From The Pages Of The Ponca City News, Friday, October
3, 1997
LOCAL
Plenty of Sunshine Predicted For Marland Estate Oktoberfest
Oklahoma's 'First Lady' Tours Historic Areas of Ponca City
Po-Hi Homecoming
Nearly News
Ponca City Electric Utility Began Serving in 1914
Officer Explains Veterans Benefits
Author Here Saturday To Sign Book
Unique Humane Society Ornament Available Here
Flu Shots Available At Several Clinics
Woodlands Students Receive Unique Explanation of ARM
'Fire Prevention Week' Begins Sunday
Suspect Sought Following Indecent Exposure Incident
NOC Seeks Comments From Public
Corrected Address
DEATHS
Gary Leroy Quick
Services Pending
Russell Jones
Lillie Schulz
NEWS BRIEFS
EDUCATION
Peri Decides To Finish His Dreams
Computer Classes in Full Swing
PC Schools To Offer Assessment
PC Examines STW
School Notes
RELIGION
Ponca City Men to Join Brothers For Promise Keepers Meeting
LWM League Sunday Scheduled
Christian Music Concert Planned Oct. 4 in Kaw City Community
Church Briefs
Christian Motorcyclists Report on 'Ride to the Gap'
LIFESTYLES
Soroptimist Members Will 'Paper Ponca City Purple'
Collector Club Wreath Given; Election Slated
Little News
Wilson Family Reunion Held
SPORTS
Wildcats Battle Enid in Homecoming
Lady Cats Reach Regional Finals
Volleyballers Fall To Tulsa Union
By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE
News Staff Writer
Yellow striped tent tops have been erected at the Marland Estate grounds, to provide shade for those wishing to rest a bit or to listen and watch the entertainment at the Oktoberfest Saturday and Sunday.
Annually the event, sponsored by the Marland Estate Commission, raisies funds for the restoration of the Marland Mansion and Estate.
Stan Paynter, chairman, predicted that the weather is going to be good both days, and he anticipates a big turnout, to shop, enjoy the refreshments and entertainment.
A wide variety of arts and crafts booths are sure to attract those shoppers looking for unique gifts. Many handcrafted items are among the wares offered at the 80 arts and crafts booths. There are no commercial vendors.
Seventeen booths will be serving up a variety of food to tickle the most discerning palettes. up a feast.
The feasting menu boasts traditional bratwurst, German sausage, polish green peppers and many other tasty tidbits. sandwiches, sauerkraut and wieners, German sausage with kraut.
Entertainment
On Saturday musical entertainment begins at 11 a.m., on the Main Stage with the Impostors, followed by Poverty's Children, Checkmate, an Enid band, and the Saturday night dance slated from 5:45 to 8 p.m.
Meanwhile on the Pool Stage, action begins at noon with Fran's Dance, followed by Kem's Gym, Oklahoma kids and finishing up with Jazzercise from 3 to 4 p.m.
Action at the children's tent begins at 11 a.m., with mime Craig Silvery, followed by juggler/unicylist Ted Campbell, ventriloquist Don Hall and finishing off with magician Joe Comet at 2 p.m. The children's tent and activities will be above the boathouse near the gazebo. An added event is the building of a sandcastle by Mid-High students.
Sunday entertainment begins at 11 a.m., with the Sky Pilots, followed by guitarist Edgar Cruz and ends with Music, Music, Music, polka dance band from Tulsa. This begins at 2:30 and ends at 5:30 p.m.
On the Pool Stage Zen Okies play beginning at 11:30 and will be followed with guitarist Mark Cruz from 2 to 4 p.m.
Entertaining in the children's tent will be ventriloquist Dave May at noon and at 1 p.m.
Children Activities
Over 27 different children's activities have been planned. These include Space Ball, Moon Bounce, bicycles, trampoline, superplayround, face painting, clown wet sponge and snail bean toss, softball/football throw, helium balloons, sand art and others.
Oktoberfest hours on Saturday are from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. A free shuttle will run to and from the Presbyterian Church parking lot both days. Admission to the Oktoberfest is $2 for adults, $1 for youths 7 to 11, and children under 6 are admitted free.
First Aid, Yes - Pets and Bikes, No
For safety reasons, no bikes or pets will be allowed on the grounds. A First Aid station will be available.
By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE
News Staff Writer
A warm welcome was accorded Cathy Keating, First Lady of Oklahoma, as she came to Ponca City Thursday to tour the historic downtown restoration buildings under the auspices of the state Main Street Program.
Mrs. Keating said, "What your are doing in Ponca City is keeping Oklahoma's heritage alive and intact with every building you preserve, with every building you save."
She added, "Today I am here to commend you for everything you've done to preserve the heritage of this absolutely beautiful community and city, which is significant to Oklahoma."
Charming as always, Mrs. Keating told about the last visit here with her husband Gov. Frank Keating, and spending an evening recently at the Pioneer Community Day barbecue at Wentz Camp. She told about co-anchoring a morning Tulsa television talk show and giving Ponca City a plug on the air the day after the barbecue.
Mrs. Keating also recalled an evening at the Poncan Theatre. Another memory for the Keating memory book, was an inaugural ball at the Marland Mansion.
Ponca City has more money reinvested in restoration in the downtown area than any other city in the state and has been recognized for this at the state level.
Gary Martin, city manager, told of the City's commitment to Main Street, and pointed out the addition to the library as an example and showed an architect's rendering of the proposed renovation and addition to the Civic Center, which will house the No. 1 fire station. He said he hopes the citizens will support this effort, which will be coming up for election soon.
Encouraging the community to keep working, Mrs. Keating told a story about John Pierpont, who failed as a teacher, in business, as an accountant and a preacher and became a poet but could not make a living from poetry.
When Pierpont died the only thing he left his family was a poem set to music. That song is sung around the world by happy people and is known as "Jingle Bells." She said, "You people are the Jingle Bells for this community." She urged continued support of Main Street projects.
Flags were flying on Grand Avenue and red, white and blue bunting hung from the windows at the Civic Center and Poncan Theater as welcoming symbols. A red, white and blue sign, made by junior high students was displayed from the second story window at Mid-High, which Mrs. Keating faced as she spoke.
After the ceremony at Centennial Plaza, Mrs. Keating, Les Hall and Lisa Hains of the Oklahoma Main Street Program and members of the board of the Main Street Authority made a walking tour of some of the historic buildings,
The tour included Smith Home Furniture, Ponca City Sports, John's Apparel, Godfrey's and Poncan Theatre.
As a part of the ceremony at Centennial Plaza, Mike Mott, Main Street chairman and master of ceremonies, introduced Mayor Marilyn Andrews, who introduced Mrs. Keating and later presented her with a basket of items from Ponca City.
Another special presentation was by Kenn Wessel, executive director of the Poncan Theatre. He gave Mrs. Keating tickets for the "world premier" of Ponca City's Robyn Kreger's movie, "Kites Toward Heaven," which will take place on Dec. 13 at the "restored" Poncan Theatre.
Among the dignitaries present were past and present City Commissioners and members of the Main Street Authority.
