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From the pages of The Ponca City News, Tuesday, September 21, 1999 LOCAL DEATHS NEWS BRIEFS LIFESTYLES SPORTS BUSINESS LOCALNearly News Nearly NewsThe Millennium Commission is seeking the oldest person in Ponca City to be parade marshal for the Millennium Parade on Dec. 3. Those interested or with information on older folk are asked to call Jim Sindelar at Parks and Recreation 767-0430. The Unsung Hero Award Now Available For More Than Veterans of World War IINEWBURY PARK. Calif. — Dia Press, Inc. announces the release of The Unsung Hero Award, a certificate that allows individuals to honor the selfless contributions of family members, friends and neighbors who served in World War II, in either civilian or military capacity. “Many of our parents and grandparents were teenagers when World War II erupted, and they eagerly volunteered to serve in whatever way they could. When it was over, there was no 15 minutes of fame, no recognition for a job well done — just the hurried need to rebuild this country. Not only did they do that, but they also created wonder drugs, mass communication systems and took us to the moon! Now we’re losing those survivors at the rate of 1,000 per day. It’s time to remember those who never asked for thanks, especially with Veteran’s Day and the millennium right around the corner,” states Claudia M. Doege, originator of the award and president of Dia Press, Inc. The gold-embossed award is personalized with the name and rank (if known) of a World War II veteran or civilian. A gold seal declares the recipient “Unsung Hero — WWII,” and is then signed by the presenter. A percentage of the profits from its purchase is being donated to the American Legion, the Disabled American Veterans and the VFW, in addition to the World War II Memorial Campaign, to aid in the construction of a World War II monument in Washington, D.C. “The question posed at the end of ‘Saving Private Ryan’ reminded me of talks my Dad and his Army buddy had when they thought we weren’t listening. Why did they live, and had they lead good enough lives since then to honor fallen friends? I wrote a poem to answer those questions and to express my thanks, but it was too late for them — they’ve both been gone a few years.” “I contacted a friend, Katherine Stratman, owner of Deerlady Art & Woodcrafts in Houston, Texas, and sent the first award to her father, Dave Bellamy, a survivor of Omaha Beach. He cried for two hours, amazed that someone would thank him for his small part in the war effort and his contributions to this country since. In partnering with Deerlady Art & Woodcrafts, this is our grassroots effort to honor as many of these unsung heroes as we can before it’s too late.” Some recipients have used the award to talk to grandchildren about contributions to family and country, others have been able to talk about the war for the first time in 50 years, and one said that being honored by his children this way meant more to him than getting a new car. For more information, check The Unsung Hero Award page at www.deerlady.com or contact Dia Press, Inc. by calling (805) 497-2168, by e-mail at diapress@yahoo.com or by mail to Dia Press, Inc., PMB 362, 107 N. Reino Rd., Newbury Park, CA 91320. Standing Bear T-Shirts AvailableThe 1999-2000 Standing Bear Powwow t-shirt will feature a drawing by Dustin Eaves, a 14-year old Native American of Pawnee, Osage and Crow heritage. The drawing depicts a silhouetted Indian on a horse with a wolf and other animals in the background. Angie Echohaw, Dustin’s mother, says he started drawing when he was about three years old. “I guess he was in sixth grade when it became a serious interest for him, when he first started drawing pictures,” she said. “We thought he was tracing them. Now we have to apologize for having thought that.” Dustin attends school in Pawnee. He prefers to work in black and white with pencil or charcoal, but plans to start using color in his pieces soon. According to Standing Bear Foundation executive director T.L. Walker, this is the first in, what will hopefully be, a series of powwow shirts highlighting the work of young Native Americans. “It is important to recognize the successes of our young people,” said Walker. “Dustin’s work was on the cover of this year’s Pawnee Powwow program and we realized it was perfect for our t-shirts.” Walker continued. The t-shirts will be on sale at the Standing Bear Powwow this Friday and Saturday. Powwow grand entries will begin at 7 p.m. both nights and at 3 p.m. Saturday at Native American Standing Bear Park. Dustin will be meeting guests and signing his artwork at the Friday event. DEATHSKenneth L. Day Kenneth L. DayWINFIELD, Kan. — Kenneth L. Day, relative to several Newkirk area residents, died Sunday evening, Sept. 19, 1999, at his home in Winfield, Kan. He was 83. The funeral will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 23, 1999, at Miles Funeral Service in Winfield. Burial will be in the Highland Cemetery in Winfield. Friends may visit at the funeral home from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesday. Born Dec. 8, 1915, in Winfield, he was one of six children