From The Pages Of The Ponca City News, Friday, July
18, 1997
LOCAL
Area Red Cross Needs Disaster Volunteers
Crazy Weather Doesn't Faze Weekend of Crazy Day Events
Lightning Strike Damages Home; Injures Resident
Nearly News
Arkansas City Minister Called By 1st Lutheran
Martin Reelected To State Board
City P&R Board Denies Request For Variance
'Fifth Element' Opens At Poncan Theatre
Local Teachers Study Cooperative Learning
Kay-9 Dog Bath and Dip Fund-Raiser Set Sunday
DEATHS
E. Ray Turvey
Fern Demay Stiger
William Elmer Hillman
Obituaries
Homer Marshall Jones
Services Pending
Genoveva Gomes
NEWS BRIEFS
LIFESTYLES
Cultural Center Plans Discussed
CPS Certification Series Planned
Little News
RELIGION
Indian Methodists Plan Program
VBS Set at St. Luke's Nazarene Church
Church Briefs
EDUCATION
Honorable Mentions
PC Schools Receive Grant
Host Families Needed for Exchange Students
SPORTS
Golf Pairings
Mother Nature Slowing PC Drive for Legion Win Mark
PC Legion Leaders
American Red Cross Disaster volunteers are needed in the area. Training is scheduled for persons interested in becoming trained disaster response workers.
Opportunities for service include the local chapter area which includes eastern Kay, Osage, Pawnee, and northern Noble counties, the state of Oklahoma, or as a member of the American Red Cross Disaster Service Human Resource System (DSHR) whose members are registered to be on call nationwide in time of emergencies.
"We are looking for individuals who want to make a difference in the lives of their fellow man." said Ann Ryan, Red Cross chapter manager. "This is an opportunity for interested individuals to become part of an effort that offers endless service. Our disaster workers know that they make very difficult situations better for the individuals and families affected."
Courses being offered include Introduction to Disaster, Damage Assessment, Mass Care, and Emergency Assistance I, and Standard First Aid. All disaster workers must take Introduction to Disaster as a prerequisite for any other training.
Workers who wish to work beyond the local chapter area must take all of the courses even though they may wish to work in only one function. Additional training and experience in disaster efforts is required to become supervisors and coordinators.
The basic courses are scheduled for July 26, 27, Aug. 2 and 9, at the Ponca City Chapter office, 525 Monument. Interested participants should call (405) 765-6605 to sign up for the training or for more information.
Even the crazy weather couldn't keep the "crazy" shoppers from the first day of Ponca City's Crazy Day Sales. People were out shopping Thursday afternoon in spite of the threatening dark skies looming overhead and with it the chance of more rain.
The Crazy Day Sales seemed to take every one's mind of the damage that the torrential rains and mother nature dumped on the city Thursday. A woman from Tonkawa explained that she felt the sales would be a welcomed relief in the aftermath of Thursday's storms. "I had to get out of the house. We still don't have electricity so there is no air conditioning, no cooking, no anything."
However, the sales did not keep the rainfall and storms from being discussed among the shoppers. "I am sick of this rain," Brad Parent exclaims as light sprinkles began to fall again interrupting a brief relief from the moisture. Parent and his wife, Angela, explained that they had hoped for rain Wednesday night because they had just planted grass. "But we just wanted a small shower, enough is enough," Brad said.
According to sales clerk Jill Hendrix, sales were good and it had been a busy first day. She didn't think the weather would make a difference to the shoppers because as she explained "Crazy Days have always been like this."
Lots of Activities
A number of activities have been planned for the annual crazy day, including "crazy" bargains by Ponca City merchants.
In the downtown area there will be food booths, fun events for youth and entertainment.
Peter's Original German Style Bratwurst will be available as well as Trader Dave's slushes, nachos and popcorn.
Events just for fun are the KLVV Moon Bounce, fun cycles and kiddie train by Steve Outen, face painting by local artist Bobby Holroyd, dunk tank, sponsored by Faith Tabernacle, missions Group and sand dig plus a Hot Wheel Derby sponsored by Professional Secretaries Inc.
Entertainment taking place at Third and Grand will be Kem's Gym,, slated for 8 a.m., Tae Kwon Do, 8 a.m., Jazzercize (Yolanda Trant), 9 a.m., and Fran's Dance, 10 a.m., and KIXR Turtle Race, 10 a.m.
Also at 8 a.m., A 1 Entertainment Karaoke, Joe Allen, 8 a.m., at Fourth and Grand.
At the Poncan Theatre showing at 2 and 7 p.m., will be "The Fifth Element" rated PG-13. "Grosse Point Blank," rated R will be showing at 4:25 and 9:25 p.m.
Ponca Plaza
Events at Ponca Plaza include a concert by "Zen Okies," sponsored by Ponca City Business Systems. Folk are invited to bring their chairs and enjoy the music by this well-known group from Ponca City. The band will play from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The U.S. Marines will be on hand with a static display and Marine Corps Reserve and active duty personnel will be on hand to answer questions. The Marines will also sponsor a pull-up and push-up competition.
Face painting will be done by Po-Hi cheerleaders in front of the Honey Tree to raise funds for their trip to the bowl games this fall. The U.S. Army will be painting camouflage faces in front of Schlotzsky's.
Additionally there will be food and beverage vendors at the Plaza. B&B Ponca Plaza Twin will be showing Disney's "George of the Jungle" at rated PG and "Out to Sea," rated PG-13.
Weather permitting there will be sidewalk sales both downtown and at the Plaza.
Also the Northern Oklahoma Iris Society will present its annual Iris sale from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday at the Fourth Street Clubhouse at 1500 South Fourth.