COLIN WEST, student at Ponca City High School, tries to spark spirit by running the Ponca City Wildcat flag during Thursday's Homecoming pep rally and parade. This new flag was funded by the Quarterback Club, the Takedown Club and the Tipoff Club. Homecoming festivities will continue tonight when the Wildcats take on the Plainsmen from Enid. Kickoff time is set for 7:30 p.m. Royalty coronation will be at halftime. (News Photo by Kristi Grabeal)
It has come to NN's attention that the Ponca City schools are in need of mentors. NN hears commercials on TV seeking mentors, but it has not dawned on us that local schools might have the same need. Now, we know, and need to do something about the situation. Anyone out there who would like to step into the gap, needs to call Ponca City Tomorrow at 767-0823 and talk with Kathy. NN thinks it's an urgent call from the Ponca City schools and needs a quick response.
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In case you haven't already "quacked up" over Sunday's YMCA Duck Derby to be held during Oktoberfest activities on the Marland Estate grounds, it's not too late. Proceeds from the now-annual event go to provide programs at the YMCA and scholarships for individuals who need assistance.
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NN know that "hot" is relative. What seems hot in October, might be warm, or even cool, in summer. Well, NN feels that Thursday was "relatively hot," with the old mercury soaring to 95 degrees - just one degree shy of the record for the date set back in 1938. (The all-time high for the month, set on Oct. 5, 1948, is 98 degrees, by the way.) To put things in perspective - that's relativity again - the month's all-time low was 21 degrees on Oct. 20, 1976).
Editor's Note: In recognition of Public Power Week (Oct. 5-11), this is the second in a series of articles commemorating the history of Ponca City's public power system, which began serving citizen/owners with electricity in 1914, and looking toward the future of a re-regulated electric industry.
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Ponca City Utility Authority
The City of Ponca City's electric utility is leased to and operated by the Ponca City Utility Authority (PCUA) pursuant to a lease agreement dated June 1, 1984.
The Ponca City Utility Authority promotes the acquisition, construction, and operation of various utility facilities, services and public improvements in and for the City, receives revenues derived from the existence and operation of the utility systems (electric, water, sanitary sewer, and solid waste), receives funds and the investment income earned, pays the debt service requirements on debt issued by the PCUA, pays operation and maintenance expenses and finances future system improvements.
The Trustees of the PCUA are the same persons who serve as the current Ponca City Board of Commissioners. Because Ponca City's public power system is owned by and is accountable to the people it serves, every citizen is a utility owner with access to information and a say in policies affecting their public power community. Through public meetings and at the ballot box, consumers have a direct voice in expressing their opinions about their utilities and the community's goals and priorities.
Ponca City has its own distinctive characteristics (natural resources, geography, climate, economic, social opportunities and challenges, diversity of citizenry and community spirit). These local characteristics must be taken into account when decisions are made about electric rates and services, generating fuels, clean air and water, and other issues that affect the entire community.
PCUA Becomes Member of Oklahoma Municipal Power Authority
The Ponca City Utility Authority became a member of Oklahoma Municipal Power Authority in December of 1984. OMPA is a State governmental agency created to provide a means for municipal electric systems in Oklahoma to jointly plan, finance, acquire, and operate electrical power supply facilities necessary to meet the electrical energy requirements of their consumers. The directors of the Authority are elected by the participating municipalities. As a member of OMPA, PCUA benefits from the economies of scale of a large utility, while retaining control of its own wholesale electric utility. By working together, members maximize efficiencies in transmission and production of power. Members jointly plan, finance, own, and operate electric generation and transmission facilities. OMPA is currently 36 member cities strong. Public power systems, owned and operated by the communities they serve, are deeply rooted in the history of the United States. They are an expression of the American ideal of local people working together to meet local needs. In a restructured industry, transmission and generation will continue to be important components of OMPA's Power Supply Program. Therefore, OMPA is committed to efficiently operate and maintain the facilities it owns and to negotiate cost effective and flexible agreements with the utilities the Authority relies upon for power supply.
OMPA holds the following transmission agreements: Central and Southwest Services, Grand River Dam Authority, Oklahoma Gas and Electric, Public Service Company of Oklahoma, Southwestern Electric Power Company, Southwestern Power Administration, Western Farmers Electric Cooperation, Western Resources, and West Texas Utilities. In addition, OMPA has ownership in the following plants:
Plant Ownership Fuel MW percent Own Operator
Oklaunion No. 1 Coal 78.0 11.72 WTU
Dolet Hills No. 1 Lignite 25.0 3.91 CLECO
Pirkey No. 1 Lignite 15.0 2.34 SWEPCO
Kaw Hydro Hydro 25.6 100.00 OMPA
Ponca City Nat Gas 60.0 100.00 OMPA
Open House and Tour
The Ponca City Utility Authority Electric Services will be holding an Open House to celebrate Public Power on Sunday, 2-5 p.m. at the City's Municipal Power Plant Complex, located at 1400 North. Union. Various activities are planned for the Open House, including tours of the complex. The complex consists of a diesel generation plant, steam generation plant and a combustion turbine generator. It is the largest municipally-owned generating complex in Oklahoma. In addition to tours of the plant, Ponca City Linemen will be demonstrating how electricity works and the importance of electrical safety. Refreshments will be served. The public Open House is being held in conjunction with the nationally celebrated "Public Power Week" (Oct. 5-11) that recognizes the 2,200 communities throughout the United States that have locally owned municipal electric systems. PCUA-Electric Services began serving the citizens of Ponca City in 1914. Now 83 years later, Ponca City's Electric Services continue to serve its citizens/owners with electric energy.
Don Haden, Service Officer with the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs, addressed a group of veterans at the American Legion recently and explained the benefits veterans are missing.
Haden noted that he either originates or services over 6 million dollars in claims a year, just in this area. The sad thing, Haden mentioned, is the fact that there is funding for other veterans that simply are not aware they qualify for benefits.
Misinformation about benefits is probably one of the biggest problems facing veterans. They will hear from one source or another that they or their spouse are not eligible for benefits and never contact a qualified veteran representative. Haden mentioned several cases where a veteran could have received thousands of dollars over several years but assumed he was not qualified to receive benefits.
A veteran did not have to serve overseas or be service-connected "disabled" to be eligible for benefits, Haden remarked. Normally to qualify, a veteran would have had to serve during a period of war, hostilities or conflict with the dates of eligibility being set by the government. Other items that enter into a veteran's ability to qualify for benefits are their income, net work, degree of disability due to present medical condition, requirements for daily care, etc. Haden also remarked there are several "Veterans Center" facilities that provide outstanding services, paralleling long term nursing home care.
Financial assistance grants can also be applied for by a veteran. These funds can only be used for paying utilities, for rent or house payments or for the purchase of groceries. These financial assistance grants are handled by the Post Service Officer who actually applies the funds directly to the bill needing paid. The funds are not given to the veteran to disperse himself.
Haden says he services several counties and can be contacted in Ponca City at the American Legion Post, 407 West South Avenue, from 9 a.m. until noon every Thursday. This is on a first come, first served basis.
Author Cheri Fuller, will be at The Master's Touch Saturday from 2 to 3:30 p.m. to sign copies of her most recently released book "When Mothers Pray."
"In a world with so many negatives, we, as moms, want to have positive impact on our children," says Fuller. "One of the most important ways we can do that is to pray for them - whether they are toddlers, teenagers, or adults," she said.
According to Elsa Morgan, president and CEO of MOPS International, "Cheri Fuller points our prayer gaze toward God's compassion for a mother's heart - and keeps it there, waiting for His answers. Moms of all ages will find practical encouragement for their practice of prayer."
