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From the pages of The Ponca City News, Sunday, March 14, 1999 LOCAL DEATHS NEWS BRIEFS LIFESTYLES SPORTS LOCALCity Calendar City CalendarItems for the City Calendar should be brought in or telephoned (765-3311) to Bob Patterson, at the Ponca City News, by Thursday noon. Anytime FOLOBS (Friends of Library Ongoing Book Sale), anytime the Ponca City Library is open, North of Multimedia Room (downstairs). Alcoholics Anonymous, Alano Group, Ponca City’s first established AA Group, meets at Noon and 8 p.m., seven days a week. All noon meetings open, all 8 p.m. meetings closed except Fridays, 603 South First Street. Today Cherokee Wheelmen Freewheel Training Ride, 10 miles, 2 p.m., Pioneer Woman Statue. Monday Ponca City Board of Commission Work Session, 2 p.m., Commissioner’s Room, Public Safety Center, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue. Multiple Sclerosis Support Group, 6:30 p.m., Albright United Methodist Church, 128 South Palm. United Ostomy Association, Stillwater-Ponca City Chapter, “Who Do You Tell (how to care for your Ostomy)?”, 7 p.m., Conference Room B (ground floor), St. Joseph Regional Medical Center, Ponca City. Tuesday Standing Bear Educational Committee, 11 a.m., Pioneer Bank Drive-in, interested citizens encouraged to attend. Marland Estate Commission, 4:30 p.m., Marland Estate Conference Center. Osage Cove Volunteer Fire Department, 7 p.m., Fire Station at Keeler Road and U.S. 60. Wednesday Senior Birthday Bash, also blood pressure checks by Eldercare, 1 p.m., Ponca City Senior Center, 319 West Grand Avenue. St. Patrick’s Day Luncheon and Card Party, noon to 3:30 p.m., St. Patrick’s Parish Hall, sponsored by St. Francis Guild, tickets from Deanna Nicholas, 762-5496; Joan Slovacek, 762-5953 or Beverly Smith, 762-2695. Ponca City Christian Women’s Club “Steppin’ Into Spring” luncheon, 12:30 to 2:30 p.m., Ponca City Country Club, $8.50, call Jeanette 765-8427 or Denice 762-2779 for reservations and complementary childcare. Ponca City Tourism Authority, 2 p.m., Cultural Center Sunroom, 1000 East Grand Avenue. Thursday Park and Recreation Advisory Board, 5:30 p.m., Municipal Court Room, Public Safety Center, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue. Friday Historic Preservation Panel Work Session, noon, Planning and Engineering Conference Room, Suite 305, 400 East Central Avenue. Crafts, 1 p.m., Ponca City Senior Center, 319 West Grand Avenue. Traffic Commission, 1:15 p.m., Public Safety Center, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue. March 21 Cherokee Wheelmen Freewheel Training Ride, 15 miles, 2 p.m., Pioneer Woman Statue. March 22 Ponca City Board of Commissioners, Ponca City Utility Authority, and Ponca City Development Authority, 5:30 p.m., Commissioner’s Room, Public Safety Center, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue. March 23 Kaw Lake Association, noon, Chamber of Commerce board room, Ponca City. March 24 Planning Commission Work Session, 7:45 a.m., Planning and Engineering Conference Room, Suite 305, 400 East Central Avenue. Cards, 1 p.m., Ponca City Senior Center, 319 West Grand Avenue. March 25, 26, 27, 28 Ponca City Easter Pageant presented by First Baptist Church, “Miracle of Love,” 7 p.m., Hutchins Memorial Auditorium, tickets free but necessary, available at First Baptist Church office, the Master’s Touch, KLVV in Ponca City, Guy Lyall Insurance, Tonkawa and Eastman National Bank, Newkirk. March 26 Crafts and Cards, 1 p.m., Ponca City Senior Center, 319 West Grand Avenue. Alzheimer’s Support Group, 7 p.m., Conference Room A, St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. March 27 Church Women United Spring Fling Craft Show, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Unity Gym to benefit Child Development Center, a United Way Agency. Booth spaces available, contact Suzanne Devinney 762-9669 or Mary Bates 718-0019. Michael Wallis autographing “The Real Wild West: The 101 Ranch and The Creation of the American West,” 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Historic 101 Ranch Site, south of Ponca City on Oklahoma 156, hosted by 101 Ranch Old Timers Association, activities include Indian dancing, Chuck Wagon barbecue, Cowboy singing and Buckboard rides. Then at 7 p.m., Wine and Cheese reception, Chapel Hall on Marland Estate, activities include displays of memorabilia and Cowboy songs by Les Gilliam. Pickup up date for Heartland Food Share Program. March 28 Cherokee Wheelmen Freewheel Training Ride, 20 miles, leader Moni Neville, 2 p.m., Pioneer Woman Statue. March 31 Ponca City Main Street Authority Inc. Board, 1 p.m., Main Street Office, 117 North Third Street. Bingo, 1 p.m., Ponca City Senior Center, 319 West Grand Avenue. April 1 Kay-9 Dog Training Club, 7 p.m., Ponca City Library, public welcome, more information 762-9053 or 762-7360. April 3 Northern Oklahoma’s Spring Home and Garden Expo, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Hutchins Auditorium, sponsored by The Ponca City News and WBBZ. April 5 Church Women United Board Meeting to discuss plans for 50-year anniversary celebration, 9:30 a.m., St. John Baptist Church, 1009 South Eleventh Street. Ponca City Board of Commission Work Session, 2 p.m., Commissioner’s Room, Public Safety Center, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue. Pioneer Christian Crusaders Motorcycle Association, 6 p.m., Conestoga at I-35, U.S. 60 west of Tonkawa, more information 765-3164. April 6 AARP, 12:30 p.m., Wheatheart Nutrition Center. Planning Commission, 7 p.m., Public Safety Center, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue. Rural Water District No. 1 Regular Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m., Enterprise School on Lake Road. April 7 Energy Advisory Board, 7:30 a.m., Public Safety Center, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue. Ponca City Council of Garden Clubs, Mollie Bivin presenting “The Bivin Garden,” 9:30 a.m., Cann Center. April 8 Ponca City Housing Authority, 10 a.m., Broadway Plaza, 201 East Broadway. Agrarian Club, 6 p.m., Southwest meeting room, Western Sizzlin’. April 8, 9 and 10 KLVV’s annual Sharathon Fund Raiser on 88.7 FM, call 767-1400 to volunteer or pledge. April 9 Historic Preservation Panel, noon, Planning and Engineering Conference Room, Suite 305, 400 East Central Avenue. April 10 United Ostomy Association, Stillwater-Ponca City, Okla., Chapter, Health Fair, 7 a.m.-1 p.m., Stillwater Community Center gymnasium, 8th Avenue and Duck Street, Stillwater. Cherokee Wheelmen Freewheel Training Ride, 25 miles, leaders Randy and Linda Coffin, 8 a.m., Pioneer Woman Statue. April 12 Kay County Retired Educators Association, Program “Special Health Care — Patients’ Rights,” by Karen Navarro, 11:30 a.m., First Methodist Church, 6th and Coolidge, Blackwell. Ponca City Board of Commissioners, Ponca City Utility Authority, and Ponca City Development Authority, 5:30 p.m., Commissioner’s Room, Public Safety Center, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue. April 13 Economic Development Advisory Board, 7:30 a.m., Chamber of Commerce. Ponca City Library Board, 11:30 a.m., Library Board Room, 515 East Grand Avenue. McCord Volunteer Fire Department, 7 p.m., McCord School Library. Rural Water District No. 1 Regular Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m., Enterprise School on Lake Road. April 14 Cultural Affairs Advisory Commission, 11:30 a.m., Cultural Center Sunroom, 1000 East Grand Avenue. Rural Water, Sewer and Solid Waste Management District No. 3 Board Meeting, 7 p.m., Braden Community Center. April 15 Park and Recreation Advisory Board, 5:30 p.m., Municipal Court Room, Public Safety Center, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue. April 16 Historic Preservation Panel Work Session, noon, Planning and Engineering Conference Room, Suite 305, 400 East Central Avenue. Newport Has Two Bills Heading ForwardBy RALPH SEWELL News Capitol Bureau OKLAHOMA CITY — Ponca City Rep. Jim Newport was sitting pretty Thursday when the deadline came for getting bills to the Senate. Newport’s final bill to move to the Senate was HB 1659; it was passed unanimously by the House and would require schools to give foreign language credit for courses in American sign language. Newport’s bills clearing the House earlier included one to make it a criminal offense to pay a repairman with a hot check. Others now before the Senate include one to have public schools offer courses in character building. Still another would have schools recognize good conduct in a student. A bare majority of representatives had second thoughts last week about a bill defeated 5 to 94 a week earlier. The highway patrol wants to put a new traffic offense in the law books — one called inattentive driving. This time, HB 1286 passed 51-46. Newport and Reps. Jim Reese, R-Nardin, and Joe Sweeden, D-Pawhuska, voted yes. Rep. Larry Ferguson, R-Cleveland, voted no once again. Meanwhile, senators decided to get tough on tobacco retailer. They passed SB 640 by a vote of 31-14. Sens. Paul Muegge, D-Tonkawa, and J. Berry Harrison, D-Fairfax, voted yes. SB 640 would raise punishment for selling tobacco to minors. On a first offense, fines could range from $200 to $1,000 and draw a 90-day jail term. Repeated offenses could be punished by fines of up to $20,000 and 5 years in prison. Muegge and Harrison voted no when a bare Senate majority approved SB 800 * Gov. Frank Keating’s 4-by-4 plan, to require four years each of math, science and English before high school graduation. The Senate vote was 25-20 to send SB 800 to the House. Muegge and Harrison also voted no on SB 697 changing the skill testing system for public school pupils. That bill passed the Senate 26-22. Both also cast votes against SB 747, which passed 25-19. It would require students to pass proficiency tests before advancing another grade. It would end “social promotions.” Some senators doubted that was being done — a view supported by Sandy Garrett, state superintendent of public instruction. How They Voted Here’s how Muegge, Harrison, Newport, Reese, Ferguson and Sweeden voted on other bills: *HB 1296 was passed 81-15. It’s a bill that could be used to boost tuition rates at state colleges. OU President David Boren has suggested a seven percent increase, Gov. Keating, 9 percent. Boren said his suggestion would raise tuition $25 to $30 a semester for the average student. Newport, Reese and Sweeden voted yes; Ferguson no. *SB 199 passed 41-4. It would raise the price of many hunting licenses but the title is off the bill, which probably means more debate later. Muegge and Harrison voted yes. *SB 290 would increase the cost of most commercial driving licenses by $1 and make the cost of annual automobile inspections $6, rather than $5. The added $1 charges would go to a trauma assistance fund. The title is off the bill and the vote to pass was a skimpy 25-21. Given those facts, it’s likely the bill still has a long way to go before it reaches the governor. Muegge and Harrison voted yes. *HB 1292 failed 41-57, but the author will seek a new vote. It would create a legislative-executive branch task force to review constitutional provisions about county officers and employees. (Big raises authorized for county commissioners last year drew much public criticism.) Representatives from the Ponca City area voted yes. *HB 1416, which passed 60-13, would make it illegal for lawyers, doctors or accountants to sign partnership or employment agreements restricting the right of anyone to practice after termination of the contract. Newport, Reese and Sweeden voted no; Ferguson missed the vote. *HB 1423, passed unanimously with the title off. It would let farmers carryback earlier year losses as well as the cost of medical insurance. *SB 517 won Senate 31-11 approval on a second try. It would allow state colleges to ban certain visitors. The author had to supply specifics on when a person could be banned. Then it passed. Muegge and Harrison voted yes. *SB 1, to cut car taxes. It passed the Senate 46-0. The title is off the bill. Savings proposed would range from 33 to 46 percent — the latter for senior citizens. Muegge and Harrison voted in favor. *SB 706 failed 19 to 27. It proposed letting regents set tuition and fees without legislative permission. Muegge and Harrison voted against. *HB 1263, which passed 92-7, would create a commission on School Technology. It would include seven executive branch education-related agencies plus House and Senate Appropriations’ education subcommittee chairs. The group would be charged with proposing a school technology plan. Newport, Reese, Ferguson and Sweeden voted yes. *HB 1176 passed unanimously. It would require money from school vending concession contracts be put in a special activity fund account. *HB 1385 passed 86-12. It would raise fines for willfully failing to file timely campaign reports with the Ethics Commission. An amendment provides that no legislator may accept campaign contributions during a legislative session and for 30 days before one. Ponca City-area representatives voted yes. *HB 1200, which passed 97-0, would give Oklahoma State University-Tulsa full academic status with all degrees by the 2001-02 academic year. Ponca City-area representatives voted yes. *HB 1413, passed 93-6, would relieve state and local governments from any liability for damages caused by Y2K computer goofs. Newport, Reese, Sweeden and Ferguson voted yes. *HB 1137, passed 99-0, would create a joint legislative committee to inspect prison conditions. Ponca City-area representatives voted yes. *HB 1039, which passed 53-47, would authorize the governor, governing units and tribes to enter pacts for road and bridge building and maintenance. Ferguson and Sweeden voted yes, Newport and Reese no. *HB 1379, which passed 100-0, sets forth procedures in which a minor may obtain an abortion. It also requires a waiting period for a parent to be notified but courts could sidetrack that provision. The court record would be confidential. Ponca City-area representatives voted yes. *HB 1471, to waive competitive bidding procedures on clearing rights-of-way for highways, passed 69-31. Newport, Ferguson and Sweeden voted in favor; Reese against. *HB 1719, which passed 100-0, would allow ad valorem tax credits when prices of agriculture products fell below certain levels. The prices: per hundred weight: $55 for live cattle; $35 for hogs; $12.90 for milk, $3.80 for sorghum; per bushel: $2.80 for wheat; $2 for corn; $5.50 for soybeans; per