According to Police and Fire Department records the home of Paul and Marie Hutchison, located at 2504 Cardinal was hit by lightning at 3 a.m. Thursday.
Extensive damage was reported to the den area, Mr. Hutchison was burned and the family dog was killed as a result of the strike.
According to fire department reports, a tentative damage estimate to the den totaled $20,000 with extensive smoke damage throughout the home.
Mr. and Mrs. Hutchison were transported to St. Joseph Regional Medical Center, where they were treated for smoke inhalation and Mr. Hutchison received treatment for burns to his hand and back.
Good neighbors always come to the aid when others need their help. Due to the lost of water on Thursday in Ponca City, Bill Taylor, president and CEO of Farm Fresh, who was here, alerted the Chandler plant to prepare drinking water for distribution in Ponca City if necessary. A truck was loaded with 4,000 gallons of water and was ready to roll if needed.
Farm Fresh has often provided and delivered drinking water to areas of the country which have had disasters. Water has been delivered to Florida victims of Hurricane Camille, Fargo, N.D., as well as the bombing disaster of the Murrah building in Oklahoma City.
Oops! We goofed. NN says donations to the Ponca Tribal Homeless Shelter Program will be great, but just don't try to call the numbers given in Sunday's story for pickup of your donation. The correct numbers are 763-0135 and 762-0120. Those numbers will get you to the right people to handle your donations, and thanks for caring.
The Rev. Mark Boxman has been called to be minister of First Lutheran Church.
Boxman, of Arkansas City, Kan., was selected when the Call Committee presented a slate of candidates for the senior minister position at a special Voters meeting June. 14. He has the option to accept or decline the call.
Also on the agenda was discussion of the proposed budget. For the first time in its history First Lutheran will now begin its fiscal year in July rather than in January. The budget presented by the Finance Committee was approved.
Three teaching positions at First Lutheran School were also filled. Jeanne Freeman will teach the Pre-Kindergarten class. Pamela Belzer will teach seventh grade, and Heather Swineheart will teach computer. This is a new position, and Ms. Swineheart comes with the experience of having taught computer classes at Pioneer Technology Center.
There are still some openings for students to enroll. If anyone is interested, please call the school.
Dr. Paul Volz, interim pastor at First Lutheran, announced that the theme for this Sunday's service will be the "Household of Faith." The message is that hope and peace are found in God's family. The worship service begins at 9 a.m.
Gary Martin, Ponca City city manager, was recently reelected to the board of directors of the City Management Association of Oklahoma. One of eight members elected to the board, Martin will serve as director for a term ending in July 1998.
The statewide city management association concerns itself with matters relating to city managers including legislative issues and training programs. In addition, the association holds a winter and summer conference for city mangers.
In his capacity as a director, Martin will represent not only Ponca City but all of north central Oklahoma.
"I am pleased to be able to represent cities in northern Oklahoma and to further the profession of city mangers," Martin said.
By PATTI PFEIFFER
News Staff Writer
The Parks and Recreation Advisory Board stuck by the guidelines set forth in their Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) in spite of the pleas and outrage from a Ponca City resident.
During their regular session meeting Thursday Board members considered a request from Don Gaddis who was wanting to build a cabin on lot number 69 at Lake Ponca. Gaddis also was asking the Board to deviate from its established guidelines set forth in the SOP. The variances regarded the height of the proposed cabin and the lot line.
Special consideration was given to the lot line variance but the Board would not budge on the 15-foot height cap for cabins built on the Lake.
"I hate granting variances from the SOP. A lot of time and work went into establishing these guidelines and they were set for a reason," Board member Earl Ball said. "I think we need to stay within the guidelines and I personally will not grant a variance."
Gaddis continued to plead his case, explaining what he thought were special circumstances. However, in the end, the Board denied his request regarding the height variance.
In other actions the advisory board:
· Granted a request for Peachtree landing to hold a fund raiser at Pioneer Park on August 23 and recommended waiving the park use fee .
· Recommended issuing free swim tickets to Miss Nan's Christian Day Care Center for a rain-out in the AMBUCS pool.
· Elected Ron Mersman chairman and Earl Ball vice chairman.
In describing "The Fifth Element," beginning this evening at the Poncan Theatre, critics have used words like "amazing," "remarkable," and "wondrous."
The film is the brain-child of French film-maker Luc Besson, who has proven his directing talents with "Le Femme Nikita" and "The Professional." But "The Fifth Element," his most recent release, takes a giant leap into a different world.
Film critics are impressed. Roger Ebert says the film has "sights so remarkable they ought to be seen." The "San Francisco Chronicle" calls it "the most creative visualization" of the decade. Film reviewer Harry Knowles writes that "The Fifth Element" is "nothing short of mind-boggling," and "Verbosity" calls it "an interesting concept portrayed in the most perfect manner possible."
In the highest traditions of science fiction, "The Fifth Element" shows a kind of apocalyptic vision of the earth. The story begins in Egypt in 1914, the point of excavation of ancient tombs. Here we learn that four crucial stones, representing four elements, were formerly held in the tomb for safe-keeping. But a spaceship arrived centuries ago to remove them.
With that omen, the film-maker daringly jumps to New York City in mid-23rd Century. The effect is dazzling. Roger Ebert says it's "wondrous to behold," and Jonathan Litt for "The Tech" at MIT says the futuristic "Fifth Element" has "some of the most amazing visual effects ever to grace the big screen." Harry Knowles says "this film is an e-ticket to Fun City in the 23rd Century. And what a city."
