From The Pages Of The Ponca City News, Sunday, May 25, 1997

LOCAL
Nearly News
Editorial
Letters
Despite Best Efforts, Mistakes Happen
Area Legislators Help Pass Water Bill
City Calendar
March for Jesus Attracted Interest of Other Cities
Edward Jones Investment Reps Will Host Satellite Broadcast
Grant Sought To Address Southwest Area Problems
Fireworks Display Still Lacks Funds
Bid Openings On Kay County Agenda Tuesday
Kaw Lake's Camp McFadden Perfect Place for Youngsters
Cardiac Arrest Fund Raisers In Newkirk, PC Net $11,700
Chamber Notes No Notice Of Tourism Making Move
Edwin Fair Award To Outpatient Therapist
District Court
Salvation Army Moving Officials To Maryland

DEATHS
Donal E. Postelwait
Ruth Gene Woods

Services Pending
Billy L. Campbell
John Melvin Ely
Elsie M. Kurtz

NEWS BRIEFS

LIFESTYLES
Winners Named For Kay County 4-H Bread Show
Public Invited To Attend Memorial Day Program
Sage, Rosemary And Thyme Club Plans Festival
Stephen Foster Music Program For Workshop
Singles Network Social, Support Organization
Little News
Wheatheart Nutrition
TOPS Chapter Wins Awards At Convention
Alumnae Honor Edna Bowman
Ponca City Mother's Club Elects Officers
Whitney Bufford To Marry
Swim Lesson Registration At Red Cross
Valley View Club Members Meet
Kimberly Roland Engaged
Couple To Wed in August
Engagement Is Announced
Reception Honors Couple
Mu Psi Officers Installed
Toni Leigh Pontius Bride Of Edward William Eckart
Lutheran Women Change Meet Day
Kathy Cripps Wins Award
Republican Women Hear Presentation On County Office
Meredith Turner Bride-Elect
Former Resident To Marry
Happenings
June 21 Wedding Planned
Shannon Harris To Wed June 7

SPORTS
Holliday Expects Title Tilt To Be High Scoring Affair
PC's Poet Takes a Big Step Up Golfing Ladder
PCCC-WGA
Golf Results



LOCAL

Nearly News

NN understands from Sherol Hovis, a former Ponca Citian, that Earl Sullins has plans to decorate the War Memorial at Po-Hi with flowers for Memorial Day, remembering the young men he coached and who later lost their lives fighting during World War II. It will be an ongoing project for Earl, and NN believes a worthwhile one ... lest we forget!

----

Due to the Memorial Day holiday weekend, there are no national coupons inserted in today's News. The coupons will resume June 1.

 

Editorial

Explorers to the Rescue

What did you do on your summer vacation?

The members of Explorer Post 69 will have a little different answer to that question after they return from a weekend journey to the flood-plagued Red River Valley region of Minnesota and North Dakota.

Answering a call for help from the inundated area around Grand Forks, N.D., the scouts of the Conoco-sponsored post began gathering donations of cleanup items earlier this month. Working through the local chapter of the American Red Cross, the youths collected such items as rubber gloves, work gloves, buckets, sponges, square shovels, rakes, long-handled squeegees, driveway brooms, 50- and 100-foot garden hoses, nozzles, paper towels, shop rags and on and on - anything that would help the cleanup effort.

Hoping to fill a semi-trailer provided by Conoco, the young men, under the guidance of advisors J. D. Hanks and Neil Lawrence, collected, sorted and prepared the items for shipment. The community support was excellent.

Friday morning, the day after graduation for many of them, post members loaded the truck - approximately three-fourths full - and headed north for the relief effort where they would distribute the items and pitch in to help with the cleanup.

Too often, we hear about the bad things the "youth of today" are involved in. But each of us knows about the committed volunteer spirit of many of our youngsters, and Explorer Post 69 is just one example of the positive impact made by young people on the world around them.

Congratulations to the explorers and their advisors, Conoco, and the American Red Cross.

 

Letters

 

Opposes Abortion

In The Ponca City News on Tuesday, May 20, an Orlando newspaper columnist, Kathleen Parker, came out very strongly against partial-birth abortions.

I was very glad to see an article by a woman against any type of abortion. And of course, like Kathleen Parker, I find it mind-boggling that we as a country are even debating pulling a baby out of the womb and murdering it as it is half born!

But the thing I disagree with Kathleen Parker on is that people who feel abortion is always wrong are zealots.

Ms. Parker laments "our deteriorating perspective on the sanctity of life" and the fact that people don't call late-term abortions what they are. (Even she doesn't come out and say "murder," but instead leaves the implication in our minds.) Why won't people come out and say murder? Not only do they not say murder, but they also say "so-called partial-birth abortions." Either it is or it isn't, after all.

What Ms. Parker fails to realize is that our country allowing, excusing and condoning abortion at any stage in pregnancy is exactly what has led us up to this lack of respect for babies in the womb.

When that sack of discarded fetuses was found by some young people in a field near Shawnee some five years ago, they knew what they had bound. Babies! And yet the state medical examiner said the wacky doctor who discarded them had not violated any laws in regards to the age of the fetuses being aborted.

In other words, not only late-term abortions but much earlier ones are definitely babies we can see are babies. And yet we allow it daily.

Why are we so blind to basic biology - that it is a human being forming daily from conception and that even though we may not yet see legs, arms, eyes, a smile, those components are biologically there. They only have to develop a bit more.

Many people believe in God and we can't see him. Why don't people feel a baby, before it resembles one is actually a human being?

The pro-abortion people used that argument for years - that "it's not really a baby," and people actually fell for that, although deep down they really knew better. Now with partial birth abortions, our nation has become so desensitized to the plight of infants in the womb that it may still be allowed after all the publicity about it.

Wake up Ms. Parker. The sanctity of life of infants in the womb has been wiped out by people being lukewarm to the idea of abortion as a whole. It needs to be made illegal at all stages of pregnancy.

Sue Wolf

 

Decision Appreciated

On behalf of Post 14 of the American Legion, Ponca City, I would like to thank Mayor Andrews and the City Council on their decision to fly the POW-MIA flag at City Hall on a daily basis.

With Memorial Day just a few days away, it is a time of remembrance, a time to be proud to be an American and proud that our City has not forgotten those men and women who paid the price that gave us the right and the freedom to fly the flag - what ever flag we choose to fly.

We would like to invite the citizens of Ponca City and the surrounding area and especially the veterans of Kay County to attend the flag raising ceremony at the City Office Building, 516 East Grand, on Memorial Day, Monday, May 26, at 1:30 p.m.

Max Naden

Commander

Post 14, American Legion

 

Despite Best Efforts, Mistakes Happen

Foster Johnson
News Managing Editor

Newspapering is an interesting occupation. There are few other professions that daily turn their product over to the public for the closest scrutiny and beg for criticism.

True, we deal with very delicate subjects - births, deaths, engagements, weddings, divorces, crimes. And not so delicate subjects like football, Cub Scouts, sororities and bake sales.

But, regardless of the topic, each and every event is the most important event of the day for those directly involved. Whether it is Po-Hi tennis, the Christmas Gala, the Pinewood Derby or your parents' 50th wedding anniversary, it is a BIG DEAL to you and all those involved.

Even though this may be the 25th 50th wedding anniversary story we've seen this year, it is the ONLY 50th wedding anniversary your mom and dad will ever have. So The News better get it right.

Well, obviously, if you've read any newspaper over an extended period, you do realize sometimes we make mistakes. And those mistakes don't go away. Once that day's paper is off the presses, it is history ... literally. It is delivered to 11,336 subscribers (12,741 on Sundays) not only locally but throughout the world, bound for The News archives, microfilmed by the Oklahoma Historical Society, placed on the World Wide Web and clipped by a number of clipping services and individuals as a reminder of what happened on that particular day in Ponca City USA.

So, for you folks out there who think we make mistakes on purpose or don't care about errors, think again. We've signed our name to our product, and we're proud of the job we do. We don't want to make mistakes. But as the hundreds of stories, thousands of names and millions of words pour through the text management systems at The News, a few "typos" or outright mistakes are bound to creep in. We apologize. We try to get it right the first time. Each piece of copy is supposed to be edited by more than one person. Sometimes, even with multiple readings, mistakes get by.

But always remember. We want to do it right. Every time. We never want to make a mistake and we never want to be wrong. But when we are, hopefully we will be gracious and humble and then do our best to not offend the same person or group again.

If you have a problem with our reporting, give us a call. We will correct or explain the mistakes of fact and try to make up for other errors. Hopefully we can work it out to our mutual satisfaction.

And keep on reading The News.

----

Foster Johnson is managing editor of The News. His e-mail address is fosterj@poncacitynews.com (The e-mail address printed last week will not work after The News becomes an internet provider in the next few weeks.)

 

Area Legislators Help Pass Water Bill

By RALPH SEWELL

News State Capitol Bureau

OKLAHOMA CITY - The House, voting 94-0 and Senate, voting 43-0, have approved SB 30, by Sen. Paul Muegge, D-Tonkawa, a new law to require the Environmental Quality Board and the Department of Environmental Quality to make rules to protect water supply systems, both urban and rural.

Sen. J. Berry Harrison, D-Fairfax, and Reps. Jim Newport, R-Ponca City, Jim Reese, R-Nardin, Larry Ferguson, R-Cleveland, and James Hager, D-Pawhuska, all voted for Muegge's bill.

Muegge says SB 30 is designed to protect drinking water obtained from surface runoff from contamination.

He also says SB 30 is not part of the debate over pig factory production. But he is a conferee on HB 1522. Using it, he's seeking to set legal standards for waste lagoons for concentrated animal feeding operations.

Muegge would have the Department of Environmental Quality enforce rules for liquid waste lagoons. If put in the bill, it would affect new lagoons, not existing ones.

Final draft of appropriation bills scooted through the House and Senate last week as the Democrat-controlled legislature tried to be sure that if Gov. Frank Keating vetoed any of them, they'd have a chance to override before the adjournment that must come Friday.

Funding for common schools will be $92.5 million more than the current year, conferees decided. Statewide, this year's total school funding from local and state sources was $2.1 billion.

How each district will fare starting July 1, will depend on enrollment gains or losses, as well as the amount of local support.

Higher Education budgets should get a $56.5 million boost, and Vo-tech is to get $9 million more.

SB 344, in conference form was adopted by the House 51-47. The close vote came because some expected better income tax cuts for private retirees. But the final House vote was 97-0. Senators adopted the final version 45-0.

All Ponca-area legislators voted for final passage. Voting to reject the report were Reps. James Newport, R-Ponca City; Jim Reese, R-Nardin and Larry Ferguson, R-Cleveland. Rep. James Hager, D-Pawhuska, missed both votes.

How They Voted

Here's how Muegge, Harrison, Newport, Reese, Ferguson and Hager cast other floor votes:

-HB 1149 is the iffy tax bill which says if the federal government cuts or eliminates its federal tax on motor fuels, the state will raise its tax by the same amount on Nov. 1. The House vote was 85-13 and the Senate's 41-1. Muegge, Harrison, Reese, Ferguson and Hager voted yes; Newport no.

-HB 1729 unanimously passed by the House in final form, would require convicted sex offenders to register so local police could notify the family of the offender, prior victims, neighbors, churches, convenience stores and other places children gather. First offenders would register their addresses with the corrections department each six months, subsequent offenders each three months.

