LOCAL

Nichols Faces State Charges
Nearly News
Economic Advisory Board Seeks Three New Members
Passover Celebration Begins for Jewish Families Here Wednesday With Seder
SJRMC Observes National Doctors Day
The Faces of the Salvation Army Change With the Times

Nichols Faces State Charges

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — Oklahoma prosecutors have issued an arrest warrant for convicted Oklahoma City bombing conspirator Terry Nichols after charging him with state murder counts in the April 19, 1995, bombing.

Nichols, already serving a life sentence for his federal conviction in the bombing, was charged Monday with 160 first-degree murder counts in state court and could face the death penalty if convicted.

‘‘I’m not satisfied with the outcome of the Nichols trial,’’ District Attorney Bob Macy said at a news conference after he filed a 56-page document outlining the charges. ‘‘I feel like he needs to be tried before an Oklahoma jury.’’

Nichols, 43, is in prison for conspiracy and the deaths of eight law enforcement officers in the bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building that killed 168 people. Macy has long promised to file state charges in the deaths of the other victims.

‘‘I’m trying to keep my word,’’ Macy said.

In addition to the murder charges, Macy accused Nichols of one count of first-degree manslaughter for the death of an unborn child whose mother died in the bombing, one count of conspiracy to commit murder and one count of aiding and counseling in the placing of a substance or bomb near a public building.

‘‘It will take a year to get to trial. It’s a very complex trial,’’ Macy said.

Macy predicted a series of legal challenges to trying Nichols in Oklahoma, including a request for a change of venue from Oklahoma County.

‘‘I’m probably not going to fight hard to keep it in Oklahoma County. I don’t want to give an appellate court any excuse to reverse the case,’’ Macy said.

Because the charges were filed by the state, the trial must be conducted in Oklahoma, he said.

Nichols’ conviction in the federal case may also pose legal challenges while picking a jury, Macy said.

‘‘He’s entitled to 12 people who will give him a fair trial. He’s not entitled to someone who doesn’t know anything that’s going on in the world,’’ Macy said.

Michael Tigar, Nichols’ lead defense attorney in the federal trial, told Denver television station KCNC that Macy’s action raises serious questions of double jeopardy because of the close cooperation of state and federal agencies after the bombing.

Nearly News

The public is reminded of the special candidate forum this evening at 6:30 p.m. at the Public Safety Center, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue. Candidates for city commission positions 1 and 3 will be present to answer questions. The event is sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce and the Leadership Ponca City Alumni. Refreshments will be provided. Please remember to exercise your right and vote next Tuesday.

Economic Advisory Board Seeks Three New Members

It was reported at the March Chamber of Commerce meeting that candidates are being sought to fill three positions on the Economic Development Advisory Board. The terms of current board members David Mills, Linda Brown and Larry Attebury will expire in April.

Representatives from the financial, industrial and at large areas are encouraged to complete the application form which is available at the Chamber of Commerce office and City Hall.

The final recommendation for the positions will be by Mayor Tom Leonard and must then be approved by the city commission.

Committee reports were presented at the meeting. The Government Affairs Infrastructure Committee reported that it had discussed specific priorities and goals with Ray Counts, a representative from Oklahoma Department of Transportation, and City maintenance and construction projects.

The Legislative Review committee reviewed a report from the State Chamber on House and Senate Bills. The Committee pledged its support to Economic Development Advisory Board and the City in locating a Carbon Fibers Plant in Ponca City.

The Committee also decided to recommend support of a resolution with five action items from the America’s Oil & Gas Producers.

It was reported that the next Second Friday Forum will be held on Friday, April 9. The program will be the new Higher Learning Center temporarily located at the Chamber office.

Dolley Rolland was present at the meeting to report that a letter was sent to local health care providers seeking their participation in the 1999 Health Services Directory.

Economic Development Advisory Board Chairperson Linda Brown gave an update on the local housing situation.

“With the total market of available units down to the range of slightly more than 100, the Board has stepped up its efforts to find ways to encourage new housing development,” the report stated. “Barriers include cost of land for development, inability to get appraisals at high enough levels due to a lack of comparable houses, cost of basic infrastructure (streets, sewer, etc). The committee has added additional members and is being headed by Larry Buck.

Regarding the speculative building, it was reported that “certain anticipated funding to assist with the project will not be forthcoming during this session of the legislature,” and the board is moving toward development of options for total local funding of the project.

The Marketing committee reported that the new sign at the entrance to the Ash Street industrial area is now in place and that work is progressing on the water system and landscape project at the west entrance to Ponca City.

