Local News and Sports

From The Pages Of The Ponca City News, Tuesday, August 20, 1996

LOCAL
Nearly News
Where Are They Now? Po-Hi Grad Honored By NACL
Rural Enterprises Inc. Reports Efforts, Background to EDF
Phyllis Worley Named To Pioneer Bank Board
Notes and Quotes
Po-Hi Graduate Named Editor Of Western Pub.
County Approves Area South Of P.C. as Enterprise Zone Area
Noon Lions Hear City Affairs Update, Plans for Next Year
Representative Named To Joint Oversight Committee
Correction

NEARLY NEWS

DEATHS
W. H. Fuller
Francis Owen Tah
Colton Shane Lunn

Services Pending
Everette W. Rhodes
Mary Iola Crisp Fields
Dora Bozworth
John T. Officer

Funerals
Jennie Lucille Cannon
Beatrice O'Neill Fox

FAMILY LIVING
Professionals Today Group Installs Officers
Anniversary Reception Slated
Veterans' Aid Offered By DVA
Democrats To Meet

SPORTS
After Split, Softballers Battle No. 1 Owasso

LOCAL

Nearly News

NN is trying to locate information for Frances (Smith) Loudermilk of Watts, Okla., about her half sister. Her name is Sandra Wallene Smith (her birth name, that is) and Stella Derion is her mother. Mrs. Loudermilk tells NN their father's name is Joseph Smith. The half-sister is believed to live somewhere around this area - either here or in Red Rock. Mrs. Loudermilk can be reached at P.O. Box 53 in Watts, OK 74964, and would appreciate any information that is available.
----
Entertainment for the Cherokee Strip Cookoff dance, slated for the day of the event on Sept. 14, will include the Country Mile Band, which was incorrectly identified in a story on Sunday. The Country Mile Band recently recorded in Nashville. The cookoff, which attracts participants from several states, is hosted by Professionals Today and benefits Hospice of Ponca City.

Where Are They Now? Po-Hi Grad Honored By NACL

A 1970 Ponca City High School graduate, Tamara Rains Jackson, 1996-1997 Leadership Tulsa president, has been awarded the 1996 Distinguished Leadership Award by the National Association for Community Leadership,
Daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Elec Rains, 1606 Blake, she was one of 65 community leaders honored by Community Leadership for making significant community contributions.
The award was presented at the annual meeting and will be announced again at the 1997 Annual Leadership Conference in Mobile, Ala.
"These award winners have contributed in an extraordinary way to strengthen and transform their communities," said Wendell J. Walls, president and CEO of Community Leadership.
"Tamara's community service is proof positive that she is a trustee working to build strong, effective and healthy communities."
In 1994 she received Leadership Tulsa's Paragon Award for her outstanding work as board president at Street School. In that same year she was also nominated for the award by the Gateway Foundation (an intermediate care facility for the developmentally disabled) for her involvement as directory of safety and security for their first International Balloon Festival, which attracted 60,000 spectators.
In recognition, those agencies received a cash award of $1,000 each. She continues to be an active member of both organizations.
She has served for a number of years on Leadership Tulsa committees and the board of directors.

