LOCAL

School Report Cards for Osage County
What’s the Matter With Our School Administrators?
City Calendar
Public Invited To Arts Adventure Workshops
‘Choose Your Cover’ To Protect Your Skin
Pharmacy Fund Resumed At O’Connor Pharmacy
Oklahoma Christian Teens To Paint Ponca City Houses
DUI School At Stillwater
Fire Island YOUth Ministries Camp Set at Wentz Aug. 2-6
Owl, Other Featured Guests Present Tuesday for Final Brown Bag Lunch
Summer Lunch
Enrollment Dates
Freshmen, Sophomores To Tour Po-Hi Aug. 10-11
Millennium Keepsake Poster Available Now
Historic Preservation Issue On City Commission Agenda
Workshop Allows Citizens To Mark Trails ‘On Paper’
The Salvation Army Right Place During Time of Need
Nearly News

School Report Cards for Osage County

By KRISTI HAYES

News Education Editor

Editor’s Note: The 1997-98 School Report Cards for Osage County have been released. Listed below are the test scores for Burbank and Shidler Schools.

The Education Oversight Board has released the 1997-98 School Report Cards for Burbank and Shidler Schools. In Oklahoma, a total of 212 public schools met the board’s 70 percent Performance Benchmark in all subject areas tested in grades 5, 8 or 11. Burbank students passed all subjects, while Shidler students struggled in some of the tested areas.

The reports are part of the Oklahoma Educational Indicators Program established by House Bill 1017, the Education Reform Act of 1990. The program provides the state’s only comprehensive report on public schools covering school performance, educational process and community socioeconomic status.

The 70 percent Performance Benchmark was adopted in 1998 by the Education Oversight Board and endorsed by Secretary of Education Dr. Floyd Coppedge.

The Oklahoma Core Curriculum Tests are required by state law to be administered to public school students in grades five, eight and 11.

For elementary schools, the state average enrollment was 321 and schools had 18.2 teachers. The average salary was $30,285 and the average number of years of teaching experience was 12.5.

On the third grade ITBS achievement test, the state average for reading was just under 60 percent, language was 68 percent, social studies was 61 percent, math was 66 percent, science was 65 percent, and the composite was 64 percent.

On the fifth grade Oklahoma Core Curriculum Test, the state averages in math was 82 percent, science 85 percent, reading 76 percent, writing 91 percent, history/constitution/government at 73 percent and geography at 57 percent.

Burbank Elementary had 64 students enrolled with 4.5 teachers. The average teacher salary was $29,605 and there was an average of 13 years of teaching experience.

On the third grade achievement tests, they scored above the state average in all areas tested. Scores ranged from 62 to 75 percent with a composite score of 68 percent. On the fifth grade test, they scored above the state average in all areas but writing.

Eighth graders scored well on the Oklahoma Core Curriculum Test with scores ranging from 75 to 100 percent. Burbank students scored a 100 percent in five of the six areas tested.

Burbank School offered grades K-8 in school year 1997-98. The district covered 102 square miles, with 0.6 students per square mile.

A total of 37 percent of the district had at least a high school diploma (state average of 31) and 29 percent had less than a high school diploma (state average was 24 percent). Twenty-two percent had some college (28 percent was the state average) and 12 percent had a college degree (17 percent was the state average).

Shidler Elementary had 140 students enrolled with an average of 9.5 teachers. The teachers have an average of 13 years of teaching experience with an average salary of $29,554.

On the third grade test, Shidler scored below the state average in all areas tested. In the fifth grade, Shidler was below the state average in all areas with scores ranging from 25 to 88 percent.

Eighth graders scored below the state average in all areas but math and writing.

Shidler High School students had an enrollment of 95 with 10 teachers. The average teaching experience was 7 years with an average salary of $27,395. Juniors scored above the state average in three of the seven areas tested.

The district offered grades K-12 in school year 1997-98. The district covered 437 square miles with 0.6 students per square mile.

The total drop out rate at the high school was 5.2 percent compared to a 5.5 percent state average. The graduation rate was 64.3 percent (73.4 percent state average) and the average ACT score was 22.9.

A total of 45 percent of the population had a high school diploma and 27 percent had less than a high school diploma. Twenty-one percent had some college and 6 percent had a college degree.

What’s the Matter With Our School Administrators?

By DR. FLOYD COPPEDGE

Secretary of Education

During the spring debate over strengthening Oklahoma’s weak high school graduation requirements, local school administrators flocked to a series of public hearings to take a nearly unanimous stand against these reforms. When House Bill 1759 finally passed, they demanded that its curriculum reforms be delayed. At their annual summer conference, dozens of school superintendents and principals again voiced opposition to increased graduation standards — and according to some reports, a few of them are determined to do all they can to sabotage and scuttle the reforms as school opens this fall.

What’s the matter with these school administrators?

In the eyes of many Oklahomans — who have responded to at least two major polls with overwhelming support for tougher academic standards — our school leaders appear to be dead set against more learning. That’s not just a foolish position to take; it runs the risk of further widening a troublesome gap between local school patrons and those who lead our schools.

Some of our school administrators are acting like the marching soldier whose “right-left” differed from the rest of the platoon’s “left-right,” prompting him to wonder why everyone else was out of step.

The need for a stronger high school curriculum became apparent several years ago as Oklahoma found more precise ways to measure learning. It was clear that student achievement, strong through the elementary grades, took a serious nosedive once students entered high school:

— Oklahoma’s ACT average declined in 1998 at the end of a decade in which it sat stubbornly a full half of a standard score below the national average.

— As the criterion referenced tests created by House Bill 1017 came on line, each year’s scores showed an alarming decline in the 11th grade. By 1998, high school juniors were scoring below fifth graders in math, science, reading and geography.

— Year after year, nearly four out of ten Oklahoma high school graduates who enroll in college have to take at least one remedial course to repair skills they failed to learn in high school.

This abysmal situation had a clear cause — one of the lowest high school graduation requirements in the nation. Under those requirements, students could finish all but two of their core graduation requirements by the end of their sophomore years! Two years ago, the State Board of Education took a commendable first step by increasing the math requirement to three years, but at some schools, administrators merely split the traditional Algebra I course into two years, effectively thwarting that reform.

The central reform of HB 1759 was a new graduation standard — four years of English and three each in math, science and social studies, to be selected from classes with real academic rigor. And that’s when some school administrators began to scream.

They said we didn’t need higher standards, just more money. In fact, per-pupil spending in the 22 Oklahoma schools with the highest ACT scores is almost $7,000 less than in the 43 schools with the lowest scores. It’s not the money; it’s what students study and learn.

They said higher standards would cause more dropouts. In fact, a number of schools have already increased graduation standards on their own — and in some cases, their dropout rates have gone down. As one student said, “not having something to do would be a reason for dropping out.”

The administrators opposed to curriculum reform said it would hurt vo-tech and vo-ag programs. In fact, HB 1759 recognizes those classes as satisfying the graduation requirement. They said the new standards were an “unfunded mandate.” In fact, HB 1017 already required all schools to offer a core curriculum equal to the even tougher 4 by 4. Finally, some administrators suggested that Oklahoma students aren’t smart enough to take more core classes. How do you respond to silliness like that?

This odd view — that more learning is a bad thing — even carried over into some of the annual school report cards distributed by a number of administrators.

One principal told his patrons that the annual criterion reference tests didn’t mean that much. No wonder: just 31 percent of his 11th graders managed to pass the math test, 66.7 percent of his graduates required remedial courses in college and his school’s ACT average was a miserable 17.6, one of the lowest in the state.

Another school administrator bragged about all the technology grants he had received, while his school’s ACT average was 17.1. Less than half of his high school juniors passed six of the seven CRTs.

I was frankly dumbfounded by the school administrator who wrote, “We have many things to brag about... Result (sic) from last years (sic) Standardized Tests (sic) were mixed...” Well, I suppose you could call them mixed: his juniors did pass one of the seven CRTs, but I hope they aren’t planning to travel. Only 20 percent passed the geography exam. (He did conclude proudly that “we fielded a football team.”)

Of course a number of Oklahoma school administrators have been enthusiastic about the reforms of HB 1759. Some schools had grown tired of waiting for the Legislature to act and increased their own district level graduation requirements, with excellent results. In poll after poll, Oklahoma school patrons have overwhelmingly supported the common sense concept that more study in the core academic subjects means more learning and greater success in college, work and life.

But school administrators who continue to oppose the reforms are pushing for an interim legislative study. That’s fine — as long as the consumers of education are also included and given a chance to voice their views. Those consumers include students, parents, representatives of higher education, military recruiters and employers. They have all been outspoken in favor of more learning. They know that Oklahoma couldn’t afford to stand still with a 1930s high school curriculum while other states leaped past us into the new millennium. And they’re wondering what’s wrong with those school administrators who are so determined to derail the curriculum reforms of HB 1759. So am I.

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.

July 18-August 18

Ponca City Arts & Humanities hosting exhibit “Moving The Fire: The Removal of Indian Nations to Oklahoma,” Ponca City Art Center, sponsored by Ponca City Arts & Humanities Council and Conoco, a program of ExhibitsUSA, a National Division of Mid-America Arts Alliance with the State Arts Council of Oklahoma, admission free.

July 19-30

Arts Adventure 1999. A two-week summer arts camp, will be held at the Marland Estate, for students entering sixth through tenth grades. Artists from around the country will teach classes in printmaking, painting, dance, drama, creative writing and keyboard ensemble and technology. Cost is $125 and scholarships are available. For registration information, contact Chuck Van Cleave at 762-9684.

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.

Tuesday

“It’s a Zoo!” The Oklahoma Zoo is coming to Ponca City with live animals, their handlers and more. Bring a lunch and come to the Conoco Fourth Street Clubhouse, 1500 South Fourth Street, from noon to 1 p.m. Pioneer Bank will provide the drinks at this free program which is open to the public.

Ponca City Rough and Tumbled Rock & Gem Club, program “Make a Ring,” demonstrated by B.J. Bowman, visitors welcome, 7 p.m., Albright United Methodist Church.

Wednesday

Planning Commission Work Session, 7:45 a.m., Planning and Engineering Conference Room, Suite 305, 400 East Central Avenue.

Progressive Pitch Game, 1 p.m., Senior Center, 319 West Grand Avenue.

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

July 28-31

United Ostomy Association, Stillwater-Ponca City Chapter, 37th Annual UOA Conference, Reno, Nev., Nugget Hotel.

Friday

Bingo! Come ready for action! 1 p.m., Senior Center, 319 West Grand Avenue.

Student Showcase, Arts Adventure will highlight the works of student artists participating in the Arts Adventure summer camp. It will be held at the Marland Estate, at 7 p.m. and is open to the public.

Saturday

Second Lake Road Scurry, 5 km run/walk, registration 7:15 a.m., race 8 a.m., Shelterhouse No. 3, Lake Ponca, $10 entry fee no T-shirt, $15 for T-shirt, 762-2873 for more information.

August 2

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

Pioneer Christian Crusaders Motorcycle Association, 6 p.m., Golden Corral, North Fourteenth Street.

August 2-6

“On Fire ’99” Summer Camp, Wentz Camp, sponsored by Fire Island YOUth Ministries Inc., to register, call 580-767-8325.

August 3

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

August 4

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

August 5

Kay-9 Dog Training Club, 7 p.m., Ponca City Library.

August 6

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

August 7

Pioneer Water Garden Society Annual Pond Tour, contact Ray Moreland, 762-7806, for maps of tour.

August 9

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.

August 10

Economic Development Advisory Board, 7:30 a.m., Chamber of Commerce, 420 East Grand Avenue.

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

AARP, 12:30 p.m., Wheatheart Nutrition Center.

Rural Water District No. 1 board meeting, 7:30 p.m., Enterprise School on Lake Road.

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

August 11

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, 7 p.m., Braden Community Center.

August 12

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

August 14

Entertainer of the Year Glen Campbell, 6:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m., Poncan Theatre, corporate sponsors Evans and Associates and Ratliff Inc.

