From The Pages Of The Ponca City News, Sunday, May
17, 1998
LOCAL
Supreme Court to Appoint Judge for Contest Hearing
Nearly News
Letters
Commission OKs Oil Lease
City Calendar
Area Senators Split on Chicken Waste Plan
Relay for Life Becomes Special Event for Kay County Family
Area Oil and Gas
Arts Adventure '98 Classes Still Available
School Menu
School Calendar
Title IX Indian Education Classes Visit Standing Bear
Ranch Rodeo Thrills Nice Crowd
Portfolio, Art Show Held by Title IX Students
Hollister Rep Here For Ostomy Group
County Diabetes Support Group Meets Tuesday
Home-School Concert Set
Summer Reading Club At P.C. Library Begins
Multiple Sclerosis Group Meets Monday
Police Laud School Safety Patrol
NationsBank To Provide July 4 Fireworks
DEATHS
Jan Renne´ Bailor
Unita Barnard
Obituaries
Jeanette Brewer
Funerals
Elma Mae Sanger
NEWS BRIEFS
LIFESTYLES
OMTA Members Present Report On Convention
Attorney Addresses AARP Chapter
ABWA To Elect Officers
Profile Gives Insight To County Education
Domestic Violence: Breaking the Silence
Oklahoma Museums Week Observed
Melissa Johnson Becomes Bride of Daren W. Wilson
Christian Women's Group Schedules Luncheon Event
Couple United in Marriage In Ceremony in California
Pioneer Area Quilters Guild Meets
Rachel Beth Calkin Bride Of Michael Brent Del Toro
Singles Network Planning Events
Deborah Thissen Engaged
YMCA Summer Water Exercise Schedule Starts Here May 26
Couple To Marry June 6
Anniversary Event Planned
Couple Celebrates 50 Years
Red Rose Club Members Host Luncheon, Tea
Bits and Pieces
Wheatheart Nutrition
Democrat Women To Meet Thursday
Cameron Kekahbah Presenting Piano Performance in Arkansas
Women of the Moose Officers Are Installed
Shelly Smith Bride-To-Be
Sweet Adelines Chapter Elects Officers
TOPS Chapter Members Meet
Ponca City Happenings
SPORTS
Hart Gives Sooners Catalyst
Lady Mavericks Sign 3 More
Bowling Notes
Golf Notes
Baseball Camps
Lady Wildcat Basketball Camps
Basketball Camps
By PATTI PFEIFFER
News Staff Writer
There is yet another twist in what is becoming the never-ending mayoral election "saga." Besides the governor, the Oklahoma State Supreme Court is now becoming involved in "the election of all time."
Friday the Kay County District Judge scheduled to conduct Tuesday's contest hearing recused himself. "One candidate is a practicing attorney in Kay County and in order to prevent any appearance of any improprieties I have chosen to recuse myself," Judge D. Boyd stated.
The matter has now been referred to State Supreme Court Justice Yvonne Kauger.
"We received notice from Judge Boyd today that he is recusing himself," Administrative Director of State Courts Howard Conyers stated Friday. "Under the direction of Chief Justice Kauger we will now be appointing an active retired judge to hear the matter."
In the closest mayoral race in Ponca City history, candidate Richard "Dick" Stone edged Tom Leonard out by five votes, 2,033 to 2,028. Upon examination of the voter sign-in sheet from that election, Leonard found an estimated 17 ineligible voters in one precinct alone, Precinct 413.
Last Thursday Leonard filed a petition contesting the mayoral election on the basis of those irregularities.
Upon interviewing one such "irregularity" it became apparent that he voted merely by mistake. "I didn't really know if I was in or out of the city limits," he said. "I told my wife that we would go to the precinct and if our name were on the register and if we were allowed to vote then we were eligible."
He went, he voted, he was one of those ineligible.
Although a name appears on a register, it doesn't necessarily mean a voter is eligible to vote in a municipal election. To be eligible to vote in a city election a voter must reside in the city limits.
"We do not know who lives in and out of the city limits, it is not in our records," Kay County Election Board Carol Stafford explained. "When we print the registration sheets we print the names of those registered in that precinct which some may or may not be in the city limits."
A hearing had been scheduled for 9 a.m. Tuesday at which time a judge will determine if any irregularities existed. If the evidence shows that more than five voters were in fact ineligible and the outcome cannot be determined with mathematical certainty the judge will then rule that a special election is necessary.
According to Conyers it will be Monday before that judge is appointed.
"We are trying our best to make certain things are kept on schedule and that the hearing can be conducted Tuesday morning as scheduled."
The actual order for a special election and the date of such an election will actually come from the governor himself.
Although State Election Board Secretary Lance Ward said Thursday that an election could not be held within 60 days, he has since learned otherwise. "The situation there in Ponca City is giving us all a real education," Ward said. "We have determined that since the election is not a city election, and instead a special election, the 60-day notice requirement does not apply and if the election becomes necessary a tentative date of June 9 has been set."
That election would bring to three the total number of elections involved in this mayoral contest, which began in April with the original election, which lead to Tuesday's runoff election, which may now lead to the special election in June.
NN has learned about a connection for Ponca City with the recent Miss Universe Pageant. Patty Curl's cousin, Danny Couch, who lives in Hawaii, was under contract with CBS to sing a song, he had written, during the pageant. His song entitled "Have You Seen These Islands," with Danny singing, was aired while scenes of Hawaii were shown. Danny's album, produced by Sony, is titled "Almost Paradise" and will be released in the mainland states later this year.
Thanks for 'Happening'
This is a belated Thank You to my friends in Ponca City, who made possible the wonderful reception for my friends from out of town at the Poncan Theatre on the 26th of April, 1998. It appears that a good time was had by all at one of our historical landmarks.
Don Bishop, Kennis Wessel, members and sponsors of the Poncan Theatre provided the setting for demonstration of Ponca City's traditional hospitality. Bob Westmoreland and Jack Sherbon added to the festive atmosphere with live music.
Former Gov. George Nigh, longtime friend of Ponca City, introduced his longtime friend Burt Kennedy, noted Western filmmaker and inductee into the National Cowboy Hall of Fame, who told of writing, producing and directing such notables as John Wayne, Jim Garner and other movie celebrities. Nigh's good friend, Louise Abercrombie, notified the public of the Happening through her articles in the Ponca City News.
Jean and Jerry Brace provided books in the lobby for signing by several authors: George Nigh, "OKLAHOMA III; Burt Kennedy, "Hollywood Trail Boss"; Carlton Weber's, "Jonathan Creek", "A Cherokee Valley Saga" and - ahem - "The Wrong Stuff" by Truman Smith.
Other authors from around the state attended: Novelist Sam Swiinea and his wife Stephanie who has a screenplay in preproduction. Other out-of-towners were members and former members of the Oklahoma Film Commission and the Oklahoma Territory Film Commission.
Dr. Joe Fallin from Oklahoma City proclaimed Burt Kennedy an honorary lieutenant governor on behalf of his wife, Lt. Gov. Mary Fallin. State and local governments were represented by Sen. Paul Muegge, Mayor Marilyn Andrews and City Commissioner Lyndon Boyer.
Academia was represented by University of Oklahoma, Prof. Nedwin Hockman, emeritus. It is recalled from a few years ago, in "selling" film production in Oklahoma, at a reception for Governor Nigh by film professionals in Hollywood, that over 60 of Professor Hockman's former students were in attendance.
So it is that I "THANK YOU PONCA CITY" for your interest in motion pictures and support of a memorable HAPPENING.
Truman Smith
Ending Protested
I read an article in The Ponca City News (May 11) on page 4-b. The article wasn't and I'm convinced wouldn't have been penned by one of your newswriters. It was an AP writer. But the Ponca City News must take responsibility as you printed it.
The article was about hired hit men and undercover cops. The article's ending made spectacle of an obviously guilty televangelist. The final paragraph stated the televangelist was looking forward to witnessing for Christ in prison.
I strongly protest the context of that ending. A Christian would know that televangelist was a fraud. However a non-Christian might he led to a cynical position about Christianity and faith in God.
One can imagine an elementary text with 2+ 2=5. The lesser ignorant would know better, but where does that leave the rest? Will Rogers said everyone is ignorant, only in different subjects. Please don't spread the darkness.
We all should have the chance to know Christ personally. He should not be spoken of outside the word and context of truth. Articles like these won't change the Rock of Ages, but God forbid should any perish because of them.
Unpatriotic, anti-Christian and liberal, anything goes sexuality views are a terrible cancer in far too many media outlets. Sadly our current leadership is affected. Our president is more than coincidentally afflicted with sexual downfall and things are getting worse.
Quality journalism reports evil if necessary without having evil reports. The televangelist should have been addressed in the article as a "fraudulent televangelist." The satire of the article's last paragraph would then be apparent to all, although unnecessary still.
I'm sick and tired of the liberal persuasion of far too many in the national media. But I thank God it is an immoral minority. May the silent majority speak up.
Thomas Henley
Commission OKs Oil Lease
By PATTI PFEIFFER
News Staff Writer
Just in time for the Oil Boom Days Celebration, City Commissioners voted Friday to enter into an oil and gas lease with an Oklahoma City company. Voting unanimously in favor of the lease, the commissioners opted for a 3/18 percent royalty with no sign-up bonus in a lease that involves over 400 acres of city property.
Not to worry, there will be no drilling rigs or well inside the city limits - the city charter prohibits that. There will however be a drilling rig outside the city limits on Conoco property. According to Charles Porta of Springer Land Services, the drilling sight will be on the northeast side of the Conoco Refinery. "It will be directional drilling, where we will drill at a slant," Porta explained.
Recently residents throughout Ponca City having been receiving lease agreements in the mail. "We have sent agreements to residents in the area from South Avenue to Highland Avenue and Fourteenth Street to Union Street," local resident and Springer Land Services associate Jim Holt explained.
The lease agreement gives land owners an option of a royalty plus a bonus or a higher royalty and no bonus. The decision depends on how much of a gambler the property owner is.
"The lease agreements are pretty straight forward," Holt stated. "A person just needs to sit down and read what they have and then if they have any questions go to someone that can give them an answer."
Both men assure that there are no hidden costs in signing the agreement. "Initially the landowners will not have to pay anything," Porta stated. "There will be some instances where the lease will appear on a tract index and at a later point in time if an abstract is ordered and the landowner doesn't request a surface only abstract, then it could cost more for an abstract."
Whether a land owner signs or doesn't sign the lease may not really matter. A pooling request has been submitted and later this month the Oklahoma Corporation Commission may make the decision for the landowners.
According to City Attorney Kevin Murphy a pooling agreement is one in which the state becomes involved when some but not all property owners sign a lease. "The state says 'for the good of everybody you are going to be in the lease.'"
If a pooling order is made, the property owners will be mailed a notice of such order.
"The state will watch over the interest of those who have not signed the agreement," Porta explained. "If a pooling order is issued the owner has two weeks to make an election for themselves and if they don't, then the state will make it for them."
The Springer Land Company is optimistic about the local oil lease. "Basically we are going to drill a well and develop minerals never before developed," Porta stated. "We pay a royalty to the residents of the city for those minerals and we are assuming all the costs. There will be no rigs or pipelines in anyone's front yard. It is a win-win situation for everyone."
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
FOLOBS (Friends of Library Ongoing Book Sale), anytime the Ponca City Library is open, North of Multimedia Room (downstairs).
May 1-31
Poster Exhibit: "Oklahoma: All That Southwest Jazz," Marland Mansion.
Today
Tulsa author Jean Hager autographing newest book "Masked Dancers," 2-4 p.m., Brace Books and More, North Fourteenth Street.
ALANO Group Open Discussion meeting (smoking allowed), 8 p.m., 603 South First Street.
Monday
RSVP Pet Brigade, 10:30 a.m. information RSVP office 762-9412.
Heartland Foodshare Informational Program, 10 a.m., RSVP office.
Ponca City Board of Commissioners Work Session, 2 p.m., Public Safety Center, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue.
Multiple Sclerosis Support Group, 6:30 p.m., Albright United Methodist Church, 128 South Palm Street.
Family Council Meeting, 7 p.m., Tender Heart Health Care (formerly Highland Nursing Center.
Stillwater-Ponca City Chapter Ostomy Support meeting on "What's New from Hollister," Judy Seay, speaker, 7 p.m., St. Joseph Regional Medical Center, Conference Room B.
ALANO Group 12 X 12 meeting (smoking allowed), 8 p.m., 603 South First Street.
Tuesday
Kaw Lake Association Board Meeting, noon, Golden Corral, Fourteenth Street and Bradley Avenue.
Marland Estate Commission, 4:30 p.m., Marland Estate Conference Center.
ALANO Group Beginner's meeting (smoking allowed), 8 p.m., 603 South First Street.
Wednesday
Ponca City Tourism Authority, 2 p.m., Cultural Center, Sun Room, 2000 East Grand Avenue.
ALANO Group Big Book meeting (smoking allowed), 8 p.m., 603 South First Street.
Thursday
Hospice of Ponca City Grief Support Group, 10 a.m., First Presbyterian Church, Blackwell.
Hospice of Ponca City Community-wide Memorial Service.
Park and Recreation Advisory Board, 6:30 p.m., Municipal Court Room, Public Safety Center, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue.
Otoe-Missouria Tribes' Language Preservation Project monthly meeting, 7 p.m., Cultural Building at tribal complex, 13 miles south of Ponca City.
ALANO Group Women's meeting (smoking allowed), 8 p.m., 603 South First Street.
Friday
ALANO Group Speaker meeting (smoking allowed), 8 p.m., 603 South First Street.
Saturday
FreeWheel Ride Across Oklahoma! Training Rides, 8 a.m., Pioneer Woman, host leader to be named.
Baxter Black, Cowboy Poet and Comedian, 7:30 p.m., Poncan Theatre, ticket information, 580-765-0943.
"Sounds of the Southwest," the official State Country Music Band, performs at Poncan Theatre, as warm up for Baxter Black.
ALANO Group Open Discussion (smoking allowed), 8 p.m., 603 South First Street.
May 24
"How to Shave 6 Strokes Off your Golf Game," with Chiropractor Dr. Don Potter, 2-4 p.m., Brace Books and More, North Fourteenth Street, Ponca City.
May 25
AMBUC Pool opens.
May 26
Kawfest '98 Committee Meeting, 10 a.m., Ponca City Chamber of Commerce.
Cultural Center Plaque Dedication, 12:15-2 p.m., Cultural Center, 1000 East Grand Avenue, Ponca City, former City Manager Leon Nelson guest speaker.
Ponca City Main Street Authority, 1 p.m., Main Street Office, 117 North Third Street.
Ponca City Board of Commissioners, Ponca City Utility Authority, Ponca City Development Authority, 5:30 p.m., Public Safety Center Commissioner's Room, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue.
May 27
Planning Commission Work Session, 7:45 a.m., Planning Conference Room, Commercial Federal Building, Room 305, Fourth Street and Central Avenue.
May 28
Alzheimer's Support Group, 7 p.m., Conference Room A, St. Joseph Regional Medical Center.