It was also reported that an invitation has been extended to the Oklahoma Department of Commerce to visit Ponca City to work jointly on several local area news stories which will be used in state publications. It is expected that this project will be completed during April.

Passover Celebration Begins for Jewish Families Here Wednesday With Seder

Ponca City’s Jewish families will sit down to their Seder (Passover ritual meal) on Wednesday, at 6:15 p.m. The meal will be served at the Ponca City Country Club, according to J.B. Smith, president of Temple Emanuel. Dr. Perry Gethner of Stillwater will preside.

Pesach, or Passover, the “Festival of Unleavened Bread,” was traditionally observed for seven days, from the fifteenth to the twenty-first of Nisan (March-April). Today, only the Jews of Israel and Reform Jews of other countries celebrate it for seven days; Orthodox and Conservative Jews celebrate for eight days, with special observances on the first two days. One of the most important of all Jewish holidays, the roots of Passover reach far back into history, according to Smith.

Unlike any other meal of the year, a special story from the Haggadah (meaning “the telling”) will be read, special foods will be eaten, songs will be sung and prayers will be recited as the holiday of Passover begins.

As the ancient agricultural festivals were adapted by the Hebrews, they were explained in terms of the new religion. Two of these, Pesach and Mazoth had been celebrated in the spring, at the time of the full moon nearest to the spring equinox. At the Pesach ceremony, a lamb was sacrificed, originally representing an offering to the god of fertility, the moon-god. The blood of the lamb was then used as a sign, to ward off evil spirits.

Mazoth was celebrated at the barley harvest, near Pesach time, and as part of the ritual, only unleavened, flat bread could be eaten for one week. On the second day of this week, a measure of the new barley crop, called an omer, was presented to God as an offering.

These two ancient holidays were combined in the Jewish religion, and given additional meanings in terms of the exodus from Egypt, which had occurred at the same time of the year. This is seen in the name of the early festival, Pesach, which in Hebrew meant literally “skipping” or “gamboling”; after the exodus, the word was reinterpreted to mean the “skipping over” or “passing over” of Jewish homes by the Angel of Death. Thus, today Pesach means “Passover.”

According to tradition, God sent two messengers, Moses and his brother Aaron, to beg the Egyptian Pharaoh to free the Hebrew people from slavery. He refused, and as punishment, God sent ten plagues down upon the Egyptians: water turned to blood; frogs; lice; wild beasts; cattle disease; skin disease; hail; locusts; and darkness. Though Egyptians (and Jews as well) suffered throughout these nine, Pharaoh would not soften. The tenth plague was the death of the firstborn male child in every family. For protection, the Jews smeared lamb’s blood on the doorposts of their home. Because of this sign, the Angel of Death “passed over” every Jewish house, killing only the Egyptian children. The Egyptians were stunned by their children’s deaths, and as Pharaoh was himself a firstborn son, he was frightened for his life. He called for Moses and Aaron and ordered them immediately to lead the Jews out of Egypt.

On the fifteenth day of Nisan, the Jewish people rushed to leave, taking their bread dough without waiting for it to rise. Later, during their flight, they baked the flat, unleavened bread in the hot desert sun. Although they were grateful to be free from slavery, the Jews were afraid Pharaoh might soon change his mind and send soldiers after them. It was not long before this happened, and the Jews found themselves trapped between the advancing Egyptians and the Red Sea. It was then that a miracle is believed to have occurred: God divided the waters, allowing Moses and his people to cross the sea on dry land, then closed the gap to drown the pursuing Egyptian army. Every year since, Jews throughout the world have celebrated Passover as a festival of freedom, recalling their escape from slavery in Egypt and confirming the fact that every man has the right to be free.

Matzoh, “unleavened bread,” is eaten during Passover in memory of the flat bread eaten by the Jews during the Exodus. No leavened (risen) food — in Hebrew (chomets) is permitted in a Jewish home during this holiday. To rid the home symbolically of the chomets, a ceremony is held before Passover begins, in which crumbs of leavened bread are placed on a windowsill. They are then swept with a feather into a wooden spoon, a blessing is said, and the next morning the crumbs are burned, cleansing the home for Passover.

On the first two evenings of Passover, the primary activity is a special feast called a seder, meaning “order,” because a particular order is followed. During the seder, the Haggadah (from the Hebrew word l’hagid, “to tell”) or story of the Exodus is read. In stories, prayers, psalms, and songs, the Haggadah explains the historical and religious meaning of the holiday. The seder is designed to be especially interesting for children. So that they do not get bored, they are often allowed to crack and eat the nuts which are traditionally served. They participate in the service by asking the “Four Questions” about the seder customs. In answer, the father reads from the Haggadah, explaining all the symbols found on the table.

