From The Pages Of The Ponca City News, Friday, March
13, 1998
LOCAL
Authorities Investigate Evidence at Fatal Fire
Nickles Lauds Highway Bill
Oil & Gas Report
Honor Dance Set Saturday
DEATHS
Darrell Eugene Harding
Audrey L. Myers
Mildred Hazel Lydick
Services Pending
Joe Colvin
Funerals
Katherine Koziniec
NEWS BRIEFS
RELIGION
Northeast Baptists Set Up New Ministries
First Lutheran To Observe Third Sunday of Lent
Phillips Choir Here March 19
Church Briefs
Area Child Advocacy Conference Set
1st Christians To Offer Parenting Class on Sunday
Pioneer Christian Crusaders Announce Future Plans
EDUCATION
School News
Local Students Achieve Excellence
NOC Students Win Four OBEA Awards
DECA Chapter Competes at State
LIFESTYLES
Vows Unite Brenda Petty, J. E. Baldwin
Vivian Davis Hostess For Busy Bee Meeting
SPORTS
Cat Netters Top Westmoore
Lady Cats Show Mettle in Moore
Gymnastics Results
TONKAWA - Authorities today were still investigating the cause of a house fire that apparently killed a 20-year-old woman west of here Thursday morning .
Tonkawa police and the state fire marshal this morning were back at the scene of the blaze, which 24 hours earlier forced an off-duty convenience store clerk to rescue a 2-year-old from the burning building.
According to reports, store clerk Ron Bensley - son of Kay County sheriff's deputy Jim Bensley - pulled the young boy from the smoke-filled building, located a half-mile west of Interstate 35 on Fountain Road.
Bensley had just finished his night shift at Love's Store at the intersection before driving by the home, where he saw smoke and then heard calls for help from the boy's uncle.
Sheriff's Deputy Buddy Thomas said the boy and the uncle were treated for smoke inhalation and burns. Bensley reportedly suffered minor injuries and singed hair.
The body of the woman - whose name has been withheld for the investigation - was transported to the state medical examiner's office in Oklahoma City.
Tonkawa's Assistant Fire Chief Kirk Henderson said the building, an old school house converted into a duplex by property owner Don Cales, was engulfed in flames when firefighters reached the home after the 7:47 a.m. call.
Firefighters spent all day at the residence, which was completely destroyed, Henderson said.
Tonkawa Police Chief David Rogers said investigators today were trying to determine exactly what caused the fire.
WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Sen. Don Nickles said Oklahoma will receive a boost under the six-year highway funding bill passed by the Senate Thursday.
The bill would increase federal funding for Oklahoma roads and bridges by an average of $143.5 million each year over what the state receives under current law.
Oklahoma now receives an average of $260 million each year in federal highway funds. The Senate bill would increase that amount to an average of $403.5 million each year through fiscal year 2003 - a 55 percent increase over the current average.
"Oklahoma roads and bridges are in serious need of repairs. According to the latest highway administration figures, we have 8,086 miles of roads that are in poor or mediocre condition. Our bridges are in even worse shape, with 9,021 of them - roughly 40 percent of all Oklahoma bridges - classified as 'deficient,'" Nickles said. "This bill should go a long way toward helping Oklahoma make significant improvements."
Nickles said the Senate bill also includes language that would give the state flexibility to use mass transit funds to help reestablish Amtrak service to Oklahoma.
Drilling operations are nearing the 4,300-ft. mark at the No. 3D. Brorsen, a wildcat well in Kay County.
Spudded on Feb. 12, the venture is located 6.2 miles west-southwest of White Eagle.
Tripower Resources Inc. is the operator.
Section 10-township 25n-range 1e-sw-se.
The No. 5 Nemaha, a 2,550-ft. developmental well, is scheduled to be drilled in Kay County's Tonkawa Field.
Hegco Canada Inc. is the operator.
The well will be spudded about one-half mile northeast of Three Sands.
Section 35-township 25n-range 1w-se-sw.
Baron Exploration Co. has revealed plans to drill a 1,200-ft. developmental well in the Orlando Field, Noble County. The operator has designated the venture as the No. 1-29 Maurice. Drill site is 5.9 miles south of Perry.
Section 29-township 20-range 1w-se-ne.
Drillsite has been staked for the No. 26-2 Lee, a 620-ft. developmental well in the East Billing Field, Noble County. The operation will be located 5.6 miles southeast of Marland. Hulen Oil Co. is the operator.
Section 26-township 24n-range 2w-sw-se.
Two developmental wells are planned by Barbour Energy Corp. in Noble County's Happy Star Field, 3.9 miles west and 3.2 miles southwest of Three Sands.
The wells will be known as the No. 2-6 Frailey and the No. 1-7 McAninch. Both will seek production in the Herrington Formation, with total depths projected to 650 and 591 feet, respectively.
Section 6-township 24n-range 1w-sw-nw.
Section 7-township 24n-range 2e-ne-ne.
An honor dance for Perry and Cleona LeClair will be held Saturday at 2 p.m. at the Ponca Tribal Cultural Center.
