From The Pages Of The Ponca City News, Sunday, September
7, 1997
LOCAL
Crowd Gathers For Open House
Editorial
Have You Fed Your Feathered Friends?
Letters
John Lake Award Presented At Cherokee Strip Golf Classic
Many 'New' Items Facing City Commission Monday
AmeriCorps Unites Nine Agencies
Ponca City Guard Takes Training At Camp Gruber
Heritage Day Activities Sept. 20 Set at Ponca City Cultural Center
City Calendar
Primary-Aged Students Get New Choice in Multiage Class
School Menu
Rare Exhibit of Books Now at City Library
Special School Bond Election Set for Tuesday
Fire Hydrant Testing Set To Begin Monday Morning
Arthritis Exercise Program Begins In Blackwell
Oncology Practitioner Set To Begin Seeing Patients
Prevent Blindness Campaign Set For Third Year at Wal-Mart Here
First Rehearsal Here Monday For Area Chamber Orchestra
Descendants of Pioneers Celebration at Blackwell
Humane Society Surveying for Interest In No Cost Spaying, Neutering Program
P.C.Woman To Head Up Parade
School Board Meets Monday on Proposals
School Calendar
'Native American Storytelling' Featured Here Monday Noon
Assisted Living Meeting Oct. 17
Brown Will Lead DAR Workshop; SAR Sets Contest
McCollum To National American Legion Event
Response Continues To KLVV Programs
DEATHS
Raymond Gene Johnson
Lloyd V. Hain
Verba Ella Rice Hocker
Everett G. Boedecker
Amarbe Pappan Sr.
Tad Allen Jones
L.D. Worley
Services Pending
Berniece Calkins
Alma J. Moore
NEWS BRIEFS
LIFESTYLES
New Episcopal Officers Named
DAR Workshop Theme 'Patriots With a Plan'
Singles Club Names Plans For Week
Special Music, Dancing, Family Fun Saturday
Scenic Sunset Ceremony For Pfeiffer-Parr Wedding
Christi Payne Becomes Bride of John Caldwell III
Marriage Plans Announced
Engagement Is Announced
Bells Celebrate Anniversary
Reception Honors Olingers
Couple To Wed in Edmond
Kolachi Sale
1947 Reunion
Various Forms Available at News for Special Events
Publicity Guide
Lori Jane Lauritsen Marries Adam Shelley at St. Mary's
Genealogy Instructor To Give Program
Jennifer Kellison Bride Of Christopher Banwart
Medford Methodist Church Setting for Couple's Vows
Oklahoma City Church Site For Rehl-O'Connor Nuptials
YMCA Aqua Fit Classes Offered During Evening
Couple Exchanges Vows In Edmond Church Rites
Union School Reunion Set For Sept. 13
Garden Setting for Vows
Wathor Family Holds Reunion
Reception Will Fete Couple
Wheatheart Nutrition
Ponca City Happenings
SPORTS
Poet Returns To Win Classic
Defense Has Answers
Bears Hold Out Cougars
Tonkawa Controls Deer Creek, 20-7
Morrison Stumbles In Opener
Blackwell Rallies to Win 19-13
Shidler Welcomes Midway to Football
Lou Clinton Has Just Changes Challenge
By Patti Pfeiffer
News Staff Writer
A nice crowd gathered and the weather cooperated for the dedication ceremony and open house at the new Ponca City Water Treatment Plant Friday afternoon.
Almost 200 people attended the ceremony and visited the new $9.2 million facility showing citizen's support for the project. And the support did not go unnoticed among city officials in attendance. "There was a saying 'Ponca, pride and progress' and the expansion of this plant and the expenditures of tax dollars shows that there is still pride among the citizens of Ponca City," City Manager Gary Martin told the crowd during the dedication ceremony.
Among those attending the dedication ceremony was City Mayor Marilyn Andrews, City Commissioners Dick Stone and Tom Leonard, past Vice Mayor Greg Gregson and State Representative Jim Newport. A plaque commemorating the five year project was unveiled during the ceremony.
The plans for the recent renovations and upgrade of the old water treatment plant began in 1992 and actual construction did not begin until February of 1996. The entire project was completed in July 1997.
Quality assurance was one of the goals of the project. "The primary object of this water treatment plant upgrade was to meet the City's treatment needs and operational goals through the year 2010," Martin said.
The renovations, expansion and upgrade included almost the entire complex. The plant now has a new water softening process which cuts the hardness of the water almost in half. A new and improved state of the art laboratory complete with a fully automated computer system, and drying beds were built while the treatment basins were renovated. "The water is ten times better than the federal requirements for drinking water," said Larry Elliott of CDM, the design engineering consultant for the project. "The citizens of Ponca City should be very proud of their water treatment plant."
Editorial
Water Improvements Welcome
Cool, clear water. We take it for granted, that we will have an abundance of fresh, pure water whenever we want. Thanks to the $12 million Water Treatment Plant Improvement Project, Ponca City can be assured of quality water well into the next century.
Phase I of the renovation and expansion of the water treatment plant was dedicated Friday, although it has been on line since earlier this summer. Citizens have enjoyed the reduction in hardness of water, which, among other things, means clearer ice and tea, less soap needed for cleaning purposes, and better tasting water.
The new plant has built-in reserve capacity that can be utilized for future industrial and population growth.
Mayor Marilyn Andrews, the city commission and all those involved with the project deserve a big "thank you" from all of us for the completion of this project and what it will add to our quality of life.
Have You Fed Your Feathered Friends?
Foster Johnson
News Managing Editor
First off, let me make one thing perfectly clear. The Johnsons are not bird experts. With that said, let me emphasize that we are bird lovers (at least most birds) and have had a lot of fun the last few weeks with the many visitors to our yard.
This isn't a new thing. We've sort of geared our back yard to birds for the last few years, but it takes awhile to become established as a welcome place.
Through the last few winters we've had our share of purple finches, goldfinches, juncos and the assorted LBJ's (you know, sparrows, or those "little brown jobs" which are so hard to sort out by particular name).
We've watched the hummingbirds come and go for the past couple of years, enjoying the feisty little bombers chase each other, and other much bigger birds, around the yard. Cannas and honeysuckle have been the natural attractions, while the feeder has been the best place to observe them.
We've enjoyed the antics of the blue jays, who seem to be more bluster then fight and aren't nearly as obnoxious as their reputation indicates. We've had many young jays around, and have enjoyed watching them grow and mature from fluffy, stumbling adolescents to full-grown birds.
Don't forget the usual robins and mocking birds, who nest close by and train their young to fly from the bradford pear trees.
Cardinals have become steady visitors both winter and summer due to the abundance of sunflower seeds we keep around plus the shelter of the maturing trees.
Recently we probably had the best day of all when, almost at one time, but certainly in the space of a couple of hours, we had a pair of brown thrashers, three doves, several blue jays, at least three cardinals (male, female and young) assorted robins, and the usual mocking bird, not to mention the LBJs and a little wren, who seemed to enjoy visiting the potted plants on the patio. Spicing it all up was a beautiful goldfinch in all his golden summer glory, working in an out of the crepe myrtle.
Although we bought an oriole feeder a couple of years ago, we really hadn't had any luck attracting the orange and black beauties, until recently, when we saw one trying to feed from the hummingbird feeder.
As quickly as we could whip up some brew, we had the feeder out and weren't disappointed as the shy, skittish birds started sneaking a sip or two before disappearing back into the trees.
There have been young and old northern orioles (commonly called Baltimore orioles, after my favorite baseball team; bird experts may say we have Bullock's orioles around here but we're not sure which these are since they are known to hybridize), as well as some other brands that we've had difficulty identifying. As they have become more comfortable with the surroundings, they have visited more and more often, and have become a little less skittish.
One female oriole, who hadn't finished her snack, even stood her ground and hissed at a couple of purple finches who were working the other side of the feeder. (Finches, by the way, are equipped to snap sunflower seeds by the pound, but their short beaks aren't designed to fit in the small holes of the liquid feeders. Smart birds that they are, they open wide, and stick the bottom half of their beaks in while making enough motion to rock the feeder, thus getting a sweet drink and helping empty the feeder on a daily basis).
At one time or another we've also had red-winged blackbirds.
Everything is not wonderful. Boattail grackles have taken up residence in the neighborhood (town, state, nation) and they tried to make some inroads into our yard, but didn't find it so hospitable. Starlings come and go, but don't seem as plentiful in our yard as they once were (but be careful what food you put out, they scout out bread or suet in a hurry).
And once last spring, as I looked out the kitchen window, I was eye to eye with a falcon. (Birds of prey probably are the No. 1 enemy of songbirds, with cats not too far behind)
All in all, it's been an interesting bird year. If you haven't got a bird feeder or two, get some. Songbirds are a precious resource, and making your yard a welcome habitat should help keep the birds coming back.
Save the Civic Center
Local history helps define who we are, and historic buildings are a visible representation of that history. They represent where we come from, what we have been, how we feel about our past, and our aspirations for the future. History belongs to us all, as does our historic Civic Center including our No. 1 Fire Station.
History transcends politics and personalities, but historic buildings often fall victim to political and personal conflicts. The Civic Center is one of the few spectacular remnants of our "oil-boom" past. It echoes with not only our history, but the history of all Oklahomans. Bill McFadden, E.W. Marland, Lew Wentz, and many others' voices echo here. The sound of Depression-era movies and even more recent plays and musical performances still whisper in its walls. The prayers and tears of proud families watching their men go off to war still echo in the quiet. The architects responsible for the building also designed the Marland Mansion and the Oklahoma State Capitol. The Civic Center complex is a significant part of everyone's past.
There are many reasons to preserve this building. Beyond "sentimental" reasons, the City already owns the building. It is structurally sound, and it is convenient for City business. As a general rule, nationally, it is more economical to renovate and restore an existing facility than to purchase or build a comparable structure. In addition, a preserved historic building is more valuable, both to us and to visitors to our community. We applaud the City leaders apparent determination to preserve it.
But now, the preservation of our architectural heritage must become the focal point of a joint effort by city government and the people, not another issue for contention. We cannot let misunderstanding, miscommunication and mistrust cause us to miss our chance to act. We need to set aside our past differences, carefully gather the facts, analyze the proposals, and work together to find the best road for the future of this landmark. If we can't do this, for whatever reason, we will face a future with another large part of our past gone and regretted.
