LOCAL

Commission Query Is City Exempt from Regs
Local Resident Sniffs Out Telephone Scam
Nickles Hammers At OSHA Spending
National Honor Society Honors at NOC Includes Total of 15 Ponca City Students
District Court
Annual Iris Society Show Set for Saturday
Trail of Tails Event Included In Be Kind to Animals Week
Kay County Health Department Set To Celebrate National Nurses Week
‘Risk Watch’ Safety Carnival Set Saturday
Annual Spring Rummage Sale At Grace Church

Commission Query Is City Exempt from Regs

By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE

News Staff Writer

When is the city exempt from its own regulations?

That question arose during a Planning Commission meeting Tuesday evening when a decision on American Tower locating within the city was tabled for further study. American was requesting a special use permit by asking for a Permissible Upon Review ruling.

American has been required to follow all the steps, including going through due process, such as applying for a telecommunications tower exception and appearing before the Planning Commission and City Commission.

According to Denise Cardinal, American representative, the application was delivered April 7.

The city, following Oklahoma Municipal League recommendations on tower ordinances, stepped in and contracted Matrix Communications Corporation to build two telecommunications towers on city property.

Since the communication towers are to be built on city property (Donner Park in the northeast and Hobo Park in the south central part of town), the matter did not have to go to the Planning Commission.

The city fathers gave it their blessing and the deal jelled.

Gary Martin, city manager, said that the towers would be a revenue producer for the city. He noted the land would be rented and the towers would have space reserved for municipal use.

The towers are also to serve as co-location towers for Broadband PCS, Cellular and other communication carriers.

The city official also indicated that the telecommunications ordinance, which was amended on a fast track, was in the process before the other application appeared.

Martin said this ordinance was necessary so that Ponca City’s skyline would not be dotted by towers of all sizes.

He said that the towers to be built on city property will follow the proper procedure, including obtaining building permits and adhering to the codes set forth in the newly adopted ordinance.

He also said the city had followed the lead of the Oklahoma Municipal League on this, but that city attorney Kevin Murphy had studied a Washington model and the ordinance was born.

Martin said that the city had acted in the best interest of its citizens — protecting their safety and attempting to avoid an unsightly skyline.

The ordinance was adopted on April 24. The document grew from the original four pages to 20.

However, Cardinal of American Tower wonders about the Matrix arrangement.

She had contacted Matt Richardson of Matrix to discuss the project and expressed concern that she might not make the deadline for her client because of the public hearing of the Planning Commission.

She then learned that Richardson of Tulsa had made a deal with the city and didn’t have to go through the normal process because of city ownership of the sites.

The site American Tower was pursuing is north of McDonald Electric, 339 South Pine.

The request was for a Use Permissible Upon Review to allow the construction of a 150-foot monopole tower. The property is zoned light industrial.

According to planning director Todd Kennemer’s report, American was asking for an exemption to the set-back 500 feet of a residential structure. The planner recommended denial of the request.

However, the planning commissioners voted unanimously for tabling so the matter could be studied further.

In other action, the planning body, a recommending body to the City Commission, gave its blessing to the revised final plat of Fieldstone subdivision, and to Renaissance Assisted Living for one additional living unit. The Assisted Living approval is contingent upon approval from the state agency.

Prior to approving the Fieldstone subdivision plans, the Planners adopted Rural Acreage subdivision regulations.

Larry McPeak is to be the new chairman and Rosenbaum the vice chairman. Those slated to leave the commission the next month are Jim Smith, Steve Boone and Bill Lundeen.

Local Resident Sniffs Out Telephone Scam

By JEFF POLITTE

News Staff Writer

Question: What do you do when your telephone rings and the caller says, “Congratulations! You’re a winner in the Canadian Lottery!”

Sounds great, right?

But, then the caller then asks you to place a large amount of money into an escrow account to defray taxes and fees. Still sound good?

If you answered yes to those questions, you would have been scammed by a confidence game known as the “Canadian Lottery Scam.”

One area resident was recently faced with this situation and made the right choice by contacting the police.

“Thank goodness this person felt uneasy and didn’t make themselves a victim,” said Sherry Bowers, spokesperson for Ponca City Police Department. “This happens all over the country and we just wanted to make our citizens aware.”

“Be suspicious,” added Bowers.

She points out that if someone calls you and you feels uneasy about the conversation, try to obtain a number to call back. Then, Bowers says, call the police.

Police are also advising the public to ignore any similar calls and to watch for the following tactics:

• If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

• If you are notified that you have won a contest you don’t remember entering.

• If someone asks you to pay any type of a fee in order to collect a prize.

• If you are pressured to make a quick decision or lose the prize.

• If you are asked to make any purchase of merchandise to increase your chance of winning.

• If you are asked for credit card or bank account information to verify your identity.

Nickles Hammers At OSHA Spending

By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE

News Business Editor

WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Don Nickles told The Ponca City News in a conference telephone call Wednesday that “OSHA in their ergonomics proposals has gone too far. This may be the most expensive regulation ever proposed by a governmental agency.”

The proposed regulations of ergonomics, the applied science that coordinates the design of devices, systems and physical working conditions, has been discussed at length in the Legislative Affairs Committee of the Ponca City Area Chamber of Commerce.

Nickles commented further, “The cost estimate is up to a $100 billion a year. OSHA itself has estimated the cost to be four or five billion a year. The Small Business Administration estimated the cost to be $60 billion a year and most of the other business groups say it is a lot more than that — maybe $100 billion.

