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From the pages of The Ponca City News, Thursday, September 10, 1998 LOCAL DEATHS NEWS BRIEFS SPORTS GARDENING LOCALHartford Avenue Project Advances With Laying of Concrete Under Way Hartford Avenue Project Advances With Laying of Concrete Under WayBy PATTI PFEIFFER News Staff Writer A small “neighborhood watch party” gathered along Hartford Avenue early this morning to watch as the first of the concrete was poured onto what will soon be the “new and approved” Hartford Avenue. It was, the neighbors hope, the beginning of the end to their ordeal and the headaches that the construction has brought to their neighborhood. “I have been through this for two summers and I am so happy to see the cement trucks and the concrete actually being poured — it is why we are all out here celebrating,” Cleta Kirkpatrick said. “With the construction and school traffic we have all had trouble getting in and out of our subdivision.” Across the street Bob and Sue Braden watched as crews poured, leveled and smoothed the gooey gray substance into a road. The Bradens have been named the “Block Supervisors” by neighbors for they have a “bird’s eye view of the work under way. From the very beginning the Bradens have sat in the two chairs they placed in their yard, on the very edge of the construction site and have kept a vigil and close eye on the construction work as it has progressed over the months. “I have been watching since day one,” Bob Braden says. “I’m happy to see them pouring the concrete but I just hope they finish it before the snow begins to fly.” Next to Bob, Bill Kirkpatrick stands and watches. “I am definitely happy to see the concrete being poured — this is a monumental day for us!” The $575,000 Phase II city project involves the widening and reconstruction of the major thoroughfare from Jane Street to east of Joe Street. Construction began in May and is “anticipated” to be completed by the middle of October — weather permitting. New Kanza Health Clinic Dedicated Near NewkirkBy LOUISE ABERCROMBIE News Staff Writer WHITE PLUME — U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Administrator for the Southern Plains Region Wayne Sims Wednesday praised the Kaw Nation for being a model for all other Indian Tribes and for all agencies. Sims’ remarks were made during the dedication ceremonies at the Kanza Health Clinic, located at White Plume, one mile east of Newkirk. Sims applauded the efforts of the Kaws for their housing project as well as the Kanza Health and Wellness Complex, which includes the Johnnie Ray McCauley Community Center, the Kanza Health Clinic and the soon-to-be completed Kanza Wellness Center. Although the project has $1.3 million of HUD money invested, Sims noted it took a lot of resources and commitment by the tribe and other agencies to bring the project to reality. Sims talked about the cooperation and agreements between the municipality of Newkirk and the tribe and other entities including Indian Health Services. Other sources included the City of Newkirk, using a Rural Economic Action Program (REAP) grant from Northern Oklahoma Development Association (NODA), which was instrumental in supplying utilities to the complex. Kanza Tribe The Kaw Tribe, which came from Kansas, was originally known as Kanzas. At the beginning of the ceremony, the Rev. Thomas Roughface said, “It is our heritage and our pride that brings us to where we are today.” After a colorful entry of the American, Oklahoma and Kanza flags, presented by tribe members, and the Lord’s Prayer, song by Jim Estes, Kaw Nation Chairman Wanda Stone spoke. Stone said, “As a sovereign tribal government, the Kaw Executive Council has a vision for the Kanza people. Today’s dedication of the Kanza Health Clinic commemorates a major milestone toward achievement of that vision. “We realized in 1994, that the Kaw people were not accessing the services offered at existing health care facilities, the concern for health of the people prompted the establishment of ‘Heath Promotion and Disease Prevention,’ as our primary health goal. We developed a master plan for a Health and Wellness Complex that would assist us to bring needed services.” She explained, “Phase one of this vision was achieved when the Johnnie Ray McCauley Community Center opened its doors in April of 1997. Today we celebrate the completion of Phase II, The Kanza Health Clinic. The third phase, the Kanza Wellness Center, is scheduled to be completed in October. Because of the success of this complex and consistent with overall tribal goals, the Kaw Executive Council has now approved the establishment of the Kanza Child Care Facility to be located within the Health and Wellness Complex.” Ms. Stone recognized the Southern Plains Indian Community Development Block Grant office of HUD, Indian Health Service and the City of Newkirk in respect to common goals. Sen. Paul Muegge brought greetings from Stratton Taylor, State Senate president pro tem, on behalf of the State of Oklahoma. He told of his concern about rural health care. “We must make things happen to have rural health care access.” He commended the Kaw Nation and Chairman Stone for being a shining star in health care. Bill Nuttle, who was the CDBG project chairman, introduced Sims. The Southern Plains region includes, Oklahoma, Kansas and Texas and other states. Mistress of ceremonies was Carolyn L. Nuttle, who is the Self-Governance director for the Tribe. She introduced Paula Williams, who had worked with the Tribe, and is now with the Office of Tribal Self-Governance with the Indian Health Services. Carol Purdy, mayor of Newkirk brought greetings for the City of Newkirk. Introduction of clinic personnel was by director Jim Estes. The ceremony closed with the dedication prayer by Luther Pepper, vice chairman of the Kaw Nation. The flag song and veterans song presented at the beginning of the program was by Oliver Littlecook. Flag bearers were Luther Pepper, Ray Ball, David Echo Hawk and Colt Donelson. Giving the Lord’s Prayer in Indian sign language were Jim Estes, Lavina Countryman and Amanda Wamego, Kaw Princess. OSBI Offering $5,000 Reward In Murder of Kaw City WomanBy PATTI PFEIFFER News Staff Writer While Ponca City police continue to investigate the recent murder of an elderly woman whose body was discovered in her home Aug. 29, Kay County Sheriff’s detectives struggle to find a suspect in the nine-month-old investigation of a Kaw City woman’s murder. With the assistance of and a big incentive from a state agency, detectives are hoping the Kaw City investigation may now move forward and closer to an end and the apprehension of a suspect. The Oklahoma Bureau of Investigation announced Wednesday that it is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to the arrest and/or conviction of the person or persons responsible for the Dec. 22 murder of Shirley Kay Clinton. Her remains were discovered among the charred remnants of her home, which investigators believe was set on fire by the suspect as a means to destroy evidence. Clinton’s two daughters were at home at the time of the murder and were assaulted, tied up and left in the burning