LOCAL

Specific Actions for Control of Streets
Responding To Paramedic Service
Paganism and Christianity
City Calendar
Child Development Center Safe Place Away From Home for Kids
Additional Courses Are Being Added To ULC
Po-Hi Student in ‘The King and I’ At Southwestern College Event
Asleep at the Wheel Coming to The Poncan
Tallgrass Prairie Kicks Off Brown Bag Lunch Series
Longwood Baptist Church Begins VBS on Monday
Health Insurance Proposal On City Commission Agenda
Teens Must Realize Dangers of HIV Threat
Mystery Man Challenges Others in YMCA Campaign
Cardiovascular Research Reducing Heart Problems
After Five Lions Install New Officers
Summer Menu
Recording Artist Appears Here To Sign Autographs
Dr. Paul Davis Volunteering To Help Kosovo Refugees
District Court
Special Gift From P.C. Mother’s Club
Baylor Leads The Way With New Eye Surgery
Climbing Wall New At YMCA
Drama, Debate Students Receive NFL Recognition
Nearly News

Letters

Specific Actions for Control of Streets

In the first installment of this letter, I discussed some of the facts behind the rhetoric of gun control. In this second installment, we will describe the specific actions that must be taken to regain control of America’s streets.

What America needs is a common-sense approach to crime control in America. This approach should include a 6-point plan that will focus on the three major issues of (1) the citizen’s right to self-protection, (2) individual responsibility of parents and gun owners, and (3) the elimination of the criminal from society.

Point One is a federal right-to-carry law that includes minimum training and certification standards for all states that issue carry permits. At present, many states issue concealed-carry permits, but the requirements vary widely and are in many cases insufficient to assure competent handling of a firearm by the armed citizen. We should do everything possible to make sure that citizens have the right to defend themselves, and that they are properly trained and equipped to perform this critical and often life-saving task. This federal law should include mandatory reciprocity for all states that implement the minimum training standards so that the honest citizen can travel from state to state with the right to self-defense.

Point Two is a federal death penalty for the use of a firearm in the commission of serious crimes (e.g. murder, aggravated assault, robbery, kidnapping). The only way that America will drastically reduce crime is to eliminate the cause of the crime that is the violent criminal. We can no longer afford to delude ourselves that the gun is the culprit. America must deal harshly with violence and remove it from society. This law should include a rapid and efficient appellate process that lasts no longer than one year, and the law should be imposed in all cases including municipal and state crimes where a gun is used. The law must also include proper funding from the federal government to implement it effectively. It should also allow for the prosecution as adults of all persons regardless of age when a gun is used in a violent crime. We must stop treating juvenile criminals as children when they commit violent crimes with guns.

Point Three is a federal gun owner responsibility/liability law that holds gun owners criminally liable when their gun is used in a crime when it can be shown that the firearm was not properly secured to prevent illegal use. As a gun owner and NRA Certified Instructor, I am appalled by the number of cases where a juvenile obtains a firearm from a relative’s home because it was not properly secured, and subsequently commits a crime or causes a gun accident. America must change its view of personal responsibility and start holding citizens accountable for acts of negligence involving firearms that are made easily available to minors and criminals.

Point Four is increased funding for the full and rigorous enforcement of existing federal firearms laws designed to prevent the acquisition of firearms by felons and juveniles. We must accept the fact that repeat violent offenders are the dominant cause of gun crime in America. Until we deal with this clear and present danger to our security, the scourge of violent crime will not be removed from our streets. The penalty for a felon attempting to acquire a firearm should be increased significantly and enforced rigorously so that the deterrent effect is a strong one.

Point Five is a Federal statute that holds parents criminally liable when their children commit violent crimes with or without guns, including large fines and jail time where appropriate. America must face the fact that there is no substitute for parental involvement in a child’s life. Government and other public agencies can’t fill this fundamental role and should not be expected to. When a child turns bad and commits a violent crime, the parent must be held accountable for their failure as a parent. We must place parental responsibility back into the primary position that it must hold in our society. Until we do this and restore the family unit as the central role model for morality in America, we will not eliminate the teen culture of drugs and violence that permeates our inner cities.

Point Six is a federally funded instant-check system to replace the Brady Law that includes all criminal and mental-health records, including juvenile offenses. At present, the criminal records system does not allow juvenile and mental health records to be released for use in firearms background checks. This guarantees that many mentally-ill persons and all previous juvenile offenders will not be stopped by the current background check systems that are in use in America, even though existing law already prohibits firearms purchases by these persons. If we are to stop the violence on our streets, full disclosure of these potential threats to society must be used to assure that no mentally-disturbed person or juvenile criminal obtains a firearm through legal firearms outlets.

The 6-point plan defined above will require no new laws that would restrict the legal ownership of firearms by honest citizens, but will address the crime and personal responsibility issues that are the root cause of street crime in America. The plan above will achieve this result and will make our streets secure and safe again within 5 years. Will Mr. Clinton and the anti-gun lobby have the courage to admit that their messianic vision of gun control is wrong? Only time will tell. However, one thing is clear. America wants crime control. Adding to the national failure of gun control will do nothing to eliminate crime in America, and will only lead us down the path to bigger and more powerful government that the Founding Fathers warned against. We should heed very carefully the wise words of Benjamin Franklin who said “A people that give up the smallest amount of essential liberty to obtain security deserve neither liberty nor security.” Government must be willing to trust America’s law-abiding citizens and protect their Constitutional right to keep and bear arms, while fighting the scourge of violent gun crime that is so devastating to our country. If the Federal Government refuses to trust its honest citizens, it is time for the citizens to start questioning the motives of their government!

Dr. Alan R. Hufman

Responding To Paramedic Service

We would like to respond to the letter which appeared in your newspaper on June 18, 1999, about a proposal for paramedic service in Ponca City. First, the fireman stated that Ponca City has the “highest level of trauma related fatalities per capita in the nation.” That is totally wrong. His own source (Oklahoma State Department of Health website) shows that age adjusted injury death rates for Kay County are below the state average.

His statistics are cited as proof that a paramedic program would reduce the number of local trauma deaths. However, these statistics include traffic accidents, homicides, suicides, poisonings, and household accidents. His conclusion is unsupportable. The deaths could have occurred at the scene, en route to the hospital or at the emergency room. Why not argue that we need improved hospital staffing, privatized ambulance service, or programs to improve home safety?

Second, the timing of this article was ill advised. Mr. Burtner’s labor union (IAFF) is heading for arbitration with the City over the firefighter’s contract. Until it is resolved, any Letters to the Editor about our fire department (which I consider to be one of Oklahoma’s premier units) should be viewed with skepticism.

The fact is that Mr. Burtner did not contact his Chief or superior officers, the city manager, or a member of the City Commission before he published his letter. Any of us could have told him that a paramedic program was never promised. When first presented at a budget session one year ago, we saw that there were substantial costs involved which raised the probability of increasing ambulance fees that are already considered to be high. A business plan was therefore ordered, but it was interrupted by the resignation of Chief Mullikin. It is being prepared now by Chief Denny. When it is completed we will make a decision, but not until then.

Third, contrary to Mr. Burtner’s assertion, we care deeply about the health and safety of our firefighters and the citizens of this community. That is why three new fire trucks have been purchased within the last three years at a cost of $1,000,000+. That is why we proposed the remodeling and expansion of the No. 1 Fire Station at a cost of $2,500,000+. That is why we have bought three new ambulances in three years at a cost of $75,000 apiece. That is why we have granted union requests for upgrading self-contained breathing apparatus, defibrillators and jaws-of-life.

When it comes to fire safety in Ponca City, decisions will be made through a team effort of the city commission, staff and the fire department, but not through Letters to the Editor.

Sincerely yours,

Tom Leonard

Dick Stone

Lyn Boyer

Chris Hand

Keni Ray

Paganism and Christianity

Side-by-Side in 999

By KENNIS WESSEL, Ph.D.

Editor’s Note: The Ponca City Millennium Committee has stimulated a series of articles on the subject of “Life in the Year 999.” The articles are researched and written by Dr. Kennis Wessel, Executive Director of the Poncan Theatre. They will appear monthly during the year 1999, anticipating the Second Millennium. This article is the sixth of the series.

————

In 999, a peasant with a fever believed that his body was inhabited by the devil. In 999, an Icelandic lord performed a private mass to his Christian God, and then went out to burn down the house of his enemy. In 999, the Catholic Church absorbed pagan rituals into the church calendar, changing the names of the deities worshiped. In 999, the western world was governed more by faith than we are today.

The Catholic Church was the most significant force in Europe. The Church was recognized from Iceland to the boot of Italy, from the Atlantic Ocean to the Black Sea. But the Church of 999 was not like the church today. The Church took many centuries to establish a system of churches. In 999, the monastic system was still growing. But ninety percent of the population of Europe lived in villages. Most villages did not yet have a church. Catholicism was spreading as rapidly as it could.

But beliefs change slowly. The church, about to celebrate its own millennium in 999, was still laboring to bring people to God. It was an uphill battle. True, a whole nation or tribe might change faith by a simple flick of the king’s hand. It happened often. But the pronouncement of a king may not lead the flock to belief. True conversion was something else. The Church faced ancient, powerful superstitions.

Pagan Rituals Were Common

Practices in 999

Pagans weren’t always bad. The Latin word “pagus” means “country,” in the sense of a rural area. Someone who might live in the country, such as a farmer, was called “paganus.” When Christianity became the new, modern religion of Europe, the “paganus” in the country was predictably slow to relinquish ancient beliefs. So the word “pagan,” which really meant “a rural person,” came to be applied to anyone who was slow to become Christianized.

The word “heathen” is very similar. It comes from the Anglo-Saxon word “heath.” Anyone who lived among “heather” on the hills of England was a “heathen.” And like the pagan of Latin areas, they were slower to give up tradition. More progressive people, Christians, looked down on pagans and heathens, and soon those words had the connotation of “unchristian.”

To say that pagans were unchristian is not to say that they lacked beliefs. Part of the challenge to the Church was the strength of ancient beliefs. The most compelling beliefs were those that had to do with the life and death of the community. Many pagan rituals were for survival. They were efforts to provide grain, sustenance, the propagation of the species.

In many parts of Europe, farmers performed oblations before planting and before harvest. In England, they planted a little flat cake in the soil before they broke ground to plant new seed. The month of planting was February. Venerable Bede an esteemed eighth century priest, said that February was called “The Month of Cakes” because so many cakes were buried during February planting. These little flat cakes, made of grain, were a gift to the gods in hopes they would favor the farmer with grain once again. The cakes, called “placentae” in Latin, eventually gave their name to the “afterbirth” in human child-bearing.

In 999, Celts, Germans, and Slavs had their own superstitions. They used magic spells to assure the favor of their gods. These peoples were fairly new to farming. Their lands had been forest just a few hundred years before. They had rooted out trees to make farmland. But the old Teutonic culture thought of agriculture as theft from the earth. Even the new culture was nervous about planting and harvesting.

They felt danger in agriculture. Perhaps the earth would be displeased that the forest had been uprooted. Perhaps she would be displeased by a plow scratching her face. So they pretended the plow was an animal rather than a machine. They called it a wolf, or a bear, or a pig’s nose, hoping that an animal with its own will would be tolerable to the earth god.

They believed that lightning was punishment from the god Thor. Had the plow not defaced the earth? Thor might be angry. So they singed a few hairs of the oxen, using a little fire to stave off that bigger fire, lightning. The first time they broke ground each spring, they laid an egg before the plow. If the egg broke, they stopped plowing. But if the egg were gently pushed aside, it meant that the earth was ready to receive the plow.

They believed that plowed fields were vulnerable to omens. A funeral procession could not cross a cultivated field, for the evils of death might be communicated to crops. People who were ill were not allowed near a field, nor were women who had just given birth.

Farmers often believed that invisible animals moved through the fields, and the waving of grain was caused by “riders hunting through the grain” or “a witch twisting.” But the deathly silence of hot summer days was even more frightening. As hot air shimmered in the afternoons, farmers were seized by a terrible fear of the strange apparition. They saw the shimmering as “the granny of the rye” or “the noontide ghost.” The blistering heat was the fiery breath of the ghost.

Even A Goddess in the Field

Various cultures had a goddess of the field. In old Roman cultures, temples for worship of Ceres were still standing. Some were in use. In Germanic cultures, the goddess Freya and the god Frey were thought to have powers over the fertility of crops.

Harvest rituals were very powerful. The last sheaf, the final cutting of the harvest, was always special. In some cultures, it was left uncut as an appeasement. In others, it was harvested but not threshed. In some, it was dressed and put on display, often with ritual dancing around it. And a pillar of dust in the harvested field was a sign in 999 that the god Odin wanted his share of the grain. Often a sack of flour would be emptied into the wind as a sacrifice to Odin.

