From The Pages Of The Ponca City News, Tuesday, Otober
7, 1997
LOCAL
School Bond Vote Next Tuesday
Nearly News
People Over 65 Great Risk Of Fire Deaths FEMA Says
SJRMC Director Of Volunteer Services Luncheon Speaker
DEATHS
Virginia Florance McCurdy
Kathlene Ruth Rhea
Obituaries
Gilbert Cole Jr.
Services Pending
Mary C. Schutte
Dorothea Harney
NEWS BRIEFS
BUSINESS
Database for STW Shown to Partners
Gorbachev, Reporter To Speak
ODOC Official Says Ponca City Needs To Be Focused on Goals
Chamber CEO 'Wows' Breakfast of Champions
Commercial Permits Issued Totaling $66,500
Carl's Jr. Chain Operating Former Hardee's Location
Notes and Quotes
Auditor-Inspector Forum Speaker
LIFESTYLES
Brewer Family Holds Reunion At Wentz Camp
Reception Will Honor Pair on 50th
Rho Chapter Names Plans
Busy Bee Club Members Meet
Little News
SPORTS
Lady Cats Draw Edmond North
By KRISTI GRABEAL
News Education Editor
Ponca City residents have seven days to decide their position on Phase II of the Capitol Improvement Plan for Ponca City Public Schools. The school bond issue is in the amount of $3.5 million.
The issue will be voted next Tuesday. Polls will be open 7 a.m.-7 p.m. A 60 percent majority is required for passage.
If this bond issue is passed, a tax raise in the mill levy will not occur. The levy will remain at the 1996-97 levy, which is 16 mills. This is because bonds that were voted in 1988 are paid off, some of 1995 bonds are being retired and the $3.5 million bonds would be replacement bonds.
Phase II calls for spending $2,455,000 to remodel Liberty, Trout and Woodland elementary schools; completing the commons area at the high school, $345,000; instrumental and vocal music, $250,000; building an athletic track and facilities, $250,000, and the purchase of four buses and 20 camera recorders, $200,000.
School personnel say that the biggest thing that has to be completed is the commons area at the high school so that the ninth graders can be moved up to the high school.
If the bond issue passes, it is anticipated to begin this construction in December and be completed in November or December of 1998.
Elementary Schools
More than $2.4 million will be spent remodeling Liberty, Trout and Woodland Elementary Schools. These three schools are quite old and require remodeling to bring them into the 21st century. Trout is 33 years old, Liberty is 42 and Woodlands is 41.
Lewis Associates Architects, Ponca City, is working closely with the elementary school principals and the administrative staff to review the needs of the building facilities. Lewis Associates states that several common items have been identified between the schools that will be addressed.
If the bond issue is passed, at least 70 percent of the proceeds will be spent on the following:
1. Repair, remodel and equip the existing Liberty Elementary School campus located at 505 West Liberty, including a circle drive with parking and covered walkway, replace windows, remodel gymnasium with a rubber floor and improve lighting and remodel the HVAC system with new HVAC units. Other renovations include replacing the outside doors, selected ceiling tiles in the classrooms and entire cafeteria ceiling, installing new cafeteria lighting, install exhaust in all of the bathrooms, remove asbestos in selected areas and paint the selected exterior and interior of the surfaces. The total estimated cost of the renovations at Liberty are $572,833.
2. Repair, remodel and equip the existing Trout Elementary School campus located at 2109 East Prospect. Items include replacing windows, refinishing gymnasium floor, remodeling HVAC system with new HVAC units, replacing selected ceiling tiles in classrooms, replacing and adding lighting fixtures, repairing cafeteria leaks, replacing partitions in the bathrooms, removing asbestos in certain areas, painting exterior and interior, replacing the vinyl case, remodeling exterior brick and glass around frontage, sealing parking lot and replacing lanes and concrete sidewalks. The renovations are estimated at $572,833.
3. Repair, remodel and equip existing Woodlands Elementary School campus at 2005 East Woodlands. Renovations will include replacing the windows, refinishing gymnasium floor, remodeling the HVAC system with new HVAC units, repairing roof leaks, enlarging cafeteria, replacing selected ceiling tiles in classrooms, replacing hallway carpet and installing new lighting, adding lighting fixtures and redesigning traffic pattern for a drive-through. $572,833 is the estimated cost.
Other Improvements
4. Build an athletic track and facilities at the existing Ponca City Middle School to include running lanes, infield high jump and pole vault areas, public restrooms and curbing, drainage and land preparation improvements. The projects estimated cost is $175,000.
5. Complete the construction and equipping of the commons area at the high school, including the purchase of food preparation, serving equipment and furniture. The estimated cost is $241,500.
The original bids to remodel the commons area after the September 1995 bond issue came in over budget. Troy Lewis, Lewis Associate Architects, and the school administration identified and implemented several cost cutting measures, but in order to keep the quality in and still do the things that need to be done additional funding had to come up in this Oct. 14 bond issue.
The commons addition will connect the Howell Building with the cafeteria and Anderson Building as well as the boys and girls gymnasiums. This will also keep students from having to walk outside on cold or rainy days. More importantly, the commons will provide additional dining space to allow the ninth grade to move up to the high school campus.