-SB 237, to give businesses the option of paying their franchise and income taxes at the same time each year, passed each house unanimously and has gone to the governor.

-SB 459 cuts the tax on bingo cards from 1 1/2 to 1 cent. The final version passed the Senate 38-3 and the House 51-45. Muegge, Harrison, Ferguson and Hager voted yes, Newport and Reese no.

-HB 1869, to spend $293 million - a $51 million increase - on the state prison system, passed the House unanimously. Prisons will hire 486 new employees and $8.7 million will buy more private prison beds. Some 2,588 felons now are held in private prisons. The bill provides space for about 960 more. HB 1213's new community corrections program will use $2.6 million.

-HB 1361 passed the House 54-42 in final form. It extends from four to 72 hours the time in which police may make an arrest without a warrant in domestic abuse cases. Hager voted yes; Newport, Reese and Ferguson no.

-HB 1273, passed by the House 98-0 and the Senate 39-0 has gone to the governor. It would make an osteopath eligible to serve as director of mental health. Harrison, Newport, Reese, Ferguson and Hager voted yes. Muegge missed the vote.

-HB 2028, to let cities ban adult novelty shops close to schools, parks, churches, or libraries, passed the House 97-0 and the Senate 44-0. Ponca-area legislators voted yes.

-HB 2113, which foes called an anti-consumer bill, went to the governor. It would give beer wholesalers exclusive territorial rights. The House revived it 57-42 after it had failed 47-48. Senators then passed it 33-8. Muegge, Harrison, Reese, Ferguson and Hager voted for a final passage; Newport voted against.

-SB 630, passed by the Senate 42-0, transfers authority over shooting ranges from the Department of Wildlife Conservation to local sheriffs and gives them authority to close an unsafe range for a month. Muegge and Harrison voted yes.

-SB 660, to transfer from Central Purchasing to the State Employee Benefit Council authority to buy benefit packages for state employees, has gone to the governor. Final draft of the bill was passed by the House 94-0 and the Senate 32-13. Ponca-area legislators voted yes.

-SB 275 to allow nurses who qualify as anesthetists to write certain prescriptions has gone to the governor. It passed the Senate 38-4 and House 78-21. Muegge, Harrison, Newport and Hager voted yes; Ferguson and Reese no.

-SB 281 adds the requirement that new bail bondsmen must be high school graduates. It passed the Senate 40-0 and the House 98-1 and has gone to the governor. Ponca-area legislators voted yes; except Reese, who voted no.

-SB 507, making the Truth in Sentencing Advisory Commission add two legislators to make it bipartisan, has gone to the governor. It passed the Senate 41-0 and the House 99-0. Ponca-area legislators voted yes.

-HB 1396, to give a pipeline easement holder rights over the property owner, continued to have a rough time. The Senate rejected another draft over the bill 20-26 after it barely passed the House 55-40 after first failing there. Muegge and Hager voted yes; Harrison, Newport, Ferguson and Reese voted no.

-HB 1561, passed 40-4 by the Senate and the House 99-0, tells the Regents for Higher Education to make it easier for students to transfer credits between the institutions under its jurisdictions. It also would allow pre-payment of fees. Ponca-area legislators voted yes.

-SB 196 passed the Senate unanimously. Language rejected earlier to change Wildlife Commission rules on turtle fishing had been dropped. The bill now only restricts harvesting and trafficking in paddlefish eggs, which are found in northeast Oklahoma in the Neosho River.

 

City Calendar

Items for the City Calendar should be brought in or telephoned (765-3311) to Bob Patterson, at the Ponca City News, by Thursday noon.

Anytime

May 16-July 31

Summer Hours

May 26

Tuesday

Wednesday

Saturday

June 2

June 2-7

June 3

June 5

June 6

June 7

June 8

June 9

June 10

June 11

June 12

June 14

June 17

June 18

June 19

June 20

June 21

June 23

June 24

 

March for Jesus Attracted Interest of Other Cities

Saturday, May 17, 1997 Ponca City came alive as some 1,000 Christians marched through the downtown streets on March for Jesus day - not in protest, nor for politics, but united in worship and praise as a celebration for Jesus Christ.

Christians from Kaw City, Blackwell, Tonkawa, Newkirk, Fairfax, as far away as Lawton and Wichita, joined Ponca Citians, one million other Christians across the United States, and 10 million worldwide, representing 170 nations, in praise of the Lord "from the rising of the sun to its going down."

The 1997 March for Jesus opened with Mayor Marilyn Andrews proclaiming May 17 as "March for Jesus Day" in Ponca City and reminding the Church of the promise of Jesus in Matthew 18:20. Her proclamation declared that " ... the March for Jesus reminds us that strong relationships and unity must be built on the Rock of All Ages, allowing us to spread the Good News of Jesus to every nation and people as we demonstrate our love for God, one another, and the city in which we live, reminding everyone of God's grace."

The proclamation was followed by the blowing of the Shofar (the ram's horn), the same type of trumpet used by God to bring down the walls of the city of Jericho.

The Church gathered together following the March for a prayer rally in Pioneer Park. Prayer was led by local area pastors, youth and state representatives. The prayer rally theme of "No More Walls: Generationally" followed the 1997 global March theme, "No More Walls".

According to the local March organizer, the 1997 March and prayer rally was the result of the united, concerted effort of multiple denominations and affiliations in the giving of time, finances, supplies and the use of meeting facilities. This labor of love opened the door for a spirit of joy and fellowship for all who took part in the March.

The local March organizer related, "We placed four banners in this year's March. The banner 'Jesus the Healer' led the marchers, not only in Ponca City, but also in Stillwater and Oklahoma City. This was not a pre-planned agenda, yet the Lord directed the preparation of this particular banner for the marches in these areas."

She continued, "We in March for Jesus believe that God has a plan. Jesus prayed to His Father for unity within His Church 'that the world might believe', and we desire to be a part of this eternal plan."

 

Edward Jones Investment Reps Will Host Satellite Broadcast

Gene Hines and Joe Alcott, the local Edward Jones investment representatives, will host a free satellite broadcast for women on Thursday.

This hour-long program, "Taking Hold of Your Purse Strings," will include a panel of stock analysts from Edward Jones' equity research department who will discuss how stocks can help women obtain their financial goals at various periods of their lives - starting with the early investing years through retirement. The program will also address how to select mutual funds, minimize risk and choose stocks to meet individual financial goals.

"Studies show that 80 to 90 percent of women will be solely responsible for their finances at some point in their lives," Hines said. "The stock market can play a critical role in helping individuals achieve their financial goals, yet many are inexperienced investors with questions about how to develop a portfolio of stocks."

Broadcast live from Edward Jones' headquarters in St. Louis, the program will reach Edward Jones' 3,500 branch offices nationwide via the firm's private satellite network. Following the panelists' remarks, viewers nationwide may phone in questions live onto the set.

"The information presented in this program is genderless, however the framework takes into consideration the specific challenges facing today's female investors," said Alcott. "This broadcast is a great opportunity to hear from a number of experts, ask questions and take home lots of good information."

For more information on the free May 29 program or to reserve a seat, contact Gene Hines and Joe Alcott at 765-6651.

 

Grant Sought To Address Southwest Area Problems

By LAURA TREADWAY
News Staff Writer

The Ponca City Police Department want permission from the Ponca City Board of Commissioners to apply for a grant through the Bureau of Justice Assistance to address issues on the southwest side of the city. The request will be reviewed Tuesday at the Public Safety Center, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue at 5:30 p.m.

The grant would fund additional police services on the southwest side of the city. The department is asking for $75,875, which does not include police vehicles, computer equipment, office supplies or clerical services.

According to the department, this is a reimbursement of funds and no new employees will be hired for the project. The department determined the neighborhood, bordered by Highland Avenue, South Avenue, Palm Street and Burlington Northern Railroad tracks, needs two officers to initiate proactive services. For the past two years, this area has had the highest number of disturbance, burglary and prowler calls.

In other new business, the Traffic Commission recommends the board close three streets in the Conoco greenbelt area and review an ordinance confirming the streets are no longer effective as streets. Conoco intends to develop the area as a part of open green space with some of the existing vacated streets used for walking trails. Closings would include:

- Brunswick Street, from Lucas Street to Seventh Street.

- Coolidge Street from Lucas Street to Mercer Street.

- Mercer Street from Lucas Street to Coolidge Street.

In addition, residents Jeff and Amy Duncan asked to speak to the commissioners about their property at 433 South Osage Street. The fire marshal responded to a neighbor's complaint in October 1996. The Duncans were notified that the property was in violation of city code. The couple failed to attend a hearing, and thereafter, the property was let for bid and awarded. After the property was cleaned up, the couple were sent a bill for the work. Since the bill went unpaid, a lien was applied to their property.

Furthermore, the board will consider entering a contract with the Young Men's Christian Association for management services for the Community Pool. Also, payment for claims against the city totaling $1,123,771.97, for invoices from May 9 through May 22, will be reviewed.

In other new business, the city manager submitted a request to hire Betty Durkee as a consultant to the city for projects in renovation of historical structures. The consultant would handle the application and administrative functions regarding state, federal or private foundation grants.

Regarding the audit of financial statements, the Audit Proposal Committee plans to recommend awarding the 1996-97 audit to Baird, Kurtz & Dobson, of Enid. Three of the ten firms contacted submitted proposals, according to city officials. Baird has been the city's auditor for the past five years.

Public Hearings

Citizens will have an opportunity to voice their comments or concerns on two use permissible permits. The Ponca City Planning Commission recommends Kang's Martial Arts Studio be permitted to operate at 811 East Grand Avenue. In addition, the Planning Commission recommends Sunset Baptist Church should be able to build a bus maintenance garage at 1012 West Greenwood Avenue.

Hartford Avenue Improvements

Public Works Director Ken Parr will submit a revised construction plan for Phase II of the Hartford paving improvements from Gibson Place to one-half block east of Joe Street. After reviewing the project with contractors, it appears either a partial or complete shutdown of Hartford will be needed for up to 15 days, according to a memo submitted by Parr.

However, of the 15 days, only three would require a complete shutdown for the entire day. In most cases, the street will be opened back up to one lane two-way traffic during non-construction hours.

The original contract with Cowboy Concrete, which allowed Hartford Avenue to be closed during the contract, had a construction period of 120 days. The new proposal will extend the construction period to 240 days. Cowboy Concrete will finalize the proposal of increased costs and present it at the meeting, for the board's consideration.

Additionally, commissioners will consider making Cowboy Concrete the purchasing agent to buy materials for this contract exempt from sales tax.

Sykes Proposal

The Economic Development Foundation Board submitted an incentives package for Sykes Enterprises Incorporated to bring a second Sykes Center to the city. The recommendation includes a $1 million capital contribution, the majority of which would be repaid from future sales tax funds approved for economic development.

In addition, the package includes waiving all tap/hook-up fees for utilities and a five year property tax abatement, through a state program. Job training funds and proceeds from the Oklahoma Quality Jobs Program, also through the state, are incorporated. Moreover, an additional 600-foot by 600-foot site just west of the existing building for a third center or joint venture expansion, could be reserved.