Mills were also objects of fear and superstition. The thundering of the stone seemed like the voice of thunder himself, Thor. And he might be angered for good cause, since the mill interrupted the flow of the river. Germans and Slavs believed that humans should be subordinate to the forces of nature. Their gods were deities of the river, the wind, the grain, and other principles of nature. While they enjoyed the power of the mill, they were afraid the demons of the river might be angry. They erected little idols in the mills to appease the demons.

Other superstitions and rituals were part of daily life. Sickness and disease were almost always explained by devils. Many different incantations and charms, including Christian rituals, were invoked to prevent illness. The Church had only recently become interested in ceremonies of marriage and procreation. Most weddings were not sanctioned by the Church in 999. Even if they were, the principal ceremony was tribal or civil. At the most, a priest might greet a bridal party at the door to the church. The Christian ritual was on the steps to the church but not inside. The idea of a Christian wedding was not widely observed in 999.

Missionary Work and the Church

In 999

Pope Gregory the Great was an amazing man. Several of his ideas transformed the Church forever. One of the most far-reaching ideas was to stimulate missionary zeal in the Church. In 597, Gregory sent St. Augustine to England to bring the Angles and Saxons under the umbrella of Christianity. Augustine established the church at Canterbury.

Ethelbert, a pagan king in Kent, reportedly said to Augustine, “I cannot abandon the age-old beliefs that I have held. But since you have traveled far, and since I can see that you are sincere in your desire to impart to us what you believe to be true and excellent, we will not harm you. Nor will we forbid you to preach and win any people you can to your religion.” No Christian ever spoke with more humanity or grace. It was an amazing moment of civility in the chaos of medieval times.

But converting pagans was not a simple task. Cultures with a thousand year history do not vanish because someone has a modern idea. Only rarely will a new idea suddenly replace an old one. Most often, a new idea is grafted on to an old one. Sometimes, contradictory beliefs are held in the same person at the same time. Most often, change happens slowly. One king in Anglo-Saxon England had two altars. One was a Christian altar, and the other was for his pagan deities.

Many people held beliefs in the same way. In some areas, art shows the intermingling of religions. In Anglo-Saxon Christian art, it is not uncommon to find Germanic deities and Christian symbols in the same work. In one huge cross in Cumbria, the image of Christ crucified is not really the dominant image. It stands among images of Woden, Loki and other Germanic deities. Christ in that image is one of several gods. It almost seems as though new converts were “hedging their bets,” honoring all the gods to make sure they were safe.

Christians had to be careful. In the early centuries after the Crucifixion, Christians were at some risk across Europe. As they slowly brought more and more converts into the fold, Christians didn’t want to be too obvious. After all, Christianity was not always the dominant religion, and many people lost their lives because of their beliefs. It could be dangerous to make your religious differences clear. It was safer to blend with established customs. So the Church often merged Christian celebrations with established pagan customs.

This was a conscious effort by Church fathers. It happened across Europe, from the Latin south to the Anglo-Saxon north. When Pope Gregory sent Augustine to England, Gregory told him to remake pagan temples as Christian churches, rather than to destroy the old. Gregory hoped to entice new converts, and he knew that people would “more familiarly resort to places to which they have been accustomed.” By 999, the Church and Christians were safe around Europe. By 999, the enemies to Christians were converted across Europe. But the business of transforming belief was still to be done.

In 999, most people were tied to soil, and like farmers for thousands of years, they found deities in every plant, every field, every tree, every raindrop. Some people were warrior tribes, and even if they converted to Christianity, they often relied on the old gods side-by-side with the new one. But the Church was inventive, resourceful, and often expedient. Instead of compelling belief, for the first thousand years the Church adapted Christianity to the people.

In the fourth century, the Church established the dates of both Christmas and Easter, connecting them to older pagan rituals. The Romans celebrated a sun-god named Mithras. The ritual, dated on December 25, was just after the winter solstice, the most significant moment in the solar calendar. When Church fathers named Mithras’s festival as the birthday of Jesus, they probably hoped to replace the pagan celebration with their own. Mithraism was a powerful rival religion of Christianity. Actually, there is some evidence that the birth of Jesus happened at a different time of year.

Dates for Easter were also heavily debated by Church fathers. The Council of Nicaea in 325 produced significant decisions that still are honored in Christian holy ritual today. But the date of Easter, hotly contested in Nicaea, was not settled. Even today, the Eastern and Western churches assign different dates to Easter. Christmas and Easter, the two most significant moments in the Christian calendar, are closely linked to ancient rituals relating to the solar and lunar calendars.

The Gospels connect Easter to Passover. As a springtime story of resurrection, Easter occurs at a traditional time for rituals of rebirth. According to the holy man Venerable Bede, the name “Easter” comes from the name of an Anglo-Saxon deity, Eostre. Eostre was the goddess of the dawn. She was also associated with the return of the sun, the “rebirth” that came with spring. The direction of the dawn took her name. We call it “the East.”

In the same way, Christians replaced pagan deities and rituals with Christian saints and rituals. For centuries, Romans celebrated a libidinous fertility ritual called the festival of the Lupercal. During the celebration, mature women consorted with young men. But Christians slowly chastened the event with a sweeter, more romantic purpose, and then invoked the name of a saint. The festival date, mid-February, was retained. But the name slowly changed from “Lupercalia” to “St. Valentine’s Day.”

Christians replaced old deities with new saints as often as possible. A Christian named Verena became famous for throwing out icons to river gods that one could find in every mill. After her death, Christians replaced old icons with new images of St. Verena. Incantations to Freya, the goddess of clouds and crops, were replaced by prayers to the Holy Mother, Mary. Mary also assumed the role of Demeter, Roman goddess of the hearth, and the role of Ceres, goddess of grain.

Across Europe, Christians began to worship at shrines that held holy relics. Usually, a relic was connected to a saint. It might be a part of the saint, or part of a garment, or any other material object that was part of the saint’s life. Any important church had a reliquary, a container for the relic of a particular saint. These reliquaries are often quite beautiful. Some churches came to be known as “pilgrimage churches,” because so many people would travel there to commune with the saint.

The medieval Christian generally believed that prayer was more effective if you were close to the relic. A prayer to the saint, in the presence of the relic, improved the chances of being heard. And it was hoped that the saint would intercede with God in heaven. This kind of worship was familiar to everyone. It made the deity more personal, less abstract. It facilitated the transition from paganism to Christianity.

There is evidence that the First Millennium brought many new converts to Christianity. After the year 999, the Church rapidly expanded its reach, its influence, its authority. The effect of the Crusades was profound. They became an effective way to publicize the mission and the glory of the Church. They brought many new people to active participation in the Church. They stimulated the passion for pilgrimage, not only to the Holy Lands, but also to relics of saints across Europe. In the next few centuries, the Catholic Church became wealthy, prosperous, and powerful. In three centuries, the Church would begin to exert its authority in the Inquisition.

But in 999, the Church co-existed with ancient paganism. The Church was still searching for its identity, still reaching out for souls. In 999, faith and belief were a profound experience in every moment of daily life.

In following articles, we will look at daily life in the year 999. There will be one article per month. They will touch on such subjects as Marriage and Families, Technology, Language, Clothing, Arts and Entertainment, and others. Next month, we will look at Catholicism and Monastic Life in 999.

Copyright 1999 by Kennis Wessel

City Calendar

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

Anytime

FOLOBS (Friends of Library Ongoing Book Sale), anytime the Ponca City Library is open, North of Multimedia Room (downstairs).

Alcoholics Anonymous, Alano Group, Ponca City’s first established AA Group, meets at Noon and 8 p.m., seven days a week. All noon meetings open, all 8 p.m. meetings closed except Fridays, 603 South First Street.

Today

Kaw Lake Association Annual Meeting, NOC Grounds at Kaw Lake.

Monday

Ponca City Board of Commissioners, Ponca City Utility Authority, Ponca City Development Authority, 5:30 p.m., Commissioner’s Room, Public Safety Center, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue.

Wednesday

Ponca City Main Street Authority Inc. Board Meeting, 1 p.m., Main Street Office, 117 North Third Street.

End of the Month Bingo, Bring a friend and have fun!, 1 p.m., Senior Center, 319 West Grand Avenue.

Thursday

CrimeStoppers, 7:30 a.m., Ponca City Chamber of Commerce Conference Room, more information Det. Capt. Dwaine Vincent, Ponca City Police Department.

Kay-9 Dog Training Club, 7 p.m., Ponca City Library, public welcome, information 762-9053 or 762-7360.

Friday

Historic Preservation Panel, noon, Planning and Engineering Conference Room, Suite 305, 400 East Central Avenue.

Saturday

Christmas in July, 10 a.m.-10 p.m., Pioneer Beach, Kaw City, lighted boat flotilla, fireworks, Wilhelm Wake Boarders, “Oldies Beach Party” with Dave May from KLOR, sandcastle contest, suntan contest, soccer tournament, country jam and dance session, Community Center and entertainment by Kaw City Kids Inc., live broadcasting with KIXR, more information Kaw City Area Chamber of Commerce 580-269-2276.

July 4

Fourth of July Celebration, Lake Ponca.

July 5

Pioneer Christian Crusaders Motorcycle Association, 6 p.m., Golden Corral, North Fourteenth Street, Ponca City, more information, 765-3164.

July 6

Ponca City Board of Commissioners Work Session, 2 p.m., Commissioner’s Room, Public Safety Center, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue.

Planning Commission, 7:30 p.m., Public Safety Center, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue.

July 7

Energy Advisory Board, 7:30 a.m., Public Safety Center, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue.

July 8

Ponca City Housing Authority, 10 a.m., Broadway Plaza, 201 East Broadway Avenue.

July 9, 10, 11

Grand Opening of Lydie’s Cottage and Artist Studio at Marland Estate, 901 Monument Road, guided tours on the hour 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Friday and Saturday, 1-4 p.m. Sunday.

July 10

The “Sale of the Century,” 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., parking lot of Ponca City Cultural Center, 1000 East Grand Avenue, proceeds to make capital improvements to the Cultural Center, all donations tax deductible, hosted by The Friends of the Cultural Center Foundation.

July 10-11

Good Ole Okie Flying Society’s 11th Annual Miniature Air Show (giant scale radio-controlled model aircraft), 9 a.m.-4 p.m., South of Lake Road on Pecan Road, admission free, concessions available.

July 10-14

United Ostomy Association, Stillwater-Ponca City Chapter, UOA Annual Youth Rally, Boulder, Colo., University of Colorado.

July 12

Ponca City Board of Commissioners, Ponca City Utility Authority, Ponca City Development Authority, 5:30 p.m., Commissioner’s Room, Public Safety Center, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue.

July 13

Economic Development Advisory Board, 7:30 a.m., Chamber of Commerce.

Ponca City Library Board, 11:30 a.m., Library Board Room, 515 East Grand Avenue.

AARP, 12:30 p.m., Wheatheart Nutrition Center, 319 West Grand Avenue.

McCord Volunteer Fire Department, 7 p.m., McCord School Library.

Rural Water District No. 1 Regular Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m., Enterprise School on Lake Road.

July 14

Cultural Affairs Advisory Commission, 11:30 a.m., Cultural Center Sunroom, 1000 East Grand Avenue.

Rural Water, Sewer and Solid Waste Management District No. 3 board of directors, 7 p.m., Braden Community Center.

July 15

Park and Recreation Advisory Board, 5:30 p.m., Municipal Court Room, Public Safety Center, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue.

July 16

Memorial Golf Tournament benefiting Hospice of Ponca City, Lew Wentz Golf Course.

Historic Preservation Panel Work Session, noon, Planning and Engineering Conference Room, Suite 305, 400 East Central Avenue.

Traffic Commission, 1:15 p.m., Public Safety Center, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue.

July 19

Ponca City Board of Commissioners Work Session, 2 p.m., Commissioner’s Room, Public Safety Center, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue.

Multiple Sclerosis Support Group, 6:30 p.m., Albright United Methodist Church, 128 South Palm Street, call Beth Wright 765-6738 for additional information.

July 20

Kaw Lake Association, noon, Golden Corral, Ponca City.

Marland Estate Commission, 4:30 p.m., Marland Estate Conference Center.

Osage Cove Volunteer Fire Department, 7 p.m., Fire Station, corner U.S. 60 East and Keeler Road, new volunteers always welcome.

July 21

Ponca City Public School Foundation, noon, Ponca City Library.

Ponca City Tourism Authority, 2 p.m., Cultural Center Sunroom, 1000 East Grand Avenue.

Child Development Center Safe Place Away From Home for Kids

Editor’s Note: This is the second in a series of articles focusing on the services available to the Ponca City community through United Way agencies.

Children attending the Child Development Center, at 344 South Elm Street, have a safe haven away from home while their parents pursue work or an education. The center has provided quality care to Ponca City children for more than 30 years.