6. Purchase 250 music and choir uniforms, musical instruments and equipment totaling $175,000. The current band uniforms are 11 years old and the normal life of a uniform is about seven.
7. Purchase transportation equipment including at least four 65-passenger diesel buses and 20 camera recorder systems in the amount of $140,000.
Marshall Hawkins, Governmental Finance Inc., was hired as the financial advisor for this bond issue.
Future plans of the Capitol Improvement Plan will continue if the bond issue is passed Oct. 14 by adding a Phase III and IV. Phase III will be voted on sometime in 1999 for $4 million and Phase IV will be voted on in the year 2001-2002 for another $4 million.
Here's another plus for the Poncan Theatre: Maria Tallchief, the world famous prima ballerina who was in Ponca City today for a book signing, has danced on the Poncan stage. Truman Smith recalled that Maria, Billie Bob Nix and himself as youngsters appeared in a fashion show sponsored by his father, Herman "Smitty" Smith, who owned a boys' clothing shop at one time.
Editors' Note: National Fire Prevention Week is Oct. 5-11. The following is one of a series of articles providing fire safety and prevention information.
By PATTI PFEIFFER
News Staff Writer
Over 70 percent of all fire deaths occur in the home. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) people 65 years old and older are three times at greater risk of fire deaths than those under the age of 65. Hospital stays of more than 40 days are common for elderly burn victims.
FEMA offers these fire tips for the elderly:
· Install a smoke detector. Smoke detectors provide valuable home protection. Detectors double your chances of surviving a fire in your home by providing early warning and valuable extra time for escape. Install smoke detectors and maintain them.
· If you cannot install a detector yourself, ask a relative, a friend, or a neighbor or call the Fire Department. They will help you locate the best spot for the detector and make sure that the detector is installed.
· The kitchen is a high danger zone for fire, so be extra cautious with flame when cooking in the kitchen. Most kitchen fires occur because food is left unattended on the stove or in the oven.
· If you must leave the kitchen while you are cooking, turn off the burners. If you have something in the oven, check it every 15 minutes or so. A "brief" departure from the kitchen to attend to other matters can easily turn into an extended time away. As a reminder to you, take a potholder, a cooking spoon, or other kitchen utensil with you when you leave the room. The object will help you remember that you have an unfinished task waiting in the kitchen.
· Never cook with loose, dangling sleeves. Robes and other loose-fitting garments can ignite easily. This is a major cause of serious burns for senior citizens. Don't take chances!
· Place a rubber mat in front of the stove. The mat will give you traction if liquids or grease spill around the stove.
· Clean grease from cooking surfaces regularly so that it does not accumulate. Grease is extremely flammable.
· Do not use small pans on large burners. The flames or heat comes up and around them and ignites things - or you!
· To avoid burns from spattering grease, heat oils gradually. Use extra caution when preparing deep-fried food.
· Turn pot handles toward the side of the range and always use a potholder when reaching for handles.
· Never use the range or oven to heat your home. This is a very dangerous practice.
· Double-check the kitchen before you go to bed. Are the stove and oven turned off? Is the electric coffee pot unplugged? How about the toaster oven or the crock pot? Be sure!
· Turn off the burner before you remove a pot or pan.
· If a fire breaks out in a pan while cooking, put a lid on the pan. You may be able to smother a small fire with baking soda or a home fire extinguisher. Do not use flour to put out a fire - it can explode. And never throw water on a grease fire. Get out and call the Fire Department immediately.
· To help prevent scalds, turn down the hot water heater to 120 degrees.
· When turning on water to bathe or cook, first turn the spigots to cold, then gradually increase the amount of hot water.
· Always test bath water before getting into the tub or shower. Use a bath thermometer or test the temperature with your elbow. If in doubt, run more cold water.
Smoking
· Whether or not you smoke, friends and relatives who visit your home may. It is important, in either case, to be careful with all smoking materials.
· Don't leave cigarettes, cigars or pipes unattended. Put out all smoking materials before you walk away.
· Don't put ashtrays on the arms of sofas or chairs. The ashtray can be tipped easily, spilling hot ashes or burning cigarettes onto the carpet or furniture.
· Use large ashtrays with wide lips. While smaller ashtrays may be more attractive, they are not safe. Cigarettes can roll off the edge, and ashes can easily be blown around.
· Close a matchbook before striking, and hold it away from your body. Set your cigarette lighter on "low" flame to prevent burns.
· Empty all ashtrays into the toilet or a metal container. Warm ashes dumped in waste cans can smolder for hours, then ignite surrounding trash. An option is to place the ashtray in the kitchen sink and fill with water. Let it remain overnight before disposing.
· Never, never smoke in bed. Make it a rule not to allow any smoking materials in bedrooms. Burning sheets, blankets and other bedclothes create a fire from which escape may be impossible. Toxic fumes from the smoke can kill before flames ever break out. Don't smoke in bed.
· If you begin to feel drowsy while watching television or reading, extinguish your cigarette or cigar. Do it before you nod off.
· If friends or relatives who smoke have visited, be sure to check on the floor and around chair cushions for ashes that may have been dropped accidentally.
Heaters
· Check your room heaters frequently to make sure that they are in good working condition. Dirty, neglected heaters are critical fire hazards.
· Never use fuel burning appliances without proper vents to the outside. Burning fuel (kerosene, coal or propane, for example) produces deadly fumes.
