From The Pages Of The Ponca City News, Wednesday,
May 7, 1997
LOCAL
Skywatchers Found Hale-Bopp Interesting
Students Win Trips On Essays
Writer Recalls Earlier Days of Garth Brooks
Kaw City Mayfest Set for Saturday
American Legion Children's Home Special Awards, Recognitions Made
Braman Music Student To Travel Europe
Annual Kaw City Museum Reunion Honors 'Thaylia Pearson Boxley Day'
Ponca Shinny Games Enjoyment for Life
Project Partners Consortium Held
Area Calendar
Anxiety Disorder Screening Tonight at Medical Center
Shidler Man Injured In Vehicle Rollover
PTC Seminar On Safety Set
Sullins Tribute Unequaled In Annals of Po-Hi Athletics
Nearly News
County Employees Set for Cancer Event
Bud's Discount City Plans To Close Ponca City Store
Wednesdays To Become Social Security Check Day
Northern Oklahoma Family Care Center Opens Clinic
Kay County Health Department Offering Toilet Training Class
New Commission To Fly POW/MIA Flag
PC Ambulance Crew Answered 185 April Calls
Letters Say:
DEATHS
Wayne Lee Pappan
Debra Lyn Cecil
Judy Jo McCurry
Jimmie Lucy Hutchinson
David L. Martin
Funerals
Terry Parks
NEWS BRIEFS
LIFESTYLES
Xi Zeta Lambda Officers Installed
Xi Beta Tau Chapter Plans Dinner
Little News
Alison June Caid Engaged
Anthropological Club To Hear Archaeologist
SPORTS
Sullins Casts Long Shadow Despite His Smallish Frame
Po-Hi Wins Regional Game
PC Soccer Ends at BA
Tonkawa Duo Signs With NOC
Golf Notes
Discovered by Alan Hale of New Mexico and Thomas Bopp of Arizona in July 1995, the Hale Bopp comet is the farthest comet ever discovered by amateurs. It is probably the biggest comet to visit the earth's vicinity since 1577. Experts do not expect the comet to return to the inner solar system for another 4200 years.
According to Terence Dickinson's comments in the March issue of Sky News, the primary reason Hale-Bopp has received so much attention is that since its discovery, astrologers have waited 20 months for its arrival. Few comets are discovered so far in advance of their sweep through the inner solar system.
The Pic Du Midi Observatory in France reported the comet's rotation rate of Hale-Bopp was 11.4 hours.
Upon entering the inner solar system, comets become bright enough to be prominently visible to the naked eye. The flying iceberg of frozen water, methane, carbon monoxide and other ices vaporizes under the sun's warmth as the comet nears the closest orbital point to the sun.
Furthermore, Hale-Bopp has been more active than the average comet, with jets of gas and dust constantly emerging from its nucleus. These jets are brushed back by the pressure from the sunlight and the solar wind.
Sky watchers were able to see the comet from December through April. Officials noted that it was 1,000 times brighter than Comet Halley.
About the Astrophotographer
Equipped with a Celestron compound telescope weighing over 70 pounds, local resident Mike Crisp turned a part-time hobby into an event.
Four years ago Crisp began glimpsing the stars through a telescope with his daughter Lisa. When the Hyakutake comet came through in April of 1996, Crisp tried his hand at astrophotography. He attached an adaptor to his telescope which allows for a 2800 mm focal length.
Crisp said that sight conditions were the key element to taking clear pictures. Additionally, the colors of the comet vary depending on the changes in light condition and atmospheric conditions, he said.
Most photos, like the ones displayed on this page, were timed exposures varying from 5 to 25 minutes. This requires a clock to drive the telescope perpendicular to the earth's rotation. If the telescope is aligned properly, the stars don't streak, Crisp noted. An equatorial wedge is used for this purpose. For every good photo taken, the astrophotographer says he throws 20 to 25 away.
The 1969 Po-Hi graduate is an ash system consultant for coal fired electric utilities. In addition, he is the co-owner of two patents. He began photographing Hale-Bopp on Dec. 6, 1996.
Currently, the Ponca City native's astrophotos are displayed at First National Bank, Photo Pro and Family Pharmacy. For more information about the photos, contact Onita Crisp at 765-3774.
Brooke Tebow of Deer Creek-Lamont High School and Martin Sanders of Frontier High School will be going to Washington, D.C. courtesy of Kay Electric Cooperative's Tour Contest. Bex Boyd of Blackwell and Holly Ladner of Ponca City won trips to Leadership Conference in Liberty, Mo.
Cash winners included Scott Thomason of Perry; Kellee Baker of Deer Creek-Lamont; April Webb of Perry and Troy Whitehead of Deer Creek-Lamont High School in Kay Electric's 34th Youth Tour Contest.
High school juniors from area schools were invited to enter the contest by writing essays. The four boys and four girls with the best essays were invited to the finals banquet where they gave their essays in speech form and answered questions from three judges.
Judges included Pam Schneider from KanOklahoma Telephone in Caldwell, Kan.; Brenda Gates, publisher of The Shidler Review Newspaper, and Mark Arnold of Stock Exchange Bank of Caldwell.
Kay Electric Youth Tour coordinator, Marilyn Harmon, was pleased with this year's contest. "We had a tremendous response from students this year. The competition was tough."
The banquet was held at Kay Electric's new headquarters facility in Blackwell. The finalists, their parents, several teachers, Kay Electric's board and staff watched the competition.
Matt O'Meilia, former drummer with the early-day Garth Brooks Santa Fe Band has penned an absorbing memoir of Brooks in a period in that country singer's career before he moved to Nashville and began his rapid ascent to superstardom.
O'Meilia will be in Ponca City Saturday from 1 to 2 p.m. to autograph copies of his book, "Garth Brooks; Road Out of Santa Fe," at Brace Books and More.
The 224 page book tells the history of Brooks and the Santa Fe Band which began its life in Stillwater in 1986. He evokes in vivid detail the delirious highs and glum lows of the group and of course, the rising career of Garth Brooks and how he hones his skills to meet audience expectation. Brooks and the band played in establishments ranging from student hangouts and honky-tonks to hotel lounges and two-step dance halls. The Santa Fe Band dissolved in Nashville a year and half later.
"Brooks was paymaster and guru, seeking bookings to expand the band's fan base and eventually urging them on with plans to move to Nashville. Not afraid of hard work Brooks hauled and set up equipment and drove for hours on end to the gigs that would expose Santa Fe to a wider audience.
"From the first," continues O'Meilia, "Brooks' ambition far exceeded that of the band members. Talented, shrewd and doggedly persistent, Brooks made the most of every opportunity that came his way. As a result, Brooks sold more than 60 million albums between 1989 and 1996, making him the best-selling solo artist of all time.
The profile (with 23 pictures) of one popular music singer's self-education written by one of the few people who witnessed the process firsthand, "Garth Brooks: The Road Out of Santa Fe" is also the story of any wood-be star who must pay his dues to make the dream of fame come true.
O'Meilia is currently a Tulsa based copywriter. He is also the nephew of Jeannie O'Meilia of Ponca City.
The Kaw City Mayfest celebration will be Saturday at Kaw City and all area citizens are invited to attend the activies at the day-long festival.
The activities include an arts and crafts show at the Kaw City Community Building from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Music will be provided from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. by Collier Dialy, a singer from Oklahoma City.
The Kaw City Mayfest Parade will be held at 2 p.m. and entries include the Shriners, horses, floats, boats, clowns and kids.
Kids games for all ages will begin at 3 p.m. and the Miss Kaw Lake Pageant will begin at 5 p.m. at the Kaw City Community Building.
Concluding the activities will be the dance at 8 p.m. in the Kaw City Community Center.
The American Legion Children's Home, in conjunction with the American Legion and Auxiliary of Oklahoma, hosted the annual open house and conference April 19 in Ponca City.
In addition to the open house, special awards and recognitions were presented at a dinner program and a time capsule was presented to the American Legion Home by the Masons.
The dinner/banquet was held at the American Legion Huff-Minor Post 14 on Saturday evening. Presiding at the evening event was Jim Amerson, Children and Youth State Chairman for the American Legion and Polly Kempton, Auxiliary Children and Youth State Chairman.