The movie has also won prestigious standing in the inside world of filmmakers. It was given the highly coveted opening position in the Cannes Film Festival this year. The "San Francisco Chronicle" writes that director Luc Besson is "not just good, but brilliant." MIT's Jonathan Litt believes that "The Fifth Element" has all the makings of a summer blockbuster." The film is the most expensive project in French film history, ringing up a $90 million tab.
Among the stars are Bruce Willis, who has fast become the anti-hero of contemporary sci-fi after his success in the 1995 film, "Twelve Monkeys." In 1998, Willis is slated for a least one more sci-fi, called "Armageddon."
The villain is played by Gary Oldman, who has recently played a string of over-the-top dark men, including Dracula. Other featured performers include Ian Holm ("Aliens" and "Chariots of Fire") and Milla Jovovich.
The movie is rated PG-13, for sci-fi violence and brief nudity. The movie begins this evening, alternating with the witty comedy "Grosse Pointe Bank," which tells the story of a hired killer who returns to his high-school reunion. "Grosse Pointe Blank," is rated R.
For show times, check The Ponca City News or call the Poncan Theatre at (405) 765-0943.
By KRISTI GRABEAL
News Education Editor
Cooperative Learning, the most extensively researched educational strategy of all time, continues to be a top drawing card for local teachers.
Twenty-one Ponca City Public School teachers, elementary through high school, recently attended four days of Cooperative Learning training held at Woodlands Elementary School. Dr. Nancy Niemann, principal at Woodlands Elementary, trained the teachers using the Kagan Cooperative Learning with some of Johnson and Johnson Cooperative Learning included.
Cooperative Learning is a highly structured learning strategy where student groups work in twos, threes or fours in a structured manner to promote academic learning. Typically cooperative teams remain together for about six weeks. This strategy promotes higher level thinking skills, socialization skills and fosters communication skills.
The main focus of Cooperative Learning is academic achievement with the by products of better student behavior, quicker learning, fewer papers for teachers to grade and more interaction among students.
Team and class unity must occur for students to work effectively together. "Classbuilders" are fun activities involving everyone and are used to bring class unity.
"Teambuilders" are fun group academic activities used to foster team unity. Teachers learn how to ensure that each student participates equally with no room for slackers.
Teachers learn numerous methods to integrate Cooperative Learning strategies in their classrooms regardless of the subject taught; however, not everything in the classroom will be taught through Cooperative Learning.
In a typical class, the teacher lectures 80 percent of the time with students actively participating only 20 percent of the time (one-at-a-time). By using Cooperative Learning the students will interact 50 percent of the discussion time in pairs, or 25 percent of the time in their groups.
According to Niemann, "Cooperative Learning is far more than just group work. We've all been in groups where one person dominates or someone gets stuck doing more than their share of the work. Constantly competing or trying to out-do the other group is not a part of Cooperative Learning."
She added, "Dedicated teachers work hard year-round learning, planning and preparing to enhance their teaching skills with the ultimate goal of helping students learn. Teachers left the training with a smile and an arsenal of new information to implement into their classrooms in August. They also left asking for additional training next summer."
Kay-9 Dog Training Club will hold a Dog Bath and Dip Sunday at the Pioneer Motor Bank. Cost is $5 per dog.
Objective of the club is to help dog owners protect their dogs from discomfort and possible illnesses due to flea and tick infestation.
In order to protect the dog as much as possible during the bath and dip, cotton is placed in each ear and eye drops are put in the eyes. The dogs are shampooed and rinsed and then dipped. The shampooing procedure thoroughly wets the dog's coat and this allows the dip solution to penetrate to the skin and offers the dog more protection against fleas and ticks.
The Dog Bath and Dip sessions are a fund-raiser for the Kay-9 Dog Training Club. The club is licensed by the American Kennel Club. Proceeds go towards sponsoring the semi-annual dog obedience classes, obedience equipment, dog shows, and other dog related activities. All work performed by club members is voluntary and done in an effort to help educate the public regarding responsible dog ownership.
Kay-9 Dog Training Club meets at 7 p.m. the first Thursday of every month
at the Ponca City Library. The public is welcome to attend. For additional
information about the dog bath and dip or about the club in general call
762-7360 or 628-2518.
DEATHS
BLACKWELL - E. Ray Turvey, former Blackwell resident, died at Hospice Eckstein Center in Scottsdale, Ariz. on Monday, July 14, 1997. He was 88.
A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. Monday at the Blackwell First United Methodist Church with the Rev. Charles Ryser officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Roberts and Son Funeral Home, Blackwell.
E. Ray Turvey was born June 8, 1909, in Douglas, Ariz., to Samuel H. and Lydia (Missel) Turvey Sr. He moved to Blackwell with his parents where he finished his grade school education and graduated from Blackwell High School in 1927. He attended Oklahoma A&M for one year, then returned to Blackwell, where he was employed at Turvey Packing Co.
He was married to his wife Maymie on Oct. 25, 1928, in Wellington, Kan. Turvey purchased a packing company in Ponca City and operated it for 30 years before returning to Blackwell to purchase the Turvey Packing Company. He and his brother, Sam Turvey Jr., operated the company until Ray's retirement in 1974. Turvey was a member of the First United Methodist Church and the Kum Dbl Sunday School Class. He moved to Phoenix, Ariz., in 1997.
Survivors include his wife, Maymie, of Phoenix, Ariz.; one daughter, Barbara Brauchi of Phoenix; two sisters, Anilee Taylor of Maryland and Dorothy West of Albuquerque, N.M.; five grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by one son, Robert Ray Turvey; his parents; one brother, Sam Turvey Jr.; and one grandson.
Honorary casket bearers will be Bob Taton, Ed Dwinell, Ben Frohock, Raymond Cooley, Bud Riley and Harold Weigle.
