LOCAL

Nearly News
Ash, Hartford Realignment Work Set
Advisory Board Positions Filled
Middle School Honor Roll Listed
800 Number: Information At Fingertips

Nearly News

It is amazing how far the winds generated by the May 3 tornadoes carried debris. Among the debris displaced are two envelopes from Mulhall found by Bob Sylvester in his yard approximately 10 days ago. Sylvester lives in Sandy Point under the Kaw Dam, and one envelope had a postmark of 1983 with a 20 cent stamp.

Ash, Hartford Realignment Work Set

By LAURA CORFF

News Staff Writer

Ponca City Board of Commissioners decided to remove the city’s involvement in Ponca City Main Street Authority, from an organizational stand point, during their regular meeting Monday. After discussions with the Ponca City Main Street Authority, Kevin Murphy, city attorney, drafted the ordinance which allows Main Street to choose their own replacements and handle their own accounting.

The board also approved an ordinance change to reserve Sections 13-125 through 13-150 for future legislation and create a new Article VI to Chapter 13, adopting Safety Code for Electric Transmission Lines. The change will take affect immediately. According to Rusty Edwards, director of Electric Utilities, all participating members of the Oklahoma Municipal Power Authority are required to adopt the changes.

Additionally, Evans and Associates were authorized to begin the construction contract for the realignment and signalization of Ash Street and Hartford Avenue. The project was awarded on May 10, in the amount of $1,065,761.01.

LandPlan Consultants, Inc. also received the go-ahead to begin work on trail planning and design for the Transportation Enhancement Trails Project. According to Jim Sindelar, director of Park and Recreation, the city’s participation is $20,000. Design work for Phase I will include identifying corridors and existing conditions, setting goals and objectives, trail routing, funding sources, an implementation plan and a final trails master plan.

In other new business, Gary Martin, city manager, informed the board that a presentation about the Ponca City Police Foundation was removed from the agenda and will be featured during a future work session.

Consent Agenda

The following items were considered noncontroversial and routine by the board and were approved by one motion.

— Ponca City Tourism Authority will award a $1,000 grant to the Classic Cars of Ponca City.

— The Ponca City Fire Department will accept a bid of $20,685.60 from Jack Bowker Ford to purchase an administrative vehicle.

— Bills from May 6, through May 19, totaling $1,035,337.57 will be paid.

Ponca City Utility Authority

The board reconvened as the Ponca City Utility Authority to receive an update of Phase II Improvements to the Waste Water Treatment Plant. Although FHC, Inc. did not design the project, John Nelson, head project engineer, explained what improvements had been completed and current work in progress.

Also, Nelson reported that Phase II was substantially complete in November 1998. But, the original projected cost of $14.6 million could end up increasing to $15.4 million. Nelson informed the board that $751,000 in approved changes had been spent as a result of design error, design omission and differing site conditions. The approved changes are high but not unusual, according to Nelson.

Martin stated that once the city learned of problems with the project, the board could have terminated the contract or hired a third party oversight construction administrator. Consequently, FHC was hired as the third party, construction administrator and the city has been very happy with their oversight, Martin said.

On the consent agenda, the board authorized submitting the monthly operating statement to the Oklahoma Water Resource Board and purchasing right-of-way for the Turkey Creek-L.A. Cann Drive sewer replacement project. The purchase will not exceed $1,000. Also, claims totaling $1,649,747.82 will be paid.

The commission then entered into regular session of the Ponca City Development Authority approved paying $6,943.93 in bills.

Afterwards, the board entered into an executive session to discuss negotiations with the local firefighter and police officer unions. No action was taken.

Advisory Board Positions Filled

Mayor Tom Leonard’s nominations to various city boards and commissions were approved by the Ponca City Board of Commissioners Monday during the board’s regular session. The Mayor said that over the past three months he had reviewed the boards and recruited citizens. Three positions remain to be filled.

Kevin Murphy, city attorney, drafted the resolution designating the appointments. The following citizens are appointed to three-year terms, unless filling an unexpired term.

Board of Adjustment: Ann Kinsinger, reappointed and George McPherson appointed.

Construction Appeals Board: Fred Stolhand was reappointed.

Economic Development Advisory Board: Brian Harpster, Ricky Flack and Bob Caine were appointed.

Energy Advisory Board: Danny Thompson and Mark Detten were reappointed.

Historic Preservation Advisory Board: Billy T. McClelland was reappointed and Mindy LittleCook was appointed.

Housing Authority: Max Berry and George Schwarz were appointed.

Library Board: Neal Blenden was reappointed.

Also, Phyllis Kennedy and Sally Thomas were reappointed to the E.W. Marland Estate Commission. Norma Beasley, Sherry Tapp and Gerald Nield were appointed, too. Sherry Muchmore is filling an unexpired term until May of 2001.

Park and Recreation Advisory Board: Thom Throop, Kelly Kaye and Sonny Apman were appointed. Student members appointed include Andra Nuzum and Susan Taylor.

Planning Commission: Bill Lundeen and Linda Clarke were reappointed. Also Jim Rosenbaum was appointed.

Ponca City Tourism Authority Board: Kathy Tippin and Susan Ladner were appointed. Phil Bandy was reappointed.

Traffic Commission: Derrin Hiatt was reappointed and Marvin Rider was appointed.

Middle School Honor Roll Listed

The Ponca City Middle School released its list of students named to the principal’s honor roll and the faculty’s honor roll.

