LOCAL

City Well Positioned To Attract Industry
More Rain in Forecast
Nearly News
Central Business District Zoning on Planning Agenda
Art Center Home To Fine Gifts
Highest Girl Scout Award To Two Ponca City Girls
Crime Stoppers
School Board Sets Special Session Thursday at Noon
Fire Safety Must Be Practiced Prior To Blazes

City Well Positioned To Attract Industry

By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE

News Business Editor

Ponca City is well positioned to attract industry due to infrastructure and telecommunications in particular, according to Jan Jarrett, Economic Development director.

Jarrett explained, “We believe that we are positioned in this community to help jump-start the state’s technology effort. We’ve seen a lot of publicity lately about how different communities are getting ready and they are starting to build parks and they are starting to put together infrastructure and so forth — we already have those in place.

“Conoco have been working with our local economic development people and they have said to us ‘we have space available both office and laboratory and research space that we will make available for reuse and redevelopment and we will give at very, very competitive rates.’ There is about 100,000 square feet of laboratory and office space in the Research and Development West building and it is state-of-the-art. It is current — it is ready to go and meets all of the standards nationally.”

Jarrett added, “There is about 150,000 square feet of office space available in the North Tower. This kind of infrastructure, if we would put a dollar figure on it, maybe worth $150 million. It is going to take a lot for other areas to develop that kind of infrastructure.”

Commenting on the telecommunications angle, Jarrett said, “From a telecommunications standpoint we have in the Conoco facility any kind of telecommunications equipment that would be needed anywhere. The facility is already being used as a worldwide telecommunications hub by Conoco, so the facilities are present.”

“What we have been doing for the past few months is working every networking connection that we have in Oklahoma from the Department of Commerce to OCAST to Oklahoma Technology Commercialization Center to the technology people at OSU and OU and we just got back from Washington, D.C., where we met with our Congressional delegation.”

“The plan,” according to Jarrett, “is to develop this area and market it so it has flexibility to do one of two things. One be a site and location for smaller companies that incubate, develop technology and move out into the community and manufacture the results.”

Jarrett continued, “The second would be to locate some type of ongoing, emerging program that could utilize the great majority of the space at Conoco because of the savings that could be available to the companies.

“We have been actively marketing this. Although it doesn’t have the sizzle that we are going to build a new park we don’t need to — it is already there.”

More Rain in Forecast

By The Associated Press

A flash flood watch was in effect for 14 central and northeast Oklahoma counties today as storms continued to dump rain across the state, causing minor street flooding.

Bruce Thorn, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Norman, said storms were heaviest this morning along a line from Norman south to Pauls Valley and that cell was moving southeast. Rainfall was lighter but steady in other areas, he said, calling it ‘‘a good garden rain.’’

Minor street flooding in low-lying areas was reported in Norman. Mike Holt, a lieutenant with the Cleveland County Sheriff’s Department and deputy director of the county emergency management agency, said creeks were swollen but the ground was absorbing much of the rain for now.

‘‘I don’t know how much more it can take,’’ he said.

Thorn said clouds in central and northeast Oklahoma were expected to begin dissipating by afternoon, allowing the sun to shine through and temperatures to rise into the mid and upper 80s.

Southeast Oklahoma probably won’t get a respite from rains as it is ‘‘pretty well socked in’’ with clouds, Thorn said.

He said rains did detour around Oklahoma’s southwestern corner, which has received up to 6 inches of rainfall over the past two weeks and needed the break.

In northwest Oklahoma City, some cars stalled out in high water early today as heavy rains moved through the metropolitan area.

An Oklahoma City police officer was treated and released after he lost control of his car on rain-slickened Interstate 235 in the northern part of the city. Police Capt. Charles Allen said the patrol car struck barriers on both sides of the roadway before being struck by another car.

Four-lane streets were down to two lanes in parts of south Oklahoma City this morning because of standing water, Allen said. He said there were few problems other than congestion.

Allen said there were fewer morning traffic accidents because it was raining when motorists got out and they couldn’t go as fast as they might normally drive.

As clouds begin breaking up this afternoon, the combination of high temperatures and moisture in the atmosphere were forecast to produce a few severe storms. Strong winds and large hail will be the main threats.

Locally heavy rain was possible in northeastern Oklahoma. Highs will range from the upper 70s near the Missouri border to mid 80s in southeast Oklahoma.

Storms over Kansas and Oklahoma were expected to organize into yet another complex tonight with the greatest threat of severe storms in western Oklahoma. Strong winds will be the main threat.

