LOCAL

Success Reading Up at All PC Schools
School Meals Will Cost More When Term Opens Next Fall
City Budget May Exceed 67 Million

Success Reading Up at All PC Schools

By KRISTI HAYES

News Education Editor

The test results are in, and they couldn’t be better.

After citing literacy as its top priority, the Ponca City board of education received good news Monday night.

Current data shows a larger percentage of local students reading at grade level — a marked increase from studies made last fall.

Dr. Patty Ladd, director of elementary curriculum, told board members the town should throw a party.

“This data I’m showing you indicates our students are showing twice the amount of growth we anticipated,” she said.

Growth was measured from students in second through eighth grades taking the Gates Macginitie Reading Test. Information on the test was received in October, and students took the pretest that month.

“Our test scores showed what we believed was true. In some grades, only 70 percent of our students were reading within one year of grade level. That was not acceptable to us,” Ladd said.

Students took the test again five months later.

“After five months of preparing — and lots of dedication from our teachers — I can tell you the numbers are outstanding,” Ladd beamed.

Growth measuring all students in the district — including those on special education programs — went from 71 percent in October to 79 percent in March.

“We’re just tickled with that number,” Ladd told board members.

Ladd said the increase in numbers is due to many things. “We have new policies, focus more on literacy, provide more instruction, make more contacts with parents and added extra tutors and mentors,” she said.

The breakdown shows rising numbers from all grade levels.

Eighth graders showed a marked increase, improving from 72 to 83 percent. “Our eighth graders were off the charts. The test couldn’t even measure their growth,” she said.

The breakdown from school to school for all students reading within one year of grade level showed: Garfield Academy, 73 percent; Liberty Elementary, 70 percent; Lincoln Elementary, 64 percent; Roosevelt Elementary, 82 percent; Trout Elementary, 86 percent; Union Elementary, 79 percent; Washington Elementary, 86 percent; and Woodlands Elementary, 92 percent.

Ladd said it was important to note that all school sites raised test scores. “The teachers took where the students scored last October and moved ahead. Every site improved,” she noted.

At West Middle School, 78 percent of students tested were reading within one year of grade level and 83 percent at East Middle School.

A total of 2,643 students were tested in grades two through eight.

School Meals Will Cost More When Term Opens Next Fall

By KRISTI HAYES

News Education Editor

A 10-cent increase for full-price meals will be implemented this fall at Ponca City schools. The item received unanimous approval at Monday night’s regular board meeting.

Jeff Denton, chief financial officer and head of child nutrition, requested the increase for all full-price meals. The last increase in pricing was in 1996. “A lot of areas need to be looked at within child nutrition. We’re asking for this increase to bring in additional income,” he explained. The change will not impact students who receive free or reduced lunches.

Even though the Campus Mart, the child nutrition program, has shown a profit this year, a price increase will allow for future replacement of equipment and remodeling as well as staying even with increasing costs.

“This increase will generate about $20,000 and allow for other costs,” Denton said.

The new price this fall for breakfast is $.75 for elementary, and $.80 for all secondary schools. The lunch costs will be $1.50 for the elementary schools, $1.60 for middle schools and $1.75 for high school students.

In other agenda items, board members awarded a contract to Lemonnier Construction of Ponca City for the Sullins Stadium restroom construction project. LeMonnier’s bid was the lowest at $94,250.

The project will address the women’s restroom needs at Sullins Stadium as well as construction of a new girls’ locker room for soccer and track.

Dr. Joe Surber, assistant superintendent of buildings and operations, said it was anticipated the bids would be below $90,000.

“Some of our maintenance crews will work on this project which will bring the contract cost down,” he explained.

Board members discussed a Youth Risk Behavior Survey in great detail. The item was approved with all sexually-related questions omitted.

Parents will be permitted to have their children opt out of the survey.

Students participating in the survey are seventh-through- twelfth graders.

Board members approved several contracts and renewal contracts. They include:

— Lease purchase agreement with Ingram Micro Total Lease Company for the hardware at the high school;

— Agreement with Albright’s Insurance, Inc. to provide the district’s business auto/fleet insurance;

— Renewal agreement with Burnett Security to provide security at the secondary schools and courier services;

— Renewal agreement with Municipal Accounting Services, Inc., for financial accounting, treasurer system, activity fund and personnel software;

— Renewal agreement with Walsworth Publishing Company to publish the 2001 yearbooks at Ponca City High School;

— Renewed agreement with the YMCA of Ponca City for the use of the community swimming pool for the 2000-2001 school year;

— Renewal of rental and maintenance agreements with Kay Office Company for copiers; and

— Renewed agreement with Auditor Jerry Putnam for auditing services.

During the Superintendent’s Report, Dr. Bill White said he has recalculated enrollment numbers and the district lost 154 students since October.

“We’re down 100 students in grades K-6 alone. We continue to see a decline in the elementary levels,” White said.

He also stressed that each student lost generates about $3,000 less per child in federal funding.

“We will graduate between 420 and 440 students the next few years. Our elementary classes only have about 320 students. Our larger classes are graduating. We will need more kids to keep our budget intact,” White said.

He pointed out that with next year’s budget, board members may have to cut certified positions to generate $170,000.

City Budget May Exceed 67 Million

By JEFF POLITTE

News Staff Writer

With no further recommendations or comments presented at the public hearing held for the proposed budget for fiscal year 2000-2001, city manager Gary Martin is slated to present the budget to the City Commission for approval on May 22.

The public hearing, a requirement of the Municipal Budget Act, was held during Monday’s regular work session of the Ponca City Board of Commissioners.

The hearing was intended to provide any person a chance to present comments, recommendations or information on any part of the proposed budget before final approval.

Total budget appropriations as listed for the fiscal year are $67,114,381.

Also during the session, the commission heard information on Character First from assistant director Gerald Coury. Character First is a personal growth training course that is offered by the Character Training Institute in Oklahoma City, a non-profit organization, for city character development.

Coury explained that Character First deals with issues like “How do you get city employees to act with character?”

According to information published by the institute, a city that is committed to building character will implement character development in the different sectors of the city: government, business, education and the faith community.