The special “seder plate” contains a roasted lamb bone and a roasted egg, symbolizing the ancient paschal sacrifices, maror, or bitter herbs (horse-radish), symbolizing the suffering of the Jews while slaves in Egypt; haroset, a mixture of wine, chopped apples, and nuts, representing the mortar which the enslaved Jews used to make for the Pharaoh; salt water, symbolizing their tears while slaves; and karpas, a green vegetable such as parsley or celery, symbolizing hope and new growth in the spring. An extra goblet of wine placed on the table is known as the “Cup of Elijah,” for when the door is momentarily opened during the service, it is believed that the good prophet Elijah will come inside, sip from the wine, and herald the coming of the Messiah. It is true that the wine can often be seen moving in the glass, and who can say whether the table has been nudged or Elijah has arrived? During the seder, one drinks four cups of wine, each symbolizing a promise made by God to help the Israelites in Egypt. Of the three pieces of specially wrapped matzoh on the table, part represents the “poor bread” eaten in Egypt, and part is hidden secretly by the head of the family. The hidden piece is called the afikomen, from the Greek word meaning “dessert,” and the children who search and find it after the Haggadah is completed at the end of the seder, “sell” it back to their father for a small gift. This custom is said to be the world’s oldest treasure hunt. In medieval Europe, it was believed that the afikomen had special powers as a charm. Some Jews kept a piece hanging in their homes all year to guard against the evil eye and fire. Moroccan Jews are said to have calmed stormy seas by throwing a piece of the afikomen overboard during a voyage. The seder ends with the reciting of riddles and the singing of traditional songs such as Had Gadyah, “An Only Kid.”

For more information about the local Seder meal, please contact J.B. or Bobbie Smith at 765-2500 (office) or 765-8990 (home).

SJRMC Observes National Doctors Day

St. Joseph Regional Medical Center physicians have over 700 years of combined experience in 23 specialties and over 80 percent of the medical staff is board certified.

Today is National Doctors Day and St. Joseph Regional Medical Center takes this opportunity to thank its physicians for their hard work and commitment during the last year.

From the senior member of the medical staff, Thomas Glasscock, MD, to the newest, Stephen Crabtree, DO, SJRMC is proud of each and every one of its physicians.

Dr. Glasscock began practicing medicine in Ponca City in March, 1946. He is a second generation physician who grew up in the small town of Finley, N.D. He attended medical school at Rush Medical College of the University of Chicago, graduating with a Medical Degree in 1942. He specializes in general medicine.

Dr. Glasscock has held numerous St. Joseph Medical Staff offices and served three terms as Chief of Staff. He has also been a trustee of the St. Joseph Regional Medical Center, and has served as a director of the Oklahoma State Medical Society.

Dr. Crabtree joined the medical staff in August 1998 and is the director of the Emergency Department. A 1993 graduate of the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Dr. Crabtree became familiar with SJRMC as a second-year resident when he began helping with coverage in the emergency room. Dr. Crabtree completed a one year, post-graduate rotating internship with a special emphasis on emergency medicine at Hillcrest Health Center in Oklahoma City in 1994. He was then accepted in the University of Oklahoma’s Emergency Medicine program, which he completed in 1997.

The Faces of the Salvation Army Change With the Times

In their attempt to feed the hungry, shelter the homeless and help the helpless, the Salvation Army has had to change with the changing times.

Once a Christian organization dedicated to helping down trodden men, it has over the decades, evolved into a Christian community service organization.

The Salvation Army was founded in 1865 by William Booth as a direct result of the plight of England’s poor. It was Booth’s goal to help people help themselves.

To accomplish that monumental task, his first order of business was to purchase a farm which he used to train unemployed men.

Over the last 134 years the organization has touched the lives of men, women and children around the world. From the United States to Europe, Africa and Asia, the Salvation Army serves over 100 countries in 140 languages.

Locally, the Army has been helping the Ponca City community since 1922 and has expanded the scope of services as the needs of the community have changed.

“It seems as if a new need arises every month,” Salvation Army Captain Mark Craddock says. “We are continually trying to help everyone in every situation that comes our way.”

Although many know only of the kettle bell-ringing during Christmas, the full extent of their available services is a treasure to some as well as a surprise to others.

The facts and figures are amazing to the captain himself. The local youth programs catered to the needs of over 6,000 children, provided more than 2,600 days of care and served 14,605 snacks and meals to area children last year.

Over 3,000 people were provided with welfare referrals, counseling, medical assistance, food, clothing, rent assistance, and emergency housing.