· Make sure that there is enough clearance (usually at least three feet) in all directions of the space heaters.
· Use only the proper fuel for each heater, and never quicken a fire by using kerosene or gasoline.
· Store flammable fuels like kerosene outside of your home.
· When refilling an oil or kerosene unit, avoid overfilling it. Cold oil will expand as it warms up, which can cause burner-flooding. Also, do not fill your heater while it is burning.
· For electric heaters, check to see that your house wiring is adequate and that your circuit and extension cords are not overloaded.
·Do not use electric space heaters in your bathrooms, and do not touch one while you are wet.
· Use screens around stoves or space heaters that have open flames.
· Do not dry or store objects on top of your heater.
· If you are using an approved UL label heater or heating stove in your bedroom, turn it off or turn it low before going to bed. Make sure that a window is open when using a kerosene heater in your bedroom to enhance ventilation.
· Only use safety listed equipment. Look for a UL label with an oil heater, an AGA or UL label for a gas appliance and a UL label for an electric heater.
Electric
· Regularly inspect your extension cords for fraying, exposed wires or loose plugs. They are not intended for use as permanent wiring. Unplug them when not in use.
· If you need to plug in two or three appliances, lamps, etc., do not use a simple extension cord. It is better to get a UL-approved unit that has built-in circuit breakers.
Irene Ackerson, director of Volunteer Services at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center, will present the program for the October luncheon of the Presbyterian Women on Thursday, at noon at the First Presbyterian Church.
Hostesses for the luncheon will be the members of the Irene Nickless Circle, chaired by Connie Kanady, Florence Reisen, Jody Whipple and Anna Shadan.
Ms. Ackerson assumed the position of Director of Volunteer Services at SJRMC in April. She had previously been employed part time as development coordinator to establish a foundation at the hospital. She also continues in that position. Ms. Ackerson holds a master's degree in teacher education from Southwestern Oklahoma State University and a doctorate in business education from Oklahoma State University. Before coming to SJRMC she was vice president for Development at Northern Oklahoma College.
Guests are welcome at the luncheon. Reservations may be made by calling
Connie Kanady at 765-8089. Cost of the luncheon is $2 per person.
DEATHS
Virginia Florance McCurdy, Ponca City resident, died Monday, Oct. 6, 1997, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. She was 89.
A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 8, 1997 at the Chapel of Peace at Westminster Village, Ponca City. The Rev. David Clipson will officiate. Arrangements are under the direction of Trout Funeral Home.
Virginia Florance (Crowder) McCurdy was born May 31, 1908, in Roff, to William and Lura (Spencer) Crowder. She attended schools at Roff, graduating in 1925. She received a degree in education from East Central University, Ada, and taught school in Pauls Valley and Asher. In 1930 she moved to Bartlesville and began employment with Cities Service.
On Jan. 30, 1932, she was married to Francis A. McCurdy in Roff. During the depression years they made their home on the McCurdy family farm in Sedalia, Mo. The couple later moved with Mr. McCurdy's career to Augusta, Kan. and later to Kansas City, Kan., where they lived most of their married life. After his retirement in 1968 the McCurdys spent the next seven years traveling. They lived 12 years in Alamo, Texas, at Alamo Palms Retirement Village, then moved to Maple Gardens Retirement Village in Wichita, Kan., to be closer to family members. Mr. McCurdy preceded her in death in 1988, and in 1994, Mrs. McCurdy moved to Westminster Village in Ponca City. Mrs. McCurdy had been active in 4-H, was an active member of the Presbyterian Church throughout her life, and a lifetime member of the Kansas City PTA where she had served as president for many years. She enjoyed traveling, reading, knitting, music and singing.
Survivors include one daughter, Mary Lunn of Braman; six grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. In addition to her husband and parents she was preceded in death by one son, Michael F. McCurdy; and one brother, Spencer T. Crowder.
Memorial contributions may be made in Mrs. McCurdy's name to the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, 825 N.E. Thirteenth Street, Oklahoma City, OK 73104.
DEER CREEK - Kathlene Ruth Rhea, Deer Creek resident, died Sunday, Oct. 5, 1997, at the Caldwell (Kan.) Hospital. She was 39.
The funeral will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday at Hackler Funeral Home Memory Chapel in Blackwell. Pastor Paul Isaak of the Deer Creek Mennonite Church will officiate. Hackler Funeral Home, Blackwell is in charge of cremation and other arrangements.
Kathlene Ruth (Clark) Rhea was born in Wellington, Kan., on May 17, 1958, the daughter of Edward J. and Ruth (Gaster) Clark. She grew up and attended schools in Wellington, Kan. She was an active member of the Kayettes and Teen Aid for Retarded Students.
On Aug. 8, 1975, she was married to Ricky Lee Rhea in Nardin and the couple established their home in Deer Creek, where they have continued to reside. Mrs. Rhea was a member of the Nardin United Methodist Church and had served as the Deer Creek Town Clerk since 1982.
Survivors include her husband, Ricky, of the home in Deer Creek; one daughter, Nickole Rhea of Ponca City; two sisters, Joan Rhea of Deer Creek and Rebecca Richardson of Blackwell; two brothers Jim Clark of Danville, Kan., and Will Clark of Caldwell, Kan. She was preceded in death by her parents; one sister; and twin brothers.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Rhea Family Fund, Deer Creek, OK 74636.