structure. However, the two young girls managed to free themselves and escaped with only minor physical injuries. According to Chief Criminal Deputy Buddy Thomas, the girls gave a description of the suspect months ago and a composite drawing of the suspect was then released. “We have developed a suspect or two and are currently talking to people and have taken sworn statements that we feel are important in this case. But there is really nothing new to report in this case, “ Thomas said. “The Sheriff’s office and the OSBI are hoping that the reward will rekindle interest in the case because money sometimes has a way of bringing bugs out of the woodwork and prompting people to come forward that haven’t been willing to do so before,” he added. The suspect has been described as a white male, approximately 50-years-old, 6 feet tall and a slender build. Thomas says that they know that the suspect(s) were indeed in the area at the time of the murder. Meanwhile, Ponca City Police have nothing more to report in the brutal murder of 86-year-old Margaret Mock, whose body was discovered by her daughter. “We don’t have anything at this point,” Detective Captain Dwaine Vincent said earlier this week. The difficulty in solving these murder cases is not surprising to Thomas, who says that actually solving crimes is becoming increasingly more difficult for law enforcement officers for several reasons. According to the deputy, there are several things making it harder for law enforcement officials to solve cases today. First, he says, is the increase in crime. “We are indeed experiencing an increase in crime in Kay County. We think of this county as being meek and mild but rural America in this day and age is becoming just as accessible to crime as big cities,” Thomas says. Secondly, criminals are becoming more educated. “Television programs are teaching people how to commit crimes and how to best get away with it and this is making it harder on law enforcement and the judicial system as a whole,” he states. However, the Clinton case is one case Thomas wants desperately to solve. He says he will not rest until this case is solved, the suspects are apprehended and justice is served. “If we don’t do anything else I hope we solve this case,” Thomas said. “We’re continuing our investigation and won’t let up until we solve it.” Work Force, Housing, Mass Transit Biggest EDAB WoesBy LOUISE ABERCROMBIE News Business Editor Lack of an adequate work force continues to be a problem for industry and business, according to reports given at the Tuesday meeting of Ponca City Economic Development Advisory Board (EDAB). The Ponca City work force continues to be “stretched” with local firms just “trading” employees, according to a report by George Paczkowski of the Business Committee. Also Paczkowski said there seems to be a shortage of skilled workers as well as entry level employees. Right now the work force appears to be “churning.” During the New Industry report by Carl Renfro, he told that one of the industries that committee is working with would move to Ponca City and bring some of their work force. However then there is a problem of housing. All of the rentals are apparently full and some companies are renting hotel space for employees. J.B. Smith, local realtor, said some property owners are reluctant to rent to people who have been in Ponca City less than three months. He told of damage and vandalism to property. EDAB board members have been meeting with some contractors and others interested in building “affordable” housing. Linda Brown, EDAB chairman, said she had several calls after the last meeting and there seems to be some “energy” out there. Art Mires, who is with the Pioneer Transportation Inc., group reported to the EDAB Board meeting Tuesday about progress being made toward mass transportation for Ponca City. He told of possible federal grant matches, and other avenues for providing public transportation. Pioneer Transportation Inc., has a 15 member board and is a nonprofit organization attempting to bring mass transportation to Ponca City. Application is ready to submit to the federal government. The missing part is the matching funding, according to Mires. The proposal would offer transportation from 5 a.m., to 9 p.m., seven days a week. Plans are to purchase two handicap accessible buses. This cost will be funded 75 percent by the federal government, operating costs would be 50 percent federally funded, after the fares collected are subtracted. Mires said the first year about $180,000 would be needed for operating costs and after that about $160,000. He told that Ada’s project had been funded by the college, City and corporations. Some of the federal funding would come from the Inter Urban Transit Act, which provided the funds for sidewalks on North Fourteenth. He announced a hearing will be held at 7 p.m., at Pioneer Technology Center on Sept. 29. Mires said they needed letters of support from institutions saying “we want transportation services and we’re willing to buy a certain percentage.” Jan Jarrett, EDAB executive director, said he hoped there was some way to “jump start” the project as the need is there now. About prospects, Renfro said there are two potential industries from Kansas interesting in locating in Ponca City. He also reported that David Boren, Oklahoma University president, and the new technology “czar” Skip Porter will be visiting the space available for lease at Conoco later this month. Jarrett told about progress on the signage for the Industrial Park, also announced the Economic Impact Study will be discussed at a Town Hall meeting slated for 7 p.m., Sept. 21 at the Public Safety Center. Gary Martin, city manager, said the meeting will be televised. The research was by Mark Sneed. The meeting will center on the impact Thorn Apple Valley, Sykes and other firms have had on Ponca City. The only action item on the agenda was a recommendation of compensating a NOC intern $400 for research services provided. The board approved. ‘Gone With the Wind’ Legendary FilmThe story of Scarlett and Rhett is one of the most enduring fictions in American film. And the story of producing “Gone With the Wind” is one of its most enduring truths. Both leading women wanted their roles and neither of the leading men did. The producer was a tyrant, the film was over-budget, and King Kong lost his home in the burning of Atlanta. It’s the truth behind the film playing now at the Poncan Theatre. The novel by Margaret Mitchell fueled public anticipation. Long before the film was cast, a studio poll showed that 98 percent of their fans wanted Clark Gable as the devilish Rhett Butler. But Gable wanted nothing to do with the role. Gable appreciated the fans’ support, but “Rhett was too big an order, too much for any actor to tackle” he said. “I didn’t want any part of him.” The producer, David Selznick, bought him out. He knew that Gable wanted a divorce from his wife so he could marry Carole Lombard. Selznick came up with a bonus that paid for the divorce and brought Gable to the film. Leslie Howard also avoided the film. He knew he was being considered for Ashley Wilkes, the man so adored by