Becky Freeman, author of "Still Lickin' the Spoon," says "Every mother becomes a lioness when it comes to protecting her young. Cheri Fuller profoundly reminds us - with charm, humor, scripture and real-life examples - that the greatest "super power" we mighty moms can draw on is prayer."
Discover how to overcome such hurdles as discouragement, lack of time, and inconsistency. And find out how to preserve in prayer when nothing seems to change. Allow your heart to be touched as moms from around the world share their own personal stories, struggles and ultimate victories, say editors of Fuller's new book.
You will find new motivation to revitalize your prayer life and to make a difference in the lives of your children as you intercede for them, they said.
A cat and dog, gazing at the Pioneer Woman monument forms a unique new collectible ornament now available from the Ponca City Humane Society as a fund raiser.
The specially crafted Christmas ornaments, designed by Audrey Schmitz, will be available for $10 each at the Ponca City Humane Society booth at Oktoberfest, said Rita Brown, publicity chairman. They will also be available after Oktoberfest at the Humane Society shelter, 900 West Prospect during normal business hours.
Also available at the PCHS Oktoberfest booth will be three smaller Christmas ornaments as well as dog sweaters and "Trail of Tails," T-shirts. Funds from all items sold help fund the PCHS shelter.
Jean Barnes, PCHS shelter executive director invited, "Stop by our booth for great stocking stuffers and help us continue our commitment to shelter animals. We also have a list of wonderful animals available for adoption. Perhaps you will find one that is just right for you."
For more information, call 767-8877, or visit the shelter.
St. Joseph Regional Medical Center is providing flu shots to area residents by scheduling special times during the month of October. Sessions have been scheduled at Northern Oklahoma Regional Clinics, Tonkawa Medical Clinic and Newkirk Medical Clinic. There is no out-of-pocket cost for recipients of Medicare, Part B, if they present their card or card number. All other individuals must pay $7 for the vaccine.
The flu shots will be available at the following locations during these dates and times:
Saturday, Oct. 11, from 9 to 11:30 a.m. at Northern Oklahoma Regional Clinics, 415 Fairview, Ponca City.
Monday, Oct. 13, from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Tonkawa Medical Clinic, 600 East. Grand, Tonkawa.
Thursday, Oct. 16, from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Newkirk Medical Clinic, 109 South Maple, Newkirk.
Sessions are also scheduled for Oct. 20 from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Tonkawa Medical Clinic; Oct. 23 from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Newkirk Medical Clinic and Oct. 25 from 9 to 11:30 a.m. at Northern Oklahoma Regional Clinics.
Participants need to wear clothing that will allow exposure of the upper arm.
The vaccines are available to individuals age 13 and older. A flu vaccine for children age 12 and younger is available by contacting the child's physician. Individuals who have had a previous bad reaction to the flu vaccine, are allergic to protein in chicken eggs, have a history of Guillain-Barre syndrome, or are currently ill should not receive the vaccination. Also, pregnant women need to bring a written order from their physician to receive the vaccine.
Despite what some people say, the flu vaccine cannot give the recipient the flu. It contains no "live" viruses. Some participants may experience a sore arm for one to two days after receiving the vaccine.
According to Janet White, Wellness Coordinator for SJRMC, there are certain groups of the local populations that may be at an increased risk for contacting the influenza virus. Those groups are highly encouraged to receive the vaccine and include persons 65 years of age or older and adults with chronic disorders of the pulmonary or cardiovascular systems, including asthma.
White said that individuals must receive flu shots every fall because flu viruses change from year to year. This year's vaccine is specially formulated to combat this season's viruses. White also cautions that influenza should not be taken lightly. "Influenza has many serious complications, including pneumonia and other lung infections. Over 20,000 people in the United States die of these complications each year."
Plan to attend the flu vaccine clinics in the upcoming weeks. For more information, contact Janet White at 765-0594.
This community wellness program is sponsored by St. Joseph Regional Medical Center.
By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE
News Staff Writer
Airplanes equipped with special scientific instruments play a significant part in global climate research, Pete Dawm, director of flight operations for the Atmospheric Radiation Measurement (ARM) project, explained Thursday to 150 students of Woodlands School.
Dawm and a number of other officials and scientists from around the world have been conducting experiments connected with the U.S. Department of Energy's Southern Great Plains ARM site near Lamont. Most of those scientists have been lodging in Ponca City during this three-week observation study about the impact of clouds on the climate.
The Lamont site was started in 1989 and was the first one of the DOE program. Other sites have now been constructed in the Tropical Western Pacific and Alaska.
Most of the information about "El Nino" will be coming from the Western Pacific site, Dawm said. But the Lamont site scientists will also be looking at data and contributing to efforts of others, Dawm said.
The Woodland students, guests of Greenwood Aviation, also learned about the impact of clouds on solar radiant energy reaching the ground and absorbed by the atmosphere and on the reradiation of heat from the earth.
Among the planes stationed here at Greenwood Aviation are The Pacific Northwest National Laboratory's Gulfstream-1, which collections information about aerosol particles, while the University of North Dakota Citation aircraft and the University of Wyoming King Air which takes measurements of water vapor and clouds. The is also an unmanned plane known as UAV and it is hangared at the Tonkawa-Blackwell Airport.
The airplanes each are equipped with an array of specialized instruments, have been crisscrossing the skies collecting data over the ARM site since early September.
While the Southern Great Plains site collects climate data 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, it also sponsors Intensive Observation Periods. This has been happening here during a three-week period.
"The Department of Energy probably has the largest collection of remote sensing instrumentation the world operating on a daily basis here in Oklahoma," said Doug Sisterson, site program manager.
Measurements from ground-based instruments are combined and compared with in-air measurements to give the scientists a better idea of what is going on in the entire atmosphere.
With a budget of about $40 million a year, ARM is the Energy Department's largest contribution to the U.S. Global Change Research program.
Researchers from eight DOE laboratories, 19 universities, 14 federal laboratories, five private agencies, and six foreign countries participate in the program.
The Universities of Oklahoma, Wisconsin, Utah, NASA and the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration, bring their instruments to the Lamont site to further the understanding of the climate. Sisterson commented, "The scientists get the added benefit of working with their colleagues across organizational boundaries."
"Fire Prevention Week" Oct. 5-11 is fast approaching and preparations for scheduled activities are under way. This year's theme is "Know When To Go: React Fast To Fire." The week long observation and activities are designed to educate the public about fire prevention and safety.
The Ponca City Fire Prevention Council was recently formed to assist in efforts to educate the community about fire safety thereby reducing the number of fires and with it the number of fire-related injuries.
Through education and community involvement the council hopes to increase fire awareness and decrease fires in Ponca City. The council will focus on education programs for older and younger generations - the children and the elderly in the city. The group will also be involved with the Ponca City School District "Learn-Not-To-Burn" program.
The council has sponsored a poster contest this year for students in kindergarten through third grade. The local AARP chapter distributed and judged over 1,200 posters in this year's contest. The winners will be announced during Fire Prevention Week.
The Ponca City Police Department has released the composite drawing of a suspect wanted in connection with an indecent exposure and attempted abduction that occurred Sept. 26 in the 700 block of East Overbrook Avenue.