For these reasons, the members of the Ponca City Landmark Conservancy choose to join with city officials to find a way to restore and preserve the Civic Center complex's historical integrity. We urge all Ponca City citizens to support the renovation of the Civic Center and the No. 1 Fire Station at its current location.
David Keathly, Chairman
Jeanne M. Glaser, Secretary-Treasurer
Bret Carter, Member
Ponca City Landmark Conservancy
Weeks before school even started there was such a variety of activity going on around Po-Hi. Football players out practicing, cheerleaders and Hi-Steppers working hard, and the Big Blue Band getting ready also. In a few weeks you will be able to see all of these kids in their various activities come together and put on a great display of pride and talent.
Last year several businesses came forth and showed outstanding support to help raise spirit for the Ponca City Wildcats! As the Wildcats left town to face Tulsa, various citizens came out to wave at the team, including our fire department who even sent them off with flashing lights and sirens blaring! Parker Pest Control brought out one of its trucks and some employees to help "EXTERMINATE THE HORNETS" as the Wildcats left to face Tulsa Washington. Albertson's employees were terrific in wearing Wildcat shirts every game day and donating a huge cake to the team! Dougan's, Wal-Mart, First National Bank, Commercial Federal, NationsBank, Cable One, and Mayor Andrews were just a few of the businesses and citizens who showed that they truly felt Wildcat Spirit!
A spirit like this is a great feeling for everyone involved. Come on out to the games and watch the enthusiasm of our High School kids! The south side usually gets filled quickly, but there is ample seating on the north side. There is a concession stand, and restrooms on the north side also.
A special invitation is being issued to ALL former Dynamiters of Ponca City Senior High School to come down on the field before our first home game on Sept. 19. For more information about this come in to P.C. Sports Team Center or give me a call.
Remember your high school years and all the activities that went on with the football games? It was fun then and it is fun now. Come and enjoy it!
Sincerely,
Nancy Spielbusch
John Lake Award Presented At Cherokee Strip Golf Classic
By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE
News Staff Writer
The John Lake Memorial Free Spirit Award was presented to Harold and Marge Chance of Wichita, Friday evening at the Cherokee Strip Golf Classic.
The presentation of the Waterford Crystal eagle in memory of John Lake, who had played in the tournament for 20 years, was made by his wife Joan and children Leslie and Bryan and their spouses. In accepting the award in memory of Lake, Mrs. Chance said, "May the eagle soar."
Criteria for the award was given longtime friend of the Lakes, Fred Taylor. Another presentation made by David Mills, "chief" of the event, was a driver with the Cherokee Strip logo given by Chuck Coatney and Tim McGraw. The club was given to Harold Chance.
Another high point of the evening was the performance of the Village Singers of Opportunity Center, led by their musical director Gala Stieber. The clients and Stieber received a standing ovation after the performance. One of the songs was "Double Bogey Blues." The audience sang with the clients in a medley of favorite songs.
Mills told that the center operates off of the interest of the funds raised for the foundation. The foundation now stands at about $1.7 million and earned $87,000 for the center in 1996.
Last year's tournament and donations resulted in $72,000 for the foundation. Mills told the format has been changed somewhat this year and after the first day of play the field has been divided into two flights the Sims and Roberson flights named after Dee Sims and Robbie Roberson.
C.D. and Paul Northcutt were recognized as the only golfers to have played in all 36 of the tournaments.
Following the evening buffet meal and the special ceremony the Galaxy Band from St. Louis played for dancing in the ballroom for participants and other guests.
The tables and ballroom was decorated with cowboy boots filled with flowers and the stage featured black hats and boots with fringed silver trim, keeping with the "Rhinestone Cowboy" theme.
By Patti Pfeiffer
News Staff Writer
A new fire station, a new additional sales tax and a new low income housing project - "new" and controversial items seem to be topping the city commission agenda for Monday night.
The City Commissioners will not only be voting on an additional sales tax when they vote on the sales tax increase. They will be voting on the location of the fire station as well.
The resolution and ordinance calling for the special election for the additional half a cent sales tax states that the funds generated are to be used for the costs associated with the renovations and expansion of the existing number one fire station located at 500 East Grand Avenue.
Early costs estimates for the renovations, which include remodeling the entire building and adding five new vehicle bays, is $2.7 million. "It costs a little bit more to renovate and rebuild at the current site," City Manager Gary Martin explained. "We will have to demolish, construct, renovate and remodel."
However, city officials predict that the cost will be lower as plans are finalized and bids are actually received. Originally estimated as high as $3 million, Tom Leonard was pleased that the preliminary figures were considerably less than expected and remained optimistic that they would go even lower. "This is a considerable reduction in costs," Leonard pleasingly said.
The two year one half cent sales tax will pay for the entire project and it will be financed completely by cash flow generated by the tax therefore eliminating any need for financing Assistant City manager Tom Short explained.
Currently at 7.5 percent, the additional sales tax would increase the tax to 8 percent. The tax would be levied from Dec. 1, 1997 to Nov. 31,1999. Presently, the City only receives three percent of the sales tax. The remaining 4.5 percent goes to the state.
The Commission will also be voting on a lease agreement between the City and Conoco for the rental of space needed for a new fire substation and Union members seem to have gotten their way in the lease agreement involving Conoco.
Absent from the lease is the drug testing policy once an issue and once included in the lease. Union members, exempt from drug testing, informed city officials earlier in the week that drug testing was a "negotiable" item and that the lease as written was a "no-go" because of it.
Other concerns of the local union were addressed in the lease agreement as well. Union members were concerned that Ponca City Fire Department, not Conoco's own fire fighting units, would be considered first response unit at a fire at Conoco. However the lease specifically states "Conoco will be the first responders to any incident/emergency situation at on Conoco's site. Tenant will contact Conoco emergency personnel first for on-site emergencies."
Under the agreement, the rent will be $1,480 per month and the term will be from Sept. 1, 1997 to Aug. 30, 1999 with a one year renewal option.
The continuing and controversial proposed low incoming housing project will also be on the agenda Monday night. The commissioners are scheduled to vote on a resolution in support of the elderly housing project to be located on Princeton Avenue.
The resolution is nothing more than city support of the $2 million dollar elderly housing project. According to developer Gary Hassenflu, the resolution is needed in order to be considered for a ten year $200,000 per year federal tax credits for the project.
The matter has come before the commissioners at least three previous times and little action has been taken by the Commissioners. In the past Commissioners have referred it to the City Planning Commission for additional study and a recommendation.
After finding that there may be a need for a housing project that caters to the needs of the elderly and that will rent for $425 per month, the planning commission recommended passing the resolution. It stated in their recommendation to the City Commissioners to pass the suggested motion, adding that "the development has so many positive assets for the low income elderly. It is going to be handicap accessible. The location is great for shopping, eating and recreational activities. There are many more positives than negatives about this project."
However, the next time it appeared on the agenda and after the planning commission recommended approval of the resolution, the Commission merely asked the parties involved to meet and discuss the matter, tabling the issue once again.
Soon afterwards, an apparently disgusted Jack Bowker, both an investor in the project and owner of the property where the proposed project is to be located "pulled" the project.
In spite of Bowker's actions, Hassenflu, who had an option on the property, has decided to once again to bring it before the city commissioners.
The meeting will be held Monday night, Sept. 8, at 5:30 p.m. at the Public Safety Center, 200 East Oklahoma.
New members of the AmeriCorps Program of the United Way will begin their first year of service this month, according to Nancy Deaver, Executive Director of the Oklahoma Community Service Commission.
"The program will unite nine primary youth and family servicing agencies in Ponca City in a collaborative effort to improve and fill gaps in the local service system. AmeriCorps members will tutor and mentor at-risk and under-achieving students and provide services to homeless families," she said.
According to Ruslyn Hermanson, local AmeriCorps director, the program is still recruiting members locally, and interested citizens may call her at (405) 765-2476.
Full time members make a commitment to serve as least 1700 hours in a 9-12 month term of service, says Hermanson. They receive a modest living allowance during their term of service and an educational award of $4,725 when they successfully complete the service. If eligible, members receive health insurance and child care benefits.
For more information about AmeriCorps positions with the United Way of Ponca City AmeriCorps program, call (405) 765-2476.
Recently Army National Guardsmen from Ponca City and Tonkawa traveled to Camp Gruber for training. Members of Delta Company 1/179th Infantry Battalion fired familiarization rounds with the M-2 50 caliber machine gun.
With the 45th Infantry Brigade Commander Brig. Gen. Bradley Gambill and many family members in attendance five TOW squads participated in a TOW live fire demonstration. The TOW weapon system is a tube launched optically tracked wire guided missile system capable of destroying any armor on the battlefield today from over two miles away.
A TOW squad consists of a three man crew. Following are the crew members from Delta Company. First Squad Leader Sgt. Walter White, gunner Pfc. Jackey Walker, driver Spec. James Kirk; Second Squad Leader Staff Sgt. Don Hoover, gunner Spec. Michael Rhoades, driver Spec. Scott Klingaman; Third Squad Leader Staff Sgt. Quintin Logan, gunner Sgt. Bennie Olmstead, driver Spec. Eugene Atkins; Fourth Squad Leader Spec. Matt Hopkins, gunner Pfc. Nathan Heintz, driver Pfc. Alton Horne; and Fifth Squad Leader Sgt. Eric Harter, gunner Spec. Scott Officer and driver Pfc. Sam Bufford.
The objective was an enemy tank 3,300 meters (over two miles) away. The target was acquired, identified and destroyed.
By KATHY ZEHR
News Staff Writer
Heritage Day activities to be held at the Ponca City Cultural Center on Sept. 20, were recently announced by friends of the Cultural Center Museum Foundation Inc. Area citizens are encouraged to attend the daylong event.
Numerous activities, to be presented both inside and out of the historical old Cultural Center include various musical programs, rides, good food, educational programs, displays, demonstrations, tours, and reenactors.
On the grounds in front of the Museum will be June and Ben Meade's group playing the old fashioned game of croquet; several displays will be at various places, including 1920s cars by J.D. Hanks and Dr. Bob Gibson, two covered wagons by Danny Head two homemade tipis by Jim Robins with activities by the Mountain Men, and a Model-T Ford Truck by Kirk Nesbit, who will also be making rope.
On the front porch, the Valley View Homemakers club will be quilting a "Road to Oklahoma" quilt, using antique quilt frames. Prints by Robert Hardee will also be available on the front porch and the artist will be available in person to autograph his prints.