At no cost, rides for more than 4,600 of Ponca City’s elderly and disabled were provided in 1998. In addition, nearly 2,100 shut-ins were visited, fed and nurtured by local volunteers.

In times of disaster the Salvation Army is ready, willing and able to help. During the floods of 1998 over 400 people were assisted by the Ponca City Salvation Army.

It was unfortunately a very busy year for the local branch of the Salvation Army. There were 25,688 cases served, lodging provided to over 5,400 people and 10,382 meals were served.

From a Thanksgiving feast to a Christmas present, there are those extra measures taken during special times of the year.

“There is nothing more heartwarming than seeing the smile on the face of a child as they receive a Christmas gift,” Craddock said. “Our holiday programs are so meaningful and fulfilling. Last year we are able to provide toys to 645 children who otherwise would have been without.”

It is especially during those times that Craddock finds his job most rewarding.

“It is in the giving that all of our lives are touched,” Craddock says. “Because its when the community comes together for the betterment of all, especially the children.”

DEATHS

Merle Austin Smith
Clella M. Van Voris
Edward P. Malaska

Merle Austin Smith

NARDIN — Merle Austin “Chuck” Smith, Nardin resident, died Monday morning, March 29, 1999, at the Blackwell Regional Hospital in Blackwell. He was 84.

The funeral is set for 10 a.m. Wednesday, March 31, at the Nardin United Methodist Church with the Rev. David Sanders, pastor, officiating. Burial will be in the Mt. Olive Cemetery in Nardin under the direction of Roberts and Son Funeral Home, Blackwell.

Merle Austin “Chuck” Smith was born March 3, 1915, in Alva, to Merle Elmo and Eva (Murray) Smith. He grew up and helped with the family farming operation on a farm near Freedom. At age 17, he moved to Vega, Texas and started his own farming operation.

In 1934, he entered the U.S. Navy. After his discharge in 1938 he returned to Oklahoma. In 1941, he was drafted into the U.S. Army during World War II, and served six months. He then reentered the U.S. Navy, where he served through the war.

On Jan. 1, 1943, he married Dorothy Irene Lusk in Redland, Calif., where the couple made their first home. Following his discharge in 1945, Smith began employment with civil service and served 33 years as a fire fighter. After his retirement in 1972, the couple moved to their present farm near Nardin. Smith was a member of the Cowboy Storytellers Club, Friends of Nardin and the American Battleship Association.

Survivors include his wife, Dorothy Smith of Nardin; and one brother Orville Smith of Hurricane, Utah. He was preceded in death by one son, Leland W. “Butch” Smith; his parents; two sisters, Gladys Turner and Naomi Nicklas; and three brothers, Dan, Leland and Vestel Smith.

Casket bearers will be Rex Reese, Pete Reese, Joe Clarke, Doyle Steffen, Cal Clarke and Bud Eakins. Honorary bearers will be Bob Reese, Manuel Ruiz, Dennis Weber, Lawrence Crow, Jervy Millemon and Darrell Shields.

Memorial contributions may be made in Mr. Smith’s name to the Nardin United Methodist Church, c/o Roberts Funeral Home, 120 West Padon, Blackwell, OK 74631.

Clella M. Van Voris

LAFAYETTE, La. — Clella M. Van Voris, former Tonkawa resident, died Friday, March 12, 1999, in Katy, Texas. She was 82.

The funeral was held in Lafayette, La., on March 15, 1999, with the Rev. J.R. Ridling, pastor of the First Christian Church of Lafayette, officiating. Burial was in Fountain Memorial Gardens under the direction of Delhomme Funeral Home, Lafayette.

Clella M. (Kirkpatrick) Van Voris was born May 9, 1916, in Billings, Okla., to Cleo and Alva Kirkpatrick. She was married to Wayne Van Voris and the couple had recently celebrated 58 years of marriage. They lived in Tonkawa for a period of time before moving to Lafayette in 1956. They moved to Houston in 1996.

She is survived by her husband, Wayne Van Voris; two daughters, Anna Lou Aiken and Brenda Markle, both of Houston; one brother, L.B. Kirkpatrick of Tonkawa; one sister, Glenna Mae Brooks of Blackwell; and two grandsons. She was preceded in death by her parents; her twin sister Maxine Layman and sister Doris Foy; and two brothers, J.R. and Forrest Kirkpatrick.

Casket bearers were Scott Markle, Ben Humphries, Tommy Dominque, Ronnie Blubaugh, Mark Jumonville and Mike Francis.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association, First National Bank and Trust, Box 1151, Ponca City, OK 74602 or to the First Christian Church 1400 West Congress, Lafayette, LA. 70506.