Students names to the principal’s honor roll are Tara B. Allison, Amanda B. Batchelor, Bonnie J. Blumert, Whitney R. Bunch, Monica D. Cardwell, Michaela L. Cavener, Chelsey R. Cobb, Jared A. Cottman, Andrew D. Davis, Katie Didericksen, Maleah C. Dyer, Sarah L. Edens, Kimberly P. Evans, Leah E. Fisher, Hannah M. Garrison, Todd R. Gingerich, Katie L. Girardi, Morgan B. Ham, Scott R. Hartman, Bryan L. Henning, Layne M. Keathly, Paula M. Krueger, Kyla Lewis, Shannon R. Love, Jacob M. Lynes, Nicole Mansfield, Matthew L. McCall, Garret I. Merle.

Also on the principal’s honor roll are Adam A. Milligan, Amy M. Moriarty, Amanda D. Neal, Daniel K. Nimmo, Shelli D. Novotny, Beth V. Power, Mary F. Powell, Kim D. Pruitt, Kori C. Quillin, Jeremy J. Ricketson, Omar M. Salama, Ryan K. Shea, Kelli N. Smotone, Brandon D. Snyder, Rebecka S. Stanton, Lindsey B. Thomas, Jamie L. Trout, Elizebeth Tucker, Erik B. VanArsdale, Jeremy L. Ward, Ashley R. Wilson and Aaron E. Wright.

Named to the faculty’s honor rolls are Sonia K Acosta, Tristan M. Albury, Charles S. Alexander, Alisha D. Altman, Jeramie L. Anderson, Kristin D. Angle, Scott F. Arterbury, Jordan M. Bailey, Laci M. Baird, Chelsie N. Baldwin, Rudonna, L. Barden, Cassandra A. Baur, Haley A. Bible, Brett T. Biddinger, Ashley D. Bland, Meagan E. Bonee, Bryan M. Bonham, Madeleine D. Braden, Henry J. Bradley, Kevin W. Bradley, Tyler D. Brown, Jessica G. Bruner, Regan L. Buford, Brenda Bujanda, Brent D. Burgess, Rita J. Busby, Justin E. Bush, Jessica M. Bushman.

Traci N. Bussey, Samantha J. Bustraan, Katie J. Caudillo, Marco A. Chavez, Lee O. Coburn, Tatiana B. Collins, Patrick F. Collogan, Mason B. Combes, Jakeb A. Coon, Jenni M. Cowan, Judah L. Craig, Kyle J. Cremers, Shawn K. Crowell, Kristen E. Davis, Lacy E. Davis, Shasta M. Davis, Michael S. Day, Leah P. Dester, Brian W. Dickison, Derek J. Dronberger, Matthew M. Drouhard, Rebekah L. Duckwall, Michael R. Duran, Nichalos W. Durham, Christopher A. Duve, Will Emig.

Susan K. Emmons, Jeffrey P. Enevoldsen, Noah J. England, Joshua B. Engle, Zachary T. Engle, Antoine M. English, David D. English, Audrey D. Eubank, Matthew W. Fair, Katy L. Farmer, Brian J. Felix, Charles D. Flett, Teresa C. Fox, Derek S. Franseen, Latosha R. Gaines, Diana V. Galindo, Jessica Galindo, Julianna R. Garroutte, Cherie M. Gatlin, Erin N. Goddard, Trent R. Goldsmith, Tamara L. Grace, Kyle J. Graham, Jared R. Gray, Janna C. Green, Mindy S. Grimm.

Justin D. Hadley, Steven W. Hager, Nicole T. Ham, Kyle S. Hampton, Thomas C. Hankins, Melanie R. Harris, Sarah L. Hart, Michael J. Hartshorn Jr., Brandon L. Hays, Daniel B. Horton, Leslie N. Hudson, Jeniffer A. Jenkins, Brittany D. Jensen, Samantha J. Johnson, Erika K. Jones, Robert S. Jones, Tadra P. Jones, Justin Keller, Rebecca R. Kellert, Thomas W. Kelley, Jessika B. Kelly, Dallas S. Ketchum, Kenneth B. King, Laura S. Knight, Tyler D. Knight.

Angelica Lampkin, Cam T. Le, Janna Leach, Shane A. Lewis, Jesse B. Light, Krystle B. Loney, Daak C. Love, Jordan L. Lunsford, Kayla D. Malaske, Matthew P. Maniatis, Jared P. Mason, Skyler A. Mathews, Rebecca A. McCollough, Megan E. McGuire, Jennifer A. Mena, Corntius M. Miller, Rachel A. Myers, Cassie M. Neahring, Blake A. Newport, Kisha N. Oakes, Scott A. Oatman, Eric J. Pameticky, Eric C. Payne, Sheila B. Payne, Sharii A. Peeples, David A. Petermann, Nevin A. Porter.

Amanda Reiss, Enedena Reveles, James G. Shea, Kortny D. Rhodes, Holly F. Rowe, Chris L. Rutherford, Jenny A. Rutter, Latanya D. Sanders, Nicolas A. Scott, Lyndsey N. Seirer, Christina M. Senseman, Chelsey D. Sentel, Rory D. Sharp, Jennifer D. Sherman, Kurt D. Simmons, Joseph H. Sisco, Katie L. Slavin, Sean R. Smethers, Catherine N. Sonnichsen, Amanda D. Springman (Jones), Katie R. Stanton, Tiffany M. Swanson.

