From The Pages Of The Ponca City News, Sunday, April
19, 1998
LOCAL
Governor Lashes Out at Muegge
Editorial
Commission Runs Out of Patience With Houses
21 Po-Hi Students Heading for Boys State
Reese's Covenant Marriages Bill Revived
City Calendar
Arts Adventure '98 Participants Being Sought for Annual Camp
'Primary Colors' Offers Insights Into Politics
'Taste and Tasteless' Features Tasty Food
Famous Director Plans Ponca City Appearance
Oklahoma Jubilee Show Promotes Area Tourism
Area Students Score Points at NOC Contest
Annual Relay For Life Activities Slated June 5
Native American Heritage Week Activities Planned
MS Support Group To Meet Monday
Ponca City Sets Kindergarten Enrollment Time
Kildare Plans Enrollment For '98 Kindergarten
ANA Meeting Set Wednesday
DEATHS
Obituaries
Thomas Edward Willis
Services Pending
Joseph Hamilton Butt
NEWS BRIEFS
LIFESTYLES
Artist Houses Cartoon and Celebrity Museum in Garage
Singles Network Names Plans
Little News
Modern Moms Plan Convention
Soroptimist Present Three Women With 'Making a Difference' Awards
Alysa Bottoms Future Bride
Xi Zeta Lambda Chapter Names Plans
Topiary Topic For Red Rose Garden Club
Engagement is Announced
Conestoga Campers Planning Dinner in May
Christie Hendrix Engaged
Daniels Will Be Honored At Reception
Bits and Pieces
Jennifer Brown Becomes Bride of Rosen D. Rennie
Steve Crank Speaker For Republicans
Porsche Ann Reimer Bride Of Thomas James Keese
Recital Will Help Students With Event Expenses
Couple Celebrates 50 Years
Layna Morgan Bride-Elect
May 23 Wedding Planned
Couple To Wed in Lamont
Couple Will Marry May 2
Pair Planning May 16 Vows
Presbyterians Honor Two Women
TOPS Chapter Holds Meeting
Democrat Club Plans Review
Pair Marks 60th Anniversary
AAUW Convention At Mansion
Wheatheart Nutrition
Ponca City Happenings
SPORTS
Baseballers Stop Losing Streak At 3
PC Soccer Teams In District Hole
PC Marathoner Started in Fun
Where Are They Now?
Golf Notes
Sports Notes
By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE
News Staff Writer
BLACKWELL - Gov. Frank Keating, in Blackwell Friday to address the Kay Electric Cooperative annual meeting, blasted Sen. Paul Muegge on Muegge's home turf during a news conference.
Responding to a letter written by Muegge suggesting that Keating was "raiding" state pension funds to help pay for other programs, Keating said, "That is absolutely, irredeemably false."
John English of Keating's office had responded earlier to the accusation in Muegge's letter mailed to constituents saying, "We are not taking any money out of the pension funds. We are only adjusting future payments going into the pension funds.
"In recent years, the state has made additional contributions to some of the funds and those subsidies are no longer needed since the funds now have more than enough assets to cover the benefits that have been earned to date."
Keating said, "The House proposal was to take some of the income from some of the pensions and divert that. Our proposal is not to divert anything from pensions but to take revenue streams like from insurance and motor vehicles that would otherwise fill up fully funded pensions like the Oklahoma State Employment Pension and Law Enforcement and put it into Firefighters (pensions) and others that need money."
Asked if the proposed Quality Jobs Act for rural Oklahoma is going to be revised since, as it stands now, industries coming in to Ponca City would have to pay $14 an hour or better to qualify, Keating said he felt it would be revised.
"The blueprint is before us on how to grow rural Oklahoma. The plan is there, but the legislative leadership is resistant because it does require some of their traditional views of the world to be challenged and it requires some crockery breaking," Keating said.
He explained, "When I was running for governor I talked about Oklahoma being too poor for its own good and that we need to do a lot of things differently and we have done some things differently in the last three years.
"I talked about tax cuts, right-to-work, making schools tougher and infrastructure. The four years before I was governor not one cent went into road and highways except the tax revenue that was already earmarked. The whole funding went down 20 percent because of cars that get better gas mileage using less fuel and this means less income for the state."
Telling how the infrastructure funding has improved, Keating said the first session the legislature approved $18 million, the second session $19 million, third session a billion dollars and this session it will be more. He indicated Rainy Day funds will be accessed for the development of infrastructure.
Keating told about the bipartisan Oklahoma 2000 analysis on Oklahoma's slow growth and Oklahoma's income gap. The panel identified the four things that must be addressed or revisited to make Oklahoma rich.
"One was the absence of infrastructure, and we have addressed that with $3 billion invested in roads and highways over the next four to five years. That is very significant, the most money ever spent in the state to build our infrastructure," Keating said.
The second issue addressed by the study was that business taxes were too high. "We need to reduce the marginal income tax rates on businesses and corporations. That will be difficult to do with the present composition of the Legislature, but that clearly one of the recommendations of this Oklahoma 2000 panel," he said.
An ongoing issue is the absence of right-to-work, Keating said. "Again that is simply one that isn't going to be moved at all until we get a more business friendly Legislature. I don't mean take over. However we need just get a few more Republicans so that the western Oklahoma Democrats, who have a tendency to be more pro-business, will be willing to help."
Another area of improvement outlined by Oklahoma 2000 was more productivity. "We need to get more kids to go to college and graduate from college - make high schools tougher. The core curriculum - four years of math, science, English and social studies - was not addressed in the report, but they did say 'too many kids are not ready for college, too many kids drop out, not because of money but because they are simply not prepared.'"
"Our blueprint, the Oklahoma 2000 program, commissioned by the Oklahoma State Chamber, collectively mirrors exactly what I am trying to do. I would just hope that the legislature would put aside partisanship and agree if we win together - we win together."
The Wall That Heals
As the three-day visit of "The Wall" draws to a close today, feelings of joy, sadness, exhileration, and peace ripple through the crowds that pass in quiet reverance before the massive black monument honoring the many young Americans who gave their lives in Vietnam more than two decades ago.
Like the original Vietnam Memorial in Washington, D.C., "The Wall That Heals" traveling exhibit provides a link to those days in the 1960s and '70s when many brave young men and women ventured to Southeast Asia in the defense of freedom.
Although
By PATTI PFEIFFER
News Staff Writer
You need only to mention the houses at 409 and 411 South Fourth Street to Ernest and Marie Kelly to bring tears to their eyes. Tuesday morning, as the couple desperately tried to obtain a temporary injunction, demolition of their rental houses had already begun.
"We had no idea they were going to tear our houses down," Marie said with tears in her eyes. "We tried to stop it, but because they began the demolition work so early in the morning, we weren't allowed any time to get an injunction."
The demolition of their rental houses came before the city commission last Monday night. It was due to the fact that the matter had previously been before the commissioners that no mercy was granted to Ernest and his rental houses.
According to Ernest he had met with City Building Inspector James Brown the morning of the meeting. "I had my file and explained the repairs and remodeling that had been made and he only kept saying 'come to the meeting tonight,'" Ernest said. "I wasn't going to ask him to come see what had been done. I wanted him to ask me to see it."
He appeared at the city commission meeting but no one there asked to see it either. He explained his situation to the commissioners, stating he had hired several different contractors to do work on the houses but they had failed to do the work they had been hired to do.
He also told the commissioners he had spent several thousand dollars on repairs to the structures and finally had hired a competent contractor he was certain would now complete the rest of the work.
Although he asked for additional time, his pleas fell on deaf ears. The commissioners awarded the demolition contract and with that, the demolition wheels were set in motion.
The South Fourth Street houses have a history and it was part of that history which lead to their demise. Twice the structures were declared a nuisance and twice Ernest promised to make the necessary repairs. The last time the matter came before the commission was in May 1997, when once again additional time for the repairs was granted.
This time he would not be so lucky. With file in hand, Ernest approached the podium and made an appeal, which would ultimately be his last and final appeal.
"It is embarrassing to me to have to be here in front of you again and I apologize for it," he said as he explained to the commissioners the work that had been done to the houses.
According to Ernest, work was and had been done on both structures. "I spent over $8,000 on repairs on the house at 409 and another $10,000 on the house at 411 and they are nearly 'livable.'"
The repairs, he said, included replacing the plumbing, replacing windows with storm windows, electrical improvements at 409 and a new roof, new siding, new floors and a remodeled bathroom at the house at 411.
Inspector Brown was also present at Monday night's city commission meeting and admitted that some progress had been made on the houses and stated they were now secure.
It was too little to late. Disappointed Commissioners Chris Hand and Tom Leonard, who had both previously been in favor of a time extension, made certain they would not be disappointed again, voting for the demolition of the structures.
"I don't like to tear down people's houses," Hand stated. "But I went out on a limb for you as one of my first acts as a commissioner and then you promised 6-8 weeks for the repairs to be completed."
Although Commissioner Dick Stone suggested tabling the matter for two weeks, Leonard made a motion to accept the demolition bid. "I feel terribly let down and I wish we would have taken this action last year." Leonard said. "That is my motion and I am sticking to it."
The motion passed unanimously. It will cost the city only $3,450 to end their history with the Kellys and destroy the two houses that Ernest owned.
Ponca City residents for 45 years, the Kellys say it's not the fact that the houses were destroyed as much as the fact that they had no time to prevent it.
"The commissioners and city officials willfully and capriciously demolished those buildings without inspecting them and without allowing us due process," Marie said tearfully. "I am not out for anyone personally because it is not a personal thing with me, but I do have a very deep interest to see that justice is done."
Her husband agrees. "I am a constitutionalist and believe that people have a right to own property and the government should not intervene as long as progress is being made," Ernest adamantly stated. "Our options will be pursed."
As options are pursued the demolition on South Fourth Street continues.
Twenty-one Ponca City students will represent the American Legion Huff-Minor Post No. 14, along with one from Frontier School at Red Rock at the 1998 Oklahoma Department of the American Legion Boys State May 23-30 on the campus of Northeastern Oklahoma A&M in Miami.
The number was determined by the local American Legion Post 1997 membership, according to Charles H. McCollum, Boys State chairman. Post No. 14 had 1,340 members of that date, Commander Chuck Gregg pointed out.
Boys State is considered a great opportunity for rendering a distinct and essential service in the promotion of good citizenship among the youth of Oklahoma.
The purpose of the American Legion in creating and directing Boys State is to provide a means of giving practical instruction in the mechanics of government to boys of high school age, and to help inculcate in each boy present a deep sense of obligation to his community, his state and his nation.
Boys State provides students who have completed their junior year in high school an opportunity to learn through experience the processes of government from city to state level.
The entire program is non-partisan and non-political in every sense. The sole purpose is to enable the young citizens to grasp the meaning of the responsibility which they will be called upon to assume when they become adults.
Parents whose sons attend Boys State will find their boys have not been exposed to any indoctrination on controversial issues. The directors of Boys State believe the home is the basic organization of all government and of all loyalty. In this belief, the Legion studiously refrains from taking any action - or promoting any cause - in Boys State that would in any way infringe upon the belief and concept of a boy's family group.
McCollum further pointed out that democratic processes are closely followed in all activities of the session, and each youth in attendance is designated a "citizen." Boys State is a leadership development program.
