From The Pages Of The Ponca City News, Wednesday,
May 28, 1997
LOCAL
Nearly News
Split Commission OKs Sykes Proposal
Hartford Project Delayed
City Firefighters Complete Training For Handling Hazardous Materials
Cancer Relay for Life June 6 Has 35 Teams
Fourth Annual Ponca City Herb Festival June 7
Ponca Citian Competes At Branson
Girl Scouts Enjoy Junior Jamboree
Area Calendar
Ranch Rodeo Proves Interesting
Otoe-Missouria Student Honor Dance Saturday
More Than 12 Teaching Jobs Cut by School Board Tuesday
Volunteens Orientation Thursday
Child Nutrition Program Set During Summer
Paving To Begin Soon For Ponca Iron Access
Newkirk Library To Get Computer
Groundbreaking For Cub World Areas Saturday
Library Shows 'Candleshoe' On Thursday
Emergency Sirens To Sound Thursday
DEATHS
Zora Ward McGee
Kenneth Mayo
Medra Judith Jones
Funerals
Charlie D. Fath
Georgia G. Beattie
NEWS BRIEFS
LIFESTYLES
Pioneer Guild Sets Workshop After Meeting
Soroptimists Fund-Raiser In Progress
Conestoga Campers Meet
Driesel Family Reunion
SPORTS
Sports Notes
Golf Results
Outdoor Notes
Local resident Irene Logan Bucker has ties with Judge Richard Matsch, the judge of the Oklahoma City bombing trial. Bucker and Matsch both grew up in the small town of Burlington, Iowa, during the 1930s. Bucker attended school with Matsch's older brother, who graduated in 1934. Judge Matsch did not graduate until 1947. The judge has even written her a letter confirming where he grew up and that his brother did remember her.
By LAURA TREADWAY
News Staff Writer
Though the incentives package is not binding until a contract is brought before the Ponca City Board Commissioners, the board approved the $1 million proposal from the Economic Development Foundation. Commissioner Tom Leonard opposed the motion.
Commissioners approved the package without representation from the EDF board. The proposal included incentives to bring a second Sykes Center to the city and included a $1 million package, the majority of which would be repaid from future sales tax funds approved for economic development.
The package also 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 go to Sykes through the stated proposal. 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.
"It is unquestioned that we are serious about economic development," Leonard said. "However, we should not be spending this kind of money without Sykes already on board."
Leonard felt the recommendation was premature and should be returned to EDF for an impact study as well as support from Sykes.
In new business, commissioners denied the request of Jeff and Amy Duncan to rescind the determination of a public nuisance at 433 South Osage Street. Further, the board approved renewing 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, received approval.
Regarding the city manager's request to hire Betty Durkee as a consultant to the city for projects in renovation of historical structures, the board supported the recommendation. They agreed it was important to have a consultant to handle the application and administrative functions regarding state, federal or private foundation grants.
Additionally, the firm of Baird, Kurtz & Dobson, of Enid, was chosen to audit the 1996-97 financial statements. Baird has been the city's auditor for the past five years.
In other new business, the board tabled items related to closing three streets in the Conoco greenbelt area. 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.
During public hearings regarding use permissible permits, no comments were voiced. Therefore, recommendations of the Ponca City Planning Commission were accepted to allow Kang's Martial Arts Studio to operate at 811 East Grand Avenue and Sunset Baptist Church to build a bus maintenance garage at 1012 West Greenwood Avenue.
Stone pulled three items off the consent agenda related to improvements at docks and a lot at Lake Ponca. The improvements were approved pending the users signed lake lot leases first.
Consent
The following items were approved by one motion of the board:
- Receipt of permit to construct water line for Hartford Avenue improvements.
- Awarding the contract for HOME Administration and Housing Support Services to United Community Action Agency.
- Authorize a license agreement with the Ponca City Swim Association to conduct swim lessons at AMBUC Pool for the 1997 season.
- Approve 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.
- Amend operating budgets of various funds for 1996-97.
Ponca City Utility Authority
The board reconvened as the Ponca City Utility Authority to award a contract to Safe Tire Disposal for $101,418.20, to provide tire chips for the construction of the 12-plus acre lateral expansion to the landfill working area.
Under the consent agenda, PCUA approved the monthly operating statement to the Oklahoma Water Resources Board and 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 authorized payment requisitions totaling $13,684.21 for the east side sewer system evaluation and sludge equipment procurement by FHC, Inc. Also, the Siemens Energy and Automation was awarded the bid for 100 amp and 150 amp voltage regulators. The regulators will be used to help support the voltage level on long heavily loaded lines. The regulators will cost $28,734.
Executive Session
No action was taken after the commissioners concluded an executive session. The board discussed pending litigation regarding Dehart vs. Ponca City Utility Authority and employment, hiring, appointment, promotion, demotion, disciplining or resignation of individual salaried public officer or employee. This session was authorized under Title 25 of Oklahoma Statutes.
By LAURA TREADWAY
News Staff Writer
In a 3-2 split, the Ponca City Board of Commissioners voted to delay work on Phase II of the Hartford Avenue project for one year. Commissioners Tom Leonard, Chris Hand and Mayor Marilyn Andrews supported the motion. Commissioners Dick Stone and Lyn Boyer were opposed.
Though the original contract of $527,000 was awarded to Cowboy Concrete, of Stillwater, the contract will now be voided. According to City Attorney Kevin Murphy, the city is not at risk since the company was not given a notice to proceed.
Three Options
Public Works Director Ken Parr presented three options for the board's consideration. The first option included a complete closing of Hartford Avenue, from east of Jane Street to West of Fairview Avenue. Second, Hartford Avenue would be closed just during construction of the storm sewer work. Thereafter, the area would be open to two-way traffic. The third option delayed the project for one year.
Robert Holcombe, of Cowboy Construction, and Ralph Throop, of Throop Construction, informed the commission that they had workers and materials on hold ready to go. They felt that the issues should have been worked out before.
The contractor and subcontractor reviewed the original contract and determined they could complete the project under either scenario. However, keeping the street open to two-way traffic would increase the cost of the project up to $106,000 as well as increase the time of construction possibly four more months.
Furthermore, business owners supported delaying the project. Clyde Behrens, owner of Floorcraft, said he had endured four closings of the intersection at Fifth Street and Hartford Avenue.
"I don't know how much more progress we can endure," he said.
Bill Bechtold, owner of the Carriage House Cleaners, felt that waiting until the Fifth Street extension is completed will take a large amount of the pressure off Hartford Avenue.
Postponing the project a year would give the businesses time to recoup their costs from last year's closing, according to Don McGrew, owner of the Hartford Shopping Center.