Gregory C. Tate (Berry), Amber D. Tedrow, Joseph W. Theobald, Emily G. Thompson, Jonathan R. Trout, Emily E. Viele, Derek R. Viljoen, Cameron R. Waggerman, Audrey S. Walker, John M. Wallace, Billy (BJ) L. Waller, Justin M. Waller, Justin B. Weatherly, Deitric K. White, Jacie M. White, Kacey B. Whitener, Laura J. Windom, James A. Wingender, Brian G. Womble, Aaron R. Worley, Hillary A. Wright, Jessica A. Wright and Kimberly D. Young.

800 Number: Information At Fingertips

By Ron Janzen

District Manager

Do you need to change your address, sign up for direct deposit or make an appointment to apply for benefits? Want to know how work affects your Social Security benefits? Don’t bother with traffic, parking or waiting in line — let your fingers do the dialing. Call 1-800-772-1213 to take care of your Social Security business from the comfort and privacy of your home. You can call our toll-free telephone number 24-hours a day, every day.

Social Security representatives are available to help with all your Social Security questions on business days from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. They have access to the same information that’s available if you visit your local Social Security office. But, if you still need to visit our office, we’ll schedule an appointment for you — and that will save you time!

There are times when you can take care of some Social Security business without talking to a representative. Then you can take advantage of our 24-hour services. Services such as getting an application for a new or replacement Social Security or Medicare card or the application to get an estimate of your Social Security benefit.

Last year over 75 million people called us to get answers to their questions. They know it’s easy and convenient to call from home! Sometimes our phone lines are busy early in the week and early in the month, so, if your business can wait, it’s best to call at another time. However, if you are planning to file for benefits, you should call us as soon as possible.

You can help us serve you better by planning ahead. Before you call you’ll need:

*Your Social Security number,

*A list of questions you want to ask,

*Any recent correspondence you received from Social Security, and

*A pencil and paper to write down information from your call.

Remember, the next time you have to contact social Security — give us a call.

DEATHS

Gary R. Shindler
Wilda W. Gfeller
Althena LeRoy
Roger C. Tipton
Robert Lewis Clark

Gary R. Shindler

Gary R. Shindler, 2709 Kingston, died Monday, May 24, 1999 at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. He was 52.

The funeral will be Wednesday at 11 a.m. in the chapel of the Trout Funeral Home with the Rev. Dr. Monty Fey, pastor, First Presbyterian Church, officiating.

Gary R. Shindler was born July 24, 1946, in Nevada, Mo., the son of Raymond Alexander and Virginia (Armstrong) Shindler. He attended schools in Nevada, Mo., and Hutchinson, Kan., graduating from Nevada High School in 1964.

On Nov. 5, 1966 he and the former Linda Lou Carpenter were married at the Mt. Zion Methodist Church in Rockville, Mo. Shindler served with the U.S. Air Force and was stationed in Rapid City, S.D. and Seville, Spain. He received his license from barber school in Kansas City, Mo. and worked as a practicing barber for three years. In 1973 he was employed with Conoco in the credit card center. He left Conoco in 1994.

Gary enjoyed playing Santa Claus, working with his computer and surfing the net. He also rode with the Christian Motorcycle Association.

He is survived by his wife Linda of the home; a son, Gary Shindler Jr. of Lawton; one brother, Ernest Shindler of Nevada, Mo.; a sister, Pat Culbertson of Nevada; his mother, Virginia Thomas of Nevada; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Memorials may be made in Mr. Shindler’s name to the Ponca City Humane Society, 900 West Prospect, Ponca City, OK 74601.

Wilda W. Gfeller

OAKLEY, Kan. — Wilda W. Gfeller, sister to Loren Gfeller of Ponca City, died at Logan County Hospital in Oakley, Kan., on Monday, May 24, 1999. She was 89.

The funeral is set for 11 a.m. Thursday, May 27, at the Kennedy-Koster Funeral Home in Oakley, Kan. with the Rev. Bob Kelly officiating. Burial will be in the Winona (Kan.) Cemetery. Friends may visit from 2 to 9 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.

Wilda W. Gfeller was born July 21, 1909, in Logan County, Kan., to Emil J. and Ivy S. (Shoffner) Gfeller. She grew up and lived in Logan County until 1947 when she moved to Oakley, Kan. Miss Gfeller had been employed as a representative of the California Perfume Co. (now known as Avon Inc.). She also worked as a caregiver for Family Homes. She was a past member of the Winona United Methodist Church and had been attending the Oakley Christian Church.

Survivors include one brother, Loren Gfeller of Ponca City; and two sisters, Lorene Clark of Oakley, Kan., and Lucile Lewallen of Brewster, Kan. She was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, Garland and Myron; and one sister, Arlene Berndt.

Memorial contributions may be made in Miss Gfeller’s name to the Oakley Manor or the Logan County Hospital, c/o Kennedy-Koster Funeral Home, P.O. Box 221, Oakley, Kan. 67748.

Althena LeRoy

Althena LeRoy, former Ponca City resident, was found dead Saturday morning, May 22, 1999, in Oklahoma City. She was 31.

An evening prayer service will be held at Grace Memorial Chapel in Ponca City, at 7 p.m. Tuesday. The funeral will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, May 26, at Grace memorial Chapel. Minister Toby A. Blackstar, Greater First Deliverance Temple, Oklahoma City, will officiate, assisted by Minister Charles Broam and Minister Jim Birch, Church on the Right Track. Burial will follow in the Ponca Tribal Cemetery in White Eagle.