Scarlett O’Hara. But Ashley was not interesting to Howard. Ashley is a generous, kind, understanding man who chooses Melanie over the more flamboyant and passionate Scarlett. Ashley was too “ineffectual” for Howard, who had played similar characters before. “I haven’t the slightest intention of playing another weak, watery character,” he said. He was finally won over by Selznick’s promise to make him co-producer of Selznick’s next project, “Intermezzo” with Cary Grant and Ingrid Bergman. The casting of Scarlett was the most challenging task of all. Selznick’s team considered Paulette Goddard, Lucille Ball, Joan Crawford, Tallulah Bankhead, Bette Davis, Katharine Hepburn, and others. In addition, 1,400 young unknowns were auditioned in a nationwide talent search. As early as a year before shooting began, Selznick wrote a memo that said “I am reaching the end of my rope” on the search for Scarlett. He wanted a mixture of qualities. Davis wasn’t girlish enough. Hepburn lacked the smoldering sexuality. He continued searching. But in December 1938, filming had to begin whether Scarlett was cast or not. Filming began with the burning of Atlanta, a stroke of genius. Selznick owned a storage area in Los Angeles. The producer would need the land for the huge scenes of Tara and Atlanta. But it was filled with stored sets from previous films, including the native village from “King Kong.” Selznick cleared the space by burning the old sets, and then filmed the fire for the great scene of Atlanta burning during the war. This was the night the filming began. David Selznick was watching the fire when his brother came up behind him, called his name, and introduced him to Vivien Leigh with the words, “I want you to meet Scarlett O’Hara.” Vivien Leigh was a star-struck schoolgirl in the early 1930s. Her favorite screen actor was Leslie Howard and the most magnetic stage actor was Laurence Olivier. Leigh managed to meet one idol when she was cast in a small role in “Fire Over England,” starring Olivier. They fell in love. When Olivier came to Hollywood to film “Wuthering Heights,” Leigh came to visit. It was December 1938. The two had dinner with Selznick’s brother on that fateful evening of the burning of Atlanta, and the rest is history. At age 25, Vivien Leigh became Scarlett O’Hara. The next year, she picked up her first Oscar. “Gone With the Wind” is showing at the Poncan Theatre at 104 East Grand. For show times, consult the Ponca City News or call the theater at 580-765-0943. GWTW will not show on Saturday, due to the live performance of “Idols of the King.” Chamber NewsResponding to Y2K Assurance Letters: What Are You Signing? The Chamber’s Y2K Computer Compliance Task Force continues its work to help prepare Ponca City businesses be ready for the Millennium. As you probably know, many computer systems and software programs are simply not equipped to handle the date change as we move into the next century. Predictions on the impact of this problem range widely in terms of the potential problems for our economy. But one thing is certain, if you and your business take steps to insure that your systems are Y2K compliant, the negative impact can be greatly diminished. Outside of your control are the vendors you buy from and the customers and clients you sell to. Many companies are now in the process of asking for assurances from their business partners that you won’t cause them problems because you aren’t Y2K compliant. What do you do when you get a letter from either a vendor or a customer that requires you to state that you are ready for the Millennium? Your company has either already or will soon receive letters asking you for written assurances regarding your readiness for Y2K and, in many cases, seeking to create or expand your company’s liability of Y2K related problems. Be careful to protect your company against being “set up” for litigation by signing unreasonable assurance letters, because your written assurance of compliance may be Exhibit I in a Y2K lawsuit. First and foremost, your company should formulate a consistent strategy for responding to assurance letters. The same person should answer all inquiries you receive, and the content of your answers should be uniform and accurate. You should exercise caution before giving any response, and a number of issues should be considered. Among them: How is “Year 2000 Compliant” defined, and what are you being asked to promise? Does the assurance apply to the conduct of your entire business or only to specific products or services? Could an assurance letter subject your company to liability for problems attributable to Y2K noncompliance by others? Do you increase your company’s financial exposure by signing? Are there legal risks for refusing to sign? So you can see that between now and the beginning of the new century, the potential problems only seem to get more difficult. On assurance letters, when in doubt, seek the advice of your lawyer before signing. The Chamber will continue to build its assistance program on this issue and we will keep our membership up to date with direct assistance and suggestions on how to best be prepared. The clock is ticking. 170th Combat Engineers Set Reunion HereMember of the 170th Combat Engineers Battalion will be gathering in Ponca City this weekend to renew old friendships and relive the good as well as the bad memories. They will also honor those who have gone before them. The 170th Combat Engineers Battalion was engaged in battles in the Philippines, Okinawa and occupied Korea 1943 through 1946. Hosts for the event here in Ponca City will be Herb and Jackie Skidmore who have helped organize events here. Events for the reunion start Friday with a tour of the Marland Mansion in the morning and a tour of the Cultural Center and Conoco Board Room in the afternoon. The evening events include the Skidmore’s presentation of a video about five World War II generals. The video is entitled “The Year of the Generals” with commentary by Charles Kuralt and Gen. Norman Schwartzkopf. Saturday starts off with committee meetings and a battalion meeting for all in attendance and there will be a white elephant sale in the afternoon. The evening hosts a banquet at the American Legion club. The 1999 reunion of the 170th Combat Engineers Battalion will be held in St. Joseph, Mo. DARE Fund Raiser SaturdayBy PATTI PFEIFFER News Staff Writer It will be a joint effort of police officers and supermarket employees that will undertake the latest fund raiser attempt for the local Drug Abuse Resistance Education program (D.A.R.E.). On Saturday, the local groups will converge at United Supermarket and begin a four-hour fund raiser that will include a live remote broadcast from a local radio station from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. According to police spokesperson Sherry Bowers United employees will be wearing D.A.R.E. T-shirts and D.A.R.E. officers will be handing out stickers and other items to children at the store. A stuffed “DAREN the Lion” will be given away in a drawing and Daren the Lion Beanie Buddies will be offered for sale. “Ask any elementary school kid and they will tell you that Daren