Thursday will be partly cloudy with a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms. Highs will be in the upper 80s to lower 90s.

More clouds are expected Thursday night, and there is a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms. Lows will range from the mid 60s to mid 70s.

In the extended forecast, Friday will be partly cloudy with a slight chance of thunderstorms. Highs will range from the upper 80s and the mid 90s.

Saturday will be partly cloudy with a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms. Lows will be in the 60s and 70s with highs in the 90s.

Nearly News

Citizens have been warned of phone scams across the nation. Unfortunately, Ponca City is not exempt. Nearly News received a call from a citizen who had been the possible target of such a scam. The citizen received a phone call offering an MCI long distance upgrade at no charge — all for a little personal information. The caller then asking for date of birth, but when the citizen asked the caller her name and phone number, the call was mysteriously disconnected. A call was then made to MCI to inquire as to the validity of the caller and MCI reported no such promotion was being offered. According to Brian VanArsdale, Ponca City Police Department, be aware of anyone initiating a phone call with an offer and asking for any personal information. When receiving an unwanted sales call, never give out any personal information and ask the caller to take your name off their list— and immediately hang up.

Central Business District Zoning on Planning Agenda

By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE

News Business Editor

Ponca City Planning Commission at the July 6 meeting will be considering the closing of right-of-way in Redbud Park, historic zoning on North Sixth Street and Central Business District zoning for the downtown area. The meeting is slated for 7:30 p.m., in the Public Safety Center.

Redbud Park is south of Hartford at the south end of Turner Road in East Woodlands Addition.

A petition has been filed to implement a Historic Preservation District zoning from North Sixth Street from Cleveland Avenue to Hazel Avenue including both sides of the street.

The petition for the Central Business District includes the project beginning at the intersection of North Oak Street and Cleveland Avenue and east to the Railroad Right-of-way/then north about 380 feet to Chestnut Avenue and east along Chestnut Avenue to the alley between Third Street then south to Cleveland Avenue and east on Cleveland to North Fifth Street and south to Oklahoma Avenue and west to Oak and north on Oak to the point of beginning (the Santa Fe Depot, located at the west end of Oklahoma Avenue on the east side of the railroad tracks is included in the proposed district).

The Central Business District (CBD) designation, according to the zoning codes of Ponca City, is intended to be a pedestrian oriented concentration of mixed uses allowing for a wide range of commercial, residential, office and limited light industrial uses.

According to the zoning codes, there may be limited off-street parking requirements. Convenience shopping and the stability of retail development is promoted by encouraging continuous retail frontage. It is intended for the Downtown Core to facilitate the adaptation of existing buildings to a more vital mixture of uses while conserving the exterior architectural quality of and era of historic significance.

Protests against these proposed zonings must be filed before the date of the public hearing of the City of Ponca City. Protest petitions can be filed at the Ponca City Planning Department in Suite 305, Commercial Federal Building, 400 East Central.

Art Center Home To Fine Gifts

In 1965, after the purchase of the Ponca City Art Center, the Soldani home at Ninth Street and Central Avenue, several interesting objects were saved. Among the items saved were a tapestry, walking stick, and fan.

Since membership was comprised of artist and people interested in art, the rooms downstairs were designated to become galleries with classes to be taught in the upstairs rooms. These were also available as group studios in which artists could work.

Slowly gifts of art were donated to form a nucleus of a collection. Hand painted china and a few small paintings were given. Then a Jacque Hans Galleria was donated by Nell Hicks, a Nathaniel Cole was a gift of Beulah Jones, and A. Birger Sandzen lithograph by Dr. Neal’s family in memory of Leona Howland Smyth. Slowly a collection was formed.

In the 1970s, funds were growing and ten paintings were purchased. Fifteen pieces of artwork were gifts of artists who came to Ponca City to teach workshops for the center.

By the 1980s, the center had acquired 45 more works of art — 37 donated and eight purchased.

The 1990s, however, yielded only four donations and three purchases.

The question is, then, whether the citizens of Ponca City realizes that the Ponca City Art Association is a safe, nonprofit art-oriented organization. Gifts of fine works of art from citizens of the community are displayed, cared for and appreciated; a tax credit of fair evaluation is also given.

Each summer the Fine Art Collection is on display at the Art Center, as well as on special occasions. The summer show opens today and will continue through the summer months. The center contains approximately 75 paintings with a value of over $35,000.

Although the entire collection cannot be on display at the same time, the art is rotated so the public has the chance to see all works within a year’s span. The collection contains western, Native American, European, abstract/modern, 20th Century European and, of course, art by local artists, and the media includes sculpture, lithographs, oils, watercolors, pastels and graphics, showing a selection of interest for all tastes.