ton: alfalfa $90, other hay $70; per pound: cotton 60 cents, peanuts 33 cents. It also waives sales taxes on materials used in oil and gas production. Title is off the bill. Ponca City-area representatives voted yes. *HB 1649 passed 64-35. It would raise $12 million a year for technology training in every school district. Cash would come by assessing phone companies $2 a year on every line they serve. The author says they can’t pass this on to customers, but would have no effect on profits since every school would need an additional phone line. Ferguson and Sweeden voted yes; Newport and Reese no. *HB 1601 passed 84-16. It would ban tobacco advertising and promotions in schools. It orders firms to pay into escrow accounts to pay for treatment it expects smokers to need. Ponca City-area representatives voted yes. *HB 1224, passed 97-2, would forbid adoption of children by adults living together without benefit of wedlock — even those in common law marriage. Ponca City-area representatives voted in favor. *HB 1669 failed 48-51 but may be reconsidered. It would require those elected sheriff complete a course in administration within a year. But there’s a grandfather clause. Newport, Reese and Ferguson voted yes; Sweeden no. *HB 1180, which passed 83-17, would reduce a marriage license cost to $5 from $25, but only if the couple has taken pre-marital counseling. Newport, Reese, Ferguson and Sweeden voted yes. *SB 312 failed 17-27, then was reconsidered and passed, 25-20. It would let counties levy a tax on sand, coal, limestone and shale if the voters of the county approve. Muegge and Harrison voted yes. *SB 374 failed 19-29, indicating that state restrictions on branch banking likely will expire July 1. Muegge and Harrison voted yes. *HB 480, which passed 45-0, would exempt some research done at public universities from the open records act, but revenue obtained from such research would not be confidential. Muegge and Harrison voted yes. *SB 504, which passed 26-15, would allow retired teachers to keep their pensions while returning to Oklahoma classrooms if the new jobs do not pay them more than $25,000 a year. Muegge voted yes; Harrison missed the vote. *HB 1034 passed the House 52-42. It would eliminate breakopen ticket games now allowed under the Oklahoma Charity Games law. Newport, Reese and Ferguson voted yes; Sweeden no. Quartetto Gelato Gives Witty, Energetic EffortBy KATHY ZEHR News Staff Writer Witty, energetic, handsome, and talented, Quartetto Gelato members were some of the most accomplished and versatile musicians we’ve had on the Ponca City Community Concert Stage this year. Several Ponca City Community Concert members expressed this same opinion during intermission and after the concert last week. A sparse PCCC crowd attended the Saturday night performance, but every person stayed to the end and afforded the group a well-deserved standing ovation. Truthfully, as I waited for the first number, I wondered what a concert cellist, an accordion player, a gypsy violinist and an oboe player, all instruments with limited versatility could accomplish. With a snappy entrance and straight to the music, the four played a lovely, graceful Rumanian piece with the oboe taking most of the melody, the high sweet violin on top, the accordion filling in the middle, and the cello providing the bass notes. The audience was enthusiastic and definitely interested in the pleasant sound of this group. The four seemed to take great pleasure in each other’s company, changing chairs and positions frequently to provide better harmony and closeness for duet passages or placing a featured player next to the microphone. The balance of sound and dynamics and the delightful blend of harmony and sound were reinforced as the musicians played through the lengthy “Five Bagatelles” by Dvorak. Only once during the evening was a music stand seen on the stage. All numbers but that one, were played from total memory. The cello player, George Meanwell, also played guitar with equal ease during several numbers. The violinist, Peter DeSotto, surprised the audience with a voice ranging from baritone Rumanian love songs, Irish tenor numbers or operatic quality, filling the auditorium with his pleasing, well-trained voice. The most unique number “Slow Train,” featured the accordion rendering a slow moving train sound, as the oboe carried a simple little traveling melody. Meanwell became the train conductor, periodically announcing names of small towns along the route. DeSotto sang a medley of nostalgic, informational verses about each of the little villages, as the train passed through. The audience seemed to be especially pleased with the uniqueness of the presentation of the simple number. Cynthia Steljes, the accomplished oboist, stepped to the microphone next and added some clever humor about the trials and tribulations of playing oboe. The next number featured her outstanding talent as she easily and expertly executed an exciting number with a series of difficult and lengthy runs, slurs from one octave to another and other difficult techniques. Other numbers included Strauss waltzes, featuring duets by the violinist and cellist which were light, lilting and flawless and some numbers featuring the accordion, playing traditional gypsy songs. All added to the enjoyment of the versatile concert. In conclusion, the group presented an old favorite, “Danny Boy,” which brought a standing ovation. Prior to the concert Leslie Rardin PCCC Annual Membership Drive chairman, encouraged PCCC members to renew memberships for 1999-2000. She also expressed great appreciation to the efforts of Historic Buildings Director Kathy Adams and the City of Ponca City for several improvements and repairs made to the Hutchins Memorial in recent weeks. Registration Under Way For Arts AdventureIt’s fun! It’s art! It’s creating! It’s drama and music and writing and dance! It’s Arts Adventure ’99. Scheduled this year for July 19-30, this two-week summer arts camp is for students who will be entering sixth through tenth grades in the fall. Sessions will be held at the Marland Estate from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday of each week. Registration for Arts Adventure ’99 is currently under way with a registration/placement day set for April 17 at the Ponca City High School from 10 a.m. till noon. Cost for the two week camp is $125 with full or partial scholarships available based on financial need. Each participant receives a camp T-shirt. Placement day is held each year to answer any student’s or parent’s questions. It also is an opportunity to assess a student’s ability in the area of piano. The Arts Adventure program was developed to bring master artists from around the country to Ponca City. The artists represent a variety of artistic disciplines including drama, voice, keyboard ensemble and technology, strings, creative writing, visual art and dance. Each student participant chooses a major area of study — usually one in which they already excel. They also choose two “minors” to give them the opportunity to experience a variety of creative outlets. Students this year can look for new and exciting additions to the program. First, a design contest is currently under way for this year’s T-shirt. Second, an Arts Adventure Club will be initiated this summer with fun activities planned throughout the following year. Third, new web page will be up around the first of May at www.artsadventure.com. New board members elected for this year are Ann Salmons, Elaine Thomas, and Gael Hancock. Officers are Brian Hermanson, president; Patty Ladd, vice-president; and Chuck Van Cleave, secretary/ treasurer. Other board members are Patty Lundeen, and the area chairpersons: Suzanne Robinson, creative writing; Fran Norris, dance; T. L Walker, drama; Kathy Wimberly and Katy Tucker, keyboard ensemble and technology; Elizabeth Hocker, visual arts; Ruslyn Hermanson strings and Ann Salmons, vocal music. Partial financial support for Arts Adventure is provided by the Oklahoma Arts Council, Conoco, Inc., and the Jim Throop Foundation. Currently, a low-key fundraising effort is underway targeting businesses and individuals to help fund the full or partial scholarships that are provided for up to 40 percent of the participants. For more information regarding Arts Adventure ’99, contact any of the people listed, or Chuck Van Cleave, 762-9684. Kaw Lake Assn. Meets March 23 At ChamberThe March monthly board meeting of the Kaw Lake Association, regularly scheduled for the third Tuesday of the month, has been changed to Tuesday, March 23. It will be held at noon in the conference room of the Ponca City Chamber of Commerce, Fifth and Grand in Ponca City. Plans for a spring membership campaign will be presented. In addition, an update on the Discover America Grant will be reported upon and the annual Kawfest Celebration. Other items to be discussed will be the quarterly newsletter, speaker’s bureau report, the sale of Bulls-Eye Hitchers and reports from area tourism and chamber groups. The purpose of the Kaw Lake Association is to build a region-wide partnership of towns, businesses, service agencies, and local government within the North Central Oklahoma Kaw Lake area. Its mission includes recruitment of a broad membership base, creation of a financial support system, addressing infrastructure needs, tourism development, broadening the business base, and marketing the region as a whole. Individuals who would like to become involved with the Kaw Lake Association should call Kathy Tippin, at 580-762-9494 in Ponca City or 1-888-291-4995, ext. 2920. Unvarnished Story Of Removal ToldWriter Frank Stewart is on a mission — “To open people’s eyes to the lies we’ve been fed about how this nation really came to be what it is today. To bare the truth about what was done to the indigenous people of this continent in the name of progress and civilization.” Stewart, currently on an Oklahoma book tour to promote his new novel, “River Rising, A Cherokee Odyssey,” will be at Hastings Entertainment in Ponca City Saturday, March 20, at 7 p.m. to autograph his book. “River Rising,” an epic set against the tragic removal of the Cherokees from their original homelands in Georgia, North Carolina, Tennessee and Alabama, chronicles the tribe’s roundup, imprisonment and forced march halfway across a frozen continent in the brutal winter of 1838-39 — an upheaval known to the Cherokees and many other tribes as The Trail Of Tears. “In ‘River Rising’ I wanted to tell a compelling story that would grab the reader — Native American, white, black, whatever — and propel them along the Trail Of Tears in a way they would never forget. I want the reader to become involved — to get to know these characters so well that they feel connected to the whole Cherokee experience of that time. I’ve placed fictional people in a matrix of real time and real events. So, while the brush strokes are mine, the canvas upon which the story is painted is the fabric of truth.” A quote from the novel’s frontispiece states that Adolph Hitler, in coming up with what he called the solution to the problem of the European Jews, relied in part on what the British and the colonists had done to the Native Americans. “But do you think they talk about something like this in our history books?” Stewart asks. “No way. We’ve made everyone out to look like heroes. When Custer suffered a humiliating defeat at Little Big Horn, some historians painted him as a maverick, a megalomaniac, an isolated bad apple. Their way of dealing with a Loser. But in most other cases, the white man is seen as cultured, civilized, striving for progress while the Indian is more often portrayed as the ignorant heathen, the hostile savage standing in his way.” “Thankfully,” says Stewart, “the Cherokees’ story has been well documented — not in the traditional history books found in our public school systems, but by dedicated people, many with Cherokee ancestry, committed to bringing the truth to light. I’m not interested in just getting on a soap box and saying ‘Look what was done to these people!’ I’m a story teller. I love creating fascinating characters and interesting plots with plenty of action. But it’s sort of a paradox — in my fiction I feel a responsibility to expose the truth.” Stewart asserts, however, that he is not a militant revisionist when it comes to history. “Enough time has passed,” he says, “that we should now look to healing the wounds. And it seems to me that we’re entering a time of spiritual awakening. Here was an amalgam of people spanning two continents — who were keenly attuned to their own spiritual essence, their metaphysical connection with the planet and the good things it has to offer us as well as our obligation to revere and protect it. While these qualities were ignored — or crushed — in the past, many people today are beginning to recognize and embrace these values and are taking a new look, a fresh perspective on the wisdom that Native Americans have offered from the very beginning. And many people with only the smallest fraction of Native American blood are becoming interested in their heritage. They want to know about these ancestors. Who were they? What did they think? Feel? Believe? And, not least of all, what really happened to them?” Frank Stewart grew up in East Texas and graduated from Stephen F. Austin University in Nacogdoches with majors in English, German and art. Although named a National Danforth Fellow, Frank’s graduate studies were interrupted by a 4-year stint in the U.S. Air Force, including a tour in Vietnam. Stewart concluded his military service in San Antonio at the USAF School of Aerospace Medicine. He completed his master’s degree in English at St. Mary’s University in 1973. From there he moved to Los Angeles where he received a master’s of fine arts in film studies from University of Southern California Film School. In the fall of 1976 Frank returned to Texas. Over the next decade Frank spent a lot of time with his Cherokee friends in the Tulsa area. For years, Stewart was haunted by the memory of a visit he and his Cherokee friends had made to a full-blood medicine man deep in the hills of Eastern Oklahoma. There Frank was told that he must write the story of the Cherokee … not a history book, but a story that would reveal the truth about what had happened. Ironically, only after he had completed the novel did Stewart learn this his own great-grandmother was Cherokee. MS Support Group To Meet MondayPeople with multiple sclerosis and their caregivers are