Everett Van Hoesen will be offering horse and carriage rides on the west side with a portion of the proceeds from tickets donated to the Cultural Center.
Civil War reenactors will be present along the east lawn and elsewhere, homemade apple pie and ice cream will be available on the grounds.
Booths set up on the lawn around the Center including the North Central Oklahoma Historical Association who will have copies of "North Central Oklahoma - Rooted in the Past, Growing for the Future," and other items for sale; garden clubs with herbs and flower cuttings and other items for sale; a membership table by Friends of the Cultural Center; and others.
On the patio, several area entertainers are to present programs beginning at 10:30 a.m. with Leslie Rardin's "One Hundred Years on Broadway," featuring six or seven high school students; the Wheatheart Adelines at noon; Dr. Sally Downey from Pioneer Technology with a review of Patsy Cline and other selections at 2 p.m.; Native American dancers and other possible performances are planned.
Inside the museum a style show with clothing donated by Scotty Eatherly and Pat Evans will be modeled accompanied by members of the Ponca City Federated Music Club; and the Pioneer Genealogy Club will be in the Museum library with E.W. Marland's genealogy and information for beginner and computer genealogists.
Each museum inside the Cultural Center will also have knowledgeable guides to talk about the DAR exhibit, the 101 exhibit and the Indian artifacts in the various areas throughout the mansion.
All citizens are encouraged to attend the oldtime heritage event and support the efforts of the Friends of the Cultural Center Museum Foundation Inc.
Items for the City Calendar should be brought in or telephoned (765-3311) to Bob Patterson, at the Ponca City News, by Thursday noon.
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By KRISTI GRABEAL
News Education Editor
Garfield Academy has a new choice for parents of primary-aged students. In addition to the classical primary grade-level classes, which continue to meet the needs of many students, parents have the option at Garfield Academy to request a multiage class.
Multiage classrooms combine first, second and third year students to utilize instructional techniques which build on the diversity of the students in the class. These classes are continuous which means that students may remain with the same teacher and some of the same classmates throughout the primary years. Children also progress through the primary curriculum at individual paces.
The Academy staff is seeking options to insure that all students have a strong foundation in the basics of reading, writing and mathematics by the end of the third year of school. While multiage classes are not appropriate for all children, the staff believes that having a choice of programming will allow more students to have an education tailored to needs of each individual.
The idea of multiage classrooms, sometimes referred to as "nongraded" or "continuous progress," is not new. This concept is built upon 25 years of research supporting the success of organizing school in this way.
Multiage classes may remind some people of the one-room school house. In some ways, that is true. There are leadership opportunities for the students who are older as they model behaviors and skills for younger students. However, there are differences in the instructional strategies of schools of the past and today's multiage classroom.
Students in the multiage room have opportunities for both independent and group learning. A variety of learning styles are addressed through different learning centers. Some of the centers are: reading, listening to stories, mathematics and others. An abundant amount of activities are mixed with skill practice in a room rich in literature and discussion.
The two sections of multiage classes at Garfield Academy are taught by Karen Dale and Mary Tapp. Currently, 39 students are in the program. There were more requests for the program than there was available space. This response came as no surprise to the Garfield staff.
The Garfield primary teachers have spent the past several years implementing strategies necessary for the success of multiage classes into the classical grade level classrooms. They have visited multiage programs throughout Oklahoma and other states. During the 1996-97 school year, teachers met with families informally and at parent discussions to determine the interest families had in the multiage option. Community support for a choice of primary programming has been strong.
Dr. Patty Ladd, principal of Garfield Academy, states, "The multiage classes provide one more option to teach the strengths of each individual child. Our goal is that every boy and girl meets his or her academic potential. The curriculum flexibility with a continuous progress program allows teachers to provide acceleration or reteaching to maximize learning. Maximizing learning for all children is our reason for being in school."
Dr. Ladd concluded by saying, "I am delighted with the potential of the multiage program, the community's response to it, and the dedication of the two teachers who are making it happen."
A comment spoken from a second grader in Ms. Dale's class summed up the entire program. She stated, "It's fun to have three different grades in this class, because I can now make friends in other classes. The older students help teach me things I cannot understand.
When asked if they enjoyed the multiage classes over the normal classes they were used, to the students unanimously shouted, "Yes! We love this new class because it is something different and exciting."
Elementary Breakfast
Elementary Lunch
Middle School and Mid-High
Breakfast
Middle School and Mid-High
Lunch
High School Lunch
All American
Training Table
McCord Elementary
Breakfast
Lunch
Pioneer Technology Center
By KATHY ZEHR
News Staff Writer
"Fact, Fiction and the New World," a 20-panel photograph exhibit featuring rare and historical books effecting the discovery of America is currently on exhibit at the Ponca City Library through Sept. 26.
Located on the first floor of the Library, the "Fact, Fiction and the New World" exhibit highlights popular fiction of the late 1400s and 1500s and its influence on explorers and conquistadors; Christian Humanist writings from the European Renaissance and their role in the development of New World societies; the treatment of America in 16th century European poetry, drama, and fiction; and the emergence of the New World writers. The exhibit looks, too, at the books that influenced Christopher Columbus and the diffusion of Travel literature.
The exhibit is touring the state as part of the TRACKS Traveling Exhibit program and is sponsored by Sonic, "America's Drive In;" and coordinated by the Oklahoma Museums Association with support from the Oklahoma Foundation for the Humanities and the Ponca City Arts and Humanities Council.
"We know the daring role played by Christopher Columbus, by Isabell and Ferdinand, Amerigo Vespucci, Ponce de Leon, Hernando Cortes and others. We also know something of the roles played by ships, swords and horses - but we do not often think of the important role played by books," says a spokesman for the Oklahoma Museum Association.
The collection of photographs featuring rare and historical books from the Benson Latin American Collection and the Harry Ransom Humanities Research Center of the University of Texas are featured in the photographs.
Admission to the exhibit is free.
BLACKWELL - The Blackwell Board of Education has combined the following precincts for the Tuesday, special school bond election only.
The Ponca City Fire Department will be testing fire hydrants throughout the city beginning Monday. According to Assistant Fire Chief Dale Hicks the hydrants are tested annually for several different reasons.
First and foremost is the safety of the public. "We need to know that the fire hydrants are working and how much water we can rely on from each one" Hicks explained. Secondly, it is required for insurance purposes. The ISO is an agency that rates fire department's safety equipment for insurance companies to use in determining fire insurance premium rates. The better the rating, the better the rates.
The ISO rates, on a scale of 1-10, one being the best and ten the worst. Once as high as five, currently the city has a rating of 4. "That is very good for a city of this size," Hicks boasted.
The fire hydrant testing may result in minor inconveniences for city residents. During testing, the water in the affected areas may become cloudy or discolored for one or two days. Residents may want to check the clarity of their water before washing clothes. However, water will continue to be safe for drinking.
Testing will begin Sept. 8 and will continue for three to four weeks. The following is a schedule of the testing dates and locations:
Mondays - West of Union Street from Harding to Hartford Avenue. This area will also include the Airport and the Industrial Park.
Tuesdays - Union Street to Fourteenth Street, from Harding to Highland Avenue.
Wednesdays - West of Fourteenth Street to Union Street, from Highland Avenue to Hubbard Road. This area will also include Hartford Avenue to Prospect Avenue, west of Union Street.
Thursdays - Fourteenth Street, east to the city limits.
Residents may contact the Ponca City Fire Department at 767-0360 for more information.
OKLAHOMA CITY - A new exercise program specifically for people with arthritis will begin on Sept. 23 at the Red Cross Building, 1313 West Ferguson in Blackwell.
The program is called PACE, an acronym for "People With Arthritis Can Exercise," and is being sponsored by the Oklahoma Chapter of the Arthritis Foundation and Blackwell Regional Hospital.
During the six-week program, participants will go through a series of exercises and activities designed to increase mobility and function. The sessions will meet on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10:30 to 11 a.m.
"A properly designed and executed exercise program helps people with arthritis keep joints flexible, maintain muscle strength, and build overall stamina," said Cassie Leatherman, Community Health Director for Blackwell Regional Hospital and PACE Instructor. "People who participate in PACE classes often report that they look and feel better, have more energy, and are more capable of doing their daily activities. But before any exercise program is started, you should always check with your physician."
Registration is necessary to participate and the cost for the six week course is only $20. For more information or to register for the PACE Exercise Program, contact Cassie Leatherman, Blackwell Regional Hospital, at (405) 363-2311 Extension 198.
The Arthritis Foundation is a United Way Agency of Ponca City.
Akin Ogundipe, MD, has joined the medical staff of St. Joseph Regional Medical Center and will begin seeing patients at St. Joseph Cancer Center on Sept. 16, 1997.
A Diplomate of the American Board of Internal Medicine, Dr. Ogundipe is also board certified in Hematology and Medical Oncology. Dr. Ogundipe received his medical degree from the University of Ibadan Medical School in Ibadan, Nigeria in 1981. He completed his residency in Internal Medicine at the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Columbia University in New York City. His post-doctoral training includes a Fellowship in Hematology and Medical Oncology at Columbia-Presbyterian Medical Center in New York City.
For the past four years, Dr. Ogundipe has been practicing hematology and medical oncology at Cancer Specialists Inc., in Tulsa, Okla. He has also served as an Assistant Professor of Medicine at the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine.
"We're pleased that Dr. Ogundipe has chosen the community of Ponca City to establish his practice," said Garry England, President and CEO of SJRMC. "According to the 1996 information from the Oklahoma State Board of Medical Licensure and Supervision, Dr. Ogundipe is one of only 59 physicians with a license to practice in Oklahoma whose primary speciality is medical oncology. This is extremely beneficial to the residents of Ponca City and surrounding communities. Prior to his joining the staff, patients were required to travel up to an hour away from their hometown to receive treatment from a licensed medical oncologist."
Born in Nigeria, Dr. Ogundipe and his wife, Yinka, will make Ponca City their home. They are parents of three children, Seye, six; Dare, four and Dunni, three. Dr. Ogundipe's outside interests include chess and tennis. He is also a licensed private pilot.
Dr. Ogundipe will see patients at St. Joseph Cancer Center beginning Tuesday, Sept. 16. Appointments can be made now by calling (405) 767-1600. St. Joseph Cancer Center is conveniently located at 609 Virginia, at the southwest corner of the intersection of Fourteenth Street and Hartford Avenue.