After completing a 40-hour course, Ponca City firefighters are trained to control and handle emergency situations involving hazardous materials (hazmat).
According to Fire Training Instructor Gary Reed, Ponca City is the first fire department in the state to put its entire force through the program. Reed confirmed that 55 of the firefighters are certified by the International Fire Service Accreditation Congress (IFSAC). Additionally, eight firefighters passed a departmental exam, as scheduling conflicts kept them from taking the IFSAC test.
"This brings our department up another level in training," Reed said. "Should something major happen, we will be more prepared to deal with it because we are more alert and know what to watch for."
Reed, assisted by Darrin Johns, taught the hazmat course to the rest of the department. They are two of seven certified hazmat instructors in Oklahoma. Additionally, the two have taught and evaluated courses for the Oklahoma State Department of Fire Service Training, in Stillwater.
Materials, substances, chemicals and wastes can be considered hazardous. The chemistry of hazardous materials requires learning physical states of matter, gases, flammable and combustible liquids, characteristics and properties, radioactive materials, and toxic products of combustion. Likewise, the course covered toxicity, types of harm, thermal stress and routes of entry.
Though the department was previously able to recognize hazardous materials, more emphasis was placed on recognition and identification. This awareness was taken to a higher level as firefighters learned details of transporting, storing, detecting and monitoring as well as identification resources for hazardous materials.
One section was devoted to evaluating dangers and potential harm, such as: container stress, container breach, release of contents, dispersion patterns, material and container predictions and estimating potential harm in the endangered area.
Ultimately, the department knows how to establish management control, hazardous materials response plans and implement those plans. A response plan will address scene control, approaching and working at a scene and control techniques.
Techniques used by the firefighters include: absorption, dike, dam, diversion, retention, dilution, vapor dispersion and vapor suppression. Also important is performing emergency decontamination.
As training is on-going with the department, Reed said they will focus on officer training. This allows the fire department to prepare firefighters for promotions when an opening becomes available.
Effective July 1, 12 senior drivers will be reclassified as lieutenants, which will allow them to fill in for captains. In addition, senior firefighters will be moving up to driver/pump operators.
"The goal is to prepare the employees to move to the next level. If we can get to that point, the transition will be much easier," Reed said.
Furthermore, the department is looking forward to training with its two new trucks which are expected to arrive in mid-August.
Thirty-five teams have organized to raise money for the American Cancer Society. The annual Relay for Life begins June 6, at the Jack Blevins Moto Cross Park at West Prospect Avenue.
The ACS Relay for Life brings numerous groups and individuals concerned about cancer together in a unified effort to fight back, according to Vicky Morton, coordinator.
The 17-hour team relay event raises funds to support the activities of the American Cancer Society. Funds will be used to expand services to cancer patients and their families, to offer more programs to teach people to reduce their risk of getting cancer and to expand cancer research programs.
Individuals raising $250 and above are eligible for incentives and prizes. The grand prize is a trip for two to Las Vegas, donated by the American Cancer Society, Carlson Wagonlit Travel of Ponca City and MLT Vacations.
During the relay, participants and their families camp out around the track and enjoy entertainment including: Zen Oakies, Po-Hi Steppers, Kimberly Evans and Chrystal River. In addition, a face painter and a massage therapist will be on hand. Moreover, the space ball will also be available. The Ponca City Noon AMBUCS plan to provide security.
At 10 p.m., luminary candles will be lit around the track in remembrance of those lost to cancer and in honor of those who have survived. Luminaries can be purchased up until 9:30 p.m. the evening of June 6. The cost is $5 per bag. To order a luminary, contact Steve Gray at 762-9686.
This year's honorary chairman is C.D. Northcutt, long time Ponca City attorney and community supporter. For more information on the event, contact Crusade Chairman Mike Mott at 763-5709 or Morton at 762-9686.
More than 45 vendors will be participating in the fourth annual Ponca City Herb Festival June 7, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Cann Memorial Garden, Fourteenth and Grand. Parking will be available at Grace Episcopal Church and the Pioneer Square Shopping Center with shuttles to the Cann Garden.
The festival will feature free seminars on growing, drying, cooking with herbs, herbs for health, herbal vinegars, aromatherapy, potpourri and more. Crafts will include handmade candles, hand-woven baskets, stoneware, garden sculptures, birdhouses, primitive yard accessories, window boxes and garden people, outdoor furniture, confections and music.
The event is sponsored by the Sage, Rosemary and Thyme Garden Club in conjunction with Ponca City Tourism. For more information about the festival contact Mary Anne Potter, 767-1957, or Rebecca Barker, 765-1689.
Fresh Herbs
In an ideal world, we would all eat foods low in fat, high in fiber, and at least five fruits and vegetables a day. Sound impossible? Not only is it possible, it can be both tasty and satisfying with the help of fresh herbs from your local garden center. Follow these creative suggestions from the American Association of Nurserymen (AAN) and you'll be on the path to healthier menus and a healthier life.
Fresh herbs can assist you in the fight against fat without sacrificing flavor. Omit oil and use herb-flavored broths to cook vegetables. Pat Reppert of Shale Hill Farm and Herb Gardens in Saugerties, New York, makes water-based pestos with fresh basil and garlic. She mixes the herbs in her - blender, then freezes them in ice cube trays - for later use. Home grown herbs often taste better than their store-bought equivalents. Generally, herbs have a life span of one year. Store in tight containers away from heat.
Herbal Recipe
If you think potatoes without butter aren't worth eating, try Mrs. Reppert's herbal recipe. Spritz potatoes with canola oil, garnish with rosemary and bake in a heavy baking dish. When sautéing meat, pour off the fat, deglaze the pan with herbal vinegar for a wonderful sauce with one quarter the calories of flour. Another gravy substitute: roast garlic until you can spread it like paste; whisk paste into chicken broth. This emulsified liquid produces a delicious, slightly thickened sauce. Add most herbs during the last ten minutes of cooking to make flavor come alive and maximize nutrition.
Ask your nursery professional or herbal experts for the growing requirements of the herbs you like. Sunny kitchen window sills are ideal for many light-loving herbs and keeps them near the cooking area.
Flavorings
Locally, Mary Anne Potter gives these suggestions for selecting the right herb for the right food: Beef: use basil, bay, caraway seed or chervil; Eggs: basil, chervil, chives, dill, parsley, tarragon. Peas: basil, chervil, marjoram, mint, parsley, rosemary, sage, savory. Oils: basil, fennel, marjoram, mint, rosemary, tarragon, thyme for savory flavor. For fish she recommends in general basil, bay, caraway, chervil, chives, dill, fennel, lemon balm, lemon thyme, lovage, marjoram, mint or parsley. Many other herbs are used for flavoring different foods.