is the mascot for the DARE Program — he stands for the courage that kids need to help them say no to their friends who might offer them drugs or ask them to do something they know is wrong,” said D.A.R.E. officer Regeneia Van Arsdale. “These adorable six-inch beanies are cute and cuddly and would make a great gift for a graduating D.A.R.E. student or anyone young or old.” The anti-drug and anti-gang D.A.R.E. program teaches sixth grade children the tools of resistance in a 17-week program while instructing them on how and why they should “just say no.” Local seventh graders will receive a ten-week course to help strengthen their skills and aimed at resisting the pressures to take drugs or be involved in violence. In addition, students will be taught skills that will help them throughout their lives. “They also learn skills that will help them throughout their life such as how to reduce stress without taking drugs and the younger children — those in kindergarten through the fourth grade — are taught four lessons per year in areas such as what is safe to taste, who can help them if they have a problem and keeping themselves safe at home and in their community,” Van Arsdale explained. “The D.A.R.E. program is a not just cooperative effort of the Ponca City Police Department and the Ponca City Public School System but of the entire community.” Once again the programs are being taught by Van Arsdale and the 7th grade program will be taught by Officer David Hill and Sgt. Randy Empting. Anyone wanting to make a contribution to the local program can make a donation at United Supermarket on Saturday or contact Sherry Bowers or Sgt. Van Arsdale at the Ponca City Police Department 767-0370. All proceeds go to the local D.A.R.E. program. NOC Faculty To Staff Booth At County FairNorthern Oklahoma College faculty will staff an information booth at the Kay County Fair. Northern instructors will have free college materials, including calendars, brochures and other information for distribution. Anyone may register for a tuition-waiver certificate to be awarded the last day of the fair. The certificate will allow the holder to enroll in a maximum of 15 credit hours in fall 1998 or spring 1999 classes. Certain restrictions apply. For more information stop by the Northern information booth. NCOHA Present for Signing PublicationSeveral members from North Central Oklahoma Historical Association will be present at Brace Books & More from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday with copies of their newest publication “The Homestead Laws of Oklahoma Territory, Including the Celebrated Cherokee Outlet” — reprints of an original booklet printed 1893 by G.W. Doughty Sr. of Washington, D.C., and recently found in an attic in Georgia. The booklet was offered by the owner for use in reproducing copies for the nonprofit historical association and several hundred copies have been sold since its publication in late May 1998. Included in the booklet is a fold-out map of the Cherokee Outlet. Also available will be copies of the map, suitable for framing, as well as note cards by Gene Dougherty, featured on the cover of their nationally award-winning book “North Central Oklahoma: Rooted in the Past — Growing for the Future.” That book will also be available during the afternoon. On display at Brace Books will be several artifacts including a drum given to board member Annette Pittman by Zack Miller when she was three years old. There will also be an original wedding gown from the Fern Dick Freeman estate estimated to have been used in the early 1890s. Pittman will also have a collection of photographs taken during the Cherokee Strip land run and will display pins owned by Hugo Milde, an original member of the Cherokee Strip Livestock Association. Oklahoma Author Writes Love Letter to King ElvisRonnie Claire Edwards is co-author of “Idols of the King,” the exciting play about Elvis and his fans coming to the Poncan Theatre. “The form of ‘Idols’ is a natural for Elvis,” she says. “He is such a wonderful character, a true southern character.” Her work, which was co-written by Allen Crowe, received a world premiere by the Arkansas Repertory Theatre. Their production is now on its first national tour and will perform at the Poncan Theatre Saturday at 8 p.m. Edwards says that “‘Idols of the King’ is a love letter to Elvis.” She says it’s also “a valentine from his fans” and “a valentine to his fans.” Edwards and Crowe had the idea of a play about Elvis after seeing another work about Patsy Cline. “Allen’s mom was an Elvis fanatic,” she says. After they conceived the project, they “sat down and started to work.” Two weeks later they had a working draft. “We have been very lucky to work together,” she says. “And we have wonderful actors who know these characters and can bring them to life.” She says that “Lance Zitron, who plays The King, is gifted not only as a singer, but as an actor as well.” In “Idols,” one actor is an Elvis impersonator and two others play some 20 characters, all fans of “The King,” all on the way to an Elvis concert. “The characters have to be set up quickly,” Edwards explains. “They need to have a life and a history and a background that has to be translated to the audience in a very short amount of time. Writing these scenes and monologues forced us to construct very tight stories and very real characters so the audience connects almost instantaneously.” Edwards is from Oklahoma. But she is best known to the American public as Corabeth Godsey on the well-known TV show “The Waltons.” Her acting credits read like a Who’s Who of American television. She was a regular on “Designing Women” and she has been seen on “Murder, She Wrote,” “Star Trek, The Next Generation,” “Dynasty” and many others. She was also seen in such films as “All the Way Home,” “Nobody’s Fool,” and “8 Seconds.” Edwards’ acting background began in the classics. She went from Oklahoma to Dallas, where she won the Protogee Award at the famous Margo Jones Theatre. From Dallas, she went to some of the most prestigious theaters in the country, including the Cleveland Play House, the Arena Stage in Washington, the Pasadena Theatre, and many others. She recently performed the title role of “Driving Miss Daisy” on its national tour. The production of “Idols of the King” is brought to Ponca City under the corporate sponsorship of Conoco, with additional support from the Oklahoma Arts Council and the Mid-America Arts Alliance. For ticket information, patrons should come by the Poncan Theatre at 104 East Grand or call 580-765-0943. Osage County Interlocal Coop Testing SchedulesA schedule for proficiency based promotion testing for Kaw City, Frontier and Shidler has been developed for the 1998-99 school year. Proficiency based promotion is a means for a student who can demonstrate mastery of State competencies on a written proficiency exam to be moved forward by subject, course and/or grade. Students in grades 1-12 are eligible for testing in one or more of the content curriculum areas. A student must score of a level of 90 percent or above on any test to be considered for proficiency based promotion. Additional means of