Since one school-aged child in four has a vision problem, Prevent Blindness Oklahoma is pleased to announce the participation of the Ponca City Wal-Mart Pharmacy in Prevent Blindness America's third annual campaign, titled "I'm Helping Give Children Their Vision for Life."
The Ponca City Wal-Mart is joining forces with almost 5,000 other locations nationwide to raise community awareness about children's eye health problems and to raise funds for the sight-saving programs of Prevent Blindness.
From now until Sept. 30, Wal-Mart will display the "I'm Helping Give Children Their Vision for Life" materials and ask their customers to support children's vision health by donating a dollar to Prevent Blindness. Donors sign mobiles that will be displayed until the end of the program, drawing attention to the issue of children's vision.
One in 20 preschoolers has a vision problem that could lead to permanent sight loss if left undetected. Last year, Prevent Blindness Oklahoma screened 671 children in Kay County and referred 45 of these children to an eye care professional for further evaluation and treatment. In addition, Prevent Blindness conducts a statewide public awareness campaign each year. Through health fairs, television and radio appearance and newspaper articles covering topics ranging from firework safety to the dangers of ultraviolet radiation, Prevent Blindness Oklahoma reaches millions of Oklahomans each year.
Prevent Blindness Oklahoma is an affiliate of Prevent Blindness America, the nation's leading volunteer eye health and safety organization dedicated to fighting blindness and saving sight. For more information on vision, eye health and safety, call (405) 848-7123 or (918) 496-3484.
By KATHY ZEHR
News Staff Writer
The Ponca Area Chamber Orchestra will hold its first rehearsal Monday beginning at 7:30 p.m. in the Ponca City High School Band Room. All area musicians who can rehearse with the group weekly at that same time and be available for the four scheduled concerts are invited to participate.
Two of the concerts for the 1997-98 season will be held at the Poncan Theatre in Ponca City and two will be held at the new Performing Arts Center at Northern Oklahoma College, Tonkawa.
Concerts for the 1997-98 season include an Adult Concerto Concert and Classical Orchestra Literature Concert conducted by Dineo Heilmann at NOC on Oct. 20; the Christmas Concert directed by Dan Larson, Enid, and featuring handbells directed by Marta Sullivan and the Ponca City Children's Chorale directed by Cathy Byard will be at the Poncan Theatre on Dec. 2.
On March 3, the Civic Chorus will join the PACO Orchestra directed by Cathy Byard and held at the Poncan Theatre; and the last concert will be April 21 at the performing Arts Center at NOC and directed by Dineo Heilmann.
All concerts begin at 8 p.m. and are free to the public. Funding depends entirely on sponsors and contributors. Contributions may be made to the Ponca Area Chamber Orchestra c/o Wilson Van Tine, PACO Treasurer, 117 Lansbrook, Ponca City, OK 74601. For more information call 762-2208.
According to Van Tine, the general purpose of the Ponca Area Chamber Orchestra in partnership with Northern Oklahoma College is to foster, promote and increase the musical knowledge and musical appreciation of the public.
Ponca Area Chamber Orchestra board of directors are John Barrett, Wilson Van Tine, Dineo Heilmann, Carolyn Hook, Sheryl Jones of Shidler, Catherine Byard, Stan Barraclough, Becky Rothbauer, and Codie Wolf.
By KATHY ZEHR
News Staff Writer
BLACKWELL - The Descendants of Pioneers will celebrate their heritage at the American Legion Building in Blackwell on Thursday. Everyone is invited to attend.
Highlights of the day will be the recognition of the descendants who still own and are possibly living on land settled in 1893 Cherokee Outlet Run and a program presented by Paula Denson, president of the North Central Oklahoma Historical Association.
Registration will open at noon and music will be provided by Charlie Holick, accordionist from Ponca City.
The annual meeting will begin at 1 p.m. with the Invocation by the Rev Bill Kalfas and Flag Salute led by Elmore Bathurst. Mrs. Dale Wooderson will lead two patriotic songs and the welcome will be given by Blackwell Mayor Louis Gose.
In addition to special recognitions, door prizes, and refreshments, the group will also hold a brief business meeting, reading the minutes of the 1996 annual meeting and elect new directors for the 1997-98 year.
Hostesses for the meeting will be Thelma Padgett, Wilma Eakins, Mabel Kokendoffer, Marjorie Kelle, Lonnis Savage, Billie Trenary, Alvena Ellege, Wilma Purdy, Florence Bumgardner and Charlene Bathurst.
Mrs. Denson, a Ponca City native, and current owner of a wedding rental business is also a professional dental hygienist and teacher. She is an elder in the Ponca City First Presbyterian Church and has been active in the Pioneer Genealogical Society for over 21 years, holding various offices.
As a researcher and genealogist, Paula has committed hundreds of hours dedicated to the research of her family history and has traveled to Salt Lake City, Kentucky, Tennessee, Kansas, Arkansas and Texas in the pursuit of that endeavor. In the past two years, she has volunteered many hours assisting in the microfilming of Kay County courthouse records for permanent record.
In 1944, she formed a new non-profit organization named North Central Oklahoma Historical Association, Inc. Their book: "North Central Oklahoma: Rooted In The Past - Growing For The Future" won a national certificate of commendation by the American Association for State and Local History in September 1996. As president, she presented several programs to civic groups concerning the history of Kay County.
Other interests have kept Paula busy over the years. She has been actively involved in Valley View Family, Community and Education Group; and has served in various officer roles in PTA, instrumental band parents, and Finley 4-H. Because of her extensive work in Camp Fire, she was honored as Woman of the Year in 1993 at the ABWA awards.
Paula is married to Robert Denson, a senior petroleum research technologist at Conoco. They have two daughters, Kathryn Denson, a licensed practical nurse, and Kelly a 1997 graduate of the University of Central Oklahoma with a degree in speech pathology.
By KATHY ZEHR
News Staff Writer
The Ponca City Humane Society is currently taking a survey to determine the interest in a no cost spaying and neutering program for area pet owners during a three week period this fall.
In an agreement with the OSU Veterinarian School, the proposal includes permission by pet owners to allow OSU third year veterinarian students to perform the surgeries, under close supervision.
The Ponca City Humane Society is requesting those persons who are interested to complete a questionnaire and return it to the Ponca City Humane Society by Sept. 22. If enough interest is shown, the spaying an neutering will take place during a three-week period in October or November. A total of 26 animals per week would be needed from all participating groups.
Dr. Grant Turnwald at the OSU Veterinarian School said, even though the students who will be performing the surgery will be closely supervised, there is always risk involved in surgery. Waiver forms releasing OSU and the Ponca City Humane Society from any loss incurred would need to be signed prior to the animal's acceptance into the program.
Persons interested in the program are requested to complete a questionnaire and return it to the Ponca City Humane Society by Sept. 22.
Conditions to be met by pet owners who are interested in the free service are: written proof of all annual shots, including current rabies; shots must have been given more than two weeks prior to surgery time; and the pet must wear a collar with current identification tags attached.
A limit of two pets per family will be allowed for the free sterilization and owners would be responsible for the delivery and pick up of their pet on specific dates and times at the Ponca City Humane Society. Selection of animals will be on a first come-first served basis for Ponca City area residents.
The survey sheet questions or statements include, name of dog or cat, age, breed, sex, dates of last vaccinations for rabies, DHLPIF/PARVO for dogs, FVRCP for cats, name of veterinarian, and description of animal.
Survey sheets and further information are available at the Ponca City Humane Society Shelter, 900 West Prospect. The Shelter is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday. For more information, call 767-8877.
SHIDLER - Ponca City resident, Etoy Middleton Rollier, age 90, will head up the Shidler Homecoming Parade to be held Sept. 20. Mrs. Rollier has been selected to act as the 1997 Alumni Grand Marshal.
According to Marlene Fields, editor of The Review, the Shidler newspaper, "One of the highlights of Mrs. Rollier's position is that she will be riding in the convertible previously owned by President John F. Kennedy." The vehicle is now owned by Dr. Bob Gibson, Ponca City.
Mrs. Rollier's grandson, Billy John Bridges of Ponca City will act as her escort for the Shidler activities on Homecoming Day.
The 90-year old was a 1925 graduate of Apperson High School. She retired in 1971 after employment with J.C. Penney Company in Ponca City for 28 years.
The parade marshal for the Homecoming parade will be Mrs. Martha Smith, fifth grade teacher at Shidler and "Teacher of the Year for 1997."
By KRISTI GRABEAL
News Education Editor
Several renewal agreements between Ponca City Schools and other companies will be discussed Monday when the Ponca City Board of Education meets at 6:30 p.m.
A renewal agreement with Energy Education, Inc. will be voted on for the continuation of the Energy Conservation Management Services. The original agreement with Energy Education, Inc. was initiated Oct. 1, 1996. This past year is the first year of five projected years of consultation services.
At the August board meeting, Mike White, energy manager, gave a report covering the past six months. The data, using the FASER computer software program, adjusted for the natural gas increase and the electric decrease, indicated an energy cost avoidance of $88,019 for the preceding six months.
There was also a resulting decrease in actual use of water, electric and natural gas. The contract calls for a monthly payment of $4,300 each month for this academic year and the same for the remaining three years.
Another agreement with Edwin Fair Community Mental Health Center could be made to provide counseling services and specialized classroom services.
Both of these agreements were approved last year and according to Gary Bracken, board attorney, the details have not changed from last year to this year.
A retail agreement with Pitney Bowes for the district's mail machine will be discussed. The rental agreement was discussed during the last Finance Committee meeting. At the time of that meeting, the amount of the rental agreement was not known.
Since that time, Jeff Denton, financial manager, was able to secure a lower rate on the meter rental. The lowest rate is $293.30 per month.
Consideration of where to lease equipment for Garfield Academy will be voted on. The purchase of the equipment was approved at the August board meeting, but the interest rate charged by Yamaha to finance the equipment was too high; therefore, another funding source was needed to facilitate the purchase of the equipment. Because of the approval in August, students at Garfield have been able to use electronic piano keyboards.
The contract for the keyboards is the same one used for financing the copiers for the copy center, except the district will pay half of the purchase price to Yamaha and finance the other half with First National Bank. First National Bank will receive the final payment in July of 1998. The amount financed will be $7,000 at 5.3 percent interest rate.