born to Lemar Mead and Lula Alice (Curtis) Day. He grew up in Winfield, attending Webster Elementary School and graduating from Winfield High School in 1933. As a youth, he was employed in Winfield grocery stores, then later began his career as a meat cutter. On Dec. 1, 1936, he was married to Gladys L. Anderson in Newkirk and the couple made their home in Winfield, where Day was employed with McConn Bakery. During World War II he served in the U.S. Army Air Corps and returned to Winfield after his discharge. He was employed as a meat cutter for Sloans, Winfield IGA, Quesenberry Grocery, Grose IGA in Arkansas City, and retired from Sheneman’s Meat Market in 1980. After his retirement, he continued to operate a private meat cutting business from his home for several years. He was a member of the Evangelical Free Church and he and his wife had served on a church mission trip to Star Lake Indian Reservation in New Mexico. He enjoyed carpentry, remodeling, and spending time with his children and grandchildren. He is survived by one son, Kenneth G. Day of Winfield; two daughters, Gwen Fox and Patty Dust of Winfield; one sister Marie Arthur of Wichita, Kan.; five grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife on March 22, 1993; a daughter, Shirley Day; his parents; two brothers, Sam and Curt Day; and two sisters, Clarice Haney and Doris Allen. Memorial contributions may be made in Mr. Day’s name to Hospice, or the Evangelical Free Church of Winfield, c/o Miles Funeral Service 4001 East Ninth Street, Winfield, KS 67156. Barbara Ellen DummerARDMORE — Barbara Ellen (Fox) Dummer, former Braman area resident, died Wednesday, Sept. 15, 1999, at the University of Texas Medical Branch, in Galveston, Texas. She was 55. A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday at Trinity Lutheran Church in Ardmore with The Rev. Robert Hinkley officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Deer Park Funeral Directors, Deer Park, Texas. A graveside service will follow at Rose Hill Cemetery in Ardmore. Barbara Ellen (Fox) Dummer was born Jan. 16, 1944, in Saginaw, Mich., to Oscar Allen and Ruth Anna (Jeske) Fox. She was married to Bobby Gene Dummer on June 16, 1957. Mrs. Dummer was a homemaker and a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Ardmore. Survivors include her husband, Bobby Dummer, of the home; five sisters, Betty Steinbach of Iowa, Ellen Spraggins and Ruth Ann Fox of Ardmore, Sandy Istre of Florida and Bobbie Sue Mark of Spring, Texas; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her mother, Ruth Chaffee; and a brother, Howard Fox. NEWS BRIEFSMini Cheer Clinic — Preschool through sixth graders that participated in the Mini Cheer Clinic will perform during halftime of the Ponca City vs. Stillwater game this Friday, Sept. 24. Practice will be held at RFH on Sept. 22 from 5 to 6 p.m. Play Pen Ceramics, Pine and Central 765-2359. Now till December 15th. All Greenware 20% off. All firing 1/3rd off. Mine, Yours or Theirs. Get Y2K calender free with purchase. adv. Stolen Bike — A report was taken by an officer of the Ponca City Police Department from the 500 block of North Oak on a stolen bike at 7:04 a.m. Monday. Industrial Trade Show. September 24th from 9am to 3pm. Payne County Fair Grounds. Buyers and suppliers welcome! adv. Graffiti — At 7:16 a.m. on Monday, Ponca City Police Department received a call advising of graffiti in the 500 block of West Liberty. A report was taken. Licensed Hairstylist Graham Webb educational class. September 27 at 1:00 P.M. Marland Mansion Conference Center. 765-8446. adv. City Warrant — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department arrested a 22-year-old man and a 20-year-old man at 9:02 a.m. on Monday from the Kay County Sheriff’s Office for city warrants. Free Pregnancy test. Birth Choice cares. Confidential. Hours: Tuesday, 6-8 p.m., Wednesday, 1-3 p.m. and Thursday, 6-8 p.m. 700 West Broadway. 765-9689. adv. Non-Injury Accident — A report was taken on a non-injury accident from the 400 block of East Grand at 10:51 a.m. on Monday. Thank you, to those of you who helped make the fundraiser at Trinity Nazarene Church a success. God Bless you all, Ladies Ministries. adv. Auto Burglary — A 23-year-old man was arrested from the 1500 block of South Ninth at 12:04 p.m. Monday by an officer of the Ponca City Police Department on two counts of auto burglary. 911 Call — A member of the Ponca City Police Department arrested a 30-year-old man in the 2200 block of John Street for domestic assault and battery after a 911 call was received at 1:03 p.m. Monday. Every Wednesday price clothes and shoes, except priced items. Check our daily specials. Caboose Thrift Shoppe, First and Central. adv. Rock Throwing — A resident from the 400 block of North Ash Street advised that two juveniles were throwing rocks at cars. An officer of the Ponca City Police Department responded but was unable to locate at 5:02 p.m. Ready for 2000? Millennium picture frames, candles, gifts-collectible ornaments. Mrs. Brown's Attic, downtown Ponca City. adv. Accident — A call was received at the Ponca City Police Department advising of a one vehicle rollover near the Ranch Drive