From The Pages Of The Ponca City News, Sunday, April
5, 1998
LOCAL
Local Hero To Receive State Award
AG, News To Co-Host Open Meetings Event
Ponca City Votes for Mayor on Tuesday
Nearly News
Editorial
School Board Will Decide On Bid for Internet Access
Planning Panel To Hold Third Hearing on Request
Newport's Body-Piercing Bill Advances
Elders Recount History of Ponca Games
Food at Noon, Shinny at 2 p.m.
NOC Free Health Fair Set April 8
'Fetching Affair' Planned May 1
District Court
1959 Po-Hi Graduate To Speak at Closing Of 'Wall That Heals'
Four NOC Students To Present Recital
Tonkawa Youth Heads To National Spelling Bee
Domestic Violence Fund Raiser Set
American Cancer Society Golf Tournament at PCCC April 17
City School Official Gets State Award
Attucks Fund Raiser Goal Set at $82,000
KLVV Sharathon Comes Close to Goal
Classical Pianist Here on April 18
School Lunch Menu
School Calendar
Where To Vote
DEATHS
Zelma Pearl Ross
Zelma Earlene Nelson
J.C. Belt
Obituaries
Delbert Walter Carlile
Funerals
Loren William Barrett
Lloyde L. Jeffery
NEWSBRIEFS
LIFESTYLES
Historic Home Once Belonged To Oil Baron's Sister
Reporter Learns 'Best Defense' For Preventing E. Coli Problems
Ponca City Council Hosts North Central District Garden Convention
Errin Rutherford Wins Oklahoma Pageant Event
Elizabeth Jones Weds Billy Golay in Church Ceremony
Project To Make Art Education Fun
Tribal Gift Shop Expands Selection
Easter Craft
Elissa Grassfield Bride-Elect
Engagement is Announced
Couple Marks Anniversary
TOPS Chapter Planning Workshop
Northeast District Achievement Auditions Sponsored by OMTA
Garden Club Gears Up for Herb Event
Bits and Pieces
Garden Club Convention
Carolyn Hook Will Present Twentieth Century Program
Elder Abuse Topic For First Christian CWF Program
Fun, Fundamental Group Holds Meeting
Westminster Village Is Setting for Lilac Garden Club Meeting
First Baptist Church Chapel Setting for Couple's Vows
Northwest District FCE Meeting at Red Rock
Easter Egg Hunt
Kay County 4-H Club Holds Meet
Senior Spelling Bee To Take Place in Enid
Use Caution With Cooked Easter Egg
Singles Network Lists Calendar
Sage, Rosemary and Thyme Club To Meet
Public Health Week Will Begin on April 6
Ponca City Happenings
SPORTS
Cats Get Big Win In Yukon Tourney
Germany, Cuba Fall To USA
West Takes Over As New CC Tennis Professional
Soccer Scores
Po-Hi Track Team Makes Inroads
By PATTI PFEIFFER
News Staff Writer
It was early Thursday morning March 12 and Ron Bensley had just finished working. It was time for him to go home. It would be a normal day with two exceptions. First Bensley's truck was not running so his mother was picking him up from work. Secondly, and most importantly, on the ride home he would come to save the life a small child.
While waiting for his ride, Bensley noticed smoke coming from a nearby house, the house of someone he knew, someone he'd worked with.
When his mom arrived, Bensley - concerned about the fire - asked his mom to drive over to the house to see, as Bensley put it, what was going on with the fire.
"When we drove up black smoke was just pouring out of the house," Bensley said.
His mother, Sharon Jordan said the fire seemed to "just grow" before them.
They knew immediately that help was needed. There was a man outside the house yelling for help.
"He was jumping up and down and yelling and talking so fast we thought he was speaking a foreign language," Jordan said.
But there would be no need to understand the man. As they looked to the flaming house they saw smoke bellowing from a tiny window. But there was more than just smoke bellowing from the window. There was a noise, a cry, the whaling of a child coming out of that tiny window, from inside the burning house.
"I ran up, looked in and saw a baby on the bed crying," Bensley said. "I didn't think, I just jumped through the window."
It was a small window, so small that few could have fit through it, but Bensley had managed. "When he was inside his feet were sticking out the window," Ron's mother said. "I was so afraid that he was stuck inside the burning house."
But Bensley escaped the blaze and when he emerged he had with him a crying two-year-old baby boy. After he handed the child to safety he peered in the window and he saw that bed where the baby had been, seconds earlier, was already engulfed in flames.
His actions and bravery have been credited with saving the life of the young toddler. "The Tonkawa Firefighters feel that had it not been for the actions of Mr. Bensley, the child would have perished in the fire before the first fire units arrived on the scene," Tonkawa Fire Marshal Darren Pendleton stated.
As any mother should be, Ron's mom is extremely proud of her son. "He just went in and got the baby," Jordan said. "He is trying to down play it but he is a hero."
But it isn't just his mother who thinks Bensley is a hero. Because of his actions and the fact that those actions were life-saving actions, Bensley will be receiving a state heroism award.
The Oklahoma State Firefighters Association (OSFA) will be awarding Bensley their highest civilian honor Tuesday evening during the Tonkawa City Council meeting.
"This award is given to those civilians who we feel have exemplified acts of heroism that by performing have put themselves in danger," OSFA Executive Director Jim Minx explained.
According to Minx each heroic civilian act that becomes known to the OSFA is reviewed by the OSFA Executive Board of Directors. "If the action warrants it, we present one of the heroism awards," Minx says. "We don't do it for any other reason than to just say 'thank you.'"
The organization does not present the award often. The 21-year-old Ponca City resident will be only the third recipient to receive the award in the last eight months.
Attorney General Drew Edmondson and the Ponca City News will co-host and sponsor a seminar on the Oklahoma Open Meetings and Open Records Act Tuesday at Pioneer Technology Center.
The meeting will be held from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Education and Business Center and will feature comments and instruction by Edmondson and Chief Assistant Attorney General Victor Bird.
Co-sponsored by the Medford Patriot-Star and Grant County Journal, Pond Creek Herald, Wakita Herald, Blackwell Journal-Tribune, Newkirk Herald Journal, Tonkawa News, the Oklahoma Press Association and Freedom of Information Inc., the seminar is open to the public and free of charge.
The seminar is designed to answer questions concerning the state's open meetings and records laws, and to inform elected and appointed officials from Grant and Kay counties about their responsibility under the acts.
Officials from county and city governments, as well as board members from schools and other public agencies are required to follow the open meetings and records laws.
The attorney general's office receives numerous questions about the laws from those officials, the media and the public on a regular basis.
"I congratulate these newspapers for their desire to sponsor this seminar," Edmondson said. "I hope that government officials, board members and the public will leave with a better understanding of these important statutes."
"The Open Meetings and Open Records Acts are designed to bring government closer to the people, and to allow the actions of public bodies maximum access and input from their constituents," he said. "The operation of government will be better if the public is armed with information about its activities, and develops a cooperative, communicative attitude with those who give their time to public service."
By PATTI PFEIFFER
News Staff Writer
On Tuesday the citizens of Ponca City will decide who will serve as the last mayor of the 20th century. There are four candidates running for mayor - Carl Balcer, Tom Leonard, Melvin Schoonover and Richard (Dick) Stone.
Candidate Balcer served as mayor from 1986-1992, Balcer was born and raised in Ponca City, attended NOC and graduated from Central State University with a BA degree.
He is a retired U.S. Army Colonel having served in both WWII and the Vietnam Conflict. He also retired from the Ponca City Fire Department as Chief Training Officer in 1969. Since his retirement he has held positions as Vice-President of Security Bank, Marketing Executive for Bank IV and after 12 years as Marketing Coordinator and Agricultural Sales Manager for Mertz, Inc. he retired.
Upon retirement and after extensive travels both in the U.S. and abroad, he joined J. Rowe Real Estate where he is currently working as a broker.
The Balcer family includes his wife of 45 years, Freda, and three children all of which lived in Ponca City until graduating from college.
In the past, he has served as President of the NOC College Foundation, the Ponca City chapter of the American Business Club, Ponca City Safety Council, Ponca City Employee Union, Pioneer Technology Center School Board and the State of Oklahoma Vocational -Technical Education Council.
Additionally Balcer has served as chairman of the Ponca City Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment, was District Chairman of the Boy Scouts of America and General Chairman of the Ponca City Grand Prix Sports Car Races.
He has served as both President and Drive Chairman for the United Way and is currently serving on their Board of Directors and is also Vice-President of the Pioneer Technology Center Foundation, Inc.
Candidate Dick Stone is a current city commissioner. Between 1978 and 1983 Stone lived in Ponca City and managed two local retail stores before his job took him to Wichita, Kan. It was in Kansas that Stone had the opportunity to become a district manager for J.C. Penney and managed 33 stores state-wide where he supervised 15 store managers and over 250 employees.
Upon retiring from J.C. Penney after 36 years, Stone and his wife, Ruth, returned to Ponca City in 1994. The couple have two adult children and three grandchildren.
He was born and raised in Clinton, Ill. He graduated from the College of Commerce and the University of Illinois with a Bachelor of Science degree. Stone served in the U.S. Army from 1953-55 and was honorably discharged in 1961.
Stone is actively involved with the juvenile justice system and the local delinquency prevention program as well as the Westside Project.
In addition, Stone serves on various community boards and committees including the Board of the First Christian Church as an elder and a teacher, the Ponca City Tomorrow Board and the Festival of Angels, the Tourism Board and serves on the Policy and Procedures Committee of the Chamber of Commerce Economic Development Advisory Board. He also volunteers as a Rotarian to teach reading to primary students at the Woodlands School and is a substitute driver for the local Meals on Wheels Program.
Candidate Tom Leonard is also a current city commissioner. Leonard was also born and raised in Ponca City. During his lifetime Leonard has served on various boards including the YMCA, Kay County chapter of the American Cancer Society and is a member of AMBUCS. Additionally, he has served as both the city attorney and an assistant district attorney. He currently has his own private law practice.
In higher education, Leonard received a BS in mathematics from OSU and his law school degree from OU. He is the father of one 23-year-old daughter who is currently a student at Tulsa Jr. College.
Candidate Melvin Schoonover has over 25 years experience as a city employee, 15 years as the Ponca City Lake Patrolman and three years working in the Ponca City Parks and Recreation Department.
In addition, Schoonover served 28 years as Operations Intelligence Sergeant in the U.S. Army Reserves. During his tenure in the reserves he supervised eight people and coordinated training support for six army units (250-300 people) throughout Oklahoma and Arkansas.
The candidate was born and raised in Ponca City and he is a graduate of NOC with an associate degree in law enforcement. In the past he served on the Board of Directors for the Red Cross and served as Boy Scout Leader Explorer Post for 10 years. In addition he is a current member of the American Legion Post No. 14.
He is a past member and deacon of the Grand Avenue Church of Christ where he served as teacher, church treasurer and bus director. He is a present member of the Hartford Church of Christ where he also serves as a teacher and the deacon over assembly, ground maintenance, custodial service and the group called Older Members at Hartford (OMAH) and teacher.
Currently the candidate is employed at Lowe's as an appliance/electronic specialist. Among others his duties, he says, includes supervising three.
The Schoonover family includes his wife of 30 years and two children, one soon to graduate from OSU and one living and working in Tulsa.
The election is April 7 and only those residing in the city limits are eligible to vote.
The date of the Northern Oklahoma College Annual Alumni Reunion was reported earlier as April 16. That date was incorrect. The date for the 1938 and 1948 Class Reunion at NOC is April 18. The News apologizes for any confusion.
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Beginning Monday the 800 block of West Broadway Avenue will be closed for street repairs that will take approximately four days.
Candidates Need You!
They say it is a good sign when there is a choice between capable candidates for elective offices at any level of government. If so, we are blessed in Ponca City. You could not ask for a much better campaign or more choice.