“For a regulation that is that expensive, I think it should be based on sound science. The Clinton administration has been pushing this reg for years. We have had in the past legislation [to show] that the regs should not go into effect until we get this study.”

The Senate Assistant Majority leader added, “We’ve spent several million dollars for a study, so it would be based on science to find out about these repetitive motions. Do they cause injuries? What is the right way to address this?

“Basically the Clinton administration is not waiting for the study. They’re moving full-speed ahead, mainly because organized labor wants to have this.”

Concerning education legislation, Nickles said, “We have the elementary and secondary education bill on the floor of the Senate [Wednesday].

“We are trying to see if we can’t get the bill moved through, but we are having a hard time. It is basically because the Democrats want to do a lot of other things besides education. They are wanting to have a gun control amendment and maybe a prescription drug amendment.

“We are going to have a few votes on it today. We have big differences on philosophy. Basically the philosophical difference is this: The Republicans are putting in as much money as the Democrats, so both sides are putting in more money.”

Nickles, a Ponca City native, continued, “On the Republican side we are saying, ‘It should be controlled by the states, school boards, teachers and parents.’ The Democrats are saying, ‘We need more federal programs.’”

He added, “President Clinton is pushing 100,000 federal teachers and he is also pushing billions of dollars in new school construction.

“I happen to think the decisions on how many teachers we should have in Ponca City should be decided by Ponca City not by President Clinton.

“And, conversely, when you are talking about replacing school buildings, I think those are local decisions and really shouldn’t be dictated by the federal government. It is not a federal responsibility to replace school buildings. I think it is a state responsibility.”

National Honor Society Honors at NOC Includes Total of 15 Ponca City Students

TONKAWA — Northern Oklahoma College students tapped for membership in Phi Theta Kappa, a national honor society for two-year colleges, includes 15 Ponca City students.

New PTK members are Kevin Adams, Lindsay Birch, Denis Dimitrov, Eve Engle, Rebecca Fisher, Jared Freeman, Kristal Gauger, Samuel Goeppinger, Patricia Hall, Martin Kruk, Brent LaRue, Bryan Murphy, Leigh Turvey, Jason Winters and Shari Winters.

Dr. Roger Stacy, vice president for academic affairs, welcomed a capacity audience in Olin Walcher Conference Center during induction ceremonies for 58 top students on the Tonkawa campus. Carol F. Smith, Northeastern Oklahoma A&M faculty member, gave the keynote address.

Officers of Xi Theta Chapter, PTK, explained the meaning of the society’s symbols.

Jeff Huber, Taloga, escorted the new members to the stage to sign the charter and receive lighted candles signifying their affiliation with the organization. Sponsor Melody Yozzo saluted the new members for their accomplishments and challenged them to explore for the truth.

Sponsor Roy Chaney was recognized for his work with the chapter.

A reception in Memorial Student Union followed the ceremonies.

Jennie Evans, Tonkawa, and Jennifer Miller, Marland, presided over the serving table.

Xi Theta Chapter officers are Ashley Hollingsworth, Ponca City, president; Jerrilyn Kahle, Newkirk, vice president; Chance Matthiesen, Billings, secretary; Beth Scott, Newkirk, treasurer; and Miller, reporter.

Faculty sponsors are Rex Ackerson, Chaney, Judy Colwell, Dr. Glenn Cope, Pat Hullet, Judy Kirk, Sue Ann Rodgers and Yozzo.

District Court

Newkirk

Marriage Licenses

Michael Chad Petrie, 28, and Beth Leann Caldwell, 20, both of Ponca City.

Johnny Lee Blaser, 27, and Ruth Ellen Avey, 46, both of Tonkawa.

Rodney Tyrone Fahs, 32, and Andrea Lynn Thompson, 25, both of Ponca City.

Tyrone Arthur Pointer, 28, and Sheray Lynnette Bouchard, 21, both of Ponca City.

Jonathan Levid Querubin, 24, and Rebecca Cherrice Vincent, 29, both of Tonkawa.

Travis Clay Pentzer, 29, and Jennifer Lynn Davis, 27, both of Ponca City.

Paul Leslie Frickenschmidt, 30, and Billie Lorriane Fisher, 40, both of Tonkawa.

James Wesley Halliday, 71, and Icel Devern Schmidt, 76, both of Arkansas City.

Martin Patrick Silvy, 45, and Deborah Lea Newsome, 49, both of Ponca City.

Dennis Ray Hall, 40, Ponca City, and Mariann Braten, 33, Tulsa.

Scott Robert Haney, 37, and Lora Jean Clubb, 31, both of Belle Plaine, Kan.

Brian Keith Smithson, 30, and Carlene Marie Neumann, 30, both of Blackwell.

Jay Derek Enninga, 26, and Chonie Dey Horton, 25, both of Ponca City.

Mark Lee Nolen, 42, Sand Springs, and Lori Christine Fansler, 37, Ponca City.

David Dwight Gressel, 56, South Haven, and Cheryl Ann Laue, 51, Wellington.

Robert Dean Jones, 23, and Susan Denise Shelton, 22, both of Ponca City.

David Lynn Bullington, 41, and Connie Kay Westerman, 40, both of Ponca City.

Ryan Todd Peetoom, 26, and Kimberly Louise Evans, 24, both of Blackwell.