Memorial contributions in Mr. Turvey's name may be made to Associated Charities, c/o Roberts Funeral Home, 120 West Padon, Blackwell, Ok 74631.
BLACKWELL - Fern Demay Stiger, longtime Blackwell area resident, died at Hillcrest Manor Skilled Nursing Facility, Blackwell, Wednesday night, July 16, 1997. She was 84.
The funeral will be held graveside at 10 a.m. Saturday at the Blackwell Cemetery with the Rev. Charles Ryser officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Roberts and Son Funeral Home, Blackwell.
Fern Demay (Hancock) Stiger was born Nov. 13, 1912, on a farm near Kingfisher to John Emory and Ola (Wells) Hancock. She grew up on the farm east of Kingfisher, attending Trail Creek Rural School and graduating from Kingfisher High School in 1930.
She married Cecil Leroy Stiger in February 1933 in Blackwell, where the couple made their first home. They moved to a farm north of Blackwell in 1936. After the death of her husband on July 16, 1976, she remained on the farm. Mrs. Stiger had been employed at the Plainsman Motel and then Shepherd Oil Company. She was a member of the Blackwell First United Methodist Church.
Survivors include one niece, Elizabeth Webster of Bethany; three nephews, Kenneth Washburn of Diamond Springs, Calif., R.C. Bechtel of Blackwell, and Terry Bechtel of Joplin, Mo.; and four grandchildren. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by one sister, Jennie Washburn; one brother, Emory Hancock; and a special companion of many years, Charles Albert.
Memorial contributions may be made in Mrs. Stiger's name to the Blackwell Girl Scouts, c/o Roberts Funeral Home, 120 West Padon, Blackwell, OK 74631.
MIAMI, Okla. - William Elmer Hillman, former Ponca City-Kaw City resident, died Friday evening, July 11, 1997, at his home in Miami, Okla. He was 91.
The funeral was held graveside on July 14, at Hickory Grove Cemetery, northwest of Grove, Okla., with the Rev. Charles Richey officiating. Military rites were performed by the Northeast Oklahoma Veterans funeral detail. Arrangements were under the direction of the Paul Thomas Funeral Home, Miami.
William Elmer Hillman was born Oct. 25, 1905, in Arlington, Okla., the son of William and Mae (Richardson) Hillman. During World War II he served in the U.S. Army Air Corps as a radio and teletype instructor.
He was married to Dorcas Roberts Harmon on April 8, 1964, at Shidler. Hillman had been employed by Shell Construction company in Ponca City and as an appliance repairman, retiring in 1968. The couple moved from Kaw City to Miami in 1971. Hillman was a lifetime member of the VFW and the American Legion. He was a member of the Kaw City Christian Church.
Survivors include his wife, Dorcas, of the home; one step-son, Marvin Harmon of Shidler; one brother, Dan Hillman of Kaw City; seven step-grandchildren; and nine step-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by one step-son, Bill Harmon; one brother, Howard Hillman; and his parents.
Homer Marshall Jones, longtime Ponca City resident, died Sunday, July 13, 1997, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. He was 81.
A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, at the Odd Fellows Cemetery with the Rev. Larry Calvert, pastor, Ranch Drive Baptist Church officiating. Friends may call at the funeral home until 9 p.m. Friday, July 18, 1997.
Born Oct. 16, 1915, in Clear Springs, Mo., (Texas County) to Homer R. and Lue (Stephens) Jones. The family moved to Ponca City in 1927. Homer the attended Ponca City schools.
On March 10, 1935, he married Doris Marie Elliott in Ponca City. She preceded him in death on Sept. 23, 1993. Homer worked with the Boilermaker Union until 1966, when he joined the Pipe Fitters Union Local 767. He retired in 1981. He was a member of the Ranch Drive Baptist Church. Mr. Jones was a workaholic. He also enjoyed fishing, swimming, camping and yard work.
Father of: son, Donald R. Jones of Ponca City, daughter, Carolyn M. Jones of Ponca City, son, Homer M. Jones Jr., of Ponca City, daughter, Kay Owen of Houston, Texas, and son Jimmy D. Jones of Ponca City. Other survivors include three brothers and one sister. He is preceded in death by his parents, three brothers, six sisters and two daughters in-law, Shirley Jones and Norma Jones.
Honorary casket bearers will be John W. Jones, Edward Sidlo, Dana Owen, Mike Webber and Marshall Jones.
Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Ponca City, 1904 North Union, Suite 103, Ponca City, OK 74601.
paid obituary
Genoveva Gomes, Ponca City resident, died Thursday evening, July 17, 1997, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. She was 72. Local survivors include her husband, John Gomez, of the home.
Arrangements are pending with Trout Funeral Home.
NEWS BRIEFS
Arrest - At 9:16 a.m. Thursday police arrested a 19-year-old woman on a city warrant for failure to pay.
Accident - The communications center received a call at 9:47 a.m. Thursday reporting a semi-truck had backed into a vehicle at Waverly Street and South Avenue. Two officers were assigned and a report was taken.
Accident - A report was received by the communications center at 11:07 a.m. Thursday of an accident at Emporia Avenue and Union Street. Two officers responded and a report was taken.
Arrest - At 2:10 p.m. Thursday in the 500 block of East Walnut Avenue police arrested a 68-year-old man on a Kay County warrant for bogus checks.
Non-Injury Accident - The communications center received a call at 2:43 p.m. Thursday reporting of a non-injury accident in the 900 block of East Prospect Avenue. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Stolen Wallet - At 3:21 p.m. Thursday a woman in the 800 block of South Fourth Street reported to the communications center that her wallet had been stolen. An officer was assigned and report was taken.