August 16

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.

United Ostomy Association, Stillwater-Ponca City Chapter, Medications and Possible Interactions, presented by a pharmacist from Charlie’s Drug, Stillwater, 7 p.m., Stillwater Medical Center Board Room, west end of hospital.

August 17

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

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

August 18

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

August 18-21

101 Wild West Rodeo, 8 p.m., all four nights, stick horse grand entry for first 101 youngsters showing up each night, 7:45 p.m., 101 Ranch Rodeo Arena, North Ash Street and West Prospect Avenue.

August 19

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

August 20

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

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

August 21

Pancake and Sausage Feed, 7 a.m.-11 a.m., Masonic Lodge No. 83, 1200 West Grand Avenue, Ponca City, adults $3, children under 12 $1.50.

101 Wild West Rodeo Parade, 10 a.m., downtown Ponca City.

August 23

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.

August 24

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

Public Invited To Arts Adventure Workshops

Adults and children of all ages will have the opportunity to participate in Arts Adventure ’99 this week in three special workshops. Four of the artists who are here with the two-week Arts Adventure camp will highlight drama, dance and visual/experiential arts.

Sarah Schaefer from Grimes, Iowa, and Patrick Elkins-Zeglarski from Phoenix, Ariz., will conduct a workshop Monday beginning at 6:30 p.m. entitled “Theater in the Non-Theater Setting,” or “Adding a Little Drama to Your life.” This workshop will be oriented toward teachers, Cub Scout leaders, Sunday school teachers — anyone who is in a teaching/leadership role. The program will include information on using creative drama, role playing, dramatizing stories and events, creating lesson plans and active teaching techniques.

This drama workshop will be held in the Marland Estate Chapel at a cost of $20 per person.

Debi Myers, from Tulsa will present a workshop entitled “Movement to Music” on Tuesday. Her workshop is suitable for all ages and skill levels. In this workshop, participants will look at the ways they move through the world and think about developing their own personal style. This will be followed by contemporary dance to funky hip-hop-style jazz.

The dance workshop will be held in the Marland Estate Chapel beginning at 6:30 p.m. at a cost of $10 per person.

Robert Possehl from Viroqua, Wis., who is teaching sketching and acrylic painting at Arts Adventure, will facilitate a labyrinth and bookmaking workshop. Possehl has constructed many labyrinths across the country, in hospitals, on lawns, in parks. He will spend six to nine months next year in Bradford County, Pa., constructing labyrinths as part of a millennium grant program through the National Endowment for the Arts.

The labyrinth for this workshop will be behind the Marland Mansion in the “old swimming pool,” area.

Participants in this workshop will first learn about labyrinths and their construction, have the opportunity to walk the labyrinth, and then will construct simple memory books to record the experience.

This workshop will begin in the Marland Estate Chapel at 6:30 p.m. Cost, including materials, is $30. Children with parents are $15.

Arts Adventure is a two-week summer arts camp for students who will be entering 6th through 10th grades in the fall. Sessions are held at the Marland Estate from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday of each week.

Arts Adventure is sponsored by Oklahoma Arts Council, Conoco, Inc., and the Jim Throop Foundation.

‘Choose Your Cover’ To Protect Your Skin

Play it safe and protect your skin against sunburn and the sun’s ultraviolet rays (UV) to help prevent skin cancer. Unprotected skin can be harmed by UV rays in as little as 15 minutes, but it can take up to 12 hours for the skin to show the effects of exposure to the sun.

That is the message being given this summer by officials from the Oklahoma State Department of Health to young adults and adolescents as part of a public service campaign by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The “Choose Your Cover” campaign explains skin cancer is the most common kind of cancer in the United States and it appears to be related to increased, voluntary exposure to the sun’s UV rays.

“This year more than one million new cases of skin cancer will be diagnosed nationally. In Oklahoma we had 468 cases of reportable skin cancer recorded in 1997,” said State Health Commissioner J.R. Nida, MD.

Although most people are aware of the dangers of UV exposure, only one-third take steps to protect their skin from the sun. Some ways to protect your skin include:

*Seek shade, especially during midday.

*Cover up with clothing to protect exposed skin.

*Use a wide brim hat to protect your face, head, ears, and neck.

*Wear sunglasses to protect eyes from UVA and UVB rays.

*Use sunscreen with at least a 15 sun protection factor (SPF15).

The three major types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma. If diagnosed and treated early, these carcinomas have a cure rate of more than 95 percent. Malignant melanoma causes more than 75 percent of all deaths from skin cancer.

The CDC campaign includes television and print PSAs, a brochure for parents, and outreach for television meteorologists to encourage them to broadcast warnings about over exposure to the sun. Internet messages are targeted to Web sites that attract teenagers and young adults. CDC and Seventeen magazine are sponsoring a T-shirt design contest and quiz. Also, “Girl Power!” a program from the federal Department of Health and Human Services, will feature information to reach 9- to 14-year-old girls with skin safety tips.

For more information vie the following Web sites: CDC— http://www.cdc.gov/ChooseYourCover; Seventeen magazine - http://seventeen.com/contests quizes/838.html.

Pharmacy Fund Resumed At O’Connor Pharmacy

In February of 1990, the Kay County Health Department with the support of two local pharmacies started a fund in which local children in need of prescriptions could get them filled at a reduced price or free in an emergency situation. This fund provided over 400 prescriptions to local children in need. At this time the fund has been relocated to O’Connor Pharmacy and is in need of new funding.

The Pharmacy Fund provides prescription medications for pediatric patients who do not have private insurance and have no other way of paying for prescription medication. Those who can afford to pay for part of their medication, do so. Monies donated go directly to the pharmacy. No money is exchanged through the health department.

Pediatricians, physicians, and the emergency room request assistance from the Pharmacy Fund for specific prescriptions through the nursing staff at the health department. The fund is not designed for on-going prescription needs.

The staff at the Kay County Health Department is very appreciative of the past support they have received through this program.

All monies for the fund have come from private donations. In the past many clubs and organizations have made contributions. Many individuals have also donated to the fund. Anyone interested in making a donation to O’Connor Pharmacy for the Pharmacy Fund, please contact Erika Macy or Sherri Hood at the Kay County Health Department, 762-1641.

Oklahoma Christian Teens To Paint Ponca City Houses

Painting houses for free ... that’s what Christian teens from Oklahoma are in Ponca City to do this week!

According to Tim Hall, Workcamp Director, Grand Avenue Church of Christ, about 50 Christian teens and adults are painting houses for free during this year’s Ponca City Workcamp. The workers represent at least seven youth groups from across Oklahoma. The teens and adults will begin scraping, repairing, and painting homes of families in need on Thursday, July 28, and will finish on Saturday, July 31, of this week. Each worker pays $30 to cover the cost of supplies and materials so there is no charge for the homeowners. At the end of this week, Hall said, “we hope to have spread some of God’s light into the families we are helping.”

Ponca City Workcamp is organized and led by local youth ministers of the churches of Christ. The workers work from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., then meet in the evening for an activity and devotional time. Local businesses such as Mazzio’s Pizza, Thorn Apple Valley, NationsBank, Home National Bank, Pioneer Bank, Smith Tool, Frito Lay, Buy-4-Less, Wal-Mart, K-mart, Lowe’s, Advantage Graphix and several other businesses who wish to remain anonymous have provided either food or materials to help with this project.

On Sunday morning, Aug. 1, at the Grand Avenue Church of Christ, we will conclude Ponca City Workcamp with a Bible Class and Assembly geared toward the youth of Ponca City. Our guest speaker will be Donal Thompson (D.T.) of Oklahoma City. D.T. is a high impact speaker who loves the Lord and is on fire for the cause of Christ, Hall pointed out.

Ponca Citians are invited to join in this “terrific close” to a great way to serve God, Hall said.

The purpose statement of Workcamp is Matthew 25:40, “ ... whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.”

DUI School At Stillwater

STILLWATER — Alcohol Training & Education, Inc. is conducting a State Certified Alcohol & Drug Substance Abuse Course, otherwise known as “D.U.I. School,” in this area, according to Vicki Phelps, Public Relations Director.

Residents in the area of Stillwater who have had their driving privileges revoked may need to complete an Alcohol and Drug Substance Abuse Course, in order to have their license reinstated. This is the only chance this month for residents to attend such a class in this area.

The 21 & Over State Certified Alcohol and Drug Substance Abuse Course “D.U.I. School,” will be held Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 7 and 8 from 8:30 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. This two-day class will be held at the Best Western, Theater Room, 600 East McElroy in Stillwater.

To pre-enroll for this class please call Vicki Phelps at 94-DRIVE (943-7483) or 1-800-522-9050 Monday — Thursday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Fridays 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Walk-ins are welcome.

The fee is set by the State of Oklahoma at $85. There is a payment plan available — no personal checks.

Fire Island YOUth Ministries Camp Set at Wentz Aug. 2-6

The last camp of the summer is set for Aug. 2 through 6 at Wentz Camp — Fire Island YOUth Ministries, Inc. (FIYM) in cooperation with area churches is sponsoring “On Fire ’99” — a summer camp committed to fan the flame in the youth of today.

Camp Director and FIYM Vice-President Mickey Baldwin said, “Building dreams takes more than just dreaming, it takes focus, support, and knowing God’s destiny for your life. This summer I believe that the Lord has put together an awesome camp crew to help youth build their dreams. We will discuss how ‘Dream Busters’ can destroy a lifetime dream or hold your life incapacitated to take the right steps to reach one’s goals.”

According to Phipps, president of FIYM, three local bands will kick off the four night camp to include EPIC, area youth, The Sky Pilots, and the Fire Island Praise Band — “Firestruck". He said, “These bands will bring hot tunes to encourage each camper young and old. Besides music, special workshops will be headed up by Rick and Kris Sadok that will have heavy overtones of servanthood and developing personal character.

Keynote speaker for the camp is Dale Henshaw BA, B.Th, MA, who serves on the Ponca City Police Force. He will spend time revealing how God has used young people in this century to bring revival to people who thought there was no hope. He will teach a morning workshop and lead each evening session. This will be a time for young people to be equipped to become ministers in this present hour to those who feel there is no hope.

Camp registration is still open and the Fire Island Crew wants every youth to have a great time! So, take time to inquire now. For more information about registration call 580-767-8325 or write to Fire Island YOUth Ministries, Inc., P.O. Box 1722, Ponca City, OK 74602.

Owl, Other Featured Guests Present Tuesday for Final Brown Bag Lunch

An owl, a mammal or two, maybe even a squid will be a few of the featured guests in the final brown bag lunch presentation entitled, “It’s a Zoo.”

Sponsored by Pioneer Bank and Trust, this is the fifth and final program in the series which will take place Tuesday from noon to 1 p.m. at the Conoco Fourth Street Clubhouse, 1500 South Fourth Street.

Robert Gibbs, a keeper from the Oklahoma City Zoo, will be bringing several live animal friends to visit Ponca City. In addition, he will be talking about the new arrivals at the Zoo and the upcoming reopening of the dolphin show. Gibbs will also inform local residents of the special gardens and other public services the Zoo offers.

During the past year, almost 700,000 people visited the Zoo’s animals. The Zoo is open every day, except Christmas and New Years, and has a staff of 129 full-time and 20 to 153 part-time employees depending on the season. In addition, more than 100 volunteers help keep the Zoo running smoothly.

The Oklahoma City Zoo has a variety of animal species including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and fish. The Zoo is also home to 21 designated horticultural collections and displays, featuring tropical plants, evergreens, perennials, cacti and more.

The Zoo has many special programs including the opportunity to “adopt” an animal by financially contributing to their care and feeding; Summer Season Celebration, a family fun gala; Zoolympics, a wild time of fitness and fun; and “Haunt the Zoo,” a Halloween “spooktacular.”

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.

Summer Lunch

The summer food service program will provide free meals for all children ages 1 to 18 at the following locations. The final day of the program will be Friday.