A special Boys State briefing session will be held in the Legion Post home, 407 West South Avenue at 7 p.m., on May 4. The meeting is for all area participants, parents and sponsors. Post Department Commander Roselyn Utech will handle orientation. She has announced that each Boys State citizen who signs up and pays his NEO tuition, will be awarded up to two hours college credit for attendance at Oklahoma Boys State.
The staff of Boys State has been carefully selected from men who have had considerable experience working in various types of youth activities. These men supervise and direct the various activities of the various groups, or cities, into which Boys State is divided. Each city has three counselors.
Above all, McCollum said, an educational program designed to give young men a practical working knowledge of the structure of state and local governments and their operations, there will also be ample time for recreation and play for all - softball, basketball, volleyball, and other sports.
Each sponsor paid the enrollment fee of $135 to defray its delegate's expense for the week, McCollum explained.
Boys Staters
Tanner Ray, son of Janet and Keni Ray, 2109 El Camino, is being sponsored by Ponca City Rotary Club. He carries a 3.0 grade point average while participating in football and wrestling at the high school level, and has also been involved in Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Student Council, and Foreign Language Club. Tanner is a member of the First United Methodist Church in Ponca City.
Sponsored by the Ambucs Club, Chris Keim carries a 3.59 GPA. He is the son of Jeanie and Steve Keim, 708 Brentwood. Chris is a member of the Ponca City High School Foreign Language Club, Ponca City High School Chorale, First United Methodist Youth Fellowship and Youth Handbell Choir, and serves as vice-chairperson of Stillwater District Council of Youth Ministries.
Paul Paschal, son of Jimmy and Suzy Paschal, 804 South Tenth, is being sponsored by Smith International. Paul named All-State Cross Country and is a member of the National Honor Society and Chorale. He has appeared on the Faculty Honor Roll, Who's Who in America, and Who's Who in Sports. An honor student, Paul carries a 4.27 GPA.
Pioneer Rotary will be sponsoring Nathan Zimmerman, son of Shirley and David Zimmerman, 719 North Fourteenth. With a grade point average of 4.05, Nathan has been active in cross country, basketball, track and field. He is also an Explorer Scout. He participated in flood relief in Grand Forks, N.D., and worked for his dad at Rose Stone Inn and for Neal Lawrence and Carol Barnett, building cabinets and cleaning rental houses. He participated in the ORU basketball camp and hosted foreign exchange students. He is a member of National Honor Society, is listed on the Academic honor roll and belongs to the Prince of Peace Lutheran Church.
Jared Sindelar, son of Jim and Janet Sindelar, 120 North Ash, is being sponsored to Boys State by the Kiwanis Club. He carries a 2.89 GPA. Jared has been a member of Fellowship of Christian Athletes and is a three-year varsity letterman in football and a two-year varsity letterman in soccer. This year he is a member of the Medical Explorer Post, and the Foreign Language Club. Jared is also a Red Cross certified lifeguard.
Sponsored by NationsBank, Matt Gray, son of Dr. Patrick and Cindy Gray, 1150 Rockcliff, had served as acting Student Council District V president. He is vice president elect of the Student Council and serves on the Youth Traffic Court. He plays football, wrestles, runs track and plays golf. Matt is a member of Youth and Government, and Student Council, belongs to the Foreign Language Club, Medical Explorer Post and Explorer Post No. 69. Matt also serves as a Youth Deacon at First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ).
Son of Rickey and Oliver Engle, 908 Monument, Tom Engle carries a 3.28 GPA. He is being sponsored by the Ponca City Rotary Club. He is on the Faculty Honor Roll, has played basketball, and was an outstanding defensive player during his junior year when he was named to the Academic All-State Team. He runs cross country and lettered last year. He is a member of Post 69 Boy Scouts, Eagle Scout candidate this year, works with Habitat for Humanity and Will Rogers Boy Scout Camp. Tom is a communicant of Grace Episcopal Church where he serves as an acolyte. He is a Red Cross blood donor, referees for youth games and belongs to the YMCA. He has also been a Camp Oakerhater Youth Counselor and during the summer is employed by Bobby Wilson Roofing. Tom was Homecoming attendant during his junior year.
Dick Engle, son of Rickey and Oliver Engle, is being sponsored by Sons of the American Legion No. 14. He has been on both the Faculty and Principal Honor Rolls, plays in the Big Blue Marching Band, Symphonic Orchestra and Jazz Band. He plays soccer, belongs to Boy Scout Troop 90, serving as senior patrol leader. He attended Philmont Scout Camp and Will Rogers Scout Camp, is an Eagle Scout candidate and belongs to Order of the Arrow. He serves as an acolyte at Grace Episcopal Church and is active in the youth group. He has also served as a youth counselor at Camp Oakerhater. Dick has a GPA of 3.88.
Son of Donna and Stan Larrison, 1517 West Broadway, Scott Larrison is being sponsored by American Legion Post No. 14. Scott is an honor student and member of National Honor Society. He serves as co-president of Fellowship of Christian Athletes, belongs to Youth Alive and is a member of the First United Methodist Church where he serves as liturgist and member of the administrative board. He has lettered in basketball, played baseball and been on the track team. Scott participants in handbells, youth choir and youth fellowship at the church. He enjoys studying math and the sciences in school and his hobbies include studying the Bible, playing basketball, talking with friends, playing games, listening to Christian music, laughing, and sleeping.
R. Michael Galbraith, son of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Galbraith, 20 Hillcrest, is being sponsored by Pioneer National Bank. He carries a 3.55 GPA and has been on the honor roll for the past three years. He is listed in Who's Who Among American High School Students. He has served as Junior Homeroom vice-president and Student Council representative. He belongs to the Foreign Language Club and has played football, basketball and tennis for the past three years. Michael has worked for a night janitorial service, North Park Cinema as ticket taker, concession sales and setting up movie projectors, and as a cook at Sonic Drive-In.
Chris Buck, son of Susan and Larry Buck, 921 North Fourth, is being sponsored by Home National Bank. Chris carries a 2.90 GPA. He attended High Altitude Running Camp in Gunnison in the summer of 1996 and also in 1997. He has served as youth counselor at Lake Murray Catholic Youth Camp, and National Catholic Youth Conference in Kansas City last fall. Chris belongs to the Po-Hi Chorale; lettered in cross country and track. He is currently serving on the Catholics in Action Youth Board. He was confirmed at St. Mary's Catholic Church last spring. Chris works as a projectionist at Poncan Theatre and is currently on the track team at Po-Hi.
Chris Kana is the son of John and Ginger Kana, 1500 Pioneer Road. He carries a 3.38 GPA and is being sponsored by HGH Antique Car Barn. He is active as a member of First Lutheran Church. Chris has been swimming for 11 years, and is currently a three-year letterman with the Ponca City High School swim team. He is the vice president of Post 69 Explorer Scouts. He is also the sergeant at arms, and on the State Election Committee for Youth and Government. He is a Student Council class representative. Chris was also elected treasurer for the 1998-99 school year. He is also on the Faculty Honor Roll.
Son of Martha and Kenneth Tucker, 10 Kimball Road, Patrick Tucker carries a 3.38 GPA. He is being sponsored by Noon Lions. Patrick has participated in varsity soccer, swimming, and cross country for which he received a letter. He also participates in intramurals. He is a member of the Foreign Language Club and was in the Art Club. He took part in the environmental clean-up sessions for his science classes. Outside of school, Patrick is very involved in his church and its activities, and occasionally visits at area nursing homes. Summer jobs have included a mowing business shared with a friend and a job at the Ponca City Country Club.
Owen Bullard has a GPA of 3.62 and participates in Marching Band, Wind Ensemble, Symphony Orchestra, Jazz Band, NOC Honor Band, and won a Superior Rating in District Ensemble Contest. He belongs to the Explorer Scout Post No. 69, CYO, Catholic Youth Music Ministry and is a member of St. Mary's Church. He has received an invitation to National Youth Leadership Forum on Medicine. Owen is the son of Linda and Oley Bullard, 2409 City View Road, and is being sponsored by the Masonic Lodge.
Brian Connelly, son of Ann and Mike Connelly, 1612 Dean, carries a 4.08 GPA. He is active in his church group at St. Mary's Catholic Church, Habitat for Humanity and Friendship Feast. He has been singled out as Po-Hi's Student of the Week, worked for Country General, was cross country letterman, 1997 cross country regional alternate and received the Po-Hi 1997 Geography Departmental Award. He took part in high school basketball, baseball and American Legion baseball. He has served as homeroom president, vice president, and seventh and eighth grade head basketball coach at St. Mary's School.
Lucas Elmer, son of Paula Elmer, 808 North Fourth, has a GPA of 4.21 and is being sponsored by Knights of Columbus. He is serving as junior class president, belongs to Chorale, bailiff of Youth Traffic Court, junior sergeant-at-arms for Dynamiters and serves on the Student Council. He is also active in Foreign Language Club, National Honor Society, cross country team, and Rotary Youth Leadership Award Conference. He is a projectionist for the Poncan Theatre.
Andrew England, son of Martha and Garry England, 318 North Sixth, is being sponsored by Pioneer National Bank. With a 3.50 GPA, Andrew has been on the Faculty Honor Roll. He participates in high school soccer as a three-year varsity letterman and captain. He was also Homecoming attendant. Andrew is a soccer referee and member of Explorer Post 69. He attends St. Luke's Church of the Nazarene.
Son of Bill and Marianne Geubelle, 2028 Lemon Tree, Brian Geubelle is being sponsored by Ponca City Publishing Co. Brian has a GPA of 3.8. He has been active in National Honor Society, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and Foreign Language Club. He is on the Superintendent's and Principal's Honor Rolls, and has tutored for grade school summer programs. Active in basketball and tennis, Brian has assisted at Red Cross blood drives and is a youth volunteer at his church, St. Mary's Catholic Church. He also mows lawns and does yard work.
Raymond Lahann, son of Melody Lahann, 406 North Sixth, is being sponsored by Oklahoma Natural Gas. Ray qualified for Regional Debates the past two years and went to state competition in Domestic Extemporaneous Speaking. He is a member of National Forensic League and serves as treasurer. He carries a 4.21 GPA, ranking 10th of 380. He has served as a Hospice volunteer for the past seven years.
Justin Ross, son of Rick and Nancy Ross, 408 West Fresno, carries a 3.96 GPA. He is being sponsored by the Friendly Class at First Christian Church. Justin is a member of the National Honor Society and has been on the Superintendent's Honor Roll for the past two years. He participates in high school baseball and basketball, and holds a 4.9 grade point average. He works part time at United Supermarket, and has been playing American Legion baseball for the past two summers.
Carrying a 4.0 GPA, Mark Whitt, son of Barbara and Kenney Dowler, 121 Woodbury, and Marcus White of Edmond is being sponsored by Smith International, He is a member of the National Honor Society, serves as Homeroom Class president and Student Council representative. He belongs to Youth and Government, Foreign Language Club and the Art Club. Mark does volunteer work for Poncan Theatre, Friendship Feast and City Offices. He is also active as a certified Red Cross lifeguard.
