From The Pages Of The Ponca City News, Sunday, October
12, 1997
LOCAL
$3.5 Million Bond Issue To Be Voted Tuesday
Braman Patience Finally Pays Off With Awarding of $25,900 Grant
Nearly News
Nickles Wants Off Committee
Letters
Goodbye to an Old Friend
Fate of 'Ugly House' on Agenda For City Commission Meeting
NBC Correspondent Says Reform Won't Come Until Voters Get Angry
Where To Vote
School-to-Work Framework, Funding To Be Focus of School Board Session
Lincoln Change Orders On School Board Agenda
City Calendar
Dancers To Audition For 'Anything Goes'
Ponca Citian Heads Sac-Fox Health Agency
Annual Photography Competition To Open
Mike Leigh's 'Career Girls' Now Showing at Poncan
Romantic Music of Gypsies To Open Concert Season
September Dry; Rain Total Still Up for Year
Prolific Composer To Direct Choirs At FUMC Oct. 26
School Lunch Menu
School Calendar
United Way Drive at 87 Percent
Activities Slated For ASK Club During Break
Ponca Tribe Receives Funding for Projects
Democrat Party Women Hosting Ham-Bean Event
Man Behind 'Hank the Cowdog' To Perform at Hutchins Monday
Ponca City Veterans Clinic Could Be Open Early in '98
DEATHS
C.W. Cadle Jr.
Cynthia Lynn Halbig-Johnston
Harry L. Harden
Obituaries
Myrtle Mae Kennedy
NEWS BRIEFS
LIFESTYLES
October Focus on Breast Cancer
Harvestfest Scheduled
Little News
PEO Chapters Meeting
Pioneer Quilters Announce Plans
PCCWC Plans 'Pumpkin Patch Party', Luncheon
Pair Plans November Vows
First Baptist Women's Conference Will Highlight Holiday Traditions
Sherry Merhoff Bride-Elect
Wedding Plans Announced
State Labor Commissioner Local Speaker
Sloans Celebrate 50 Years
Couple Marks Anniversary
Buckskin Bessie Blackwell Subject For DAR Event at Cultural Center
Singles Network Names Plans
Party Honors Future Bride
Wheatheart Nutrition
Prather-Campbell Family Reunion Held in Blackwell
Baby Contest Oct. 26
Lillian Taylor Guest Speaker For CWF Lunch
Eureka Springs Ceremony Unites Couple in Marriage
Ponca City Happenings
SPORTS
Wildcats Lose Momentum
Bears Put Foe Away Late, 16-3
Shidler Holds Off Welch in C-4 Win
Tigers Overcome Miscues
Morrison Finally Gets Win
Lady Cats Come Close
Tennis Results
Mounds Pops Woodland 20-7
By KRISTI GRABEAL
News Education Editor
Only two days are left for residents of Ponca City to decide their position on Phase II of the Capital Improvement Plan for Ponca City Public Schools. The school bond is in the amount of $3.5 million.
The issue will be voted Tuesday. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. A 60 percent majority is required to pass the bond.
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 1998 are paid off, some of 1995 bonds are being retired and the $3.5 million bonds would be replaced bonds.
If the bond issue is passed, at least 70 percent of the money will be spent in various ways:
- approximately $2,455,000 to remodel Liberty, Trout and Woodland elementary schools;
- completing the commons area at the high school, approximately $345,000;
- instrumental and vocal music, approximately $250,000;
- building an athletic track and facilities, approximately $250,000,
- and the purchase of four buses and camera recorders, approximately $200,000.
Dr. Bill White, superintendent, states that the school is required by law to show only 70 percent on their spendings.
"The school is not trying to trick or confuse anyone. We always end up spending 100 percent of the money allowed. The remaining 30 percent of the $3.5 million will be used for extra costs and for contingency funds. We will spend every bit of the money," said White.
Construction Items
Lewis Associate Architects, Ponca City, has been working closely with the elementary school principals and the administration staff to review the needs of the building facilities. So far, several items have been identified.
First, is the replacement of the single pane windows in the classrooms with a combination of insulated wall panels and double-pane, energy-efficient windows. This will cut down on electricity usage and provide more wall space for instructional use.
Each classroom will still have two windows which is about the norm in the design of modern schools as evidenced in the new Lincoln Elementary.
Second, is improved circulation of cars and buses. Over the last 30 to 40 years the way students were taken to school has changed. The original designs at the elementary schools did not anticipate the increased volume of cars and buses that need to drop off students.
Third, the principals have identified the need for improved lighting for additional electrical receptacles.
Other needs common to all three schools are the installation of carpet to reduce foot traffic noise, replacement of old ceiling tiles, improvement of the bathrooms with new exhaust systems and new toilet partitions.
There are also a few needs unique to each school. For example, Liberty's gym floor needs to be replaced around the perimeter edges. Trout has a small drainage problem that causes water to leak into the basement cafeteria after a big rain storm.
Principals Speak Out
Jerry Newsom, principal of Liberty, said, "Traffic control is our biggest concern. Our school has a very small parking lot and there is no safe place for parents to drop off their children."
"If this bond issue is passed, Liberty will then have a circle drive between the building and Liberty Street. The children would then be safe."
Newsom also explained the need for replacing the current single pane windows in the classrooms. "I have seen snow blow through the windows on the north side of the building. The children even have to sit through class wearing their coats because the wind blows through. By replacing these windows we would be saving with energy costs."
Liberty's gym floor would also be replaced around the perimeter areas. "There are places in the gym that have sunk 2 to 4 inches down. This is not really obvious until you get a tape measure out," said Newsom.
Newsom concluded by stating, "I think every parent in Ponca City, especially Liberty parents, should go out and vote for this bond issue. I would be very sad if they did not vote for this because their children will be directly affected."
Dr. Nancy Niemann
Dr. Nancy Niemann, principal of Woodlands, stated, "Our biggest problem at Woodlands is the circulation of cars and buses. This can be a complete mess at 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. during a school day. By passing the bond issue, a two-lane road will be created for parents and the teachers parking lot will be enlarged. This will then keep the buses off the street."
Like other elementary schools, Woodlands also needs a new lighting system. "The windows currently in place are the old-fashioned fluorescent lights. We also need more wiring for our building for our technology. Some classes only have two outlets per classroom," Niemann said.
"We have a horrible leaking problem as well. After a heavy rain, we go out and get buckets for the water. The rain has even ruined several school books before."
Exhaust fans for the bathrooms and gymnasium are also needed. The gym floor needs to be refinished and the single pane windows fixed.
"All parents need to support Ponca City Schools. This includes grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins and everyone. Improvements are very important to this school and we need to start them this year," concluded Niemann.
Ron McCleary
"Our biggest problem is with the single pane windows. By combining insulated wall panels and double-pane windows, this would be very cost effective," said Ron McCleary, principal of Trout.
"This would give our school a completely new look. By fixing the windows and lighting in the school, Trout will be a bright place for students to attend."
McCleary also pointed out that the school would really like to have carpet in the halls and classrooms. He feel that would reduce foot traffic noise.
"Electrical outlets and ceiling tiles are a problem at Trout as well. We also have a major drainage problem. After a heavy rain, the water goes into the boiler room and then to the cafeteria in the basement," McCleary said.
"This is simply Phase II of the Capitol Improvement Plan. People need to get out and support the Ponca City Schools. We need to continue to strive for excellence in Ponca City."