invited to the Ponca City Area MS Support Group meeting Monday at 6:30 p.m. at the Albright United Methodist Church, 128 South Palm. Dr. Paul Haygood, local urologist, will be the guest speaker. Dr. Haygood plans to talk on “Urology Related to Multiple Sclerosis.” The church is handicap accessible — enter the west door from the parking lot and take the elevator to the lower level. For anyone with questions about the meeting, please call Beth Wright at 765-6738. Oscar-Nominated Film Portrays Life of Queen“Elizabeth,” an exquisite film about one of the greatest monarchs of all time, opens today at the Poncan Theatre on Grand. The film, which begins with a passionate and lusty portrayal of the young Elizabeth, is nominated for seven Academy Awards. Cate Blanchett, who plays Elizabeth, is the current odds-on favorite for the Best Actress Oscar. She is superb in playing the magnificent transition from a 25-year-old girlish youngster to the powerful, commanding regal authority. Among other nominations, the brilliant film is also up for Best Film. “Elizabeth” is much more than a simple history lesson. The character Elizabeth is a loving, excitable but fragile young woman. She is portrayed as “a glamorously stressed-out modern woman,” and she becomes a “sassier” sovereign, “slouching on her throne” says The New York Times. Her lover Lord Dudley, played by Joseph Fiennes of “Shakespeare in Love” fame, “is seen here as an occasion for scenes of soft-core amour,” says the Times. These are hardly the ways we think of Elizabeth I. She is usually described as “the Virgin Queen” even in the literature of the day. But “like so many, virginity is something she grows in to,” says Roger Ebert. She is pressured to marry to preserve the royal line. But Elizabeth fears marriage, believing it would weaken her ability to govern. Elizabeth must learn and acquire the qualities of Queenliness, and it requires considerable sacrifice to achieve them. At the death of Elizabeth’s father, Henry VIII, England was threatened by invasion from Spain. Elizabeth must learn games of power to find her way through the labyrinths of politics. She is on the brink of civil war between Protestants and Catholics. One of the games she learns is to deny her personal needs. “I am become a virgin,” she announces. Geoffrey Rush, playing the queen’s right-hand man, is terrific. “He is magnificent at playing icy, sneering calculation,” says the San Francisco Chronicle. The Times praises “an impressive supporting cast” that includes Fiennes, Richard Attenborough, and John Gielgud. But the lion’s share of praise goes to Blanchett, who brings “spirit, beauty and substance” to Elizabeth. Now Magazine says that “no other historical female character presents such a dramatic challenge.” Ebert calls her performance “uncanny.” The Chronicle says she’s “ideal.” The Times calls it “a breathtaking performance.” “Elizabeth” is also nominated for Cinematography, Costume Design, Makeup, Art Decoration, and Music, in addition to the Best Actress and Best Picture nominations. Cate Blanchett is already highly acclaimed, having won Best Actress awards from the Golden Globes, the Broadcast Film Critics, and the Golden Satellite awards. In addition, the film has won a Best Newcomer award for Fiennes, a Best Costume award and a Best Director award. “Elizabeth,” rated R, is currently playing at the Poncan Theatre. For show times, patrons should consult the Ponca City News or call the theater at 580-765-0943. The Poncan is located at 104 East Grand in Ponca City. Recall Election Set for April 19 For Carol LeClairThe Ponca Tribal Election Board committee has selected April 17, 1999, as the date to hold the recall election, to terminate or retain council member Mrs. Carol LeClair. All requests for absentee ballots, need to be made to the Ponca Tribal Election Board at P.O. Box 1862, Ponca City, OK 74601. The polls will be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Deadline for absentee ballots will be no later than two weeks prior to the election date. All requests for absentee ballots postmarked no later than two weeks prior to the recall election day, shall be the only valid requests for absentee ballots. This allows sufficient time for ballots to be supplied and returned by the recall election date. The polls will be at the Ponca Tribal Affairs Building in White Eagle. Ponca tribal members 18 years and older are eligible to vote. Rare World War II Artifacts To Be On Display at LegionThe American Legion is sponsoring an extensive and rare exhibit of World War II memorabilia Saturday, March 20, to honor the veterans of that war. The exhibit will be free, but donations will be taken for the World War II Memorial being built on The Mall in Washington, D.C. According to the local collector of the World War II memorabilia, Rich Killblane, “After the great sacrifice that this generation made for the world, during that war, they still do not have a memorial dedicated to their service.” Several of the community’s top collectors at the show in addition to Killblane, will be Bob Hartung, Dennis Hockenbury, Richard Sherrod, and Charles Tingley, who will display some of their most rare and unusual artifacts. The exhibit will also provide one the most complete displays of uniforms, weapons and equipment from World War II. Fully dressed mannequins will represent all services and all theaters of operation. Killblane says, “Visitors can view items rarely seen by the public and learn first hand how the men and women lived and fought the war. “This is also a chance to pay honor to all our veterans and learn first hand from the men who made the history, that we only read about today,” he says. All World War II veterans are encouraged to come to the exhibit and share their knowledge of the artifacts with the public. Doors for the exhibit will open at 11 a.m., Saturday, March 20 at Huff-Minor Post 14, located at Elm and South Avenue. The restaurant will serve dinner at 6 p.m. and the exhibit will close at 8 p.m. For more information about the exhibit or for veterans who may have memorabilia and photos they want to share, contact Rich Killblane at 762-3731. City Considers Involvement With State AffairsAn effort to become involved in state affairs will be on the work session agenda of the Ponca City Board of Commissioners Monday at 2 p.m. in the Commissioner’s Room of the Public Safety Center. Commissioners will discuss whether to add a regular commission agenda item that would allow for public discussion and action on current legislative issues. Other items on the agenda include the Lew Wentz Golf Course rate increase proposal that would support operation, recommendations from the finance director to eliminate unnecessary budget categories and a discussion on recommendations to change the solid waste operation. Time will also be allowed for commissioners and the city manager to give reports prior to the commission entering an executive session to discuss negotiations with the International Association of Fire Fighters. Millennium Timeline 1000-1099Editor’s Note: Once a month for the year 1999, we will print a list of major human historical events compiled by the Ponca City Millennium Committee. Each list will cover a different period of human history, culminating in December with a list of events from the Twentieth Century. The list is necessarily arbitrary, but it will focus primarily on events and people that symbolize the age, and on events that help envision daily life in the given period. ———— Fear of the end of the world continues in much of the Christian world The epic “Beowulf” is written (1000) Leif Eriksson lands in Newfoundland (1000) Complex societies in American northwest rank people by inherited status, create totem poles Mayan civilization reaches its climax in Yucatan Guido d’Arezzo invents musical notation Hohokam culture uses elaborate canal system to support agriculture in the American desert China establishes granaries for emergency famine relief (1006) Sridhara, a mathematician, records the importance of zero (India) Vikings create a settlement in America at L’Anse-aux-Meadows Newfoundland Potatoes and corn are planted in Peru Frisians build dikes to reclaim land from the sea Northern American woodland people settle in villages and depend on agriculture Abortive attempts are made to fly or float in air Persia emerges as major center of civilization Artistic revival occurs in Italy (frescos and mosaics) King Ethelred II of England pays 30,000 pounds to prevent invasion by the Danes Mohammedans sack Holy Sepulcher in Jerusalem (1009) China imports drought-resistant rice (1011) King Ethelred II of England pays 48,000 more pounds to prevent invasions by Danes First Christian persecution of heretics in Germany (1012) Danes capture England, King Ethelred II takes refuge in Normandy (1013) Canute, a Danish Viking, becomes King of England (1016) Chartres Cathedral crypt is begun in France (1020) Ergotism, a disease from fungus that grows on rye, strikes part of France (1039) The Seven Fireplaces people settle in Minnesota and later become known as Sioux Omar Khayyam, a Persian poet, writes the Rubaiyat Macbeth kills King Duncan of Scotland and becomes king himself (1040) El Cid becomes a Spanish national hero Illuminated manuscripts reach their peak Stone barrel vaulted ceiling begin to replace wooden roofs in churches Vienna is mentioned for the first time Copenhagen is mentioned for the first time Population expands and many people in Europe move to towns As trade increases, money slowly becomes the standard medium of exchange, rather than goods or services The Cahokia, Illinois, mound civilization reaches its peak with about 40,000 people Lady Godiva rides nude through Coventry, England, to protest taxation The Papacy is sold Iron plows with wheels replace wooden plows in Northern Europe Oldest complete stained-glass windows are produced Movable type is invented (China) Khmer empire expands in Cambodia and Thailand England develops wealth by trading wools for cash Monastery system expands, expanding Christianity and providing workers who preserve ancient Greek and Latin manuscripts by copying them Polyphonic singing replaces Gregorian chant Astrolabes, a mechanical device that shows the presumed relationship of astronomical bodies, arrives in Europe from China Time values are given to musical notes Edward the Confessor of England begins building Westminster Abbey (1052) A major comet, later named Halley’s Comet, is seen (1066) William of Normandy invades and conquers England (1066) William, now called The Conqueror, is crowned King of England (December 25, 1066) With Norman Conquest, French is introduced into England, slowly combining with the Germanic language of Anglo-Saxons to produce what we know as English Harps arrive in Europe China nationalizes agricultural production and distribution (1068) Two-pronged fork is introduced in Venice (1071) Married priests are excommunicated (1074) Tower of London is begun (1078) Domesday Book, a census and inventory of property in England, is completed (1086) Ergotism strikes France again, driving people to insanity and sudden death (1089) First record of gondolas in Venice First water-driven mechanical clock (Peking) St. Mark’s Cathedral is completed in Venice (1094) The First Crusade begins (1096) Crusaders recapture Jerusalem from the Mohammedans (1099) The Church of the Holy Sepulchre is built in Jerusalem (1099) Riggs Project To BeginA street reconstruction project will begin in the northwest part of Ponca City on Monday (March 15), weather permitting. City Engineer Randy Lauritsen said that Cowboy Concrete will begin working on Riggs Street, between West Gary Avenue and West Fresno Avenue by removing the existing concrete. Work will continue by reworking the sub-base, and stabilizing it with fly ash, prior to repouring a new concrete street. Work is expected to be completed within two weeks, weather permitting. Soybean Production Meeting on March 23BLACKWELL — Larry Klumpp, extension educator for 4-H and youth development of the Kay County OSU Cooperative Extension Center, will be hosting a soybean production meeting on Tuesday, March 23, in the Kay Electric education room beginning at 1:30 p.m. Soybean production in North Central Oklahoma has been labeled as risky. For many producers, the reality of “risky” was experienced during the 1998 soybean production year. Many lessons of maturity group selection, soil pH ranges, depth of soil, moisture management, herbicide selection and planting dates were experienced. To help explain and solve some of those problems with the 1998 soybean crop, the OSU Soybean Specialists will provide an educational program and discussion session for producers. Dr. Ron Sholar, Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service Soybean Specialist, has agreed to review his experiences with the 1998 crop in Kay County and discuss his research work to help answer production problems that presented themselves this year. Along with production problems, Sholar has been doing some research work with weed control products that might assist producers who have had problem weeds in their fields. Reviewing soybean varieties will be Dr. Lewis Edwards, Oklahoma State University Professor. Edwards is responsible for the soybean breeding efforts at Oklahoma State University. This past year, Edwards established replicated soybean maturity group studies at the North Central Oklahoma Research Station near Lahoma. He will review his findings at this site as well as other sites where his research efforts are located. This past year, several of his breeding lines performed well at the Lahoma station. While production is just one part of a soybean program, those attending will get a chance to look at soybean price projections for the 1999 soybean crop. J. C. Hobbs, Area Agriculture Economist, will review the soybean outlook picture for the 1999 crop and the amount of soybeans that still remain of the 1998 crop. LettersCrime Figures ShockThis letter is in response to your article, “Study Says Indians Likely To Be Victims.” I’m as shocked as the average white man when I read the first ever comprehensive look by the Justice Department at crime among American Indians, finding that native people are more than twice as likely to become victims of violent crime as the nation’s overall population. Compared to the general population, the death rates for Indians due to accidents via alcohol and substance abuse is 212 percent higher, for suicide 70 percent greater, and for homicide the rate is 41 percent higher. Indians suffer 124 violent crimes, murder, assaults, robberies and rape, for every 100,000 Indians in the lower 48 states and Alaska. Eskimos and Aleuts not included since they don’t claim to be Indian. This all has its roots in the past. As the white man’s strict governmental regulations on every phase of Indian life beginning with the what man’s Manifest Destiny in this country, conquest, genocide policy, and banishment to alien lands of the Indian’s ancestors from the ancient fatherlands, and motherlands to ghettoized human zoos known as federal Indian Reservations is mainly to blame. Even in banishment, the Indian lands were not free from governmental theft. When looking at these wrongs — it is no wonder the Indians are angry. A-ba-ni-tay; Ga-ce-ta-ha-ga! In the land of banishment we Indians have not forgotten who we are despite the U.S. Dawes Act of 1887 which sought to erase our identity so it could seize our remaining lands. No sir, the Indians have not forgotten who we are! The white man’s U.S. Justice Department’s survey of crime among American Indians shows clearly that we, like the German people of Europe, are not looking for the deliverer. Instead, it shows we are looking for a Nuda-honga (War-leader) to lead us on the world stage. If the white man wants to save us let him reinstate his complete authority in Indian Country and within the off reservation Indian communities by white police and not by Indian police whom the Indian people view as mere puppets of the dominate white society.