Edward P. Malaska

RED ROCK — Edward P. Malaska, longtime Red Rock resident, died Sunday, March 28, 1999, at the Perry (Okla.) Hospital. He was 90.

The funeral will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, March 31, at Grace Memorial Chapel in Ponca City. The Rev. Steve Upshaw, associate pastor of Longwood Baptist Church will officiate. Burial will follow in the Ponca City IOOF Cemetery.

Edward P. Malaska was born Jan. 1, 1909, near Morrison to Frank and Sophie (Opat) Malaska. He grew up in the Red Rock-Perry area and received his education at Rose Hill School.

On June 2, 1951, he was married to Alley E. Zimmer in Guthrie and they made their home and farmed in the Red Rock area. He enjoyed visiting with his family and gardening.

Survivors include two sisters, Lillian Chrz of Perry and Angie Steward of Wichita, Kan.; one brother, Orville Malaska of Stinnett, Texas; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife in 1971; his parents; three brothers, Elwood, Glenn, and Billy Malaska; and two sisters, Zenith Oller and Raney Maloch.

Casket bearers will be Dennis C. Malaska, Bryan Chrz, Lloyd Malaska, Dale Malaska, Marvin Cusick and Tony Malaska.

The family will be at 1036 North Second Street in Ponca City.

NEWS BRIEFS

Sign-up Deadline — The Parks and Recreation Girls Softball sign-up deadline will be Wednesday, March 31. For more information or to sign up, go by the Parks and Recreation office at 905 West Hartford Avenue, or call 767-0432.

Spring Carpet cleaning-most modern method. Trained person-

nel, reasonable prices, references. Floorcraft. 762-8381. adv.

Accident — At 9:17 a.m. Monday there was a report of a non-injury accident at North Fifth Street and Overbrook Avenue. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

All Cole crops 1/2 off regular price $1.69 except lettuce and

strawberries.Keathly’s Nusery adv.

Appliance Theft — A man in the 1000 block of North Union Street contacted police at 9:26 a.m. Monday reporting the theft of an appliance, stolen out of his rent house. A report was taken.

Paris Concert for Amnesty International starring Bruce

Springsteen and Tracy Chapman. Seen only on Pay Per View, Sat-

urday, April 3rd at 8:00 p.m. Call for your front row seat 762-6684

Cable One. adv.

Larceny — At 9:47 a.m. Monday police were called to North Ash Street and West Hartford Avenue for reported larceny.

Now Available, tomato plant, seed potatoes, onion sets and

plants, asparagus. Keathly’s Nursery. adv.

Bottle Thrown — A man in the 900 block of South Eighth Street contacted police at 10:47 a.m. Monday, to report a boy throwing a bottle at his vehicle. An officer was assigned.

Easter Egg hunt for all children through 8 years. Saturday

April 3 at 10 a.m., south side of Hutchins. adv.

Vandalism — Police were called to the 1000 block of North First Street at 10:55 a.m. Monday due to house vandalism.

Being Relocated, or in town for a short time? We have homes

available by the month or longer. All homes are full furnished with

appliances, furniture, linens, pots and pans. Inclusive of cable,

local phone, and utilities. Please call 580-762-7980 or 580-718-0681.

adv.

Vehicle Vandalism — At 11:57 a.m. Monday police were notified that a car at the Middle School had been vandalized.

Every Wednesday ð price clothes and shoes, except priced

items. Check our daily specials. Caboose Thrift Shoppe, First and

Central. adv.

Theft — The theft of a CD player from a vehicle, parked in the 900 block of Darr Park, was reported to police at 12:10 p.m. Monday.

Free Pregnancy test. Birth Choice cares. Confidential.

Hours: Monday, 4-6 p.m., Tuesday, 6-8 p.m., Wednesday, 1-3 p.m. and

Thursday, 6-8 p.m. 700 West Broadway. adv.

Accident — An accident at Brookfield Avenue and North Third Street was reported to police at 2:18 p.m. Monday.

Assault — A man in the 300 block of North Pine Street contacted police at 6:29 p.m. Monday to report being assaulted by a juvenile.

Arrest — Police arrested a 17-year-old girl at 3:06 p.m. Monday from the 400 block of North Union Street on a Kay County warrant.

Antique Shipment: Large French wardrobe with mirrored

doors. Belgium sideboard with leaded glass doors, English Oak

Barley Twist drawleaf and gateleg tables. Much more. Christy’s,

3005 N. 14th. adv.

Forged Check — At 3:34 p.m. Monday police were informed of a forged check at Buy For Less, 2405 North Fourteenth Street.