Coop. The Oklahoma Highway Patrol was notified at 6:42 p.m. Monday. Fight Brewing — A 911 call was received at 7:54 p.m. Monday from a motorist in the 700 block of East Central Avenue advising of several juveniles fighting. An officer responded and was unable to locate them. Assault — At 10:59 p.m. Monday, a 911 call was received from the 900 block of East Chestnut Avenue advising of an assault. Two officers of the Ponca City Police Department responded and advised the matter was settled. Possible Prowler — A possible prowler was report in the 1500 block of Potomac Drive at 2:52 a.m. Tuesday morning. An officer of the Ponca City Police Department was unable to locate any problem. Arrests Made — A 911 call was received from the 2100 block of North Union Street at 2:53 a.m. Tuesday advising of a disturbance. Two officers of the Ponca City Police Department arrested a 20-year-old woman for public intoxication and city warrants and a 21-year-old man for public intoxication. LIFESTYLESWalker Family Reunion Held In Ponca City Walker Family Reunion Held In Ponca CityThere were 82 members of the Walker family present for a family reunion Aug. 7-8 at the home of Lois Cooper. Attending from Hanford, Calif. were Ernie and Cheryl Huff, Nicolle and Melissa Gomez, Eric and Sheri, Matthew and Heather Huff, and Erin Curley. Also attending were Connie Huff and Larry Garrett, Phoenix, Ariz.; Bill Walker, Sandra, Melissa and Michelle Merciez, Nancy Walker, Kansas City, Mo. Also Ersel Sr. and Shirley and Angela Holder, Ersel Jr. and Cristy and Adam Holder, Chelsea Lenard, Loren and Kim and Levi Holder, all of Shreveport, La.; Merle Dunlavy, Bobby and Margaret and Shane Dunlavy, Cooper Dunlavy, Scott and Tawyna, Bryan, Kaylee, Brianna, Ashley and Robert Dunlavy, Leland and Norma Hock, Brad and Sara, Spencer and Garrett Hock, Kent and Melissa Hock, Beulah Huckleberry, Jimmy Huckleberry, Don and Opal Burns, all of Wichita, Kan. Also Lois Cooper, Barry and Vonda Gilsen, Ponca City; Virginia Allen, Louis and Kathy, Dusty, Rusty, Brandy and McKenzy Allen, Arlyn and Joy, Andrea, Carlyn and Crystal Moon, Cameron and Valarie Stephenson, all of Greenfield; Wayne and Vera Moon, Richard and Karen Thrasher, Watonga; Gary Moon, Jordan Moon, Cathy Hatcher, Geary; Kevin and Ada, Austin, Andy, Kacie Moon, Jewell Adams, Jane Epperson, Shawnee; Marilyn Richards, Oklahoma City. Miss Ponca City CandidateEditor’s Note: Candidates for the title of Miss Ponca City will be announced in The News each day through Sept. 29. They will appear as randomly selected by contestants and contest coordinators, with no preference indicated by date of publication. The Miss Ponca City Queen Contest will be held Friday, Oct. 1, at the Conoco Fourth Street Clubhouse. Contestants are Heather Herard, Audra Ramsey, Andrea Johnson, Amanda Cobb, Jennifer Tippin, Adrienne Hines, Jessica Bowen, Halli Huffman, Christy Hassell, and Ashly Sawyers. Tickets are available from the contestants or by contacting Vicki Graves at 765-8679 or 7654736, and Jackie Cutler at 762-0437. The contest begins at 7:30 p.m., and Master of Ceremonies will be KIXR personality R.J. Masters. The winner of the contest will be awarded the traditional crown and sash, a trophy, scholarships and many other prizes. Contestants will be judged on poise, appearance and personality. They will also be judged on the three-to-five minute presentation to include personal resume information, and the answers to the questions of “Why I Want to be Miss Ponca City” and “What Ponca City Means To Me.” The contest winner will represent Ponca City as a “Visiting Queen” in the Arkalalah, Arkansas City’s annual Halloween Festival, slated Oct. 29 and 30. Miss Ponca City also acts as a goodwill ambassador, and attends various functions and speaking engagements throughout her year’s reign as her personal schedule allows. The title of Miss Ponca City is currently held by Ashley Van Hoesen, daughter of Everette and Sonja Van Hoesen. One of the candidates for the title is Andrea Jill Johnson, daughter of Stan and Jill Johnson, 2804 Prairie View. A senior at Ponca City High School, Miss Johnson serves as yearbook editor and Leo Club Board of Directors chairperson. She is a member of the National Honor Society and is listed in Who’s Who Among American High School Students. She has earned an academic letter for three years, and is an avid photographer and graphic designer as well as an “answering machine jingle writer.” New Book for Children Latest Endeavor for StephensonBy LOUISE ABERCROMBIE News Staff Writer Larry K. Stephenson has added another dimension to his artistic portfolio - he has written and illustrated a children’s book “The Butterfly King,” - a legend for the new Millennium. Here this weekend to exhibit his art at the Ponca City Fine Arts Festival, Larry, now of Wichita, Kan., told The News about the book. There are several reasons he wrote the book. The first and foremost is that he and his wife Sheryl have three sons. Besides being a positive book for youngsters, “The Butterfly King,” is one of those rare children’s books designed for the coffee table. This is because it is a work of art illustrated by Stephenson, a nationally recognized