We have two commissioners, a former mayor and a city employee all running for the position of mayor. It is exciting to see knowledgeable people willing to take on the daunting task of being the elected head of our city. As a voter you have a clear choice of candidates with differing styles and abilities. Each brings a different view and background to the table but each is likely to work hard to do the job well.
We salute all of them for their sense of civic responsibility and their willingness to run hard and serve if elected. The city is facing tough choices every day and strong leadership is needed if we are to make the right decisions. It is particularly encouraging that these citizens are willing to take on that challenge.
There have been forums and interviews and articles which have given us ample opportunity to learn enough about the candidates to make an informed choice.
The candidates have done their job, the next question is, will you?
By KRISTI HAYES
News Education Editor
Accepting the low bid from Southwestern Bell for $93,976 for the installation of telephone lines and equipment will be decided during the regular meeting Monday night of the Ponca City Board of Education.
Bids were opened on March 12, 1998, to seek Universal Services monies for long distance/development of area wide network for Internet access for the Ponca City Public Schools. The network system to be developed for the Ponca City Schools would be based upon the district's qualifying for E-Rate monies provided under the Universal Services federal legislation. If the school district's submitted contracts and proposals are accepted by the government for approval, the federal government will pay 70 percent of the costs associated with the implementation of this phase of the process.
There was a mandatory walk-through of the sites held Feb. 27 with four companies submitting bids.
Southwestern Bell submitted the low bid of $93,976 to basically install the lines and routes and other work. The bid specifications and any contract awarded contains language that specifies that the contract is awarded if the district's proposal is accepted by the awarding government agency, qualifying for the E-Rate monies.
If the district's proposal meets the qualifications and is accepted for E-Rate monies as indicated by the Universal Services legislation, the district's cost for this contract would be $28,192.80. The remainder of the project's cost of $65,783.20 would be paid by the federal government directly to Southwestern Bell. There is not a risk of the board occurring the total cost of $93,976 as the bid and the subsequent contract contains language that voids the bid and the contract if the district does not qualify for the Universal Services monies.
The board will also vote on a contract with Southwestern Bell to provide a wide area network utilizing Universal Services funding.
The government requires a signed contract for all of the required services to be submitted with the district's proposal. There are two contracts to be considered with this project. Gary Bracken, board attorney; developed a generic contract that uses exhibits to specify the actual service to be performed. The contract would be for the entire amount of $93,976; however, it would specify that the district's contractual amount of 30 percent would be for $28,192.80 when the Universal Services proposal is accepted.
Approval could be given to the low bid from United Systems, Inc. for a Universal Services proposal to provide equipment and installation services for an area wide network. The low bid to install Novell software, additional memory, and other related items was provided by United Systems, Inc. at a bid of $56,495 for the total upgrade. This work compliments the work to be provided by Southwestern Bell for the area wide network. Again, if the district's proposal is accepted, the district cost would be 30 percent of $56,495 or a contracted cost with Ponca City Schools for $16,948.
Network Cabling
The board will vote on considering Dr. Bill White, superintendent of Ponca City Schools, to initiate contracts for the low bidders to provide network cabling at the high school and four elementary schools utilizing Universal Services funding.
The second phase of the district's plan to obtain E-Rate funding under the Universal Services legislation was to obtain network cabling for Po-Hi, Trout Elementary, Liberty Elementary, Woodlands Elementary, and Roosevelt Elementary. Bids will be received by April 13 at 3 p.m. An agreement must be reached with the low bidders and a contract signed that same day in order to submit this project to the federal agency receiving applications by April 14, 1998. A mandatory walk-through was held March 27 with four vendors attending. This project also is seeking the government's 70 percent payment of the proposed costs.
Tuition Costs
Consideration will be given to increasing tuition costs for 1998 Summer School from $80 per course to $90.
Last summer the district charged $80 per course and $90 for drivers education. Dr. John Scroggins, assistant superintendent of curriculum and development, is recommending that the school charge $90 for all classes in order to cover the cost of small enrollments and still stay within the budget.
Other Agenda Items
The board could approve a motion to lease mineral rights at Garfield Academy. Jim Holt has asked permission to address the board about leasing mineral rights of school property for oil and gas purposes. He will explain his proposal at the meeting.
The board will vote on approving the continuation of the license and system support agreement with the HOSTS Corporation at Garfield Academy.
Renewal of this agreement with the HOSTS Corporation will grant the continuation of the HOSTS Language Arts Program license for Garfield Academy for the school year ending June 30, 1998. HOSTS will provide access to HOSTS help line technical assistant provided over HOSTS toll-free help line. They are also providing the new Language Arts 8.0 that contains new and enhanced features which will result in even greater success for all students. The agreement also provides system support services for the entire year. The annual license fee is $5,600 to be paid on one payment.
HOSTS is offering a free package of instructional materials for each HOSTS schools if the agreement is signed by May 1, 1998. Each school will receive free items which have a retail value of approximately $75.
Employees of the Month
April Employee of the Month and Friend of Education Awards will be given to: Sharla Lambring, Certified Employee Award; Liz Glaser, Support Employee Award; and Elizabeth Sutton, Friend of Education Award.
By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE
News Business Editor
Ponca City Planning Commission will be plowing old ground Tuesday evening, when for the third time they will be holding a public hearing on the rezoning at Lansbrook and Prospect. The meeting is at 7 p.m., at the Public Safety Center.
The request is by L.K. Davis, who is represented by agent Steve Payne and the property is located at the southeast corner of Lansbrook and Prospect. The applicant has proposed to build residential appearing mini storage on the property.
The Planning Commission is a recommending body to the City Commission, but apparently on this particular piece of property the City Commission is reluctant to accept the advisory board's recommendation.
The first time the matter came before the Planning Commission, chaired by Cheryl Moon, the rezoning request was to change the zoning from R2-C Condominium/Townhouse District to C1C local commercial district, Use Permissible on Review for an upper scale mini-storage facility.
This request was denied on the basis of spot zoning. But when the matter went before the City Commission, that Board sent it back to the planning body for another look.
On the second time around, the Planning Commission changed its position to allow the property, which abuts the railroad tracks, to be placed in Planned Unit Development (PUD) for the storage facility. Usually the PUD designation is reserved for tracts of four-acres or more.
Under a PUD specific rules and regulations are required and if there is any change in the use of the land it has to come back before the Planning Commission for approval.
The item was pulled from the agenda on the date it was to have been heard for the second time by the City Commission and once more shifted back to the Planning Commission for more details on the PUD conditions.
Tuesday night's agenda calls for "approval of development conditions" prepared by City Planner Larry Lawhon. Also there will be a staff report on the same matter by Randy Lauritsen, City Engineer.
By RALPH SEWELL
News Capitol Bureau
OKLAHOMA CITY - Ponca City Rep. Jim Newport felt pretty good last week. The Senate passed his HB 2547, to require written parental permission before a child's body may be pierced. The vote was 43-0.
Sens. Paul Muegge, D-Tonkawa, and J. Berry Harrison, D-Fairfax, both voted for Newport's bill.
Senators made some changes in the bill, but main features are intact. An exception allows children have their ears pierced for earrings.
Newport says changes are minor. He'll move to accept the amendments. That will send the bill to the governor.
The same Senate Human Resources committee spent most of its last meeting debating HB 2542, which would ban partial birth abortions in Oklahoma. It voted 7 to 4 to send that bill to the floor after Republican Gov. Keating and President Pro-Tem Stratton Taylor, D-Claremore, exchanged jibes.
Keating said he wanted the bill passed. Taylor said he didn't recall the governor mentioning it, but he - Taylor - supported such a ban, and the committee would vote on it the next day. It did.
As it passed the House, HB 2542 would make it a criminal offense and subject the physician to possibility of a $10,000 fine and 2 years in prison for performing such an abortion. In a partial birth abortion, a live fetus is partially delivered from the mother's body and then killed by the doctor.
The House bill did make an exception if the procedure is necessary to save the mother's life. The House passed the bill 99-0 with Newport and Reps. Jim Reese, R-Nardin, Larry Ferguson, R-Cleveland and Jim Hager, D-Pawhuska voting for it.
Newport's HB 2299 also made it to the Senate floor. It says the wife of a serviceman stationed elsewhere need not take new driver license tests when the couple returns to Oklahoma. State law already exempts the serviceman.
On the Senate side, Muegge met bigwigs from the poultry industry to discuss his bill giving them the responsibility to clean up the environmental mess their chickens leave.
Ferguson and Sen. J. Berry Harrison, D-Fairfax, poked fun at Tulsans and Rogers University fans on April Fools' Day. They passed around a column Ferguson said he was running in the Cleveland paper, which he owns.
The story announced the creation of Lake Keystone University - LKU - a 4-year college on the shores of Lake Keystone. Construction would start soon, the story said, with these added details:
An athletic director is needed, former OU-star Billy Vessels would be nice; there'll be a 75,000-seat stadium and also colleges of marine biology, birdlife, and sailing-yachting. The story ends: April fool!
If changes the House made in SB 1076 stick, common law marriage won't be legal in Oklahoma after November 1. Any couple avoiding formal ceremony will be living in sin. Their children would be illegitimate. But earlier common law marriages would still be valid.
As the Senate passed SB 1076, it was a simple change to let municipal judges perform marriage ceremonies. The vote was 43-1, with Muegge and Harrison voting for it. But it picked up extra baggage on its way to the House floor.
Rep. Bill Graves, R-Oklahoma City, tried to take the amendment making common law marriages illegal out of the bill. But his motion was tabled, 66-34. Newport, Reese, Ferguson and Hager voted to table. Then all voted for the bill when the House passed it 57-42.
The Senate author promptly rejected the House version. So at least for awhile, children yet to be born to unconventional couples, may be legal.
Common law marriages historically have been recognized as valid if a couple lives together openly for more than six months without a formal ceremony. The House change also probably would affect inheritance rights.
Senators voted 46 to 0 last week for HJR 1073, a constitutional change to allow colleges and their researchers to share in profits if their intellectual property has commercial value. It would require voter approval.
A second bill HB 2863, to validate changes made by HJR 1073 if voters pass it, also won 46-0 Senate support. Muegge and Harrison voted yes on both.
A related bill, SB 1405, passed the House 96-3. It would allow higher education institutions to share in money realized from research developed on campus. But it bans debt incurred as a result of such research and bans using state funds to develop sales. Newport, Reese, Ferguson and Hager voted yes.
The House last week passed a rule change which would limit bills a representative can author to eight bills a session.
HCR 1038 passed the House 62-38. Judging from debate, there was little opposition to the 8-bill limit. But members argued at length over a second part - let one member cast an electronic vote for another member who is present.
The division was along party lines. All but two Democrats voted for the change. All Republicans - including Newport, Reese and Ferguson voted against. Hager and other Democrats voted for the change.
The 8-bill limit is an effort to cope with the number of bills that has swamped the House since 1991, when voters limited sessions to 4 months.
For 101 members, HCR 1038 would limit representatives to filing about 800 bills. It compares with more than 1,100 House bills filed this year. Only about one-third of those bills had survived by last Monday.
In addition to appropriation bills, the Senate began last week with 242 House bills on its general order calendar. Others had fallen by the wayside in either House committees or in the House. Of 700 Senate bills filed this year at the sessions start, 167, plus funding bills, made it to the House floor.
Here's how Muegge, Harrison, Newport, Reese, Ferguson and Hager voted on various bills considered last week:
-SB 1218 increases the amount the Department of Environmental Quality may spend for cleaning up the sites of waste tire dumps. It passed the House 56-42, and an emergency clause was added 80-20, sending it to the governor. Hager voted for; Newport and Reese no and Ferguson missed the vote.
-SB 1309 passed the House unanimously. It would require manufacturers to pay farm equipment dealers who perform warranty work the same amount the dealer would charge a customer for the same work not performed under warranty. The author said underpayments have helped put some dealers out of business.
-SB 1103, which passed 99-2, would authorize creation of drug courts for juveniles, with Mental Health Department help. Newport, Reese, Ferguson and Hager voted yes.