Rural Enterprises Inc. Reports Efforts, Background to EDF

By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE
News Business Editor
Robert C. Felts, financial services specialist with Rural Enterprises Incorporated (REI), told the Economic Development Foundation (EDF) about the program at the Thursday board meeting.
REI is a private non-profit organization provides service and technical assistance to businesses in Oklahoma communities with ultimate result of job retention, job creation and economic activity.
The organization works with lending programs providing business loans ranging from $1,500 to $2.5 million. Felts explained the loans are made at a low rate of interest to companies that could not otherwise get a loan.
The firm, which originated in Durant, recently opened an office in Shawnee. Don Wood, executive director of EDF, told Felts names of prospects that would be interested in REI programs.
Discussion was held on the annual retreat slated today (Tuesday) at the NOC Camp on Kaw Lake. The facilitator will be John Reid of the Oklahoma Department of Commerce. Reid served as former Gov. George Nigh's press secretary during his administration and has been with the Department of Commerce for several years.
Sales Tax Election
The retreat will review the goals of last year, consider future financing of EDF and make plans for the upcoming additional five-year half-cent sales "jobs creation" tax election coming up Oct. 8.
Jim Holt and Donna Jeffries-White will be the co-chairmen for a steering committee to help pass the tax. The election will be paid for by reserves of the EDF, which Wood says is not public money, plus contributions from the Chamber of Commerce and individual donations.
EDF staff was directed by Chairman Pat Mulligan to have information on how the half-cent, 10-year tax was used for incentives and infrastructure. Thorn Apple Valley and Sykes Enterprises received a large portion of the benefit, through the local Quality Jobs Act and otherwise.
Current proposal for using the projected $9.8 million the sales tax would create is 70 percent for incentive payments for jobs - $7 million; 20 percent for revolving loan fund - $2 million, and 10 percent for infrastructure improvements/spec building program, $800,000.
The board discussed finding a volunteer to help with a labor survey. Wood said that one third of those listed as unemployed can't get a job because they can't pass the drug test.
Jane Wilson of the Ponca City Realtors was in attendance and Wood gave some housing transaction figures. He said EDF would be working with real estate in the future. Wood noted that the $150,000-up houses are selling to folks retiring here that are not necessarily related to Conoco. A number of them are coming in from Kansas because tax rates are more favorable in Oklahoma. Because of this, the community will target retirees, Wood said.
New Prospects
The News asked Wood about the prospects he is working with. He said he is working with a major inbound telemarketing firm, another small aircraft manufacturer, and Ponca City is in the final 10 for another company. He said these prospects could total 1,000 jobs.
Responding to what happened on the land sales in the Airport Park Area on Ash? Wood said Mitchco is planning an addition, and that Leach Paper and Centerline are planning to build facilities there.
Wood told about an upcoming two-day investment forum that he wants to attend that brings together potential investors and potential business projects. He said the idea is to find venture capital. Wood said he would be going to find a project to bring back to Ponca City and hoped to take someone along that understood investments.
A first mailing has been made to potential tenants for the available space at Conoco and second and third mailings are planned. Wood said composite resumes have been included showing the types of skills that are available.
Wood will be one of the program presenters with Diana Russell at the Oklahoma Municipal League fall meeting. This will be a presentation on 101 ideas for economic development. Mayor Marilyn Andrews noted there is a trade show with the fall meeting and encouraged members of the EDF board to attend.
The EDF directors said that the Enterprise Zone for Conoco, Williams Pipeline, Jupiter Sulphur and Continental Carbon will be completed soon. The Enterprise Zone rating can be applied for because of a high unemployment rate, low income families or where a major industry closes or has "a major outflow of people."
Wood said the board has been working closely with Conoco and the changes that are being made there.
Companies that are making capital investments in that area can received double the state tax credits. This could influence capital investment in the future, Wood said.

Phyllis Worley Named To Pioneer Bank Board

Phyllis Worley has recently been elected to the Board of Directors of Pioneer Bank and Trust.
At a special shareholders' meeting of Pioneer Bank and Trust Bancshares, Carl R. Renfro, chairman of the board and CEO, announced the election of Worley as the 10th member and first woman to serve on the board.
Renfro said, "We are extremely pleased to have Phyllis join our Board of Directors. She brings a new perspective and a wealth of experience in economic development. I have had the pleasure of serving with Phyllis on several committees so I know first hand her leadership skills and business knowledge. She will complement the diversity of experience that our bank needs to guide us into the 21st Century."
Worley said, "I have always felt the employees and management team at Pioneer Bank are concerned about this community. They seem to be involved in almost every community event or project that concerns the welfare and progress of Ponca City. I am proud to be associated with a business working toward the betterment of this community through their dedication and professionalism."
The new director will be serving on the board with Cory Bowker, E. Lee Brown, Charles Casey, Clement Collogan, Gale McArthur, Pat Mulligan, William O'Connor, Tom Quillin and Carl Renfro.
Worley is the area manager for Oklahoma Natural Gas Company (ONG) in Ponca City. She began her career with ONG in 1970 in Oklahoma City and has been part of the management team since 1987. In 1974 she was transferred to Tulsa where she worked for 20 years. Prior to moving to Ponca City in 1994, she held the position of manager-gas transportation services.
As area manager, she supervises 35 employees and is responsible for providing natural gas service to Ponca City, Perry and Newkirk. One of her main responsibilities is the representation of ONG in these communities.
Worley is an active member, officer or board member of a number of local organizations, including Professionals Today, Ponca City Rotary Club, Hospice, Domestic Violence, Marland Estate Foundation and Commission, Salvation Army, Ponca City Area Chamber of Commerce, Pioneer Woman Museum Advisory Board and the Humane Society. She is also involved in the Ponca City Native American Standing Bear Project and serves on the steering committee of ONEOK Employee's Political Action Committee. She is a graduate of Leadership Ponca City Class IX and is currently attending Leadership Oklahoma, Class X.