artist. Family is a theme that runs through the Stephenson legacy, as his sister Patti Weinbrenner, a marketing communication executive, of Dallas, Texas, joined her brother in authoring the book. Their brother Randy, a commercial artist doing computer designer for LSI in Wichita, was instrumental in the lay-out. Their parents Virginia and Larry Stephenson of Ponca City have been involved in the marketing also. Telling about the book, Larry said, “In this day there are so many negative things and problems in the news, such as school shootings it occurred to me that with the Millennium there was a need for something positive for the next generation. Instead of looking at the negatives of the past we should look for something positive to carry forward.” The marker that comes with the artistic storybook reads: “We often make some fairly monumental choices as young people without realizing how these same decisions will later sculpt the grownup in all of us still trying to get out. Subtle things such as recognizing truth and the value of love.” And on the grownup level, Larry says it was a “lot of fun” working with his sister Patti, and brother Randy, getting to know them as adults and to spend time with them. The book was published by Jewel Box and Friends, located in Andover, Kan., and dedicated to Virginia and Larry Stephenson on their 50th anniversary. The artist and his sister are principal partners in the publishing company and plan more childrens books in the future by Stephenson and other artists. “The Butterfly King” was introduced at the Dallas Gift Show in late June. The book is a lavishly illustrated tale about a young boy in the mystical kingdom of Mill and his search for truth as the new age approaches. Stephenson has targeted the hard-cover beautifully illustrated book for ages nine and up. Publishing is not new to Stephenson as he and his wife, Sheryl, founded Third Street Art Publishing in Ponca City in 1989. The firm published high-quality posters and greeting cards featuring the work of Larry and other artists. The company sold to Sunrise Greeting Cards in 1996. Returning to his hometown on Oct. 15, Stephenson will be autographing the book at Brace Books. The cost of the book is $19.95. Huff Family Reunion HereThe Huff family reunion was held Aug. 7 at the home of Lois Huff Cooper of Ponca City. Thirty-two members from four states attended the event. Attending from Hanford, Calif. were Ernie and Cheryl Huff, Nicolle and Melissa Gomez, Eric and Sherri, Heather and Matthew Huff, and Erin Curley. Connie Huff and Larry Garrett attended from Phoenix, Ariz. Attending from Shreveport, La. were Ersel Sr. and Shirley Holder, Ersel Jr. and Cristy and Adam Holder, Chelsea Lenard, Loren and Kim and Levi Holder, and Angela Holder. Ponca Citians present included Lois Huff Cooper, Robert Lynn Huff, Elsie Armstrong, Ted and Barbara Impson, and Jon Hoover. Also attending were Frank and Virginia Beneda of Watonga, and David and Peggy Huff of Orlando. Hearty Filling Gives Taste, Texture To Sandwich(AP) — The recipe for Greek Hero includes a hearty hummus filling that gives texture and flavor to the fresh vegetable and feta cheese sandwich served on French bread. This easy version of hummus is made from chickpeas, the beans also known by their Spanish name, garbanzos. Hummus is a familiar Mediterranean specialty, a nourishing and tasty favorite of vegetarians that also may include tahini, the sesame-seed paste. Crumbled feta, the Greek cheese, gives the sandwich a tangy accent. The sandwich is low-fat, with less than 10 grams of fat per serving, and it’s quickly made, calling for about 20 minutes of preparation time. Greek Hero 1 loaf French bread (8 ounces, about 15 inches long) Hummus (recipe follows) 2 roasted red peppers, cut into strips 1/2 medium cucumber, sliced 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion 2 small tomatoes, sliced 2 ounces crumbled reduced-fat feta cheese 4 leaves romaine lettuce Kalamata or other ripe olives, as garnish Slice bread in half lengthwise. Spread bottom half of bread with hummus. Layer with roasted peppers, cucumber, onion and tomatoes and sprinkle with feta cheese. Top with romaine lettuce and top half of bread. Cut sandwich into 4 equal pieces. Garnish with olives, if desired. Makes 4 servings. Hummus 15 1/2-ounce can chickpeas (garbanzo beans), rinsed and drained, or 1 1/2 cups cooked dry-packaged chickpeas 2 tablespoons lemon juice 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 teaspoon minced garlic 1 teaspoon dried oregano leaves Salt and pepper, to taste Coarsely mash chickpeas. Mix in lemon juice, oil, garlic and oregano; season to taste with salt and pepper. Makes about 1 1/2 cups. BUSINESSEDAB Seeks Spec Building EDAB Seeks Spec BuildingBy LOUISE ABERCROMBIE News Business Editor Possibility of the construction of a “spec” building in the Airport Industrial Park moved a step closer with the recent approval of the Economic Development Advisory Board (EDAB). The approval came after a report from sub-committee chairman Bill O’Connor. The “spec” building project had apparently been held up somewhat due to the possibility the Unitherm Food Systems building on Ash