The following people will also give reports to the board: Troy Lewis, architect; Dr. John Scroggins, Department of Curriculum and Instruction; and Andrea Morriss and Marvin Clark on the recent Oklahoma State School Board's Association Workshop.
After returning from executive session the board will then vote on a possible part-time teaching position for migrant education to be funded with grant money.
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Linda Leaf Bolin, Ponca City resident, will present "Native American Storytelling," Monday at noon at the Conoco Fourth Street Club House. The public is invited to bring a brown bag lunch and enjoy the free hour of programming. Drinks will be furnished by Pioneer Bank and Trust.
The performance is the first in a series of "medicine bag," lunches and dinners scheduled to coincide with the annual "Celebration of Native America," and the Standing Bear Powwow.
Linda is 7/8 Cherokee and grew up near Tahlequah. Bolin's great-grandmother came to Oklahoma on the Trail of Tears and Bolin was raised in a home where her parents spoke fluent Cherokee and her grandfather told stories in the evenings.
She learned Indian sign language as a 14-year-old and traveled with the international singing and educational group, "Up With People," where she sang and performed Indian sign language.
Bolin has worked in the public school system as a Native American cultural presenter and tutor and is currently employed at Leonardo's Discovery Warehouse, a children's museum and educational center in Enid. She has produced and hosted a Native American program entitled, "Keeper of the Fire," which is shown on the PBS TV stations. As a Native American storyteller and cultural presenter, Bolin has spoken to civic, religious, educational and interracial groups throughout the country.
When Bolin tells stories, she attempts to communicate the feelings of the Native American people and the inner flames that inspire and enlighten them. She hopes her stories will help people recognize the obstacles in the path and turn them into aids to understanding.
"A Native Indian storyteller needs to know in their heart where they came from and be proud of where they are going." said Bolin.
"We need to keep the stories alive so our culture and our tradition and our heritage will remain rich. We don't want to lose our traditions and if we don't continue to practice them, then we do lose them," Bolin concluded.
Part of Bolin's presentation will include a short video, "God's Drum," provided by the Ponca City Arts and Humanities Council.
Bolin and her husband, the Rev. Buddy Bolin, live in Ponca City and have four sons.
Other noon programs in the series include, "Osage Ribbonwork and Finger Weaving" to be presented Sept. 12, and "Traditional Native American Song and Dance," on Sept. 15.
Dinner programs include "Native American Music," on Sept. 18 and "A Tradition of Stories," on Sept. 25.
The current series of lunch and dinner programs will run through the last week in September. Lunch-hour events will be held at the Conoco Fourth Street Clubhouse, 1500 South Fourth, from noon to 1 p.m. and dinner events will be held at the Standing Bear Native American Memorial Park from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
The series is free and open to the public. Everyone is encouraged to bring a sack lunch or dinner, with Pioneer Bank providing drinks for all guests. At the evening programs, guests are also asked to bring lawn chairs or blankets for seating.
The series is co-sponsored by Pioneer Bank and Trust, Ponca City Native American Foundation Inc., and the Ponca City Arts and Humanities Council.
The first Annual Conference of the newly organized Oklahoma Assisted Living Association (Okala) State Chapter of the Assisted Living Federation of America will take place on Friday, Oct. 17, at the Medallion Hotel, 1 North Broadway, in Oklahoma City from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
House Bill 1540, passed earlier this year, authorized the licensure for two types of health care facilities - the Continuum of Care Facility and the Assisted Living Facility. This conference will educate and help long term care providers to be prepared for these changes in the law and the future of elderly care in the State of Oklahoma.
The Conference is for current providers - anyone just beginning in the assisted living business and vendors and partners associated with this fast growing industry.
Okala's mission is to stay abreast of developments and trends in the assisted living industry and to provide a unified voice with state government.
If you would like information regarding the conference or membership information in Okala, call Trace Bentley at (918) 622-2151.
The Daughters and Sons of the American Revolution will conduct a workshop in the Oklahoma Historical Society Auditorium in Oklahoma City Sept. 27, designed to help men and women research and prove ancestry of Revolutionary War Patriots.
Leading the workshop, which begins at 9 a.m., continuing through noon, will be Marquetta Brown of Ponca City. There is no cost for participation. Reservations are preferred, but not required.
A high school contest for essays dealing with an event, person, philosophy, or ideal associated with the American Revolution, Declaration of Independence or framing of the Constitution is being conducted by the Sons of the American Revolution. Top state winners will receive cash awards and plaques, with the winning entry competing for national awards up to $2,000.
Interested schools or individuals may write Pendleton Woods, contest chairman, 541 NW 31, Oklahoma City, 73118.
For further information about the workshop, write Revolutionary Workshop, 541 NW 31, Oklahoma City, OK 73118.
Charles H. McCollum is representing the Huff-Minor American Legion Post 14 of Ponca City this week at the 79th National Convention of The American Legion in Orlando, Fla.
McCollum is serving as representative of the Department of Oklahoma on the Americanism Convention Committee.
This committee is considering a large number of resolutions which deal with several programs, including Boys Nation, National High School Oratorical Contests, American Legion Baseball, the American Legion Education and Scholarship Program and the Counter-Subversive Activities.
The meeting is being held at the Orange County Convention Center, Orlando, Fla.
People continue to respond to a ministry being promoted by Christian Radio KLVV 88.7 FM. On Tuesday afternoons KLVV 88.7 FM brings in special guests who can answer questions for people off the air. Many people have been helped by this service which in the past has included financial experts, psychologists, veterinarians, and even pediatricians.
On Tuesday, Sept. 9 from 5 to 6 p.m., KLVV is inviting Pastor Greg Engle from First Baptist Church in Blackwell to take phone calls at (405) 767-1400.
The calls are kept confidential, but people are encouraged to listen
for calling instructions.
DEATHS
Raymond Gene Johnson, lifetime resident of Ponca City, died at his home, Thursday morning Sept. 4, 1997. He had reached the age of 60 years and 21 days.
The funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. Monday, Sept. 8, 1997, at the First Christian Church, Ponca City. The Rev. Kent Dorsey, pastor of First Christian Church will preside, assisted by associate minister, the Rev. Charles Heyer. Interment will be at Resthaven Memorial Park Cemetery under the direction of Grace Memorial Chapel.
Raymond Gene Johnson was born Aug. 14, 1937, the son of Albert Johnson and Orma (Pitzer) Johnson. Ray attended and completed school in Ponca City in 1957. At the age of 13 he began working as an auto glass installer and glazer for A&L Glass Co., which he purchased in 1975. He sold A&L in 1981 and worked for Conoco for the next three years before opening Johnson Glass Company on Sept. 1, 1985.
Raymond married Mary Lou Mason of the American Legion Children's Home on Oct. 30, 1954, in Ponca City. The couple have since made their home in Ponca City. Raymond was one of the original members of the AMBUCS of Ponca City. A lifetime member, he devoted countless hours to the organization and helped start the AMBUCS Motocross Track in Ponca City. On July 30, 1965, he was initiated into the Masonic Lodge No. 83 in Ponca City and became a 32nd Degree Mason with the Guthrie Consistory. He also belonged to the Scottish Rite of Oklahoma and served as Grand Master of the Blue Lodge in 1972.
He also had various other interests including coaching Ponca City Junior Baseball, racing Go-Karts, riding motorcycles and working in the yard. He was a big supporter of youth and high school athletics over the past 11 years. He also loved motocross racing. He spent a large portion of his time working at the AMBUCS track and loved to watch his grandson race.
He was a devoted fan of all his grandchildren. He also was a DeMolay advisor and had received the Grand Cross of Color from the Supreme Assembly, International Order of the Rainbow for Girls in 1971 for recognition of distinguished services. He was a member of the First Christian Church where he served as deacon for three years.
He is survived by his wife, Mary Lou, of the home; a son, Albert Verdon Johnson, and wife Tammy of Ponca City; two daughters, Deborah Rae Duran and husband Mike of Ponca City and Rebecca Lynn Going of Morrison; six granddaughters, Kara Dawn Johnson of Oklahoma City, Samantha Jay Johnson of Ponca City, Tiffany Louisea Going, Leslie Danielle Going, Shelby Lynn Going and Jennifer Reba Going, all of Morrison; three grandsons, Michael Ray Duran, Zachary Joaquin Duran and Matthew Cameron Johnson, all of Ponca City; and one step-grandson, Wesley Perkins of Oceana, Va.
Also three brothers, John David Johnson and wife, Berenice of Ponca City, Albert Samuel Johnson and wife, Joyce of Ponca City and Martin Dean Johnson and wife Beverly of Hillsboro, Texas; several nieces and nephews and many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and one nephew, John David Johnson Jr.
Casket bearers will be Wray Meek, Ward Bruner, Darrell Hamrick, Jim Walker, Elmer Stephenson, and Dick Morgan. Honorary casket bearers will be John Farris, Jack Blevins, John Sutton, Jack Norris, Willis McGugan, Chuck Hoddy, Doug Nickles, Walt Huddleston and Jimmy Chambers.
Memorial contributions may be made in Mr. Johnson's memory to Hospice of Ponca City, 1904 North Union, Suite 103, Ponca City OK 74601 or to the Friendship Feast, c/o First Christian Church, 210 North Fifth Street, Ponca City, OK 74601.
The family will be at 1509 Richway.
paid obituary
Lloyd V. "Curly" Hain died Friday evening Sept. 5, 1997, at the St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. He was 72.
The funeral service will be held Tuesday morning, at 11 a.m., at the St. Luke's Church of the Nazarene. Burial will follow in the Prairie Lawn Cemetery at Wellington, Kan. Services are under direction of the Trout Funeral Home.
Born March 21, 1925 in Bluff City, Kan., he was the son of Ralph and Blanche (Witters) Hain. He moved to Wellington, Kan. in 1934 and attended school there.
He served during World War II with the U.S. Army 984th Engineers Maintenance Company from May 1943 to September 1945.
On Aug. 9, 1965 he was married to Viola Little Martin in Ponca City. Mr. Hain worked as an automobile mechanic, was a member of the St. Luke's Church of the Nazarene, enjoyed metal detecting and belonged to a metal detecting club. He was an avid fisherman and taught his caring and devoted granddaughter Cindy Holloway, to fish. Well known for his homemade bread and chicken and noodles, he taught a class of ladies at the church to make noodles. Devoted to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, "Pepa" always kept a jar of candy by his chair for the kids when they came, and took them on Saturdays for donuts.