assessment will also be evaluated and options for advancement will be decided by an educational team. The team will consist of the student’s parent or guardian, teacher, counselor, administrator and other appropriate personnel appointed by the school. In order to initiate the process, a written request from a parent, student or teacher must be submitted to the school’s administration office before the predetermined cut off date listed below. Testing will be provided by the Osage County Interlocal Cooperative at each school site on the specified date. In compliance with Section 6 of House Bill 1017, the Oklahoma Proficiency Test will be offered twice at each site during each school year. The testing dates at Frontier School are Dec. 8-9 and May 5-6, 1999. The cut off dates are Oct. 26 and April 1. Shidler students will test on Dec. 17-18 and May 14, 1999. Cut off dates are Nov. 2 and April 1. Students at Kaw City will test on Dec. 17-18 and May 14. The cut off dates are Nov. 2 and April 1. For more information contact the child’s school district or Claire Barber at the Osage County Interlocal Cooperative at (918) 885-2667. DEATHSHugh LeRoy Hutton Hugh LeRoy HuttonBRAMAN — Hugh LeRoy Hutton, lifelong Braman resident, died Wednesday afternoon, Sept. 9, 1998, at Hillcrest Manor Nursing Home in Blackwell. He was 79. The funeral will be held graveside at 10 a.m. Saturday at the Braman (Okla.) Cemetery with the Rev. Jerry Crenshaw, Braman Christian Church, officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Roberts and Son Funeral Home, Blackwell. Hugh LeRoy Hutton was born Nov. 16, 1918, in Braman to Raymond Walter and Viola (Woods) Hutton. He grew up in Braman, graduating from Braman High School in 1936. He then attended business college at night while working as a custodian at the First National Bank of Braman. He married Dorothy Lucille Fowler on Oct. 8, 1940, in Guthrie and the couple established their home in Braman. He continued to work at the bank and advanced to the position of president. While in banking he also entered in the oil and gas industry where he had several interests. Hutton retired in 1967. He was a member of the First Christian Church in Braman, the Masonic Lodge, and several banking organizations. Survivors include one daughter, DeLoris Crow of Memphis, Tenn.; one son, Ronald Hugh Hutton of Edmond; two sisters, Dorothy Mae Mehler of Blackwell and Helen Jean Scott of Bellvue, Kan.; six grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife on Oct. 4, 1988; one daughter, Mary Lou Hutton; one son, Roy Lee Hutton; his parents; and one brother, Harold Hutton. Memorial contributions may be made in Mr. Hutton’s name to the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation Geriatrics Research, c/o Roberts Funeral Home, 120 West Padon, Blackwell, OK 74631. ObituariesIvy Cord ConversBLACKWELL — Ivy Cord Convers, infant daughter of Elizabeth Convers died early Tuesday morning at her home in Blackwell. Ivy was born March 21, 1998, in Ponca City. In addition to her mother, she is survived by one brother Robert Brown, of the home. Grandparents are Ronald and Sindy Convers of Blackwell, Dr. and Maryalice Convers of Towanda, Pa., Dorothy and the late Sam Friedhoff of Towanda, Pa., Donna and the late C.E. Marlar of Ponca City, Richard and Malinda Delano of Ponca City, Barbara and the late Thearn Junior Delano, Rosalee and the late Garnett Harris, the late Clyde Marlar, the late Ruby Hutchison, and many aunts and uncles. The funeral will be graveside at 3 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11, at the Washunga Cemetery in Newkirk. Arrangements are under the direction of Roberts and Son Funeral Home, 120 West Padon, Blackwell. The family will be at 703 Chestnut Ave., Blackwell. paid obituary Services PendingHattie Price JenningsHattie Price Jennings, longtime Ponca City resident, died Wednesday, Sept. 9, 1998 at Shawn Manor Nursing Home. She was 88. Survivors include two sons, Willie and Ervin Price Jr., both of the home. Arrangements are pending with Grace Memorial Chapel. FuneralsFridayO’Tillie Margaret LindellFuneral at 10 a.m. at The Church of the Magdalen in Wichita followed by a graveside service at 1 p.m. at Memorial Park Cemetery in Hutchinson, Kan. Arrangements are under the direction of Downing and Lahey Mortuary, Wichita, where a Rosary will be held at 7 p.m. Thursday. Harold G. SummersGraveside service at 10 a.m. at the Ponca City IOOF Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of Trout Funeral Home. George BellFuneral to be at 2 p.m. at Sweet Home Baptist Church in Fairfax. Burial to be in the Fairfax Cemetery under the direction of Hunsaker-Wooten Funeral Home, Fairfax. NEWS BRIEFSSouthside Party — The annual block party/picnic for Southside Neighbors will be 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday at Willow Springs Park, Ninth and Madison. Activities for all ages are planned and a tour of the Attucks Building will be available. Those attending are asked to bring a lawn chair and a favorite food dish. Free Car wash. Saturday 9-4 at Wal-Mart and United. Sponsored by the Ponca Mid-High Chorus students and parents. Please come and support us! adv. The Land of Country Begins — The Land Of Country Antique and Craft Festival begins Friday at 10 a.m. in the Hutchins Memorial, Seventh and Overbrook. The Festival will run 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday. Lunch is available from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free Pregnancy test. Birth Choice cares. Confidential. Hours: Tuesday 6-8 p.m., Wednesday, 1-3 p.m. and Thursday 6-8 p.m. 205 West Hartford. adv. Meeting Change — The Pioneer Water Garden Society will not meet on the scheduled meeting date of Sept. 15, but will meet Sept. 19 at 1 p.m. at the Cann Garden for a picnic. The group will be touring each others ponds. For more information call Ray, 762-7806. Pauline’s Boneless Pork Chop Dinners $10.95, 1/2 orders $7.95, Friday Sept. 11th For reservations call 765-5460. adv. Senior Citizens Dance — A Senior Citizens Dance will be held from 7 to 10 p.m. on Friday at the Senior Citizens Building, 320 South A in Arkansas City. The Pete Coli Country Band will play for dancing. All senior citizens are invited to attend and bring a favorite snack to share. Dougan's Bar-B-Q Thursday Special from 4-?. 1/2 BBQ Chicken with 2 vegetables. $4.25. 215 South 14th. 765-7979. adv. Blown Transformer — At 6:43 a.m. Wednesday fire units responded to a call from Albertson’s, 2005 North Fourteenth Street, reporting a blown transformer. The Time is here! Tournaments are back! Darts start at 3:30 Saturday September 12. Blue Lite Lounge. 217 S. 2nd. adv. Window Shot — A woman called police at 10:16 a.m. Wednesday advising that a hole had been shot through a window of Creative Flowers, 100 East Hartford Avenue. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Need Your carpet cleaned? Top of the line equipment, latest technology factory trained technician, introductory price. Call Floorcraft, 762-8381. adv. Squirrely Visitor — At 11:58 a.m. Wednesday police received a call that a squirrel was in a home in the 800 block of North Ash Street. Animal Control was notified. Head Country all day Friday Special All you can eat, smoked BBQ ribs, beans, potato salad, and coleslaw, only $6.95, all day. 1217 East Prospect. 