would be available. Unitherm has not met the number of projected jobs agreed upon and at this point owes the City $40,000, according to Marc LaBossiere, financial officer. The recommendation for a 50,000 square foot building will go to the City Commission for further action. LaBossiere presented a projected cash flow from the economic development sales and use tax — projected cash flow, which shows there could be about $400,000 available to build the spec building. This structure would be a shell building, that could be fitted to a prospects needs. Jan Jarrett, EDAB executive, reporting for Larry Buck on housing said the state has not yet acted on the two applications for multi-family housing. One application is for 96 units and another for 56. The group is also checking out some small single family housing, which is being built in town. Gary Martin, City Manager, told about houses being built or rehabilitated under the United Community Action Program (UCAP). He said it is projected that ten houses will be in the program next year. Chairman Carl Renfro inquired about doing some time of event that would recognize the new owner of Thorn Apple Valley, which is Iowa Beef Producers. Jarrett said Doug Moore is going to remain as manager and will inform EDAB when they are ready. Karen Furman, Marketing Committee Chairman, told about developing a web site and a CD Rom. O’Connor, a member of the Board of Regents for Northern Oklahoma College, told about the Multi-Media and Digital Communications program there. He said it would be a good move for EDAB to have a presence there at a function to which 700 companies have been invited. This is the only lab of this type in the world, O’Connor said, and it is located at Northern. Renfro reported meeting with marketing experts from Chicago and Dallas on marketing the lab and office space at Conoco. Furman said a newsletter for EDAB is in the planning stages. Renfro told about a meeting with the Carbon Fiber project, which has been proposed by Conoco, with the location not yet determined. However, Renfro says he feels Ponca City has presented a good package to Conoco. He noted that everyone has been cooperative including City, Kay County, State officials including Gov. Frank Keating. Gerald Hall, Regional Representative for the Department of Commerce, told about the set up on Workforce Development. Ponca City, Enid and Stillwater will form one region and be controlled by local boards and a regional oversight board. Jarrett announced the State Department of Commerce Regional Representatives will be meeting here for ten days. Hall told that the new director of the Department of Commerce Russell Perry will be addressing the luncheon at the Marland Hotel and Conference Center. The planning session has been postponed because of vacancies on the advisory board. Renfro said the work session will be rescheduled after Mayor Leonard appoints members to fill the vacancies. Guests included Nick Spencer, new Conoco refinery manager, J.B. Smith, Realtor, Chamber of Commerce Chairman Craig Myers. New State Commerce Secretary Tells of New Jobs ImportanceBy LOUISE ABERCROMBIE News Business Editor Russell Perry, new Secretary of the Oklahoma Department of Commerce (ODC), told of the importance of creating new jobs for rural Oklahoma, at a meeting here of the Regional Economic Development Representatives. Perry is the publisher of the Black Chronicle in Oklahoma City and recently appointed by Gov. Frank Keating. Creating a business-friendly environment and raising the education bar and per capita income of Oklahoma are some of the major goals of Perry. He said that “If we’re able to create a broader tax base, better schools and a quality of life rich in culture, then we will have been very successful. Oklahomans are ready for the challenge of raising their economic prosperity to a new level.” In the official news publication of the DOC, Perry is quoted saying “We need to be very aggressive in our approach to creating greater economic prosperity. By that, I mean we need to continue efforts to diversify the state’s economy, and we need to work closely with educational leaders to create and attract high-paying jobs. We need to develop a niche and include educators in the process.” Hosts for the event were Gerald Hall, Ponca City’s regional rep, Ponca City Economic Development Advisory Board, City of Ponca City, and Jan Jarrett, EDAB executive. The meetings were held at the Marland Mansion Hotel and Conference Center. Financial Farm Planning Takes Different Route From FarmingBy Janet Tabor Pioneer Technology Center When it comes to farming, Dave Schiltz relies upon the longtime expertise of his father. However, when it comes to financial planning, Schiltz relies upon the longtime expertise of Agricultural Business Management (ABM) instructor, Erwin Anderson. Schiltz recalls meeting Anderson during one of his farm visits to his dad, James Schiltz’s farm. “Erwin invited me to visit his program so that I could learn more about the financial side of the business," said Schiltz. “My dad had been in the program for a couple of years and was getting ready to retire, so I decided to give it a try.” Schiltz did give it