Herb of the year, selected by the International Herb Association, is Thyme. With over 400 varieties to choose from it is important to find the right herb for this area. Thyme is the basis of many culinary herb blends and is a good flavor additive to substitute for salt.
Area residents are sure to find the festival a fun "thyme" as well as informative as they enjoy the free seminars, and visit the many craft, plant and food booths. Picnic tables will be provided in some food areas. Have a good time and visit the Herb Festival!
Meagan Dawn King, three year member of Oklahoma Kids, has a busy summer schedule including representing Oklahoma in the International Modeling and Talent Agency at the national convention in New York City and competing in the "Gospel Jubilee" competitions to be held at Silver Dollar City in Branson in July.
A ninth grade student at Ponca City Mid-high, Meagan recently competed in the Central Regional Finals for Oklahoma Kids in Enid and will be competing at state level in Oklahoma City in June.
She has performed in shows throughout Oklahoma and Texas the past three years including being a finalist in the talent competition at the 1996 Oklahoma State Fair, Oklahoma City.
Meagan is the daughter of Jerry and Becky Turner of Ponca City and Rick King of Lake Jackson, Texas.
Dirty faces and happy smiles peered while hands waved good-bye through the back of car windows as the last Junior Girl Scouts departed the recent Junior Jamboree held in Ponca City.
Junior Girl Scouts within a 90-mile radius were invited to this event. The Jamboree was held to allow girls an opportunity to complete Girl Scout badge requirements and most importantly, have fun.
Tents were pitched and Friday evening's first session began with Kate Kelly, finance director; leading a unit on city government. She gave each girl a job in a fictional Girl Scout city. The girls were given 16 million play dollars and they budgeted funds for five departments and presented their reports to their Board of Commissioners.
The girls learned how one kind of city government operates and the overwhelming and frustrating task of disbursing a limited amount of funds to many worthy requests.
On Saturday morning, badge activities for ecology were led by Melanie Longmore, Girl Scout leader; and first aid activities were taught by Sharon Clark, CPR instructor and parent volunteer. The remaining day was spent either in archery or prints and graphics study.
Katy Bond, Senior Girl Scout; organized and taught the archery event with staff help from Sue and Dennis Bond and Don and Cheryl Combs. History, technique demonstration and hands-on experience gave the girls an intensive six-hour instruction on archery.
Prints and graphics students began studying at Speedy's T-shirt Shop on Grand Avenue with manager Lori White. With White's guidance, the girls designed their own t-shirt art and then silk screened their individual shirts.
Outside art rubbings, finger painting and stamping were coordinated and taught by Glenda Hisey, Girl Scout leader. Maxine Warren, local artist, guided the Girl Scouts through the Ponca City Art Center's recent "Works on Paper" exhibit.
Girl Scouts packed tents, sleeping bags and lots of memories to close the weekend and Junior Jamboree 1997.
May 30-31
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June 2-7
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July 10
July 21-26
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August 29-31
September 18
By BOB PATTERSON
News Staff Writer
It didn't matter one bit to the wild horses and wild cows or runaway steers, the weather was just right for running. That's the way things went at Friday's performance of a two-night stand in the 101 Rodeo Arena for the Head Country Ranch Rodeo.
Sixteen teams from several ranches, a chiropractic office and animal clinics provided excitement for a good crowd on hand the first night of competition.
They had to like what they do for a living, because the competition was much similar to what goes on in the pasture, or corral of the ranch.
The event began with the first section of wild horse race, and three teams competed in that first heat. Only one actually was able to saddle the wild horse, mount it and get across the chalked finish line near the far end of the arena from the south end bucking chutes.
But that didn't faze any of the competitors, for they came right back in the next event, the stampede race and put together quite a show.
The branding event was really a fun event for the spectators. The Remington Park Mule Barn group put on quite a show on the second effort, with a 41.34 but it was the Frying Pan Ranch that did the best with a 41.29.
There were a trio of teams in the 50s, including Lazy 7 with a 55.07. Then came a 57.66 from Reed Ranch and a 58.19 from Rockin M.
Youngsters got into the arena next, for the breakaway steer roping, which found Rick Blanton do it in 4.45 seconds. That's quick.
And then the calf scramble found a yellow ribbon get nabbed off the tail of one of the calves, for $50 and several other consolation prizes, including some that went to young cowgirls.
The very first team in the team penning found Rockin P do the trick in 44.93. Whether it was the first time for the calves to run from the ranch rodeo hands or not, the other competitors had a tough time matching the effort of picking two "0" calves from the herd of about 20, and down into the trailer.
Other events for the night included another section of wild horse racing, match team roping, pasture roping, team roping and wild cow milking.
Competition included teams from Bar D, Remington Park Mule Barn, Lazy 7, Frying Pan Ranch, Cline Ranch, Rockin M, Spread Eagle Ranch, Reed Ranch, Rocking P, Blanton Chiropractic, Newkirk Animal Clinic, Bar S, Crooked Arrow Ranch, Morgan Ranch, Jacques Ranch and Murphy Ranch.
There's more to roping than just sitting in the saddle and throwing it. And there's more to riding than just putting a saddle on a horse. The experience of watching a ranch rodeo has been brought to Ponca City the past few years by Head Country Bar-B-Q Restaurant and a number of other sponsors. Well done! - BP
RED ROCK - The Otoe-Missouria Tribe JOM/Higher Education Student Honor Dance will be held at the Otoe-Missouria Cultural Center Saturday.
Gourd dancing will begin at 2 p.m., followed by supper between 5:30 and 6:30 p.m. Awards presentation will be made at 6:30 p.m., and gourd dancing will be held from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., when war dancing will begin.
Head staff will include Pat Oyebi, head singer; Don Patterson, master of ceremonies; Dennis "Punkin" Black, arena director; Mark Black, head gourd dancer; Jody Rush, head man dancer; Jeanna "Feather" Rush, head lady dancer and Red Rock Creek Gourd Clan and Northern Plains Indian Club, co-hosts.
Everyone is welcomed and arts and crafts are welcomed. Those attending should bring your own dishes and chairs.
Students to be honored include those on the superintendent's honor roll, first graders Appearing BuffaloHead and Julia Moore; second grade, Eric Coble, Sharon Forte', Rhemi Helt, and Tracy Jones; third grade, James Black, Royce Forte', Damien Goodman, Jenna Plumley, Tiana SpottedCrow and Elsie WhiteHorn; fourth grade, Mayla Hamilton; fifth grade, Stephanie Black; sixth grade, Alicia Petty; ninth grade, Justin Petty; 12th grade, Dianna Robol.