Gilbert Cole Jr. Ponca City resident, died Sunday, Oct. 5, 1997, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. He was 72 years of age.
A prayer service will be held at 7:30 p.m. today at the Ponca Indian Methodist Church. The traditional Indian feast will be held at noon Wednesday, Oct. 8, 1997, at the Ponca Indian Methodist Church. The funeral service will follow at 2 p.m. with the Rev. Abraham Jackson and the Rev. Tom Roughface officiating. Burial will be in the Ponca Indian Cemetery under the direction of Grace Memorial Chapel. Flag folding presentation will be by members of the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve.
Born Jan. 1, 1925, in the Turner Hospital in Ponca City, he was the son of Gilbert Cole Sr. and Sarah (No Ear) Cole. He received his education at White Eagle, Chilocco, and the Marty, S.D., Indian School. He attended the Ponca City Business School. Mr. Cole was a combat veteran, having served with the U.S. Marine Corps in the Pacific Theater during World War II.
On Dec. 5, 1947, he was united in marriage to Florence Calls Him in Newkirk. The couple have made their home in Ponca City since that time. Mr. Cole worked as a union construction worker, helping build many buildings in Ponca City and several projects at Conoco. He was also employed at Chilocco Indian School and as a night attendant for the Social Development Center.
He was a lifetime member of the White Eagle American Legion Post 38, and served as chaplain and historian for the post. He served in many offices of the Ponca Tribe, including the Ponca Tribal Business Committee, the Housing Commission, and as Election Board official. He was a member of the Ponca Indian United Methodist Church and served as secretary-treasurer for the church.
Mr. Cole enjoyed traditional dancing, beadwork, and leather work. He was also a licensed pilot. He was very interested in keeping the Ponca culture and traditions alive for the younger generations of the tribe.
He was a humble and simple man, but his wealth was measured by his family, relatives and friends he leaves behind. He will be greatly missed.
Surviving are his wife, Florence, of the home; six children, Delbert Cole of Ponca City, Constance Cole of Ponca City, Colbert Cole of Tonkawa, Sarah Primeaux of Ponca City, Robert Cole of Ponca City and Talbert Cole of Ponca City; four adopted children, Anita Landel of Oklahoma City, Oney Roy of Ponca City, Tyrone Poore of Marland and Francis Deere of Kingfisher, two adopted sisters, Pearl Walkingsky and Georgia Cerre of Ponca City; 26 grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, one son, two daughters, two brothers and one great-granddaughter.
Casket bearers will be Tyrone Poore, Kirby Feathers, Jody Rush, Dwight Howe, Gordon Roy and Lonnie Burnett. Honorary casket bearers will be Delbert Cole, Robert Cole, Talbert Cole and grandsons of Mr. Cole.
Memorial contributions may be made in Mr. Cole's name to the Ponca Indian United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 2701, Ponca City, OK 74602.
paid obituary
Mary C. Schutte, Ponca City resident, died early this morning, Oct. 7, 1997, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. She was 73. Survivors include her husband, Bill, of the home. The family will be at 4209 South Union (south of the Conoco tank farm).
TONKAWA - Dorothea Harney, Tonkawa resident, died Monday, Oct. 6, 1997,
at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center in Ponca City. She was 86. Arrangements
are pending with McCafferty-Bolick Funeral Home in Tonkawa.
NEWS BRIEFS
Legion Meets Thursday - American Legion meeting is set for Thursday at 7 p.m. Pancake Feed, Saturday, Oct. 11 at 6:30 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. Vets helping Vets.
Agrarian Club to Meet - The Agrarian Club will meet Thursday at 6 p.m. at Western Sizzlin'. Guest speaker will be Marie Trenary, RSVP Director.
Arrest - Police arrested a 12-year-old girl at 7:31 a.m. Monday for second degree burglary after a woman in the 800 block of North Birch Street reported someone in her garage.
Harassment - A woman reported to police at 8:16 a.m. Monday that someone was harassing her. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Stolen Bike - Police received a report of a stolen bike at 8:40 a.m. Monday from the 1000 block of Riviera Avenue. A report was taken.
Two Juvenile Arrests - At 9:12 a.m. Monday police arrested two 13-year-old girls from the 800 block of North Birch Street for second degree burglary.
Arrest - A 58-year-old man was arrested at 10:31 a.m. Monday from the 300 block of South Perry Street for driving under suspension.
Lost Possum - At 12:13 p.m. Monday a woman in the 2600 block of Bluestem Road reported a possum in her front yard. Animal control was notified.
Arrest - A 50-year-old man was arrested at 3:01 p.m. Monday from the 700 block of North Osage Street for driving under restriction.
Stolen Bike - At 3:53 p.m. Monday a man in the 300 block of South Birch Street reported a stolen bike. A report was taken.
Attempted Break-In - A woman in the 1400 block of West Grand Avenue reported to police at 3:41 p.m. Monday that someone had attempted to break into her home. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Shoplifter - At 4:17 p.m. Monday Wal-Mart, 1101 East Prospect Avenue, reported they had a shoplifter in custody. Police arrested a 14-year-old boy for petit larceny.