“We thought it would be desirable that the city government pass a resolution that Ponca City is a Character City,” he told the board.

This resolution, according to information provided by the institute, is designed to state the city’s goal of encouraging all citizens to develop good character.

Coury also pointed out that for the program to be effective, city government needed to take a leadership role.

The costs to the city for training are expenses (travel, lodging and meals for the trainers) and materials ($15 per person attending the training).

“Dollar costs are not high [for the program],” said Martin. The only real cost, he noted, would be in “employee time.”

“We could implement the training at the beginning of the fiscal year,” he told the board.

Martin also presented a brief report to the board during the session.

The city manager reported that, according to Debbie Fralix, Human Resources Director, who works with the negotiation team on contracts, The Fraternal Order of Police had settled its union contracts.

He also noted that Fralix was “setting up safety training for city employees.” This involves general safety while employees are on the job.

Sales tax totals dropped for the month of March by 12.78 percent from last year’s totals, he said.

Information presented in a recent letter to the city from the Oklahoma Tax Commission reported that sales tax collections for retail activity in Ponca City for the month were $795,929.27.

Martin attributed the decrease, in part, to the extraordinary gain in the base period of May, 1999, which was a 17.89 percent increase.

Current period receipts represent a 2.83 percent increase over the same period two years ago.

Phillip Johnson, general manager of the Electric Department, addressed the commission with information about the possibility of moving his department into one facility.

“The facilities we have are inadequate,” said Johnson, telling the commissioners that the “issue has been on the burner for several years.”

Johnson discussed the possibility of two different sites for relocating the facilities. The locations of these sites were not disclosed.

Martin, after several questions were raised by the Board of Commissioners over the sites, suggested, “We could send it back to the Energy Advisory Board and look at their recommendation.”

The board agreed, deciding to hold further discussions pending the Energy Advisory Board’s recommendation.

DEATHS

Etta E. Tabor
Alvin A. Boor
Bernita LaVonne Brown
Marlene Sue Helms
Charles Greenwood
Ruth E. Terrell
Ruth J. Ingham

Etta E. Tabor

BLACKWELL — Etta E. Tabor, former resident of Blackwell, died Sunday night, May 14, 2000, at her son’s home in Terlton, Okla. She was 91.

The funeral will be 3 p.m. today, May 16, at the First United Methodist Church in Lamont with the Rev. Wayne Bookout, former pastor of the First Free Will Baptist Church of Blackwell, officiating. He will be assisted by the Rev. Richard Leonard of the First United Methodist Church of Lamont. Burial will be in the New Home Cemetery in Eddy under the direction of Roberts and Son Funeral Home.

Etta E. Tabor was born Dec. 2, 1908, in Wanoka, the daughter of David and Marinda (Leonard) Anthony. She moved with her family at an early age to the Grant County area and then to the Numa community. She attended Star Rural Schools and graduated from Deer Creek in 1927.

She married Glenn Preston Tabor on Aug. 17, 1928, in Pond Creek, and they settled on a farm northeast of Lamont. They raised their family while living on this farm and enjoyed the school activities of their children and involved their family in the Lamont Methodist Church. Due to her husband’s health, they moved into Blackwell in 1977; he preceded her in death June 4, 1989. While in Blackwell, they attended the First Free Will Baptist Church. She returned to Lamont in 1990 to be near her daughter and was living in Terlton at the time of her death. She was a member of the Lamont Methodist Church, The United Methodist Women and Eastern Star.

Survivors include two daughters, Manilla Latham of Lamont and Glenda Muegge of Jay; one son, Olin Tabor of Terlton, Okla.; 15 grandchildren; five step grandchildren; and many great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, two infant twin sons, and two grandsons.

Casket bearers will be Rodney Tabor, Kenneth Tabor, LeRoy Tabor; Leonard Skaggs, David Skaggs and Robert Muegge.

Memorial contributions may be made in her name to First United Methodist Church of Lamont or Lamont Senior Citizens Center, c/o Roberts Funeral Home, 120 West Padon, Blackwell, Okla. 74631.

Alvin A. Boor

Alvin A. Boor, resident of Ponca City, died Sunday, May 14, 2000, at his home. He was 66.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, May 17, 2000, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church with the Rev. John J. Michalicka officiating. Burial will follow at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery under the direction of Trout Funeral Home. A prayer service will be held 7 p.m. today at the Trout Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Colin Boor officiating.

Alvin A. Boor was born on June 4, 1933, in Fowler, Kan., the son of Nicholas and Olivia (Huslig) Boor. He attended St. Mary’s Catholic School and graduated in 1951. He enlisted in the United States Navy in August of 1951 and served during the Korean War. He received an honorable discharged after four years and enlisted with the United States Army Reserve, where he served another 20 years.

He married Mary Ann Hoddy on Sept. 8, 1956, in Ponca City. He retired from Southwestern Bell after 28 years of service. He was a member of the St. Mary’s Catholic Church. He enjoyed having fun and making people laugh.

Survivors include his wife of the home; three sons, Mike Boor and Nick Boor, both of Ponca City, and Mark Boor of Tempe, Ariz.; four daughters, Laura Graham of Ponca City, Angie DeShazer of Charlotte N.C., Linda Hand of Ponca City, and Janice Cline of Tulsa; three brothers, the Rev. Colin Boor of Hutchinson, Kan., Ralph Boor of San Antonio, Texas, and Ray Boor of Ponca City; two sisters, Delores Hewes of Tulsa and Lucille Dubois of Memphis, Tenn.; 12 grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Ponca City, 1904 North Union, Suite 103, Ponca City, Okla. 74601 or the charity of choice.

The family will be at 617 South Eighth.

Bernita LaVonne Brown

NEWKIRK — Bernita LaVonne Brown, Arkansas City resident, died Sunday morning, May 14, 2000, in Presbyterian Manor in Arkansas City, Kan. She was 88.

The funeral is scheduled for 2 p.m. Wednesday, May 17, in Miller-Stahl Funeral Chapel with Mr. Danny W. Cornish, minister of the Newkirk Church of Christ, officiating. Burial will follow in Newkirk Cemetery under the direction of Miller-Stahl Funeral Service of Newkirk.