May 29
88.7 FM presents Psalty and Friends, a national touring production similar to Sesame Street Live, 7 p.m., Stillwater's Community Center, 8th and Duck, tickets at Master's Touch, call 767-1400 for more information.
May 30
FreeWheel Ride Across Oklahoma! Training Rides, 8 a.m., Pioneer Woman, host Tom Hanke.
Ponca City Humane Society "No Fleas Market" Rummage Sale, 8 a.m.-1 p.m., 900 West Prospect, anyone with items to donate please bring to shelter by May 22.
May 31
American Legion Post 14 Golf Tournament, 10 a.m., Lew Wentz Golf Course, fee $20 per person does not include green fees or golf cart, cut off date May 27 at 5 p.m., contact Ray Lunsford or Maurice Johnson (580) 765-9073.
June 1
Ponca City Board of Commissioners Work Session, 2 p.m., Public Safety Center, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue.
Pioneer Christian Crusaders Motorcycle Association, 6 p.m., Conestoga at I-35 and U.S. 60 west of Tonkawa, more information from 765-3164.
June 2
Kawfest '98 Committee Meeting, 10 a.m., Ponca City Chamber of Commerce.
RSVP Stone Soup? and pitch party, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Conoco Clubhouse.
Planning Commission, 7 p.m., Public Safety Center, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue.
June 3
Energy Advisory Board, 7:30 a.m., Public Safety Center.
June 5
Historical Preservation Advisory Panel, noon, Planning Conference Room, Commercial Federal Building, Fourth Street and Central Avenue.
June 6
Fifth Annual Ponca City Herb Festival, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Cann Memorial Garden, Fourteenth Street and East Grand Avenue, sponsored by Sage, Rosemary and Thyme Garden Club of Ponca City, fresh herbs, demonstrations, samples and seminars, herbal products, food, music and lots of thymely advice, information Helen Widner (580) 767-1076 or Mary Anne Potter (580) 767-1957.
RSVP Carpooling or Caravan to Shidler Music Festival, 1 p.m., North Hobby Lobby parking lot, cost $4, information 762-9412.
June 8
Kay County Retired Educators Association, program Necrology and Installation of Officers, music by Mark and Annie Wynn, 9 a.m., Northern Oklahoma College, 1220 East Grand, Tonkawa.
Ponca City Board of Commissioners, Ponca City Utility Authority, Ponca City Development Authority, 5:30 p.m., Public Safety Center Commissioner's Room, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue.
June 9
Economic Development Advisory Board, 7:30 a.m., Chamber of Commerce, 420 East Grand Avenue.
Ponca City Library Board, 11:30 a.m., Library Board Room, 515 East Grand Avenue.
McCord Volunteer Fire Department, 7 p.m., McCord School Library.
Osage Cove Volunteer Fire Department, 7 p.m., Fire Station, Keeler Road and U.S. 60.
Rural Water District No. 1 Regular Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m., Enterprise School, Lake Road.
June 10
Cultural Affairs Commission, 11:30 a.m., Cultural Center Sun Room, 1000 East Grand Avenue.
Rural Water District No. 3 (Braden) Board of Directors, 7 p.m., Braden Community Center.
June 11
Ponca City Housing Authority, 10 a.m., 201 East Broadway Avenue.
June 12
Billie Letts autographing newest book "Honk and Holler Opening Soon," 6:30-8 p.m., Brace Books and More, North Fourteenth Street.
June 13
88.7 FM presents Avalon, Contemporary Christian Group, 7 p.m., Hutchins Auditorium, Ponca City, tickets available May 20 at Master's Touch, call 767-1400 for more information.
June 15
Ponca City Board of Commissioners Work Session, 2 p.m., Public Safety Center, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue.
Multiple Sclerosis Support Group, 6:30 p.m., Albright United Methodist Church, 128 South Palm Street.
June 15-18
Bank of Oklahoma, P.C. Parks and Recreation Junior Tennis Open, formerly known as the Ponca City Tennis Open.
June 16
Marland Estate Commission, 4:30 p.m., Marland Estate Conference Center.
Kaw Lake Association Board Meeting, 6 p.m., Kaw Landing Marina, Kaw Lake.
June 17
Ponca City Tourism Authority, 2 p.m., Cultural Center, Sun Room, 2000 East Grand Avenue.
June 18
Park and Recreation Advisory Board, 6:30 p.m., Municipal Court Room, Public Safety Center, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue.
June 19
Historical Preservation Advisory Panel Work Session, noon, Planning Conference Room, Commercial Federal Building, Room 305, Fourth Street and Central Avenue.
Traffic Commission, 1:15 p.m., Public Safety Center, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue.
By RALPH SEWELL
News Capitol Bureau
OKLAHOMA CITY - Taxpayers will pick up the tab for regulating how the poultry industry keeps chicken droppings from polluting the state's water supplies, though that isn't what Sen. Paul Muegge, D-Tonkawa, had in mind.
Muegge, chairman of the Senate Agriculture Committee, wanted poultry growers and processors to pay the cost of regulating their industry, but his SB 1170 had been stripped of that provision in House-Senate conference.
The bill, which he authored, originally called on the industry to pay.
But Muegge wound up voting against an effort by a mixture of urban liberals and conservatives to make the poultry industry pay more of the cost of enforcing the law. The move to change the conference version failed, 20-27.
Sen. J. Berry Harrison, D-Fairfax, voted with the majority.
After the urban effort failed, the bill went to the House on a 47-0 Senate vote. Muegge knew his House counterpart insisted costs be assessed as they appear in the conference version, so it was useless to change.
The bill does require chicken processors to contribute up to $300,000 over three years to Oklahoma State University to educate growers how to minimize water pollution in disposing of chicken droppings.
SB 1175 - legislation to regulate the exploding pig industry - is due for a Senate vote this week. The industry is fighting efforts to make them pay costs of regulation.
Muegge says he'll fight those moves to escape costs of regulation and cleanup. As of last week, the bill assesses $1 per pig-unit on the industry to pay costs.
Since that's an annual fee, Muegge says it really amounts to about 33 cents for each pig produced. That's because each facility handles three times its capacity each year.
SB 46, also by Muegge, relating to quality of eggs, passed the Senate 44-0 in final form, and moved to the House last week. It puts a tax of 3 mills a dozen on eggs and egg products to pay the cost of inspections.
Big tax cuts proposed by House Democrats a week ago won't happen, but - this being election year - you may get more modest ones.
So we asked some of the Ponca-area legislators to list their priorities of what they'd like to see in any tax cut.
Muegge says he'd like to see phased-in cuts in estate (Death) taxes. The state now makes $175,000 of an estate tax-exempt. That compares with a federal exemption of $600,000, which new laws are changing to $1 million.
Muegge notes the $175,000 limit is particularly hard on farm families. It often means that parts or all of a farm must be sold to pay taxes when the principal owner dies.
He notes that he personally would gain by such a change, but he thinks it is the fair and right thing to do.
Muegge also notes the state can't cut a lot of taxes and still pay for most of the services constituents say they want.
Rep. Jim Reese, R-Deer Creek, says a cut in the vehicle registration tax is his priority. He notes that Oklahoma charges 142 percent of the national average cost of annually renewing the license of an automobile or truck.
Rep. Larry Ferguson, R-Cleveland, would like a sales tax cut. Or - he says - perhaps a rebate on income taxes for sales taxes paid. That, he explains, would let the state keep money paid by out-of-state visitors.
Rep. Jim Newport, R-Ponca City, wasn't available when we asked that question.
Here's how Muegge, Harrison, Newport, Reese, Ferguson and James Hager, D-Pawhuska, voted on bills:
-HB 2454 would force prosecutors to ask judges to order defendants in city or state offenses to pay costs incurred by their arrest or incarceration. It passed the House 93-1 and the Senate 42-0. Ponca-area legislators voted yes.
-HB 2337 was killed by a 19-27 Senate vote after a heated debate. It would have made it a felony offense to write a hot check in payment for a court child support order. Sen. Gene Stipe, D-McAlester, called it a "debtors prison bill." He said about 1,200 already are in prison for debt to pawn brokers or hotels. Muegge voted yes; Harrison no. It passed the House earlier 99-1. Ponca-area representatives voted in favor.
-HB 2785 passed the House 98-0 in final form. It would require candidates for school boards to have high school diplomas or the equivalent. Newport, Reese, Ferguson and Hager voted yes.
-HB 3251 in final form, passed the House 80-15 and the Senate 35-8. It sets up a pilot program to investigate advisability of special programs to help convicts and others find and hold jobs. Muegge, Harrison, Ferguson and Hager voted yes; Newport and Reese no.
-HB 3274, passed by the House 97-0 in conference form, makes it illegal to broker a new car sale except for new car dealers or manufacturers. Newport, Reese, Ferguson and Hager voted yes.
-HB 2807, to make it a felony offense to buy low-point beer or liquor from an out-state supplier or through the internet. If to a dealer, the Oklahoma license would be lost. It passed the House 99-0. Ponca-area representatives voted yes.
-HB 3075 adds disabled persons getting Railroad retirement benefits to those qualifying for bargain 5-year hunting and fishing licenses. A final draft passed the House 87-8 and the Senate 40-2. Muegge, Harrison, Newport, Ferguson and Hager voted yes; Reese no.
-SB 896, which senators passed 37-10, would change the director makeup of the Oklahoma Health Insurance Guaranty Association. Foes said it would let non-Oklahomans have a majority on the board. Muegge and Harrison voted yes.
-SB 1099, which the Senate passed unanimously, gives the Council on Law Education and Enforcement Training authority to refuse to admit to classes persons with felony records. It also doubles the time to train officer and dog teams and lets the agency hire a lawyer.
-HB 3244, to toughen requirements for licensed Speech pathologists and audiologists, continued to have problems but passed this time, 86-12. In its first House appearance, it failed 48-51, and later squeaked by. Senators then sent it to the governor on a 43-0 vote. Muegge, Harrison, Newport, Ferguson and Hager voted yes; Reese no.
-HB 1657, in a second conference version, won 99-0 House and 32-10 Senate approval. It would modify state payments for schooling underage children in districts taking such children under federal programs. Ponca-area legislators voted in favor.
-HJR 1073 would submit to voters a constitutional change to let state-owned universities and colleges share profits from products developed as a result of research at those institutions. It passed the House 93-1 and the Senate 46-0. Ponca-area legislators voted yes.
-HB 2863 passed the House 92-1 and the Senate 46-0. It would let professors and students share in any profits from their research if HJR 1073 wins voter approval. Ponca-area legislators voted yes.
-SB 1277 passed the Senate in final form 32-10. It amends the law restricting signs along highways to exempt those displayed on owners' land. Muegge and Harrison voted yes.
-HB 2317, passed 99-0 by the House and the Senate 37-4 in final form. It tightens rules for those operating solid waste disposal sites. Muegge and Harrison voted yes.
Editor's Note: The Erickson Family, namely 18-month-year-old Alex, have been named the Kay County Honorary Chairperson for the upcoming Relay For Life and also the state poster child for the Oklahoma Blood Institute. The following is his story.
By PATTI PFEIFFER
News Staff Writer
His birth was an answer to a prayer and the fact that he lived to see his first birthday was nothing less than a miracle. Although he may only be 18-months old, his life story is one of tragedy and triumph, heartbreak and hope, sorrow and success. Most importantly, it is one that is unselfishly being shared in order to help others.
"I hesitated to tell Alex's story because I didn't want to exploit my child," Pam Erickson said. "But I promised myself and God throughout our ordeal that if I got through it and could ever do anything to help another in our situation, I would."
It was October 1996 and a joyous day it was for Pam, her husband Dale and their 6-year-old daughter, Elisabeth. Complication after complication - the day had finally arrived when the answer to so many prayers and Alex entered the world.
"I wanted another child more than anything in the world," Pam explained. "It was a very difficult pregnancy and why from birth I called Alex my God-Given Angel."
It was a joyful time for the Erickson family. "I remember when I came home from the hospital I was lying in bed with my daughter on one side, my husband on the other and Alex in his crib and I thought about our nice home, and felt if my world ended I would have had it all for life was wonderful."
Only that wonderful life would not be long-lasting. Within a few short months tragedy struck and turned their harmonious life into a living hell.
It was shortly after Alex was born that Pam knew, as only a mother could know, that something was wrong. "I just knew it," Pam said. "My husband thought I was being overly protective, but something wasn't right."
Exactly three months from the day he entered the world Alex was dealt one of the worst hands that life could possibly deal, he was diagnosed with liver cancer.
"I remember right after Alex was diagnosed I woke up in the middle of the night and told my husband I had a nightmare," Pam recalls. "I told him I had dreamed that Alex had cancer, he simply said 'Pam it wasn't a dream, Alex does have cancer.'"
The seven months of treatment that Pam describes resembles more of a torture than a life-saving treatment. From chemotherapy to two surgeries, Alex the tiny, baby boy, fought the odds and gave a different perspective to the phrase "will to live."
"We had no choice but to subject him to adult chemotherapy and the poisonous treatments - 80 percent of his liver was cancerous," Pam said with tears in her eyes. "The doctors said if he didn't receive the chemotherapy he would die. I prayed on it and prayed on it and I couldn't just take him home to die."
Although doctors had warned the family that the chemotherapy itself may kill, blind or paralyze Alex, the family felt they had no choice in the matter. "Signing those permission papers was the hardest thing I have ever done in my life," Pam softly says.
From home to the hospital the medical care and treatment took its toll on everyone, mainly Alex. "Every time he had a treatment he would need a blood transfusion," Pam explained. "Then we would come home and I would have to give him shots in his little legs and he couldn't have a bath and wouldn't eat and was vomiting all the time."
Finally the tumor had shrunk, the chemotherapy had been successful. The battle had been won but there was yet a war to win.
At six-months old, Alex underwent a six-hour surgery which would remove half of his little liver. The surgeons were optimistic that they had gotten all the cancer. Yet there were three more chemotherapy treatments after the surgery. Finally, the tests results were coming in with positive results.
The family once again has something to be joyous about. That liver-removing surgery was one year ago this month and July will mark the one year anniversary of Alex's last chemotherapy treatment.
"I just live one day at a time and I am sorry to say that but I have seen too many children die from cancer, a cancer that knows no age, Pam states. "At the end of each day I thank God for another day with Alex and Elisabeth. You hear about things like this and think it could never happen to you - it can and it does."
As Pam stands outside she watches with true admiration as Alex struts about attempting a try at his toddler trot.
"I never thought he would be alive much less walking around this summer," Pam says with a loving look, a heartwarming smile and pride that only a mother such as her could possess.
Drilling operations are nearing the projected 3,950-ft. depth at the No. 1-12 McCullough in the Hubbard Field, Kay County.
Spudded on April 12, the venture is located 6.3 miles southwest of Blackwell with Zinke and Trumbo Inc. as the operator.
Section 12-township 26n-range 2w-w1/2-sw.
A new producer has been brought on line in Kay County's Blackwell Field, with Oil Ventures as the operator.
Located three miles north of Blackwell, the well is designated as the No. 1-97 McCluskey.
It pumped oil at the rate of 15 barrels per day plus 30,000 CF gas.
The well bottomed at 3,605 feet and will produce from a perforated interval at 3,201 to 3278 feet into the hole.