"If the bond is not passed, we will still use the buildings. Our plumbing and electrical problems will still be there and we will continue to have problem taking care of the buildings," Dr. White stated.
"We need new band uniforms to continue our excellence. The average life of a band uniform is seven years. We have some uniforms that have been here for over 10 years. I know that Ponca City is very proud of our band, and we must do everything possible to help them with their excellence."
White concluded by stating, "I am confident that everyone wants a safe place for their children to attend school. I hope that people will continue to support their schools and go out and vote."
Braman Patience Finally Pays Off With Awarding of $25,900 Grant
By MARK GALVIN
News Staff Writer
BRAMAN - Patience may be paying off for the City of Braman and - with a major influx of visitors expected next summer - the timing perhaps couldn't be better.
The community recently obtained a REAP grant of $25,900 to complete its half-empty city hall, which will soon double as a community gathering place.
The building, built next door to the current city offices, was constructed with previous grant money and completed enough to operate a fire station in the rear.
However, city officials decided at that time to avoid going into debt to complete it.
Now, with the extra grant money, Mayor Jerry Johnston said the city is already into a bid process to hire a contractor to turn the empty section of the building into office space and to add features for Braman residents, such as community computer equipment and Internet access.
Johnston said the city received three good bids to complete the building and will probably award a contract at a special meeting the week of Oct. 20.
"We're very fortunate because the grant means a lot less cost to our people," Johnston said. "These grants are specially designed for cities our size."
The construction is also timely because Braman is preparing for its major celebration next summer of the city's Centennial, which includes a July weekend when some 500 visitors named Braman will arrive from across the U.S.
That's the weekend the city of Braman's population - which was officially 251 and growing at last census - can fully be expected to triple.
NN heard from a former U.S. Marine who is looking for some fellow Marines who bailed him out 52 years ago when he lost his train ticket en route to San Diego for boot training back during World War II. It was Aug. 7, 1945, when these young men were put on a train in Oklahoma City with tickets given them by Uncle Sam. One of the enlistees lost his ticket and, not having any money, was fortunate that a couple of guys in the group chipped in and paid for another ticket for him. The former Marine feels like those fellows will recognize the situation, and if so, he would like to get in touch with them and pay back the money. He thinks they are in the Ponca City area. If this situation sounds familiar, and you are that person or know who these two Good Samaritans are, please contact Billy R. Davis, Rural Route One, Box 383, Perham, Minn. 56573-9740 or call 218-346-6206 day or night. NN believes you could really take a load off an ex-Marine.
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Mea Culpa! Using outdated information backfires big time when you forget to go back and change the word! In Thursday's Garden Guide the editor realized that Chlordane was "outlawed" and had good intentions of changing the word to Diazinon or another "legal" insecticide. It wasn't changed and she apologizes for misleading readers. According to the calls received she says at least it provided a good chuckle for area gardeners and shows that some people are good proofreaders. We can only hope they also read the many articles that are correct.
OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) - Sen. Don Nickles says he wants off the Senate committee that is investigating Democratic campaign finance practices.
''It's not an enjoyable experience,'' Nickles, a member of the Senate Governmental Affairs Committee, said Friday.
''The committee has been very frustrating to me,'' Nickles said. ''I'm going to get off that committee soon, I hope.''
Nickles, R-Okla., the second ranking leader in the Senate, has spent much of his time in the last few weeks at committee and said it hasn't been time well spent.
STW Studied
The more I listen, read, and study School-to Work, the more my concerns grow. Because I want to understand the big picture and not take anything out of context, I have read and continue to read documents and publications cover to cover, taking notes all the while. Also, I have attended many forums and meetings, both formal and informal, pro and con - and still my concerns grow.
When you place the federal School-to-Work (STW) Opportunities Act (Public Law 103-239), May 4, 1994, next to the Project Partners document - and you also compare Documents I and II of Project Partners, and the book entitled "Implementing Oklahoma's System of Career Portfolios and Career Passports," in addition to the State of Oklahoma Implementation Grant Application, and the four-inch binder entitled "Background and Support Materials for the Oklahoma STW System" containing 13 books (each approximately 60-70 pages each), a Series of How-to Modules, which go to great lengths to detail every step of the STW program, published by the Oklahoma Department of Vocational and Technical Education, Stillwater, and most recently, the 96 page took entitled, "The Career Connection: A Marketing Communication Plan for the Successful Implementation of Oklahoma's School-to-Work System," also published by the same, you do begin to see a bigger picture. Others have also read these documents and more!
For decades schools have had career fairs, guest speakers, field trips, etc. and this has been very good. Also, for decades there have been elective work/study programs for high school students. And last, but certainly not least, for decades there has been vocational and technical education, which continues today to meet the real needs of real people. I support all this - but not School-to-Work. Why?
Because STW is truly workforce development/education based on labor force analysis and needs at the national and local level. It says on pages 5-3 and 6-3 of the School-to-Work Local Partnership Implementation Grant Application, "conducting or obtaining an in-depth analysis of the local labor market and the generic and specific skill needs of employers to identify high-demand, high-wage careers to target." One could wonder if students would then be guided by local labor needs when it comes time to make that one out of 13 or possibly one out of three or four, career cluster choice in the eighth grade after completing the EXPLORE test.
School-to-Work begins in kindergarten, when each student's experiences and interests in careers will be recorded and placed in a School-to-Work tracking/portfolio/folder. Three such folders have already been designed and produced by the Oklahoma Department of Vocational and Technical Education, Stillwater; the yellow-accented one is for Elementary School, the pink, Middle/Junior High School, and the blue for Senior High School. These portfolios/folders will follow each student as they progress through school.
On page 39 of Project Partners, under "Activities of School-Based Learning," (H) it says, "To have students in the sixth grade narrow their career cluster interests to no more than three or four in order for an exploration plan to be developed for them next year.. ." Also, (G) it states, "A plan will be developed in order for every student to receive career guidance during the K-6 years." All the STW documents refer to K-6 as career awareness, not career guidance.
In the eighth grade, an interest inventory exam known as the EXPLORE test is given. The outcomes of this assessment will determine which of the 13, or possibly, which of the three or four career clusters the student will pursue in making their 6-Year Plan of Study for grades 9-14.
Work-Based learning begins in high school and requires an assessment first because the work done off the school site must be related to the selected career cluster. On page 6-12 of the STW Local Partnership Implementation Grant Application, it reads, "The second mandatory activity under the work- based learning component is the provision of a planned program of job training and work experiences, including training related to pre-employment and employment skills. The program should be planned to provide a series of experiences to be mastered at progressively higher levels. These activities must be: Coordinated with the school-based learning component; relevant to the career majors of students; designed to lead to the award of skill certificates. There must be a close connection between the academic learning taking place at the school site and the occupational learning taking place at the work site. This, of course, will require close cooperation between the business and education partners in every step from initial program planning to full implementation."