Son of Johnny and Teresa Burk, 23051 Badlands, Marland, Jacob Burk, student at Frontier School is being sponsored by Bliss Coop. Jacob is a member of National Honor Society and has a perfect attendance record for four years. He was s member of the 1995-1996 School Boy Tournament of Champions in basketball, 1996-97 Class A Boys Basketball State champions, and 1998 Class A Boys Basketball State semi-finalists. He was also a Special Olympics volunteer and participated in Oklahoma and National Horseshoe Pitchers' Association competition. He also served on the Junior Class Prom Committee. He is interested in computers, weight lifting, family cattle ranching, restoration of classic automobiles, writing short stories and drawing.
By RALPH SEWELL
News Capitol Bureau
OKLAHOMA CITY - Like everyone else, legislators win some, lose some. As of this weekend, Rep. Jim Reese, R-Nardin, has resurrected "covenant marriages" - at least in the House, and thinks it might get through the Senate.
At least, what once was killed in a Senate committee, now has a fighting chance to become law, Reese says.
In a covenant marriage, participants agree to counseling by clergy or adviser before the wedding, say they intend to stay married, and agree to seek more counseling after the marriage if there is a need.
Reese hopes it would result in fewer divorces. He salvaged his bill by inserting it in SB 1249 - a bill to straighten out some kinks in child support laws - with the consent of the House author.
Realistically, whether the amendment will survive and become law probably depends on the Senate leadership, Reese says.
Sen. Paul Muegge, D-Tonkawa, expects the Senate will consider a final version of his SB 1170 this week. That's the bill to regulate poultry growers. He says that industry pretty much has agreed to the terms in his bill.
But he says it's harder to get pork producers to pay for cleaning up the messes their pigs produce. Muegge says it will cost the state about $2 million a year to enforce the new regulations on the two industries.
"We're really talking about very modest fees that won't be a hardship on the industries that pay them," Muegge said. "I don't think anyone is going to go out of business paying about half a cent on every chicken or 25 cents on every hog they produce."
Muegge's SB 46 passed the House 98-1 last week. It would change fees the state charges to insure quality of eggs sold in Oklahoma. The House author said it would cut the fee for inspecting eggs from 4 to 3 mills a dozen, slightly reducing it for eggs produced in Oklahoma and slightly raising them for eggs produced elsewhere.
Muegge's SB 1009 also passed the House 98-0. It would legalize a new vehicle towing product which doesn't require use of a safety chain.
Reps. Jim Newport, R-Ponca City, Larry Ferguson, R-Cleveland, James Hager, D-Pawhuska, and Reese voted yes.
Puncture Slowdown
The big news for Newport last week was a 93-2 House vote accepting Senate amendments on his HB 2547, a bill to slow down folks puncturing the bodies of children. Newport's bill has gone to the governor.
Except for earrings, HB 2547 would forbid piercing of the body of a minor without written permission of a parent. Reese, Ferguson and Hager also voted yes.
All also voted yes on the bill amended to include covenant marriage.
Hager - the only Ponca City-area representative who is a Democrat - cast a vote last week when Democrats agreed to re-elect Rep. Loyd Bensen as House Speaker. Of course, that also depends on two other things. First, on Benson's re-election to the House, and second, that Democrats continue to have a House majority.
After the caucus, Benson, D-Frederick, outlined House budget ideas.
He proposed a $105 million package of wage, pension and benefit boosts for active and retired state employees.
Benson said the package includes a $900 across-the-board boost for active employees. That would cost $12.8 million.
He added the state will cover half the cost of health insurance cost for dependents of employees. That will take another $12.8 million.
The $25 monthly match money state employees can get if they put $25 aside for their retirement would be made permanent. This would cost $6.5 million.
Troopers and corrections officers would get hazardous duty pay totaling $2.5 million.
Benson said the House would honor a $55 million boost for common school education pledged in HB 1017.
The proposal gained a lukewarm response from Stratton Taylor, Senate president pro tempore. He said it formed a basis for discussion.
Which it did - and what some may consider one-up-manship. The next day, senators rushed to pass their own bill raising employee pay and benefits.
The Senate bill promises state workers a boost of five percent, or $1,200, whichever is greater, effective Jan. 1
With adding health benefits, the Senate plan could cost almost $70 million a year.
Afterward, Benson agreed with Taylor that it's a basis for discussion. That means details will be worked out in conference.
HJR 1084 was one of several controversial measures faced by senators after their long Easter weekend. It passed the Senate 30-17 without a title.
HJR 1084 would ask voters to approve financing college scholarships from Rainy Day funds or a half a percent increase in the corporate income tax. Muegge and Sen. J. Berry Harrison, D-Fairfax, voted yes.
How They Voted
Here's how Muegge, Harrison, Newport, Reese, Ferguson and Hager voted on various bills considered last week:
-HB 2260 passed the Senate 36-9. It would fine Oklahomans $100 and suspend their driver license for buying an out-of-state tag for their car. Texas tags are cheaper and Oregon sells them by mail. Muegge and Harrison voted yes.
-SB 886 which the House passed 99-2, would require tests and treatment for any prison employee who has contact with body fluids of a convict suspected of having HIV. Ponca City-area representatives voted yes.
-SB 873 passed the House 78-16. It requires health insurance plans covering teachers and state workers to include treatment for impotence and other complications which often follow prostate surgery. The bill returns to the Senate for action on House changes. Newport, Ferguson and Hager voted yes while Reese voted no.
-HB 2749, which repeals a 1997 law requiring seller of land to report the consideration to the Oklahoma Tax commission, passed the Senate 47-0. The House vote was 83-12. All Ponca City-area legislators voted yes, except. Reese.
-HB 2927, with title off, is this year's Truth in Sentencing draft. It passed the Senate 45-1. Ponca City-area senators voted yes. It passed the House earlier 90-0 but no doubt is headed for conference.
-HB 3217 would require fingerprinting of welfare applicants to prevent double-dipping. It passed the Senate 41-0. Muegge voted yes; Harrison missed the vote.
-HB 2819, passed by the Senate 45-0, would deny access to oversized vehicles on New Years' Day, Memorial Day, July 4, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day and New Year's Eve. The bill thus went to the governor. Muegge and Harrison voted in favor.
-HB 2404, passed 40-6, would let the state Wildlife Commission, set two special days for senior citizens to hunt deer. Muegge and Harrison voted yes.
-HB 2855 would allow state employees cut in a reduction in force to continue health insurance for 18 months after the separation. It passed 42-4. Muegge and Harrison voted yes.
-HB 2252, which passed 45-0, would make it a felony offense for anyone to sexually abuse nursing home occupants, with or without consent. The title is off the bill. Ponca City-area senators voted yes.
-HB 2218 is the bill to cut the state sales tax half a percent, but it has the title off. It passed the Senate 47-0. Muegge and Harrison voted yes.
-HB 3121, would allow the Wildlife Commission to revoke or deny licenses to anyone convicted of violating rules on hunting whitetail or mule deer. The bill passed the Senate 46-0 minus a title. Muegge and Harrison voted yes.
-HB 2889 passed the Senate 46-0. It would require young applicants for a driver license to pass an eighth grade reading test. Muegge and Harrison voted yes.
-SB 1429 would limit enrollment in driver education courses to students who are also enrolled in core curriculum courses matching their grade level. Ponca City-area representatives voted yes.
-HB 2947 passed the Senate 32-14 minus a title. It would ask insurance firms to offer mental health coverage. The Senate author said it would be merged into her SB 1059, which mandates such coverage. Muegge and Harrison voted yes.
-SB 1059, to require group insurance policies bought by firms with more than 50 employees to cover severe mental illness, passed the House 53-41. But an amendment added in the House would exempt firms if the cost of the policy rose by more than 3 percent. The Senate author indicated she will accept the change. Ferguson and Hager voted for; Newport and Reese against.
-SB 1245 to increase county officials' pay, passed as a floor substitute 92-5. Ponca City-area representatives voted yes.
-HB 2570 passed the House 98-0 in final form and went to the governor. It requires that those accused of rape and other sex offenses promptly be tested for HIV or other sex diseases. Ponca City-area representatives voted yes.
-SB 1353 would exempt the Department of Transportation and the Turnpike commission from the ban on entering into contracts with former employees for a year following their termination. It passed 52-43. The emergency clause failed. Ferguson and Hager voted for the bill, Newport and Reese against.
-SB 1148, which passed the House 63-33 with the title crippled, would make builders furnish drawings of plumbing to the buyer so repairmen could locate the same later less expensively. Reese, Ferguson and Hager voted for; Newport voted against.
-SB 832, to create a telemedicine advisory council, passed the House 70-30. It was returned to the Senate for action on amendments. Reese and Hager voted for; Newport and Ferguson against.
-SB 1426, amended to include wishes of Tulsa legislators bout Tulsa-Rogers University, was sent back to the Senate after the title was removed on a floor substitute. The issue still is far from settled but legislators are working toward the end. The vote was 93-6. Ponca City-area representatives voted in favor.
-SB 1198 would make bid offers to the Oklahoma State Employees Benefits Council confidential. The bill passed 92-0 after the title was removed and an amendment was added to end the confidentiality once the bid is accepted. Ponca City-area representatives voted yes.
-SB 1174 passed the House 77-17. It gives the state purchasing director more latitude in deciding when to require bids. It raises from exceeding $2,500 to $25,000 the line where bids are required. The purchasing director and bill authors contend changing the system will save the state money. Newport, Reese, Ferguson and Hager voted yes.
-SB 1073 passed the House 95-1. It would permit commissioners to give $100 bonuses once a year to county employees. It also would allow counties to use their equipment in cities of less than 2,500 population. Newport, Reese, Ferguson and Hager voted in favor.
-HB 3285 went to the governor after the House voted 85-11 to accept Senate amendments. It directs the Department of Human Services to keep open institutions at Enid and Pauls Valley using them to support individuals with development disabilities. Newport, Reese and Ferguson voted yes; Hager missed the vote.
-SB 1360, passed the House 85-13 without a title. It would transfer duties and employees of the Motor Vehicle Commission from the Tax Commission to the Transportation Department. Ponca City-area representatives voted yes.
-SB 1243, which passed the House 97-1, would make it a state crime for anyone to assist on another person's suicide. It would affect family members as well as health care professionals. Ponca City-area representatives voted yes.
-SB 1281, which passed the House 73-24, would allow local governing units and trusts to hire financial advisers. Newport, Reese, Ferguson and Hager voted yes.
-HB 2321 went to the governor after a 95-2 House vote on amendments. It would deny municipal authorities power to tax military tracts which they annex into the city limits. Ponca City-area representatives voted yes.
-SB 1072 squeaked through the House 51-46. Tulsa's courthouse requires visitors to pass through a security checkpoint. Lawyers don't like it. The bill proposes exempting judges, lawyers, employees, and real estate agents and brokers. Newport, Reese and Ferguson voted yes; Hager no.
-SB 1035, which passed the House 71-28, would require the original seal of Oklahoma be displayed at the Oklahoma Territorial Museum in Guthrie. Reese and Ferguson voted yes; Newport and Hager no.
-SB 1420 passed the House 91-9. It would divert $2.5 million of driver license fees to finance driver education. Newport and Hager voted yes; Reese and Ferguson no.