-SB 764, minus a title, passed the House 100-1. It would give Capitol patrolmen raises of about $3,000 a year. It also provides longevity increases. Newport, Ferguson and Hager voted yes; Reese no.
-SB 789 would add two more exceptions to state law banning dual office holdings. It would allow members of a voluntary fire department or directors of rural water districts to also serve on a school or vo-tech boards. A 95-5 House vote sent the bill back to the Senate to review House changes. Newport, Reese, Ferguson and Hager voted in favor.
-SB 1139, which passed unanimously, would allow compassionate release of convicts who are near death. It would expedite handling by the parole boards and the governor.
-HCR 1061 again asks Congress to take another look at some provisions of its balanced budget act of 1997. It expresses legislative concern the act adversely impacts Medicare reimbursement for home health services. It says Oklahoma fears a cutback on home health care services will lead to increased use of more costly emergency rooms, hospitals and nursing homes. By voice vote, the House sent the resolution to the Senate.
-HB 2840 passed the Senate 39-7. It says materials and equipment declared surplus by the Department of Transportation may be given to other government units. Muegge voted yes; Harrison missed the vote.
-HB 2680, extending the life of the Tulsa Race Riot Commission to February 2000, passed the Senate 35-9 and went to the governor. Muegge and Harrison voted in favor.
-HB 2313, which passed 32-11, would require health insurance plans to cover hospital payments for anesthesia dental surgery for the disabled and small children. That sent the bill to the governor. Muegge and Harrison voted yes.
-SB 1310 would toughen the specifications to be recognized as certified public accountant. It passed the House 81-16 and is headed for the governor. Newport, Reese, Ferguson and Hager voted in favor.
-HB 1216, which passed 81-16 would require private prisons to inform state corrections officials immediately about any escapes or disturbances. Newport, Ferguson and Hager voted yes; Reese no.
-SB 1049, passed by the House 88-6, would allow anyone to carry a gun in an automobile or truck, even if they do not register to carry a loaded gun on their person. The author argued it will protect motorists who can't afford a $185 license from criminals, who don't bother with permits anyway. Newport, Reese, Ferguson and Hager voted yes.
Editor's Note: Louis Headman is the coordinator of language and cultural affairs at the Ponca Tribal Office. As a tribal historian, he has compiled the following records from tribal elders about the traditions and significance of the Poncas' annual spring athletic contests.
By Louis Headman
Special to the News
T'ab´egas`e - or shinny game - is a man's game and is played every spring as the big tribal sports activity.
Four games are played every seven days at the beginning of the new year. (Spring time is the new year, and the first of April is the approximate time the new year begins, so the early Ponca begin to play at this time on Sunday afternoons.)
In ancient times, the Ponca relied upon the growth of grass as a time when to begin. The family who has been charged with keeping and leading the game is the Blueback family of the Nik'ap'asn`a clan. Martin Blueback, who was in charge of the game at the time of this interview in 1980, gave the following information:
"This game is played the first part of the year.
"The old people say: 'We have come through the fall and winter the days that cramped our bodies by the temperature which kept us cold and kept us in tense feelings.
"'Now we are given another year. The Great Spirit is renewing everything and putting new clothing on all its creation so let's all stretch ourselves and stretch our legs and exercise our hearing, our sights, and move the way the Great Spirit wants us to be.'
"So, the Ponca Indian shinny game was played. The man who was responsible for the game prepares for himself and his followers in a prayer and offering of food to the Almighty.
"He asked for guidance and for the fortitude of all the young men and the aged who take part in this great game of shinny.
"He further asks the Almighty for all grievances to be set aside, and to help them forget for a day all offenses that had been committed against each other, and for good fellowship and to conduct themselves in a sportsmanlike way to their fellow man."
The game was played in Nebraska for as long as anyone could remember and was played each year since the Ponca arrived in Oklahoma. The time of the year it was played was obviously important to the people. When they determined the time to play, he said:
"When the grass gets thick or just below the ankle the leader calls the day when it is to be played. "
To begin the game, sides were chosen but players, as described in the women's Wab´asnad`e, chosen at random selection. He said this was done once for each day the game was played.
" They throw all the shinny clubs in a pile and the leader kneeling down throws the shinny clubs right and left at random, and then they choose their goal the opposite side from where your club was thrown.
"The goals used to be about one mile apart in the old days, but now they are much closer The leader then takes each side to the center of the field and they they line up on each side toward their goal posts. Then the leader tosses the ball on the ground between the goal posts. Sometimes, six or seven goals are made in a game.
"The game is played like hockey...the white man's game."
Shinny is a rough game, and younger boys play on the edge of the playing field waiting for a stray ball to come their way.
Blueback said the roughness in the game served several purposes:
"If you got hit on the shins or any part of your body, it was considered a great honor because you could enjoy another year without sickness and enjoy good health.
"The game is pretty rough once you are caught in the thick of it. It's the closest thing to a hand-to-hand battle so those who are timid and feint of heart stay away from the main body of players and hit the ball when it is accidently knocked to him.
"Sometimes, you see things that are pretty rough, but grievances are brought to the front when two enemies bump into each other accidently or intentionally. If a fist fight develops, eveybody tries to keep it from happening."
He said the equipment used for the game included: the shinny club; three sizes of balls which were used at different intervals during the game; and special clothing.
"Shinny clubs are made by bending a second growth of ash wood in a curve at one end...like a hook or cane. It was tied with a wire, or in the olden times, with stripped bark sometimes the club is tied in the winter months and left curved until spring, then they do not have to cook it over a fire then it has retained a natural curve.
Those old fellows used a thicker club and those younger fellows who are fast use a thinner one. The length of the club is from the hand to the ground. The old time warriors stripped of their clothing except their breechclout, as if preparing for a battle.
Moccasins and whistles were also put on as well as a black band on their heads to keep the sweat out of their eyes.
There's three sizes of balls. The first one is big about ten inches in diameter they usually kick that one. We throw in the medium size one about half way in the game. The little ball is used toward the end of the game it's a fast one.
Usually the first one is kicked around and when we put in the next size they try to kick it but they'll miss it, so they have to use their 'sticks.'"
The ball has a yellow cross design which represents the four winds. It is placed at the center of the playing field.
The leader draws a similar design on the ground where the ball is placed so that the cross on the ball touches the cross on the ground. There was no mention of why this was done although Martin Blueback said that in earlier times there was some ceremonialism that preceded the game.
Today the leader usually informs the players that they should observe fair play, obey the rules and have a good time. He then will offer a prayer to commence the game.
In the old days, there was much ado about how to protect one's self from injury. In modern times, if one gets hit, one gets hit.
According to Kenneth Headman and Norman Cry, the clothing style has changed over the years from the old style of wearing breechclout and moccasins.
Presently, the players wear gym shoes (part of America's everyday attire), jeans, T-shirts, and caps. Occasionally, older players wear an "Indian" shirt.
Martin Blueback said some of the rules included: no fighting, no batting the ball, and no running with the ball. A player, however, is allow to stop the ball with his hand, feet or body.
In the old days, Blueback said that there were many activities occurring at the time the shinny game was going on. Some were: some side betting, other gambling games such as K'asi (already mentioned), rope-pulling contests, horse racing during intermission of the shinny game, and foot races.
He said spectators, especially women, wanted to touch the ball that was knocked out of the playing field. They believed they would, too, receive a "blessing" from it, and, then they would throw it in the direction of their husbands' or boyfriends' goal.
A spirit of frivolity was the overall atmosphere of this tribal sports activity. Although the other activities have been done away with in modern times, the shinny game is continually played each year.
WHITE EAGLE - The Ponca Tribe's traditional shinny games are scheduled to kick off today at approximately 2 p.m. at the playing field here. The games will run each Sunday in April.
To kick off the first game, local merchants have contributed prizes and gifts for the young people, with a free hot dog and hamburger feed for all youths at noon at the White Eagle pavilion. Children also will receive free swim passes to Ponca City's YMCA and gift certificates from McDonalds.
Children who are accompanied by a parent will receive a ticket for a drawing for one of two $50 food baskets donated by the Standing Bear Committee, the Pioneer Bank and Floorcraft. Albertsons and the Ponca Tribal Johnson O'Malley youth program are also donating food items.
"Shinny," or stick ball, is a traditional field game that dates back to the beginnings of the Ponca Tribe itself and is probably the oldest continuously played sport in Kay County.
The game is set to begin at approximately 2 p.m. each Sunday. Spectators are welcome at the games, which, depending on the scores, could last into late afternoon.
The shinny games are the tribe's time-honored celebration of life that helps build the mental, physical and spiritual character of the Ponca.
TONKAWA - "A Portrait of Health," the second annual Northern Oklahoma College free Health Fair, gives community residents a chance to take a look at their health status and learn the latest findings in the health field.
From 3 to 7 p.m. April 8, approximately 15 exhibitors are expected in Foster-Piper Fieldhouse to conduct free screening and tests, distribute literature and sample products, and answer questions about their health areas. Tests for stress, body fat and grip will be available as well as vision, cholesterol and spinal screenings. Blood pressure can also be measured.
Free cokes and popcorn will be given to fair-goers and many door prizes from area merchants will be awarded.
"The object of our Health Fair is to provide free information in all related health areas to individuals from surrounding counties as well as to Northern students," said Nevona Kegans, Health Fair coordinator. "Our first fair last year had a very positive response with more than 300 people in attendance."
New exhibitors at the fair include Blackwell Vision Center, Oklahoma Blood Institute and Tonkawa Medical Clinic. Miss NOC, whose platform is Eating Disorders Awareness, will distribute literature concerning eating disorders.
Returning exhibitors include Blackwell Regional Hospital, Bristow Chiropractic, Edwin Fair Clinic, Health World, NOC Counseling, NOC Nursing Division, Northern Therapy and Rehabilitation, Inc., Red Cross of Blackwell, St. Joseph's Regional Medical Center and Tonkawa Fire Department.
Western humorist/cowboy storyteller Sky Shivers and his mediocre trick dog Miss Kitty will entertain at "A Fetching Affair," a fund raiser for the Ponca City Humane Society. The event will be held at the Marland Mansion Friday, May 1, 6:30 p.m. to midnight.
Shivers is a winner of the Will Rogers Award for Storyteller-Humorist of the Year. He has performed across the Southwest with Miss Kitty, a Border Collie that never met a person she didn't like. They have recently performed at the National Cowboy Hall of Fame Christmas Ball in Oklahoma City, the San Antonio Fat Stock and Rodeo in San Antonio, Texas, and the National Fest of the West in Scottsdale, Ariz.
Miss Kitty's show exhibits obedience and communication between dog and master. By using audience volunteers, Sky and Miss Kitty demonstrate just how funny it is when the dog has the last laugh.
Tickets for "A Fetching Affair" are $35 and available at the Ponca City Humane Society office, 900 West Prospect Avenue, during normal business hours. Call 767-8877 for further information on this upcoming fund raiser.
Ponca City
Divorces Sought
Divorces Granted
Newkirk
Marriage Licenses
Divorces Granted
Civil Proceedings
Criminal Proceedings
By KATHY ZEHR
News Staff Writer
Hometown boy, Oklahoma Adjutant General Stephen Phelps Cortright, a 1959 Po-Hi graduate, will be special guest speaker for the closing ceremonies of "The Wall That Heals" Vietnam Memorial Wall in Ponca City at 6 p.m. on April 19.
In February 1995, the former Ponca Citian, who holds the Distinguished Flying Cross, was appointed by Gov. Frank Keating to head up Oklahoma Military Services in Oklahoma.
The Wall will be in Ponca City at Resthaven Memorial Cemetery April 16-19. The wall, a large information trailer, a Vietnam museum, first aid tent, watchfire, and other enhancements will be open to the public 24-hours a day during the visit. Admission is free. Opening ceremonies will be at 10 a.m. Thursday. The public is invited to both the opening and closing ceremonies.