a try and is now beginning his third year in the ABM program at Pioneer Technology Center. “Before I got into Erwin’s program, I really didn’t know anything about financial planning,” said Schiltz. “I remember making financial decisions a day ahead! Now I have the knowledge to plan at least one to two years in advance to decide if I need to purchase equipment or hold on to it another year.” Once Schiltz builds up his equity, his goal is to become a full-time crop farmer and expand his current cow and calf herd. For right now, he is working as a farm manager and an equipment operator for Carmichael Farms in Ponca City. “The ABM program has been really great,” said Schiltz. Two years ago, I had no idea whether my farm had a net loss or gain. Erwin has helped me see exactly were my money was coming in and going out and were I could trim back or even expand in other areas of operation.” Pioneer Technology Center’s ABM program is generally a two-year program. Recently Anderson decided to add an extra year to the program that is more individualized. This third year also allows his clients to pick and choose some of the special farming conferences and tax planning seminars that are available. “This third year is just to really keep my clients abreast of the tax law changes and estimations,” said Anderson. “With the tax laws changing from year to year, this third year can be really beneficial. My clients have the opportunity to learn about the new changes either by attending some of the tax seminars or by sitting down with me on an individual basis were I can show them how to integrate these changes into their tax estimation programs. At this time, I also help them look at the financial operation of their farms by doing a farm analysis.” “This is exactly why I wanted to take advantage of the third year,” said Schiltz. “It has been very helpful just knowing what farming tools you can use for depreciation or even other expenses that can be used to a farmer’s advantage.” The ABM program will begin two new sessions in November. Program 1, Agricultural Business Management, will begin Nov. 1 at 7 p.m. Topics to be covered in this session include, record keeping, farm planning and analysis, marketing strategies, low-interest loan assistance, financial statements, and cash flow planning. Program 2, Farm Family Computer Records, begins Nov. 8 at 7 p.m. This program is for enrolled farm families to learn more about income and expense transactions, creating reports, preparing financial statements, and organizing information for income tax forms. This class also uses the Quicken record keeping software package. For more information on the ABM program, please call Erwin Anderson at 580-762-8336, Ext. 240. Conoco Strides To Preempt Crisis of Losing Its LeadersHOUSTON — While the world scurries to address the Y2K “Millennium Bug” by human resource experts for its perceived size — another situation threatens today’s corporate jungle. With early retirements, restructuring and compressed hierarchies, many large companies will see 40 to 50 percent of their upper management leave in the next five years — a problem of pachydermic proportions for corporations with a shallow pool of leaders posed to replace the ones they have lost. Recently, Conoco Inc. took strides to preempt such a crisis, announcing the launch of a unique leadership development program that departs from the traditional paradigm by blending global business principles, action learning and new techniques in personal effectiveness. Called Trailblazer, the program is a collaborative effort, spearheaded by Conoco, between London Business School, ranked the number one European business school; the Center for Creative Leadership (CCL), the internationally recognized nonprofit leadership research and training institution based in North Carolina: and JMW Consultants Inc., an executive education and business consultancy focused on developing models for enhancing personal and professional performance. “Trailblazer represents a concentrated effort to increase Conoco’s intellectual capital growth by developing a new generation of leaders with a different personal and business mindset,” says Conoco President and CEO Archie Dunham. “The program’s goal is to develop Conoco leaders as Trailblazers - people who can create a sustainable future where everyone is inspired to excel. This will enable us to leverage the economic value of knowledge within the company, something that we consider critical as a newly public and independent company.” After 18 successful years as a Du Pont subsidiary, in the fall of 1998, Conoco returned to the New York Stock Exchange. Investors purchased 30 percent (191 million shares) of Conoco stock for $4.4 billion — in what stands as the largest initial public offering (IPO) in U.S. history. The company subsequently issued a successful $4 billion jumbo bond offering the largest ever in the U.S. energy sector. According to Dunham, Conoco’s success in its new role will require a different breed of leadership. The company has increased its investment in leadership development by at least 50 percent with the multi-million dollar investment in the Trailblazer Program. No fewer