School-to-Work is a comprehensive workforce education system/initiative funded by the federal government with venture capital. As in any federal program involving money, i.e., Title I, Child Nutrition, etc., there are always strings. Every time the local partnership applies for more money, certain 'assurances' or promises must be given. There are eight criteria, each meriting a certain number of points. The more the partnership complies, the greater number of points are awarded; the higher the points, the larger the amount of dollars awarded. The federal STW law has criteria too. Under Title VI - General Provisions (federal STW Opportunities Act) p. 41, "Sec. 602. Sanctions (a) Termination or Suspension of Assistance (1) In general, the Secretaries (federal Departments of Labor and Education) may terminate or suspend any financial assistance under this Act, in whole or in part, or not make payments under a grant awarded under this Act, if the Secretaries determine that a recipient has failed to meet any requirements of this Act, including (A) reporting requirements under section 402(c); (B) regulations under this Act; or (c) requirements of an approved State plan." Who can say there are no strings/criteria/assurances? Let the School-to-Work documents and Law speak for themselves. Even Dr. Coppedge was quoted as saying that "no one ever said there are no expectations or mandates. You simply do not get money from the federal level without some expectations about how that money is going to be used."
The term "career major" occurs frequently in the federal STW Law and it can also be found on pages 42, 43, and 46 of the Project Partners document. In the federal STW Law under Sec. 4 Definitions on page 8, it states, "(5) CAREER MAJOR - The term 'career major' means a coherent sequence of courses or field of study that prepares a student for a first job and that (A) integrates academic and occupational learning, integrates school-based and work-based learning....(B) prepares the student for employment in a broad occupational cluster or industry sector; ( C ) typically includes at least 2 years of secondary education and at least 1 or 2 years of postsecondary education; (D) provides the student, to the extent practicable, with strong experience in and understanding of all aspects of the industry the students are planning to enter; (E) results in the award of (I) a high school diploma (or GED) (ii) a certificate or diploma recognizing successful completion of 1 or 2 years of postsecondary education (if appropriate); AND (iii) a SKILL CERTIFICATE; and (F) may lead to further education and training " Regarding the skill certificate, the federal STW Law also lists a definition for it, on page 11, same section, "(22) SKILL CERTIFICATE- The term 'skill certificate' means a portable, industry- recognized credential issued by a School-to-Work Opportunities program under an approved State plan, that certifies that a student has mastered skills at levels that are at least a challenging as skill standards endorsed by the National Skill Standards Board established under the National Skill Standards Act of 1994..."
At a STW Public Forum at the Mid-High Library in January, 1997, several questions were asked at the end of the presentation; one question was asked repeatedly: What impact will School-to-Work have on the academic curriculum?" Over and over again both STW presenters and STW documents and the federal STW Law use the phrase "integrating academic and occupational learning" or "academic and vocational learning. . . including applied methodologies" (Sec.3(a)(9) and Sec.102(4). It appears that our education system has ever-so-gradually, over the past four or five years, taken on subtle changes, largely due to H.B. 1017 and GOALS 2000. And now we are looking at School-to-Work; everyone is urged to buy-in to this federally funded workforce development/education initiative. The full scope, sequence, and intent of STW become clearer as one continues to listen, read, and study. Project Partners has indeed a "massive intent" for "systemic change," quoted from pages 10 and 1, respectively, from the document by the same name. Perhaps this STW initiative should be retitled School-to-Workforce.
In the meantime, I shall continue to listen, read, and study. And I encourage others to do the same.
Paula Lanham
Figures Questioned
The information in the Oct. 7 Ponca City News front page article entitled "School Bond Vote Next Tuesday" created some confusion for me.
The 1997 bond issue includes money to complete construction that was included in the 1995 bond issue. The cost estimates are 70 percent of the amount budgeted for the expenditure. In my opinion the lack of specific information causes the information supplied for the balance of the bond issue to be suspect.
The 1995 Bond election included $550,000 for the High School commons area. The 1997 Bond vote includes $345,000 for the completion of the commons area. Later in the Oct. 7, article $241,500 was identified as the estimated cost to complete the construction and equipping of the commons area at the high school. The article goes on to say "The original bids to remodel the commons area after the September 1995 bond issue came in over budget."
A 60-plus percent increase is not just "over budget," it is a lot over budget. The article identified 70 percent ($241,500) of the $345,000 budgeted to complete the commons area. Where is the other 30 percent? For that matter, why was the 1995 bond issue for the area "over budget"?
The 1997 bond issue includes instrumental and vocal music $250,000, athletic track and facilities $250,000 and $200,000 for the purchase of four buses and camera recorders. Information supplied later in the article indicated that the expenditure for instrumental and vocal music would be $175,000, the cost of the four buses and recorders would be $140,000 and the cost for the athletic facilities is estimated at $175,000. In each case the cost estimate is 70 percent of the amount budgeted.
Does this mean that the 1997 $3.5 million bond issue is inflated by 30 percent?
In school a grade of 70 percent will earn you grade of D+ or at best a C-. The information supplied to the voters for the Tuesday Oct. 14, vote rates only a D+.
I believe that the voting public should receive better than D+ information from the school administration
Bob Clark
Governor Responds
Linda Thompson's lengthy letter defending the School-to-Work program lists me as among its supporters. While I have encouraged Oklahoma schools to adopt some aspects of School-to-Work, I have also said repeatedly that I do not believe School-to-Work is appropriate for children in the elementary grades. I also objected to the instructional manuals prepared by the Department of Vocational and Technical Education which suggested implementing School-to-Work programs as early as kindergarten.
Children in the early grades should focus on acquiring basic academic skills. School-to-Work is appropriate for some students at the high school level. There is a vast difference between asking a third grader to make a career choice, which I believe to be unwise, and giving a high school junior or senior the opportunity to investigate job possibilities. I also believe that students and parents should make the ultimate decisions on which school programs a student should utilize, and that School-to-Work is simply not for everyone. It is one of a number of specialized programs offered by our schools to benefit students with specific needs.
While Ms. Thompson is understandably enthusiastic about the program she administers, her letter leaves an impression that I have given unqualified support to School-to-Work. Like many other programs, it is right for some students at certain periods in their school careers, but it is not a panacea.
Frank Keating
Governor
Editorials
Two STW Issues To Decide
As we understand it, the school board will face two issues involving school to work at their meeting Monday.
One issue will be the discussion of a brief plan outlining school to work initiatives in the Ponca City school system. We have been told that the programs described are some of those already implemented in Ponca City. It is possible that the school board should approve this program of action. They will study the proposal and listen to the administration and act in the best interest of the students.
The second issue is that of federal funding. We have already said we don't like most federal programs. The federal government is already involved too deeply in too many areas of our lives. Most federal funding comes with strings attached. Often those strings are not obvious, but very controlling. The laws and proposals that have come from the federal school to work program already appear to be onerous. By the time the government and the bureaucrats are through, it will probably be downright scary.
It is difficult to turn down money when the need is so great and when others are accepting it at a feverish pace. However this is different than accepting federal money for a highway or street signals. The rules seem less onerous when applied to transportation than when the concern our children's education.
Federal funding is a misnomer to begin with. It is our money which has been skimmed by "the feds" and then returned, burdened with excessive rules and regulations. We are placed in a situation of having our own money used to place federal controls throughout our lives. We don't think it should get any worse.
If they can find a way, the school board should refuse the federal money attached to school to work.
Vote 'Yes' Tuesday
The school system set out a multi-year schedule several years ago to bring their physical assets back to where they should have been all along. They are following that schedule with the bond issue scheduled for a vote Tuesday.
The long range plan was clearly laid out before the first bond issue and there have been no real surprises. We are pleased with what has been done so far but it is only a beginning. Due to the retirement of an old bond issue, we will pay no more in taxes next year than we did this year if the issue is passed. It is really an easy choice.