Having A choice is what “The Works” can do for you. Wait no

more to subscribe to the best of HBO package. Sign up now and

receive a limited edition die cast replica of the Titanic. Call Cable

One at 762-6684. adv.

Arrest — A 52-year-old man was arrested at 12:04 a.m. Tuesday from East Hartford Avenue and North Fifth Street for driving under the influence, defective equipment and no insurance.

Arrest — Police arrested a 40-year-old man at 1:16 a.m. Tuesday from Pine Street and West Grand Avenue on a Kay County warrant, for unlawful delivery of marijuana, on a city warrant, failure to appear, driving under suspension, no insurance and expired tag.

Objects Thrown — At 6:16 p.m. Monday a report of two juveniles throwing things at cars at North Fifth Street and Bradley Avenue was received.

Battery Theft — At 7:29 p.m. Monday a battery was reportedly stolen from a vehicle parked in the 3500 block of North Union Street.

Teens Arrested — A 16-year-old boy was arrested at 4:16 a.m. Tuesday from the 1400 block of Holbrook Street for driving under the influence, possession of stolen property and minor in possession of beer. Two 15-year-old boys were arrested for receiving stolen property.

Senior Bingo Canceled — The Senior Center floors are being cleaned and waxed, so it will be impossible to have Senior Center Bingo on Wednesday. Activities will resume on April 7.

LIFESTYLES

Kildare FCE Members Win Recognition
Xi Beta Tau Chapter Elects New Officers

Kildare FCE Members Win Recognition

Kildare FCE members met with Moni Neville for the March 24 meeting. Attending a luncheon preceding the meeting were Melba Irwin, Moni Neville, Karen Overman, Marie Ewy, Mary Buesing, Helen Janda, and guest, Willa Mae Overman.

A report was given about Kildare FCE and Kildare 4-H serving of 75 people at the Rural Water District supper on March 13. Melba Irwin announced she had received five tickets for FCE members attending a cooking school April 20 at the Poncan Theatre. The Northwest District FCE meeting will be held at Guymon High School on April 16, with 10 workshops scheduled.

Melba Irwin was hostess for the previous FCE meeting when Karen Overman distributed machine bread and other bread recipes and presented a “list of accomplishments” for the group.

During the county association meeting the Kildare FCE received a standard of excellence award and Melba Irwin earned the title of “Heart of FCE.” Margaret Hoepfinger and Helen Janda received certificates for perfect attendance. Iva Lee Harris received a 40-year pin, and Margaret Hoepfinger received a 45-year pin.

Melba Irwin gave the lesson “if Your Cup of Tea Could Talk.” The next meeting will be at 1:30 p.m. April 14 in the home of Mary Buesing. Brenda Schneeberger will give the leaders lesson “Fearless Guide to Public Speaking.”

Xi Beta Tau Chapter Elects New Officers

Members of Xi Beta Tau chapter of Beta Sigma Phi sorority met March 22 in the home of Cindy Wardlow with Sammie Coats, president, calling the meeting to order. June Miller called roll and read the minutes. Correspondence was read, in which the chapter was thanked for donations to the Domestic Violence program of North Central Oklahoma. Cindy Wardlow gave the treasurer’s report.

The chapter’s girl of the year was chosen by secret ballot and results will be revealed on Founder’s Day. Jan Ellison, social committee chairperson, discussed the couples’ road trip to Arkansas City, Kan. Guests were Mike and Sharon Grimes.

Officers elected for 1999-2000 were Sammie Coats, president; Jan Ellison, vice president; June Miller, recording and corresponding secretary; Lois Coats, parliamentarian and City Council representative.

The traveling basket was presented to Jan Ellison from Lois Coats and June Miller and Sammie Coats received the mystery gifts. Secret sisters conducted an Easter gift exchange.

The next meeting will be in Fairfax at the home of Jan Ellison on April 12. Lois Coats will present the cultural program. The current meeting was preceded by chapter members attending a support group meeting for Fibromyalgia.

BUSINESS

New Business the Result Of Need for New Job
New Beautyco 42nd for Chain in Oklahoma
Shortage of Workers Ongoing State Problem

New Business the Result Of Need for New Job

After working 10 years as a secretary for a local business, it was disappointing me, as a single mother to walk in to work one day and find out they didn’t need me anymore, says Jo Walker. Walker, however, took a giant step forward with the help of the Pioneer Technology Center SET Program and is now opening her own home secretarial business, named Go Jo Go.

“It was down right scary,” says Walker, “I really didn’t know what I was going to do, but I knew I was going to have to do something fast. I had to support my 9-year old son, Cody.”