Items for the City Calendar should be brought in or telephoned (765-3311) to Bob Patterson, at the Ponca City News, by Thursday noon.
Anytime
FOLOBS (Friends of Library Ongoing Book Sale), anytime the Ponca City Library is open, North of Multimedia Room (downstairs)
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Arts Adventure '98, a two-week camp for Kay County students who have completed the fifth through ninth grade at the end of the current school year, is set for July 20-31.
Classes will run Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. with students participating in one major area and two minor areas of sturdy.
Representatives are currently visiting local public and private schools, providing interested students with applications for the Arts Adventure camp.
A registration and placement day is set for 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday at the Ponca City High School. All students planning to attend the camp should attend registration and placement day even though they may have preregistered. The purpose of the placement day is to answer questions students may have about the programs offered, and to get an idea of the level of experience the students so the guest artists can gear their instruction to the student.
Seven areas of the arts will be featured at this year's camp. The guest areas and the chairperson coordinating that area are creative writing, Suzanne Robinson; dance, Fran Norris; drama, T.L. Walker; piano, Kathy Wimberley and Katy Tucker; strings, Teresa Baugh; visual arts, Jimmie Eatherly; and vocal music.
Several outstanding instructors are scheduled for this year's camp. The guest artist for dance will be Tina Kambour. Tina was in Ponca City in February, performing at the Poncan Theatre. Twice the Harwelden Institute of Tulsa has commissioned her choreography for children.
Sarah Schaefer and Patrick Elkins-Zeglarski will be guest artists for drama. Patrick and Sarah focus their work on young people, bringing humor, empathy, and enthusiasm to the theater.
Piano co-chairs Kathy Wimberley and Katy Tucker have scheduled Guillermo Martinez, last year's guest pianist, for this year's camp. He has developed and coordinated the TCU Music Preparatory Division Computer Theory Lab and will be bringing his keyboarding expertise to Ponca City.
The strings division of Arts Adventure is bringing Susan McGinnis as a guest artist. Susan is a strings specialist with the Dallas public schools and has participated in several international strings workshops. She not only teaches the skills of orchestra strings, but also uses "fiddling" to develop and teach patterns and phrasing to young people.
Kelly Cline, former Ponca Citian, is returning to Arts Adventure to teach calligraphy. This extremely popular writing skill is always well attended by those students interested in the visual arts. Also scheduled is Robert Possehl, a master artist in the areas of painting, photography and book art.
Enrollment has averaged 130 students over the seven years the program has been presented. This year, the program board hopes to attract 150 students. Cost for the two-week camp is $125 with partial and full scholarships available based on financial need.
Financial support for Arts Adventure is provided through various funding including the Oklahoma Arts Council, the Oklahoma Artists in Residence program, Conoco Inc., the Jim Throop Foundation, and numerous individuals and businesses throughout Ponca City and Kay County.
For more information regarding Arts Adventure '98, contact any of the Arts Adventure chair persons, Patty Ladd at 767-8030 or Chuck Van Cleave at 762-9684.
"I've been waiting my whole life to play this role," says John Travolta. According to the critics, it's worth the wait. Travolta's newest film, "Primary Colors," opens this weekend at the Poncan Theatre on Grand.
"Primary Colors" is a comedy about the presidential politics of our time. By accident or design, it picks up on many current themes of the presidency. According to master critic Roger Ebert, the film would seen "just as good, as tough and as smart" if the current incumbent had never come to office. "It's a superb film," he adds. "It's funny, insightful and very wise about the realities of political life."
This witty, winning film focuses on the nature of the image and the realities of the human being that combine in the presidency. In the performance of Travolta and in the writing of Mike Nichols and Elaine May, the president is a lusty, fully human creature who has the charisma and vulnerability of a Hollywood star. This film is surprisingly rich in its understanding of the way his image is projected by the team of handlers.
The film is based on a partly fictionalized novel about the 1992 presidential campaign, written by former insider Joe Klein. But instead of answering every question about the proprieties of back scenes behavior, the film often preserves the mystery. Emma Thompson, who is extremely successful playing the First Lady, is agonized by her life in private moments, but game and upbeat in the public moments.
According to Ebert, even though the president is a flawed charmer, he is an attractive candidate even to those who know the worst, because he listens and cares. Among all the candidates who are conscientious in their political beliefs, this is the one who can rise to the level at which something can be accomplished politically. This is the one who has what it takes to be elected.
"Provocative entertainment" and "intelligent" are words applied to the film by the San Francisco Chronicle." At times, "it sings," says Box Office Magazine. They add that as a "satirical take" on the compromises and larger-than-life aspects of the Presidency, this film is "hysterical" and "laugh-out-loud funny." Ebert also says that "it shows more insight and maturity than all but a handful of recent mainstream movies." He adds that "this is a grown-up film about real issues in the real world."
"Primary Colors" plays through Wednesday at the Poncan Theatre, and then resumes again on Sunday. For show times, patrons should consult the Ponca City News or call the Poncan Theatre at 580-765-0943.
"Taste and Tasteless," is a huge success because of the support of Ponca City, says Poncan Director Kenn Wessel. "Tasteless" is the Grand Fiasco Fundraiser for the Poncan Theatre, this coming Friday at 6:45 p.m.
"Last year was my first year to experience this 'tasteless thing,'" he says. "And it is truly impressive that the community gets so involved. Of course they do because it supports this beautiful old theatre."
"But even more, it's just great, crazy fun," he adds.
Great foods are one of the most spectacular kinds of support. They make up the "taste" part of the evening. "Several of the best eateries in town bring their most memorable dishes to the Poncan," says Wessel. "The food last year was terrific, and it promises to be again this year."
Among the food vendors who will be on hand in 1998 are: The Amarillo Mesquite Grill, The Crown and Rose English Pub, Dougan's Bar-B-Q, El Chico, Godfrey's, Golden Corral, Head Country Food Products, Marriott at Conoco, Mazzio's, Perkin's Family Restaurant, Ponca City Country Club, PSSST! I Won't Tell Catering, Rusty Barrell Supper Club, Schlotzsky's Deli, The Seventh Street Donut Hole and Bakery, United Supermarket Deli, and Western Sizzlin'.
"The chefs of Ponca City concoct new dishes for this event every year," says Wessel. "They also bring their signature dishes, so we get the best they have to offer." The food offerings are eclectic, because the restaurants who like to help are a cross-section of the wide range of foods available in town.
Of course, many other folks help in the "tasteless" portion, according to Wessel. "But some of them may want to remain anonymous," he laughs. And maybe even all of them. "There may be great foods in "taste," but we promise really bad theater in "tasteless."
One cast member says that "we've got some guys wearing clothes onstage that they wouldn't wear in their wives closets." True to form, the source wants to remain anonymous.
The script is always fresh, according to Wessel, and that's what makes "Tasteless" so successful. "Every year, there's a new content with new personalities and new jokes," he says. It's like a political roast, similar to traditional gridiron events, which pokes lighthearted fun at celebrities and events that make up our lives. This year, you might see jokes about everyone from the city council to a Statue of Liberty, from Barry Switzer to Monika Lewinsky, from new banks to more new banks.
"Taste and Tasteless" tickets are going fast, but some are available at the seven Ponca City banks and at the Poncan Theatre. The theater office is next door west of the main theater entrance, and it will be open from 1 to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Tickets are $20. For more information, patrons may call the theater at 580-765-0943.
Editor's Note: Area residents will have the opportunity to meet a real life "Hollywood Trail Boss," when Burt Kennedy of Hollywood shares movie making experiences here next Sunday evening. Kennedy, a friend of Truman Smith's, will be here at The Poncan to show clips from his movies and to talk about his life, as well as sign his book "Burt Kennedy: Hollywood Trail Boss."
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A special treat is in store for area residents, who enjoy the movies. Burt Kennedy, who has directed many of their favorite movie stars, is slated to share some of his experiences here at The Ponca Theatre on April 26. The event is entitled "Reception and Retrospect." It begins at 7 p.m., and is open free to the public.
Some clips of Kennedy's movies will be shown and he will talk about his adventures making movies with major stars.
Kennedy is appearing here at the invitation of Truman Smith. They are old time running buddies.
During his many years in the business Kennedy has directed a number of movies, with such stars as Henry Fonda in "The Rounders"; Glenn Ford, "The Money Trap"; Yul Brynner, "Return of the Seven"; John Wayne, "The War Wagon"; Alec Baldwin, "The Alamo: 13 Days to Glory."
Also, Louis Gossett Jr., "The Sidekicks"; Raquel Welch, "Hannie Caulder"; Frank Sinatra, "Dirty Dingus Magee"; Robert Mitchum, "Young Billy Young"; James Arness, "How the West Was Won" and James Garner, "Support Your Local Sheriff!"
Other films by Kennedy, include "Suburban Commando," "Big Bad John," "Dynamite and Gold," "Once Upon a Texas Train," "The Trouble with Spies," "Texas Guns," "More Wild Wild West," "The Wild Wild West Revisited," "The Concrete Cowboys," "Ramblin' Man" and "Honor Guard."
Also "Kate Bliss and The Ticker Tape Kid," "The Killer Inside Me," "All the Kind Strangers," "Shootout in a One-Dog Town," "The Train Robbers," "The Deserter," "The Good Guys and The Bad Guys," "Welcome to Hard Times," "Return of the Magnificent Seven," "Mail Order Bride" and "The Canadians."
After Kennedy, appears on stage, there will be a signing of his book, and Truman Smith will autograph his book, "The Wrong Stuff." Another friend of Smith and Kennedy's, Carton Weber, is also slated to come in from Florida and sign his book," Jonathan Creek."
Following a year of unparalleled success in a renovated grocery store in Shidler, the Oklahoma Jubilee Show Band, headed by founder Bill Brown, is taking to the road to not only entertain but to also assist the tourism industry in North Central Oklahoma.
Oklahoma Jubilee will be appearing here at the Poncan Theatre at 7:30 p.m. Saturday. Tickets are $6 for adults and $3 for those 14 and under. An evening of entertainment is promised to all who attend the event which is to be repeated in other communities belonging to the NCO Wild West Tour association over the next several months.
The first road stop performed by the popular group was held in Pawnee in November. The tour group, made up of representatives from nine different communities, are benefiting from the programs of Brown and the "Jubilee" show band with a share of the proceeds going into its coffers, used to promote the area as a tourist attraction.
The group is made up of people interested in the tourism industry and attracting some of the tourism business to Pawnee, Hominy, Cleveland, Ralston, Fairfax, Pawhuska, Shidler, Kaw City and Ponca City.
Brown's group performs twice a month at the theater in Shidler. For ticket information contact the Jubilee at (918) 793-2771.
Among those meeting in Ponca City recently, hosted by the Ponca City Convention and Visitors Bureau, were Bill Brown, Mollie Bivin, of Shidler; Bill Johnston, chairman NOC Wild West Tours, Fairfax; Jim Nunn, vice chairman, Ralston; Greta Henisey, secretary/treasurer, Indian Electric Cooperative, Cleveland; Tom Myers, Oklahoma Department of Tourism, Oklahoma City, and Keith Fruits, Kaw City.
TONKAWA - Twenty-two Ponca City ninth graders were among nearly 800 top academic students from 38 area high schools and junior high schools participating in the annual Northern Oklahoma College Interscholastic Contest held recently on campus.