Consent

Items to be considered on the consent agenda to be approved by one motion of the board are:

- Review receipt of permit to construct water line for Hartford Avenue improvements.

- Consider awarding the contract for HOME Administration and Housing Support Services to United Community Action Agency.

- Consider three requests for improvements to two docks and one lot at Lake Ponca.

- Vote on a license agreement with the Ponca City Swim Association to conduct swim lessons at AMBUC Pool for the 1997 season.

- Consider a request from Fire Island Ministries to hold a youth rally/free concert at Garfield Park on June 27, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

- Review amending operating budgets of various funds for 1996-97.

Ponca City Utility Authority

The board will reconvene as the Ponca City Utility Authority to review a bid proposal with Safe Tire Disposal for $101,418.20. The proposal provides tire chips for the construction of the 12-plus acre lateral expansion to the landfill working area. According to Parr, the low bidder was Frontier Recycling, but it would take Frontier over 13 months to deliver the material.

Whereas, Safe Tire Disposal currently has a large stockpile of tire chips and can meet the requirement of the 90-day delivery time. Parr confirmed that the material must be delivered to the site within 90 days of the award in order for it to be available for placement by the project's prime contractor in September.

Under the consent agenda, PCUA will review the monthly operating statement to the Oklahoma Water Resources Board and consider paying Professional Engineering Consultants $29,429.08 for design services performed on the Waste Water Treatment Plant Phase II redesign project.

In addition, the PCUA will discuss payment requisitions totaling $13,684.21 for the east side sewer system evaluation and sludge equipment procurement by FHC, Inc. Also, the Electric Department will recommend the commissioners award a bid to Siemens Energy and Automation for 100 amp and 150 amp voltage regulators. The regulators will be used to help support the voltage level on long heavily loaded lines.

Siemens was the low bidder, allowing for new units instead of remanufactured ones, according to the city. The regulators will cost $28,734. Jerry's Electric and Southwest Electric both submitted bids over $30,000.

Executive Session

After the authority meeting, the commissioners will enter executive session to discuss pending litigation regarding Dehart vs. Ponca City Utility Authority. In addition, the board will discuss employment, hiring, appointment, promotion, demotion, disciplining or resignation of individual salaried public officer or employee. This session is authorized under Title 25 of Oklahoma Statutes.

 

Fireworks Display Still Lacks Funds

In less than a week, the Fireworks Committee will decide whether Ponca City will have a Fourth of July celebration or not.

According to Cathryn Ferguson, executive director for Ponca City Tomorrow, donations have been steadily coming in and they are close to their goal, however, funds are still needed. A commitment will have to be made by Friday.

City Manager Gary Martin publicly informed citizens during a Ponca City Board of Commissioners meeting, that if there aren't enough contributors, there will not be a display.

The City of Ponca City, the Ponca City Chamber of Commerce and Ponca City Tomorrow joined forces in February to plan a community-wide fireworks display at the Lake Ponca, free to the public. The Fireworks Committee is attempting to collect $15,000.

To date, Thorn Apple Valley, KPNC Radio Station and Ponca City Chamber, Smith Tool, Ponca City Tourism Authority, Conoco and ONG have made generous contributions. Various individuals and businesses have also responded with donations.

"The community is really coming together to accomplish something spirit-oriented," said Ferguson.

"Last year, when there was not a celebration, there was a void in the community," said Tim Burg, co-chair for the event. "We desire to see a community that recognizes our heritage and this is a safe way to observe the holiday with family."

The city commissioners approved a fireworks display at the Lake Ponca Dam, although there are no plans for a public shoot. The current city ordinance does not permit public shooting of fireworks in the city limits.

Those who wish to volunteer or make a contribution should contact the Fireworks Committee, P.O. Box 1424, Ponca City, 74602.

 

Bid Openings On Kay County Agenda Tuesday

NEWKIRK - The county commissioners will follow the holiday weekend with service agreements and bid openings as the board meets at 9 a.m. Tuesday at the county courthouse.

The board will consider two juvenile detention agreements, one with Muskogee Youth Services and another with Eastern Oklahoma Youth Services, which uses a facility in Elk City.

Another proposed agreement is one for lawn care between the health department and Richard Zetterberg.

The commissioners also will discuss roads to certain subdivisions and housing additions.

At 10 a.m., they will open bids for a lease purchase or outright purchase of a tractor for District Three, lease purchases of a new 15-foot mower and a 1997 pickup truck for District One, and asphalt surfacing of an industrial access road for District One.

 

Kaw Lake's Camp McFadden Perfect Place for Youngsters

Summer is the time to get back to nature and take advantage of Ponca City's special sites. One such spot is Camp McFadden, located on the shores of Kaw Lake, 10 miles east of Ponca City.

Not only is Camp McFadden a place for families, it is the perfect stomping ground for kids. Consequently, the camp is accepting registration for the 1997 summer camp. Day camp sessions for children ages six to 12 begin Tuesday and will run through August 16. Campers are required to bring sack lunches to camp every day.

Mornings will be filled with educational sessions relating to self-esteem, keeping friends, behavior management, handling rejection and patience.

The cost is $65 per week, although a $5 discount is available for each additional child attending the camp. From noon until 4:30 p.m., youths will enjoy pool ponds, canoeing, hiking, fishing and watching animal friends who live in the area.

Camp coordinators confirm there will be one adult for every 10 children. Campers will be supervised by adults over 18 years of age.

Camping

Facilities at Camp McFadden include a lodge equipped with a large kitchen and freezer, storage room, office, one full bathroom with inside entrance and two full baths with outside entrances. A patio with a view of Kaw Lake is adjacent to the large dining/-recreation room. A wood burning fireplace is also available.

Presently, there are six cabins with room for 10 persons, each having electricity but no heating. Three tepees (tents) with a capacity of six are located by the side of a pond. A shower house with 10 showers and toilets has separate sides for the use of both men and women.

Families will also enjoy the two fishing ponds and the canoeing pond. In addition, there is a playground with an obstacle course as well as marked nature and hiking trails throughout the 160 acres.

The facility can be used for family reunions, youth conferences, and other interested groups. Prices depend on groups. Call a representative at 762-5661 to make reservations. If space is available, reservations can be made on the same day.

 

Cardiac Arrest Fund Raisers In Newkirk, PC Net $11,700

By KATHY ZEHR
News Staff Writer

Kay County American Heart Association volunteers recently held Cardiac Arrest fund raisers in Newkirk and Ponca City with a net result of $11,700. Newkirk volunteers raised $3,200 and Ponca City workers raised $8,500.

Seventy-five percent of the monies raised will stay in the state of Oklahoma and the other 25 percent will go to the American Heart Association's national center in Dallas, Texas to fund research grants, develop education materials and community services for the nation's number one killer.

The 75 percent that remains in Oklahoma will help fund 14 researchers at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation and Oklahoma State University. It will also be used to fund public education, community services and professional education in Oklahoma.

The Newkirk Cardiac Arrest project, held at Smith's Country Restaurant was headed by Patrick Zehr, Kay County Emergency Management Coordinator. Other volunteers, who spent many hours working on the project were Mary Austin, Garry Bilger, John Hensy, Helen Meloy, Sylvia Mitchell, Tonya Plush, Mary Rhyne, Bret Smith, Marilyn Springer, Butch Weber and Don Lockwood, who acted as "judge."

Newkirk organizations participating and donating services include Smith's Country Restaurant, and the Newkirk Fire Department.

The Ponca City Cardiac Arrest project was held at the Conoco Fourth Street Clubhouse under the direction of coordinator, Diane Anderson. Volunteers who worked on the project included Martha Denney, Wanda Headrick, Suzie Klinger, Jocelyn Marzuola, Melinda McCormick, Rick McCumber, Lisa McGee, Sherryl Perry, Jim Roland and Jan Snow. Craig Franseen acted as "judge."

Businesses who assisted with the project included Mazzio's, Pizza Hut, Farm Fresh, 7-Up Bottling Company, and Conoco Inc.

Each of the volunteers 'arrested' citizens in Newkirk and Ponca City, who were placed behind bars until they posted $30 bail. Each jailed citizen was photographed and received an official mug shot in appreciation for their efforts and "bail money." Volunteer "arrestees" who raised more than $100 received a "Most Wanted" sweatshirt, from the American Heart Association.

Regional representative, Ginger Gallagher expressed her deep appreciation to all volunteers and arrested citizens from Newkirk and Ponca City for their hard work and exceptional donations to fight Oklahoma's number one killer - cardiovascular disease.

 

Chamber Notes No Notice Of Tourism Making Move

By LAURA TREADWAY
News Staff Writer

The Board of Directors of the Ponca City Area Chamber of Commerce spoke out about the Tourism Authority relocating to the Cultural Center during their meeting Friday.

"We have not yet received verbal or written notice that Tourism is vacating the Chamber," said Chair Larry Felix.

Members were concerned that the move was counter-productive, since Tourism and the Chamber need to work together. Felix agreed it was an unfortunate set of circumstances and not the best move for Ponca City. However, he reminded the board that the Chamber has no control over them.

"Tourism has their own board and makes their own decisions," he said.

When asked about opening the building on the weekends, Felix confirmed that the Chamber office has always been available for weekends. The Chamber just would not commit funds to staff it, he said.

"We need to be open to revisit this issue with Tourism at any time, in the best interest of the city," said the chair.

Business and Community

Development

Treasurer Robert Sherer reported on the number of chamber bucks still outstanding. Over the last two years, some of the "bucks" have expired. The members want the citizens to know that the "bucks" are still redeemable and will be honored by the Chamber even if they have expired.

In other community development reports, the Give Ponca the Business committee came up with an idea to remind citizens year round to spend money in Ponca City, rather than just focusing on the holidays. The group is looking into the idea of setting up "I shop Ponca City" signs in residential areas.

In reviewing Leadership Ponca City Program, Phyllis Worley reported that the committee made some changes to the program. Instead of attending the ropes course, the committee recommends an overnight retreat. As a result, the board approved increasing tuition fees from $375 to $425.

Additionally, the committee wants to reemphasize professional attire and attendance during the program. Also, a letter of commitment will be requested from each participant's employer.

Moreover, the committee wants to add a session to review the history of Ponca City. Another addition, includes a mentorship in leadership, whereby the class members would serve on city and private boards to learn how to serve on a board as well as see how issues are resolved. Under the mentorship, the class members would not have a vote.

Former chair Tim Burg said last year there were 80 nominations for the Leadership program. Of those, 29 were selected to participate.

Economic Development

Pat Mulligan reported that the Economic Development Foundation had finalized a recommendation to offer Sykes. Furthermore, the EDF chair went on to say the offer was less than what Sykes asked for and less than what other communities were offering. The Ponca City Board of Commissioners will consider the proposal Tuesday.

Burg reported that a fabrication shop plans to relocate to north of Ponca City. He said the business would employ 25 to 50 people and utilities would be served by the city.

Membership

The chair reported that the membership drive was highly successful. He said the Chamber received 126 new members, which amounts to more than $23,000 in dues.

In other business, Felix recommended a change in the policy for delinquent members. Currently, memberships are dropped after being 120 days delinquent. The board unanimously approved changing the drop period to 90 days.