Walker, a 1976 Po-Hi graduate continued, “I was born and raised in Ponca City and I wanted to stay here. I was getting very frustrated, but I kept hearing this voice inside of me saying, “Go Jo Go.”

After a visit to the Ponca City library, Walker came across some reference material about starting a home business. Soon after, Walker contacted Pioneer Technology Center about the Self-Employment Training program. Larry Atteberry, SET instructor, encouraged her to visit the next evening class.

“I have always loved business office work and I thought how great it would be to have my own secretarial business,” said Walker. Previous to her secretarial job, she been employed for 12 years at the Safeway Stores.

Walker enrolled in the SET program where she is learning all about getting her business started, along with income tax advice, accounting information, legal advice and marketing strategies.

“I have been very impressed with Pioneer Technology Center and what they have to offer people that are wanting to start their own business,” said Walker.

Walker has now officially opened Go Jo Go from her own home. The business offers a full support of secretarial services including typing, mail-outs, faxing, copying, resumes, business cards, flyers, and menus.

Walker even offers a mobile notary service where she will go to the customer to notarize documents. She also offers the preparation of lease/rental agreements and living wills.

According to Walker, “I wanted to offer a service for preparing lease/rental agreements and wills as an additional part of my business.” Atteberry’s class really helped me when he invited different attorneys to speak on this topic in class.

Walker is a native to Ponca City and claims to have inherited her father’s creativity in design work. “My father, Bob Walker, was the advertising manager for Ponca City News for 25 years. I remember going to the newspaper office when I was a kid and watching him in action.”

Walker has purchased all of the necessary equipment for her business. With the newly purchased computer, desk, both a color printer and laser printer, and all the other supplies, Go Jo Go is in full operation and Walker is ready to help anyone out there who needs secretarial support.

She added, “Things are looking better now and that little voice inside me keeps on saying ‘Go Jo Go.’ I know that little voice is my mother who had always been there for me before passing away seven months ago. Thanks to her encouragement, my dream has begun.”

For more information about Go Jo Go, call Walker at 765-1177 or e-mail at gojogo@poncacity.net. To learn more about Pioneer Technology Center’s SET program, call 762-8336, ext. 262.

New Beautyco 42nd for Chain in Oklahoma

The 42nd Oklahoma Beautyco store opened last week in Ponca City and they are glad to be here.

“We’re thrilled to be here in Ponca City,” says Beautyco Advertising Director Robyn Healy. “The rural communities are the mainstream of our customers and we look forward to a partnership with the community in beauty and pride.”

According to Healy, Beautyco Inc. is Oklahoma’s fastest growing professional quality beauty supply store.

The new Ponca City location, 2906 North Fourteenth Street, is the ninth new Beautyco store to open within the past three months.

“Beautyco is in the business of beauty, catering to women’s wants, needs and desires,” Healy says. “Beautyco has such a diverse product line, that is so extensive with every possible type of taste, personal preference and life style considered. Women can find an abundant supply of hair colors and highlights to the professional quality nail products in one convent location Beautyco is Beauty Solutions.

The stores carry more than 7,500 hair, nail, face and body products, providing an array of retail beauty merchandise, with the professional quality supplies emphases.

“Beautyco is for every women! We have over 800 nail polishes, over 900 hair care products, and over 300 bath and body items. Every line imaginable for daily beauty care,” states Beautyco CEO Ron Glass

Beautyco Vice President of Store Operations Kathy West said, “Beautyco has been a part of Oklahoma beauty history since the 1970 with the most loyal of customers. Our company’s friendly, knowledgeable staff is what makes our business so successful here in Oklahoma.”

The manager of the store, Kay Lantz, was particularly anxious for the grand opening. “It has been a long process waiting to open,” Lantz said. “I’m absolutely thrilled that we are open here in Ponca City. The people here gave been so great.”

Shortage of Workers Ongoing State Problem

By PATTI PFEIFFER

News Staff Writer

Representatives from large and small companies, city officials, school administrators and state agencies from Ponca City, Newkirk and Blackwell attended a presentation regarding the continual dilemma facing state employers — lack of employees.

The interim executive director of Workforce Oklahoma, Leo Presley, addressed the large group and discussed the purpose of the Workforce Oklahoma and the status of the current available labor force.

“In 1995, when I was executive director of the Department of Commerce, the biggest challenge of employers was finding and keeping a qualified work force,” Presley said. “The problem is the same today except that it has grown even worse.

“It has gotten to the point were employers are saying ‘just show us someone with simple work ethics and will do the rest.’ The challenge is real whether you are an employer in Tulsa, Oklahoma City or Ponca City.”