All friends and relatives are invited to help the community honor the couple.
The dance staff will include Mike LeClair as head singer, Ceasar Williams as Headman dancer, Delbert "Smokey" Cole as Master of Ceremonies, Kirby Feathers as arena director and Danny Paige as waterboy.
Supper will be served at 5:30 p.m.
War Dancing will begin at 7 p.m.
For more information call 762-3783.
DEATHS
Darrell Eugene "Lil Darrell" Harding, lifelong Ponca City resident, died Tuesday, March 10, 1998, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. He was 22.
The funeral will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 14, at Grace Memorial Chapel with the Rev. Elza Haynes officiating. Burial will follow in the Ponca City IOOF Cemetery.
Darrell Eugene "Lil Darrell" Harding was born Feb. 17, 1976, in Ponca City, the son of Eugene Harding Jr. and Cecelia Dewberry. He grew up and received his education in Ponca City. Known by his friends as "the guy with the prettiest smile," he enjoyed fishing, hunting, dominoes, cards, horseshoes, and spending time with his family and friends.
Survivors include his mother, Cecelia Dewberry of Ponca City; his father and stepmother, Eugene and Fred Harding of Tullahassee, Okla.; four half-brothers and sisters, Brian Miller and Rashonna Miller, both of Ponca City, Lashon Harding and Lisa Harding, both of Kansas City, Mo.; and his paternal grandmother, Margaret Gordon of Kansas City, Mo. He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Idella and George Boby, Leonard Dewberry Sr. and his paternal grandfather Eugene Harding Sr.
Casket bearers will be George Dewberry, Carlton Dewberry, Greg Dewberry, Alan Goldsmith, Juan Dewberry and Raymond Pollard. Honorary bearers will be Napolean Elston, Doug Foster, George Lockett, Juan Jones, and Calvin Lane.
Memorial contributions may be made in Darrell's memory to the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Sickle Cell Anemia Research, 825 N.E. Thirteenth Street, Oklahoma City, OK 73104.
The family will be at 1618 South Tenth Street.
BLACKWELL - Audrey L. Myers, longtime Blackwell resident, died early Thursday morning, March 12, 1998, in the Blackwell Regional Hospital. She was 84.
The funeral will be held at 2 p.m. Monday at the Blackwell First Church of the Nazarene with the Rev. Bill Kalfas, pastor, officiating. Burial will be in Blackwell Cemetery.
Audrey L. Myers was born Aug. 12, 1913, in Gage to Harry Augusta and Etta Ann (Stewart) Myers. She grew up in Gage and attended Little Wolf Rural School. She moved with her parents to Blackwell at age 20.
Miss Myers was employed by various people as a housekeeper and babysitter. Following the death of her mother in 1972, she continued living in the home until ill health forced her move to Hillcrest Manor Nursing Home. Miss Myers was a member of the Blackwell First Church of the Nazarene. She enjoyed music and singing.
Survivors include a sister, Thelma Cooley of Blackwell; and two brothers, Howard of Ponca City and Robert of Houston, Texas. She was preceded in death by her parents and one sister, LaVada Scott.
Casket bearers will be Gene Holcomb, Bill Wente, David Johns, Dennis Myers, Larry Myers, and John Dale.
SABETHA, Kan. - Mildred Hazel Lydick, mother of Ralph Lydick of Ponca City, died Tuesday, March 10, 1998, in Ponca City. She was 81.
The funeral will be held graveside at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 14, at the Morrill Cemetery in Sabetha, Kan. Arrangements are under the direction of Popkess Mortuary Chapel in Sabetha and Grace Memorial Chapel in Ponca City.
Mildred Hazel Lydick was born Jan. 6, 1917 in Superior, Neb., to Thomas R. and Amanda (Snider) Lafler. She grew up and attended schools in the Superior area.
On Jan. 19, 1935, she was married to Francis "Pank" Lydick and the couple lived in Morrill, Sabetha, and Randolph, Kan., most of their married life. Mrs. Lydick enjoyed needle craft, cooking, sewing and family activities.
Survivors include two sons, Ralph Lydick of Ponca City and Homer John Lydick of Allentown, N.J.; one sister Irene Mease of Limon, Colo.; seven grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband in 1981 and her parents.
The family will be at the home of Ralph Lydick or Lori Boring, both in Ponca City.
Joe Colvin, longtime Ponca City resident, died Friday morning, March 13, 1998, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. He was 80. Survivors include his wife, Helen, of the home. Arrangements are pending with Grace Memorial Chapel.
Monday
Katherine Koziniec - Wake service to be at 5 p.m. Sunday at Trout
Funeral Home. Mass of Christian burial will be at 10 a.m. Monday. Other
arrangements will be announced later by Trout Funeral Home.
NEWS BRIEFS
VFW Dinner - The Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1201 and auxiliary will meet for a family dinner and St. Patrick's Day celebration on March 15 at 1 p.m. at the post home. Members are asked to bring a covered dish or dessert.
