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From the pages of The Ponca City News, Sunday, March 12, 2000 LOCAL DEATHS NEWS BRIEFS LIFESTYLES SPORTS LOCALLegislators Feel Need to Regulate Courses Legislators Feel Need to Regulate CoursesBy RALPH SEWELL News’ State Capitol Bureau OKLAHOMA CITY — Whether OU and OSU can teach remedial courses isn’t an issue that legislators can constitutionally decide. It’s up to college regents. But the House narrowly did so last week, but it took a second try. Last Monday, HB 1710 failed to pass. The vote was 49 in favor to 50 against. But on Tuesday when Rep. Larry Ferguson, R-Cleveland, became a coauthor, a few members relented and the bill went to the Senate on a 51 to 46 House vote. On the first try, the bill caused two hours of oratory. It included debate over an amendment which said anyone presenting a highschool diploma must be admitted to the state’s two comprehensive universities. That amendment failed, 40 in favor to 57 against. Rep. Joe Sweeden, D-Pawhuska, voted for it while Reps. Jim Newport, R-Ponca City; Jim Reese, R-Nardin, and Ferguson voted against. On the second try, Newport, Reese and Ferguson voted for the bill; Sweeden against. Even so, with the House margin on the second vote so slim, it will be surprising if the bill makes it back to the House. The House also passed HB 2529 by the same author. It would prohibit smoking on school property except in areas designated by the school. That passed, 84-13, with all Ponca-area representatives voting yes. Reese’s HB 1917 passed the House 96-0. It would tell the Department of Human Services to instruct welfare clients on marriage counseling and successful parenting. Ponca-area representatives voted yes. Ferguson’s HB 2164 passed the House 96-0. It would cut the drunk driving blood-alcohol test level from 0.10 to 0.08. Newport, Reese and Sweeden also voted in favor. Autopsies Help Get Answers Senators passed SB 1069, voting 35-11. Sens. Paul Muegge, D-Tonkawa, and J. Berry Harrison, D-Fairfax, voted in favor. SB 1069 would repeal the law requiring the state medical examiner perform an autopsy following execution of a convict. Supporters argued such a practice is cruel. But foes said such autopsies help find cures for such diseases as Alzheimers. Senators voted to check voters on a decision on increasing the gasoline tax a penny a gallon for 10 years to restore Amtrak service to Newton, Kansas, and connections to mainline there. SJR 37’s author said Kansas is ready to fund its share of north-south passenger service. Muegge and Harrison voted for the resolution which passed the Senate 39-8. Sweeden’s HB 2296, which passed 73-27, would require voter approval before local units could contract with private operators to run jails or house prisoners. Newport and Ferguson also voted yes; Reese no. How They Voted Here’s how Muegge, Harrison, Newport, Reese, Ferguson and Sweeden cast their votes on other bills: —SB 1034, which passed the Senate 32-16, creates a 7-member board to oversee house inspections. Backers said bankers need more accurate appraisals. Foes said realtors feel such a law would make home prices go up. Muegge and Harrison voted for the bill. —SB 1219, passed the Senate 30-10. It would eliminate a requirement that tag agents inspect small trucks to see if they are marked for commercial use. Muegge and Harrison voted yes. —HB 1961, passed 95-0 by the House, makes it unlawful to sell beer between 2 a.m. and 7 a.m. Ponca-area representatives voted yes. —HB 2201, passed by the House 98-3, would eliminate the section of law which requires persons under 21 with substance abuse problems attend special classes. Presumably they would attend those with older folk. Also, the size of classes is increased to a maximum of 30. It’s now 12. Ponca-area representatives voted yes. The License Tag Issue —HB 2311 which would require “Oklahoma Native America” on new auto license tags, passed the House 89-9. It also would require tags issued next year to add www. state, ok. us. But the House rejected an amendment, 96 to 0 to increase the license tag fee $1 a year, with half the fee going to the general fund, and half to buy new patrol cars. Newport, Reese, Ferguson and Sweeden voted against the amendment and for the bill. —HB 1932 passed the House 82-17. It would require those elected to school boards to take continuing education classes. Reese, Ferguson and Sweeden voted yes; Newport no. —HB 1970 would establish a new liquor license to let charitable groups auction off alcoholic beverages. The permit would last 2 days. The bill passed 68-31. Newport, Ferguson and Sweeden voted yes; Reese no. SB 1049 would require a cost-benefit study be made before any state agency may privatize functions. It passed the Senate 37-7. Muegge and Harrison voted in favor. —SB 824, passed by the Senate 41-2, would require that telephone calls to state agencies be answered by an employee. It would prohibit using a phone answering machine during regular office hours. Muegge and Harrison voted yes. Labeling Food —SB 1084 passed the Senate 32-11. It would require retailers to mark products with the country of origin so customers will know where fresh vegetables, fruit and frozen meat came from. Muegge and Harrison voted yes. —HJR 1050, which passed 76 to 23, would name a 20-person advisory group to study tax problems caused by Internet commerce. Newport, Ferguson and Sweeden voted yes; Reese no. —HJR 1035, another car tag price cut bill, passed the House 99-0. It would refer to voters a proposal to license vehicles at not more than $70 for the first 10 years, then not more than $35 for older cars. Newport, Reese, Ferguson and Sweeden voted yes. What Can be Done? —HB 2600, which passed 98-0, would tell the Education Department to develop a pilot program to explore computer technology on statewide testing. Ponca-area representatives voted yes. —HB 1319 passed the House 85-15 after the author struck the title. The bill would create a Construction Industry Authority with broad authority over construction trades. Ferguson and Sweeden voted yes; Newport and Reese no. —HB 2543 would raise maximum rates for towing automobile from 38 to 40 percent, with similar increases for heavier vehicles. It passed the House 79 to 21. Newport, Ferguson and Sweeden voted yes; Reese no. —HB 1676 would increase the penalty for drunk driving testing a blood-alcohol content of .15 or higher to a minimum of 1 year in prison and a fine of $2,500. It passed the House 98-0. Ponca-area representatives voted yes. —HB 1858, which passed 93-1, would allow income taxpayers to donate to the Oklahoma City Memorial by a checkoff. Ponca-area representatives voted yes. —HB 1877, which passed 93-3 would pay tire dealers who take used tires to a recycling center, They’d be compensated by the state at $37.43 a ton. Newport, Ferguson and Sweeden voted yes; Reese no. —HB 1892, by Reese, passed 96-0. It tells the Boll Weevil Eradication Council’s board of directors to fairly represent northern Oklahoma Growers. (Grant County has become a major cotton grower.) Other Ponca-area representatives also voted yes. —HB 1996 would tell the Corporation Commission to promote expanding the wide-area telephone service in the state. It passed 68-27. Newport, Reese and Sweeden voted yes; Ferguson no. —HB 2128 would authorize certificates of distinction to highschool students who have at least a 3.25 grade average in four units of English, math, social studies, and science. The House passed it 92-4. Newport, Reese, Ferguson and Sweeden voted yes. Help for Mentally Ill —HB 2400 passed the House 89-10. It would let cities and counties establish emergency patrols trained to help persons believed to be mentally ill. Reese, Ferguson and Sweeden voted in favor, Newport against. —SB 852, which passed the Senate 41-3, would increase by $200 million, the amount the state treasurer may invest in the Agriculture Linked Deposit program. Muegge and Harrison voted yes. —SB 1234 would shift licensing of plumbers and electricians from the Department of Health to a new Construction Industries Commission appointed by the governor with Senate consent. It passed 31 to 14 without a title, so the Senate can see it again. Muegge and Harrison voted in favor. Another Exit —SB 1098, passed 45-0 in the Senate, would tell the Turnpike Commission to provide off-on ramps on the Bailey Turnpike at Fletcher near the US 277 and 1-44 intersection. Muegge and Harrison voted yes. —SB 1240, passed 45-0 would forbid anyone to transport any amount of anhydrous ammonia in an unapproved container. (That was the chemical used to blow up Oklahoma City’s Murrah building.) Muegge and Harrison voted yes. —SB 1544 failed to get the 25 votes needed to pass the Senate. It would let a school official or teacher contract with more than one school district. The vote was 24-22. The author gave reconsideration notice. Muegge and Harrison voted no. —HB 2487 passed the House 98-1. It would allow pregnant women who abuse drugs to be offered treatment instead of prosecution. Newport, Reese, Ferguson and Sweeden voted yes. —HB 2544 passed the House after an being amended to delete a provision that schools could perform psychological tests on a child without parental notification. The amendment passed 52-44. Sweeden voted yes; Newport, Reese, Ferguson voted no. The bill passed 91-7. Ponca-area representatives voted yes. At Regular Board Meeting PTC To Decide Cox Fate Tuesday NightBy KRISTI HAYES News Education Editor It’s time for Pioneer Technology Center to make a decision. The PTC Board of Education will decide the fate of assistant superintendent Dr. Janet Cox Tuesday night during its regular 7 o’clock meeting. It was two months ago that an anonymous group of employees at PTC drafted a letter of no confidence concerning Cox and superintendent Dr. Sally Downey. The existence of the letter was first reported by The Ponca City News on Jan. 11, 2000. At its mid-January meeting, the board reaffirmed faith in Downey by offering her a three-year contract extension. But, in late February, the board took no action on renewing Cox’ contract. It also did not offer Downey a salary increase. Board members said they would put Cox’ contract back on the agenda in March. Cox was upset with the February decision, saying it placed her she in a difficult position. “One of my main responsibilities is to hold our staff and school accountable to the taxpayers,” Cox said. “I feel the majority of the staff supports me, and I hope the board will get an explanation from me and not listen to accusations.” Cox said she has high hopes for the vo-tech and wants to maintain her current position. The anonymous letter also prompted board members to implement new policies dealing with staff concerns and high exit numbers. New board member Robert Howard agreed with implementing the new policies, but voiced concerns on the Exit Interview Committee at a special board meeting in late February. The Exit Interview Committee will be highly recommended for salaried employees who leave PTC. The committee would consist of two board members and one administrative team member. Howard said he didn’t think an administrator should be in-volved in the committee if the person leaving didn’t want one involved. He also proposed changing the policy. The amended policy will be voted on at Tuesday’s meeting. Other business on the agenda includes creating an advisory board to provide communication, improvements and support for PTC. The board would serve as a facilitator between administrators and instructors. Also, former board member Fred Haub will be recognized for his years of service to PTC. OSA Request Is the Real ThingThe membership drive by the Oklahoma Sheriff’s Association is the real thing, Kay County sheriff Craig Countryman said. In a current mailout, Kay County citizens are being invited to become honorary members of the Oklahoma Sheriff’s Association to join the fight against crime. The honorary membership drive is more important than ever, Countryman said, because government funding is getting more difficult to secure. Residents who want more information can contact the sheriff’s office, 580/362-2517. Charter Schools Are not In Ponca Citys FutureBy KRISTI HAYES News Education Editor Don’t expect a charter school in Ponca City anytime soon. Ponca City superintendent Dr. Bill White said there’s no need in Ponca City for a charter school and, besides, the district’s not eligible. “State legislators have already set up about 13 school districts around Oklahoma City and Tulsa that could become charter schools,” White said. “Ponca City was not one of them.” Last Tuesday, the Oklahoma City school board voted 6-1 to approve a charter contract with Independence Enterprise Middle School, which will now be known as Independence Charter Middle School. It will be the first charter school in the state. Charter schools give parents, businesses, community groups and others freedom — and tax money — to create their own education models. The schools operate under a charter, or contract, with a sponsoring school district. Under the law, charter schools will receive the same per-pupil funding as the district’s other students. The local school district may retain up to five percent of the charter school’s allocation as a fee for administrative services. Independence founders already have applied for $1 million in grants and also will be eligible for state and federal start-up funds for charter schools. It was two years ago when the Edison Project, a for-profit