On the collection process, Felix verified that a statement is sent before fees are due. From that point, a 30-day notice, and if necessary, a 60-day notice will be sent. After 90 days, the member will receive a letter informing them that they will be dropped if fees are not paid within 10 days.

On hiring a new CEO, a task group will soon be contacted to conduct interviews with several strong candidates that have applied, according to Felix.

 

Edwin Fair Award To Outpatient Therapist

Darrell Burns, Outpatient Therapist at Edwin Fair Community Mental Health Center, was recently presented the Edwin Fair Memorial Award for Clinical Excellence by Gloria Fair, wife of the late Dr. Fair.

The award was created to recognize the clinical excellence of an EFCMHC employee in honor of Dr. Edwin Fair, one of the founders of the Center.

Burns won the $1,000 award to continue his education in the field of mental health. He will be attending a solution focus therapy seminar in Milwaukee in the fall. He was also presented a certificate and a plaque. The plaque will be displayed in the Ponca City outpatient clinic.

In order to be eligible for the award, an applicant must be an EFCMHC employee for at least three years. Applicants must also submit a letter explaining why he or she feels they should be considered for the award, the goals they have in the mental health field and their clinical contributions to the organization.

Burns received his Bachelor's degree in psychology from Wichita State University and his Master's degree in counseling from Georgia State University in Atlanta. He has been with the organization for six years as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC).

He has three goals that he wishes to achieve through his work at the Center - learn and integrate the principles of solution-focused therapy into his practice, gain more training in marriage and family counseling, and complete the training to supervise potential LPCs.

 

District Court

Newkirk

Marriage Licenses

Bradley Albert Kimmell, 22, and Julie Ann Rouse, 22, both of Ponca City.

Keith Allen Parr, 25, and Monica Lynn Snow, 19, both of Newkirk.

Michael P. Allen, 20, and Amanda J. Stephens, 20, both of Blackwell.

Melvin Ray Luis, 28, Newkirk, and Paula Marie Trant, 27, Ponca City.

Paul William Day, 27, and Tammy Lynn Akin, 23, both of Ponca City.

Jason Armond Ridenour, 23, and Stacey Lynn McMahon, 26, both of Blackwell.

Billy Dean Stout, 31, and Amberly Faith Wood, 19, both of Blackwell.

Dana Charles Fisher II, 22, and Jenni Dawn Piel, 23, both of Ponca City.

Michael Patrick Gronigan, 29, and Amy Louise Rutherford, 21, both of Ponca City.

William Eliot Tucker, 20, Kaw City, and Stephanie Lynnette Brown, 18, Newkirk.

Jesse Jay Mercer, 18, Groton, Conn., and Christina Lea Taylor, 18, Tonkawa.

Vernon Gregg Williams, 35, and Tracy D'ahn Carey, 37, both of Ponca City.

Mitchell Evert Adkins, 25, and Shana Marie Casey, 20, both of Ponca City.

Cody Wyatt Hawkins, 18, Burbank, and Charity Lee Wilhelm, 20, Ponca City.

Chad Byron McCoy, 27, and Mai Thanh Ly, 24, both of Stillwater.

Criminal Proceedings

Hearing Set - Robert Farris Turner, 49, charged with auto larceny by fraud and unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, both after former convictions of two or more felonies. The first charge stems from an incident on May 20, 1996, in which the defendant allegedly took a 1994 Chevrolet pickup from a Ponca City car dealership by telling the dealer he wanted to buy it but needed to drive it to his banker in Blackwell for loan approval. The second charge stems from another incident the same day in which he allegedly took a 1986 Mercury Cougar from a Muskogee woman as he fled. Authorities later arrested him in Arkansas, records show. Judge Galbraith scheduled a 1:30 p.m. May 30 preliminary hearing. The defendant faces a sentence of not less than 20 years and a fine of up to $10,000 for each count, if convicted.

Sentenced to County - Kevin Scott Gelino, 20, sentenced by Judge Page to one year in the county jail in the community-service sentencing program following a guilty plea to charges of embezzlement by employee and conspiracy to commit a felony. The charges were in connection with a June 6, 1996, embezzlement of $714.25 from a Ponca City convenience store that was reported to police as an armed robbery. The defendant, who was charged along with another suspect, had already paid his half of the restitutions to the employer and the county sentence was arranged by his attorney, Tom Salisbury, and assistant district attorney Brian Surber. He had faced up to 10 years in prison and a $10,000 fine between the two charges. The other defendant in the case, Clayton Darrell Lockett, pleaded guilty to the charges last year and was sentenced to 10 years in prison, with six years suspended.

Blackwell

Divorces Filed

Catrice Dora Shultz vs. Albert Leon Shultz.

Dora Jane Fries vs. Victor V. Fries.

Divorces Granted

Bern L. Martin vs. Savanna J. Martin.

Angela D. Varner vs. Steven P. Varner.

Ponca City

Divorces Filed

Richard Andrew McVay vs. Valerie June McVay.

Jeanette Diane Kite vs. Thomas James Kite.

Divorces Granted

Judy J. Stone vs. Jerald D. Stone.

Civil Proceedings

John Eric Strecker vs. Justine Allen Waggoner; plaintiff seeking judgment in excess of $10,000.

Amy Sue Todd and Julie M. Gauthier vs. Charles J. Edens, Jr.; plaintiffs seeking judgment in excess of $10,000.

Donna Smith vs. Daniel Patrick Hogan; plaintiff seeking judgment in excess of $10,000.

 

Salvation Army Moving Officials To Maryland

Major Harvey Adams, local Salvation Army commanding officer has announced he and his wife, Major Shirley Adams, have received transfer orders to Cumberland, Md., effective June 22. The Adams have served in Ponca City four years and have been in the Arkansas-Oklahoma Division for 21 years.

"Obviously, we have mixed emotions concerning this move," Major Adams said, "but we know the Lord will equip us for the work that awaits us in Maryland."

One of the things the Adams take pride in, is the strength of the local advisory board which has been very hard-working and supportive of the work of the Army in the Ponca City community.

"The community as a whole has been very generous in its support of the Army's programs, for which we are extremely grateful," Major Adams said.

The Adams will be replaced by Captains Mark and Leigh Ann Craddock who are currently serving in Ada. "The Craddocks have done an outstanding job in Ada," Adams said, "and I feel very confident they will continue the fine work and programs the Army offers to this community."


DEATHS

Donal E. Postelwait

Donal E. Postelwait, resident of Ponca City, died Tuesday, May 20, 1997 in the Veterans Center at Claremore, Okla. He was 67.

A memorial graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, May 28, 1997 in Resthaven Sunset Memorial Park in Ponca City. Pastor Dan Breunsbach of the Prince of Peace Lutheran Church-ECLA will be the officiant. The memorial service and cremation service are under the direction of the Hackler Funeral Home in Blackwell.

Donal E. Postelwait was born Aug. 13, 1929 in Ponca City, the son of Chester E. and Pauline B. (Dixon) Postelwait. He was raised and educated in Ponca City, graduating from Ponca City High School in 1947. He was Drum Major in the Ponca City High School Band while in school.

After graduation he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and received his training at the Naval Music School in Indianapolis, Ind. He was stationed in Japan during the Korean Conflict. After his honorable discharge he returned to Ponca City and worked in sales.

On May 28, 1955 he and Pauline Martin were united in marriage in Phoenix, Ariz. The couple resided in California for over 20 years, returning to Ponca City in 1978. He owned and operated Postelwait Siding Co. in Ponca City until his failing health forced his retirement in July 1991.

He was a member of the American Legion, Huff Minor Post 14 and the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1201, both of Ponca City.

He is survived by his wife, D. Pauline Postelwait of Ponca City; his father, Chester E. Postelwait of Ponca City; a sister, Joyce Smith of Walnut Creek, Calif., and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Pauline Postelwait and a sister, Della Grove.

Memorial contributions may be made in Mr. Postelwait's name to the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation. Hackler Funeral Home of Blackwell will handle the funds.

 

Ruth Gene Woods

Ruth Gene Woods, Ponca City resident, died Friday morning May 23, 1997, at the Ponca City Nursing Home. She was 93.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday May 31, 1997 in the Pittsburg, Kan., First Presbyterian Church. Burial will be in the Highland Park Cemetery in Pittsburg. Local arrangements are under the direction of Grace Memorial Chapel. There will be no visitation at the funeral home.

Ruth Gene Woods was born February 15, 1904 in Pittsburg, Kan., the daughter of Senator Anderson Lee and Neva Nason (Dudgeon) Scott.

After graduating from Pittsburg High School she attended Ward Belmont Junior College. She then graduated from Pittsburg State University. She was united in marriage to Doran Charles Woods on June 27, 1927 in Pittsburg, Kan.

Mrs. Woods taught in the Pittsburg Elementary schools for 20 years. Following the death of her husband on January 30, 1988 she moved to Ponca City.

Survivors are a daughter, Mrs. Paul (Ann) Jensen of Ponca City; one son, Lee Jack Woods, of Greeley, Colo.; nine grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents and one daughter, Sue Hefele.

Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of choice or to the Pittsburg First Presbyterian Church, P.O. Box 563, Pittsburg, KS 66762.

 

Services Pending

 

Billy L. Campbell

Billy Lee Campbell, longtime Ponca City resident, died Friday, May 23, 1997 at the St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. He was 72.

Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Tuesday, May 27, 1997 at the First Church of the Nazarene with the Rev. Steve Bierley, pastor, officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to the: First Church of the Nazarene, Building Fund, 1900 West Grand Avenue, Ponca City, OK 74601.

Other arrangements are pending and will be announced later with the Trout Funeral Home, Ponca City.

 

John Melvin Ely

John Melvin Ely, Ponca City resident, died Saturday, May 24, 1997 at the Ponca Nursing Home. He was 66.

Services are pending and will be announced later with the Trout Funeral Home.

 

Elsie M. Kurtz

Elsie M. Kurtz, longtime Ponca City resident, died Friday, May 23, 1997 at the St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. She was 87.

Services are pending and will be announced later with the Trout Funeral Home.


NEWS BRIEFS

Janitor's Picnic - The 12th Annual Conoco Janitor's Picnic will be held Saturday at the Lake Ponca Shelter houses No. 1 and No. 2. Family members welcome. Visiting will start at 5 p.m. followed by the meal at 6 p.m. Bring a covered dish and a serving utensil. Drinks and table service will be furnished.

Swimming Lessons - American Red Cross swimming lessons are being offered by the Ponca City Swim Association. Registration is taken daily Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m., at the American Red Cross office, 525 Monument Road. For more information call 762-9266.

Indian Legion Post Plans Rites - Members of American Legion Buffalo Post 38 will meet Monday at 7:30 a.m. at the Kirby Feathers residence in the Carbon Black area to participate in services at the area cemeteries. Post members will visit the Kaw Tribal Cemetery, north of Newkirk at 8:30 a.m., Tonkawa Tribal Cemetery, 9:30 a.m., Ponca Indian Cemetery, 10:30 a.m. and Otoe-Missouria Tribal Cemetery, 11:30 a.m. They will conduct memorial rites at all cemeteries, according to Delbert Cole, Commander.

Tutoring School - The Ponca City Area Literacy Council is offering a tutor training workshop on June 3, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., in the programming room of the library. High school and college students are welcome for a rewarding experience and community service project. PCALC will work around vacations, camps, and summer sports and still provide valuable tutoring time, for a child in need. For more information call 767-0351.