Notes and Quotes

Theobald Recognized
Joe A. Theobald, CIC, of Ponca City has been honored by the Society of Certified Insurance Counselors (CIC) for his more than 15 years of "steadfast commitment to continuing education." The Society is a national organization that for 26 years has provided a comprehensive program of instruction for insurance professionals.
The formally-inscribed testimonial was conveyed to Theobald, of the Murphy-Theobald Insurance Agency, and signed by the Society's President Dr. William T. Hold, CIC, CPCU, CLU.
Citing Theobald as among the top one percent of all insurance professionals in America, the CIC testimonial called attention to his leadership and excellence stemming from the pursuit of continuing education, and his achievement and demonstrated level of professional competence in all areas of the insurance business.
Passes CPA Exam
Jack E. Short, chairman of the Oklahoma Accountancy Hoard, has announced that Virginia B. Henke, 99 Stoneridge, is among 135 persons, who will receive certificates as Certified Public Accountants from the examination held in May.
The Civic Center Music Hall in Oklahoma City will be the setting for presentation of the CPA certificates by the Board on Sept. 28.
ASME Picnic
The American Society of Mechanical Engineers will meet Aug. 22, for a social and picnic at the Macklanburg-Duncan Private Park, 5901 East Britton Road, Oklahoma City. Social hour is at 6 p.m., and the picnic will follow at 7 p.m.
For more information contact Diane Compton, (405) 744-5900.
On Leadership Board
Ann Bandy and Linda Rodgers of Ponca City have been selected to serve of the Board of Directors of Leadership Oklahoma. Tulsa businessman Howard G. Barnett Jr. was elected president.
Leadership Oklahoma is a statewide organization founded in 1986. The mission is to energize Oklahomans to effect positive change in their communities through the Leadership Oklahoma Network.

Po-Hi Graduate Named Editor Of Western Pub.

Marcus Huff, a 1987 graduate of Ponca City High School, was recently named editor of Western Publications in Stillwater.
Huff edits and does the layout for "True West," "OId West," and "Frontier Times" magazines. He was hired as production director for Western Publications in November 1995.
After graduating from high school, Huff served in the Navy for four years aboard the USS Midway. He then attended Northern Oklahoma College and Oklahoma State University, majoring in journalism.
Huff and his wife, Betty Mitchell Huff, reside in Stillwater with their children - Morgan, 3, and Elias, 9 months. His parents are Mr. and Mrs. Gilbert Huff of Ponca City.

GNC Franchise Opens in Plaza
A new business in Ponca City is the General Nutrition Center (GNC) located at 2101 North Fourteenth in Ponca Plaza.
The business, owned by Robbie Groom, stocks herbs, vitamin and weight lifting supplements. GNC is a franchise operation and Mrs. Groom also owns a GNC in Broken Arrow.
Mrs. Groom and her husband reside in Stillwater. The couple received training for the business in Pittsburgh.
The store is open 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Monday-Saturday.

County Approves Area South Of P.C. as Enterprise Zone Area

By LAURA TREADWAY
News Staff Writer
The Kay County Commissioners approved a request to declare an unincorporated area south of Ponca City as an Enterprise Zone. Tonkawa and Blackwell each have an enterprise zone.
Director for the Economic Development Foundation Don Wood confirmed that this would be Ponca City's first.
The area encompasses property owned by Conoco and Witco, south of Ponca City. Only two property owners are included, according to Wood.
Although the declaration is not tied to a specific project, Wood feels that it is improving a situation. "We want every possible plus for Ponca City available. This is something we should have done previously," he stated.
Wood will submit the application for the Enterprise Zone Act on behalf of Kay County. "We are pleased to have the county's involvement and support of economic development issues in Ponca City," the director said.
The incentive grants double state tax credit on employees and capital expenditures for new industry. "This will allow companies to grow and expand in this area," Wood confirmed. "If we have this incentive, it will increase our chances as Ponca City competes for Conoco's new projects," he said.
Four citizens living adjacent to the enterprise zone, voiced their opposition. After discussion, Wood recommended that the zone be approved excluding the section south of Virgil Road.
Wood noted, "I think it's a good compromise."
City Planner Harold Harris supported the application. A map of the enterprise zone will be kept on file at the county court clerk's office.
In new business, a lease-purchase agreement on a water chiller unit for the County Jail was approved The unit will be purchased from Stolhand Heating & Air Condition for $62,568.
One-third of the cost is to be paid up front. Payments of $1,800 at eight percent interest will be amortized over 24 months.
Additionally, monthly cash appropriations were authorized for deposit into the county accounts. Appropriations included $213,733.12 for the Highway T; $19,613.63 for restricted highway; $4,536.60 for primary road, and $2,191.99 for county improvement.
The Kay County Community Sentencing manager's contract for 1996-97 was approved. In addition, Kip Bird, with American Telephone in Ponca City, made a presentation on the Plexar phone system for the county.
Bird estimated that county-wide, the commissioners could save 15 to 20 percent of their current phone bill. Bird will submit a proposal next Monday with the county's current costs and the county's potential savings if they used the Plexar system.
The Kay County Sheriff's Office was given approval to purchase commodities for the jail from the Oklahoma Department of Human Services. County Clerk Pam Goodno commented that the commodities covered just a portion of food required to feed inmates.
Authorization was given to pay the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration bill in the amount of $895. The county splits the bill with the communities. The service provides direct access to weather wire updates and other statistics.
A permit for ONG to put a gas line crossing U.S. 77 on Tower Road was approved, also.
In old business, Commissioners approved a request to purchase computer equipment from Enid Data Systems in the amount of $4,815, for the Assessor's Office. Action on the used motor grader for District 2 was tabled until next meeting.