Allegedly, the suspect offered a ride to a 16-year-old girl walking home from school. According to police, the man exposed himself to the girl and attempted to force her into his car after she refused the ride.
Police searched the area but were unable to locate the suspect. The man has been described as a white male with brown hair, between 20-25 years-old, approximately 5-foot-9 to 5-foot-11 and weighing between 170-190 pounds.
The man was last seen wearing faded jeans and a bright pink t-shirt and mirrored sunglasses. He was driving a late model, two door, bright blue Pontiac Firebird.
The Oklahoma Bureau of Investigation was notified and prepared the artist sketch that has been distributed. "We are taking this very serious because of the severity of the crime," says Sherry Bowers of the Ponca City Police Department.
Anyone with any information regarding the suspect's identity is asked to contact the police department at 767-0370 or Crime Stoppers at 762-5100.
TONKAWA - Northern Oklahoma College is seeking comments from the public about the college in preparation for its periodic evaluation by its regional accrediting agency.
An evaluation team representing the Commission on Institutions of Higher Education of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools will visit the campus Jan. 26-28, 1998.
The public is invited to submit comments regarding the college to: Public Comment on Northern Oklahoma College, Commission on Institutions of Higher Education, North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, 30 North LaSalle Street Suite 2400, Chicago, Ill. 60602.
Comments must address substantive matters related to the quality of the institution or its academic programs. Written, signed comments including the name, address and phone number of the person providing the comments must be received by Dec. 26, 1997. Comments cannot be treated as confidential.
For the past year-and-a-half, the college has been conducting a self-study, addressing the Commission's requirements and criteria for accreditation. The evaluation team will review the college's ongoing ability to meet the criteria and will recommend to the Commission a continuing status for the institution. Following a review process, the Commission itself will take the final action.
The Commission on Institutions of Higher Education is one of the six accrediting agencies in the United States that provide institutional accreditation on a regional basis. The commission accredits approximately 950 institutions of higher education in a 19-state region and is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Northern has been accredited by the Commission at the Associate level since 1948.
Entries for the Kaw Lake Photo Contest, should be submitted to Graham
Photography Supply, 201 North First Street in Ponca City. The address numbers
were incorrect in Thursday's News announcing the contest.
DEATHS
PERRY - Gary Leroy Quick, father of Michael Quick and Michelle Quick, both of Ponca City, died at his home in Sumner, Okla. on Thursday, Oct. 2, 1997. He was 45.
The funeral will be 2 p.m. Monday, Oct. 6, 1997 in the Sumner Baptist Church with Tom Underwood and Albert Quick officiating. Burial will follow in Sumner Cemetery under direction of Brown Funeral Home, Perry.
Gary Leroy Quick was born Jan. 21, 1952 in Perry, the son of Floyd and Laura Quick. He graduated from Sumner High School and Oklahoma State University, and was employed as a marketing consultant for Smith International of Ponca City.
He and Kimberly Johnson were married in Oklahoma City on May 19, 1974.
Surviving are his son, Michael Gary Quick and his daughter, Michelle Laura Quick, both of Ponca City; two brothers, Loren Quick of Morrison and Albert Quick of Sumner, also a sister, Mrs. Bill (Karen) Huffmire of Perry.
Russell Jones, longtime Ponca City resident, died Thursday, Oct. 2, 1997 at the Blackwell Regional Hospital. He was 67.
Survivors will include his wife, Sena, of the home.
Funeral arrangements are pending with Grace Memorial Chapel and will be announced later.
NEWKIRK - Lillie Schulz, longtime resident of Newkirk, died Friday, Oct. 3, 1997 in Ponca City. She was 84.
Funeral arrangements are pending with Miller-Stahl Funeral Service in
Newkirk, and will be announced later.
NEWS BRIEFS
When Mothers Pray - Author and speaker Cheri Fuller will be at The Master's Touch from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Saturday for a discussion and book signing of her latest book "When Mothers Pray."
Pecans on Sale Here - Pecans and apple pies are being sold by the youth at First Christian Church to fund various projects. Pecan halves or pieces are $6 per pound - apple pies are $7 each. Call 762-1666.
Blackwell Soldier Graduates - Army Pvt. William C. Riffle has graduated from One Station Unit Training (OSUT) at Fort Leonard Wood, Waynesville, Mo. The training included basic military training, as well as training as combat engineers, learning to perform basic combat construction and rigging operations, operate light and heavy engineer wheeled and armor tracked vehicles; assist in assembly and maintenance of military standard float and fixed bridges; prepare, install, and prime firing systems for demolition and explosive, and recognize and neutralize land mines, firing devices and booby traps. Riffle is the son of Kathleen G. and William L. Riffle of 512 West McKinley in Blackwell. He is a 1997 graduate of Blackwell High School.
Fairfax Youth Enters Basic - Army Pvt. Mikeal A. McInroy has entered basic infantry training at Fort Benning, Columbus, Ga. During the training, he will receive instruction in drill and ceremonies, map reading, tactics, military customs and courtesies, and first aid. He will develop basic combat skills and experience using various weapons available to the infantry soldier. McInroy is the son of Mike J. and Sandra K. McInroy of Route 2, Fairfax. His wife, Melissa, is the daughter of Dean and Betty LaRue of Fairfax. Mikeal is a 1996 graduate of Woodland High School in Fairfax.
Computer Training Available - The Pioneer Technology Center Mobile Training Center will be in Newkirk at the parking lot, south of the Library, on Tuesday and Thursdays, Oct. 7 through 30 for Introduction to Personal Computers. Openings are available for classes from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. at a cost of $54 plus $18 for book. For more information, call Newkirk 362-3934 (the Library).
Square Dance - The Chikaskia Valley Square Dance will be this evening at the VFW Ballroom, 2900 East Prospect. Bob Collyar will be the cuer for pre-rounds at 7:30 p.m. and Cecil Burton will be the caller for squares at 8 p.m. Lessons will begin Oct. 7 at 7 p.m. at 116 1/2 North Fourth.
Gas Drive-Off - Police were notified of a gas drive-off at 6:57 a.m. Thursday by a clerk at the Triple T, 720 South Waverly Avenue.
Stolen Purse - At 8:06 a.m. Thursday a woman reported her purse missing from the Ponca Middle School. It was later found, however some checks were missing from it. A report was taken.
Attempted Break-In - Police received a call at 9:12 a.m. Thursday from a man in the 200 block of North Third Street reporting someone had attempted to break into his apartment during the night. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Arrest - A 19-year-old man was arrested at 3:03 p.m. Thursday on a city warrant for failure to appear.
Stolen Checks - At 3:31 p.m. Thursday police received a report of checks stolen from the post office. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Arrest - At 5:15 p.m. Thursday police arrested a 29-year-old man, involved in a two car accident at Fifth Street and South Avenue, for driving under suspension, no insurance and following too close.
Arrest - Police arrested a 51-year-old man at 8:58 p.m. Thursday from the 600 block of North Third Street on a city warrant for failure to pay.
Burglary - Parkside Bicycles, 715 East Hartford Avenue, reported a burglary to police at 9:57 p.m. Thursday. A 21-speed mountain bicycle was reportedly stolen. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Gas Drive-Off - A clerk at Conoco, 1613 West South Avenue, reported
a $12.94 gas drive-off to police at 4:44 a.m. Friday.