Divorces Sought

Lisa G. Young vs. Wade Lee Young.

Divorces Granted

Jeffrey Rockne Long vs. Kelly Ann Long.

Blackwell

Divorces Sought

Jeannie M. McCannon vs. Bobbie D. McCannon.

Wilma M. Pitts vs. Timothy W. Pitts.

Steven Wiggs vs. Shelly Wiggs.

Divorces Granted

Allen Lee Boyer vs. Debora Ann Boyer; defendant restored to former name Debora Ann Secrist.

Linda R. Bergman vs. Robert M. Bergman.

Ponca City

Divorces Sought

Brandt A. Harris Sr. vs. Ronda R. Harris.

A. Michele Huston vs. Thomas G. Huston.

Randy Peters vs. Terry Combs.

Amy Luree Mowrar vs. Lindsey Russell Mowrar.

Glen Wheeler Powell vs. Rachel Michelle Powell.

Myrtle W. Byrne vs. Jon A. Lellman.

Elaine Margaret Moore vs. James Darrin Moore.

Dianne Kittrell vs. George Kittrell.

Pamela Kay Short vs. Darrell Landon Short.

Lisa Rae Vogele vs. Bronc George Vogele.

Divorces Granted

Christopher Edward Taylor vs. Sherry Sweeden Taylor.

Greg Stephens vs. April Stephens.

Brett Marlon Wittmer vs. Debra Elizabeth Wittmer.

Darla K. Zoski vs. David P. Zoski.

Carl Dwayne Brock vs. Barbara Louise Brock.

Timothy A. Meadows vs. Jantje Meadows/Bakker.

Patricia Marie Greenfield vs. James Louis Greenfield; plaintiff restored to former name Patricia Marie Lawler.

Ruth Ann Patterson vs. Paul Eugene Patterson Jr.

William Don Curfman vs. Melissa Ann Curfman.

Paul Warren Meredith vs. Micmi Meredith.

Jeromy L. Schneider vs. Jodi A. Schneider.

Larry E. Grantz vs. Marian Grantz.

Bradley K. Stevens vs. Robin R. Stevens.

Deloris Ann Thomas vs. Lewis Edmond Thomas.

Jeremy Joseph Ewing vs. Ruth Ann Ewing.

Sandy C. Overman vs. Steven Wayne Overman.

Juanita N. Tarvin vs. Delbert F. Staton.

Julie Ann Mason vs. Loyd Ray Mason.

Sherri Pollak vs. Carl Pollak; plaintiff restored to former name Sherri K. Sparks.

Todd Rozell vs. Brenda Rozell.

Milissa Denise Lawson vs. Kevin Leroy Lawson.

Lisa Renee McCool vs. Ricky Joe McCool.

Annual Iris Society Show Set for Saturday

The Northern Oklahoma Iris Society will participate in Iris Festival 2000 by holding its annual iris show, “Festival of Rainbows,” on Saturday. It will be held in the lower level of the Commercial Federal Building. Public viewing of the irises will begin after the judging at approximately 1 p.m. continue until 4 p.m.

Entries will be accepted for the show on Friday from 7 to 9 p.m. and again on Saturday morning from 8 to 10. Anyone growing named varieties of irises is encouraged to enter; it is not necessary to be a member of any iris society.

There will be separate divisions and awards for adults and youth who have not had their 19th birthday. The awards will include ribbons for entries of merit. Purple rosettes will be awarded to the Best Iris of the Show, Horticultural Sweepstakes and the best entries in each section. A new 2000 iris introduction rhizome is also awarded to each rosette winner and four runners-up to the Best of Show.

Vases for displaying the irises are provided by the iris society. All entries must be grown, groomed and prepared for display by the exhibitor. No one may enter an iris for another person. Society members will be available to assist new exhibitors in preparing their entries.

Irises will be exhibited and judged by variety. The irises must match the American Iris Society’s registered description for the variety. Sections and groups are provided for each class of bearded and beardless iris.

There is also a section for historical irises with an introduction date prior to 1970. Entries will be judged in accordance with the rules of the American Iris Society. Each iris is evaluated against a standard of cultural perfection for the variety. Any unnamed or misnamed irises will be accepted for display only. However, it is suggested that these be entered in the Community Iris Show where they may be awarded a ribbon.

Northern Oklahoma Iris Society is holding its show in conjunction with Iris Festival 2000 to exhibit the wide diversity of iris cultivars and types. Society members hope to create interest in irises and encourage more people to grow them.

There are irises that are suitable for most landscaping situations and for every environment. Almost every class of iris can be successfully grown in Kay County.

The iris society was formed in 1988 to educate gardeners about all types of irises and their cultural requirements. All the show exhibitors are happy to teach others about their favorite flower and show them to everyone attending Iris Festival 2000.

Anyone interested in exhibiting named iris cultivars in “Festival of Rainbows” during Iris Festival 2000 may obtain a copy of the show schedule and rules by contacting Carol Goldsberry at 765-2390 or Lynn Whitebay at 765-2074.

Trail of Tails Event Included In Be Kind to Animals Week

Calling it an important reminder of our bond with animals, the Ponca City Humane Society announced that it will be part of the national celebration of Be Kind to Animals Week, May 7 through 13.