Parents of these children may be struggling financially, but want the best care for their kids, too. The center adjusts tuition rates based upon total family income, size and need. Parents who are physically unable to provide care to their children are also ensured a spot at the center, according to Kim Jump, director.

“The center is great in helping meet my children’s needs,” said one parent. “We continually choose to take our children to the Child Development Center because I feel they are safe and out of harms way. Also, the classes provide growing and learning experiences to help my kids prepare for kindergarten,” she concluded.

Another parent feels the center has been a Godsend financially as well as in the best interest of her children.

“I have been associated with the Child Development Center for 17 years,” she said. “Although the building has changed, the quality and standards of the center have remained the same. I feel it is a day care with a heart.”

Furthermore, some parents are concerned that their kids have the same opportunities as other children their age, and feel that this is accomplished at the Center. In addition to child care program, benefits to children include vision screening, provided free by the local Masons and Prevent Blindness Oklahoma. Edwin Fair also provides assistance with speech and hearing screening.

Jump says that the staff strive to provide learning experiences that promote growth for children. Keeping with that mission, each staff member is required to obtain at least 12 hours of early childhood training each year. Also, they must renew CPR and emergency first aid annually.

The Child Development Center was established after local Church Women United members realized there was a growing need for quality preschool child care in the community.

Funding for the program is provided by the United Way of Ponca City, local churches, individual contributions and the Child and Adult Care Food Program.

“We want to fuel children by furnishing hands-on-sensory activities to stimulate their natural abilities to learn,” she said.

United Way of Ponca City serves 17 agencies within the community, including American Red Cross, Arthritis Foundation, Bluestem Girl Scout Council, Boy Scouts of America, Bridgeway, Child Development Center, Domestic Violence Shelter, Golden Villa Adult Day Care Services, Helpline, Inc., Hospice of Ponca City, New Emergency Resource Agency, Northern Oklahoma Youth Services, Peachtree Landing, ProTeens, Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP), The Salvation Army and YMCA.

Additional Courses Are Being Added To ULC

By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE

News Business Editor

A masters degree in curriculum and instruction, which prepares students for principal’s administrative certification, has added to programs at the University Learning Center of Northern Oklahoma being held at the Conoco Complex. The course will be offered here in the fall by Oklahoma State University, according to Dr. Brenda Stacy, director.

The fall semester will be the first term of this pilot program for undergraduate and graduate work. Dr. Stacy said the program for the curriculum and instruction degree is being brought in by popular demand by OSU.

Enrollment for the fall semester for all the programs being offered is July 15. Enrollment forms may be picked up at the University Learning Center site in the bottom of the North Tower at Conoco. Or students may receive them by fax.

To call for an enrollment form or for more information call (580) 762-2856. Those already making inquiries will automatically be mailed enrollment forms.

Dr. Stacy said they have had steady calling in response to the programs. After the enrollment form has been filled out, students need to apply to the actual program they are interested.

Those applying for the graduate school should take a GMAT or GRE test from the Sylvan Learning Center in Wichita. These tests are given on some Saturdays.

Other programs are bachelor of Liberal Studies Degree with Administrative Leadership Concentration, OU; bachelor of interdisciplinary studies degree with business applications emphasis (Cameron University); bachelors degree in nursing, OU Health Services Center; Corporate masters in business administration, OSU: masters in business administration, Cameron; masters in telecommunications management, OSU: masters in education, Langston University, which also involves masters in elementary education, urban education, English as a second language and Bilingural-multicultural education.

The address is 1005 South Pine and the website is www.poncacitynews.com/ulcno.

Po-Hi Student in ‘The King and I’ At Southwestern College Event

Po-Hi freshman, T.J. Helm will be appearing in the upcoming Horsefeathers and Applesauce Summer Dinner Theatre at Southwestern College in Winfield, Kan., in “The King and I.”

The freckle-faced energetic youth, who says he “loves interviews,” has been acting since age two. “Thirty-five plays,” he beams. “Everything that’s available.”

Helm, along with four other high school students is an apprentice with the H&A Theatre and will be living on the campus at Southwestern with the rest of the cast and crew during the production. The other apprentices in this production are from Winfield High School.

Helm will be playing the young son of Anna in “The King and I.” After playing the part of the Emperor in “The Emperor’s New Clothes,” in a recent production at the Ponca Playhouse, he says he’s “looking forward to ‘not’ parading around on stage in pink bunny underwear!”

All apprentices, including Helm, are recommended to Horsefeathers by other professionals. After auditions, they are invited to join the company, receiving rooms on campus with the rest of the cast and crew during production.

Allyson Moon, administrator of H&A, says they have a very active youth training program and the younger children often begin with H&A in children’s roles. “They can continue into an apprenticeship, then as interns and finally as salaried company members. This is how we build and train people in theater,” she says.

For example, she says, 41 area children played Fagin’s ragamuffin pick pockets in “Oliver” in 1992 and children were used in leading roles in “The Secret Garden” in 1995. Last season, youngsters donned alligator and tree costumes, pirate suits and pixie wings in “Peter Pan.” The tradition continues with as many as 34 children among the king’s family in “The King and I.”

By the time the child actors reach high school, the opportunity to work in the Horsefeathers company as an apprentice becomes a possibility. Apprentices begin to learn about all aspects of theater, not just acting. Balanced between costume changes, Helm and the other apprentices will be on the running crew, helping with scene changes and other responsibilities of the production.

For more information about the “King and I,” Production, the dinner theater, or Horsefeathers and Applesauce, call (316) 221-8343.

Asleep at the Wheel Coming to The Poncan

Six-time Grammy Award winners “Asleep at the Wheel” will be coming to the Poncan Theatre. The country-western band has been one of the most popular groups in the nation for over 25 years. Kenn Wessel, director of the Poncan, says the exciting Western Swing group will give a concert in the Poncan at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, July 16.

“This group has won just about every award you can imagine,” Wessel says. They won the “Vocal Group of the Year” award three times. They were voted the “Country Band of the Decade” in the 1970’s. “Their success comes from good, solid Western Swing roots,” Wessel says. “And from terrific musicianship.” Then he adds, “and they’re also really clever and inventive.” He might have also said they’re irresistible.

On the day of the concert, Ponca City’s own Les Gilliam will give a lecture-demonstration on Western Swing. His sidekick Don Long will help provide musical support. Gilliam’s lecture will discuss the nature of Western Swing and its history as part of Oklahoma culture. The form really came to prominence in the music of Bob Wills, who made his fame and home in Tulsa. Gilliam’s talk begins at 2:00 p.m. in the Pickrel Room of the Poncan Theatre. It will be free to the public.

“Asleep at the Wheel” has produced a couple of albums devoted to the work of Bob Wills. In fact, their last Bob Wills album was a national best-seller and winner of a Grammy Award. “Asleep” has produced 22 albums, and they are among the most prolific musicians in the Country-Western field.

Ray Benson, one of the originators of “Asleep at the Wheel,” has been with them throughout their illustrious history. He is a tall, lanky guy whose smooth voice has become the signature sound of the fine group. In the last Bob Wills album, an amazing assortment of fine country celebrities teamed up with Benson. Everyone from Garth Brooks to Chet Atkins to Vince Gill to Dolly Parton appeared on the album.

Reservations to the concert go on sale to the general public beginning Monday, June 28, Wessel says. The theatre is proud that ticket prices have been held low because of the corporate sponsorship of Custo-Of-Fab. The Oklahoma Arts Council has also provided additional support.

For reservations, patrons should call the Poncan Theatre between 1 and 5, Monday through Friday. The Poncan office is located at 104 East Grand in downtown Ponca City. The telephone number is 580- 765-0943.

Tallgrass Prairie Kicks Off Brown Bag Lunch Series

Ponca City residents have a valuable national treasure right in their back yard — the Tallgrass Prairie Preserve. This rare natural prairie will be featured at the first in this summer’s Brown Bag Lunch series presented by Pioneer Bank and Trust to be held Tuesday from noon to 1 p.m. at the Conoco Fourth Street Clubhouse, 1500 South Fourth Street.

Eric Huerter, the preserve’s summer education intern, will give a slide presentation, show videos and talk about the tallgrass prairie. Few large remnants of this ecosystem remain, although it once covered a 142 million-acre area of central North America. Thus, the 38,600-acre preserve offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to view this vanishing natural system.

Over 12,200 visitors per year view rare sights at the Preserve — vistas that stretch from horizon to horizon, uncluttered by power lines or structures; native grasses that grow as tall as eight or ten feet; and bison roaming freely. The preserve boasts more than 700 plant, 300 bird and 80 mammal species. Plus, it is beautiful in every season, from the riot of spring wildflowers to the height of the grasses in August and September.

The Tallgrass Prairie Preserve is owned and protected by The Nature Conservancy, a private organization that has been protecting land through purchase from voluntary sellers since 1951.

Huerter, the presenter, is a senior at Oklahoma State University and lives and works at the preserve this summer. He talks with visitors, guides trail hikes and assists volunteers at the preserve headquarter’s visitor center and gift shop.

A former resident of Bartlesville, Huerter spent nearly eight years in the U.S. Army before returning to college to pursue a rangeland management degree. At the preserve, he is also working with the stewardship team, learning about the grassland and the importance of grazing and fire to the health of the land.

The current series of lunch programs will run through the end of July. Future programs will feature a guest speaker from Gilcrease Museum; Ponca City’s own Moriah Trio with Denise Jones, Mary Grace Lebeda and Lisa Hermes; a special Saturday presentation for kids with Martin Trenary and his snakes; Gordon Grice and his spiders; and Ralph Hoffman with his fossils; plus, a grand finale of a visit from the Oklahoma City Zoo with real live animals.

The series is free and open to the public. Everyone is encouraged to bring a sack lunch, with Pioneer Bank providing drinks for all guests.

Longwood Baptist Church Begins VBS on Monday

Longwood Baptist Church extends an invitation to Ponca City’s boys and girls to attend Vacation Bible School, beginning Monday, June 28 through Friday evening, July 2, nightly from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Pastor Larry Stevenson said the theme for the school will be Psalms 139, teaching the children that we can trust Jesus because He knows us and everything about us. The adventure will include imaginary stops at rock climbing, river rafting, snowshoeing in the forest and desert walking and biking. The children will be learning spiritual Bible lessons centered around each of these stops, Pastor Stevenson said — a different one each day.

Also included during the week will be crafts, games and snacks. The Bible School starts Monday, June 28, and will continue nightly from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., concluding Friday evening, July 2. All children four years old through the sixth grade this past year are invited. Parents are welcome to come and stay and visit if they wish.

The church is located four miles east of the Pioneer Woman on Lake Road and one mile north on Longwood Road. For a ride call 765-7122.

Health Insurance Proposal On City Commission Agenda

By LAURA CORFF

News Staff Writer

During the meeting of the Ponca City Board of Commissioners on Monday at the Public Safety Center, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue, at 5:30 p.m. a recommendation from the City’s benefits committee regarding a third-party administrator will be considered.

The board is being asked to a accept a health insurance proposal from Cemara Administrators, Inc. for the city’s health insurance coverage for 1999-2000, which will become effective July 1.

In other business, commissioners will review the Mayor’s nomination to the personnel board and consider a contract for a Diesel Exhaust System for the new fire station. The board will look at a bid from the Air Cleaning Technologies, Inc. of Broken Arrow, at a total cost of $114,598.

Additionally, it is time to renew the annual retainer contract for grant consulting services and board will consider a contract with Candy Thomas, at a cost of $40,000. Furthermore, Kathy Adams, Marland Estate director, is asking for an increase to the event rental fee schedule at the mansion. All events currently scheduled for the year ending June 30, 2000, would remain at the current rental rate, she confirmed.

Traffic engineering will be submitting a request to remove the No Left Turn restrictions on Grand Avenue at Second, Third and Fourth Streets, on a trial basis. The Traffic Commission made the recommendation.

In other items, the board will consider a proposal from Chapman, Gill and Associates, Inc. for engineering services to design Waverly Street improvements from South Avenue to Highland Avenue for $115,000; create a combined consortium, between the communities of Ponca City, Stillwater and surrounding county areas’ labor markets; and consider a resolution to support the idea and send it to the Oklahoma Workforce Development Council.

Consent Agenda

The following items have been placed on the consent agenda due to their noncontroversial and routine nature. The board expects to approve them with one motion. Consideration will be given to appointing Chitwood Construction Company, Inc. as purchasing agent for the Gibson Place and Little Lane project and Stanley Roofing Company as purchasing agent for various roof projects. Also, a change order and final payment to Sober Brothers, Inc. for work on Queens Avenue/Fourteenth Street drainage upgrade in the amount of $7,250 will also be considered.

A recommendation by the finance department is also on the consent agenda to award the audit of financial statements for 1998-99 to Baird, Kurtz and Dobson, Certified Public Accountants, of Enid.