than 150 of Conoco’s current and emerging leaders will participate in the program over the next three years. Prior to Trailblazer, Conoco invested in the leadership development of five to 10 percent of its senior management. This new, long-term strategy assures that key leaders are not just identified, but also aggressively developed to move into future leadership roles. Conoco University, the company’s corporate university another Dunham initiative, launched Trailblazer this summer at London Business School. Conoco University (CU) is a “virtual” learning organization devoid of traditional bricks, mortar and classrooms, operating where the need and demand exists and serving all 15,000 Conoco employees on worldwide basis. CU, and banner programs like Trailblazer, enables Conoco to address the critical issue of leadership and development and succession. The program includes three intensive one-week sessions spread over nine months for groups of 24 to 30 managers. Participants reflect the diversity of Conoco’s global work force, with the first group comprising managers from Europe, Asia, North America and Africa. Participants include functional and emerging leaders, as well as a number of high impact capability employees involved in current or pending major business initiatives. PTC Self-Employment Training Classes BeginBy Janet Taber Pioneer Technology Center Pioneer Technology Center’s Self-Employment Training program began classes last week with special guest speaker, Dewey Brandon from the Oklahoma Tax Commission. Brandon spoke to the large group of area business owners concerning tax law changes, rules, and procedures for business owners. According to Brandon, the statistics from the Oklahoma Tax Commission show that a lack of knowledge concerning tax laws, rules, and procedures is the major reason for delinquencies among businesses. Brandon also added that the Oklahoma Tax Commission believes every person in Oklahoma should receive instructions regarding ownership responsibilities, including the collection and/or remittance/payment of Oklahoma business taxes before actually starting a new business. He further stated that the goal of the Oklahoma Tax Commission is also to provide this vital information to help instruct existing businesses on proper business registration, tax reporting, tax bookkeeping, and tax exemption. The session lasted for approximately three hours and covered new business registration, business tax report form completion, sales and withholding record keeping requirements, sales tax deductions, and exemptions and vendor responsibilities. SET instructor, Larry Atteberry works to provide assistance to clients who are interested in starting a small business, managing a new business, or even evaluating a business idea or plan. Atteberry’s 11-week program meets once a week and covers special topics including, marketing, networking, banking, legal issues, insurance, accounting, taxation, and how to actually start your own business. Guest speakers from accounting and law firms as well as other tax experts are also scheduled during this time. “One of the first things I do is to help them write or evaluate a business plan,” said Atteberry. “Then I try to give my clients as much information as I possibly can during the 11-week program. During this time, I also work with my clients by providing one-on-one assistance as needed whether it is help in accounting, marketing or taxes. The SET program does provide this one-on-one consultations for up to six months.” For more information on the SET program, call (580) 762-8336, ext. 262. OSU, Conoco Developing New MaterialA newly developed reactionary material that may replace existing catalysts in petroleum refining that are hazardous to workers and the environment is the basis for a research collaboration between OSU’s College of Engineering, Architecture and Technology and Conoco. Martin High, Karen High and Alan Tree, professors in OSU’s School of Chemical Engineering. are heading the project and are exploring applications for the experimental catalyst which has use in the upgrading of raw hydrocarbons into more valuable products such as high-octane gasoline. Their goal is to use the new catalyst to produce a whole host of products, some of which Conoco has not been able to make and others which are currently produced, but may be refined more economically and environmentally soundly. Development of successful applications for the catalytic material could make a huge impact on the refining operations of a company as large as Conoco, according to Dr. Martin High. Conoco’s support of the research includes the donation of a catalytic reactor to the college as well as funding that was matched by the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education and the Noble Foundation for the purchase of additional equipment. The project is housed in new laboratories in OSU’s Advanced Technology Research Center. Pioneer Tech Employees Receive HAZCOM TrainingHazard Communication (HAZCOM) was the first of a series of safety training sessions held for Pioneer Technology Center employees. Monthly sessions are being coordinated by Safety Director, Vance Johnson, in an effort