The Art Center offers a tour for large and small groups, if desired, and a receptionist is available to answer any questions concerning the Art Association or any work of art. The Ponca City Art Association is soliciting any and all suggestions for expansion and growth of the Ponca City Art Center and the Ponca City Art Association.

Highest Girl Scout Award To Two Ponca City Girls

Honored recently for their pursuit of excellence and accomplishments were Girl Scouts representing Bluestem Council at the annual Girl Scout Gold and Silver Award Ceremony. All levels of Girl Scouting were represented as girls received awards ranging from top cookie seller to the Girl Scout gold award.

Among the senior Girl Scouts earning the gold award, the highest and most prestigious award a Girl Scout may earn, were Jacqueline Dyer and Anne Lenhart from Ponca City. Receiving the silver award, the highest award a cadette Girl Scout may earn and the second highest award in Girl Scouting were 15 Girl Scouts.

Others honored during the ceremony were 16 graduation seniors, 12 recipients of the 10-year service pin, and the top cookie and fall product sellers. In order to receive the 10-year service pin, Girl Scouts must be a registered member of Girl Scouting for at least 10 years, demonstrate a commitment to excel, a belief in the Girl Scout movement and dedication to themselves and the world around them.

The Girl Scouts gold award is received by senior Girls Scouts in 9th through 12th grade who fulfill five requirements. The awardee must earn four interest project patches, the career exploration pin, the senior Girl Scout challenge, and the leadership award. The final Girl Scout gold award project must take a minimum of 50 hours. This time includes planning, making contacts, training others, and implementing the project.

Jacqueline Dyer, senior Girl Scout Troop 561 in Ponca City, completed the requirements for earning her gold award by organizing props, materials and supplies to guide children through Bible-time cities to learn of life during the time of Jesus and his Disciples for her final gold award project. Dyer was the acting assistant to the director of vacation Bible school at St. Paul’s in Ponca City. She is the daughter of David and Linda Dyer and will be a sophomore at Northern Oklahoma College in Tonkawa.

Anne Lenhart, senior Girl Scout Troop 561, created a song tape of common Girl Scout songs and designed a written booklet to accompany the tape. She distributed the package to each service unit throughout the council. Lenhart will be an aide at Pax Lodge, London, England, in the fall. Pax Lodge is one of the four world centers for Girl Scouts and Girl Guides. Only one Girl Scout or Girl Guide per country may work at any one center at a time.

To earn the silver award, cadette Girl Scouts must be in grades 7-9 and meet five requirements. They must earn three interest project patches, the career exploration project, the leadership award, the cadette Girl Scout challenge and complete the final silver award project, with a minimum of 30 hours of planning and implementation.

Jennifer Tippin, cadette Girl Scout Troop 458, Ponca City, researched where the individuals settled in Kay County during the Cherokee Strip Land Rush. She then alphabetized the names according to township with the exact location of their claim and entered it into a database she designed. The finished project was given to the Pioneer Woman Museum. She is the daughter of Jon and Kathy Tippin and will be a junior at Ponca City High School.

Julia Weigant, senior Girl Scout Troop 521, Pawhuska, built, sanded, and painted the benches around the main campfire ring at Camp Wah-Shah-She. She is the daughter of Jim and Ellen Weigant and will be a junior at Pawhuska High School.

Others earning the silver award included Crystal Bounds and Laura Todd of Ponca City.

Whether in business, sports, government, science, education or the arts, Girl Scouts launch leaders in all fields. Bluestem Council is a United Way agency and encompasses 16 counties in northeast Oklahoma and southeast Kansas.

Crime Stoppers

Willow Springs Park Burglaries

Crime Stoppers is looking for anyone who has information about two burglaries which occurred at Willow Springs Softball Park recently. According to the Ponca City Police Department, the burglaries occurred one week apart.

The umpire’s storage building was forcibly entered sometime between 9 a.m. on Sunday, June 13 and 1:30 p.m. on Monday, June 14. Entry was gained through a window when the suspect pushed out an air-conditioning unit. The door and window screen received substantial damage during the suspect’s unsuccessful attempt to enter the concession area. However, several hand tools were taken.

On June 20, police were again called to the softball park, to the report of a burglary to the concession. Apparently, the south door of the concession was pried open sometime between 3:30 p.m. on Sunday, June 20, and noon on Monday, June 21. Food items were missing.