The Ponca City Mid-High School students competed in 27 test events, with 16 students ranking in the top 50th percentile in their events. All participants received certificates of merit.
Frontier High School sophomore Marcus Neskahi won a silver second-place medal in freehand art and competed in English II. He received a letter of commendation and a certificate applicable for a $50 tuition waiver scholarship at NOC for his first college enrollment.
Ponca City students competing were John Abel and Jennifer Nimmo, Oklahoma history; Jack Adams, Carrie Haworth and Ajulia Sarty, freehand art; Alicia Allen, English II; Candace Birdsong, Algebra I; Jena Birdsong, Algebra I, Oklahoma history; Clair Didlake, Algebra I; Nicole Hardy, English I; Dusty Howery, Karly Merrifield and Sheralyn Otto, Typing I/keyboarding.
Also, Angela Kana, English I, Spanish I; Mike Keen, American history; English I; Mark Keller, Spanish I; Abby Roth, English II, physical science; Jacquelyn Salmons, physical science, English II; Susan Taylor and Eric Whitebay, plane geometry; and Cory Vincent, home science.
Four of the nine Frontier contestants ranked in the top 50th percentile. As well as Neskahi, Frontier students were Jennifer Buxton and Randy Shotton, Algebra II, English III; Ezra DeLodge, computer science; Courtney Kienholz, Agriculture II; geography; Robert Monroe, freehand art, math analysis; Jennifer Prucha and Stefanie Stallings, English I, physical science; and Donald Wyckoff, American history, Biology I.
Sweepstakes winners were Stillwater Junior High School, junior high schools division; Timberlake High School, Class I schools; Newkirk High School, Class II schools; and Enid High School, Class III schools. Each winning school was awarded a plaque. Dr. Bob Matthiesen coordinated the event.
Preparations are under way for the 1998 American Cancer Society's Relay For Life. This year the dusk to dawn event will be held June 5 from 6 p.m. to 9 a.m.
Hailed as Kay County's largest fund raiser for the fight against cancer, the overnight event raised more than $42,000 last year.
"Many of us have family or friends that are cancer survivors, fighting the battle against cancer or fought the battle and lost," 1998 Relay For Life Chairperson Melanie Norris stated. "Last year there were 33 teams that joined the fight against cancer and participated in the relay and this year we hope to increase both the number of teams and the amount raised."
The fund raising event will be held at the Jack Bevins/AMBUC Motocross track located on West Prospect Avenue. Live bands, karaoke, a masseuse and children's rides and activities will be included this year.
Anyone interested in forming a team or becoming a sponsor of the 1998 Relay For Life should call Melanie Norris at 765-4101 or Vicky Morton at 762-6614.
By KRISTI HAYES
News Education Editor
The 1998 Native American Heritage Week will be celebrated in the Ponca City schools April 20-24.
Activities will Monday with a Native American Fashion Show at Garfield Academy at 10 a.m., Roosevelt Elementary at 2 p.m. and Roosevelt from 8 a.m. to noon.
Tuesday's festivities include an Indian taco dinner for the Garfield Academy staff.
Several powwow's will be held on Wednesday at local elementary schools. They are: Garfield Academy at 8:20 a.m., Washington at 9:50 a.m., St. Mary's at 12:30 p.m., and Lincoln at 1:45 p.m. Lunch will be held at North Park from 11 a.m. to noon and will be provided by Ponca City School's Food Service for students and by J.O.M. for the head staff and parents. The head staff will be Thomas Roughface, master of ceremonies; Jim Kemble, head singer, and Chris LittleCook, adult dancer.
April 23 will be Native American Heritage T-shirt day at all schools. Winners of the 1998 T-shirt contest were: James Warrior from Roosevelt, first place; Josh Johnson, Garfield, second place; and Hunter LittleCook, Roosevelt, third place.
Festivities will conclude on Friday with more powwow's at local schools. They are: Roosevelt at 8:20 a.m., Union at 9:45 a.m., Liberty at 12:30 p.m., and Middle School at 1:45 p.m. Lunch will be held at North Park from 11 a.m. to noon. The head staff for the day will be Thomas Roughface, master of ceremonies; Jim Kemble, head singer, and Chris LittleCook, adult dancer.
This week of celebration is coordinated by Ponca City Schools Title IX Indian Education Program and the Johnson O'Malley Program. Other Heritage week activities will be implemented at various school sites throughout the week.
All students that dance in full regalia are invited to participate in these pow-wow assemblies. Parents need to contact a Title IX staff member so that the students will be excused from their school site.
Title IX members are Lucy Kent, 767-8050; Nellie Roughface, 767-8010; Jeana Rush, 767-8060; and Jo A. Lessert, 767-9500, ext. 128.
Persons with multiple sclerosis and their caregivers are invited to the Ponca City Area MS Support Group at 6:30 p.m. Monday at Albright United Methodist Church, 128 South Palm.
The church is handicap accessible - enter the west door from the parking lot and take the elevator to the lower level.
Attorney Tom Rigdon of Newkirk will be speaking about the rights of disabled persons.
For anyone with questions about the meeting, please call Beth Wright at 765-6738.
All Ponca City school district children who will be 5-years-old on or before Sept. 1, 1998, are invited to attend the kindergarten pre-enrollment clinic Tuesday and Wednesday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and on Thursday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the child's home school.
To enroll a child in kindergarten, parents should bring: birth certificate, complete immunization records, Social Security number, emergency phone numbers, personal physician's name and telephone numbers and parents' name and work numbers.
Immunization requirements for all children entering kindergarten are: five doses of DPT, four doses of polio, two MMR and three hepatitis B. Children will have until the first day of school (Aug. 19) to complete the shots.
Classes will fill up quickly, especially morning sessions.
KILDARE - Kildare School will hold kindergarten pre-enrollment Thursday from 4 to 5 p.m.
All children living in the Kildare School district who will be 4 on or before the first day of September 1998 are eligible for kindergarten. The 4-year-olds will attend classes in the morning at the same time 5-year-olds attend.
Parents or guardians need to bring a copy of the child's birth certificate, immunization record, and Social Security number. All students must have two MMR, four polio shots, and five DPT shots before they start school. Also, they need to begin getting their hepatitis B shots.
The kindergarten teacher, Jana Lambring, will have curricular material available for preview and will answer questions. School supply lists will also be available. For more information call 362-2811. Punch and cookies will be served.
Before school care, afternoon daycare and after school care will be available for a fee.
There will be a Ponca Tribal Community meeting concerning the submittal of a proposal application to the Health and Human Services, Administration For Native Americans (ANA) for funding for a Ponca Tribal ANA project in Fiscal Year 1998.
The community meeting regarding a proposed ANA project will be held in the conference room of the Jules Valdez Social Services building, White Eagle, Wednesday at noon.
The purpose of the community meeting is to solicit public participation
in developing this year's ANA proposal application. All interested community
members are urged to attend the meeting. For more information contact Charlie
Primeaux at the Jules Valdez building (580) 763-0120.
DEATHS
Thomas Edward Willis, longtime Ponca City resident, died Friday morning, April 17, 1998, at his home following a brief illness. He was 85.
A graveside service will be held Monday, April 20, 1998, at 10 a.m. at the Newkirk Cemetery, Newkirk, with a memorial service to follow at 11 a.m. at the First Presbyterian Church, Ponca City, with the Rev. Dr. Monty Fey, pastor, officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of the Trout Funeral Home. Friends may call at the funeral home until 8:30 a.m. Monday.
Thomas E. Willis was born Dec. 26, 1912, in Newkirk, to James Martin Willis and Christean Greenhagen Willis. He grew up, attended school, and graduated from high school there in 1931. On Sept. 29, 1935, he married Mavis Alta Burnham in Blackwell. During their married life, they were residents of both Newkirk and Ponca City. Mavis preceded him in death June 17, 1993.
Tom enlisted in the United States Air Force on Nov. 29, 1942. During World War II, he was a radio specialist acting as a homing operator for lost aircraft. After receiving an honorable discharge Feb. 6, 1946, he began a career with Albright Title and Trust Company. At the time of his retirement in 1979, he was Chief Appraiser, Senior Vice-President, Director and Branch Manager of Albright's Ponca City office.
Tom and his wife traveled extensively throughout the United States and Europe. He was an avid golfer, participating in many pro-am tournaments with six holes-in-one to his credit.
Tom's life was marked with a commitment to community service. He was a member of the First Presbyterian Church where he had served as an elder. He was a former member of the advisory board of the Salvation Army and had served on the Will Rogers Boy Scout Council. He was a lifetime member of the American Legion Huff Minor Post 14 of Ponca City and had served as Chairman of the Board of the American Legion Home School. He held a membership in the Ponca City Rotary Club and served as treasurer. He was a charter member of the Toast Masters Club and was a former member of the Ponca City Homebuilders Association. Tom was an SRA member of the Society of Real Estate Appraisers. In 1954, he was elected President of the Northern Oklahoma Chapter of the Society of Real Estate Appraisers.
He is survived by two sisters, Irene Willis Foxworthy of Newkirk, and Marie Willis Ford Keen of Nowata, Okla.; four nieces and nephews, Dennis Foxworthy of Edmond, Jesse Ford of Delaware, Okla., Jay Ford of Bartlesville, Okla., and Virginia Valen of San Anselmo, Calif. In addition to his wife, his parents preceded him in death.
Memorial contributions may be made to First Presbyterian Church P.O. Box 1442, Ponca City, Okla. 74602 or Hospice of Ponca City, 1904 N. Union, Suite 103, Ponca City, Okla. 74601.
paid obituary
Joseph Hamilton Butt, infant son of Mike and Theresa Butt, died early
Friday morning, April 17, 1998, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. Arrangements
are pending with Trout Funeral Home.
NEWS BRIEFS
Broken Window - At 7:20 a.m. Friday a resident in the 1800 block of East Prospect Avenue reported that a window in a vehicle had been broken out. A report was taken.
Accident - An ambulance responded to an accident at 7:36 a.m. Friday at Sixth Street and Grand Avenue. However, no one was taken to the hospital. A report was taken.
Vehicle Vandalism - At 7:44 a.m. Friday vandalism to a vehicle in the 700 block of East Albany was reported. An officer was assigned.
Accident - An accident at Fifth Street and Brookfield Avenue was reported at 8:03 a.m. Friday. A report was taken.
Arrest - Police arrested a 24-year-old woman at 9:10 a.m. Friday from the 1000 block of Riviera Avenue on a Kay County warrant.
Hit and Run - At 10:54 a.m. Friday a hit-and-run accident was reported in the 400 block of South Fourteenth Street. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Vehicle Vandalism - Police were contacted at 10:55 a.m. Friday regarding vandalism of a vehicle in the 700 block of North Union Street. A report was taken.
Break-In - At 10:58 a.m. Friday police were advised of a break-in at a storage building in the 100 block of East Emporia Avenue. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Vehicle Damage - A man notified police at 11:34 a.m. Friday that his vehicle had been damaged while parked in the 1100 block of East Prospect Avenue. A report was taken.
Burglary - At 12:33 p.m. Friday a burglary in the 300 block of West Cleveland Avenue was reported. An officer was assigned.