Literacy Tutoring - The Ponca City Area Literacy Council is offering free tutoring in remedial reading and math during the summer for the area's school children. The tutoring will be held twice a week at the Ponca City Library. Interested parents may call the Literacy Council office at 767-0351 to enroll a child or to get more information.

CEA Bingo - Conoco Employees' Association bingo will be held May 31 in the Conoco Atrium. Doors open 6:30 p.m. Bingo begins at 7:30 p.m. The theme is "fitness."

No Refuse Service - Employees of the city will be off Monday to enjoy the holiday. As a result, there will be no residential refuse service and the Ponca City Landfill will be closed. Services will resume on Tuesday.

Subject Held - A Ponca City police officer arrested a 24-year-old woman from South Seventh Street at 10:40 a.m. Friday on a Kay County warrant.

Missing - A resident in the 1600 block of Academy Road notified the Ponca City Police Department at 10:46 a.m. Friday to report jewelry missing. An officer took a report.

County Warrants - A Ponca City police officer arrested a 32-year-old man in the 3500 block of North Union Street at 11:15 a.m. Friday on Kay County warrants for failure to appear.

Items Missing - A resident in the 1000 block of North Ash Street advised the Ponca City Police Department at 1:48 p.m. Friday that things were missing from the house. An officer took a report.

Accident - A Ponca City police officer took a report of a non-injury accident at North Ash Street and West Highland Avenue at 3 p.m. Friday.

Child Hit - Ponca City telecommunication officers received a call that a child had been hit by a car in the 2000 block of Cedar Street at 8:40 p.m. Friday. Though a Ponca City Fire Department ambulance responded, the child was taken to the hospital by a private vehicle. A Ponca City police officer took an accident report.

Grand Larceny - A 27-year-old man was arrested by a Ponca City police officer from North Fourteenth Street at 9:02 p.m. Friday on a Kay County warrant for grand larceny.

Juveniles Cited - A Ponca City police officer contacted subjects in a dune buggy at Madison Avenue and South Eleventh Street at 12:12 a.m. Saturday. The officer took two youths to the police station and issued each a citation before releasing them to parents.

Under the Influence - A 31-year-old man was arrested by a Ponca City police officer at North Fourteenth Street and Virginia Avenue at 12:17 a.m. Saturday for driving under the influence.

Trespassing - A Ponca City police officer took a 19-year-old man into custody in the 500 block of West Grand Avenue at 1:08 a.m. Saturday for trespassing, resisting arrest and assault on an officer.

Possession - An 18-year-old male was arrested by a Ponca City police officer at First Street and Grand Avenue at 1:09 a.m. Saturday for minor in possession, public intoxication, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.


LIFESTYLES

Winners Named For Kay County 4-H Bread Show

Kay County 4-H members held the annual Bread Show May 17 at the courthouse in Newkirk. The 4-H Bread Program "gives 4-H'ers the opportunity to learn the principles of nutrition as they relate to good health, physical fitness and attractive appearance as well as appreciate the nutritional values of breads and grain products as one of the basic food groups" said a county extension spokesperson.

Named as winners were:

Junior Division (9-11) Grand Champion was Brady Schneeberger (Kildare); Reserve Champion, Kelle Otto (Kildare); Class A White Bread-Loaf winners were: Erica Morris, (Kildare) First; Scott Dorl (Newkirk Go-Getters) Second; Carlie Godbehere, Third (Kay County Mounties); and Brandi Roundtree ,(Kay County Mounties) Fourth.

Class B Whole Wheat Bread-Loaf winners were: Kelle Otto (Kildare) First; Erica Morris, (Kildare) Second, and Randi Price (OK Okies) Third. Class C 3-Cinnamon Rolls winners were: Scott Dorl (Newkirk Go-Getters) First, and Brandi Roundtree, (Kay County Mounties) Second. Class D 3-Dinner Rolls winners were: Brady Schneeberger (Kildare) First; Kelle Otto, (Kildare) Second; Randi Price (OK Okies) Third; Brandi Roundtree (Kay County Mounties) Fourth, and Page Ballou (Finley) Fifth. Class E-Other Yeast Bread winners were: Kelle Otto (Kildare) First; Erica Morris (Kildare) Second and Scott Dorl (Newkirk GoGetters) Third.

Class F 3-Yeast Biscuits winners were: Brady Schneeberger (Kildare) First, and Page Ballou (Finley) Second. Class G Yeast Bread (sweet) winner was Carlie Godbehere (Kay County Mounties) First. Class H Specialty Shape (edible) winner was Brady Schneeberger (Kildare) First. Intermediate Division (12-14) Grand Champion was Stacie Schneeberger (Kildare) and Reserve Champion was Kaycee Brandon (Kildare). Class A White Bread-Loaf winners were: Lexie Kahle (OK Okies) First; Jana Johnson (OK Okies) Second and Kaycee Brandon (Kildare) Third.

Class B Whole Wheat Bread-Loaf winners were Erin Morris (Kildare) First; Sheralyn Otto (Kildare) Second, and Shawn Alley (Kay County Mounties) Third. Class C 3-Cinnamon Rolls winners were Kaycee Brandon (Kildare) First; Sheralyn Otto (Kildare) Second; Lexie Kahle (OK Okies) Third; and Jana Johnson (OK Okies) Fourth. Class D 3-Dinner Rolls winners were: Stacie Schneeberger (Kildare), First; Kaycee Brandon (Kildare) Second; Chassie McMillen (Heir Born) Third; Jana Johnson (OK Okies) Fourth, and Sheralyn Otto (Kildare) Fifth. Class E-Other Yeast Bread winner was Chassie McMillen (Heir Born) Second. Biscuits Yeast winners were: Stacie Schneeberger (Kildare) First, and Shawn Allen (Kay County Mounties) Second. Class G Yeast Bread (sweet) winners were Stacie Schneeberger (Kildare) First and Erin Morris (Kildare) Second.

Senior Division (15 and over) Grand Champion was Charlie Brandon (Kildare), and Reserve Champion was Bryan Overman (Kildare). Class A White Bread-Loaf winners were: Charlie Brandon (Kildare) First; Laura Hoy (Kay County Mounties) Second, and Daniel Alley (Kay County Mounties) Third. Class B Whole Wheat Loaf winners were: Kami Main (Finley) First, and Emily Lewis (Heir Born) Second. Class C 3 Cinnamon Rolls winners were: Bryan Overman (Kildare) First; Charlie Brandon (Kildare) Second, and Gayle Otto (Kildare) Third.

Class D 3 Dinner Rolls winners were: Charlie Brandon (Kildare) First; Daniel Alley (Kay County Mounties) Second; Gayle Otto (Kildare) Third; Bryan Overman (Kildare) Fourth, and Emily Lewis (Heir Born) Fifth. Class E-Other Yeast Bread winners were Emily Lewis (Heir Born) First and Gayle Otto (Kildare) Second. Class G Yeast Bread (sweet) winner was Daniel Alley (Kay County Mounties) First; Kami Main (Finley) Second, and Laura Hoy (Kay County Mounties) Third. Class H Specialty Shape (edible) winner was Bryan Overman (Kildare).

 

Public Invited To Attend Memorial Day Program

A special Memorial Day program will be held at Resthaven Memorial Park Cemetery, at 10 a.m. Monday. The public is invited and encouraged to attend.

The Veterans Court of Honor at Resthaven presently has a total of 312 veterans markers. On Memorial Day, a flag is flown above each veteran's marker in the Court of Honor. Flags for each area of the service, U.S. Army, U.S. Navy, U.S Air Force, U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Coast Guard and a POW-MIA flag, will also be flown.

Several days prior to Memorial Day, a small American Flag is also placed on every veterans' interment site by members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Auxiliary and staff at Resthaven. This year more than 700 small flags will be placed at Resthaven Memorial Park and more than 80 flags at Sunset Memorial Park.

Resthaven's Memorial Day program will be highlighted by individuals representing the American Legion, American Legion Ladies Auxiliary, Daughters of the American Revolution, Disabled American Veterans, Sons of the American Revolution, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Veterans of Foreign Wars Auxiliary, and Vietnam Veterans of America.

The 1997 program will especially honor veterans of the War of 1812. Steve Huston will be featured speaker. The Rev. Kenneth Armstrong, rector of Grace Episcopal Church will lead the invocation.

The program will also include a Veterans Roll Call - a reading of the names of all Veterans buried at Resthaven or Sunset Memorial Parks who have died since last Memorial Day. The program will conclude with a multiple gun salute and trumpeter Katie Mulligan playing "Taps."

Resthaven Memorial Park Cemetery is located north of Ponca City, one-half mile east of U.S. 77 on Hubbard Road.

 

Sage, Rosemary And Thyme Club Plans Festival

The upcoming Ponca City Herb Festival was the main topic of discussion for the May meeting of the Sage, Rosemary and Thyme Garden Club. Mary Perkins served as hostess, assisted by Carol Jamrick and Marlene Roth. Janice Yeary was welcomed as a new member and Georgia Cline as a guest.

The video "Portrait of a Gardener" was previewed. The tape may be viewed by contacting Rebecca Barker for information. Club members agreed to purchase two books for the Ponca City Library in memory of deceased vlub member Bobbie London and the late Faye Paisley Cook. Donation may be made to Mrs. Barker.

Posters and flyers for the Jubne 7 Herb Festival were distributed during the meeting and Mary Anne Potter, vendor chairman, reported an increase in the number of booths this year. It wad announced that refreshments would be available at the festival. Corrine hOlder, Seminar chairman, announced that the number of seminars had doubled from last year. Among the topics are growing herbs and their roles in cooking, nutrition, bath and beauty prodsucts and others.

An Herb Festival Volunter meetingis scheduled for May 28 at 10 a.m. at the Cann Center witht-shirts ready for pickup then. Individuals or community organizations wishing to help with the volunteer duties for this event are asked to contact Marlene Roth, 767-1344, or Rebecca Barker, 765-1689.

 

Stephen Foster Music Program For Workshop

The Piano Workshop of the Ponca City Federated Music Club met May 20 in the home of Carolyn Hook. Co-hostesses for the monthly meeting were Cornelia Timberlake and Alice Crowder.

Helen Brakebill, Program chairman, conducted a brief business meeting and introduced Mary Sunshine Cogman who gave a program entitled "A Tribute to Stephen Foster."Carol Martin was in charge of the workshop with all selections played having been composed by Foster.

Participating in the program were: Marge Howard and Alice Crowder, duet, "Swanee River"; Frances Thompson, "Old Folks at Home"; Elma Robson, accompanied by Mary Cogman,"Jeanie With the Light Brown Hair;"Kay Anthony,"Beautiful Dreamer;" Carolyn Hook, "Village Bells;" Bobbie Motz,"The Holiday Schattisch;" and Barbara and Rhoda Young, duet, "Soiree Polka."

 

Singles Network Social, Support Organization

Singles Network is a social and support organization for single adults, divorced, widowed or never married.

A monthly calendar is mailed to all members and dues are only $10 a year. A spokesperson for the group said "It is not a counseling or dating service. You must be single or in the process of obtaining a divorce to be eligible to attend functions or become a member."