Part of the proposed bond monies will be used to finish items proposed in the last issue. Most will be used to upgrade three grade schools and finish improvements to the high school. The rest is to be used for the instrumental music and athletic programs as well as transportation.
A few have complained about the fact that some of the improvements scheduled for the last bond issue were not completed. Anyone who has tried to estimate the cost of a complex project such as this a year in advance will be more understanding.
The question is simple. Do we need the proposed changes and is this a good plan for realizing the improvements? All other discussions are side issues for other times. We believe the answer is an unqualified yes.
Vote for the bond issues on Tuesday.
Foster Johnson
Managing Editor
News item: Judy the elephant, 52, passed away recently.
OK, it's a little hard to get teary-eyed about a 2-ton pachyderm. Sure, people cry when Old Shep finally goes to that big doghouse in the sky and when Muffin the Cat finally cashes in her ninth life, the family performs a little shoebox ceremony in the backyard and reminiceses about the way she she used to hop on the bed in the mornings and lick them awake.
But an elephant?
Well, if you were a little kid in Oklahoma in 1949, you've probably shed a tear for the passing of Judy.
Those of us who can remember that far back (long-term memory seems to be a lot better than short-term for most of us these days), will remember collecting those coffee cans full of pennies ($3,250 worth) to help buy a little girl elephant for Oklahoma City's Lincoln Park Zoo.
We remember being among the kids lining the streets in downtown Oklahoma City when Judy finally arrived. It was quite a day.
Back in the old days, "The Zoo," was ours. It was the only zoo little kids from Kingfisher and Watonga and Chickasha and Heavener had. One of the exciting trips for family, Sunday school class or second graders at Washington Elementary was a trip to The Zoo to see Judy, our elephant.
And she has been there for all of us for a long time. No, it wasn't her choice to be confined there. In her elephant fantasies she probably longed to be wandering through the jungles of Burma (she was an Asian elephant, not African, but she actually came to OKC from California). But, with the way the world is, she might not have lived to the age she did if she would have been tossed back into her natural home.
Regardless, Judy lived a long and peaceful life in OKC and it's sad that she's finally gone.
By Patti Pfeiffer
News Staff Reporter
Numerous nuisances will be on the agenda as the fate of two different structures in two different location will be determined during public hearings at Monday night's city commission meeting.
One of those hearings involves a resident who claims his current problems involving the city stem from his wildflower garden. According to home owner Rikk Rogers, the controversy dates back to 1993 when he planted an "experimental wildflower" garden on his property located at 416 South Street.
Rogers says that some time after the plants matured the city fire marshal, Bill Hargraves, informed him that they were in violation of the city ordinance because of their height. Rogers claims that the on-going "flower" controversy has lead to the current structural controversy involving his home.
However, in a memorandum to the city manager, the city building inspector, James Brown, wrote: "The property at 416 South Fourth Street is a continual City Code violation problem year after year." The letter continues stating that the owners "have been uncooperative in getting the property made to a livable condition."
According to another letter from Brown, the home was declared a public nuisance on Sept. 3, 1997, and among the repairs needed are replacement of the entire roof, the completion of the foundation repairs, removal of outside stairways and the removal and/or repair of the garage.
Rogers says he bought the old home, that once was eight apartments, to renovate it into a single-family home for him and his wife. "We expected this renovation to be a 15-year project," Rogers explains. "We are aware of the problems and are repairing them as we are financially able. We know this is an ugly house but since when is 'ugly' illegal?"
The matter will be heard by commissioners at which time they will determine the ultimate fate of the old two-story house located at on South Fourth Street.
The other hearing involving a "pubic nuisance" concerns a structure located at 443 South Perry. The city commissioners will be asked to vote on a motion to require the owners of the property to renovate or tear down the structure in a timely manner and post a $3,000 cash bond to guarantee the work will be done.
The commissioners will also be voting on a resolution involving yet another public nuisance. This "nuisance" on Monday night's agenda, involves property located at 321 South Palm Street and a resolution necessary to pursue legal action in district court.
According to City Attorney Kevin Murphy, a resolution authorizing a lawsuit from the City is necessary whenever "this type of case" is filed in district court. The resolution will authorize the city attorney to file a cause of action in district court for the purpose of obtaining orders necessary to have the property cleaned, cleared and, if necessary, have the inhabitants removed.
Commissioners will also be voting on a recommendation from the traffic commission to restrict left turns from Patton Drive onto Fourteenth Street. On Sept. 19 the Traffic Commission voted, by a narrow margin, to recommend restricting left turns from Patton Street north onto Fourteenth Street.
In a summary to the city commissioners, Traffic Engineer Mike Lane explains that turning movement counts conducted at that intersection found that left turns from Patton Drive accounted for less than two percent of the total intersection volume in a 12-hour period from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. "This same movement was involved in 77.3 percent of all accidents which occurred from 1987 to 1996," Lane wrote.
The commissioners will also be voting on the traffic commission's recommendation to install stop signs on the east-west streets along Eighth Street at Houston Avenue, Madison Avenue Alma Avenue and Miller Avenue. Lane explained that the minimum sight distance recommended by the American Association of State Highway Transportation Officials for non-controlled intersections did not exist at those intersections.
A variance from the city ordinance involving the discharging of firearms will also be considered by the commissioners Monday night. The variance is requested to permit the Civil War re-enactment soldiers to fire blanks from small arms in their encampment area west of the American Legion as part of the Veteran's Day activities.
By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE
News Staff Writer
TULSA - There will be no meaningful campaign funding reform until the voters get angry enough to tell their Congressmen reform is what they want, according to Andrea Mitchell, chief foreign correspondent for NBC.
Mitchell told a packed house Friday at the Tulsa Business Forum, sponsored by the College of Business Administration, Oklahoma State University, that she did not see great anger yet by the public on the matter.
Mitchell noted that Clinton's popularity rating is at 55 percent and as long as the economy remains strong she expects it to continue to be positive.
In the press conference that followed, Mitchell, responding to a question about Clinton's popularity abroad, said it was weak. She graded Clinton with a C-minus in foreign affairs.
Mitchell said this was basically caused by Warren Christopher, former secretary of state. She said the secretary of state is a representative of the president and should be strong. Mitchell predicted that Madeline Albright will be more successful in that position.
The reporter said that Christopher's peacemaking efforts had not been successful in the Middle East although he made 22 trips abroad for that cause.
She noted that England and France were not pleased about the United States decision to make air strikes over Bosnia and this added to Clinton's unpopularity. Mitchell noted the former Prime Minister John Major of Great Britain was not friendly with Clinton, as some of Clinton's campaign advisors had assisted Blair in defeating Major. And by the same token, some of Major's people had advised the Republicans, hoping to defeat Clinton.
Mitchell said the emerging world economic power is going to be China. The export business to the United States from China was up 13 percent last year. She said the U.S. research says China's unemployment (or off-duty as the Chinese term it) is at 20 percent, while the Chinese say it is three to five percent.
The correspondent expressed hope that the present summit in South America will be a success. She said it is a step in the right direction for Clinton to take more prominent role in world affairs.
In the United States she said the 1994 election was a landmark year with the Republicans taking over Congress. She said part of the revolt on the part of voters was they didn't want gays in the military. Voters were also concerned about regulation and the health care proposals. Mitchell said that Hillary Clinton should never have been in charge of promoting the health care legislation.
Mitchell talked about the negative feelings in the country that the media had fanned the flame. She commented the news media had tried to make the news entertaining and had somewhat crossed the line between hard news and tabloid coverage.