º Enough! I have spoken. Xitha-Zhinga (Little Eagle) Simon Eagle Inspection ReformThe Oklahoma Legislature has finally let the “cat out of the bag.” The only purpose of motor vehicle registration is to tax the people. It is not about safety, it is all for money. Instead of $5 for an annual inspection, it will be $10 for a two-year inspection. That makes a lot of sense if your car passes inspection now, it will be safe to have on the road for two years. It should go back to before the state inspections where the highway patrol stopped you unexpectedly and checked you car. Then a person will be more apt to keep his car in a safe condition. Even under the annual inspection law, if your car has a defect a few days after its inspection, you are still more or less legal. You have an inspection on your car window saying it’s OK. check into how our school buses are inspected. Also, why should some fleet owners be able to inspect their own vehicles? Why isn’t the law pertaining to certain tinted window glasses on cars enforced? This is one of the most obvious safety features that everyone can see — even highway patrol. To be honest and fair, every vehicle (or contraption) that is driven on our highways should be under the same rules and laws as all the rest of us, if safety is the goal. I know some inspection station owners say the fee is profitable to them because they sell more belts, hoses, etc. but this is not a safety feature. It is routine maintenance a car owners should take care of on his own car. Ray L. Peterson Protest ResignationI resigned as the chairman of the Ponca Tribe Election Board effective March 11, 1999, to protest the suspension and subsequent upcoming recall election of Carol LeClair. In my letter of resignation, I listed the following reasons for my decision: “Because the Ponca Tribal Council has seen fit to use the power of recall in an arbitrary, abusive and illegal manner, designed to deny Council member Carol LeClair and all Ponca citizens of their constitutional rights, I hereby resign my position as chairman of the Ponca Tribal Election Board and relinquish said position and duties to the Election Board vice chairman, Mr. Rolland NoEar.” I refuse to be a part of the illegal, abuse of power with which this council has chosen to silence honest debate and cover up corruption. Dwain Camp CEO Dunham Says Conoco Happy To Be in Ponca CityBy FOSTER JOHNSON N ews Managing Editor Proclaiming that “Conoco is happy to be in Ponca City,” Archie Dunham, president and CEO of the recently independent oil company, entertained and informed the audience at the 105th annual Ponca City Area Chamber of Commerce Banquet. Despite the snow and slick conditions, a full house gathered in Conoco’s Atrium Cafeteria to see the changing of the guard for the chamber leadership, community leaders honored and to hear Dunham’s remarks. Highlighting the evening were presentations to a number of award winners. Top prize of the evening went to David Mills of Home National Bank, who was named “Outstanding Citizen.” Other awards: Community Service Award — Jon Kennedy. Larry Hughes Leadership Award — Pixie Rowland. Ambassador Club Award — Debbi Weatherly. Large Business Appreciation Award — Mid-America Door Company. Small Business Appreciation Award — A To Z Machining. Richard Severance, who finished the year as Chamber chairman for Scott Dean, who moved to Stillwater in mid-term, turned the gavel over to Craig Myers and received a rocking chair as an appreciation present from the Chamber. Dunham alternately informed and entertained the audience following his introduction by Lt. Gov. Mary Fallin. He told the group, “It’s great to be back home in Oklahoma and to have this opportunity to visit Ponca City. It’s wonderful to see so many friends, old and new. Since the days of E.W. Marland, Conoco and Ponca City have prospered together. And, after nearly a century, Ponca remains the heart of our company. “It’s the headquarters of our mid-continent business unit and the home of one of our largest refineries, which supplies numerous pipelines and terminals and over 2,000 branded outlets in the mid-continent region. Oklahomans are very special people. They appreciate family, country and God and they aren’t ashamed to share their beliefs. Our employees in Oklahoma are committed to Conoco and they believe in working hard and playing hard. “They’ve made our mid-continent business unit a solid performer, contributing 60 million dollars to the company’s earnings in 1998. And they did it in a safe and environmentally sensitive manner,” he added. Dunham said that 1,800 Ponca citizens earn their living at Conoco, “more if you count partner companies like CSC. Their average salaries are high, so they spend a lot, and they pay a lot of taxes. They also impact the community in other special ways through the United Way and the time they contribute in volunteer work. It’s been a good partnership — Ponca City and Conoco — And I’m sure that some of you are wondering if it’s going to last in this age of super-mergers.” He went on to say that “Obviously, no one can be 100 percent sure about the future. We live in a rapidly changing world dominated by interconnected global economies that dwarf individual companies. No CEO of a major international concern should make promises that he or she cannot keep. I can tell you that we have absolutely no plans under consideration that will negatively impact Ponca City.” He said that Conoco employees enjoy living here. The work ethic is positive, and Conoco respects the forward thinking political leadership in the city and state. “But don’t expect Conoco to remain exactly we are today forever. One of the attributes of Conoco is flexibility, which allows us to change direction quickly to capture opportunities. We’re trying to stay ahead of the change curve, and I want to encourage each of you to do the same thing. So, hopefully, the headline tomorrow will read, ‘Conoco is happy to be in Ponca City.’” He said, “This has been an exciting year for Conoco and for all of our employees. The IPO and pending split off from DuPont was a major news story, just as our merger with DuPont was in 1981. DuPont is a great company; we had a great partnership. But for several years my dream has been that Conoco would once again become independent, so that we could grow the energy business and DuPont could expand its life science business. He told of the events leading up to and following the announcement of the IPO, and the exhilaration of ringing the hell at the New York Stock Exchange proclaiming Conoco an independent company. He went on to tell about accomplishments of the company during the past year. He concluded by saying, “We all want a bright, sustainable future for Ponca City. Conoco will continue to do everything in our power to help realize that goal.” Thorn Apple Valley Receives Interim FundingPR Newswire SOUTHFIELD, Mich. — Thorn Apple Valley obtained an interim financing order Thursday that will allow it to meet its projected cash needs while operating under the protection of Chapter 11. The banks have agreed to provide Thorn Apple Valley with a credit line of $7 million to allow it to continue to operate as it reorganizes. The interim order will be in effect through June 1. Thorn Apple Valley has a meat processing plant in Ponca City. “We’re very happy to have reached an agreement with our banks that provides us with sufficient capital to operate as we reorganize under Chapter 11. This interim financing will allow us to continue on the path to profitability we had started before we were hit with the listeria recall,’’ Joel Dorfman, president and CEO said. The company will soon be announcing several new changes. Thorn Apple Valley has undertaken an extensive program under the direction of Kansas State University to assure that the company has the most comprehensive food safety program in the United States. In addition to the food safety initiative, Thorn Apple Valley will also be introducing a new company logo, new packaging designs, as well as new improvements to the flavor and taste of its meat products. Thorn Apple Valley is a manufacturer of processed meat products headquartered in Southfield, Michigan. Thorn Apple Valley has sales of about $500 million and employs more than 3,000 people with plants in Michigan, North Carolina, Arkansas and Oklahoma. Nearly NewsBill Murphy called Saturday evening to say that today’s Elks Lodge auction will be postponed a week due to the heavy snowfall. Bill said the auction will be held at 1 p.m. March 21 at the Elks Lodge. ———— Due to the snowy weather Saturday, today’s News went to press early. For the late Saturday sports scores, complete NCAA tournament coverage or late-breaking news go to www.poncacitynews.com on the internet and click on “The Wire,” the AP’s national news site. ———— The Challengers Class of First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) will be hosting a spaghetti dinner in the church fellowship hall today in an effort to assist former Ponca Citian Krista Kinkaid Hughey with expenses associated with a bone marrow transplant. Tickets are $6 for adults and $3 for children and are available at the door. Donations will also be accepted. Krista is the daughter of Gay Kinkaid and Dennis and Dayna Kinkaid. David Mills Selected Outstanding CitizenDavid Mills of Home National Bank was named as the “Outstanding Citizen” at Friday’s 105th Annual Chamber Banquet. The presentation of the award was given by Jerry Evans who was the 1998 recipient. Evans said, “It is truly an honor to be able to recognize tonight a close friend as this year’s recipient of this prestigious award.” “I am truly honored to tell you about tonight’s recipient — Upbeat, Full of Wit, Wisdom, Grace, Compassion — A positive person, strength of character, the ability to listen, a mentor, the ability to overcome tremendous obstacles with his unique strength, faith, and positive attitude. These are just a few of the words used to describe our recipient by his co-workers, friends and peers. This man truly represents and believes the biblical admonition “from those to whom much has been granted, much is expected.” “It may be hard for you to believe that this man who graduated 3rd in his class from the University of Kansas Law School spent at least some of his youth skipping school. A budding barrister at a young age, our recipient rigged a system whereby he could cut classes and elude the school’s office secretary. He and his buddies would then proceed to the pool hall where they would play pool and cards in the back room. This worked fine until one day when he looked up from his ever improving game of pool to see his dad, a real estate agent, touring his clients through the pool hall building that they were interested in purchasing. Needless to say, there was some doubt that day, whether this young man would live to graduate from high school. Mischievous — perhaps — but a leader among his peers from as early age. Our recipient spent his time as a youth working in a flour mill, a paper boy, a dishwater, a waiter, a brakeman for the railroad and working in a service station. “From that early beginning, our recipient went to obtain a degree in finance from the University of Kansas, and to graduate from Kansas School of Law. He went on to serve in the USAF attaining the rank of captain. After spending some time as a participating attorney, our recipient entered the Kansas House of Representatives, A lobbyist, a legislative liaison to two governors and the mayor of his hometown. “This experienced attorney and legislator then decided it was time for a career change and once again, our recipient accepted a new role of leadership and moved to Ponca City. “For a short period of time, his handsome, winning smile earned him the reputation of “the most eligible bachelor in town.” However, that was short lived, as his heart was quickly captivated by a pretty, charming and delightful lady that entered his life and changed it forever. Together they have five beautiful children and two grandchildren. “He has served on the Opportunity Center Board, served as chairman of the Marland Estate Commission,; been a member of the Chamber Board of Directors and the Salvation Army Board. He serves on the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation and is a member of the Economic Development Advisory Board. Our recipient was the Financial Chairman of the Pioneer Woman Museum expansion and renovation program, leading the effort in raising $564,000 toward this project. “This list of accomplishments is certainly something to be very proud of, and yet as I stand here tonight and think of my good friend it is not his resume of good deeds or his successful career that comes to mind, it is his infectious smile and always kind words. One of our recipient’s favorite sayings tells us from where he draws his inner strength and love for life — ‘Always make time to communicate with your God seeking the strength and direction you need but most of all to give thanks for the blessings you have been granted.’” Jon Kennedy Receives 3rd Community Service AwardJon Kennedy was named as the recipient of the Community Service Award, which was presented by Jerry Evans, the 1998 Outstanding Citizen. Evans began by saying, “Conocoans know the word volunteerism and practice it with a passion! In 1998, a team of 20 volunteers, mostly Conocoans, spent hours scraping and painting the walls of the main kitchen on the lower floor of the Marland Mansion. The kitchen had been closed since the Felician sisters moved. Due to the efforts of these volunteers, the kitchen is now included in tours of the Mansion.” Next, the volunteers took on the project of painting the walls of the artist studio that recently had seen major renovation under the leadership of retired Conocoans, Doyle Worstell and Eldridge Manering. Meanwhile, major work was taking place in Lydie’s cottage. When Mr. Marland sold the Mansion in 1941 to the Carmelite Fathers, he did not include the Chauffeur’s Quarters northwest of the Mansion. He and Mrs. Marland were living there after their return to Ponca City from the Governor’s Mansion. After his death in 1941, Lydie Marland continued to live in this cottage. However, in 1953, she left Ponca City and did not return until 1975. Upon her return, she accepted the very generous offer of Conoco’s proffered retired pay, but refused Conoco’s offer to remodel her cottage. From the time of her death in 1987 until 1998, the cottage was unused and in a state of disrepair. In 1997, the exterior was restored with funds from both grants, and from the Marland Estate Foundation. However, the $115,000 estimate of funds needed for the interior was not available. Evans said, “Enter a knight in shining armor — with a hammer in his hand — With over 700 volunteer hours of his own to date, — and many more hours from volunteers recruited by him, the original $115,000 estimated cost was reduced to $35,000 and Lydie’s cottage has been converted into a show place. “This tireless worker has been a leader all of his life. In the early ’60s at Ponca City High School, they called him ‘The Bomber.’ In 1961 he was selected to the All-American High School Football team. The following year he established the record of the most touchdowns made by an individual player on the Ponca City High School team in a single season. His record of 18 still stands.” While he was making headlines across the state with his football prowess, he was also setting a record in wrestling. He won the class AA State Championship in the Heavyweight class in 1962, and subsequently graduated from Ponca City High School in 1963. He was recruited for both football and wrestling by all big eight schools and ultimately chose to play on Bud Wilkinson’s Sooner team. In 1972, Kennedy began his 23 year career with Conoco in the yards of the Ponca City Refinery as a laborer. At the time he chose to retire in 1995, he was manager of Oil Movement Mid Continent Business Unit. Evans said, “Tonight we recognize this man for his outstanding leadership in our community, which has so greatly enhanced the tourist appeal of the Mansion grounds.” Mid-America Door HonoredMid-America Door was honored by the Ponca City Area Chamber of Commerce as the Large Industry of the Year for 1998. Chairperson of the Economic Development Advisory Board (EDAB) Linda Brown presented the award to Joe Neylon, president and CEO. Brown began by telling of the companies “pioneer spirit” and how a group of 11 investors, led by several Ponca City businessmen, founded tonight’s recipient of the Large Industry of the Year Award in 1991. Brown said, “The company began with 40 employees, a payroll of approximately $500,000 and a commitment to provide customers a quality product, the best in customer service and a top notch employee team to produce that product. This commitment has paid off handsomely both for the company and Ponca City.” In 1997, the company broke ground on a $3.4 million expansion of manufacturing space and new equipment. A 40,000-sq. ft. addition to its Ponca City plant was completed in August of 1998, with the first of two manufacturing lines opened. The second line is currently being installed, with plans to bring it into production this month. From rather humble beginnings, the company’s sales have increased over 400 per cent. Employment has grown to 150 and payroll has gone from $500,000 to over $3 million annually, a significant addition to Ponca City’s landscape. Brown concluded by saying, “Tonight we are pleased to express our appreciation to our recipient and to add the name of Mid America Door Company to the honor roll of Ponca City companies as the 1998 Large Industry of the Year.” A To Z Top Small Industry for ’98The Small Industry Award for 1998 was presented to A to Z Machining. Accepting the award which was presented by Linda Brown, Chairperson for the Economic Development Advisory Board (EDAB), was Jerry Wirtz, manager. Brown, leading up to the name of the firm, said, “The Company we honor this evening is a textbook case of the American Dream in action.” A graduate of Ponca City High School and the Oklahoma Vo-Tech system, Wirtz started his career working at a large local manufacturer. He worked, he studied, he learned and he struck out on his own. His new venture, A to Z Machining Services opened for business in late 1991 with one employee, himself. Employee number two joined the company after three months. The rest is history. In 1995, the company moved to its current location on Liberty Avenue, tripling its building size and growing to six employees. In October of 1998, A to Z again expanded. And while the size of the shop expanded, so did the number of employees, which now totals 21. A walk through A to Z Machining will impress you with the variety and sophistication of both the equipment and the people who are responsible for making it work to extremely close tolerances. Jerry Wirtz will tell you that he named the company “A to Z” because he wanted to do all kinds of projects for all types of businesses and individuals. At A to Z Machining Services, “Dedicated to Pride and Quality” is not just a motto, it is a standard for both business and personal life. Pixie Rowland First Winner Of Larry Hughes AwardFriday evening at the Chamber Banquet the Board of Director’s inaugurated a very special award — the Larry Hughes Leadership Award. The award was presented to Pixie Rowland, a long-time friend of Hughes. Larry Hughes, a long time community leader who passed away in 1997, was widely known for his positive attitude, love of his community and willingness to volunteer his most capable efforts toward most any project which would benefit Ponca City. He was the kind of person who, when there was a job to be done, Larry was the one you went to for help if you knew it had to be done, and done right. In working with the Hughes family, it was determined that the Larry Hughes Leadership Award would be given annually to a member of the most recently completed Leadership Ponca City Class who exemplified the character traits, spirit and commitment which was the hallmark of Larry Hughes, and who has shown that he or she has used the leadership abilities, skills and knowledge gained through participation in the Leadership Ponca City Class to help make a difference in our community. Presenting the First Annual Larry Hughes Leadership Award were his daughters, Lori Markes and Allison Eve. Debbie Weatherly Presented With Ambassador of Year PrizeDebbi Weatherly was named Ambassador of the Year at the annual Chamber banquet. Make the presentation was Pixie Rowland, last year’s recipient. In making the award, Rowland said that the honor is presented annually to a member of the Ambassador Committee who has given tireless effort in retaining memberships, recruiting new members and attending events sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce during the past year. Rowland went on to say, “Weatherly has shown true leadership and great results in every area. She has been involved with in our community, including outstanding and selfless volunteer work on behalf of the Kiwanis Club, United Way, Friends of Scouting, Kay County American Cancer Society, Vietnam Veterans Association, American Legion and many more.” In naming Weatherly as the honoree, Rowland said, “She is not only a great Ambassador for our Chamber of Commerce, but she is also the Chairman of the “Give Ponca The Business” Committee and involved with the Chamber’s 25th Reaccreditation process. She is a truly valuable asset for our entire community. Weatherly said, “It is truly an honor to win this award. I enjoy what I do with the Ambassadors and in working with the staff at the Chamber.” DEATHSBart Lewis Phillips Bart Lewis PhillipsPOND CREEK — Bart Lewis Phillips died Friday, March 12, 1999, at his home in Ponca Creek. He was 33. Funeral service will be 3 p.m. Tuesday in the First Christian Church, Pond Creek, with the Rev. Lynn Bond and the Rev. Sherry Shaw officiating. Burial will follow in Pond Creek Cemetery under direction of Wilson Funeral Home, Pond Creek. Bart Lewis Phillips was born March 20, 1965, at Enid, Okla., the son of Robert Seven and Loyce Cheryl LaBrue Phillips. He was a lifetime resident of Pond Creek. He graduated from Ponca Creek-Hunter High School in 1983, received an Associate Degree in Music from Northern Oklahoma College in Tonkawa in 1986, and studied music at Central State University in Edmond. He had worked as a singer for Crown Heights Christian Church in Oklahoma City, and performed in “Texas” musical drama. He opened the Just Off Broadway Music Store in Pond Creek in 1990. He later closed the store to pursue a career in theater at Six Flags Show Productions, and Gene Patrick Show Productions in Arlington, Texas and Arthur Murray School of Dance. In 1994 he reopened Just Off Broadway Music Store in Pond Creek. His survivors include his mother and stepfather, Cheryl and Homer Holden of Pond Creek; his father and stepmother, Steven and Marge Phillips of Ponca City; one brother, Kris Holden of Pond Creek; two sisters, Chey Peck and Layne Holden, both of Ponca Creek; his maternal grandmother, Ruby Phillips of Medford, and his paternal grandmother, Myrtie LaBrue of Ponca Creek. He was preceded in death by his two grandfathers. Memorials may be made to the First Christian Church or to Ponca Creek-Hunter Alumni Association, both in Pond Creek 73766. Emory J. SitterlyEmory J. Sitterly, longtime Ponca City resident, died Saturday morning, March 13, 1999, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. He was 86. A graveside service will be held at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, March 17, 1999, at Sunset Memorial Park with the Rev. Bob Innis, pastor, Word of Life Christian Center officiating. Arrangements are made under the direction of Trout Funeral Home. Mr. Sitterly was born on July 28, 1912, in Fairfax to Frank and Anna (Wardlow) Sitterly. He was raised and attended school in Fairfax. He enlisted in the U.S. Army and served in North Africa during World War II. After his discharge, he moved to Bartlesville and married Mary Wine on June 22, 1947, in Dewey, Okla. He re-enlisted in the U.S. Army and served in Alaska during the Korean Conflict. After his service in the military, he and his family moved to Fairfax where he worked for Cameron Oil Company for many years. The couple moved to Ponca City in 1982 and he became employed at the Ponca City News. He retired in the late 1980s. He enjoyed hunting and fishing and was a member of the First Christian Church in Fairfax. He is survived by his wife, Mary of the home; two sons, Robert Sitterly of Chandler and Roger Sitterly of Ponca City; two daughters, Dorothy Sitterly and Bonnie Luis, both of Ponca City; nine grandchildren and six great grandchildren; several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, one son, one daughter, and three brothers. Sidney Robert TestermanNEWKIRK — Sidney Robert “Sid” Testerman, a longtime Newkirk resident, died Friday morning, march 12, 1999, at his home in Newkirk. He was 81. The funeral has been scheduled for 2 p.m. Tuesday, March 16, 1999, in the First Christian Church, Newkirk, with the Rev. Jerry Albright officiating. Burial is to follow in Newkirk Cemetery under the direction of Miller-Stahl Funeral Service. Friends may call at the funeral home today, 1-5 p.m., Monday 9 a.m.-9 p.m., and Tuesday, 9 a.m.-noon. The casket will not be opened at the church. A memorial fund has been established with Hospice of Ponca City. Contributions may be made in Mr. Testerman’s memory through Eastman National Bank, P.O. Box 468, Newkirk 74647-0461. Mr. Testerman was born Sept. 28, 1917, in Mehan, Okla., the son of Frank and Mattie (Gideon) Testerman. He grew up and received his education in the Yale and Cushing areas. He loved horses and rode as a jockey at the early age of 16 for the famous Billy McGinty. As he grew older, he trained horses for himself and others to race on the tracks at Newkirk and surrounding towns. He also worked for Glen Peel, ranching and raising show cattle. He used his own palomino, Blondie, which he had raised and trained from a colt, on trail rides and in parades. On April 23, 1938, he and Ebba Lee Farley were married. They established their home in Newkirk and raised a family of six children. On Oct. 5, 1969, he and Joy Huddleston Bateman were married in Newkirk where they have lived all their married life. He had worked for the Newkirk Fire Department for a number of years. He later worked in different departments for the City of Newkirk, his last being the electric department. He retired in 1978. He was a member of the First Christian Church, and he enjoyed fishing. He loved to visit with people, trading old tales and telling stories . He is survived by his wife, Joy, of the home; five sons, Ralph, Ronald, Richard and Michael, all of Newkirk and Chris of Little Rock, Ark.; two daughters, Darlene Burch of Fort Gibson, and Joyce Jones of Tulsa; a brother, Marvin, of Oregon; three sisters, Audrey Hope of Cushing, Marcine Jones of Stroud and Margie Hulsey of Middleton, Texas; 18 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren. Mary Elizabeth RozellNEWKIRK — Mary Elizabeth Rozell, Ponca City resident and formerly of Newkirk, died early Saturday morning, March 13, 1999, in St. Joseph Regional Medical Center, Ponca City. She was 80. The funeral has been scheduled for 10 a.m. Wednesday, March 17, in the Newkirk First Christian Church with the Rev. Paul Krueger, minister of the Woodland Christian Church, officiating. Burial is to follow in Newkirk Cemetery under the direction of Miller-Stahl Funeral Service. Friends may call at the Funeral home Monday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., and Tuesday, 9 a.m.