Two change orders for the new Fire Station, have also been submitted. The board will review one for $14,682 and one for $8,707. These adjustments include: addition of a tapered insulation to the training room roof; stainless steel to the sides of the kitchen cabinets next to the range; marker boards and window blinds; replace existing door to bell tower with new and raise the threshold; deduct seven sprinkler heads on the second floor; terminate the air duct into a sidewall diffuser; add wing wall; add housekeeping pad under the switchgear; and change the surface coating for the old existing part of the West Wing from an elastomeric paint to an EFIS coating.

The board will also consider executing contract papers with Charlie Jones Company, of Arkansas City, Kan., for roofing projects in the amount of $204,666.19, including making them a purchasing agent for the city.

A management agreement with the YMCA for operation of the Community Pool will be considered in addition to paying $1.07 million in bills which the city incurred from June 10, through June 23.

Economic Development Infrastructure Financing

In other consent items, the board will consider making a request for the Community Development Block Grant award with the Oklahoma Department of Commerce for $100,000 for the Thorn Apple Valley Drive/Sykes Boulevard and street access improvements for D & M Distribution Company. The grant will be used to construct concrete paving, curb and guttering. One requirement to receive the grant includes providing information of employment and beneficiaries for those who use the improvements. As such, the board will consider a resolution to authorize submission of a tracking report.

Additionally, the board will consider an ordinance to require the company, D&M Distribution, as well as any other beneficiaries that will use the infrastructure provided by the grant, to provide the job tracking reporting information to the city. Also, the board will vote on a resolution obligating street sales tax funds to leverage with the grant.

Ponca City Utility Authority

The board will reconvene as the Ponca City Utility Authority to consider a pledge and guarantee document with the Association of Landfill Financial Assurance. As per the Environmental Protection Agency and the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality requirements, the city must set aside funds each year to generate the revenue needed to cover the closure and post-closure costs for the Landfill. These funds are invested through an organization of publicly owned Oklahoma landfills. The city is asked to reaffirm its membership annually.

In addition, commissioners will look at awarding a contract to Ratliff, Inc. for the Airport Industrial Water Pump Station enhancements at a cost of $147,500. Also, they will consider a proposal on a contract with Electrical Systems Consultants, Inc. of Fort Collins, Colo., for Geographic Information System (GIS) and Global Positioning System (GPS) services in the amount of $347,082.42

On the consent agenda, the board will handle housekeeping items.

P. C. Development Authority

Once the commissioners convene as the Ponca City Development Authority, they will look at several lease agreements. BigSky Transportation dba BigSky Airlines wants to use the airport facilities to operate their business and Enrique’s Cafe wants to use the airport restaurant and restaurant office. In addition, Tompkins Industries, Inc. is requesting a transfer of their assignment of leases to Air Management Systems, Inc.

In other leases, Mary Jeans is asking to renew a farm lease for parcel 1,2,3 and 4. Additionally, Hew Carmichael wants to renew a farm lease for parcel 1.

Before handling housekeeping items, the board will receive an update on the Ponca City Municipal Airport runway and taxiway project.

After the authority meetings, the board will enter executive session to discuss negotiations with the International Association of Fire Fighters and the Fraternal Order of Police.

Teens Must Realize Dangers of HIV Threat

Teens who think HIV is no longer a serious health threat are in for a rude awakening.

“The availability of new drugs to treat AIDS and HIV like manageable chronic diseases can create a false sense of security among some adolescents,” said Dr. William T. Shearer, professor of pediatrics at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston and medical director of the AIDS Center at Texas children’s Hospital.

“AIDS is still a dreadful disease, and telling a patient that they have HIV-positive is almost as difficult as telling someone they have cancer,” he said.

Although better medications have reduced the number of AIDS-related deaths, most patients infected with the human immune-deficiency virus (HIV) will have to endure lifelong treatment.

“Before kids put themselves at risk of getting HIV, they need to know the long-term consequences,” Shearer said.

A typical teenager with HIV will have to take up to 70 pills a week just to keep the virus under control. Some of these drugs, known as reverse transcriptase (RT) inhibitors, interrupt reproduction of the virus. Another type of drug, called protease inhibitors, keeps infectious parts of the virus from spreading. A combination of drugs has proven to be most effective.

Some of the medications have to be taken with food, while others require an empty stomach. The patient has to structure his or her activities around the times for medication.

Potential side effects of medications for HIV include cosmetic changes, such as shrinkage of the facial skin, and deposits of subcutaneous tissue that create a pouch on the stomach or a hump on the neck. Some patients also develop diabetes or high levels of tryglycerides, a type of fat.

Because the AIDS virus weakens the immune system, patients with HIV can become more vulnerable to other infections and develop pneumonia, herpes simplex (cold sores), swollen glands in the armpits or groin, meningitis, thrush (a white coating on the toneu), ulcers, bladder problems, and other illnesses.

“These complications require additional treatments over and above the medications the patient is already taking,” Shearer said. “If the patient develops ulcers in the throat and mouth, they can become so sick that they can’t even drink the water needed to wash down their pills.”

Shearer is concerned that adolescents who didn’t witness the thousands of slow, painful deaths during the AIDS epidemic in the 1980s don’t realize how destructive HIV is.

During the past several years, the incidence of HIV has increased from 11 to 17 percent in adolescent and young adult women, especially minorities. The virus is spread mainly through unprotected sexual intercourse and intravenous drug use.

Mystery Man Challenges Others in YMCA Campaign

YMCA of Ponca City Capital Campaign for $1,250,000 and its volunteers received a boost Tuesday when an unnamed volunteer issued a challenge to campaign workers.

Calling himself the Mystery Man, the volunteer said he will match dollar-for-dollar every new pledge reported to the campaign before July 1 up to $10,000 total.

“I would like to remain anonymous until my challenge is met,” the Mystery Man said. “Then and only then will I identify myself.

“I want this to be a motivator for the campaign workers to go out and see their prospects and report their totals at the next report meetings. In this way, people who give between now and next week can figure for every dollar they give, it is like giving two.”

The Capital Campaign, as of Friday, had raised nearly $800,000 of its goal for an improved and expanded facility. And that is with just 141 pledges and gifts that have been received. A report meeting is scheduled for Monday at the YMCA Campaign Office at 5 p.m., and the final report meeting is slated for Wednesday.

Pledges are payable over a five year period, campaign officials said, and monthly or quarterly payments also an option for the yearly amount.

Anyone who wishes to contribute or pledge to the building fund may call the campaign office at (580) 718-0867.

Cardiovascular Research Reducing Heart Problems

In 1948, when the American Heart Association began funding cardiovascular research. the outlook for a heart attack patient was pretty grim. Bed rest was about the only thing doctors could prescribe.

The chances of preventing a heart attack or stroke were also slim because little was known about risk factors such as high cholesterol or the dangers of smoking. And healthcare professionals had few suggestions for lowering high blood pressure.

Those were days before coronary artery bypass surgery, angioplasty procedures to open clogged blood vessels or even lifesaving CPR. And few people could have envisioned that someone would eventually be able to survive with another person’s heart in their chest.

As the 1940s came to an end, the American Heart Association set out to reduce death and disability from heart disease and stroke primarily through research supported by the contributions of the American people. Since that time about $1.6 billion has been spent by the association to fund researchers in labs throughout the nation. That includes $107.5 million spent in fiscal year 1996-97 to fund 2,653 new and continuing research awards. The total amount spent represents 31.3 percent of all American Heart Association expenses for the year.

“Association-funded research has helped to develop some of our most effective weapons in the fight against cardiovascular diseases,” says Gary Watson, Ph.D., president of the American Heart Association’s Heartland Affiliate, which includes Oklahoma, Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska and Iowa. “These include CPR, bypass surgery, pacemakers, artificial heart valves, microsurgery and many life-extending drugs. And now the association is funding new areas of research such as the exploration of microbiology of the cardiovascular system. In Oklahoma alone, the American Heart Association is currently funding 23 cardiovascular investigators with more than $920,604 in grants, he added.

“This commitment comes from the understanding that learning more about the life processes of the cardiovascular system is the only way to continue progress in treating, and perhaps one day preventing heart disease and stroke,” Watson says.

“Although much has been accomplished, more needs to be done simply because cardiovascular disease remains America’s No. 1 killer,” he says. “That’s why the American Heart Association also supports adequate funding of cardiovascular research by the federal government, which has so much greater resources.”

For more information on funding of cardiovascular research, contact your nearest American Heart Association or call 1-800-AHA-USA (1-800---242-872) or visit the Association’s Web site at www.americanheart.org.

The American Heart Association spent more than $266 million during fiscal year 1996-97 on research support, public and professional education, and community programs.

After Five Lions Install New Officers

The After Five Lions installed officers for the coming year on June 18. Wallace “Wally” Officer became the new president as the service organization marked its 34th anniversary.

Dr. Bob Gibson was installed as the first president at the Charter Night celebration on May 25, 1965. The club was sponsored by the Ponca City Noon Lions.

Approximately 40 members, wives and other guests attended this year’s meeting. It was held at a shelter house in Lake Ponca Park after rain caused a change in location from the lakeside cabin of Frank and Sue Weber. The Webers presided at the grills in preparing their annual steak dinner for the group.

Russell Allen of the Noon Club conducted the installation ceremony. New leaders assuming their duties for the coming term, in addition to President Officer, were Bob Oswalt, Frank Weber and Brian Surber, vice presidents; Dennis Kinkaid, reelected secretary, and Scott Jackson, treasurer.

James Wilkinson, outgoing president, presided during the evening’s program. Frank Weber was presented the Lion of the Year award. His work in recruiting new members helped him earn the title.

Certificates of appreciation for exceptional service went to David Mallory, Officer and Al Gutzman; membership chevrons to Ray Stevenson and Tom Sipe, for 25 years in the club, and Mallory and Gutzman, 10 years.

Officer retired in 1985 after 39 years with Conoco in the Mechanical Department, where he became supervisor of rotating equipment. He and his wife Vera Jean reside at 305 North Eleventh Street.

The new president joined the After Five club about 11 years ago and has served as vice president and in other leadership roles. He is currently eyeglasses chairman.

Officer said the sight conservation program and providing a college scholarship for a Po-Hi graduating senior each year are the club’s main projects. Its chief fund-raising source is a concession stand, which will be in business at the 101 Ranch Rodeo, Aug. 18-21; Ponca City Art Festival, Sept. 18-19, and the Oktoberfest, Oct. 2-3, this year.

Summer Menu

The summer food service program will provide free meals for all children ages 1 to 18 at the following locations. The menu below began Tuesday, June 1, and will continue through July 31.

Salvation Army Center — breakfast from 8 to 8:30 a.m.; lunch from noon to 12:30 p.m.

Union Elementary School — breakfast from 7:45 to 8:15 a.m.; lunch from 11:15 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Lincoln Elementary School — no breakfast; lunch from 11:15 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Breakfast

Monday, June 28 — Scrambled eggs and ham and biscuit or assorted cold cereals, orange juice or fresh fruit and milk.

Tuesday, June 29 — Assorted muffins or assorted cold cereals, orange juice or fresh fruit, and milk.

Wednesday, June 30 — Sausage and egg and cheese biscuit or assorted cold cereals, orange juice or fresh fruit, and milk.

Thursday, July 1 — Biscuits and gravy or assorted cold cereals, orange juice or fresh fruit and milk.

Friday, July 2 — Breakfast burrito with sausage, egg and cheese or assorted cold cereals, orange juice or fresh fruit, and milk.

Lunch

Monday, June 28 — Chicken with hot roll or peanut butter and jelly sandwich or ham and cheese sandwich, mashed potatoes and gravy or green beans or fresh fruit or raisins or Oreo cookies or orange juice and milk.

Tuesday, June 29 — Meat and cheese nacho or peanut butter and jelly sandwich or ham and cheese sandwich, tossed salad and ranch dressing or jello or frozen peach cup or fresh fruit or raisins or curious George fruit snacks or orange juice or Oreo cookies and milk.

Wednesday, June 30 — Chili/cheese dogs or peanut butter and jelly sandwich or ham and cheese sandwich, baked beans or carrot sticks with ranch dressing or jello or fresh fruit or raisins or orange juice and milk.

Thursday, July 1 — Pepperoni pizza or peanut butter and jelly sandwich or ham and cheese sandwich, corn or tossed salad with ranch or fresh fruit or raisins or sour apple slime or orange juice and milk.

Friday, July 2 — Bread sticks with marinara sauce or peanut butter and jelly sandwich or ham and cheese sandwich, fresh broccoli with ranch dressing Italian blend vegetables or fresh fruit or raisins or chocolate chip cookies or orange juice and milk.

Recording Artist Appears Here To Sign Autographs

Keith Lessert, former Ponca City resident, recently completed his first recording for national release, and will be appearing at The Master’s Touch Christian Bookstore in Ponca City on Sunday, July 3, from 2 to 3 p.m. to visit and sign autographs for friends. Title of his new release is “All About God.”