Memorial Dinner - A memorial dinner in memory of Wanda Mae Waters will be held at the Ponca Tribal Cultural Center, Sunday at noon. The event is to end the traditional Ponca Tribal mourning period for the family, friends and relatives of Mrs. Waters. Persons attending are encouraged to bring their own dishes and chairs.
Genealogy Meeting - Pioneer Genealogy Computer Interest Group will meet Sunday at 2 p.m. at the South Fourth Street Clubhouse. For more information call 767-1864.
Accident - One vehicle involved in an accident at South Fifth Street and East Maple Avenue at 7:50 a.m. Thursday left the scene. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. The vehicle was later discovered to be stolen.
Arrest - Police arrested a 38-year-old woman at 7:57 a.m. Thursday from the 100 block of Cooley Avenue for harboring a runaway.
Stolen Checks - A man in the 1500 block of West South Avenue called police at 10:08 a.m. Thursday to report some stolen checks. A report was taken.
Vehicle Vandalism - At 11:47 a.m. Thursday a woman reported to police that her car had been vandalized while it was parked in the 1100 block of East Prospect Avenue. An officer was assigned.
Arrest - Police arrested an 18-year-old man at 1:38 p.m. Thursday from the 1400 block of West Highland Avenue on a city warrant for failure to pay.
Stolen Vehicle - At 1:47 p.m. Thursday a woman in the 600 block of East Ponca Avenue advised police that her vehicle had been stolen. It was recovered and found to be a vehicle involved in an earlier accident.
Arrest - A 34-year-old man was arrested at 2:10 p.m. Thursday for domestic assault and battery.
Grass Fire - The fire department responded to reported grass fire on U.S. 177 near White Eagle at 3:52 p.m. Thursday.
Gas Drive-Off - At 4:41 p.m. Thursday a clerk from Sav-A-Trip, 207 East Highland Avenue, called police to report a $5 gas drive-off. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Court Arrests - Police arrested a 37-year-old woman, 25-year-old man, 43-year-old man and a 38-year-old man at 5:10 p.m. Thursday from court for failure to pay.
Juvenile Shoplifters - At 6:56 p.m. Thursday two girls were cited for shoplifting at Stage's, 2001 North Fourteenth Street. They were released to their parents
Arrest - Police arrested a 22-year-old man at 8:40 p.m. Thursday for petit larceny and trespassing from the 1100 block of East Prospect Avenue.
Arrest - A 22-year-old man was arrested at 11:49 p.m. Thursday from North Fourteenth Street and East Hartford Avenue for speeding, no insurance and driving under restriction.
Arrest - At 12:30 a.m. Friday an 18-year-old man was arrested from the 1000 block of Shady Place on a city warrant for failure to pay.
Arrest - At 1:54 a.m. Friday a 27-year-old man was arrested from Bradley Avenue and North Fourteenth Street for destruction of private property.
Arrest - Police arrested a 27-year-old man at 2:52 a.m. Friday
from West Hartford Avenue and Richway Drive for driving under restriction
and no insurance.
RELIGION
Northeast Baptist Church has established several new ministries to offer opportunities to encourage each other as well as to reach out to others in the community. The women's ministry sponsored a "Dessert and Recipe Fellowship" to allow the women of the church to meet and become better acquainted. Each lady brought a dessert and the recipe which could be copied for that dessert. An icebreaker was used to promote encouragement. Each lady was given the opportunity to share comments of encouragement about one of the other women at the fellowship.
Cindy Short, chairperson of Women's Ministry said they are in the process of planning and organizing outreach ministries such as mentoring, single moms programs, ladies retreats both organized by Northeast and those sponsored outside of Northeast, lunch bunch groups etc. Northeast has had a Secret Sister ministry for several years and that will continue, as well as establishing a "Caring Card" ministry to promote encouragement to other ladies. The men's ministry met last Saturday morning for a breakfast and discussion of how the men of Northeast can minister to each other as well as reach out to the community. Some of the ministries the men are organizing for the near future include:
* Car Ministry - which will provide oil changes and minor repair for widows and families who are not financially able to obtain this service;
* Mentoring Groups - in which two or three of the men of varied ages will meet to encourage one another in their Christian walk;
* Men of Valor - will be a group of men who will meet with the staff prior to Bible study on Sunday mornings for a time of prayer. The groups will be on a rotating basis and will also provide intercessory prayer during morning worship.
* Emergency Relief - men of the church would be called upon to give spiritual support during a time of family disaster.
The men also discussed the possibility of sponsoring a retreat or marriage enrichment course.
Link Cotham, chairman of the men's ministry said the men plan to meet for food, fellowship, and testimony of each ministry every three months.
Other new ministries established are: Missions Committee and Leadership Tea. The missions committee will organize and enlist volunteers to help in various missions projects as well as look at supporting mission projects in which individuals of Northeast are involved. The leadership team is a sounding board and idea team to set the direction of emphases to be taken back to the church membership for approval.
Dr. Larry E. Nigh, pastor, stated that these new ministries will enlarge the outreach/inreach of Northeast as well as encourage more involvement of individuals. Many times church members are not aware of needs within their church family or community, these ministries will allow channels to create an awareness of these needs.