Althena LeRoy was born Dec. 28, 1967, in Pawnee, to Antoine LeRoy and Elvira (Primeaux) Sroufe, and a proud member of the Omaha Tribe of Nebraska. She grew up and attended schools in Ponca City.

She was married to Steven Roy and they were later separated. She then moved to Oklahoma City, where she attended Church on the Right Track. Mrs. LeRoy enjoyed playing basketball, volleyball and softball, and visiting with friends and relatives.

Survivors include two sons, Steven Roy of the Oklahoma City home, and Bradley Sroufe of Ponca City; three daughters, Audra Roy, Cheyanna LeRoy and Brittany LeRoy; her mother, Elvira Sroufe of Ponca City; one sister, Altonya LeRoy; two brothers, Alton LeRoy and Eddie Sroufe; and several other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her father, step-father, and her grandparents.

The family will be at the home of Elvira Sroufe, 420 South Pine Street in Ponca City.

Roger C. Tipton

Roger C. Tipton, a former resident of Ponca City, died Friday, May 14, 1999 in Santa Paula, Calif. He was 81.

A graveside service was conducted May 18, 1999 in Santa Paula. Skillin-Carroll Mortuary in Santa Paula was in charge of arrangements.

Roger Tipton was born Feb. 10, 1918 in Hardy, Okla., the son of Irwin and Wilma C. Cooper Tipton. He was a member of the Kaw Indian tribe, and had been a resident of California for the past 59 years. He had just received his 50-year carpenter pin.

Tipton served during World War II and was a prisoner of war during that time.

Surviving are two sons, a daughter and five grandsons, all living in California; his sister, LaVerna Greenwood, and an aunt, both of Newkirk; also numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife, Romelia Tipton of 55 years, in January 1998; a sister, one brother and his parents.

Funerals

Wednesday

Robert Lewis Clark

Funeral at 2 p.m. graveside at the Bayard Cemetery in Deer Creek. Arrangements are under the direction of Roberts and Son Funeral Home, Blackwell.

NEWS BRIEFS

No Rotary Meeting - Pioneer Rotary Club will not meet Friday due to the Memorial Day Weekend.

One Group 4” geraniums, sale 99 cents each. Keathly Nursery,

2448 Bridge Ave., 762-2922. adv.

Ceres Cemetery — Ceres Cemetery Association will meet at the cemetery on Monday, at 10 a.m. All interested persons should attend. Contact Orla Ratliff, president, for more information at 405-755-6709.

5-Gallon spirea, regular $22.50, sale $17.99. Keathly Nursery, 2448

Bridge Ave., 762-2922. adv.

Bike Stolen — A resident in the 200 block of North Palm Street contacted the Ponca City Police Department at 8:10 a.m. Monday to report a bike was stolen from the residence. An officer responded and took a report.

Every Wednesday ð price clothes and shoes, except priced items. Check our daily specials. Caboose Thrift Shoppe, First and Central. adv.

Vandalism — At 10:30 a.m. Monday, an employee of the Ponca City Humane Society, 900 West Prospect Avenue, reported vandalism to a fence and garage. An officer responded and took a report.

Warrant Served — A 43-year-old man was arrested by a Ponca City police officer in the 500 block of North Lake Street at 10:50 a.m. Monday on a Kay County warrant.

Kids and Guns — At 1:25 p.m. Monday, four Ponca City police officers responded to a 911 call in the 400 block of North Pine Street where several youth were allegedly outside with a rifle. Officers reported that the Department of Human Service took the kids into custody.

Arrest — Two Ponca City police officers arrested a 25-year-old man in the 100 block of West Fresno Avenue at 3:09 p.m. Monday on charges of domestic assault and battery.

Fire — Ponca City firefighters responded to the report of a fire in the 500 block of North Ninth Street at 4:13 p.m. Monday. The fire was extinguished and no injuries were reported.

Accident — A Ponca City police officer took a report of a minor accident at West Central Avenue and South Ash Street at 5:13 p.m. Monday.

Attempted Assault — An employee at Highlander Apartments, 1407 West Highland Avenue, contacted the Ponca City Police Department at 5:57 p.m. Monday to report a juvenile was trying to stab another youth with a knife. An officer responded and contacted witnesses, but the victim’s father did not want to sign a complaint. At 7:04 p.m., the police department was notified that the subjects had returned. The officer arrived, took the subjects home and released them to a parent.

Free Pregnancy test. Birth Choice cares. Confidential.

Hours: Monday, 4-6 p.m., Tuesday, 6-8 p.m., Wednesday, 1-3 p.m. and

Thursday, 6-8 p.m. 700 West Broadway. adv.

Vandalism — A resident in the 200 block of South Ash Street notified the Ponca City Police Department at 8:22 p.m. Monday that the house and shed had been vandalized. An officer responded and took a report of destruction of private property.

Equipment Stolen — At 8:53 p.m. Monday, a Ponca City police officer took a report of fishing equipment stolen from a garage in the 300 block of North Elm Street.

Stolen — A clerk at Triple T, 1301 West Highland Avenue, contacted the Ponca City Police Department at 9:57 p.m. Monday to report three men took two packs of beer and left in a pickup. Three officers responded and located the truck on the west side of Lake Ponca. A 15-year-old boy, a 16-year-old boy and a 17-year-old boy were taken into custody.

Beer Run — At 10:24 p.m. Monday, a Ponca City police officer took a second report of beer stolen from the Triple T, 1301 West Highland Avenue.