Ambulance Called - At 12:58 p.m. Friday a Conoco employee was taken to St. Joseph Regional Medical Center after a battery "blew up" in his face.
Mad Driver Damage - At 1:43 p.m. Friday police were called to NationsBank, Second Street and Central Avenue after an angry customer hit the drive-through as he left. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Accident - An accident at Hartford Avenue and Joe Street was reported at 4:40 p.m. Friday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Stolen Bike - A man in the 1000 block of West Highland Avenue called police at 5:04 p.m. Friday to report a stolen bike. A report was taken.
Stolen Toys - At 5:41 p.m. Friday a report was taken on toys stolen from the 800 block of Edwards Avenue.
Arrest - Police arrested a 41-year-old man at 5:57 p.m. Friday on a Kay County warrant for failure to pay.
Juvenile Arrest - A 16-year-old boy was apprehended at 6:24 p.m. Saturday from the 700 block of North Elm Street for destruction of private property after police received a report of juveniles throwing a street sign.
Arrest - Police arrested a 34-year-old man at 8:09 p.m. Friday on two city warrants for failure appear.
Grass Fire - A fire unit responded to a reported grass fire at 10:08 p.m. Friday half a mile south of Hubbard Road on West Snake Road. The fire was extinguished.
Yard Vandalism - A 10:22 p.m. Friday a man in the 10 block of Hillcrest Drive called police after a car drove through his yard, knocking down trees and tearing up his yard. An officer was assigned.
Assault - At 1:30 a.m. Saturday a man in the 100 block of South Osage Street advised police that he had been "jumped" and struck in the back of the head. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Arrest - Police arrested a 46-year-old woman at 2:03 a.m. Saturday from the 200 block of North Third Street for domestic assault and battery.
Arrest - A 24-year-old man was arrested from the 200 block of North Fourteenth Street at 3:36 a.m. Saturday for driving under the influence and no headlights.
Teen Arrests - At 4:27 a.m. Saturday police arrested three teenagers from the 500 block of West Cleveland Avenue. A 17-year-old boy was arrested for driving under the influence, no driver's license, transporting an open container and curfew violation, a 18-year-old girl for public drunk and a 19-year-old man on two Kay County warrants.
Theft - A woman in the 1200 block of North Pine Street called police at 5:54 a.m. Saturday reporting that "spinners" had been stolen from off wheels. A report was taken.
American Family Support - The American Family Support Group will meet 7-8:45 Tuesday in the Ponca City Library Board Room. The topic will be Child Welfare Services and child abuse.
Dressage Show - The North Central Chapter of the Oklahoma Dressage Society will host a dressage schooling show on Saturday at the fairgrounds in Arkansas City. The show will feature classes for beginning, and intermediate level dressage riders. For more information, contact Pam Rawlins, 767-1860.
Ham and Bean Supper - The Consolidated 106 Volunteer Fire District annual meeting and ham and bean supper will be held Saturday, April 25, at the Consolidated 106 Schoolhouse. Supper will be served at 5:30 p.m. This will be an all you can eat, ham and beans, cornbread and dessert. There is no cost. Anyone interested in joining should plan to attend.
Title IX Program - The Title IX Indian Education Program of the Ponca City Public Schools will present the first annual Portfolio and Cultural Art Show of elementary students May 1 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Lincoln Elementary, 1501 West Grand. A special invitation is extended to parents, grandparents, students, general public, parent chairman and committee members. For further information contact Elizabeth Watson, 767-8000, ext. 227; Jo Lessert, 767-9500, ext. 128; Lucy Kent, 767-8050; Nellie Roughface, 767-8010; or Jeana Rush, 767-8060.
Ponca Tribal Meeting - A Ponca Tribal Community meeting noon Wednesday in the conference room of the Jules Valdez Social Services building, White Eagle, concerning a proposal application to the Health and Human Services, Administration For Native Americans for funding a Ponca Tribal ANA project in fiscal year 1998.
Allergy Advice - Springtime can be miserable time for those suffering
from allergies. On Tuesday Christian Radio KLVV 88.7 FM is inviting Pharmacist
Jim Dressen of Ponca City to answer questions phoned in regarding prescriptions
and possible remedies to help with everyday problems. The phone number is
767-1400. This is a free service for anyone calling during that time.
LIFESTYLES
By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE
News Staff Writer
Using an overhead garage door for an easel, Art Pruitt brings familiar cartoons to life. A copy artist, Pruitt, who is legally blind, has a cartoon and celebrity museum in his garage at 2504 Windsor.
The white garage door, focal point of his cartoon museum, features a number of newspaper comics, some popular in a by-gone era. The walls are similarly decorated with cartoons and celebrity autographed photos.
A retired artisan, Al basically was "the graphics department" at Cities Service during his working years, and later was employed with Conoco, Pruitt spends his time drawing enlarged cartoons, for himself and his friends, on foam board.
In addition to doing copy artist work, Pruitt does original works. He gives away the copy work because, of course, that is copyrighted and not for resale. He favors the works of J.R. Williams, who drew NEA cartoons, usually with a cowboy twist.
When Pruitt lost most of his eyesight 12 years ago he was working on a large drawing of Bill Pickett, the famous black 101 cowboy, who invented bull dogging. The body was almost finished when Al lost his vision. His grandson, Shawn Pruitt, completed the head and face for him.
This large drawing of Pickett still dominates the middle of Al's worktable. Shawn has apparently inherited some of Al's talent and has studied art in Paris and sold his work to attend advanced studies.
One of Al's favorite comics is "Boots." in his research file he has over 600 of those comics. He plans to copy and enlarge most of them. He remembers hurrying home from school to see what was going to happen next in the comic strips.
Al noted that in the "Katzenjammer Kids" comic strips, the captain was always beating on those "ornery" kids, and in Popeye, the sailor always got into some kind of trouble. Of course nowadays one could not get away with that kind of violence. But Al said it didn't influence him to be violent, but did cause him to become creative.
A fan of Ponca City, the movies and cartoons, Pruitt has devoted his hobby to making others smile. During his youth Pruitt worked for the Poncan Theatre, walking the streets with a sandwich board sign advertising the next theater attraction.
He recalls that the movies were an inspiration and remembers trying to pull some of the stunts he'd seen on the big screen. Once he spent an afternoon building a wall so he could set it on fire and ride his wagon through the flame. He managed to come out unscathed.
One time, Pruitt recalls when western movie star Gene Autrey was making an onstage appearance at the Roxy Theatre with his horse, that the horse reared up and hit a ceiling light.
While working for the theatre Pruitt met a number of celebrities, including Sally Rand. He has given the Poncan Theatre a number of cartoon drawings to be used in some way to promote the theatre.
Expressing his love of Ponca City, Pruitt wrote a book about the heyday of the town and the fun things he remembers. The book is entitled "To Shake a Tree."
Al says that he often sees art in clouds or in his dreams and he just can't wait to "get them out of his pencil."
The Singles Network is a social and support organization for single adults who are divorced, widowed or never married. Interested persons may call Betty, 762-9776, or Dorothy, 765-1403, for more information.
Plans this week include:
Sunday, April 19: 11 a.m. trip to Remington Park with dinner in Oklahoma City. Call Phil 765-8381. 6:30 p.m. Discussion Group meets at the First Presbyterian Church and will go for a snack after the meeting. A new program is being started.
Tuesday, April 21: 7 p.m. card party at Phil's. Bring snacks and call 765-4620 or 765-8381.
Friday, April 24: Movie Night. Call Phil by 5 p.m. 765-4620 or 765-8381.
Saturday, April 25: 6 p.m. Bean supper at Pearl's. Bring bread, dessert or beverages. Call 762-2786.
Todd H. and Shawn L. Harkins, 201 Woodbury, announce the birth of their second child, a daughter, who has been named Victoria Ann. She was born March 31, 1998 at 7:37 a.m., weighed 8-pounds, 4-ounces and was 20 1/2-inches long. Tori has a brother, Jared, 4.
Maternal grandparents are John and Linda Blackard of Kaw City and paternal grandparents are Bob and Kaye Harkins of Ponca City.
Nicholas Williams Liegerot is the name selected by Mark and Liliana Liegerot, 3750 West Hubbard Road, for their son born at 11:45 p.m. April 9, 1998 at the Stillwater Medical Center. He weighed 8-pounds, 10-ounces and was 21-inches long.
Maternal grandparents are Yolanda Londono of Sevilla, Colombia, and the late Francisco Castano. Paternal grandparents are Jim and Carolyn Chanslor of Ponca City and Charles and Pam Liegerot, Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Great-grandparents are LeRoy and Geneva Williams of Ponca City and the late Mr. and Mrs. W. S. Liegerot.
Chad and Jaime (Becker) Bagg of Tahlequah announce the arrival of their second son, Canaan Actlus, on March 20, 1998 in Tulsa. He weighed 8-pounds, 7-ounces and was 20 1/2-inches long. He has a two-year-old brother, Jonah Michael.
Maternal grandparents are Bob and Marilyn Becker of Ponca City and maternal great-grandparents are Kenneth and Gwen Querry of Bella Vista, Ark. and Winnis and Evelyn Becker of Great Bend, Kan.
Paternal grandparents are Jack and Trudy Bagg of Newkirk and paternal great-grandparents are Ob and Peggy Bagg of Newkirk and Lois Branstetter of Barnsdall.
Modern Mom's Mothers' Club members are making final preparations for the Oklahoma Association of Mother's Clubs "Roaring Twenties" state convention. The event will be held here at the Marland Mansion Conference Center April 17-18 and marks the first time the organization's state convention has been held in Ponca City.
Club members have spent a year researching the twenties era in preparation for the convention. Modern Mom's Club is a hostess group for the luncheon and special centerpieces and decorations, as well as hats, have been created for each of the state officers.
Club members participating are Glenda Hisey, Sue Bond, Carol McGaughey, Tammy Beier, Martha Long, Mary Gray, Cheryl Ramsey, Becky Rothbauer and Kelly Ricketson.
Soroptimist International of Ponca City hosted a "Making a Difference for Women Awards" Luncheon April 15 at the Ponca City Country Club.
According to Cindy Wigley, president; and Ruth Ritter, chairman, a Soroptimist is "a leader in her community. She is actively engaged in a management or professional capacity, in the private or public sector. She believes that by joining with other women and engaging in awareness, advocacy and action in the service of her community and society, she can make the world a better place for human-kind."
Each year Soroptimist International honors women, businesses, organizations and agencies that establish policies and take action to advance the status of women. The Making a Difference for Women Awards program includes the following three recognition programs: Women Helping Women, Women of Distinction and Advancing the Status of Women.
Debra Brock
Melanie Longmore presented the Women Helping Women award to Debra Brock.
To be a Woman Helping Woman honoree, candidates should have used their positions, influence and authority to open broader avenues of opportunity for women. These women have worked for the elimination of economic, legal, social or political discrimination against women; to reduce the economic dependency of women; to initiate programs to meet the special needs of women; or to contribute to the improvement of women's status in society.
Debra Brock was honored because she established the Raindrops program in Ponca City. Raindrops, now a division of Hospice of Ponca City, offers training and support materials for physicians, nurses, chaplains, emergency room personnel and others who work with parents after miscarriage, stillbirth or infant death. As Director of Raindrops, Debra teaches caregivers about the death of a child. Brock also publishes a monthly newsletter for bereaved parents and facilitates two monthly support groups.