The annual open house was held on April 20, beginning with registrations at 8:30 a.m. Many sponsors from various American Legion Posts, auxiliary units as well as private citizens were present to attend the conference and visit with children. During program the children were recognized for their achievements in school and in their dorms.
Officer Brad Fultz from the Ponca City Police Department was presented with a plaque for his volunteer efforts, working with the children. After the program, pictures were taken of the children and their sponsors, many of whom spent the day together, touring the campus, shopping, visiting, and eating out.
The Masons presented a special program to dedicate a time capsule to record history for future generations. Several Grand Lodge officers were in attendance as well as local Masons and members from throughout the state. The Honor Guard from the Oklahoma Commandry presented the colors.
State Auxiliary President Velma Yeager and Department Commander Dick Earley brought greetings to the guests and dignitaries. Special guests for the event were Southern Division National Auxiliary Vice-President Paula Bradshaw and National Vice-Commander, Wilson Timmons.
The observance in Ponca City was one of many throughout the nation as American Legion posts and auxiliary units planned special events to emphasize the Legion's continuing concern for the well-being of the nation's children and youth.
The American Legion Children's Home, established in 1928 in Ponca City, is a residential child care facility for approximately 50 children. It is the only facility of its kind in the USA operated by the American Legion.
Executive Director Kenneth Adams said, "We would like to thank everyone for their participation in this special event."
For more information, or to be placed on the mailing list to receive the newsletter, or to have someone from the Home present a program for clubs or organizations, please contact Lisa McGee, Administrative Services Supervisor, (405) 762-4156.
Amanda Ray, a student at Braman High School, has been selected to perform with the Oklahoma Ambassadors of Music on its 1997 European Tour from June 15-30.
"Amanda was chosen for membership based on her musical accomplishment as well as her leadership potential and outstanding personal character," said Dr. John Stam, director of choral activities at Phillips University, Enid.
The Oklahoma Ambassadors of Music will tour seven countries in two weeks, performing in London, Paris, Champerty, Switzerland, Seefield Austria and Rothenburg Germany. In addition, students will have the opportunity to visit Liechtenstein and Venice, Italy.
The Oklahoma Ambassadors of Music is composed of outstanding high school and is sponsored by Phillips University in Enid. Membership is granted only through the recommendation of the student's high school band or choir director.
The Concert Band will perform under the direction of Dr. Richard Strauch, director of Bands at Phillips University and the Concert Choir will be led by Dr. Stam.
Prior to their departure for Europe, the students will participate in four days of intensive rehearsals on the Phillips University campus and a Farewell Concert in Enid on June 14.
Amanda is the daughter of Julie Ray of Braman and Don and Joanna Ray of Ponca City.
KAW CITY - The annual Kaw City Museum Reunion is set for May 25. The event is titled "Thaylia Pearson Boxley Day."
Boxley began teaching first grade in the Kaw City grade school in 1936. She was "Miss Pearson" at that time.
According to the Museum's brochure "Miss Pearson was loved not only her students, but her peers as well. While teaching in Kaw City, she met Harold Boxley. They were married in 1941.
Mrs. Boxley taught the first grade for a number of years. During that time she become one of old Kaw City's favorite teachers.
During the May reunion there will be an exhibit of old photos by Ray and Velma Falconer of the "Glass Negative" in Ponca City.
Andy McMinn, a regular visitor to Kaw City from Wichita has placed the Kaw City Museum story on the Internet. The museum pages include an artists sketch of the current museum buildings and the history of the museum which was published in the Fall 1993 museum brochure. It is best viewed with Netscaper Browser.
Officers of the Museum Association are Charles Hays, president, J.A. Walker, vice president, Lura Hurst, secretary, Diana Wise, treasurer, and Tom Trueblood, program chairman.
Kaw City Museum membership is $10 family membership, donor , $25, Founder, $100 and Patron $200.
By DWIGHT HOWE
Editor's Note: Dwight Howe is a Native American who has enjoyed playing in the annual Ponca shinny games for many years. These are his reflections about the games and what they mean to him.
Spring is here. It is time to celebrate life. It is a time of year Ponca's look forward to. Families come home for at least one game.
They plan their vacations, military leave, or just come home to play stick ball.
The traditional Indian game is a little like field hockey, rugby and a foot race all rolled into one. It is a gathering of the people. It rises above politics, social status and money. Whether you're sick or poor, young or old, this game means something.
I enjoy listening to the prayers and good words that are said before each game. The leaders tell us that this game we play is for our families and loved ones. We play for them so that God may bless them. The leader tells us to play hard, but do not get mad. Play for those who cannot play, the sick, the homeless, the elderly shut-ins.
We should remember them when we play and always thank God. As poor as we are, there are still those who are less fortunate than us. This is what our elders were taught and they shared this with us.
We ask the little ones to stay on the outside of the game so no one gets hurt. At some point, however, the younger players are allowed in the middle to start a new game.
The young men rule this game with their speed and endurance. It is a thing of beauty to see them play with skill and agility combined with sheer strength.
Our elders play, too. From time to time they either kick or hit the ball. They are veterans from the Korean or Vietnam wars. There was a time when they ruled the game in their youth.
Their presence is a bonus to us.
There are those of us who are neither young or old and our place is best served being goalies. Everybody has a place and a purpose. There is laughter and fellowship throughout the day. God gave this game we play the four Sundays in April at White Eagle.
Project Partners Consortium, Kay County's local School-to-Work partnership, recently held a business leaders breakfast at St. Joseph's Regional Medical Center to discuss business and industry's role in School-to-Work. Larry Felix and Keith Hufnagel welcomed supporters by telling them the importance of STW and the role St. Joseph's has taken in the STW initiative.
Business members from the Kay County area divided into groups of different career clusters to discuss ways teachers could work or shadow in areas related to their subject matter. The shadowing or Summer Institute for Teachers, would give teachers the opportunity to learn new technology, technical skills and employability skills that businesses are needing. This experience would enable teachers to incorporate these skills in class room to combine academic and occupational learning.
Project Partners 13 Career Clusters also discussed goals and how to get even more businesses to participate in the Summer Institute and School-To-Work. The Career Clusters consist of 13 areas, manufacturing, education, health, business, personal service, sales and marketing, construction, transportation, agriculture repairers or mechanics, social science, design communication and art, and science and technical.
To conclude the meeting business leaders had the option of signing a proclamation showing their support for Project Partners. Since the signing of the proclamation most business have responded in support of the local STW Partnership. A total of 31 signatures were on the proclamation.
April 23-May 10
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In recognition of National Anxiety Disorder Screening Day, St. Joseph Regional Medical Center is hosting an Anxiety Disorder Screening tonight in Conference Room "C". William Hamilton, MD, local psychiatrist, and SJRMC psychotherapists Bill Glenn, MS and Sue Pemberton, MS, will host the brief program scheduled from 7 to 9 p.m.
Individual screenings will be given after the program. These screenings will last about 20 minutes and there is no cost to participants. If it is determined that a participant may be suffering from persistent anxiety, a referral to a local counselor or psychologist may be given. Each case will be reviewed with the utmost confidentiality.
More than 10 million Americans suffer from persistent anxiety, a condition that interferes with a person performing normal activities. Persistent anxiety is characterized by unrealistic, excessive worry or unexplained fear that the individual is unable to control. Persistent anxiety may cause tension, irritability, a depressed mood and restlessness. These emotional feelings may be accompanied by physical symptoms such as fatigue, muscle tension, sleeplessness, difficulty concentrating, headaches, and gastrointestinal problems.
Persistent anxiety is a treatable medical condition. Treatment may consist of medication, relaxation techniques, counseling therapy, exercise, dietary changes or a combination of two or more of these treatment techniques.
For more information, call Bill or Sue in SJRMC's Behavioral Medicine Unit at (405) 765-3321.
BLACKWELL - A 24-year-old Shidler man remains in critical condition at a hospital in Wichita after a rollover accident that occurred one mile north of Blackwell on U.S. 177 early this morning.