Arrest — A 27-year-old man was arrested by a Ponca City police officer from a traffic stop at South Ash Street and West Ponca Avenue at 12:37 a.m. Tuesday for petit larceny. A 16-year-old boy was also taken into custody for no driver’s license, no insurance, transporting an open container and violation of curfew ordinance.

Beer Found — A clerk at Citgo, 320 West Grand Avenue, notified the Ponca City Police Department at 1:35 a.m. Tuesday, that a boy took a 30-pack of beer and ran southbound. An officer responded and took a report. A second officer found the beer behind the store.

LIFESTYLES

American Indian Jewelry Book Topic
Laureate Phi Chapter Installs New Officers
Lilac Garden Club Members Hold Meering
Party Honors Bride-To-Be
Little News

American Indian Jewelry Book Topic

By JOAN BRUNSKILL

Associated Press Writer

NEW YORK (AP) —“North American Indian Jewelry and Adornment” is a colorful heavyweight, packed with information and images of the precious treasure documented by author Lois Sherr Dubin.

There’s scarcely a page where the reader’s eyes are not drawn to illustrations of such wearable art as fine bead embroidery in dizzyingly intricate patterns; bold silver work; plumes of colored feathers made into ceremonial bonnets; and buckskin dresses decorated with waterfalls of fringe.

The author’s passion for her subject underlies the scholarly detail of her text. She recognizes the spirituality inherent in the objects — but, disarmingly, she says: “Though not a hunter, I am certainly a gatherer. I rarely return from Indian country without carrying home a bracelet, necklace or buckle, all of which form permanent links with their makers and the places I have journeyed.”

Ms. Dubin, who has previously written a book on the history of beads, spent more than 10 years researching this volume, traveling and interviewing, digging into museum archives and looking at personal collections of artifacts.

The book, subtitled “From Prehistory to the Present,” carefully traces Indians’ jewelry through the ages into our times. The subject is also dealt with region by region, mapped and charted over the whole area, from the flowers and furs of the subarctic to the Southwest’s veins of turquoise.

With all the enormous geographical diversity, Ms. Dubin emphasizes the connections, the links with past culture. She marvels that “the Indian people not only survived near annihilation but also continued to produce such a concentration of superb artisans within a relatively small population.”

She calls the abundance of present-day Indian talent one of America’s best-kept secrets. Artifacts were generally created as items to be used not as “art,” Ms. Dubin writes. “Today’s Native Americans remain deeply spiritual, and artistic expression continues to be woven into the fabric of daily life.”

Turn to the chapter on turquoise for a sumptuous example of how she tells her story. The detailed text is complemented with lots of illustrations, including a six-page foldout, of the bright stones. Some of the pieces are more than 1,000 years old, others were made in the 1990s.

And many are shown in use. An archival photo dated 1901 introduces readers to an elegant young woman wearing turquoise earrings under a hairdo that swirls upward in the high, elaborate “butterfly” style worn by unmarried Hopi women. A few pages away, an elderly Navajo husband and wife pose gravely, decked out in their heirlooms of turquoise and silver, in color photos made in 1994.

Laureate Phi Chapter Installs New Officers

Members of Laureate Phi chapter of Beta Sigma Phi sorority met at the home of Elsie Rosenbaum on May 10. Prior to the meeting an installation of new officers was held. They are: Fran Smith, president; Virginia Starks, vice president; Meire Harris, recording secretary; Erma Rusch, extension officer; Alice Beman, corresponding secretary; Leanna Adams, treasurer.

Ms. Rosenbaum conducted the meeting with members standing for the opening ritual. Alice Beman called the roll and read the minutes of the last meeting. Erma Rusch read minutes from the last meeting of City Council, and announced the date and location of the Oklahoma State convention. It will be held in Enid on June 9 -11, 2000.

Virginia Stark announced that the annual birthday picnic will be held in Shelterhouse 3 at Lake Ponca Park 12-3 p.m. on May 16.

Ms. Rosenbaum read messages from Bill and Jack Ross. Ms. Beman spoke about “a memory that comes to her when she smells a musty odor.” She said “her grandmother, who died when Alice was six years of age, had to make her home with each of her children at various times. When she traveled from on child to the other all her worldly possessions went with her in a old trunk. When she opened it the musty odor filled the air and clung to her clothes.”

Lilac Garden Club Members Hold Meering

Members of the Lilac Garden Club met recently in the home of Helen Bozarth with Betty Venzke as co-hostess. The centerpiece of the white linen covered refreshment table was a large fuchsia-colored azalea.

Mrs. Bozarth, president, called the meeting to order and asked Anna Shadan to lead the group in saying the Gardener’s Creed in unison. Florence Riesen, secretary, called the roll and read the minutes. Neva Onstot, treasurer, gave the financial report and collected donations for a project at the Ponca City High School.

Peggy Keith, council representative, reported on the council program given by Mollie Bivin. The six-acre Bivin garden near Shidler was the program topic. Mrs. Keith reminded members about award sheets. Mrs. Bozarth displayed publications she received such as “The Oklahoma Gardener” and “The National Gardener.”

Mrs. Keith gave the club program “Why We Have Arbor Day.” She stated that Nebraska was a treeless plain during pioneer days and a newspaper editor was instrumental in promoting the planting of trees as windbreaks, to hold moisture in the soil and to provide lumber for housing. The speaker said a special tree is planted on the White House grounds each year in Washington, D.C.

Betty Venzke presented a book to the club titled “Birds-Their Life-Their Ways-Their World.” The club will present the book to the council. Mrs. Venzke submitted her resignation as she and her husband are moving to the Phoenix, Ariz. area.