If you have any information regarding either burglary at Willow Springs Softball Park, or any other crime, please call Crime Stoppers at 762-5100. Callers will remain anonymous and may qualify for a reward of up to $1,000.

School Board Sets Special Session Thursday at Noon

A special meeting of the Ponca City Board of Education has been called for noon Thursday at the administration offices of the Board of Education, 111 West Grand.

On the agenda are four main items — the district financial reports, final encumbrances and change orders for the 1998-1999 school year; a quote from Pembertons for the purchase of a Chevrolet Lumina, cost of $16,385, for the district transportation pool; agreement with Wetzel Agency to provide district’s property and liability insurance for $87,204 and school board legal liability insurance for $14,838; and a maintenance agreement with Kay Office Company for a copy machine for $500 annually.

Also on the agenda is the proposed confidential executive session to discuss the appointment, employment, promotion, demotion, disciplining, reassignment, resignation and termination of personnel and then the approval of those recommendations.

Fire Safety Must Be Practiced Prior To Blazes

The Ponca City Fire Department encourages parents to practice fire safety with children at home, to prevent them from becoming victims of a fire.

Children need to know the true nature of fire. It is fast, hot, dark and deadly. Also, demonstrate how to stop, drop to the ground and roll if their clothes catch fire.

Additionally, develop a home fire escape plan and practice it with your children. Also, designate a meeting place. Raise the window to see if children can crawl out or to see whether the window will open wide enough.

Familiarize children with the sound of the smoke detector. Teach children not to hide from firefighters, but to get out quickly and call for help from another location.

Remind children not to stand up in a fire, but to crawl low under the smoke and keep their mouths covered.

DEATHS

Sylvia F. Eastin
Alton LeRoy
Vivian Jean Lewman
Ira O. Huffington
Maybell Sylvene Huffington
Charles Howard Scott

Sylvia F. Eastin

TONKAWA — Sylvia F. Eastin, longtime Tonkawa resident, died Monday, June 21, 1999, at Willow Haven Nursing Home in Tonkawa. She was 83.

The funeral will be held graveside at 11 a.m. Thursday, June 24, at the Tonkawa IOOF Cemetery. The Rev. Mark Buchanan of the Pawhuska Bible Church, will officiate. Arrangements are under the direction of McCafferty-Bolick Funeral Home, Tonkawa. Friends may visit at the funeral home until 8 p.m. Wednesday and from 8 to 10 a.m., Thursday.

Sylvia F. (Love) Eastin was born March 23, 1916, in Winfield, Kan., to Burton and Minnie (Lawson) Love. She moved to Oklahoma at an early age and received her education in Tonkawa graduating from high school there in 1933.

She was married to Leslie “Ted” Eastin in Sapulpa on Dec. 11, 1939 and she traveled with her husband in his pipeline work. At one time she was employed as a clerk at Wal-Mart in Lebanon, Mo. After Mr. Eastin’s death on July 8, 1982, she moved back to Tonkawa. She was a member of the First Baptist Church.

Survivors include one sister, Garnett McGaha; and several nieces and nephews. In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by two sisters, Carmel McGaha and Goldia Duroy; and a brother Percy Love.

Alton LeRoy

Alton “Al-bah” LeRoy, former Ponca City resident, was found dead Monday morning, June 21, 1999, in Oklahoma City. He was 24.

The funeral will be held at 2 p.m., Wednesday, June 23, at Grace Memorial Chapel with Minister Toby A. Blackstar, Greater First Deliverance Temple, Oklahoma City, officiating. Burial will follow in the Ponca Tribal Cemetery at White Eagle.

Alton “Al-bah” LeRoy was born July 27, 1974, in Pawnee, the son of Antoine LeRoy and Elvira (Primeaux) Sroufe. He was a proud member of the Ponca Tribe. He grew up and attended schools in Ponca City.

LeRoy had moved to Oklahoma City to live and care for a sister, Althena LeRoy, who preceded him in death on May 22, 1999. When he came to visit his mother in Ponca City he attended the Church on the Right Track. LeRoy enjoyed basketball, volleyball and softball as well as visiting and being with his friends.

He is survived by his mother Elvira (Primeaux) Sroufe of Ponca City; one sister, Altonya LeRoy; one brother, Eddie Sroufe; and several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends. In addition to his sister, he was preceded in death by his father, step-father, and grandparents.

The family will be at the home of his mother, Elvira Sroufe, 420 South Pine Street.

Vivian Jean Lewman

NEWKIRK — Vivian Jean Lewman, longtime Newkirk resident, died Sunday morning, June 20, 1999, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center in Ponca City. She was 70.