Survivors include his wife, Viola Hain, of Ponca City; daughter, Jeannie Johnston of Odessa, Mo.; step-children, Gary and Janet Martin, and Joveda and Roy Neal of Ponca City; and daughter-in-law, Janet Boxberger, of Ponca City; three brothers, Forrest Hain of Mayfield, Kan., George Hain of Arkansas City, Kan., and Floyd Hain of Kansas City, Mo.; three sisters: Viola Robinson, of Lamar, Mo., June Blankinship of Winfield, Kan., and Naomi Kitterman, of Arkansas City, Mo. Grandchildren are Cindy Holloway, Randy Neal, Rodney Neal, Judith Neal, Calvin Johnston, Tammy Johnston, and Wendy Stobbe. Twelve great-grandchildren survive.
Casket bearers will be grandsons: Randy Neal, Rodney Neal, Jim Armstrong, Steven Stobbe, Terry Holloway and Calvin Johnston. Honorary casket bearers will be Allen Carden, Jim Bates, Howard Myers, Gene Rahn, Gordon Stangland, Mark Macy, Greg Williams, Steve Whitney, Richard Failings, Unis Rory, Chuck Neely, Arkie Bowman, Gene Jennings, Clarence Shaw, and Jim Bales.
Memorial contributions may be made in his name to the St. Luke's Church of the Nazarene, 1715, East Prospect, Ponca City, OK 74604.
The family will be at the home, 210 South Birch.
paid obituary
Verba was born on May 12, 1903, to Ed and Leah Rice. She was born in Noble County, Okla., at the home of her grandparents, Fred and Exilda Murray. The Murrays lived on a farm in the Billings Community. Verba was delivered by a country doctor, Kirkpatrick, who lived across the road from the Murrays.
Verba and her parents lived in the neighboring community of Ceres also in Noble County, Okla. She had one brother, Alfred Rice, who was two years younger, born in 1905. He was called Bud.
When Verba was four, her family moved from Ceres to Red Rock. Verba remembered her family had the best water well in town and when other peoples' wells would go dry in the summer, they would come to the Rices' for water. In 1917, when Verba was 13 years old, her family moved to Ponca City. She graduated from Ponca City High School in 1922. She worked for three years as a stock exchange secretary/clerk for the Marland Oil Company.
On May 7, 1925, she married Dr. Charles R. Hocker, a dentist in Ponca City. From his union two children were born - James Edwin in 1928 and Iris in 1931. Verba had been a member of the First Baptist Church of Ponca City since she was 13 years old. She enjoyed church involvement and worked in various departments. She worked for 10 years with her husband in his dental office.
Verba was a life member of the Oklahoma Dental Auxiliary and National Dental Auxiliary. She spent considerable time tracing her lineage and ancestry. She was proud to be descended from a famous line of Rices. Throughout her life, Verba was interested in the world around her. She had a keen mind and a loving heart. She valued hard work and trusted in our Lord Jesus Christ.
Verba died Wednesday, Aug. 17, 1997, at 94 years of age, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center in Ponca City. She is preceded in death by her husband Charles who died in 1972, her parents Ed and Leah Rice, her brother Alfred Rice and her daughter Iris Hocker Whitesell who died in January 1997.
Verba is survived by her son James E. Hocker and his wife Phyllis of Salem, Mo.; granddaughters Cynthia Hocker Sachs and her husband Jacques "Jack" of Salem, Mo., Melissa Hocker Nettles of New York City, N.Y., and Paula Whitesell Westhusing and husband Paul of Osage Beach, Mo. Verba is also survived by four great-grandchildren; Andrea Sachs and Benjamin Sachs of Salem, Mo., and Kara Westhusing and Kelly Westhusing of Osage Beach, Mo. She will be sadly missed by all who knew and loved her.
A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, Sept. 8, 1997, at the Ponca City Odd Fellows Cemetery with the Rev. Larry Heslip, minister of education, First Baptist Church, officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Trout Funeral Home.
paid obituary
Everett G. Boedecker, 217 North Lake, died Thursday, Sept. 4, 1997 at St Joseph Regional Medical Center. He was 85.
The funeral service will be graveside, Monday, 2 p.m. at Odd Fellows Cemetery with the Rev. Hance Dilbeck, pastor, First Baptist Church, officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of the Trout Funeral Home.
Born Oct. 28, 1911, at Mulhall, he was the son of Edward Jacob and Stella Earle (Carter) Boedecker. He graduated from Mulhall High School in 1929 and then attended the University of Oklahoma College of Engineering where he was a member of the Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity.
On July 25, 1941 he married the former Louise Roberts and the couple established their home in Ponca City. Mr. Boedecker was engaged in the wholesale grocery business with the Schuler Produce Company. He represented his company for 35 years until his retirement in 1975.
He was a longtime member of First Baptist Church where he served for many years on the Treasurers Committee. He was a member of the After Five Lion's Club, the Ponca City Country Club, and a lifetime member of both the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the American Legion where he served in many capacities. He was especially recognized for 17 years service in Community Activities centered largely around three Ponca City nursing homes.
He was a veteran of World War II beginning his service in 1941. He served as a Flight Engineer on the first B-29 service mission over Japan with the 20th Air Force, 73rd Bomb Wing. He was awarded the Distinguished FIying Cross and numerous other medals and honors after completing 33 missions over Japan. At the end of hostilities he was retained as an instructor for B-29 operations. He was honorably discharged in 1946 and returned to his home in Ponca City. He was a charter member of, and remained active in the 73rd Bomb Wing Association until his death.
Survivors include his wife Louise, of the home; and his niece and nephew, Patty and Scott Webb, Central City, Colo.
Friends may call at the Trout Funeral Home until noon Monday.
Mrs. Boedecker will be at home to her friends at The Renaissance, 2616 Turner Rd. where she is now residing.
paid obituary
Amarbe "M.R." Pappan Sr., Ponca City resident, died Friday evening, Sept. 5, 1997, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. He had reached the age of 57 years, 11 months and 30 days.
A prayer service will be held this Sunday evening, Sept. 7, 1997, at the Ponca Indian Baptist Church. The traditional Indian feast will be held at noon on Monday, followed by the funeral service at 2 p.m. The Rev. Richard Pickup of Salina, Okla., will preside over the services, assisted by the Rev. Ted Freeman, pastor of the Ponca Indian Baptist Church. Interment will be at the Ponca Indian Cemetery under the direction of Grace Memorial Chapel.
M.R. was born Sept. 6, 1939 in Pawnee, the son of Leland Pappan Sr. and Bessie (Others) Pappan. He attended Ponca City public schools, later receiving his GED. He enlisted in the U.S. Army on Sept. 10, 1957, and served a tour of duty in Heidelberg, Germany, before his honorable discharge on July 30, 1959.
He married Juanell Crazybear on Oct. 10, 1963, He was a truck driver with United Van Lines for 15 years. He was a member of the Ponca Indian Baptist church. He enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and his friends.
He is survived by two sons, Amarbe Pappan Jr. and Eugene Pappan, both of Ponca City; one daughter, Sarah "Kitty" Callshim, Tonkawa; three brothers, Garland Pappan of Marland, Thomas Pappan Sr. and Leland Pappan Jr., both of Ponca City; two sisters, Molly Eagle and Lillian Eagle, both of Ponca City; nine grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Juanell in July 1996, and one infant daughter.
Casket bearers will be David Eagle Sr., Doug Eagle Jr. Nathaniel Page Jr., Gerald Pappan, Garland Roy Pappan and Thomas Pappan Jr. Honorary casket bearers will be Amarbe Pappan Jr., Amarbe Pappan III, Cary Pappan II, Littleman Pappan, Steve Lieb, Kim Grass, Lee Chalepah, Jonathon Thomas and Forrest Rickman.
"So go our precious brother, we loved you so much, you will always be in our hearts."
paid obituary
TONKAWA - Tad Allen Jones, rural Tonkawa resident, died early Friday morning, Sept. 5, 1997. He was 21.
The funeral will be held at the Tonkawa First Christian Church at 10:30 a.m. Monday with the Rev. Richard Thomasson, minister of the Tonkawa First Baptist Church, officiating. Burial will be in Riverview Cemetery, southwest of Tonkawa under the direction of McCafferty-Bolick Funeral Home. The casket will remain closed at all times.
Tad was born June 15, 1976, in Ponca City, the son of Bud and Camille (Harney) Jones. He attended Tonkawa schools, graduating from Tonkawa High School in 1995. While in school he was active in the FFA and was a 4-year football letterman. He was also active in the First Christian Church Youth Group.
Jones had received his certified welder's certificate from Pioneer Technology and since graduation had been farming and custom haying. He had also been employed part-time by Calvin Crumrine.
Survivors include his parents, Bud and Camille Jones of Tonkawa; one sister Mrs. Troney (Shelley) Langston of Tonkawa; grandmothers, Dorothea Harney and Charlotte Jones, both of Tonkawa; three nephews and one niece. He was preceded in death by his grandfathers, James Harney and Allen Jones.
Memorial contributions may be made in Mr. Jones' name to Tonkawa FFA Scholarship Fund or Tonkawa High School Athletic Department for football, c/o McCafferty-Bolick Funeral Home, 400 East Grand, Tonkawa, OK 74653.
L.D. "Bill" Worley, longtime Ponca City resident, died Thursday morning, Sept. 4, 1997, at Integris Baptist Medical Center, Oklahoma City. He was 77.
The funeral will be held 11 a.m. Monday in the Trout Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Bill Bray officiating. Burial will be in Resthaven Memorial Park Cemetery. Friends may call at the funeral home until 10 a.m. Monday.
L.D. "Bill" Worley was born Jan. 28, 1920, in Caddo, Okla., the son of James and Allie (Owens) Worley. He attended Sulphur schools. Mr. Worley served in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II.
On Sept. 15, 1944, he married Jacqueline M. Cramer in Wheeler, Texas. Worley owned and operated the Capital Barber Shop in Ponca City for many years. He was a member of the St. Paul's United Methodist Church, the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the American Legion.
He is survived by his wife, Jackie, of the home; two daughters, Mrs. H.J. (Pamela) Hall of Austin, Texas; and Mrs. Roy (Monica) Buck, of Minneapolis, Minn.; one son, James D. Worley of Bethany; two sisters, Ena Middleton of Denver, Colo., and Sadie Gramble of Mesa, Ariz. He was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers and two sisters.