Assault - At 5:42 p.m. Monday a man at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center emergency room reported that he had been assaulted in the 3200 block of North Fourteenth Street. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Juvenile Arrests - Monday at 6:54 p.m. police arrested a 17-year-old girl, 17-year-old and 18-year-old boys for petit larceny after Wal-Mart, 1101 East Prospect Avenue, reported they had shoplifters in custody.
Burglary - At 2:25 a.m. Tuesday police took a burglary report when a resident in the 400 block of South Osage Street reported the window broken out and residence entered.
Arrest - A 17-year-old man was arrested at 5:11 a.m. Tuesday for
illegal entry and destruction of private property after police received
a report that a home in the 200 block of North Lake Street had been broken
into.
BUSINESS
The Project Partners quarterly meeting held recently at the Poncan Theatre heard Keni Ray, chairman, given an update including details on the School-to-Work (STW) Conference.
The conference, sponsored by the State Chamber of Commerce and the STW Institute, is to be held in October and November.
Prior to the committee reports, Chuck Westfield, Sykes programmer, and Tera Bradstreet, quality control manager, demonstrated the business and industry database that will serve as a resource for business and individuals who have volunteered to participate in the STW effort.
Westfield explained, "We are still working on a few details with the home page, but the database can now be accessed by anyone on the Internet."
Westfield and Bradstreet, along with Marla Wear, Pioneer Technology Center's computer specialist, and Vince O'Brien, Pioneer Tech's network administrator, were presented recognition plaques for their efforts in building and coordinating this project.
Steering committee members attending were, Dr. Steve Hart, Blackwell Schools; Keni Ray, Conoco; Dr. Dale Barnett, Oklahoma Department of Vo-Tech; Ed Trice, J.C. Penney; Timilyn Crank, DHS; Steve Crank, Oklahoma Department of Employment; Richard Cornell, Tonkawa Tribe; Iris Wehrle, vocational rehabilitation; Chuck Rager, Boy Scouts; Julie Coffee, parent; Scott Dean, Pioneer Technology Center; Dr. Janet Cox, Pioneer Technology Center; Danny Thompson, ONG; Gary Stephens, Conoco.
Also Dr. Bill White, Ponca City Schools; Dawson Smith, Smith/Hart Enterprises; Keith Hufnagel, St. Joseph's Hospital; Ginny Galbraith, parent; Kay McCarty, Newkirk School; Mike Wiles, Pioneer Technology Center; Dr. Ron Appleman, Northern Oklahoma College; Kenn Wessel, Poncan Theatre; Linda Thompson, STW coordinator; Janet Taber, Pioneer Technology Center, and Dr. Sally Downey, Pioneer Technology Center.
Others attending the meeting were Paula Laham, Marla Wear, Chuck Westfield, Tera Bradstreet and Kathy Ferguson. Project Partners is scheduled to hold its next meeting in December.
By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE
News Business Editor
Mikhail Gorbachev, former president of the Soviet Union, and Andrea Mitchell, NBC chief foreign affairs correspondent, will appear at different forums this month hosted by the Oklahoma State University College of Business Administration.
Gorbachev will be speaking in Oklahoma City on Oct. 15 at the Oklahoma City Civic Center. He will talk about "Russia: Today and Tomorrow," at the 4 p.m. event.
He served as leader of the Soviet Union from 1985-1991, streamlining and decentralizing the oppressive system he inherited. In an effort to secure relations with the West, Gorbachev signed two broad disarmament packs and ended communist rule in Eastern Europe.
Mitchell will make her presentation at the Adam's Mark Hotel from noon until 1:30 p.m. on Oct. 10, at the Tulsa Business Forum. She will speak on "A World View From Washington."
Gorbachev's visit is part of the 10th anniversary of the Executive Management Briefings, hosted by the Oklahoma State University College of Business Administration and local sponsors.
Other speakers in this special 10th anniversary series are Roger Dow, vice president and general sales manager of Marriott Lodging, on Feb. 25, 1998, and The Rt. Hon. John Major, MP, former prime minister of Great Britain, on May 12, 1998.
"We are proud to celebrate 10 years of bringing his speaker series to the citizens of Oklahoma. This series can only happen with the continuing support of our sponsoring organizations," says Gary Trennepohl, dean of OSU's College of Business Administration.
Andrea Mitchell is the former chief White House correspondent for NBC and moved to the newly created post of Chief Foreign Affairs Correspondent following the 1994 midterm elections.
She covers the State Department, presidential trips, summits and international crises, drawing upon her extensive experience in foreign policy gained during her White House tours with President Reagan over two years. She is the only woman in network television covering foreign policy.
By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE
News Business Editor
Gary Miller, division director for the Corporate Site Division of the Oklahoma Department of Commerce (ODOC), told interested Ponca Citians here Friday, the community needs to get focused on "what it wants to be."
The ODOC officials also hammered home the need for education to be a priority with the community in order to attract high quality industry.
Miller and seven other members of the ODOC team were in Ponca City to meet with City, Chamber and Economic Development officials to learn more about the city and to provide information from the department. The event was coordinated by Jan Jarrett, Chamber and Economic Development CEO, Chamber staff and City officials.