Since the completion of the album, Keith has been asked to record several other projects in Nashville, and one in Toronto, Canada. His current schedule has him singing mainly in the Nashville vicinity.

Keith enjoys a ministry as a youth pastor in the Nashville area. Youth and young people seem to be drawn to him, say friends, and he takes “making disciples” very seriously.

While he is in Oklahoma he is scheduled to sing at Falls Creek youth camp, near Davis. He will also be doing a live broadcast radio interview on Friday, July 2, at 4 p.m. on KLVV radio in Ponca City.

After graduation from Oklahoma Baptist University in 1997, Keith moved to Nashville to join his brother Jay who is the producer of the album project. They worked together closely and employed several well-known Christian industry musicians and songwriters.

For concert and booking information, contact Heaven Sent Events at (580) 765-3101.

Dr. Paul Davis Volunteering To Help Kosovo Refugees

Volunteering to help in times of disaster is nothing new to Dr. Paul K. Davis, Ponca City physician. He’s at it again.

Dr. Davis is part of the continuing humanitarian relief effort assisting refugees who fled war-town Kosovo, and presently housed at Fort Dix, New Jersey. He joined some 400 other healthcare professionals from around the country to provide relief for more than 4,000 refugees whose lives were turned upside down due to the recent conflict in the Balkan region. These Health and Human Service (HHS) volunteers have been working in conjunction with DOD:INS, and the American Red Cross personnel to provide healthcare and to process the Kosovars for resettlement within the USA.

As in other times of disaster, Dr. Davis has put his life on hold for several weeks to help others. “It takes a special kind of person to work with people who have lost homes; possessions; and family members. We are fortunate to have health care professionals who can provide capable, compassionate care to these many refugees,” said Capt. William Piggott, Mission Commander for the Provide Refuge Operation. The DMORT volunteers work long hours providing: screening exams; immunizations; medications; and acute care for a wide variety of medical conditions. This deployment is unique for these members who usually respond to the site of a disaster. Without their efforts, Operation Provide Rescue could not have been executed.

District Court

Newkirk

Marriage Licenses

Shane Allen Kugelman, 20, and Michelle Dawn Knedler, 24, both of Ponca City.

Harry Randal Miller, 38, and Natalia Jane Archer, 35, both of Arkansas City.

Earl Edward Bottger, 28, and Tina Marie Sanders, 27, both of Owasso.

Richard Andrew McVay, 28, and Christine Leigh Siebert, 21, both of Ponca City.

Billy Gene Moore, 18, and Christina Marie Case, 18, both of Ponca City.

Raul Hernaldo Martinez, 21, and Sherri Lin Saltarelli, 19, both of Ponca City.

Stewart Andrew Wood, 41, and Cheryl Ann Green, 42, both of Ponca City.

John Lee Polakowski, 26, and Kelli Ann Kirkendall, 23, both of Newkirk.

Alvin Dale Collins, 53, and Valerie Ann Petty, 42, both of Kaw City.

Kyle Robert Foster, 27, and Christi Ann Poffenberger, 23, both of Kansas City, Kan.

Toby Savoy Burdick, 25, and Caley Ann Sharp, 24, both of Ponca City.

Robert Douglas Canale Sr., 42, and Barbara Sue Sandy, 39, both of Newkirk.

Bradley Ray Keirn, 19, and Susan Irene Filson, 20, both of Ponca City.

Cleo Eric Conners, 31, and Amy Sue Todd, 23, both of Burden, Kan.

Divorces Sought

Bernita E. Ramsey vs. Danny R. Ramsey.

Ty Darrell Hendren vs. Julie Elizabeth Hendren.

Melanie Denise Murr vs. Richard L. Murr.

David Rawson vs. Ada Marie Farringer Rawson.

Civil Petitions

Midfirst Bank vs. Rodger C. Geurin, et al.; plaintiff seeking judgment for $40,034.10.

Ponca City

Divorces Sought

Kevin L. Ferguson vs. Marilyn L. Ferguson.

Jamiel D. Anderson vs. Debbie S. Anderson.

Kevin C. Miller vs. Alicia A. Miller.

Hayley Diane Dickerson vs. Carey Wayne Dickerson.

Charles Dale Creppel vs. Amber Dawn Creppel.

Walter Allen Cooper Jr. vs. Maile Chantell Cooper.

Julie Ann Mason vs. Loyd Ray Mason.

Divorces Granted

Douglas Joe Elliott vs. Lori Kay Elliott; defendant restored to former name Lori Kay Ryan-Elliott.

Floretta Denise Loud vs. James Edward Loud.

Whitnee A. Lorg vs. Jamie S. Lorg; plaintiff restored to former name of Guinn.

La Vena Cher Bojorquez vs. Javier Bojorquez; plaintiff restored to former name La Vena Cher Cole.

Darla S. Connelly vs. Terry L. Connelly.

Civil Petitions

George Franklin Brown, petition to change name to George Frank Brown.

Tex Charles Golay vs. Rusty Raymond Short, et al.; plaintiff seeking judgment in excess of $10,000.

Banc One Financial Services Inc. vs. Wilma Reed, et al.; plaintiff seeking judgment for $21,411.52.

Allied Group Mortgage Company vs. Phillip L. Turney, et al; plaintiff seeking judgment for $47,387.28.

Rafael Campos, et al., vs. Arky Reyez; plaintiff seeking judgment in excess of $10,000.

Lilly Mae Freeman vs. Jennifer Ann Barton; plaintiff seeking judgment in excess of $10,000.

Deroy Rickerd vs. Southwestern Bell Telephone; plaintiff seeking judgment in excess of $10,000.

Charles Wayne Smith vs. Refrigerated Delivery Services Inc.; plaintiff seeking judgment in excess of $10,000.

Larry Ray vs. Vincent Guzzi; plaintiff seeking judgment in excess of $10,000.

Special Gift From P.C. Mother’s Club

The first babies born at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center’s brand new Birth and Family Center will receive a very special gift, thanks to the Ponca City Mother’s Club.

After being approached by SJRMC about the special project, the organization worked for weeks making the limited-edition blankets, which include the name of the unit and a number that indicates the baby was one of the first 100 born in the unit.

Julie Beam, Mother’s Club member and manager of SJRMC’s gift shop, said the project was very meaningful to the Mother’s Club members because they wanted to be a part of this exciting occasion.

The $2 million dollar Birth and Family Center at St. Joseph’s is a 20-room, 15,283 square foot unit equipped with the latest medical technology. The center utilizes the latest monitoring and security systems and features eight Labor, Delivery, Recovery, Post-Partum (LDRP) rooms. These special rooms allow the entire birthing process to take place in the same room in a homelike atmosphere.

Newborns in need of special attention and more extensive monitoring are taken care of in the unit’s Special Care Nursery. which is the only one of its kind within a 40-mile radius. The unit is scheduled to open at the end of July.

Baylor Leads The Way With New Eye Surgery

A new eye surgery gives people suffering from nearsightedness a chance to correct the problem without laser surgery.

Dr. Douglas Koch, a professor of ophthalmology with the Cullen Eye Institute at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, was the first in Texas to perform the Intacs eye surgery, which was approved by the Food and Drug Administration in April.

“Vision without glasses improved in the eyes of the three patients we have operated on,” Koch said. “Within four days of surgery, two of the three people had 20/25 vision.”

The 15-minute procedure consists of making an incision that creates two small tunnels in the cornea. Two crescent-shaped corneal rings, inserted into the tunnels, flatten the cornea and correct the nearsightedness.

The surgery differs from both Laser In Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK) surgery and Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) because it offers permanent vision correction without permanently altering the eye’s central optical zone.

“With Lasik and PRK, tissue is permanently removed,” Koch said. “With Intacs, we can remove the rings and replace them with stronger or weaker rings, depending on a person’s visual changes. Also, if a more advanced procedure is developed years from now, removing the rings will return a person’s eyes to their original state, better preparing them for the new procedure.”

The Intacs procedure is approved for low nearsightedness up to -3.00 diopters, but does not correct farsightedness or astigmatism. Although rare, there are some risks of infection, and occasionally patients with larger pupils will be able to see the rings at night.

“For people who are nearsighted and are concerned about having LASIK or PRK surgery, Intacs offers an excellent option,” Koch said.

Intacs were developed by KeraVision, Inc. in Silicon Valley.

Climbing Wall New At YMCA

It’s a strain to find a handhold, first one then the other, feet following in quick succession. Reach, pull, climb — one pants from the exertion and strain of deep concentration. Is it a climber on Mt. Everest? No! It’s a young person trying out the new climbing wall at the Ponca City YMCA.

The new wall, located in the southwest corner of the gymnasium, will give participants a real climbing experience with various shapes of artificial hand and foot holds spaced at random intervals. To further vary the climbing experience, the wall has eight feet of sloped climbing surface and 14 feet of flat. The wall itself is 22 feet both high and wide.

“A climbing wall is beneficial for so many reasons,” said Kelly Kay, executive director of the Ponca City YMCA. “It is a wonderful tool for helping young people develop self esteem, it promotes teamwork since one person must always belay for another, plus it’s really great fun for all ages.”

The wall will be open from 6 to 8 p.m., every week night except Wednesday, and from 2 to 4 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays. There is no charge for YMCA members and the daily pass covers others.

“We want the wall to be open to the public as often as possible,” said Kay. “In addition, it will be available for birthday parties, special groups and businesses. In fact, the wall was recently used for a brief training exercise by the Tactical Team of the Ponca City Police Department.”

All climbing participants will wear a harness and be secured with a safety rope and trained personnel will be on duty at all times. Each climber will receive an orientation and then move on to the actual climbing of the wall. There are no age restrictions on this activity, however, a liability release must be signed by all participants and by parents if the climber is under 18 years of age.

“We encourage anyone who has wanted to experience rock climbing to come out and join us,” Kay said. “Just climb to the top and you get to ring the bell.”

Drama, Debate Students Receive NFL Recognition

Students who participated in the competitive drama and debate program at Ponca City High School were recognized at a recent awards banquet. To become members of the National Forensics League (NFL), students must earn points by participating in accredited contests; more points are earned when students win first, second, or third place.

Outgoing officers of the NFL, Ponca City Chapter, are Raymond Lahann, president; Kevin Goldman, vice president; Skye Howery, secretary; April Wilhelm, treasurer, and Adam Lake, Spirit Officer. Newly elected officers for the 1999-2000 school year are Ashley Root, president; Tracina Jones, vice president; Dusty Howery, secretary; Caleb Alison, treasurer and Crissy Colbath, Spirit officer.

Senior members of the National Forensics League were presented with crimson and silver honor cords, worn during graduation ceremonies. Those seniors were Cassie Ellenwood, Rachel Garlett, Kevin Goldman, Skye Howery, Ray Lahann, Adam Lake, Kim Moore, Chris Spaich, Lance VanZant, and April Wilhelm.

Outgoing President Lahann was presented with the plaque for Outstanding Drama/Debate Participants, 1999.

Nearly News

Nearly News reminds motorists that crews will be in the area of Gibson Place, from Hartford Avenue to Little Lane, and Little Lane, from Seventh Street to Hartford Avenue, to begin replacing the water mains on Monday. The streets will be limited to local traffic only during this phase.

DEATHS

Velma Mae Myers
Jewell Oxford Kinzie
Cecil E. Harmon
Frieda L. Rives

Velma Mae Myers

BLACKWELL — Velma Mae Myers, a former resident of Blackwell, died Friday, June 25, 1999 at Homestead Health Center in Wichita, Kan. She was 88.

Graveside Memorial Services were held Saturday, June 26, 1999 at 4 p.m. in the Blackwell Cemetery under direction of Roberts Funeral Home, Blackwell.

Velma Mae Myers was born Feb. 5, 1911 in Blackwell, Okla., the daughter of William and Elta (McCann) Case. She grew up in Blackwell and attended Blackwell Public Schools, graduating from Blackwell High School in 1929.

She and William Earl Myers were married May 3, 1930 in Blackwell and settled in Blackwell until 1945 when they moved to Wellington, Kan. She served as County Clerk for Sumner County while living in Wellington.

She was preceded in death by her husband in 1950 and following his death, she returned to Blackwell to make her home. In 1982 she moved to Wichita, Kan. to live in the Prairie Homestead Retirement Center, living there until her death.

Mrs. Myers was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Blackwell.

She is survived by two daughters, Marcine Hogg of Glendale, Ariz., and Lynn Fawcett of Dallas, Texas; a sister, Florence Pulver of Bradenton, Fla.; six grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, one son, James W. Myers; a brother, Glenn Case and a sister, Maggie Gibson.

Obituaries

Jewell Oxford Kinzie

Jewell Oxford Kinzie, former longtime Ponca City resident, died Thursday, June 24, 1999, at Golden Oaks, Enid. She was 94.