According to the investigation of Oklahoma Highway Patrol trooper Bob Deitrick, Thomas Lee Meshquekennock was driving a 1980 Ford northbound on U.S. 177 at 4:30 a.m. The trooper determined the victim apparently failed to negotiate a curve and ran off the roadway. The vehicle rolled 1.5 times ejecting the driver.
The victim was taken to Blackwell Regional Hospital then life-flighted to Wesley Medical Center in Wichita, Kan., were he has been admitted in critical condition with head injuries, the trooper's report stated.
Pioneer Technology Center will be presenting a seminar on the OSHA requirements for small business and safety management. The seminar will be Wednesday from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. in room D101 of the Business and Industry Services Center.
Harold Fisher, retired safety supervisor and former emergency management safety coordinator for the City of Ponca City, will be presenting some ideas on how small business employers can comply with OSHA requirements for safety, record keeping, health hazards and safety training.
To make reservations for the Mind Your BISness seminar call (405) 762-8336, extension 238.
By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE
News Staff Writer
The Earl Sullins Tribute was an event that will be unequaled in the annals of Ponca City athletics. An all-star roster of former athletes gathered at the high school cafeteria to pay homage to "Coach" Sullins for the lessons he taught them about football, baseball and life.
As was only to be expected the 90-year-old former coach, stole the show as he took to the podium with a standing ovation and proclaimed "I think the lily has been gilded quite a bit here tonight." Then he proceeded to tick off players names, dates, history, scores and other statistics.
Sullins also paid tribute to his brother Oscar of Edmond and recognized his nieces and nephews and their families, and their sports accomplishments.
When the Rev. Clyde Glazener, a former Wildcat quarterback came to give the invocation, he was announced as the quarterback for the 1953 Po Hi team, and Sullins immediately corrected the announcer that it was the team of 1952.
The gathering was a happy reunion for teammates and spouses, ranging from the 1938 to 1961 era as they gathered to relive some of the victories and memories of Sullins.
Among the many standouts present were Tom Catlin, recently retired Seattle Seahawk coach, class of 1949, and Chuck Bowman, class of 1954, former coach and player and now executive for Fellowship of Christian Athletics. The tribute was organized by these former Wildcats.
Sherol Hovis, former student of Sullins and a sports announcer for the Wildcats and OU, eloquent as always, was a masterful master of ceremonies, sprinkling the program with stories and antidotes about the athletics, coaches and the guest of honor. He christened Sullins as "a man for all-seasons."
Hovis also saluted the late WBBZ sports announcer Bill Platt, who pioneered play by play sports on the radio for high school sports.
On the program in the Allen Robson Fieldhouse, player remarks were by Jon Kennedy, Class of 1963, Jim Barnes, Class of 1952 and Lu Clinton, Class of 1955.
Those seated at head table included Eddie Sutton, Oklahoma State basketball coach, who would later introduce Nebraska Football Coach Tom Osborne, as the program speaker.
One highlight of the evening was a letter from Billy Vessels, 1952 Heisman trophy winner. The letter said in part, "Playing for you in the 1949 high school All-Star football game was one of the most enjoyable and fun times I've ever had. It was much like a spring practice preparing for Bud Wilkerson at the University of Oklahoma. The two of you were both were great coaches and gentlemen.
"Thank you for what you did for the wonderful people of Ponca City and what you did for their children in preparing them for an unknown world. Thank you for giving the football world Tom Catlin and Dick Bowman. Thank you for that greatest saying of all 'others not self.' I think that saying personifies Earl Sullins."
Among those introduced by Hovis in addition to Osborne, Bowman, Sutton, Catlin, and Glazener seated at the head table were: Mayor Marilyn Andrews, Sen. Norman Lamb, Enid, Dr. Joe Surber, Jim Barnes, Tulsa, CEO of MAPCO, Jon Kennedy, Phillip Briggs, Ike Glass, Newkirk, new regent for higher education.
Others introduced, C.D. Northcutt; members of the Christian Fellowship staff; Leon Cross, OU; Bob Dellinger, former sports writer for Ponca City News; Bill Conners, Tulsa World and numerous coaches, athletic directors and players from the University of Oklahoma including Jerry Pettibone, Clinton Thomas, and Jerry Don Phillips, OSU, and Port Robertson of OU.
All-Americans present were Terry Moore, John Shelly, Buddy Lee and Bobby Jack.
Also introduced was Lu Clinton, who played in the major baseball leagues and later spoke on the program at Allen Robson Fieldhouse.
Robson, former basketball coach and administrator, whom the fieldhouse was named, was also recognized with current Po-Hi coaches.
Lynne Draper of the Jim Thorpe Foundation was recognized and in the program that followed, he along with Chuck Bowman presented Coach Sullins with the Jim Thorpe Fellowship of Christian Athletics Award.
The current Ponca City Wildcat lettermen and the Po-Hi cheerleaders were on hand for the event.
Also recognized for coordinating the Sullins' tribute were Keni Ray, former Wildcat Coach, and Jack Shilling, Ponca City Chamber of Commerce. The decorations were by Nancy Spielbush. The Wildcat colors were used and one wall of the cafeteria was devoted to memorabilia furnished by Sullins about the teams.
The Ponca City Traffic Commission's public hearing for the closing of three streets in the Conoco greenbelt area will be held Tuesday, May 13, not last night as previously reported. The News regrets any confusion this may have caused.
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Nearly News also wants to apologize to Celestine Nelson for misidentifying her in a caption on Page 8A Tuesday.
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The Po-Hi Chorale will present its Spring Concert under the direction of Cynthia Gass Thursday at 7:30 p.m. in the Howell Auditorium of the high school. The Chorale will be performing the pieces that were entered in the Greater Mid-West Challenge Festival of Music in Chicago the past Saturday, where it won Best in Class trophies in all three categories entered.
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The Ponca City Emergency Management Department will hold an exercise Thursday to improve city, state and community emergency response efforts should a natural or man-made hazard occur. Emergency response vehicles will be in the southeast section of town and some streets may be closed during the training. This exercise will enhance notification procedures, communication, coordination, public information, community assistance, public safety, law enforcement, fire protection, school safety and traffic control, according to Tom Montgomery, emergency management preparedness director.
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Coming from the "it's a small world" category, longtime Ponca City resident John Mounts reported this morning that the unidentified Edmond North tennis player on the front section of Tuesday's sports section is his niece, Katie Templeton.
Templeton and her playing partner were defeated in the No. 1 Doubles finals in the regional tournament held here Monday but will still be playing in the state tournament Friday, along with the Ponca City girls that won the final - Natalie Lindsay and Abby Frick.
NEWKIRK - Kay County employees will go full-force again next month for the Relay For Life, the annual cancer society fund raiser for which volunteers raised more than $40,000 last year.
The team of county workers and their friends is one of more than 30 teams scheduled to participate in the 17-hour overnight team-walking event.
The third-annual Relay For Life, to be held June 6-7 at the Ambuc Moto-X Track near Ponca City's rodeo grounds, will be the second appearance by the county government team. The team is believed to be the only non-private group to extensively participate.
Tabbed as captain of the group, Kay County Assessor Tresa Engle said the employees last year discovered the benefits of participating in the relay, promoting recreation and teamwork.
"You really get a good opportunity to have some fun and fellowship, and you feel like you're doing something worthwhile," Engle said.
The courthouse team and all the other teams are expected to keep team members walking the track from 6:30 p.m. Friday, June 6, until noon Saturday, June 7.
Engle said the event includes a "very moving" ceremony with lights to illuminate the track, with honors and memorial exhibits displayed for cancer victims, patients and survivors.
Courthouse employees - and their friends - who sign up as team members get a tee-shirt and each pledges to raise at least $100 for the American Cancer Society.
With Tresa Engle, courthouse team members so far include treasurer Pat Schieber, deputy assessors Judy Barnes and Susan Keen, assistant district attorney Chuck Bloeser, county clerk Pam Goodno and deputies Naola Weber and Steve Austin, and all three county commissioners: Dee Schieber, Wayne Leven and Rex Purdy.
Last year, volunteers raised more than $40,000, but event coordinator Vicky Morton said increasing the public's awareness is as important as raising funds.