business that operates schools, visited Ponca City’s Union Elementary about the prospect of becoming an Edison school. White said the matter was dropped because there were too many questions about the system. “Edison schools try to make a profit. I’m glad we didn’t do that...I hear they are still losing money,” he said. He also said charter schools differ from public schools because they use a particular subject as the main focus point. “Oklahoma City will use science,” White said. “In a way, we locally do the same thing charter schools do. At Garfield Academy we emphasize arts. We just do it in our public school system.” Next year, White said it’s possible two schools could become charter schools in Tulsa with 10 others in Oklahoma City as Edison schools. “I don’t see us ever participating in charter schools,” he added. “I just don’t feel comfortable with their whole approach. They work for a school board inside the charter schools and they, in turn, answer to the local school board. I think that could cause confusion and problems,” he explained. Nearly NewsThe Ponca City News is sorry to disappoint Conoco stock holders, but the company’s stock closed Thursday at 23 even, not the 79 13/16 reported in Friday’s paper. The stock rose by a mere 1/16 of a point. Superintendent Not Surprised About Remedial Course NeedsBy KRISTI HAYES News Education Editor Nearly one-third of all Ponca City graduates and 40 percent of Oklahoma graduates will have to take remedial courses in college. A study recently by the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education showed of the 16,400 students who graduated and went to college in 1998, more than 40 percent took remedial courses. Some had to take more than one. Math was the subject that most often required remedial courses. Ponca City superintendent Dr. Bill White was not surprised with the figures. “Over 60 percent of our graduates have high GPA’s, but we still have a high number of students who need remedial classes — especially in math,” he said. The remedial courses or additional testing are required for students who do not score at least 19 on the subject areas of the ACT college test. Students pay more for remedial courses but do not receive college credit. Ponca City High School is looking at ways to keep algebra skills intact. “When students have already taken the math classes required, they sometimes forget what they’ve learned before they take the ACT,” White said. “We’re thinking about adding an Algebra Review or Algebra III class. This might help students better prepare for the ACT,” he said. In 1998, a total of 155 Ponca City students entered college. Of that number, 51 students (32.9 percent) had to take remedial courses in math. The second highest percentage was 13.5 percent (21 students) in English. Ponca City falls above the state average in overall high school GPA. “Last year, 83 students (52.2 percent) had a GPA of 3.0 or better. That is well above the 42.9 percent mark for the state,” White said. Other Ponca City GPA figures show 37 students (23.3 percent) with a GPA of 2.0 to 2.9, eight students with a GPA of 1.7 to 1.9 and 31 students (19.5 percent) with a 0.0 to 1.6 GPA. “I guess what’s happening in the state is what’s happening here. We have had no significant improvements over the past couple of years. To me, this shows we’ve got to make some changes,” White said. Kay County also fell slightly below the state average with remedial courses. Last year, the county saw 238 freshman in Oklahoma colleges. Of that number, 38.2 percent had to take remedial courses — primarily in math (31.9 percent). The State Regents pointed out that high school students taking college courses must meet admission standards, including good grade-point averages and ACT scores. The Regents point out that those needing remedial courses usually attend community college, but regional universities such as the University of Central Oklahoma provide remedial courses for 18 percent of its students. At OSU and the University of Oklahoma, about seven percent of students need remedial work. During a recent visit to Ponca City, Oklahoma Secretary of Education Dr. Floyd Coppedge told Rotary Club members that the state spends $21 million annually in remediating college students. “Math and reading are the two gatekeepers for success. Why aren’t we getting our kids ready for college?” he said. He also noted that taxpayers end up paying double for remedial students’ educations — once in high school and again in college. He said 75 to 80 percent of the cost per college student is paid by the state. Abusing the Suffering of OthersOnce again President Clinton is trying to make points with foolish ideas designed to grab popularity and headlines from the tragedy of others. The death of 6-year-old Kayla Rolland at the hands of her equally young classmate is sad beyond words. Gun control legislation, however, has nothing to do with this situation. Clinton asked, "How many people have to get killed before we do something?" The operative word in that statement is "something". The race to use tragedy to garner sympathetic popularity with any hair-brained idea is just too great for many politicians. It is contemptible to see the political posturing which goes on when people suffer such a terrible personal tragedy. Clinton's grab with no sensible ideas to go with it are as bad as they get. After we get past the sense of loss when we hear about or see a tragedy, we get a cold rush wondering what new attacks will be made on our personal freedoms by a Congress bent on legislating our lives in the name of safety. Usually, the laws proposed and passed are little more than window dressing. Investigators have proved time and again that someone bent on getting passed airport security can do so with ease. Meanwhile, law-abiding passengers suffer agonizing delays because time consuming safety measures add to the problems of air travel in our country. Similar examples abound in gun control and many other areas of life. When it comes to gun control, the Congress is more than ready to promote new legislation which hinders the lawful gun owner and does nothing to punish the offender and the flow of illegal guns sold on the streets. Stiffer penalties for owners of guns used in felonies and on the felons themselves make far more sense than the current trends which do little or nothing to keep the guns out of the hands of criminals. Life is tough and it is a gamble. We cannot make everything safe and our legislative attempts in that direction are becoming increasingly burdensome. When those who suffer tragedy in life have their emotional trauma exploited and are further abused by the headline grabbing politicians it is despicable. Maybe Congress should pass a law against that. —Tom Muchmore Where to VotePolling places for the presidential primary and the municipal elections to be held Tuesday, March 14, will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. They include: RURAL 400 — Consolidated 106 School Building, River Road, 9 miles east of Newkirk. 401 — Consolidated 106 School Building, River Road, 9 miles east of Newkirk. 402 — Christ’s Church, 1001 South Magnolia, Newkirk. 403 — Christ’s Church, 1001 South Magnolia, Newkirk. 404 — Peckham Christian Church, Peckham. 406 — Braman Town Hall, Braman. 409 — St. John’s Lutheran Church, Northeast of Blackwell. 410 — St. John’s Lutheran Church, Northeast of Blackwell. 411 — Kildare School, Kildare. 412 — Community Building, 300 Morgan Square, Kaw City. 413 — Presbyterian Church, Fourteenth Street at East Grand Avenue, Ponca City. 414 — Pioneer Christian Church, 1701 East Hubbard Road, Ponca City. 415 — Pioneer Christian Church, 1701 East Hubbard Road, Ponca City. 417 — National Guard Armory, U.S. 60, west of Tonkawa. 419 — Community Christian Church, 2109 West Grand Avenue, Ponca City. 420 — Ranch Drive Volunteer Fire Department, 3454 South Ranch Drive, Ponca City. 421 — Ranch Drive Volunteer Fire Department, 3454 South Ranch Drive, Ponca City. NEWKIRK 01 — St. Francis Catholic Church, 610 West 9th, Newkirk. 02 — Baptist Church, 220 West 7th, Newkirk. TONKAWA 101 — Public Library, 216 North 7th, Tonkawa. 103 — Christian Church, 115 West Grand Ave., Tonkawa. BLACKWELL 201 — First Christian Church, 306 East Coolidge, Blackwell. 202 — Free Will Baptist Church, 209 North 6th, Blackwell. 205 — First Baptist Church, 1st and Bridge Ave., Blackwell. 210 — Methodist Church, 6th and Coolidge, Blackwell. PONCA CITY 503 — Central Baptist Church, 618 East Hartford Avenue, Ponca City. 504 — Grace Episcopal Church, Thirteenth Street and East Grand Avenue, Ponca City. 507 — Sunset Baptist Church, 915 West Greenwood Avenue, Ponca City. 516 — Conoco Fourth Street Clubhouse, 1500 South Fourth, North Side, Ponca City. 517 — St. Mary’s Parish Hall, 408 South Eighth Street, Ponca City. 523 — Church of Christ, 1300 West Grand Avenue, Ponca City. 527 — Church of Christ Hartford Avenue, 1905 Joe Street, Ponca City. 530 — Pioneer Technology Center, 2101 North Ash Street, Ponca City. 532 — Unity Gym, 1908 East Woodland, Ponca City. 533 — St. Luke’s Church of the Nazarene, 1715 East Prospect Avenue, Ponca City. 534 — Northeast Baptist Church, 2200 North Pecan, Ponca City. Hutchins Remodeling Project on City AgendaBy BOB PATTERSON News Staff Writer Whether to remodel and upgrade the facilities at Hutchins Memorial Auditorium is on the agenda of the Ponca City Board of Commissioners regular meeting Monday at 5:30 p.m. in the Public Safety Center. Information from Kathy Adams, director of Marland Estate, and Gary Martin, city manager, note that rooms at the Hutchins Memorial are in demand as a result of the closing of the Marland Conference Center. Additional information for the commission is that some of the Hutchins Memorial rooms are in need of paint and ceiling tile replacement, fixtures in the bathrooms date to when the building was constructed. The project would also remodel the interior of the facility. Commissioners will also take up an application from Woodlands Christian Church to rezone an area there from R-1 residential for C-2 general commercial. The commission will have a public hearing on a local law enforcement block grant to be used for the purchase of communications equipment, including portable radios and related equipment, for the police department. The meeting will open with the announcement of community police officer awards. Commissioners will then consider the consent agenda. Items on the consent agenda may be approved by one vote, provided none are removed to be considered later. The consent agenda includes: •Minutes of the Feb. 28 meeting. •A community development block grant on improvements to Lake Ponca Dam. •A park department bid committee’s recommendation to purchase a mower. •A bid committee’s recommendation to purchase play equipment for Dan Moran Park, and another for equipment at Attucks Park. •A resolution amending the operating budgets of various city funds for fiscal year 1999-2000. The commission will also meet as members of the Ponca City Utility Authority, with consideration of an amendment in the capacity lease agreement with Oklahoma Municipal Power Authority. Other business for PCUA includes a telecommunications agreement on providing a business plan for the development of an Internet Point of Presence in Ponca City, and a resolution amending the operating budgets of PCUA funds of fiscal year 1999-2000. The consent agenda for PCUA includes: •Authorization for a change order at the wastewater treatment plant improvements. •Consider the writing off of accounts with delinquent balances and transfer uncollectible to collection agency. Meeting as members of the Ponca City Development Authority, commissioners will consider amending the operating budgets of various PCDA operating funds for fiscal year 1999-2000. Navy Reunion Set March 22 At Legion PostNow hear this! American Legion Post 14 wants to know how long it has been since area veterans got together to renew old acquaintances and share war stories? All veterans of the Navy, Coast Guard and Merchant Marines are invited to the first annual Navy Reunion. On Wednesday, March 22, at 1800 hours (that is 6 p.m. for those who have forgotten how to tell military time), registration and happy hour will commence. At 2030 hours (8:30 p.m.), the smoking lamp will be lit for a final hour of scuttlebutt, swapping war stories, catching up with old friends and establishing new veteran relationships. Everyone is invited to wear their uniforms — if they can still fit into them — and to bring any and all types of memorabilia for display. Letters have gone out to well over 100 veterans. Reunion committee chairman, Mike Isbell, explains, “We know we don’t have the correct addresses for all our north central Oklahoma veterans, so we are extending an open invitation to any and all veterans from these branches to come join us for an evening of fun and camaraderie. The event will be held at the American Legion Post at 407 West South Avenue in Ponca City and is free of charge. For more information or to make a reservation, contact the American Legion at (580) 765-9073. Bed Race Returns to Iris Festival 2000The beds are coming to Iris Festival 2000. Join United Way of Ponca City for the third annual United Way Bed Race. What is a bed race? It is a bed ... a bed on wheels, set into motion by four runners racing down Fifth Street to the finish line at the 12th annual Iris Festival on May 6. All you need is a bed (everyone has one), or build one (United Way has the