Prior to his appointment to the top military position in Oklahoma, Cortright served as a major general for the Oklahoma National Guard. The highly decorated veteran of 217 Vietnam combat missions has been a member of the Air National Guard since 1970. He entered the U.S. Air Force in February 1964.
Cortright is the son of Marjorie Cortright and the late Austin Cortright, longtime Ponca City residents. He graduated from Oklahoma State University and earned his juris doctorate from Tulsa University Law School in 1973.
Cortright served as commander of the Oklahoma Air National Guard from April 1988 until March 1992, then was promoted to the rank of major general and named air National Guard Assistant to the Commander of Pacific Air Forces. He has over 4,700 hours military flying time in the T-33, T-37, T-38, RF-4C, F-16C/D, F-IOOD/F and A-7D/K aircraft in the U.S., France, England, as well as Vietnam.
For more information about "The Wall That Heals" Vietnam Memorial Wall, call 762-5659.
TONKAWA- "Three Divas and One Silly Boy," a recital by Northern Oklahoma College students of Mariann Priboy, will showcase the voices of Jera Dunn, Perry; Molly Hall, Edmond, Sarah Fiscus, Blackwell; and Brad Ellis, Enid.
The recital, set for 8 p.m. April 7 in the Northern Performing Arts Center, will feature a mixture of classical and Broadway selections, including arias and Broadway scenes.
Guest artists Shane Ellis of Enid, and Tim Muniz and Clayton Keyes, both of Ponca City, will perform. Linda Fiscus, Northern adjunct music faculty, is the accompanist.
Admission is free and the public is invited to attend.
By KRISTI HAYES
News Education Editor
TONKAWA - The saying "third time is a charm" came true for 14-year-old Paul Walcher, Tonkawa. After receiving second place twice at the Oklahoma Spelling Bee, Walcher finally won the 1998 Eastern Oklahoma State Spelling Bee at the Tulsa Performing Arts Center. This is the first time in Kay County history that a student from this area has won.
Walcher will join the winner from the Western Oklahoma State Spelling Bee and travel to Washington, D.C. on an all-expense paid trip to compete in the National Spelling Bee. While there, he will visit places like Mt. Vernon, The Smithsonian, The White House and many other places. The National Spelling Bee will be held May 27 and 28. The competition, which will host 250 contestants, will be aired on ESPN May 27 at 1 p.m. Eastern Standard Time. Clips of the competition will be aired nationally on CNN, NBC, ABC and CBS.
"I am really happy that I get to go to Washington. This was my third time at the State Spelling Bee and I finally won! I am really looking forward to seeing the Smithsonian in Washington. I am a big Star Wars fan and I can't wait to see the display at the Smithsonian. I know I will have to study a lot more and I will study as much as I can," Walcher commented.
When asked how much he studies he responded, "I used to study 30 minutes to an hour every day. After I won the Regional Spelling Bee in Blackwell, I studied as much as four to five hours a day. I usually study until I'm exhausted. Winning the State Spelling Bee and being the first contestant from Kay County to go the National Spelling Bee in Washington hasn't changed me that much. I think it all depends on how much work you put into it and how much God blesses you."
Walcher will be joined on his trip to Washington by his parents, Dr. Ron and Becca Walcher, his brothers, Luke and Josh, and possibly his grandmother, Emma Walcher, all of Tonkawa. "We didn't know he had it in him," his father commented. "We are all very excited for Paul and we're really pleased and thankful that he has the chance to represent Oklahoma at the National Spelling Bee."
Besides studying for this spelling bee, Walcher enjoys collecting basketball cards, playing guitar and singing in the choir at First Christian Church of Tonkawa. He is also a member of the Cornerstone Saints Basketball Team. "I really don't study all the time! I take time out for several things," he concluded.
The Eastern Oklahoma State Spelling Bee is hosted every year by the Tulsa World. The Daily Oklahoman hosts the Western Oklahoma Spelling Bee.
Walcher will be leaving for Washington on May 24.
The Domestic Violence Program of North Central Oklahoma helped over 560 women and children last year. With crimes such as sexual assault and rape on the rise, the number of victims the Domestic Violence Program serves will continue to increase.
On April 30, 6-9 p.m., volunteers for the 12th annual Domestic Violence Phone-a-thon will call citizens of Kay County asking for support for this organization. The goal for this year is $15,000 and the funds will be used to buy medications and supplies for victims of domestic violence.
The Domestic Violence shelter provides a safe and secure place to find help. Citizens of Kay County are asked to take advantage of the opportunity to help victims of domestic violence. For more information, or if you would like to make a pre-donation, call 76A-BUSE.
Attention all golfers! The Kay County Chapter of the American Cancer Society (ACS) is seeking golfers for its annual ASC Golf Championship charity tournament.
Any amateur golfer with a verified current handicap index is eligible to play in the four person scramble tournament. Individuals, as well as the four person teams, may enter.
Awards will be given to the first, second and third place teams as well as the longest drive and closest to the hole.
The golf tournament will be held April 17 at 1 p.m. at the Ponca City Country Club. All proceeds will go to the American Cancer Society, a percentage to the local chapter.
In addition to golfers, hole sponsors are also needed. "The fee for someone to sponsor a hole is $100," stated local ASC president and tournament co-chairperson Vicky Morton. "In addition to helping the American Cancer Society, the sponsor's name will appear at the hole they sponsor."
The tournament is Kay County's second largest fund raiser for the American Cancer Society, the first being the Relay for Life which is scheduled for June 5-6.
According to co-chairman C.D. Northcutt the tournament last year raised nearly $7,000. "We are the largest fund raisers per capita in the state," Northcutt boasted. "We always raise between $5,000 and $7,000 at this tournament."
Anyone with any questions or those interested in playing or sponsoring the tournament may call Vicky Morton at 762-6614.
By KRISTI HAYES
News Education Editor
Mary Ladd, administrative assistant to the superintendent and in charge of public relations for the Ponca City Public Schools, has won a state award for the second year in a row in the Oklahoma Public Relations Association (OKSPRA) Publications and Communications Contest. The annual contest recognizes outstanding communication efforts of school public relations across the state.
Ladd has won an "Award of Merit" for a one-time special recognition publication she designed to recognize and honor support personnel. The publication was extremely creative and unique in that it included a small package of "Life Saver" candies along with the statement "You are real life savers because your work helps touch the life of a child!"
Ladd received an "Award of Honorable Mention" last year for an information brochure she designed for the district. It was the first "Honorable Mention Award" give by OKSPRA. The organization historically gives "Awards of Excellence" and "Awards of Merit," and they may, but do not have to, give these awards in each category.
After receiving the news about the award Ladd stated, "I am ecstatic! The members of OKSPRA are all the top public relations professionals in the state. To receive any kind of award from them is quite an honor. I just want to thank Ponca City Schools for all the support I continually receive."
Superintendent of Ponca City Schools Dr. Bill White stated, "Mary is an exceptional employee who doubles as my administrative assistant and public information officer for the district. The brochures and news releases she writes helps us keep in touch with our entire educational community. Being recognized by the Oklahoma School Public Relations Association is special for her and the district."
Ladd was formerly presented with her award at the annual OKSPRA Partners for Excellence Luncheon which was held this year in Ponca City at the Marland Mansion.
OKSPRA is the State Chapter of the National Schools Public Relations Association. This state organization consists of public relations people across the state from public school districts, vocational schools, colleges, and education related agencies. Its mission is to improve the quality of education by facilitating public understanding through responsible communications, community involvement, and leadership.
By SALLY HODGES
News Staff Writer
Attucks Community Alliance will be holding an open house Saturday, April 18, 1-3 p.m. to raise the funds necessary to continue with renovations to Attucks School.
Attucks School was named in honor of Cripus Attucks, a runaway slave who led a mob against the British in the "Boston Massacre" of March 5, 1770. He is also credited with being one of the first to shed blood in behalf of American liberty.
Attucks has been a part of Ponca City history since it originated in a building rented from The Rock Island Lumber Company in 1904. After a couple of interim locations, the school was built at the present location in 1925.
A fire ravaged the school in 1945 in one of the largest fires Ponca City has known The fire destroyed most of the school buildings and damaged the gymnasium, one of the oldest structures in Ponca City.
Attucks School served the community as a full-program school for the black community until its official closure in 1966. As a result of the Supreme Court decision in the spring of 1955, all students in Ponca City at the junior high and senior high levels were able to choose to attend either Attucks or Ponca City junior or senior high schools.
Beginning with the 1956-57 school year, however, the junior high and senior high portion of Attucks School was closed, integrating all students in these grades into Ponca City Junior High School and Ponca City Senior High School.
Since closure of Attucks School, many renovations have occurred. Community support for the Attucks Community Center was restored in 1996 during a Make A Difference Day, a day set aside to volunteer and make a difference in the local community. One of the projects that day in Ponca City was to clean up the Attucks School area.
During the clean up, a youth volunteer mentioned it would be nice to have a place to play basketball rather that on the street. This comment spurred community interest in the Community Center.
Attucks Community Alliance has participated in Neighbor Day Weekend, Make A Difference Day and Juneteenth Celebration. They have held several clean-up days to remove old equipment, tear out rotting walls, remove graffiti and secure the structure. "We are at the point in our restoration where funds are needed to hire the necessary personnel to begin the major work," says James Roland, chairperson of the Alliance.
According to Dwain West, chair elect, during the month of April the Alliance will be contacting businesses and individuals throughout the community asking them to donate to this effort. "Ponca City is a caring community and we are confident that we will be able to reach our goal of $82,000. This will help us complete the first phase of the project which includes getting the roof repaired/replaced, the gym operational and heating and air work done."
The primary purpose of the Center is to provide a safe place for youth of all ages to participate in a variety of activities including computer training, leadership skills workshops, drug awareness, sex education, parenting classes and organized sports.
At the open house, business leaders and citizens will be able to view the structure and hear from the Attucks Community Alliance committee of its plans for renovation, use, and review the business plans.
Donations can be sent to Attucks Community Alliance, P.O. Box 267, Ponca City, OK 74602.
Ponca City's Christian radio station KLVV 88.7 FM held its annual Sharathon March 26, 27 and 28 and received over $305,500 in pledges. Station manager Doyle Brewer was excited at the response from listeners around the area. "We asked our listeners to help us reach our operating goal of $200,000 and add $150,000 to finish our expansion fund," Brewer said.
"Although we didn't meet our expansion fund goal, this is without a doubt our biggest Sharathon ever."
KLVV operates totally on listener donations.
The three-day Sharathon is similar to a telethon and listeners called in to make a pledge to the station. Many contributors sent their pledges in before the Sharathon even started.
KLVV heard from all around the area with 37 percent of the calls coming from Ponca City, 18 percent from Enid, and 13 percent from Stillwater.
The $150,000 goal for the expansion fund would have completed the process of raising $550,000 to build a new 100,000 watt station. The Love Station has already received FAA approval to build a 1,000-foot tower and could receive approval for the 100,000 watt station later this year. $45,000 is needed to complete the expansion project.
Once this second station is on the air, The Love Station would broadcast two separate stations - the current 11,500 watt signal station would continue the teaching programs and broadcast inspirational music, and the new station would continue the current contemporary format with even more music than now.
Currently, KLVV broadcasts to the Northern Oklahoma area out of Ponca City with translator stations in Enid at 98.3 FM, Stillwater at 106.7 FM and in Guthrie at 97.3 FM.
Brewer said that anyone still wishing to pledge and contribute toward the expansion fund is welcome to send a donation to KLVV, P.O. Box 14, Ponca City, OK 74602.
Classical pianist Rosilee Walker plays a varied repertoire that ranges from the masters of the Romantic Period to contemporary jazz, and will perform at the Poncan Theatre on April 18, at 8 p.m. She comes to Ponca City with the support of the Ponca City Arts and Humanities, Conoco, and the Heartland Arts Fund. Therefore, concert is free to the public.
Dr. Walker specializes in the works of Brahms, Liszt and Chopin, as well as popular piano from the 1920s call "Piano Novelty." Her dissertation was a discussion of Piano Novelty music.