Morton said many of the participants "have been cured of cancer and their involvement is proof of the progress that has been made not only in cancer cure rates, but in the quality of life following cancer treatment."
Funds enable the society to expand services to cancer patients and their families, to offer more programs that will teach people to reduce their risk of getting cancer and to expand its cancer research programs.
The Relay For Life team member who raises the most money will be awarded a grand prize trip-for-two to Las Vegas.
Those wanting more information can call crusade chairman Mike Mott at 405-763-5709 or Vicky Morton at 405-762-9686.
BENTONVILLE, Ark. - Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., announced today the closing of the Ponca City Bud's Discount City. After reviewing the performance of the store, the company decided not to renew the lease on the existing facility. The closing of the Ponca City location is slated to occur during the second quarter of 1997.
"Bud's has enjoyed moderate success within Ponca City. However, the retail environment is always changing along with the needs of our customers," said Bob Hart, president of Bud's Discount City division. "It has become apparent that customers are better served by our other retail outlets in and around Ponca City."
Approximately 20-35 associates will be affected by the closure. All associates will be offered positions in Wal-Mart stores in Ponca City or nearby communities. The associates will continue to receive the same benefits. Furthermore, our customers will continue to be served by the Ponca City Wal-Mart store.
Bud's Discount City, founded in 1990, carries a large food and tobacco line along with clothing, housewares, household chemicals, health and beauty aids, furniture, bedding, electronics and more. Bud's has over 50 stores located in the Wal-Mart trade territory.
Wal-Mart employs more than 17,633 in the State of Oklahoma and over 679,000 in the United States. Wal-Mart serves more than 90 million customers weekly in 50 states, Puerto Rico, Canada, China, Mexico, Indonesia, Brazil and Argentina.
For future Social Security beneficiaries, Wednesdays will become one of the most important days in their lives. It's the day that their Social Security benefits will be delivered, according to Ron Janzen, Field Officer manager.
People who apply for benefits beginning May 1, 1997, will not receive their benefit on the third of the month as in the past. Instead they will receive it on a second, third, or fourth Wednesday of the month. Benefits received this June will be based on the new delivery schedule.
The change is designed to even out the workflow of the agency by avoiding the peak of telephone traffic that generally accompanies check deliveries on the third of the month. It is expected to help reduce telephone waiting times for all callers. Benefits to current Social Security beneficiaries will continue to be paid on the third. Benefits to current and future Supplemental Security Income (SSI) beneficiaries will continue to be paid on the first of the month.
When you apply for benefits, the Social Security representative will tell you when to expect the benefit payment.
The letter notifying the recipient of the benefit amount will also have this information.
The day benefits are received will be determined by the birthdate of the person on whose work record the benefits are based. This means that spouses who apply can expect to receive their benefit based on the birthdate of the working spouse.
Here's how it works: For workers with birth dates between the first and the 10th, benefits are paid on the second Wednesday; for birthdates between 11th and the 20th, benefits are paid on the third Wednesday; and for birthdates between the 21st and the 31st, benefits are paid on the fourth Wednesday.
Adding new benefit payment days lets Social Security give better service to you and all other beneficiaries and callers. This means a call to the toll-free number (1-800- 772-1213) will be answered faster and a visit to the field office will take less time. In addition, calls and visits to report nonreceipt, to question the amount of a benefit payment, or to ask about other payment-related matters will be reduced.
Family Medicine is a rapidly growing specialty these days, and Ponca City is no exception.
Northern Oklahoma Family Care Center, operated by Dr. Bruce A. Mackey of Blackwell came to Ponca City this week, and is located at 306 Fairview. Dr. Mackey also has such a clinic in Newkirk and in Blackwell.
The family medicine practice encompasses healthcare for the entire family with a medical staff comprised of physicians and physicians assistants and a registered dietitian. All physicians involved are board certified and on staff at Blackwell Regional Hospital, St. Joseph Regional Medical Center and Baptist Medical Center, according to Dr. Mackey.
The Center provides information to most area insurance companies and also accepts assignment for Medicare. Open daily, the clinics are networked by computer allowing patient information to be exchanged between the clinics.
Physician Assistants (PAs) are licensed by the State Board of Medical Licensure and under the supervision of Dr. Mackey. All PAs involved in the clinics are graduates of the OU Family Medicine PA Program, licensed to prescribe medicine, perform minor office procedures such as repair of lacerations, fracture care and routine gynecologic exams.
A registered dietitian is also available for instruction for patients with diabetes, elevated cholesterol, heart disease and weight loss.
Patients for the clinics are encouraged to call the office after hours, the answering service will contact a physician on call for the group and arrangements can be made to provide the care necessary.
Patients needing emergency care in Ponca City may go to the Emergency Room at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center and be attended by the ER physician.
Clinic services include fracture care, geriatrics, house calls, nursing home care, pediatrics, weight loss, vasectomy and tubal ligations.
The Child Guidance Division of the Kay County Health Department will be offering a class on Toilet Training on May 13 at 6:30 to 8 p.m. The class will be held in the auditorium of the Kay County Health Department, 1201 East Hartford.
The class is for any parent of a child four years old or younger. Stacy Thompson, the Child Development Specialist will be conducting the class.
According to Stacy, it will be "an opportunity to learn everything you ever wanted to know and more about toilet training your child." If you would like to enroll in the class, please call 763-0100.
The Ponca City Board of Commissioners elected Commissioner Dick Stone as the new vice mayor in a special session Tuesday. Although Stone did not attend the meeting, Mayor Marilyn Andrews confirmed the commissioner was aware of his nomination.
The vice mayor fills in for the mayor, during the mayor's absence. Election of an acting mayor is in accordance with provisions of Section 60 of the city charter.
In old business, the board voted 3 to 1 to permit the POW/MIA flag to fly daily under the American flag at Centennial Plaza. Commissioner Lyn Boyer opposed the request, saying that he felt another flag would detract from the American flag.
"I think it (POW/MIA flag) would be better recognized if it was flown just during holidays," he said.
Representing the Chapter 750 of the Vietnam Veterans of American, Lee Keyes made a presentation to the board informing them that 53 POW/MIA's were reportedly from the Ponca City area.
"The importance of the flag lies in the continued visibility of the symbol, a constant reminder of the plight of America's POW/MIA'S," said Keyes. "The flag is designated and recognizes all who were missing in action or are prisoners of any war."
The flag is black, bearing in the center, a white disk bearing in black silhouette the bust of a man, watch tower with a guard holding a rifle, and a strand of barbed wire. Above the disk are the white letters POW and MIA framing a white 5-pointed star. Below the disk is a black and white wreath above the white motto YOU ARE NOT FORGOTTEN.
In conclusion, Boyer and Commissioner Chris Hand requested a schedule of work to be completed on the Hartford Avenue project this summer. Further, Hand said he wanted to address the issue of lake patrol.
The board adjourned until Monday at 5:30 p.m.
The Ponca City Ambulance Service responded to 185 calls for medical assistance during April. Of those calls, 145 patients were taken to the hospital.
Additionally, nine patients were transferred, 18 refused treatment and one call was false. Also, six were treated by the emergency medical technicians but not transported. At one call, the victim was taken for medical treatment by a private vehicle. Further, ambulance crews found the victim dead on arrival of three calls.
Also during April, Ponca City firefighters answered 26 calls. Four incidents involved structure fires and one dealt with a vehicle fire. Moreover, the department cleaned up a spill.
In addition, firefighters assisted with eight emergency medical calls, responded to five false alarms or smoke investigations and provided mutual aid for the search of a victim. Also, firefighters extinguished three grass fires and responded to three fire emergencies at local businesses.
(Letters appearing in The News do not necessarily reflect the editorial policies or beliefs of The News. Letters will be accepted only with written signatures and must include address and phone number of writer. Unsigned letters will be discarded. All letters submitted become the property of The News. No letter will be returned. We reserve the right to reject or to correct letters considered unsuitable. Letters may be edited to conserve space. We specifically decline letters for or against candidates for office.
Editor, The News,
The atmosphere seemed to move from giddy to stony. Participants moved from a lighter sense off "field trip" to a more serious sense of dramatic urgency. The wide-eyed impact became more evident as each participant toured through the nine separate stations that mirrored the spiraling decline of those using and abusing drugs.