-9 p.m. The casket will not be opened the day of the service. A memorial fund has been established with Woodland Christian Church and the Newkirk First Christian Church. Contributions may be made in Mrs. Rozell’s memory through Eastman National Bank, P.O. Box 468, Newkirk 74647-0468. Mrs. Rozell was born Jan. 22, 1919, at Kildare, the daughter of John A. and Gertrude (Skinner) Hayden. She grew up and attended school in Newkirk, graduating with the class of 1936. On July 3, 1937, she and Merle E. Rozell were married at her parents’ home in Newkirk. They established their first home in Newkirk. In 1939 her husband’s work took them to Washington, D.C., where they lived until 1943 when they moved back to Newkirk. A short time later he joined the U.S. Navy and she joined him at the Naval Training Station in San Diego, Calif. After his discharge they moved to Ponca City and he began working for Conoco. In 1978 Mr. Rozell was transferred to London, England, and they made their home there until his retirement 3 1/2 years later. They moved to Hot Springs, Village, Ark., living there for a year before returning to Newkirk in 1983. They owned and operated Rozell’s Pizza and later they operated Rozell’s Family Restaurant. They moved to Ponca City in 1996. On Nov. 18, 1998, Mrs. Rozell entered Westminster Village and resided there since that time. She was a charter member of Woodland Christian Church in Ponca City and was active in its formative years. She was active in the Ponca City PTA and served as SPTA president for Lincoln, Washington and Woodlands Grade Schools. She was also president of the city-wide PTA of Ponca City. She was secretary for Woodlands Grade School and for the Board of Education office. She was volunteer secretary in the American Church in London from 1978 until 1981. She also served as secretary of the Ponca City Housing Authority. Her survivors include her husband, Merle, of the home in Ponca City; two sons, Terry of Kansas City, Kan., and Monty of Ponca City; two brothers, John W. Hayden of Philadelphia, Penn., and Walfred Lee Hayden of Billings, Okla., and four grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, a brother and a sister. ObituariesWilliam A. TudorWilliam A. “Bill” Tudor, Ponca City resident, died Thursday, March 11, 1999, at Baptist Medical Center in Oklahoma City, OK. He was 75. The funeral will be held at 2 p.m. Monday, March 15, 1999, in the Grace Memorial Chapel with the Rev. Coy Whitener and Rev. Bruce Allen officiating. Burial will follow in the Tonkawa I.O.O.F. Cemetery under the direction of Grace Memorial Chapel. Bill was born Jan. 11, 1924, in Natural Dam, Ark., the son of Willie and Martha (Dickson) Tudor. He moved to Paden, Okla., with his family at an early age. He worked various jobs until entering the U.S. Army in 1943 and was stationed in Italy where he was injured. He received his Honorable Discharge in 1945. He was married to Janet Neal in 1949 with whom he had two daughters, Gail and Beth, of Ponca City. Janet preceded him in death in 1961. In 1969 he was married to Vela Massey of Clarksville, Ark. They made their home in Ponca City, where they raised their children. Mr. Tudor was employed by Gruners (Smith Int.) for 39 years until his retirement in 1989. His greatest enjoyment in life was his family and their time together. He also enjoyed gardening, camping, and watching wrestling. He leaves behind to cherish his memory his wife, Vela, of the home; four daughters, Gail Dummer, of Ponca City, Linda Hunt and husband Tom, of Ponca City, Beth Linton and husband David, of Ponca City, Deborah Williams and husband Bob, of Springfield, Mo.; one son, Don Chavers, of Ponca City; four grandchildren, Tina Hunt, Shallon Dummer, Austin and Casey Linton; one great-grandson, Dayton Rickman, all of Ponca City; three sisters, Lucy Payne, of Chowchilla, Calif., Mary Muskrat, of Warner, OK and Gladys Sewell, of Waco, Texas; one brother, Arvle Tudor, of Warner, Okla., and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Janet, two brothers, Hershel and John Tudor, and his son-in-law, Lester Dummer Jr. Casketbearers will be great-nephews, Hershel Stewart, Shawn Stewart, Norman Lee Tudor, Terry Tudor, Billy Tudor and family friend, Steve Dummer. Honorary casketbearers will be Norman Tudor, Terry Stewart, Tommy Hunt, and David Linton. Memorial contributions may be made to the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation for heart and diabetes research 825 NE 13th St. Oklahoma City, OK 73104 The family will be at 201 S. Ash. paid obituary Jerry A. NicksJerry A. Nicks, resident of Oklahoma City, and a former resident of Ponca City, died Saturday, March 13, 1999, at his home after a courageous fight with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease). Jerry was born on Jan. 21, 1931, in Ponca City, Okla., to Taz and Virginia Nicks. He graduated from Oklahoma A&M College (now OSU) in 1954. He was in the U.S. Air Force from 1954 to 1957, serving in the Strategic Air Command as a navigator on B-36 and B-52 bombers, at Mather AFB in Sacramento, Calif., and Fairchild AFB in Spokane, Wash. He was employed by Continental Oil Company in 1957 (now Conoco), holding several management positions in Continental Pipeline and Crude Oil Trading. He retired in August 1989 in Oklahoma City. He was an active member of Village Baptist Church, teaching adult Sunday School for many years. He is survived by his wife, Joy of the home; a son, David Nicks of Houston, Texas; a daughter, Lori Nicks of Plano, Texas; two granddaughters, Christin and Cynthia Nicks of Ponca City, Okla.; a niece, Mary Kay Duffy of Bixby, Okla.; and a nephew, Curtis Nicks of Nassau Bay, Texas. He was preceded in death by his parents, and his brother, Gene Nicks. Jerry leaves behind a very proud family who benefited from his love, wisdom, and character. He will be sorely missed but his presence will continue in the lives he has touched so deeply. Funeral services will be held at Village Baptist Church on Tuesday, March 16, 1999, at 10:30 a.m. Committal services will be held 3 p.m. at the Resthaven Memorial Park in Ponca City, Okla. Services under the direction of Vondel L. Smith & Son Mortuary, 13125 N. MacArthur, Oklahoma City, 73142. paid obituary Fred Anson PrayFreda Anson Pray, longtime Ponca City resident, died Friday morning, March 12, 1999, at Ponca City Nursing home. She was 86. A graveside service will be held at 1 p.m., Monday, March 15, 1999, at Resthaven Memorial Park Cemetery with the Rev. Charles M. Heyer, Associate Pastor, First Christian Church officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Trout Funeral Home. Mrs. Pray was born on June 24, 1912, in Kildare to Fred and Pearl (Slater) Anson. She attended Ponca City Schools and later attended business college. She married Vern W. Pray on April 20, 1932, in Newkirk. He preceded her in death on October 1, 1987. The couple made their home in Ponca City where Ms. Pray worked as a secretary. She loved to play cards and spend time with her many friends. She was a member of the First Christian Church and belonged to the choir for over 40 years, and was a member of the Gold Star Mothers. She is survived by one daughter, Sally Pray Hebert of Atlanta; one daughter-in-law, Renata Pray of Munich, Germany; one sister, Winona J. Bowman of Codell, Kansas; one brother, Howard Anson of Ponca City; one sister-in-law, Lucille Ely of San Diego; five grandchildren, Terry Ammons and his wife, Marti of Atlanta, Todd Ammons and his wife, Christi of Lake Charles, Pam Ammons-Johnson and her husband, Scott of Atlanta, Franklin Pray and his wife, Cindy of New York City, and Sylvia Pray of Munich; six great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; one son, Vern Lee Pray; four sisters and three brothers. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Ponca City, 1904 N. Union, Suite 103, Ponca City, Ok 74601 or to the First Christian Church, 210 N. 5th, Ponca City, Ok 74601. Friends may call at the funeral home until 12 noon on Monday. paid obituary Services PendingPerry VanderslicePerry Vanderslice, resident of Ponca City, died Saturday morning, March 13,1999 at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. He was 91. Funeral arrangements are pending and will be announced later with Trout Funeral Home. Lorene B. WalkerLorene B. Walker, resident of Ponca City, died Saturday, March 13, 1999, at Mercy Hospital in Oklahoma City. She was 78. Surviving are two daughters, Sandra Davis of McComb and Pamela Lessert of Ponca City. Funeral arrangements are pending and will be announced later with Trout Funeral Home. Dorothy HarpDorothy Harp, resident of Fairfax, died at her home Friday evening, March 12, 1999. She was 65. Graveside services will be held Tuesday, March 16, 1999 at 2 p.m. in the Fairfax Cemetery under the direction of Hunsaker-Wooten Funeral Home in Fairfax. FuneralsMondayAlfred E. NuttleFuneral Monday at 10 a.m., March 15, 1999, Hunsaker-Wooten Funeral Home Chapel in Fairfax. Burial will be in Highland Cemetery in Pawnee. Perry Oliver Tarrant Jr. — Funeral 2 p.m. Monday, March 15, 1999 in the Norman First Baptist Church with Dr. Richard Hopper and Dr. John Parrott officiating. Burial in Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery in Norman. NEWS BRIEFSSpring Break Program — The Ponca City Library will be offering a Spring Break program “Storm Warning,” Tuesday at 1 p.m. The program features the Reading Rainbow video, “Come a Tide,” and tornado footage from National Geographic. Kay County Emergency Management Director Pat Zehr will provide safety information for the severe weather season. For ages 7 and up. The program should last about one hour. Vehicle Stolen — The Communications Center received a 911 call from the 1400 block of South Sixth Street at 7:07 a.m. Friday that a vehicle had been stolen. An officer assigned took a report that the vehicle had been locked and no keys in the vehicle. The vehicle was recovered at 12:28 p.m. at the intersection of East Central Avenue and South Ninth Street. Fence Damaged — A man from the 500 block of Shannon reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 7:39 a.m. Friday that his fence had been damaged. The information was logged and a request was made for extra patrol. Accident — A minor vehicular accident in the Po-Hi parking lot was reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 8:06 a.m. Friday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Accident — A one-vehicle, non-injury accident three miles south of U.S. 60 on U.S. 177 was reported to the Communications Center at 11:41 a.m. Friday. The Oklahoma Highway Patrol was notified. Accident — The Communications Center received a 911 call at 2:27 p.m. Friday that an accident had occurred in the 1400 block of West Highland Avenue in a parking lot. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Vehicle Rollover — The Kay County Sheriff’s Department reported at 2:43 p.m. Friday that a vehicle had rolled over six miles east of U.S. 77 on Oklahoma 11. Two units of the Ponca City Fire Department responded to the scene. Vehicle Missing — A woman from the 1100 block of South Fifth Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 4:38 p.m. Friday that her vehicle was missing. An officer was assigned and the information was logged. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 1600 block of Donahoe Drive at 6:06 p.m. Friday that a 37-year-old man was being held for DUI. Accident — The Ponca City Police Department received a report at 6:37 p.m. Friday that a vehicle had hit the concrete median one-half mile west of Waverly Street on U.S. 60. An officer was assigned and information was logged. One Injured — The Communications Center received several 911 calls at 6:46 p.m. Friday that a pickup and another vehicle had collided 1.5 miles south of U.S. 60 on U.S. 177, blocking the north-bound lanes. The Oklahoma Highway Patrol was notified. An ambulance took one victim to St. Joseph Regional Medical Center for treatment of injuries after being extracted from a vehicle by personnel of a Ponca City Fire Department rescue vehicle. Hits Telephone Pole — An accident involving a van hitting a telephone pole 2.5 miles south of U.S. 60 on Oklahoma 156 was reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 7:38 p.m. Friday. The Kay County Sheriff’s Office was notified. Harassment — A woman from the 400 block of South Oak Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 8:20 p.m. Friday that another woman had been harassing her. An officer was assigned and the information was logged. Electrical Fire — The Communications Center received a 911 call at 11:10 p.m. Friday that flames were coming from the roof of Golden Corral, 2120 North Fourteenth Street. Units from all Ponca City Fire Department responded and a report was taken that the problem was an electrical fire in the eves and damage was confined to that spot. Subjects Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the intersection of South Pine Street and West South Avenue at 12:39 a.m. Saturday that a 29-year-old man was being held for DUI, transporting an open container, having no insurance and failing to signal. A 38-year-old man and a 30-year-old man were held on charges of public intoxication. Vehicles Vandalized — An employee at VFW, 3001 East Prospect Avenue, reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 1:43 a.m. Saturday that it had been discovered vehicles vandalized in the parking lot. An officer was assigned and reports were taken. Subjects Held — Officers of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the intersection of North Second Street and East Highland Avenue at 1:48 a.m. Saturday that a 30-year-old man was being held for DUI, having no driver’s license, transporting an open container, having an expired tag and running a red light. Also arrested were a 32-year-old man on a city warrant for failure to pay and public intoxication, a 42-year-old man and a 21-year-old man for public intoxication. Subject Held — A deputy from the Kay County Sheriff’s Office reported from Hartford Avenue east of Pecan Road at 2:03 a.m. Saturday, that a vehicle had done donuts in a yard, and that assistance was needed. Arrested was a 30-year-old man for DWI. Assault — The Communications Center received a 911 call at 2:05 a.m. Saturday that an assault had occurred in the 1500 block of Hudson Drive. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Building Hit by Pickup — A person was at the Ponca City Police Department at 4:28 a.m. Saturday to report that a pickup had hit the front of Nickles Machine, 600 South First Street and that a man had run from the scene. Offices were assigned and it was learned the pickup had been stolen and the owner was contacted. Young at Heart Dance Set — The Young at Heart Dance is held every Monday at the American Legion, 407 West South Avenue from 7 to 10 p.m. Snack and Hillbilly Night is held the first Monday of each month. Music by Ken Wilson and the Sunshine Playboys Band. St. Patrick’s Bridge-Luncheon Set — St. Patrick’s Day luncheon and card party is scheduled for Wednesday, March 17, noon-3:30 p.m., in St. Mary’s Parish Hall, sponsored by the St. Francis Guild of the church. Tickets are available by contacting Deanna Nicholas at 762-5496, Joan Slovacek at 762-5953 or Beverly Smith at 762-2695. All members of the community are welcome. 1949 Reunion — The Ponca City High School graduating class of 1949 reunion committee will meet Thursday at 7 p.m. at the American Legion building. For more information call 762-2826. LIFESTYLES‘Crazy Eights’ Program Title For Local DAR ‘Crazy Eights’ Program Title For Local DAR“Crazy Eights” is the title for the program to be presented for members of the Ponca City Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution at their meeting March 19 at 12:45 p.m. at the Cultural Center. The program will be given by Marsha Earl Abshier, regent for the Cushing DAR chapter. Her historical presentation about women delves into DAR history. An active worker in the DAR, Mrs. Abshier is a member of the national DAR Speakers staff and is National Defense chairman for the Oklahoma Society and the state conference chairman. She is vice president of the Cameo Club, an organization for DAR mothers and daughters, and historian for the Oklahoma Regents Club. She is also a member of the DAR Chorale, Sooner Crooners, and a guide for Goodholm House during the state fair. While serving as organizing librarian for the OSDAR chairmans club she designed a club pin, which is now available to members. She and husband, Robert, own Earls’ Jeweles, Inc. Lu Keathley is chairman for the hostess committee, which includes Norita Barkley, Betty Elliott, Wanza Merrifield, Eleanor Wallace and Harriett Wooderson. International Club Program Presented By Barbara BrownThe February meeting of the International Club was hosted by Nora Slaughter with Sonja Engster, Marina Mayer, and Tatyana Samoylova serving as co-hostesses. President Nadia Salama conducted the business meeting and welcomed guests Jan Neylon and Cheryl Smith. Gloria Ossa, project chairman, introduced officer Brad Fultz who told the club about the Westside project, what was being done to keep the kids off the streets, and efforts to reduce the crime rate in this area. Cynthia Linthicum of Americorps told how she had started a Girl Scout troop and how they were both trying to provide a safe environment for the kids to go after school. A donation was given to Officer Fultz to help with the “good work.” Club member Barbara Brown gave a program on ‘Antarctica’ where she and her husband, Jim, had visited earlier this year. She showed slides of gardens and historic buildings in Buenos Aries where they had stopped on the first leg of the journey, then members saw slides of icebergs, penguins, sea lions, seals and humpback whales. The officers of the club are busy preparing for the 40th Anniversary Dinner in April and would like to hear from anyone who has any information on past members. The next meeting is slated March 24 at the home of Nadia Salama. An invitation is extended to all international residents and interested Americans to contact Aracelly Killblane, 762 3731, for further details about the club. March Is National Nutrition MonthDuring National Nutrition Month in March, officials at the Oklahoma State Department of Health are reinforcing the importance of nutrition and physical activity as key components of health. “Good nutrition is important for overall public health and contributes substantially to preventable illness and premature death. It is an important key in health promotion and disease prevention,” said State Health Commissioner J.R. Nida, M.D. Below are the top ten dietary guidelines for Oklahomans: Balance the food you eat with physical activity — maintain or improve your weight. Choose a diet with plenty of grain products, vegetables, and fruits. Choose a diet low in fat, saturated fat, and cholesterol. Eat a variety of foods. Choose a diet moderate in salt and sodium. Choose a diet moderate in sugars. If you drink alcoholic beverages, do so in moderation. Eat five fruits and vegetables a day to help lower the risks of some cancers, heart disease, and other health problems. Take a multivitamin containing 0.4 milligrams (400 micrograms) of folic acid every day. If you’re a woman of childbearing age, this will make sure you get enough folic acid to help prevent birth defects. Everyone else will benefit, because folic acid may help prevent heart disease. Make food choices to obtain an adequate amount of calcium in order to build and maintain healthy bones and prevent osteoporosis. The Oklahoma State Department of Health joins the American Dietetic Association in offering a free copy of the 20-page booklet, Take a Fresh Look at Nutrition, which gives nutrition advice to help consumers make informed choices. To receive the free booklet, send a self-addressed, stamped, business-sized envelope to NCND-NNM Brochure, 216 West Jackson Blvd., Chicago, IL, 60606-6995. Additional information about nutrition is available from the nutritionist at the county health department in your area. Class Members Sought for NOC Alumni ReunionNorthern Oklahoma College is searching for addresses of the Class members of 1939 and 1949, who will be honored at the annual Alumni Reunion set for April 24. Members of these honor classes are invited to send brief bios and photographs by March 31 for inclusion in the reunion souvenir booklet. Information may be sent to Alumni, Northern Oklahoma College, P.O. Box 310, Tonkawa, OK 74653, telephone (580) 628-6208. If the class member is deceased, family members are asked to notify the alumni group. According to Director of Alumni Jeanne Ackerson, addresses are needed for members of the class of 1939 (college department): Margurett Fay Alexander, Bonnie Louise Allen, Kathryn L. Beck, Mary Bell, Maxine Carol Blubaugh, Donald L. Bonham, Miles Clayton Bozarth, Kenneth Merle Bratcher, Theda Maxine Breidenbach, William Thomas Brown, Jr., Georgia Lee Buck, Rosemary C. Buhrman, Vera Nell Byers, Claudine Carr, William Arthur Cason, Jr., Clifford Eugene Constant, Nola Cooper and Evelyn Cummins. Also Lorene J. Daniel, George Pete Demas, Mary Louise Denham, Maxine Dickson, Dortha M. Dorsett, Edward James Dwyer, Lou Ellen Marie Edwards, William C. Elliott, Jr., Mary Ann Ephland, Carolyn J. Fowle, Lois Franklin, Viola Garwood, LeRoy Gordon, Maxine Jane Gunn, Gerald Lee Gray, Cleo Harvey Hall, Alma Emilie Heldenbrand, Margaret Virginia Herrin, Dorothy Irene Heusel, Lorette Hill, Bob Hower, Jesse Norwood Huff, Samuel Huff and Harriett H. Huston. Also Pauline Agness, Johnson, Roland H. Johnson, Anna Lucille Kinney, J. R. Kirkpatrick, Ted A. Kohler, Dorothy Leen, Gerald C. Lemmon, Margaret Allen Lewis, Lloyd L. Long, Dee Marie Martin, Kathryn Elizabeth McDougal, Benny Meade, Estil L. Miller, Leland H. Miller, Leroy Miller, Monte Miller, Herman A. McClure, Howard Raymond Myers, Gwyneth Virginia Olinger, Robert N. Osborne, Marjorie Belle Ostrander, Frances Palm, Arthur Park, Alfred Parsons, Paul L. Prather, Bertsel W. Ratliff, and Fanchon Lee Reid. Also Donald Leslie Schuermann, Marvel Mate Shorter, Wilda Shurtz, Mary Skipper, Omar A. Sloan, Earl Douglass Souligny, Grace Irene Stiger, Henry A. Stackhouse, Fred H. Summers, Eugene Swearingen, John Teverbaugh, Edna Mae Thompson, Lloyd W. Titus, Betty Jane Threlkeld, Jeanne Van Slyke, Bette Underwood, Maxine Vollmer, Ruth Waters, Elsie Wick, Douglas 0. Williams, George F. Williams, Keith V. Williams, Nellie Christine Williams, Mabel Ruth Wisler, June Elizabeth Young. Class of 1939 (Preparatory Department): Virginia Lee Brown, Gertrude Burk, Elinor Jean Carson, Velma Nellie Graves, Marjorie Darlene Harris, Glenn W. Scott, Marriable F. Skipper and Virginia Dora Smith. Class of 1949 (College Department): Mary Joan Adams, Dolores Allen, Richard Louis Ambrose, Billy Neyl Baker, Eugene Ralph Bamberger, Bertha Juanita Bankston, Betty Iona Bell, Kenneth Eugene Bewley, Jack C. Black, Albert Charles Boyd, Norma Jean Bush, Robert Alan Case, Jimmie H. Cathey, Charles H. Catlin, Bill Roy Chapin and Evelyn Eulon Conklin. Also Billy Granvil Dowler, Robert Emmitt Doyle, Bill E. Ebert, Ralph Joseph Ellis, Ramona Gwin Fair, Mildred Irene Farabough, Rosemary Fath, Diane Rosalee Frazier, William Rufus Garwood, Veda Louis Gingerich, James Alexander Fuller, John Lyle Gorman Jr., Leroy Casper Hadley, John Howard Hall, Dwight H. Happ, Margalee Hartman, Kenneth Hoisington II, Lavetta Ann Hoisington, Theo Hunter, Doris Juvenal and Maxine Louise Kelle. Also Beatrice Ileen Lawson, Mary Jo Liegerot, Everett Don Long, William Lourance Mays, Jerome Cook McMullan, Julia Esther McKeeman, Richard Allen McNeil, Oraleen Elizabeth Merritt, Mary Ruth McGinty, Francis W. Nossaman, Billy Mac Paden, J. Kenneth Rainbolt, Dorothea Mae Ratterree, James Everett Roe, Jerrie Lavina Ross, Dolores Ann Shelley, Robert Warren Simmer and Geralda Ann Smith. Also Philip Truman Smith, Nancy Jane Spencer, Billie Joyce Stauffacher, Edwina Pauline Steele, Laura Cathleen Steffen, Wiley August Stowers, Jack Kenneth Taylor, Robert D. Taylor, Zack Lee Taylor, Demaris Jane Thomas, John Brooks Walton, Jo Ann Watts, Frank E. Weber, Tomas Dean White, Edgar Whitehead III. Junior college certificates: Billie Deck Barnes, Don G. Carder, Joe Richard Driver, William Earl Franklin, Ivan Leon Grell, Eva Nell Kelle, Clifford Gresham Moses, Clarence Wesley Myers, Doris Naydene McIntyre, Harold Leon Norlin, Roy E. Oxford, Billy L. Schurkens, Charles Henry Stanford, and Clifford T. Vandagriff. High school diplomas: Tommy Eugene Arms, Julia Ann Maxwell, Kathryn Sue Weber, Virginia Mae Wells and Belva Marguerite Nelson. Deadlines Set for LifestylesForms for engagement, anniversary and wedding announcements are available at the desk of the Lifestyles Editor. The News requests that the name of a contact person and a telephone number, where they may be reached during business hours, be listed. The deadline for the Sunday edition for stories with pictures is 5 p.m. Wednesday, but stories and pictures may be submitted earlier. Stories for the daily edition should be submitted at least two days prior to the date of publication. In order to keep stories current, the News prefers to have wedding stories submitted within two weeks of the event. However, we will use a photograph and story within three months after the event. If a wedding story is submitted more than one month after the event, the date will not be used and the story may be abbreviated. Stories submitted prior to one month following the ceremony will usually receive preference in the Sunday edition. If the photo is a snapshot rather than a professional photograph, it may not be usable. We cannot reproduce photographs from a newspaper or magazine. Prints or negatives only, please. Either color or black and white photos are acceptable. Soft focus pictures do not reproduce well in a newspaper. Almost any size photograph is acceptable since they will be enlarged or reduced as needed.There is no charge for wedding, anniversary or engagement announcements, and pictures are returned free of charge. A return name and address should be printed on the back of the photographs. “Sticky” notes are preferred since ink may bleed through the picture if the writer presses too hard. The News cannot be responsible for the spelling of names if information submitted is handwritten rather than typed. Forms are preferred; however, the Lifestyles editor is available to write the story from facts you provide (Just provide her with the “who, what, when, where, etc. ”). It is not necessary for you to write the actual story but you may certainly do so if you desire; but be aware that the story is subject to editing. Items may be mailed, faxed or brought in person to the News. Please be sure to include a name and telephone number in case more information is needed. Those who would like to mail information should include the post box number 191 for the Ponca City News, 74602-0191. Fax number is 580-765-7800. Telephone number for the Ponca City News is 580-765-3311. For further information contact the Lifestyles Editor. Spring Fling Craft Show To Benefit CDCMarch 27 is the date chosen for the annual Spring Fling Craft Show sponsored by Church Women United. All sales from booth rental and snack bar will be donated to the Child Development Center, a United Way Agency. Show hours are 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at Unity Gym. This event is the largest fundraiser of the year for the Child Development Center and the proceeds will help purchase needed items. Many local exhibitors, as well as vendors from out of town, will participate. Items for sale include clothing, silver jewelry, antiques and collectibles, wood crafts, quilts, calligraphy, ceramics, dolls, birdhouses, sun catchers, folk, art, cosmetics, toys, and Beanie Babies. Many exhibitors will contribute items for door prizes. The Child Development Center board of directors will run the concession stand, serving snacks and beverages. Kaye Motz will have a booth to sell homemade bread. All proceeds made from bread sales will go to the CDC. In addition, Albright United Methodist Women will have their annual cookie booth, and Firs Presbyterian Church will also sponsor a booth. The Child Development Center is a child care center for low income and special needs families, The Center currently cares for 90 children from newborn through kindergarten age. Funding for the center comes from the United Way, the Childcare food program, and private donations, For more information about CDC contact director Kim Jump at 765-7532. There is still booth space available. For more information about the show, or to rent a booth, call Suzanne Devinney, 762-9669, or Mary Bates, 718-0019. Tiffany Sims, Steven