Jean Barnes, executive director, said that the Ponca City Humane Society will join the national celebration by hosting several local events such as the Trail of Tails on Saturday at 9 a.m. The American Humane Association established Be Kind to Animals Week in 1915 and is once again the national sponsor of this week.

“Be Kind to Animals Week, celebrating its 85th anniversary this year, is the oldest week of its kind,” said Barnes. “This special week is a time when we can all step back and reflect on the happiness and joy animals bring into our lives. I also hope it’s a time that all the residents of the Ponca City area realize the importance of animals and our responsibility for their care and well-being.”

This year, the Ponca City Humane Society plans the Trail of Tails at 9 a.m. Saturday located on the tennis courts at Seventh and Grand. Among the activities include the Dachshund race, best trick, best costume, look-a-like, large dog, small dog, guess the number of dog biscuits in the jar, oldest walker, youngest walker, and the longest travel distance to enter the walk.

In 1999 the Ponca City Humane Society helped find good homes for more than 375 homeless animals. “We’re proud to be a part of the Ponca City community because so many residents have reached out to help animals,” Barnes continued.

In 1999, volunteers donated over 1,000 hours to help the shelter adopt more animals, organize special events, and take care of the facilities.

Kay County Health Department Set To Celebrate National Nurses Week

The Kay County Health Department is gearing up to celebrate the contributions and accomplishments of its Public Health Nurses during National Nurses Week.

Each year, National Nurses Week is celebrated beginning on May 6, in recognition of National Nurses Day, and ending on May 12, the birthday of Florence Nightingale, founder of nursing as a modern profession. This year’s theme is “Nurses: Keeping the Care in Health Care.”

As a profession, nurses have been providing health care to Oklahomans since the placement of the first public health nurse in 1919. Currently, more than 650 public health nurses provide services in Oklahoma’s 77 counties.

These services contributed to the public health achievements of the 20th century, including: child and adult immunizations, safety education and training, control of communicable diseases, decline in deaths from heart disease, improved nutrition, healthier mothers and babies, child abuse prevention, school health, prevention health screenings, family planning, recognition of tobacco use as a health hazard.

In a 1999 Gallup poll, the nursing profession was listed as the most honest of all professions.

“As the health care system in this county continues to evolve, public health nurses will be ready to develop new partnerships in the public and private sectors to work collaboratively toward creating healthy communities,” said Mike O’Connor. “I’m proud that our nursing staff is part of this effort.”

‘Risk Watch’ Safety Carnival Set Saturday

Is your family really safe?

Injuries are the No. 1 health risk for children under age 14. We can all reduce that risk by learning to recognize dangers and take simple steps to protect ourselves and our families.

On Saturday fro 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., the Ponca City Fire Prevention Advisory Council in conjunction with Ponca City Lowe’s Home Center and other community volunteers will hold the second annual “Risk Watch” safety carnival at the Lowe’s Home Center parking lot at 3500 North Fourteenth Street.

“Risk Watch” is a comprehensive injury prevention curriculum developed by the National Fire Protection Association, Lowe’s Home Safety Council and other Injury Prevention Professionals for children from preschool through eighth grade.

With proper education, children can learn to be much safer and prevent injuries. The “Risk Watch” activities combine teaching and imagination to help children learn to promote their own personal safety, as well as their family.

This years safety council will feature booths on Fire and Burn Safety, Bicycle and Pedestrian Safety, Water Safety, Storm Safety, Poison Prevention, Choking and Strangulation Prevention, Motor Vehicle Safety, Firearm Safety and Home Safety. Special appearances will include clowns, Ponca City fire mascot “Sparky,” Dave May with “Andy,” firemen, EMT’s, and a police officer.

There will be safety demonstrations at the different booths, games, food and drinks and drawings for free prizes. Dave May and “Andy” of Team Radio will conduct shows throughout the carnival. Children will also be able to see fire trucks, an ambulance, a police car and other emergency equipment.

In addition, the Oklahoma Blood Institute will be conducting a blood drive for the adults. The Ponca City Fire Prevention Advisory Council will have donation jars available to help their fund raising efforts to purchase a new “Fire Safety House” for the Ponca City Fire Department to teach fire safety.

All Ponca City area children and their families are invited.

Annual Spring Rummage Sale At Grace Church

The Annual Spring Rummage Sale is coming to Grace Episcopal Church, Thirteenth and Grand, on Friday, May 5 and Saturday, May 6.

Sponsored by the Episcopal Church Women of Grace Church, the sale begins at 9 a.m. on Friday, continuing until 5 p.m., and reopening on Saturday at 9 a.m. and continuing until 12 noon. The well-known “sack sale” is scheduled for Saturday at closing time.

Clothing, miscellaneous household items, books, toys, shoes, fabrics, and bedding will be sold in the Parish Hall, located on Thirteenth Street at Grand Avenue.

There is plenty of parking in the parking lot directly across the street west from the Parish Hall on North Thirteenth, according to a spokesperson for the ECW.

Larger furniture and outdoor items will be sold at the garage located on the northeast corner of the church property. Some of these items include bicycles, a full size brass headboard, golf clubs, chest of drawers, and a built-in wall type oven, luggage and some office equipment and computers.

Everyone is welcome to come and browse. Profits from this sale are budgeted by the ECW for local and diocesan outreach projects and organization needs.

Everyone is invited to come, browse, find some good buys and enjoy the sale, according to Joan Dick, publicity chairman for this ECW event.