EDUCATION
The phrase "been there done that" could easily apply to a man who worked as an avocado farmer, a radio news director and disc jockey, graduated college, raised seven children, served in the navy for 30 years and retired as a lieutenant commander.
It truly seemed that Vic Peri had done everything he had set out to do in life. He was enjoying retirement with his wife, Pearl, a new home they just built, traveling, hobbies and spending time with his grandchildren. Yet for the man that had "been there and done that" there was still something left undone in his life.
While serving in the Navy, Peri decided to go to aviation electronics school. Not long after some of his course work began, his test scores came back. Peri discovered his scores did not meet the requirements. He could not believe it. He failed the electronics course.
"Since 1946, this had always been a dark cloud over the ship," said Peri. "It was time to do something about it."
While living in California, Peri and his wife, Pearl, had visited Ponca City on two different occasions. According to Peri, "It was in 1963 when we came back to see the 101 Ranch that we fell in love with Ponca City and made it our lifelong dream to retire here."
Peri also made the decision to finish what he had left undone. He enrolled in the electronics program at Pioneer Technology Center where he is determined to "get rid of his dark cloud" and complete the program as an electronic technician.
In the two-year program Peri is learning about the theory and principles of electricity and electronics, math, circuits and electronic devices. Paul and his classmates are also learning about computer repair and troubleshooting that is being added to the curriculum this year.
"I love it!" said Peri. "I am having the time of my life. The students make me feel really good and it is just neat being around them. John Strecker, electronics instructor, is a super instructor and he is really interested in helping all of us learn."
According to Strecker there is a demand for electronic technicians and opportunities as customer service representatives, equipment and instrument repairer, quality control inspector and electronic control assembler. And with the new computer repair portion added to the curriculum that opens other areas as well.
"I enjoy having students like Vic in a program," said Strecker. "He contributes to the class tremendously and serves as a positive role model for the students. I am sure there are a lot of people in the world with unfinished dreams and Vic Peri is truly an example that it is possible and it is never too late to make things right."
Computer education has started this fall at First Lutheran School. All students age three through eighth grade receive instruction from teacher, Heather Swinehart.
Students in grades six through eighth have a forty minute class five days a week. Three days a week Swinehart teaches keyboarding, spreadsheet and database.
Students recently created fax cover sheets for staff to use when faxing information. Swinehart has also discussed the possibility of having the students create a video yearbook in addition to the paper book.
Students in grades three through five are learning the beginning level of keyboarding. During the year the students will use word processing to write research papers. Swinehart will use the computer class to enhance regular classroom assignments in the areas of math, reading, science, social studies, etc.
The kindergarten through second grade will become familiar with the computer and the related pieces of hardware. Students will become more familiar with the computer and how it works by playing educational games.
The prekindergarten and preschool students will play educational games during the time they work on the computers.
"We are very excited about this new adventure at First Lutheran," said Paul Schatte, principal.
"Three years ago Brian, Holly and Hillary Harpster gave the school 12 IBM computers, complete with CD-ROM, sound and several printers. Last year the units were upgraded with more memory and speed. Since we now have a teacher, the students can use the computers on a daily basis."
The Ponca City Public Schools will once again be able to provide academic assessment for students in grade eight and ten with the Oklahoma Educational Planning and Assessment (OK EPAS).
The Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education is making this testing program available to a select number of school districts.
The test is developed by ACT and is designed to give students and parents information on academic planning.
Students in grade eight will take the EXPLORER test and the PLAN will be given to students in grade ten.
Parents should receive information from the Mid-High and High School prior to the administrating of the exams.
The tests will be given sometime in October.
If you would like further information about these tests, you may contact your childs counselor at school.
Ponca City Public Schools will continue a structure in to investigate School-to-Work. Oct. 8 - The District Curriculum Review Committee will meet to approve site School-to-Work proposals at the Administration Building at 4 p.m.
Oct. 13 - School-to-Work proposals will be presented to the Ponca City Board of Education at 6:30 p.m. in the Administration Building.
Gallagher Reviews Materials
Gary Gallagher, Ponca City Middle School teacher, took part in the Curriculum Evaluation Committee for the North American Association for Environmental Education. Gallagher had the chance to review materials for the National Resources Guide.
OoKeeHee Meeting
The OoKeeHee Club will be meeting Oct. 7 at 6:30 p.m. in room 004 at the high school. Refreshments will be served. All interested students in grades six through 12 are invited to attend. For further information contact Melanie Feathers, vice-president, or Bethany Roughface, 1997-98 OoKeeHee Princess.
Tallchief To Perform
Maria Tallchief will visit Garfield Academy on Oct. 7 at 2:30 p.m. She will be interviewed by fourth and fifth grade magnet students who have been learning about her life, career and basic ballet.
Class Meeting
All Po-Hi Senior Class members are invited to a meeting Oct. 8 at 7 p.m. The meeting will take place at 55 Stoneridge. The purpose of the meeting is to do some preliminary brainstorming about the Great Escape and to form committees for the Dec. 13 Christmas dance. For information call 765-2093.
Attention Seniors
All senior yearbook pictures must be taken by Cope Photography by Oct. 18 in order for your pictures to appear in the yearbook. Call 1-800-476-2087 to make an appointment. Cope Photography is located at 202 E. Grand in Tonkawa. There is a $12 sitting fee.
School-to-Work Meeting
The Po-Hi PTSA will sponsor a parent-to-parent discussion group on School-to-Work Oct. 7 at 7 p.m. in room FA-100. This will be a time for parents of all students, grades K-12, to share their concerns, their support, to freely and openly ask questions and express their desires about STW. On Oct. 13, the school board will vote on whether or not to accept STW for children. All parents are urged to attend the meeting.
P.A.C. Meeting
P.A.C. (Parent Advisory Committee) will meet Oct. 9 at 10:30 a.m. in
the conference room at the high school.
RELIGION
Approximately 40-50 men from the Ponca City area will be joining their Christian brothers Saturday, Oct. 4 for a meeting of Promise Keepers - a six-hour event. By far the largest gathering organized by Promise Keepers, the Christian men's ministry drew 1.1 million men to stadiums around the country in 1996. Known as "Stand in the Gap - A Sacred Assembly of Men," it will include music, preaching, praying and worship - all hallmarks of Promise Keepers gatherings.
Bill McCartney, CEO and Founder says, "The goal of 'Stand in the Gap' is to gather a diverse multitude of men to confess personal and collective sin. We will present to the Lord men on their knees in humility, then on their feet in unity, reconciled and poised for spiritual awakening. We want to help them become better husbands and better fathers."
Promise Keepers President Randy Phillips adds: "We are humbling ourselves before God and pleading for his mercy ... A multitude of men are coming to Washington, D.C. not to demonstrate our collective power to influence politicians or public policy, but to display our spiritual poverty, that God would influence us."
The Washington event is being called "Stand in the Gap" as a reference to Ezekiel 22:30 , where God said, "I looked for a man among them who would build up the wall and stand before me in the gap on behalf of the land so I would not destroy it, but I found none." Promise Keepers sees a similar need today and hope to help more men be available to answer God's call.
Two groups of men will leave Oct. 2. One group flying and one group driving. Most of the men will be joining another 800-900 men in Tulsa Saturday morning to fly into Dulles International Airport. They will be bused to the Mall area in D.C. where the event will take place. They will return to Tulsa late Saturday night.