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, July 26 — Scrambled eggs with ham and biscuit or assorted cold cereals, orange juice or fresh fruit, and chocolate or 2 percent white milk.

Tuesday, July 27 — Assorted muffins or assorted cold cereals, orange juice or fresh fruit, and chocolate or 2 percent white milk.

Wednesday, July 28 — Sausage, egg and cheese biscuit or assorted cold cereals, orange juice or fresh fruit, and chocolate or 2 percent white milk.

Thursday, July 29 — Biscuits and gravy or assorted cold cereals, orange juice or fresh fruit and chocolate or 2 percent white milk.

Friday, July 30 — Breakfast burrito or assorted cold cereals, orange juice or fresh fruit, and chocolate or 2 percent white milk.

Lunch

Monday, July 26 — Taco snack burrito or peanut butter and jelly sandwich or ham and cheese sandwich, refried beans or frozen peach cup or fruit or raisins or orange juice or and chocolate or 2 percent white milk.

Tuesday, July 27 — Meat and cheese nachos or peanut butter and jelly sandwich or ham and cheese sandwich, tossed salad with ranch dressing or mexican rice or fruit or raisins or orange juice and chocolate or 2 percent white milk.

Wednesday, July 28 — Cheese dogs or peanut butter and jelly sandwich or ham and cheese sandwich, baked beans or peach cups or fresh fruit or raisins or orange juice, and chocolate or 2 percent white milk.

Thursday, July 29 — Pizza or peanut butter and jelly sandwich or ham and cheese sandwich, corn or tossed salad with ranch dressing or fruit or raisins or orange juice or sour apple slime, and chocolate or 2 percent white milk.

Friday, July 30 — Chalupa with lettuce, tomato and cheese or peanut butter and jelly sandwich or ham and cheese sandwich, fresh broccoli with ranch dressing or salsa or M&M cookies or fruit or raisins or orange juice or M&M cookies, and chocolate or two percent white milk.

Students may choose one main dish, two side dishes, and one milk. Must take one other selection in addition to the main dish.

Enrollment Dates

Enrollment dates for the 1999-2000 school year are as follows:

Four-Year-Old Programs, Aug. 3 at Liberty Elementary from 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Elementary Schools, Liberty and Woodlands grades K-6, Aug. 5 from 4 to 7 p.m.; Garfield grades K-5 and Union grades K-6, Aug. 9 from 4 to 7 p.m.; Roosevelt and Washington grades K-6, Aug. 10 from 4 to 7 p.m.; Lincoln grades K-5 and Trout grades K-6, Aug. 12 from 4 to 7 p.m.

East Middle School, all eighth graders will enroll Aug. 11 from 7 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Students have already pre-enrolled. They can pick up scheduled on Aug. 11.

West Middle School, Eagles and Trackers, grade 7, Aug. 3, 3 to 7 p.m., Lions and Explorers, grade 7, Aug. 4 from 3 to 7 p.m. and grade 6 Pioneers plus Lincoln and Garfield 6, Aug. 5 from 3 to 7 p.m. Students have pre-enrolled and may pick up their schedules on the date listed.

High School, grade 9-12, Aug. 10 and 11 from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Enrollment on Aug. 9 is for new students to Ponca City Schools and those who didn’t preregister. Those who have preregistered can pick up schedules on Aug. 10 and 11 at the Howell Building.

The first day of school is Aug. 18.

Freshmen, Sophomores To Tour Po-Hi Aug. 10-11

The Po-Hi Student Council will be sponsoring a Freshman and Sophomore Orientation on Aug. 10 and 11. Students will be able to pick up their schedules, get a tour of the school, and meet the school officials and student leaders.

Freshmen will be on Aug. 10, and the sophomores will be on Aug. 11. The times are the same for each day. Schedules will go by last names: A-L, from 9-11:30 a.m. and M-Z from 1-3:30 p.m.

Students will meet in Robson Fieldhouse and make their way over to the new Commons Area. There will be prizes and give-aways for the students, and it will be a great way for them to get acquainted with their new school.

Millennium Keepsake Poster Available Now

By LAURA CORFF

News Staff Writer

Local Conoco artist Rod Bailey has designed a limited-edition, keepsake poster in recognition of the upcoming Third Millennium.

The Ponca City Millennium Commission approached the local man about the idea of a poster. Using a cross-section of culture and heritage, Bailey selected photos and utilized images to create the photographic montage pictured. Images of historical landmarks such as the Marland Mansion, the Poncan Theatre, the Pioneer Woman and Standing Bear are specially placed. The montage evokes the sense passage of time and coincides with the local millennium theme, Reflect on the Past ... Imagine the future.

“Proceeds from the sale of the print will help fund activities for Millennium Night, the huge entertainment celebration planned for downtown Ponca City on Dec. 31,” said Diane Mitchell, Millennium Commission member. “The creation and donation of the posters is one of the ways Conoco is helping to support the celebration.”

According to Bailey, the high-quality poster is printed with non-fading ink through the Conoco Printing Center. All 2,000 copies are numbered.

Mitchell confirmed the commission has been careful to make events and items related to the Millennium celebration affordable to all citizens. Keeping with this, the 18- by 24-inch posters will be sold for $10 at the following locations: North Tower Reception desk, Christy’s, 3004 North Fourteenth Street; Carla’s Hallmark, 405 East Grand Avenue; The Gift Shoppe/The Emporium, 301/303 East Grand Avenue; Marland Mansion Gift Shop, 901 Monument Road; and the Chamber of Commerce, 420 East Grand Avenue.

Historic Preservation Issue On City Commission Agenda

By LAURA CORFF

News Staff Writer

Creation of a Historic Preservation Overlay Zoning District is on the upcoming agenda of the Ponca City Board of Commission meeting Monday at the Public Safety Center, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue, at 5:30 p.m.

The majority of residents in the neighborhood from North Sixth Street from Cleveland Avenue to Hazel Avenue, signed a petition requesting the zoning pursuant to Ponca City Zoning Ordinance 886.13f, entitled “HP-1 Historic Preservation District”. The entire neighborhood is zoned R-1 single family residential and the overlay HP zoning will not change this according to Todd Kennemer, city planner.

With this designation, a Certificate of Appropriateness from the Historic Preservation Advisory Board will be required before building or remodeling permits are issued. Routine home maintenance is exempt from this requirement. The Planning Commission held a public hearing on July 6. The board will consider an emergency clause for this request.

In other business, the city planner submitted a request to close a portion of the right of way through Redbud Park, located in portions East Woodlands and the North Woodlands Subdivisions. This portion bisects the park, is unimproved and has never been used by the public, according to Kennemer. Additionally, the board will consider an emergency clause for the item.

Furthermore, the board will look at deeding a five acre parcel of land to the school board. In the 1970s, the school board deeded five acres to Ponca City for the construction of proposed tennis courts. The deed contained a revertor clause providing that in the event the city did not develop the property, the title would revert to the school board.

The school board now wishes to use the property. According to Kevin Murphy, city attorney, the city did not pay money for the land and the courts were never developed.

Public Hearing

The board will conduct a public hearing to receive public comments on an Ordinance which would establish specific zoning district regulations and uses for residential, commercial, industrial, agricultural, rural acreage, public uses, planned unit developments, use standards, signs, parking requirements and supplemental provisions. Also, the proposal will establish regulations for flood hazard areas, appeals and a penalty. The ordinance is the final product of the new codes written by Larry Lawhon, professor at Kansas State University, with modifications by the Ponca City Planning Commission and the city planner.

Consent Agenda

The following items on the consent agenda will not be discussed during the meeting, unless a commissioner requested that it be removed to be considered separately. City staff feel the items are non-controversial and routine and should be considered by one motion of the board.

The board will consider and vote on an agreement addendum between Ponca City Tomorrow and the city for services. Also, the board will consider awarding a contract to United Golf, LLC, in the amount of $65,000 for reconstruction of the number four and number 12 golf greens at the Lew Wentz Memorial Golf Course.

Additionally, the Park and Recreation Department submitted two items, previously approved by the Park and Recreation Advisory Board on July 15. They are asking that the board consider allowing Gene Sigle to enhance Lot 16 West by extending the present deck to the north by 12 feet. Also, TOPS requests use of Lake Ponca area on Sept. 8, for a walk for health.

In addition, the Ponca City Police Department has received a Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention grant in the amount of $35,556 from the Office of Juvenile Affairs. The department is asking that the Mayor sign the contract to accept the grant.

Marc LaBossiere, finance director, is also seeking approval for a resolution to amend operating budgets of various city funds for the 1999-2000 year. If approved, he will transfer budgets in city departments to the Information Services Department for cell phone aggregation. This will achieve cost-efficiencies, he stated. In other amendments, supplemental appropriations will be considered related to the library and police departments. Also, the Marland Estate Restoration budget would be adjusted for requested Foundation sponsored projects. A supplemental appropriation to the Wentz Golf Course fund to rebuild two greens will be considered, too.

The board will also review a resolution to designate Gary Martin, Tana Wilson, Raymond Ham, Clayton Johnson, Dan Tebow and Sherri Bowers as purchasing officers with authority to make purchases against the local law grant and police grants.

Action to correct an omission will be considered on the approval of the annual pledge and guarantee document to authorize the participation agreement renewal with the Association of Landfill Financial Assurance for 1999-2000. The document was approved as part of the Ponca City Utility Authority agenda on June 28. And, more than $1 million in bills will be considered for claims processed from July 8 through July 21.

Ponca City Utility Authority

The board will reconvene as the Ponca City Utility Authority (PCUA) to consider several items on the consent agenda. Consideration will be given to allow the Mayor to submit the monthly operating statement to the Oklahoma Water Resource Board as part of the loan agreement. Also, the board will look at purchasing two 1,200 amp circuit breakers from Priester Supply, in the amount of $34,760. The items would allow continuing upgrade of the electric system’s power circuit breakers. Three bids were sent out, but only one bidder replied.

In addition, the board will review whether to submit requisitions for payments totaling $1,000, from the Oklahoma Water Resource Board for the Turkey Creek Sanitary Sewer improvements. Commissioners will also consider paying $1.79 million in claims.

Ponca City Development Authority

During the Ponca City Development Authority, the board will consider a lease agreement with Lindsay Manufacturing, Inc. for building five at Darr School. According to staff, the firm has purchased a new company and needs more space. The building will be used to store material/supplies. The term of the lease would begin August 1, and run through midnight June 30, 2000, for a monthly fee of $700.

Other housekeeping items will also be addressed.

Executive Session

Commissioners will meet in executive session to discuss the employment, hiring, appointment, promotion, demotion, disciplining or resignation of any salaried public officer or employee, as authorized in Title 25 of the Oklahoma Statutes.

Workshop Allows Citizens To Mark Trails ‘On Paper’

By LAURA CORFF

News Staff Writer

Interested citizens attended a workshop as part of the planning process for a local Trail System Master Plan. Keith R. Franklin, ASLA and president of LandPlan Consultants Incorporated, of Tulsa, made the presentation.

The Ponca City Park and Recreation Department invited the community to help formulate goals and objectives for the system. A base map was provided to small groups, along with colored markers, for attendees to “put on paper” where they would like trails to be located. Franklin dubbed the maps as “citizen wish list maps.”

During his introduction on the trails plan, Franklin stated that one-third of the population is too old or too young for motorized transportation, which is one reason to consider trails as a means to travel from one place to another. He also noted that 50 percent of motorists travel less than 2.5 miles from their home.

Trails connect where people live to where they want to go. Destinations can be churches, downtown, neighborhoods, businesses or the lake. Franklin, who specializes in trail planning and design, identified the following as potential corridors: the track around Johnson Park and the pedestrian underpass east of Johnson Park; the alley adjacent to the channel south of Liberty; north of Hartford Avenue, through Liberty Park; shoreline of Ponca Lake; Bradley Avenue; Sunset Park on the west side; the east side of the Marland Mansion; right-of-way at Pecan Road south of Prospect Avenue; and Prospect Avenue east of Pecan Road.