The funeral was to be held graveside at 2 p.m. today, June 23, at the Newkirk Cemetery with the Rev. J. Craig Ortwein, minister of the Newkirk Christ’s Church officiating. Arrangements were under the direction of Miller-Stahl Funeral Service, Newkirk.

Vivian Jean (Ramsey) Lewman was born July 9, 1928, in Arkansas City, the daughter of Lucy Mae Ramsey. She grew up and lived with her mother and grandparents in the family home located on the Oklahoma/Kansas state line north of Newkirk. She attended Tipton Rural School.

On March 4, 1946, she was married to Fred Samuel Lewman in Wellington, Kan., and the couple made their first home in Newkirk. Mrs. Lewman was employed at Harry’s Cafe and later managed the Newkirk Sale Barn. After her husband’s retirement in 1975, the couple moved to the Rio Grande Valley in Texas. While living in Texas Mrs. Lewman was employed in Mission and McAllen as a dietitian in a nursing home and a hospital. The couple returned to Newkirk in 1990, where she worked for Dairy Cream and later Smith Country Restaurant. At the time of her death she was employed as The Eatery supervisor at Kaw Bingo. She was a member of the Newkirk First Baptist Church. She enjoyed playing Bingo and being with her dog.

Survivors include three sons, Gary “Bud” Lewman and David A. Lewman, both of Newkirk, and Fred E. Lewman of Ponca City; six grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband on Nov. 19, 1992; one daughter, Mary Ann Majors; and her mother and grandparents.

A memorial fund has been established in Mrs. Lewman’s name with the American Lung Association, c/o Eastman National Bank, P.O. Box 468, Newkirk, OK 74647-0468.

Ira O. Huffington

BLACKWELL — Ira O. “Oat” Huffington, former Blackwell resident, died early Tuesday morning, June 22, 1999, at Doctor’s Hospital in Tulsa. He was 86.

The funeral will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, June 24, at the Blackwell First Christian Church with The Rev. Daryl Donovan, First Christian Church, and Mr. Mac Bradley, officiating. Burial will be in the Blackwell Cemetery under the direction of Roberts and Son Funeral Home, Blackwell.

Ira O. “Oat” Huffington was born Nov. 15, 1912, in Rocky, Okla., to David and Cora Huffington. He grew up and attended schools in Blackwell.

He was married to Maybell Sylvene Currie on Jan. 20, 1934, in Blackwell, where they made their first home. They later moved to several locations in Kansas where he was employed in the oil fields and aircraft plants. He also worked for 20 years as an auctioneer and for 30 years as a carpet installer. In earlier years he sang and played the ukelele and his favorite song was “Five Foot Two, Eyes of Blue.” He was a member of the Blackwell First Christian Church. Due to ill health, he and his wife moved to Tulsa to live near a daughter in September 1996. They resided at the Colonial Manor Retirement Center there.

Survivors include a daughter, Linda Goble of Tulsa; one brother, Jack Huffington of Wichita, Kan.; two nephews and two nieces.

Casket bearers will be Floyd Buesing, JoDel Shepherd, Paul Love, Larry Cannon, Brad Evans and Frank Dyer.

Memorial contributions may be made in Mr. Huffington’s name to Prevent Blindness of Oklahoma — Macular Degeneration, c/o Roberts Funeral Home, 120 West Padon, Blackwell, OK 74631.

Maybell Sylvene Huffington

BLACKWELL — Maybell Sylvene Huffington, former Blackwell resident, died Monday morning, June 21, 1999, at Colonial Manor Retirement Center in Tulsa. She was 89.

The funeral will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, June 24, at the Blackwell First Christian Church with the Rev. Daryl Donovan and Mr. Mac Bradley, officiating. Burial will be in the Blackwell Cemetery under the direction of Roberts and Son Funeral Home, Blackwell.

Maybell Sylvene (Currie) Huffington was born June 11, 1910, on the family farm near Blackwell to John and May (North) Currie. She grew up in Blackwell.

On Jan. 20, 1934, she was married to Ira “Oat” Huffington and the couple made their home in Blackwell. Mrs. Huffington was a homemaker and had worked for a time as a beautician at the Bobette Beauty Shop. She later resigned and moved with her husband as he worked in Kansas. Due to ill health the couple moved in September 1996 to Colonial Manor Retirement Center in Tulsa. Mrs. Huffington was a member of the Blackwell First Christian Church. She was an avid bowler, golfer and card player and enjoyed spending many hours with friends.