Other students to be honored include those on the principal's honor roll: first grade, Cheyenne Cairns, Michelle Cline, Lillie Hall, Talia Harvey, Shawn Russell and Sophie WhiteHorn; second grade, Michelle Atkins, William Bible, Tyler GoodBear, Henry Guthrie and Melissa Hamilton; third grade, Kathleen Dent, Dwayne Feiggers, Daniel Evans, Michael McClellan and Jerry Reyna.
Plus fourth grade, Nicholas Coble; fifth grade, Alex Black, Wahskon Camp, Michelle Forte', and Johnny Poore; sixth grade, Patricia Black, Christina Garcia, Thomas Levings and Adrienne Williams; seventh grade, Marci Black and Chris Plumley; eighth grade, Velda Rocha and Stephanie Stallings.
And, ninth grade, Marcus Neskahi and Jeremy Petty; 10th grade, Shanell Dent, Heath Harman, Denise Jake, Danielle Norman and R.T. Shotton; 11th grade, Michelle Bender and Kim DeRoin; and 12th grade, Nolan Grant.
There will be other special awards, perfect attendance, Patricia Black and Sonny Haze of the sixth grade and Heath Harman of the 10th grade.
Other awards include outstanding graduate, Diana Robol; outstanding male athlete, Nolan Grant; outstanding female athlete, Denise Jake; most improved male athlete, Ronnie Bible; and most improved female athlete, Carolee Bible.
By KRISTI GRABEAL
News Education Editor
The Ponca City School System will cut 12 1/3 teaching jobs for the 1997-98 school year. The decision was made at a special board meeting Tuesday night at the Administration Building.
Dr. Bill White, superintendent, told the board that the budget must be cut by $900,000 and that the only way the school could be back on track was to cut some teaching positions. This would save the district a total of $450,000.
The following positions will be cut during the next school year:
- two driver's education positions;
- one early childhood position;
- six elementary classroom positions;
- one methods and resources position;
- one speech pathologist;
- 1/3 of a position at the American Legion Children's Home; and
- one elementary detention position.
The board told Dr. White to go over the budget and make notes of what else can be cut to reduce the budget. The board will then take action at the June 9 board meeting.
According to Dr. White, "The number of students enrolled in the Ponca City School System has decreased every year. When one child leaves the district the school loses about $4,000 per child. After this happens continually, budget reductions must be met. It is then the decision of the board as to where the budget reductions come from."
The enrollment in 1996 was 5,642. On May 21, 1997, the Ponca City School System enrolled 5,484 students. This is a difference of 158 students.
Also as part of a reduction effort, the ESL position at the middle school will remain part-time and an extra elective will not be added for next year.
Public Comment
Several concerns were heard over the future of the band and orchestra program.
Brian Hermanson spoke first saying that a crisis was starting to develop. His main concern was finding a replacement for Mr. Workman. Dr. White told him that a replacement was found but due to circumstances beyond his control the position was denied. Hermanson then asked the board to remember the kind of program Ponca City has. "We must continue to strive for excellence," Hermanson concluded.
Other concerned citizens spoke out from their chairs asking questions about salaries. The public wanted to know why the salary in Ponca City is considerably lower than other schools across Oklahoma. Dr. White responded by saying that the only other school that was lower than Ponca City was Tulsa Union. White went on to tell the public that he will look into their concerns.
Other Business
A new multi-age class will be offered next year at Garfield Academy after approval was given from the board. This program will be offered for grades 1-3 and will be taught only if the parent chooses.
Multi-age classes means that several different levels are taught in one classroom by one teacher. Dr. Patty Ladd, principal, told the board that 16 parents have expressed an interest in the program.
Dr. John Scroggins, curriculum and development, told the board that it would be of no cost to the school district and that if the program does not work it would not cause any problems for Garfield Academy.
Bond interest money in the amount of $400,000 will be used to buy equipment for the high school. Dr. White told the board that $754,382 is currently available and that the high school is only asking for $400,000. This money will be used to buy hardware, software and connectors. This equipment will be used in the new Math/Science/Business Center.
Jeff Denton was approved for the position of financial advisor. This position is currently held by Russ Allen, who turned in his letter of resignation in March.
Travel requests were approved last night for the month of June. Linda Powers, Pat Morris and Dr. Scroggins will attend a Partnership 2000 program in Baltimore on June 27. Karen Dale and Mary Tapp will attend a multi-age program in Flagstaff, Ariz., on June 9.
The board adjourned at 11:40 p.m. and set the next regular board meeting for June 9.
Over 20 teens will get a first-hand look at the medical profession this summer, while serving in the 1997 Summer Volunteen program at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center.
Thursday has been set for orientation, and 23 teens from Newkirk and Ponca City were selected to participate in this year's program. The session will be held in SJRMC Conference Room "B" from 8:30 a.m. until noon.
Irene Ackerson, SJRMC Interim Director of Volunteers, said that this year's program will provide an introduction to volunteerism in the hospital environment.
"Thursday's session will give those participants a taste of their duties this summer," said Ackerson. "We've scheduled a tour of the facility, so each teen will know where they will be serving."
The session will also include a welcome from SJRMC President and CEO, Garry England. Participants will review safety rules and regulations and take a required TB test.
"We're very pleased with the group of teens that will be serving this year, and know that they as well as the Medical Center will benefit from their willingness to help others," Ackerson said.
Volunteens serve in the areas of greatest need, which includes working floor duty and the Information Desk, working alongside adult Volunteers to assist the public and render service.
For further information, contact Irene Ackerson at (405) 765-0509.
The Ponca City Schools Child Nutrition Program will be offering a special summer feeding program to be provided at Lincoln Elementary School.
The program will be available to all children ages 1-18, at no charge to any child without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability. The lunch will be offered from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Lincoln and will be from now until August 1.
Each lunch will offer a balanced meal consisting of meat, bread, fruit, vegetable and milk, and will offer items such as hamburgers, hot-dogs, chicken, french fries, fresh fruit and other various items based on the daily menu.
The summer food service program is operated in accordance with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) policy which prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, age, disability, or national origin.
An application does not have to be completed and there are no requirements to participate in the lunch program.
Lunch
Thursday - Baked chicken, whipped potatoes and gravy, rosy applesauce, hot roll and milk.
Friday - Nacho's, refried beans, tossed salad and milk.