Arrest - At 5:22 p.m. Thursday police arrested a 35-year-old man at First Street and Grand Avenue for driving under the influence, expired inspection, no insurance.
Stolen Credit Card - The communications center received a call from a woman in the 900 block of South Avenue reporting that someone had stolen her credit card and was using it.
Arrest - At 7:04 p.m. Thursday police arrested 24-year-old woman on an Arkansas warrant for failure to appear,
Arrest - At 8:11 p.m. Thursday in the 800 block of North Elm Street a 27-year-old man was arrested for knowingly concealing stolen property.
Arrest - In the 300 block of South Third Street, police arrested a 55-year-old man at 9:06 p.m. Thursday for domestic assault and battery.
Arrest - At 4:54 a.m. Friday a 34-year-old woman was arrested at Fourth Street and South Avenue for city warrant for failure to pay.
Face Painting Planned - The Ponca City Junior Varsity Cheerleaders will be in front of the Honey Tree, in Ponca Plaza, "face painting", on Crazy Days, Saturday from 8 a.m. until 7 p.m. The proceeds from this project will help the cheerleaders support Junior Varsity sports.
JOM/Youth Program Carnival - The Ponca Tribal JOM/Youth Outreach Program Carnival scheduled for today has been canceled and will be rescheduled to Thursday, July 31.
Rock Swap - The Kay County Paleontological Society is sponsoring a summer rock swap July 26, 10 a.m., at Bob's Hobby and Tobacco Store at the corner of Third and Central streets. The group will also be selling rocks, minerals and fossils from the Keener estate collection.
Senior Citizens Dance Planned - Senior Citizens Dance every Monday from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., at the American Legion Ballroom. Come and enjoy an evening of good, clean fun, with the Hayriders Band playing good music for dancing. Everyone welcome.
Ice Cream Social - The Friends of the Cultural Center will host an old-fashioned Ice Cream Social and Lemonade party Sunday from 2-4 p.m. Six levels of membership to the organization will be offered. The public is invited to attend the free-of-charge event on the back lawn of the Ponca City Cultural Center (in case of rain, will be moved to First United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall.
Genealogy Meet Canceled - The next meeting of the Computer Genealogy
Group will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. on Aug. 24. The July Computer Genealogy
Group meeting, which was set for July 20 has been canceled due to scheduling
conflicts. For more information call Sandy at 762-5635.
LIFESTYLES
Several members of the Friends of the Cultural Center in Ponca City traveled to the Frank Phillips home in Bartlesville July 11 on a fact-finding mission. The local group hoped to learn ideas to incorporate in the preservation and funding for the Ponca City Cultural Center. They interviewed Sue Lacy, curator for the Phillips home.
Ponca Citians making the trip were Sandy Graves, Membership Drive chairman; June Meade, co-chairman of publicity; Georgia Cline, co-chairman for the Barn Dance event, and Marquetta Brown, president of the organization.
Ms. Lacy spoke to the women about membership and gave tips on sending newsletters. She also discussed use of the Phillips home and grounds. The Frank Phillips home is owned by the State Historical Society and has a "suggested donation" policy.
Friends of the Frank Phillips organization won an award this year from the SHS for their "interpretative center project" scheduled to open in September.
Sunday, 2-4 p.m., a free to the public ice cream social on the back lawn of the Ponca City Cultural Center will kick off the membership drive. In case of inclement weather the event will be held at the fellowship hall of the First United Methodist Church.
The Ponca City Chapter of PSI, the association for office professionals, is sponsoring a series of training sessions. Objective of the sessions is to provide professional skills while earning college credit.
Those interested in earning the Certified Professional Secretary Certification should attend an informational meeting July 24 at 7 p.m. in the Ponca City Library Programming Room. Membership in PSI is not required to achieve certification. Some colleges in the area will grant up to 32 credit hours for the CPS certification.
If you are unable to attend the meeting but would like more information contact Melinda Dexter, 767-2486 or Ernie Dixon, 767-6164.
Troy and Kim Myers of Frisco, Texas announce the birth of their first
child. Morgan Marie Myers was born July 10, 1997 at Baylor University Medical
Center in Dallas, Texas at 8:26 p.m. She weighed 7-pounds, 2-ounces and
was 20 1/2-inches long. Maternal grandparents are Don and Tudy Lockwood
of Ponca City. Paternal grandparents are Ivah Myers of Ponca City and the
late John Paul Myers.
RELIGION
The Indian United Methodist Church at White Eagle will launch a new program next Sunday afternoon, according to Patricia Feathers - "Sunday After Sunday School Is Fun."
Boys and girls of all ages are invited to participate in this program, which will open with a luncheon at 12:30 Sunday afternoons, followed from 1 to 2 p.m. with video games and outside activities. The program is scheduled to continue for six weeks, Feathers said.
The program will include "The Prodigal Son" on July 20; "Joseph in Egypt," July 27; "Abraham and Isaac," Aug. 3; "Daniel," Aug. 10, "Miracles of Jesus," Aug. 17 and "Forgive Us Our Debts," Aug. 24.
The church also has welcomed a new pastor, the Rev. Abraham Jackson and his wife, Pat, it was announced. The couple moved in June 17, and Pastor Jackson told The News he had been pastor at the church back in 1980, and was happy to return to this area. The Jacksons have two grown children - a son, Allen, who is living here with the Jacksons, and a daughter, Jacqueline, who resides in Stilwell.
The Rev. and Mrs. Jackson succeed the Rev. George Miller and his wife, Lucille. The Rev. Mr. Miller took disability leave and returned to his hometown of Coweta the middle of June this year, after serving the Ponca Indian United Methodist Church for almost 10 years as pastor.