Survivors include one daughter, Linda Goble of Tulsa; one brother, William Currie of Blackwell; two nieces and one nephew.

Casket bearers will be Floyd Buesing, JoDel Shepherd, Paul Love, Larry Cannon, Brad Evans and Frank Dyer.

Memorial contributions may be made in Mrs. Huffington’s name to Prevent Blindness of Oklahoma — Macular Degeneration, c/o Roberts and Son Funeral Home Inc., 120 West Padon, Blackwell, OK 74631.

Obituaries

Charles Howard Scott

Charles Howard Scott passed away June 21, 1999, in Ponca City at the age of 82. He was born on April 20, 1917 in Sharon, Okla., to Frank and Clara Scott. He grew up in Sapulpa, where he graduated from high school before moving to Stillwater where he attended and graduated from Oklahoma A&M (Oklahoma State University).

Upon graduation and after a brief term of employment with Phillips 66 in Bartlesville, Mr. Scott moved to Burbank, Calif., where he worked as a data processor. He was commissioned into the Navy during World War II. His contribution to the war effort was significant in that he used his computer programming skills to help develop a program that was subsequently used to decode enemy radio transmissions that eventually help lead to victory.

Prior to entering the armed forces, Mr. Scott met and married Naomi Creekmore in Enid, with whom he remained a faithful and steadfast partner for 57 years. Upon completion of his military service, the couple moved to Tulsa where he began a successful career with the IBM Corporation. He retired after 25 years of service. His final assignment was as IBM National Account Manager for Conoco in Ponca City where he and Naomi chose to retire.

Mr. Scott loved to hunt, fish, and play golf. He was a longtime member of the Ponca City Country Club and the First United Methodist Church. He also enjoyed rock hounding and was an accomplished amateur jewelry maker. He was also a self-taught musician and loved to play an assortment of stringed instruments.

His greatest source of joy, however, was traveling the back roads in his van. His excursions almost always took him to areas normally untraveled by tourists. He and Naomi would spend hours visiting and getting to know the locals and their customs. His travels were well documented by video and by his memoirs which he enjoyed writing.

Mr. Scott will be fondly remembered for his rare and witty sense of humor. He always found a way to make those around him laugh, even as he approached death.

Howard Scott is survived by his wife, and three children, Sue Lupardus of Tulsa, Creek Scott of Taos, and Charlie Scott and wife Anne, of Perry. He dearly loved his seven grandchildren and five great-grandchildren Corey Scott of Rogers, Ark.; Marissa Scott and her daughter Brianna of Claremore; Nicole Lupardus of Tulsa; Mandy Purdam and husband Bobby and children, Emily, James, Joseph, and J.R. of Tulsa; Andy Scott and special friend Kathy Shapiro of Minneapolis, Minn.; and Toby Scott of Stillwater and his special friend Jennifer Smallwood of Perry. He is also survived by a special family friend, Willie Zuniga of Tulsa. His loving sister, Lela Harrison of Houston also survives him.

The funeral service will be held at 10 a.m., Thursday, June 24, 1999 in the Trout Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Ginny Hathaway, pastor, First United Methodist Church of Perry officiating. Burial will follow in Resthaven Memorial Park Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Ponca City, 1904 North Union, Suite 103, Ponca City, OK, 74601.

paid obituary

NEWS BRIEFS

Burbank Sets Open House — The Burbank Volunteer Fire Department will hold an open house to show off their new expansion Saturday from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. during the Community Block Party and Get Together with the town of Burbank and the Burbank First Baptist Church. The Fire Station will give away free balloons and ice cream cones during this time (while supplies last). Come join in on the fun and games and see what you have helped accomplish. Hope to see you there and thanks for making it all possible.

Jueschke Carpet Cleaners. For professional carpet cleaning, call the professionals. Jueschke Carpet Cleaners. 765-3421. adv.

Former Teachers and Friends Invited — The Po-Hi Class of 1964 invites all former teachers and friends of classmates to be its guest at its registration party Friday from 6 to 10 p.m. at Grand Central Station.

Court Allen Construction. Concrete and flagstone walkways, patios and yard curbing. Call 765-2720. adv.

Workroom Supplies — The Family Resource Center, 700 West Broadway in the old Lincoln School, offers a variety of workroom supplies to include roll laminator at 30 cents a foot, copy machine at 10 cents a copy (5 cents with own paper), book binding machine, Ellison die cuts and a large paper cutter. Charges cover cost only. For additional information, call 767-9509.