However , she noted in this country there is a vast difference in the paparazzi compared with foreign countries. When asked who governs the press, Mitchell said that investigative stories and most other stories are looked over by a team of lawyers and often an editorial board.
She noted that a year before Princess Diana took up the cause for destroying landmines she had wanted to do a story and could not get clearance to do so at that time.
Mitchell defended the press and said that most journalists were people with integrity and were just trying to do their job and make a living for their families. Mitchell said that most were not highly paid, other than the anchors.
Reports weren't filed on the Iran-Contra scandal involving Reagan or the campaign funding antics of the Clinton administration because the press did not know, Mitchell said.
Every administration manipulates the press, Mitchell said and gave some examples of Reagan situations that were carefully staged, even to figuring the angle of the sun for the best photographs.
She said the young often seek the televised news jobs for the wrong reasons, because they want to look like models and they read the news on the teleprompter. Mitchell said in the past many news anchors had come from the print media or worked their way up with news experience.
Mitchell, in her White House years during the administrations of Jimmy Carter and Ronald Reagan, was the chief White House correspondent for NBC, before being moved to the newly created post of chief foreign affairs correspondent following the 1994 midterm elections.
Polls will be open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday for the $3.5 million school bond vote for Phase II of the Capital Improvement Plan.
Where to vote:
Kay County Precinct Locations
Rural
Ponca City
Osage County
(Ponca City Area only)
By KRISTI GRABEAL
News Education Editor
The framework and federal funding for a School-to-Work (STW) program for the Ponca City Public Schools will be discussed Monday at 6:30 p.m. by the Ponca City Board of Education.
The framework for the Ponca City Public Schools STW program is based on the current curriculum; the activities and course selections have been in place for a number of years.
The Oklahoma Educational Planning and Assessment (EPAS), which is an ACT development test and funded by the Oklahoma Regents for Higher Education, was approved by the Ponca City Board of Education for the 1996-97 school year.
This assessment tool helps students and parents select the academic courses the student will take in high school. The Framework for STW at Ponca City Schools includes:
K-6 Career Awareness
The classroom teacher will incorporate career awareness in the curriculum. This may include guest speakers and field trips. Units of study must be supported with the Core Curriculum from the Priority Academic Student Skills (PASS).
7-8 Career Exploration
Students will be given the opportunity to explore individual interest and jobs through the curriculum. Teachers may use career videos, guest speakers and field trips.
Units of study must be supported with the Core Curriculum from the PASS.
Students in grade eight will be given the opportunity to participate in the EXPLORE exam which is an ACT preparation tool and funded by the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education.
9-12 PLAN
Students must meet all graduation requirements during the four years of high school. Students along with their parents and the assistance of the school counselor will be provided several choices which include:
- Vocational and Technical Education
- Vocational and Agriculture Education
- College Preparation
- Post High School Training
Experiences in the elected choices may include: service learning, marketing education, job fairs, college fairs, work study programs, computer career searches, research projects and elective programs of special interest.
Students in grade 10 will be given the opportunity to participate in the PLAN exam which is produced by ACT and funded by the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education.
Parents who do not want their child to participate in the Oklahoma Educational Planning and Assessment Program (EPAS) which is an ACT developed assessment funded by the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education will need to provide a letter to the school requesting that their child be exempted.
Parents will still be asked to sign enrollment forms giving permission for students' selected course work.
Additional Funding
Consideration to accept material/monetary stipends from Project Partners for STW projects will be discussed.
Project Partners is the local area STW group. They have the following monies available to offer Ponca City Schools to support STW programs.
- $9,000 to 12 schools at $750 each for materials
- $14,500 for STW coordinators for a two-year period ($4,500 this year and $9,000 for the second year)
- $5,400 for substitute teacher reimbursement costs (they calculated for 12 teams, three subs for three days at $40 per day for each team)
- $3,000 for staff development costs
- $4,000 for conferences.
The package totals $35,900.
By KRISTI GRABEAL
News Education Editor
Change orders for Lincoln Elementary and architectural services contract will be among items on the agenda Monday when the Ponca City Schools Board of Education meets.
The regular meeting begins at 6:30 p.m. in the school administration building. A special budget hearing will be held prior to the regular board meeting at 6 p.m. The public is invited to attend both meetings..
Troy Lewis, Lewis Associate Architects, will present information regarding a proposal request with several revisions for the completion of the Lincoln Elementary project.
There are two requests for additional cost and one item that results in a credit to the district. The result of this change order is a decrease in the overall construction price of $375.
An architectural service contract will be discussed with Lewis Associates Architects pending the passage of Tuesday's school bond vote.
Because of the time constraints of seeking bids and available construction timetables, the architectural drawings need to be implemented as soon as possible. This would be a separate contract for those services required to implement the $3.5 million bond projects. Approval for this contract would be dependent upon the passage of Tuesday's bond millage election.
Board approval is also being sought to reduce the five percent retainage on the Lincoln Elementary project. DACO construction has asked that a reduction from the $153,487 current retainage would be sufficient to cover any items that would need to be corrected before final payment.
Such a reduction would allow DACO to subsequently pay its subcontractors who have successfully completed their work.
Renewal of Compensation Account
The board will be asked to approve the renewal of the Oklahoma Public Schools Unemployment Compensation Account.
This is a continuation of unemployment insurance through the Oklahoma Public Schools Unemployment and Compensation Account. Unemployment compensation coverage is required of all public schools under the Oklahoma Employment Security Act.
Ponca City Public Schools joined the unemployment compensation account in 1978 by depositing .08 percent of its payroll and then maintaining a balance of 1.6 percent. The required balance by voluntary audit (1.6 percent) is $103,447.16. The balance as of Sept. 30, 1997, was $92,874.84 in an escrow account.
The district has budgeted the $10,572.32 needed to replenish the account this year. The money in this account belongs to the Ponca City Schools, and can be returned to the district if the program is discontinued.
Special Recognitions
Conoco Inc. will present a check to the Ponca City Middle School to be used for the ECO-COURT Environmental Project.
Keni Ray will present the check to Gary Gallagher, teacher at Middle School; Jackie Bufton, Environmental Club sponsor; Victoria Jenkins, president of the student council, and Ebony Phillips, business manager of the Student Council.
Awards will be presented for the Employee of the Month. David Shelton, principal at Lincoln Elementary, will receive the Certified Award; Penny Frick, secretary of Roosevelt Elementary, will receive the Support Award; and Tony and Kym Vap, parent volunteers at Garfield Academy, will receive the Friend of Education Award.
Maintenance employees of the Ponca City Schools will also be recognized.
Items for the City Calendar should be brought in or telephoned (765-3311) to Bob Patterson, at the Ponca City News, by Thursday noon.
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Preliminary auditions for dancers for "Anything Goes," a Ponca Playhouse musical production, will be held Saturday at Fran's Dance Studio, 1306 North Seventh.
According to Karen Rivers, production manager, it is an opportunity for locals who like to dance to learn an entire tap dance routine - for free!
Director Nancy Vunovich and choreographer Fran Norris will be holding the auditions at 10 a.m. Saturday at the studio.
"The Ponca Playhouse production of Cole Porter's musical 'Anything Goes,' actually goes on the boards in February, but since there is so much dance involved, we are giving folks a chance to learn or improve their tap skills before the holidays," says Rivers.