DEATHS

Ruby M. Robinson
Carolyn R. Houk
Andrew J. Rogers
Clara Garza

Ruby M. Robinson

PAWNEE — Ruby M. Robinson, resident of Pawnee, died Monday, May 1, 2000, in Pawnee. She was 87.

The funeral will be 2 p.m. Thursday at the First Baptist Church in Blackburn with the Rev. Bob Copeland officiating. Burial will be in the Blackburn Cemetery under the direction of Poteet Funeral Home in Pawnee.

Ruby M. Robinson was born March 11, 1913, in Mena, Ark., the daughter of George and Fannie (Woods) Spears. She attended school in Blackburn. She married Lafe Robinson on April 12, 1932, in Pawnee County; he preceded her in death June 7, 1982. She had lived in Kinta, Okla., and moved to Blackburn, where she lived all of her married life. She was a member of Blackburn First Baptist Church and Pawnee First Baptist Church.

Survivors include three daughters, Joyce Huddleston of Ponca City, Norma Jean Wheeler of Pawnee, and Linda K. Kelsey of Cleveland; one sister, Viola Robinson of Ponca City; four grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

She was also preceded in death by her parents; an infant son, Robert; two sisters, Delia Lemaster and Imogene Spears; five brothers, Fred Spears, Mitch Spears, Wes Spears, Roy Spears and Chester Spears; three grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

Obituaries

Carolyn R. Houk

Carolyn R. Houk, 7 Spring Village, died early Tuesday morning, May 2, 2000, at the St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. She was 67.

The funeral will be Saturday, May 6, 2000, at 10 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church with the Rev. Dr. J.D. Ward, pastor, officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of the Trout Funeral Home. There will be no viewing at the funeral home.

Carolyn Ruth Houk was born at El Reno on April 18, 1933, to Frank and Verchie Carpenter Johnson. Her early childhood was in San Antonio, but she spent all of her school years in Oklahoma City. She graduated from Northeast High School and then entered nurse’s training at the University of Oklahoma Medical Center. There she met her husband Harold who was attending medical school, and they were married between his sophomore and junior years. During internship at Wichita, the first child Susan was born. Three years later while in practice in Wellington, Kan., their son Wesley was adopted. Soon afterward, they moved to Wichita Falls for further surgical training and then in 1961 to Ponca City where they continued to live.

Carolyn had two main interests. One was helping foreign students adjust to college life at Oklahoma State University. For her work she received the Kamm Recognition Award for outstanding service. Her other main interest was working as the Friendship Feast Coordinator at the First Christian Church. She also served as chairperson of the Social Concerns Committee at the First United Methodist Church and as secretary of the Oklahoma State Medical Auxiliary.

Survivors include her daughter, Susan Kolliopoulos of Austin, Texas; her husband, Dr. Harold Houk of the home; two grandsons, Alex Kolliopoulos of San Antonio, Texas, and Dustin Houk of Ponca City.

She was preceded in death by her son Wesley, and infant son Harold Jr.; her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Johnson; and her brother, Ron.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Friendship Feast, in care of the First Christian Church, 210 North Fifth, Ponca City, Okla. 74601.

The family will be at the home, 7 Spring Village.

paid obituary

Andrew J. Rogers

Andrew J. “Andy” Rogers, longtime Ponca City resident, left this earth on Tuesday, May 2, 2000. at his home. He was 78.

The funeral will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, May 5, 2000, at Central Baptist Church with the Rev. Alton Chiles, pastor of Temple Baptist Church in Muskogee, officiating, assisted by the Rev. John Waterloo, pastor of Central Baptist Church. Burial will follow at Odd Fellows Cemetery under the direction of Trout Funeral Home.

Andy was born on Aug. 14, 1921, in Kanima, Okla., to Albert and Fannie (Hays) Rogers. He served with the Civilian Conservation Corps in Montrose, Colo., followed by two tours of service with the United States Marine Corps during World War II. As a marine, he served actively with the 4th Marine Division in Bremerton, Wash., the Hawaiian Islands, the Philippine Islands, and in Sitka, Alaska.

He married Edna Mae Rosson on May 22, 1948, in El Reno and worked many occupations in Arizona and California. After moving to Ponca City, he owned and operated Rogers Paper Recycling as a family business until his retirement. On Aug. 10, 1986, he married Ann Isbill Mustain, also of Ponca City. Andy was an avid gardener, enjoyed fishing, and reading military history.

He is survived by his wife Ann of the home; one son, James A. Rogers and his wife Marie of Ponca City; one daughter, Linda Brake and her husband Jim of Overland Park, Kan.; two stepsons, Allan Mustain of Huntington Beach, Calif., and Michael Mustain of Ponca City; one stepdaughter, Karen Grammer of Stroud; 14 grandchildren; and one great-granddaughter.

He was preceded in death by his parents; first wife, Edna Mae; one daughter, Margaret Victoria Grossman; and numerous brothers and sisters.

The family will be at the home, 3594 North Bell Road.

paid obituary

Services Pending

Clara Garza

Clara Garza, Wichita resident, died late Wednesday, May 3, 2000, at her home. She was 55. Arrangements are pending with Grace Memorial Chapel.