The "Drug Store" was hosted by the Ponca City Middle School Student Council after a great deal of work by Dr. Gary W. Gallagher, Ponca City School System, and Captain Alvin Leavell, U. S. Army Reserve. Their tireless efforts resulted in a truly one of a kind educational experience that puts young people face to face with the insidious nature of illegal drug use and dealing.
As each traveler ventured from the "pharmacy" to the "jail," then the "courtroom" and to "treatment," slipping into the relapse of "party/rescue" then the "emergency room" and ultimately the "funeral" a sense of seriousness emerged as real pharmacists, police officers, district judges, emergency medical technicians, doctors and nurses and clergy shared the stark truth. As the students and their adult companions finished and moved to the auditorium for closing comments, questions and the displays of organizations and agencies, nothing could have prepared them for the straight and open talks by two inmates of the Oklahoma penal system. Mr. George Clark pulled no punches about how he was sentenced to 35 years to life for dealing cocaine, what he thought he had, what he lost and what is left now. George gave a frightening insight to prison, prisoners and how distant freedom can be. Mrs. Margarita Lauifi touched the hearts of all attending when she explained what she had lost, those things that give value to life, gone and lost over a drug conviction. A granddaughter never seen or held, a mother dying so many miles away and no chance of holding her hand as she passes and the pain and damage her actions visited upon those most near her.
As a teacher and counselor, I can state "an ounce of prevention is worth considerably more than a pound of cure" and the efforts of everyone who helped make the "Drug Store" a reality are to be applauded. Ponca City and Kay County youth have received a ton of prevention and we all should be very grateful.
Silence is acceptance and I for one am thankful Ponca City did not go quietly.
Dan R. Zumalt,
Specialist
Comprehensive School
Health Education
Editor, The News,
In response to Sharon Hendrix Primeaux's letter, I would like to say this: As a student at Po-Hi and a student of a social science class taught by a coach, I would have to say that Thursday's letter was a crock.
The actions of one coach/teacher does not reflect at all on any of the others. I have learned a great deal from these people and I owe them a lot. The quality of their teaching abilities in academic subjects where they placed in the top of their classes, not the bottom, is exceptional and it reflects in my score of a 30 in the social science part of my ACT test. Not only are they good teachers, but they are good people and it upsets me and many others that someone with obviously so little knowledge criticizes them.
Now, let me be realistic, of the approximately 25 sport programs run by the school, the board only allots them about 28,O00 dollars a year to be split among them; the rest of their revenue is raised by booster clubs, gate admissions, and concessions. There is not at any stretch of the imagination an excessive amount of money spent on any sports programs. So not only can "all the little Johnies and Janes" use a map and know something about the world in which they live, they can also have the great memories 30 years from now of scoring a touchdown in high school.
We owe a lot of appreciation to our coaching teachers for the great education they are giving us and the pride they bring to Ponca City through our sports programs. Thank from all of your students.
NEWKIRK - Wayne Lee Pappan, Newkirk resident, died Monday, May 5, 1997, at his home. He was 54.
The funeral will be held at 10 a.m. Friday at the Rindt-Erdman Funeral Home in Arkansas City, Kan. Private burial service will be held in the Parker Cemetery at Arkansas City.
Wayne Lee Pappan was born Nov. 28, 1942, in Arkansas City, the son of Cyril Wayne and Pearlie K. (Wolfkill) Pappan. He grew up and received his education in Arkansas City.
On March 25, 1985, he was married to Virginia Lee (Guildhouse) Guidry. The couple made their home in Arkansas City and moved to Newkirk in 1996. Wayne was employed as a truck driver for M&P Trucking. He was a member of the Hillcrest Bible Baptist Church.
Survivors include his wife, Virginia Pappan, of Newkirk; three sons Wayne Pappan Jr., Clinton Pappan and Cyril Pappan, all of Arkansas City; two step daughters, Lanette Guidry of Arkansas City and Becky Guidry of Newkirk; one brother, Robert Pappan of Wann; two sisters, Shirley Manley of Coffeyville, Kan., and Phyllis Marlar of Arkansas City; his grandmother Stella Wolfkill of Arkansas City; and six grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, and two sisters, Sharon Kay Pappan and Kathryn Hesket.
BELLE PLAINE, Kan - Debra Lynn Cecil, sister to Danny, Fred and Loren Scott, all of Ponca City, died Tuesday, May 6, 1997, at Sumner County Regional Medical Center in Wellington, Kan. She was 43.
The funeral is set for 2 p.m. Friday at the Rindt-Erdman Funeral Home in Arkansas City. Burial will be in the Parker Cemetery at Arkansas City.
Debra Lynn (Scott) Cecil was born Dec. 22, 1953, in Ponca City, the daughter of Pascal and Florence (Crocker) Scott. She was reared by her older sister, Vivian Cook, and educated in Arkansas City, Kan.
She was married to Charles Cecil on April 15, 1983, in Tulsa and the couple had made their home in Belle Plaine, Kan., for the past six years. She attended the Belle Plaine First Baptist Church.
Survivors include her husband, Charles, of the home; three sons, Jason Scott of Arkansas City, and twins Michael and Nathan Cecil of Belle Plaine; four brothers, Pascal Scott of Arkansas City, and Danny, Fred and Loren Scott, all of Ponca City; three sisters, Vivian Cook of Arkansas City, Dovie Young of Moore, and Shelly Brown of Arkansas City. She was preceded in death by her parents, and one brother Billy Scott.
GLENWOOD - Judy Jo (Kester) McCurry, former Ponca City resident, died at Stillwater Medical Center, Stillwater, on Sunday, May 4, 1997. She was 50.
The funeral will be held graveside at 2 p.m. Thursday at the Glenwood Cemetery, southeast of Stillwater, With the Rev. Tom Grayam officiating. A celebration of life will be held at 3 p.m. Thursday at Town and Gown Community Theatre (south of Stillwater on U.S. 177). Arrangements are under the direction of Strode Funeral Home, Stillwater.
Judy Jo (Kester) McCurry was born May 24, 1946, in Blackwell, the daughter of Jesse Clyde "J.C." Kester and Pearl (Padgett) Kester Marshall. She moved to Ponca City with her family in 1947 and graduated from Ponca City High School in 1964. She graduated from the University of Oklahoma in 1976 and at the time of her death was working on her master's degree in Sociology at Oklahoma State University.
She was married to Larry Neal McCurry in Feb. 1, 1967 in Ponca City. While living here, Mrs. McCurry was involved in her children's activities and coached Little League soccer, softball and baseball. She was also a Helpline volunteer and ran as a candidate for City Commissioner and Mayor. While living in Stillwater, Mrs. McCurry was involved in coaching children's sports and in the productions at Town and Gown Community Theatre.
Survivors include her husband, Larry, of Stillwater; one son, Jonathan Charles McCurry of Stillwater; three daughters, Laura McCurry Hutchison, Kimberly, and Nicola "Nicki," all of Stillwater; one sister, Dolores Kester of Madison, Wis.; one brother Larry Kester of Tulsa; and twin grandsons. She was preceded in death by her parents.
Memorial contributions may be made in Mrs. McCurry's name to Family Memorial Fund, c/o Strode Funeral Home, P.O. Box 487, Stillwater, OK 74076.
Jimmie Lucy Hutchinson, resident of Ponca City, died Tuesday morning, May 6, 1997, at her home. She was 87.
The funeral will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, at Grace Memorial Chapel with Major Harvey Adams of Ponca City Salvation Army Church presiding. A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m. at the Gable Cemetery west of Prague.
Jimmie Lucy (Davis) Hutchinson was born March 14, 1910, in rural Prague, the daughter of James Daniel Davis and Minnie C. (McHan) Davis. She received her early schooling in the Prague community, later attending school at the Masonic Home in Guthrie. She then served as an accountant with Continental Oil Company from 1930 until 1943.