Party Honors Bride-To-Be

Lisha Purkaple, bride-elect of Matt Flaniken, was honored with a bridal shower May 22 in the Williamsburg Parlor of First Baptist Church. The wedding will be July 31 in the Worship Center of First Baptist Church.

Special guests were Mrs. Gail Purkaple, mother of the bride-to-be; Mrs. Ora Maye Botsford of Anna, Texas; and Mrs. Lela Purkaple of San Angelo, Texas, grandmothers of the future bride. Terese Purkaple, sister of the prospective bride, assisted the couple during the opening of the gifts.

Wedding colors of grape and peach were used to decorate the serving table. A highlight of the shower was a special gift of a handmade quilt from the bride-to-be’s grandmother, Ora Maye Botsford.

Hostesses were Janet Trout, Gayle Young, Jonet Dawson, Martha Long, Barbara Davis, Julia Smith, Marcy Bass, Amy Heslip, Karen Yost, Cathy Ferguson, Sharon Maddox, Marcella Johnson, Jeri Northcutt, and Teri Baskin.

Little News

Tim and Kristin Rein announce the birth of their son, Carson Drake, at 8:50 p.m. May 14, 1999, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. Carson weighed 9 pounds, 2 ounces, and measured 21 3/4 inches long. The baby has two sisters, Kelli and Kimberly.

Grandparents are Jack and Della Rein, Mike and Ginny Cagley, Rick and Gay Norris, all of Ponca City. Great-grandparents are Opal Rein of Ponca City, and Dorothy M. Norris of Fort Worth, Texas.

Clayton Wade Burke is the name selected by Justan and Megan Burke of Newkirk for their son, who was born at 5:17 a.m. May 9, 1999, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. He weighed 7 pounds, 11 ounces, and measured 20 1/2 inches long. The baby has a brother, Colby, 3, and a sister, Cassidy, 1.

Maternal grandparents are Johnny and Peggy Lawson of Newkirk, and Kevin and Sherrie Kreger of Ponca City. Paternal grandparents are Shelley Gray of Vinita, Bob Burke of Dewey and Tommy Gray of Vinita. Great-grandparents are LaVerne Kreger of Ponca City, Julia Burke of Newkirk and Frankie King of Newkirk.

Announcing the birth of a son are Frank J. and Shauna M. Tracy, 1612 Princeton. Seth Franklin Tracy was born at 7:29 a.m. May 20, 1999, in Ponca City. He weighed 8 pounds, 5 ounces, and was 21 1/2 inches long. The baby has three sisters, Katie, Mallory, and Allison.

Maternal grandparents are Owen and Maryann Garner of Mesa, Ariz., and paternal grandparents are Lyman and Nancy Tracy of Salem, Utah.

BUSINESS

Commercial Building Permits Topped With $450,000 Project
Business Systems Solutions Of Oklahoma Opens in P.C.
Circle Awards
Sales Tax Return Up Significantly
Mertz Opening Equipment Retail Center During June
U.S. Chamber Salutes Small Business Firms
New, Bearly New Moving To North Fourteenth Spot

Commercial Building Permits Topped With $450,000 Project

By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE

News Business Editor

A new report has been added to the building inspector’s monthly report on building in and around Ponca City. In the past only housing start-ups had been reported within the city limits. Now the reports will contain home permits within the utility service boundaries.

Although there were no housing permits issued within the city limits for April there was one with a valuation of $40,000 issued for a house within the utility service boundaries, by Building Inspector Charles Kelley.

There were no permits issued for multi-homes.

A total of six commercial permits were issued with a valuation of $622,000. The Anderson Building at Ponca City led the list with a $450,000 project. The Timbers Apartments were next with an $80,000 project. Kentucky Fried Chicken is doing a $70,000 facelift. Mid America Door had a $10,000 add on, Kids Castle has an $8,000 add on and there was a $4,000 permit for commercial storage.

Five remodel addition permits were issued with an valuation of $108,000 and eight miscellaneous permits were issued with a total valuation of $39,500. Total valuation for building permit issuance for April was $809,500. Building revenue was $469 and 122 inspections were made.

There were 29 electrical permits issued and 95 inspections made by Electrical Inspector Earl Whittaker’s department. Electrical permitting revenue was $362.

Buddy R. Osborn, Plumbing Inspector, issued 29 permits and 105 inspections were made. Plumbing revenue totaled $376. Osborn, also mechanical inspector, issued 24 permits and 89 inspections were made. Mechanical revenue for April was $411.

Total permitting revenue was $1,619.

Business Systems Solutions Of Oklahoma Opens in P.C.

A new business is Ponca City is Business Systems Solutions of Oklahoma, owned by Robert Spoons, who also works on home computers.

Business Systems Solutions offers a multitude of services for computer users from start to finish. Spoons will install any necessary equipment including cable plant and phone line extensions. Spoons will also help select the best equipment for the customers needs.

After the hardware has been readied, Spoons will install all necessary software for the home or office system. He can also create specialty programming. If the systems are already up and running, Spoons can do hardware repairs and system adjustments that will make computing more efficient. BSSOK, also, offers businesses a variety of monthly service plans that can be tailored to their specific needs.

Spoons has a diverse background in computers starting at age 14 when he was allowed access to Central State University’s VAX. Most recently he was employed by an Oklahoma City company to integrate the computer systems for the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

He previously worked for Sykes as a customer service representative handling both software and hardware service issues. Spoons is a prolific reader of anything pertaining to computers and enjoys designing business, educational, and game programs. He is A+ trained.