For those not making the trip but would like to participate here at home, the entire event will be broadcast on Channel 22. The event should start at 11 a.m. (Ponca City time) and finish at 5 p.m.
Those who would like to participate in a local gathering are welcome to join a group in the Assembly Center at First Baptist Church, Fifth and Oklahoma. Come early and get a good seat.
"Stand in the Gap" comes from the Old Testament passage Ezekiel 22:30 which reads, 'I looked for a man among them who would build up the wall and stand before Me in the gap on behalf of the land so I would not have to destroy it, but I found none."
Promise Keepers was founded by former University of Colorado Coach Bill McCartney in 1990 with a meeting of 72 men in Boulder, Colo. This year, Promise Keepers will reach more men than ever through stadium conferences, a national television special, small group meetings and leadership training, a web site that receives more than three million hits per month, books, weekly and daily radio programs and other resources. The non-profit organization is based in Denver, Colo.
Christian radio KLVV broadcasts the Promise Keepers Radio Highlight daily at 7:20 and 11:50 a.m. and 5:20 p.m. KLVV also features the Promise Keepers This Week program on Sunday mornings at 8 a.m. The live broadcast from Washington D.C on Oct. 4 will begin with a preliminary program at 9 a.m. with the actual event beginning at 11 a.m. During the event from 11 to 5 there will be no interruptions in the broadcast, it was noted.
Lutheran Women's Missionary League Sunday will be celebrated at First Lutheran Church on Sunday, Oct. 5. The theme "Light of All Nations" focuses on Jesus, the Light of the world, and is a continuation of the 1997 International LWML Convention theme, "Hold up the Light!"
The church sanctuary will be decorated with the 1997 LWML banner made by member, Deanna Hanly. Theme banners from previous LWML Sundays will also be displayed in the sanctuary. During the past year LWML members have assembled 40 quilts that will be sent worldwide to Lutheran mission fields. Many of these beautiful quilts will be displayed.
LWML members will serve as readers, greeters, and ushers for both the 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. services. Special music will be provided by the Senior Choir. Jessica Hurd will assist with special trumpet music. An organ duet by Jean and Stan Hoffmeyer will serve as pre-service music. "Sparky," a mascot from the International convention, will give the children's sermonette. Special LWML magnets will be given to the children.
In celebration of LWML Sunday, refreshments will be served in the church narthex after the 8:30 a.m. service. First Lutheran welcomes all visitors to attend either worship service.
A free concert of Christian music will be presented at the Kaw City Community Center Oct. 4, beginning at 7 p.m., according to Cindy Russell, chairman of the event.
Cindy says everyone in the area is welcome to come to Kaw City for this event which will include a group of entertainers - Cozetta Hand singing, accompanied by Francis Hand and Bud Jones, all of Ponca City.
Others performing will include Jan Johnson and her son, Todd from Fairfax; Tracy Sires and Donna Richey of Shidler, and the Price Family, also from Shidler.
Performers from Ponca City participating will be Willis and Deborah Lockwood, Philip Carson, Bill and Beth McClelland, Whitney Thilsted from Ponca City and Gabrielle Gardner from Kaw City; also Richard Epperson, Vicki Scroufe, and Carl Coons, all of Ponca City.
Russell extends a special invitation to Ponca Citians to join in the festivities at Kaw City on Saturday evening.
Christians all over the world will be breaking the bread and drinking the wine of our Lord and Savior this Sunday, Oct. 5, 1997. This day will be World Communion Sunday. For over 40 years Christians from all traditions around the world have celebrated communion on the first Sunday in October as an act of Christian unity.
Ladies Retreat Coming in January
"Women of Excellence", a ladies retreat, is coming in January, 1998, and the folks at New Creation Church and Damascus Road Ministries are excited about the upcoming event.
The retreat will be held at Ponca City's own Marland Mansion Conference Center in January of 1998. Featured speaker will be Betty Hildreth of Longview, Texas.
For more information and reservations, call Debra Lockwood at 762-9523.
Space is limited, so hurry and get your reservations in early for the "Women
of Excellence" Ladies Retreat in January.
Area-Wide Gospel Singing Scheduled
The October Area-Wide Gospel Singing will be held Oct. 3 at 7 p.m. at Faith Tabernacle New Life Christian Center, 501 South Fifth.
The public is encouraged to join in for an evening of singing praises to the Lord - an encouragement and blessing to everyone.
Folks in the area are encouraged to join together for an evening of sharing.
For more information - call 765-2716.
Albright Women Plan Fall Salad Luncheon
The United Methodist Women of Albright United Methodist Church, 128 South Palm, will hold their Annual Fall Salad Luncheon and Bake Sale on Friday, Oct.10, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Luncheon tickets are $4 for adults and $2 for children, and will be available at the door. The event is open to the public.
The main food item is the ever popular hot chicken salad, with an assortment of other delicious salads to choose from. A large assortment of bake goods will also be available for purchase. Proceeds will benefit missions.
LIFE CHAIN '97 Sunday, Oct. 5 from 2:15 to 3:30 p.m. on Fourteenth
Street, extending from Grand to Highland. The group will be standing in
silent support of life.
New Mt. Olive Baptists Plan Special Day
New Mt. Olive Baptist Church in Newkirk is planning a Family and Friends Day on Sunday with the Rev. Milton Colbert and members of the Antioch Baptist Church of Pawnee as guest guests. The Rev. Mr. Colbert will be guest speaker for the occasion.
Services begin at 2:45 p.m. and the public is invited to attend.
Prince of Peace Lutherans Tell Plans
Prince of Peace Lutheran Church will be participating in this weekend's Oktoberfest with their usual food booth, it was announced. They plan to serve brautworst, hot dogs, baked potatoes, nachos, sliced carmel apples, drinks, candy and more.
The youth group has a car wash in the planning stages - more details will be published later.
Prince of Peace wishes a "happy birthday" this next week to
Jill Bisig.
Revival This Weekend for New Life Pentecostal Holiness
New Life Pentecostal Holiness at 114 North Oak will be in revival Oct. 3, 4 and 5th, it was announced today. Services will be held at 7 o'clock each evening.
Sister Barbara McClain will be preaching. Need information or have questions,
get in touch with Joe Muniz at 765-7027.
Ponca Indian Baptists Set Revival
The Ponca Indian Baptist Church will be hosting their fall revival meeting starting Oct. 6 and continuing through Oct. 10, meeting nightly at 7:30 p.m. at the church, three miles south on SH 177 and a quarter mile east.
Evangelist for the meeting will be Jimmy Anderson, a Creek Indian from Shawnee. Leading the gospel singing will be J.B. Dreadfulwater, a Cherokee Indian from Tahlequah.
Ruth Hendricks from Faith Baptist Church in Tonkawa will be playing the piano.
An open invitation is being issued to everyone to participate. Refreshments will be served nightly, and supper will be served on Friday at 5:30 p.m.
Everyone welcome.
Local Presbyterians to Host Cimarron Presbytery
The visit of the Vice Moderator of the General Assembly of The Presbyterian Church (USA), D. Eugene Sibery, will make the Oct. 7, 10 a.m. meeting of Cimarron Presbyterian a Special event, according to Dr. Monty Fey, pastor of First Presbyterian Church here.