Martha Long
Ruth Ritter presented the Advancing the Status of Women Award to Martha Long, director of the Teen Parent Alternative Program. The program was started when it was agreed that clubs should publicly recognize and honor businesses, organizations and enterprises which often serve to advance the status of women.
The Teen Pep program is designed to keep teenage parents in school. The Ponca City school district has a high student drop-out rate with a substantial number of these students being teenage parents. In 1990 the rates showed 45 out of 1,000 teenage girls between the ages of 15-17 become a teen parent. This number has increased, with the rate reaching 49 out of 1,000 in 1994.
The program started in the fall of 1996. The program is housed at the First Baptist Church where child care is provided. An alternative education plan has been developed for each student based on their educational needs for graduation. The school day is from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. to allow the students to spend time with their children or to work.
The program has served 49 teen parents and 38 babies and toddlers. The program has had eight graduates with six more expected to graduate in May.
Patty Allen
Elvera Allen presented the final award, Women of Distinction, to Patty Allen, now residing in Norman. The program was instituted to honor women in their communities who have made outstanding achievements in their professional, business or voluntary activities relating to at least one of the Soroptimist programs of service area.
Patty was president of the Kay County Chapter of the American Cancer Society and contributed to the organizational handbooks that are still used throughout the state. She is involved in the Children's Miracle Network Telethon and has helped put on seminars to train volunteers how to raise money for Children's Medical Research. She also has volunteered and decorated for Children's Medical Research Golf Tournaments. She organized an NFL golf tournament and basketball game which benefited the Teenage Parent Alternative Education Program.
As a volunteer planner/decorator, she has been instrumental in organizing, as chairperson, the Jim Thorpe NFL Players Charity Auction; Jim Thorpe/Outland Awards; "MO" Betta Celebrity Quail Hunt; Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame; and many others.
In her many civic activities, Patty continues to volunteer in ways that benefit others. One of these special activities is in the Professionals Today, where she works on the annual Chili Cook-off.
Outstanding professional achievements as a designer include; Pioneer National Bank and Trust, PRMC Sports Medicine Center at Idaho State University and Northern Oklahoma Pediatric Clinic and Medical Center in Ponca City. She has been active in numerous events in the community.
The engagement of Alysa Kay Bottoms to Darren Michael Pressnall is being announced by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Carl Bottoms, 508 Wren Drive. Pressnall is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Rick Cross, 1931 Turner Road, and Mr. and Mrs. Wilbur Pressnall, 1110 Young Avenue.
The couple will wed May 30 at St. Paul's United Methodist Church. Both are graduates of Ponca City High School and the bride-elect is currently a student at Northern Oklahoma College. The prospective bridegroom is employed in merchandise preparation at Smith Home Furnishing.
Members of Xi Zeta Lambda chapter of Beta Sigma Phi sorority met April 16 in the home of Jill Sims. Judy Watt, vice president, conducted the meeting with 17 members in attendance. Roll call was answered with birthday gift wishes. Lila Logan read the minutes and Francie James gave the financial report.
Phyllis Pledger gave the City Council report and Dottie Johnstone, president-elect, said she will be introducing a new member at the Founder's Day Banquet on April 21. Lila Logan presented the chapter's executive board report. Tobie Neal, Historian, announced an April 20 meeting to complete the work on this year's scrapbook.
Judy Watt. Membership. announced a Ritual of Jewels will be held May 7 for Jill Sims and Carmelita Childers. The resume committee reported the item is complete and will be read by Jackie Hall and Cassandra Kifiak at the Founder's Day banquet.
The traveling basket was provided by Nida Austin and won by Dottie Johnstone. Ms. Johnstone also presented the committee roster for next year. The committees and their chairmen are: Social, Terri Barnett and Carmelita Childers; Ways and Means, Nida Austin; Membership, Cassandra Kifiak; Calling, Judy Watt; Resume, Phyllis Pledger; Historian, Francie James and Lila Logan; Program, Doretta Jackson; Service, Melva Keen, and Publicity, Jackie Hall.
The next regular meeting will be in the home of Judy Watt with Doretta Jackson in charge of the program. Preceding the meeting an installation of new officers will be held.
Mrs. Fred Boettcher, 210 South Tenth, was the hostess for the Red Rose Garden Club's April meeting. Co-hostess was Mrs. William Majors. Decorations included vases of branches from Spring-flowering trees .
The program on "Topiary Trees" was presented by Martha England who demonstrated her craft by building a topiary as she spoke to the group. She explained there were different types and sizes of topiary and they could be created from a variety of different flowers and vines. She explained various plantings and discussed uses for those preferring sun or shade.
Following the program, Mrs. John Strickland, president, led the group in the Gardener's Creed and Mrs. Boettcher read the minutes. Roll call response was "Color, Color, Color? What's Peeking Up in Your Garden Now." Mrs. Eldridge Manering gave the treasurer's report.
Mrs. Harold Younger thanked those participating in the recent district garden club convention held in Ponca City. Gardening tip for the month was to leave foliage on daffodils until they die naturally.
The next meeting will be a Guest Day luncheon in the home of Mrs. Burton Casad, 2509 Wildwood. She will be assisted by Mrs. Jim Ross and Mrs. Floyd Johnson. An "English High Tea" will be given by Holly Harpster at 12:30 p.m. May 11.
Robin Kay Clonce of Norman and Jared Kent Stigge of Oklahoma City will exchange wedding vows May 16 at St. Luke's Episcopal Church in Ada. The Rev. John Norvel will officiate at the 5 p.m. ceremony.
The bride-elect is the daughter of Kay Clonce of Ada and Jerry Clonce of Oklahoma City and the granddaughter of Rose Bailey of Ada, Mildred Clonce of Sun City, Ariz., the late Gene Bailey and the late George Clonce. Stigge is the son of Jim and Trudi Stigge of Ponca City and the grandson of Velma Stigge of Ponca City, the late Chester Stigge and the late John and Lydia Schmidt.
Ms. Clonce is a 1991 graduate of Ada High School and received a bachelor's degree in political science from East Central University in 1995 where she was affiliated with Chi Omega sorority and Oklahoma Intercollegiate Legislature. She will graduate in May from the University of Oklahoma College of Law. She is currently employed as a legal intern for the Cleveland County District Attorney.
The future bridegroom is a 1989 graduate of Ponca City High School and received a bachelor of science degree in economics from Oklahoma State University in 1992. Stigge graduated with distinction from the OU College of Law in 1995. He is currently employed by State Farm Insurance in Norman.
The Conestoga Campers met April 6 for a dinner and business meeting at the Golden Corral restaurant with 35 members and a guest, Ryan Bates of Oklahoma City, present. Ryan is the grandson of Kenneth and Carlene Bates.
Ray Baltrop offered prayer before dinner and Rick Cross, president, opened the business session. Baltrop also gave the secretary and treasurer reports.
The March campout at Osage Cove was attended by 15 couples with various members of the group eating at Bad Brad's Bar-B-Que in Pawhuska and others at the Old Town Restaurant in Kaw City. There were 43 people attending the potluck dinner on Saturday evening. Guests of the Baltrops were their daughter and family, Susan and John Behara, Jacob, Katy and Cory.
Guests of the Logans were a son and family, Randy and Julie Logan and family, and the Logan's daughter and family, Jean and Roy Hudsonpillar and children. Former members Fred and Carolyn Looper, and their grandson Gunnar Garrett, also attended.
Sunday service was a taped message prepared by the Rev. Larry Nigh of Northeast Baptist Church. Drawings were held and Dick Powell won the $25 gift certificate from Kinder Campers and Trailers and Janna Purvis won the $30 gift certificate from Dean's RV.
The April 17-19 Campout has been changed from Coon Creek to Birch Lake. Lonnie Wittmer, vice president, will be in charge. The May 4 meeting will be held at 6 p.m. at the Lake Ponca Shelterhouse #3. Those attending are asked to bring two dishes for the potluck dinner.
Mr. and Mrs. Gary L. Hendrix, 177 Kay Drive, announce the engagement of their daughter, Christie Lynn, to William Chase Barnett, son of Mr. and Mrs. Corky Barnett, 201 Warwick Road, and Karen Lindsey of Oklahoma City. The couple plans a June 6 wedding at the chapel of the First Baptist Church.
Miss Hendrix is a 1992 graduate from Ponca City High School and is employed by Local Federal Bank in Edmond. Barnett is also a 1992 Po-Hi graduate and is employed by Nu-Sound in Oklahoma City.
Si and Jo Daniel, 9000 South Brock Road, Ardmore, will be honored May 3 with a reception at 2 p.m. for their 50th wedding anniversary. Family and friends are invited to attend the event at the Lone Grove Church of Christ on Highway 70 West, Lone Grove. Hostesses will be a daughter, Paula Lewis, and a daughter-in-law, Nelda Daniel. The couple has two sons, Bob Daniel and Mark Daniel, a son-in-law, Ken Lewis, and two grandchildren, Nicole and Devin.
Silas Monroe Daniel and the former Orpha Jo Cambron were married May 1, 1948 at Marietta. They made their first home in Stillwater and then moved to Ponca City, residing here until 1995 when they moved to Ardmore. They are members of the Grand Avenue Church of Christ.
Mr. Daniel retired from Pelton Corporation in 1987 and Mrs. Daniel retired from Titus Corporation in 1994.
French Fragrances
Lowry's Clothing in Pawhuska is hosting the premiere event, a "French" picnic, for Brighton Accessories' newest venture - Brighton Fragrances, 2-5:30 p.m. April 21. The four scents being introduced are "Live," "Love," "Laugh" and "Dream." In keeping with the French origin of the fragrances a trip for two to Paris is being given away, along with a six-day, seven-night stay at the Ritz and spending money. Two Brighton Fragrance experts will be on hand to assist customers. French cuisine will be served and door prizes given. The public is invited to attend the event.
Fibromyalgia Group
Jan Matheson, counselor, will speak to members of the Fibromyalgia Support Group at their 7 p.m. meeting Monday at First Baptist Church. For more information contact Vivian Cross, 765-8871; Lilly Freeman, 762-9027 or Martha Long, 762-5572.
National Volunteer Week
Celebrate National Volunteer Week, April 19-25 by stopping by for refreshments at the Retired Senior Volunteers Program office, 110 North Fourth. Register for door prizes to be awarded each day at 3 p.m.
Treasure Island Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Nev. was the setting for the March 17, 1998 wedding of Jennifer J. Brown and Rosen D. Rennie. Their vows were solemnized in a 5:30 p.m. ceremony by the Rev. Jack T. Moore. The Unity candle was attended by Ronda Brown-Mefferd, sister of the bride, and Nancy Rennie, mother of the bridegroom.
The bride is the daughter of Ron Brown of Pawnee and the late Janette Brown, and the granddaughter of C. G. and Della Adams of Pawnee and the late Robert and Ann Brown. The bridegroom is the son of Larry and Nancy Rennie of Ponca City and the grandson of Robert Rennie and Pauline Davis of Ponca City and the late Neva Rennie and the late Merle Davis.