NEWS BRIEFS

Walnut Valley — The Walnut Valley Chapter of KOFP&S will meet at 4 p.m. Saturday, May 6, at the Senior Citizen’s Facility in Arkansas city, Kan. Individual music performances will be from 4-6 p.m. Snacks will be served 6-7 p.m. Dance bands will perform 7-9:30 p.m. Musicians, singers. listeners and dancers of all ages are cordially invited to participate. This is a clean environment as no smoking, alcohol, or drugs are permitted.

Lost Puppy, Yorkshire Terrier, missing since Monday from area

of 6th and Cleveland. Please call 762-2271. adv.

Spring Powwow — The annual spring powwow at the Ponca City Nursing and Rehab center, 1400 North Waverly, will begin at 2 p.m. May 6. There is a $100 prize for the best dancer. Indian tacos, dessert and tea will be provided free of charge. Those attending should bring a lawn chair. Arts and crafts will be sold and a silent auction held also.

Elk’s Lodge open Tuesday through Saturday 4-10. 3612 Lake

Road. adv.

Presbyterian Women Set Meeting — “Glimpses of God’s Kingdom Through Our Neighbor’s Eyes” will be the theme of the Presbyterian Women when they meet Thursday, May 11 at noon. Lois Palmer and women from St. John’s Church will present the program. Hostesses are members of the Lily Jackson Circle. The blessing will be given by Dorene Klos and the devotional thoughts by Barbara Younger. Presbyterian Women are encouraged to bring items for the Emergency Infant Center in Tulsa.

Pauline’s Shrimp peel. All you can eat $11.95, Friday 5th. For reservations call 765-5460. adv.

New MS Support Group Meets — There will be an organizational meeting of a new Multiple Sclerosis Support Group on May 15, at 7 p.m. at christian Church of the covenant, 1205 South Cleveland in enid. Please us the east entrance. For more information, contact Janet Cordell at 242-1300.

Theft — A boy’s bike was reported stolen from the 600 block of N. Sunset. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Power Wheelchairs Available — Miracle on Wheels makes available Power (electric) wheelchairs to non-ambulatory senior citizens (65 years old & up) usually at non out-of-pocket expense if they qualify. no deposit required. The electric wheelchairs are provided to those who can not walk and can not self-propel a manual wheelchair in their home or independent living quarters and who meet the additional qualifications of the program. This service may also be available to the permanently disabled of any age. Please call 1-800-749-8778 or visit our web site at www.durablemedical.com for more information on the details of this program.

Free Pregnancy test. Birth Choice cares. Confidential.

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

8 p.m. 700 West Broadway. 765-9689. adv.

Millennium Afghan — Good Shepherd Lutheran Church still has Millennium Afghans for sale, featuring Standing Beear, the 101, Wentz, conoco, etc. $50. Great for Mother’s Day, anniversaries, birthdays, graduation a dnbon voyage gifts. Call Karen at 762-7120.

See The new Conoco heritage print by Rod Bailey. “Something

to ‘Crow’ About” is available at Christy’s or Crafter’s Mall. adv.

Clothing Giveaway — Free clothing to anyone with a need, Monday, May 8, 6 to 8 p.m. at Helping Hands House, 440 Fairview. Donations needed. Please leave on covered porch.

New Spring Rates at Gene’s Cab. 762-2500. $2.50 minimum,

$5.00 maximum for a single destination ride inside the city limits. Stops are extra, but no charge for

extra riders. adv.

Accident — A motorist reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 10:41 a.m. Wednesday that a two car accident had occurred at the corner of Fourteenth and Walnut. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. One vehicle was towed from the scene.

Accident — A minor two vehicle accident was reported to the Ponca City Police Department at the 1500 block of Donahoe. Drivers exchanged information. No report was taken.

Assault — The Communications Center received a 911 call at 4:17 p.m. on Wednesday from the 1500 block of W. Chestnut that a domestic argument was in progress. The victim was taken to the Police Department where a report was taken for domestic assault and battery.

Dougan's Bar-B-Q Friday special from 4-8 p.m., all you can eat

ribs with beans, potato salad and coleslaw, $7.49. 215 South 14th, 765-7979. adv.

Accident — A two vehicle accident was reported to the Ponca City Police Department at the corner of South and Waverly. A police officer was assigned and a report was taken. Both vehicles were towed from the scene.

Head Country all day Friday special­ All you can eat, smoked

BBQ ribs, beans, potato salad, and coleslaw, only $7.49, all day. 1217 East Prospect. 767-8304. adv.

Cattle in road — A large group of cattle were reported on the roadway between Pecan and the VFW. An officer responded to the scene. The officer reported that the cattle’s owners needed to be called to repair the fence.

Stormescape Shelters, perfect for garage, under vehicle, installation. $1,695. 765-2633. adv.

Accident — A two vehicle accident was reportedly blocking the road at U.S. 60 and Lucas. The Ponca City Police Department was contacted at 5:17 p.m. Wednesday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Both vehicles were moved out of the roadway.

Burglary — The Communications Center received a 911 call at 1:36 a.m. Thursday of a possible burglary at 72 Elmwood. The resident believed that someone had broken into her home and stolen a telephone. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

GARDENING

Diggin in the Dirt
Herb Festival Will Be June 3
Plants for Pleasure Sale at Cann Garden

Diggin in the Dirt

By Kathy Zehr

Hope “yew-awll” had all your seeds and plants in the ground before the wonderful May Day rain. We just returned from a long trip through the southern states and are anxious for the soil to dry so we can start “diggin in the dirt” at our house. While waiting for the soil to dry, I am going to try something I read about on the web: A hanging, upside-down tomato plant for my patio.