Each Sunday a Discussion Group meeting is held at the First Presbyterian Church at 6:30 pm. Everyone is welcome to attend and this is a good way to meet some of the Singles members and get acquainted. After the meeting snacks are served.

Monday, Memorial Day, there will be a picnic at Sunset Park, Peachtree and Overbrook, at 4 p.m. Everyone needs to bring a covered dish and lawn chair. Tuesday, some of the group will meet at Blimpie's for a sandwich and visit.

On Thursday, Dorothy will host Coffee, Cake and Conversation. This is from 7-9 pm. Please call 765-1403 for more information.

Saturday, the group plans to drive to Hominy to see the murals. Meet at the First Presbyterian Church Parking Lot at 10 a.m. They will car pool from there and eat lunch in Hominy. For information call Dorothy at 765-1403.

Some of the activities for June include cook-outs, an ice cream social, card party, a trip to OKC Zoo and Bricktown and a watermelon feed.

For more information about Singles Network call Dorothy at 765-1403 or Betty at 762-9776.

 

Little News

Kevin and Tari Cunningham of Overland Park, Kan. are announcing the birth of a daughter at 6:53 a.m. May 12, 1997. The baby weighed 8-pounds, 6-ounces and was 21-inches long. She has been named Cori Leigh Cunningham. She has a sister, Cassidy Rai Cunningham, 2 years old.

Maternal grandparents are Ray and Carol Mullins of Blackwell. Paternal grandparents are Herbert and Maylee Cunningham of Owasso.

Maternal great-grandparents are Baxter and Doris Davis of Ponca City.

 

Wheatheart Nutrition

Volunteers are needed to deliver meals to the home bound participating in the Wheatheart Nutrition Project. For more information call 767-1620. Wheatheart Nutrition Menus for this week are as follows:

Monday, May 26: Holiday

Tuesday, May 27: Chef salad with dressing; crackers with butter; cinnamon roll; chilled pineapple.

Wednesday, May 28: Oven baked chicken; mashed potatoes with gravy; California mixed vegetables; biscuit with butter; frosted strawberry dessert.

Thursday, May 29: Spaghetti with meat sauce; seasoned green beans; tossed salad with dressing; garlic bread with butter; chilled peaches.

Friday, May 30: Baked pepper steak; buttered corn; steamed cabbage; cornbread with butter; fresh fruit in season.

 

TOPS Chapter Wins Awards At Convention

TOPS OK 308 Chapter met Monday evening with Donna McCoy in charge of the business session. Daphine Robertson gave the devotional entitled "Angel Friend". The TOPS Pledge was led by JoAnne Radabaugh and the KOPS Kreed was led by Marietta Nelson.

Delpha Clemens called the roll and Betty Flower gave the weight report. Loretta Riley was best loser and Mary Bryant won the "Ha-Ha" pot. Edith Smith gave the program, "Prudent Plan for Health". It was announced that there would be no meeting or weigh-in on Monday, May 26.

Also discussed was State Recognition Days held May 16-17 at Hutchins Memorial. Daphine Robertson was a graduating KOPS. TOPS OK 308 won honorable mention for name tags crafted by Natalie McCoy, and the Chapter's banner, also by Natalie, won second place. The theme for SRD this year was "Carousels".

Take Off Pounds Sensibly is a non-profit organization whose members desire to lose or maintain weight. It neither sells nor endorses products. Members are encouraged to develop individual exercise programs, and contests are used to encourage weight loss.

Brief programs are presented each week and visitors are welcome to attend the meetings. Weigh-in time is 6:15-6:55 p.m. and meetings begin at 7 p.m. on Mondays. For more information contact Delpha Clemens, 762-2844 or Betty Flower, 765-5448.

 

Alumnae Honor Edna Bowman

Delta Lambda Delta Alumnae Chapter of Alpha Chi Omega met in the home of Julie Lawrence on May 20. President Julie Lawrence conducted the business meeting and plans were made for the 1997-98 year meetings and activities. Vice-President Pauletta Beaty reported that she had delivered the "treats" made by local members to Gamma Epsilon Chapter in Stillwater the week of finals.

Melinda Glasgow, House Corporation Board member at Gamma Epsilon, announced the chapter will be holding a fund raising garage sale on May 31. Any member having items to donate should contact Mrs. Glasgow or Mrs. Lawrence. Sandy Hudack Panhellenic representative, reported that the Senior girls rush information party was held on May 17. Information forms for rush were distributed and need to be rreturned to Mrs. Hudack by June 14. Julie Lawrence announced that Sandy Hudack had been elected to serve as Province Alumnae Chairman for Oklahoma and Arkansas and will serve a two year term.

Mrs. Lawrence also reported on the reception held at Psi Chapter House in Norman to honor Edna Hoffman Bowman with the President's Roll Award from Alpha Chi Omega Foundation. Mrs. Bowman is a charter member of the local alumnae chapter helping to found the Kay County Alumnae Club on October 19, 1928. Several members of the local chapter attended the reception which was also attended by active members from Psi Chapter and Gamma Tau Chapter at Oklahoma City University.

Mrs. Bowman is a 70 year member of Alpha Chi Omega. Alumnae members from across the state also attended the reception. National President, Jan Crandall and Mary Ford, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Alpha Chi Omega Foundation presented the award to Mrs. Bowman. The alumnae chapter does not meet in the summer months. Sandy Hudack will be attending the Leadership Academy in Indianapolis, Indiana July 17 - 20. The next meeting will be a Salad Supper on September 23.

 

Ponca City Mother's Club Elects Officers

The Ponca City Mother's Club met May 16 in the Presbyterian Fellowship Hall for their 74th annual spring luncheon. Roberta Ford, president, introduced Phyllis Maxson, who gave the benediction.

Following the luncheon, a spring style show was given by Betty's Boutique and John's Apparel with Vicki Aday and Patti Lundeen as commentators. Models from the four Mother's Club units were Sandy Bishop, Theresa Bohon, Joan Brown, Maureen Danielson, Marcelle Gosting, Carrie Johnson, Phyllis Kellenberger, Shawn Lessert, Margaret Price, Sondra Scott, Betty Snider, Martha Stover and Barbara Wright. Piano background music for the style show was played by Kay Anthony.

During the business meeting by-law changes were voted upon and Sandy Merrifield gave the treasurer's report. Ann Kennedy reported $400 had been donated to the Community Clinic for Children and $400 to Julie's Pharmacy for children' prescriptions from the Special Projects Fund. Mrs. Ford thanked Marcene Young and Jerri Barnes for arrangements for the luncheon.

Unit hostesses introduced and committees recognized were: decorations, Leslie Schauvliege and Suzie Greenwood from Pre-School Unit; ticket sales, Jerri Barnes, Unit II; publicity, Erma Johnson, Unit I; greeters, Doris Golay and Oval Krider, Unit I. Other hostesses helping were Janet Smith and Margaret Orr, Unit III and Carolyn Bourne, Unit II. Also Patti Lundeen was recognized for making the tickets and name tags. Mary Joan McCann gave a historian's report of all activities for the year for the four units.

Theresa Bohon, parliamentarian and chairman of the nominating committee, presented the following slate of officers for the 1997-98 term: Maureen Danielson, president; Shawn Lessert, first vice president; Nancy Hays, second vice president.; Sandy Lake, third vice president; Jerri Boyer, general secretary; Sondra Scott, treasurer; Norma Kinzie, secretary-treasurer of Special Projects; Phyllis Maxson, historian; Phyllis Kellenberger, librarian; Roberta Ford, parliamentarian; Evelyn Culwell and Dixie Cortright, auditors. The slate was elected and Evelyn Culwell gave the auditors report for the year.

 

Whitney Bufford To Marry

Announcement is being made of the engagement and approaching marriage of Whitney Layne Bufford and JimBob Edens. The bride-to-be is the daughter of Bill and Elaine McDonald of Ponca City and Dutch and Linda Bufford of Tonkawa. Edens is the son of Ron and Judy Edens of Ponca City. A June 7 wedding at Woodlands Christian Church is being planned.

Grandparents are Zella Mae Branson of Tonkawa, Bonita DeNoya of Ponca City and John Ross DeNoya of Pawhuska. Miss Bufford, a 1995 graduate of Ponca City High School, has attended the University of Central Oklahoma and is employed at the Northern Oklahoma Eye Clinic. The prospective bridegroom, a 1993 Po-Hi graduate, is employed at Conoco.

 

Swim Lesson Registration At Red Cross

Dave Strah, head coach for the Ponca City High School and Ponca Sailfish Swim teams, along with four American Red Cross instructors, will be offering Red Cross Swimming lessons this summer at the Ambuc Pool.

Four sessions are available: June 2-13, June 16-27, July 14-25, July 28-Aug. 8. Classes will be for 3-5 swimmers per instructor. Coach Strah has 14 years experience working with kids and said the four instructors would be "young adults dedicated to helping the youth in Ponca City learn the valuable skill of water safety."

Registration will be taken daily this summer, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m., at the American Red Cross office, 525 Monument Road. More information may be obtained by calling Coach Strah, 762-9266.

 

Valley View Club Members Meet

Valley View Homemakers met in the home of Mrs. Joann Grimley, 1601 Cookson, on May 8. The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance, led by Mrs. Grimley, president, and eleven members read the Club Creed. Roll call response was various hints and/or tips. The hostess read "Understanding" as the devotional.

Bonnie Walker, social committee chairman, announced plans for a brown bag luncheon May 21 at the Cann Gardens. Members discussed several workshops and projects they were interested in and the project committee gave the lesson. A nine-patch block was created from 2 or 3 color strips sewn together. Various styles of blocks can be constructed from these strips depending on how they are cut and rearranged said the lesson leader. Members were asked to bring one or two blocks of their own construction to the July meeting.

 

Kimberly Roland Engaged

Mr. and Mrs. James L. Roland, 1124 South Ninth, are announcing the engagement and approaching marriage of their daughter, Kimberly Cherie Roland, to Henry Dolberry Jr., son of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Dolberry Sr. of Philadelphia, Penn. The Cann Memorial Garden will be the setting for the June 14 wedding.

Miss Roland is a 1990 graduate of Ponca City High School and received an associate of arts degree in 1992 from Odessa College in Odessa, Texas. She has attended the University of Oklahoma and currently owns and operates Motivations, a personal fitness training business in Philadelphia.

The prospective bridegroom will graduate this month from Temple University in Philadelphia. Following graduation he will be commissioned as a second lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps.

 

Couple To Wed in August

Announcing the engagement of Susan Rae Ailey and Mark Paul Branch are her parents, Mr. and Mrs. John Ailey of Adair and Mr. and Mrs. Steve Downing of Medford. Parents of the future bridegroom are Mr. and Mrs. Keith Branch of Newkirk. The wedding is planned for Aug. 2 in the First Baptist Church of Medford.

Miss Ailey is a 1993 graduate of Medford High School and graduated this month from Oklahoma State University with a bachelor of science degree in Early Childhood Education.

Branch, a 1992 graduate of Newkirk High School, received a bachelor of science degree in Secondary Education this month from OSU. He is employed as an assistant wrestling coach at OSU and is pursuing a master's degree in Exercise Science.