Blake Wed at First Baptist ChurchTiffany Jill Sims became the bride of Steven Patrick Blake in a 6:30 p.m. ceremony Feb. 20, 1999 in the First Baptist Church. Their double ring vows were officiated by the Rev. Mickey Ary of Jefferson, Mo. The bride is the daughter of Dan and Jill Sims of Kaw City, and the granddaughter of Wanda Hogan of Ponca City. The bridegroom is the son of Jim and Paula Blake of Ponca City, and the grandson of Frances Blake of Shidler. A video of the couple during childhood and the past seven years was shown with music from Nat King Cole as a prelude to the ceremony. Music included “Canon in D” and the processional was the “Wedding March” by Wagner. As the Unity candle was lighted “From This Moment” by Shania Twain was played. The recessional was the “Wedding March” by Mendelssohn. Escorted to the altar by her father, the bride wore a family heirloom wedding gown of antique ivory satin. The 50 year old dress had been worn by the bride’s mother at her wedding; her aunt Janice, and a cousin in California. The Victorian styled gown featured a cathedral length train. The bodice was adorned with hand-beaded pearls and sequins, and the long sleeves and back of the gown were detailed with satin covered buttons. Her double tiered waistline length veiling was trimmed with pearls and secured by a headpiece of pearls and roses and she carried a bouquet of gardenias, stephanotis and roses. Following tradition the bride wore something old, her gown; something new, her veil; something borrowed, pearl and diamond earrings, a gift to the bride’s mother from the bride’s father on their wedding day; something blue, a sapphire and diamond necklace, a gift from her father. Honor attendants were Sarah Schiltz and Whitney Sims, sister of the bride. Bridesmaids were Natalie Bosworth of Dallas, Texas, cousin of the bride; Karen Blake of Ponca City, sister of the bridegroom; and Sara Daniel of Big Sandy, Texas. Each wore a full length celadon green satin gown with an Empire bodice and carried an arrangement of yellow roses, purple morning glories, and baby’s breath. Their necklaces and earrings were gifts from the bride. Calin Sims of Bedford, Texas, cousin of the bride, was flower girl. She wore an ivory satin and lace tea length dress with short sleeves and carried a basket of purple, yellow and white flowers. She wore a circlet of roses with yellow, purple and white ribbon streamers in her hair. Serving as ringbearer was Collin Blake of Houston, Texas, nephew of the bridegroom. He was attired similarly to the groomsmen in a black tuxedo, black vest and black bow tie. Rachel Blake of Lafayette, La., cousin of the bridegroom, attended the guest book. Jeff Blake of Houston, Texas served his brother as Best Man, and groomsmen were Mark Kiker, Ryan Newport, Todd Cannon, Bryan Dunn and Mark Cagley, all of Ponca City. Guests were seated by Steven Clynch, Jared Arrington, both of Ponca City; Patrick Blake of Lafayette, La., and Danny Sims of Fort Bragg, N.C. The bride’s parents hosted a reception at the Marland Mansion. Assisting with the refreshments were Nicole Hogan, cousin of the bride; Julie Schiltz; Rachel Blake, cousin of the bridegroom. Following a wedding trip to Cozumel, Mexico, the couple is residing at 8029 Northwest 120th Street in Oklahoma City. Both are graduates of Oklahoma State University, and the bride is an elementary school teacher. The bridegroom is a financial analyst for Bridge Information Systems. Among the guests at the wedding were the couple’s grandmothers, and Spc. Danny Sims of Fort Bragg, N.C.; Lt. Kyle Bosworth of Vance AFB, Enid; Bob, Janice and Brent Bosworth of Dallas, Texas; Mike and Mary Kassen of Broken Arrow; Joy Boston and son of Adair; Hal and Sylvia Sims of Austin, Texas; Chris and Julie Sims of Bedford, Texas. Also Jeff, Julie and Collin Blake, Shirley Schellhase, and Frank D. Lathrop, all of Houston, Texas; Stacy Blake and John Sherry of Ijamsville, Md.; Steve, Vivian, Patrick and Rachel Blake of Lafayette, La.; Brian Downing of Lincoln, Neb.; Sam, Barbara and Kevin Gonzales, Latisha Martinez, Walt and Janet Mueller, all of Dallas, Texas; Michael and Billie Tyzbir, Jean Osborne, Jason Shelby, Jana Clynch, all of Fayetteville, Ark.; Stan, Joan and Dan Bolin of Elkhart, Kan.; and a great-aunt, Pauline Childress of Dallas, Texas. Pre-nuptial events included a shower at the First Baptist Church hosted by friends of the engaged couple’s parents; a party at the VFW hosted by Bob and Janice Bosworth and Richard and Jackie Hall; a personal shower hosted by the bridesmaids in the home of Natalie Bosworth in Dallas, Texas, and the rehearsal dinner at Apple Carts hosted by Jim and Paula Blake, parents of the bridegroom. Bethany Whiteley EngagedMrs. Carol L. Whiteley of Medicine Lodge, Kan. has announced the engagement and approaching marriage of her daughter, Bethany Laice Whiteley, to Roger Alan Hill, son of Carrol and Freda Hill, 4520 Stardust Trail. The couple plans an April 10 wedding at Osage Heights Baptist Church. The bride-elect, a 1990 graduate of Medicine Lodge High School, earned an associate degree from Northern Oklahoma College in 1995. She is presently attending Oklahoma State University and is employed at Albertson’s Distribution Center in the Inventory Control Department. Hill graduated from Ponca City High School in 1987 and has attended NOC. He is employed as a coverage driver for United Parcel Service. Schonda Pope Becomes Bride of Jeremy T. SparksSchonda Beth Pope and Jeremy Todd Sparks were united in marriage in a candlelight ceremony Feb. 12, 1999, at 7:30 p.m. at Eagle Heights Church in Oklahoma City. Dr. Bobby Boyles, Pastor Randy Nail of Oklahoma City, and the Rev. Larry Heslip of Ponca City, officiated the double ring vows. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Bill Sherga of Blanchard, and the late James Pope. She is the granddaughter of Mrs. Virginia Holmes of Blanchard, and the late Bill Holmes. The bridegroom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Cecil Sparks of Ponca City. He is the grandson of Mrs. Lois Wassall and John (Jack) Wassall Jr. of Wichita, Kan., Mr. and Mrs. Cecil Sparks Sr. of Arkansas City, Kan., and the great-grandson of Vern C. Baird of Wichita, Kan. The Childrens Choir of Eagle Heights Church sang “Thank God for Kids” during the seating of the parents. Sounding “Trumpet Voluntary” were Mel Arner of Ponca City and Warren Samms of Wichita, Kan. as the bride was escorted by her father to the altar. She was given in marriage by her parents. Pianist was Jennifer Patton. The church foyer was decorated with pieces of the bride’s antique furniture and accented with different size ivory column candles, childhood pictures, and keepsakes of the bride and bridegroom. Assisting with the guest books was Ms. Angela Fournier and Ms. Jackie Fournier. The children’s guest book was attended by Ms. Lacy Dyer. The altar was marked by an archway accented by lighted boxwood trees and arched candelabras entwined with ivory tulle, ivy and roses. Ivory tulle bows and roses, created by the bride and her mother, were used for the pews. The bride’s gown was an original design of ivory tapestry satin styled with princess waistline, scooped neckline, and a cathedral length train. She wore a waist length veil created by her mother. The double band headpiece was beaded with pearls and two-tone ivory roses. She carried an English bouquet of “Polar Bear” roses accented with a gold cross that had belonged to her father, James Pope. Matron of Honor for her sister was Shelley Johnson of Oklahoma City, and bridesmaids were Scheana Johnson of Oklahoma City; Shonda Flowers and Jimi Vaughn, both of Norman; and Jessica Johnson of Purcell. Trainbearers were Rachel and Rebekah Foster of Oklahoma City. Serving as Best Man was Kris Hadley of Broken Arrow. Groomsmen were Andrew Jones of Ponca City; Jason Winters of Okmulgee; Kevin Patterson of Oklahoma City; and Tim Mulligan of Stillwater. Also in the wedding party was flower girl Macey Flowers, and ringbearers Shelton Johnson and Abigail Minney. Gage and Cole Browning rolled out the white carpet runner for the bride and her father to walk down. Guests were seated by Jimmy Pope of Oklahoma City, brother of the bride; Jason Wassall of Winfield, Kan., cousin of the bridegroom; Steve Johnson of Oklahoma City; and Corry Flowers of Norman. Others assisting with the wedding were Tori Browning, Jason Miliam, and Rebecca Oldfield. Following the ceremony a reception was held at the Brookwood Village Club House. The serving table in the main lounge was centered with a seven-tiered wooden cake stand made by the bridegroom and his father. Each tier was decorated with ivory tulle and English dried flowers and held double layered wedding cakes, each decorated with a different icing pattern. The bridegroom’s cake was a chocolate cream cake shaped as a golf bag, complete with golf clubs, and accented with “OU” golf balls. A separate lounge room was decorated for the wedding’s “little” guests, complete with heart-shaped cookies and cakes, bowls of assorted candies and wedding punch. Balloon bouquets and candy decorated the children’s tables. A big-screened television provided entertainment of cartoons for the children. Following a wedding trip to Jamaica, the couple resides in Oklahoma City. The bride is the childhood education director for Eagle Heights Church, and the bridegroom is a Funeral Director for Vondel L. Smith and Sons. Pre-nuptial events included a shower brunch held at E.W.’s Restaurant on the grounds of the Marland Mansion on Jan. 17. Co-hosting the event were Jim and Carolyn Munger, Ron and Mary Terry, Warren and Dama Crump, Al and Marsha Moore, Ron and Linda Paulsen, Doug and Judy Wilson, Sam and Wanda Sheehan, Winston and Betty Lindsay, Ralph and Connie Pruitt. A bridal shower was held Jan. 30 in the Williamsburg Parlor of First Baptist Church. Hostesses were Mrs. Ona Clegg, Mrs. Sharon Cooper, Mrs. Cathy Ferguson, Mrs. Deanna Orr, Mrs. Marilyn Randel, Mrs. Trelma Rowden, Mrs. Karen Yost and Mrs. Gayle Young. Jannie Ross Gives Kitchen Tool, Decor Tips for Food ItemsMembers of the Red Rose Garden Club met for the March meeting in the home of Mrs. William Graham, with Mrs. E. L. Manering and Mrs. Alan Schofield as co-hostesses. The white draped serving table was silver appointed and decorated with Easter bunnies and egg motif. Mrs. Jim Ross led the group in the Oklahoma Gardener’s Creed and Mrs. Harold Younger gave the council report, telling about the Bonsai program presented by Larry Buck. She said the Plants for Pleasure sale would be May 1 and the Herb Festival June 5. Mrs. Don Robison introduced her guest, Margaret West. Jannie Ross gave the program “Decorating and Garnishing Fruits and Vegetables.” She demonstrated a variety of kitchen tools and “gadgets.” These included a wooden lemon zester dating to the 17th century. She created a swan from a melon and an apple; a moose using eggplant and ginger root; and a pineapple boat. She also showed the group an “ugly fruit,” which is a cross between tangerine, lemon, orange and lime. Mrs. Ross gave several ideas for decorations and garnishing tips. Ponca City OMTA Lists Schedule Of Future EventsThe Ponca City Area Branch of the Oklahoma Music Teachers Association held a meeting March 9 at the home of Katy Tucker with six members present. Frances Thompson gave the secretary-treasurer’s report. Kathy Wimberley, president, gave a report on the state OMTA board meeting which she attended in Oklahoma City on Jan. 30. Katy Tucker, auditions chairman, reminded members that the deadline for turning in entries for the District Achievement Auditions is March 27. The auditions will be on April 10 with Sue Halpain and Myra Schubert, both piano teachers in the Oklahoma City area, serving as the judges. Roberta Motz, local chair for the National Guild Auditions, announced that those auditions would on April 30 and May 1 at the First United Methodist Church Ms. Wimberley gave application forms for the Arts Adventure program to the members to give to their students who would be interested in attending the two week program which will be held at the Marland Mansion July 19-30. The piano instructor will be Donald Scott from Bethany College in Newton, Kan. Students who will be going into the sixth through tenth grades are eligible to apply. Placement auditions will be held on April 17 in the chorale room at the Ponca City High School Fine Arts Building. Following the business meeting the members viewed a video by Stewart Gordon on “Performance Practices in Late 20th Century Piano Music.” The next meeting of the Ponca City OMTA will be at the home of Frances Thompson on May 4. Conestoga Campers Name New OfficersThe Conestoga Campers held their March meeting at the Golden Corral with 29 members and two guests, Don and Sue McElmurray, attending. It was reported that six couples were still in south Texas. Named as officers for 1999 were Russell and Billie Aday, president; Ray and Carol Baltrop, vice president; John and Jane Storrusten, secretary-treasurer. Callers are Charles McClelland and Ina Smith. John Storrusten gave the treasurer’s report and read the minutes. The business meeting was conducted by Russell Aday. Announcement was made that the first campout of the year will be at Sarge Creek. The next meeting will be April 5 at a Lake Ponca shelterhouse. The April campout has been changed from Greenleaf State Park to Birch Lake. Tonya Annette Bodenhamer Marries Timothy C. WylerFollowing a wedding trip to Nassau, Bahamas, Mr. and Mrs. Timothy Craig Wyler are residing in Rogers, Ark. The bride, the former Tonya Annette Bodenhamer, is a human resources supervisor at Rogers Tool Works. The bridegroom is a commercial pilot for Comair Airlines, a Delta affiliate, and is based out of the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport. The couple was married recently in a 10 a.m. ceremony officiated by the Rev. DeWitt Hutcheson in a tropical garden gazebo surrounded by waterscape at the Radisson Cable Beach Resort in Nassau, Bahamas. The bride is the daughter of Glenda C. Bodenhamer and James K. Bodenhamer, both of Mountain Home, Ark., and the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. R. J. Cowart of Clarkridge, Ark., Mr. and Mrs. Mike Berberich of Mountain Home, and the late D. J. Bodenhamer. The bridegroom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Quentin R. Wyler of Tonkawa, and the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Dal McKenzie of Dallas, Texas, Mrs. Ernest Wyler of To |