St. Luke's Nazarene is announcing full sponsorship of Adventures UnLimited, July 21-25 with children ages 5 through 12 welcome to update their passport and come join the journey to a far-out place.
Plans are to set out for adventure beyond time and space and travel through a desert land, over mountain and sand for an incredible ride - unlimited adventure, discovering things you never knew - amazing mysteries with clues, and God will be the Guide.
Special side trips are planned to include Bible stories, crafts, treats, water sports (Thursday only), and a program on Friday evening for the whole family.
The Jeep is warming up and it's time to hop aboard - the adventure starts each night at 6 p.m. and closes at 8:20 p.m.
VBS Set at St. Luke's Nazarene
St. Luke's Church of the Nazarene has scheduled July 21-25 for Vacation Bible School with using the theme "The Great Adventure". Each evening will be filled with fun as the children and their leaders retrace the path of God's people from Egypt to the Holy Land in the Bible lessons., In addition, their will be snacks, crafts, singing, and other activities.
The journey will begin each evening at 6 p.m. and arrive back at 8:20 p.m. VBS is available for four year olds through the sixth grade.
If there are questions, please contact St. Luke's Church of the Nazarene
at 762-2095. Everyone welcome.
Family Night at Asbury United Methodist
The second Family Night of the summer will be held Sunday, July 20, at 6 p.m. by members of Asbury United Methodist Church. This event will be hosted at members of YACK (Young Asbury Christian Kids) of the church.
The young folks will provide a potato bar with all the trimmings plus dessert and drink, to those attending. Donations will be greatly appreciated with the proceeds going to aid in providing materials for the church's Bible School which will be held July 28-Aug. 1 from 7 to 9 o'clock each evening, at the church, 700 West Liberty.
Following the meal, group games will be played, including the ever-popular "Wheel of Fortune."
All members and friends of the church are encouraged to attend this time
of food, fund and fellowship.
POP Lutherans Need Pianist/Organist
Pastor Keck at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church extends an open invitation to folks to come and visit the 8:30 Sunday morning worship service. His sermon this Sunday will be "Slow Down, God's Ahead."
Prince of Peace is looking for a pianist/organist for Sunday service. With the second worship service on Sunday, the church needs an additional pianist/organist, Pastor Keck pointed out. This is a paid position and need not be a member of the Prince of Peace. Anyone interested or know of someone who might be interested, please contact Cathy Davis at 765-6972, or call the church office, 762-7698.
The monthly council meeting will not be on Saturday evening, but rather Sunday right after worship and fellowship. All council members are urged to attend.
Prince of Peace wishes a happy birthday to Tammy Clark-Ross, Christie
Hunt and David Zimmerman.
Word of Life Christian Center Welcomes Guest Speakers
Sunday, July 20, at 10 a.m., Word of Life Christian Center will have Jamie and Debi Saunders and Tim and Doris Spurrier as guest speakers. During the past few years, the Saunders have captained the Spirit Ship, traveling throughout the world, bringing the Gospel message of Jesus Christ to the nations, according to Bob Innis, Senior Pastor at Word of Life Christian Center.
The Spurriers have been building a hospital in the Peten area of Guatemala, while ministering to the local people and their needs.
Innis pointed out that although they are involved in different areas of the ministry, the Saunders and the Spurriers share the same vision: to reach people for Christ. Their zeal and love for the Lord compels these families to preach the Gospel, campaign for Bible schools, provide health care, and feed the hungry, while offering hope to the hopeless.
Ponca Citians are invited to come to Word of Life Christian Center and
hear these messengers of the Good News. Word of Life is located at 3401
North Union. A nursery is provided and Children's Church (Grades K-6) will
be in session.
Ranch Drive Baptists Set 'Stampede'
Ranch Drive Baptist Church invites all children, especially those in the Ranch Drive and Bois d'Arc area, to join "The Wild and Wonderful Good News Stampede." Grab your gear and saddle up for a rip-roarin' adventure. Each day includes an exciting worship rally where the good news of Jesus Christ will be celebrated. Every day will be packed full of fun Bible-learning activities, great vittles, music, and crafts. Every child in the community will be welcome to this great Vacation Bible School event.
"The Wild and Wonderful Good News Stampede" will be held at Ranch Drive Baptist Church, corner of Tonkawa Road and SH 156 (the road to Marland), beginning Monday, July 21 through Friday, July 25. Each day will begin at 6 p.m. and end at 8:30 p.m. The closing program will be combined with a chuckwagon feed for the young people and their families on Saturday, July 26, at 6 p.m. on the church grounds.
For more information call 762-2216 or 767-1252.
River of Life Welcomes Guest Speaker
Special speaker Sunday at the River of Life Church of God, 102 North Second, will be the Rev. Billy Claypool of Oklahoma City, the Church of God state youth director. Claypool will speak during the 10:30 a.m. service.
The congregation meets for services on Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and 6 p.m.
and on Thursday at 7 p.m. Members are urged to attend and meet with the
Rev. Mr. Claypool.
Central Baptists Invite Children to VBS
Central Baptist Church invites children from kindergarten through sixth grade to come and join the fun at their Vacation Bible School. Grab your gear and saddle up for a "Rip Roarin" adventure. Each day will be packed full of Bible learning activities, great vittles, music and crafts, according to a spokesperson for the church.
This exciting event will take place at Central Baptist Church, 618 East
Hartford, beginning each day at 9 a.m. and ending at 11:30 a.m. For more
information call 765-5840 or stop by the church office to sign up.