specifications) and pick your team. Teams consist of four runners and a rider, who jumps out of the bed at the half-way mark, puts on a pair of pajamas, jumps back in, and the teams races to the finish line. It is not time-consuming and does not require a lot of outside work or money. Everyone is invited. Gather the employees, civic groups, schools, church groups or friends and neighbors. A $100 donation is requested per team to participate. All proceeds benefit the 17 agencies supported by United Way. So, dust off that old bed, or build a new one — and join the fun. There will be a best-decorated bed contest and trophies for the winners. For more information, rules and bed specifications, call United Way at 765-2476, e-mail to uwponcacity.net, or stop by at 205 North Second Street. Area Agency on Aging Set For Big Town Hall MeetingBLACKWELL — NODA Area Agency on Aging invites folks to join them on March 17, 2000, 9:30 a.m. at American Red Cross in Blackwell or at 1:30 p.m. at Meadows Point apartment complex in Enid for an exciting town hall meeting. The mission is to educate Oklahomans about the expenditure of the Tobacco Settlement Money and to encourage Federal legislators to reauthorize the Older Americans Act. Oklahoma citizens face challenges that affect both the young, who are beginning to use tobacco products and the elderly, whose health has been affected by use of tobacco. By the year 2030, when all the “baby boomers” have reached 65, older Americans will number 70 million, or 20 percent of Americans. To ensure good health in later years we must prepare when we are young, NODA leaders point out. Unfortunately our elderly did not know the truth about smoking when they made uninformed decisions regarding the use of tobacco products. Noda AAA invites citizens and community leaders to assist in the development of a plan to use money from the tobacco settlement to help young persons make healthy lifestyle choices and to help the elderly meet the medical needs caused by unhealthy lifestyle decisions made years ago. Also find out how the older Americans Act directly or indirectly affects your life now and in the future. Richard Ingham, Legal Service Developer, for Aging Services Division, in Oklahoma City will address the group about the Tobacco Settlement funds and the reauthorization of the Older American Act. State and Federal Legislators have been invited to attend. Parachute Drop Planned At Nov. 11 Vets Day EventThis year’s Nov. 11 Veterans Day Parade has already received a number of commitments for year 2000’s parade. Due largely to the huge success of the past three years, Ponca City is now known for one of the largest and finest Veterans Day parades in the state, and people are calling and wanting to participate. “We have just received a commitment from a World War II airborne reenactor demonstration team for a parachute drop of 20 to 30 people for this year’s parade,” noted Chuck Gregg, last year’s parade chairman. The parachute company uses a World War II vintage C-47 and will drop the airborne unit over Ponca City with the landing zone close to downtown. After the jump, the troopers will participate in the parade, wearing their World War II airborne uniforms. Even though the members of the demonstration team all volunteer their time, donations will have to be made to help offset the fuel cost of the plane, which could run as high as $1,000. Also committed to the parade is the Tulsa OK Motor Pool, a group of more than 20 individuals who have restored military vehicles for parades and displays. Anyone who would like to make a donation to help offset the expenses of this year’s Nov. 11 Veterans Day Parade may send their donations to Veterans Day Parade Fund, c/o American Legion Post 38, 407 West South Avenue, Ponca City, Okla. 74601. Groups or individuals that would like to participate in the parade or for additional information, call 765-1367. Central High Computer Game Could Help Kids With ChoicesBy KRISTI HAYES News Education Editor A new computer game to teach students about the consequences of their actions is heading to public schools across Oklahoma, including Ponca City. “Central High” CDs present students with choices about drug use, teen suicide, school violence and others. Players can win the game only by making the right decisions. The game was developed by Destiny Interactive Inc. of Tulsa. The company provided copies of the game for some of the public schools in the state. Liberty Elementary received six copies Thursday. Liberty principal Ron Myers said he hasn’t had a chance to view the software, but “it sounds interesting.” “We just received the copies a few days ago. I gave some to our fifth and sixth grade teachers to look over. They will decide if we should use it or not,” he said. Myers also said he thinks sixth graders might benefit from the software because it deals with situations they face. In Central High, 16-year-old Kevin and some of his friends make important teenage decisions using this interactive movie software. The computer game, which received support from government and education officials, debuted Wednesday at Edmond’s Central Middle School with Gov. Frank Keating, his wife, Cathy, and other state education officials in attendance. The game covers more than 36 scenarios with characters ranging in age from 9 to 16. Gregg Conway, co-founder and president of Tulsa-based Destiny Interactive Inc. said the fast-paced, interactive movie format of Central High makes it appealing for the adolescent group it targets. Conway conceived the idea for Central High over a decade ago, and his partner, J.A. Frates, an investor and entrepreneur, is largely responsible for bringing it to life. “Because young people are spending more and more time on computers, it is important that we provide them with programs that are educational and entertaining. We believe that Central High is both, and can go a long way to encourage positive character development.” Conway, who is also the executive director of the Tulsa Boys Home, said initial reactions to the game by educators, parents and students have been overwhelmingly positive. “The project has the support of many leaders in Oklahoma, including Cathy Keating, Dr. Floyd Coppedge, secretary of education, and Sandy Garrett, superintendent of Oklahoma Public schools,” he said. Coppedge said Central High is an excellent teaching tool to supplement existing character development and life skills programs. “Central High has tremendous potential to communicate the strengths and virtues of positive character in a manner never before available,” Coppedge said. “Blending live action video with sophisticated computer technology is a brilliant way to capture the attention of students.” Carolyn Crowder, president of the Oklahoma Education Association, said, “The Oklahoma Education Association encourages each community to develop a local program which not only fosters respect and responsibility among our young people, but allows grown-ups to listen to their youth.” Shidler Grad Studying Career As Firefighter While in MarinesGOODFELLOW AFB, Texas — The son of a Shidler couple found himself in a crisis most would consider a hellish nightmare at best. Flames engulfed him on both sides, and deadly smoke seemed to envelop every inch of the space around him. With heat turning into an inferno, and smoke limiting visibility to inches beyond his face, he felt more than saw the victim trapped beyond the wall of flames. For Marine Pfc. Heath Cottle, son of Randy and Clarissa Cottle of Shidler, a rescue in the midst of a blazing inferno is literally par for the course. Cottle, a student with the Department of Defense Louis F. Garland Fire Academy, is one of more than 1,600 potential firefighters from all branches of the military who attend courses that range from basic firefighting techniques to advanced hazardous materials training. After completing the academy’s 13-week Apprentice Fire Protection Course, Cottle will be able to battle structural, wildland and aircraft fires, administer emergency medical care and handle hazardous material spills. “Teamwork is essential, not only for Marines, but for firefighters too,” said Cottle, a 1999 graduate of Shidler High School. Cottle is put to the test at this physically and mentally demanding school, climbing ladders, carrying 135-pound dummies and dragging fire hoses — all while wearing a bulky fire suit in temperatures that can rise well beyond 100 degrees. “The hardest part of school for me is the studying,” Cottle said. “There’s a lot of information to process. It helps for me to study in a group or with a friend.” After Cottle graduates from the academy, he’ll be able to fight fires ranging from aircraft and airport blazes to vehicle and structural fires, and be fully qualified to administer emergency medical care. and, since the academy adopted the requirements of the National Fire Protection Association, Cottle will also be internationally certified, able to serve as a firefighter in the military or back home as a civilian. “I picked this job because I wanted to save lives,” Cottle said. “Firefighting is an honorable job.” At any given moment, a fire can rage through a home or workplace, consuming everything in its devastating path. all that a person owns and cherishes can be destroyed within a split second, and even worse, someone may not be lucky enough to survive. Cottle is willing to stake his life on their safety. Six Po Hi Students Preparing To Enter Great American RaceBy KRISTI HAYES News Education Editor It’s that time of year again... a time for Ponca City Senior High students to test their navigational skills in the 2000 Generation X-Cup competition of the 18th annual Great American Race. Six Po-Hi students have been selected to gear up this year’s team. Team members are A.J. Evans, Brian Gibson, Bart Sutor, Brett Jackson, B.J. Loney and Chase Kelly. The team will be the only team to participate from the state of Oklahoma. The cross-country road-rally draws drivers in a test of navigation skills and endurance as they put their pre-1951 vehicles against the clock in a timed competition. Winners in the various division of the race take home cash prizes and unforgettable memories. This year’s team will compete for a portion of $25,000 in scholarship money. This year’s teacher/sponsors are J.D. Hanks and Larry Hime. Team members will track the great outdoors of America from Boston to Sacramento, Calif. June 11-24. Each morning of the competition, the team receives a set of instructions and the student is responsible for the calculations of speed and time during the day. This year may be the last year students can compete in the high school division. Few teams enter because of the tremendous financial undertaking and a teacher must show an initiative in the race. To qualify for the event, high school team members must be enrolled in a vocational course at their high school, have the endorsement of the board, be managed by a vocational class instructor and enter a pre-1952 vehicle. Additionally, each member must be 18 years of age of less, maintain a 2.0 in academic subjects, be involved in the restoration/preparation of the competing vehicle and work on the fund raising for the project. The Great Race staff requires the team to raise funds to cover their travel and vehicle costs during the race. Costs can be well over $14,000 due to lodging, food and fuel. Ponca City students spend an average 10 hours a week after school and on weekends to restore the vehicle. The local team will be loaned a 1930 Model A Ford Pickup that was previously owned by J.D. Hanks’ grandfather. Team members have been busy this year replacing the differential, ring gear, pinion and all the axles. Hanks said the car is also in desperate need of four new Firestone tires. To date, about $3,500 has been raised for this year’s competition. The group is currently seeking sponsors and donations. Anyone wishing to make a contribution, checks can be sent to Po-Hi Great Race 2000, 2512 Meadow Lane, Ponca City, Okla. 74604. A checking account has also been established at Pioneer Bank and Trust. School CalendarPo-Hi March 13 Lou Dean to present two programs in the Howell Auditorium at 9 and 10 a.m. Varsity girls golf at Owasso, 9 a.m. Wichita State University representative at the Conference Room, 10 a.m. Author Lou Dean autograph session, 11 a.m. Junior varsity baseball against Sapulpa at 4 p.m. Ninth grade and junior varsity soccer at Tulsa Hale, 4:30 p.m. March 14 Faculty meeting at the Assembly Center, 7 a.m. Ninth grade boys and girls track at 10 a.m. Junior varsity and varsity girls and boys tennis at 2:15 p.m. Junior varsity boys golf at the Country Club, 2:30 p.m. Ninth grade baseball at Jenks, 4 p.m. Junior varsity and varsity soccer against Broken Arrow, 4:30 p.m. Varsity baseball against Jenks, 5 p.m. Cheerleader parent meeting at Commons Area, 5:30 p.m. March 16 CRT testing from 8:55 to 10:10 a.m. Cowley County Community College representative at 10 a.m. CRT testing (for morning vo-tech students) at 1 p.m. Ninth grade boys and girls golf at Wentz, 2 p.m. Junior varsity boys and girls tennis at Enid, 2:30 p.m. Junior varsity baseball against Jenks, 4:30 p.m. Varsity baseball against Claremore and Berryhill, 5:30 p.m. Chorale Convention in Oklahoma City. March 17 Varsity boys and girls track at Tulsa Union, 12:30 p.m. Junior varsity baseball at Tulsa Union, 4 p.m. Ninth grade baseball at Po-Hi, 4 p.m. Junior varsity and varsity soccer at Sand Spring, 4:30 p.m. Chorale Convention