By MARK GALVIN
News Staff Writer
NEWKIRK - The Kay County commissioners finalized agreements with three separate juvenile detention facilities and took another step toward paving an industrial access road south of Ponca City.
During their regular weekly meeting Tuesday morning, the commissioners accepted a low bid of $25 per ton of asphalt from Bellco of Nowata to surface an access road to Ponca Iron and Metal Co.'s new location south of Ponca City.
District One Commissioner Dee Schieber said funding comes from the Oklahoma Department of Transportation for the $122,910 project, which will add 10 inches of asphalt to the access road between U.S. 177 and the new Ponca Iron facility.
The access road runs from the highway a half-mile west on Oakland Road and then 200 yards south. Oakland Road is the east-west mile-marker road, a mile south of U.S. 60.
Schieber expected the paving to begin later this week.
In other business, the board approved an agreement with Muskogee Youth Services for a $15.75 daily rate per juvenile for detention services, when needed, as well as agreements for $20.20 per day per juvenile with both the Pottawatomie County in Shawnee and the Eastern Oklahoma Youth Services, which detains juveniles at a facility in Elk City.
The daily detention rates do not include expenses for officers to transport juveniles to the facilities.
District Two Commissioner Wayne Leven said Kay County is continuing to pursue ways to allow construction of a juvenile detention facility here, which would eliminate the need for contracts elsewhere and perhaps set up Kay County as a detention-service provider rather than seeker.
In bid openings, District Three Commissioner Rex Purdy rejected two bids - one from Chickasha and one from Elk City - for the lease or purchase of a used tractor. The bids were for $4,230 and $4,430.
Schieber accepted a low bid of $17,220 at 5.9 percent interest from Crossland Motors for a lease purchase of a 1997 pickup truck, but rejected a lone bid of $10,524 from Blackwell Equipment for a lease purchase of a 15-foot bat-wing mower for District One.
The commissioners also approved an agreement with Richard Zetterberg to provide lawn care, at $25 per mowing, for the Blackwell Health Department.
NEWKIRK - Five local civic groups have united to help deliver the worldwide web to Newkirk through a matching state library grant, State Rep. Jim Reese and Sen. J. Berry Harrison announced today.
The Newkirk Public Library was awarded a $3,338 grant from the Oklahoma Department of Libraries, which librarian Sandra Cline said will be matched dollar for dollar by local funds.
The grant will enable the library, which serves an average of 160 people a week, to purchase a new computer, color printer and computer office furniture. The new equipment will allow faster Internet access and improved services to local library patrons through automated connection to the state's interlibrary loan program.
Cline said the people of Newkirk have until July 1 to raise $838 to fulfill the remaining local obligations for the grant.
She said without the support of local civic organizations, the town could not continue to expand and update its library. Groups contributing were the Newkirk Lions Club, the Newkirk Rotary Club, the Newkirk Chapter of PEO, the Newkirk Business Club and the Newkirk Women's League.
Reese, R-Nardin, said the project "is indicative of the community support one can always expect from the people of Newkirk. The people have made the commitment, now the state will help them make this project become a reality."
The grant was made possible through the federal Library Services and Construction Act, which the legislators said has awarded almost $185,000 this year to 20 libraries across Oklahoma for technological enhancements.
Groundbreaking is set for Saturday at 11:30 a.m. for two new theme areas at Cub Scout World. Cub World is located at Will Rogers Scout Reservation. The camp is owned and operated by the Will Rogers Council, Boy Scouts of America and is located 4 miles west of Cleveland, Okla.
The two new areas will be a castle and a landship. The castle is being designed and built by the Society of Creative Anachronism group from Tulsa. The landship is being built by a group of scouters and employees from Mer Cruise in Stillwater.
Cub World is a theme area that is available to Cub Scouts and parents. Each area has a designed program that the cubs take part in. The Indian Village opened last summer and several Cub Scout Packs have attended with their Cub Scouts and parents.
For more information on Cub World, contact the Will Rogers Council, Scout Service Center at 765-6669.
School's out and the Ponca City Library wants to celebrate by showing a movie Thursday at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. for school-age children. The 1978 Disney movie, "Candleshoe" will be shown in the Library Programming Room.
"Candleshoe" stars Jodie Foster as Casey, a young orphan pretending to be the long-lost granddaughter of the owner of a stately English manor. Casey is determined to find a fortune in pirate treasure hidden in the manor centuries ago.
Eventually, Casey discovers a greater treasurer, the love of a happy family. David Niven and Helen Hayes also star in this humorous and heartwarming adventure. The movie will last approximately 100 minutes, according to Youth Services Librarian Judy Johnson.
For more information, contact Johnson at 767-0345.
The testing of the Ponca City emergency siren warning system will be held at noon, every Thursday, according to Tom Montgomery, emergency management operations officer.
The test is scheduled throughout the year.
Montgomery said that in case of inclement weather, the test will be postponed,
and in this case or if additional tests are planned, the public will be
notified by the Ponca City News and the radio stations.
DEATHS
Zora Ward McGee died Monday afternoon, May 26, 1997, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. She was 82.
The funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. on Thursday at the Trout Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Larry Heslip, Minister of Education, First Baptist Church officiating. Burial will follow in the Resthaven Memorial Park Cemetery under direction of the Trout Funeral Home. Order of Eastern Star Rites will be conducted at graveside by members of Fanchon Chapter No. 53.
Zora Ward McGee was born June 16, 1914, in Silsbee, Texas, the daughter of Thomas Jefferson Ward, and Martha Ora (Beddingfield) Ward. She attended schools at Silsbee.
She worked as a bookkeeper for many years at the Dewey Supply Company of Houston, Texas. On April 19, 1951, she was married to Henry Ford McGee, in Houston. He preceded her in death in 1967. In 1994 she moved to Ponca City.
Zora was a member of Fanchon Chapter No. 53, Order of Eastern Star. She was an avid bingo player and enjoyed playing bridge.
Surviving are a nephew, Thomas Ward of Layton, Utah; one great nephew and one great niece. Barbara and Cindy Childers were her close friends, and were a help to her in her last days. In addition to her parents, and husband, she was preceded in death by two brothers, Garland and Curtis Ward.
Casket bearers will be Rob Jones, Robert Thomasson, Anthony Montgomery, Jack Childers, Wayne Birdsong, and Wesley Childers.
The family will be at the Childers' residence, 5378 East Hunt Road.
FAIRFAX - Kenneth Mayo, resident of Blackwell, died Sunday, May 25, 1997 in Blackwell. He was 37.
Graveside service will be Thursday, May 29, 1997 at 2 p.m. in Fairfax Cemetery with the Rev. George Weston, pastor of the First Christian Church, Fairfax, officiating. Burial will follow under the direction of the Hunsaker-Wooten Funeral Home.
