesaving. She worked on the medical-surgical unit, in the intensive care unit and on ambulance transfers. She was facilitator for the I Can Cope Class sponsored by St. Joseph’s and the American Cancer Society. Laura and her husband, Dwayne, have three sons ages 10, 12 and 14. Golden Villa is one of the projects of 20th Century Club this year. It is a United Way agency. Golden Villa was recently relocated to the grounds of the Marland Mansion. It is open daily Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., providing care for adults 18 years of age and older who are unable to be home alone. The Villa provides a level of socialization that permits cognitive development for the participants and helps them improve or retain the skills they have. It is an enjoyable place for the participants that permits their families to drop them off there and go on to work or errands or to just have a respite from constant care, says Hines. The Villa also has a van and runs a daily pick-up and delivery service for the participants if that is required. Funds for these not-for-profit facilities were set aside in 1998-99 when the facilities became regulated. Plans are now underway to raise funds to build a kitchen at the Villa. Hostesses for this meeting will be Mrs. David Browning and Mrs. Larry Stephenson. Greeters will be Mrs. Thomas Bryant, Mrs. Mark Palmer, Mrs. Jim Throop, Mrs. William Gordon and Mrs. Richard Parker. Mrs. Thomas Carter, president, will conduct the meeting. Executive board meeting will be held at 12:15 p.m., before the regular meeting. Medical MinutesLifestyle Changes Help Treatment of DepressionDr. William Hamilton By now most Americans are aware of the seriousness of clinical depression. Doctor’s media and the Internet offer a wealth of information about depression and its treatment. Literally, millions of Americans are being treated with medication and/or one of many types of psychotherapy (counseling) by mental health physicians. In addition to those two major forms of treatment, medication and psychotherapy, I advise my patients about the importance of these areas of lifestyle in recovering from depression. SleepSleep is biologically determined to last about eight hours every night. Though many people state that they “can get away with” less sleep, the price that they pay is a dear one. Note that recent estimates indicate 100,000 accidents and 1,000 deaths a year are caused by falling asleep while driving. I suggest to my patients that a good way to know if you are getting enough sleep is to go to bed early enough that you don’t need an alarm clock. Most find this a rather unthinkable idea, until we discuss further the reasoning behind it. ExerciseExercise is vital because our modern tools and conveniences have markedly reduced the amount of effort needed in life. Physical fitness is probably at an all time low. The benefits of exercise include reduction of anxiety and depression symptoms, improved sense of worth, improved sleep, and more involvement in life. FaithPracticing one’s faith helps to “lighten the emotional load.” I frequently find that people who are depressed have turned away from believing that God is there for them. FriendshipRenewing old friendships and forcing one’s self into activities with others serve as a “natural antidepressant.” I do caution my patients not to spend time, however, with people who “wallow in misery” and who seem determine to dwell in the negative aspects of life. HumorHumor is hard to find when one is depressed. It has always been interesting to me how most people can find humor even in the depths of depression, if they take the time to search for it. VolunteerExtending one’s self to help others by such activities as volunteering to help at a school, church, or community groups also lifts one’s mood. The process of thinking more about another than about self seems to reduce negative “self-talk.” CreativityBeing creative in anything of value or interest enhances feelings of meaning and purpose in life. AvoidanceAvoiding alcohol and other abusable drugs is crucial in overcoming depression. I am convinced that depressed people who take time to add these “lifestyle” changes to their treatment plan for depression will have a more rapid and full recovery. Engagement Is AnnouncedMr. and Mrs. Rodney Robien of Oshkosh, Wis., have announced the engagement of their daughter, Carey Ann, to Jason Ashley Corbin, son of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Corbin of Ponca City. The September wedding will be held at the Tulsa Garden Center. Grandparents of the prospective bridegroom are Mr. and Mrs. Phillip Corbin of Ponca City and Mrs. Esther Foth of Newton, Kan., and the late Walter H. Foth. Grandparents of the bride-elect are Mr. and Mrs. Robert Robien, Mrs. Ruth LaSota, and the late Alfred Neuser. Ms. Robien is a 1991 graduate of Oshkosh North High School, Oshkosh, Wis., and a 1995 graduate of the University of Tulsa. She holds a master’s degree from Oklahoma State University and is a licensed therapist at Laureate Psychiatric Clinic and Hospital, specializing in the treatment of eating disorders. Corbin graduated from Ponca City High School in 1993 and from the University of Tulsa in 1997. He holds a bachelor’s degree in biology, and is currently account manager with Burkhart Dental Supply company in Tulsa. American Legion Auxiliary Sweeps Poppy Contests at District MeetingThe Eighth District American Legion and Auxiliary convention was held Feb. 26 in Ames. Following registration and the executive board meeting, auxiliary members met with Velma Yeager of Enid, district auxiliary president. Cecelia Easky of Ponca City, eighth district chaplain, gave the invocation. Evelynn McCutcheon of Ponca City, district first vice president, led the group in the pledge of allegiance. Betty Brown of Ponca City, district second vice president, led the assembly in the preamble. Marie Gautier, Ames unit president, gave the welcome with the response coming from Sue Heil of Morrison, district secretary-treasurer. Appointed to district committees were Clara McCollum, Ponca City; Verna Culver, Fairview; and Carol Blosch, Morrison; courtesy committee; Debra Bales, Evelynn McCutcheon and Marie Gautier, recommendations and resolution; Leora Dryden, Ames; Arlene Failes, Waynoka; Deloris Parker, Fairview; Poppy Judging committee. Following luncheon with the Legionnaires the auxiliary conducted an auction with proceeds going to the eighth district expense fund. John Yeager of Enid served as auctioneer. Auxiliary committee reports were made, and the group voted to send the “silver offering” to the World War II Memorial fund. Leora Dryden, Poppy Judging committee chairman, announced the results of the poppy contest: General Category, first place, Ponca City Unit 14; second place, Ponca city; third place, Morrison Unit 343; Religious category, first place, Ponca City; second place, Morrison; Corsages, first, second and third place, Ponca City; fourth place, Morrison. |