767-8304. adv. Grass Fire — Fire units responded to a report of a grass fire at the south end of South Twelfth Street at 1:51 p.m. Wednesday. Instant Passport Pictures. Graham Photo, 201 North First, 765-4348. adv. Theft — A woman in the 300 block of South Elm Street advised police of a stolen wallet at 2:45 p.m. Wednesday. A report was taken. Brush Fire — At 3:18 p.m. Wednesday a brush fire was reported at North Third Street and East Comanche Avenue. Fire units responded. An officer of the Ponca City Police Department assisted. Assault — At 3:45 p.m. Wednesday a report was taken in the 400 block of South Osage Street after police received a call of an assault. Forgeries — Police received a report of two forged checks at Millers Market, 904 South Fourth Street, at 3:54 p.m. Wednesday. An officer was assigned. Accident — A three-vehicle, non-injury accident at North Fourteenth Street and East Highland Avenue, was reported to police at 5:21 p.m. Wednesday. Books for Library Needed — The Friends of the Library are requesting donations of used paperback books for our on-going book sale. Proceeds benefit the library and the Friends have purchased a computer and software for the library. Clean out shelves and closets and donate the books. Library Lunch — The Ponca City Library will be hosting a “Lunch and Learn” program Friday at noon which will include a presentation by Davy Watts and Becky Johnson demonstrating Osage Indian arts and finger weaving. The public is encouraged to bring their lunch and enjoy the beauty of the crafts which will be presented. Drinks will be provided. Juvenile Assaulted — At 6:15 p.m. Wednesday an ambulance and police were called to the 400 block of South Lincoln after a woman reported that her 13-year-old daughter had been assaulted. A report was taken and a juvenile was cited, however the ambulance was not needed. Cigarette Theft — At 8:10 p.m. Wednesday a clerk at Sav-A-Trip, 207 East Highland Avenue, reported that a man had stolen two packs of cigarettes. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Arrest — Police arrested a 28-year-old woman at 9:31 p.m. Wednesday from the 3500 block of North Union Street for obstructing an officer and causing a minor to be in need of supervision. Dinner Tickets for Heritage Day’s speaker, Dr. Goble, Sept. 12, at 6:30 p.m. at Kaw City Community Center, available at Cultural Center, Pioneer Bank, Kaw City Chamber of Commerce or call Kaw Lake Association, 762-9494, for information. adv. Arrest — A 40-year-old man was arrested at 10:36 p.m. Wednesday from the 400 block of East Brookfield Avenue for violation of ex parte. Dougan's Bar-B-Q Friday Special from 4-8 p.m., All you can eat Ribs with beans, potato salad and coleslaw, $7.49. 215 South 14th, 765-7979. adv. Backfire — Police received a call at 11:25 p.m. Wednesday from residents in the 800 block of North First Street reporting possible shots being fired. However it was determined that it was merely a vehicle backfiring. Youth Bowling League beginning September 11th at 3:45pm and September 12th 11:00 am, all ages. Adult - Youth League September 12th 2:00 pm. Scholarships available. Beginners always welcomed. Ponca Bowl, 2000 Lake Road. 762-3333. adv. Arrest — A 22-year-old man was arrested at 11:22 p.m. Wednesday on a Kay County warrant for failure to appear on grand larceny. WCW /NWO Fall Brawl coming to Pay Per View Sunday, September 13th at 6:00 pm, $29.95, Cable One 762-6684., or order within one hour of event start time, 1- 800-497-2410. adv. Shots Fired — At 11:30 p.m. Wednesday a woman in the 800 block of North First Street contacted police, reporting that a juvenile had shot at a residence with gun. Officers responded and a report was taken on discharging a firearm in the city limits. Assault — Police took an information report at 11:31 p.m. Wednesday in the 800 block of North Elm Street after a man advised police he had been assaulted on First Street. News Briefs — The perfect spot to advertize anything on a moment’s notice is in the Ponca City News Briefs columns. GARDENINGGrant Helps Students With Community Garden Grant Helps Students With Community GardenCorn, zucchini, squash, cucumbers, green beans, okra and pumpkin were vegetables grown by third graders (now fourth graders) at Woodlands School over the summer. A community garden for the third grade at Woodlands School was made possible through a grant from the Ponca City Public School Foundation. The “grants-to-teachers” award was given to Shelley Wilson, teacher. The students worked all summer and the vegetables were donated to The Mission and Domestic Violence shelter. The class has plans to continue the project with funds from pumpkin sales in the fall and other grants. Mayor Tom Leonard has declared Sept. 7-11 as Ponca City Public School Foundation week. The foundation was organized in 1986 for the benefit of students in all local public schools. The grants-to-teachers program is designed to encourage teachers “to enrich classroom studies and develop programs that stimulate thought and expand the existing curriculum.” SPORTSTahlequah is Tall Opponent Tahlequah is Tall OpponentBy FRED HILTON News Sports Editor Tahlequah may not be the biggest overall team the Wildcats play this season, but it certainly may be the tallest. The Tigers’ roster is dominated by players who are 6-2, 6-3 and 6-4. That may be the reason Ponca City coach Todd Kimrey figures the Tigers will throw the ball 70 percent of the time tonight. Starting with 6-2, 180-pound quarterback Justin Sutherland, Tahlequah will try to use that height advantage much like a basketball team would. The Tigers will be going for the “jump ball.” Sutherland will be throwing to the likes of wide out Luke Dobbins, who is a star on the Tigers’ cage squad, and stands 6-2 by 175 pounds. Among his other receivers are tight ends Mitch Robinson, who is 6-4, 192, and Clint Roundtree, 6-2, 190. Even the running backs are tall. Leading ball carrier Jim Baker is 6-4, 200-pounds. He also runs the 40 in 4.6, according to Tahlequah coach Todd Dilbeck. “He carries a powerful punch,” Dilbeck said of his Baker. “And he is a good athlete.” Sutherland threw for 1,321 yards in seven games last year — as a sophomore. He got off to a good start this season by connecting on 15-of-23 passes for nearly 300 yards and three touchdowns in a 28-21 loss to Owasso last Friday. Dobbins, also a junior, had 57 catches for 804 yards last season and was the recipient of two touchdown tosses by Sutherland Friday night. Dobbins also had a crucial catch in the final seconds of that game that wound up on the one-yard line as time ran out on the Tigers’ rally against the Rams. If the Tigers have a weakness, it is their youth. “We start four sophomores and two juniors in the offensive line,” Dilbeck points out. The offensive skill people are also young, most are juniors and Roundtree is a sophomore. However, Dilbeck has put five senior on his defensive squad in an effort to slow down the opposition. Like