His visit will also provide the Kay County Presbyterian Cluster an opportunity to gather that evening for a 6:30 dinner and a 7:30 meeting in the sanctuary of the local Presbyterian Church.
The local Presbyterian Women will provide the meal for the meeting of
the Cimarron Presbyterian and also the evening meal.
Marriage Encounter Seminar Set
River of Life Church of God, 105 North Second, will be hosting a three-week Marriage Enrichment Seminar, beginning this Sunday. Each one and a half session will be held on Sunday morning from 10:30 to noon. Pastor Rick Jackson encourages young men and women who are considering marriage and couples who are hungry to have a happy, satisfying relationship to attend these classes.
The seminar will include sessions on "How to Make Your Honeymoon Last Forever," "Finances/Children" and "Husband's Role/Wife's Role".
If your spouse is unable to attend any or all of these classes with you,
please plan to attend alone. You will be assured of receiving valuable
information to start you on your way to a meaningful relationship. A nursery
will be provided during each session, Pastor Jackson said.
First Methodists Launch Wednesday Night Live
If you ever find yourself wearying at mid-week, First United Methodist has the answer - Wednesday Night Live, a time of fun and fellowship - renewal during the mid-week low.
Oct. 8 W-N-L at First Methodist will begin with dinner at 5:30 p.m.,
then move to the sanctuary at 6:15 p.m. for a Praise and Worship Service
featuring a team from Blackwell and Tom Howard speaking on "Building
Bridges." It's a great time to give thanks to God!
Annual Blessing of Animals Planned Sunday
Grace Episcopal Church will hold the Blessing of the Animals at the Feast of Saint Francis of Assisi on Sunday evening at 5 p.m. in the courtyard of the new Christian Education Center, Fourteenth and Grand.
Ponca City animal lovers are encouraged to bring their pets to the church area for the annual blessing. The Rev. Kenneth Armstrong, rector of Grace Church, will conduct the service.
Representing the local Pioneer Christian Crusaders Chapter No. 128 at the Christian Motorcyclists Association were Chuck Buxton, Danny Osborn and Cliff Smith, who joined the "Ride to the Gap" in Washington, D.C., which originated in Needles, Calif.
They left Sunday, Sept. 28, 1997 after meeting with the Church of God Pastor Tom Smith and friends for prayers of protection and anointing. Leaving Hatfield, Ark. Monday they joined CMA at a Praise Rally in North Little Rock.
Tuesday the highways were filled with motorcyclists riding the 350 miles to Nashville, Tenn. Wednesday they camped at Appalachian Fairground in Gray, Tenn. Buena Vista, Va. was Thursday and on to HayMarket, Va. on Friday. Each night at 7 p.m. was observed as an evening celebration, they report, and on Saturday, Oct. 4, the CMAers joined Promise Keepers for a Sacred Assembly of men at the mall in Washington, D.C.
The motorcyclists from Ponca City report "America is a great country and these men were showing that they love and care about the future of our country and our world."
Chuck, Danny and Cliff will be presenting a report on this exciting event
at the local chapter meeting on Monday, Oct. 6 at 6 p.m. at Western Sizzlin'
in Ponca City. Motorcyclists wanting information about the local chapter
may call Harold at 762-9500, Barbara at 762-5896, Helen at 765- 7000, or
Don at 628-2978.
LIFESTYLES
Ponca City - On Oct. 6 Soroptimist International of Ponca City members will "paper the town purple." On that day, Ponca City Soroptimists will join with Soroptimists all over the world in distributing cards with information about domestic abuse prevention.
The cards, which will be purple - the color associated with domestic violence - will be distributed at local workplaces. The Soroptimist Workplace Campaign to End Domestic Violence event will coincide with the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence's (NCADV) Day of Unity-an annual event when individuals can show their solidarity with battered women and children.
SI/Ponca City is part of Soroptimist International (SIA), with headquarters in Philadelphia, Penn. In a partnership with NCADV to promote the Day of Unity, Soroptimist also provided funds to produce a new information booklet for victims of domestic violence. The booklet will be distributed locally by Soroptimist clubs. Soroptimist International is also producing a legislative guide that will include domestic violence legislation and information about victims' rights in the countries and territories where there are Soroptimist clubs.
"When people think of domestic violence, they usually have visions of women and children suffering abuse at the hands of a spouse or partner," said Cindy Wigley, president of SI/Ponca City. "What many fail to realize is that domestic violence very often spills over into the workplace."
In the U.S., where workplace incidents resulting form domestic violence are monitored, the costs are clear: About 96 percent of employed battered women experience problems at work due to abuse from a partner. There are 13,000 acts of violence against women at work each year by their partners. Homicide is the leading cause of on-the-job death for women, with some 20 percent of these women killed by their spouses or partners. The problems plaguing women who suffer from domestic abuse, however, know no national boundaries.
"The workplace is the ideal place to help women facing domestic violence because it's where these women spend at least eight house a day away from their abusers," said Wigley. As professional and executive business women, Soroptimists feel uniquely qualified to tackle this issue. In addition to its significance as a security and human rights issue, businesses lose millions of dollars a year in lost wages, absenteeism and loss of productivity due to domestic violence that follows women to work. By distributing these cards, we will be taking the first step in creating awareness of this important issue," added Wigley.
For more information about Soroptimist International of Ponca City call 765-2252. For more information about domestic violence, call NCADV at 303-839-1852 or the Domestic Violence Program of Northern Oklahoma at 76ABUSE.
The P.C. 56'ers Village Collector's Club met Sept. 9 at the Conoco Fourth Street Clubhouse with 17 members present. A brief business meeting was conducted by Margie Taglialatela, president. The treasurer's report was given by Nannette Hill.
Group discussion included information about the club pin. Eloise Broomfield gave a report on the recent Houston gathering she attended.
The program was "Designing a Christmas Wreath" given by Nannette Hill who made a wreath while explaining how to incorporate dry materials and other materials into the finished product. The results were very effective with small lit houses furnishing the finishing touches on a grapevine wreath. The wreath was won by LaVera Middlebusher. A similar one made by Nannette was presented to Margie Taglialatela. Refreshments were provided by Pat Purkey and Mary Cantrell.
The next meeting will be an election of officers, with a slate of officers being presented by the board and nominations will also be taken from the floor. A video showing how to set up a village will be shown and members are encouraged to bring fall displays to the next meeting which will be Oct. 14 at 7 p.m. at the Conoco Fourth Street Clubhouse.
This club is open to all Ponca City and surrounding area residents, including Kansas, who are interested in collecting Department 56 Snow Village and Heritage Lighted Villages. For more information call: Mary Beth at 765-5717 or Margie at 765-6538.
James and Deanna Wittmer of Tonkawa announce the birth of a daughter at 12:34 p.m. Sept. 17, 1997 at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. The baby weighed 7-pounds, 6-ounces and was 20 1/2-inches long. She has been named Linzee Kaitlin Wittmer. She has a sister, Haylee Wittmer, and a brother, Bryon Lewis.
Maternal grandmother is Fontella McAdams of Ponca City and paternal grandparents are Stan and Lynda Wittmer of Ponca City. Great-grandmother is Virginia Shook, also of Ponca City.
Descendants of the late Bessie and Lloyd Wilson gathered Sept. 14 for the annual basket dinner and family reunion at Lake Ponca Park.