Spoons has recently marketed a utility program called TextSPY007. This easy to use program allows customers to simultaneously find and work with multiple files.

TextSpy007 gives quick access to all the files on a system, from INI to HTML, allowing users to view and make changes with full editing capabilities, including Drag and Drop. This tool is for programmers, support techs, and anyone who wants more control over their system.

Go to www.bssok.com for a closer look.

Notes/Quotes

Circle Awards

Connie and Jerry Heald, owners of the local Merry Maids office, have recently earned two new Circle Awards from the Merry Maids corporate office. The Regency and Chancellor Circle Awards recognize excellence in sales and customer service.

The Heald have cleaning team members who are professionally-trained, bonded, insured and covered by Workers’ Compensation. The Healds opened their first office about four years ago in Stillwater and since then have opened offices in Ponca City and Shawnee.

OSBDC Rep Available

On June 2 a representative from the Oklahoma Small Business Development Center (OSBDC) will be in Blackwell and Tonkawa to provide free one-on-one counseling to individuals interested in starting a new business or to existing business owners needing assistance.

The OSBDC network is funded in part by the Small Business Administration and the State of Oklahoma. The Northwest Regional office is located on the campus of Northwestern Oklahoma State University in Alva.

Clients will be seen by appointment only from 9 a.m., to noon at the offices of Kay County Electric Cooperative in Blackwell and in the south conference room of the Administration Building on the campus of NOC in Tonkawa. To schedule an appointment or receive additional information, call (405) 327-8608.

Attend Convention

ORLANDO, Fla. - Steve Spaich of Brandts Ace Hardware at 3203 North Fourteenth was among the more than 12,000 Ace retailers, employees, vendors and guests attending the Ace Hardware Corporation’s 75th Anniversary held in Orlando, Fla. Spaich was accompanied by his wife Rhonda.

Former NFL coach John Madden joined the group at the celebration. Brandts Ace Hardware is one of the 5,100 independent retailers in 62 countries comprising Ace Hardware Corporation, a cooperative wholly-owned by its members.

Refrigerant Certification

STILLWATER - Meridian Technology Center’s evening air conditioning and refrigeration program will offer refrigerant handling certification testing approved by the Environmental Protection Agency.

According to the 1990 Clean Air Act, all HVAC technicians, maintenance workers, or any person involved in the maintenance, repair, service or disposal of equipment containing CFC or HCFC refrigerant must be certified. The testing covers all air conditioning and refrigeration equipment except mobile vehicle air conditioners and in-road vehicle air conditioners such as agricultural and construction vehicles.

Testing is held every Monday and Tuesday night from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. The cost is $45.

Sales Tax Return Up Significantly

By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE

News Business Editor

Ponca City sales tax return from the Oklahoma Tax Commission totaled $912,559 for retail activity during March.

According to Marc L. LaBossiere, City of Ponca City financial officer, “When comparing year-over-year on retail sales, total sales tax collections in the current month have increased from the same period of the prior year by 17.9 percent.

“This significant increase comes on the heels of an 11.5 percent decrease last month, which indicates that results in both months were most likely skewed by timing differences in remittances among a few major retailers.”

The sales tax return figures for March 1999 lists $912,559. While the 1998 figures are listed at $774,056. The February return showed Ponca City coffers received $744,598 for April, down from $841,081 from last year.

The use tax return for March show $65,801 compared to $56,843 for the same time frame in 1998.

Results of other area communities:

City March 99 March 98

Bartlesville $1,042, 526 $920,993

Billings 11, 781 8,756

Blackwell 78,693 81,853

Braman 1,539 1,596

Burbank 428 526

Deer Creek 977 630

Enid 1,449,278 1,184,940

Fairfax 14,386 14,290

Kaw City 2,904 4,788

Lamont 1,850 1,754

Marland 850 770

Medford 22,681 20,104

Morrison 3,353 4,572

Newkirk 24,925 21,816

Pawhuska 52,191 54,760

Pawnee 27,293 39,017

Perry 80,255 73,766

Pond Creek 7,455 5,768

Ralston 993 1,102

Red Rock 553 863

Shidler 1,731 2,844

Stillwater 1,065,215 932,697

Tonkawa 30,537 36,334

Mertz Opening Equipment Retail Center During June

By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE

News Business Editor

Mertz Inc., a longtime Ponca City business and major manufacturer will be opening an equipment retail center in June on the west extension of South Avenue in the company’s former training center, according to Steve Ballinger, general manager.

Interior of the 6,800 square foot building situated on about four and a half acres is currently being remodeled and the exterior property is being upgraded with dirt fill and other improvements.

Mertz purchased a Texas construction trailers sales operation in February and the trailers will be marketed, along with fork lifts and some excavation equipment as well as possible other products.

For some time Mertz has had an equipment sales operation that was conducted from the present facilities on Waverly. But now the business warrants its own facility. Managing the sales operation at the new center will be Rick Vanater. In charge of outside sales is Mark Rutter. The sales area to be covered includes from Wichita to Enid, to south of Oklahoma City, to Tulsa and Springdale, Rogers and Fayetteville, Ark.

U.S. Chamber Salutes Small Business Firms

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is saluting Small Business during this week. May 23 to May 29 has been designated as Small Business Week. According to the Chamber figures small businesses employ 52 percent of private industry workers.