Kenneth Mayo was born Sept. 29, 1959 in Fairfax, the son of Roscoe Preston and Welna Faye Scott Mayo.
He and Barbara H. Shields were married Jan. 1, 1984 in Fairfax. Mr. Mayo was a heavy equipment operator for the City of Ponca City. He enjoyed fishing, hunting and collecting antique toys.
Surviving are his wife of the home in Blackwell; four daughters, Mrs. Rock (Tammie) Lovec and Mrs. Dennie (Teresa) Wilson, both of Ponca City, Teresa Eicher of Rocky, and Terri Bob Eicher of Covington; his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Roscoe Mayo of Fairfax; one brother, Billy Mayo of Jane, Mo.; four sisters, Mrs. Kenneth (Faye) Porter of Pawnee, Carelynn Mayo of Colorado, Mrs. Bob (Juanita) Victory of Broken Arrow and Mrs. Roger (Betty) McWilliams of Blackwell; seven grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his grandparents.
The family will be at the Roscoe Mayo home in Fairfax.
Medra Judith "Med" (Burgess) Jones, longtime Ponca City resident, died Saturday, May 24, 1997, at the St. John Hospital in Tulsa, Okla. She was 46.
Graveside funeral service will be held at Odd Fellows Cemetery on Friday afternoon at 2 p.m. with Frank Tepe of Eastern Heights Christian Church officiating. Burial will be under the direction of the Trout Funeral Home.
Medra Judith Jones was born April 4, 1951 in Sacramento, Calif., the daughter of Roy and Ladema J. "Jonnie" (Cummings) Burgess. She attended Sacramento schools.
She came to this area in the mid-1960s, and enjoyed fishing and gardening.
Survivors include her husband, Claude B. "Butch" Jones of the Ponca City home; one son, Gilbert Brett Jones of Ponca City; her mother, Ladema J. "Jonnie" Cummings of Ponca City; one sister, Monica Burgess Sherrod of Blackwell; two brothers, Rodney Alan Burgess of Ponca City, and Dwayne R. Burgess of Red Rock; and one sister, Lynette Fisher of Ponca City. Also surviving are numerous aunts, uncles, nephews and nieces. She was preceded in death by her father, an infant son, one brother and one sister.
Thursday
Charlie D. Fath - Funeral at 10 a.m. Thursday at Hackler Funeral Home Memory Chapel in Blackwell. Burial will be in the Tonkawa IOOF Cemetery.
Friday
Georgia G. Beattie - Funeral to be at 11 a.m. at the Trout Funeral
Home Chapel. Other arrangements will be announced later.
NEWS BRIEFS
DUI School Set - State Certified DUI School Bridgeway, Inc. is Kay County's only local non-profit organization that offers both mid-week DUI School and Assessments. Next school June 3 and 4, 5 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Call 762-1462 for reservations.
Farmers Market Begins - The annual Farmers Market, located in the 100 block of south Third Street will open Saturday at 7 a.m. The Market will be open each Saturday and Wednesday with fresh picked area grown vegetables and fruits. An upcoming meeting of area growers will be announced soon, for those interested in joining the group.
Enters Basic - Army Pvt. Robert A. Jeffries has entered basic military training at Fort Jackson, Columbia, S.C. Jeffries is the son of Kirby L. Jeffries of Marland and Glenda L. Underwood of Ponca City. He is a 1996 graduate of Ponca City High School.
Delayed Entry Program - David A. Romine has joined the United States Army under the Delayed Entry Program. The enlistment gives the new soldier the option to learn new skill, travel and become eligible to receive as much as $30,000 toward a college education. Romine, a senior at Live Oak High School, Watson, La., will report to Fort Knox, Ky. for basic military training on Aug. 6. He is the son of Lynn Romine of Ponca City and Karen Devall of Watson La.
On Deployment - Navy Airman Rickey L. Ryan, son of Jack R. and Louise Ryan of Ponca City, recently departed on a six-month deployment to the Mediterranean Sea aboard the aircraft carrier USS John F. Kennedy. Ryan is one of more than 5,000 sailors and marines aboard the ship, which leads the JFK Battle Group, comprised of eight tactical aircraft squadrons, seven surface combatants and two submarines. The group replaced the Theodore Roosevelt Battle Group. The 1993 graduate of Ponca City High School joined the Navy in 1996. He is a 1996 graduate of Northern Oklahoma College.
Graduates From Basic - Army Pfc. Tiffany R. Stephens has graduated from basic military training at Fort Leonard Wood, Waynesvile, Mo. During the training, students received instruction in drill and ceremonies, weapons, map reading tactics, military courtesy, military justice, first aid, and Army history and traditions. Stephens is the daughter of Debra H. and stepdaughter of Carl E. Summers of Newkirk.
Report Cards - Report cards for students attending Ponca City Middle School may be picked up between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Thursday at the office. All fees must be paid before the release of the cards.
Soccer Tryouts - The Ponca City Sting under 14 boys will be holding tryouts for the fall 1997, and spring 1998 season, Thursday and Friday from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Ponca City Soccer Complex. The May 30 date is for anyone who cannot make the 29th tryouts. Birth dates need to be after August 1983. For more information call Boyd Nelson at 762-9058 or Jess Payne at 767-1454.
"Young at Heart" Dance Tonight - The Sunshine Playboys will be playing for dancing tonight from 7 to 10 p.m. at the VFW Ballroom. Everyone welcome. Remember, the first Wednesday of each month is snack night.
Average Monthly Billing - The Electric Department offers an average monthly billing to help residential customers minimize the impact of wide seasonal fluctuations of utility bills. The plan allows customers to spread their annual utility costs over 12 monthly payments. Applications will be accepted through Friday. For more information, call 767-0300.
AMBUC Pool Hours - The AMBUC Pool is open Monday, Tuesday and Thursday through Friday from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. On Saturday and Sunday the pool is open from 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., but is closed on Wednesday. Admission fee is $1 per swimmer.
Wentz Pool Hours - Wentz pool is open Tuesday through Saturday from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., however, the pool will be closed Mondays. Wentz admission fee is $1 for children and $1.50 for adults.
Summer Reading - It's not too late to sign up for the summer reading program at the Ponca City Library. School-aged sessions will be held on Thursdays at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Programs will last approximately 45 to 60 minutes. For more information, contact Judy Johnson, youth services librarian, at 767-0345.
Burglary - An employee of Ponca Iron and Metal, 104 West Brookfield Avenue, contacted the Ponca City Police Department at 7:51 a.m. Tuesday to report burglary to the business.