Walker is the director of Keyboard Activities at Westark College in Fort Smith, Ark. She took her bachelor's degree from Baylor University, and both her Masters and her Doctorate degrees from the University of Missouri-Kansas City Conservatory of Music. She has appeared twice as a guest recitalist at the Arkansas Governor's Mansion and as a guest pianist at the White House.
In addition to her recital at the Poncan Theatre, Walker will present a masters' class for pianist on April 18, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m., at the First Presbyterian Church. The class is free and open to the public to observe.
Sallings, Famous Unknowns At Poncan Theatre Friday
Mark Sallings and The Famous Unknowns and will perform at the Poncan Theatre Friday at 7:30 p.m.
Sallings is actually anything but unknown. He and his group have been onstage with a long list of major artists and have established themselves as a major blues group through their recordings and before live audiences.
The "Blues News," reviewing Sallings' newest album, "Talking to Myself," calls Sallings a "monster" talent and praises the creativity of the new material on the album. They praise Sallings for his songwriting and playing. Sallings is a harmonica specialist. The group plays an electric delta blues. The sound is similar to the Bluebirds - a blues group who performed at the Poncan last fall. Both play some rock crossover, and both play an energetic, upbeat, danceable blues sound.
Sallings has been associated with a formidable list of artists. The list includes blues great Muddy Waters, Jerry Lee Lewis, Mississippi Sam Chatmon, Willie Nelson, David Bowie, Joe Walsh, Johnny Rivers, Kentucky Headhunters, Steve Winwood, The Oak Ridge Boys, Dwight Yoakam, Merle Haggard, Kathy Matea, Waylon Jennings, Earl Scruggs, Rush, Charlie Daniels, the Four Tops, and many others. He has performed at many major festivals over the years. He has won several awards, including a Special Award from the notable ASCAP for the popular music/night club category.
The Famous Unknowns were the first house band at the well-known B.B. King club on Beale Street in Memphis. Recently, they've performed at the King Biscuit Festival, the Waterside Festival in Louisville, and the Bucks County Blues Festival in Pennsylvania.
Tickets are reserved seating and are available at Ponca City banks, at the Poncan Theatre, and at the door. Tickets are $5, $7 and $9. For more information about the performance or tickets, patrons may call the theatre at 765-0943.
Elementary Breakfast
Elementary Lunch
Middle School
Breakfast
Mid-High
Breakfast
Middle School
Lunch
Mid-High
Lunch
High School Lunch
Training Table
McCord Elementary
Breakfast
Lunch
Pioneer Technology Center
Po-Hi
April 6
April 7
April 8
April 9
April 10
April 11
Polls will be open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday for the Ponca City mayoral election, and the Blackwell commissioner of public property election.
Where to vote:
Kay County Precinct Locations
Rural
Ponca City
Blackwell
SHIDLER - Zelma Pearl Ross, longtime Shidler resident, died Friday morning, April 3, 1998, at the Manor Care Nursing Home in Oklahoma City. She was 91.
The funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. April 6, 1998, at the Shidler First Christian Church with L.S. Manny Loveall, minister, officiating. Burial will follow in the Grandview Cemetery under the direction of Grace Memorial Shidler Chapel.
Zelma Pearl (Withers) Ross was born Jan. 7, 1907, in Putnam to Daniel K. and Katie Mary (Stephens) Withers. Zelma received her education in Putnam and Palacios, Texas. She graduated from high school in May 1924 from Enid (Okla.) High School.
She married John Lester Ross on June 26, 1926, in Pawhuska. The couple made their home in Shidler. Mrs. Ross worked as a secretary for the Webb City School.
She was a member of the First Christian Church in Shidler, the Shidler Home Demonstration Club and the Women's Federated Club. She enjoyed crocheting.
Surviving are seven children, Ruth Shelton of Oklahoma City, Robert Ross of Shidler, Betsy Roe of Grove, Mary Kathryn Mikeman of Oklahoma City, Donald Ross of Hobbs, N.M., Winton Ross of Broken Bow, and Sue Sharp of Pawhuska; 23 grandchildren, six step-grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren and 13 step-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband in 1972; her parents; two sons, Sherman and John; two sisters and one brother.
Casket bearers will be grandsons Gene Smith, Richard Hammer, Gene Barnes, Teddy Smith, John Rogers, Larry Bump, Guy Schlosser and Gilbert Rhodes.
Memorial contributions may be made to the First Christian Church, Shidler, OK 74652.
DEL CITY - Zelma "Earlene" Nelson, former Ponca City resident, died Friday, March 27, 1998, in Southwest Medical Center in Oklahoma City. She was 66.
The funeral was held at 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, at the Bill Eisenhour Funeral Home Southeast Chapel in Del City. Graveside rites and burial followed at 2 p.m. in the Longwood Cemetery, east of Ponca City.
Zelma Earlene (Sober) Nelson was born April 26, 1931, in Ponca City, the ninth of 15 children born to Bert and Nellie (Griffith) Sober. She attended Union 98 School, west of Ponca City, and graduated from Ponca City High School in 1950.
On June 20, 1955, she was married to John E. Martin, and they made their home in the Osage Heights Community of Ponca City. Mr. Martin died in 1966. Earlene married Ivy Nelson in 1967, and the couple established their home in Choctaw. Mr. Nelson preceded her in death in 1993. Mrs. Nelson was a homemaker and had worked for several years as a nurse's aide at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center and local nursing homes. She enjoyed shopping and driving her little blue car.
Survivors include two daughters, Beverly Bouchard of Havana, Ill., and Mary Baxter of Moore; seven brothers, Rolla, Gerald, Bert, Bobby, Kenneth, Gary and Jim Sober, all of Ponca City; three sisters, Reva Butcher of Ponca City and Betty Pigg and Billie Horton, both of Lawton; five grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to both husbands and her parents, she was preceded in death by two sisters and two brothers.
DUNCAN CITY - J.C. Belt, Ponca City resident, died Friday, April 3, 1998, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. He was 71.
A graveside service will be held Monday, April 6, 1998, at 2 p.m. in the Duncan City Cemetery, Duncan, under the direction of Trout Funeral Home.
J.C. Belt was born April 6, 1916, in Duncan to James Clarence and Viola Rebecca (Miller) Belt. He attended Duncan schools as well as Cameron Junior College in Lawton. He served his country in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II.
In the early 1950s he began working for Halliburton Services as a machinist. He later worked in the credit union before his retirement in the early 1980's. After retirement he moved to Oklahoma City and then to Ponca City in 1995.
Survivors include one sister, Joy C. Belt, Ponca City. He was preceded in death by his parents.
Delbert Walter Carlile graduated from this life on April 3, 1998 in Tahlequah, at the age of 85 years. He was born June 4, 1912 in Perkins to John Curtis and Della Utter Carlile, and was the last survivor of 12 children.
He received his Bachelor of Science degree from Oklahoma A&M in 1935 after quarterbacking the football team for four years. He received his Master of Science, principal, and counseling certificates from the same institution. His teaching and coaching career included stops in Eufaula and Drumright before residing in Ponca City where he retired in 1976 as assistant high school principal, counselor, and athletic director.
Known for his community service and love of children, Delbert received the Gulick Award, the highest award for volunteers in the Camp Fire organization. He once served as the President of the Ponca City Teachers' Organization. Delbert was the founding sponsor of the Ponca City Senior High O-Kee-He Indian Club. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church and served on the missions committee and administrative board.
He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Susie Miller Carlile; one son, John Philip Carlile of Tampa, Fla., and two daughters, Carol Sue Lenaburg of Perry and Jane Adele Bond of Tahlequah. His survivors also include their spouses Jane Carlile, Lavern Lenaburg, and James Bond.
Surviving grandchildren are Kristi Wheeler of Stillwater; Kurt Lenaburg of Broken Arrow; Travis and Kate Bond of Tahlequah; Mark Delbert Carlile of Goshen, Ky.; Stephen Carlile of Charlottesville, Va.; Jennifer Janney of Arlington, Va.; and Catherine Miller of Lexington, Ky. Seven great-grandchildren were also part of his greatest joy.
The funeral service will be Monday, April 6, 1998, 2 p.m. in the chapel of the Trout Funeral Home with the Rev. Denny Hook, pastor, First United Methodist Church and the Rev. Donald Miller, retired, officiating. Burial will follow in Resthaven Memorial Park Cemetery.
Casket bearers will be Harold Goodman, Bob McCartney, Bert Blumer Jr., Jerry Runyan, and Bob Urban. Honorary casket bearers will be Leo Rodrigues, Earl Sullins, Dr. Allen Robson, Bob Ford, Art Rinehart, and Jack Sutliff.
The family will receive friends at the Trout Funeral Home Sunday evening from 6 until 7 p.m.
Memorials may be made to the Delbert Carlile Memorial Education Fund, c/o Paula Coppock, Pioneer Bank and Trust, P.O. Box 111, Ponca City, OK 74602.
paid obituary
Monday
Loren William Barrett - Funeral to be at 2 p.m. at Roberts Funeral Home chapel in Blackwell. Burial will be in Blackwell Cemetery.
Lloyde L. Jeffery - Funeral to be at 3 p.m. at Resthaven Mortuary Chapel,
11800 West Highway 54 in Wichita, Kan.
NEWSBRIEFS
DUI School - The state certified DUI school sponsored by Bridgeway, Inc. is offered midweek and weekends. Next school is scheduled April 17 and April 18, starting at 5 p.m. A 24-hour DUI school is also offered. Call 762-1462 for reservations and information.
CPR and First Aid - Frontier Community Education, in cooperation with the American Red Cross, is offering basic courses in CPR and First Aid. The cost of the combined courses is $35 with the CPR costing $25 if taken separately. Certification will be given following the completion of the courses. The courses will be offered April 14-16, from 6 to 9 p.m. Registration and payment are necessary by April 9. For further information contact Marian Shiever at (580) 723-4582 or (580) 723-4271.
Discover Garfield Academy - Garfield Academy is open to any first through fifth grade student in the Ponca City area. Parents are cordially invited to learn more about Garfield Academy April 7 at 11:30 a.m. at the Conoco Concourse Auditorium.
Genealogy Meeting Canceled - Due to the Genealogy Workshop being held this weekend, the meeting of the Pioneer Genealogy group will not meet Monday night.
Beanie Baby - A Princess Di beanie baby is one of many great prizes in the Ponca City Humane Society drawing to be held May 1 at the Marland Mansion. Tickets are $1 each and can be purchased at 900 W. Prospect until May 1. You do not need to be present to win, phone notification will be made. For further information, call 767-8877.
Ho-Ho-Ho Club - The Ho-Ho-Ho Club, Hallmark ornament collectors, will meet at 7 p.m. in the board room of the Ponca City Library on April 7. Any person interested in joining the club and all former members need to attend this meeting as important decisions will be made. For more information call 762-0904 or 362-3085.
Art Exhibit - Now showing at the Marland Mansion, 901 Monument Road, is the "Watercolor Oklahoma" art exhibit. Open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily, 1-5 p.m. Sunday.
Pet Call-In - Dr. Larry Wyckoff, veterinarian with Blackwell Animal Hospital, will answer phoned-in questions regarding animal care Tuesday. The event is sponsored by KLVV 88.7 FM and the question line will be open from 5-6 p.m. on 767-1400. Phone calls and questions will not be aired.
Stillwater Fly Fishers - There will be a meeting of the Stillwater Fly Fishers at the Stillwater Outfitter, 124 South Main, Stillwater, at 7 p.m. Tuesday. Main speakers will be ODWC Commissioner Mark Patton and ODWC Fisheries Division Chief Kim Erickson, speaking on fly fishing for Bass in Oklahoma. The short topic will be custom rod building, by Bill Langely, owner of Custom Angle Rods in OKC. Everyone is welcome.