Noon Lions Hear City Affairs Update, Plans for Next Year

By KATHY ZEHR
News Staff Writer
The Ponca City Noon Lions heard an update on city affairs and plans for the 1997 fiscal year by Mayor Marilyn Andrews at their Aug. 7 meeting.
Andrews said, "we are in a good position right now and are trying to stay prepared for the future."
She talked about a 5-year plan developed due to economic uncertainty involving Conoco and other community related issues. "We (the city officers ) realized we had to make some small adjustments now or in a few years have to make major changes in the level of service provided by the City," she said.
"Some of these adjustments will be made in the fiscal 97 budget and will set up a good base to make further refinements that may be needed later,"
The fiscal 1997 budget general fund total is set at $15,748,000 and the Ponca City Utility Authority budget total is $33,475,000, she reported. "We had a difficult process setting a budget this year due to overall community concerns about the economy, (Overall revenues from the 1996 budget were down $75,000) - but we kept our eye on the overall goal to provide cost-effective municipal operations to our citizens."
She told the group, revenues to the City were projected to increase in the 1997 fiscal year by 5.4 percent in sales tax. Budget planners took into consideration the fact Ponca City is rapidly growing to be a regional shopping center due to new retail businesses.
Overall the new budget is 7.63 percent less that the 1996 budget but a few new items were listed including, $20,000 to Domestic Violence; the addition of a juvenile court program; an 800 MHZ radio equipment setup for regional dispatch and communications; and the possible purchase of six new police cars, an ambulance, and two pumper trucks.
Some items where spending cuts were made included contracting operation of Community Pool to the YMCA; reducing the general fund by eight employees; reducing monies to outside agencies; cutting the summer parks program by $20,000 and other minor items.
She also said the city would maintain a 30-day operating cash reserve fund to a minimum of $1.3 million She warned about the possibility of federal devolution. That is, the Federal Government passing-on mandates to states and local governments, taxing already limited resources unduly.
Andrews told the group the PCUA electrical rates and position will be a major item this year. "This is due primarily to the Energy Policy Act of 1992 and some recent Federal Energy Corporation orders regarding transmission access and wheeling," she said.
"In response to this, the city has retained the services of a consulting firm with expertise in the electrical area to help us analyze our strengths and weaknesses and to help us place the electric utility in a position to compete in the near future with these issues and to provide cost effective customer oriented rates and programs." In addition to other activities she said the PCUA had reduced employees by 26; did a rate comparison to show they are currently below rates charged by OG&E and Kay COOP; and are reducing electrical outages through a diligent tree trimming program.
Andrews said the water department had been mandated to update and construct the city water plant program at a cost of $9 million. Other major activities in the water department included increasing rates at $1 per month per customer; projecting a five year budget to minimize impact of rate increases to provide softened water (as mandated by the Federal Safe Water Drinking Act); construction of a 20 inch water main to west side of city and industrial park (funded in part by the Economic Development Authority); improvement of water pressure throughout city with a booster pump and water line replacements; more fire hydrants, plus other minor enhancements.
In the Wastewater Department the construction of Phase II of the Wastewater plant cost the city $18 million and was top on the list of Wastewater Department priorities. The plant has been funded through low cost SRF funding, which kept rates as low as possible, she said. A five year budget was created to minimize impact of rate increases for services mandated by the Federal Government under the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System; purchase of new camera unit for sewer line inspections; rate increase to customers of approximately 85 cents per customer (which was offset by an electric rate reduction); and some studies for creating better flow systems and lift stations.
In the Solid Waste Department, a 10 acre lateral expansion is planned for 1997 to expand the life of the Ponca City landfill. Rates will be increased 47 cents per month to the customer.
Andrews talked briefly about the airport runway extension planned earlier, and noted that a grant applied for through the Federal government was still pending. She said reduced revenues are expected at the airport, therefore it is predicted that $50,000 will be needed from the general fund to assist that operation. Roof repair at the airport is also scheduled for 1997.
Other projects planned by the city for 1997 include Waverly Street improvements (paid in part by EDA funds); Fifth Street extension; DARE program for its sixth year; a fiber optic computer system for city communication of all departments; and the continuation of rebuilding Hartford to Fourteenth Street (depends on renewal of the 1/2 cent street tax in 1997.)
In conclusion, she said "Ponca City is considered 'the pearl of Oklahoma,' The way we operate our city, the historic preservation and all the many enhancements we enjoy here are something other cities come to see as an example of what they want for their communities. We should be very proud of Ponca City."