 

Engagement Is Announced

St. Anselm Episcopal Church in Norman will be the setting for the June 7 wedding of Elizabeth Talley Rogers and Fredric Tobias Morriss, both of Norman. Parents of the couple are Cecil and Pamela Rogers of Yuma, Ariz. and Mike and Andrea Morriss of Ponca City. The wedding will be at 10:30 a.m. in the church garden. Morriss is the grandson of Marcine Witt of Tonkawa, Mavis Ruth of Sulphur and A.J. Witt of Edmond.

The bride-elect, a 1992 graduate of Cibola High School in Yuma, Ariz., received a bachelor of arts degree in Letters from the University of Oklahoma this month. She graduated magna cum laude and was a member of Phi Beta Kappa. She will attend graduate school at the University of Michigan in the fall where she will also be a teaching assistant.

Morriss graduated from Ponca City High School in 1991 and from Northern Oklahoma College in 1994 where he was a member of Phi Theta Kappa. He was active in instrumental music at both schools. He expects to graduate from OU in December with a bachelor of arts degree in Philosophy.

 

Reception Honors Couple

Mr. and Mrs. Robert Fitzpatrick, Route 2, Box 177 A, Newkirk, will be honored with a reception May 31 in celebration of their golden wedding anniversary. The event will take place 2-4 p.m. at their home following a family reunion. All friends of the couple are invited to attend.

Hosts for the event will be their son-in-law and daughter, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Conger. Assisting will be the honoree's grandsons, Keegan and Drew Conger.

Robert Fitzpatrick and the former Frances Davisson were married Dec. 17, 1946 at her parents home. Mr. and Mrs. Fitzpatrick have resided on their farm north of Newkirk for 50 years.

 

Mu Psi Officers Installed

Members of Mu Psi chapter of Beta Sigma Phi sorority met in the home of Terra Martin May 6 with 10 members and five guests present. Denise Pappan read the minutes and communication from International.

Announcement was made of the Birthday Party brunch planned May 17 at the home of Cindy DeMarco where the names of secret sisters will be revealed and gifts exchanged for the final meeting of the year. Kerri Nichols gave a Ways and Means committee report and Gwen Barber discussed the possibility of having an Octoberfest booth.

Janet Acree reported on the chapter donation to the Ponca City library, the Humane Society, and Peachtree Landing. Kerry Mullenax gave the City Council report and the state convention plans.

The program for the meeting was the installation of new officers: Kerry Mullenax, president; Kerri Nichols, vice president; Terra Martin, Recording secretary; Elizabeth Ricketson, treasurer, and Jennifer Neisen, Corresponding secretary.

 

Toni Leigh Pontius Bride Of Edward William Eckart

Toni Leigh Pontius and Edward William Eckart were united in marriage April 26, 1997 at the Martin United Methodist Church in Bedford, Texas. The double ring vows were solemnized in a 6 p.m. ceremony by the Rev. Stacy Smith of Riverside, Calif., uncle of the bridegroom.

Parents of the bride are Dale and Londa Pontius, 721 Sugar Maple, and the bridegroom is the son of Gerald and Sheila Eckart of Bedford, Texas. The bride is the granddaughter of Mrs. Opal Reese and Mrs. Blanche Pontius, both of Blackwell. The bridegroom is the grandson of Stanley Smith of Dallas, Texas.

The church was decorated with two brass candelabra with white tapers and English ivy accents. The Spring floral arrangements at the altar were in memory of the couple's late grandparents. Beth Walker, organist, played a musical prelude. Following the lighting of the family tapers for the unity candle by the parents of the couple, Kristy Kinsey sang "The Parents Prayer." Following the wedding vows, as the couple lit the unity candle, the soloist sang the "Lord's Prayer."

Given in marriage by her father, the bride wore a gown of premium ivory French satin adorned with hand-beaded re-embroidered lace. It was styled with long Renaissance sleeves of English net and re-embroidered lace complemented by a sweetheart neckline. The form-fitted bodice featured a Basque waistline sweeping into a full satin skirt hemmed with hand-beaded re-embroidered lace. The semi-cathedral length train was similarly embellished. Her elbow length tiered veil of illusion was secured by a tiara of white silk rosettes and pearls. The bride carried a cascade bouquet of Porcelina roses, white roses with sweetpea accents, and pink Sweetheart roses complemented by organza ribbon. For the traditional accessories the bride wore something old and blue, a garter of antique lace with blue accents handmade by her aunt, Carolyn Landis; something borrowed, a pearl necklace and earrings, and something new, a penny in her shoe.

Tara Pontius of Norman served her sister as maid of honor. Bridesmaids were Dana Eckart of Santa Fe, N.M., sister of the bridegroom; Jenny Nickles of Norman, Shannon Olsen of Arlington, Texas, and Mary Vondra of Euless, Texas. The attendants wore matching sleeveless, floor length gowns of grape-colored crepe backed satin. The princess styled dress featured a scooped neckline banded with matching colored satin with the criss-cross back feature embellished with a trio of satin rosettes holding two flowing hem-length satin panels. Each attendant carried a bouquet of Lady Di roses, tea roses, purple sweetpeas, and English ivy with organza accents.

Serving as flower girl was the bride's cousin, Katie Lee of Sugarland, Texas. Her gown of white tulle and satin ribbon was adorned with white rosettes at the side of the waistline. She wore a floral halo and carried a pomander of ivory baby's breath.

Best man for his brother was Rick Eckart of Bedford, Texas. Groomsmen were Jonathon Johnson of Boca Raton, Fla., Ryan Shultz of Irving, Texas, Jason Mohler of Norman, and Jeff Miller of Austin, Texas. Ushers were Mark Robinson of Arlington, Texas, Brandon Arnold of Bedford, Texas, and Jason Shipman of Norman. The men in the bridal party were attired in black tuxedos.

The reception and dance was held at the Holiday Inn, DFW Airport West, Bedford, Texas. Serving as hosts were Ernie and Linda Jantz and Mike and Kay Johnston, all of Ponca City. Lindsey Word of Norman attended the guest book. The four-tiered wedding cake was iced with cream cheese in a basketweave motif and adorned with cascading arrangements of Spring flowers. The bridegroom's chocolate chip cake had a strawberry filling and fudge icing decorated with a University of Oklahoma emblem. The cake was encircled with chocolate-dipped strawberries.

Following a wedding trip to the Caribbean Islands the couple has established a home in Bedford, Texas. The bride is an Asset Account representative for IBM in Dallas, Texas and the bridegroom is a civil engineer with Goodwin & Marshall in Fort Worth, Texas. The couple graduated from OU.

Pre-nuptial events included a barbecue rehearsal dinner hosted by the bridegroom's parents at Somerset Place in Hurst, Texas. A bridal luncheon at the Cinnamon Sticks Tea Room in Keller, Texas was hosted by the bride's grandmother, Mrs. Opal Reese, and aunts, Mrs. Darleen Lee and Mrs. Carolyn Landis, both of Boerne, Texas.

Pre-wedding snacks for the bridal party were provided by the bride's aunts, Mrs. Maxine Netz of Vicksburg, Miss., Mrs. Judy Docking of Arkansas City, Kan., and Mrs. JoAnn Smith of Blackwell. A personal shower was hosted in the Valley Ranch home of Mrs. Tara Stephens with Mrs. Mojdeh Taherzadeh as co-hostess. A Texas barbecue and couples shower was hosted by Billy and Rhojean Arnold in Bedford, Texas.

The home of Mike and Kay Johnston in Ponca City was the setting for a couple's shower and Italian dinner. Also hosting were Ernie and Linda Jantz, Dr. Tom and Betsy Carter, Phil and Ann Bandy, Lynn and Carolyn Hopkins, Francis and Violet Nine, John and Carol Mounts, John and Judy Friess, Jim and Carolyn Munger, John and Karen Shiflet, Charles and Lois Payne, Lynn and Deanna Varner, Ed and Joretta Gustafson, Larry and Suzi Lenhart, Ken and Judy Jones and Edwinna Wynn.

 

Lutheran Women Change Meet Day

An impromptu duet by Marilyn Laramy and Carrie Collins concluded the May 13 Lutheran Women's Missionary League meeting held at Derrick's Restaurant. A decision was made to change the meeting date for the group from the second Tuesday to the third Thursday of each month.

There were 19 members and 11 guests present as Melba Heintz gave the president's gavel to Marcella Matthews. The Mission of the Month was the Vacation Bible School to be held next month at First Lutheran Church.

The program led by Melba Heintz was titled "Redesigned in Christ Through Rejoicing." To start rejoicing we must have a peaceful heart she said and you must remember the seven words of forgiveness, "I forgive you and I forgive myself:"

Audience participation consisted of singing the devotional hymn "Brighten the Corner Where You Are followed by "This is the Day", "The Horse and Rider" "The Joy of the Lord", "His Banner Over Me is Love", and, "Praise and Thanksgiving."

Marilyn and Carrie then sang "Here I Am Lord." one of the songs of the Zone workshop. All of the songs were accompanied by Kathleen Chambers on the electronic keyboard.

 

Kathy Cripps Wins Award

"Kathy Cripps received the Clarence Burg Achievement Award at the Oklahoma Music Teachers Association State Achievement Auditions held on the University of Oklahoma campus in Norman on May 16. To be eligible to receive this award she is required to receive a I rating at both the District and State Achievement Auditions for her 9th, 10th, 11th and 12th school years, consisting of 8 consecutive I ratings.

This award is given in memory of Dr. Clarence Burg (1893-1986), piano teacher, pianist, composer and dean emeritus of the Oklahoma City University School of Music and Performing Arts. He was instrumental in the founding of the Oklahoma Music Teachers Association in 1929 and was its first state president.

Kathy is the daughter of Ray and Karen Cripps of Ponca City. She takes private piano lessons from Kathleen Wimberley. Kathy is enrolled at Oklahoma Baptist University for the fall where she will major in piano performance and pedagogy."

 

Republican Women Hear Presentation On County Office

The Republican Women of Kay County, Evening Chapter, met May 15 at the Golden Corral for dinner and a meeting. Glenda Emerson, president, introduced Mary Rhyne from the County Extension Service. She gave several statistics to the group such as a high crime rate and high divorce rate. The speaker said her office staff provides various counseling services in addition to other programs. A "Kid-Time" home study course is also offered and the office provides information about the Kay County Child Care Association. Mrs. Rhyne also discussed the newsletters available from the extension office.

The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Mrs. Emerson and the minutes were given by Francine Johnson, president. The group yearbooks were distributed as well as a publication entitled "The City of Ponca City Resident Guide." Carolyn Kahle, finance chairman, was selected to market merchandise for the chapter. Miss Johnson was named as a substitute Good Cheer chairman replacing Anne Kinneberg.

Ruth Bocox, Membership chairman, gave a report that included information about the 1997 Frankoma Elephant Mugs currently for sale by members of the group. For more information about the chapter or mugs call Glenda Emerson, 363-5840; Carolyn Kahle in Newkirk, or Ila McKee Holting. 762-3885.

 

Meredith Turner Bride-Elect

June 28 is the date selected by Meredith Michelle Turner and Kelly Joseph Riddle for their wedding at the Northeast Baptist Church. An open invitation is extended to friends and family of the couple to attend the 2:30 p.m. ceremony.

Miss Turner is the daughter of Richard and Dee Turner, rural Newkirk, and Riddle is the son of Al and Mary Riddle, 1812 El Camino, and Glenda and Ron Locke, 2612 Rice.