Bernita LaVonne Brown was born Oct. 30, 1911, in Hardy, the daughter of James Paul and Ethel Agnes (Kelley) Burnette. She grew up and attended school in Hardy through the eighth grade and then attended St. Mary’s Catholic School, where she graduated from high school. During her school years, she took violin lessons from Professor Druly of Arkansas City.

On July 21, 1946, she married Frazier R. Brown in Arkansas City. They established their home in Arkansas City, where she had since resided. She served as den mother of Cub Scouts Den 8 in Arkansas City.

She attended the Presbyterian Church. She was an accomplished seamstress and made many of her own patterns. She enjoyed her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She enjoyed music and the ballet. She also enjoyed cooking and spending time in her backyard with her garden and flowers.

Survivors include three sons, David M. Brown and Frazier R. Brown Jr., both of Arkansas City, and William R. Brown of Broken Arrow; one sister, Sue Kickingbird of Norman; seven grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband; her parents; four brothers, Henry Burnette, Carl D. Burnette, Gerald Burnette and Bert Burnette; and four sisters, Marcelle Impson, Myrtle Lewis, Ethel Pryor Seeley, and Laura Belle Price.

Casket bearers will be Jason Eastman, Michael Brown, Robert Brown, Nakia Brown, Frazier Brown Jr. and Jeremy Brown.

Marlene Sue Helms

BLACKWELL — Marlene Sue Helms, resident of Blackwell, died Friday, May 12, 2000, in the Blackwell Regional Hospital. She was 62.

A graveside service will be held Wednesday, May 17, 2000, at the Mt. Olive Cemetery in Nardin with the Rev. Rick Longcrier of the First Baptist Church of Blackwell officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Roberts and Son Funeral Home. Friends may visit at the funeral home until 9 p.m. today.

Marlene Sue Helms was born July 13, 1937, on a farm northwest of Nardin, the daughter of Morris D. and Della (Gibson) Smith. She grew up in the Kay-Grant County area, moving to Blackwell in 1944. She attended Blackwell schools, graduating from Blackwell High School in 1955.

She married Harley D. Helms on April 23, 1960, in Raton, N.M., and they settled in Nardin. They moved to Blackwell in the late 1960s, where she was employed as a bookkeeper for the Oldhams at the Massey-Ferguson Tractor dealership until the business closed. She then was employed for Long’s of Blackwell as a bookkeeper for about 10 years. She went to work part-time at Harvey’s Grocery in Blackwell and in the office of Kay County District I in Ponca City. She retired in 1995. She is a member of the Baptist Church in Nardin.

Survivors include a daughter, Pam Goodno of Blackwell; a son, Rick Weatherman of Dallas, Texas; a sister, Mae Dean Clark of Stidham, Okla.; a brother, Donald R. Smith of San Diego, Calif.; and four grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, and her husband on Feb. 28, 2000.

Obituaries

Charles Greenwood

Charles Greenwood passed away peacefully early Sunday morning, May 14, 2000, at the St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. He was 83.

The funeral will be graveside, 11 a.m. Wednesday, May 17, in the Longwood Cemetery with the Rev. John Michalicka, pastor of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of the Trout Funeral Home. The family requests casual attire for those attending.

Born Aug. 26, 1916, in Wilson, Okla., he was the son of Gordon B. and Oma Jones Greenwood. He attended Wilson public schools, graduating in 1934.

On Feb. 27, 1955, he married Barbara J. Buford at Stigler.

During World War II, Charles was head of the accounting department of McDonald Aircraft in California, which later became McDonald Douglas.

After returning to Oklahoma, he installed the first computer system for Humpty Dumpty Food Stores. In the early 1960s, he established Ardmore Data Processing Center which specialized in public school accounting.

The family moved to Ponca City in 1968, and the company name was changed to ADPC, Inc.

With aviation as a passion, Charles was a pilot and owned various aircraft. Another great source of enjoyment was caring for his 20 acres filled with horses, dogs, and cats. Favorite times were holiday celebrations spent with his family, in particular 4th of July festivities held at the home every year. Affectionately known as “Mr. G” by friends and employees, he was an extremely generous person. He sponsored several youth sports activities and was an angel member of the Ponca City Humane Society. He was a past member of the board of directors for the Humane Society, and a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Ardmore.

After retirement, his most enjoyable moments were spent at the airport, building model airplanes, and playing with his grandchildren. He was a beloved husband, father, and grandfather. “Mr. G” lived life simply and peacefully, and he can look back and know he was loved.

Surviving are his wife, Barbara, of the home; a daughter, Gloria Greenwood of Ponca City; a son, Chuck Greenwood of Ponca City; two grandchildren, Ashlee and Christopher Greenwood of Ponca City; an aunt, Clydie Callahan of Del City; two sisters, Mary Ann Adams of Del City, and Peggy Roberts of Colorado; one niece; and three nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a nephew.

Memorials may be made to the Ponca City Humane Society, 900 West Prospect, Ponca City, Okla. 74601.

The family will be at 8 Sherman Lane.

paid obituary

Ruth E. Terrell

Ruth E. Terrell, Ponca City resident and former Arkansas City, Kan., resident, died Sunday, May 14, 2000, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. She was 88.

A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, May 17, 2000, at the Odd Fellows Cemetery with the Rev. Dr. Larry E. Nigh, pastor of Northeast Baptist Church, officiating. Arrangements are made under the direction of Trout Funeral Home.

Ruth was born on May 13, 1912, in Cushing to John and Flora (Clagett) Terrell. She was raised in the Cushing area and graduated from schools there. She worked for a short time at the Donnelly Garment Company in Kansas City, Mo., during World War II. She moved to Ponca City in 1960 to be closer to other family members. She moved to Arkansas City in 1980, and remained there until March of this year when she returned to Ponca City to live at the Sterling House.

While living in Arkansas City, she was very active in the senior citizen’s center and was a member of the Abundant Life Church. She enjoyed music, sewing, and her pets.

She is survived by one sister-in-law, Jo Terrell of Ponca City; two nieces, Karen Baker and Becky Wright, both of Ponca City; five nephews, Howard Terrell of Tonkawa, Paul Terrell of Ponca City, Bobby Terrell of Chandler, George Terrell of Apache Junction, Ariz. and Norman Terrell of Fresno, Calif.