Interested dancers/actors do not have to have previous dance experience and this audition will not keep anyone from trying out for a principal acting/singing role in November, says Vunovich.
"But, an auditioner may find he/she has a principal dancing/singing/acting part from these early tryouts," she continued.
Interested performers of any size, gender, height or weight should wear comfortable rehearsal clothes and come prepared to join in the fun and exercise and hear a little more about the musical "Anything Goes."
For more information before Saturday, call Nancy Vunovich at 767-1275 or Fran Norris at 762-9556 or Karen Rivers at 767-4838 or 762-8687.
STROUD - Mary Osborn, Ponca City, was reelected chairperson of the Sac and Fox Tribal Health Commission at the annual election of officers on Oct. 3.
The Sac and Fox Health Commission was authorized Oct. 15, 1992, to formulate health policy and oversee the operations of the Black Hawk Health Center, located near the Sac and Fox tribal headquarters, five miles south of Stroud.
According to Soborn, "Plans for a new and larger clinic are under way. We broke ground for a 10,000-square-foot building on March 15, 1997, and if all goes as planned, we should be ready to receive patients in the late spring or early summer of 1998."
The 15th Annual Ponca City Art Association Photography Competition opens today at 1 p.m. at the Ponca City Art Center. A reception will also be hosted this afternoon by chairmen Dr. Glenn Cope and Richard Tillman to honor entrants and judge Dr. Gene Post. The public is invited to view the entries and meet the artists from 1 to 5 p.m.
Divisions of entry and competition include student, amateur, advanced and special award. Cash awards are included as a part of the winnings. A $100 cash award, $50 people's choice award and $50, $25, gift certificates and ribbons in each of the categories will be presented to winners. A special $50 award will also be given for the photograph that best exemplifies the essence of Kay County.
The Ponca City Photography Competition is funded in part by the Gareth Muchmore Memorial Fund. Muchmore was a longtime director of the Ponca City Art Association and had an avid interest in Indian and western art. He was the editor and co-publisher of The Ponca City News and an accomplished photographer.
Entrants in the student's category (both in color and black and white) are Thomas I. Murray, Katy Farmer, Bryan Cope and Kevin McConaghy.
In the amateur color photo division entrants include Charlotte Puckett, Howard Puckett, Doris Swanson, Jeff Shaver, Nadine Owen, Sally McQuade, Shirley Scott, Caroline White, Barbara Sherrill, Mary L. Skidla, Don Kirkpatrick, Fadilia Barton, David Short, Bryana Gurley, and Eugene Ruggs.
In the amateur black and white division, entries are from Jeffery Shaver, Nadine Owen, Sally McQuade, Caroline White, Laneta Going, Mary L. Skidla and Barbara Jacques.
Entered in advanced color are R.M. Tillman, C.G. Arnold, Jim Elmore, Scott Howard, Barbara Cope, Glenn Cope, Clifton Van Brown, Brian N. Duran, and Linda Courtney.
In the advanced black and white, entries are from R. M. Tillman, Glenn Cope, Clifton Van Brown, Brian N. Duran and Linda Courtney.
Entered in the special award division are Audrey Schmitz, Ken Crowder and Linda Courtney.
The photography exhibit will hang at the Ponca City Art Center through Oct. 26. Admission is free and the center is open Wednesday through Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m. For more information about the Art Center or art classes call 765-9746.
Mike Leigh may be the hottest young filmmaker in the English-speaking world. Last year, his film "Secrets and Lies" was nominated for three Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Actress and Best Supporting Actress. It also won the prestigious "Palme d'Or" at the Cannes Film Festival. ABC describes "Secrets" as an "abundance of imagination and artistic muscle." Now Leigh has released another film that has critics buzzing, "Career Girls."
"Career Girls" tells the story of two women who remain friends over years. By intercutting stories from two different periods of their friendship, Leigh is able to deepen his insights into their personalities and dreams. ABC calls "Career Girls" a "deeply felt, lightly executed song of friendship." The film is tender, harsh and funny. "Boxoffice" says that it "evolves upliftingly" to "hope," and appreciates Leigh's "clever humor."
Leigh has become famous for his technique of working with actors. Usually, someone writes the script and then actors memorize it. Leigh doesn't do that. He likes to work improvisationally. In "Secrets and Lies," he cast the show without telling the actors who their partners were. He worked with each actor separately, only bringing the actors together when the plot required them to meet for the first time. The actors knew some of the dialogue, but they had to ad lib parts also.
The technique makes a richer, deeper sense of personality and character. "Time Magazine" writes that in "Career Girls," Leigh "offers a behavioral truthfulness" that "put most movies to shame."
"Career Girls" is "masterful," says ABC. "Boxoffice" also calls Leigh a "master," specifically at capturing "layers of complex emotion." ABC adds that "the real miracle is the acting." As the characters' lives intertwine from one period to another, the perceptions of one era reveal the underlying feelings of another era. The two women have changed subtly from college to the later years, but the truth of their lives is that they grapple with similar issues across the span of their lives.
ABC writes that Leigh's working technique makes a "bittersweet spontaneity." In "Career Girls," he serves it up "like lightning in a bottle."
"Career Girls" is rated R. For show times, consult The Ponca City News or call the Poncan Theatre at 765-0943.
By KATHY ZEHR
News Staff Writer
The ageless sound of romance - of gypsy passion - will be heard in Ponca City Friday as Ponca City Community Concert members are scheduled to hear the Hungarian Gipsy Orchestra at 7:30 p.m. at Hutchins Memorial.
Antal Szalai's 13-member ensemble will present the magnificent and timeless songs of the Hungarian people in a celebration of life at the first Community Concert of the season.
Szalai, one of his country's most popular gypsy musicians, has been leading his orchestra for more than 20 years. The performers, all gypsies themselves, belong to the Honved Ensemble, a folk group within the Hungarian Army.
All 13 performers are graduates of the Bela Bartok conservatory and their repertoire is as vast as it is exciting, ranging from recruitment music of the Reformation period to traditional czardas and adaptations of popular gypsy music - including rousing renditions of Liszt's ever popular "Hungarian Rhapsodies."
True to their gypsy nature, the orchestra travels and tours extensively, delighting audiences throughout Europe, Asia and the United States.
In some instances, Szalai's orchestra musicians perform on bag-pipes, whistles and rustic folk instruments, preserving the ancient style of folk-music playing where groups of Gypsies play in small formations, from two to four instruments. The pan flute also makes an appearance and is used in accompanying the ancient round dance the "Hora."
The "Verbunkos" style of music, which will be played during the first part of the program, was the music used by high-ranking military men to lure the peasants into joining the army in days preceding obligatory conscription.
In the second part of the program the orchestra performs a "Gipsy Dance," and "Two Guitars," which tells of a Russian Gypsy romance.
Two rousing czardas will open and close the program, which may involve some singing by the orchestra leader. Other traditional Gypsy music may include "The Nightingale" "Liszt's Hungarian Rhapsody No. 2," and Brahm's "Hungarian Dances."
Members will need their 1997-98 membership cards for admittance to the concert.
As an added bonus during this first concert, Ponca City Community Concert members will be given entry forms to complete for a drawing for special prizes. Winners will be announced at the Nov. 16 concert. The forms may be returned at the Friday night concert or mailed into Concert Headquarters.
After three months in a row of above-normal rainfall, September could come up with only 3.39 inches of moisture at the Municipal Airport weather station, falling .34-inch below the monthly average of 3.73.