most coaches, Dilbeck doesn’t believe in moral victories, but he figures the Tigers proved something against Owasso. “We proved we can play with the big teams in this class,” Dilbeck said of the Tigers’ recent move up to Class 6A. “I’ve just been here a year and we’re trying to revive the program here. So playing well against good 6A teams is important. The Tigers finished 3-7 last year and look to improve on that this season. The Wildcats are also trying to rebuild, but will counter the explosive Tigers with a ball control offense. The Cats’ Wishbone ground out 220 first-half yards in offense against Tulsa Hale last week despite losing three fumbles. The Poncans have been working on ball handling this week and getting everyone healthy again. The Wildcats escaped serious injuries against Hale, but had several scares during the game when players went down. They are mostly recovered now, although linebacker Mark Goddard is still listed as “day-to-day.” The Wildcats found out the new offense works last week, and must now work on plugging some holes on defense. They must also keep a very thin lineup healthy. Michael Loses ’Bone ConcernsBy FRED HILTON News Sports Editor Eric Michael, who has been a passing quarterback for his whole career, had some concerns when new coach Todd Kimrey announced the Wildcats were going to run the Wishbone on offense this year. After rushing for 142 yards and scoring two touchdowns in a 42-14 loss to Tulsa Hale last week, however, most of those concerns are gone. “I had fun,” Michael said of his first game as an option quarterback. “At least, I did in the first half.” Michael had 101 yards on 10 carries including touchdown runs of 41 and 16 yards. The Wildcats were moving the ball almost at will, scoring both times they managed not to fumble. At the intermission, they trailed powerful Tulsa Hale 21-14. But all that changed in the second half as Hale took the kickoff and marched inexorably to a touchdown. When the Cats got the ball back, the offensive spark was gone. The Cats managed just 54 yards rushing after rolling up 220 in the first half. “Hale made some great adjustments,” Michael said. “They moved their backers in. The front line stayed the same, but they had people in positions where I couldn’t pick them up (in making the all important reads). “And I think we got a little tired, a little fatigued. Hale is a big team.” The Ponca Citians will face another, “big, physical team,” this Thursday when they travel to Tahlequah.” “Offensively they have a good quarterback, who I think is a lot like me,” Michael said. “He’s tall, strong and has a pretty good arm. “Defensively, they go to the ball well and they tackle well. “But I think we’ll be able to do to them what we did to Hale in the first half of that game.” But Michael admits he would like to throw the ball a little more against Tahlequah. “When I first heard we were going to the wishbone, I had visions of the big ole linemen and the big running backs like OU use to have. “But this (offense) is not the same. We’re doing some good things out there. We’re moving the ball. “I just hope we can open up a little more. I like going back in the pocket and if I can’t find someone open, then finding a lane and running the ball. I like that freedom.” Pokes’ West Hard to MissBy OWEN CANFIELD AP Sports Writer STILLWATER (AP) — At 6-foot-4, with several gold front teeth, two earrings in one ear and one in the other, Troy West is hard to miss around Stillwater. It turns out he’s easy to spot with a helmet and shoulder pads on, too. West made a smashing debut with Oklahoma State last weekend, intercepting two passes and making a sack in a 38-28 victory over Kansas. He returned one of the interceptions 30 yards for a touchdown; the other set up the Cowboys’ clinching TD in the final minutes. ‘‘I didn’t know what to expect,’’ said West, a linebacker who transferred from Hutchinson (Kan.) Community College. ‘‘You always hear it’s bigger people, a faster pace, but I always have the heart. I don’t care who’s in front of me, I’m going to play 110 percent. ‘‘When I came into that first game, I had some butterflies. But when that first kickoff went out and I was on the field, it was all over with then. I was ready to play.’’ That came as no surprise to defensive coordinator Rob Ryan, who coached West two years ago at Hutchinson. During fall practice, Ryan was asked how confident he was that his newcomers would be able to contribute. ‘‘I’ll guarantee you Troy West will play at this level, in a second,’’ Ryan said. West looks as though he should be playing quarterback or receiver. He weighs just 205 pounds, very light for someone who often has to take on 300-pound linemen. But what he lacks in size he makes up for in speed and technique. ‘‘Troy’s got a loose body and he’s hard to block,’’ Ryan said. ‘‘You can’t ever hit him square. He plays with great leverage and speed.’’ That speed — he runs the 40-yard dash in 4.5 seconds — allows West to stay with backs coming out the backfield on pass plays. It helps him get outside and force running plays back inside. And it allows him to chase down quarterbacks or running backs from behind. In other words, it helps to get him where the action is, which is the name of the game on defense. ‘‘In a couple of scrimmages, when we had things happen he was always in the mix of things,’’ head coach Bob Simmons said. ‘‘He’s going to be one of those type players where when he’s on the field and something happens, whether it’s a turnover created or a guy makes a play, he’ll probably be one of those guys.’’ OU Option Returns SlowlyBy OWEN CANFIELD AP Sports Writer NORMAN (AP) — Judging by the first game and comments from coach John Blake, it appears Oklahoma’s return to true option football will be a gradual one. The Sooners lined up in the wishbone only a handful of times against North Texas last weekend. They pitched the ball to the tailback on the corner only once, and that wasn’t until the fourth quarter. Blake estimates that at this point, 75 percent of what the Sooners are doing on offense is determined in the huddle, and not while operating along the line of scrimmage. He expects that percentage to decrease as the season goes along. ‘‘When you run option football, they give you all kinds of looks,’’ Blake said. ‘‘Until they settle down and our quarterback doesn’t get confused, I don’t want to take the aggressiveness away from our quarterbacks trying to figure out which play to get into. ‘‘But we’re going to more and more move to that as we continue to have more experience in our offense.’’ Quarterback Brandon Daniels only ran three or four option plays during the four series that he played before leaving with a shoulder injury. He never attempted to pitch the ball. Blake said part of the problem was blocking breakdowns. On those option plays, he said, Daniels didn’t have a chance to execute. ‘‘That’s something that sometimes you don’t have a chance to work on,’’ Blake said, referring to stunts by North Texas. ‘‘I think that caused major problems. Again, we’ve got to make the adjustment.’’ There also were times when Daniels should have pitched and didn’t. ‘‘Looking at the film, there were times Brandon cut up and maybe if he had pitched it we probably would have went the distance,’’ Blake said. ‘‘He and I have talked about it for three days straight. He knows that was one of the best experiences he’s had. He also needs to calm down. He’s such a competitor that instead of being patient, a lot of times I think he wants to go make things happen.’’ Daniels has been the focus of Oklahoma’s program throughout the spring and fall workouts. He was moved from the defensive secondary to quarterback late last season, after Blake decided to switch to the option. Daniels played well in the spring and fall, and it’s possible that all the hype about Oklahoma’s return to the option had Daniels pressing in the opener. Blake said any mistakes Daniels made can be corrected through coaching. Bucs Facing Serious Challenge in Week 2By MATTHEW KOENIG News Sports Writer Mother Nature may not be the biggest football fan around, but at least she may be merciful. The meaning of the word “gridiron” took an apropos turn for the worse last week, as the state’s football fields turned into giant broiler sheets. Temperatures in some spots soared as high as 110 degrees. But, with expected highs in the lower 90’s this Friday, things should be a little more agreeable. In District A-5, twin towers Tonkawa (1-0) and Luther (1-0) duke it out in what could prove to be the district championship game — if not a preview of the state finals. In Class B, the youngsters from Morrison (0-1) will sling everything they have against another group of giants, Foyil (1-0), while Class 2A Newkirk (0-1) has things going more in their favor as they take on Class A Woodland (0-1). The Tigers were bombed last week, 38-9, by Tonkawa. Also, 2A Pawnee will go looking for another shutout against 3A Perry (1-0), 4A Blackwell (0-1) will get back in the hunt against 3A Kingfisher (1-0), and Class C Deer Creek-Lamont (0-1) will take on Freedom. Class C Shidler (1-0) is open this week. No. 4 Tonkawa (1-0) at No. 5 Luther (1-0) While most teams in the state are still cavorting this week in pre-district preambles, a lot more is on the line for these two teams. This is serious, serious football. Not only will this a match up between two of the top ranked teams in the state, and a grudge match for Tonkawa (the Lions knocked Tonkawa out of the playoffs in ‘96), it’s also a battle for — in all likelihood — the district A-5 title. “They’ve got explosive, big-play potential,” says Tonkawa head coach Steve Love. “They’re big up front and they can run the ball. They can score every time.” Regarding the Bucs, Luther head coach Randy Hedge is equally emphatic. “They’re like a generic team in that they’re all great athletes,” he says. “They’re all in incredible shape — they don’t have any fat kids. They’re impressive and they deserve to be complemented. Love has done a fantastic job.” The Lions’ ground attack is anchored by sensational running back Larry Dupree. The 5-9, 185-pound senior had an astonishing 2,745 yard and 31 TDs last season, and with another productive year could move onto the national Top 10 list of career rushers (with the likes of Billy Simms and Emmitt Smith). Last week Dupree amassed 216 yards against 2A Perkins. Also, opening up holes for Dupree will be monstrous, 6-5, 285-pound tackle Bill Brash, considered — along with Dupree — a blue-chip college prospect. Needless to say, the Lions don’t throw the ball much. They don’t need to. Still, “it would be nice to shut ‘em down on the line and force them to throw,” says Love. And throwing the ball is something any team taking on the Bucs should probably reconsider after last week. Free safety-running back Scott Klufa had three interceptions against Newkirk and was declared Defensive Player of the Week in the Tulsa World. Klufa could very well have taken Offensive Player honors, as well, as he also stacked up 182 total yards and scored five times — one of those coming on a sizzling, 67-yard punt return. “There’s been a lot of calls here; he’s been getting a lot of press,” says Love. “To most kids it’s just a dream to play like that in a game. I hope there’s something left for him to do. “And I hope he doesn’t get a big head.” “We’re going to try to catch him every once in awhile,” says Hedge, who recognizes that keying Klufa will only make things easier for the Bucs’ other playmakers. Hedge also mentions fullback Shane Randall, who actually had a higher rushing total than Klufa last week, carrying six times for 78 yards. No. 7 Foyil (1-0) at Morrison (0-1) Talk about being in the right place at the wrong time. When it comes to football, Morrison is usually a good place to be. Unfortunately for quarterback Ryan Luter, he might be a few years too late (or too early, for the perennially optimistic Morrison fans). As one of the few senior starters on a sophomore-laden squad, Luter struggles with a woefully undersized and inexperienced line. Though the 6-3, 175-pounder had a gem last week against Christian Heritage Academy, going 17-of-32 for 183 yards, it was just a faint shadow of the unmined potential that may reside in Luter’s arm. “He’s never been surrounded by kids who could give him protection,” says head coach Joe Sindelar. “When he has time he can really zing the ball. “And he’s such a good kid. He’s paid his dues, and I’d like for this season to be good for him.” Though the Wildcats fell hard to CHS, 34-8, Luter’s performance captured Sindelar’s eye. If time is what his quarterback needs, he aims to give it to him. “Our objective this week has been to shore up that line,” he says. “Still, it’s small kids blockin’ big kids. We don’t have the physical characteristics of a dominant football team, so if we’re going to win we’ve gotta play hard.” As for Foyil, currently ranked seventh in the state, Sindelar is somewhat optimistic. Though the Panthers creamed the Wildcats twice last year, they also lost a majority of their starters, including big, bad tail back Josh Brown. “Just having him out of there makes it easier for us,” says Sindelar. “But they still have coach (Rick) Antle, and he’s one of the elite 8-man coaches. They’ll run a zillion things out of a zillion formations, and we’re not good at recognizing formations.” Woodland (0-1) at Newkirk (0-1) You can never be encouraged by a loss, coaches say, but for Woodland coach Bill Pascoe, last Friday’s 6-0 loss to Pawnee was definitely bearable. The Cougars held the highly regarded, 2A Black Bears until the bitter end when Pawnee finally came through, late in the fourth quarter. “It could have been a lot worse,” Pascoe says. “We put ourselves in a position to win, and couldn’t come through. Overall, though, we played pretty well.” Indeed, both Woodland and Newkirk played well in their respective losses — considering the opposition. Newkirk moved the ball well against Tonkawa, but turnovers cost them, dearly. Pascoe doesn’t expect the Tigers to provide the same breaks this week. “They’re going to come out pumped up,” he says. “They just got into a hole early last week and couldn’t get out. But they played a good game, and I expect even more from them this week.”
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