She was preceded in death by her parents and five brothers.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Arkansas City Senior Citizen’s Center, 320 South A Street, Arkansas City, Kan. 67005.

paid obituary

Services Pending

Ruth J. Ingham

Ruth J. Ingham died Monday, May 15, 2000, at the Shawn Manor Nursing Home. She was 78. Survivors include her husband, Laird, of the home, 1801 Cedar Lane. Arrangements are pending with the Trout Funeral Home.

NEWS BRIEFS

--

Vietnam Veterans — The Northern Oklahoma chapter of the Vietnam Veterans of America will meet Thursday at 7 p.m. at the American Legion Post on South Avenue. All era veterans are welcome to attend. For more information call 765-7345 or 765-6707 during the evening.

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.

Community Meeting — The Otoe-Missouria Tribe will host a community meeting on Thursday at 2 p.m. in the Enterprise Center at the tribal office complex. The tribe needs input for its proposal for funding under the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Indian Community Development Block Grant Program. The tribe hopes to allocate any awarded funds toward building a facility for its Title VI (senior citizens) and Women and Infant Children (WIC) programs.

John Deere gift items and toys for the whole family now in stock at Throop Lawn and Garden HWY 177 South. adv.

Burglary — Someone in the 2700 block of Ames reported at 4:55 p.m. on Monday that a cell phone had been stolen from a locked vehicle that was parked in the driveway of a residence overnight. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

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

Subject Held — A Ponca City police officer took into custody an 18-year-old woman on a Kay County warrant for failure to pay at 10:21 a.m. on Monday. A vehicle was towed from the intersection of Jane Street and Bradley Avenue.

Allergy Season got you sneazen. Call 718-0532 or 762-0351 for immediate relief. 10 am to 5 pm. adv.

Narcotics Violation — An officer reported from the 900 block of North Fifth Street at 2:26 p.m. Monday that drugs were recovered from outside the high school. No other drugs were found.

Ponca Language Arts Council of the Ponca Nation of Oklahoma is sponsoring a dinner for all Ponca elders and those who speak the Ponca language at noon Friday, May 19th, Ponca Indian United Methodist Church in

White Eagle. All interested people are invited to attend. For more information or rides call 762-4126 or 765-3001. adv.

T-shirt Quilts for Graduation. Call Persnickety (580)762-3214. adv.

Theft — A city employee reported from the 1500 block of North Sixth Street at 2:29 p.m. on Monday that two picnic tables had been stolen from Ponca City’s Parks and Recreation Department. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

www.HeartlandHealth.com - Buy or sell Rexall Supple-

ments online. adv.

Accident — A two-vehicle accident in the 2500 block of North Fourteenth Street was reported to Ponca City police at 3:49 p.m. Monday. A non-emergency ambulance call was placed by officers arriving at the scene. Officer’s also requested a fire unit with absorbent for a transmission fluid leak.

Every Wednesday ð price clothes and shoes, except priced

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

Accident — A two-vehicle accident at the intersection of West Grand Avenue and Peachtree Street was reported to Ponca City police at 4:45 p.m. Monday. Two officers were assigned and a report was taken.

Mother’s Day Out at First United Methodist Church meeting

Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 10am to 3pm beginning August

2000. Public enrollment Friday, May 19, 12-2pm. Information call 762-3069. adv.

Memorial Day Wreaths — The Alfred Little Standing Buffalo American Legion Post No. 38 of White Eagle is sponsoring a poppy wreath with American Legion wreath emblem sale to honor departed veterans on Memorial Day 2000, May 29. Those wishing wreaths should call Delbert A. “Smokey” Cole at (580) 718-9570 or come by 8826 South Hwy. 177 Ponca City, OK 74601 with cash, money order or personal check to American Legion Buffalo Post No. 38. Wreaths are $15 each.

Come Let us eat bugs and party. Third Annual Bug O’Mania,

10AM-??PM, Saturday May 20th at Parker Pest Control. All proceeds go to Northern Oklahoma Youth Services Center. Call Brad 762-6614 for details. adv.

Theft — Someone in the 2600 block of North Fifth Street reported to Ponca City police at 7:12 p.m. Monday that a bicycle had been stolen. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Subject Held — An officer reported from the intersection of West Grand Avenue and Oak Street at 1:18 a.m. Monday that a 49-year-old man was being taken into custody for driving under suspension after a routine traffic stop.

-

LIFESTYLES

The Neighborhood Chef
Maxine Prather Observes Birthday
Student Leos Conduct Noon Lions Meeting
Xi Zeta Lambda Chapter Meets In Eureka Springs

The Neighborhood Chef

by Sherry Muchmore

This last Sunday we celebrated Mother’s Day and if we were lucky we were able to share this time with our mothers and loved ones. I was one of those lucky children (we’re always children in our mother’s eyes). This year, as most years, we were sitting around talking, and as always, the conversation turned to food and recipes, both new and old ones.

Many of the things I fix today, are the tried and true favorites Mom fixed when we were kids. So, here’s to Mom for all that good cooking with several of my favorites that she’d always prepare.

On Christmas morning, Mom would fix homemade waffles and everyone would sit around the table and talk and talk, obvious excitement with anticipation of the day’s events. I still continue this popular family tradition with an early breakfast on Christmas morning. We vary our menu some years, but for some reason, Christmas morning always seems more complete when started with Mom’s waffles.

I’ve yet to find any I like better than hers and they are so easy to make. They freeze well too; just pop the frozen waffle in the toaster.

Velvet Waffles

Gayle Fausett (Mom)

In a blender, combine the following:

3 eggs

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup vegetable oil

1 3/4 cup milk

4 teaspoons baking powder

2 cups all purpose flour

Blend until smooth. Let the batter sit for several minutes. Pour into a seasoned hot waffle iron until browned. Once you get a waffle iron seasoned, don’t wash with soap and water. Brush the crumbs off and wipe down, but don’t strip off the oil. Makes enough for a family of four or five.