She was married to Arbie Hutchinson on Sept. 2, 1944, at Monterey, Calif., and the couple made their first home in Wallbridge, Ohio. Mrs. Hutchinson taught school from 1964 through 1974 in Ohio and at Crown Point Navajo Reservation in New Mexico. The couple moved to Ponca City in the mid 1970s. Mrs. Hutchinson served as a volunteer at both St. Joseph Regional Medical Center, the Ponca City Library and the Ponca City Salvation Army. She also helped the elderly by serving meals and assisting them with tax preparation. Mrs. Hutchinson was a member of the Ponca City Garden Club. She enjoyed gardening, yard work, raising chickens, hiking, and painting, especially Native American art works.
Survivors include her husband, Arbie Hutchinson; one daughter, Linda Woolwine of Oklahoma City; one son, Daniel Hutchinson of Richmond, Va.; one sister, Mamie Davis Harvey of Harlingen, Texas; two brothers, Daniel Emery Davis of Las Vegas, Nev., and Baxter Davis of Ponca City; three nieces, one nephew and one great-nephew; She was preceded in death by her parents; a grandmother that helped raise her, Margaret McHan; and one brother Joel Davis.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Salvation Army 601 South Third Street, Ponca City, OK 74601.
The family will be at 920 North Third Street.
DEXTER, Kan. - David L. Martin, brother to Glen Martin Jr., Ponca City, died Monday evening, May 5, 1997, at Oklahoma University Hospital in Oklahoma City. He was 37.
The funeral will be held at 2 p.m. Friday at the Dexter (Kan.) Christian Church. Burial will be in the Dexter Cemetery under the direction of Miles Funeral Service, Winfield. Friends may visit at the funeral home from noon to 9 p.m. Thursday and from 9 a.m. to noon Friday.
David L. Martin was born Aug. 19, 1959, in Wichita, Kan., the son of Glen and Dora Bay Martin. He moved with his family to Arkansas City at age eight, where he attended schools and graduated from Arkansas City High School in 1977.
He had been an employee in an import automotive parts store in Ponca City for several years. He later worked as a salesman for Kirby Vacuum Co., worked with Gordon and Piatt at Strother Field and at Winfield State Hospital and Training Center before beginning his current employment with Zeller Motor Co.
He was married to Marla Brownlee on Dec. 14, 1990, at Grace United Methodist Church in Winfield and the couple made their home in Dexter. Martin would have completed 10 years as automotive service advisor with Zeller Motor Co., in November. He was a member of the Dexer Christian Church. He enjoyed spending time with his children and granddaughter and at his church. His hobbies included sports, bicycling and travel.
Survivors include his wife, Marla, of the home; one son, Phillip Martin of Winfield; four daughters Rachel Martin of Winfield, Kan., Tracy Norris of Wellington, Kan., Brandi Peterson of Winfield, Kan., and Kerri Norris of the home; his father and step-mother, Glen and Bonnie Martin of Arkansas City, Kan.; two brothers, Glen Martin Jr. of Ponca City and John Martin of Arkansas City, Kan.; and one granddaughter. He was preceded in death by his mother.
Thursday
Terry Parks - Funeral will be graveside at 2 p.m. at the Berryville
(Ark.) Memorial Park Cemetery under the direction of Nelson Funeral Service,
Berryville, Ark.
NEWS BRIEFS
CWU Announces Luncheon - Celebrate Church Women United May Fellowship Luncheon, Friday, 12:30 p.m. at First Christian Church, 201 North Fifth. Luncheon $4. Program, "Sowing Seeds in Prepared Soil". Nursery RSVP.
Senior Citizens Dance Set - A Senior Citizens Dance will be held on Friday from 7 to 10 p.m. in the Senior Citizens Building, 320 South A in Arkansas City. Pete Coli and His Country Band will be playing for dancing. All seniors are invited to attend and bring a finger food for sharing.
Legion Auxiliary to Meet - The American Legion Auxiliary Unit 14 will meet on Thursday at 1:30 p.m. at the American Legion building on South Avenue.
Concert Thursday - The Po-Hi Chorale will present its Spring Concert under the direction of Cynthia Gass Thursday at 7:30 p.m. in the Howell Auditorium of the high school. The Chorale will be performing the pieces that were entered in the Greater Mid-West Challenge Festival of Music in Chicago the past Saturday, where it won Best in Class trophies in all three categories entered.
Vandalism - An employee at the Lew Wentz Golf Course contacted the Ponca City Police Department at 7:45 a.m. Tuesday to report the sprinkler system had been vandalized and cattle had to be chased off the property.
Arrested - A 16-year-old girl was taken into custody at the Ponca City Police Department at 11:01 a.m. Tuesday for possession of stolen property.
Destruction - A resident in the 1900 block of Mary Street advised the Ponca City Police Department at 11:31 a.m. Tuesday of destruction to property.
Under Suspension - A Ponca City police officer responded to the report of a non-injury accident at North Ash Street and West Highland Avenue at 1:48 p.m. Tuesday. The officer arrested a man for driving under suspension.
Vandalism - A Ponca City police officer took a report of vandalism in the 1300 block of West Otoe Avenue at 1:53 p.m. Tuesday.
Possible Scam - A resident in the 1700 block of Christmas Tree Lane advised the Ponca City Police Department at 1:52 p.m. Tuesday that they could have been victims of a possible roofing scam.
Collision - A Ponca City police officer took a report of a non-injury accident at Po-Hi at 2:21 p.m. Tuesday.
Wreck - The Ponca City Police Department received notice of a minor injury accident in the 600 block of East Hartford Avenue at 3:28 p.m. Tuesday.
Teen Arrested - A 17-year-old boy was arrested at the Ponca City Police Department at 5:31 p.m. Tuesday on two counts of burglary of an auto.
Burglary - A resident in the 1500 block of South Seventh Street contacted the Ponca City Police Department at 6:07 p.m. Tuesday to report burglary of a VCR, stereo and jewelry.
Accident - A Ponca City police officer took a report of an accident at South Fourth Street and East Oklahoma Avenue at 6:38 p.m. Tuesday.
Attempted Burglary - According to Ponca City telecommunication officers, the Kay County Sheriff's office requested the Ponca City Police Department attempt to locate an older blue van with yellow stripes. Apparently, a suspect believed to be in the van, attempted to burglarize a vending machine in the 1400 block of East South Avenue. All police units were advised at 6:56 p.m. Tuesday.
Subject Held - A 57-year-old man was arrested by a Ponca City police officer at West Otoe Avenue and South Waverly Street at 12:35 a.m. Wednesday for possession of marijuana and a city warrant.
Found - A resident in the 400 block of East South Avenue advised
the Ponca City Police Department at 2:45 a.m. Wednesday to report a bike
abandoned in the area. An officer took the bike to the police department.
LIFESTYLES
Xi Zeta Lambda chapter members of Beta Sigma Phi sorority met May 1 in the home of Nida Austin. Preceding the business meeting officers for 1997-98 were installed. New officers are Andra Kasselman, president; Judy Watt, vice president; Lila Logan, Recording secretary; Phyllis Pledger, Corresponding secretary; and Francie James, treasurer.
The business meeting was presided over by Ms. Kasselman with 15 members participating in the Opening Ritual. Ms. Logan read the minutes and correspondence was read from Melva Keen and Ms. Kasselman. Members voted to contribute money to the Disaster Fund set up by International.
Future meeting dates were announced and included Executive Board, 7 p.m., May 8, at the Kasselman home; Social committee, 6:30 p.m., May 6 at the home of Jackie Hall; Service committee with Judy Mallory.
The Traveling Basket was won by Ms. Mallory. Following the meeting Ms. Austin presented a program provided by Sue Robertson entitled "Happiness Training From the Angels." The next chapter meeting will be a birthday party and gift exchange May 15 in the home of Phyllis Pledger.
The April 28 meeting of Xi Beta Tau chapter of Beta Sigma Phi sorority was held in the home of Jan Ellison in Fairfax. Guest was Karen Turner of Fairfax. June Miller, president, conducted the business session.
Members voted to contribute to the Disaster Fund set up by International. Communication included a note from Patsy Bray and announcement was made that June Miller and Sammie Coats would attend the May 5 City Council meeting.