A graveside service will be held Monday, June 28, 1999, at 11 a.m. at Resthaven Memorial Park Cemetery with the Rev. Larry Heslip, Minister of Education, First Baptist Church, officiating. Burial will be under the direction of Trout Funeral Home. The family will be at the funeral home from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. Monday.

Jewell Oxford Kinzie was born June 13, 1905, in Paden, Indian Territory, Okla., to A. J. and Nina (Eaton) Morgan. She attended Miami Normal School at Miami, Okla.

On Dec. 4, 1922, she married R. H. “Doc” Oxford in Tulsa. They made their home in the Tulsa area before coming to Ponca City in the late 1930’s. They were involved in the restaurant business in Ponca City, operating the Bus Station Restaurant during World War II. Later, they owned and operated Jones Restaurant, Grand Avenue Restaurant and The Mark Restaurant. “Doc” Oxford preceded her in death in 1977. In 1980, she married O. A. “Mac” Kinzie in Ponca City; he died Dec. 26, 1990. She had been a resident of Westminster Village for several years before moving to Enid in April to be closer to her family.

Jewell Oxford Kinzie was an active member of the First Baptist Church of Ponca City for over 50 years. She was also a member of the Ponca City Garden Club and Extension Club. Additionally, she was a longtime member of the Ponca City Business Women’s Club. She enjoyed gardening.

She is survived by her son, Roy Oxford and his wife, Florence, of Enid; daughter, Mrs. Harold (June) Brattain of Spring, Texas; eight grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren. Mr. Kinzie’s two sons, Wallace and Gale Kinzie, both of Ponca City, survive her. Her parents and six siblings preceded her in death.

Casket bearers will be grandsons, Michael Brattain and Neal, Dean and Scott Oxford; and grandsons-in-law, Larry Broski and Ron Vogel.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions be made in her memory to Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, 825 NE 13th, Street, Oklahoma City, OK 73104.

paid obituary

Cecil E. Harmon

Cecil E. Harmon, longtime Ponca City resident, died Wednesday afternoon, June 23, 1999 at the St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. He was 83.

A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m. Monday, June 28, 1999 in the Sunset Memorial Park with the Rev. Leon Grider, pastor, Osage Heights Baptist Church, officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Grace Memorial Chapel.

Born Oct. 1, 1915 in Lexington, Okla., he was the son of Edd and Mahalia (Cobb) Harmon. He grew up in Wynona and Pawhuska and received his education there. He was married to Pauline Artman in Ponca City on Jan. 18, 1942. The couple made their home in Ponca City.

Mr. Harmon served in the U.S. Army during World War II. In September 1945, following his discharge, he was employed by the Cities Service and Sequoia refineries. He retired from the Conoco Refinery in November 1977.

He was a member of the American Legion Huff Minor Post 14. He enjoyed gardening, fishing and spending time with his family and children.

Surviving are his wife, Pauline, of Ponca City; a daughter, Connie O’Quain, of Ponca city; two grandchildren, Dean O’Quain, both of Ponca City; two great-grandchildren, Nicole and Ashley O’Quain; and two brothers, Melvy Harmon of Barnsdall, Okla. and Kenneth Harmon of Foley, Ala. He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, John Harmon and two sisters, Marie and Irene.

Honorary casket bearers will be Leo O’Quain, Dean O’Quain, Earl Krieg, Jack Forbes, Lloyd Womack, Mike Harmon, Melvy Harmon, and Kenneth Harmon.

paid obituary

Services Pending

Frieda L. Rives

Frieda L. Rives, longtime Ponca City resident, died Friday evening, June 25, 1999, at Shawn Manor. She was 82. The funeral service will be held Tuesday, June 29, 1999 at 10 a.m. at the Albright United Methodist Church. Other arrangements are pending with Trout Funeral Home and will be announced later. The family will be at 1220 West Hazel.

NEWS BRIEFS

Nutrition Project — The Wheatheart Nutrition Project, 319 West Grand, serves noon meals to seniors 60 years of age and older Monday through Friday. Volunteers are needed to deliver meals to those unable to cook for themselves. If you can help, call 767-1620. Lunch and mileage are available for volunteers.

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

Give Aways Available — Free Beanies, “Glory” and “Kicks,” will be given away at the Sun ‘n Fun party on Monday, June 28. The $5 party admission from to 5 to 9 p.m. will raise funds for Christian radio 88.7 FM. Call 767-1400 for more information.

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.

Ponca City Grad to Attend TU — Raymond L. Lahann, a 1999 graduate of Ponca City Senior High School, plans to attend the University of Tulsa in the fall. Lahann has been awarded a College of Arts and Sciences Scholarship and an Honors Scholarship from TU. He is the son of Richard Lahann of Houston and Melody Lahann of Ponca City. The university is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church, USA.

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.

4th of July Celebration — The City of Hominy will celebrate Independence Day with a “Hominy Loves America” celebration on July 3-4. Activities include a “Yankee Doodle Dandy” parade with nearly 50 entries, patriotic ceremonies at The Gazebo, old fashioned contests, a box supper auction, home-make ice cream social and jam session of local musicians, on the 3rd. On July 4, at 7:30 p.m. entertainment by “Kanyon Band” and a spectacular fireworks show at ‘dark-thirty.’ All citizens of the area invited to the 223rd birthday party of the USA.

Open: Little Dance Smoke Shop. 3 miles South on Hwy 177. Marl, $18.25; Camel, $18.25; Winston, $18.25. Check Our Prices! Open 7 a.m.-8 p.m. 762-7071. adv.

Singles Will Dance — The Singles Connection will meet on Monday, at 7 p.m. in the lounge of the American Legion for dance lessons — new steps will be taught. For more information please call 765-7165.

Pauline's Every Monday Night Special. Fried Chicken Only- all white meat. All you can eat, $6.50. For reservations call 765-5460. adv.

Rummage Sale — The Ponca City Fraternal Order of Police Auxiliary is now accepting donations for an upcoming rummage sale. All proceeds will go to FOPA Lodge 103, to help support local officers. Members will be accepting donations at the FOP lodge located at the northwest corner of West Broadway Avenue and North Union Street, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on July 10 and July 24.

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

Love to Garden — The Ponca City Farmers Market is looking for new members to sell fresh produce. Membership is $10, and $1 to participate in each market. The market is located at East Prospect Avenue and North Fourteenth Streets, on the Country General Parking lot. The market will be open Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays at 7 a.m.

Furr’s Dining Now open continuously 11-8 Sunday-Thursday, 11-8:30 Friday and Saturday. adv.

Downtown Concert — Just Add Water will be playing at Centennial Plaza Thursday, during the Ponca City Main Street Authority’s “First Thursday Concerts Downtown”, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. The program will also feature young local talent. Families are encouraged to bring a lawn chair and refreshments to enjoy the evening filled with live music.

Accident — At 6:09 p.m. Friday, two Ponca City police officers responded to a non-injury accident which occurred at East Hartford Avenue and North Pecan Road. A report was taken.

Sale 20-50-70 savings, Kids/Her Review. 309 East Grand. adv.

Mischief — A resident in the 400 block of South Pine Street advised the Ponca City Police Department at 9:02 a.m. Friday that boys were trying to steal fishing poles out of the garage, then scattered in the alley. An officer responded but found that nothing was taken and he was unable to locate the subjects. Extra patrol was requested.

For Sale. Antique style pool table. 762-2785. adv.

Warrant Served — At 10:05 a.m. Friday, a Ponca City police officer arrested a 27-year-old man in the 900 block of North First Street for no drivers license and a Kay County warrant.

Three Free cards with purchase of three cards. Large selection. Carla’s Hallmark, Downtown. adv.

Accident — A motorist advised the Ponca City Police Department at 11:44 a.m. Friday of a non-injury accident which occurred in the 600 block of South Fourteenth Street. An officer responded and took a report.

Have Pet? Can travel! In-home pet sitting service. We love them

when you have to leave them! 762-4205. adv.

Burglary — AT 12:04 p.m. Friday, a resident in the 800 block of West Prospect Avenue notified the Ponca City Police Department that a vehicle had been burglarized. An officer responded and took a report.

Attention Steak & Shrimp lovers: Golden Corral, Wednesday Night, All you can eat steak and shrimp buffet. 4 to close. $8.99. adv.

Accident — A Ponca City police officer responded to the report of an accident at North Fifth Street and East Hartford Avenue at 12:15 p.m. Friday. The subjects exchanged information.

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

Collision — At 12:19 p.m. Friday, a motorist contacted the Ponca City Police Department to report an accident occurred in front of Wal-Mart, 1101 East Prospect Avenue. An officer responded and took a report.

Budget Bride has moved to Pine and Grand. 718-9934. adv.

Warrant Served — A Ponca City police officer arrested a 19-year-old woman at the police station at 1:58 p.m. Friday for a city warrant.

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

Theft — A Ponca City police officer was contacted by a subject in the 600 block of West Emporia Avenue at 3:37 p.m. Friday regarding a theft. The officer took a report.

Travel With Esther’s Bunch, Tunica. August 18-19-20, two nights, Gold Strike Hotel. seven-buffets, $30-casino coins. $110 each. 1-877-547-1115. adv.

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.

Warrant Served — At 4:12 p.m. Friday, a Ponca City police officer arrested a 21-year-old man from North Elm Street and West Highland Avenue for a Kay County warrant.

False Declaration — A Ponca City police officer took a report of a false pawn declaration at Shooters, 105 West Grand Avenue, at 4:12 p.m. Friday.

Warrant Served — A resident in the 300 block of South Oak Street contacted the Ponca City Police Department at 5:20 a.m. Saturday to request a subject be removed from the residence. Two officers responded and arrested a 31-year-old man for a Kay County warrant.

Fireworks — A Ponca City police officer responded to the 300 block of North Birch Street at 10:58 p.m. Friday to talk to youth who were shooting fireworks. The juveniles were advised of the consequences.

2000 count down wall clock. Watch the clock tick off the seconds and days till midnight December 31st. Check out our year 2000 jewelry and our birthday sale. Cristy’s 3005 North 14th. adv.

Accident — At 4:45 p.m. Friday, a Ponca City police officer responded to the report of a minor, two-vehicle accident in the 400 block of East Grand Avenue. The subjects exchanged information.

Tuesday Kids Night: Come for food and fun, face painting, balloons, activities and bike give away. 5 - 7 p.m. Golden Corral. adv.

Dog Bite — A resident in the 2300 block of Eagle Road contacted the Ponca City Police Department at 5:02 p.m. Friday to report that a subject was bitten by a dog and the dog was trapped. The Animal Control Department was advised to handle the incident.

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

Stolen — An employee at the Lake Road Express, 2500 Lake Road, advised the Ponca City Police Department at 6:17 p.m. Friday that the driver of a blue vehicle drove off without paying for $13 in gas. An officer responded and took a report.

Help the school of your choice. Donating a new VCR tape and ordering great entertainment from HBO or Showtime is a start. Call Cable One at 762-6684 for details. adv.

Arrested — At 7:16 p.m. Friday, a 34-year-old man was taken into custody by a Ponca City police officer from the Tonkawa Police Department for a city warrant.

City Service Sequoia luncheon Furrs Cafeteria 11:30 a.m. Tuesday. adv.

Warrant Served — At 8:25 p.m. Friday, a Ponca City police officer arrested a 22-year-old man from the 100 block of South Ash Street for three Kay County warrants.

Moving Sale. Call 762-5655. Cherry Wood China Cabinet with table and 6 chairs, cost $4,000, Sell $1,200. Sofa, Loveseat, coffee table,Queen headboard and mattress misc-air compressor, tools. adv.

Lights Out — At 9:32 p.m. Friday, a Ponca City police officer noticed the street lights in the 100 block of East Grand Avenue were out. The Water and Light Department was advised.

Fire — Ponca City firefighters from station 1 responded at 11:36 p.m. Friday to the report of vehicle on fire in the 700 block of North Oak Street. The fire was extinguished.

Arrest — At 12:21 a.m. Saturday, a Ponca City police officer arrested an 18-year-old man from a traffic stop at West Fresno Avenue and North Union Street for driving under the influence, driving left of center, no insurance, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Vandalism — A Ponca City police officer responded to the 1600 block of Yale Avenue at 5:29 a.m. Saturday to take a report of vandalism. Apparently, three vehicles were egged.