Representative Named To Joint Oversight Committee

OKLAHOMA CITY - Rep. Jim Reese, R-Nardin, has been appointed to the Joint Legislative Oversight Committee on Local Government Finance and Accountability.
They assign the state ad valorem advisory group to study and make recommendations on further reform in the intergovernment finance system to assure local governments have the capacity to deliver essential public services.
The panel will monitor implementation of Senate Bill 681 - a measure that cuts property taxes by raising income thresholds for property-tax breaks. The measure also require county tax statements to be itemized to show how they distribute property taxes.
Previously, home owners whose gross household income was $10,000 or less qualified for an additional $1,000 homestead exemption; SB 681 doubled the income limit to $20,000, Reese related. Rep Reese has fought for tax statements to also clearly state the assessed value of property and says he plans to continue the effort. "We should know what our house is valued on the tax rolls, not just how many dollars to pay," Reese said.
Besides the tax reform measure, the oversight committee also is charged with implementing three proposed constitutional amendments should they receive approval from voters at the polls.
Among the questions on the November ballot will be:
- SQ 675: Would increases in assessed value officially assessed real estate be limited to five percent annually, except when title to a parcel of land is transferred or the property is improved?
- SQ 676: Should tax ratios statewide be established at 11 to thirteen and a half percent of fair cash value for land and buildings, 10-15 percent for tangible personal property such as jewelry, appliances and so on?
- SQ 677: Should property valuations on homes of Oklahomans who are 65 or older, and whose gross income does not exceed $25,000, be frozen after Jan. 1, 1997?

Correction

Amber Marie Keesee, who sang the National Anthem for the Saturday performance of the 101 Wild West Rodeo, is the 16-year-old daughter of Elizabeth and Butch Behar, and not 17 as indicated in Friday's News. The News apologizes for the error.

NEARLY NEWS

Kids Special Time - KST enrollment will begin today at St. Paul's United Methodist Church, Pecan at Hartford. Children 2 months through five years are accepted. Call 765-9810 or 765-7512 for more information.

Pickup Stolen - A man in the 1200 block of East Central Avenue contacted the Ponca City Police Department at 6:46 a.m. Monday to report his 1979 Chevrolet pickup was stolen. An officer took a report of the silver and maroon truck. All surrounding agencies were advised.

Vandalism - A Ponca City police officer took a report of a broken window in the 1900 block of John Street at 7:04 a.m. Monday.

Three Wheeler - The Ponca City Police Department was notified at 10:45 a.m. Monday that a boy was riding a three-wheeler through yards at North Sixth Street and Young Avenue. Two officers responded to the call and confirmed the boy was not on the street. The youth was sent home.

Larceny - A woman in the 400 block of East Park Avenue notified the Ponca City Police Department at 10:49 a.m. Monday that her vehicle was burglarized. An officer took a grand larceny report.

Advised Report - A man contacted the Ponca City Police Department at 1:46 p.m. Monday to report a subject tried to get his 13-year-old daughter into a car at Kmart. An officer took a report of indecent exposure.

Arrested - A 23-year-old man was arrested by a Ponca City police officer in the 2700 block of North Fourteenth Street at 3:37 p.m. Monday on an Osage County warrant for failure to pay.

Subjects Held - A Ponca City police officer arrested a 14-year-old boy and a 13-year-old boy in the 900 block of North Palm Street at 5:55 p.m. Monday for second degree burglary. A woman contacted the PCPD after she caught three boys breaking into a residence. A 12-year-old boy was also arrested at 7:42 p.m. His mother brought him to the police department after the other subjects identified the youth as a participant.

In Custody - An 18-year-old woman was taken into custody by a Ponca City police officer at South Fourth Street and East South Avenue at 8:08 p.m. Monday for no drivers' license, no insurance and failure to yield.

Arrested - A Ponca City police officer arrested a 62-year-old man at First Street and Grand Avenue at 8:22 p.m. Monday for driving under suspension, driving under the influence and driving left of center.

Accident - A Ponca City police officer took a report of an accident in the 1900 block of North Fourteenth Street at 11:30 p.m. Monday.

Fight - A man in the 300 block of West Hartford Avenue requested to speak to Ponca City police officer at 11:33 p.m. Monday. The man had broken up a fight earlier and wanted extra patrol in the area.