Mom’s Fudge Pie has been a favorite of mine not only because of its creamy fudge texture, crunchy top or no-crust ease but because it tastes so good.

Fudge Pie

2 1/2 ounces unsweetened chocolate

1 stick butter

1 1/4 cups granulated sugar

1/4 cup flour

3 eggs, slightly beaten

1 cup chopped pecans

In the top of a double boiler, melt the butter and chocolate. Add remaining ingredients and blend well and pour into a greased 9-inch pie plate. Bake for 20 - 25 minutes at 350 degrees. Refrigerate when cooled. Cut in wedges and serve with whipped cream, ice cream or all by itself.

Some of you may not remember Pudding Cake, but some will remember when Pudding Cake was so popular you could buy it in a mix. It came in two flavors, chocolate and lemon. (Haven’t seen the mixes in years, but that’s not a problem when it’s so easy to make your own.) Well, Mom did just that, she didn’t need a mix, she made it from scratch like everything else.

So here is another of those recipes that is so easy to prepare but tastes so good you won’t want anyone to know just how easy. The cake bakes to the top and the pudding forms beneath the cake layer.

Chocolate Pudding Cake

In a mixing bowl, beat:

2 eggs

Add and thoroughly mix:

1 cup granulated sugar

1 stick butter (1/2 cup), melted

1 heaping tablespoon cocoa

Add and stir into the chocolate mixture:

1/8 cup flour

1/2 teaspoon vanilla

1 cup pecans (optional)

After everything is blended, butter an 8 x 8 inch pan. Fill a roasting pan with hot water. Place your cake pan in the hot water. Bake 45 minutes at 350 degrees. Serve with whipped cream.

Everyone’s favorite, the perfect ending for that poor old ripe banana that nobody wants. Just remember it takes the over-ripe bananas for the best flavor. We knew there would always be fresh Banana Nut Bread around since bananas have always been a staple in our household. This recipe is chocked full of flavor with a super moist texture. Freezes well.

Banana Nut Bread

1/2 cup shortening

1 cup granulated sugar

2 beaten eggs

3 mashed over-ripe bananas

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

2 cups sifted all-purpose flour

3 tablespoons evaporated milk

3 tablespoons sour cream

1 tablespoon orange juice

1 cup pecans, chopped

Cream the shortening and sugar, add the beaten eggs and mix in bananas. Stir in salt, baking soda and baking powder. Blend in the flour. Mix in milk, sour cream and orange juice. Stir in the chopped pecans and pour into a greased loaf pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Will make one large loaf, or two medium loaves. Be careful not to over-bake. (If you don’t want to open a new can of evaporated milk for just 3 tablespoons, substitute with whipping cream, milk or half and half.) (For a more distinctive nutty flavor, toast the pecans before adding to mixture - 350 degrees for 5 minutes.)

Send your recipes to: The Neighborhood Chef, c/o The Ponca City News, P.O. Box 191, Ponca City, OK 74602, or e-mail me at: chef@poncacitynews.com (All recipes become property of The Ponca City News.)

Maxine Prather Observes Birthday

Maxine Prather of Ponca City will observe her 80th birthday May 24. She was born on that date in 1920, a daughter of Scott and Elizabeth Vollmer. She is retired from employment as librarian at Garfield School, and is the widow of Paul Prather.

Mrs. Prather recently had heart bypass surgery and is recuperating at the home of a sister, Betty Prather, 814 Southeast Tenth, Pryor, OK 74361. Friends and former students may send her a note or card at that address. For more information call 762-9658.

Student Leos Conduct Noon Lions Meeting

When the Noon Lions met May 10 members of the Po-Hi Leo Club conducted the meeting. Clair Sonnichen, current president, presided and was assisted by Mindy Worley, current secretary. Song leader was Blake Lambert, and Brittany Parker gave the invocation.

Also participating were Amanda Lewis, board member; Brandy Combs, president-elect; Jessica Matwell, Sunita Charhar, vice president-elect; Rachel Maxson, Mindy Grey, secretary elect; Jessica Felix, Sarah McGahy and Rory Peterson .

The Leos gave reports of the projects over the past year, including helping with the Lion’s Auction, participating in National Youth Service Day, Habitat For Humanity, Mittens for Munchkins, Friendship Feast and a clothing drive for the Salvation Army. They also collected canned goods at Halloween and collected more than 300 pairs of used eyeglasses for the local Lion’s Club. Jessica Felix went to the regional speech contest at Lamont, and Mikel participated in the United Way Parade.

Russ Parker announced the Lion Scholarship winner, Mindy Worley, who will attend 0BU this fall. Rory Peterson, student tailtwister, gave a humorous account of “Godspeak Billboards” and stupid criminals. Peterson will go to the United States Air Force Academy this fall.

Cass Midgley, a youth minister, gave a program on “The Investment to the Future, (our youth).” He advised young people to believe they can dare to shape our future.

Guests included Gordon Mair, Andy Anderson, and “The Up with People” advance team, Katrin Lehtmets from Estonia, James Burns of California, and Sylvia Nappetschnig of Austria. Jack Mason was presented with a Two-Key Pin, and John Davis (sponsored by Russ Parker) was inducted as a new member.

Announcements included: the awards banquet May 19, at 6:30 p.m. at The Ponca City Country Club; a reminder of recipe deadline for the cookbook, May 19; and the start of two new projects — A Support Group For Sight Impaired with Kathy Turner as the chairman, and Diabetes Awareness chaired by Rick Myers.

The Ponca City Noon Lions Club meets every Wednesday at noon at the American Legion on South Avenue.

Xi Zeta Lambda Chapter Meets In Eureka Springs

EUREKA SPRINGS — Doretta Jackson, president, called the May 6 meeting of Xi Zeta Lambda chapter of Beta Sigma Phi sorority to order in the home of Tobie Neal in Eureka Springs, Ark. A group of eight members made the trip for the special meeting.

Phyllis Pledger, secretary, called the roll and read the minutes, and a thank-you note was read from Lila Logan for honoring her as the l999-2000 Girl of the Year.