After learning about the benefits of trails, citizens recommended the following goals. Under transportation objectives are: link employers with retail stores; provide bike lanes; link residential to recreation areas; link residential areas to schools; link to attractions and link employers to residential areas.

The crowd wanted well-lit trails, with an established code of conduct. Other safety and security goals included: safe crossings, requiring pets to be on a leash; bike patrol, signage, make the trail vandal resistant; address maintenance hazards; liability issues; provide for emergency access; and restrict motorized vehicle access.

Education objectives suggested were teaching motorists and bicyclists about etiquette; display signage related to rules and safety regulations; get youth involved and creating a historic environment. In the area of environmental goals, citizens requested trash receptacles, employer incentives; soil erosion reduction, improve water and air quality; visually improve the city and stewardship.

The quality of life issues, tourism, inexpensive transportation, improved city image, encouragement of development, increase real estate values, and access to shopping areas were listed as economic benefits.

Other comments from the citizens suggested the master plan include a long trail loop for cyclists, running areas, mile markers, a skating area, drinking water facilities and benches. City officials say the city-wide trail master planning project will address multi-use greenway trails to be used for recreation or as a means for alternative transportation by walkers, joggers, skaters, strollers and bicycles.

All ideas on the base maps will be analyzed and refined by a steering committee working with Franklin. The corridors will be combined for the steering committee to go out and look at the possibilities before making a draft to present at a second public workshop in the fall. A final report should be completed by the end of October, according to Franklin.

For more information on the upcoming trails master plan, contact the park department at 767-0430.

The Salvation Army Right Place During Time of Need

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

“Mary’s” husband left five years ago. She got by and even managed to save a little for a rainy day, until her daughter moved in after the divorce.

Mary is delighted to have her daughter and the grandchildren close by, but an already tight budget got a lot tighter. And on top of everything else, she fell down at work and hurt her back.

Medical bills, food, utilities, even the every day necessities become impossible to pay for. Her parents are gone, and there is no one for her to turn to.

Mary lies awake at night and stares at the ceiling, wondering how she will get by. She cries in the dark, afraid that her grandchildren will hear her.

Luckily, Mary’s boss suggested going to The Salvation Army of Kay County for help. From the first moment Mary walks in the door of the United Way agency, she is greeted with a smile and a helping hand. Mary receives dignity and respect.

“We understand this can be a humiliating situation, but we try to make the process as pleasant as possible,” says Captain Mark Craddock, Kay County Area Commander.

Immediately The Army assesses Mary’s needs and a personalized social service plan for assistance is initiated. The Army’s philosophy of assistance is simple.

“We help mend broken hearts, minds, bodies and souls. This holistic approach allows us to help the person with all their needs, helping to insure that people like Mary will not have to return for additional help in the future,” Craddock said.

Mary’s family receives food from the food bank, warm clothing for the children and a referral to a doctor. Due to donations from local utilities, the Army is able to give her a voucher to pay for her gas and electric bills before these services are cut off.

In addition, Rhonda Braga, social service director, works with other local non-profits to provide additional services not provided by The Salvation Army.

Although her physical needs have been taken care of, Mary still carries a burden of worry. Her daughter has fallen in with the wrong crowd, has become an alcoholic and may be using drugs. The Craddock’s offer to help bring the daughter and children to Al-anon and AA.

Mary is just one of thousands of success stories through the Salvation Army, every year. Whether it’s rent assistance, sliding scale after school and tutoring program’s disaster assistance, New Beginnings homeless shelter, TASC van or a multitude of other services, The Salvation Army is available to help the entire family in times of crisis and need.

About the Local Agency

More than 6,659 youth were touched by services of the local Salvation Army last year. The Army provided meals to 10,382 and lodging to 5,405. During 1998, services were rendered to 25,688.

The Salvation Army of Kay County is funded by individuals, corporations and foundations in addition to the United Way. Of the total annual budget, 18 percent is provided by the United Way of Ponca City.

An advisory board consisting of local community leaders from across the Kay County area guides the Salvation Army. Executive board members include Connie McAbee, chairperson; Ted Matson, vice chairman; Mary Ann Holt, secretary; John Bohannon, treasurer, and Gerald Nield, past chairman.

Members at large include: Gary Bracken, Carl Renfro, Stan Kistler, Art Mires, Donna Cannon, Lee Evans, Charles Ziegenhain, Garry England, Gary Martin, Patti Pfeiffer, James Roland, Dan Stahl, Toni Gibson, Forrest Mertz, Marvin Musgrove, Dr. Jim Thomas, Jerry Corbin, Perry Pederson, Bob Coffee, Danny Thompson, John Scoggins, Bob McCartney and John Maker.

The United Way of Ponca City supports the following 17 member agencies: American Red Cross, Arthritis Foundation, Girl Scouts-Bluestem Council, Boy Scouts of America-Will Rogers Council, Bridgeway, Child Development Center, Domestic Violence Program, Golden Villa Adult Day 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 the YMCA.

Nearly News

Correction! Enrollment for Ponca City High School will be Aug. 10 and 11 from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Students who are new to the Ponca City Schools or who didn’t preregister can enroll on Aug. 9. Students who have preregistered can pick up their schedules on Aug. 10 and 11 at the Howell Building.

DEATHS

Thelma Day Webster
Ruth Ward Brown
Robert Arlie Brennaman
Willis Murray Scott
Elsie Roselea Townley

Thelma Day Webster

SPRINGDALE, Ark. — Thelma Day Webster, resident of Springdale, Ark. and a native of Ponca City, died Thursday, July 22, 1999 at a Springdale, Ark. hospital. She was 90.

The funeral service will be Monday, July 26, 1999 at 2:30 p.m. in the Memorial Funeral Chapel in Springdale with the Rev. James Criswell officiating. Burial will be in the Bluff Cemetery in Springdale. Casket bearers will be Louie Galloway, Art Hocker, James Blalock, Neual Hobbs, Dan McEntire and Billy Eden.

Thelma Day Webster was born Feb. 15, 1909 in Ponca City, Okla., the daughter of George B. and Clara Ingels Day. A seamstress and an accomplished pianist and organist, Mrs. Day excelled in homemaking and cooking. She was a member of the Silent Grove Baptist Church in Springdale.

She was married to T.C. Webster for 66 years, and he survives her. Also surviving is their daughter, Joann M. Webster of Springdale.

Memorials may be made in Mrs. Webster’s memory to the Arkansas Baptist Children’s Home & Family Ministries, P.O. Box 552, Little Rock, Ark. 72203.

Ruth Ward Brown

Ruth Ward Brown, resident of Pawhuska, Okla., died Thursday, July 22, 1999 in Amarillo, Texas. She was 72 years, 7 months and 5 days old.

Graveside service will be held at 2 p.m. Monday, July 26, 1999 at the Hominy, Okla. Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of Hunsaker-Wooten Funeral Home of Fairfax.

Ruth Ward Brown was born Dec. 22, 1926 in Osage County, Okla. She is survived by one son, Earl Brown and one daughter, Ruth Ann Brown, both of Amarillo, Texas; a grandson and two great-grandsons, all of Amarillo; three brothers, Henry Ward of Olathe, Kan., John Ward of Wichita and Ervin Ward of Waskom, Texas; one sister, Louise Jones of Pawhuska; several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband, Alvie E. Brown, in July, 1992.

She enjoyed working in her garden and the simpler things of life. Memorial contributions may be made to the charity or cause of choice.

Robert Arlie Brennaman

Robert Arlie-Bonebreak-Leasure-Pierce-Brennaman, resident of Newkirk, died early Thursday afternoon, July 22, 1999 in St. Joseph Regional Medical Center, Ponca City. He was 73.

Mass of Christian Burial for cremains will be at 9 a.m. Monday, July 26, 1999 in St. Francis Catholic Church with the Rev. Richard Beckman as Celebrant. There will be no viewing at any time and no burial following the service. Arrangements are under the direction of Miller-Stahl Funeral Service, Newkirk.

Robert Arlie Brennaman was born June 3, 1926 at the family home on Spring Bank Farm, Monroe Township, Linn County, Iowa, the son of Arlie Devere Bonebreak Brennaman and Ruth Elizabeth Leasure-Pierce-Brennaman. He attended Monroe Twp. No. 8 grade school in Toddville and graduated from Toddville High School. He then attended California State Polytechnic at San Luis Obispo, Calif., and graduated Professional Chef’s Training at The Culinary Institute of America in New Haven, Conn. He later attended the University of Iowa in Iowa City, and attained graduate degrees from the University of Nebraska in Lincoln.

During World War II he was a member of Headquarters Company 3rd Battalion 32nd Infantry Regiment, 7th Division, United States Army serving in the Asiatic-Pacific Theater.

Mr. Brennaman was employed for several years as chef at several golf and country clubs in Iowa. He became self-employed in 1959, opening and operating a cafe-bakery, an ice cream drive-in and a catering business. He later owned and operated two truck-stops. After completion of post-graduate degrees he was employed as an instructor in South East High School in Lincoln, Neb. He was later employed at Platte College in Columbus, Neb. as Professor of Business.

On July 24, 1961 he and Colleen Marie Bollich were married in Crofton, Neb. In 1974 they moved to Arkansas City where he continued his professional teaching career in business with emphasis on marketing, management and human relations. He retired in May 1991 and moved to New Mexico in 1996. He and his wife moved to Newkirk in October 1997.

He was a member of St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Newkirk and the Knights of Columbus in Arkansas City. He enjoyed cooking, reading and hunting.

He is survived by his wife, Colleen of the home; three sisters, Marie Elizabeth Van Note of Hiawatha, Iowa, Dorothy Arlene Van Fossen of Center Point, Iowa and Evelyn Ruth Curtiss of Emerson, Neb.; also several nephews and nieces.

He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Harry Donald Bonebreak Brennaman.

A memorial fund has been established for a Seminary Fund. Contributions may be made in Mr. Brennaman’s memory through Eastman National Bank, P.O. Box 468, Newkirk, OK 74647-0468

Obituaries

Willis Murray Scott

TONKAWA — Willis Murray Scott, a lifelong Tonkawa area farmer and rancher, died Thursday evening, July 22, 1999 on the family homestead outside of Tonkawa. He was 87 years of age.

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, July 26, 1999 at the First Christian Church of Tonkawa with Dr. John Bartlett, presiding. Interment will be at the IOOF Cemetery of Tonkawa under the direction of the McCafferty-Bolick Funeral Home.

Murray Scott was born October 1, 1911 on a farm west of Tonkawa, the son of French Scott and Laura Marsh Scott. He graduated from the University Preparatory School (now Northern Oklahoma College) in 1929 and was recently recognized at his 70th year class reunion.

In 1938 he married Theda Marie Tillman of Mangum, Okla. The couple worked together on the farm for 48 years before her death in 1986. The couple had five children, Mary, Betty, Pat, Jim and Pete. He married Edna Grace Putt in 1988. Following Edna’s death, he married Gladys Kreger in August of 1994.

Mr. Scott was a member of the Tonkawa First Christian Church and attended the Friendly Sunday School Class. He served as president of the Tonkawa School Board when the present high school was built. He also was a member of the American Angus Association and operated a performance test station for many years. He also was a member of the Isaac Walton Organization. His enjoyments included hunting, fishing, reading, gardening and especially his family.

He is survived by his wife, Gladys, of the home; three daughters, Mary Ruth Kirkpatrick and husband, Jerry, of Miami, Okla.; Pat Blubaugh and husband, Cletus, of Tonkawa and Betty Edgley of Stillwater; two sons, Jim Scott and wife, Mary, of Ponca City and Pete Scott of Houston, Texas; one sister, Laura Conover, Las Vegas, Nev.; three step-sons, Joe Kreger and Ken Kreger, both of Tonkawa and Ron Kreger, Ponca City; 16 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, two wives and one sister, Thelma Randolph.

Casket bearers will be grandsons: Scott Blubaugh, Rick Blubaugh, Wade Dotter, Eric Gudgel, French Scott, Sam Dodson and Greg Lucero. Honorary casket bearers will be Clinton Evans, Jim Ladd and Don Gamble.