Section 4-township 27n-range 1w-nw-nw.
Vector Exploration Inc. has posted first production figures for a pair of new wildcat wells in Noble County, 5.3 miles southwest of Ceres.
The wells are designated as the No. 1-31 Lee and the No. 1-36 Hay. They showed ability to flow 115,000 and 85,000 CF gas per day, respectively.
Production intervals will range from 670 to 700 feet into the wellbores.
Section 31-township 23n-range 1w-sw-nw.
Section 36-township 23n-range 2w-se-ne.
Spring Valley Oil and Gas has plugged and abandoned an unsuccessful wildcat well in Noble County, three miles west-southwest of Ceres. The well was spudded on Feb. 10, 1997 and was known as the No. 1 Danny. Total depth was 650 feet.
Section 17-township 23n-range 1w-nw-sw.
Flowing 243,000 CF gas per day, the No. 1-6 Frailey has been brought on line in Noble County's Northeast Happy Star Field, 3.5 miles west-southwest of Three Sands.
With Barbour Energy Corp. as the operator, the well was perforated to produce from 596 to 610 feet into the hole.
Section 6-township 24n-range 1w-ne-sw.
The No. 3 Tony has been recompleted for extended production in the Atlantic Field, Osage County, 7.2 miles west-northwest of Pershing. It showed ability to flow 100,000 CF gas per day.
Production is from new perforations in the Oswego and Big Lime Formations.
Tony Oil Co. is the operator.
Section 26-township 25-range 8-se.
Arts Adventure '98 classes are filling up, but there is still room available in all the arts areas. The classes are set for July 20-31 and run Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Arts Adventure is a two-week camp for Kay County students going into the 6th through 10th grades. Students will participate in one major area and two minor areas of study.
Seven areas of the arts will be featured at this year's camp. The arts areas and the chairperson coordinating that area are creative writing, Suzanne Robinson; dance, Fran Norris; drama, T.L. Walker; piano, Kathy Wimberly and Katy Tucker; strings, Teresa Baugh; visual arts, Jimmie Eatherly; and vocal music.
Kelly Cline, a former Ponca City resident and a professional calligrapher, is returning again this year to teach calligraphy as a part of the Visual Arts classes. Cline received her Bachelors of Fine Arts degree from Fort Hays State University in 1983 and has worked as a calligrapher for 14 years. Her framed matted pieces are a unique blend of calligraphy and art. She lives and works in Scottsdale, Ariz., and is a member of the Arizona Society of Calligraphers.
The creative writing classes will feature Susan Larkin, a journal writer, guitarist, singer and songwriter. She has filled almost 100 journals through her years of "keeping diaries," and she shares the songs, stories, poetry and art that she's produced since she was 11 years old. Susan's classes are fast-paced and students will use construction paper, colored markers, personal journals and a variety of writing instruments as they move through her integrated, multi-arts approach to writing.
Several other outstanding instructors are scheduled for this year's camp. Enrollment has averaged 130 students over the seven years the program has been presented. This year, the program hopes to attract 150 students. Cost for the two-week camp is $125 with partial and full scholarships available based on financial need.
Financial support for Arts Adventure is provided through various funding including the Oklahoma Arts Council, the Oklahoma Artists in Residence program, Conoco Inc., the Jim Throop Foundation, and numerous individuals and businesses throughout Ponca City and Kay County.
For more information regarding Arts Adventure '98, or to request an application, contact any of the Arts Chairpersons, Patty Ladd at 767-8030 or Chuck Van Cleave at 762-9684.
Elementary Breakfast
Monday - Cereal or honey bun, assorted juices and milk.
Tuesday - Biscuits and gravy or cereal or honey bun, assorted juices and milk.
Wednesday - Cereal or honey bun, assorted juices and milk.
Elementary Lunch
Monday - Chicken sticks with hot roll or cheese pizza, potato wedges, peaches, saltine crackers, dill spears, pudding or assorted cold sandwiches, salads or diet plate, juice and milk.
Tuesday - Pizza pockets or cheese nachos, pork and beans, sliced apples, saltine crackers, dill spears or assorted cold sandwiches, salads or diet plate, juice and milk.
Wednesday - Lunch box meal or hot dogs, chips, pears, bear grahams.
Middle School
Breakfast
Monday - Biscuits and sausage gravy or cereal, assorted juices and milk.
Tuesday - Toast and jelly or cereal, assorted juices and milk.
Wednesday - Cinnamon toast or cereal, assorted juices and milk.
Mid-High
Breakfast
Monday - Ham, egg and cheese biscuit or cinnamon toast or cereal, assorted juices and milk.
Tuesday - Eggs with toast and hashbrowns or cinnamon rolls or cereal, assorted juices and milk.
Wednesday - Biscuits and gravy or cutie pie or cereal, assorted juices and milk.
Middle School and Mid-High
Lunch
Monday - Chicken strips with hot roll, whipped potatoes and gravy, peaches, saltine crackers, dill spears or assorted cold sandwiches, salads, juice and milk.
Tuesday - Pizza pockets, pork and beans, pineapple, saltine crackers, dill spears or assorted cold sandwiches, salads, juice and milk.
Wednesday - Hot dogs, chips, dill spears, saltine crackers or assorted cold sandwiches, salads, juice and milk.
High School Lunch
Training Table
Monday-Friday - Pasta bar, potato bar, deli sandwiches and salads, seasonal fruit.
McCord Elementary
Breakfast
Monday - Pretzel with cheese, juice and milk.
Tuesday - Biscuits and gravy, juice and milk.
Wednesday - Pancake and sausage, juice and milk.
Thursday - Cereal, toast, juice and milk.
Lunch
Monday - Chicken nuggets, potatoes and gravy, green beans, peaches, hot roll and milk.
Tuesday - Turkey fajita, lettuce salad, pineapple, brownie and milk.
Wednesday - Hot dogs, mustard and relish, french fries, green beans, applesauce and milk.
Thursday - Submarine sandwich, potato chips, carrot sticks, orange wedge, dill spear and milk.
Summer feeding from the Ponca City Schools will start June 1, 1998, for all children ages one through 18. There will be no charge for the meal. The time and place will be announced later.
Po-Hi
May 18
Semester exams through Wednesday.
National Honor Society teacher luncheon in the library at 11:05 a.m.
U.S. History Advanced Placement Test in room 228 at 8:10 a.m.
May 19
Political Science Advanced Placement Test in room 228 at 8:10 a.m.
European History Advanced Placement Test at the Conoco Clubhouse at noon.
May 20
Last day of school.
Political Science Advanced Placement Test in room 228 at 8:15 a.m.
May 21
Chemistry Advanced Placement Test at Conoco Clubhouse at 8:15 a.m.
Psychology Advanced Placement Test at Conoco Clubhouse at 1:15 p.m.
May 22
Graduation practice at Sullins at 1 p.m.
Graduation at Sullins at 8 p.m.
Great Escape at Conoco from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m.
By KATHY ZEHR
News Staff Writer
Title IX Indian Education classes third through sixth grade from Washington, Liberty and Union elementary schools in Ponca City visited Standing Bear Statue Native American Memorial Park recently. They heard a brief history of Chief Standing Bear, the creation of Standing Bear Monument and toured the 63-acre park.
In addition to educating the 42 students about the local park and the Standing Bear monument, the trip was designed to improve literacy skills of students participating in the Title IX program.
According to Jo A. Lessert, Title IX director, all students who attended the field trip were required to write or draw various promotional or informational stories, pictures, brochures, poems or reports about Standing Bear Park and submit it to Title IX teachers by end of week.
Each student enrolled in the Title IX classes is required to submit reports of projects and studies in which he or she has participated during the year. All writings are submitted to a personal cultural enrichment portfolio. The Standing Bear writings or drawings from each student who attended will be entered in his or her individual portfolio.
T.L. Walker, park project director, talked with the students, parents, and teachers about the Ponca Indian, Chief Standing Bear, and why he was selected for the 22-foot monument at the park. She also told the students about the meaning of the names of clans inscribed in Standing Bear viewing plaza. The students, teachers and sponsors also studied there the large bronze seals of the six area tribes who were instrumental in creating Standing Bear Park.
Walker also talked about the meaning of "grandfather fire" which burns in the center of the reflection pool at the center of the colorful plaza.
The goal of students enrolled in Title IX is to achieve literacy academic success and to participate in cultural enrichment activities. All parents are encouraged to be involved in the process as well.
Other staff members associated with Title IX are Lucy Kent, Nellie Roughface, Chris Littlecook and Jeana Rush.
By BOB PATTERSON
News Staff Writer
Showing how things get done out on the ranch drew a nice crowd for Friday night's performance of the Head Country Bar-B-Q sponsored Ranch Rodeo at the 101 Rodeo Arena.
Activity was to continue Saturday night at the rodeo grounds, where regular ranch hands were performing again during the two-night run that included a number of events that aren't seen at a regular rodeo.
There were no clowns or bullfighters to protect anyone from 1-ton bulls in the arena, but there were times for general laughter, and generous applause when some of the ranch hands who were unable to get the specific job done in the time frame.
There was a stampede race, in which one of the four ranch hands from each ranch rodeo team, must be awakened, and with team members saddle his horse and then ride out to catch the wandering steer. Winning the first night of activity in the stampede race was a team from Lazy "7" of Newkirk.
Other activity included team mugging, wild cow milking, branding, team penning and pasture roping.
In the branding, Cinch Cattle took a penalty of 10, but still notched the best time as they were able to fight that selected steer from the herd, rope, put it on the ground and brand it (with chalk) in the actual time of 42.36. The penalty put their time to 52.36 and was still first in the placing on Friday.
Other teams that participated in the branding event Friday with times included Murphy Ranch of Grainola with 58.47; Osage County Day Workers from Burbank, 73.74; Cline Ranch, Newkirk, 89.99; and Centerline, 92.72. Two other teams, Jimmy's Western Wear of Ponca City, and Blanton Chiropractic of Blackwell, were unable to get in under the time and took "no time."
There were five other ranches in the competition on Saturday night. Those five competed in team penning and four of them had some really good times to show for their efforts. They included the 56.30 by Little "C" of Ponca City with 56.30 and Northcutt Cattle Company of Burbank with 62.06. Two other teams with times were Lazy "7" with 1:08.9 and Remington Ranch with 1:44.63. Lucky "3" of Blackburn had a no time.
In pasture roping Friday Osage County Day Workers thrilled the crowd with a 50.70 while Murphy Ranch had a 59.41, both less than a minute. But those times didn't even come close to Jimmy's Western Wear, faring better in pasture roping than branding, when the four got the job done in 33.91. Two other teams found Blanton Chiropractic with 54.34 plus 10 for 64.34, and Cinch Cattle with 97.93. No times were assessed Centerline and Cline Ranch.
The Title IX Indian Education Program held a Title IX Portfolio and Art Show May 1 at Lincoln Elementary in conjunction with Native American Heritage Week.
Elementary Native American student programs and cultural activities were designed to support literacy skills. Students were provided a choice of developing written, artistic, or oral projects for their individual portfolios.
School sites that participated were Lincoln, Roosevelt, Garfield, Liberty, Union, Washington, Trout, Woodlands, and the sixth graders at the middle school.
Student portfolios contained various activities which included: art work for the 1998 Native American Heritage Week T-shirts, reports on "What Native American Heritage Means to Me," photos, pictures from magazines about Native American Heritage, family trees displaying the students own personal family heritage, travel brochures and written reports on Standing Bear and Woolaroc field trips.
The Title IX staff coordinated this portfolio and art show, with assistance from David Shelton, principal at Lincoln.
The Title IX Indian Education staff is: Nellie Roughface, Jeanna Rush, Lucy Kent and Jo Lessert.
Judy Seay, the new Oklahoma representative for Hollister Inc., one of the major suppliers of ostomy equipment, will be guest speaker at the Monday meeting of the Ostomy Support Group, Stillwater-Ponca City Chapter.
Seay, who has recently moved from Florida, and is now living in Oklahoma City, will update the gathering on what's new from Hollister.
The meeting will begin at 7 p.m. in Conference Room B (ground floor) at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center.
For more information, phone Bob Baumel at 580-765-0050 or Email: bobbau@horizon.hit.net - Web: http://www.hit.net/-bobbau/uoa/
The Kay County Diabetes Support Group is scheduled to meet Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. at the Grand Avenue Church of Christ, 1300 West Grand.
Guest speaker Pat Blubaugh, RN, CDE, will discuss vacationing and traveling with diabetes. Blubaugh currently serves as Program Coordinator for the Diabetes Self Management Program at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center.
A native of Kay County, Blubaugh is a former nurse for Dr. Dean Hines, and has previously served as a skills lab instructor at Northern Oklahoma College Nursing Department and as a surgical nurse at St. Joseph. She has been a full-time diabetes educator for SJRMC for over 10 years.
The meeting is free and open to the public. All interested parties are encouraged to attend.
"We Lift Our Hearts and Voices" is the theme of the spring concert of home-school students under the direction of Cathy Byard. The concert is 8 p.m. Tuesday at the First Presbyterian Church. The concert is free to the public and all are welcome.
Cathy Byard is the director and teacher of the ensemble, Ann Salmons will accompany on the piano and organ, and Kati Salmons will accompany on the flute.
The Home-School Boys Ensemble is composed of Jaron Hudgins, Andrew Kellert, Nathan Kellert, Nathan Mai and Micah Perkins.
The Boys Ensemble will sing "She's Like the Swallow," "Antiphonal Hosanna," "Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring," "Blow, Bugle, Blow" and "Charlotte Town."
The Home-School Girls Ensemble is comprised of Leah Bolay, Bethany Bowen, Sarah Cook, Mandy Hudgins, Emily Lewis, Elisa Massey, Shannon Perkins, Kelsie Powell, and Katie Sapp.
The Girls Ensemble will sing "Musica Dei Donum Optimi," "Come Ye Now," "Why, My Love, Art Thou Leaving," "Wir eilen mit schwachen, doch emsigen Schritten" and "Make a Joyful Noise." They will also sing "Now Let the Heavens Be Joyful," "The Father's Love" and "Rise Up, My Love, My Fair One."
Registration for the 1998 Summer Reading Club at the Ponca City Library began on Friday and will continue through June 30, 1998. This free program is sponsored by the Friends of the Ponca City Library, Oklahoma Department of Libraries and the Ponca City Library.
The statewide theme for this year is Book A Magical Madcap Tour At The Library. Sign-up began at the two for the price of one Book Fair and will run through May 21.
The Book Fair, also sponsored by sponsored by the Friends of the Ponca City Library, will be open from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday and from 2 to 4 p.m. on Sunday. Credits earned from the fair will be used for library materials.
Upon registration each child will receive a travel bag reading record, a passport, bookmark, and plastic book bag as well as calendars of the June and July programs.
Independent readers may also participate in a weekly book bag prize drawing by finding the answers to research questions as well as reporting on a book read during the summer.
Each week during June and July the library will hold story programs for various age groups. Programs for school-aged readers (those entering Third grade in the fall and older) will be held on Thursdays at 10 a.m. and again at 1 p.m. These programs will last from 45-75 minutes. In keeping with the theme, readers will travel each week to a different part of the world through books, film, and activities. Our first Thursday program, June 4, will feature Dave May and Andy from WBBZ.