Arrest - Police arrested a 19-year-old woman at 7:27 a.m. Friday from 200 block of West Gary Avenue on city warrants for two counts of assault and battery and destruction of private property.
Gun Found - A woman in the 1400 block of Clarke Street called police at 8:31 a.m. Friday to report that she had found a gun on her property.
Arrest - A 34-year-old man was arrested at 10:03 a.m. Friday from the 1000 block of North First Street on a Kay County warrant for application to revoke.
Stolen Flowers - At 10:19 a.m. Friday a woman in the 500 block of West Liberty Avenue advised police that someone had stolen flowers out her den. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Mailbox Vandalism - At 11:11 a.m. Friday police were notified of vandalism to a mailbox in the 2500 block of Windsor Road. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Arrest - Police arrested a 23-year-old man at 11:11 a.m. Friday from the 2000 block of North Fourteenth Street on a Kay County warrant for failure to pay.
Arrest - At 12:58 p.m. Friday a 36-year-old woman was arrested from the 800 block of North First Street on a city warrant.
Gun Shell Found - A woman in the 600 block of South Fourth Street called police at 1:01 p.m. Friday to report that she had found a gun shell. An officer was assigned.
Stolen Bike - At 2:41 p.m. Friday a bike was reported stolen from the 1000 block of North Pine Street. It was later recovered.
Window Broken - At 3:14 p.m. Friday police were notified that a window of a back door on a home in the 800 block of North Palm Street had been broken out. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Accident - An ambulance responded to a two vehicle accident at North Second Street and East Broadway Avenue at 3:39 p.m. Friday. However no one was taken to the hospital.
Dog Gone - At 4:05 p.m. Friday a resident in the 700 block of North Lake Street called police to report that their dog had been stolen from the back yard. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Arrest - Police arrested a 28-year-old man at 4:56 p.m. Friday for domestic assault and battery.
Arrest - A 26-year-old man was arrested at 5:34 p.m. Friday from South Fifth Street and East South Avenue for driving under restriction, no seat belt and on a Kay County warrant.
Forged Check - At 5:49 p.m. Friday Wal-Mart, 1101 East Prospect Avenue, contacted police to report a forged check. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Arrest - Police arrested a 34-year-old man at 5:50 p.m. Friday from South Fifth Street and East South Avenue on a Kay County warrant and no seat belt.
Stolen Bikes - At 5:57 p.m. Friday a man in the 800 block of Gray Street called police to report the theft of two bicycles, stolen from the 2900 block of North Fourteenth Street. A report was taken.
Arrest - At 6 p.m. Friday a 38-year-old man was arrested for assault on an officer, attempt to escape and public intoxication after he ran from police at South Eleventh Street and East South Avenue. He was taken into custody in the 900 block of South Eleventh Street and then taken to St. Joseph Regional Medical Center emergency room due to injuries received in a fight.
Stolen Bikes - At 6:31 p.m. Friday a resident in the 400 block of North Eighth Street called police to report two stolen bikes. A report was taken.
Arrest - A 33-year-old man was arrested at 8:56 p.m. Friday from the 300 block of West Chestnut Avenue for actual physical control.
Accident and Arrest - At 9:51 p.m. Friday a 37-year-old man was taken by ambulance to St. Joseph Regional Medical Center after sustaining injuries he received when he was hit by a vehicle while riding a bicycle in the 200 block of West Grand Avenue. He was later arrested for failure to stay right on a bicycle and public intoxication.
Arrest - Police arrested a 42-year-old man at 11:56 p.m. Friday from South Fourth Street and East South Avenue on a Kay County warrant for failure to pay.
Hit and Run - At 2:34 a.m. Saturday a vehicle hit and run in the 200
block of West Hartford Avenue was reported. An officer was assigned and
a report was taken.
LIFESTYLES
By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE
News Staff Writer
A Ponca City house built for an oil baron's sister is going on the market. The home at 919 East Grand was constructed for Charlotte (Lottie) Marland, who occupied it for a dozen years.
The three-story red tile barrel roofed house, just a stone's throw from E.W. Marland's first home (Cultural Center) has witnessed 80-plus years of Ponca City's rich oil and civic history.
The Spanish stucco house is located on a corner lot and features a wedge shaped front patio with a fountain. During the early days of the home splashing water fell from the fountain into a circular fish pond.
E.W. Marland's Sister
The uniqueness of Charlotte (Lottie) Marland's home is accented from the onset with an angled portal that looks out on the first home (Cultural Center) of her brother, Ernest Whitworth Marland. He was the founder of Marland Oil, which later merged with Continental Oil, now known as Conoco.
Marland is believed to have said something to the effect that "all roads in Ponca City led to him." The vista between the Cultural Center and his second home, the Marland Mansion on Monument Road, gives credence to this theory as seen in early aerial photos. So it seems natural that the large front door of his sister's home would be a visual vista to his house at 1000 East Grand.
The home that belonged to Lottie has many of the same distinctions as the Cultural Center, as might be expected since it was designed by George Forsyth. He was with the architectural firm of Soloman Layton, which designed both of the showplace homes.
Over the years Lottie's Grand Avenue landmark has had relatively few residents. Current owners, Clark and Susan Nickles, have enjoyed the roomy 5,600 square foot home for two decades. But now that their sons, Bob and Pat, and daughter Katy are out of the house, the Nickles have decided to sell the house.
They've bought a home handy to the Ponca City Country Club Golf Course and plan to pursue their favor sport on the links. The Nickles have many fond memories of the house where they reared their family.
Foyer Focal Point
One of the many special features of the home is the spacious tiled foyer that allows access to the dining and living rooms and faces the magnificent staircase banister. The stairwell's curved newel posts resemble those of the Cultural Center. A number of brides in the family have had their wedding portraits made on the stairway the Nickles revealed.
Susan laughingly says that one of the conditions of the sale will be that their daughter Katy, when she decides to get married, is granted the privilege of having her bridal photo made there on the steps.
The stately entry and the landing are lighted by sparkling lead crystal chandeliers. The chandeliers are not original, but add elegance to the house.
The semi-circle entry allows visitors to enter the formal dining room on the right, access to the hallway to the kitchen in the back, and the living room/den on the west, or go to the third floor via the stairs.
One of the notable visitors passing through this entry way was First Lady of Oklahoma Cathy Keating, who was attending an event hosted by the Nickles, prior to Gov. Frank Keating's election.
Lottie Charity Worker
Lottie Marland lived in the home from about 1916 to 1927, when she died. The funeral, said to have been attended by hundreds, was held at the home.
Lottie only resided in Ponca City for 12 years, but in that short span she had a reputation of being an active "hands on" participant in charitable projects.
She served as president of the Hospital Guild and was chairman of the annual Hospital Charity Ball. The hospital was a favorite charity of Lottie's and she established the Charlotte Marland Fund there.
Other arenas that Miss Marland was known for being involved in, and being an ardent supporter of, were the advancement of fine arts and her association in musical circles.
One claim to fame was that she was the first person to own an electric car in Ponca City. This one-seated vehicle was a sight to behold, according to onlookers, as it did not have a steering wheel but was guided by a swinging tiller similar to a boat's steering mechanism. Lottie enjoyed doing her shopping about Ponca City in this strange mode of transportation.
It was reported that after she died, July 11, 1927, at the age of 58, that "solemnity settled over the city at 5 o'clock in tribute to Miss Charlotte Marland whose burial service was read at that hour by the Rev. Frederic W. Sandford of the Episcopal Church."
Miss Marland was a supporter of the Episcopal Church and bequeathed the splendid furnishings of her home to the church. Jack and Helen Cleary had resided in the house for a year while their home at 13 Hillcrest was being built and Lottie was in Europe.
When Lottie returned home, the Clearys stayed with the Seward Sheltons at 9 Hillcrest until their home was finished. Both Cleary and Shelton had Marland connections.
Apartment House Site?
Also of historic note is that at one time E.W. Marland is said to have planned to build a large apartment building on the site, where Lottie's home was constructed. The plans called for the building to have 12 three-room apartments to house employees of the Marland Refining and the Kay County Gas companies. However, this apparently did not pan out.
After Lottie died in 1927 the house reverted to E.W. and Lydie Marland and they deeded it to the Marland Estate, Inc.
Other heirs listed in Lottie's will were Natia Rittenhouse of New York, a sister; Margaret Martel, Los Angeles, Calif., and Mrs. S.A. Kennedy, Burlingame, Calif, both maternal half sisters, and Edna Shallenburg, Los Angeles, a niece, who was the daughter of Lottie's deceased sister, Mary Marland.
Leased to the McCoys
The house was then leased to the Alex W. McCoy family from 1928 to 1940. A year later it was deeded to the H.A. Hayward family.
Hayward died in 1952 and his wife Lizzie died in 1961. At that time the property was deeded to the Hayward's son and daughter-in-law, Joe and Melba Hayward. Next owners, in 1969, were the Higdon sisters, Mary K. Higdon and Zalita Higdon Speas and in 1976 Jerald and Shirley Connelly owned the home for a short time. On May 20, 1977, the Nickles became the owners.
The home has many amenities that were prevalent in the homes of the affluent during the oil boom days. Some of these are a dumbwaiter in the butler's pantry, which has now been converted to a laundry chute. There are four and a half baths, some with the original tile.
The ceilings are 10 foot and accented with a deep crown molding. The den, on the southwest wing of the house, was originally the formal dining room, and is paneled in walnut and has a wood burning fireplace.
Fireplaces Galore!
There are four fireplaces throughout the home. Included is one in the formal dining room at the east wing, another is the bedroom above this room, and a huge brick fireplace in the basement, all using the same flue. There is also one in the den of the home, which is used most often.
The formal dining room was once the living room but was converted to a dining room. This room has grass cloth on the walls and ceiling.
The basement has a game room and a bedroom and "gym room bath," where Susan says her sons grew up. One of the features of the game room is sturdy shelving, for phonograph records, believed to have been added when the Higdon sisters owned the property. Clark has found this to be a unique way to display his collection of thousands of logo golf balls.
There is a stained glass window in the gameroom that is believed to have come from a church in Kaw City. It was "saved" when Kaw Lake was constructed.
Previous owners, and the Nickles, have made every effort to maintain the historic integrity of the residence. However, the Nickles felt it was necessary to enlarge the one-car garage, so they demolished it and rebuilt a large garage in the same Spanish style.
The garage, on the east side of the house, still faces an historic brick street, laid during the oil heydays of Ponca City.
An outside feature that Clark was instrumental in adding is a 1300-square foot patio using historic brick from Ponca City streets. He relates there are about 12,000 of the eight pound bricks encompassed in the patio.
In the beginning the home was believed to have had only two bedrooms. These were on the third floor and it was once thought that Lottie's bedroom was on the east side. During the Nickles' ownership this has been "Katy's" room.
The guest room became the Nickles master bedroom and has a number of windows, making it a pleasant sunny room. One of the present upstairs bedrooms was formerly the library.
Overall, the historic home has many windows and is well lighted by natural light. When Katy's room was redecorated the Nickles opened a wall and found a window that had been covered for years. They were able to duplicate the original molding.
Just recently, in the downstairs sun room, off the den, it was discovered that the floor underneath the carpet had some ceramic tile similar to that in the Cultural Center.
The Nickles are hopeful the selling of the property will not be the end of an era, but the continuation of the preservation of history.
By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE
News Business Editor
STILLWATER - "The best line of defense is in the cooking," said OSU Food Microbiologist Siobhan Reilly telling how to keep meat from making the consumer ill due to bacterial food pathogens (disease producing agents).
The informative session on bacterial food pathogens was held during the Food and Agricultural Products Center Research (FAPC) and Technology Center Showcase Tuesday at Oklahoma State University (OSU).
Since the Jack-in-the-Box outbreak of E. Coli 0157:H7 in January 1993, which listed 400 cases and accounted for four deaths, greater emphasis has been placed on cooking hamburgers at a higher temperature.
The hamburgers in question were cooked at 140 degrees Fahrenheit according to the OSU information. At that time 155 degrees was recommended for ground meat, now it is 160 degrees.