Memorial contributions may be made to the First Christian Church, 115 West Grand, Tonkawa, Oklahoma 74653.

The family will be at 609 North Main Street, Tonkawa.

paid obituary

Services Pending

Elsie Roselea Townley

Elsie Roselea Townley, resident of Ponca City, died Saturday morning, July 24, in Tender Heart Health Care of Ponca City. She was 90. Funeral arrangements are pending with Trout Funeral Home, and will be announced later.

NEWS BRIEFS

Proficiency Test — Ponca City Public Schools will administer the Oklahoma Proficiency Test on Wednesday, Aug. 4 from 12:30 to 4 p.m. and Thursday, Aug. 5 from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Administration Building. Parents must write a letter to the school district requesting that their child be given the proficiency test. The district must be notified by July 30 to ensure their child will be tested. Mail letters to Dr. John Scroggins, Ponca City Public School, 111 West Grand, Ponca City, Okla. 74601.

Free Pregnancy test. Birth Choice cares. Confidential. Hours: Tuesday, 6-8 p.m., Wednesday, 1-3 p.m. and Thursday, 6-8 p.m. 700 West Broadway. 765-9689. adv.

Rodeo Fans Get Your Box Seats — Box seats tickets are available for the 40th anniversary of the 101 Wild West Rodeo, August 18-21. Call the Chamber office at 765-4400 for either nightly or in-a-package box seats.

Antique Shipment: Pine cupboard, oak wardrobe, German dining table, kitchen cabinet, Barley Twist plant stands, tea trolley and more. Lay-a-way at Christy’s, 3005 North 14th. Open Every Day! adv.

Newkirk Man Joins U.S. Army — William E. Tucker has joined the United States Army under the Delayed Entry Program at the U.S. Army Recruiting Station in Stillwater. The enlistment gives the new soldier the option to learn a new skill, travel and become eligible to receive as much as $50,000 toward a college education. After completion of basic military training, soldiers receive advanced individual training in their career specialty. The recruit qualifies for a $2,000 enlistment bonus. Tucker, a 1995 graduate of Newkirk High School, will report to Fort Knox, Ky., for basic training Aug. 10, 1999. He is the son of James R. and Linda F. Tucker of 602 E. Sixth Street in Newkirk.

Guitars 20% off. Friendly Pawn. 4th and South Avenue. adv.

Arrest — At 10:48 p.m. Friday, a Ponca City police officer arrested a 33-year-old woman at West Grand Avenue and Oak Street for driving under suspension and no insurance.

Wentz Golf Shop-summer shirt blowout, 30% off. Sizes from M-XXL. adv.

Accident — A Ponca City police officer took a report of a minor accident in the parking lot in the 3000 block of North Fourteenth Street at 3:55 p.m. Friday.

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

Army Spec. White Enters Basic — Army Spec. Rita J. White has entered basic military training at Fort Jackson, Columbia, S.C. During the eight weeks of training, she will study the Army mission and receive instruction in drill and ceremonies, weapons, map reading, tactics, military courtesy, military justice, physical fitness, first aid, Army history and traditions, and special training in human relations. She is the daughter of Jack and Crystal Feaster of Tonkawa. Her husband, Scott, is the son of David and Susan White of Ponca City. The specialist is a 1989 graduate of Ponca City High School.

Kids Review accepting fall/winter children consignments. Fall open, July 31st. adv.

Damage — At 3:43 p.m. Friday, a Ponca City police officer took a report of damage to the inside of a vehicle in the 3500 block of North Union Street.

If you need help with doctor bills and cost of medicines, enroll in SoonerCare- a new , FREE health care program for children under age 17 and pregnant moms who qualify. For more information, please contact Northern Oklahoma Youth Services at 415 W. Grand, Ponca City or call (580) 762-8341. adv.

Teen Pregnancy — The Ponca City Alliance for Youth Teen Pregnancy Prevention Taskforce meeting has been changed from Monday to August 9, at First Baptist Church Teen Pep Room. For further information, contact Michele Jean at 765-2476.

New Summer hours for July and August, 9:00am to 1:00pm and 2:00pm to 5:30pm. Closed Saturday and Sunday. Friendly Pawn, 4th and South Avenue. adv.

Juvenile Crime — The Ponca City Alliance for Youth Juvenile Crime/Violence and Gangs Prevention Taskforce will meet Monday at 2 p.m. at Lincoln Center, 700 West Broadway Avenue. Contact Michele Jean at 765-2476 for more information.

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

Accident — A Ponca City police officer took a report of an accident at Ash Street and West Grand Avenue at 6:39 a.m. Friday. A Ponca City ambulance crew also responded and took one victim to St. Joseph Regional Medical Center.

Taco Stop will be closed for vacation from July 19 to August 3rd. Reopen Wednesday august 4th. adv.

Forgery — At 9:51 a.m. Friday, an employee of Ronny’s Westbury Market, 2911 North Union Street, advised the Ponca City Police Department of a forged check.

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

Stolen — A resident in the 2500 block of Bluestem Road contacted the Ponca City Police Department at 10:06 a.m. Friday to report a cell phone had been stolen. An officer responded and took a report.

New Arrivals: Lava lamps, roosters, stone water fountains, authentically dressed indian dolls (limited edition), Sandy Gore Evans Cards, mugs, and magnets. Christy’s, 3005 N. 14th. Open Everyday. adv.

Slashed — At 11:37 a.m. Friday, a resident in the 500 block of North Osage Street reported that tires had been slashed. An officer responded and took a report.

Larceny — At 1:43 p.m. Friday, a woman went to the Ponca City Police Department to report a cell phone had been stolen from the 300 block of Redbird Drive. An officer took a report for grand larceny.

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

Arrest — A Ponca City police officer arrested a 16-year-old boy at Hastings, 2900 North Fourteenth Street, at 2:40 p.m. Friday for shoplifting.

Board certified in Hearing Instrument Sciences, Charles Smith, dispensing practitioner, Heartland Hearing Aid Center. Why put your hearing health care

in the hands of anyone else? 1302 North 7th. 767-1961. adv.

Vandalism — At 4:37 p.m. Friday, a Ponca City police officer took a report of vandalism to a vehicle in the 300 block of Fairview Avenue.

Bearly New summer sale 35-80% off, fall open Friday July 30th. adv.

Smoke — At 5:15 p.m. Friday, three Ponca City fire units responded to the report of smoke in the Bingo Hall at White Eagle. Firefighters investigated and determined the smoke was the result of a malfunction in the air conditioning unit.

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

Sparking — The Water and Light Department was notified at 8:36 p.m. Friday that an electric pole in the 440 block of South Franklin Avenue was sparking.

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

Burglary — At 9:29 p.m. Friday, a resident in the 500 block of North Elm Street advised the Ponca City Police Department that someone broke in the back door of the residence. An officer responded and took a report.

DUI — At 11:02 p.m. Friday, two Ponca City police officers responded to the report of a two-vehicle accident at North Ash Street and West Highland Avenue. Officers arrested a 41-year-old man for driving under the influence and running a stop sign.

Curfew Violation — A Ponca City police officer responded to the 1500 block of Bradley Avenue at 11:21 p.m. Friday to check out a complaint of juveniles playing in a ditch behind the apartments. Two boys were cited for curfew violations and released to a parent on a promise to appear in juvenile court.

Attempted Abduction — At 5:11 a.m. Saturday, a Ponca City police officer took a report of attempted abduction in the 900 block of South Eleventh Street.

LIFESTYLES

Authors Offer ‘Easy’ Planning Tips
VFW, Auxiliary District Meeting Scheduled in Perkins
Teenage Team Roper Sets Her Sights on NFR
Wedding Plans Announced
Amber Dawn Wilcoxson Marries Joby Lee Young
Pair Observes Anniversary
Wheatheart Nutrition
Gardner, Gravel Wedding Ceremony Held in Nassau
Lookin’ with Lou
Photo Change
Alicia Luebcke Becomes Bride of Ryan Lee Burkett
Local Reunion At Blackwell
Keathly-Frantz Families Hold 60th Reunion
John Raley Tells PT Group About Millennium Plans
Fibromyalgia Meeting
Island Setting for Kreger, Barnes Wedding Vows
Family Reunion Held Locally At Wentz Camp
Lifestyles Deadlines Announced
Laura Jean Layton To Wed
News Policy: Birthday Photo, Story For 90+
Ponca City Happenings

Authors Offer ‘Easy’ Planning Tips

By PATTI CARMACK

News Lifestyles Editor

Just when you think you’re computer-literate enough to take on the world, you find out how little you really know. One of the latest books to promote use of the internet is a “14-Day Wedding Planner With Internet Guide,” written by Don and Sanda Altman with Moon Lake Media.

All aspects of wedding planning have been investigated via the internet in this book. From laying the groundwork, shopping in style, flowers, and so on, web tips and guides help you with more ideas than you can use, and certainly plenty to confuse all members of the family.

Some of the quick notes included in the book are good ideas, and can help with the massive planning most weddings seem to require.

One such tip suggests purchase of a multi-pocketed organizer. Smart planning and budget tips get you off to a good start with this book, and general information websites are suggested.

Deciding whether your wedding will be informal or formal, etc. will be the main factor in outlining what you need to look for “on the web.”

Thanks to a variety of web tools, a couple can create and share lists, compare costs, and maintain a budget.

Etiquette advice is offered on-line and links to other areas can keep you occupied for a very long time. Even e-mail invitations are available (Amy Vanderbilt where are you?)

Smart gown buying gives you a choice from designer gowns, ready-to-wear, custom-designs, previously purchased gowns, vintage and antique, as well as heirloom, and even rented apparel.

URL (Universal Resource Locator) addresses route you quickly to “superpages” of information. Travel information is so abundant on the internet that decisions will be hard to make.

In addition to all the internet help in planning weddings, this book has a variety of information to help you without a computer being necessary.

As the prime wedding season changes with the years, so does the way weddings are planned, photographed and conducted. The “traditional” wedding, while not exactly a thing of the past, has certainly been updated.

As the millennium approaches it makes you wonder if technology will enhance or detract from the personalized touches that make such an event special.

VFW, Auxiliary District Meeting Scheduled in Perkins

PERKINS — The Oklahoma Auxiliary and VFW groups will honor Joye Black, Altus, state president of the Ladies Auxiliary Veterans of Foreign Wars Department of Oklahoma, and Jimmie Mann, Del City, adjutant-quartermaster of the Oklahoma VFW, at this year’s meeting of the 15 posts and 11 auxiliaries of District Eight, on Aug. 1 in Perkins.

District Commander Cecil Henrick, Perkins, and Trudy Farmer, Blackwell, district auxiliary president will conduct the 11 a.m. session at the Perkins VFW, located at 801 Sadler Road. After a joint session, the meeting will break for lunch and reconvene at 1 p.m. for the business sessions.

Delegates and members are expected from Barnsdall, Bartlesville, Blackwell, Cushing, Dewey, Fairfax, Glencoe, Newkirk, Pawhuska, Pawnee, Ponca City, Stillwater, Tonkawa and Perkins.

Black encourages the posts and auxiliaries to place the 54th annual national Voice of Democracy Audio Essay Scholarship Program in the high school and middle schools as soon as school opens. He reminded the members that the VOD program has been changed to include ninth grade students this year as well as 10th, 11th and 12th grades. America’s Role in the Next Century has been selected as the theme for the students to write and record their 3-to-5 minute essays.

The Youth Essay Program, for students in the 7th and 8th grades, requires a 300-to-400 word essay on How Should We Honor Our American Veterans? with Dec. 15 the deadline for local entries.

Black and Mann will remind the members of the VFW and Ladies Auxiliary of the national conventions in Kansas City August 14-20. The VFW is planning other special events to recognize its 100th anniversary.

Teenage Team Roper Sets Her Sights on NFR

By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE

News Staff Writer

BURBANK - A roper swinging a wide loop these days, Amanda Jones of Burbank, is a gal bent on being the first woman team roping contestant in the National Finals Rodeo (NFR). It will be three years before she is old enough for the NFR competition.