Programs for preschool and primary children (ages 4-7) will be on Tuesdays at 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., and 1 p.m. and will last about 30 minutes. The 1 p.m. time is held during June and July only. Toddler story times will be on Wednesdays at 10 a.m. and 10:30 a.m., and last approximately 15 minutes.
While in-house programs are an added enhancement to the Summer Reading Club, reading itself is the primary focus. Studies have shown that those who participate in summer reading programs not only retain reading skills gained during the school year but also gain in achievement and vocabulary skills.
"All children ages 2 through 12 are invited to register at the Library for summer reading fun," says Youth Services Librarian Judy Johnson. Call Mrs. Johnson at the library at 767 0345 with questions regarding the Summer Reading Club, or youth services.
Multiple Sclerosis Group Meets Monday
Persons with multiple sclerosis and their caregivers are invited to the Ponca City Area MS Support Group, meeting at 6:30 p.m. on Monday at Albright United Methodist Church, 128 South Palm.
Dennis Smith will be guest speaker, talking about Social Security and Medicare concerns relative to MS patients and their families.
The church is handicap accessible - enter the west door from the parking lot and take the elevator to the lower level.
For anyone with questions about the meeting, please call Beth Wright at 765-6738.
As the school year comes to a close, the Ponca City Police Department shows its appreciation to the nearly 450 students who have helped their fellow classmates by participating in the School Safety Patrol.
Students in the Safety Patrol make a year long commitment at the beginning of the school year to participate. Sometimes this means getting up early, giving up recesses, or staying at school late.
They are an important part of the school They help younger students cross the street safely and provide a watchful eye on the playground, hallways and classrooms. Many of Ponca City's current leaders participated in the Safety Patrol Program when they were in sixth grade. Today's students are tomorrow's leaders.
Students in the sixth grade at Washington, Liberty, Roosevelt, Woodlands, Trout; seventh and eighth graders at First Lutheran School; and fifth grade students at Garfield and Lincoln schools volunteer to help everyone get to and from school sfely. At the end of the year, the Ponca City Police Department shows its appreciation to the young people by helping each school sponsor a picnic or party for the Safety Patrol.
The American Automobile Association (AAA) and the Ponca City Police Department will award each student with a certificate of merit for their service. This year, each student will also receive an award from AAA. The award is a lapel pin which is a miniature of the Safety Patrol Badge.
The AAA also provided some much needed equipment such as badges, Safety Patrol belts and training materials to the Ponca City Safety Patrol program. Chuck Mai, AAA in Oklahoma City, stated that we (AAA) were glad to provide the equipment and awards because together we are helping to save lives and make it safer for all students.
By PATTI PFEIFFER
News Staff Writer
Preparations are currently under way for the Ponca City Fourth of July annual celebration. The fireworks committee recently received very good news as NationsBank has announced it will be funding the entire fireworks display.
"We felt there was a need to support the community," NationsBank Center Manager Bonnie Wetzel stated. "This is a family event and we wanted to be a part of it."
Excitement among the fireworks committee is increasing as the event grows closer. Plans are also in the "works" for a Dec. 31, 1999 celebration to bring in the new millennium which will include a fireworks display as well.
"Last year's event was outstanding and really rallied the community in celebration and support for our country," Fireworks Committee Co-Chair Larry Felix said. "This year we are planning an event equal to or greater then last year. We are once again asking for financial assistance in this effort.
"Although we have a significant number of corporate sponsors helping with the Fourth of July celebration we need a great deal of help and funding to host the celebrations of our heritage and the new century. All the time involved in planning and administration is donated so all financial help will go toward the fireworks display itself."
Contributions are being sought now so that the fireworks can be ordered. "We can not order the displays until we know we can fund them," Felix explained.
In addition to the fireworks display the Fourth of July event will include hot air balloon rides for adults and children and the U.S. Air National Guard will conduct an F-16 fly-by over Lake Ponca.
"Last year's event was attended by over 10,000 people," Fireworks
Committee Co-Chair Cathy Ferguson said. "This is a real family time
which provides a safe environment in which to celebrate."
DEATHS
Jan Renne´ (Hess) Bailor, Ponca City resident, died at her home early Friday morning, May 15, 1998. She was 42.
A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m. Tuesday at the Ponca City IOOF Cemetery with the Rev. Thomas L. Estes, pastor of Glad Tidings Assembly of God Church officiating. Friends may visit at Trout Funeral Home until 1 p.m. Tuesday.
Jan Renne´ (Hess) Bailor was born Feb. 6, 1956, in Ponca City, the daughter of William Lee Hess and Lorene McMahan Snodgrass. She attended Ponca City schools.
She was married to David Bailor in Arkansas in 1981 and the couple lived and worked out of the Shreveport, La., area. Mrs. Bailor moved back to the Ponca City area in 1997 to be near her family. She attended Glad Tidings Assembly of God Church. She enjoyed being with her nieces and nephews and working with dogs and other animals.
Survivors include her husband, David Bailor of Louisiana; her mother, Lorene Snodgrass of Ponca City; her father and step-mother, William Lee and Dorothy Hess of Ponca City; two brothers, Ronald Lee Hess and Shawn L. Hess, both of Ponca City; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by three brothers, Ricky Hess, Chris A. Hess and Randy G. Hess.
Honorary casket bearers will be Phil Morgan, Donnie Beavers, Steve Taylor, Ken Tidwell, Darrell Thomas and Bruce McMahan.
Memorial contributions may be made in Mrs. Bailor's name to the Glad Tidings Assembly of God Church, 139 Victory, Ponca City, OK 74604 or to Ponca City Humane Society, 900 West Prospect, Ponca City, OK 74601.
The family will be at the Snodgrass home in Osage County.
Unita Barnard, longtime Ponca City resident, died Saturday morning, May 16, 1998, at her home. She was 67.
The funeral will be held Monday, May 18, 1998, at 2 p.m. at Trout Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will be in Fairfax Cemetery in Fairfax.
Unita (Roberts) Barnard was born Feb. 8, 1931, in Pontotoc, Okla., to Clyde and Ruie Lambert Roberts. She grew up in Ada. She was baptized at the Free Will Baptist Church in Burbank.
Mrs. Barnard had been employed as a meat wrapper and later as store manager of Braum's. On July 23, 1992, she married Calvin D. Barnard in Shawnee. She was a member of the Pythian Sisters and served as the Most Excellent Chief of the Pythian Sisters Temple No. 43 in 1997. She was also a member of the Women of the Moose. Mrs. Barnard enjoyed cross-stitching, gardening, cooking and playing Bingo.
She is survived by her husband, Calvin D. Barnard of the home; two sons, Clyde D. Crane and John O. Crane both of Ada; two daughters, Joyce E. Martin of Burbank, and Becky Whitebeaver of Fairfax; her parents, Clyde and Ruie Roberts of Springer; two sisters, June Stanfield of Springer, and Helen Sloan of Ardmore; 11 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. One brother, Carl Edward Roberts, and an infant sister preceded her in death.
Casket bearers will be Curtis Martin, Charlie Martin, T.J. Alexander, Bob Martin, Jim Martin, and Bob Henderson.
Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Ponca City 1904 North Union, Suite 103, Ponca City, OK 74602.
The family will be at the home of Bob Henderson, 308 North Irving, Ponca City.
Jeanette Brewer of Ponca City died early Friday morning, May 15, 1998, at her home in Westminster Village. She was 81.
A Vigil service will be held Sunday at 5 p.m. at the Trout Funeral Home Chapel. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday, May 18, 1998, at 10 a.m. at St. Mary's Catholic Church with the Rev. John J. Michalicka, pastor, officiating. Burial will be in St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery under the direction of the Trout Funeral Home.
Friends may call at her home in Westminster Village following the Vigil Sunday evening.
Jeanette's wishes were that memorial contributions be made to St. Mary's Catholic Church, P.O. Box 1330, Ponca City, OK 74602, or to a charity of the donor's choice.
She was born Martha Jeanette Simpson, June 26, 1916, in Osage, Iowa, the youngest of four children to Floyd and Caroline (Schmidt) Simpson. She was raised and attended school in Osage, Iowa. It was there that she met and fell in love with Merlin Arthur Brewer while he was attending Chiropractic school.
They were married Jan. 3, 1938, in Osage, Iowa. They then moved to Ponca City where Merlin established his practice as chiropractor. Jeanette was employed as a sales clerk at J.C. Penney's for many years and had fond memories of her time spent working there.
In June of 1940, Jeanette and Merlin were blessed with their only child, a son whom they named Rickey Tom. "R.T." grew up into a fine, caring man and made Jeanette very proud. He brought much joy to her life.
In 1958, R.T. married his one true love, Rayma Kaye Hutson. The young couple went on to have three children: Rodney, Traci, and Tina. Jeanette dearly loved and enjoyed her grandchildren and later her five great-grandchildren.
Jeanette and Merlin spent 43 wonderful years together. They were very active members of St. Mary's Catholic Church and together shared a devout love of God. They enjoyed traveling throughout the United States, as well as camping, playing board and card games, and hosting family picnics. They were especially proud of the fine vegetable garden they tended together. They also treasured many gatherings they shared with their family and friends. Merlin passed away March 31, 1981.
In August of 1985, Jeanette moved from the longtime family home on Seventh Street to Westminster Village. She lived happily there for more than 12 years until her death. She remained very active in the Catholic Church, served on the election board, enjoyed outings with the Prime Timers, and looked forward to her annual New Year's Eve parties. She served as secretary of the Villagers while living at Westminster. She chaired committees of the Villagers and was on the dietary and chapel committees. In addition, she was the song leader during Chapel and other functions.
Jeanette's pride and joy remained to be her son. They shared a very special mother-son bond. It was a very sad and difficult time for her when R.T. was killed in a plane crash in August of 1992. Her strong faith in God pulled her through that trying time and she was able to continue leading a productive life. After the death of her beloved son, she especially valued the time spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
She was an exceptionally wonderful mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Her family, as well as her dear friends, meant everything to her. She will be deeply missed by all whose lives she touched and will always be remembered with much love. Her warm smile and wonderful sense of humor will never be forgotten.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Floyd and Caroline; her brother, Bill Simpson; her sisters, Verna Simpson, and Marge Troge; her husband, Dr. Merlin A. Brewer; and her son, R.T. Brewer.
She is survived by her daughter-in-law, Rayma Brewer of Ponca City; her grandchildren and their spouses, Rodney and Terrie Brewer of Salida, Colo., Brett and Traci Cleveland of Salida, Colo., and Scott and Tina DeLauri of Round Rock, Texas; her great-grandchildren, Spencer and Stewart Brewer, Kyle and Kenzi Cleveland, and Nicholas DeLauri; and several nieces and nephews.
paid obituary
Monday
Elma Mae Sanger - Funeral to be 10 a.m. at Roberts Funeral Home in Blackwell.
Burial will be in Blackwell Cemetery.
NEWS BRIEFS
Time to Order Cinnamon Rolls - It's time for the Annual Spring Cinnamon Roll Sale sponsored by the Ponca City Sertoma Club. Advance orders taken through Wednesday, May 27 by calling 765-0204 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. or 765-3007 in the p.m. (ask for Rose). Pick up orders in the SJRMC Lobby May 28 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Call to reserve your orders by the dozen. All proceeds will benefit American Heritage books for the public library and Speech and Hearing poster contest.
Family Meeting - A Family Council meeting will be held at 7 p.m. Monday at the Tender Heart Health Center (Highland Nursing Center).
Seaman Rupp Completes Basic - Navy Seaman Kacy K. Rupp, son of Larry A. and Judy K. Rupp, Route 1, Tonkawa, recently completed U.S. Navy basic training at Recruit Training Commands, Great Lakes, Ill. He completed an eight-week program including classroom study and practical instruction on naval customs, first aid, fire fighting, water safety and survival, and shipboard and aircraft safety with an emphasis on physical fitness. He is a 1994 graduate of Billings High School.
Ponca Citian Joins Navy - Zulma G. Martinez of Ponca City recently enlisted in the U.S. Navy for guaranteed training at the Navy's Seaman Apprentice School and can receive up to $15,835.00 in college educational benefits through the Montgomery GI Bill. Martinez, the daughter of Salvador and Edmunda Martinez, will report to basic training at Great Lakes Ill., in August 1998. Upon completion of school, she will transfer to one of the Navy's many exciting duty stations around the world.
Need Good Advice? Tune In - Everyone needs some good advice now and then, but not everyone knows where to find good counsel. On Tuesday, from 5 to 6 p.m. Christian radio KLVV 88.7 FM will be hosting Monty Wright from Sunset Baptist Church in Ponca City to answer questions off the air with a telephone call that is totally confidential. The phone number to call will be 767-1400. KLVV is a non-profit Christian radio station that is broadcasting on 88.7 FM Ponca City, 98.3 FM Enid, 106.7 FM Stillwater, and 97.3 FM Guthrie.
Summer Reading Club - Sign-up for the Summer Reading Club at the Ponca City Library began Friday. Programs are planned for kids ages 2 to 12 during June and July; ages 8 to 12 on Thursdays at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., ages 4 to 7 on Tuesdays at 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m., and ages 2 and 3 on Wednesdays at 10 and 10:30 a.m.. This year's theme is Book A Magical Madcap Tour. Have fun reading this summer and learn about the world. And visit the two for the price of one Book Fair through May 21.
Break-In - At 7:06 a.m. Friday police were called to the 300 block of East Cleveland Avenue for a reported break-in at a business.
Vehicle Break-In - A resident in the 400 block of West Grand Avenue called police at 8:52 a.m. Friday to report a vehicle break-in.
Vandalism - At 10:22 a.m. Friday vandalism to a yard and fence in the 1700 block of North Osage Street was reported.
Hit and Run - At 11:27 a.m. Friday police were notified that a truck had been hit while it was parked in the 300 block of West Central Avenue. A report was taken.
Arrests - Police arrested two 19-year-old men at 11:44 a.m. Friday from the 200 block of South Oak Street for domestic assault and battery.
Juvenile Arrest - At 12:20 p.m. Friday police arrested a 15-year-old boy from the Mid-High School for possession of drug paraphernalia.
Minor Accident - An accident at East Highland Avenue and North Second Street was reported at 2:44 p.m. Friday. A report was taken.
Theft - Police were notified at 6:42 p.m. Friday that some items had been stolen from the 600 block of North Palm Street. A report was taken.
Door Shot - At 7:03 p.m. Friday, what was first reported as a drive-by shooting in the in the 2100 block of North Osage Street, was found to be a nearby teenager missing a shot at a bird with a BB gun and hitting a neighbor's door.
Arrest - Police arrested a 19-year-old man at 8:35 p.m. Friday from the 600 block of North Palm Street on a city warrant for failure to appear.
Arrest - An 18-year-old man was arrested at 1:17 a.m. Saturday from Cleary Drive and Hillcrest Drive for driving under suspension and speeding.
Juvenile Apprehended - At 2:43 a.m. Saturday a 17-year-old juvenile male and a juvenile female were apprehended from Industrial Boulevard and Waverly Street for curfew violation and were later released to their parents. Citations were issued.