AF Airman Himbury Graduates — Air Force Airman 1st Class Gwen J. Himbury has graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas. During the six weeks of training, the airman studied the Air Force mission, organization and customs and received special training in human relations. In addition, she completed basic training, earning credits toward an associate degree through the Community College of the Air Force. Himbury, a 1994 graduate of Ponca City High School, is the daughter of Richard R. Himbury of 2100 North Osage in Ponca City, and Jana B. Tuggle of Arlington, Texas, a former Ponca Citian.

Nail Tech/Stylist position open at Designer Original Salon, top pay, experience preferred. 762-8700 after 8:00 p.m. 762-2136. adv.

Time to Think Afghans — It’s School Reunion and Family Reunion time and that’s the time to remember the First United Methodist Women still have afghans that make excellent gifts for out-of-towners with Ponca City connections. They are available in four colors — burgundy, Hunter green, blue and navy. Phone 762-1429 or 765-0157. The money goes to missions.

Stolen — A resident in the 2900 block of North Union Street contacted the Ponca City Police Department at 9:26 a.m. Tuesday to report property was stolen. An officer responded and took a report.

SJRMC Tests Generating System — St. Joseph Regional Medical Center will conduct a test of its emergency generating system Thursday at 9 p.m. At that time, SJRMC will go off city power. The only difference patients, family members and visitors should notice will be a decreased amount of lighting. Department directors and nursing unit directors will be on hand to assist the safety committee with this important test. The test will be postponed if there is any type of emergency at that time and city power crews will be present to return the Medical Center to city power if needed. For further information, please call Cheryle Hiebert, SJRMC’s Safety Officer, 765-0200.

Windshield Sale: Extra June Specials! 94-98 Dodge Pickup, $275; 88 & up Chevy pickup, $275. Johnson Glass, 515 South First, 762-2012. Call today for your appointment! adv.

Warrant Served — A Ponca City police officer arrested a 44-year-old man in the 700 block of North Pine Street at 8:29 a.m. Tuesday, on a city warrant.

Fabric $1.00 yard, carded buttons and assorted trims. 111 North 4th.adv.

Court Committed — A Ponca City police officer took a man and a woman into custody from Ponca City Municipal Court at 4:35 p.m. Tuesday. The judge ordered the two to serve time in the Ponca City jail.

Jim Bowen Construction­ Custom homes, room additions and remodeling. Call 762-3077. adv.

Vandalism — A Ponca City police officer responded to the 2100 block of Turner Road at 9:38 a.m. Tuesday and took a report of vandalism to the lot.

Have Pet? Can travel! In-home pet sitting service. We love them when you have to leave them! 762-4205.adv.

Accident — At 12:36 p.m. Tuesday, a Ponca City police officer took a report of an accident which occurred in the 2000 block of North Fourteenth Street.

WWF King of the Ring...Live on Pay Per View. Sunday, June 27th at 7:00pm. Explosive wrestling action, you must watch Pay Per View through the Zenith converter box. Call 762-6684 Cable One to order. adv.

Collision — At 12:44 p.m. Tuesday, a Ponca City police officer took a report of a minor accident which occurred in the 2400 block of North Fourteenth Street.

Once Again it is time for the Rusty Barrel to close for cleaning. We will close Sunday June 27th thru July 4th, 1999. We will re-open Monday July 5th, 1999. adv.

Warrant Served — At 4:46 p.m. Tuesday, a Ponca City police officer arrested a 19-year-old man at North Fifth Street and East Park Avenue for a city warrant.

Mishap — A motorist advised the Ponca City Police Department at 11:56 p.m. Tuesday that a semi truck was in the ditch on Interstate 35. The Oklahoma Highway Patrol was advised.

Destruction — An employee of Burger King, 2908 North Fourteenth Street, notified the Ponca City Police Department at 3:41 p.m. Tuesday, that two youth were tearing up playground equipment. An officer responded and took an 11-year-old and a 10-year-old into custody. The children were cited and released to a parent on a promise to appear in juvenile court.

Reverse Osmosis water 25 cents per gallon. Pure Water Wagon. 1717 North 5th. adv.

Grand Larceny — At 3:42 p.m. Tuesday, a Ponca City police officer took a report of grand larceny in the 400 block of South Lake Street. Apparently, a storm door was stolen from the residence.

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.

Accident — A Ponca City police officer responded to the report of a two-vehicle non-injury accident in the 400 block of North Fourteenth Street at 3:46 p.m. Tuesday. A report was taken.

Head Country, One half bar-b-que chicken with choice of vegetables, $4.25, Thursday, 11 am until gone. 1217 East Prospect. 767-8304. adv.