Casket bearers will be Russell Fox, Bob Burke, Charlie Norris, Kurt Miller, Johnny Baker, and Charles Holick. Honorary bearers will be his many friends.
The family will be at 408 East Comanche.
Berniece Calkins, Ponca City resident, died Friday evening, Sept. 5, 1997, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. She was 77. The funeral will be held at 2 p.m. Tuesday at Grace Memorial Chapel.
Alma J. Moore, mother of Glynn Moore II, 2032 Mary, died Friday evening,
Sept. 5, 1997, at Highland Nursing Home. She was 82. Arrangements are pending
with Trout Funeral Home.
NEWS BRIEFS
Washington School Picnic - Washington Elementary will hold a back-to-school picnic Thursday at 6 p.m. There will be a short meeting, introduction of staff and then the picnic. Meat, paper goods and drinks will be provided. Those attending are asked to bring one of the following items: a salad for kindergarten and first graders, vegetables for second and third graders as well as the class 4L, and 4B, and fifth and sixth graders are asked to bring desserts. Classroom tours and the book fair will follow the picnic.
Regular Board Meeting - The Kaw Housing Authority will have a regular board meeting Monday at 10 a.m. in the Housing Authority Office at No. 9 Kanza Lane, Newkirk.
Parade Organization - There will be a Veterans Day Parade organizational meeting at the American Legion Post, 407 West South Avenue, Monday at 7 p.m. Anyone interested in helping put together this year's parade is invited. Civic, military, individuals and organizations invited. For more information, call Chuck Gregg (765-1367) or the Legion (765-9073).
Longwood Reunion -The Longwood Community Reunion will be Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., at Lake Ponca Shelterhouses 1 and 2. A potluck dinner will be served at noon with tableware and beverages furnished and a small donation will be taken to cover expenses. The community includes Enterprise, Maple Grove, Foster and Oakview. More information may be obtained by calling 405-765-9771.
Attends Conference - Jana Wilburn of Ponca City was among 3,000 entrepreneurs to attend the Beauti-Control Cosmetics conference held recently in Nashville, Tenn. She attended business and leadership development workshops and received training for new products.
Bingo Canceled - American Legion Post No. 14 has canceled Monday afternoon bingo this week so employees may attend funeral service for Everett Boedecker. Bingo as usual on Tuesday.
Rural Water Meeting - Rural Water District No. 3 (Braden) will meet Wednesday at 7 p.m. at the Braden Community Center.
Royal Neighbors to Meet - Royal Neighbors of America will meet for a regular meeting on Wednesday at 1:30 p.m. at the Community Christian Church, Grand and Stephen.
Burglary - A 911 call was received at 11:21 a.m. Friday from a man in the 1200 block of South Ninth Street reporting a burglary to his residence. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Accident - At 12:23 p.m. Friday a minor accident was reported in the parking lot in the 500 block of East Hartford Avenue. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Stolen Bike - A bike was reported stolen at 2:05 p.m. Friday from the 600 block of Sunset Street. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Accident - Police were notified at 2:08 p.m. Friday of a two vehicle non-injury accident in the 1400 block of East Hartford Avenue. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Arrest - A 16-year-old boy was arrested at 7:11 p.m. Friday at Ninth Street and South Avenue for possession of firearm after being adjudicated.
Assault - An assault and battery report was taken when a woman in the 1500 block of East Bradley Avenue reported that her son and another child had been assaulted by two other children.
Arrest - Police arrested a 21-year-old man for possession of drug paraphernalia and public intoxication in the 400 block of South Fourteenth Street at 12:33 a.m. Saturday.
Arrest - A 21-year-old man was arrested at 2:20 a.m. Saturday at Ninth Street and South Avenue for driving under the influence and unsafe lane change.
Arrest - Police arrested a 19-year-old man at 2:24 a.m. Saturday
in the 100 block of South Osage Street on city warrants.
LIFESTYLES
Episcopal Church Women met for a salad luncheon and the Fall General meeting Sept. 4 at the parish hall of Grace Episcopal Church.
Registration began at 9:30 a.m. followed by Holy Eucharist, a business session and lunch. The pre-meal offering was designated for VOOM. Pauline Jones presented the program "Paintings by Pauline."
During the business portion of the meeting the 1998-99 slate of officers was presented and voted in by acclamation. Those selected are Pauline Jones, president; Maxine Hunt, vice president; Linda Cassity, secretary; Jane Worstell, treasurer, and Phyllis Kennedy, past president and parliamentarian.
Five members of the Ponca City Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution attended a workshop in Norman Aug. 22 through Aug. 24. They were Virginia Mair, Regent; June Meade, State Scholarship chairman; Charlotte Hutchens, secretary; Eleanor Coates, treasurer, and Marquetta Brown, State organizing secretary.
Theme for the workshop was "Patriots with a Plan." State officers and chairmen gave information to the District Directors, who assembled the material and gave it to the chapter regents.
Special guests for the event were Janet Ramos, Vice President General and a Maine Daughter. Mrs. Ramos is a candidate for the office of Chaplain General with the Love Associates.
Mrs. Vincent Traftas, State Regent of the Kansas Society, was also a guest and she spoke to the Chapter Regents Club on "Lewis and Clark: Post Revolutionary War Patriots."
On Sunday, the luncheon speaker was Joe Todd of the Oklahoma Historical Society. He presented a slide show concerning the history of the battleship, USS Oklahoma.
The Singles Network is a social and support organization for single adults, divorced, widowed or never married. A monthly calendar is mailed to all members and dues are $10 per year. Members wish to emphasize that the organization is not a dating service.
Sunday, Sept. 7: Discussion group meets at 6:30 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church. Members will go for a snack afterwards.
Tuesday, Sept. 9: VCR party at 7 p.m. Those attending are asked to bring snacks and call Lenora, 767-1417.
Wednesday, Sept. 10: Members will eat at Hunan Gardens on North Fourteenth at 6 p.m. Call Shery, 762-1987.
Thursday, Sept. 11: Kay County Fair night. Members are to meet inside the gate at the hamburger stand at 6:30 p.m. Call Shery.
Saturday, Sept. 13: Barn Dance at the Mertz Barn. A cookout is planned for 6:30 p.m. at the Fifth Street Park. Meat will be furnished and those attending are asked to bring a covered dish. Call Dorothy, 765-1403.
Music for the benefit Barn Dance and Show to be held Sept. 13 from 7 to 10 p.m. at the Mertz Barn will be provided by Jim and Kim Lansford, a husband and wife team from Galena, Mo.
Tickets may be purchased at banks in Ponca City, Newkirk, Blackwell and Tonkawa, as well as at the Ponca City Cultural Center, McVay's, Jimmy's Western Wear and Brace Books & More in Ponca City. Tickets are $10 for singles or $25 for a family and include refreshments and soft drinks. Directions to the barn are printed on the back of the tickets. Door prizes will be given and photo opportunities by Photo Pro will be available.
Wesley Brown of Tulsa will call square, round and contra or line dances. He has been calling dances for six years. No experience is necessary for those dancing because Brown calls out the instructions.
Jim and Kim met at Silver Dollar City when Jim was playing in a guitar contest. He came in second in the musical competition. Jim is from northern New Jersey originally. His father is from Louisiana and his mother from Beggs, Okla. Jim has lived in the Ozarks for nearly 20 years, and started playing piano when he was eight years old.
"I enjoyed the music but I remember having to do recitals and I hated it. I don't think I was very good but I took for four years," Jim reported. He then began playing clarinet and later guitar. These days he primarily plays fiddle but also plays banjo, guitar, and mandolin.
Born and reared in Kansas City, Kim has lived in the Ozarks for the last 15 or 20 years. Her musical career also began at an early age.
"I started playing piano in fourth grade but I didn't start playing old-time music until I was in my early twenties. I first became active in old-time music and played hammered dulcimer and mountain dulcimer but later I got interested in guitar," she said.
Art Galbraith and Fred Stoneking, two old-time fiddlers from the Springfield, Mo. area inspired her in old-time music when she met them and listened to them play. Kim is a Reading Specialist and Title One Coordinator for the Reeds Springs School system and Jim raises sheep.
The Lansfords are in great demand as musicians said a spokesperson. They play in the Branson area and have performed in the Black Mountain Festival in North Carolina, Ozark Folk Festival in Mountain View; Ozark Heritage Festival in West Plains, and in the House Concert Series in Springfield and at many other events
A "family-friendly affair," the Friends of the Cultural Center Museum Foundation are sponsoring the show. Proceeds go for capital improvements for the Cultural Center. The Friends are dedicated to revitalizing the Cultural Center and promoting American and Oklahoma heritage. Early American dances reflect history. During Colonial days, line dancing was popular but after the Revolution, it fell into disfavor because it was English. The few dances that remained were renamed as in "British Sorrow."
In the early 1800's, a line dance was called "Hull's Victory". Hull was the Captain of the USS Constitution when it celebrated a victory over the French, according to Brown, who enjoys collecting facts about dances, as well as calling and dancing them.
Committee for the barn dance and show has the following members: Georgia Cline and Marquetta Brown, co-chairmen; Forrest Mertz, Sandy Graves, Rosalie Bolene, June Meade, Paula Denson, Margaret Husted and Wanda Lee Jones.
Patricia Ann Pfeiffer and Kenneth Duane Parr were united in marriage Aug. 30, 1997 in Eureka Springs, Ark.
The sunset ceremony was held on the balcony of the couple's honeymoon cottage nestled high in the Ozark Mountains overlooking Beaver Lake. The Rev. Jimmy Martin of the First Baptist Church of Eureka Springs performed the double ring vows.
The bride wore an ivory linen tea-length designer suit. The bodice was embellished with lace appliques and the sleeves and the back of the suit were created of lace. She chose to carry a bouquet of red, yellow and white roses symbolic of love, friendship and peace.
The song "Answer to My Prayer" by Skip Ewing was played as the ceremony began. The bride was given in marriage by her brother, Matthew Pfeiffer.
In attendance were the bride's mother, Ms. Guyla Pfeiffer of Ponca City, Okla., brother Matthew Pfeiffer of The Woodlands, Texas, Ms. Bobbie Johnson of Huntsville, Texas and Melvin Coffman of San Diego, Calif.