EDUCATION
Rutz Receives Honor
Shana L. Rutz, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Bill Rutz, and student at Oklahoma
City University, has been selected as one of the country's most outstanding
campus leaders by Who's Who Among Students in American Universities and
Colleges editorial staff. She will be included in the 1997 directory of
outstanding students.
Sargent Selected
Stephan Sargent, a fifth grade teacher at Lincoln Elementary School,
has been selected to attend the American Student Travel trip to Washington,
D.C. This trip will be for 115 educators from all over the United States,
including Alaska and Hawaii. Participants will learn of the historical and
political highlights of our nation's capitol
Irons Placed
On Honor Roll
Robert Bradley Irons, son of Billy and Mary Irons, has been placed on
the honor roll at the University of Missouri, Rolla.
Harold Accepted
Heather Herald, a local resident of Ponca City, recently had her poem
title "Gone" accepted for publication in the upcoming Anthology
"Words of Love and Sorrow." The book will be published by Elite
Publications. Herald will attend Po-Hi this year.
Graham Receives Award
Amy Graham, Ponca City, has been recognized by The University of Oklahoma
Department of Anthropology for outstanding accomplishment in anthropological
endeavors.
Frontier Students Honored
Juanita Buffalohead, Cassandra Arkeketa, Dianna Robol, Charley Tautfest
and Naciba Kachaeva of Red Rock Frontier High School were honored for one
of two Outstanding Oklahoma Presentations during the recent National History
Day competition in Washington, D.C. They competed in Senior Group Media
with "Tragedy and Triumph: A History of the Ponca Tribe," said
Education Coordinator Bruce Joseph of the Oklahoma Historical Society.
Kachaeva is a Russian exchange student. Their teachers were Susan Stansberry
and Melinda Casteel.
Students Graduate
From St. Gregory's
Amy Otto and Martha Kay Butt both received degrees in art recently from
St. Gregory's College in Shawnee.
Robbins Leans Leadership
Paul Robbins, Ponca City, learned about leadership at the annual Vocational
Leadership Institute, sponsored by the Oklahoma Department of Vocational-Technical
Education. Earlier this spring, Robbins was elected Western Postsecondary
State Representative of Vocational Industrial Clubs of America.
Degrees Received From OCU
Shana L. Rutz and Henry Lawton Wood, both of Ponca City, received their
degrees from Oklahoma City University.
Williams Graduates
Gina D. Williams recently graduated from Belmont University. She received
her degree in music business.
Graduates from Cornell
Emilie Krista Beth Ebbesson, Ponca City, received her Bachelor of Arts
degree from Cornell University in Ithaca, N.Y.. David Simon Koster also
graduated with a Master of Engineering.
Runyan Receives Scholarship
Jamie C. Runyan, a broadcast and electronic media major at the University
of Oklahoma, was presented with a scholarship from the University of Oklahoma
H.H. Herbert School of Journalism and Mass Communication.
OBU Graduates
Several local residents graduated from Oklahoma Baptist University in Shawnee. They were: Holly Thompson, Blackwell; Kellie Anne Hilliard, Joani Rae Knight, John David King, and Keith D. Lessert, all of Ponca City.
Dr. Bill White, superintendent, has been notified that Ponca City Public Schools will be receiving a $5,000 Advanced Placement Grant from the State Department of Education. The grant was submitted by Ms. Irene Baird, gifted coordinator at the high school, and is to be used for the advanced placement English course at the high school. According to a letter from Sandy Garrett, State superintendent, "The Oklahoma Legislature allocated $2 million for the Oklahoma Advanced Placement Incentives Program for the 1997-98 school year. More than 1200 teachers in the state have been trained and 214 grants have been awarded this past school year. Funds in certain budgeting areas of this award were made available to schools who already had or were implementing the courses."
Superintendent Garrett congratulated Ponca City Public Schools on their commitment to challenging academic programs such as this English program at the high school.
For more information, you may contact Mary Ladd at 767-8000, ext. 15.
Foreign high school students are scheduled to arrive soon for academic program homestays, and the sponsoring organization needs a few more local host families.
According to Pacific Intercultural Exchange (P.I.E.) Executive Director, John Doty, the students are all between the ages of 15 and 18 years, are English-speaking, have their own spending money, carry accident and health insurance, and are anxious to share their cultural experiences with their new American families. P.I.E. currently has programs to match almost every family's needs, ranging in length from a semester to a full academic year, where the students attend local high schools.
P.I.E. area representatives match students with host families by finding common interests and lifestyles through an informal in-home meeting. Prospective host families are able to review student applications and select the perfect match. As there are no "typical" host families, P.I.E. can fit a student into just about any situation, whether it be a single parent, a childless couple, a retired couple or a large family.
Families who host for P.I.E. are also eligible to claim a $50 per month charitable contribution deduction on their itemized tax returns for each month they host a sponsored event.
For the upcoming programs, P.I.E. has students from Spain, Denmark, Germany, Poland, Russia, Finland, Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Paraguay, Australia, New Zealand, Croatia and many other countries. P.I.E. has also been invited to participate in a special government-funded program to bring scholarship students from the Newly Independent States of the former Soviet Union to the United States. P.I.E. is a non-profit educational organization that has sponsored more than 18,000 students from 40 countries since its founding in 1975. The organization is designated by the United States Information Agency and is listed by the Council on Standards for International Educational Travel (CSIET), certifying that the organization complies with the standards set forth in CSIET's Standards for International Educational Travel Programs.
Doty encourages families to contact the program immediately, as it will allow the proper time for the students and hosts to get to know one another before they actually meet for the first time.
Ponca City area families interested in learning more about student exchange
or arranging for a meeting with a community representative may call P.I.E.,
toll free, at 1-800-631-1818. The agency also has travel/study program opportunities
available for American high school students as well as possibilities for
community volunteers to assist and work with area host families, students
and schools.