Warrant Served — At 3:53 p.m. Tuesday, a Ponca City police officer arrested a 25-year-old man in the 800 block of North Elm Street on a Kay County warrant.

Windshield Chips repaired professionally. Guaranteed and insurance approved. Ponca Glass, 762-6522, 762-7957. adv.

Collision — At 3:53 p.m. Tuesday, a motorist notified the Ponca City Police Department of a two-vehicle non-injury accident which occurred one-half mile north of U.S. 412 on Interstate 35. The Oklahoma Highway Patrol was advised.

Theft — An employee at Woodridge Market, 4128 Lake Road, contacted the Ponca City Police Department at 9:17 a.m. Tuesday to report the driver in a brown thunderbird drove off westbound on Lake Road without paying for gas.

Arrested — A 19-year-old man was taken into custody at the Ponca City Police Department by an officer at 5:20 p.m. Tuesday on a city warrant and four Kay County warrants.

Vandalism — A resident in the 500 block of Foster Avenue contacted the Ponca City Police Department at 6:13 p.m. Tuesday to report two vehicles were vandalized. An officer responded and took a report.

LIFESTYLES

Party Honors Holly Long
Reception To Fete Wheelers

Party Honors Holly Long

Holly Long and Ollie Blackstar were honored on June 19 at a bridal shower in the parlor of the First Baptist Church. The serving table was decorated in a burgundy and gold color scheme, the chosen bridal colors. The wedding will be held at the First Baptist Church on August 7.

Heather Heslip, sister of the bride-elect, and Julie Northcutt assisted the couple with their gifts. Honored guests were the bride-elect’s mother, Mrs. Doug Long, the future bridegroom’s mother, Mrs. Oliver Blackstar, and Mrs. J.C. Rankin, grandmother of the bride-to-be.

Hostesses for the event were Teri Baskin, Terry Blubaugh, Barbara Davis, Julie Dilbeck, Cathy Ferguson, Amy Heslip, Sharon Maddox, Barbara Masters, Carolyn May, Sandy Morris, Jen Northcutt, Deanna Orr, Gail Purkaple, Julia Smith, Sue Witteman, and Gayle Young.

Reception To Fete Wheelers

Darby and Pansy Wheeler will be honored June 26 during a 40th anniversary celebration at the Service Bank Community Room in Tonkawa. The 2-4 p.m. event is being hosted by their children, and friends and family are invited to attend. The couple owns Wheeler Furniture Restoration and have resided in Tonkawa for 17 years.

Darby Wheeler and the former Pansy Marshall were united in marriage June 28, 1959, in the First Methodist Church in Hennessey. They began farming at Lovell, and have resided in Cordell, Lamont and Tonkawa.

Their family includes three sons: Charles Wheeler, and his wife, Regina, and son, Sean of Guthrie; Lloyd Wheeler, and his wife, Lisa, son, Austin and daughter, Alexandria of Tulsa; and the late Arthur Wheeler.

SPORTS

OSU Junior Matthews Turning Pro
Jr. Tennis Tournament Put On Hold

OSU Junior Matthews Turning Pro

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — The Oklahoma State baseball team will be without leading RBI producer Lamont Matthews next year.

Matthews has signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers organization, coach Tom Holliday said Tuesday. The Dodgers had drafted Matthews in the 10th round of this month’s major league draft.

Two other OSU juniors have signed pro contracts — pitchers Thom Dreier with Toronto and Jeremy Krismer with Milwaukee.

Seniors Josh Holliday, Kevin Lucas and Billy Gasparino had previously signed with Toronto, Kansas City and Colorado, respectively.

At the University of Oklahoma, junior pitcher Valentino Pascucci has signed with the Montreal Expos organization.

Coach Larry Cochell says outfielder-relief pitcher Jeff Bajenaru will return for his senior season.

First baseman Casey Bookout and catcher Ryan Van Horn, both seniors, had previously signed with Cincinnati and the Chicago Cubs, respectively.

Jr. Tennis Tournament Put On Hold

Ponca City’s Bank of Oklahoma Junior Tennis Tournament breezed through five divisions of singles play on Monday and Tournament Director Mike Larimer had visions of taking most of the day off today.

That dream was washed away by the waves of rain that hit the area Tuesday, canceling most of the day’s play. Tournament officials got in a few of the first round matches in the 12-and-Under division, but doubles matches in all of the age brackets were rained out.

After much squeegeeing of the courts, play was to resume late this morning in hopes of completing all of the divisions before more rain falls.

A novice division is schedule for Thursday, the final day of the tournament.