continues. Fetching Affair Sock Hop Slated April 8“Get out your bobby socks and jeans and dance the night away,” Janet Martin, Ponca City Humane Society president, announced when discussing the upcoming Fetching Affair Sock Hop slated for Saturday, April 8, at Unity Gym. Dance music will be provided by The Oldies Station KLOR Music Machine. “Hopelessly Devoted to You” is the theme of the Ponca City Humane Society fund raiser. Refreshments are free to participants. The Sock Hop will continue from 7:30 until 11:30 p.m., and tickets may be purchased from board members or at the Ponca City Humane Society for $12 per person. For further information, contact the Ponca City Humane Society at (580) 767-8877 or at the shelter at 900 West Prospect, Ponca City. Rocky, a dog trained to search for drugs utilized by the Ponca City Police Department, will perform a demonstration, and joining the festivities will be mascots, Officer Wags, representing the local police department, and Sparky, representing the fire department. Jean Barnes, executive director, noted that the Ponca City Humane Society participates in fund raisers to generate revenue to be used in the care, housing, feeding, and medical bills of unwanted animals brought to the shelter. Currently, 25 dogs and 12 cats await homes, Barnes said. Depending on age and health factors, shelter cost for a single dog for one month can be as much as $50 and $40 for cats. Martin noted that revenue from the sock hop also would be used in the spay/neuter program being championed by the Ponca City Humane Society. She explained that 135 certificates for these procedures have been given so far this year to requesting families with pets. As Martin explained, “This will be a fun-filled evening for everyone. This is a dance with a heart. See you at the hop!” Spring Training Schedule For Lifeguarding, CPR SetBLACKWELL — The spring training schedule for lifeguarding, CPR for the professional rescuer and first aid has been set, and enrollments are being taken at the Cherokee Strip, Chapter American Red Cross. Training for certification in lifeguarding also includes CPR for the professional rescuer and first aid. The prerequisite for the course is to be 15 years old and a strong swimmer. Upon successful completion, the participants will receive certification in all three areas. Enrollments are also being taken in recertification classes for CPR and those certified in lifeguarding in 1997. CPR has to be renewed every year, and lifeguarding and first aid have to be renewed every three years. Class size is limited, and all classes will be filled on a first-come basis. Early enrollments will have a choice of class dates. For enrollment forms and information, contact the American Red Cross at 1313 West Furguson, Blackwell 74631 or call the office at (580) 363-1738 or email at rccsc@kskc.net or fax to (580) 363-1739. Innovative, Traditional Blues Player Comes to Poncan Theatre on FridayTradition and innovation are the hallmarks of Mark Hummel’s playing. He’s a true virtuoso of the blues harmonica, and he is one of the real inventors of the new West Coast Blues. For Hummel, that means reaching out to some of the great traditions of blues. Hummel and his fine group The Blues Survivors will perform at the Poncan Theatre at 7:30 on Friday, St. Patrick’s Day. Working within a tradition does not preclude innovation, according to Hummel. He loves both. Hummel’s fascination with blues began in high school. He was listening to “Cream and Jimi Hendix, Big Brother, stuff like that.” But when he looked at the song writers, he “kept seeing Willie Dixon’s name, Muddy’s name, Wolf’s name on these song titles.” So he started buying Willie Dixon albums, and Muddy Water’s, and Howlin’ Wolf’s. “Then I just started buying blues albums all the time.” He found the harmonica and loved it. “For some reason, harmonica just seemed real natural for me,” he says. But he’s quick to point out that it wasn’t easy. “I was just so taken with it and so into it, I’d literally sit for four and five hours at a time.” Soon after graduating, Hummel was traveling around the country. He went in search of the most authentic blues he could find. Hummel jammed with the best artists he could find. “I met Cool Papa Sadler one night,” Hummel remembers. “And then you’d meet people through him.” From Cool Papa he met the men who formed The Blues Survivors with him. They were the only Chicago-type players in Oakland, where Hummel had settled down. The group toured Europe and made some recordings. It was tough through the Reagan years, Hummel recalls, but now there’s a blues revival. Hummel loves originality in traditional frameworks. He incorporates riffs from a wide range of sources, stitching them together in a sold groove. You may hear the sources of some of his licks, but they’re combined in interesting, fresh ways. Blues Revue magazine says Hummel has “a pure, chiseled tone,” and absolute “technical mastery of the instrument.” They call Hummel “a harmonica virtuoso.” “Quite simply, he is one of a handful of the best players ever on the instrument,” who continues to “get better.” Hummel’s great strength is combining divergent music into a rich, vigorous whole. Fans savor it in the same way you would savor a fine Kentucky bourbon or a Cuban cigar. Tom Townsley for the Blues Revue wrote that “this is no cheap imitation; it’s the real thing, served straight up and crafted with care.” “We’d like to bring more blues to the Poncan,” says Kenn Wessel. “Our fans have asked for more and more.” Wessel says that “many fans may be surprised at the music a good blues player puts out. This is not the traditional sound of heartache and troubles,” Wessel says. Any good bluesman has that in his soul, but blues is likely to be vigorous, energetic, rockin’ music. “Surveys show that fans of classic rock move toward blues as fewer and fewer musicians play the old rock anymore. Blues is actually having a huge resurgence,” Wessel adds. “It’s here to stay.” Tickets to the Hummel concert are available at KIXR and the Poncan Theatre, and also the sponsors of the KIXR “Po-City Blues” show. Tickets are $9 in advance and $11 at the door, tax included. KIXR is media sponsor of the event. For information, call the Poncan Theatre at 104 East Grand, at 580-765- 0943. The Box Office is open 1 to 5, Monday through Friday. The Imperials Bring International Success to Poncan TheatreWhen The Imperials arrive at the Poncan Theatre this Thursday, they can add Ponca City to an incredible list of places they have performed. The Imperials are one of the most highly acclaimed gospel quartets in the world, having won four Grammy Awards, seventeen Dove Awards, and many other prestigious honors. They perform at the Poncan Theatre at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday. Since The Imperials have been around for over thirty-six years, they’ve had ample opportunity to spread the gospel around the world. The list is amazing. They’ve performed in almost twenty different countries, including England, Finland, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Holland, West Germany, East Germany, France, Israel, Singapore, Hong Kong, the Philippines, Canada, Haiti, South Africa, and Puerto Rico. There have been over twenty performers in The Imperials quartet over the years. But founder Armand Morales is still the leader of the group. He is now joined by his son Jason and by two other fine young singers, Jeremie Hudson and Jason Hallcox. Appropriately, the elder Morales is the harmonic foundation to the group, since he sings the bass line. From the beginning, The Imperials have represented excellence in Christian music. They have adapted in musical styles over the years. In Ponca City, they will pay homage to their great recording success and mix in some of newer songs as well. In spite of changes, the group has maintained an enviable stature in the recording industry. Amazingly, Billboard Magazine includes four Imperials albums on their list of the “Top 50 Christian Albums of All Time.” The Imperials maintain an inter-denominational approach, appearing in over 200 churches of all denominations each year. Their mission statement is “to walk in faith and wisdom, to sing and share the good news of the gospel of Jesus Christ, to expect signs and wonders and be faithful to our calling.” The concert by The Imperials is sponsored at the Poncan by Master’s Touch Christian Bookstore. Tickets are available at The Master’s Touch and at the Poncan Theatre. The cost is $10 in advance or $12 at the door. The Master’s Touch is located at 105 North Fourth, and the number is 767-1054. The Poncan Theatre box office is open Monday through Friday from 1 to 5 at 104 East Grand. For more information, patrons may call the theatre at 580-765-0943. Renewal of District Contracts On School Boards AgendaBy KRISTI HAYES News Education Editor The renewal of several administrative and teacher contracts will be on the agenda Monday night when the Ponca City Board of Education holds its monthly meeting. The meeting starts at 6:30 p.m. at the Administration Offices. Included in the renewal contracts will be all elementary, middle school and high school teachers, directors, coordinators, principals and assistant principals. Contracts for directors include Dr. Patty Ladd, director of elementary education; Jerry Lee, district transportation director; Jerry Jantz, director of technology; Pat Morris, director of special education; Dr. Nancy Niemann, director of personnel; Dr. Linda Powers, director of secondary education; Bret Smith, director of maintenance and risk management. Coordinators include Mary Ladd, administrative assistant to the superintendent; and Brenda Storie, business coordinator/treasurer. The 2000-2001 principal list includes Randa Bloomfield, Garfield Academy; Barbara Cusick, West Middle School; Richard Dale, East Middle School; Jean Hastings, Union Elementary; Pat Keast, Washington Elementary; Ron Myers, Liberty Elementary; Sharon Scroggins, Woodlands Elementary; David Shelton, Lincoln Elementary; Tom Sipe, Roosevelt Elementary; and Jerry Winkle, Senior High. Assistant principal contracts for renewal include Becky Cole, Randy Craven, John Woody and Mark Wynn, assistant principals at the high school; Link Cotham at West Middle School; and Karen Humble, East Middle School. Softball Lights Board members will vote on a deduct change on the contract with K.C. Electric for the softball lights at the high school. During the initial phase of the construction of the softball lighting at West Middle School, the district determined there was sufficient spectator lighting without installing two additional lights as part of the project. The architect submitted a proposal request and asked that the two lights not be included in the final project. The contractor delayed in getting the estimated savings to the architect until the final payment was requested. The deduction will be for $450 with $50 of that being labor and the remaining $400 the cost of the electrical lamps and wiring. Lease Agreement Also on the agenda is a lease/purchase agreement with Home National Bank to purchase two new district vehicles as part of the district’s replacement schedule. Quotations were obtained from local new car dealers to continue the district’s vehicle replacement schedule. Quotes were received and opened from Pemberton’s, Jim Crossland and Jack Bowker. The lowest quotes were submitted by Jack Bowker with a 2000 Ford Crown Victoria priced at $19,905.40 and a 2000 Ford Taurus priced at $15,148. The Crown Victoria will replace the wrecked car ruled a total loss by the insurance company. The purchase of the Taurus allows an older model Taurus to be utilized for driver’s education classes. Other Items Discussion topics include reports from the Board Property Committee, Board Curriculum Committee and the Board Finance Committee. March Employee of the Month and Friend of Education Awards will be presented to Linda Helm, Carolyn Berry and Ginger Duval, Certified Employees of the Month; Doug Lawler, Support Employee of the Month; and the Senior High Building Level Team parent members, Friend of Education. 