Sounds like a good idea after you read the instructions. Purchase a small (cherry tomato) plant, carefully thread its roots through the bottom of a pretty hanging pot and fill the pot with potting soil. Water daily if needed, and feed regularly. The instructions say the plants will grow well, look pretty, and give abundant fruit, while hanging in that upside down position. I’ll let you know!

I also notice my mums are really getting leggy because of all the rain, so it’s time to pinch them back for bushier plants and showier blooms in the fall. If you haven’t already — it’s time to cut off all the spent tulip, jonquil and iris blooms. Remember to leave the leaves until they turn yellow. They are collecting food for the roots now.

Combat Last Year’s

Drought Now

Even though it’s been a wet spring, the long-range summer weather is predicted to be dry, and that’s not good news following last year’s record breaking drought. According to Dale Goodwin, Kay County extension agent, the 1999 drought was the worst in 100 years and really weakened many trees and shrubs, setting them up for fungi and bacteria infections this year in Kay County. Call 580-362-3194 and ask Dale to send you a brochure on diseases associated with drought and how to manage them.

In view of these extremes and — beginning right now — it would be wise to start preventative measures to insure the health of our trees, bushes and garden plants. First, save those lush grass clippings and use them as mulch around all your plants and trees to conserve moisture. If possible, let them lay a day or two to dry in the sun before using. In addition to conserving water, mulch also helps maintain an even soil temperature, and reduces weed growth (Oklahoma weeds thrive best in hot weather).

Soaker Hoses and Mulch

Having grown up in dry western Oklahoma where city water was often rationed during the summer, we learned a few tips to help conserve water and keep plants healthy. I’ll pass a few along. First place some inexpensive little green soaker hoses down each row alongside the plants or seeded rows in the vegetable garden. Turn the hose upside down with the holes facing the soil and lay a brick or rock on each end to hold it flat. Cover with mulch about 6-inches deep along the rows. Leave all hose couplings exposed where they can be easily accessed with a garden hose. The soaker hoses provide a slow gentle watering right at the plant level as needed and doesn’t waste water in the walkways or along the neighbors fence line. The mulch keeps the moisture from evaporating.

Soaker hoses also work well under decorative mulch in flowerbeds. We use the better soaker hoses in perennial beds that do not have to be dug up and replaced each year. Remember to mulch seedbeds only lightly until plants are up and have at least four leaves or more. Mulch can be anything organic from grass clippings, straw, old leaves, aged sawdust, or other material that will decay and can be tilled into the dirt later. I prefer straw. Avoid using grasses with joints (they may take root) or clippings that have been recently sprayed with liquid fertilizer or pesticides. Newspapers will work just fine, but will not add a natural look your garden.

Note: Some vegetables do better without mulch, such as corn, which prefers a hot soil. You may also prefer NOT to mulch around summer squash plants if you are plagued by squash bugs each year. It sometimes just gives those pesky critters more places to hide. It’s also time to start looking for the bugs, slugs, worms and other pests. Watch for holes in leaves, webs, wilting plants, discolorations, spots, etc. Catch them early before they get a head start and you have to call in the big guns.

Herb Festival Will Be June 3

If you enjoy music and the beauty of nature, you won’t want to miss the sixth annual Herb Festival at Cann Memorial Botanical Gardens, Fourteenth and Grand Avenue, on June 3, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Mary Anne Potter, co-creator of the festival with Jeanne Brace, said “We have had more than 60 vendors from six states participating in past years.”

Several years ago, Brace approached Potter with the idea of having a small herb celebration day at Brace’s store, Brace Books & More on 14th Street. Brace told Potter she would consider the first celebration a success if 25 people attended. It turned out to be much larger than she ever imagined.

“I told her to set out more than the 25 chairs she was going to, and we ended up having more than 200 people who had signed in,” Potter said. “The next year we decided to move it outside to the parking lot and we had 1,000 people attend and 20 vendors. We had workshops at her store and at Drug Warehouse. “

Sensing that the festival had become too large to handle, Brace and Potter approached the Sage, Rosemary and Thyme Garden Club of Ponca City about taking it over. They accepted, taking the festival on as a garden club project.

There is no admission charge and all workshops are free. Proceeds from vendor sales are put back into public gardens in Ponca City and Kay County.

Each year seminars are held on a variety of topics, including the basics of herb gardening, how to make handcrafted herbal soaps, herbal vinegar, composting, gourd crafting, and outdoor grilling with herbs. Herb plants, perennial flowers and other items are sold the day of the festival, including herbal bath products, crafts, herbal vinegar and garden related items such as plants and fish for garden ponds and wooden birdhouses.

Activities for children are included, and entertainment is provided by local musicians who sing and play instruments throughout the day. “It’s on five-and-a-half acres, a gorgeous setting, ” Potter said.

Fresh herbs, demonstrations, samples and seminars, herbal crafts and products, food, music and lots of “thymely” advice make this a popular event.

For more information check the group’s website, www.onlineshops.com/herbfest or call Helen Widner, 580-767-1076, or Mary Anne Potter, 767-1957.

Plants for Pleasure Sale at Cann Garden

The Ponca City Council of Garden Clubs will host their annual “Plants for Pleasure” sale Saturday, May 6, 9 a.m.- 2 p.m. Held in conjunction with the Ponca City Iris Festival, the sale will take place on the patio of the Cann Memorial Garden, 1500 East Grand.