Recently the 15-year-old team roper added the Iowa title to her already star-studded roping track record. Amanda, and her partner, Clint Christian of Fulshear, Texas, are qualified to compete at the sanctioned United States Team Roping Championships (USTRC) in Oklahoma City in October, after the Iowa win.

The duo won $4,000 for the first place finish and each will be eligible for a $40,000 prize for the USTRC. Team roping involves one roper catching the head of the steer and the other roping the hind legs.

Currently, Amanda is a member of the Young Pros who put on Christian concerts and skits after a day of roping. Sponsored by Purina Feed, Wrangler, Preifert, Classic Equine and Cactus Ropes, the Young Pros have a full roping circuit.

At the tender age of two, Amanda was already roping a mock steer mounted on a saw horse. Her mother Sherrie, Post Mistress at Burbank, relates that Amanda starting riding horses by herself at about age three and a half, and roping off of horses when she was six. By seven years-of-age, she was team roping with her dad Clark and has grown up team roping against adult men.

Cowboy Influence

The cowboy influence comes mostly from Clark, who was foreman of a ranch before quitting to operate heavy equipment such as cranes. He stopped cowboying because there was more money in the other occupation. Clark knew early on his daughter was headed for stardom in the arena and more money would be needed to keep Amanda in horses and travel expenses.

The Jones’ western motif home is loaded with champion belt buckles, saddles and other objects that Amanda has already garnered in her competitive roping career.

She was high point girl in the Wrangler Junior Team World Championships last November and came in seventh in both the men and women categories. The Women’s Sport Foundation and Ocean Spray Corporation were impressed enough that they gave her a travel and training grant. She was the only athlete from Oklahoma to receive the grant. Last year she traveled over 30,000 miles to 15 different states.

A sophomore at Woodlands School at Fairfax, Amanda and her parents spend about 30 weekends a year on the road, traveling from one location to another to attend team roping events.

The biggest thrill for Amanda, besides the competition, is getting to travel and meeting a lot of folks on the circuit. She says, “I want to thank my parents and God for letting me travel so much. I appreciate them taking me places. Most of my friends don’t get to travel as much as I do. I have great parents.”

Sherrie says of her daughter, “We’re just blessed all the way around. We are so fortunate. Amanda is a humble, good all around kid.”

Whenever they make a trip for team roping, the Jones spend some time sightseeing when they have a chance. Recently, they were in South Dakota to see Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Monument. In Arkansas they visited Hanging Judge Parker’s Courtroom, visited a museum and stayed in a bunkhouse in Nebraska — and so it goes.

Amanda is planning to visit with her grandparents on vacation in Colorado soon, and, of course, she’ll be taking her horse Racy along to compete. Racy is part quarter horse and part thoroughbred and at one time was a race horse. Racy will be riding in a horse trailer that Amanda won in a roping event.

The family dog, Taz, also makes all the roping trips with Jones. Taz and Racy are companions. Sherrie noted that a lot more hotels and motels are taking dogs in as overnight guests, especially in horse country.

Signed With Rope Sponsor

Amanda’s talents are so obvious that at 15 she already has a rope sponsor. She is sponsored by Willard Rope Company of Rockdale, Texas.

The five-foot-six young woman gains strength in her arms and legs from weight training, playing softball and daily roping practice. She practices about two and a half hours a day, mostly with her dad since most of her partners are from out of state.

In many of the events, Amanda is the only female competing against grown men in the roping. The men all show her respect, and when she was about 12, deep-voiced cowboys across the Midwest began calling and asking if she would be their roping partner. Team roping involves one roper catching the head of the steer and the other roping the hind legs.

Traveling to the events isn’t cheap or restful for the Jones trio, but, since Amanda is beginning to win more, it helps. Last year Sherrie, laughingly says, it cost them about $7,000. Expenses besides gas, food and lodging are entry fees that range from $60 to $100 to $200.

The day of travel often begins at 5 p.m. on Friday and involves “trucking” most of the night to the destination, whether it is in Texas, Nebraska or Iowa.

Amanda says there are more females on the circuit these days, but Sherrie noted that in one event there were 700 teams with 200 men participating and only about three females. However, she observed, women are starting to realize it doesn’t take as much strength as was once thought to team rope.

The fellows really don’t care if you are a female. If you can “catch,” it doesn’t matter if you are a man or a woman.

If Amanda keeps on the winning trail, it looks like she could rope the big prize — and indeed be the first woman to compete in the National Finals Rodeo. Chances are pretty good she’ll throw a loop around the championship.

Wedding Plans Announced

Doralyn Hobbs and Anthony Lee Mears are planning a Sept. 25 wedding at the Cann Memorial Gardens. The bride-elect is employed in the Retail Accounting department at Conoco and is attending Northern Oklahoma College. Mears works at Sykes Enterprises, Inc. as a computer technician and also attends NOC. A United States Marine Corps veteran, Mears served in Operation Desert Storm.

Ms. Hobbs is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Dale Neidig of Ponca City and the late David Hobbs. She is the granddaughter of James Hobbs, Mrs. Edith Hobbs, Mrs. Ada Cavett, Mrs. Charlene Neidig, all of Ponca City, and the late Louis Cavett, and the late Dale Neidig. Mears is the son of Ms. Carolyn Mears of Ponca City, and the grandson of Noble Mears of Ponca City and the late Ida Mae Mears.

Amber Dawn Wilcoxson Marries Joby Lee Young

Amber Dawn Wilcoxson became the bride of Joby Lee Young in a 7 p.m. ceremony recently at Cann Memorial Gardens. Their double ring vows were solemnized by the Rev. Don Huddleston in front of a heart-shaped archway decorated with tulle, berries and greenery. Each side was accented by an arrangement of gladioli, carnations, daisies, baby’s breath and greenery. Tulle bows and draperies adorned the trees and landscaping in the altar area. The aisle was detailed by a white runner, pew bows, and flowering ficus trees. Positioned by the archway were unity flowers of red and white roses.

Parents of the couple are Ralph and Janice Wilcoxson, 1920 North Osage, and Bill and Jan Young of Newkirk. Grandparents of the couple are Fern Hays of Elk City, Betty Hulsey, 2701 Larchmont, and Ewing and Vera Young of Mangum.

As the guests were seated, “What a Wonderful World” and “How Sweet It Is” were played. In addition, Howard Vanover, brother-in-law of the bride, performed “In My Life.” During the seating of the parents, Vanover sang “Thank God for Kids.” The attendant processional was “Going To The Chapel” and the bridal processional was a traditional “Wedding March.” The bride’s father performed “Butterfly Kisses.” “From This Moment On” was played by Vanover and Donja Cary. The recessional was “Sing Your Praise To The Lord.” Greg Magill was the pianist.

Attending the guest book were Celeste Vanover and Brandon Wilcoxson. Ringbearers were Zachary Vanover and Brandon Wilcoxson. Alana Vanover served her sister as Matron of Honor, and bridesmaids were Barbi Cannon, Ashley Waller, Jami Young. Junior bridesmaid was Hannah Vanover. The attendants each wore a designer gown of burgundy crepe-backed satin. The back featured a cross-strap accentuated by a bow and sash. The fitted bodice was sleeveless and styled with a scooped neckline. Each carried a teardrop bouquet of lilies, daisies, baby’s breath and greenery tied with satin ribbon streamers.

Buster Sides served as Best Man, and groomsmen were Dewayne Chainey, Joey Moore, Alan Wilcoxson. Junior groomsman was Chris Wilcoxson. Guests were seated by Grant Hill and John Sudbury.

The bride wore a princess-style gown of white bridal satin. Alencon lace, embellished with seed pearls, irridescents and satin buttons, decorated the sweetheart neckline, bodice, and off-the-shoulder fitted long sleeves. The hemlines of the gown and chapel length train were adorned with scalloped Alencon lace embroidered with irridescents and seed pearls. Her double-tiered shoulder length illusion veiling was secured by a bandeau adorned with seed pearls, teardrop and oval pearls, and austrian crystals. She carried a cascade of roses, lilies, daisies, baby’s breath and greenery accented with white satin ribbon streamers. The bride followed the tradition of something old, a handkerchief given to her by her great-grandmother; something new, gown; something borrowed, her mother’s wedding band; and something blue, her garter.

The bride’s parents hosted a buffet dinner and reception at the Ponca City Cultural Center. Janet Vincent served as wedding coordinator. The triple-tiered wedding cake was complemented by four satellite cakes. Roses, daisies and greenery were used for decoration. The cake topper, a Boy’d Bear collectible, was a gift to the bride from the bridegroom. The bridegroom’s cake was two-tiered chocolate adorned with chocolate-dipped strawberries and a pharmacy symbol decoration.

Special guests were Fern Hays of Elk City, grandmother of the bride; Betty Hulsey, grandmother of the bridegroom; and Ewing Young, grandfather of the bridegroom.

Following a wedding trip to Hawaii, a gift from the bridegroom’s parents, the couple has established a home in Ponca City. The bride is a teacher at Lincoln Elementary School, and the bridegroom is a pharmacist at Taylor Drug in Arkansas City, Kan.

Pair Observes Anniversary

Mr. and Mrs. Ronald G. McCleary are observing their 30th wedding anniversary today. They celebrated their anniversary by taking a cruise to the Western Caribbean with friends in June. McCleary and the former Celeata Henrichs were married on July 25, 1969, at the First Christian Church in Blackwell with the Rev. Danny Moss officiating.

They made their first home in Ponca City. At the time of their marriage, McCleary worked for American General Insurance Company, and Mrs. McCleary worked for American Finance Company. Since 1971, both have worked in the public education system.

Mr. and Mrs. McCleary are the parents of Matthew Scott McCleary, a student at Northern Oklahoma College, and the late Michael Glenn McCleary.

Mr. McCleary is the principal of Trout Elementary School, and has worked in the Ponca City School District since 1985.

Mrs. McCleary has worked in the Ponca City School District since 1981 and is a teacher at East Middle School.

Wheatheart Nutrition

For Wheatheart Nutrition Menu information call 767-1620. Volunteers are needed to deliver noon meals to the elderly homebound. Menus for this week are as follows:

Monday, July 26: Sausage patty with gravy; oven fried potatoes; carrot and cabbage salad; biscuit with margarine; fresh fruit.

Tuesday, July 27: Ham and beans; pears; tomato spoon relish; cornbread with margarine; cherry crisp with vanilla ice cream.

Wednesday, July 28: Italian meatloaf; scalloped potatoes; buttered spinach; dinner roll with margarine; pudding with topping.

Thursday, July 29: Tuna pea salad; tomato juice; ambrosia; crackers with margarine; cookies.

Friday, July 30: Pork cutlet; mashed potatoes with gravy; buttered broccoli; whole wheat dinner roll with margarine; easy chocolate cake with frosting.

Gardner, Gravel Wedding Ceremony Held in Nassau

Rachel Gardner and Marc Gravel were united in marriage in a 9 a.m. ceremony recently on the beach of Breezes resort in Nassau, Bahamas.

Their double ring vows were officiated by Dr. William Miller. The bride wore a white floor-length designer gown with beaded accents, and carried a bouquet of red roses, baby’s breath and fern. She also followed the tradition of something old, new, borrowed and blue.

Parents of the bride are Ann Meyers of Tonkawa and John Gardner of Newkirk. Parents of the bridegroom are Betty Gravel of Tonkawa, and the late Leon “Bus” Gravel.

Melanie Pouland, sister of the bride, will host a reception later in honor of the couple.

The couple resides at 804 Edgewood Drive in Ponca City. The bride is a real estate agent with J.B. Smith Real Estate and will be attending Oklahoma State University. The bridegroom is owner of Marc Gravel Real Estate Appraisal Service.

Lookin’ with Lou

Generation Gap Widens

By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE

News Staff Writer

There is an amazing difference between the thinking and language of seniors and juniors as the following conversations reveal.