Miller said, "There is a major transition here in what you are looking for (in terms of industry). Five years ago you were looking for the big hit - for the Thorn Apple, you were looking for Sykes. You're all done now. From a personal perspective, what you've got to do is be very focused. You need to find what it is that you want."
Miller added, "We're not at a day in time in Oklahoma when any job is a good job. You have a very special community with a very high standard of intellect and professional people. It seems to me that there is an awful lot of work that you as board members (Economic Development Advisory Board) have to do. Jan can't do it alone.
"You need to decide what kinds of industry you want to pursue. Jan and I were talking and he'd much rather have ten 50-quality-job projects than he would a 500-job project.
"But that is the kind of focus and direction you all will have to have and we (ODOC) would be happy to help you design that," Miller said.
"We're entering a new century and education is the most important thing we've got to attract the kind of companies I think you want," Miller said. "Always be looking at your school system and seeing how it can be improved so you can turn out the best educated kids.
He said, "Denice Shedrick (ODOC) is here and one of the things she does is work on entrepreneurship development. One of the best things a community can do and focus their resources and talents on is how do you grow your own."
The group met at the Chamber and then at the programming room at the Ponca City Library for a reception and to view the promotional film on economic development, before boarding the City bus for a city and industrial tour.
Later they lunched at the Country Club, where they interacted with Ponca City representatives including Mayor Marilyn Andrews, City Commissioners, City Manager Gary Martin, members of the Economic Development Advisory Board and Chamber officials.
Those participating in the tour from ODOC, in addition to Miller, were Rana Brown, economic development specialist; Shelley Candamy, business and intelligence office; Peggy Geib, training and industry specialist; Gerald Hall, regional economic development director, Stillwater; Denise Shedrick, economic development specialist; Sherry Vance, director of marketing, and Brenda Vincent, general counsel, Corporate Site Division.
By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE
News Business Editor
Jan Jarrett "wowed" the audience of the Breakfast of Champions. Jarrett CEO of the Ponca City Chamber of Commerce, speaking on "Customer Service Moments of Truth," told how to retain customers using a "wow factor," which is service above and beyond the norm.
He started the presentation by taking off his coat and turning around to show the "I Shop Ponca City" bumper sticker on his back. That is the slogan of "Give Ponca the Business" campaign, which involves displaying red and white yard signs and bumper stickers.
Jarrett said that "Customer Service is a process, not an event." He said to compete with larger companies it is most important to be "hands on, grab them all the time 'what can I do for you?' customer service driven."
Some tips he gave were on how to motivate employees and giving better service. Holding regular meetings with employees on customer service and brainstorming with no restrictions were two suggestions.
Jarrett gave some examples of good customer service in Ponca City. He told about the Perkins restaurant group wearing Moto Cross shirts, during the Grand National Event, and serving free ice tea. Another involved Amarillo Grill, which was closed for a day because of mechanical failures, but gave customers who were turned away a $5 discount for the next time they came to dine.
He said, "Look at the competitor, study what they are doing and see if you can do it better."
Paula Coppock of the Retail Committee of the Ponca City Area Chamber of Commerce introduced Jarrett. The Breakfast of Champion series is held quarterly and is designed to better inform merchants and others on customer service and other related concepts.
Four commercial building permits were issued in September with a total valuation of $66,500, according to building inspector James Brown.
There were one single home permit issued with a valuation of $50,000. Eight miscellaneous permit with a total valuation of $9,100 were granted.
There were no multi-home or remodeling permits issued. The total building permit revenue was $405 and total valuation was $125,600. There were 20 building inspections
Electrical and plumbing permits dropped considerably with 15 permits issues and 56 inspections with revenue of $450; there were 18 plumbing permits and 38 inspections with revenue of $1,254. In the mechanical category there were 27 permits and 43 inspections with $2,604 revenue
Total building inspection revenue for September was $4, 313.
Carl's Jr. has recently acquired the Hardee's Food System Inc., through it's parent company CKE.
CKE is introducing dual-brand restaurants throughout Oklahoma that incorporate both the Carl's Jr. and Hardee's brands under one roof; featuring Carl's Jr.'s charbroiled burgers and chicken sandwiches and maintaining Hardee's fresh, "made from scratch biscuits" and other breakfast items.
"This is an exciting time for our restaurant company, and the real winners are the fast food customers here in Ponca City," said Tom Thompson, president and chief operating officer of CKE Restaurants. "Now they'll be able to enjoy high quality, great-tasting charbroiled burgers and chicken sandwiches, and still order their favorite 'made from scratch biscuits' that have helped make Hardee's a fast food leader at breakfast."
As part of this first conversion market, the signs on Hardee's restaurant throughout Oklahoma City and the outlying areas will be changed to read Carl's Jr., and will feature the Happy Star logo that has been a beacon for customers on the West Coast for more than 35 years.
Oklahoma City is the first of two markets in the United States to be converted this year, and will help determine the future director of the Carl's Jr. and Hardee's concepts. The conversion involved 47 restaurants in Oklahoma City and the outlying areas.
Hardee's Food Systems Inc., with its headquarters in Rocky Mount, N.C., includes 3,080 restaurants in 39 states in the U.S. and 11 other countries, of which 790 are company-operated and 2,290 are operated by Hardee's franchisees.