SPORTS
PCCC Fourball
Matchplay Championship
Finals
(Saturday)
Championship Flight
8:32 - Wade Lessert-Phil Knight vs. Chip Huston-Casey Orr
Championship Consolation
8:40 - J.B.-John Hron vs. Brad Baumert-Gene Gann
President's Flight
8:48 - Jon Yocam-Frank Rogers vs. Tom-John Green
President's Consolation
8:56 - Paul Walker-Chuck Greenwood vs. Larry Murphy-Jerry Orr
First Flight
9:04 - Keni Ray-Lynn Hohensee vs. Randy Lauritsen-Winston Lindsay
First Consolation
9:12 - Frank Reyher-Don Rowland vs. Jim Fuller-Lee Pappan
Second Consolation
9:20 - R.A. Rogers-Don Stephens vs. Doyle Worstell-Fred Crabtree
By DAVID BROWN
News Associate Sports Editor
After making it through nearly the entire season without a rain out, the Ponca City American Legion Majors have had their drive for a record-breaking season stalled recently by Mother Nature.
The Royals, who are just three wins shy of tying the all-time Ponca City Majors win mark of 36 games set in 1975, lost their first game to the weather July 10 - a doubleheader against Blackwell. Another doubleheader, this one against Enid, was washed out the next day, July 11.
The Poncans were scheduled to open a five-game home stand tonight against Edmond North but that game is in jeopardy because of the rain that fell across town Wednesday night and Thursday.
"Today's game is doubtful," said American Legion Baseball Manager Ellwyn Thomas this morning. "If we had some sun early on I'd have some hope, but the water was standing on the field last night and we're not getting drying conditions so far today."
Thomas was working on possibly moving the game to Edmond or having the North team come to Ponca City Saturday or Sunday and participate in a three-way with either Stillwater or Ark City.
Stillwater is due in town for a doubleheader Saturday evening and Ark City is scheduled to play a twin bill with the Royals Sunday beginning at 6 p.m.
Saturday's game times were not certain. Depending on the weather, or if their is a three-way, the first game could be at 4, 5 or 6 p.m.
The Royals are currently 33-16 and need just four more wins to become the winningest Majors team in Ponca City history.
Following is a list of Ponca City American Legion Majors leaders in several statistical categories through 49 games.
Ponca City American Legion Majors
Team Leaders
BATTING
(minimum 75 at-bats)
Batting Average - J.R. Fry, .396; Josh Shafer, .395; Michael Quick, .365; Rocky Hughes, .361; Justin Thomas, .345; Jason Ross, .336; Marc Smith, .335; Jason Neff, .321; Chris Koenig, .309; Doug Scott, .296; Jay Bentley, .253.
Base Hits - Fry, 67; Smith, 52; Shafer, 49; Thomas, 49; Hughes, 48; Neff, 42; Ross, 41; Quick, 35; Scott, 32.
Runs Batted In - Hughes, 38; Quick, 35; Fry, 32; Shafer, 32; Thomas, 29; Ross, 25; Smith, 23; Neff, 21; Koenig, 21.
Home Runs - Quick, 4; Shafer, 3; Hughes, 2; Koenig, 2; Fry, 1; Smith, 1; Neff, 1; Thomas, 1; Bentley, 1; Kevin Reusser, 1.
Triples - Bentley, 2; Fry, 2; Hughes, 2; Smith, 2; Scott, 2; Quick, 2; Thomas, 1.
Doubles - Hughes, 14; Thomas, 13; Fry, 10; Quick, 9; Smith, 8; Shafer, 8; Koenig, 5.
Walks - Ross, 23; Fry, 19; Hughes, 18; Quick, 17; Smith, 14; Thomas, 13; Shafer, 12; Scott, 11.
Runs Scored - Fry, 71; Smith, 48; Scott, 35; Shafer, 33; Hughes, 32; Ross, 29; Quick, 27; Koenig, 25; Neff, 24; Thomas, 23.
PITCHING
(minimum 11 innings)
Record - Rocky Hughes, 11-4; Chris Koenig, 6-1; Matt Holland, 4-3; Jay Bentley, 4-4; Jason Ross, 3-1; Dean Hemenway, 3-2; Jason Neff, 2-1.
Saves - Ross, 2; Hemenway, 1.
ERA - Koenig, 2.42; Holland, 2.48; Hughes, 2.61; Bentley, 3.02; Hemenway, 3.79; Ross, 6.16; Neff, 8.03.
Innings - Hughes, 91 1/3; Bentley, 53 1/3; Holland, 42 1/3; Hemenway, 40 2/3; Ross, 38 2/3; Koenig, 37 2/3; Neff, 11 1/3.
Runs - Hughes, 54; Bentley, 40; Ross, 40; Hemenway, 39; Holland, 24; Koenig, 23; Neff, 13.
Earned Runs - Hughes, 34; Ross, 34; Bentley, 23; Hemenway, 22; Holland, 15; Koenig, 13; Neff, 13.
Hits - Hughes, 72; Bentley, 48; Ross, 47; Hemenway, 42; Koenig, 34; Holland, 32; Neff, 14.
Strikeouts - Hughes, 110; Bentley, 49; Koenig, 25; Ross, 22; Hemenway, 20; Holland, 19; Neff, 14.
Walks - Hughes, 79; Bentley, 38; Hemenway, 38; Koenig, 18; Ross, 14; Holland, 13; Neff, 9.
Hit Batters - Holland, 13; Hemenway, 6; Koenig, 5; Hughes, 2; Neff, 2.