Northeast Baptist services include: Sunday morning: Bible Study at 9 a.m. followed by Morning Worship at 10:15. Praise and Worship Services are held Sunday evenings at 6 o'clock. Wednesday evening opportunities are: Bible Study led by Dr. Nigh at 6:30 followed by Prayer and Share Time. Sanctuary Choir rehearsal is from 7 to 8 p.m. TeamKID begins at 6:30 for children pre-kindergarten through sixth grade. Russell Segelquist, minister of education, and Guy Cooper, minister of music and youth, lead "The Next Level" for youth in seventh grade and older. Childcare is provided for Preschool 3 and younger for all services.
The theme for the service at First Lutheran Church this Sunday, the Third Sunday in Lent, will be "Baptism - Our Life Preserver." In the scripture readings for the day God warns us of the dangers of rejecting God. The Old Testament reading shows how He was displeased with those of Israel who rejected Him in the wilderness. Jesus, too, was rejected by His contemporaries. The warning is clear: repent, or you too will perish. Yet God is loving, desiring us to be saved, and He has given the Sacrament of Baptism to seal us as His own, that we may recall it in times of temptation and remember how God has claimed us, Pastor Thomas Ramsey pointed out.
Pastor Ramsey's sermon at both the 8:30 a.m. and the 11 a.m. services will be "Jesus Christ at the Radical Center: Jesus Is Friend," concluding a series in which focus has been placed on Christ as our Savior, Lord, and Friend. He must always be at the center of our lives displaying that we have been saved from our self-centeredness and saved for complete services to God, Pastor Ramsey pointed out.
The fourth midweek Lenten service will be on Wednesday, March 18, at 7 p.m. The theme of that service will be "Christ's compassionate concern." The soup supper, which begins at 6 p.m. in Fellowship Hall, will be under the direction of the Elders. Members of First Lutheran Church once again invite anyone to join them for all of these events.
The Phillips University Concert Choir will provide a concert of excellent choral music in the sanctuary of First Christian Church on Thursday, March 19 at 7:30 p.m.
The ensemble will perform both sacred and secular selections consisting of a wide variety of madrigals by y Thomas Morley, "Cantate Comino" by Di Lasso, and selections from Foret's "Requiem." The group will also perform modern selections by the well known John Rutter and William Matthias. "There should be something in it for everyone, says Dr. Ron Manning, director for the Concert Choir.
Manning joined the music department as the Associate Professor and Director of Choral Activities, coming to the Phillips faculty from the Kansas City area having 27 years experience in instructing music. Since 1955, Manning has taught private voice at Missouri Western State College in St. Joseph, as well as Director of Music at Countryside Christian Church in Mission, Kan. Manning founded the Plantation Community Chorus, Inc. which has performed with the world renowned Alain Lombard and the Miami Philharmonic Orchestra. He has also made presentations at the International Conference in Vienna, Austria and has performed in Florence, Italy and Salzburg, Austria.
The tour is a way Phillips can say a personal "thank you" to some of the communities who have supported the university all year. First Christian invites the public to attend the concert and meet some of the fantastic students how make up the life of Phillips University.
Bishop from Nazareth To Preach Here Sunday
The Right Rev. Riah Abu El Assal, rector of St. Margaret Church in Nazareth and recently named Bishop of that area, will be preaching at Grace Episcopal Church on Sunday morning, it was announced today.
Bishop Assal is here with the North American Regional Committee for St.
George College in Jerusalem, meeting at Grace Church, according to Dr. Jim
Thomas, local Clinical Psychologist, and President of the NARC Board.
Pastoral Candidate to Speak at Good Shepherd Lutheran
The Rev. Tim Hurley of Bruce, S.D. will be the speaker at a special Friday evening service tonight at 7 p.m. at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 3109 North Union in Ponca City.
The Rev. Mr. Hurley is a candidate for the position of pastor at Good Shepherd and all interested are encouraged to attend.
The Rev. Mr. Hurley is a native of Midland, Texas and a graduate of Baylor University. He was ordained as a Southern Baptist minister and served as a church planter before ordination into the Lutheran ministry in the Association of Free Lutheran Congregations. The Rev. Mr. Hurley has served both English speaking and Spanish speaking congregations. He is presently finishing up work on his doctorate.
Good Shepherd Lutheran Church is located one block north of the intersection
of Union Street and Prospect Ave. in northwest Ponca City.
Trinity Church of the Nazarene Celebrates 50 Years
On March 22, 1998 the Trinity Church of the Nazarene will celebrate 50 years of service to God and the community of Ponca City. If you have ever been a part of this church, we invite you to come join us as we give God the praise for the things He has done, Pastor John Garnica said.
At 10:30 a.m. there will be worship service with the District Superintendent as guest speaker. Several special numbers in music are being planned. Following the morning worship service there will be a dinner provided by the church for all who attend.
At 3 p.m. a time of singspiration and testimonies by present and former
members and former pastors is planned. If you cannot join us at the 10:30
service, please come and join us for the 3 p.m. service, the Rev. John Garnica
invited.