The traveling basket was given to Ms. Coats from Ms. Bray and the mystery gift was won by Sara King. For the Cultural program Jan Bray, LPN, presented a program on "Breast Cancer Awareness" and distributed information to the group.
The last meeting for the year will be the chapter's birthday party May 12 when members will meet at the Rusty Barrell at 6 p.m. for dinner and then meet at the Bray home for dessert. The names of secret sisters will be revealed as gifts are exchanged.
Recently elected officers for the group are June Miller, president; Patsy Bray, vice president; Jan Ellison, Recording and Corresponding secretary; and Cindy Wardlow, treasurer.
Justin and Julie Evans of Stillwater announce the birth of a son, Morgan Lee, on April 24, 1997 at 10:20 p.m. at Stillwater Medical Center. He weighed 9-pounds, 6-ounces and was 21-inches long.
Maternal grandparents are Floyd and Maxine Griggs of Ponca City and the late Larry Moos. Paternal grandparents are Kenneth and Ruthann Evans of Oklahoma City.
Maternal great-grandparents are Fola Campbell of Cedar Vale, Kan. and Rose Moos of Ellinwood, Kan. Paternal great-grandparents are Ralph and Helen Evans of Marietta, and Finley and Mildred Bradshaw of Moreland.
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Announcing the birth of a son are Paul and Traci Schulz, 2008 North Osage. Born at 2:25 p.m. April 23, 1997 at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center he has been named Jacob Paul Schulz. The baby weighed 8-pounds, 13-ounces and was 21-inches long.
Grandparents are David and Lynne Wells of Wichita, Jack Schulz of Enid and the late Wanda Schulz.
----
A boy was born to Randy and Susan Pruitt of Tonkawa on April 22, 1997 at 1:20 p.m. in St. John Medical Center in Tulsa. The baby weighed 8-pounds, 2-ounces and was 19 1/4-inches long and has been named Brady Tate Pruitt. He has a brother, Justin Pruitt.
Maternal grandparents are Jim and Lorraine Querry of Tonkawa and paternal grandparents are Rick and Kaye Sine of Perkins. Mrs. Hazel Querry of Tonkawa is the great-grandmother.
Vearl and Diane Caid, 719 North Seventh, are announcing the engagement of their daughter, Alison June Caid, to Darren Lee Steele, son of Don and Linda Steele, 2100 Juanito. A July 19 wedding at First Baptist Church is planned.
Miss Caid is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Wilbur Caid and Mrs. Geneva Finley of Charleston, Mo. and the late Harry Finley. The prospective bridegroom is the grandson of Odell Watson of Ponca City and the late Eldon Watson, Mrs. Mabel Steele and the late J. C. Steele. He is the great-grandson of Olive Shirley of Ponca City.
The bride-elect is a 1995 graduate of Ponca City High School and is a sophomore at the University of Central Oklahoma where she is employed. Miss Caid is a member of Kappa Phi sorority.
Steele, a 1993 Po-Hi graduate, received a degree from Northern Oklahoma College in 1995. He is a senior at the University of Central Oklahoma, majoring in finance. He is employed at the Bank of Oklahoma in Edmond.
Members of the Kay County Chapter of the Oklahoma Anthropological Society will meet Thursday at 7 p.m. at the Conoco Fourth Street Clubhouse. The public is invited to attend.
Marjy Duncan, staff archaeologist for the Oklahoma Archaeological Survey
will be the guest speaker. Her topic will be the "Two Sisters Site"
which is a late prehistoric site in Texas County, Oklahoma.
SPORTS
By FRED HILTON
News Sports Editor
For a man barely five feet tall, Earl Sullins certainly casts a long shadow.
It was discovered that shadow reached all the way to Lincoln, Neb., Tuesday night. University of Nebraska coach Tom Osborne was asked by the fellowship of Christian Athletes, a sponsor of the tribute to Sullins, to speak in his behalf.
It turned out that Osborne, coach of one of the most successful football programs in the country, also owes something to the former Ponca City coach, athletic director and Wildcat sports historian.
"I was greatly influenced by my high school coach, Earl Appleby at Hastings (Neb.)," Osborne said. "And I found out that he was coached by Earl Sullins.
"So thank you coach Sullins for that influence you have had on my life."
Osborne was the featured speaker at the tribute that was held in Robson Fieldhouse on a night that saw Sullins receive even more awards that will eventually be placed in a section of the new Po-Hi library.
This was not only Earl Sullins Day in Ponca City as proclaimed by Mayor Marilyn Andrews, it was Earl Sullins day across the state, according to a proclamation by Gov. Frank Keating read to the audience by Norman Lamb of Enid.
The awards included the Jim Thorpe Trophy, presented by Lynne Draper of the Jim Thorpe Association.
They also included a large plaque engraved with 200 names of former players and friends of Sullins, a member of the Oklahoma Coaches' Hall of Fame, which was presented by co-chairmen of the tribute, Tom Catlin (1949) and Chuck Bowman (1954).
There were also tributes to Sullins from Jon Kennedy, former Wildcat and University of Oklahoma football standout; Jim Barnes, a member of the 1951 Ponca City team coached by Sullins and now the president and CEO of the Mapco energy company in Tulsa; and Lu Clinton, former Wildcat baseball star who played with the Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees.
There were written tributes from a number of former players read to the audience by former Wildcat coach Keni Ray.
But the influence for good that Sullins had on his players was summed up by Osborne, who was introduced by Oklahoma State basketball coach Eddie Sutton. Osborne called Sullins "a coach's coach."
Osborne, a member of the Board of Trustees of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, told of the difficulties of being a coach and an athlete today.
"There has been a shift in values," Osborne said of the problems that have plagued college programs, including his own, long a model of what a football program should be.
"There have been changes in the family structure," Osborne said as he ticked off his list of reasons for current problems. "The environment for young people is more hostile now with the drugs and violence. And there are no absolute moral standards, no more truths. Everything now is relative.
"Our young people are confused.
"When things start to go wrong for athletes on the field," he continued, "it is because they have gotten away from the fundamentals. When that happens coaches stop what is going on and go back to the fundamentals.
That is what the nation has to do today.
"We have back peddled from our country's creed of One Nation Under God."
Osborne said that he had taken the wrong path in his early days, trying to gain respect and self esteem as an athlete, in academics and later as a coach.
"It was not until 1988 when I had heart bypass surgery that I realized I was not going to live forever, that you had to give up what you thought was a way of life to save your life.
"All you can ask of life is that it had some meaning, some influence on other people."
That is indeed what Sullins' life has been about.
As Sullins summed up the night, he said,"I have never been more proud to be called Coach."
By DAVID BROWN
News Associate Sports Editor
After eight long seasons of losing first round regional tournament games, Ponca City head coach Roydon Tilley finally has that monkey off his back.
The eighth-ranked Wildcats pulled away from stubborn Sand Springs to win 8-3 at the high school diamond Tuesday afternoon and move into today's noon winner's bracket final against ninth-ranked Tulsa Union.
Senior left-hander Rocky Hughes went five innings to improve to 12-0 on the season. He gave up two runs on four hits with five strikeouts and five walks. Fellow senior left-hander Jason Ross closed out the victory, pitching two innings. He allowed one run on two hits with three strikeouts.
Union won the tournament's opening game, 8-1, over Tulsa Memorial and Memorial was later eliminated by Sand Springs in the late game Tuesday, 9-4.
Ponca City, the visitor after losing the coin flip against Sand Springs, added three big insurance runs in the top of the sixth to turn a 5-2 lead into an 8-2 one and made Tilley's decision to pull Hughes an easier one.
In tournament play, once a pitcher works six innings or more in a day he cannot pitch again until resting a day.
Although Tilley will start either Ross or junior right-hander Jay Bentley against the Redskins today, he has Hughes in reserve should he be needed.
The Wildcats opened the game with a two-run first against Sand Springs ace Jared Shipman but the Sandites came right back with a two-spot of their own in the first, getting to Hughes for three consecutive two-out hits. The third hit was the big one as third baseman Matt Miller drove in both runs with a double.
Ponca City scored in the first off a double by Justin Thomas, a single by Josh Shafer, an RBI single by Hughes and a sacrifice fly by Ross.
The Poncans came right back in the second to go up 3-2 and never relinquished the lead.