Over the past 30 years the 3.39 inches were about average, records showing 15 of those Septembers being above, and the other 14 below, last month's total. The wettest ninth month - at least since 1954 - seems to have been in 1986 when 9.72 inches came pouring down. This bested the 9.53 inches left by September's 1967 visit to Ponca City.
Other high water marks for the ninth month have included 8.15 inches in 1993, 7.13 in 1969, 7.12 in 1971, 6.66 just a year ago (1996) and 6.50 in 1970. Only twice in the last 30 years has a September rain total been less than an inch - .47 in 1975 and .65 in 1984.
Last month's 3.39 inches came mostly in one 24-hour period - 2.21 on the 23rd. Measurable moisture also fell on seven other days.
While September's rainfall failed to keep pace with the generous downpours of June, July and August, the local area seems to be in good shape, moisture-wise. The final three-month weather run began Oct. 1 with the station at the airport having recorded 42.15 inches of precipitation in the past nine months. That figures out to be 13.40 inches above normal.
As usual, autumn arrived, as far as the calendar is concerned. But summer kept hanging on. It just didn't seem like September.
Actually, the records seem to show only one September since 1967 that could boast of having freezing temperatures. That came about in 1984 when the mercury ended its plunge at 28 degrees. Nearest to it during the years mentioned were 35-degree readings in 1972 and 1989.
The warmest temperatures recorded last month were 102 degrees on the 19th and 100 on the 8th. The average daily temperature was 77, which was seven degrees above normal. The hottest September day in 30 years came along in 1985 with a reading of 106. A 105 was recorded in 1995 and this year's 102 was matched in four other Septembers.
Joseph Martin, one of America's most prolific composers of sacred choral music, will lead the choirs of First United Methodist Church in a "Celebration of Song", Sunday, Oct. 26, at 6 p.m.
In addition, Martin will be presenting piano selections he has arranged. With over 400 titles currently in circulation, Joseph Martin consistently ranks among the top composers of sacred literature. He also serves as choral editor for GlorySound, a division of Shawnee Press publishing.
The "Celebration in Song" service will conclude a weekend of events featuring Mr. Martin, including a composer's workshop at 4 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 25.
The workshop is jointly sponsored by the composer's Division of the Ponca City Federated Music Club and First United Methodist Church. Joseph Martin's appearance is made possible by the Helen M. Foster endowment program.
For more information contact Donna Butler, director of music ministries at First United Methodist Church, 762-1681.
Elementary Breakfast
Elementary Lunch
Middle School and Mid-High
Breakfast
Middle School and Mid-High
Lunch
High School Lunch
Available every day at Campus Mart, the Training Table Deli offers a Pasta Bar, Baked Potato Bar, lean items and fresh fruit. The Ala Carte Wildcat line offers Pizza Hut and Subway Sandwiches.
All American
Training Table
McCord Elementary
Breakfast
Lunch
Pioneer Technology Center
Mid-High
Oct. 15
Oct. 16
Po-Hi
Oct. 13
Oct. 14
Oct. 15
Oct. 16
Oct. 17
Oct. 18
Thursday, Friday
"We still need your help," says Brad Dickey, United Way's 1997-98 campaign chairman. "The United Way thermometer at Grand and Fourteenth Streets has risen to 87 percent but we have a way to go to reach our 100 percent goal."
"Giving to the United Way guarantees the continuation of needed services in Ponca City and we can't do it without your help," said Dickey in an appeal to the public. "Please open your hearts and give to the United Way."
The United Way still needs the help of all Ponca Citians to meet the goal of $585,000. United Way's member agencies serve everyone in the community and all citizens are touched by the 17 agencies who provide human services to local families, friends and neighbors.
Dickey also announced that campaign workers will be canvassing the community Monday, picking up the last few United Way packets to finish up the 1997-98 campaign.
Citizens who want to help the community and at the same time get their name into the drawings for some fine incentive prizes, may pledge or donate a minimum of $100 to the United Way and return their packet to the United Way office by 5 p.m. Monday. All incentive prizes have been donated by local businesses to help the campaign.
United Way of Ponca City serves 17 agencies within the community, including American Red Cross, Arthritis Foundation, Bluestem Girl Scout Council, Boy Scouts of America, Bridgeway, Child Development Center, Domestic Violence Program, Golden Villa Adult Day Care Services, Helpline Inc., Hospice, New Emergency Resource Agency, Northern Oklahoma Youth Services, Peachtree Landing, ProTeens, RSVP, Salvation Army, and YMCA.
For more information about contributions or the agencies where the money is allocated, please call the United Way office at 765-2476.
After School Kids (ASK) Club will be offering a variety of activities for elementary age children to participate in during fall break Thursday and Friday.
Washington Elementary and Union Elementary Schools will be the two sites that will host the full-day programs. Hours will be from 7 a.m. until 6 p.m.
A variety of activities have been planned to accommodate school age children whose parents work, or for children wanting something special to do during these days off.
Field trips from Washington Elementary include a trip to Oklahoma City to visit Enterprise Square, and roller skating at the new Skate World. Union Elementary will host two days of cooking and painting.
Parents and children can decide which activities or school will work best for them.
The ASK Club is a state licensed program. Drop-ins are welcome if space if available. For enrollment information please contact Charlee Lanis at 767-8000.
The Ponca Tribe will have a Tribal Community Safety Center and rehabilitate housing units with grants approved by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
The Southern Plains Office of Native American Programs, a part of HUD, has informed the Ponca Tribe of Oklahoma that HUD has approved funding for two projects that the tribe submitted in July.
The two projects, and the amount of funding approved for each, include:
- Housing Rehabilitation - $105,068 and
- A Tribal Community Safety Center - $513,140.
The Housing Rehabilitation project funds will be used to rehabilitate a number of houses located within the Ponca tribal jurisdiction.
Funds awarded to the other tribal project will be used to expand and renovate an existing building that houses a law enforcement bureau at White Eagle, five miles south of Ponca City. This expansion/renovation will also include adequate space for a tribal fire protection program.
In a letter dated Oct. 2, Wayne Sims, administrator for the Southern Plains Office of Native American Programs, informed the tribe that "Our office received applications for 43 projects from 37 tribes, but were able to award funds to only 22 tribes for 24 projects. This was due to the high quality of most applications and to the limited funding allocated to our office."
When informed of the two grants awards, Lionel LeClair, chairman of the Ponca Tribe, said that "The Ponca Tribe looks forward to the opportunity to assist our membership in housing rehabilitation efforts, as well as establishing a tribal safety center. These two projects are badly needed in our area, and we wish to thank HUD for its positive consideration of these projects."
A number of Democratic Party leaders will be on hand Thursday for the Kay County Democrat Women's Association ham and bean dinner.
In addition to speakers and guests previously announced, the following plan to attend:
Sen. J. Berry Harrison of Fairfax; James Hager of Pawhuska, state representative and probable candidate for governor; Evelyn Davis of Crescent, secretary for 5th district Democrat Women, and Shirley Robertson of Oklahoma City, 5th district chairperson.
Previously announced are Clifton Scott, state auditor and inspector from Tecumseh; Paul Muegge, state senator from Tonkawa; Debbie Leftwich, state Democrat chairperson from Oklahoma City; Robert Butkins, state treasurer from Oklahoma City; Sandy Garrett, state school superintendent from Oklahoma City, and M. C. Smothermon, Democrat candidate for U. S. Representative from Edmond.