Subject Held - A Ponca City police officer arrested a 22-year-old woman at Lake Road and Monument Road at 5:48 a.m. Tuesday for driving under suspension.

DEATHS

W. H. Fuller

TONKAWA - W.H. Fuller, lifelong Tonkawa area resident, died at Sterling House in Ponca City, Sunday, Aug. 18, 1996. He was 75.
A memorial graveside service will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday at the Tonkawa IOOF Cemetery with Dr. John Bartlett, Tonkawa First Christian Church, officiating. Arrangements and cremation are under the direction of McCafferty-Bolick Funeral Home, Tonkawa. No visitation will be held.
W.H. Fuller was born Nov. 6, 1920, on the family farm south of Tonkawa, to Charles and Birdie (Zink) Fuller. He attended Tonkawa schools. During World War II he served in the U.S. Army from Oct. 28, 1942 to Sept. 18, 1945. Fuller was a PFC with the 249th Field Artillery Battalion stationed in the Western Pacific Theatre. He was awarded the purple heart and two bronze service stars.
In 1946, he was married to Lorraine Tinsley. Fuller farmed in earlier years then began employment with Williams Rock Bit Company, then later for Smith Tool Co., Ponca City.
He was married to Letha V. Ward on Aug. 5, 1966, in Pawhuska and continued to work for Smith Tool for 25 years until his retirement in 1980. He was a member of the VFW Post of Blackwell.
Survivors include one son, Larry Talbott of Houston, Texas; six daughters, Dorothy Rouner of Edmond, Sheree Matthews and Uvonne Coates both of Tonkawa, Sandra Malone of Yukon, Sharon Finstat of Whitney, Texas, and Leona Wano of Oklahoma City; 14 grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Letha, his parents; three brothers, George, Frank and Paul Fuller; and one sister, Zell Ruggs.
Memorial contributions may be made in Mr. Fuller's name to Hospice of Ponca City, 1904 North Union, No. 103, Ponca City, OK 74601.

Francis Owen Tah

TONKAWA - Francis Owen "Chink" Tah, Tonkawa resident, died in a traffic accident in Tonkawa, early Monday morning, Aug. 19, 1996. He was 66.
The funeral will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday in the Tonkawa Tribal Cultural Center, south of Tonkawa, with the Rev. Thomas Roughface officiating. Burial will be in the Cache Creek Cemetery in Apache at 4 p.m. Arrangements are under the direction of Roberts and Son Funeral Home of Blackwell.
Francis Owen "Chink" Tah was born June 28, 1930, in Tonkawa, the son of Owen and Edith (Komardley) Tah. He grew up southeast of Tonkawa and attended both the Tonkawa public schools and Chilocco Indian School. After his schooling he farmed until 1961, then attended Oklahoma State Technical School in Okmulgee. After his training in auto mechanics he was employed as a mechanic in Enid, where he worked for 10 years. He then moved to St. Louis, Mo., and continued his trade. Tah returned to Tonkawa in 1989, where he was employed for Davis Sanitation until his retirement.
Survivors include three daughters, Mary Denise Starr of Blackwell, Elizabeth Juanita Hockert of Enid and Shannon Tah of Duncan; four sons, Darrell Gene of Bartlesville, Francis Jr. of Woodland, Calif., Robert Carl of Blackwell and Mark of Duncan; one sister, Shirley Marie Hall of Nolandville, Texas; one brother, Raymon Tah of Claremore; 10 grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and three brothers, Rudolph Harry, Robert Wesley and Theodore Ralph Tah.
Casket bearers will be Bart Martin, Emmitt Coleman, Bret Hockert, Rudolph Tah Jr., Fred Hockert III, Russell Martin, Jason Lunn, Ryan Lunn and Hugh Bailey.

Colton Shane Lunn

Colton Shane Lunn, infant son of Donavon and Michelle Lunn, died Aug. 18, 1996, at Children's Hospital in Oklahoma City. He was six days of age.
The funeral will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday at First Free Will Baptist Church, 1900 East Hubbard Road, with the Rev. David Bigger officiating. Burial will be in the Longwood Cemetery under the direction of Grace Memorial Chapel.
Colton Shane Lunn was born Aug. 12, 1996, in Oklahoma City, the son of Donavon and Michelle (Pelts) Lunn.
In addition to his parents he is survived by two sisters, Shelby and Shannon Lunn, of the home; his maternal grandparents, Bill and Roxanne Pelts of Ponca City; paternal grandparents, Daniel and Anita Lunn of Ponca City; maternal great-grandfather, Vernon Riggs of Ponca City; paternal great-grand father, Garland Lunn of Beatty, Ore.; and paternal great-grandmothers, Doris Arant and Norma Boxley, both of Ponca City.
Casket bearers will be Jason Lunn, Ryan Lunn and Hugh Bailey.