“There’s a snake crossing the road, you know what that means don’t you Junior?” “Means it wants to get to the other side of the road without getting run over, right Gramma?”

“Wrong Junior, it means it is going to rain.” “How do you know Gramma?” “Because that’s what my Mother told me.” “Did she have Doppler radar or did she call the weather up on the Internet?” “No she had it on good authority from old wives tales.” “I didn’t know old wives had tails, do old husbands have tails too?”

“Look Junior, the moon has a ring around it, do you know what that means?” “Means there is a lot of pollution in the atmosphere and global warming is happening, right Gramma?” “Wrong Junior, it means that a storm is just a day away.” “Did your Mother study astrology?” “No Junior, she heard it from her Mother, and at the quilting club.”

“This morning I dropped a dishrag on the floor, do you know what that means Junior?” “That you should quit washing the dishes with a dirty rag?” “Wrong Junior, it means company is coming.” “How does it know? Does it have a electronic sensing devise in the threads?” “No Junior, it’s a well known fact documented in folklore passed down from generation to generation.” “But, Gramma, how do people with dishwashers figure out guests are on the way? Do they call on their cell phones?”

“You know Junior, I really like this tablecloth, it fits the table like a pocket fits a shirt.” “Gramma, when did they make pockets on shirts?” “That was back in the days when honest folk carried fountain pens instead of sending e-mail and real people smoked cigarettes instead of sipping cappuccino.”

“Pick up that penny on the floor Junior, you know a penny saved is a penny earned. Abe Lincoln walked ten miles in the snow to return a penny.” “Is that why that guy’s head is on the penny? Did he die from exposure to cold weather Gramma?”

“Junior, quit singing at the breakfast table.” “Why Gramma, don’t you like Garth Brooks?” “That has nothing to do with it, the Old Farmer’s Almanac verfies if you sing at the breakfast table you’ll cry after dinner.” “But Gramma, nobody eats dinner anymore — we’re all on Slim Fast.”

Photo Change

As of August 1 photographs of scholarship winners will no longer be used on the Lifestyles pages. Information concerning the award and its recipient will be used in a story if the organization’s news is usually reported in Lifestyles. Scholarship information should be submitted for placement on the Education page.

Alicia Luebcke Becomes Bride of Ryan Lee Burkett

Alicia Leanne Luebcke and Ryan Lee Burkett were married in a 3 p.m. ceremony June 19, 1999, at the First Lutheran Church with Dr. Timothy Hurley officiating. The bride is the daughter of Allen and Robin Luebcke of Ponca City, and the granddaughter of Earl and Dolores Luebcke of Norfolk, Neb., and the late Ace and Jessie Glover. The bridegroom is the son of Steve and Linda Burkett of Ponca City, and the grandson of Gene and Exie Bishop of Ponca City, and the late Raymond and Helen Burkett.

The church was decorated with tulle, bows and rose wreaths. Candelabra were accented with greenery, miniature white roses, and tulle bows. The unity candle was decorated with miniature white roses, and the pews were marked with tulle, lace and white satin bows.

Stan Hoffmeyer played “Unchained Melodies” and “I Love You So” as family members were seated. “Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring” was played during the candlelighting, and the processional included “The Wedding March” and “Boadicea.” Chris Bolding sang “The Lord’s Prayer,” and “From This Moment” was sung by Chris Bolding and Andy Stewart.

Deanna Henshaw, candlelighter, was dressed in white satin and lace and carried a red rose with tulle accents. Ali Walston was the guest book attendant, and Ali Bishop was in charge of distributing bottles of bubbles.

Flowergirl was Jessica Glover, niece of the bride. She wore white gloves and a white satin dress with a Navy blue sash. The ringbearer, Derick Bishop, cousin of the bridegroom, wore a black tuxedo and carried a white satin pillow made by the mother of the bride.

Emily Luebcke served her sister as Maid of Honor, and bridesmaids were Tamitha Short, Kimberly Chance, Kimberly Pittman, and Tanya Glover, cousin of the bride. Each wore a floor-length Navy blue crepe-backed satin gown in an A-line style. The dresses were accented with long silver gloves, and each carried a bouquet of white roses and baby’s breath with tulle and ribbon accents. The majority of the bridal dresses, bouquets and cloth decorations were created by the bride’s mother. Boutonnieres and corsages were arranged by the bridegroom’s aunt, Jan Stewart. Photographer was uncle of the bridegroom, Bob Stewart. The bride’s bouquet was arranged by Betty Bush.

Attending the bridegroom were David Garlett, Lee Burge, John Green, Brad Leanard of Stillwater, and Cory Burkett, brother of the bridegroom. Guests were seated by Joshua Glover and Aaron Watson, cousins of the bride, and Darren Webster.

The bride wore a white, floor-length sleeveless dress with a cathedral-length train. The bodice was adorned with handsewn beadwork as were accent bands on the skirt and train. She wore long white gloves and an elbow-length tulle veil attached to a white beaded headpiece. She carried an arrangement of wine and ivory-colored roses and astilbe with strands of pearls. The bride followed the tradition of something old, new, borrowed and blue. She carried a sixpence for something old; a white keepsake garter made by her mother as something new; a pearl bracelet borrowed from the bridegroom’s aunt, Debra Bishop, and something blue was a garter.

The bride’s parents hosted a dinner and dance at the American Legion. Assisting with the event were Jessie Piel, Joanne Ward, Irene Davis, Janet Hurley and the bridesmaids. The cake table was accented with Navy blue satin bows, silver candles in crystal votives, and a triple-tiered silver fountain. The triple-tiered wedding cake was embellished with pearls and complemented by four heart-shaped cakes. The bridegroom’s cake was created in the shape of a rhinoceros head. Musicians were Travis Downs, John Friese, Jim Sutter and Steve Fields. Special music included “Uninvited” and “Polyester Bride,” and “Black Magic Woman” was played in remembrance of the bride’s uncle, Melvin Glover.

The couple resides in Oklahoma City. The bride is a dental hygiene student at Rose State College and the bridegroom is majoring in math education at the University of Central Oklahoma. He is also employed in the delicatessen at Crest Foods.

Among the out-of-town guests attending were Earl and Dolores Luebcke, Gerald, Jean, Lara Muehlmeier, Andrea and Nathan Broders, all of Norfolk, Neb.; Bryan and Sharon Muehlmeier, Micheal, Michele, Michaela Alexander, all of Kansas City, Mo.; William, Jamie, Amanda, Tyler Sears of Mountain Home, Idaho, aunts, uncles and cousins of the bride; Bob, Jan, Bret Stewart of Sand Springs, uncle, aunt and cousin of the bridegroom.

Local Reunion At Blackwell

The 11th annual Baker-Barnett Family Reunion was held July 11 at the Top of Oklahoma Historical Museum’s club rooms in Blackwell.

The Baker grandparents, John L. Baker and Martha Jane Barnett, were wed on Aug.16,1876. The couple had 13 children which were all born in Greene County, Ill. Two of the children died in infancy. The couple sold their farm in Illinois and in January of 1906 moved to Noble County northeast of Billings, OK. John, who died in 1924 at the age of 79, was originally from Dover in Lafayette County, Mo. Martha, born in 1859 in Greene County, Ill., died in 1929 at the age of 70.

Eight of the 13 children moved with them to Oklahoma. Only five, Ned, Will, Anna, Grace and Lucie, stayed here to live. Fred, Lou, Maude, John and Robert moved back to Illinois. Sterling lived in Kansas and Texas.

Thus, there are two reunions, The Illinois Baker-Barnett annual reunion is held the last Sunday in July each year. This year’s local reunion consisted of visiting, reminiscing and included a prayer by Larry Thornton before the covered dish lunch.

Two deaths have occurred since last year. Jacob L. Baker, 74, of Jerseyville, Ill. died April 18, and Paul L. Prather, 79, of Ponca City, died Aug. 28, 1998.

Will and Gladys Baker had four children: Laura Grace, Kirk, J.C. and Wilma. Attending were Wensor and Wilma Baker Mena of Enid.

Ed and Anna Baker Prather had three children: John, Paul and Anna Lee. Those attending were Anna Lee Prather Thornton and daughter Anga Lee Thornton Everett and Cody of Vian. Her son, Larry Thornton and his two children, Jessica and Sean of Harrah. Also her daughter Mary Ann Thornton Bourland and her husband, Jerry of Harrah.

Others attending were Mrs. John (Betty) Prather and her daughter Cindy with husband, Steve Black and daughters, Heather and Rebecca. All are of Pryor, except Heather, who lives in Tahlequah. Betty’s grandson, John Gardine and his son Rob of Wichita, Kan. joined in the festivities. Also attending was Mrs. Paul (Maxine) Prather of Ponca City.

Clyde and Lucie Baker Foster had two children: Lela Marie Foster Workman and Jimmy Foster. Susie Workman Powell of Marland, daughter of Lela Marie Workman, attended.

The 2000 reunion will be held the second Sunday in July in Blackwell.

Keathly-Frantz Families Hold 60th Reunion

Descendants of Cherokee Strip pioneers, William Tyler and Betty (Akers) Keathly and John Carnahan and Amanda (Whisler) Frantz, held their 60th annual family reunion picnic July 4 at the home of Don and Sarah Frantz, 2400 Mockingbird Drive.

The Keathly and Frantz families homesteaded claims west of Ponca City, an area now known as the Round Grove area.

Members and guests attending from Ponca City were Lloyd and Evelyn Bryan, Jack and Lou Keathly, Jim and Diana Dressen, Angela Skaggs, Joseph Skaggs, Ira and Mary Brown, David and Carol and Kelsey Moore, Don and Sarah Frantz and Lanny Officer, a guest.

Attending from out-of-town were Allen and Linda Arms from Oklahoma City; Russell and Andrea, Hannah and Rebecca Frantz from Shawnee; John and Hazel Kolstad from Wichita, Kan.; and Eileen Bohr from Cherokee, the mother of Diana Dressen.

The afternoon was spent visiting and getting reacquainted with relatives and taking pictures and looking at the history books of the Keathly and Frantz families. There were 25 members present. The next reunion will be July 4, 2000.

John Raley Tells PT Group About Millennium Plans

Professionals Today members heard about Oklahoma’s First Official Millennium Community at the program meeting, presented by Ponca City Millennium Commission Chairman John Raley.

Raley told about the many projects of the Commission including the planting of 2000 Millennium trees; news stories of 999 by Dr. Kenn Wessel; Limited edition of Millennium posters by Rod Bailey, and the auctioning of a Millennium painting created by Larry Kent Stephenson.

Other Millennium activities include a lighted Christmas parade; Marland Mansion Christmas Gala; Christian Concert at Hutchins Memorial; a big name entertainer program at Poncan Theatre.

Other activities are a 5K Millennium Torch Run; Veterans Appreciation Ceremony; Millennium Time Capsule; 100 Years on Broadway musical, Millennium ball drop and Millennium fireworks.

John, and his wife Caroline, were introduced by vice president Sue Lunsford. Presiding at the meeting was Ruth Capshaw, president.

Participating in Roses and Raspberries were Debbie Whitener, Roe Mayse, Helene Schwartz, and Melody Lahann. Moments were given by Carla O’Neill.

Fibromyalgia Meeting

Fibromyalgia Support Group meets Monday 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.

Island Setting for Kreger, Barnes Wedding Vows

Dr. Ron Kreger and Betty Kreger of Ponca City are announcing the recent marriage of their daughter, Laurel Renee, to Jonathan F. Barnes, son of Edmund and Nancy Barnes of Oklahoma City.

The ceremony was performed in a garden gazebo on St. John U.S. Virgin Island. The Rev. John Porter of Butler, Penn., cousin of the bride, officiated.

Robyn Kreger of Los Angeles, Calif. attended her sister as Maid of Honor, and bridesmaids were Amy Marlar of New York City, N.Y. and Janine Kay of Dallas, Texas. Charles Barnes of Sarasota, Fla. served his brother as Best Man and groomsman was Michael Kreger of Gardena, Calif., brother of the bride. A reception on the beach at sunset included a Caribbean buffet dinner with Tiki torch lighting and steel pan drum music.