Church Plans First Meeting in Tonkawa
Insight Christian Fellowship Church will hold its first meeting in the Community Room of the Service Bank in Tonkawa at 10 a.m. this Sunday, March 15.
Pastor Joe Howard said a time of fellowship will be had and there will also be a time of introduction to the beliefs and purpose of this new church, as well as future plans. The church is meeting in this location temporarily until a more permanent home can be acquired. Pastor Howard will be preaching the sermon Sunday morning.
The church is centered around teaching Christians to live seven days
a week as Christians and to grow, as they should, on a continuing basis.
Pastor Howard and the founding members invited all who have no church home
to join them. For information, call 628-3152.
First United Methodist Women Plan Dinner, Program
The United Methodist Women at First United Methodist Church will have a dinner preceding their program at 6 p.m. Thursday, March 19, in Fellowship Hall. The Leta Gorham group will provide the dinner that will include recipes from Brazil to highlight the program, "Brazil: A Faithful Response," to be shown in video under the leadership of Mary Irons. Examples of Protestant ministries will be shown in the slums, or Faveta, of Rio de Janeiro.
Members of the Leta Gorham will provide the devotional thoughts.
New Mt. Olive Baptists Tell Plans
The New Mt. Olive Baptist Church at 520 North Pine in Newkirk will hold Gospel services on March 25 at 3 p.m.
Special guest will be the Rev. Levi Smith of Mt. Pilgrim Baptist Church in Hominy - former pastor of St. John Baptist in Ponca City.
Everyone is invited to attend this meeting with the Rev. Mr. Smith.
Prayer Service Set for Healing
New Life Pentecostal Holiness Church, 114 North Oak, will hold a prayer
meeting, seeking healing for Arlene Overland. The meeting is scheduled for
7 p.m. on Saturday, March 14. Anyone interested is encouraged to participate.
Hartford Avenue C of C Trains Youth of Church
The Hartford Avenue Church of Christ has a youth program underway directed by Steve Hamm, Stacey Lobaugh and Ron Pitts, and are involved in many different activities.
A scheduled work day is set at the church facility once a month and can include working on and around the building or serving members of the congregation in various ways.
The young men train by leading the worship service at Shawn Manor once
a month - leading the singing, reading the scripture and leading in prayer.
Also on the third Sunday of each month, the young people travel to a nearby
town to worship God together with other young people. They also attend youth
rallies in various parts of the Oklahoma-Kansas area.
Pancake Breakfast Planned Saturday
In an effort to support the Kentucky Appalachian Ministry, The Inman Christian Center, and the All Peoples Christian Center of the National Disciples Men of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), the Disciples Men of Woodlands Christian, Community Christian, and First Christian Churches will host a pancake breakfast this Saturday morning, March 14.
All-you-can-eat pancakes will be served at Woodlands Christian Church (corner of 14th & Hartford) from 6:30 to 10 a.m. Cost for anyone 12 years and older is $3, children 6-11, $1.50, and those 5 and under will eat free. The public is cordially invited to attend.
Child Advocacy Conferences, planned for this month and in April, will help Oklahoma Baptists respond to the tragic increase in child abuse and neglect in Oklahoma. In 1997, 48,399 incidents were reported or investigated in Oklahoma. Of these cases, 13,626 were found to be actual abuse and/or neglect creating the potential for long-term developmental, mental, and physical injury or death for its child victims. A total of 29 children died from abuse or neglect in 1996.
Focusing on the recognition and prevention of child abuse in homes and in church facilities, the conference topics include "Your Church's Liabilities and Opportunities" and "How and When to Intervene." Conference leaders will share how to respond appropriately when a person becomes aware of or suspects abuse is occurring.
Churches will learn how to protect children at church and how to protect their church from allegations of abuse. Information will be shared about a new network of volunteers called "Baptist Advocates for Children."
Conferences have already been held this month, others are scheduled for March 17 at the Baptist Children's Home in Owasso; and March 30 at the Associational Office in Guymon. April conferences are: April 3 at First Baptist Church in Elk City; April 6 at First Baptist Church in Hugo; April 20 at First Baptist in Grove and April 27 at Central Baptist in Lawton.
Speakers for the conferences include B.J. Cranford, Minister to Children, First Baptist Church, Norman; and Darlene Koch, Coordinator for Baptist Advocates for Children. James Browning, who will complete 50 years of service in child care work this year, and other staff from Oklahoma Baptist Homes for children, will share about intervention and placement in residential care.
The programs are from 10 am. to 2 p.m. and include a light lunch. For more information or to make a reservation, call Oklahoma Baptist Homes for Children a 405-942-3800, extension 629.
For help with resource materials and help in designing policies and procedures, churches may contact Church and Family Equipping at the Baptist Resource Center, 405-942-3800, extension 642.
State law requires that any person having reason to believe or suspect that a child is being abused or neglected report the conditions of the incident to the Department of Human Services for investigation. Any person reporting in good faith is protected by law. Failure to report is a misdemeanor. If a person is not sure if a situation or incident is abuse or neglect, he should call the Statewide Abuse Hotline at 1-800-522-3511, answered 24 hours a day.