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 — Waffles with syrup and bacon or pop tart or cereal, assorted juices and milk. Friday — Pop tart or cereal, assorted juices and milk. Elementary Lunch Monday — Cheese stix with marinara sauce or ravioli with garlic bread, broccoli with cheese sauce, fruit, cookies, saltine crackers, dill spears, raisins or assorted cold sandwiches, chef salad, cottage cheese salad or yogurt salad, juice and milk. Tuesday — Meat and cheese nachos or corn dog, California vegetables, lettuce and tomato salad, fruit, saltine crackers, dill spears, raisins or assorted cold sandwiches, chef salad, cottage cheese salad or yogurt salad, juice and milk. Wednesday — Fried chicken with hot roll or pizza pocket, mashed potatoes and gravy, seasoned green beans, fruit, saltine crackers, dill spears, raisins or assorted cold sandwiches, chef salad, cottage cheese salad or yogurt salad, juice and milk. Thursday — Hot dog or steakfingers with hot roll, scalloped potatoes, Jello, fruit, saltine crackers, dill spears, raisins or assorted cold sandwiches, chef salad, cottage cheese salad or yogurt salad, juice and milk. Friday — Pretzel with cheese or hot pocket, fruit, tatter tots, peas and carrots, cake, 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 — Donuts, pop tart or cereal, assorted juices and milk. Tuesday — Biscuits with sausage gravy or cereal or pop tart, assorted juices and milk. Wednesday — Ham and cheese biscuit or pop tart or cereal, assorted juices and milk. Thursday — Waffles with syrup and bacon or cereal or pop tart, assorted juices and milk. Friday — Donuts or cereal or pop tart, assorted juices and milk. East Middle School Breakfast Monday — French toast stix 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 — Cinnamon toast 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 — Cheese stix with marinara sauce, broccoli with cheese sauce, cookies, lettuce and tomato salad, fruit, saltine crackers, dill spears, raisins or baked potato with fixings, assorted cold sandwiches, chef salad, cottage cheese salad, yogurt salad, juice and milk. Tuesday — Meat and cheese nachos, cheesy rice, California vegetables, lettuce and tomato salad, 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 — Pizza pocket, potatoes, corn, lettuce and tomato salad, fruit, saltine crackers, dill spears or potato with fixings, assorted cold sandwiches, chef salad, cottage cheese salad or yogurt salad, juice and milk. Thursday — Steakfingers with hot roll, scalloped potatoes, tossed salad with ranch dressing, fruit, saltine crackers, dill spears or pasta with fixings, assorted cold sandwiches, chef salad, cottage cheese salad or yogurt salad, juice and milk. Friday — Hot pocket, tatter tots, peas and carrots, lettuce and tomato salad, fruit, cake, 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 — Ravioli with garlic bread, broccoli with cheese sauce, cookies, lettuce and tomato salad, fruit, saltine crackers, dill spears or potato with fixings, assorted cold sandwiches, chef salad, cottage cheese salad or yogurt salad and milk. Tuesday — Meat and cheese nachos, refried beans, lettuce and tomato salad, fruit, dill pickle, raisins or baked potatoes, assorted cold sandwiches, chef salad, cottage cheese salad or yogurt salad, juice and milk. Wednesday — Pizza pockets, corn, pudding, lettuce and tomato salad, dill spears, fruit, dill pickle, raisins or potato with fixings, assorted cold sandwiches, chef salad, cottage cheese salad or yogurt salad, juice and milk. Thursday — Steakfingers with hot roll, mashed potatoes and gravy, fruit, Jello, or assorted cold sandwiches, chef salad, cottage cheese salad or yogurt salad, juice and milk. Friday — Chili dog, fruit, tater tots, vegetarian beans, lettuce and tomato salad, cake, 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 — Teriyaki chicken or egg rolls with sweet and sour sauce, oriental vegetables, oriental rice, pineapple rings, seasonal fruit, juice and milk. Tuesday — Macaroni and cheese with hot roll, Italian blend vegetables, Jello, seasonal fruit, juice and milk. Wednesday — Burrito with chili and cheese or frito chili pie, corn, tossed salad, mexi rice, frozen peaches, seasonal fruit, juice and milk. Thursday — Fried chicken with hot roll, mashed potatoes and gravy, peas, seasonal fruit, juice and milk. Friday — Nachos with queso or nachos with meat and cheese, refried beans, cheesy rice, tossed salad, seasonal fruit, juice and milk. McCord Elementary Breakfast Monday — Sausage biscuit, juice and milk. Tuesday — French toast sticks, juice and milk. Wednesday — Cream of wheat, toast, juice and milk. Thursday — Cereal, toast, juice and milk. Friday — Cinnamon rolls, juice and milk. Lunch Monday — Corn dogs, french fries, dill spears, orange wedge, cookies and milk. Tuesday — Baked ham, potatoes and gravy, green beans, peaches and hot roll. Wednesday — Soft taco, refried beans, corn, Jello, fruit and milk. Thursday — Frito chili pie, peas, peaches, cinnamon rolls and milk. Friday — Hot dog with mustard and relish, french fries, green beans, applesauce, cookie and milk. Pioneer Technology Center Tuesday — Pepper steak with rice, honey orange chicken or chef’s choice with soup, assorted salads, vegetables, breads and desserts. Wednesday — Chicken fried steak, chicken stir fry or catch of the day with soup, assorted salads, vegetables, breads and desserts. Thursday — Grilled steak, sweet and sour pork or chef’s choice 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. United Way Out to Help Youngsters Read Through ARC and VISTA Programs HereUnited Way of Ponca City has been chosen to again sponsor the America Reads Challenge (ARC) Summer Associate VISTA (Volunteers In Service To America) program in Ponca City. United Way is working in collaboration with the Ponca City Public Schools to train, supervise and implement this program. ARC is an eight-week summer program in June and July that matches up volunteers with children to help raise reading levels. The program is aimed at helping students kindergarten through third grade who are reading below grade level in school. Anyone 18 years and older interested in summer tutoring can apply. VISTA’s receive a living allowance of about $1,300 for the eight weeks and receive a $1,000 education award for college. This can be used for higher education, vocational school or to pay back school loans. Although United Way sponsors this program, it is funded totally by the Corporation for National Service. In 1996 President Clinton announced the America Reads initiative. “The goal of this campaign is to ensure that every child can read independently by the end of the third grade.” To achieve this goal, the President called for an increase in the number of tutors and mentors available to young children. Research has showed that individual tutoring after school and over the summer, when combined with parental involvement and quality school instruction, can raise reading levels. Last summer, United Way and the Ponca City Public Schools teamed up to help 86 children improve their reading skills. Ten college students were recruited and matched up with 86 kindergarten through third graders for one-to-one tutoring. There are 15 opening for volunteers. For more information about this program stop by the United Way office at 205 North Second, call 765-2476 or e-mail at uwponcty@poncacity.net. Lifeguard Training Course OfferedThe YMCA of Ponca City will hold a lifeguard training course on the following days. March 31 — 6 - 9:30 p.m., YMCA Pool. April 1 — 8 a.m. - 6 p.m., YMCA Pool. April 2 — 8 a.m. - 6 p.m., YMCA Pool. April 8 — 8 a.m. - 6 p.m., YMCA Pool. April 9 — 8 a.m. - 6 p.m., YMCA Pool. The cost for this course is $100 payable to the YMCA of Ponca City. Attendance at all sessions is required. This class will include First Aid and CPR. The CPR and First Aid portion of this class will be held on April 1 at the Blackwell American Red Cross Office. The class will meet at the YMCA in Ponca City at 8 a.m. on that day and transportation will be provided to and from Blackwell. Please sign up at the YMCA of Ponca City or call 765-5417 for more information. Participants must be 16 years of age as of March 31, 2000. Merciez Receives National Certification For Work at SJRMCJuliann Merciez has attained national certification for Inpatient Obstetrical Nursing from the National Certification Corporation for the Obstetric, Gynecologic and Neonatal Nursing Specialties, according to Mary Winters, Vice President for Patient Services at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. This entitles Merciez to the title of Registered Nurse Certified. “This is truly an accomplishment and a significant designation of excellence in the nursing profession,” said Winters. The RNC certification gives the obstetric, gynecologic and/or neonatal nurse an added credential that attests to her or his attainment of special knowledge beyond the nursing degree. Of the 29,000 registered nurses in Oklahoma, fewer than 500 are certified. Merciez has worked at SJRMC since 1995. Weight Control, Stop Smoking Programs Available on March 21Stop smoking and weight control through hypnosis programs will be presented on March 21, at the Kay County Health Dept., 1201 East Hartford. The weight control session will begin at 6 p.m. and the stop smoking session at 7:30 p.m. The cost for each seminar is $39. The program is sponsored by the American Lung Association and will be presented by Michael P. Reeves. Reeves is a certified behavioral therapist with a degree in psychology from the University of Tulsa. He has conducted this program for the American Lung Association of Oklahoma as well as for many companies and private groups throughout the United States. During this time he has successfully hypnotized thousands for habit control, lectured organizations and schools on the use of hypnosis, taught professionals to use hypnosis and conducted smoking and weight control programs. According to Reeves, “Hypnosis is a conscious mental state of high suggestibility that utilizes the powers of the conscious and subconscious mind to maintain desired results. In other words, it is a state of increased sensitivity to positive suggestions. You are awake during the hypnosis, and at the time will you lose control of yourself. “If you have the desire to stop smoking or to control your weight the hypnosis program can make it much easier for you to accomplish your goal. These programs are designed to give suggestions to both conscious and subconscious levels of your mind and will help you to stop unnecessary and unwanted habits.” Anyone who is interested in losing weight, or would like to stop smoking or chewing tobacco is urged to attend the weight control session or the stop smoking session. For additional information or for reservations call the Reach Foundation at (918) 494-2031. City CalendarItems for the City Calendar should be brought in or telephoned (765-3311) to Bob Patterson, at the Ponca City News, by Thursday noon. Anytime FOLOBS (Friends of Library Ongoing Book Sale), anytime the Ponca City Library is open, North of Multimedia Room (downstairs). Alcoholics Anonymous, Alano Group, Ponca City’s first established AA Group, meets at Noon and 8 p.m., seven days a week. All noon meetings open, all 8 p.m. meetings closed except Fridays, 603 South First Street. Monday Ponca City Board of Commissioners, 5:30 p.m., Public Safety Center, Commissioners’ Room, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue, Ponca City Utility Authority and Ponca City Development Authority follow. Tuesday 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., story times 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. Wednesday Library Preschool Program Patchwork Quilt, 10 a.m. and 10:30 a.m., story times 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. Thursday 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. Friday 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. DEATHSSidney O. Whitener Sidney O. WhitenerPARIS, Texas — Sidney O. Whitener, father of a Ponca City man, died Friday, March 10, 2000 at Presbyterian Hospital in Dallas. He was 84. Funeral services will be conducted at 2 p.m. Monday in the Fry-Gibbs Funeral Chapel with Rev. Byron Howard officiating. Burial will follow in the Evergreen Cemetery. Family will receive friends from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home. Whitener was born March 21, 1915 in Floral, Ark., a son of Thomas Alfred and Leona Bailey Whitener. He was a member of Ramseur Baptist Church, Veteran of World War II and was retired from American Box Co. He married Jewel Fay Willis on Oct. 21, 1934. She survives. Other survivors include two sons, Dr. Coy Whitener, Ponca City, and Larry Whitener, Cooper, Texas; eight grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by a son Donald Wayne Whitener in 1969 and by three brothers, Loyce Whitener, Clifford Whitener and Allen Whitener. O.L. IngmireBILLINGS — O.L. “Babe” Ingmire, Billings resident, died Thursday, March 9, 2000, at the Greenbrier Nursing Home in Enid. He was 79. Graveside services will be held Sunday, March 12, 2000, at 2 p.m. at the Billings Union Cemetery under the direction of Sisson Funeral Home of Guthrie. Rev. Dawn Richards will officiate the services. O.L. Ingmire was born April 26, 1920, in Billings, to Charles Hamilton and Lela Hutchison Ingmire. He graduated from Billings High School in 1938 and served in the U.S. Army in Australia during World War II. He married Geraldine Matal in Perry on April 26, 1948. He worked for Champlin for 37 years and retired in 1982 and farmed all his life in the Billings area. He is survived by one son, Dale Ingmire of Billings; two daughters, Donna Simic of Garber, and Darlene Simic of Garber; one brother, Glen Ingmire of Enid; six grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents and his wife in 1987. Memorial contributions may be made to the Oklahoma Medical Research, Cancer Division. Evelyn M. SmithKINGFISHER — Evelyn M. Smith, longtime Kingfisher resident, died Wednesday, March 8, 2000, at the Kingfisher Regional Hospital. She was 86. Funeral services were held Saturday, March 11, 2000, at the Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Kingfisher with David Krepel officiating. Burial followed in the Kingfisher Cemetery under the direction of Sanders Funeral Home of Kingfisher. Evelyn M. Smith was born Nov. 26, 1913, at Kingfisher, to Gerd Willms, Jr. and Anna R. Wolf. She has lived in the Kingfisher area most of her life. She married H. Alden Smith on July 7, 1935, in Kingfisher. She is a member of the Emmanuel Lutheran Church and Ladies Aid. She is survived by two sons, Larry Smith of Kingfisher and Dennis R. Smith of Kingfisher; one sister, Barbara Ann Ellis of Ponca City; eight grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband and parents. ObituariesVerna