The bride-elect is a 1995 graduate of Newkirk High School and is graduating from Northern Oklahoma College this month with an associate degree in Nursing.

The future bridegroom, a 1995 graduate of Tonkawa High School, is graduating with a degree in math from NOC this month. The couple plans to reside in Alva where they will attend Northwestern Oklahoma State University.

 

Former Resident To Marry

Former residents of Ponca City, Mr. and Mrs. Michael D. Simmons, now of Houston, Texas, have announced the engagement and approaching marriage of their daughter, Kali Paige, to Stephen Michael Bleckler. He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Larry J. Bleckler of Saint Genevieve, Mo. The wedding will be June 7 at the Foundry United Methodist Church in Houston, Texas.

Miss Simmons is a 1995 graduate of Bartlesville Wesleyan College where she received a bachelor's degree in Management of Human Resources. Bleckler is a 1990 graduate of the University of Missouri with a degree in Computer Science.

 

Happenings

SUNDAY

 

MONDAY

 

TUESDAY

 

WEDNESDAY

 

THURSDAY

 

 

FRIDAY

 

SATURDAY

 

June 21 Wedding Planned

An open invitation is extended to friends and relatives to attend the June 21 wedding at 3 p.m. in the Covington Community Church, Sixth and Emporia, of Kimberly Dawn Boike and Billy Ray Higgins II.

Miss Boike is the daughter of Scott and Bonnie Boike, 208 South Birch, and the bridegroom-to-be is the son of Billy Ray Higgins of Ponca City and Peggy Lee Goddard of Hutchinson, Kan.

The bride-elect is attending Ponca City High School and Pioneer Technology Center. Higgins graduated from Po-Hi and is employed by the City of Ponca City.

 

Shannon Harris To Wed June 7

Mr. and Mrs. Rick A. Goughler of Glenpool and Dana J. Harris of Oklahoma City announce the approaching marriage of their daughter, Shannon Renee Harris. Miss Harris and Brent Michael Richards plan a June 7 wedding at 2 p.m. in the First Baptist Church, Main and Broadway, in Glenpool. He is the son of Ms. Francie Jones of Kellyville and Lt. Col. and Mrs. Roderick Michael Richards of Fredericksburg, Va.

Grandparents of the bride are Mr. and Mrs. Larry Graham and Mrs. Dolores Harris of Ponca City, Lawrence Goughler of Barnsdall, Mr. and Mrs. Hulen Hutsell of Mountain Grove, Mo. and the late Gary Harris and the late Jeanne Goughler. Grandparents of the prospective bridegroom are Mrs. Jane Smith of Weatherford and the late Howard Smith, the late Patricia Richards Sandusky and the late Barton Richards.

Great-grandparents of the bride include Mrs. Rosalie Harris and Mrs. Ethel Harris of Ponca City, the late G.O. Harris, the late Everett and Audrey Hutsell, the late Merrill Harris and the late Fred Ware.

The bride-elect is a 1995 graduate of Sapulpa High School and is attending the Jenks Cosmetology School. she is currently employed by Blockbuster Video in Tulsa.

Richards is a 1994 graduate of Kellyville High School and has attended Tulsa Junior College and Missouri Valley College. He is assistant manager for Blockbuster Video in Tulsa.


SPORTS

Holliday Expects Title Tilt To Be High Scoring Affair

By FRED HILTON
News Sports Editor

STILLWATER - If OSU coach Tom Holliday's theory is correct, Sunday's Midwest Regional Championship game at 1 p.m. should be a high scoring one.

Holliday's theory held up Saturday afternoon as the Cowboys held off Harvard 10-7 in the winner's bracket finals of the tournament.

That was in sharp contrast to the Cowboys' first two wins, 8-1 Thursday against Stetson and 6-1 Friday over Tennessee at night.

"I firmly believe that in twilight games, pitchers have the advantage," Holliday said. "They have an advantage for four or five innings."

That certainly held true for the first two rounds. The Cowboys broke open the first game with a four-run sixth inning and added three in the eighth. Against Tennessee, the Pokes scored five runs in the sixth, mostly getting help from the Tennessee pitchers, who issued a total of 12 walks.

OSU had a season-low five hits against the Vols.

Those two outcomes made the Cowboys the surprise team of the tournament, next to Cinderella Harvard, who tripped up top seed UCLA 7-2 and eliminated Stetson 8-6

Going into the tournament the OSU mound staff had a whopping 5.7 ERA. They lowered that considerably in the first two regional games.

It went back up Saturday afternoon. But so did the OSU hitting.

The Cowboys returned to form on Saturday, banging out 10 hits, starting with designated hitter Ryan Folmer's three-run home run in the first inning. Then came Jeff Guiel's RBI double in a three-run third inning, Rusty McNamara's solo homer in the fifth and Josh Holliday's RBI double in the three-run eighth.

But on the other side of the coin, the Cowboys did not get a complete game from their pitcher in Game 3 as they did the first two games.

Starter Eric Hendrickson did last five innings, giving up three runs on nine hits. He struck out three, walked three and left with a 7-3 lead.

"Eric did what we wanted him to do," coach Holliday said. "He gave us five solid innings. We felt Harvard would have trouble against a left hander and Eric did a good job."

Neil Forsythe shut out Harvard for two innings in relief, allowing no hits and no walks.

Elvin Nina struck out the side in the eighth.

In the ninth, things slipped for the Pokes as closer Marques Davis was touched for four runs, two earned, as he gave up two hits and a pair of walks. The Cowboys uncharacteristically committed two errors behind him.

"That happens when your closer sits on the bench too much," Holliday said. "Margues has a habit of not throwing well when he has a big lead. We knew when the lead got smaller, his control would get better."

That's the good news with the Cowboys' staff. They still have two possible starters ready for Sunday's game. The bad news is one of them isn't first-game winner Thom Dreier.

Holliday planned to come back with Dreier (7-2) for the championship game. But Dreier was diagnosed with a broken foot after he stepped on a baseball in the sixth inning of Thursday's game. He is out for the season.

Holliday said he would go with either right hander Scott Williamson (7-2) or lefty Dave Maurer, who usually pitches in relief, depending on who the Cowboys play.

With his pitching depth thinned, Holliday is looking for a lot of runs to be scored.

"We still haven't had the explosion I've expected," he said after Saturday's game.

Harvard coach Joe Walsh just grinned, "to me 10 runs is an explosion."

 

PC's Poet Takes a Big Step Up Golfing Ladder

By FRED HILTON
News Sports Editor

Ponca City's Craig Poet has taken one big step up the pro golf ladder and is hoping to make it a double leap.

Poet has qualified for the Canadian PGA Tour and next month seeks to qualify for the U.S. Open.

A 1989 graduate of Ponca City High School, Poet played for the University of Nebraska before striking out on the long, tough road of trying to make it as a pro golfer. That road has taken him to most parts of this country.

It means living out of a suitcase, spending weeks in hotels or depending on the kindness of strangers - or friends - and trying to make enough of a paycheck at one tournament to make it to the next one.

"I love it," Poet says of the nomad life. "I get to see a lot of the country and meet a lot of people."

Poet has been one of the lucky ones who has been able to acquire sponsors who help carry him through the lean times. But those lean times have become fewer.

"I've done pretty well, I think, on the mini tours," he says. "The mini tours are not a place to make lots of money and having the sponsors really help. But I've made pretty good money."

At least enough to keep him on the road from one tournament to the next and to sharpen his game.

Poet has been able to survive the grind through determination - and the help of a number of friends.

"I spend January through March in Florida practicing and playing the mini tours there," he says. "I usually stay with a former roommate at college and his wife. That certainly helps cut down on expenses.

"And on the road, there are friends and people with the tournaments who let me stay in their homes."

But after seven years of mini tours, Poet is more than ready to step up to the next level. The Canadian Tour is that next level.

"It is not as big as the U.S. Tour or the European Tour," he said of the 13-week tour of Canada. "But it is one of the major tours. It ranks with the Asian or Japanese tours."

The Canadian Tour starts Thursday in Victoria, British Columbia, and makes its way eastward across Canada, ending August 31 on Prince Edward Island.

The 10-tournament tour is grouped so as to keep plane fares to a minimum.

"There are two or three tournaments around Victoria," Poet points out, "then I'll fly to the next city and there will be two or three tournaments in that area. Close enough that I can rent a car to get to them."

Poet earned his Canadian Tour card at the qualifying tournament in Parksville, British Columbia. He and 276 other golfers from 30 countries were vying for 30 spots on the tour.

The former Wildcat golfer finished tied for 18th after rounds of 72-69-73-72 for a 286 title. The tournament medalist was former University of Oklahoma golfer Grant Masson of Little Rock, Ark. Poet noted that other qualifying golfers with Oklahoma ties included Patrick Lee, Kris Cox, Albert Kaneda and Chris Tidland.

There will be approximately 150 golfers battling in each of the Canadian tournaments.

The tour field includes the top 100 money winners from last year's tour, certain major event winners and the 39 golfers who won their cards this past month.

"The money will be better (than on the various mini tours) and you have a chance to be recognized by manufacturers," Poet said of the Canadian Tour. "But the competition will be better, too."

It has been a good month for Poet. In addition to getting his Canadian card, he also qualified through the first stage of the U.S. Open Qualifying in Kansas City. He fired a one-over 73 to make the cut and will move on to the second stage qualifier on June 2 in Blaine, Washington.

"The weather was terrible," Poet said of the qualifier in Kansas City. "It was rainy and windy, but I shot pretty good."

Following the completion of the Canadian Tour, Poet will make a bid for the U.S. Tour with a PGA qualifying tournament in October.

A little success this summer and fall could forever bring to an end Poet's life on the mini tour.

 

 

PCCC-WGA

The Ponca City Country Club Women's Golf Association will not hold its Ladies Day play Tuesday. A Birdie Game will be held Wednesday. Members may sign up at the Pro Shop for pairings.

In last week's Ladies Day play, Dianna Mills was first in Championship flight with Norma Haynes second.

Joanna Morgan won President's Flight with Fay Johnson second. In A flight, Phyllis Nimmo took first and B.J. Cohenour second. Wanda Council was first and Rilla Cobb second in B flight. Del Kotarski was first and Carolyn Edwards second in C flight. Dianna Mills had the Low Putts.

In the 9-hole play, Alice Evens was second and Eva Ballard second. Barbara Van Ostes had the Low Putts.

In Thursday's 9-hole Playday, Sandy Powers was first while M. Subramaniam and Cheryl Fletcher tied for second. Fletcher had the Low Putts.

 

Golf Results

Wentz Golf Course

2-Man Flighted Best Ball Net

May 24

Championship Flight

1 - (59) Ollie Blackstar-Tom Courtney

2 - (63) Chuck Bussey-Gary Foreman

2 - (63) Dan Sims-Steve Frick

4 - (69) John Bowlin-Tawn Senseman

4 - (69) Steve Dunham-Allen Tejen

A Flight

1 - (58) Bernie Brown-Russell Shupe

2 - (60) Ollie White-Dale Beall

3 - (61) Gary Reed-Dennis McCeary

4 - (62) Randy Trant-Monte Rozell


Copyright ©1997 - The Ponca City News