LIFESTYLES

Lookin’ With Lou
Little News
Amanda Driesel Weds Patrick Ireland May 29
Summer Katharine Hill Bride of Mark Blubaugh
Events Will Honor Couple
Singles Network
Fibromyalgia Support
Wheatheart Nutrition
Yvonne Kelly Bride-Elect
Youngs Celebrate in Hawaii
Couple Plans August Vows
TOPS Chapter Members Meet
Ponca City Happenings
Stillwater Church Is Setting For Couple’s Nuptial Vows
Swim Lessons Scheduled By Foreman
Complete Guide To Finding Best Care for Loved One a Must Have
Engagement Is Announced
Clarks Celebrate 35 Years
Tabitha Tennille Powell Marries Mark Lockhart
OMTA Award To Thompson
Couple United in Marriage At Baptist Church Chapel
Sports Bra Hazardous To Your Health
Lewis Family Reunion Held
Rosa Reeves To Celebrate 90th Birthday
Ponca Citians State Directors of ’Good Sams’
Photo Change
Wedding Plans Announced for Couple
News Policy: Birthday Photo, Story For 90+
Lifestyles Deadlines Announced

Lookin’ With Lou

Decisions! Decisions!

By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE

News Staff Writer

Could it be we have too many choices in our life?

In the course of a day we are called upon to make many decisions. These range from plastic or paper bags at the grocery store, to do I want French or Ranch dressing on my salad at the restaurant?

Never mind that I just had to decide if I desire fat-free or regular chips while buying groceries. Selecting an item on the menu has already been traumatic enough when eating out and then I have to decide between regular coffee or decaffeinated.

It is not enough that humans ask questions - now the gas station pumps are inquisitive they ask “unleaded” “super-plus” or “diesel”? Do you want to pay inside? Do you want a printed receipt?” Generally I just want to refuel my car.

Then there is the ATM machine that wants my code number, then asks if it should debit my checking or savings account and how much do I want? Never mind that it is going to give me the cash in multiples of 20s. And by the way did I want another transaction?

When I go to the store and make a purchase, have cash in hand to pay so I can be quickly on my way, the cashier wants to know my zip code. Now tell me is this for the convenience of the customer? Actually it is a marketing survey for the store to tell where the buyers are coming from, but to me it is a nuisance, especially when I buy a $1.49 item.

And when the plumber asks chrome or brass, you know the answer can’t be good either way. Your hint that the plumbing bill is going to be outstanding is when the plumber walks back and forth and mutters to himself “oh my,” “oh dear,” calls his headquarters on his cell phone, and then reports “we’ve done it before but it takes a lot of time. Can I call you back on the estimate?”

Then there are those everyday decisions as to whether I should leave a pink or yellow sticky note message for my co-worker? When the signal light turns from green to yellow should I go or should I stop?

Try buying stamps at the Post Office and the clerk asks “do you want the regular flag stamps or do you want the stamp of the month?” Actually I just wanted to mail my bills.

Little News

Cpl. John and Chasity Pickard, Camp LeJeune, N.C., announce the birth of a daughter at 7:27 p.m. June 7, 1999, at the Camp LeJeune Naval Hospital. Alexandria McCoy Pickard weighed 8 pounds, 6 ounces, and measured 21 inches long.

Maternal grandparents are Danny and Tammy Johnson of Ponca City, and Robert Darrow of Corning, Calif. Paternal grandparents are Jean Pickard of Ponca City and the late Paul Pickard.

Maternal great-grandparents are Arra Johnson of Tecumseh and Loyce Wallis of Ponca City. Paternal great-grandparents are Irene Pickard of Okmulgee, Marguerite Kinney of Ponca City, the late John P. Pickard, and the late M.G. Kenney. Maternal great-great-grandmother is Nellie McCoy Ray of Paducah, Ky.

Elizabeth Katherine Ratliff is the name chosen by Bill and Maribeth Ratliff of Newkirk for their daughter born at 4:02 p.m. May 31, 1999, in Stillwater. The baby weighed 7 pounds, 14 ounces, and was 20 inches long. Her sisters and brother are Melissa, Tracy, Stephanie and Christopher. Grandparents are Bill and Katie Bliss of Newkirk, and Ray and Marie Ratliff of Tulsa. Great-grandparents are the late Earl and Billie Trenary.

Amanda Driesel Weds Patrick Ireland May 29

Amanda Driesel and Patrick Ireland were united in a 6:30 p.m. ceremony May 29, 1999, at the Marland Mansion. The Rev. Rick Longcrier officiated the double ring ceremony. The processional was “Canon in D” and the traditional “Bridal March” and the Wedding March” recessional were played by a string quartet led by Jeff and Barbara Fox. Kiley Rieger and Tim Muniz sang “Always” and “From This Moment On.”

The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. David Driesel, and the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. John R. Davis and Ms. Ruby Driesel. The bridegroom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Rick Ireland, and the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Ernest L. Ireland and Ms. Pearl Craven.

Lindsey Bradley was the Matron of Honor and Jody Feely was the Maid of Honor. Bridesmaids were Tara Burns, Kim Lowery, and Erin Yazbeck. Each attendant was attired in a floor-length gown of Iris satin and crepe with a key-hole opening in the back, and each carried a bouquet of roses and spring flowers.

Junior Bridesmaid was Ashley Noles, who wore a floor-length white gown designed with an Empire bodice. Andrea Ragan attended the guest book, and the flower girl was Taylor McAreavey.

Chris Deal served as Best Man, and groomsmen were Casey Woods, Ryan Ireland, Erick Ireland, and Zachary Mendez. The Junior Groomsman was Kevin Ireland, and the ringbearer was Hunter Noles.

The bride wore a white satin gown with a fitted bodice and sweetheart neckline. The bodice and sleeves were covered in appliqued lace and accented with pearls. The gown featured a cathedral-length train with inserts of lace accented with pearls. Her shoulder-length veil was secured by a headband adorned with sequins and pearls. She carried a bouquet of pink and yellow roses, spring flowers, and English Ivy accented with sheer pink ribbon.

Parents of the bride hosted a dance and reception at the Marland Mansion. Assisting with the decorations and serving of the cakes were Billie Kirchenbauer, Lisa Noles, Julie Brown, and Vonda Blando. The newlywed couple traveled to Cancun, Mexico, for their wedding trip, and now reside at 519 North Fourth.

Summer Katharine Hill Bride of Mark Blubaugh

Summer Katharine Hill became the bride of Mark Eric Blubaugh in a wedding ceremony at 7 p.m. on June 12, 1999, at the First Lutheran Church. Their double ring vows were officiated by the Rev. Thomas Ramsey.

The prelude was played by Stan Hoffmeyer, and Megan Stroud, cousin of the bride, served as candlelighter. “Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring” by Bach was played as family members were seated, and Annie Grubb sang “I Will Be Here” by Steve Curtis Chapman. The processional was “Canon in D” by Pachelbel and the bride’s processional was “Bridal Chorus” by Wagner. The “Parent’s Prayer” by Greg Davis was played as the unity candle was lit by the couple.

The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Hill of Ponca City, and the granddaughter of Dr. and Mrs. Homer N. Flora of Nowata, and Mr. and Mrs. J. L. Brandon of Rome, Ga. The bridegroom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Karel Blubaugh of Ponca City, and the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Ray Bush of Blackwell.

Serving as readers were Lisa Caudle and Jennifer Lucas. Lindy Reisteck attended the guest book and programs. Flower girl was Kailey Suzanne Riff, cousin of the bride, and the ringbearers were Tyler Dane and Douglas Wade Owen, nephews of the bridegroom.

Courtney Hill, sister of the bride, was Maid of Honor, and bridesmaids were Lori Lockwood and Kasi Ross and bridesmatron was Mrs. Marla Warwick. They wore identical pink crepe gowns made by Mrs. Sandy Bishop. Each carried a bouquet of pink roses, lavender stock and yellow gladiola blossoms.

Brandon Ketcher served as Best Man, and groomsmen were Steven Parker, Rob Mullin and Dennis Blankenship. Guests were seated by Jason Corbin, Stephen Link and Gary Wells.

The bride wore a floor-length designer dress. The white satin gown was accented with sequins and pearls, and the cathedral-length train was netted with appliqued roses and pearls. Her waist-length veil was trimmed with satin piping and attached to a headdress of satin, sequins and pearls. She carried a bouquet of white roses, stephanotis and mini-carnations tied with white sheer ribbon.

Parents of the bride hosted a dance and reception at the Marland Mansion. assisting with the serving were Amy Blubaugh and Julie Owen, sisters of the bridegroom, and Shawna Hanlin. Bridal Consultant was Mrs. Shawna Yates of Tahlequah.

The bridegroom’s parents hosted a rehearsal dinner at the First Lutheran Church banquet room. A bridal luncheon was held at the Amarillo Grill hosted by the bridegroom’s aunts: Mrs. Sue Parker, Mrs. Jeannie Harrold and Mrs. Ralene Patrick. A miscellaneous shower was held in the home of Mrs. Eric Wilson, hosted by Shelley Wilson, Tudi Lockwood, Janet Ray and Beverly Schneider. A kitchen and bath shower was held in Tahlequah by the bride’s sorority sisters. A personal shower was held in the home of Mrs. Linda Caudle hosted by Lisa Caudle and Courtney Hill.

Following a wedding trip to Maui, Hawaii, the couple will reside in Tulsa.

Events Will Honor Couple

A Mass of Thanksgiving at St. Mary’s Catholic Church and a family dinner on July 3 will honor Mr. and Mrs. Joseph C. Kotarski, 2309 Meadowbrook Drive, for their 50th wedding anniversary.

Joe Kotarski and the former Del Lynch were united in marriage July 2, 1949, in Sacred Heart Church in Whiting, Ind. They made their first home in Chicago, Ill, and moved to Ponca City in 1959, where he was employed in the Legal Department at Conoco. He retired in 1985 as Patent Counsel. Mr. and Mrs. Kotarski have been active parishioners of St. Mary’s since moving to Ponca City.

Hosts for the dinner party to be held at the Ponca City Country Club will be the couple’s children and their spouses, Neal and Janet Kotarski of Whiting, Ind., Bob and Sharon Kotarski of El Paso, Texas, Ross and Nancy Kotarski of Westport, Conn., and Joe and Stephanie Kotarski of Perth, Australia.

Mr. and Mrs. Kotarski have nine grandchildren, all of whom will be attending the celebration. They are Jon of Fort Worth, Texas, Justin of Lubbock, Texas, Trey and Tessia of El Paso, Texas, Michael and Hannah of Westport, Conn., and Madeline, Abigail and Pierce of Perth, Australia.

Bits and Pieces

Singles Network

The Singles Network is a group of single people, either by choice, divorce or widowed, that gathers for fellowship and mutual support. Our activity schedule for the week of June 28 through July 4 includes — June 29, 6 p.m., eating out at Furr’s; July 3, 7 p.m., Game Night, bring snacks and call Betty at 762-9776; July 4, 5:30 p.m. dessert at Shery’s with ice cream furnished, call Shery at 762,1987.

Fibromyalgia Support

Fibromyalgia Support Group meets on the fourth Monday of each month at 7 p.m. in the parlor of the First Baptist Church. More information may be obtained by calling Raelene Brown, 765-5756; Mary Beth Guy, 765-9894; Martha Long, 762-5572. Speaker for this meeting will be Kim Acton, RN, who will speak about Fibromylagia Resource Material. Packets of the material will be available at the meeting. The public is invited to attend.

Wheatheart Nutrition

For Wheatheart Nutrition Menu information call 767-1620. The project serves noon meals to seniors Monday-Friday. Volunteers are needed to deliver noon meals to those unable to cook for themselves. Lunch and mileage for volunteers is available. Menus for this week are as follows:

Monday, June 28: Macaroni and cheese with ham; peaches and strawberries; oven fried okra; cornbread with margarine; sugar cookie.

Tuesday, June 29: Vegetable meatloaf; mashed potatoes with gravy; buttered peas; muffin with margarine; double orange gelatin.

Wednesday, June 30: Cheesey pork pie; California mixed vegetables; tropical fruit mix; whole wheat dinner roll with margarine; sherbet.

Thursday, July 1: Smothered hamburger with beef gravy; buttered corn; tossed salad with dressing; breadsticks with margarine; jello cake.

Friday, July 2: Chicken patty; pickle, lettuce, tomato, onion; marinated carrots; bun with margarine; iced raisin peanut butter bars.

Yvonne Kelly Bride-Elect

Announcement has been made of the engagement and approaching marriage of Yvonne Charity Kelly and Kevan John Pulliam. The couple plans a July 24 wedding at 7 p.m. in the Albright United Methodist Church, 128 South Palm, Ponca City. A reception will follow the ceremony and an open invitation to attend the events is being extended to family and friends.

The bride-elect is the daughter of Charles Smith of Ponca City, and Mr. and Mrs. Glenn Kelly of Wyandotte, and the granddaughter of Dixie King of Marland, Dewey Kelly of Ponca City, the late Marvin King, and the late Genevieve Kelly. Pulliam is the son of Mr. and Mrs. John David Pulliam of Marland, and the grandson of May Evans of Marland, Jackie Pulliam of Sterling, Colo., the late Lawrence Evans, the late John Pulliam, and the late Wilma LaBerta Burton.