Senior second baseman Doug Scott walked with one out to get things going in the second and scored on Thomas' two-out double.
Ponca City added single runs in the fourth and fifth innings against Shipman before Sand Springs went with its bullpen and Po-Hi responded with its three-run sixth.
A one-out double by junior left fielder Chris Koenig led to a run in the fourth as Sand Springs made two errors on the same play. Shipman tried to pick Koenig off second but his high throw sailed into the outfield for the first error, allowing Koenig to take third. But when the ball also skidded through center fielder Justin Ridener's legs, Koenig was able to slide home safely with Po-Hi's fourth run of the contest.
In the fifth, Thomas (who went 3-for-3 with two RBIs), was hit by a pitch and Hughes followed with a double down the left field line. The ball then got past the left fielder and Thomas was able to score on the error.
Ponca City, which tied the all-time school record for most wins in a season with 22, improved to 22-8 on the year and is now 3-0 over Sand Springs.
The Cats also own a 2-0 record over Union, having beaten the Redskins 10-6 back on March 13 and 9-0 at Union April 29.
A third meeting between the top two seeds in the tournament was brought on by Union's thumping of Tulsa Memorial in Game 1 of this tournament.
Union (21-13) jumped on top with a run in the second and then extended it to 3-0 with a two-run blast by designated hitter Justin Young in the third frame.
The bottom of the order came up big for the Redskins in the later innings as the six-, seven- and eight-hole hitters scored four of Union's final five runs. Those three - Lantz Day, Brian Hobbs and Mickey Nichol - also combined to go 5-for-7 on the game.
Memorial's pitching was exposed again in the elimination game. After giving up 10 hits to Union, the Sandites ripped into the Chargers for 12 more hits. Four Memorial errors didn't help the cause much either.
Sand Springs broke away from 2-2 tie with a three-run third and never looked back, building a 9-2 cushion before Memorial, ending its season at 19-9, rallied for two runs in the seventh.
The Sandites improved to 15-16 with the win and will play the Ponca City-Union loser at 2:30 today for a trip into the finals, which will be played Thursday at noon and 2:30, weather permitting.
Tournament Notes - Several team members off the 1958 and 1959 Ponca City squads were on hand to see the current Wildcats Tuesday and they enjoyed the action. That is ... what action they saw. With so many of the "boys" back together after such a long time, stories of the past were flowing freely. But all were duly impressed with the 1997 squad, which is the most successful since the 1959 club went 12-2 and reached the state semifinals.
Speaking of success, coach Tilley needs just one more win to tie Bill Leming on the career victories chart at Po-Hi with 116. Leming went 116-151 in 11 years at the helm from 1966-1976. Tilley is currently 115-128 in nine seasons.
Anyone who has seen the Ponca City High School diamond knows the infield is in great shape, but the outfield is another story. Battered by the football team each fall, the outfield grass is thin and completely bare in some spots. The dirt that is exposed has baked pretty hard and several balls have already skidded past outfielders.
Overheard from one Tulsa Memorial player, "Any ball that lands on that outfield will skip to the fence. It's like artificial turf out there."
No, it's like dirt.
Fan support was good the first day of the tournament. The Po-Hi cheerleaders showed up for a few innings during the Ponca City game and a few high school classes gathered out near left field.
Former Po-Hi pitching great Bill Eaton, one of those '58-59 team members, wanted to meet current Wildcat pitcher Rocky Hughes during the tournament. Hughes (12-0) recently broke Eaton's record for best start to a season of 9-0.
When the two got together after Ponca's win, Hughes wanted to know how Eaton could pitch 17 innings in one game (a 2-1 loss in the state semis in 1959.
"I threw the ball 365 days of the year," Eaton said. "I could pitch all day."
BROKEN ARROW - An old nemesis of the Ponca City soccer teams, Broken Arrow, ended the season for the Wildcats, beating the boys 5-0 and the girls 4-0 in the first round of the playoffs here Tuesday night.
"Broken Arrow is awesome," Ponca City coach Marco Castillo said afterwards. "They have some great talent."
But even with that talent the Tigers had their hands full with the Cats in the first half.
"We stayed with 'em for the first 30 minutes," Castillo said. "In fact we dominated the first half. Even after they scored, we were dominating."
But the lack of scoring that has plagued the Wildcats all season, haunted the Poncans in the playoffs, too.
Broken Arrow broke loose in the second half with four goals to put the game away.
"We had a chance to score in the first half," Castillo said. "Brian Kanelakos' left footed shot hit the cross bar. I thought it went in, but it came out. If that had been good I think it would have been a different game."
The Wildcats ended their season at 5-10, unable to put the magic together that took the team to the state finals last year.
"I'd be lying if I said we weren't disappointed," Castillo said. "This team had a lot of talent, we will miss these seniors."
But the Cats did gain one goal. They gained some respect from the Tigers.
"The Broken Arrow coach told me both before and after the game that his team respects us more than most of the teams in the Tulsa area because although we don't have as many players coming out, we are always competitive," Castillo said.
The Lady Wildcats sank to 3-7-1 on the season, failing to score for the second time this year against the Broken Arrow girls, who have allowed just three goals all year in building an 11-1 record.
Northern Oklahoma's Lady Mavericks have just about filled up their cupboard for next season with the announcement of five new high school basketball recruits - including two from Tonkawa.
Head coach Greg Krause has added Jessica Garner (6-0, Colcord), Joy Mount (5-6, Stillwater), Shannon Hands (5-10, Putnam City West), Renee Reese (5-10, Tonkawa) and Angella Ogle (6-0, Tonkawa) to two earlier announced signees, 6-3 Lyndsey Warrior of Ponca City and 5-11 Stephanie Stovall of Putnam City West.
Reese averaged 17.7 points per game for Tonkawa and 5.5 rebounds. Her senior year she made 46 three-pointers with 40 percent accuracy from the three-point arc.
Ogle, a state champion high jumper as a sophomore and junior, averaged 11.2 points and 8.8 rebounds per game.
"Angella is an outstanding athlete who will help us in the post position," said Krause. We expect her to be another nice addition to our aggressive style of play."
As for Reese, Krause commented, "She is a pure shooter who will help bolster our guard play. She is a tremendous athlete in both basketball and track."
Krause said he liked "the decision making ability" of Mount at the point guard position. "She's a threat to score from the perimeter and also sees the floor very well. Joey has a good feel for the game."
Mount averaged 8.1 points and 4.3 assists per game for the Lady Pioneers of the Frontier Conference.
Hands (12.5 points, 55.4 field goal percentage, 71 percent free throw percentage) is a shooting guard prospect.
"Shannon is an outstanding perimeter shooter and she also takes the ball strong with either hand. Her size at the two guard position will be a big attribute," said Krause.
Garner is expected to play both as a forward and a post.
"She is a high percentage scorer and has excellent foot quickness for her position," Krause said of the Colcord High School product.
Krause is expected to announce a couple more signings shortly and that should fill all the openings the Lady Mavs have for the 1997-98 basketball season.
The Wentz Men's Golf Association will hold a four-man team tournament Saturday.
The format will be one low gross and one low net score per hole.
There is a $10 entry fee per player and players must be members of the Lew Wentz Men's Golf Association. The Wentz pro staff will make the pairings.
The deadline for entries is Thursday at 6 p.m. Golfers may sign up at the Pro Shop or by calling 767-0433.
Regional Boxes
Class 6A high school regional baseball tournament at Ponca City High School, Tuesday, May 6. Following are the Game 1 and Game 3 results.
Game 1
Union 8, Tulsa Memorial 1
Memorial 000 001 0 - 1 3 0
Union 012 212 x - 8 10 0
Sizemore and Edwards; Dittfurth, Reed (6) and Conley. WP-Dittfurth. LP-Sizemore. HR-Union, Young.
Game 3
Sand Springs 9, Memorial 4
Memorial 020 000 2 - 4 5 4
Sand Springs 203 211 x - 9 12 3
Thompson, Shackelford (4) and Edwards; LeMasters, Driscoll (2), Miller (4) and Edwards, Lightle (5). WP-Driscoll. LP-Thompson.