Services Pending

Everette W. Rhodes
Everette W. Rhodes, longtime Ponca City resident, died Monday, Aug. 19, 1996, at his home. He was 72. Local survivors include two brothers, Paul "Bill" William and James L. ; and one sister, Mary Lou Hammons. Arrangements are pending with Grace Memorial Chapel.

Dona Sanders
Dona Sanders, Ponca City resident, died Tuesday evening, Aug. 20, 1996, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. She was 83. Local survivors include her husband, Ivil, of the home. Arrangements are pending with Trout Funeral Home.

Mary Iola Crisp Fields
Mary Iola Crisp Fields, longtime Ponca City resident, died Tuesday, Aug. 20, 1996, at a local nursing home. She was 92. Local survivors include one son, Roy Crisp. Arrangements are pending with Trout Funeral Home.

Dora Bozworth
Dora Bozworth, longtime Ponca City resident, died Monday, Aug. 19, 1996, at her home. She was 76. Local survivors include a sister, Velma Falconer. Arrangements are pending with Trout Funeral Home.

John T. Officer
John T. Officer, Ponca City resident, died Monday afternoon, Aug. 19, 1996, at his home. He was 96. Arrangements are pending with Grace Memorial Chapel.

Funerals

Wednesday
Jennie Lucille Cannon - A memorial service is set for 1 p.m. in the First Christian Church, Ponca City. Burial will precede the service at 10 a.m. in the Blackwell IOOF Cemetery Mausoleum. Arrangements are under the direction of Trout Funeral Home, Ponca City.

Beatrice O'Neill Fox - Funeral to be held graveside at 10 a.m. in the Ponca City IOOF Cemetery under the direction of Trout Funeral Home.

FAMILY LIVING

Professionals Today Group Installs Officers

Phyllis Worley, area manager of Oklahoma Natural Gas, was installed as president of Professionals Today at the Thursday luncheon. Installing officer was Janet Martin, coordinator, Clinical Services, Conoco.
Other officers installed were Debbie Whitener, president-elect; Melody Lahann, secretary, and Ro Mayse, director at large. Wanda Vick stood in for Mary Mitchell, who will be treasurer.
Outgoing president Carmaleta Wesbrook was mistress of ceremonies.
Following the installation, Worley told about the reasons she joined Professionals Today, which included networking with business women and supporting Hospice with the Cherokee Strip Cook-off set for Sept. 14.
Debbie Whitener, 1995 Cook-off chairman, was honored as "Member of the Year." The presentation was made by Julie Brown, 1995 recipient of the honor. Brown told of the many contributions that Whitener had made to the club and to Hospice. She was presented a gift from the club.
Wesbrook paid tribute to the members and committee chairmen, and expressed appreciation to Gael Hancock, who headed the hospitality committee for the installation and Carol Anne Blackwill for the decorations. She was presented a gift from the club and the past president's pin. In turn, she presented appreciation gifts, tied with tiny roses, to her executive committee and others.
Theme of the luncheon was "A String of Pearls," and the tables featured a burgundy rose, strings of pearls and pink ribbon. The head table was accented with wicker baskets decorated with pearls and greenery.
Louise Abercrombie gave a history of the club in rhyme entitled "PT (Power Team) Ode."
Whitener paid tribute to past presidents, saying "Like an heirloom strand of pearls, the women who have served Professionals Today as president, form a ribbon of continuity with our past, helping us envision our future." Past presidents, who were presented a rose, included Louise Abercrombie, Loretta Leathers, Ro Mayse, Joanne Giddens, Ann Bandy, Betty Thompson, Winnie Barber, Lynda Fox and Carmaleta Wesbrook. Another past president, unable to attend, was Thelma Stewart.
Julie Brown recognized past Members of the Year, Jody Sanford, Mary Ann Holt, Louise Abercrombie and Deanna Lowther.
Mayse and Abercrombie had also been named "Sweetheart of the Year," when the club was a part of Pilot International.
Scrapbooks from past years were displayed on side tables. This year's scrapbook, by Kate Kelly, and was presented to Wesbrook.
The 1996-97 committee chairmen are Lynda Fox, membership; Sally Downey, community service; Carol Anne Blackwill, hospitality, and Suzanne Zanardi, finance.