Presley explained that the current federal legislation, The Workforce Act of 1998, reauthorizes the job training bill which dates back to the 1960s. Under the act a state board has been created for the sole purposes of devising plans to develop methods to increase the state labor force.

“Fifty-one percent of the Workforce Development Board is compromised of private sector employers. The Board is centrally guided, locally focused and employer driven, and it uses existing resources and is accountable for results,” Presley told the group. “Regional boards are to be made up from local members. Our focus is that these boards are locally driven and business driven.”

The goal of the state and local boards are the same — finding qualified employees to fill the need of employers in Oklahoma.

When asked how large the insufficient work force problem is in this state, Presley was adamant in his response. “It is a challenge that is faced by every major employer in the state and its the largest barrier to economical development in Oklahoma.”

SPORTS

Lady Cat Golfers 7th In Tourney
Unfamiliar Course Costs Younger Wildcat Golfers
JV Soccer Teams Get Fill of Bruins

Lady Cat Golfers 7th In Tourney

CUSHING — Ponca City’s Lady Wildcats showed little rust resulting from a three-week layoff as they finished seventh in the Cushing Girls’ Invitational Monday.

The Po-Hi girls, who have not seen tournament action since March 2 at the Owasso Tournament, posted a 383 total in the 18-team tournament.

Enid, led by Jill Combrink’s 81, won the team title with a 364 total. Mustang was second at 364 with Cushing and Coweta tied for third at 366.

Ponca City edged out Bartlesville by one stroke for seventh.

Blackwell was 12th at 428.

Team Scoring

Enid 361, Mustang 364, Cushing 366, Coweta 366, Stillwater 369, Edmond Memorial 379, Ponca City 383, Bartlesville 384, Pryor 406, McAlester 408, Muskogee 421, Blackwell 428, Okmulgee 435, Guthrie 445, Pawnee 447, Tulsa Union 451, Bristow 483, Broken Bow 496.

Unfamiliar Course Costs Younger Wildcat Golfers

ENID — Ponca City Wildcat golf coach Dan McGregor found one surprise disadvantage to having a young team when the Cats played in the 36-hole Enid Invitational at the Oakwood and Meadowbrook courses Monday.

“I hadn’t realized that most the kids had never played at Oakwood,” McGregor said after he saw his Wildcats post a 318 total for the morning 18 holes played at that course.

The Poncans recovered at the more familiar Meadowbrook course for a 307 and an eighth place finish in the tournament with a 625 total.

“We tried to help the players out on yardage at Oakwood,” the coach said. “But its tough when you’ve never played a course before.

“Overall, I was pleased with the way the team played, especially in coming back in the second round.”

Bartlesville won the tournament with a 301-295—596 while Edmond North A was second at 299-302—601. Enid came in third at 297-311—608.

Ponca City tied with Stillwater (313-312), behind Guthrie, Edmond Memorial, Edmond North B and Westmoore.

Aaron Hill paced the Poncans with a 76-76—152. Louis Girardi had 82-75—157, Matt Waddell 78-80—158, Matt Ellis 84-77—161 and James Anderson 82-79—161

Casey Woods of Edmond Memorial was the tournament medalist, beating out Trey Nukell of Bartlesville in a scorecard playoff. Both finished at 74-71—145.

Tyler Tull of Edmond North was third at 71-75—146 and Brandon Gainer of Enid had 75-72—147.

The Wildcats will play Thursday in the Jenks Invitational at the Paige Belcher Stone Creek course. They are then off until April 12 at Cushing.

“That will give us some time to work on some things,” McGregor said. “We have to eliminate the few bad holes we’re having. We’re still having too many doubles and triples.”

The Po-Hi JVs take part in the Cushing JV tournament next Monday.

Team Scoring

Bartleville 301-295—596, Edmond North A 299-302—601, Enid 297-311—608, Guthrie 303-307—610, Edmond Memorial 310-302—612, Edmond North B 314-306—620, Westmoore 308-313—621, Ponca City 318-307—625, Stillwater 313-312 — 625, Norman North 322-317—639, Yukon 324-318—642, Woodward 319-329—648, Enid B 326-323—649.

JV Soccer Teams Get Fill of Bruins

BARTLESVILLE — Ponca City’s Wildcat JV soccer team found the opposition is going to be tough for several more years as they lost a 4-0 decision to the Bartlesville JVs Monday.

Meanwhile, the Lady Wildcats continued to impress as the JV girls tied Bartlesville 1-1.

“Bartlesville is going to be tough for the next four years,” Ponca City coach Marco Castillo said. “They are loaded.”

The Wildcat and Lady Wildcat varsities are back in action tonight at home as they host Sand Springs at 6 and 8 p.m. at Sullins Stadium.