Cassandra Kifiak gave the City Council report. A discussion was held on the necessity of having citywide functions wheelchair accessible. It was announced that Mu Psi chapter is withdrawing from City Council. Assignments for the coming year are: Preferential Tea, Xi Delta; Valentine Dance, Xi Beta Tau; and Founder’s Day, Xi Zeta Lambda. Dorothy Leonard volunteered to be a backup caller for City Council. Xi Gamma Sigma welcomed new member, Sharla Vetter, a transferee. Xi Zeta Lambda will host the Aug. 28 meeting of City Council.

Program chairman, Dottie Johnstone, announced that the next meeting will be held in the home of Cassandra Kifiak. This meeting will be the annual birthday party, and everyone should bring Secret Sister gifts.

Phyllis Pledger reported there would be a social committee meeting May 9 at Jeannine Gemmill’s. Officer pages for the yearbooks were distributed. Doretta Jackson reported that there would be an executive board meeting to audit the books and do the yardstick.

The program was given by former member, Tobie Neal, on the history of Eureka Springs. The Friendship Basket was brought by Terri Whiting and won by Phyllis Pledger. Preceding the meeting, members enjoyed a brunch served by Mrs. Neal, the highlight being her homemade “Friendship Bread”.

BUSINESS

Conoco NOC Develop Process Technology Degree
Bank of America Aids Teachers Fight High Cost of Buying Home
Soderstrom Joins Mertz as Chief Financial Officer
New Conoco Technology Allows For Developing Gas Discoveries
Phelps Becomes Financial Advisor At Edmond Bank
Po Hi Leadership Class Takes On Two Recent Service Projects
Tamara Rains Wins Paragon Awards Again
Notes/Quotes

Conoco NOC Develop Process Technology Degree

By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE

News Business Editor

For students graduating from high school and others, who wish to stay in the community, and earn a quality salary a two-year process technology degree may be the answer.

Conoco Inc. and Northern Oklahoma College (NOC) have teamed up to develop a partnership to deliver quality education to students and a bright future for graduates, future employees and employers in industry.

In other words Conoco is growing its own and folks can stay in the area, make a quality salary, be near their families, and raise their children here, without going to the big city.

The Mid-Continent Process Technology Alliance (MCPTA) was formed in fall of 1998 to bring this degree about. The local area partnership with the petrochemical industry and higher education was modeled after an alliance in the Gulf Coast sector of the U.S., specifically Texas and Louisiana.

In the Gulf Coast in the mid 90’s, college curriculum was developed with input from the manufacturing industry which estimates a need for 30,000 new employees with training and skills, in Process Technology over the next 10 Years.

NOC Process Tech Degree

Northern Oklahoma College began the first class for an associates degree in Process Technology in the fall of 1999. The Oklahoma State Regents for being Higher Education also partner with MCPTA. Similar degree programs are being developed at Tulsa Community College and Murray State. The Process Technology degree is recognized throughout the industry world wide.

Darrell Thompson, Ponca City Refinery, and alliance coordinator for Conoco, explained, “Graduates of NOC with a Process Technology degree will be fully qualified well educated people with these skills and formal training.”

Salaries $30,000 to $50,000

Last fall Conoco hired four recent graduates from Montana State through contacts with the Conoco refinery in Billings, Mont. Three more individuals from that area will move to Ponca City to begin work here this spring.

Thompson explained that technology for carbon fibers, gas to liquids, as well as the refinery here, 20 new jobs a year are anticipated in Ponca City alone. That trend is expected to continue for the next 5 to 10 years. The base salary is estimated to be in the $30,000 to $50,000 range in Oklahoma with the two year associates degree.

Mid-Continent Alliance Meeting

The Mid-Continent Alliance met here at the Fourth Street Clubhouse Friday. Representatives from Tulsa, Murray State, NOC, Pioneer Technology Center and others were in attendance.

Dr. Virgil Ackerson, chairman of the Science & Math Division, NOC said, “Our whole thrust obviously is to train people that Conoco can use. As everyone knows 80 percent of the people typically want to stay in the area where they live. People don’t want to move. We might train one or two people here that would get their training here and move to the Gulf Coast, but most of them are going to want to work within a short distance of the Ponca City area.

“Our idea is to try to train these people so they can go to work at Conoco or Koch Oil, which isn’t that far away, or the fertilizer plant at Enid, or at Advance Food. Coffeyville, Kan., has a refinery and there is a huge refinery in Wichita. We need to get the word out that the pay scale can be as much as $50,000 in five years that does not include bonuses or overtime.”

It was pointed out that not many four-year degrees from larger university employees meet these salary levels. This is an area where students do not have to pay astronomical tuitions for four years. They can work and also obtain a degree for jobs in demand locally.

Brian Box, Physics/ Engineering instructor, NOC, said “We’ve had one year of this program so far. There are 16 students in the program. These people are not just typically trained. Industry needs people, because technology is changing so rapidly, they have to have a basic in physics, chemistry, math, communications, and economics. You don’t just learn what it is about and how it operates. They have to be a well-rounded person because technology is changing so rapidly you’ve got to come out.

“Students in school right now find out that math and science is so important. It is important for everyone not just those going for an engineering degree. All these jobs are getting technical. That is what we are trying to do is to provide the technical skills of how a refinery and petrol chemical works but also the basics of science, because that won’t change. The pumps and how they are operated will change.”

In other words, Conoco and the other companies are hopeful that the students taking the process tech program will go to work for them, but even if they don’t the basic needs for other degrees and skills are included.

Conoco Offers Scholarships

Conoco has funded a scholarship program at NOC as part of the partnership to encourage high school graduates to pursue a career in this manufacturing field. “We need process technology graduates here in Ponca City, and we look forward to the first class graduating from NOC in the next year. We want to hire them, but the rest of the country is looking for them too,” Thompson said.

NOC received an OCAST summer internship grant which pays 50 percent of accepted Conoco internships for the summer. Students from NOC are also interning at the Conoco refinery.

During March, Larry Powell, Process Technology instructor at NOC, brought 15 students on site for class at the Conoco refinery.

For more information contact Thompson, Conoco Inc., P.O. Box 1267, Ponca City, Okla, 74602 or Dr. Virgil Ackerson, NOC (580) 628-6482.