Anniversary Reception Slated

Dick and Kay Bird, 2517 Windsor Road, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary at a come-and-go reception Saturday from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. at the Cultural Center, 1000 East Grand. The reception is being given by their four children and their families: Dennis and Yugonda Bird, Tahlequah; Mike and Shirley Bird, Tulsa; Rick and Kim Sober, Newkirk, and Kip and Tressa Bird, Ponca City.
Richard "Dick" Bird married the former Kathryn Kay Engstrom of Harrisville, Ohio, Aug. 24, 1946, at the First Episcopal Church in Silversprings, Md. Mr. Bird was in the U.S. Navy and Mrs. Bird worked for the government in Washington, D.C. Following his discharge from the Navy, the couple moved to Ponca City. They are both still active in the community and own and operate their business, Professional Office Products, 314 East Grand. Mr. Bird is also a City Commissioner. The couple have nine grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
An open invitation to the reception is extended to all friends and family. It is requested there be no gifts.

Veterans' Aid Offered By DVA

Donald Haden of the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs will meet with war veterans needing assistance in Ponca City each Thursday of every month at the American Legion from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The phone is 765-9073.
He will be at the American Legion in Ponca City on the second, third, fourth and fifth Friday of every month from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m.
He will aid veterans with insurance, veterans loans, pensions, compensation, vocational rehabilitation, educational benefits, medical treatment, hospital care and Oklahoma veterans benefits.
Oklahomans received more than $654 million in federal VA expenditures. Compensation and pension checks amounted to over $400 million of that total. A Department spokesman said "We encourage all veterans to take advantage of these services."

Democrats To Meet

Kay County Democrat Women's Club will meet Thursday at 7 p.m. in the OCAW Hall, Ponca City.
Plans will be made for the October bean dinner and auction and volunteers will be sought for the Democrat booth at the Kay County Free Fair scheduled Sept. 10-14 in Blackwell.
All democrats are invited to attend the meeting.

SPORTS

After Split, Softballers Battle No. 1 Owasso

By DAVID BROWN
News Associate Sports Editor
Sixth-ranked Ponca City jumps into the Frontier Conference softball wars today with a scheduled doubleheader at top-ranked Owasso.
The Lady Cats enter into the fray with a mark of 3-1. After a 2-0 start, the Poncans split a pair of games at Enid Saturday, losing 5-2 to second-ranked Yukon before coming back with a 7-3 win over Enid.
Against Yukon, the Lady Cats made an uncharacteristic six errors and were outhit 9-3. Jamie Bellinghausen fell to 2-1 with the loss but pitched well according to head coach Roydon Tilley.
"She only gave up three earned runs," Tilley said. "She pitched a good game. She had five strikeouts and didn't walk anyone, although she did hit two batters."
Yukon took a 4-0 lead with a run in the top of the second and three more in the third. Ponca City plated a run in the bottom of the third and then both teams scored a run in the fifth.
Sarah Pameticky and Julie Schiltz both had hits in the Ponca City third and Lendsi Boyd scored the run after a walk and an error.
In the fifth, senior catcher Kara Sneath reached on a walk and freshman Alena Smith came in to run. She went to second on a wild pitch and then scored on an RBI single by Boyd.
"If we can play them that close with six errors, this team has a chance to go all the way," Tilley said
Against Enid, Ponca City broke out on top quickly with a 5-run first and then added two insurance runs in the sixth.
Schiltz, who went 27-15 a year ago, made her season debut in the pitching circle against the Pacers and chalked up the win. She allowed four hits, struck out 10, walked one and allowed no earned runs.
Schiltz also got the offense going as she led off the game with a single. Pameticky followed with a base hit and then Bellinghausen reached on a fielder's choice that erased Schiltz from the base paths. Christan Hinman followed with an RBI single to plate Pameticky and Robbi Coffelt rapped out a single. Sneath and Boyd then followed with back-to-back two-RBI singles for a 5-0 lead.
Enid came back with three unearned runs in the second but the Poncans salted the game away in the fifth.
Sneath reached on a one-out walk, Boyd singled, the runners moved up on a groundout and then Smith came through with a two-RBI single.

Smith has made quick strides and found herself starting in the outfield against Enid.
"She has good speed, is smart and works extremely hard," Tilley said of his starting freshman. "She's also extremely coachable."
Smith's elevation into the starting lineup was not the only change for the Cats. Tilley reported that he has moved Hinman to shortstop and Boyd from shortstop back to third base, where she started all last year. Pameticky and Andrews are now competing for the second base job and Tilley said one of those two will more than likely end up in the outfield.

Alena Smith, Emily Smith, Marie Wilson (out with a bruised rib) and Schiltz are the other outfielders.
Following today's games at Owasso, the Lady Cats take part in the 32-team, 8-pool Broken Arrow Tournament Friday and Saturday.

Ponca City's pool includes Rogers, Ark., Dewey and Coweta. The Cats face Rogers at 3 p.m., Dewey at 5 and Coweta at 6:30 - all Friday. Four brackets will then be set up Saturday, with all the pool winners in one, all the runnerups in another and so on.