M. PetersonVerna M. Peterson, longtime Ponca City resident, died Thursday evening March 9, 2000, of heart complications at the Mercy Health Center in Oklahoma City. Verna was born Jan. 24, 1925, in Cushing, Okla. to William Luther and Ruby A. (Kaufman) Cross. The family moved to Ponca City in 1930 where Verna received her education, graduating from the Ponca City High School and making many long-lasting friendships. On Nov. 10, 1945, she was married to Ray Peterson at the First Christian Church in Ponca City and the couple made their home here and raised four children who will miss her everyday. Verna accomplished many things in her lifetime. Not only did she make a loving home, but she was employed as personal secretary to Fred G. Fellows and later to James T. Cheek for many years. The family friendships continued long after retirement. Always energetic, Verna continued working as owner of the Aquatic Pro Shop and the Paperback Alley used book store in 1980. As many family members and friends will tell, not only books were exchanged at the counter, but also support, friendship and laughter. As a member of the First Baptist Church, Verna shared her deep faith with members of the Lydia Sunday School Class as well as her small friends in the two year old Sunday School class she taught. Her community involvement included membership in the BPW and the Tippers Club. Verna had many things she loved to do in her spare time. She loved to spend time with Ray fishing or exploring back roads on their numerous weekend trips. Her family will remember her each time they use one of the many quilts she created, or pick up a book to read that she passed on to share. Of all her pastimes, grandchildren and great-grandchildren were her favorites. Surviving are her husband, Ray Peterson, of the home; four children, David Peterson and his wife Rita, Michael Peterson and his wife, Sondra, Susan Jones and her husband Bud, all of Ponca City and Jim Peterson and his wife Shelly, of Blue Springs, Mo.; one brother, Richard Cross, and his wife Vivian of Ponca City; twelve grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents. Verna carried her family in her heart and she will be so missed by them all. The funeral will be held at 10:00 a.m. Monday, March 13, 2000, in the First Baptist Church Worship Center with the Rev. Hance Dilbeck, Pastor, and the Rev. Leon Grider, Pastor, Osage Heights Baptist Church, officiating. Burial will follow in the Odd Fellows Cemetery under the direction of Grace Memorial Chapel. Casket bearers will be Verna’s grandsons, Robert Peterson, James Peterson, Brian Peterson, Scott Peterson, Joshua Peterson, and Shane Feathers. Honorary casket bearers will be Tyler Jones, Chris Hurshman, and Steve Hurshman. Memorial contributions may be made to the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation for heart research: 825 NE 13th St., Oklahoma City, Okla. 73104. The family will be at the home. Thank you Granny for blessing our lives. paid obituary Vera Estella Miller ParkinsonVera Estella Miller Parkinson, longtime resident of Ponca City, passed away in Oklahoma City on March 9, 2000 at the age of 93. She was born on Sept. 15, 1906 in Springfield, Ill., to O.P. and Fanny A. Miller. She attended school at Springfield, Ill., and was raised in a loving home with her 10 brothers and sisters, including two who survive her: Fannie Dixon of Springfield, Ill., and Verna Steele of Fresno, Calif. Vera married her high school sweetheart, Ted Parkinson, in 1927 and they moved to Enid, Okla., where he worked in the Ford auto business. In 1935, they moved to Ponca City where, with their responsibility and hard work ethic, they were able to buy the local Ford dealership that sustained them for many years. Vera is survived by her only child, Toni Lampkin, of Oklahoma City, her six children and their father, Ben T. Lampkin Jr. of Oklahoma City. Vera’s surviving grandchildren and great-grandchildren are: Julee J. Coyle, her husband, John, and children Parkinson, Oruch, and Ruby Coyle of Oklahoma City; Billy and Bob Coyle of Fort Lauderdale, Fla.; Katie Marshall, her husband, John, and daughter, Natalie, of Oklahoma City; Tori New, her husband, Scott, and their daughters Charli and Roxie of Edmond; Holly Lampkin of Oklahoma City; Missy Lampkin of Oklahoma City; and Nikki Lockton, her husband, Steve, and daughters Olivia and Carley of Denver, Colo. Vera delighted in supporting her husband’s efforts in their automobile agency and his chairmanship of the Oklahoma Board of Affairs under Governor Henry Bellmon. A pioneer in helping others in Ponca City, she was a charter and lifetime member of the Hospital Auxiliary, Chairman of the Finance Committee of the Women’s Association for building the present Presbyterian Church, a charter member of the Four O’clock Garden Club Unit, and member of the Twentieth Century Club. Vera was a proud lady with a special style and grace that she especially enjoyed sharing with her daughter, granddaughters and great-grandchildren. She taught the beauty of flowers, the rewards of gardening and the art of floral arranging. She was an incredible cook who was always in charge of holiday meals. Her eyes sparkled when she taught her grandchildren how to cook. She was most proud of her home in Ponca City where she painted, gold-leafed, gardened and delighted in decorating. Vera had a passion for OU football and traveled to the games until well into her 80’s. She enjoyed watching sports on television and enjoyed discussing the results, including basketball, football and golf. In her earlier days, she even made a hole-in-one at the Ponca Country Club. Known to her grandchildren as Nannie, Vera Parkinson was a graceful lady, proud of her accomplishments and generous with her family and many others. Her family was her greatest treasure and the most important thing in her life. Her teachings are an important legacy to all who came in contact with this wonderful lady. Her family wishes to give special thanks and appreciation to Jessica and Gina who were special caregivers in the last years of her life. The funeral service will be held 2 p.m. Monday, March 13, 2000, in the First Presbyterian Church, Ponca City, with Toby Brown, intern pastor, First Presbyterian Church of Tonkawa, officiating. Burial will follow in the Odd Fellows Cemetery with arrangements by the Trout Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the First Presbyterian Church, P.O. Box 1442, Ponca City, Okla. 74602. paid obituary Georgia Mae WarrenGeorgia Mae Warren, longtime Ponca City resident, died Friday morning March 10, 2000, at the Southwest Medical Center in Oklahoma City. She was 76. The funeral service will held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, March 14, 2000, at Grace Memorial Chapel with the Rev. Kent Dorsey, pastor, First Christian Church, officiating. Burial will follow in the Odd Fellows Cemetery under the direction of Grace Memorial Chapel. Born February 22, 1924, in Rich Hill, Mo., she was the daughter of George Fayette and Stella Mae (Farrell) Dibble. She grew up in Rich Hill and received her education there, graduating from Rich Hill High School. On July 14, 1944, she was married to George Nieman Warren at Kansas City, Mo., where they made their first home. They moved to Ponca City in 1954 where they continued to live until his death in 1960. She then moved to Oklahoma City in 1966 where she lived until returning to Ponca City in 1977. She worked for Don Bouldin Construction from 1977 until 1980 when she went to work for Pioneer Bank. She officially retired in 1988, but later returned on a part time basis until 1995. She was a member of the First Christian Church and Beta Sigma Phi. Her enjoyments were bowling and bowled as a longtime member of the Grace Memorial Ladies Bowling Team. Surviving are her son, Richard Lee Warren, of Blue Ridge, Ga.; her daughter, Sue Anne Stacy, of Denver, Colo.; five grandchildren, Lance Warren, Christi Dawn Barton and Tara Lyn Lowrey, all of Evanston, Wyo., Vicki Anne Cummings, of Denver, Colo. and Michelle Rene Bayless, of Moore, Okla.; three great-grandchildren, Christopher Barton, Kassan Barton, and Shaelynn Lowrey; one niece, Debbie Gilliland, of Minco, Okla. and one nephew, Dan Lawry, of Wisconsin. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband and one sister, Alberta Lawry in 1986. Casket bearers will be Max Rheam, Gary Higginson, Lance Warren, Shawn Bayless, Mike Cummings, and Craig Countryman. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday evening. paid obituary NEWS BRIEFSRoyal Neighbors to Meet — Royal Neighbors of America will host a luncheon on Monday, March 13 at 12:30 at the Golden Corral. Special guest will be the Royal Neighbor Supervisor from Tulsa, Hiram Dixon. All members are urged to be present. Windshield Chips repaired professionally. Guaranteed and insurance approved. Ponca Glass, 300 W. Highland and Pine. 762-6522. adv. Next Presentation — Heller Theater in Tulsa presents “Waltzing on Flowers” at 8 p.m. April 6-8 and 13-15. The story is of a lady in the final stages of diabetes I. Tickets are $6; $5 for senior citizens and students. For reservations call (918) 746-5065. Onion Plants, onion sets, asparagus, cauliflower, broccoli, cabbage, potatoes, strawberries, grapes, bulk seed. Keathly Nursery. adv. Class Reunion — The Ponca City High School graduating class of 1975 planning committee meeting will be at 6 p.m. Monday at Hero’s. For more information call 765-9964. Closing Sale. 50% off All clothing at Hearts in The Mercantile. adv. JV Fund Raiser — The Po-Hi junior varsity cheerleaders will hold a fund raiser at 6 p.m. Tuesday at El Chico. All support by the public is appreciated. Jueschke Carpet Cleaners. For professional carpet cleaning, call the professionals. Jueschke Carpet Cleaners. 765-3421. adv. Assault — A man from the 2100 block of North Union Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 8:39 p.m. Friday that he had been the victim of an assault. An officer was assigned and information was logged. Tree on Fire — A unit from the Ponca City Fire Department responded at 10:50 p.m. Friday to the 2000 block of El Camino Street where a tree in an alley was on fire. Accident — An accident at the intersection of North Ash Street and West Hartford Avenue was reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 7:02 a.m. Friday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Information was logged that a vehicle was towed from the scene. Have Pet? Can travel! In-home pet sitting service. We love them when you have to leave them! 762-4205. adv. Theft — A man from the 1500 block of West Grand Avenue reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 8:37 a.m. Friday that a student had stolen a wallet. An officer was assigned, a report was taken, and a juvenile citation was issued. Court Allen Construction. Brick, flagstone, concrete, walkway’s, patios and planters. Call 765-2720. adv. Fraud — A man from the 500 block of South Pine Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 9:16 a.m. Friday that he had received a forged check. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. At 9:47 a.m., an officer took the man into custody on a Kay County warrant. Replacement Windows, vinyl, aluminum or wood. We sell and install. Ponca Glass, 300 West Highland and Pine, 762-6522. adv. Vehicle Stolen — A man from the 700 block of East Albany Avenue reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 3:35 p.m. Friday that a vehicle had been stolen. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. The vehicle was located at 11:15 p.m. at the First Lutheran Church parking lot, North Fifth Street at East Roosevelt. Stormescape Shelters, perfect for garage, under vehicle, installation. $1,695. 765-2633. adv. Smoke Problem — The Communications Center received a call from a person in the 3000 block of East Prospect Avenue at 4:32 p.m. Friday that smoke could be smelled in different parts of the building. Units from two Ponca City Fire Department stations responded, but found no problem. 25 Cents a gallon drinking water. Pure Water Wagon 1717 N. 5th. adv. Accident — An accident at the intersection of Kygar Road and L.A. Cann Drive was reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 6:49 p.m. Friday. Information was logged that drivers had exchanged information. Wreck — The Communications Center received a report at 7:42 p.m. Friday that a vehicle had gone off the roadway at the intersection of East Hartford Avenue and Kygar Road and was in the ditch after it hit a small tree. An officer was assigned and information was logged. Jazzercize, Step, Circuit at Unity gum. Monday 5:30pm and 6:45pm. Wednesday 5:30pm. Thursday 5:30pm and 6:45pm. Start anytime. 762-7243 adv. Vehicle Stolen — A man from the 1800 block of North Fourth Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 12:08 a.m. Saturday that a vehicle had been stolen. Information was logged that the vehicle had half a tank of gas, was left running with the keys in the vehicle and unlocked. Pokemon Cards in stock! The Hot Corner, Ponca Plaza Shopping Center. 765-5333. adv. Subject Held — A man from the 1700 block of Donahoe Drive reported at 12:48 a.m. Saturday that a purse had been stolen. An officer was assigned and a 15-year-old boy was held for burglary of a vehicle. Hair Etc. introducing Becky Gearheart spring break perm special $25.00 March 15 through 31. 