Bank of America Aids Teachers Fight High Cost of Buying Home

Teachers struggling to make the grade in buying a home have some additional tools to help fight the high cost of home ownership thanks to two innovative home mortgage products from Bank of America.

Teacher FleXTM and Teacher Zero Down mortgage loans from Bank of America are designed to help teachers and school administrators overcome the high cost of home ownership, thereby helping to attract and retain teachers in public and private schools.

“Too many communities are unable to attract teachers to their schools because of a shortage of affordable home ownership opportunities,” said Charles Ziegenhain, president of Bank of America Ponca City. “One remedy is to make home ownership more accessible to teachers.”

Teacher Flex TI 15 designed to help more teachers buy homes even if they have limited savings and only recently have begun their teaching careers. For example, Teacher FleXTm allows teachers to put up a minimum of $500 in cash to meet the program’s three percent down payment requirement. The balance can come from grants and down payment assistance programs provided by local governments and non-profits, gifts from family members, or installment loans.

Teacher Flexlm also enables teachers with no established credit history to qualify simply by documenting their rent payments during the previous 12 months. Other features enable teachers to use income earned through extracurricular activities, such as tutoring.

Teacher Zero Down TM is targeted to the educator with excellent credit but with limited income and limited funds for down payment. No down payment is required. Under Teacher Zero Down TM, qualified teachers can buy a home with little or no money out of pocket, In addition, relatives and other sources can pay all closing costs.

To qualify for either Teacher Zero Down TM or Teacher FleXTM, one of the borrowers must be a teacher or school administrator — principal, vice principal, librarian or health care professional (such as speech therapists. counselors and nurses) for a public or private K-12 school. There are no income or location restrictions for either program. Loans up to $252,700 are eligible for both products.

“Teacher Flex and Teacher Zero Down are two more ways in which Bank of America is taking a leadership role in education improvement throughout the country,” said Ziegenhain, “We hope these innovative loan programs, combined with our Volunteer Time for Schools program, which allows Bank of America associates time off to work in schools, and other Bank of America Foundation education support, will help improve the quality of education for children in Ponca City.”

Soderstrom Joins Mertz as Chief Financial Officer

Mertz Inc., is pleased to announce that, effective May 1st, John J. Soderstrom joined the company as Chief Financial Officer.

Soderstrom will be responsible for administration, management information systems and human resources.

He grew up in Chandler and graduated from Eastern New Mexico State University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Industrial Management. He was employed by Conoco from 1968 through 1999 where he held a number of accounting and administrative positions in Hobbs, N.M., Midland, Texas, New Orleans and Ponca City.

The last four years prior to his retirement from Conoco, Soderstrom was Financial Manager of Polar Lights Company in Arkhangelsk, Russia. He and his wife, Isabel, have three grown daughters, Kronda, Tamara, and Kristi.

New Conoco Technology Allows For Developing Gas Discoveries

HOUSTON — When Conoco needed flexibility to move fast to develop several large natural gas discoveries in the West Natuna Sea, it developed a completely new technology that provides considerable operational efficiencies and cost savings.

The solution to capture the clean-burning fuel is a technological marvel: a movable offshore gas production unit, or MOgPU, for use in Indonesia’s Block B fields. Conoco will be able to relocate the unit at a relatively small cost as older reserves are depleted and new fields are brought on stream.

Construction on the MOgPU began in Korea earlier this year and production will begin in mid-2001.

The MOgPU was created after Conoco led negotiations to bring about the first export sale of pipelined gas from Indonesia to another country — in this case Singapore. Last January, workers began laying a new, 300-mile subsea pipeline to Singapore, which when completed will be the longest natural gas supply and delivery system in Asia Pacific.

“Conoco plans to make Southeast Asia a major area of operations for our company by building a multi-billion dollar business in the region by 2003,” said Archie Dunham, Conoco’s Chairman and CEO. “In 1999, Conoco made five discoveries offshore Indonesia that doubled our Indonesian gas reserves. We have produced oil in Indonesia since 1979, so we knew that to economically capture the gas and deliver it to the growing Asian market would require us to truly think creatively and develop new solutions.”

“The biggest advantage of the MOgPU is mobility,” said John Hopkins, Conoco vice president for exploration production technology. “Basically, we can pick it up off the seabed and quite easily move it to another location and ultimately it can be abandoned with minimal effort and cost.”

Traditionally, offshore platforms require heavy construction equipment with large barges and cranes for installation, plus extensive hook-up and commissioning efforts.

“The MOgPU can be built onshore where labor and other costs are cheaper than assembling it in water. Then it can be towed offshore and is almost immediately ready to go. In fact, the same vessels that tow it out can be used to position and install the platform,” Hopkins added.

Once this new steel gravity platform reaches its destination, it will be floated off its transportation vessel to essentially become a barge capable of floating on its own buoyancy. To lock it in place, the MOgPU utilizes a set of very simple cable strand jacks that lower the base structure and pull the platform up on the legs. The jack-up system can be rented, then returned, providing significant cost savings over traditional heavy construction equipment and barges.

Another advantage of the MOgPU is the elimination of motion problems usually associated with comparable floating facilities.

“Barges are subject to waves and movement, and traditional floating platforms need expensive flexible risers,” Hopkins explained. “Since the MOgPU is a fixed platform, we eliminate both motion and the need to employ expensive risers and mooring systems.” Along with that stability comes another advantage: when the unit is installed, it can continue normal operations in 100-year storms with waves of up to 30-feet high.

“The MOgPU concept proves that once the market opens up, Conoco can move quickly to deliver energy to customers,” said Rob McKee, Conoco executive vice president for worldwide exploration and production. “The West Natuna Group has signed a 22-year sales contract with Pertamina to sell gas to Singapore. Conoco is poised for similar growth in other Asian markets in the near future.”

Phelps Becomes Financial Advisor At Edmond Bank

Former Ponca Citian John Phelps, Certified Financial Planner, has been named to serve as Waddell & Reed’s financial advisor for MidFirst Bank’s Danforth and Kelley banking center in Edmond.

MidFirst, Oklahoma’s second largest bank, recently announced the signing of an exclusive agreement with Waddell & Reed, a leading financial services organization.