Armed Robbery - At 3:13 a.m. Saturday police received a call from a clerk at the Triple T, 3152 East U.S. 60 reporting that she had been robbed at gun point by two Hispanic men wearing blue bandanas. The Osage County and Kay County Sheriff's offices were contacted.
Arrest - At 5:24 a.m. Saturday a 20-year-old man was arrested from the
2500 block of North Fourteenth Street on a city warrant for failure to pay.
LIFESTYLES
The May meeting of the local branch of the Oklahoma Music Teacher's Association was held recently at the home of the President, Kathy Wimberley.
A report was given by the members attending the National Convention held recently in Nashville, Tenn. It was rated as the best ever music convention by the staff of the Alfred Music Company. Local members attending were Kathy Wimberley, Roberta Motz, Katy Tucker, Deena Neeley and Frances Thompson.
An assessment of the value of the Master Class sponsored by Arts and Humanities and given by Rosalie Walker was made. The group concluded that it was very helpful to the students.
Roberta Motz reported on the National Guild event held during National Music Week. The judge received a good rating from the group.
The plans for the Arts Adventure Program in July were presented by Katy Tucker and Kathy Wimberley. There are still openings for young pianists.
The program was a Cassette of Marvin Blickenstaff's dissertation entitled "But Are We Teaching Music." Several members of the group heard him present his Paper at the National Pedagogy Session in Chicago and were very impressed with his Philosophy of teaching said a spokesperson.
Local Chapter 432 of the American Association of Retired Persons met May 5 at Wheatheart Nutrition Center on West Grand for the regular monthly meeting. In the absence of Chapter President Dr. Ellis Oster, Vice-President F.G. Williams called the meeting to order and led the salute to the flag.
The speaker for the meeting this month was Phil Ross, an attorney from Newkirk with the Kay County Attorney's office. Ross, who received his Juris Doctor from the University of Tulsa, is a fifth generation attorney in his family. He is the third generation to practice law in Kay County. Ross spoke about "How to combat Telemarketing fraud where senior citizens are the victims."
The speaker said "First, no matter how good local law enforcement is and no matter how available the county attorney, the senior citizen, himself, is the first and most effective block to fraudulent propositions. Common sense tells us that when something sounds too good to be true that it usually is. "Avoid it!
He went on to say "Following are some hard and fast rules that will save you grief: You have won a prize and there is shipping costs or taxes due on it. If you win something there is nothing, repeat nothing, that you owe. The company cannot collect the value of the taxes due on the amount of extra income this prize is worth." If you actually win and accept a the item the Internal Revenue Service will see that the company offering the prize sends you a tax form. Never give out your Social Security number, your bank account number or any of your credit card numbers stated the attorney.
Lottie Etzel, treasurer, gave the financial report and Vice President Williams gave the legislative report. The main event coming up was Senior Day at the Capital on May 6.
The June 7 meeting will be a covered dish dinner at the Conoco Fourth Street Clubhouse (south side).This is a change in dates. Guest speaker will be Kathleen Brock of the Oklahoma City office of AARP and she will speak on recent Medicare changes. Kathleen is an R.N. and since retiring from that profession has been active as a lobbyist for AARP on the State and National level.
New officers will be elected when the American Business Women's Association meets at 6:30 p.m. Monday at Godfrey's. Sharon Adams will report on nominations. Other members of that committee are Johnnie Wilda and Bonnie Nimerick. At the April meeting a white elephant auction was held with proceeds to go to the education fund. An ABWA garage sale May 2 also contributed money to the scholarship fund. Announcement was made that Leslie Adams was a new member of the organization.
Editor's Note: The information obtained for this article came from the publication of "Profiles 1997." The Oklahoma State Department of Education, the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education, the Oklahoma Department of Vocational and Technical Education, the Office of Juvenile Affairs, and a school survey administered by the Office of Accountability contributed information.
By KRISTI HAYES
News Education Editor
How does the state of Oklahoma and Kay County rank when considering teacher salaries, ACT and SAT scores, single-parent families, public assistance money, the unemployment rate, and the dropout rate? A report called "Profiles 1997" has been released to gain insight on some of the most important questions surrounding education.
The information presented in the "Community Characteristics" section, also referred to as contextual indicators, has an interesting origin. The majority of the information was gathered during the 1990 census and represents all persons who resided within the boundaries of the school district at that time. Other information was obtained from the Office of Juvenile Affairs and the Board of Equalization. The state averages for Oklahoma are very interesting, especially where Kay County ranks among the rest of the counties. The state statistics show: the annual household income of $21,176, 17 percent of the population living below the poverty level, 22 percent of the population is over the age of 55, the unemployment rate is at seven percent, children living in a single-parent home is 23 percent and the number of females from 15 to 19 years of age that have children without a high school diploma is at 8 percent. In Oklahoma during 1996-97, there was one offender for every 49.5 students. Each offender committed an average of 2.0 offenses and four percent of the offenders were gang members.
Kay County
Kay County statistics show: 23.2 percent of the population does not have a high school diploma, 17.2 percent of the population is a single-parent home, public assistance dollars per capita is $71, and the unemployment rate is 5.1 percent.
"Profiles 1997" reports on 549 school districts and 1,800 conventional school sites; 1,027 elementary schools, 192 middle schools, 117 junior highs and 464 seniors highs.
The community in which a student lives is not the only thing that influences his or her academic performance. The educational framework provided by the district also has a major impact on student learning. Often times, it is the school district that helps students to overcome adverse socioeconomic conditions that may exist within the family or community.
For the 1996-97 school year, 282,941 students were eligible for the Free and Reduced-Pay Lunch Program. This represented 46 percent of all students, with an increase of two-percentage-points from 1995-96. This number has had a steady increase since the 1989-90 school year (36 percent in 1989-90 to 46 percent in 1996-97).
Average Salary
The average salary of regular classroom teachers decreased for the first time in eight years during the 1996-97 school year. The average salary for the 1997-97 school year in Oklahoma was $30,221, a decrease of $593 from the previous year ($30,814 in 1995-96). However, teacher salaries had increased an average of $7,000 in the preceding seven years.
In Kay County, the average teacher salary for the 1996-97 school year was $30,227 compared to the highest county in the state (Comanche County) at $32,510.
The average grade point average of the Oklahoma high school seniors was 2.92 during the 1996-97 school year. The grade point average for Kay County students was 2.94 compared to the highest county (Harper County) at 3.33.
Oklahoma principals responded that, on average, 64.5 percent of their graduates had completed the 15 units required by Oklahoma public colleges and universities. Kay County reported that 61.6 percent of high school graduates had completed the required number of units compared to that of Harper County at 100 percent and Beaver County at 91.7 percent.
Test Scores
The average ACT score of Oklahoma students in 1996-97 was 20.6 compared to Kay County at 21.5. The highest was Washington County at 22.4.
The percent of Oklahoma college freshmen students taking remedial courses is 37.7 percent compared to Kay County at 30.6 percent. The best counties were Cimarron County (16.7 percent) and Beaver County (16.7 percent).
Oklahoma college freshmen with a GPA of 2.0 or above for three years was 70.8 percent. Kay County has a 75.1 percent compared to Cimarron County at 82.6 percent.
State dropout rates have continued to become alarming. During the 1994-95 school year, the legal definition for "school dropout" changed from, "any student who is under the age of 18," to "any student who is under the age of 19. and has not graduated from high school." For 1995-96, the state reported that 8,862 (5.4 percent) students in grades 9-12 dropped out of school. That number compares with 9.513 (5.6 percent) for the 1996-97 school year. Kay County had a dropout rate in 1996-97 of 5.6 percent compared to Cimarron County (1.3 percent) and Grant County (1.5 percent). The worst county in the state in 1996-97 for dropouts was Pawnee County at 9.0 percent.
By DR. MARGARET McHUGH
AP Special Features
It is a painful reality that domestic violence requires some families to break up and remain separated for a variety of social and personal reasons.
However, as complex and entrenched as domestic violence can be, for many families a simple step can begin the process of stopping the destruction: breaking the silence or refusing to keep the problem hidden.
Depending on who you are and the degree of the violence, breaking the silence may mean any number of things. If you are a victim of endangering violence, it may mean calling the police or a social service agency. If you are a concerned outsider, it may mean offering support to the family. If you are a perpetrator of abuse, it may mean seeking counseling.
Whatever its circumstances, domestic violence is aided by silence, which invariably means isolation. By breaking the silence, we break isolation and increase the likelihood of the delivery of help and the alleviation of suffering.
Domestic violence is defined as any use of force by one member of a family toward another. The force may be sexual, physical, emotional or verbal, and the family members may be children, parents, elders or unmarried partners.
Domestic violence is so frequently shrouded in silence and remains hidden because family members are embarrassed and humiliated and because of the threat and reality of repeated assault. Perhaps the best remedy to these kinds of reactions is to become conscious of the destruction wreaked by violence and its continuation.
While breaking the silence about domestic violence may not rid a family of embarrassment, it may break the spell the violence has on a family. For many people, violence is an unconscious, automatic response to conflict, frustration, fear or difficulty. Furthermore, violence is often a learned behavior - passed on from one generation to another. By discussing violence, we may be able to slow down the automatic reaction, become conscious of underlying problems, or see the lessons learned years ago.
Unfortunately, discussion within a family may not dissolve violence and may instead escalate the problem. In such a case, seeking help for domestic violence should be done as carefully as possible.
Explore the support services available in your community. Become aware of the local police approach to domestic violence. Build a support network of concerned friends and allies. Present the perpetrator with the possible scenarios that public exposure could cause, such as loss of face in community and workplace, or criminal charges.
Whatever your options for dealing with domestic violence, don't go it alone. With few exceptions, the more help that you seek, the better off you and your family will be. With encouragement and support, families damaged by domestic violence can rediscover that silence also means peace and calm.
Dr. Margaret McHugh is a Clinical Associate Professor of Pediatrics at New York University School of Medicine and an expert on child maltreatment.
Is the grass always greener somewhere else? Not according to the Friends of the Cultural Center as they join with the Oklahoma Museums Association to celebrate Oklahoma Museums Week, May 17-23.
"We all enjoy traveling to other places to sightsee. But we want to remind Oklahomans that the museums within our own state offer many priceless treasures for everyone to discover," says Cherie Cook, director of the OMA. "In addition to being great places to visit, our museums are important centers for education, research, and preservation of history and culture" she said.
"Oklahoma Museums Week is a great time to celebrate the contributions that museums, tribal cultural centers and historical societies make to our communities," she adds.
Nationwide, museums attract more than half a billion visitors each year making them an important part of the travel and tourism industry. According to 1996 figures, travel and tourism ranked as Oklahoma's third largest industry, contributing $3 billion to the state's economy.
Governor Frank Keating has proclaimed May 17-23 as Oklahoma Museums Week. The week is co-sponsored by the Oklahoma Museums Association and the Oklahoma Arts Council. There are more than 300 museums in the state. International Museums Day is slated May 18. The Cultural Center museums are open beginning at 10 a.m. Monday through Saturday and from 1-5 p.m. on Sunday. Telephone number for more information is 767-5058.
An example of some of the many exhibits available in museums locally is the Sherman Lawton collection of early day artifacts at the Ponca City Cultural Center. The collection was given to the Kay County Chapter of the Oklahoma Anthropological Society (OAS) by Mrs. Sherman Lawton, at Lawton's request, before his death, Jan. 22, 1971.
On March 11, 1972, Gregory Perino, the Director (at that time) of Field Operations for the Thomas Gilcrease Foundation appraised the collection for estate purposes. Mrs. Lawton then contacted the local OAS president and presented the collection to the Kay County Chapter according to Nina Hanggi, historian for the Kay County chapter of OAS. The following includes her account of the collection.
The local members brought the collection to Ponca City, and spent two nights a week for several months cataloging each artifact, painting a white mark on each and printing SLC on each of the more than a thousand pieces.
Mrs. Delia Castor (now deceased) was in charge of the Indian Museum at that time, and with her help, the collection was placed on loan display in the Cultural Center with the ownership remaining with the Kay County Chapter of the Oklahoma Anthropological Society. Two or more of the indoor swimming pool dressing rooms were used to store artifacts not on display. A large number of projectile points were placed in a wall case for display. Mrs. Lawton wrote to George Hanggi that she "was very glad Sherman's collection will be in the Cultural Center."
Dr. Lawton, Professor in the University of Oklahoma speech, radio, and drama department, was president of the Oklahoma Anthropological Society from 1960 until his death, The OAS members selected him as the Outstanding Amateur in 1965, and presented the Golden Trowel Award to him, the first of the annual award given to an OAS member.
During the 1960s, the Kay County Chapter members worked on numerous archeological site excavations with Dr. Lawton for OAS, These digs served to educate members on techniques and the importance of preserving Oklahoma's Past. Artifacts found are taken to the Oklahoma Archeological Survey where they are cleaned, catalogued, and analyzed, and reports written.
The area Anthropology Chapter officers for 1998 are: President, Charles Slovacek; Vice-President, Forest Keeler; secretary-Treasurer, Marian and George Johnson; Program Coordinator, Dr. Michael Sullivan and Christina Splawn; Publicity, Joan Slovacek; Historian, Nina Hanggi; Directors, Byron Sudbury, George Hanggi and David Albee; Dig Committee. Michael Sullivan and Barry Splawn; Chapter Representative to OAS, George Hanggi.
Melissa Lou Johnson became the bride of Daren Wayne Wilson in a double ring ceremony May 2, 1998 officiated by the Rev. Scott Mason at 6 p.m. in the First Presbyterian Church at Newkirk.
The musical program included "Valentine" played by Joseph Buendia, pianist, and "The Lord's Prayer" sung by Julia Behrens. Kevin and Jill Wilson sang "I Do (Cherish You)." The musical prelude included selections composed by Handel and also by Bach. The attendants' processional was "Trumpet Voluntary" and the bridal processional was the Bridal Chorus from "Lohengrin" by Wagner. The recessional was the Wedding March from "A Midsummer Night's Dream" by Mendelssohn. Mary Austin was organist and the Steve Hamm string quartet also played.
Parents of the couple are Mr. and Mrs. Edward T. Johnson, 1001 North Fourteenth, and Mr. and Mrs. Lyndol Wilson of Okemah. The bride is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jim Tiner of El Dorado, Kan. and the great-granddaughter of Mrs. J. Rob Griffin of Oklahoma City. The bridegroom is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Carl Wilson of Okemah and Mr. and Mrs. Jack Kelton of Kellyville.
The bride was attired in a gown of ivory silk-faced satin designed with a Basque waistline and a cathedral length train. The bodice featured a sweetheart neckline and puffed sleeves embellished with beaded pearl embroidery. An eyelet design enhanced the neckline, sleeves and hemline of the gown. She wore pearl jewelry and her fingertip length veil of illusion was secured by a pearl tiara. The bride carried a bouquet of gardenias, white roses, miniature calla lilies and stephanotis.