Window Broken - A Ponca City police officer reported the club house at the Seventh Street Tennis Court was broken into. After investigating the building, the officer determined nothing was missing.
Stolen - A resident in the 2100 block of North Union Street contacted the Ponca City Police Department at 8:36 a.m. Tuesday to report a vehicle tag had been lost or stolen.
Vandalism - A Ponca City police officer took a report of vandalism to a vehicle in the 600 block of North Second Street at 8:43 a.m. Tuesday.
Tag Stolen - An employee of Albright Title and Trust, 314 North Fifth Street, advised the Ponca City Police Department at 9:09 a.m. Tuesday that a tag was stolen off of a company vehicle. An officer took a report.
Grass Fire - Ponca City telecommunication officers received notice at 10:44 a.m. Tuesday of a grass fire on Interstate 35 at mile marker 201. The Oklahoma Highway Patrol and Perry Fire Department were advised.
Accident - A Ponca City police officer responded to a non-injury accident at West Grand Avenue and Pine Street at 2:56 p.m. Tuesday.
Collision - An accident which occurred at North Fifth Street and East Highland Avenue was reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 4:24 p.m. Tuesday. No injuries were reported.
Warrant Served - A Ponca City police officer arrested an 18-year-old man in the 300 block of South Elm Street at 5:50 p.m. Tuesday on two city warrants.
Found - A resident in the 400 block of North Union Street notified the Ponca City Police Department at 6:22 p.m. Tuesday of an abandoned bike.
Burglary - A Ponca City police officer took an advised report of burglary in the 600 block of South Fifth Street at 7:39 p.m. Tuesday. The resident reported sports equipment taken.
Under the Influence - Three Ponca City police officers assisted an officer in pulling over a vehicle with a man who was attempting to elude an officer. The 33-year-old subject was stopped and taken into custody at West Highland Avenue and North Sunset Street at 9:08 p.m. Tuesday for driving under the influence, driving under restriction, a city warrant for failure to appear and attempting to elude an officer.
Under Restriction - A 20-year-old man was arrested at West Cherry Avenue and South Waverly Street at 12:06 a.m. Wednesday for driving under restriction and a city warrant for failure to pay.
Grand Larceny - A resident in the 300 block of West Broadway Avenue
contacted the Ponca City telecommunication officers at 1:42 a.m. Wednesday
to report a cocker spaniel stolen. An officer took a grand larceny report.
LIFESTYLES
Members of the Pioneer Area Quilter's Guild will meet June 2 at Community Christian Church, 2109 West Grand. Stitch and Assist is planned for 9:30-10:30 a.m. Shirley Hile has asked members to attend and help baste the museum quilt.
Registration for the meeting will be 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. with Teresa Simic as greeter. The business meeting will begin at 12:30 p.m. followed by Show and Share. The program, scheduled for 1:30 p.m., will be given by Gayla Shaffstall and Lynne Hagmeier from Salina, Kan. "The Kansas Troubles" quilters will have a trunk show featuring quilts they have made with the one-step method of machine applique. Hostesses for the day will be Cindy Wilson, Tammy Hudnall, Dot Cowan and Sandee Henderson.
The "Kansas Troubles" workshop titled "Cabin Under the Stars" will follow the meeting from 3-7 p.m. On June 3, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., a "Welcome Banner" workshop is planned. Cost of each workshop is $20 plus a pattern for one event and a book for the other. Fabric kits will be available for sale the day of the workshop. Reservations for the workshops may be made by calling Joyce Eagan, 762-9719.
Guild members are asked to pick up material for Jerry Moore's Autumn Leaf quilt and for the OKC Quiltworks' Block Challenge. Volunteers for the quilting demonstration at the Ponca City Herb Festival are asked to contact Jean Buskirk, 767-1340.
Announcement is being made of the July program to be provided by Coleen Seagrove of Plano, Texas. She will speak about "Pictorial Applique." Members are asked to contact Michiel Landers, 765-0184, for babysitting reservations by Friday. For other guild information call Cindy Wilson, PAQG president, 765-6911, or Linda Burg, 765-2532.
The Ponca City chapter of Soroptimist International is preparing to begin a new fiscal year in July. The members have voted on a slate of officers for the 1997-1998 year and will hold an installation banquet June 25. The incoming officers are President, Cindy Wigley; President-elect, Lisa Eisele; Vice-president, Martha Denny; Treasurer, Toni Osburn; Secretary, Karen Shurts; Corresponding secretary, Ruth Ritter, and directors Becky Fitzgerald and Donna Culver.
The outgoing officers were honored for their time and effort in maintaining the "high standard of service to the community which is the focus of Soroptimist throughout the world" said Ms. Shurts. Outgoing officers are President, Toni Denzer; Vice-president, Kathy Tippin; Treasurer, Toni Osburn; Secretary, Marty Cooper; Corresponding secretary, Martha Denney, and Directors Judy Roberds and Becky Fitzgerald.
During the past several months Kathy Tippin has invited speakers from area organizations to tell Soroptimist members about the various programs which are addressing the needs in our community. These organizations included the Ponca City Area Literacy Council, Peachtree Landing, the Child Development Center, Ponca City YMCA, Caring Transitions, the American Association of University Women and Teen-Pep. Soroptimist members will be selecting the organization which will be the Service Project for 1997-98.
Recently, Ponca City Soroptimist completed work on the furnishing of a room in the new Domestic Violence Shelter. In March members assembled Easter Baskets which were donated to children at the shelter and The Mission. On May 10 members held the annual garage sale to raise money for the upcoming service projects.
A fund-raising effort is presently in progress which will also directly benefit local organizations which the Soroptimists support. Advance orders on frozen pies, pizzas, burritos, mini tacos and French braids are being taken until May 28. Items ordered will be available for pick-up on June 14 at the Pioneer Motor Bank facility from 1-3 PM. Interested persons may also "drop in" and make a purchase that day.
The Conestoga Campers had a pot-luck supper and monthly meeting May 4 at Lake Ponca Park. Forty-seven members attended with Muriel and Russell Wallace as guests. New members introduced were Russell and Billie Aday, Ed and Carolyn Saucek, and Jessie and Barbara Mannering. The March and April minutes were read by Sherry Cable, secretary
Mrs. Wallace gave a History report for the Conestoga Campers. She and Mr. Wallace started the Club with five couples: Carl and Louise Parker of Blackwell, Bill and Lova Wiles, Wayne and Lorane Veach, Lloyd and Maxine Reeves, all of Ponca City, and Clarence and Dorothy Robins of Tonkawa. Bill and Patty Sprague of Oklahoma City were Oklahoma Directors of the National Campers and Hikers Association at the time and the Conestoga Campers received their Charter at a camp-out at Oklahoma City. The first National "Campvention" was at a lake near Wichita, Kan. in July, 1966. Over 1,000 R.V.'s attended that campvention.