First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) is offering a parenting class to its members beginning Sunday, March 15, from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the Kioninia Classroom. "It Takes More Than Love" is a video/print curriculum series on positive parenting that will address such issues as:
* intentional parenting which asserts that nothing can substitute for time and attention
* value-centered parenting which looks at valuing our children and helping them to practice values-based behaviors
* nurture-centered parenting which focuses on preparing children to be responsible and capable
* inclusive parenting which reminds the viewer that raising children is a complex and intense task and that parents can't do it alone - they need a larger community to help.
According to Bob Corbin, who is leading the class, these sessions have good information for grandparents, as well as parents, who are seeking to help today's youth move safely and successfully into adulthood.
The Pioneer Christian Crusaders Chapter of the Christian Motorcycle Association attended church services together at the First Christian Church on Feb. 22, and plan to attend services at Faith Fellowship in Blackwell on March 22 at 10 a.m., it was announced. The Pioneer Christian Crusaders held their monthly meeting at the Conestoga Restaurant on March 2 at 6 p.m. Anyone interested in motorcycles is invited to attend their meetings.
The Crusaders meet every Tuesday evening at the Triple T Station, Waverly and U.S. 60 for a fun ride (weather permitting). The ride begins at 6 p.m.
A Bible study is held the second and fourth Mondays, usually at the home of Pete and Joyce Myers, but March 9 the Bible study was held at the home of Danny and Linda Osborn. Call Joyce Myers at 765-3164 if you need more information.
The Crusaders met at the home of Pete and Joyce Myers after the church service on Feb. 22 for a surprise birthday dinner honoring Richard Peters. The Crusaders went for a ride that afternoon to Kaw City and Shidler.
For more information about the Pioneer Christian Crusaders rides may call Harold White at 765-3740 or Jeff O'Kelley at 762-5896.
Those attending the service and dinner were Katy Vines and baby daughter,
Judy White, Pete Myers, Thomas and Shane Vines, Judy Peters, Richard Peters,
Harold White, Barbara and Jeff O'Kelley, Joyce Myers, Margaret Yates, Kay
and Harley Koch, Mike Vines, Garry Yates, Cliff and Betty Smith.
EDUCATION
TCU Honor Roll
Vishal Kumar Bhakta of Ponca City was among students named to the Dean's Honor List at Texas Christian University for the fall semester. Bhakta is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Paul Bhakta and a graduate of Po-Hi.
Jayhawk Scholars
Lori Lauritsen was honored during halftime of the KU-Baylor basketball game for her academic accomplishments. She is a graduate of the University of Kansas and the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Randy Lauritsen.
Meyer Receives Scholarship
Sheri Meyer of Ponca City received a $250 scholarship from Lambert Construction in Stillwater. She was one of four OSU-Okmulgee construction technology students chosen for special recognition by members of the Associated General Contractors of America.
KU Honor Roll
Darren Matheson and Michael Newman were named to KU's honor roll during the fall 1997 semester. Matheson is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Ron Matheson and Newman is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Bruce Newman.
No School
School will not be held in Ponca City March 16-20 for Spring Break. Classes will resume on March 23.
The Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence recently released the names of the 100 public high school seniors named 1998 Academic All-State scholars. These outstanding students were selected from 1,028 nominations, the most ever received. Local students selected for this honor were Craig Grossardt, Blackwell; and Molly Baugh and Matthew Szabo, Ponca City.
The 100 All-Staters attend 82 different schools in 74 Oklahoma school districts. This is the twelfth Academic All-State class to be selected by the Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence, with 1,200 high school seniors from 221 school districts receiving this honor since the Foundation began the program in 1987.
The Oklahoma School of Science and Mathematics had the most All-Staters of any single school with six winners. Five high schools also claimed three All-Staters: Santa Fe, Westmoore, Norman, Stillwater and Union.
Each All-Stater will receive a $1,000 scholarship, a medallion, and a commemorative plaque at the Foundation's annual Academic Awards Banquet. In addition, their schools will be able to fly the Academic All-State flag. The banquet will be held May 9 at the Tulsa Convention Center, and is open to the public.
Described by David L. Boren, the chairman and founder of the Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence, as "Oklahoma's most rigorous academic competition," requirements for nomination to Academic All-State require at least one of the following: Act score of 30 or above, SAT score of 1350 or above, class rank of first or second, National Merit Semi-finalist, National Hispanic Scholar, or National Achievement Scholarship Semi-finalist. This year's All-Staters scores an average of 32.4 on the ACT (two had a perfect 36) and 1430 on the SAT (three scored a perfect 1600); 45 members of the class are National Merit Semi-finalists.
With most nominees in the top 1 percent academically of all high school seniors, the Selection Committee must also consider how these young people have utilized the opportunities available to them, not only academically but interpersonally. The committee examines leadership experience, participation in extracurricular activities, and community involvement as presented on the nomination form. An essay question on the form allows nominees the opportunity to exhibit their creativity and to express their ideas. All applicants must be nominated by their school principal or superintendent. Two directed recommendations are also required for each nomination application.