Maid of Honor was Amy Palmer of Tulsa and bridesmaids were Melanie Barnett of Denton, Texas, Stacey Jackson of Ponca City, Rachelle Farout of Tulsa and Gwynne Bowers of Norman. The attendants wore full length, fitted black gowns with sleeveless bodices featuring scooped necklines and black satin bows in back. Each carried an arrangement of white, pale peach and yellow roses and stephanotis.
Junior bridesmaid for her sister was Colby Johnson of Ponca City. She wore a full length ivory satin dress detailed at the neckline and hemline by ivory rosettes. She carried pale peach and yellow roses. Libby Rutland, flower girl, wore an ivory dress with peach-colored roses at the waistline and a matching headpiece. Hayden Jackson was the ringbearer and acolytes were Jenny Lee of Sulphur and Kayla Malchar of Shawnee. The family candles were lit by Mrs. Carrie Johnson and Mrs. Shirley Wilson and the guest book was attended by Amy Reilly of Okemah.
Serving his brother as Best Man was Kevin Wilson of Nashville, Tenn. Groomsmen were Joseph Buendia of Norman, Steve Whiddon of Orange County, Calif., Ian Sein of Muskogee, John Mose III of Muskogee and Chance Johnson of Ponca City, brother of the bride. Ushers were Tate Roark of Ryan and Shane Patrick of Midwest City.
Following the wedding the bride's parents hosted a reception at the Marland Mansion in Ponca City. Among the guests attending the wedding were the couple's grandparents. Also the bride's relatives: Dr. and Mrs. Robbie Johnson, Chase and Rainey of Boston, Mass., Will Johnson and Darlene Hibdon of Oklahoma City, Jubal and Tara McDonald and Tiner of Stillwater.
The Ponca City Christian Women's Club invites all area women to a "Turn Up the Heat" luncheon Wednesday from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. at the Ponca City Country Club. The cost is $8.50.
Reservations for the luncheon and for child care may be made by calling Cindy at 762-2151 or Karen at 765-9835. It is important that reservations be honored, canceled or used by a friend.
"Hot Ideas" will be the special feature as Alice Ririe of Keepsake Candles gives information on candlemaking. Mrs. Ririe is originally from Silver City, N.M., and graduated from New Mexico State University with a degree in elementary education.
She is now the owner and president of a candlemaking business in Bartlesville, which began as a project for her church bazaar.
Mrs. Ririe is a member of the Bartlesville Chamber of Commerce, an appointed member of the board of directors of Bartlesville Development Corporation, and a member of Pilot International, a service organization for business and professional women. She is also on the Advisory Council of Small Business Incubators at Tri-County Technical School. Mrs. Ririe and her candle making business have been featured in Southern Living magazine. Her interests include reading and sewing.
"Cool Sounds" will be the special music provided by Kelly Troutman.
"Warm Words" will be presented by the guest speaker Sandy Hollingsworth. Born in Oklahoma City, Mrs. Hollingsworth graduated from Capital Hill High School. She has three grown children and sixgrandchildren.Mrs. Hollingsworth owns a ceramics business, teaches ceramic classes, and works with teenagers.
Airman First Class Erin Marie Chesebro and Airman First Class Kenneth Adam Stark were united in marriage at noon recently in the base chapel at the Presidio of Monterey in Monterey, Calif. Officiating at the double-ring ceremony was Chaplain (Major) Guy.
The bride is the daughter of Philip and Kim Rogers of Fultonville, N. Y. and Lawrence and Tammy Chesebro of Charleston, N. Y. She is the granddaughter of Geraldine Chesebro of Schenectady, N. Y., and Marion Nielsen of Athens, N. Y. The bridegroom is the son of Dean and Janet Timmerman of Lake Charles, La. and Kenneth and Dixie Stark of Ponca City. The bridegroom is the grandson of Clyde and Marilyn Robins and Elsie Stark, all of Ponca City.
The bride was given in marriage by her stepfather, Philip Rogers. She bride wore a sleeveless, white, floor-length dress with a bodice adorned with opalescent pearls. She also wore an elbow-length veil.
Maid of Honor was Airman First Class MacKenzie Hunt, and Best Man was Airman First Class Rudy Ortiz.
The bride is a graduate of Fonda Fultonville Central School, and the bridegroom is a graduate of Ponca City High School and attended McNeese State University in Lake Charles, La.
After a wedding trip in California and Arizona, they are now stationed at Goodfellow Air Force Base, San Angelo, Texas, where they are both linguists in the United States Air Force.
The Pioneer Area Quilter's Guild's meeting and spring luncheon was held May 5 at Community Christian Church with 97 members and six guests present. Announcement was made that the guild now has a membership of 141 quilters.
Oletta Demaree and helpers supplied mason jar dolls and sun bonnet pen cushions for each person present. The June hostesses are Gladys Randel, Cindy Wilson and Margaret Ledbetter.
Cindy Wilson reminded members she was still accepting basket blocks for her president's quilt. Cindy was presented with the 1997-1998 Guild scrap book. It contains pictures of each meeting and important events of her year in office.
Vice President Elaine Hughes announced programs for the coming year. June program topic will be quilting in the public schools. Other programs will feature speakers such as Liz Porter, Nancy Barrett and Patricia Eaton. The Guild members will also be working on the charity quilt in the fall.
The Challenge quilt block will be a 14 inch pillow top in crazy quilt pattern. The block party will be in July. It is called Renegade Snails and is to be of black background with renegade contrasting fabric.
The date of the fall Quilt Show is set for Sept. 18-19 at the Marland Chapel Hall. If you are interested in helping with the show, contact Sara Myers. If you are interested in showing your Quilt contact Shirley Hile. Registration forms for each quilt should be sent to Mrs. Hile by July 15.
Several members agreed to bring quilts to show and share at the Sterling House May 17. Jean Buskirk announced that the Pioneer Area Quilters Guild will take part in the Herb Festival on June 6.
After the business meeting and show-n- share the members enjoyed the program "Grandmothers Quilts" presented by Evelyn and Dave Day . They told the story of Evelyn's family history of four generations through the use of quilts. Mrs. Day encouraged each to pass the love of quilts on to others.
The next meeting of the Pioneer Area Quilters Guild will be June 1 at the church. For more information about the guild contact Kathy Paczowski at 762-4546.
St. Clare of Assisi Catholic Church in Houston, Texas was the setting for the April 18, 1998 wedding of Rachel Beth Calkin and Michael Brent Del Toro. The double ring vows were solemnized in a 7 p.m. ceremony by Deacon Wilburn Hargraves. The bride is the daughter of Ms. Mary Calkin, 505 East Fresno, and the bridegroom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Luz Del Toro of Seabrook, Texas.
The bride is the granddaughter of Mrs. Lorene Calkin of Carmi, Ill. and the late Carson Calkin. The bridegroom's grandparents are Mr. and Mrs. Apolinar Ramirez of Baytown, Texas, Mrs. Simona Del Toro of Baytown, Texas and the late Jesus Del Toro.
A quartet played traditional wedding music and the attendants' processional was "Canon in D" by Pachelbel and the bridal processional was Wagner's "Bridal Chorus" with the recessional being "Trumpet Voluntary" by Purcell. "In This Very Room" and "Where There is Love" were sung by Natalie and Charles Giardina.
The bride was dressed in a gown of Italian handwoven silk with the bodice styled with short lace sleeves and a sweetheart neckline adorned with pearls. The full skirt was complemented by a chapel length train and the full length illusion veil was attached to a pearl headpiece. She carried a bouquet of "Movie Star" roses, snapdragons and greenery.
Maid of Honor was Shana R. Saunders of Tulsa. She wore a full length Navy blue crepe dress designed with a round neckline that formed a vee in back marked with a small bow. Her bouquet of roses and Queen Anne's lace was handtied with ribbon. Similarly attired were the bridesmaids, Nikki Holke of Oklahoma City, Lisa Albers of Houston, Texas, Kristin Lanman Stumbo of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Blythe Cummins of Carmi Ill. and Jan Del Toro of Houston, Texas.
Rebecca Pattillo of San Antonio, Texas was flower girl. She wore a full length sleeveless dress of white Italian silk. Tyler Parker of Mesquite, Texas was ringbearer and Jamie Creager of Houston, Texas attended the guest book. Serving as readers were Tris Cattan of San Antonio and Kenny Martinez of Baytown, Texas.
Mark L. Del Toro of Webster, Texas served as Best Man and groomsmen were Brad Walsh of Richmond, Va., Scott Watson of Cleburne, Texas, Scott Singletary of Houston, Texas, Mark Sappington of Longview, Texas and Tom Damiani of San Antonio. Ushers were David Parker of Mesquite, Texas, Scott Vrana of Houston, Texas and John Walters of Valdosta, Ga.
The reception was held at the South Shore Harbour Country Club in League City, Texas. Following a Caribbean cruise the couple has established a home at 902 Antelope Ridge in Cedar Park, Texas, 78613. The bride is employed with Great-West Life & Annuity and the bridegroom is employed with Lennox Industries, Inc.
Prenuptial events included the rehearsal dinner hosted by the parents of the bridegroom at their home as well as a bridal brunch.
Among the out-of-town guests attending the wedding were Tom and Welema Greer, Lori Batt Munger, all of Ponca City; Mike and Ristel Rich of Baton Rouge, La., Sandy Saunders of Tulsa; Erin Kueter of Stillwater; Brian and Liz Marlin of Cedar Park, Texas; Rosalind Hale of Spring, Texas; Steve and Kay Wood of Flower Mound, Texas; Konnie, Rachel and Renee Losey, Dave Dixon and Kirsten Anton, Todd and Susan Sutherland, all of Dallas, Texas; Becky and Marissa Robles of Irving, Texas.
Also Mark, Alice, John and Josh Brumbaugh of Richardson, Texas, Kevin, Mindy and Michael Martinez of El Paso, Texas; Gary and Susie Higgenbotham of Ruston, La.; Randy and Leah Hart, Craig and Christine of San Antonio, Texas; Ed and Martha Vrana of Waco, Texas; Keith Vrana of Flower Mound, Texas; Eva Fletcher, Jamie Ross, Ray Zamora, Tiger Zamora, Wayne Fletcher, all of North Vernon, Ind.; Daniel and Karlis Avalos of Arlington, Texas and Sally and Helen Yberra of Slaten, Texas.
The Singles Network is a social and support organization for single adults who are divorced, widowed or never married. A monthly calendar is mailed to all members and dues are $10 per year. Members wish to emphasize that the group is not a dating service.
Interested persons may call Betty, 762-9776, or Dorothy, 765-1403, for more information. Plans this week include the following:
Sunday, May 17: 6:30 p.m., Discussion group meets at Presbyterian Church. Study continues on "Boundaries."
Tuesday, May 19: 6 p.m. meet at Furrs for dinner.
Thursday, May 21: 6 p.m. eat at Enrique's at the airport.
Friday, May 22: 7 p.m. card party at Betty's. Bring snacks and call her, 762-9776, about limited parking.
Saturday, May 23: 7:30 p.m. Attend program at Poncan Theatre "Cowboy Poet and Comedian."
Mr. and Mrs. Paul Thissen of Jacksonville, Ark. have announced the engagement of their daughter, Deborah Jean, to Mark Eugene Mills, son of Mr. and Mrs. Miles Mills of Ponca City. A June 20 wedding at the Foothills Chapel in Golden, Colo. is planned.
Miss Thissen received a bachelor of arts degree in math/computer science from Rhodes College in Memphis, Tenn. She is presently employed as a systems engineer for Electronic Data Services in Boulder, Colo.
Mills earned a BBA in management from the University of Oklahoma and a BS in computer science from Oklahoma State University. He is a systems engineer with Corporate Express in Broomfield, Colo.
YMCA starts the 1998 summer water exercise schedule Tuesday, May 26. The new schedule avoids overlaping the water exercise class with swim lessons while offering an earlier morning workout time to start off the day. No swimming skills are required for any of the water exercise classes.
Water walking will be offered 7:45 a.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday. This class offers a low-impact workout designed for all fitness levels. A variety of movements forward, backward, and sideways through the water uses opposing muscle groups to tone and firm as well as build up cardiovascular strength and endurance.
Aqua jog, a deep-water exercise class, will also be offered 7:45 a.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 7:45 a.m.; Tuesday and Thursday at 5 p.m.; and Saturday at 10 a.m. Each student will wear a specially designed flotation belt to keep him or her floating at shoulder level. Aqua jog can be adapted by varying the resistance to the water, the range of motion, and speed.
Women's water exercise wiII continue to be offered 10 a.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Music routines are designed to increase muscle strength, tone, endurance, and flexibility. Due to the resistance of the water, exercisers can burn up to twice as many calories per given amount of time compared to land aerobics.
Arthritis water exercise will be offered 11 a.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday, and 10 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. The class helps strengthen muscles that support joints, while helping to retain full range of motion and reduce pain and stiffness due to arthritis. The Arthritis Foundation has designed the exercises for each joint in the body, except the neck, and the class is good for those who have had joint replacements. Students not suffering from arthritis can also benefit from the slower pace and specific toning exercises which tone up muscles in a low impact and body-friendly environment.
For more information call the YMCA at 765-5417.
The engagement and approaching marriage of Amanda Lin Donley to Rex Lytle Anderson has been announced by their parents, Cheryl Peck-Donley of Leedey, Larry and Susan Anderson of Ponca City and Ruth and Joe Reagan of Houston, Texas. Grandparents of the bride-elect are the late J. W. and Irma Peck. Grandparents of the prospective bridegroom are Leo and Doris Sanders of Fulton, Texas, and the late Lytle and Avis Anderson. The wedding vows will be officiated in an outdoor ceremony in Edmond.
Miss Donley is a 1994 graduate of Ponca City High School and is currently a senior at Oklahoma State University where she plans to graduate in December with an engineering degree in Fire Protection and Safety. She is currently working for the Oklahoma City Fire Department. Anderson is employed with CSC-Conoco.
A reception May 24 at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 2800 Turner Road, will honor Mr. and Mrs. Philip O. Richardson, 2616 East Hartford, on the occasion of their 25th wedding anniversary. An open invitation is extended to friends and family to attend the celebration from 2 until 4 p.m. No gifts are requested.
Philip Richardson and the former Carolyn Schwettmann were married May 26, 1973 at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Crawford, Texas. They made their first home in Temple, Texas and later lived in Lawrence, Kan. The couple moved to Ponca City in 1985 and are members of the Prince of Peace Lutheran Church.
Richardson is an insurance agent and is a member of Ponca City BASSmasters, the Oklahoma BASS Federation and the Masonic lodge. Mrs. Richardson has been a legal secretary for Kenneth E. Holmes for 13 years and is a past president of the Ponca City Area Habitat for Humanity Board of Directors and is presently a member of the Northern Oklahoma Legal Professionals.
The couple's children are Paul Cody and Kristl Shawn Richardson of Ponca City, Lance Richardson of Abilene, Texas and Lesli Richardson of Waco, Texas. The honorees have two grandchildren: Beaty and Gregory Cal Richardson of Abilene.
Mr. and Mrs. Dean Leslie, 11 Forest Road, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary at a reception May 24, 2-4 p.m., at the Grace Episcopal Church parish hall, Thirteenth and Grand. Friends of the couple are invited to attend and the honorees' request no gifts.