CKE Restaurants Inc. is the parent of Carl Karcher Enterprises Inc., Hardee's Food Systems Inc., Casa Bonita Incorporated and Summit Family Restaurants Inc. Carl Karcher Enterprises Inc., along with its franchisees and licensees, operates 677 Carl's Jr. and 26 Rally's quick-service restaurants, including 90 Carl's Jr./Green Burrito dual-brand locations, primarily located in California, Nevada, Oregon, Arizona, Mexico and the Pacific Rim.
Casa Bonita Inc. operates 107 Taco Bueno quick-service restaurants in Texas and Oklahoma. Summit Family Restaurants Inc. has restaurant operations in nine western states, including 75 company-operated and 20 franchised JB's Restaurants, 16 Home Town Buffet restaurants and six Galaxy Diner restaurants.
Takes Law Oath
OKLAHOMA CITY - Jeff Lee Todd of Ponca City was among 275 applicants that took the "Oath of Attorney" Sept. 21 at a swearing-in ceremony at St. Luke's United Methodist Church in Oklahoma City. Oklahoma Supreme Court Chief Justice Yvonne Kauger officiated.
Accounting Scholarship
OKLAHOMA CITY - Cherokee resident Cinnamon Lynn Thornburgh, daughter of Gorlyn and Paul Harryman of Ponca City, and Bob and Lynda Barnett of Burlington, is the recipient of a $500 scholarship from the Oklahoma Society of Certified Public Accountants (OSCPA).
A graduate of Burlington High School, Thornburgh is currently attending Northwestern Oklahoma State University where she is pursing a degree in accounting. Upon graduation she plans to work for a local CPA and begin a master's degree program while studying for the CPA exam.
Wetzel Accepts OAIA Awards
Bill Wetzel Jr., Wetzel Agency of Ponca City, currently serves as chairman-elected of the Oklahoma Association of Insurance Agents Young Agents Committee. Wetzel accepted two national awards for the organization at the recent Independent Insurance Agents of America's 1997 Young Agents Leadership Conference in Waikoloa, Hawaii. The awards were for the 1997 Outstanding Young Agents Committee and the 1997 Membership Development Award.
Wright Wins Car
Norma Wright of Ponca City was one of nine national grand prize winners in the General Motors Goodwrench Service ice "Dream Sweepstakes." The "Dream Sweepstakes" grand prize included a new Pontiac Sunfire and a fully paid four-day vacation for our to Walt Disney World in Orlando, Fla.
In late July, Wright traveled with other winners to Orlando for a tour of Walt Disney World, including a private reception and an award dinner at Epcot Center. Representatives of General Motors Service Parts Operations and the Bowker Auto Mall dealership in Ponca City presented Wright with the prize vehicle at Bowker Auto Mall in September.
Dr. Pavel Riha
OKLAHOMA CITY - Pavel Riha, MD, Ph.D., who practices here, and in Newkirk and Blackwell one day a week, has announced that he has relocated his practice, Healthy Heartbeat, P.C., to the St. Anthony Professional Building, at 608 Northwest Ninth Street, Suite 4210, Oklahoma City.
Dr. Riha, a cardiologist, is one of a few private physicians who specializes in cardiac electrophysiology, the study and treatment of heart arrhythmias. He plans to continue serving this area in the future.
Location Announced
The December Business After Hours will be held at the Marland Mansion. Elected officials on the state, county and city level are guests at this event. The date is Dec. 16.
The October event will be on the 28th at Sun Precision Machining.
State Auditor and Inspector Clifton Scott will be the speaker for the October Second Friday Forum.
The forum is set for 8 to 9 a.m., Friday at Pioneer Technology Center, according to Dave Mueller, chairman of the Legislative Review Committee of the Ponca City Area Chamber of Commerce.
Scott will speak and then the floor will be opened for questions. The
public is welcome. Those attending need not be members of the Chamber of
Commerce. Complimentary coffee and doughnuts will be severed.
LIFESTYLES
The ninth annual reunion of the Brewer family was held at Wentz Camp Sept. 19-20 with 71 descendants and friends of Willie and Bertha Brewer present.
The oldest person attending was Baysul Ballentine and the youngest was Jennae, daughter of Denny and Diana Brewer. Door prizes were won by Susie Martin, Kyle Martin, Kathie Hicks, Denny Brewer and Baysul Ballentine. The group spent the evening visiting, taking pictures and recalling memories.
Those attending from Ponca City were Ralph and Lucy Brewer, Marion and Dene Fredricks, Shirley Alexander, Gladys Ramsey, Denney, Diana, Jordan, Jared and Jannae Brewer, Donald and Cloma Goldman, Don and Cathey Hicks, Randi and Toni Hannum, Jaime Pettigrew, Gwen and Matthew Powelson, Karol Ramsey, Michael Ramsey, Jeri Gore, Holly Daily, Eunis and Pearl Rorie.
Others present were Tim and Kim Martin and Retha Moore of Oklahoma City; Goldie Martin of Davis; Jim, Paula, Whitney and Sarah Aldrich, Tana Swaggart and Heather Ermine of Lamont; Rhonda and Jennifer O'Rourke of Tulsa; Farron Wallis of Alexander, Ark.; Spike and Karey Henderson of Pauls Valley.