Given in marriage by her father, the bride wore an ivory designer gown. The full length, sleeveless dress was made of re-embroidered lace and satin, fully beaded with varied sizes of pearls and iridescent sequins. The deep square neckline in back was embellished by a small bow that marked the beginning of a chapel length train made of French satin. Her double-tiered veiling was secured by a pearl-beaded crown and the bride wore a strand of individually knotted pearls that had belonged to her mother. She carried a bouquet of yellow roses and white tiger lilies accented with greenery.
Tandi Collins-Estes of Baumholder, Germany was Maid of Honor and the bride's cousin, Mendy Hayes of Oklahoma City, was bridesmaid. Each wore a sleeveless, floor length black dress designed with a fitted bodice. Each attendant carried a bouquet of tiger lilies.
Travis Mullin of Ponca City served as the Best Man and groomsman was D. J. Mefferd of Stillwater, brother-in-law of the bride.
Assisting with the reception were Georganna Childress of Edmond, aunt of the bride; Pinky Miles of Cushing, aunt of the bride, and Deanna Shields of Oklahoma City. The newlywed couple has established a home in Coolidge, Ariz.
Steve Crank, Unemployment Service Representative of the Oklahoma Security Commission, will address Kay County Republicans at 7 p.m. Monday at the Ponca City Library. The theme for the meeting is "After Tax Blues, Improvements in the Welfare System."
Crank has been with the Employment Commission for 10 years. In addition to his work with unemployment claims, Crank supervises special programs such as "Welfare to Work" and "Work Opportunity Tax Credit," handles job placement, provides workshops for job seekers, as well as area business employment needs and speaks frequently on the subject of job placement.
According to Crank, the welfare roles have been greatly reduced as a result of Congress' willingness to allow states to develop their own programs through block grants. His discussion will provide statistics as well as insight into the effectiveness of the new programs in Kay County.
In addition to new programs, reorganization plans within the employment and welfare systems is also expected to improve customer service.
Kay County Chairman Susan Powell said, "I believe Steve's presentation will encourage area taxpayers who have just gone through the grueling press of writing checks to the IRS. After years of counter productive welfare programs, it will be good to hear positive news about our federal and state government's plan of attack to solve the welfare crisis."
The Republican Women's Club will meet at 6 p.m., Monday in the small Conference Room of the library. For more details on both meetings call 765-1935.
Porsche Ann Reimer and Thomas James Keese were married March 13, 1998 in a 7:30 p.m. ceremony at Community Christian Church. The Rev. Wayne Majors officiated. Traditional wedding music was played and as the mothers of the couple were seated "Amazing Grace" was played. During the lighting of the Unity candle Air Supply's "Now and Forever" was played.
The bride is the daughter of Glenn Reimer, 8728 Lake Road, and Barbara Reimer, 8726 Lake Road. The bridegroom is the son of Tina Cullerton of Enid and James Keese of Newnan, Ga.
The bride wore a designer gown of white organza. The white Alencon lace bodice was styled with a Sweetheart neckline and short sleeves. The chapel length train was attached in back with a large bow. Her illusion veil was secured by a floral circlet and she carried a bouquet of pink roses with agapanthus accented with purple ribbon.
Matron of Honor was Shasta Scott. She wore a semi-fitted black and white, floor length crepe gown. The dress featured short sleeves and a bow in back. She carried an arrangement of six pink roses accented with purple ribbon. Similarly dressed in sleeveless gowns were the bridesmaids Alecia Mudgett and Kelly Grudowski, who each carried a pink rose tied with purple ribbon. Kyla Todd kept the guest book.
Blake Scott was the ringbearer and serving as Best Man was Jonathan E. Keese. Groomsman was Eddie Roundtree and ushers were Michael Grudowski, Kelly Riddle, Paul Salsberry and Fred Scott.
The reception was held at the home of the bride's father. Assisting with the event were Paula Slater and Jennifer Williams. Among the guests attending were Mr. and Mrs. Elvy Reimer. The newlywed couple resides at 400 South Birch. The bride is a customer service associate at Quality Pools and Spas and the bridegroom is an electrical sales associate at Lowe's.
The National Federated Music Club Centennial Celebration will be Aug. 15 in Arlington Heights, Ill. Seven students will represent Oklahoma at the event and five of them are from the Ponca City area.
Selected during the Junior Music Festival Play-Offs were Kent Dennis, son of Kevin and Beth Dennis of Ponca City, piano, representing Kindergarten-sixth grade; Nicholas Burton, son of Max and Linda Burton of Ponca City, piano, grades 7-12; Kati Salmons, daughter of Bill and Ann Salmons, instrumental; Kevin Goldman, son of Cheryl and Jim Goldman, vocal, grades 7-12; Yona Wade, son of Randy and Junior Flores of Tonkawa, vocal, grades 7-12.
The Ponca City Music Club is sponsoring a recital to help defray expenses for the students to attend the national competition. A freewill offering will be taken during the recital scheduled for Sunday, April 26, at 3 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church. A reception will follow. The public is invited to hear each of the five students play two selections. If you cannot attend the recital, but would like to offer monetary assistance you may send a contribution to The Ponca City Music Clubs, c/o Rose Marie Boggus, 118 Whitworth, Ponca City, OK 74601.
Nicholas Burton, 16-years-old, is a 10th grade honor student at Ponca City High School. He has participated in the Junior Festival for nine years and has recently won the senior division for piano. He is a student of Kathleen Wimberley.
He has also participated in the Oklahoma Music Teachers Association auditions and competitions for nine years. He won the Junior Audition Competition in 1993, 1994 and 1995 and played at the District Convention in Tulsa. Burton was chosen as a finalist for the Tulsa Performing Art Center Trust's Young Pianists Competition in 1994 and 1995. He also plays the cello and bass in the Po-Hi Orchestra.
Kevin Goldman, a junior at Ponca City High School, is an eight-year vocal and piano student of Leslie Rardin. He also studied with Suzi Lenhart for two years. In 1997 he was selected to attend the Oklahoma Summer Arts Institute and with this chorus performed for the Oklahoma Choral Directors state conference.
Goldman has participated in vocal, piano and theatre studies with the Ponca City Arts Adventure program for several years. He has participated in a variety of musical theatre productions including those at Po-Hi, Northern Oklahoma College and the Poncan Theatre.
He shares his talents with different groups such as Habitat, Friendship Feast, American Red Cross, Presbyterian Lifeliners and his church: Prince of Peace Lutheran. Goldman has been a member of the Po-Hi drama group and the debate team. He is NFL officer, serving as secretary and is a member of American Kids. He has participated in many events across Oklahoma and the nation.
A family gathering at 1:30 p.m. April 25 will honor Mr. and Mrs. Ben Cantley on the occasion of their golden wedding anniversary. The event will be held at the Ponca City Nursing and Rehabilitation Center where Mr. Cantley has been a resident since January 1997. No gifts are requested but cards would be appreciated and may be mailed to them at 952 North Union.
Ben Cantley and the former June Whitfield were married April 25, 1948 in Fairfax and moved to Ponca City in 1949. Mr. Cantley was employed with Santa Fe Railroad for 38 years, retiring in January 1981. He joined the Oklahoma National Guard in 1939 and his unit was mobilized as the 45th Infantry Division during World War II. Mr. Cantley was honorably discharged in 1943.
Mrs. Cantley was employed with Montgomery Ward for 23 years, retiring in April 1977. The couple is affiliated with Woodlands Christian Church.
Their children are Carol and Mark Lawler of Ponca City, Pat and Tim Rye of Huntsville, Texas and Benny Cantley of Ponca City. The honorees have three grandchildren: Nikki and Steve Yarbrough of Ponca City, Shelly Soutter of Huntsville, Texas and Joshua Lawler of Ponca City. Their great-grandson is Lance Yarbrough of Ponca City.
Announcement has been made of the engagement and approaching marriage of Layna Michelle Morgan and David William Tedford. The couple will marry on the terrace of Willard Hall, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater on May 16.
Parents of the bride-elect are Dr. and Mrs. Gerald O'Mealey of Tonkawa and Mr. and Mrs. Lanny R. Morgan of Ashland, Ky. Tedford is the son of Mr. and Mrs. David E. Tedford of Lawton.
Miss Morgan is a graduate of Tonkawa High School and Northern Oklahoma College. She plans to graduate in May with a General Business degree from OSU. She is presently employed at the Stillwater National Bank and Trust Company.
The prospective bridegroom is a graduate of Lawton Eisenhower High School and graduated in 1996 from OSU with a Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering degree with Environmental and Natural Resources option. Tedford is employed as an Environmental Engineer with Northrop-Grumman in Enid.
Felisha Kay Green and Jason Richard VanKirk will marry May 23 in a ceremony at the Cann Gardens. The bride-to-be is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Evert Green, 3420 Meadow Lane. The future bridegroom is the son of Jay VanKirk of Northumberland, Penn. and Barbara Burns of Big Pine Key, Fl.
The bride-elect is a graduate of Ponca City High School and VanKirk is a graduate of Shikellamy High School. He is a sergeant with the United States Army stationed at Fort Huachuca, Ariz.
An open invitation is extended to friends and family to attend the May 30 wedding of Tiffany Elaine Wilkerson and Robert Bryan Blaser. The Rev. Richard Leonard will officiate the vows in a 7 p.m. ceremony at the United Methodist Church in Lamont.
Parents of the couple are Tommy and Janice Wilkerson of Lamont, Luella Stacy of Lamont and the late Dale Blaser. Grandparents are Ronald and Dorothy Harris of Oklahoma City, Betty Wilkerson of Midwest City and the late Ted Wilkerson, the late Mr. and Mrs. George Kroll, the late Mr. and Mrs. Steve Blaser.
The couple graduated from Deer Creek-Lamont High School. Miss Wilkerson received a bachelor's degree in elementary education from Northwestern Oklahoma State in 1997. She is presently teaching second grade in the Tonkawa public school system. Blaser is employed with Blaser Auto and Tire of Lamont.
Faith Tabernacle Church will be the setting May 2 for the wedding of Christy Marie Jackson and Rick David Crane. Parents of the couple are the Rev. and Mrs. Rick Jackson, 729 North Palm, and Mr. and Mrs. Charles Crane, 7100 West North Avenue.
The bride-to-be will graduate this year from the Word of Life Christian Academy. She is employed at the Dollar General Store.
Crane graduated from Ponca City High School in 1997 and is attending Northern Oklahoma College. He is an assistant scoutmaster for Boy Scout Troop 53 and is employed at Farha Wholesale.
May 16 is the date selected by Jennifer Ann Jackson and Doug Ray Hasselwander for their wedding at the Crown Heights Christian Church in Oklahoma City. The Rev. Greg Shaw will officiate.
Parents of the bride-to-be are Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Hixon of Oklahoma City and the future bridegroom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Ray Hasselwander of Ponca City. Grandparents of the bride-elect are Mr. and Mrs. William Hixon of Oklahoma City, Mrs. Hazel Gebhart of Stroud and the late Clifford Hays Gebhart Jr. Grandparents of the future bridegroom are Mrs. Sena Postier of Breckenridge, the late Clarence Postier and the late Mr. and Mrs. Walter Hasselwander.
Miss Jackson is a graduate of Pu