Hosts for the event will be their children, Marsha and Alfred Moore of Ponca City, Greg and Kay Leslie of Broken Arrow and Lance and Kim Leslie of Oklahoma City. Mr. and Mrs. Leslie have four grandchildren: Lydia Leslie and Lora Leslie of Broken Arrow; John Ellis and his wife, Holly, of Colorado Springs, Colo., and Scott Moore of Ponca City. Great-grandchildren of the couple are Ethan Ellis and Andrew Jeffries.
Dean Leslie and the former Phyllis Schmitt were married June 1, 1948 at the Sacred Heart rectory in Alva. The couple made their first home in Stillwater where he earned a master's degree in Chemistry from Oklahoma State University and she worked for the university.
The couple returned to Alva and Mr. Leslie was an instructor at Northwestern State University and Mrs. Leslie was employed with the Woods County News. He began employment with Conoco in 1951, retiring in 1985. The couple is affiliated with Grace Episcopal Church where Mr. Leslie has been a vestryman for three years.
The Red Rose Garden Club met at the home of Mrs. Burton Casad for the Annual Guest Day Luncheon on May 11. Assisting her were Mrs. Jim Ross and Mrs. Brian Harpster. The tables for four and 10 people were set with Battenberg placemats and centered with vases of Irises and Peonies.
Following the luncheon Mrs. Harpster presented a program on the History of Tea and explained how to make the perfect pot of tea. She said to start with a teapot and fill it with boiling water, let it sit for 5 minutes and then pour it out. Then place your tea in the pot, one teaspoon for each cup, and one for the pot. Pour boiling water into the pot and let it steep for at least five minutes. Pour through a strainer into the cup, add milk and sugar as desired, and you have the perfect cup of tea.
The members then introduced their guests and they discussed the program. The next meeting will be at the Cann Garden Center on June 8 at 9:30 a.m. and the program will be on "Butterflies" given by Sally Williams. The hostesses will be Mrs. John Strickland, Mrs. Ed Lindsay and Mrs. Ross.
Party for Carol Gray
A "come and go" retirement party for Carol Gray will be held Tuesday, 4-6:30 p.m., at the KinderCare Learning Center, 1304 Princeton. For more information about the event call Janell White, 580 765-2170. Mrs. Gray began work at KinderCare in 1985 as a cook and assistant director. She was appointed director on July 13, 1992. She says "the families and children that have come and gone are so special to me." Mrs. Gray and her husband plan to pursue woodcrafting and making carousel horses.
Chapter EL
Chapter EL of PEO will meet at noon Wednesday for a picnic luncheon at the home of Phyllis Kennedy, which is a location change. Co-hostesses will be Wanda Council and Emily Otto. Leslie Blevins will visit the chapter.
Fibromyalgia Group
The Fibromyalgia Support Group will meet May 18 at 7 p.m. at the First Baptist Church parlor. This meeting will focus on group sharing of strategies and concerns about Fibromyalgia support when dealing with chronic pain and stress. Members meet twice a month, the first and third Mondays, at 7 p.m. at the church
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 18: Southern barbecue meatloaf sandwich; oven fried potatoes; coleslaw; bun with butter; cinnamon apples.
Tuesday, May 19: Chef salad with dressing; tomato juice; crackers with butter; ice cream/cookies.
Wednesday, May 20: Oven baked chicken; mashed potatoes with gravy; California mixed vegetables; biscuits with butter; frosted strawberry dessert.
Thursday, May 21: Spaghetti with meat sauce; seasoned green beans; tossed salad with dressing; garlic bread sticks with butter; cinnamon roll.
Friday, May 22: Chicken fried steak; mashed potatoes with gravy; perfection salad; cornbread with butter; fresh fruit in season.
The regular monthly meeting of the Democrat Women's Club in Kay County will be held Thursday, May 21 at the Courthouse in Newkirk at 7 p.m. Each member and all interested persons are urged to attend. Future fundraising projects will be discussed as well as the bake sale set for May 30 at 8 a.m. in Newkirk. The bake sale will be in front of the R & G Style shop on South Main street.
"I would like to thank all of the women's club members that participated in the 'Wall that Heals' activities last month here in Ponca City, it was a moving experience", said Donna Swope, president.
Elizabeth Totten was the winner of the attendance drawing held at the April meeting. Refreshments will be served following the meeting.
Cameron Kekahbah will give his final piano performance at the University of Arkansas today. Cameron is a 1993 graduate of Ponca City High School. The program will include Handel "Air and Variations from Suite No. 5 in E Major"; Chopin "Etude in F Minor, Op. 25 No. 2"; "Etude in A Flat Major, Op. 25 No. 1"; "Etude in C Minor, Op. 10 No. 12"; Mozart "Sonata in A Minor, Allegro Andante cantabile con expressione and Presto"; Beethoven "Sonata in F Major, Op. 10 No. 2, Allegro, Allegretto, and Presto"; Scriabin "Etude in C Sharp Minor, Op. 2 No. 1"; "Etude in F Sharp Minor, Op. 8 No. 2"; Brahms "Intermezzo in A Major, Op. 118 No. 2"; "Capriccio in G Minor, Op.1 16 No.3"
Cameron was accepted to the University of Arkansas in 1993 with a full scholarship to study with Alan Chow. Cameron won many honors in music during his course of study in Ponca City. and received high ratings in his auditions sponsored by the Oklahoma Music Teachers Association. He received the Burg Award in 1993.
He also received high ratings in his years of participation in the National Federation of Music Clubs Festivals. He was the winner in the Senior Division playoffs in 1993. He then was awarded first place in the State Competition. As a winner he was awarded a full scholarship to Inspiration Point Fine Arts Colony summer piano camp in Arkansas.. He was asked to return in 1994 as adjunct staff/counselor, and he will be serving as head staff member for his fourth year in 1998. As part of his staff relations at Inspiration Point, he teaches in a private studio.
Cameron was a member of the Ponca City High School chorale and was one of the accompanists. He has continued his choral activities at the University of Arkansas. He participated in the Scola Cantorum (the University honor choir), and the Fulbright College Honors Recital.
This spring Cameron received his baccalaureate degree in music, with emphasis on piano performance, from the University of Arkansas. He will be pursuing his graduate degree in piano pedagogy/performance at Southern Methodist University. Cameron recently was one of 400 pianists auditioning for 12 positions available at SMU. He was accepted for their graduate program and awarded a $10,000 Meadows Artistic Scholarship Award beginning this fall.
Cameron studied piano with Kathy Wimberley in Ponca City from 1989 to 1993. He is the son of Joyce McDonald and the late Bill Kekahbah. His grandparents are Robert and Kay Horinek of Newkirk.
The Women of the Moose, Chapter 602, held the annual installation of officers Friday evening at the lodge.
Joanna Morris, installing chairman, was assisted by Jo Willard, installing regent; Ruth Dye, installing chaplain, and Sue Clinton, installing guide.
The officers elected for the 1998-99 term were Judy Maynard, senior regent; Dee Dee Gregg, junior graduate regent; Susan Anderson, junior regent; Arline Carriger, chaplain; Sue May, secretary/treasurer; Loucille Knight, recorder; Ada Cavett, assistant guide; Wendy Boyd, guide; Maye Glasgow, Sentinel; Jean Stout, Argus; and Janet Pappan, musician.
Others installed were the chapter development and standing committee chairmen: Wynnona Parrish, membership; Mary Ann Fossen, publicity; Margie Albers, Moosehart; Anita Evans, community service; Evelyn Moreland, Moosehaven; Elaine Davis, health awareness; Rita Robbins, college of regents; Joanne Moneymaker, star recorder; and Ginny Durham, family involvement.
Meetings are the second and fourth Tuesday of the month beginning at 7:30 p.m. at the Lodge, 500 West Prospect.
A June 12 wedding at the Hartford Avenue Church of Christ is being planned by Shelly Renee Smith and Ryan Matthew Sullivan. Announcement of their engagement is being made by her grandparents, Charles and Loretta Campbell of Ponca City. Sullivan is the son of Brenda Llewellen and Michael Sullivan, both of Clarksville, Tenn.
The future bride will graduate from Ponca City High School this year and plans to attend Northern Oklahoma College in the fall. The prospective bridegroom is a 1997 Po-Hi graduate and is attending NOC. He is employed with Sykes Enterprises, Inc.
Officers for 1998-99 were elected recently by the Wheatheart Chapter of Sweet Adelines. They are LaVerne Welch of Ponca City, president; Jolene Harrison of Tonkawa, vice president; Vicki McCabe of Blackwell, secretary, and Billie Conley of Ponca City, treasurer.
Serving on the board are Darleen Kassen, Donna Strang, Jan Schickram and Helen Bacher, all of Ponca City. Darleen Kassen, installing officer used the theme of working together as a unit. Helen Bacher assisted and gave each new officer a long-stemmed red rose.
Sweet Adeline of the Year award went to JoAnn Radabaugh of Ponca City. This award is earned by attendance at rehearsals, performing with the group, attending competition and music schools and participating in Ways and Means projects. She serves as make-up chairman for the chapter and is employed with Lee Laboratories. She is married to Walt Radabaugh.
Voted in as new members were Sharon Mann of Blackwell and Marilyn Trimmer of Ponca City. Wilma Harman is director of the chorus and Kris DeYoe is assistant director.
Al area women are invited to attend rehearsal Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. at Northern Oklahoma College in the band room of the Performing Arts Building with entry by the south door. For more information call 762-2885, 765-6829 or 363-1131.
TOPS OK 308 Chapter met Monday evening with Donna McCoy calling the meeting to order. Delpha Clemens gave the devotion entitled "Friends." Chera Brewer led the TOPS Pledge and Ruth Garroutte led the KOPS Kreed.
Natalie McCoy called the roll and Betty Flower gave the weight report. Best loser was Chera Brewer. Loretta Riley won the "Ha-Ha" pot and Chera Brewer received her angel.
Natalie McCoy gave the treasurer's report and the minutes were read and approved. Mary Bryant gave the program, "25 Tips to Help You Stick to Your Diet" and concluded with the reading of a poem entitled "Snap Out of It."
TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) is a nonprofit 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. Monday with the meeting at 7 p.m. For more information, contact Betty Flower, 765-5448.
SUNDAY
Marland Estate Mansion, 901 Monument Road, open daily, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, 1 to 5 p.m. Guided tours, Monday-Friday, 1:30 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 1:30 and 3 p.m. Special Tour information, 767-0420.
11th Step AA meeting-open, 11 a.m.; AA Discussion meeting, 8 p.m. Harmony House, 212 South Third.
Ponca City Art Center, 819 East Central. Wednesday through Sunday, 1 to 5 p.m.
Ponca City Cultural Center and Museum, 10th and Grand. Home of Ponca City Indian Museum, Bryant Baker Studio, 101 Ranch Museum and DAR Museum. Available for receptions, teas, bridge parties, etc. Open daily 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday 1-5 p.m. 767-0427.
Ponca City Tourism Office, 10th and Grand. Information about all tourist attractions and events in Ponca City and the surrounding area. Open daily 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday, 1-5 p.m. 763-8067.
Singles Network discussion group, 6:30 p.m. Sunday, First Presbyterian Church. All single adults welcome.
Tulsa author Jean Hager will autograph her latest book "Masked Dancers" 2-4 p.m. May 17 at Brace Books & More on North Fourteenth.
"How To Shave 6 Strokes Off Your Golf Game" will be a presentation by chiropractor Dr. Don Potter, 2-4 p.m., May 24 at Brace Books & More on North Fourteenth.
MONDAY
Al-Anon meeting, 8 to 9 p.m. Monday, upstairs in the Harmony house, 212 South Third.
Domestic Violence Group, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Mondays. Programs for women and children of family violence. Baby sitter provided. For info, call 76A-BUSE.
Fibromyalgia Support Group meets on the First and Third Monday of each month at 7 p.m. in the parlor of the First Baptist Church. More information may be obtained by calling Vivian Cross, 765-8871; Lily Freeman, 762-9027; Martha Long, 762-5572.
The Multiple Sclerosis Support Group meets the third Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at Albright United Methodist Church, 128 South Palm. Call Beth Wright, 765-6738, for additional information.
New Hope Group of Alcoholics Anonymous, 8 p.m. Monday, Salvation Army Community Support Center, 711 South Third.
Ponca City Rotary Club, noon Monday, Marland Mansion Chapel.
Principles Before Personalities, Narcotics Anonymous, 8 p.m. Monday, Harmony House basement, 212 South Third. Use south entrance by parking lot.
Senior Citizens' Dance every Monday, 7 to 10 p.m. at the American Legion, Ponca City. Everyone welcome. "Hayriders Band."
Simple Steps AA-closed, 12 noon; AA Step Study- closed, 8 p.m. Harmony House, 212 South Third.
TOPS OK 308, 6:15 p.m. Monday weigh-in. Meeting starts at 7 p.m. For more information, call Betty Flower, 765-5448.
TUESDAY
Kay County Wheatheart Sweet Adelines, 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Performing Arts Building (south entrance), Northern Oklahoma College, Tonkawa. All women welcome. For information, call 765-6829. 363-1643 or 762-2885.
Kiwanis Club, noon Tuesday, Marland Mansion Conference Center.
New-Found Freedom Co-dependents Anonymous, 8 p.m. Tuesday, Harmony House (upstairs library).
AA Discussion meeting at 12 noon; AA Big Book Study- closed, 8 p.m. Harmony House. 212 South Third.
Parent Support Group, 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday at Northern Oklahoma Youth Services Center. Focus on parental concerns and frustrations, as well as ways to increase understanding and communications between parent and child. Support, education, coping techniques, and introduction to non-punitive parenting styles.
Pioneer Water Garden Society meets the third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Cann Gardens. Anyone interested in water gardens, fish, plants or starting your own pond is welcome to attend. For more information contact Mike Welch, 765-3271 or Ray Moreland, 762-7806.
Preschool Storytime for 4, 5, and 6 year olds, Ponca City Library, 10 and 11:30 a.m.
Reorganized Overeaters Anonymous group meets 11-12 Tuesday mornings at Woodlands Christian Church. The meetings are open to "anyone who desires to stop eating compulsively." For more information call 762-2161 or 765-5958.
Weight Watchers meeting, 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, St. Paul's United Methodist Church. Weigh-in begins at 6 p.m.
WEDNESDAY
Deadline for Happenings and items for Sunday's edition of Lifestyles, 5 p.m. Wednesday. Happenings is events this week. For Happenings, include name of club, day of week, time, place and hostess.
New Hope Group of Alcoholics Anonymous, 8 p.m. Wednesday, Salvation Army Community Support Center, 711 South Third.
Pioneer Toastmasters Club, 11:30 to 12:30 Wednesday, East Auditorium, Conoco Complex, 1000 South Pine. Guests welcome to come discover what Toastmasters is about.
Ponca City Bahai Community Discussion Group, 7:15 p.m. Wednesday, for location, call 765-5695 or 762-5529.
Simple Steps AA meeting; Step Study-closed, 12 noon. AA Discussion meeting, 8 p.m. Harmony House, 212 South Third.
Storytime for 2 & 3 year-olds, Ponca City Library, 515 East Grand, 10 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Short stories, songs, use of flannel board. Lasts about 15 minutes.
A Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) support group has been formed to aid veterans of the Vietnam and Gulf Wars. The group is confidential and meets at the DAV, 401 South Lincoln, on Wednesdays, 7-8:30 p.m. If you are a veteran suffering with PTSD or know someone who could use help contact 762-3851 or Steve Mallory at 580 762-7561.
Principles Before Personalities, Narcotics Anonymous, 8 p.m. Wednesday, Harmony House basement, (use south entrance by parking lot).
Chapter EL of PEO will meet at noon Wednesday for a picnic luncheon at the home of Phyllis Kennedy, which is a location change. Co-hostesses will be Wanda Council and Emily Otto. Leslie Blevins will visit the chapter.
Lilac Garden Club will meet May 20 at 9:30 a.m. for a coffee at the home of Florence Henneke, 300 North Eleventh.
THURSDAY
Al-Anon at Conoco, TBTV 50 on Mezzanine between North and South towers, 11:30 a.m. Thursday. Linda 765-7045, 767-5328.
AA Discussion meeting, 12 noon; AA Discussion meeting, 8 p.m. Harmony House , 212 South Third.
Freedom Group of AA; closed Big Book Study at 8 p.m. Thursdays, Woodlands Christian Church (Room 202), Fourteenth and Hartford. Smoke-free meeting and building. We study and practice tradition. Open meeting on last Thursday of the month for birthdays. Call 762-3345 for more information.
Jaycees, 7 p.m. first and third Thursday, Chamber of Commerce meeting room. Interested persons welcome to attend any meeting.
Model Railroad Club, 7 to 10 p.m. Thursday, Stevens Building 113 North Third. For info, call 762-8687 or 765-7996.
Parent Support Group, 9:30 to 11 a.m. Thursday, at Northern Oklahoma Youth Services Center. Focus on parental concerns, frustrations as well as ways to increase understanding and communications between parent and child. Support, education, coping techniques, and introduction to non-punitive parenting styles.
Ponca City Newcomers Club meets the third Thursday of each month at the Marland Mansion. For more information contact Joyce Fox, 762-9578.
Story Hour for school-aged children at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. at the Ponca City Library.
A Young-At-Heart Dance is held every Thursday at the Elks Lodge, 1301 Bradley, 7-10 p.m. A Snack and Hillbilly night is held the first Thursday of each month. Ken Wilson and the Sunshine Playboys Band will play.
FRIDAY
Simple Steps AA-open, 12 noon; AA Speaker Meeting - open, 8 p.m. Harmony House, 212 South Third.
New Hope Group of Alcoholics Anonymous, 8 p.m. Friday, Salvation Army Community Support Center, 711 South Third.
Pioneer Rotary Club, 11:45 a.m. Friday, Marland Mansion.
Principles Before Personalities, Narcotics Anonymous, 8 p.m. Friday, Harmony House, 212 South Third, basement (use south entrance by Smoke Free building. For more information call 762-3345 or 765-9459.
SATURDAY
AA Discussion meeting 12 noon. AA Discussion meeting 8 p.m. Harmony House, 212 South Third.
New Found Freedom Co-dependents Anonymous, 8 p.m. Saturday, Harmony House (upstairs library). Smoke-free.
Order of the Amaranth meets the first and third Saturdays of each month at 7:30 p.m. at the Masonic Temple.
Reorganized Overeaters Anonymous group meets 11-12 Saturday mornings
at Woodlands Christian Church. The meetings are open to "anyone who
desires to stop eating compulsively." For more information call 762-2161
or 765-5958.
SPORTS
By FRED HILTON
News Sports Editor
Oklahoma City - After being denied a chance to host an NCAA regional tournament, the Oklahoma Sooners had something to prove and they certainly made believers out of Oklahoma State, battering the Cowboys, 9-4 in Saturday afternoon's elimination game of the Big 12 Tournament.
Long known for their near perfect defense and good pitching, the Sooners are starting to add the important third ingredient, good hitting.
OU battered three OSU pitchers for 15 hits including 3 home runs, a triple and a double.
Corey Hart, OU's second baseman provided the catalyst for the Sooners with a 3-run home run in the fourth inning that broke the game open. But even earlier, Hart robbed the Cowboys of a pair of base hits, going far to his left to dig out sharply hit balls headed for right field that kept OSU from getting anything started early.
"We needed that," said OU coach Larry Cochell. "That kept OSU from getting a rally going. That kind of play is a momentum killer."
Said Hart, "we were disappointed we didn't get a regional here, but I think it was our own fault for not playing better earlier in the season. It has brought us together and made us a tougher team."
Hart's three run blast gave the Sooners a 4-0 lead. They upped the margin to 6-0 on a 2-run homer by Richard Park.
Justin Elsey added a solo home run in the sixth inning, as the Sooners went up 8-0.
OSU made a late bid, scoring once in the sixth inning and added two runs in the eighth on a double by Tony Lucca and a triple by Marc Fournier.
The Cowboys added another run in the bottom of the ninth and had the bases loaded with two outs but couldn't come through with a big enough rally.
The Cowboys go home to await the NCAA selection committee decision Monday on whether or not their season is over.
OU, trying to come out of the losers bracket to win the Big 12 Tournament Championship for the second straight year is scheduled to play at 1 p.m. Sunday against the winner of Saturday night's Texas Tech-Texas A&M game. Tech is the only unbeaten going into Saturday's game.
Greg Krause, head coach of the Northern Oklahoma Lady Mavericks' basketball team, has announced another three signings for his 1998-99 team.
Suzi Eisenhauer, a 6-0 All-Stater and four year starter from Newkirk, heads the list of new recruits. Eisenhauer averaged 12.4 points and 5.8 rebounds for the Tigers, shooting 52 percent from the field and 79 percent from the line. Eisenhauer was also on the 95-96 North Country All Tournament Team, was an Academic All Stater, was 1997 and 98 Class 2A State Long Jump Champion, and was a four year starter in Softball where she garnered All Regional Short Stop honors the past two years.
"Suzi is an outstanding athlete," says Krause. "She can work inside and outside. Suzi will be very effective in college because of her ability to post up as well as shoot the three. I've been acquainted with Suzi for years as a part of our camp. It's very rewarding to have her with us because she had many opportunities at the four year level."
Next on the Lady Mavs' list is Erica Metcalf, a 5-10 small forward from Douglass High School. Metcalf averaged 7.8 points and 5.4 rebounds per game for the Trojans, and received 1998 Big All-City Team honors.
"Erica will be a big attribute to our team," says Krause. "She played only one year at Douglass under coach Mack before moving from Northwest Classen high school. Her experience in Class 5A City League ill be very valuable in her transition. Erica is a prototype small forward who will be very effective in our pressure defense. She is another player who will be able to work inside and outside."
Rounding out the roster of new recruits is Kacey Whitworth, a 5-7 guard, also from Newkirk. Whitworth is a transfer from Northwestern Oklahoma State University, in Alva, with one year of eligibility left.
"We tried to recruit Kacey out of high school but missed out," says Krause. "Kacey will give us a lot of experience at point guard off-guard. Kacey is a natural on the floor. She understands the game and plays with intelligence."
The Ponca Bowl Youth league finished the 1998 season with a trophy presentation and sweeper tournament.
Trophy winners were:
Friday Preps
1st Team - I Don't Know (Zac Pruitt, Jacob McKay, T.J. Tole)
2nd Team - Panthers (Kurtis Durham, Josh Burnette, NickDurham)
3rd Team - Little Devils (Heather Marlar, Laura Lake, Lacy Buck)
High Scratch Series - Nick Durham (319), Heather Marlar (290)
High Scratch Game -Andrew Grimes (153), Dannie Ramert (117)
High Handicap Series - Scotty Raabe (373), Laura Lake (323)
High Handicap Game - Drew Arnold (206)
Most Improved - T.J. Tole (24 pins), Heather Marlar (26)
High Average - Nick Durham (129), Heather Marlar (104)
Sweeper Winners - Nick Durham, Dannie Ramert
Friday Juniors
1st Team - DJB (Darcy McClaskey, Brett Jackson, Jennifer Correll)
2nd Team - Pin Eaters (Ben Davis, Madison Kennedy)
High Scratch Series - Casey McCaskey (549), Darcy McCaskey (438)
High Scratch Game - Ben Davis (239), Jennifer Correll (183)
High Handicap Series - Madison Kennedy (808)
High Handicap Game - Alex Flores (234)
Most Improved - Brent Bouthillette (19 pins)
High Average - Casey McCaskley (150), Darcy McCaskey (144)
Sweeper Winners - Casey McCaskey, Darcy McCaskey
Saturday Bantam
1st Place - Callin Kramer
High Scratch Series - Alan Moriarty (198), Janette Pametickey (188)
High Scratch Game - Callin Kramer (91), Alissa Kramer (109)
Most Improved - Callin Kramer (10 pins), Alissa Kramer (28)
High Average - Alan Moriarty (77), Janette Pametickey (77)
Sweeper Winners - Alan Moriarty, Amy Sosa.
Saturday Juniors
1st Team - ARL (Adam Lake, Ronnie Schooley, Luke Garrison.
2nd Team - SDJ (Sabino Reyes, Darrin Felix, Jose Garcia)
High Scratch Series - Paul Thomas (636), Ashley Jones (499)
High Scratch Game - Jarod Merle (256), Tera Schooley (187)
High Handicap Series - Rosendo Garcia (665), Kensie Andrews (650)
High Handicap Game - Jose Garcia (272), Diana Bryer (218)
Most Improved - Tyler Sullivan (12), Ashley Jones (10)
High Average - Jarod Merle (174), Diana Bryer (143)
Sweeper Winners - Jose Garcia, Diane Bryer
Bumper Bowlers
Angela Kirk, Garrett King, Sage Wojcik, Trisha Shannon, Cameron Shannon, Kyle Smith, Lee Smith
Sweeper Winners - Sage Wojcik, Kyle Smith and Cameron Shannon
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Summer Youth Leagues will start June 1 at 6:30 p.m. with an Adult-Youth League June 4 at 2 p.m. for all ages.
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Adult League High Scorers
Men's 700 Series
David Hunt 740, Garland Kent Jr. 737, David Hunt 7345, Dennis Barnett 729, Joe Rawlings 727, Jim Watson 726, Jimmy Kirk 718, Junior Kent 715, Norman Raffelson 712, David Mantapene 701, Mark Hill 701, Mark Evans 700-
299 Games - Joe Rawlings, Dennis Barnett
Ladies 600 Series
Jayne Lynch 668, Darlene Miner 653, Leigh Copeland 644, Allison Brown 643, Carol Fowler 639, Diana Woods 639, Kim Ware 639, Delma Holmes 626, Sheila Hunt 625, Shelli French 621, Doris Lambert 619, Peggy King 618, Debbie McCaskey 615, Trela Mattocks 613, Carole Klopp 612, Linda Castleman 611, Vickie Thomas 610, Mary Golay-Thomas 608, Jenny Rush 604.
Date Slated For Triathlon
The 13th annual Lake Ponca Triathlon will be held at Lake Ponca Park, May 30th. This year's triathlon is the State Championship International distance triathlon. Entry forms are available at Conoco, Jocks Nitch and P.C. Sports. Participants may submit by mail, to Ponca City Triathlon Association, 2609 Canterbury, Ponca City, 74604, or phone 765-7855.
Entries may also be made at Godfrey's, Friday, May 29, from 6-10 p.m., or at Lake Ponca, May 30. A post race party will be held at Lake Ponca and at Godfrey's.
Volunteers are still needed. Call Ed Nanni at Conoco, at 762-3056.
PCCC-WGA
The Ponca City Women's Golf Association will hold Ladies Day play Tuesday.
In last week's Low Net on Par 4's, Gross on Par 3's play, Diana Mills was first in Championship flight with Judy Powers second.
Margaret Steinberger was first in A flight and Barbara King second. In B flight, Del Kotarski took first with Rilla Cobb second. Lora Gann won C flight with Carolyn Edwards second.
In the 9-Hole play, Alice Evens was first and Jaci Owen second.
In Wednesday's Playday Low Net on Even Holes, Cheryl Fletcher took first with Louse Abercrombie second.
WLGA
The Wentz Ladies Golf Association will hold Ladies Day play Tuesday with all flights drawing at 9:15 a.m. to tee off at 9:30.
Last week's winners were Ebby Jacobs in Championship flight, Spiffy Lawson in President's flight, Sue Green in A flight and Sue Lawson in B flight.
Wentz Junior Golf
The sign-up day for the Wentz Junior Golf program is May 3.
The golfers will participate in a four-day clinic May 27-28 and June 2-3. The first two days will be at the golf course and the second two days at the Practice Tee on Lake Road.
The play dates are June 4, June 9, June 18, June 25, July 2 and July 9. The Championship tournament will be July 16 and the Parent-Junior Tournament will be July 19.
The program is limited to the first 80 juniors and the cost is $5.
Applications are now being accepted for Wildcat Baseball Camps, to be held June 15-19 at the Po-Hi Baseball field.
High school coaches Mark Huster and Mike Gronigan, assisted by Wildcat seniors, will hold two camps. A fundamental camp will be held from 8-11:30, followed by a pitching camp from 1-3. The fundamental camp is $60, while the pitching camp is $45. A $10 discount is offered to those participating in both camps, with another $10 discount (off total cost) offered to those with more than one child participating.
The camps are open to ages 7-15. Applications are now available at P.C. Sports, Jocks Niche, and should be distributed soon to area grade schools. For more information, please call Huster, at 762-3027.
Applications are now being accepted for Lady Wildcat Basketball Camps. Two fundamental camps and a shooting camp will be offered, and all will be held on the Po-Hi campus.
The first fundamental camp, for grades 4-6, will be held June 1-4, from 1:30-5:30. The second fundamental camp, for grades 7-9, will be held June 8-11, also from 1:30-5:30. The shooting camp, for grades 4-9, will be June 29-July 1, from 9 a.m. until noon.
The fundamental camps are $70, while the shooting camp is $45.
All camps are under the direction of Lady Wildcat head coach Dana Pulley, who will be assisted by other high school coaches and players. Applications have been distributed to the grade schools, and are available at P.C. Sports, Jocks Niche, or Robson Fieldhouse.
For additional information, please contact Pulley, at (580) 362-3224.
Applications are now being accepted for summer Wildcat Basketball Camps. Three camps are offered, a Basic Fundamental Camp (June 8-11, grades 3-9), an Advance Fundamental Camp (June 1-4, grades 5-9), and a Guard-Post Shooting Camp (July 7-9, grades 3-12).
All camps will held on the Po-Hi campus, and are under the direction of boys head coach Ron Arthur. High school and junior high coaches, as well as former and current Wildcat players will be assisting in the Camps.
Advanced and Basic Fundamental Camps are $70 per child, while Shooting Camp is $45 per child. Cost includes instruction, a t-shirt, a certificate of participation and a basketball. A $15 discount is available to those attending multiple camps or to those with more than one camper attending.
Application and payment are due one week before the camps begin. Applications have been distributed to all grade schools and are available at both the Jocks Nitch and P.C. Sports.
Additional questions may be directed to Ron Arthur, at 767-1016.