The bride is a 1991 graduate of Ponca City High School and earned a bachelor of science degree in physical therapy from the University of Oklahoma. She is currently employed as a physical therapist at the Inpatient Rehabilitation Unit of Kennestone Hospital in Marietta, Ga.

The bridegroom, a 1984 PCHS graduate, served as a SEAL with the United States Navy. In 1994 he graduated from the University of Central Oklahoma with a bachelor of arts degree in criminal justice. Barnes presently is a federal law enforcement officer in Atlanta, Ga. The couple resides in Marietta, Ga.

Family Reunion Held Locally At Wentz Camp

Descendants of Charles and Janie McDowell Humphreys held their annual family reunion at Wentz Camp, July 4th weekend. Jack and Jan Gosting treated early arrivals to a barbecue dinner Saturday evening.

The main event was held Sunday, which consisted of a pot-luck lunch, visiting and picture taking. To top off the day, fireworks and F-16 jet fighters were viewed by all from the steps of Wentz pool.

Attending from Colorado were Henry and Peggy Humphreys, Fountain; Karen and John Yoon, Mountain Springs; from Lamar were Linda Warn, Charles and Wanda Simmons and children Anthony, Sue, Zack, Anthony Jr. and Keri; Chad and Laura Simmons and children Shelby, Arron, Tim and Matthew; Tim and Samantha Lucero and children Josh, Lacey and Michael from LaJunta.

Attending from Kansas were Craig and Ronna Wallace and children Zacharie, Courtney and Brianna from Wichita; Ted, Becky and Chris Webster, Cleve and Audrey Pogue, Scott, Barb and Adam Dark, all from Dodge City and Naomi Fox from Syracuse.

Attending from Texas were Harlon and Melinda Coleman and son Justin from Azle; Robert, Candi and Kirsten Garcia and Chuck and Eva Faye Humphreys, all from Plainview; and Russell Hancock and daughter Whitney from Euless.

Attending from Oklahoma were Charlene Killian and Robbie Primeaux from St. Louis; Mattie Gene Rogers and Vanda Kay Jones from Shawnee; Russ and P.K. Jones from Savanna; Betty Maag, Linda Coats, Le, Bambi and Connor Coats, Doyle and Belinda Sinclair and their children Larry, Mandy, Taylor and Savannah, Jack and Jan Gosting, and Ruth Carden, all from Ponca City.

Others attending were Ray Simmons from Lancaster, Calif.; Shelli Marcenski and Renee Reed from Spanaway, Wash.; and Nathan Webster and Terry Webster from Springfield, Mo.

Lifestyles Deadlines Announced

Forms for engagement, anniversary and wedding announcements are available at the desk of the Lifestyles Editor. The News requests that the name of a contact person and a telephone number, where they may be reached during business hours, be listed.

The deadline for the Sunday edition for stories with pictures is 5 p.m. Wednesday, but stories and pictures may be submitted earlier. Stories for the daily edition should be submitted at least two days prior to the date of publication.

In order to keep stories current, the News prefers to have wedding stories submitted within two weeks of the event. However, we will use a photograph and story within three months after the event. If a wedding story is submitted more than one month after the event, the date will not be used and the story may be abbreviated. Stories submitted prior to one month following the ceremony will usually receive preference in the Sunday edition.

We cannot reproduce photographs from a newspaper or magazine. Prints or negatives only, please. Either color or black and white photos are acceptable. Soft focus pictures do not reproduce well in a newspaper. Almost any size photograph is acceptable since they will be enlarged or reduced as needed. Check with the Lifestyles Editor.

There is no charge for wedding, anniversary or engagement announcements, and pictures are returned free of charge. A return name and address should be printed on the back of the photographs. “Sticky” notes are preferred since ink may bleed through the picture if the writer presses too hard. The News cannot be responsible for the spelling of names if information submitted is handwritten rather than typed.

Forms are preferred; however, the Lifestyles editor is available to write the story from facts you provide (Just provide her with the “who, what, when, where, etc. ”). It is not necessary for you to write the actual story, but you may certainly do so if you desire; but, be aware that the story is subject to editing. Photographs are included with wedding anniversary information beginning at 25 years.

Items may be mailed, e-mailed, faxed or brought in person to the News. Please be sure to include a name and telephone number in case more information is needed. Those who would like to mail information should include the post box number 191 for the Ponca City News, 74602-0191. Fax number is 580-765-7800. Telephone number for the Ponca City News is 580-765-3311. For further information contact the Lifestyles Editor.

If the article is intended for the Lifestyle pages please write this on the material you submit by mail. As a service to readers of The News forms may be found via e-mail. Address is http://www.poncacitynews.com/lifeforms

Laura Jean Layton To Wed

The engagement and approaching marriage of Laura Jean Layton and Travis McNett has been announced by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Larry Layton. McNett is the son of Jim McNett and Mrs. Susan Olson. The wedding is planned for 7:30 p.m. July 31 at the United Methodist Church in Newkirk. An open invitation is extended to friends and family to attend the ceremony and the reception following.

The future bride is a graduate of Newkirk High School and Northwestern Oklahoma State University. She holds a degree in English education with speech/drama endorsements. Miss Layton is currently director of education for Sylvan Learning Centers in Wichita, Kan.

The prospective bridegroom is a graduate of Alva High School and has attended NOSU and Wichita State University. He plans to graduate this summer with a degree in industrial technology. The couple plans to reside in Wichita.

News Policy: Birthday Photo, Story For 90+

As a service to readers of The Ponca City News the Lifestyles section will include a picture and brief story concerning a resident’s 90th and older birthday. This policy took effect on Oct. 1, 1998. When submitting information please give date of birth and details concerning receptions, mailing address for cards, etc. Pictures will be returned when an address is included. Mail or bring information to the Lifestyles Desk, P. O. Box 191, Ponca City, OK 74601.

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).

Pioneer Area Quild meets the first Monday of each month at Community Christian Church on West Grand. Business meeting begins at 12:30 p.m. There will not be a meeting in July.

The Tonkawa Order of Eastern Star will meet at the home of David Nash, Worthy Patron, 4005 South Main, Blackwell, July 26. The annual “Robert Morris” picnic will begin at 6:30 p.m. All members and friends are invited to bring a covered dish and join the group.

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

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).

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.

SPORTS

Hester Sets State Record
Golf Notes
Racing Notes
District Coed Softball Results
Royals Stumble to Woodward

Hester Sets State Record

OKLAHOMA CITY — Ponca City Sailfish swimmer Maria Hester placed 18th in the 100 breast stroke and 19th in the 200 breaststroke at the Region 8 Long Course Swimming Championships at the Oklahoma City Community College swim complex, recently.

The 12-year old aquatic wunderkind’s time of 1:18.98 in the 100 also broke an 18-year old state record of 1:20.74 set by Jenks swimmer Barbara Ann Smith, in 1981. Hester, just one of three 12-year olds in the meet, and swimming against many girls with a decade more growth and experience, was seeded 32nd out of 65 swimmers in the 100.

After getting seeded 19th in the 200, Hester finished 16th.

Hester also teamed up with fellow Sailfish standouts Caroline Brown, Kayla Mills and Catherine Sonnichson to qualify in both the 400 medley relay and the 400 free relay. With each swimmer posting individual best-times in the medley relay — including almost a five second drop by Brown in the butterfly portion — all four came in under the Region 8 qualifying time.

Unfortunately, that relay was disqualified due to an early start by Sonnichsen. The free relay fared better, however, lopping three seconds off the Region 8 cut.

“Although Caroline, Catherine and Kayla didn’t qualify individually, it was a real eye-opener to swim with some of the best swimmers the Midwest has to offer,” said Sailfish coach Dave Strah. “This was a great experience for all four girls.”

There are no age restrictions in the Region 8 meet, a qualifying meet that draws some of the best swimmers from the Midwest United States.

“Maria had some really neat swims,” Strah continued. “She, along with these other three girls, and many others who are not at the Region level yet, should all be doing some really big things over the next four to six years.”

Strah also accompanied 17 other Sailfish swimmers to the Oklahoma Division II Championships in Norman. That assemblage placed fifth out of 16 teams.

The Sailfish got first place finishes from Eric Whitebay, Daniel Boring, Ashley Boring, Kelsey Whitebay, Catherine Sonnichsen, and Kayla Harris. Second place finishers were Judy Merz and Sunita Chahar, while also helping significantly in the point standings were Heather Harris, Jonathan Hester and Caitlin Robertson (also a first time JO qualifier).

Newcomers to the team Kelsey Geheb and Daniel Robertson — who qualified for JO’s in this, his first season with the team — also placed well in a number of events, according to Strah.

Swimmers who did not score but swam at Division II’s were Allison Huckabee, Erin Goddard, Joshua Plunk and Elizabeth Tucker.

The Sailfish will conclude their season on July 29-August 1 at the state Junior Olympics in Oklahoma City.

Golf Notes

Hospice Tournament

Over 120 golfers participated in the annual Memorial Golf Tournament benefiting Hospice of Ponca City. The tournament, held at Wentz Golf Course, was in memory this year of Jesse and Mary Davis, who were avid golfers and both Hospice patients.

Winners of this year's tournament were Casey Orr, Jerry Orr, Chris Hand, and Tom Leonard. Placing second were Chip Huston, Matt Waddell, Mark Fox and Craig Franseen. Third place went to Clark Nickles, Susan Nickles, Wade Lessert, Phil Knight. The fourth placers were Marcus Lemon, Duane Skaggs, Dewell Brown, Dennis Impson. Taking fifth were David Myers, Craig Myers, Andrew Rigdon, Tom Rigdon. In sixth place were Gene Gann, Ron Locke, Nick Jeffries, Stan Shied.

Closest to Holes 3, 14, and 16 were Mike Lewis, Huston, and Lemon. Brandon Hampton won Straightest Drive.

Wentz Ladies

The Wentz Ladies Golf Association members will meet at 8:15 a.m. Tuesday to draw for pairings for the weekly Ladies Day play.

Last week’s winners were Irene Heppler in Championship flight, Evelyn Davis in President’s flight. Sue Lawson, Brenda Girardi and Mary Ivers in A flight, Dee Wallace and Maxine Schneider in B flight and Joy Asbury in C flight. Heppler and Ernie Goodman had the Low Putts.

PCCC-WGA

(July 13 Results)

President’s Flight

1 — B. Impson

2 — B. Wyatt

A Flight

1 — L. Clark, M. Hunt

B Flight

1 — S. Wells

2 —  M. Bradley, D. Self

C Flight

1 — L. Bowker

9-Hole Play

1 — B. Cofer

2 — F. O’Connor, E. Ballard

Thursday Playday

1 — B. Rogers

2 — M. Murray

Wentz Junior-Parent

(9-Hold Alternate Shot)

14-15

1 — (45) Whitney-Gary Dorman

2 — (47) Trey Martin-Mike Stolhand

3 — (49) Luke Munyon-Danny Williams

12-13

1 — (41) Daniel-Wes Nimmo

2 — (42) Chase-Kevin Hagerdon

3 — (43) Ryan-Rod Waters

11-Under

1 — (37) John Nimmo-Gary Foreman

2 — (46) Kyle-Chris Baldwin

3 — (47) Craig-Alan Borkenhager

Racing Notes

ENID — Ponca City stock car drivers have slipped slightly in the standings at the Enid Speedway .

Going into Saturday night’s racing, Mike Payne leads the Ponca City contingent. He is sixth in the Factory Stock class with 776 points.

Troy Gemill is seventh in the Modified class with 550 points. He has three featyure wins on the season.

Rocky Austin and Terry Jordan are eighth and ninth, respeectively, in Street Stocks with 639 and 633 points.

Austin was the only local to place in last week’s races, finishing fourth.

———

HALLETT — Ponca City’s Dane Pryse continued to doiminate the Spec Racer