The infection is caused from the growth of E. coli O157:H7 in the GI (gastrointestinal) tract. The growth allows production of toxin that affects different organs. This can cause bloody diarrhea, kidney failure and other ailments.
Although the Jack-in-the Box outbreak confirmed the significance of E. coli, more recently the Hudson Foods outbreak resulted in recall of 25 million pounds of ground beef.
Sanitation Chain
At issue with this recall was "reworked" ground beef which broke the sanitation chain. Another problem was the lack of documentation as to where each questionable lot of product was shipped and this made the large recall necessary.
As a result of these cases the USDA Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP), also known as Pathogen Reduction Act, was enacted in 1996. Implementing of these regulations is designed to reduce generic E. coli and Salmonella.
Potato Salad
In the summer, potato salad is often one of the culprits in food poisoning. Reilly cautioned those making potato salad to be sure and wash the cutting board and utensils after cutting up chicken and not to cut the potatoes on the same board - mixing the juice of the chicken with the potatoes.
She also said that potato salad should not be left outside in the sun on a picnic for three or four hours. The salad should be kept in an ice chest, or preferably refrigerated.
As far as cooking beef, it was recommended that hamburgers be cooked until there isn't any red color left. As for steaks those can be rare inside if the outside of the meat is cooked to kill any microorganisms.
Irradiation
Dr. S.E. Gilliland, regents professor daily/food microbiology, Department of Animal Science, OSU, spoke favorably about the role of food irradiation. He said the idea of using irradiation to destroy microorganisms in foods is not new.
Gilliland said that irradiation is an energy input process in which food is exposed to high energy electron beams or gamma rays. The food is exposed to radiation sources in a closed chamber which is designed to contain high energy electrons and the food itself does not come into direct contact with the energy sources so it does not become radioactive.
Reasons for irradiating foods other than those related specifically to microbial food safety is that it can be used to destroy insects in some grains, prevent sprouting in potatoes, retard spoilage of some fruits, such as strawberries, and to destroy certain parasites in food, such as trichina in pork.
He added, with respect to microorganisms in foods, relatively low does of irradiation may be used to kill non spore forming microorganism and/or parasites such as trichina which can cause food borne illnesses.
According to Gilliland, the microorganisms killed by this type of irradiation would include pathogens such as E. coli and salmonella. The level of radiation to accomplish this is referred to as "radiation pasteurization."
Other speakers at the workshop were Dr. Peter Muriana, and Dr. Robert Smith. Hands-on demonstrations were given for visitors touring the FAPC Pilot Processing facilities.
The North Central District of Oklahoma Garden Clubs convention was held at the First Presbyterian Church March 28 with the Ponca City Garden Club Council as hostesses.
The life and habits of the Bald Eagle were highlighted in a film presentation and program "Eagles in Oklahoma" given by Kelly VanZandt, Park Ranger. He was introduced by Maxine Manering.
A board meeting at the Cann Center preceded the opening of the convention. Linda Sparks hosted the meeting at the Cann Center and Roberta Burns, District President for the officers and district chairman, conducted the meeting.
Convention participants were entertained with a tour, arranged by Ponca City Tourism, of Ponca City attractions on Friday. Ann Strickland and Betty Rains hosted the hospitality table prior to the business meeting with Major Marilyn Andrews welcoming the group to Ponca City. The invocation was given by Rev. David Clipson of the First Presbyterian Church. Council President Aline Heartsill called the meeting to order, Karen Howard led the Pledge of Allegiance, and Barbara Kegler led members in reciting the Gardeners' Creed. Madoline Williams read the National Conservation Pledge and Maureen Danielson conducted a memorial service.
"Queen for a Day"
The "Queen for a Day" Madoline Williams was introduced by Roberta Burns, District President and Wanda Robinson, Oklahoma State Garden Clubs state president brought greetings. Mrs. Robinson reported six "PETALS" (Protect the Environment Through Action, Learning and Service) grants that are funded by Shell Oil Company and National Council of State Garden Clubs, Inc. have been awarded Oklahoma Garden Clubs. Ponca City Council of Garden Clubs has received two of these grants, one in 1993 and 1995.
Mrs. Burns opened the business session, during which awards were presented to Petunia Club of Perry, first place, history book; Rosalie Majors, Red Rose Garden Club, accepted a second place certificate on their history book. Many other awards were presented with Robyn Rapp of the Wakita Twister Garden Club receiving numerous certificates for posters submitted by children.
Civic Development
The North Central District Chairman of Civic Development, Mavis Robison, reported the construction of the gazebo at the Cann Gardens in memory of Lyntha Muchmore. The Fay Cook memorial was used to purchase a large tree for the Cann Gardens. Last October the Ponca City Council of Garden Clubs, in a joint effort with Conoco Employees Environmental and Steve Sprehe, Ponca City Tomorrow and Department of Transportation, planted six acres of wildflowers at I-35 and Hwy 60 at the 214 exit to Ponca City.
The Department of Transportation reports there are now 833 acres in 423 locations across Oklahoma planted in wildflowers. Ponca City has the two plantings at the west and one at the north entrance in wildflowers. The "Plants for Pleasure" sale during the Iris Festival is a primary source for funds, which are matched by Conoco, to make these plantings possible. Plans are also underway for the June 6 Herb Festival to be held at the Cann Gardens.
Social Event
A "break" and door prizes distributed by Linda Sparks and Barbara Younger followed the business session. Mavis Robison gave the luncheon grace. The luncheon was prepared and served by the Presbyterian Women. The meeting concluded with an attendance report by Rosalie Majors, Roberta Burns made the announcements and Aline Heartsill the acknowledgments.
Grace Stout of Guthrie gave the courtesy resolution, recognizing the Ponca City members for their work in making this convention "one of the best!" She thanked The First Presbyterian Church and the Rev. Mr. Clipson for the hospitality extended to them; Mayor Andrews and the city merchants that provided the door prizes. )
In addition to the chairman, Aline Heartsill, those assisting with preparations included Mavis Robison, registration, programs and name tags; Eleanor Coates, photography and calligraphy; Iris Club, corsages, hospitality; Ann Strickland and Betty Rains, plant table; Mary Copeland and Lucille Grant, table decorations; Jannie Ross and Council members, table favors; Maureen Danielson and committee, special gifts; Linda Sparks, tablecloths; Red Rose Garden Club and table hostesses, Rita Robbins, Helen Spore, Delores Letourneau, Helen Bozarth, Florence Whiting, Helen Widner and Eva Ballard.
The State Convention will be at Bartlesville, OK, April 19-21 and the National Convention at Denver, Colo., on June 4 and 5.
The 1998 Oklahoma Little Miss of America Pageant was conducted March 21-22 in Oklahoma City at the Clarion Hotel and Convention Center. Winner of the 1998 Oklahoma Young Miss of America division was Errin R. Rutherford,14, of Ponca City. She is the daughter of Richard and Teresa Rutherford, 804 Greenbriar Road.
The eighth-grade student at Ponca City Mid-High is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joe D. Bates of Ponca City and Mr. and Mrs. R. W. Rutherford of Peggs.
As division winner she received a five-foot tall trophy, $100 Savings bond; monogrammed sash, tiara, floral bouquet, rhinestone crown pin and necklace and a paid $200 entry fee to the National Finals in Hollywood, Calif.
In addition to the division title Miss Rutherford received a trophy, sash and tiara as winner in four events: talent (jazz dance); supermodel, portfolio and overall beauty.
Mr. and Mrs. Billy J. Golay have established a home in Ponca City following their recent wedding at the Second Baptist Church. The double ring vows were solemnized by the Rev. Paul Graham and the musical program included taped music selected and prepared by the couple.
The bride, the former Elizabeth A. Jones, is the daughter of Janetta Powelson, 1613 Hudson, and Hayden Jones, 204 North Sunset. Golay is the son of Rick and Glenna Golay, 103275 Leatherman Road.
The bride wore a full length gown of white satin designed with a high, illusion neckline highlighted with beadwork and sequins on a lace applique. The bodice was adorned with re-embroidered lace appliques complemented by beadwork and each sleeve was similarly detailed. Illusion cut-outs marked the pouffed sleeves. The scalloped lace hemline of the gown and cathedral length train was accentuated by lace cutouts outlined with pearls. Her veiling was secured by a beaded floral headpiece and she carried a bouquet of burgundy roses with pearl streamers.
Maid of Honor was Kalen Krenn and Lori Keeler, sister of the bridegroom, was bridesmaid. Each wore a teal colored satin dress with short, pouffed sleeves and full skirts. They carried individual bouquets similar to that carried by the bride. Attired in a white satin dress like the bride's was the flower girl, Isabella Jones, niece of the bride. Ringbearer was Christopher Dabell, nephew of the bridegroom. Best Man was John Golay, uncle of the bridegroom, and serving as groomsman was Neal Goodenough. Ushers were Wes Graham and Floyd Jones and lighting the candles were Kyle Graham and Sarah Graham. Harriet Simpson attended the guest book.
Following the ceremony a reception was held in the fellowship hall of the church. Hosting the event were sisters of the bride, Missy and Rachel Jones and a cousin, Paula Graham. Assisting with the reception were Marsha Baldridge, Myrna Shelton, Janet Knight and Sandy Irwin.
What do you get when you combine over 1,000 Norman fourth graders, several hands-on art activities, and twice-yearly tours of museum exhibitions from folk art to contemporary lithography? Hopefully, children who grow up to be enthusiastic about art and museums.
That's the idea behind the pARTner project at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art, which brings staff and volunteers into the classroom and students in to the museum. "A museum is not a place for those who know about art," says Stephanie Foster, assistant curator of education at the Museum of Art. "We want people to realize, from an early age, that a museum is a living, vital place, where they can come to experience, talk about, and interact with art. We want our visitors to look forward to coming back."
The pARTner project, funded primarily by the Oklahoma Arts Council, relies on voluntary teacher participation. Currently, over 1,000 fourth-grade students a year benefit from the program, and all of Norman's public schools have participated at some time.
The Osage Tribal Museum in Pawhuska announces the additional of locally-made candles to its growing list of gift shop items. Keepsake Candles, Inc., Bartlesville, is now supplying the Tribal Museum with some of its newest products, including "Echoes", the Native American inspired candle line. Also available are votive candle gift packages and jar candles especially designed for the Osage Tribal Museum's 60th anniversary celebrations this year.
"We are very excited to be working with Councilwoman Rosemary Wood and Catherine Wilson of the Tribal Museum on this project. We think this will be a very rewarding partnership for both sides," said Karen Ririe-Distefano, Keepsake Candles.
For the Ririe Family, owner of the Bartlesville business, this venture is more than just a business arrangement. Ed Ririe, founder in 1969 of the candle factory along with wife Alice, is of Osage descent. His father, Otis E. Ririe, was among the original Allottees. He was the son of Cyrus Ririe and Josephine Chouteau from the Skiatook area. "By helping the gift shop raise funds for the museum's operations, we help the museum's efforts to preserve Osage heritage and culture," said Ririe-Distefano.
The candles will be available along with many centennial gift items already at the Museum. Visitors can choose from T-shirts, hats, mugs, decals, postcards and posters. They will also be able to soon browse an expanded book selection.
The Osage Tribal Museum and Gift Shop are open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information call (918) 287-4622.
To make fluffy chicks for Easter - use pompons. Use small triangles of orange felt for the beaks and yellow felt triangles for the wings. Use dots of paint for the eyes. Glue pompons to a small circle of heavy paper for a stand according to the Kay County FCE newsletter.
The engagement of Elissa Lynn Grassfield to Timothy Scott Frickenschmidt has been announced by Steve and Ann Grassfield of Grapevine, Texas. The prospective bridegroom is the son of Mike and Brenda Frickenschmidt of Enid. A June 13 wedding in Colleyville, Texas is planned.