Other statistics of note are that small business accounts for 51 percent of the net new jobs in the economy; 96 percent of all exporters of goods; employs 38 percent of the private workers in high-tech occupations; 51 percent of all the private sector output and represents more than 99 percent of all employers.

New, Bearly New Moving To North Fourteenth Spot

The New and Bearly New shop, owned by Jane Pavlik McDaniel, is changing locations. The store, featuring new and used baby items, children’s clothing, toys and maternity clothes, is moving from the present location in Hartford Shopping Square to North Fourteenth.

The shop will be closed until June 1, when it will reopen at 2010 North Fourteenth next to Mel’s Clothing and Shoes. McDaniel said the move is being made for more visibility. The shop has been open since 1996 and the business has continued to grow.

SPORTS

OSU, Oral Roberts Heading to Wichita
P.C. Thinclads Kick Off Summer Season

OSU, Oral Roberts Heading to Wichita

By The Associated Press

The Oklahoma State and Oral Roberts baseball teams won’t have much traveling to do to reach their NCAA regional site.

Both teams are headed to Wichita, Kan., to begin play Friday in the Wichita State Regional.

The Cowboys (40-17) face UCLA (30-29) while Oral Roberts (46-13) will open the double-elimination tournament against host Wichita State (57-12).

‘‘I think it is close to being a home regional for us,’’ said OSU coach Tom Holliday, whose team also got sent to Wichita last year. ‘‘I don’t think we could have gone anywhere but there and Fayetteville (Ark.) and taken our fans with us.

‘‘We don’t have to spend a whole day traveling, and that’s always been a problem. So, we don’t mind going to Wichita at all.’’

Oklahoma State received its 19th straight NCAA tournament bid, the third-longest streak in the country. The Cowboys last faced UCLA two years ago, when the Bruins beat them twice on the final day of a regional in Stillwater to deny OSU a berth in the College World Series.

Wichita State is the top-seeded team at the regional, followed by Oklahoma State, UCLA and Oral Roberts.

Oral Roberts won its second straight Mid-Continent Tournament championship Sunday. Coach Sunny Golloway said he was disappointed in only being a fourth seed.

‘‘We had a 46-13 record, led the nation in stolen bases, were in the top five in runs scored and top five in batting average. I really thought we’d be a No. 3 seed somewhere. I thought that was realistic,’’ he said.

‘‘‘But this will be a motivating factor for our club. I told them, ‘We continue to get absolutely no respect, so we’ll have to go earn it in a very, very tough regional.’ ’’

NCAA committee chairman Dick Rockwell said the No. 4 seeding was based on the Golden Eagles only winning one game against a team with an RPI lower than 50.

‘‘I would tell the people in Tulsa, ‘Go down there and win it and prove to us you shouldn’t be a fourth seed,’ ’’ he said.

P.C. Thinclads Kick Off Summer Season

TULSA — Thirteen Ponca City youth track and field athletes kicked off the summer track and field season by representing the Ponca City Track Club at the Tulsa East Central All Comers Track and Field meet held Saturday at the Tulsa East Central High School stadium.

The meet included most of the large track and field clubs from Tulsa and Oklahoma City. Several of the Ponca City team members turned in outstanding performances.

Eugene Phillips, Youth boys (age 13, 14) division, placed 1st in the long jump (16' 0"), 2nd in the 200m dash (25.00) and 4th in the 100m dash (12.44).

Aaron Brooke, Intermediate boys (age 15, 16) division, placed 1st in the discus throw (94' 6"), 2nd in the long jump (17' 5"), 3rd in the triple jump (34' 0") and 4th in the high jump (5' 2").

Chelsie Baldwin, Youth girls (age 13, 14) division, placed 1st in the 3000m run (11:38.78), 1st in the 1500m run (5:33.64) and 6th in the long jump (10'5").

Becky Emmons, Midget girls (age 11, 12) division, placed 1st in the shot put (23' 1/2") and 2nd in the long jump (8' 4"). She also competed in the 100m dash (18.63).

Tiffanie Pollard, Youth girls (age 13, 14) division, placed 2nd in the long jump (14' 6"), 3rd in the 100m dash (13.48) and 4th in the 200m dash (28.79).

Antwon Moore, Youth boys (age 13, 14) division, placed 2nd in the long jump (15' 0") and competed in the 100m dash (14.03).

Ricco Lee, Bantam boys (age 9, 10) division, placed 2nd in the long jump and competed in the 100m dash (17.16).

Susie Emmons, Youth girls (age 13, 14) division, competed in the 100m dash and long jump (10' 0").

Demcos Dorsey, Midget boys (age 11, 12) division, competed in the 100m dash (15.10) and the long jump (8' 0").

Antral Miller, Midget boys (age 11, 12) division, competed in the 100m dash (15.10).

Marcelle Miller, Youth boys (age 13, 14) division, competed in the 100m dash (15.00) and the long jump ( 10' 6 1/2 ").

Kyle Baldwin, Midget boys (age 11, 12) division, competed in the long jump (10' 0").

Tim Harris, Midget boys (age 11, 12) division, competed in the 100m dash (17.05).

Additionally, the Midget boys (Antral Miller, Kyle Baldwin, Tim Harris and Demecos Dorsey) competed in the 4 by 100m relay finishing 2nd in a time of 1:02.00.

Next up for the club is the Oklahoma Association USATF Age Group Championships to held at Jenks High School on Saturday, May 29.

There is still time to sign up and compete with the club this summer.

Practices begin at 5:30 P.M. each Monday, Tuesday and Thursday and you can sign up at any of the practices.