Phelps joined Waddell & Reed, a Kansas City-based firm, in 1979. Three years later he opened an office in Edmond. He received his certified financial planner’s license in 1987. Previously, Phelps served as a registered nurse for 25 years and as a clinical specialist in the Army during the Vietnam War era.

Phelps received an associate’s degree in nursing from Oklahoma State University and a bachelor of science degree in liberal arts from the University of Central Oklahoma. He maintains a commercial pilot’s license and enjoys assisting with 4-H work. Originally from Ponca City, Phelps resides in Edmond with his wife, Gailynn, and two daughters, Gaironn and Alisonn.

Po Hi Leadership Class Takes On Two Recent Service Projects

“I’ve never seen so much accomplished in such a short time?” says Sharon Ridgway, Manager of My Favorite Things, the thrift shop operated for the benefit of Hospice of Ponca City and Peachtree Landing.

She’s referring to the students of the Ponca City High School Leadership Class taught by Carolyn Berry. As one of their service projects the students spent several class periods at the shop.

Students rearranged the layout, sorted and priced merchandise, and decorated the store windows. Ridgway was impressed by how enthusiastic and knowledgeable the students were.

“They ‘dug in their heels’ and rearranged several parts of the store for me, making our operation much more efficient. All of them had such a wonderful attitude,” she says. “It was a joy to work with them.”

Ridgway says she depends on volunteers to make the store successful since she is the only paid employee. “We couldn’t run this store without our volunteers,” she said. “Not only do they help with everyday tasks, but they’re always on the lookout for more volunteers and merchandise. They are also our most enthusiastic marketers!”

My Favorite Things, located at 201 North First, opened in August of 1999. It is a cooperative project between Hospice of Ponca City and Peachtree Landing and will hopefully provide a steady source of revenue for the two agencies once it becomes established. The shop will be moved to 207 East Grand in Ponca City on May 23.

Another section of the Leadership Class adopted Hospice patients for a day.

After learning about the hospice philosophy and basic communication skills from Hospice of Ponca City staff, the students purchased supplies for and assembled gift bags for patients. The bags contained diverse items ranging from note cards and candles to bubble-blowing supplies.

The students, accompanied by Hospice staff, then delivered the bags to the Ponca City patients.

“This is the second year Leadership students have adopted our Hospice families,” says Joanne Kaplan, Social Worker for Hospice. “Our patients and families love to visit with the students, and we’ve all been very impressed with their creative ideas and enthusiasm for the project.”

Hospice of Ponca City has been a partner with Mrs. Berry’s Leadership Classes and Service Learning for the past three years. Hospice and Peachtree Landing are member agencies of the United Way.

Tamara Rains Wins Paragon Awards Again

Winning the Paragon Awards in Tulsa for the second time is native Ponca Citian, Tamara Rains. The daughter of Elec and Betty Rains, she is a graduate of Ponca City High School.

The Paragon Awards are granted to members of Tulsa Leadership for their service to nonprofit organizations. Rains was nominated by Youth Services of Tulsa for her dedicated service and leadership in bringing a clear plan for building a new facility and raising the funds to complete the project. As president of the board of Youth Services of Tulsa, she spent countless hours planning for securing funds, meetings, visits to foundations and personally secured $250,000 from foundations to complete the campaign deadline.

According to Paragon Awards spokesman, she exemplifies the best board volunteer — expertise in financier and planning, a willingness to share her time, talent and treasure, a true dedication to the best in services for youth, and a compassion to youth and families whose circumstances are making life difficult for them.

Leadership Tulsa seeks and nourishes leaders with an emphasis on public service through volunteer work for charities.

Notes/Quotes

Ranks Third

A.M. Best Company, Inc. an independent rating company for the life insurance industry, recently announced its rankings of flexible premium retirement annuity products. Annuities offered by Modern Woodmen of America, a fraternal life insurance society with offices in Ponca City, ranked among the top.

Modern Woodmen’s flexible premium deferred annuity ranked third for actual accumulation values and second for actual surrender values during the 10-year period of 1990-1999, as reported in Best’s Policy Reports, an insurance policy comparison service published by A.M. Best.

Additionally, Modern Woodmen’s flexible premium deferred annuity ranked fourth for actual accumulation values for the period of 1995-1999. This is the seventh consecutive year Modern Woodmen’s annuities ranked among the top annuity products.

“Annuities grow tax-deferred until the money is withdrawn," says Tom Cleveland, LUTCF, local Modern Woodmen District Manager. “Best measured the growth of the funds in annuities offered by 71 participating life insurance companies.”

SPORTS

OU Lands Host Site In Baseball

OU Lands Host Site In Baseball

NORMAN (AP) — The University of Oklahoma baseball team now knows that, win or lose, it can use the Big 12 tournament as a tuneup for the NCAA regionals.

The NCAA on Monday named Oklahoma as one of 16 regional hosts, which ensures the Sooners a spot in the tournament. The games will be played May 26-28 at Southwestern Bell Bricktown Ballpark.

‘‘We are very pleased to have been selected to host this regional,’’ OU athletic director Joe Castiglione said. ‘‘I especially want to thank the RedHawks for their cooperation in this bid process and the use of the one of the best facilities in the nation.’’

All-session tickets, which range in price from $45 to $85, will go on sale at noon Wednesday. They may be purchased at Bricktown Ballpark or by calling OK Tickets at 948-6800. Individual tickets, ranging from $6 to $15, will go on sale the day of the game.

The regional will feature four teams in a double-elimination format. Game times May 26 are 3 p.m. and 7 p.m., with the Sooners playing the late game.

The survivor of each regional advances to the ‘‘super regionals,’’ at eight sites to be announced May 29. The eight super regional winners advance to the College World Series in Omaha, Neb., beginning June 9.

Other regional hosts are defending champion Miami, Florida State, Arizona State, Cal State Fullerton, Clemson, Georgia Tech, Lousiana-Lafayette, LSU, Minnesota, Houston, Baylor, Mississippi State, Rutgers, South Carolina, and Stanford.

Rutgers, Cal State Fullerton and Louisiana-Lafayette were all given their first regionals. It will be Minnesota’s first since 1977.