The selection process requires that each nomination be read and rated independently by a minimum of three members of the Selection Committee. The committee consists of business, education, and civic leaders, past Academic All-State Alumni, and past Medal for Excellence winners.
TONKAWA - Northern broadcasting students garnered four awards in the recent 1997 Oklahoma Broadcast Education Association Student Competition.
Competing with entries from public and private colleges and universities across the state, they placed in four of the seven categories entered, the "first year we've won this many awards," according to Sally Nesselrode, mass communications instructor.
David Deken and Ryan Parli placed second in radio air check for best radio personality performance for the "Dave and Ryan Show" aired last fall. Deken won third in commercial/promotion category for his 30-second promotion spot, "Zone Sports."
Brian Gabbert and Joe Lessert earned second place in radio entertainment program and second in script writing for last fall's radio serial "Dick Mason, Maverick Sleuth." The duo wrote and produced the serial from their original concept.
"NOC made it known that it has as much talent as the major universities across Oklahoma. I'm very proud of all the students that entered, especially those that won," Nesselrode said.
A total of 208 entries in both radio and television categories from higher education institutions, including the University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma State University, Northwestern Oklahoma State University and the University of Central Oklahoma as well as Northern, were judged by professionals in the radio and television industry. Entries were either on-air or part of a project during spring and fall of 1997.
The Ponca City DECA Chapter recently competed at their state competition.
First place winners were Melissa Fuhrman, Rachel Beguin and Dustin Samples, DECA Sales Promotion; second place winners were Kasey Riley and Johnna Robinson, Civic Consciousness Project; third place winners were Jeremy Dye and Todd Bales, Lean and Earn Project.
Sam Landis, Sales Marketing Representative; received fourth place, and Melissa Fuhrman and Rachel Beguin also received fourth place for their Free Enterprise Project.
Fifth place winners were Sydney Thompson, Food Marketing Associate Level; Mindy Sattre, Food Marketing Supervisory Level; and Kristi Anthony, Callie Escue, Kim Moore and Susan Ashbury, DECA Quiz Bowl Team.
Jeremy Dye received sixth place for Entrepreneurship.
Seventh place winners were Jamal Williams, Technical Marketing Representative; Todd Bales, Entrepreneurship; and Ashley Anderson, Leann Stout and Amber Raffelson, Hospitality Research Project.
Kasey Riley, Melissa Fuhrman and Rachel Beguin interviewed with the Chapter scrapbook. Through the scrapbook and this interview, the Ponca City DECA Chapter was presented the Gold Program of work, which is the highest honor a chapter can receive.
Kasey Riley, Jeremy Dye, Todd Bales and Johnna Robinson have qualified
to compete at the national level in May in Denver, Colo.
LIFESTYLES
Following a wedding trip to San Diego and Hawaii, Mr. and Mrs. Jim E. Baldwin Jr. have established a home in Bakersfield, Calif. Baldwin and the former Brenda Petty were wed in a ceremony at the First Assembly of God Church in Bakersfield with the Rev. Keith Hood officiating. Altar decorations included candelabra, red poinsettias, lighted Christmas trees and gold ribbons.
Parents of the couple are Mr. and Mrs. Cleo Petty of Bakersfield, Calif. and Mr. and Mrs. Jim E. Baldwin Sr. of Ponca City. In addition to the bridegroom's parents, out-of-town guests included Darren Hanby, former resident of Ponca City.
Pre-nuptial music was provided by a chamber orchestra and included compositions by Bach, Liszt, Pachelbel and Schubert. Mrs. Jean Dodson of Bakersfield was concert mistress. Accompanied by Cathy Ferris, pianist, Janie Kennedy sang "Sometimes."
Candlelighters were Aaron Lake and Keith Petty, nephews of the bride, and Suzanne Stewart, cousin of the bride. Attending the guest books were Casey Norwood, cousin of the bride, and Corky Blain.
Sheri Grogan of Bakersfield, Calif. was Maid of Honor. She wore a formal gown designed with a fitted bodice of black velvet and a belled skirt with charcoal tulle overlay. She carried a bouquet of white roses accented with gold. Dan Webb, former resident of Ponca City, served as Best Man. During the ceremony he sang "In This Very Room" accompanied by Mrs. Ferris.
The bride wore a formal length satin gown with a cathedral length train. A Venetian lace overlay embellished with hand-stitched pearls and Austrian crystals accented the Princess neckline, pinpoint sleeves and train. The waistline was marked in back with a bow and bustle. She also wore a waist-length veil and carried a bouquet of 30 red rosebuds, baby's breath and Christmas greenery complemented by gold trimmed white satin streamers.
Following their personal vows the bride and bridegroom sang "A Girl in a Valley" from The Secret Garden, to each other. After the exchange of formal vows each member of the wedding party signed the marriage certificate with a quill pen. At the conclusion of the ceremony the bridegroom sang "If Ever I Would Leave You" from Camelot. A reception followed with a brass quartet providing music.
The bride graduated from California State University in Bakersfield with a bachelor's degree in business administration. She is an account representative for Pacific Gas and Electric Company in Bakersfield. The bridegroom holds a bachelor's degree in music education and performance from Oklahoma State University. He is a vice-president/branch manager for Bank of America.