762-4247. adv. Suspicious Activity — The Communications Center received a call from the 700 block of East Cleveland Avenue at 1:01 a.m. Saturday that a disturbance had occurred and a vehicle stolen. Three officers responded to the problem and took into custody, a 30-year-old man for domestic assault and battery. An ambulance from the Ponca City Fire Department took a woman to the emergency room of St. Joseph Regional Medical Center for treatment of a head injury. Jewelry Boxes. Just arrived, great for anniversary, graduation or birthday. The Jewelry Connection, 211 East Grand. adv. Disturbance — A man from the 1600 block of Clarke Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 3:13 a.m. Saturday that a disturbance was occurring. Two officers were assigned and an 18-year-old man was held for failure to appear. Mary Engelbreit’s Home Companion magazine now at Carla’s Hallmark, Downtown, 765-3094. Open Sunday. adv. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the intersection of Union Street and West Grand Avenue at 3:48 a.m. Saturday that a 38-year-old man was being held on a city warrant for failure to pay and public intoxication. 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. Kids Review now accepting spring/summer childrens consignments. adv. Fantasy Cut blue topaz pendents. The Jewelry Connection, 211 East Grand. adv. LIFESTYLESSarah Parsons Is Engaged Sarah Parsons Is EngagedSarah Kathryn Parsons, daughter of J.B. and Kathy Parsons of Ponca City, and Michael Cole Hart are planning a June 17 wedding at St. Mary’s Catholic Church. A reception will follow at the Marland Mansion. Hart is the son of Diana Hart and David Byrn of Prescott, Ariz., and is the grandson of Winchester Richard of Phoenix, Ariz. Miss Parsons is the granddaughter of Clayton and Mary Ann Evans of Houston, Texas, and Francel Parsons, also of Houston. The bride-to-be is a 1993 graduate of Ponca City High School and a 1997 graduate of he University of North Texas in Denton. She holds a degree in music education with violin concentration and presently teaches fifth and sixth grade orchestra in College Station, Texas. She is also a member of the BCS String Quartet and the Temple Symphony. Hart graduated in 1993 from Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff with a degree in business communications. He is also an orchestra teacher in the College Station school system as well as a cellist with the BCS String Quartet and the Brazos Valley String Quartet. Kristin Maddox Bride ElectKristin Kay Maddox, daughter of John and Sharon Maddox of Ponca City, will marry James Jarray Cheng, son of Roland and Angie Cheng of San Jose, Calif., on May 6. The ceremony will be held in Berry Bible Chapel on the campus of Ouachita Baptist University in Arkadelphia, Ark. Miss Maddox, a 1995 graduate of Ponca City High School, is currently attending Ouachita Baptist University, with a double major in vocal performance and choral music education. Cheng will graduate from the university this spring with a double major in physics and music composition. The couple plans to attend graduate school in their respective fields of study. Wheatheart Nutrition MenuMonday, March 13: Hamburger steak with beef gravy; mashed potatoes; tossed salad with dressing; biscuit with margarine; mixed fruit. Tuesday, March 14: beef cabbage casserole; three-bean salad; buttered carrots; whole wheat roll with margarine; applesauce gelatin. Wednesday, March 15: Chicken patty; buttered broccoli; pineapple and bananas; muffin with margarine; iced raisin peanut butter spice bar. Thursday, March 16: Swedish meatballs; Calypso rice; tomato juice; seasoned green beans; whole wheat roll with margarine; peach crisp. Friday, March 17: Ham; beans; tomato relish; cornbread with margarine; fruit cocktail cake. Wedding Plans AnnouncedA May 27 wedding in Cann Memorial Garden is being planned by Stephany Elizabeth Canny and Cody Daniel Harman. The bride-elect is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Steven Canny of Perry. Harman is the son of Mr. and Mrs. James “Hat” Harman, 3401 West Country Line Road. Miss Canny is a 1998 graduate of Perry High School and has attended Meridian Vo-Tech in Stillwater. She is employed at Charles Machine Works in Perry. The prospective bridegroom, a 1996 graduate of Frontier High School, is also employed at Charles Machine Works. Stillwater Ophthalmologist Addresses Local Lions ClubWhen The Lions Club met March 8, Dr. Jennifer Burgoyne, a Stillwater ophthalmologist, gave the program. Dr. Burgoyne, a graduate of the University of Kansas in 1990 and a graduate of the University of Indiana School of Medicine in 1994, has an office in Ponca City in the Miles Center. Dr. Burgoyne specializes in the laser refractive surgery. She stated that many advances have been made in cataract surgery over the past 10 years, including lens improvement and the “stitchless” outpatient surgery. These surgeries can be done safely for most diabetics. As a member of Britten Vision Associates Group, Dr. Burgoyne travels to smaller communities, including Cushing, Pawnee, Cleveland, Stillwater and Ponca City. According to the doctor, many advances are being made in the research on macular degeneration, which is the leading cause of irreversible blindness, and glaucoma, the second cause of irreversible blindness. Guests included Randall Sylvester, guest of Don Coffelt; Richard Bohannon, guest of John Bohannon; and student Leos, Rachael Maxon and Mareike Hegler. Both girls are juniors at Ponca City High School where they are active in Leo projects including bingo at the Sterling House and walking dogs for the Humane Society. Hegler is an exchange student from Germany who is staying with Connie VanAusdall. Greeters were Hubert Watts and Dave Burrows, and Don Coffelt gave the invocation. Art Jones was song leader. Announcements included a membership report by Kathy Turner. She reminded Lions that March is Membership Month (M&M). She also gave a brief testimonial of “Why I Wanted To Be A Lion.” Bill Stuever announced that Pioneer Technology Center nursing students have been recruited to help with the Mobil Screening Unit which will be in Wal-Mart parking lot on April 1-2. The Ponca City Noon Lions Club meets every Wednesday at noon at the American Legion on South Avenue. The members are businessmen and women in the community who have a desire to help and serve others. Their motto is simply “we serve.” The worldwide focus of Lions International is prevention of blindness and providing eyeglasses and other vision aids for needy individuals. AHSGR Meeting Set In Oklahoma CityThe Central Oklahoma Chapter of the American Historical Society of Germans From Russia will meet March 21 at 7:30 p.m. Place of the meeting is Marianne’s Rentals, 2701 West Britton Road in Oklahoma City. The program will feature items of historical interest, family treasures, paintings, photos, games and books. Members will “show and tell” about the items brought and what special meaning they have for their families. Interested quests are-always welcome. Surprise Reception PlannedCarl and Vera Neal of Ponca City will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary at a surprise “come and go” reception Saturday, March 18, 2-5 p.m. at their home, 1409 Shirlee Avenue. An open invitation is extended to friends and relatives to attend the event. Cards may be sent to them at the listed address. Carl Neal and the former Vera Avery were married March 1, 1940, in Newkirk. Mr. Neal is a retired Newkirk area farmer and former Blackwell Zinc employee. The event will be hosted by their children and grandchildren. Their children include Herb and Tobie Neal of Eureka Springs, Ark., David and Beverly (Neal) Pedigo; Tom and Carla (Neal) Sattre, all of Ponca City. Grandchildren are Kevin Harris, Chris and Stephanie Neal, Rob and Nikki Bandy, Rusty and April Leist, Carl Pedigo, Tina Cramer, Ryan and Stacey Sattre, Craig and Stephanie Sattre. Great-grandchildren are Travis Harris, Britnie and Christian Neal, Mara, Meche and Roman Bandy, Amber Leist, Nickolas Cramer and Breonna Sattre. Legislative Topic Set for March 14 AARP MeetingChapter 432 of the American Association of Retired Persons will have their monthly meeting at 6:30 p.m. March 14 in the RSVP office on North Fourth Street, located just south of The Master’s Touch Bookstore. An invitation is extended to current AARP members, former members, potential members and interested members of the public 50 years of age and above, to attend the meeting. This month’s speaker will discuss “how the average citizen can judge candidates and vote for who best can represent their views.” Also planned is a legislative report on national and state laws and how they will affect seniors. The local AARP chapter has donated subscriptions of current publications to the local Ponca City Public Library. TOPS Chapter Members MeetTOPS OK 308 Chapter met Monday evening. Ann McCool was in charge of the meeting. Ruth Garroute gave the devotional “The Good Old Days for Nurses.” Ann Steuver led the TOPS pledge, and Betty Flower led the KOPS Kreed. Natalie McCoy called the roll, and Betty Flower gave the weight report. Best losers were Natalie McCoy and Ruth Garroute. Robert Oldham won the HaHa pot. Forbidden food for the week is chocolate candy. Pat Meller was the February angel. Plans were made for the trip to Enid for Fun Day/workshop, and three guests were welcomed to the meeting. Elected as new officers were Wanda Headrick, leader; Natalie McCoy, co-leader; Delpha Clemens, treasurer; and Loretta Riley, secretary. Take Off Pounds Sensibly is a non-profit organization whose members desire to lose or maintain weight. Members are encouraged to develop individual exercise programs, and contests are used to encourage weight loss. Weigh-in time is 6-6:45 p.m. Monday. For more information contact Betty Flower, 765-5448, or Delpha Clemens, 762-2844. Looking With Lou By Louise AbercrombieDon’t Panic If… Don’t panic if you step outside in the early morning in your underwear to pick up the newspaper and the door slams shut. Chances are it’s not locked, but if it is you might make a note to carry your cell phone in your shorts next time. Don’t panic if the zipper on your slacks breaks — chances are your shirt tail will cover the gap. Here’s a plus for those wearing tuck-in shirts. Don’t panic if the recipe calls for white syrup, and you’re unable to unscrew the lid — just substitute maple syrup and leave out the favoring — it could be delicious. Talking about substitutes, isn’t it amusing when the recipe calls for a substitute for margarine, when margarine is already a substitute for butter? Don’t panic if you drop your dental bridge, and the family dog thinks it is a chew toy. This may be covered by your personal insurance, if your insurance agent can understand what you’re saying on the phone, talking without your teeth. Don’t panic if your neighbors, who are on vacation, have a perishable case of seafood delivered to you, and it already smells spoiled; just call the Odor Police. Don’t panic if the toilet stool’s water comes dangerously close to the top of the bowl; just grab the plunger and a dozen towels and stand by for action. Don’t panic if your fuel gage shows the big E; at the price of gasoline per gallon, a walk will do you good and save you money besides. Don’t panic if your panty hose has a runner in them; just use red nail polish and swear that hose stripes are in vogue. Don’t panic if your caller ID shows U.S. Government; it could be the Post Office instead of the IRS. Don’t panic if you step in a mud hole and come out shoeless; just drive to the nearest car wash, and for a quarter, you can use the high pressure water hose to clean both the shoes and your feet. And for a mere 25 cents more you can get both your shoes and feet waxed. Don’t panic if you get ahold of the hair spray instead of the deodorant spray, just keep your arms held out straight and say that you are celebrating Commonwealth Day in England and the Queen has ordered horizontal salutes for the event. The celebration is slated for March 13 for those of you who care. Don’t panic if those pickles on your hamburger turn out to be jalapeno peppers; but think twice before kissing your girlfriend with your “hot lips” because by the time you catch her your relationship may have burnt out. Chrysanthemum Garden Club Meets At Kaw City HomeThe Chrysanthemum Garden Club held its February meeting in the home of Marguriete Vietta in Kaw City. The meeting was called to order by Rita Tollins, president, and The Gardeners Creed was recited. Shirley Rainwater was introduced as a new member. The secretary’s report was read by Florence Williams. The roll call response was members telling of various flowers that were blooming in their yards and others that were coming up and would be blooming soon. It was announced that Jane Jayroe will be the guest speaker March 22 at the Ponca City Country Club, and reservations must be made by those who wish to attend. Mary Copeland, treasurer, gave a financial report and also gave a report of the Garden Council’s last meeting, telling of events that are planned in the near future. Marguriete Vietta reported on Blue Ribbon house plants from the National Gardener. The group later went to the Old Town Cafe for lunch, and, after lunch, they took a tour of Kaw City to view various gardens. The next meeting will be 9:30 a.m. March 17 in the home of Rita Robbins; Delores Letourmeau will be the hostess. All members and their friends are invited to attend. Kaw Nation CEO Will Give Program for DAR ChapterPonca City Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution, will