Verna Wilson, Anne Fields, and Lue Davis discussed new shirts for the Club. Twelve couples attended the May 16-18 Camp-out at Birch Lake near Barnsdall. Those attending were Pete and Norma Hurd, Ray and Carol Balthrop, Joel and Lue Davis, Jim and Edith Hobbs, Herb and Sherry Cable, Clarence and Earlene Logan, Pete and Ina Smith, Ernie and Edith Tabor, Clarence and Dorothy Robins, their daughter and son-in-law, Marilyn and Dwayne Rainbolt from Claremore; Roy and Verna Wilson, and John and Jane Storrusten. Wilsons two-year-old granddaughter, Tari from Joplin, Mo., was also a guest.
The next meeting will be June 2 at Shelterhouse #3 at Lake Ponca Park. A sandwich, salad and dessert potluck will begin at 6 p.m.
Descendants of Fred and Mary Driesel met for the annual Memorial holiday reunion May 24. The event was held on the Bowman Ranch near Fairfax.
Family members from Oklahoma, Texas and Arkansas attended. Among the
activities enjoyed by the group were a cookout, softball, bingo and traditional
turtle races. Prizes were awarded for the "best decorated" and
"fastest" turtles.
SPORTS
Lifeguards Needed - The Lake Ponca Triathlon, which will be held Saturday, needs lifeguards to man boats on Lake Ponca during the swimming portion of the triathlon. The swim starts at 8 a.m. but the lifeguards are needed by 7:30 a.m.
Those interested in helping should contact Bob Kammiller at 765-7855.
Track Meet - Ponca City Track Club 114 will hold a USATF track and field classic in Sullins Stadium Saturday beginning with registration at 8 a.m.
Age groups include Bantam, Midget, Youth, Intermediate, Young M/W, Open M/W, Senior M/W, four divisions of Master Men, Master Women and Grand Master Men (60 plus).
Entry fee is $3 for the first event, $2 for the second and $1 for each additional event. Fees for Masters will be $5 and $2 for each additional event. Also required is a 1997 USATF registration. The registrations will be sold at the meet for $10 for youth and $15 for adults. A birth certificate is required if under 18.
Admission is free and food and drink will be available.
For further information contact James Roland at 762-5738, Leonard Williams at 765-7535 or Mark Brooke at 762-8483.
All-Region - Ponca City baseballers Josh Shafer, Rocky Hughes and Jason Ross were all selected to the 21-player Oklahoma Coaches Association All-Region 2 Baseball Team.
By getting named to the All-Region Large East Team, the three are now eligible for All-State honors.
Ponca City, Cushing and Okmulgee dominated the All-Region squad with three selectees apiece.
Two area schools were also represented on the squad as Blackwell's Josh McMartin and Pawnee's Barry Bruns were also selected.
Sunbelt Juniors - Ponca City shortstop Justin Thomas has been selected to represent Oklahoma in the Junior Sunbelt baseball series. Thomas was the Wildcats' second leading hitter on the season (he went into the state tournament with a .396 batting average) and led the squad in doubles with 15.
Oklahoma will field two teams (Blue and Gold) in the three-day festival June 17-19 at Eastern Oklahoma Junior College in Wilburton. The Oklahomans will play teams representing Texas, Mississippi and Canada.
The Oklahoma juniors will also participate in the Oklahoma-Texas Red River Shootout June 20-22 in Vernon, Texas.
Thomas is a member of the Blue team.
Benefit Volleyball - Summer Fun and Benefit Volleyball Tournament, sponsored by Commercial Federal Bank, will be held Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the bank's main branch, 400 East Central.
All money raised through the $25 entry fees will be donated to the Oklahoma Committee to Prevent Child Abuse.
In addition to the tournament, there will be a weiner roast with pop and popcorn. Door prizes are being donated by Ponca City area businesses.
The volleyball game will be played south of Commercial Federal. Registration will begin at 8 a.m. Saturday.
For more information call Kelli Moore or Renea McKain at 767-0614.
Ponca City Country Club
Memorial Day Scramble
First (57) - Gerald Pace, Chuck Greenwood, Monte Evens, Ron Nuckols, Steve Pulley, Mark Detten.
Second (59) - Ron Locke, John Brown, Tom Carter, Bill Eichor, Don Coffelt, Jim Crossland.
Third (59) - Dale Chapman, Mike Starbuck, Jim West, Carl Renfro, Dennis Impson, Phil Roberts.
Fourth (61) - Gary Feil, Brice Chism, Ken Bradley, R.A. Rogers, Jack Sells, Don Niemann.
Fifth (61) - Dean Carlson, Lance Morrie, Richard Welborn, Bill Coddington, John Counter, Rick Poole.
Hunter Education - The Oklahoma Department of Wildlife and VFW Post 1201 will offer a hunter education course June 23-24 at the VFW Hall located on East Prospect in Ponca City. The class will run from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. each day.
Students must attend both days of the course and pass a written exam to receive certification. Oklahoma law requires that all hunters born on or after Jan. 1, 1972 must successfully complete a hunter education course before purchasing a hunting license or deer tag.
The course is free of charge and no pre-registration is required.
For more information contact Game Warden Tracy Daniel at 765-1921.
Shotgun Training - The Oklahoma Department of Wildlife and VFW Post 1201 Ladies Auxiliary will offer a Shotgun Training Education Program Saturday, June 14, from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the VFW located on East Prospect in Ponca City.
This program is designed for the serious waterfowl hunter, or those hunters who would like to learn more about the sport. Participants in the class will be given detailed information about the performance of non-toxic shot, killing effectiveness, crippling losses, barrel damage potential, choke and shot size selection and other important material.
Participants will be allowed to use their own shotguns. ODWC will provide the ammunition and targets free of charge.
Class size will be limited to 25 students and persons must be 16 years of age to enroll. Reservations may be made by calling Game Warden Tracy Daniel at 765-1921.
Free Fishing - National Fishing Week is June 2-8 and one highlight of the week is Oklahoma Free Fishing Days, which will be June 7-8.
No state fishing licenses, including the special trout license, are required. However, those taking advantage of free fishing days should realize that creel and size limits remain in effect, and city or lake fees also may apply.
Fishing is a sport for all ages and national Fishing Week is the perfect time to introduce someone to the sport.