Miss Kelly has attended Marland and Frontier Schools and is employed with Taylor-Oldfield Veterinary Clinic. The prospective bridegroom has attended Marland Schools, and graduated from Frontier School in 1993. He has also attended Northern Oklahoma College and Pioneer Technology Center. Pulliam is employed with Wells Plumbing Company in Ponca City.

Youngs Celebrate in Hawaii

Mr. and Mrs. Tracy L. Young recently celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary with a trip to Hawaii. The eight-day visit to Oahu was a gift to the couple from Lucille Fee, Mrs. Young’s mother.

Young is the son of Calvin and Marcene Young, and grandson of Carl and Irene Scott, all of Ponca City. Mrs. young is the daughter of Lucille Fee of Vallejo, Calif., and the late C. Dan Fee.

Tracy Young and the former Cynthia K. Fee were married June 14, 1974 at the Second Baptist Church with the Rev. Paul Graham officiating. Young has been employed with Smith International for 25 years. The couple has three children, Ashley, Lindsey and Joshua, and three grandchildren, KeYanna, Ty, and Brianna, all of Ponca City.

Couple Plans August Vows

Grayson Baptist Church in Enid will be the setting Aug. 7 for the wedding of Angela Kaye Roland and Irvine Joseph Bobb. Their vows will be solemnized in a 1 p.m. ceremony by the Rev. David Brown Sr., pastor of the Progressive Baptist Church in Enid.

Mothers of the couple are Mrs. Helen Roland, 421 South Oak, and Mrs. Joyce Bobb of Port Arthur, Texas. The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Mrs. Willie Campbell, 1207 South Twelfth.

Miss Roland is a graduate of Ponca City High School and is employed as Enlisted Dormitory Clerk at Vance Air Force Base in Enid.

The prospective bridegroom, a graduate of Port Arthur High School, is pastor of New Mt. Olive Baptist Church in Newkirk, and is employed at Advance Food in Enid.

TOPS Chapter Members Meet

TOPS OK 308 Chapter met Monday evening with Ann McCool calling the meeting to order, and Natalie McCoy giving the devotional from the book “A Spoonful of Chicken Soup for the Soul.”

Elaine Hoober led the TOPS pledge, and Robert Oldham led the KOPS Kreed. Natalie McCoy called the roll, and Robinelle Oldham gave the weight report. Ann Steuver was Best Loser, and Jenny Bechtold won the “Ha Ha pot.”

Secret sister names will be revealed at the next meeting. There will be no meeting July 5.

Dalphene Robertson led the group in playing a game, How To Make Your Wish Come True.

Take Off Pounds Sensibly is a non-profit organization whose members desire to lose or maintain weight. Members are encouraged to develop individual exercise programs, and contests are used to encourage weight loss. Weigh-in time is 6:15-6:45 p.m. Monday, and the meeting begins at 6:45 p.m. For more information contact Betty Flower, 765-5448.

Ponca City Happenings

SUNDAY

Marland Estate Mansion, 901 Monument Road, open daily, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, 1-5 p.m. Guided tours Monday-Friday, 1:30 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 1:30 and 3 p.m. Special tour information, 767-0420.

Pioneer Woman Museum, open Tuesday-Friday 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, 1-5 p.m. The museum is closed on Mondays and holidays.

Ponca City Art Center, 819 East Central. Wednesday through Sunday, 1-5 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.

11th Step AA meeting — open, 11 a.m.; AA Discussion meeting, 8 p.m. Harmony House, 212 South Third.

AA Alano Group — Noon, open topic meeting; 8 p.m., closed topic meeting; 603 South 1st.

MONDAY

Al-Anon meeting, 8-9 p.m. Monday, upstairs in the Harmony House, 212 South Third.

Domestic Violence Group, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Mondays. Programs for women and children of family violence. Babysitter provided. For information call 76A-BUSE.

Fibromyalgia Support Group meets on the fourth Monday of each month at 7 p.m. in the parlor of the First Baptist Church. More information may be obtained by calling Raelene Brown, 765-5756; Mary Beth Guy, 765-9894; Martha Long, 762-5572.

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.

Ponca City Rotary Club, noon Monday, Marland Mansion Chapel.

Simple Steps AA — closed, noon; AA Step Study — closed, 8 p.m.; Harmony House, 212 South Third.

AA Alano Group — Noon, open topic meeting; 8 p.m., closed 12 by 12 study; 603 South 1st.

TOPS OK 308 members weigh-in time is 6 to 6:45 p.m. with meetings starting at 6:45 p.m. on Mondays. For more information call Betty Flower, 765-5448.

Principles Before Personalities, Narcotics Anonymous, 8 p.m. Monday, Harmony House basement (use south entrance by parking lot).

TUESDAY

The American Family Support Group will meet 7-9 p.m. Tuesdays at 1105 West Highland. The topic will be Child Welfare Services and child abuse.

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 noon; AA Big Book Study — closed, 8 p.m. Harmony House, 212 South Third.

AA Alano Group — Noon, open topic meeting; 8 p.m., closed newcomers meeting; 603 South 1st.

Freedom Group of AA; Tuesdays at 8 p.m. Woodlands Christian Church (Room 202), Fourteenth and Hartford. Smoke-free meeting and building. We study and practice tradition. Study Discussion of “As Bill Sees it” and other AA approved literature. Call 762-3345 for more information.

Parent Support Group, 6-7:30 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, 10 and 11:30 a.m. Tuesdays at the Ponca City Library.

Weight Watchers meeting, 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, St. Paul’s United Methodist Church. Weigh-in begins at 6 p.m.

Fanchon Chapter 53, Order of the Eastern Star, meets the first and third Tuesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. at the Masonic Temple, 1200 West Grand.

Free pregnancy test is kept confidential at Birth Choice, 700 West Broadway. Hours are 6-8 p.m. Tuesday; 1-3 p.m. Wednesday; 6-8 p.m. Thursday.

WEDNESDAY

Deadline for Happenings and items for Sunday’s edition of Lifestyles is 5 p.m. Wednesday. For Happenings include name of club, time and day of meeting, place and hostess.

Pioneer Toastmasters Club, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Wednesday, R&D East Auditorium, Conoco Complex, 1000 South Pine. Guests welcome; public invited. For additional information, contact Bob Ennis, 767-5946.

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, noon. AA Discussion meeting, 8 p.m. Harmony House, 212 South Third.

AA Alano Group — Noon, open topic meeting; 8 p.m., closed Big Book study; 603 South 1st.

Storytime for 2 and 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.

Ponca City Council of Garden Clubs meets at the Cann Center on the first Wednesday of each month at 9:30 a.m. Anyone interested in gardening, flowers, birds, butterflies, conservation, historic preservation, landscape design or environmental education, is welcome to attend. For more information call 762-4887, or 762-8008.

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) support group aids veterans of the Vietnam and Gulf Wars. The group is confidential and meets at the DAV, 401 South Lincoln, 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, 762-7561.

Principles Before Personalities, Narcotics Anonymous, 8 p.m. Wednesday, Harmony House basement (use south entrance by parking lot).

Telephone Retired Members Club will meet Wednesday at 11 a.m. at the Golden Corral.

THURSDAY

Al-Anon at Conoco, TBTV 50 on Mezzanine between North and South Towers, 11:30 p.m. Thursday. Call Linda, 765-7045, 767-5328.

AA Discussion meeting, noon; AA discussion meeting, 8 p.m., Harmony House, 212 South Third.

AA Alano Group — Noon, open topic meeting; 8 p.m., closed AA literature study; 603 South 1st.

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 the last Thursday of each 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, 7-10 p.m. Thursday, Stephenson Building, 113 North Third. For information call 762-8687 or 765-7996.

Parent Support Group, 9:30-11 a.m. Thursday 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. Ponca City Newcomers will meet May 20 and members are reminded to bring recipes to the meeting. For more information and to make reservations call Joyce Fox, 762-9578.

Story hour for school-aged children Thursday at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. at the Ponca City Library.

Principles Before Personalities, Narcotics Anonymous, 8 p.m. Thursday, Harmony House basement (use south entrance by parking lot).

FRIDAY

Simple Steps AA — open, noon; AA speaker meeting — open, 8 p.m. Harmony House, 212 South Third.

AA Alano Group — Noon, open 12 by 12 meeting; 8 p.m., open speaker meeting; 603 South 1st.

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). Smoke-free building. For more information call 762-3345 or 765-9459.

SATURDAY

AA Discussion meeting at noon Saturday. AA Discussion meeting at 8 p.m., Harmony House, 212 South Third.

AA Alano Group — Noon, open topic meeting; 8 p.m., closed Big Book study; 603 South First.

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.

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.

Stillwater Church Is Setting For Couple’s Nuptial Vows

The First United Methodist Church in Stillwater was the setting June 12, 1999, for the wedding of Leslie Diann Fradd and Matthew Quinn Baldwin. Their double ring vows were solemnized in a 7 p.m. ceremony by the Rev. Michael Bartley.

The bride is the daughter of Todd and Jan Fradd of Tulsa, and the bridegroom is the son of Nancy Quinn and Jerald Baldwin, both of Oklahoma City. The bride’s grandparents are Mr. and Mrs. Harold Fradd of Miami. Grandparents of the bridegroom are Mr. and Mrs. John Quinn, 2513 Woodthrush, and Mr. and Mrs. Frank Baldwin of Bella Vista, Ark., former residents of Ponca City.

“Kissing You” was played during the candlelighting and the processional was “Canon in D” by Pachelbel and “Procession Allegre” by Cornell. The recessional was “Hymn of Joy” by Beethoven. Wes Howl was organist and Ariel Lumbard was the candlelighter.

Readers were John Griffin, Phil Helmbright, Christa Heiger and Kristin Huggins. The guest book was attended by Michael and Tomi Depenbrock from New Jersey. Flowergirl and ringbearer were Callie and Cole Scheulen, five-year-old twins. She carried a basket of flowers and he carried a family Bible.

Amy Kreutz of Norman served her twin sister as Matron of Honor. She was attired in a floor length pink gown accented with silk insets, and carried a bouquet of tulips. Best Man for his brother was Justin Baldwin of Stillwater. Guests were seated by the bride’s twin brothers, Ryan and Joey Fradd of Tulsa.

The bride wore a slim-cut satin gown with a sleeveless beaded overlay bodice designed with a square neckline. The chapel length train was attached by a beaded bow and her fingertip length veiling was attached to a beaded headband. She carried a bouquet of white tulips. The bride followed the tradition of something old, new, borrowed and blue. The sixpence in her shoe had been worn in the bridegroom’s mother’s shoe during her wedding.

A reception for the couple was held at Old Central on the campus of Oklahoma State University. The couple resides in Dillingham, Alaska, where the bride is a speech pathologist and the bridegroom is a high school English teacher.

A rehearsal dinner was held in Guthrie and was hosted by the bridegroom’s parents, Nancy Quinn, and Lonny and Diane Baldwin.

Out-of-town guests included Tom and Nancy Quinn, Susan and Richard Fitzgerald of Houston, Texas; Kristal Quinn of Sydney, Australia; Luke and Ryan Fitzgerald of Colorado; Dwight, Delynda, Kirk, Betsy and Emily Baldwin of Austin, Texas; Bobby and Chase Kreutz of Norman; Victorene Young, Susan Mott, Kathryn Goldthwaite, Helen Wheat, Dorothy Brooks, Carmen Goldthwaite, Dennis and Marilyn Boots, all of Texas; Mildred Quinn, Vianne Wright, John and Marcia Quinn, Teri Bahr, Bailis and Barbara Bell, all from Kansas.

Also Jim Stieber of Ponca City; Joe Heath of San Antonio, Texas; Kay and Aaron Stair, Jo Eldridge, Christa Scheulen, Janet and Amanda Prewitt, all of Tulsa; Jennybeth McRoy of Phoenix, Ariz.; Susan Huffman, Laura Krider, Amy Henderson, Beverly Sartin, Earl and Mary Shipp, Dan and Katie Schilly, Aimee Watson, all of Oklahoma City; Casey and Donna Funkhouser, Danny and Debbie Funkhouser of Missouri; Peg and Jack McIntyre, Chad Porter, Shane Porter of Mannford.

Swim Lessons Scheduled By Foreman

Swimming lessons will be offered for children of all ages this summer by June Foreman, local certified swim instructor. Classes will be held at the Marland Mansion Conference Center pool located on the grounds of the Marland Mansion Estate.

Classes will be offered for Tots aged 6-24 months (accompanied by parent), Toddler ages 2 to 4, Beginner, Advanced Beginner and Intermediate. For those interested in developing proper stroke mechanics, there will also be Stroke Improvement classes focusing on the front crawl, backstroke, breaststroke, sidestroke and butterfly. Classes are taught by experienced adult instructors. All classes will emphasize pool safety and accident prevention.

Two week sessions will be held July 5-15 and July 19-29. Classes are scheduled at 11:45 a.m., 12:45 p.m., and 1:45 p.m.

Registration is now being taken and class sche