Following the ceremony the bridal party joined the couple in a celebration dinner held on the patio of the Bistro Restaurant in downtown Eureka Springs.
The bride is the daughter of Ms. Guyla Pfeiffer and the late Edward Pfeiffer. She graduated with honors from the University of St. Thomas with a BBA in Business Administration and Economics. Mrs. Parr is employed by the Ponca City News as City Reporter.
The bridegroom is the son of the late Ozell and Marvin Parr. He graduated from Oklahoma State University with a BS in Civil Engineering. Parr is the Director of Public Works for the City of Ponca City.
The couple has established residency in Ponca City. A post-wedding reception is being planned.
Christi Payne and John Caldwell were united in marriage on August 23, 1997, at 2 p.m. in a candlelight ceremony at St. Luke's Church of the Nazarene in Ponca City. The double ring ceremony was officiated by the Rev. William Bonee, pastor of St. Luke's. Marlyn Ronan organist, and Annette Williams, pianist, played traditional wedding music. As the mothers were escorted in and during the lighting of the family unity candles taped music "Keeper of the Stars" was played. During the lighting of the Unity Candle by the bride and bridegroom "I Cross My Heart" was played.
Parents of the bride are Ms. Cathy Payne and Max Payne. Parents of the bridegroom are Barbara and Johnny Caldwell Jr. The bride is the granddaughter of Mary Davis and Pete Ward. Grandparents of the bridegroom are Lillie Murray of Stillwater and John and Arelena Caldwell.
The church sanctuary was decorated with seven-branched candelabra, green plants and peace lilies. Navy blue and burgundy bows highlighted the candelabra and the pews. A lighted cross in the background cast a soft light over the setting.
The bride was escorted to the altar and given in marriage by her father. She was attired in a floor length silk designer gown with a fitted bodice of sequins and pearls. The bodice was enhanced by a sweetheart, off the shoulder neckline, short sleeves and a matching cathedral length train.
The bridal bouquet of burgundy, Navy blue and ivory roses, daisies, and lilies was adorned with white and ivory net, and pearls with blue and burgundy ribbons tied in love knots. The flowers were designed and created by the mother of the bridegroom. The bride's mother created and fashioned the attendants gowns.
Shelli Caldwell, sister of the bride and sister-in-law of the bridegroom, was the Matron of Honor. Her dress was a tea length burgundy gown with a rounded neckline. The gown was tied in the back with a large bow. Bridesmaids were Shawna Payne, sister-in-law of the bride; Jeanne Gory, sister of the bridegroom; Dianna Monks of Edmond, sister of the bridegroom, and Kayla Caldwell, niece of the bride and niece of the bridegroom. Their gowns were identical to that of the honor attendant. They carried bouquets of burgundy, Navy blue, and ivory roses. Kelsey Caldwell, niece of the bride and niece of the groom, served as flower girl. She wore a burgundy gown similar to the other attendants and carried a basket of rose petals. Sharon Belair kept the guest book.
The bridegroom was attired in a black tuxedo with tails a white shirt and black tie and cummerbund. He wore a white rose boutonniere with burgundy and blue accents.
Matthew Caldwell and Andrew Caldwell of Tonkawa served their father as Best Men. They wore black tuxedo pants, with white shirts and burgundy ties and cummerbunds. Their boutonnieres were of burgundy roses. The groomsmen were Chris Caldwell, brother of the bridegroom and brother-in- law of the bride; Jesse Payne, brother of the bride; Neil Gory, brother-in-law of the bridegroom, and Alan Monks of Edmond, brother-in-law of the bridegroom. Todd Shepherd, cousin of the bride, served as usher and candlelighter. Stephen Gory, nephew of the bridegroom, was ringbearer and Blake Gory, nephew of the bridegroom, carried the Bible. Mike Caldwell, nephew of the bride and nephew of the bridegroom, and Dodger Monks of Edmond, nephew of the bridegroom, were honorary attendants. The males in the wedding party were dressed identically to the best men.
The reception was held at the home of the bridegroom's parents on Garden Street. The three-tiered wedding cake was white with ivory roses and bells and held a miniature bridal couple on top. Sharon Belair and Debra Wright of Orlando assisted at the reception.
The couple has established a home in Ponca City. The bride is employed at Pioneer Technology Center and the bridegroom by Asplundh Tree Trimming.
Announcement is being made of the approaching marriage of Crystal M. Suggs and Eric T. Isenberg. Parents of the couple are Mr. and Mrs. Walter L. Suggs and Mr. and Mrs. Eric L. Isenberg.
The wedding will be at 4 p.m. Sept. 27 at the First Freewill Baptist Church with the Rev. David L. Bigger officiating. A reception will follow.
The First Christian Church will be the setting Sept. 27 for the wedding of Kristi L. Guthrie and Jason D. Beier. Parents of the couple are Mr. and Mrs. Bob Banta, 316 South Seventh, and Mr. and Mrs. David Beier of Kingwood, Texas.
The bride-to-be is a graduate of Ponca City High School and Northern Oklahoma College. She is a flight attendant for American Airlines in Dallas, Texas.
Beier, a graduate of Kingwood High School in Texas, attended the Culinary Institute of America in Houston, Texas. He is employed as Food and Beverage manager at the Trophy Country Club in Texas.
Mr. and Mrs. Wayne D. Bell, 218 North Sixth, will celebrate their 50th Wedding Anniversary today. A family dinner was held Saturday evening at their home. Hosts for the celebration were the couple's children and families, Ronald W. and Joleen Bell of Ponca City; Douglas and Carol Bell of Seminole; Larry and Sharmi (Bell) Williams of Ponca City; David L. Bell of Redondo Beach, Calif; Gary and Janibeth (Bell) Gallagher of Ponca City and Ken and Jacquelyn (Bell) Kliewer of Stillwater. Mr. and Mrs. Bell have 13 grandchildren.
Wayne D. Bell and the former Doris I. Robertson were married Sept. 7, 1947 in the First Christian Church at Paonia, Colo. They made their first home in Stillwater where both were students at Oklahoma A & M. They moved to Ponca City in 1950. They have resided in their present home for 41 years.
Mr. Bell was employed by Cities Service Oil Company, leaving there to devote his full time to Bell's Insurance, Tax and Accounting. He is still active in the Tax and Accounting business. Mr. Bell is a member of American Legion, V.F.W., Masonic Lodge and The Retired Officers Association. He enjoys sporting events, especially those involving either his grandchildren or OSU.
Mrs. Bell worked in the Tax business with her husband prior to teaching Art at Woodlands School for 18 years, retiring in 1988. Mr. and Mrs. Bell have owned and operated several retail businesses in Ponca City, including Bell's Uniform Shop and Spogo's Tennis and Ski Shop. She particularly enjoys painting and snow skiing. They have both been active members of First Baptist Church since their marriage and enjoy traveling and attending family gatherings.
The Bell family hosted the Robertson Reunion August 8-10 at their home during which an anniversary reception was attended by members of both the Robertson and Bell families. Guests attending from Ponca City were Cecil A. and Doyle Bell, Norma Troxell, Dick and Janice Bell, Lynn and Carolyn (Robertson) Hopkins and Drew Hopkins, Bob and Helen Axtell and Erma Mendenhall.
Attending from Tulsa were Art and Mary Lou Bell and children Janice K. Clifton and Art Bell, Jr. Also attending were guests from Stillwater, Enid, Muskogee, Texhoma and Jay. Out of state visitors included relatives from Alaska, Idaho, California, Colorado, Kansas, Iowa, Arkansas and Texas.
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Olinger, 2216 John, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary at a reception Sept. 14, 2-4 p.m., in the Williamsburg Parlor of the First Baptist Church. Friends and relatives of the couple are invited to attend the reception. No other invitations are being issued. The couple requests no gifts.
Hosts for the occasion will be the couple's children: Debbie Blankenship of Gulf Shores, Ala., James Olinger of Tulsa and Helen Luedke of Billings, Mont.
Robert Olinger and the former Frances Beebe were married Sept. 12, 1937. Both are graduates of Ponca City High School and except for two years in Oklahoma City have made their home in Ponca City.
Mrs. Olinger came to Ponca City as a child, with her parents, from Blackwell. Mr. Olinger was born in Unionville, Mo. and moved, with his parents, to Ponca City in 1928. He was a lab technician in the Research and Development Department at Conoco until retirement in 1979 after 37 years of employment. Both are active in the Disciples Sunday School Class at First Baptist Church.
Mr. and Mrs. Olinger have seven grandchildren: Bobby and James Blankenship, Marci and Keri Olinger, Emily, Allison and Scott Luedke.
Mr. and Mrs. Donald E. Blimm of Ponca City announce the engagement of their daughter, Sharon Diane, to Kevin Curtis Junge, son of Mr. and Mrs. Curtis L. Junge of Edmond. The wedding is planned for Oct. 17 at St. Monica's Catholic Church in Edmond. The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Lucille Harrah of Ponca City.
Miss Blimm is a 1990 graduate of Ponca City High School and a 1995 graduate of the University of Central Oklahoma. She is assistant manager for Kickingbird Cinemas in Edmond. The prospective bridegroom is a 1996 graduate of Oklahoma State University and is a Management Intern with the Medallion Hotel in Oklahoma City.
Remember - Sertoma Club's Annual Kolachi Sale started Friday with orders being taken through Sept. 12.
To order, call 765-0204 between the hours of 9:30 a.m. to noon and 2:30 to 4 p.m. or after 5 p.m., call 765-3007.
Orders will be taken through Sept. 12. Cost is $12 a dozen or $6 a half dozen, and the goodies come in cherry, apple, and apricot.
Pickup will be on Friday, Sept. 19 at the SJRMC Speech Pathology Office, 1215 East Hartford.
Proceeds will be used for the club's service projects, according to Glenda Brown, Sertoma president.
The Class of 1947, Ponca City High School, is still looking for three missing classmates, in preparation for their 50th Class Reunion scheduled for Sept. 12 through 14.
A spokesperson for the Class relates the Bella Vista Band is coming to play for the occasion and class members are excited about celebrating this special class reunion.
So far, the class has not been able to locate Betty Danhour, Ronald Marr and Robert Newman. Anyone knowing of their whereabouts is asked to get in touch with either Marie Thiele King at 762-2184 or Richard Howard at 765-7305.
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.
If the photo is a snapshot rather than a professional photogr