to provide the employees with necessary information concerning health and physical hazards of materials used in their operations and training facilities. Johnson stated that the monthly training sessions that are being conducted are in compliance with OSHA standards. He further stated that Pioneer Technology Center’s current workplace safety plan is continuously updated on an annual basis to meet new rules and regulations. Kent Enevoldsen, instructor for the training session, discussed the availability of Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for all chemical products on the property. Enevoldsen also stressed the importance of recognizing and interpreting labels, warnings, color-coding, and signs that are affixed to containers or buildings in order to protect themselves against potential hazards. Proper waste disposal procedures was also included in the session. “Safety training benefits us all and it allows us to set a good example for our students. Especially when our students see us using the proper safety procedures and taking extra precautions in handling or disposing of chemicals,” Johnson said. Johnson added that the future safety training sessions will include wearing personal protective equipment, hearing conservation, electrical, as well as other safety areas. Notes/QuotesMcDonald ElectedOKLAHOMA CITY — Robert O. McDonald, chairman and chief executive at Oklahoma City-based Capital West Securities, has been elected chairman of the Regional Investment Bankers Association. The association is a national group of 126 regional and independent broker-dealers and investment bankers companies representing 11,000 brokers in the United States and western Europe. The Ponca City office is at 200 East Grand. Free Web SiteA free employment and career services web site created to better link Oklahoma college graduates with Oklahoma jobs was publicly kicked-off today by the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education. Also launched was a similar web site for Oklahoma certified teachers and Oklahoma schools. Called the Oklahoma Marketplace and the Teacher Job Connection, respectively, the web sites are located at www.ok-marketplace.org. “It is our hope that these system wide web sites will serve as key tools for helping keep more Oklahoma college and university graduates in the state and better ensuring that they are appropriately employed,” said Chancellor Hans Brisch. Rice Farms RecognizedRick and Barbara Rice, Jay and Melinda Carroll, representing Rice Farms, Fairfax, were recently presented with the Silver Leader Award for outstanding Dixon ZTR mower sales in Las Vegas. Rice Farms has been an authorized Dixon dealership since 1983. Dixon Industries, Inc., a Blount International, Inc. Company, manufactures and markets Dixon ZTR mowers. Headquartered in Montgomery, Ala., Blount International, Inc. is a diversified international company. King Accepts PositionTULSA - Laurie Melissa King, 1995 Ponca City High School graduate, has accepted a position with Littlefield Inc., where she is a public relations account executive. King will be working in public relations efforts for clients with national and international business to business and consumer marketing needs. King graduated from Oklahoma State University with a bachelor of arts degree in journalism, public relations. She worked in OSU’s Communication Services Department as the public relations intern and editorial assistant for the OSU Magazine and parents newsletter. She is the daughter of Dee and Dodee King, formerly of Ponca City, who now live in Stillwater. SPORTSHeupel Gets Honor Heupel Gets HonorDALLAS (AP) — Oklahoma quarterback Josh Heupel, Nebraska linebacker Julius Jackson and Colorado kicker Jeremy Aldrich are Big 12 players of the week based on performances Saturday. Heupel, offensive player of the week, broke his own single game record for passing yards by throwing for 420 yards in the Sooners’ 41-10 victory over Baylor. Going 37-for-54 with three touchdowns and two interceptions, Heupel beat his 341-yard passing mark set against Indiana State two weeks before. Jackson, defensive player of the week, was a literal one-man wrecking crew in the Huskers’ 20-13 win over Conference USA team Southern Mississippi with a 28-yard pass interception return for a game-winning touchdown. Earlier, the linebacker from Gainesville returned a fumble 16 yards for another score. Aldrich, specialty player of the week, broke the Buffaloes’ long-standing record of four field goals, set in seven different games, by connecting on all five three-pointers in a 51-17 win over Kansas. Aldrich kicked four extra points and field goals of 49, 42, 48, 41, and 40 yards. OSU and Nebraska on FoxDALLAS (AP) — When Oklahoma State visits Nebraska on Oct. 2, FOX Sports Net will telecast the football contest in Lincoln as its Big 12 game of the week. Game time has been moved to 11:30 a.m. CDT to accommodate television. ABC Sports also announced it will air the Kansas State-Texas game in Austin, Texas, as a 2:30 p.m. regional game. The Texas A&M-Texas Tech game also will air nationally with FOX Sports Net at 6 p.m.
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