The evening preceding the picnic dinner, many of the family members met at the Rose Stone Inn for dinner. Games and contests furnished entertainment for the evening. Jean Wilson and family were hosts for the reunion with Jean giving the invocation and welcome. The afternoon was spent visiting and taking pictures.
Attending from Tonkawa were Roy C. Fath, Mr. and Mrs. Tony Fath, Brady, Casy and Stony; Gertrude Sheets; Ruth Ann Birch, Melissa and Nicole. Others present were Nina and Mindy Geschwind of Oklahoma City; Mr. and Mrs. Bud Jemison of Enid; Betty Tolbert and Evelyn Balmer of Topeka, Kan.; Mr. and Mrs. Lloyd Rice, Mr. and Mrs. Henry Rice and Signe Banister, all of Dallas, Texas.
Attending from Ponca City were Mr. and Mrs. Richard Wilson, Marie and
Tim and Gary, Cliff and Rusty Wilson. Also Mr. and Mrs. Bill Hill, Mr.
and Mrs. Lloyd Wilson, Woodrow Wilson, Mr. and Mrs. Bill Wilson, Robyn,
Sarah and Jessica of Stillwater; Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Wilson of Kansas
City, Mo; Gay and Bill, Cory Young of Belton, Mo; Jean Wilson, James Wilson,
Mr. and Mrs. Bill Harrison, Paul and Kristy of Fort Worth, Texas and Gloria
Bates of Oklahoma City.
SPORTS
By FRED HILTON
News Sports Editor
What do you do when you are going up against a team that is bigger and stronger than the one that beat you 31-0 last year and that has won the last seven meetings?
You go out and play.
"That's why they play the game," Ponca City head coach Rick Sodowsky said as he readied his undermanned Wildcats to play Enid tonight at 7:30 in Sullins Stadium for Homecoming. "What happened in the past and what a game looks like on paper doesn't mean anything. You have to play the game on the field.
The Plainsmen have dominated the Wildcats of late. Most of the games haven't been close, but the same long standing rivalry that saw Enid win big last year and win 35-6 in 1994, also saw the Plainsmen squeak by 14-7 the last time the two teams met on this field in 1995.
"We will have to play a very good game," Sodowsky admitted if the Cats are to have a chance against the Enid team that has some of the biggest linemen in the state.
"We are going to have to play hard and we are going to have to play smart," the Po-Hi coach continued.
The Wildcats are far from being at full strength. They still have a couple of players under suspension, for disciplinary and academic reasons. And there are injuries.
The Cats' leading tailback Kris Shores was still hobbling on a sore ankle at practice Thursday.
"We'll probably start (Toby) Redleaf or (Joe) Roland," Sodowsky said. "Maybe both at the same time," he grinned.
Quarterback Eric Michael will start although he did not practice early in the week, suffering from the effects of a possible concussion sustained at Stillwater last week.
But the Wildcats will show up ready to play.
Not because it's homecoming. There will be no rah-rah in the dressing room.
"This is not that kind of team," Sodowsky said.
This team just puts its game face on and takes to the field.
This team has not played well in all of its games. But the Cats do give effort.
That effort, plus the lack of mistakes, could spell the difference if the Wildcats do play well.
The coaching staff has designed offensive plans to get around he massive Enid defensive linemen.
Michaels can be a dangerous passer if given time to throw. He hasn't been intercepted this year. Not even some of the state's quarterback stars can say that.
Plus the quick signal caller can be just as dangerous as a runner. He has gained 237 yards on 37 carries in four games, just a few yards behind Shores.
Even if Shores (215 yards on 44 carries) doesn't play, both Redleaf and Roland have shown they can make the big plays. Roland is averaging 5.4 yards per carry, Redleaf 5.6.
Tight end Ryan Treadway has nine catches for 116 yards and a touchdown. Split end Wes Swygert has five catches for 46 yards - and three touchdowns.
The defense has not played as well as it did in the season opener at Tulsa East Central, but can be formatible.
Safety Roland has 51 tackles, linebacker Jay Bentley 33 and cornerback Redleaf 31.
The defense has caused six turnovers, two pass interceptions and four fumbles.
Tackle Brad Faulk and noseguard Ray Lahann each have two quarterback sacks, Bentley one.
The Wildcats are still coming together as a unit. They could reach that juncture tonight.
ENID - Ponca City's Lady Wildcat softball team advanced to the Class 6A regional finals and need just one more win to capture a berth in the state tournament.
The Lady Cats were to play Enid or Edmond North in the championship finals today at noon. An if-necessary game will follow.
Ponca City advanced through the four-team regional by blasting Oklahoma City Northwest Classen 18-0 in the first game Thursday, then toppled top-seeded Enid 2-1 in the afternoon.
Lady Wildcat pitcher Julie Schiltz easily picked up her record-breaking 55th career win in the opener. She limited Northwest Classen to three hits while striking out 11 and walking one.
It was a tighter fit against Enid, which owned a 2-1 record against Ponca City during the regular season. But Schiltz collected win No. 56 by helping out at the plate.
With the score tied at 1-1 and two out in the fourth inning, Alana Smith singled and stole second. Schiltz then singed across what was to be the winning run.
Enid had the tying run on base with no outs in the seventh. But a ground out to first, a strike out and a bouncer back to the pitcher ended the threat.
Ponca City opened the scoring in the first inning as Chris Hinman led off with a single. With one out, Schiltz reached base on an error and Shawntia Feathers was hit by a pitch to load the bases.
Courtney McChristian singled across Hinman. But Enid avoided further damage by getting two fly outs to leave Po-Hi runners stranded.
Enid tied the score in the third on a single and an error.
Schiltz allowed Enid four hits in the first three innings, but slammed the door on the Pacers after that. She struck out three and walked none.
The Lady Cats had seven hits, two by McChristian.
The Poncans had a field day in the first game of the tournament, banging out 10 hits and benefiting from nine walks and a hit batsman.
Schiltz had a double and two singles while Gena Osborn has two singles to lead the hit parade.
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Regional Notes - In the other Enid regional games, Enid defeated Edmond North 2-1 in the other first round game and North topped Northwest Classen 15-0 in the elimination game Thursday
By MATTHEW KOENIG
News Sports Writer
The Lady Wildcat volleyball squad closed out their regular season at home Thursday night, losing to the Tulsa Union Lady Redskins in straight sets.
The Lady Cats came out hitting in the first game, keeping it close until the midway point. At 6-6, however, the Lady Cats faltered, eventually succumbing to an aggressive Tulsa squad, 7-15.
Once again, the second game saw a determined Ponca team. Pounding the ball hard against the Union court, the Lady Cats lept to a 7-4 lead before stumbling again late, going down 10-15 to the tenth-ranked Redskins.
"We just lost our composure," said head coach Steve McKay, "we overpassed too many times and set up their center."
Still, the Lady Cats played well, several exceptionally.
Megan Tomek led the team with 4 kills, an ace and two blocks, while Lauren Brune had 4 kills and one block. Coach McKay also recognized Amy Fremin and Brune for their excellent passing, and praised the team as a whole for their gutsy performance.
"They played some of the best defense I've seen all year," McKay said, "they got to just about everything sent to them."
The Lady Cats finish their regular season 10-15.
And if they have any thoughts of revenge against the Redskins, they won't
have to wait long. The two teams square off again today in Jenks for
the first round of conference action.