Members from the council’s seven garden clubs have been busy digging extra bedding plants from their own backyard gardens to be sold at the sale. Donated plants have also come from members of the recently formed evening garden club, Moonflowers. “This is a annual event that many gardeners look forward to each year during the Iris Festival” according to Linda Sparks, sale chairman. “We have several customers from the Tulsa area that come every year to Ponca City just for our plant sale and to attend the other Iris Festival activities.”

Plants being offered this year include a selection of daylilies, iris rhizomes, hostas, grasses, herbs and much more. This year a selection of plant containers, vases and gardening items will be included in the sale. The family of long-time Red Rose club member, Freeda Hunt, have donated the items from her estate.

All proceeds from the day are used by the Garden Council to purchase needed accessories for the gardens of the Cann Memorial. For further information about the Plants for Pleasure sale, or to join a gardening club, call Mavis, 762-4887.

SPORTS

Union Tops Cats Again
Lady Cats 4th at State
OSU Cowgirls Assistant New Coach at UTSA

Union Tops Cats Again

OWASSO — The fourth time around wasn’t any charming than the first three as Ponca City’s Wildcat baseballers dropped a 10-4 decision to Tulsa Union in the elimination game of the regional tournament here Wednesday.

Two of the previous losses to the Redskins were similar to the final one. The lone exception was a 1-0 near-miss by the Poncans in the opening round of the regional Tuesday.

Once again hitting, or the lack of it, kept the Wildcats at bay. The Poncans did, however, make the most of their six hits.

The first two Wildcat hits came in the second inning but failed to produce a run.

The Cats tried again with two hits in the third and got two runs on the board to tie the score.

With two outs in the top of the third, Jerrod Spears was hit by a pitch. Jeff Furnas followed with a single and Chris McCool brought both runners home with a double to right.

But that was the only time the Wildcats got to Union pitcher Nathan Gates until the seventh inning.

In the meantime, Union score twice in the bottom of the third, added four runs in the fourth and finished its scoring with a run in the sixth.

All told, the Redskins banged out 11 hits off four Ponca City pitchers. Starter Furnas lasted two and a third innings, giving up four runs on four hits. He also hit four Union batters in taking the loss.

Trailing 10-2 going into the final inning, the Poncans were still plugging away.

With one out, the Wildcats found what worked in the third inning also worked in the seventh. Todd Stewart was hit by a pitch and Buddy McCoy singled to left. Both runners advanced on a passed ball.

Bryan Coppock brought both runners home with a double to left.

But the rally died on a strike out and a grounder to short.

Lady Cats 4th at State

EDMOND — Ponca City’s Lady Wildcat golfers stood a good chance of finishing as a top 5 team in the State Class 5A Tournament at Kickingbird today after posting one of their better rounds of the season Wednesday.

Paced by Jenni Nimmo’s 81, the Lady Casts stood fourth in the team standings with a 342 total.

Edmond North, going for its fourth straight state title, threatened to turn the tournament into a race for second place. The Lady Huskies shot a 307 Wednesday to hold a 27-stroke lead over second-place Edmond Memorial (334). Stillwater was third with a 338 total.

Ponca City held a seven-shot lead over Muskogee and Tulsa Union, who were tied for fifth in the 12-team field.

“The girls played great golf,” enthused Ponca City coach John Spore. “If we take care of business, there’s a good chance we can finish in the top half of the field at state. It was excellent play by all the girls.”

This tournament is a milestone for the Lady Cats, who have not qualified for the state tournament as a team in a number of years.

Trailing Nimmo, who is playing her third state tournament, were Heather Staires with an 85, Kelle Waddell with 86, Calyn Snell with 90 and Ashley Mott with 91.

Treas Nelson of Lawton Eisenhower was the individual leader going into today’s final round with a 73 on Wednesday.

Two Edmond North players, Jacque Litsch and Claire Sturdivan, were in a four-way tie for second at 75.

Team Scoring

Edmond North 307, Edmond Memorial 331, Stillwater 338, Ponca City 342, Muskogee 349, T. Union 349, Bartlesville 350, Putnam City North 356, Enid 359, Tahlequah 360, Edmond Santa Fe 360, Mustang 364.

OSU Cowgirls Assistant New Coach at UTSA

SAN ANTONIO (AP) — Oklahoma State assistant coach Rae Rippetoe-Blair has been named head coach of the Texas-San Antonio women’s basketball team.

Rippetoe-Blair will replace Terry Gray, who resigned to coach at Midland High School.

Rippetoe-Blair, 37, has been at Oklahoma State eight years. An OSU graduate, she began her coaching career at Southern Nazarene University in Bethany, Okla., as an assistant coach and recruiter.

In 1987, she became coach of Phillips University in Enid, Okla., taking her teams to the NAIA playoffs each year from 1987-1992. She is the winningest coach in Phillips’ history, with a 104-51 record through five seasons.

‘‘She has had years of collegiate coaching experience as both an assistant and head coach ... and is an extremely hard worker who will not mind rolling up her sleeves to get our program back on track,’’ said UTSA athletic director Lynn Hickey.

Texas-San Antonio went 6-20 last year and finished tied for 10th in the Southland Conference. Gray had a 38-43 record in three years at Texas-San Antonio after going 58-10 over two years at Howard Junior College.