Miss Grassfield, granddaughter of Verlee Gardner of Newkirk and the late John J. Gardner, plans to graduate in May from Oklahoma State University. She is a member of Kappa Alpha Theta sorority. Frickenschmidt also plans to graduate in May from OSU where he is affiliated with Sigma Nu fraternity.
Amanda Leigh Benskin and Dean Allen Desmarteau are planning a June 19 wedding at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Emporia, Kan. The bride-elect is the daughter of Mary and Kevin Bush and the prospective bridegroom is the son of Linda Desmarteau and Duane and Roxanne Desmarteau, all of Emporia. Miss Benskin is the granddaughter of Maurice and Jackie Johnson of Ponca City.
The future bride attended schools in Ponca City and graduated from Emporia High School. She plans to graduate in May from Emporia State University with a degree in communications. Desmarteau plans to graduate in May from Baker University with a degree in biology and pre-medicine.
Celebrating 40 years of marriage, the Rev. and Mrs. Thomas Roughface of Bethany will be honored with a dinner and dance April 11 at the Ponca Tribal Cultural Center in White Eagle. All family and friends are invited to attend the event, which begins at 2 p.m. A traditional dinner will be served.
A church decoration party was the first meeting for the Rev. Mr. Roughface and the former Patricia Greenwood. The couple was united in marriage Jan. 11, 1958 in Oklahoma City. The couple has served churches in Oklahoma City, Pawnee, Clinton and White Eagle.
In addition, the minister has served as District Superintendent for the Methodist Church, worked in the conference office in Oklahoma City and is now conference superintendent for the Oklahoma Indian Missionary Conference. He was recently awarded an honorary doctorate in divinity from Oklahoma City University.
Mrs. Roughface holds associate and bachelor degrees in nursing. She is retired from the Midwest City Regional Hospital where she was charge nurse for many years. Preserving and carrying on traditional Ponca tribal values has been an important part of the couple's marriage they said. Mrs. Roughface, who is a Chickasaw, has embraced her husband's Ponca tribe.
Celebrating with the couple will be their six children and their families: Jacquie Harrison, her husband, George, and four children of Choctaw; Thomas Jr. of Albuquerque, N. M.; Diana Fitzpatrick, husband Richard, and three children of Ponca City; James, his wife, Diane, and three children, also of Ponca City; Lisa Roughface and her child form Bethany.
Hosted by the couple's children, the event will feature the head staff of Don Patterson, Tonkawa, emcee; Henry Collins, Ponca, head singer; Ron Plumley, Otoe, head man dance; Lucy Kemble, Creek, head lady dancer, and Tyrone and Donna Poore, Ponca/Kiowa, cooks.
TOPS OK 308 Chapter met Monday evening with Donna McCoy calling the meeting to order. Ann Stuever gave the devotional, entitled "The Comfort of His Love". Audrey Garroutte led the TOPS Pledge, and Ruth Garroutte led the KOPS Kreed.
Natalie McCoy called the roll and Betty Flower gave the weight report. Loretta Riley was the best loser for the week and Maxine Reeves won the "Ha-Ha" pot.
Joan Hendrickson gave the program entitled "The Truth About Your Diet", and awarded door prizes to Edith Smith and Ruth Garroutte. It was announced that next week will be installation of new officers.
There was also a discussion of the workshop which TOPS OK 308 will be hosting Saturday, April 18 at Albright United Methodist Church in Ponca City from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The theme is to be "Spring Fling".
TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) is a non-profit organization whose members desire to lose or maintain weight. It neither sells nor endorses products. Members are encouraged to develop individual exercise programs, and contests are used to encourage weight loss .
Brief programs are presented each week and visitors are welcome to attend the meetings. Weigh-in time is 6:15-6:55 and meetings are at 7 p.m. on Mondays. For more information contact: Betty Flower, 765-5448.
The Northeast District Achievement Auditions, sponsored by the Ponca City Branch of the Oklahoma Music Teachers Association, were held March 28 at First United Methodist Church.
Seventy-three students were entered in the audition. Students were adjudicated by Claudette Hudelson, Broken Arrow; and Kristal Hennessey, Stillwater.
OMTA teachers entering students included: Becky Dye, Jenarold Jones, Roberts Motz, Deena Neely, Kay Sahai, Katy Tucker, and Kathleen Wimberley, Ponca City; and Virginia Wheeler, Enid.
All students receiving a rating of I-Plus, I or I-minus are eligible to participate in the State Achievement Auditions May 15 and 16 at the University of Central Oklahoma, Norman.
Those students receiving a rating of I-plus included: Alicia Allen, Chelsie Baldwin, Megan Benyshek, Stephanie Council, Jordan Davis, Kent Dennis, Nicole Hardy, Maria Hester, Michelle Hindergardt, Erika Jones, Cari Lehman, Elise Hagood, Tyler Fender, Jacey Graham, Molly McCloud, Maddie McDaniel, Meg McDaniel, Jennifer Miller, Daniel Quinn, Jeremy Ricketson, Angela Skaggs, Joseph Skaggs, Whitney Thilsted, Lauren Wiehle and Colette Young.
Other students eligible to attend the State Achievement Audition are Jennifer Arner, Kyle Baldwin, Caitlin Brown, Colby Bunch, Jennifer Christian, Elizabeth Connelly, Molly Correll, Erica Dennis, Jenna Enevoldsen, Will Emig, April Forcum, Jason Ford and Thomas Hawley.
Also, Brianna Hermanson, Charlcy Hermanson, Andy Killingsworth, Brian Killingsworth, Sarah Killingsworth, Megan LaBlue, Amanda Lee, Tiffany Long, Shannon Love, Jauncy McCulley, Jamie McGugan, Linda Mena, Alex Nichting, Kisha Oakes and Janette Pameticky.
Also Amy Patel, Asha Patel, Patrick Quinn, Jamie Reiss, Jessica Ricketson, Chassity Sisco, Laura Stangeland, Amanda Stone, Micah Thompson, Candice Vandeven, Jerod Vap, Amanda Wiles, Aaron Wright, Micah Wright, Rachel Wuerflein and Natalie Yozzo.
Area residents won't want to miss the Annual Ponca City Herb Festival on June 6 at the Cann Gardens. Nestled among the garden paths will be many booths selling crafts, herbal products, herbs and more.
Other festival activities include demonstrations and free seminars held throughout the day in the Cann home and on the grounds with topics ranging from growing, drying, and cooking with herbs, herbs for health, edible wild plants, herb vinegars, aromatherapy, potpourri and more. In addition, plans for strolling musicians as well as horse and buggy rides, are being worked on for this year's entertainment.
The money raised by Sage, Rosemary, and Thyme Garden Club will be used to enhance the public gardens of Ponca City.
For more information or to join Sage, Rosemary and Thyme Garden Club, please call Helen Widner at 767-1076 or Mary Anne Potter at 767-1957. A web site has been developed for the Ponca City Herb Festival.
The website address is: www.onlineshops.com/herbfest. The site provides information to visitors and vendor forms.
Ponca Prairie Pleaters
Ponca Prairie Pleaters will meet Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. at Southside Baptist Church. Joanie Bowen and Lila Hudgins will teach a class on Madeira applique. For more information please call Cindy, 767-1289, or Cheryl, 762-9618.
The Oklahoma Garden Clubs annual convention will be April 19-21 at the Holiday Inn, 1410 SE Washington Blvd., Bartlesville. Reservation deadline is April 10 with Ann Tribble, 727 Concord Drive, Bartlesville, Ok 74006. Registration cost is $5 for all events and $3 for one event. Sunday dinner and entry fee to Prairie Song is $20; Monday breakfast, $6; luncheon, $9.95; awards banquet, $13, and Tuesday brunch, $7.50.
Local musician Carolyn Hook will present a short program of classical and not-so-classical music when members of Twentieth Century Club meets April 10 at the Ponca City Cultural Center at 1 p.m.
Hook is a native of Woodward, and was further educated at Oklahoma City University, where she completed bachelor and master degrees in piano performance. Her career has included the position of concert soloist with regional orchestras, concert recitalist, professional accompanist, teacher, organist, and composer arranger. She is employed at First Christian Church as organist, and is active in Federated Music Club and American Guild of Organists in Ponca City.
Ms. Hook is also a member of the Davanzatti Duo with Mary Lindsay, cellist. They will be performing at the OK Mozart Festival in Bartlesville in June.
Mrs. A. P. Whipple, president of 20th Century Club, will conduct the business session. Greeters will be Mrs. Richard Parker, Mrs. W. W. Rodgers, Mrs. M. D. Timberlake, Mrs. Carl Renfro, Mrs. Don Stephens and Mrs. James Throop. An executive Board meeting will precede the regular meeting.
Members of the First Christian Church CWF met for a luncheon Thursday at the fellowship hall of the church. Hostesses were members of the Guild and Sarah Group. Guests for the occasion were Richard Stone and Russell Wallace.
Ruth Stone introduced Chris Schilling, who gave the invocation from Ephesians and a meditation from the Common Book of Prayer. Decorations for the luncheon tables included bunny replicas, Easter eggs, violets and ceramic figurines.
Program speaker was Jane Sheets with the Department of Human Services. She is a Po-Hi and Oklahoma State University graduate. Ms. Sheets spoke to the group about "Protective Services for the Elderly." She discussed "elder abuse", the mistreatment or neglect of an older person, and what can be done for the victim. The speaker said the DHS maintains a 24-hour statewide toll-free telephone number for reporting suspected abuse. More information on the subject is available from Adult Protective Services, 405-521-3660 and the Aging Services Division, 405-521-2327.
The March meeting of the Fun and Fundamental group was held at Perkins Restaurant in Ponca City. Wanda Hutcherson, president, called the meeting to order and led the members in reciting the OAFCE Creed.
Devotions were given by the hostess, Nettie Cox. Roll call was answered by a use for soda and vinegar by six members. Plans for the 590th anniversary of the club were discussed.
Mary Ruth Leatherman, Nettie Cox and Pearl Fitch made plans to attend the district meeting at Frontier School at Red Rock. Nancy Tindel gave the lesson on uses of soda and vinegar in the home. Leaflets were also distributed. Contest prizes were won by Wanda Hutcherson and Pearl Fitch. The April meeting will be hosted by Mary Ruth Leatherman with Dorothy Tanner as lesson leader.
The recent meeting of the Lilac Garden Club was held at Westminster Village. Mrs. Josephine Jones, hostess, was assisted by her daughter, Sandria Borbone of Indianapolis, Ind.
Helen Bozarth, president, opened the meeting and members repeated the Gardener's Creed. Florence Riesen, secretary, read the minutes and Neva Onstot, treasurer, gave the financial report.
The meeting was highlighted by a program entitled "Pocketful of Spring" and presented by Mrs. Betty Venzke. In her comments she said "I shake the wet snow off the rhododendron and wonder if my clematis has survived the deep freeze." Ms. Venzke also said "in the garden, the earth is finally workable - not warm, but ready for cold crops: spinach, onions, Swiss chard and snap peas." The speaker also related other information about her garden.
Sheryl Jones and Douglas R. Martin were united in marriage March 14, 1998 in a 6:30 p.m. ceremony at the First Baptist Church chapel. The double ring vows were officiated by the Rev. James W. Clare. The bride is the daughter of Elbrige and Margaret Orr, 1129 Rosedale, and Martin is the son of Carol Martin, 745 Marland Drive, and the late Floyd Martin.
Marcella Johnson, organist, played traditional wedding selections which included "Ave Maria," "Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring" and Pachelbel's "Canon in D." The processional was the Bridal Chorus from Lohengrin and the recessional was "Crown Imperial" arranged for the organ by the bridegroom.
As the candles were lighted a girls ensemble, under the direction of Cathy Byard, sang "Rise My Love, My Fair One" with a flute accompaniment. As the mothers were seated the ensemble sang "I'll Walk Beside You," a song that had been sung at the bride's parents wedding and at the bride's daughter's wedding. As the Unity candle was lit the ensemble sang "Father's Love."
Members of the en