meet on Friday, March 17, for a catered luncheon at noon at the Cultural Center. Hostesses for the DAR meeting will be members of the executive board. Following the luncheon, the program will be presented by Wanda Stone, chairperson and CEO of the Kaw Nation. The title of her presentation will be “The Kaw Nation Today.” Wanda Stone, chairperson and chief executive officer (CEO) of the Kaw Nation, has worked in the insurance business for many years. She retired in 1985 as vice president of a large independent insurance agency. She opened a retail business in 1985 and was elected to the Kaw executive council in 1986. The management of the business was eventually turned over to her daughter after she made the decision to take a position with the Kaw Nation. Between 1986 and 1990, Wanda Stone was elected to serve on the Kaw executive council as secretary and vice chairperson, and in 1990 she was elected chairperson and is now in her third four-year term. The Kaw Nation has 2,451 members and is located in rural north central Oklahoma. Under Stone’s leadership, the Nation has adopted a Tribal Constitution and established a Tribal court system. Mrs. Stone has focused on efforts which she says “assure the sovereignty of the Kaw Nation and has led the Tribe to a status of being the first Tribe in the area to be recognized as a Self-Governance Tribe by both Indian Health Service and Bureau of Indian Affairs.” The Nation has successfully established the Kanza Health and Wellness Complex in Newkirk. This complex includes a community center with hardwood floor gymnasium, a 7,200 square foot clinic and a 12,000 square foot Wellness Center with an indoor therapeutic swimming pool. The Kaw Nation is in the process of adding a child care center at the Newkirk complex. Wanda Stone was appointed by the governor of Oklahoma in 1996 to serve on the Oklahoma Indian Affairs commission, has served as past president of the Oklahoma Institute of Indian Heritage. She also served on the executive committee of the United Indian Nations in Texas, Oklahoma and Kansas for many years and is currently a member of the DOI National Tribal Shares Workgroup as well as serving as one of the Oklahoma delegates to the IHS and BIA Self Governance Advisory Committees. In addition, chairperson Stone is a member of the Leadership Enrichment and Diversity (LEAD) program; American Indian Planning Group, Southwest Center for Human Relations Studies, University of Oklahoma; a charter member of the Ponca City Native American Foundation, Inc. (Standing Bear) as well as the Tribal delegate to the National Congress of American Indian (NCAI) and the National Indian Gaming Association (NIGA). Chairperson Stone serves as director on the Ponca City Area Chamber of Commerce and on the Advisory Board of the University Learning Center of Northern Oklahoma. Simply Souper Luncheon SlatedAll area women are invited to attend the "Simply Souper" luncheon on March 15, from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. at the Ponca City Country Club. Sponsored by the Ponca City Christian Women’s Club, cost is $8.50 per person. There are no memberships or dues for the organization. Calling Jeanette, 765-8427, may make reservations for the luncheon and complementary childcare. It is necessary for reservations to be honored, canceled or used by a friend. "Soup’s On" Special Feature will be Diana Lewis presenting “souper’ ideas for fantastic meals.” Born and reared in Bartlesville, she graduated from Sooner High School. Diana holds a bachelor’s degree in Nutritional-Dietetics from the University of Oklahoma and a master’s degree in Food and Nutrition from Kansas State University. A Licensed and Registered Dietitian, she was a graduate assistant at KSU, assistant professor in Nutritional Sciences Department at Oklahoma State University Cooperative Extension Services for three years, and most recently Adjunct Instructor at OSU. Currently, Diana is an independent kitchen consultant for The Pampered Chef. Doris Christopher is the founder and president of The Pampered Chef. Launched in 1980, in the basement of Christopher’s home, The Pampered Chef is a direct-seller of quality kitchen tools, dedicated to providing home cooks with essential, multipurpose kitchen tools, tips, and recipes for preparing quick and delicious meals. "As a result," say Christopher, cooks can spend less time in the kitchen and more time at the table with their families." A resident of Ponca City for 18 years, Diana, and her husband Troy, principal of Lewis Associates Architects, Inc., have four children; Emily, Amanda, Michael, and Amy. The Home School Girls Ensemble will bring "Stirring Songs" special music under the direction of Catherine Byard. Currently in its fifth season, the ensemble is comprised of homeschooled young women who study and perform quality choral literature for treble voices. The ensemble performs two formal concerts a year with additional appearances as requested. Vocal Ensemble winner for three years at the state festival of the National Federation of Music Clubs, current members are: Shannon Perkins, Lindsey Perkins, Katie Sapp, April Harden, Bethany Harden, Sarah Bowen, Bethany Bowen, Elisa Massey, Emily Lewis, Jessica Gardner, Stephanie Colle and Syneva Colle. As founder and director of the Ponca City Home School Girls Ensemble and the Ponca City Children’s Chorale, Byard has been a resident of Ponca City since 1976. Catherine holds an associate of arts degree from Northern Oklahoma College, the bachelor of music education and master of science degrees from Oklahoma State University, and is currently pursuing a master of music degree in choral conducting. She has also taught on the music faculty at NOC and OSU and is founding member of the Stillwater Chamber Singers. Vickie Stokke will be accompanying the Ensemble. Leona Ward will provide background music for the luncheon. "Food for Thought" will be the theme of the guest speaker, Patty Curl as she shares "Is Life Really Like A Box of Chocolates, You Never Know What You’re Going to Get?" A concert soloist, speaker and artist, Patty speaks for women’s groups (including retreats and conferences) across the continental United States as well as Hawaii. Starting her singing career at age 6, Patty has appeared on many television and radio programs and has recorded two albums, "It is Finished" and "An Occasion for Praise", both recorded at the Gaither Studios. She designed and did the artwork for her first album and has been showing her original artwork and prints since 1978. She also has a line of stationary note cards displaying her artwork and paints Victorian scenes on jackets and vests. In her community, Patty started "Teenline" a crisis line for youth and was coordinator for 2 ˝ years. She speaks regularly at area schools on drug and alcohol abuse and is a motivational speaker for youth. Patty was a certified court mediator for her county for a year. She teaches Bible studies for women and youth. Originally from Georgia, Patty was a "top 10 finalist" in the Miss Georgia Pageant and won the most talented award for her vocal performance. She is a member of Singing Churchwomen of Oklahoma, a 350-voice choir, and is soloist on their album "The Lord is My Light." In 1996, Patty sang at the Oklahoma Governors Mansion. She and her husband of 36 years, Spencer, have two grown children, Lori and John. ScholarshipPhoto Change Photographs of scholarship winners will no longer be used on the Lifestyles pages. Information concerning the award and its recipient will be used in a story if the organization’s news is usually reported in Lifestyles. Scholarship information should be submitted for placement on the Education page. OMTA Group Hosts District April Auditions The Ponca City Area Branch of the Oklahoma Music Teachers Association met March 6 at the home of Frances Thompson. Two guests, Beth Amsler and Arica Banerjee, and six members were present. Roberta Motz, president, conducted the meeting. Katy Tucker read the minutes and distributed the treasurer’s report. Plans were finalized for the March 11 workshop, which is open to all area piano teachers and presented by Dr. Ronald E. Lewis, professor of piano at Oklahoma Baptist University, on the subject, “In the Beginning … Starting a Piece on the Right Foot.” Members will host the District OMTA Achievement Auditions on April 8 at First Presbyterian Church. Theory tests will be administered to interested students on that day. Entries must be sent to Kathy Wimberley, auditions chairperson, by March 24. Mrs. Motz, local guild chairperson, announced that the National Piano Guild Auditions will be held April 28-29 in Ponca City at First United Methodist Church. OMTA’s State Convention will be held June 2-3 in Stillwater on the OSU campus. Dr. Douglas Humpherys, piano literature teacher at Eastman School of Music, will be the guest artist. Mary Sallee of Norman is the commissioned composer for the convention. Members watched part of the video, entitled “The History of the Pianoforte: A Documentary In Sound” by Eva Badura-Skoda. Bits and PiecesSingles Network Activity schedule for March 12-18 includes brunch at Dorothy’s at 1 p.m. March 12. Call 765-1403 to see what to bring. March 14 join the group at 6 p.m. for dinner at Taco Mayo. On March 16 the group will meet at 7 p.m. at Phil’s for a card party. Those attending should bring snacks. The Singles Network will gather for a birthday dinner at 6 p.m. March 18 at the American Legion. Chapter EL Chapter EL of PEO will meet for a salad luncheon at noon March 15 in the home of Betsy Carter. Betty Matson and Jane Worstell will serve as co-hostesses. Members whose last names begin K-W are asked to bring salads. The program will be about quilts, and members are asked to bring family quilts and give a brief history of the item. Chapter FC Chapter FC of PEO will meet at 1 p.m. March 15 at the home of Kathy Wimberley. Co-hostesses will be Billie Wright and Mary Gordon. The program will be presented by Kathy Adams. Alma Robison will given an update on the PEO program for continuing education. Ponca City HappeningsSunday Marland Estate Mansion, 901 Monument Road, open daily, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, 1-5 p.m. Guided tours Monday-Friday, 1:30 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 1:30 and 3 p.m. Special tour information, 767-0420. Pioneer Woman Museum, open Tuesday-Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, 1-5 p.m. The museum is closed on Mondays and holidays. Ponca City Art Center, 819 East Central. Wednesday through Sunday, 1-5 p.m. Ponca City Cultural Center and Museum, 10th and Grand. Home of Ponca City Indian Museum, Bryant Baker Studio, 101 Ranch Museum and DAR Museum. Available for receptions, teas, bridge parties, etc. Open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday 1-5 p.m. 767-0427. Ponca City Tourism Office, 10th and Grand. Information about all tourist attractions and events in Ponca City and the surrounding area. Open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, 1-5 p.m. 763-8067. 11th Step AA meeting — open, 11 a.m.; AA Discussion meeting, 8 p.m. Harmony House, 212 South Third. AA Alano Group — 8 p.m., closed topic meeting: 603 South 1st. Monday Al-Anon meeting, 8-9 p.m. Monday, upstairs in the Harmony House, 212 South Third. Domestic Violence Group, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Mondays. Programs for women and children of family violence. Babysitter provided. For information call 76A-BUSE. Fibromyalgia Support Group meets on the fourth Monday of each month at 7 p.m. in the parlor of the First Baptist Church. More information may be obtained by calling Betty Wilson, 762-3768; Mary Beth Guy, 765-9894; Martha Long, 762-5572. Multiple Sclerosis Support Group meets the third Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at Albright United Methodist Church, 128 South Palm. Call Beth Wright, 765-6738, for additional information. Ponca City Rotary Club, noon Monday, American Legion. Simple Steps AA — closed, noon; AA Step Study — closed, 8 p.m.; Harmony House, 212 South Third. AA Alano Group — Noon, discussion; 603 South 1st. TOPS OK 308 members weigh-in time is 6 to 6:45 p.m. with meetings starting at 6:45 p.m. on Mondays. For information call Betty Flower at 765-5448. Principles Before Personalities, Narcotics Anonymous, 8 p.m. Monday, Harmony House basement (use south entrance by parking lot). Pioneer Area Quilter’s Guild meets the first Monday of each month at Community Christian Church on West Grand. Business meeting begins at 12:30 p.m. There will not be a meeting in July. Tuesday The American Family Support Group will meet 7-9 p.m. Tuesdays at 1105 West Highland. The topic will be Child Welfare Services and child abuse. Kay County Wheatheart Sweet Adelines, 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Performing Arts building (south entrance) Northern Oklahoma College, Tonkawa. All women welcome. For information call 765-6829, 363-1643 or 762-2885. Kiwanis Club, noon Tuesday, Marland Mansion Conference Center. New-Found Freedom Co-dependents Anonymous, 8 p.m., Tuesday, Harmony House (upstairs library). AA Discussion meeting at noon; AA Big Book Study — closed, 8 p.m. Harmony House, 212 South Third. AA Alano Group — Noon, Big Book; 8 p.m., closed, Step Studies with first Tuesday for Traditions; 603 South 1st. Freedom Group of AA; Tuesdays at 8 p.m. Woodlands Christian Church (Room 202), Fourteenth and Hartford. Smoke-free meeting and building. |