Vivian Davis, 1043 North Third, was hostess for the March 4 meeting of the Busy Bee Club. Beulah McCartney conducted the business meeting for eight members and one guest, Mrs. Ethel Ramsey.
Louise Womack led the salute to the flag and "The Lord's Prayer." Viola Haley gave the devotional titled "I Just Want To Say." Helen Hiskett gave the treasurer's report and members discussed new projects.
Games were played and prizes went to Viola Haley and Ethel Ramsey and
the Mystery bowl prize went to Helen Hiskett. The next meeting will be at
the home of Viola Haley, 1309 West Chestnut.
SPORTS
MOORE - Ponca City's Wildcat tennis team shook off a slow start in the chilly weather to top Westmoore, 6-3, in the Cats' first dual of the season Thursday.
"We played the doubles first and started off pretty well," coach Steve Larimer said. "We won the first sets. But then we lost the next two sets in the Nos. 1 and 2 doubles.
"But the kids came back and got their act together to win five of the six singles. I was proud of the effort they gave to win those singles matches."
The netters are now off until after Spring Break and Wildcat Daniel Lee can probably use the rest. He and Bilal Agha went three sets in losing the No. 2 doubles to Westmoore's Thad Chance and Jacqin Howard, 4-6, 6-2, 6-0.
Lee then had to withstand a marathon No. 4 singles match against Chance before prevailing 5-7, 6-2, 7-6(7-4).
Lee joined with Matt Stuemky, Agha, Tim Frick and Jason Nigh in winning in the singes.
Frick and Nigh were the lone winners in the doubles.
Ponca City 6, Westmoore 3
Singles
1 - Matt Stuemky defeated Josh Calderwood, 7-5, 6-2.
2 - Micah Alexander lost to Maurice Pinon, 3-6, 5-7
3 - Bilal Agha defeated Jacqin Howard, 6-3, 6-4
4 - Daniel Lee defeated Thad Chance, 5-7, 6-2, 7-6(7-4)
5 - Tim Frick defeated Aaron Stackmus. 6-3, 6-3
6 - Jason Nigh defeated Tuwon Ho, 4-6, 6-1, 6-2
Exhibitions
Steven Foy defeated Robert Clifton, 6-0, 6-0
Jackie Lewis defeated Clifton, 6-0, 6-0
Foy defeated Stackmus, 6-4, 6-2
Doubles
1 - Stuemky-Alexander lost to Pinon-Calderwood, 6-4, 2-6, 3-6
2 - Agha-Lee lost to Chance-Howard, 6-4, 2-6, 0-6
3 - Frick-Nigh defeated Stackmus-Ho, 6-0, 7-5
MOORE - In a debate over which sport boasts the toughest athletes, girls tennis is a hard one to beat.
At least on Thursday it was.
On a day when soccer and baseball were canceled due to sub-zero windchills, the Po-Hi girls tennis team traveled to the Earlywine Tennis Center to take on Westmoore. And though the playing conditions were less than favorable, the Lady Cats came out on top, 9-2.
"I'm getting tired of having to go out there in four layers of clothes," says coach Don Lambring. "It'll be nice to get into some nicer weather after Spring Break."
The Lady Cat JV will compete in a tournament, at home, March 23, followed by a home matchup with Stillwater, March 24.
Ponca City at Westmoore
Thursday, Mar. 12
Singles
Natalie Lindsay d. Debra Vo, 6-0, 6-1
Ashley Roussel lost to Ashley Johnston, 1-6, 1-6
Abby Frick d. Adria Morgan, 6-4, 6-1
Emmy Hufnagel d. Andrea Rule, 6-0, 6-2
Emily Wheeler lost to Rhoda Aryiku, 2-6, 3-6
Mea Alexander d. Stephanie Lee, 6-1, 6-2
Gina Smith d. Sarah Winninger, 6-1, 6-0
Doubles
Lindsay-Frick d. Vo-Morgan, 6-0, 6-0
Roussel-Hufnagel d. Rule-Aryiku, 6-0, 6-3
Wheeler-Alexander d. Hotlel-Maudlin, 6-0, 6-1
Smith-Lee d. Wang-Nixon 6-0, 6-0
Local gymnast Lara Upshaw has competed in a number of events recently. Her last meet of the year will be the state meet at Jenks High School on March 21.
Pikes Peak Cup
Colorado Springs, Colo., Mar. 5-6
Vault 8.825, 3rd
Bars 8.2, 11th
Beam 8.4, 8th
Floor 9.4, 2nd
All Around 34.825, 6th
Superstar Meet
Bartlesville, Feb. 22
Vault 9.35, 2nd
Bars 8.9, 4th
Beam 8.5, 6th
Floor 9.5, 2nd
A-A, tie for 4th
Sooner State Games
OKC, Jan. 30
Vault 9.3, 2nd
Bars 8.7, 3rd
Beam 8.8, 3rd
Floor 9.55, 1st
A-A 36.35, 2nd