Also Bob and Judie Henderson, Coy and Wylladene Brewer, Joe and Pat Brewer of Newkirk; Bob and Sophia Bequette of Derby, Kan.; Baysul Ballentine, Aud and Treca Ballentine of Wister; Henry and Oneida Harness of Wichita, Kan.; Loyd and Veaner Brewer of Onea, Ark.; Geraldene Sutton of Timbo, Ark.; Jackie, Susie, Jeff and Kyle Martin of Moore; Elaione and Megan Hardman; Bobby and Sharon Carter of Siloam Springs, Ark.; Carl Rorie of Jonesboro, Ark.; Darrel and Vickie Harman of Choctaw, and Cheryl and Brandon Tucker of Marlow.
A golden wedding anniversary reception 2-4 p.m. Oct. 11 will honor Mr. and Mrs. Clyde Robins. An open invitation is extended to friends and family to attend the event at the fellowship hall of Asbury United Methodist Church, 700 West Liberty. The couple requests that there be no gifts.
Hosts will be their children: Paul and Teresa Herson, Dean and Janet Timmerman, Joe and Kristi Pitzer, Robert and Lisa Stover, Mike and Beverly Floyd. Mr. and Mrs. Robins have 16 grandchildren and spouses and six great-grandchildren.
Clyde Robins and the former Marilyn Ferguson were married Oct. 12, 1947 at Prairie Chapel United Methodist Church northwest of Ponca City. Mr. Robins was employed by Safeway Grocery Company for 32 years.
Rho chapter members of Beta Sigma Phi sorority met Sept. 21 at Dawn Pruitt's Lake Ponca cabin. Seven members were present as Carol Neilson, president, presided at the meeting. Jan Leach read the minutes and the treasurer's report was given by Debbie McClaskey. Diana McKinnis won the mystery gift and the traveling basket.
Announcement was made that City Council dues were paid and the service project of bringing paper goods for distribution to various organizations will begin at the next regular meeting.
The Preferential Tea will be Nov. 17 at 6:30 p.m. at the Conoco Fourth Street Clubhouse. Rho chapter is responsible for bringing desserts and a door prize. The next meeting will be at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 8 at El Chico's.
Rho chapter met earlier in September at the home of Bambi Correll. Pages for the chapter books were distributed and Carol Neilson won the mystery gift and Susan Seales won the traveling basket. The hostess read a poem entitled "Hugs." The group discussed "Beginning Day" which was held at the Neilson home.
Members of the Busy Bee Club met Oct. 1 at the home of Ruth Case, 618 South Flormable. Beulah McCartney conducted the business session and Helen Taylor led the group in the salute to the flag and the Lord's Prayer. She also gave devotional thoughts "God's Gifts" by Garnet Schultz. Seven members answered roll call with "something to share."
Correspondence was read from Hospice, Peachtree Landing and the First Lutheran School concerning donations. Helen Hiskett gave the treasurer's report and reminded members to collect food for the Mission and consider a donation to the Salvation Army. They were also reminded to save Betty Crocker coupons, Farm Fresh labels, as well as labels from BestYet, Rainbow, Marque and Super True products.
Games were played with prizes going to Josephine Rice, Beulah McCartney and Vivian Davis. The next meeting of the club is scheduled Oct. 15.
Mr. and Mrs. Jim Timberlake of Oklahoma City announce the birth of a daughter, Avery Nicole Timberlake, on Sept. 30, 1997 at 12:04 a.m. in Mercy Hospital in Oklahoma City. She weighed 6-pounds, 13-ounces and was 20-inches long. Avery Nicole has a brother, Donald James Timberlake III, two-years-old.
Grandparents are Mr. and Mrs. Don Timberlake and Mr. and Mrs. Nikos Papasarantou,
all of Oklahoma City. Great-grandparents are Mrs. M. D. Timberlake of Ponca
City and the late M. D. Timberlake and the late Mr. and Mrs. Cortez Childress.
SPORTS
By FRED HILTON
News Sports Editor
Ponca City's Lady Wildcats drew Edmond North as a first round opponent in the state high school softball tournament which starts Thursday.
The Lady Cats and the Lady Huskies will clash at 2 p.m. Thursday on the Tulsa Union Intermediate School field. The other teams in Pool B are Yukon and Bartlesville, which will play at noon. The Pool A teams will play at Broken Arrow. Broken Arrow will play Del City at noon and Sand Springs takes on Putnam City West at 2 p.m. Both pool finals will be held at Broken Arrow Friday as will the championship game Saturday.
Edmond North owns a 3-0 record over Ponca City during the regular season. The Lady Huskies won in the Broken Arrow Tournament, the Edmond Classic as well as a single game against the Lady Cats here.
"Edmond North is tough, but they are beatable," Ponca City coach Roydon Tilley said.
If the Poncans get past North, they would probably face Yukon.
Ponca City holds a 2-1 edge over Yukon in tournament games.
"Yukon has five losses in the season and two have been to us," Tilley notes. "But they are a very tough team. It will be hard to beat them again."
The second round games in the double elimination tournament will also be played Thursday afternoon. The losers' bracket game is at 4, the winners' bracket tilt starts at 6.
The finals in both pools are slated for 2 and 4 p.m. Friday at Broken
Arrow with "if-necessary" games to follow. The pool winners will
meet for the state championship in a winner-take-all game at 1 p.m. Saturday
at Broken Arrow.