Tickets may be purchased at the door for the dinner, which is scheduled Oct. 16, 6:30 p.m., at the OCAW Hall, 1202 West Ponca Avenue.
John Erickson, Texas rancher and popular children's author, is the man behind "Hank the Cowdog," the hero in a popular series of books.
"When I started out, the dog was working for me," says Erickson, "Now I'm working for the dog."
Erickson will entertain a large audience at the Hutchins Memorial Auditorium Monday at 9 a.m. He will tell a few Hank tales, sing a few Hank tunes, strum his banjo and spin some good clean fun.
Hank isn't just for kids. In fact, some of his humor is lost on young readers. Adults may see that Hank is a cross between Humphrey Bogart and Maxwell Smart of TV's "Get Smart."
He frequently makes up words, such as giving a gate a "sniffatory analysis." He delivers malapropisms - for instance, giving something not his emphatic, but his "lymphatic" approval - with all the self assurance, all the gravity, all the dignity of a self-important professor, never suspecting that listeners might be laughing at him. Or he'll come out with a humorously wrong saying - "A yard without a dog is like a house without a home."
"My books appeal to the high standards, good taste and intelligence of country people," Erickson said. The stories are full of insights, social commentary, and philosophical ramblings.
The entertainer and author will be here as the guest of Brace Books & More, who made arrangements for 1,500 area school children to attend the free performance and get their books autographed by Erickson. A limited number of free tickets are still available for the asking.
With more than two million "Hank the Cowdog" books in print, and fans around the country hungry for more, Erickson starts every work day at 5:30 a.m. writing in his bunkhouse office, before he does any ranch chores or even sees his family.
His books capture the flavor of ranch life in the Lone Star State in a way matched by few others. He wrote his first stories for adults.
"I wasn't thinking about children's books at all," he says, "The common denominator in my audience was agriculture. If I were trying to write a children's book, I think I would underestimate the intelligence of the readers - write down to them."
"There are things in there the children can't get," Erickson says. "For example, Sally May, the ranch wife, doesn't like Hank at all. The kids think she's mean and crabby, because they see everything from Hank's point of view. But the adults know exactly why she doesn't like that dog."
Erickson prides himself on writing books families can enjoy. "I don't believe in writing things I wouldn't want my own kids to read," he says. "It's important work, helping kids to read."
Born in Midland, Texas, his family moved to Perryton, in the Texas Panhandle, when he was 3. His mother was a rancher's daughter from Seminole in Gaines County, southwest of Lubbock; his father was in the insurance and real estate business. "I've wanted to be a rancher since I was a kid," Erickson says.
He says that "Hank the Cowdog" is making the payments on his place. "I had it leased out the first four years, but now the kids and I are running it all ourselves. I have 200 cows, and I've just bought 89 heifers. I'm aiming toward a black baldface herd. The ranch experience is a gold mine to me. That's where all those Hank stories come from."
Ranching is a tough way to make a living, he says, and it helps to have Hank's support. "Agriculture is kind of like a watermelon that's been hollowed out. Somebody's cut a little hole in the side of it and pulled all the meat out of it. You don't realize how much the standard of living has eroded until you go back and look at the price of pickups 20 years ago. And the price of cattle hasn't changed all that much.
He now lives on a 6,000-acre ranch near Perryton with his wife of 29 years, Chris, three children, and three dogs.
Erickson graduated from the University of Texas in 1966 and studied for two years at Harvard Divinity School. He began to publish short stories in 1967 while working full-time as a cowboy, farmhand, and ranch manager in Texas and Oklahoma. Hank and his sidekick, Drover, are dogs Erickson worked with on the range. This mixture of true life experience, fun and adventure has gained Hank a loyal following of adults as well as children.
In 1982, however, Erickson was at his rope's end. "I was working out in the cold; there was 8-inches of snow on the ground," he says, "I had just gotten a couple of rejection slips from New York publishers; and I had a wife with two kids and another one on the way."
So, with $2,000 in borrowed money, Erickson started his own publishing company, appropriately named Maverick Books.
He began selling books from his pickup truck at cattle auctions, rodeos, and just about any place cowboys gathered.
When Erickson started getting "Dear Hank" letters, he knew he was onto something. So in 1983, 2,000 copies of "The Original Adventures of 'Hank the Cowdog'" were published, and sold out in six weeks.
Not long after that first printing, the book was recorded word-for-word on audiotape. Since then, every Hank book has been recorded, making Hank the longest running successful children's series on audio ever, according to Billboard Magazine.
Those interested in attending the Monday morning performance may contact Brace Books & More for tickets. Phone 765-5173 or 800-256-5173 for information about the books, the autographing, or for tickets.
Steven J. Gentling, Medical Center director, Department of Veteran Affairs, Oklahoma City recently spoke at the American Legion here to more than 55 veterans and their wives about the establishing of a Primary Care Clinic in Ponca City.
Gentling said the Veterans Administration has already approved the clinic and they have sent out bids to interested health care providers. Those bids should be returned by Nov. 1, 1997. Two similar clinics are presently in operation - one in Lawton and the other in Wichita Falls, Texas.
Gentling indicated and if everything goes by the timetable set by the VA, the clinic should be open by the first part of 1998 and could serve over 14,000 area veterans, adding a million dollars a year to the local economy.
Veterans will no longer have to travel to Oklahoma City or Wichita to receive primary care, he said. The clinic will be able to dispense a two-week supply of most medications with the rest of the medication being mailed to the veteran's home, he told the gathering.
The clinic will operate Monday through Friday, probably from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Veterans who require more than out-patient care, will be referred to other area Veterans Center Hospitals.
A month before the clinic opens, there would be a pre-enrollment or pre-qualification period, Gentling said, and all veterans should pre-enroll and let the VA decide, via the "Means Test," whether the veteran is eligible for treatment at the clinic.
Each veteran will need a copy of his or her DD-214 and/or discharge papers - also VA Claim number if he/she has used the VA in the past.
The pre-enrollment will probably be held at the American Legion Post
14 building and the dates will be announced via newspaper and radio, he
said.
DEATHS
TONKAWA - C.W. "Bill" Cadle Jr., longtime Tonkawa resident, died Friday afternoon, Oct. 10, 1997, at Willow Haven Nursing Home in Tonkawa. He was 85.
A graveside service has been set for 2 p.m. Monday at the Tonkawa IOOF Cemetery with the Rev. Joseph Burger, St. Joseph Catholic Church, officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of McCafferty-Bolick Funeral Home. The casket will remain closed at all times by family request. Flag presentation will be made by members of the Tonkawa VFW Post.
C.W. "Bill" Cadle was born April 28, 1912, on the family farm south of Eddy, homesteaded by his father in the run of 1893. He was the son of Charles Williams and Fannie V. (Baker) Cadle Sr. He was educated at the Fountain County School and graduated from University Preparatory School, Tonkawa.
During World War II, in March 1942, Cadle enlisted in the U.S. Navy. He attended U.S. Naval schools in Chicago and spent 18 months in the Aleutian Islands. Cadle served as an Aviation Machinist First Class Petty Officer with Headquarters Squadron Fleet Air Wing No. 4.
He married Rose Schiro of Chicago on Oct. 10, 1944, and they lived for a short time in Ottumwa, Iowa. He was honorably discharged from the U.S. Navy in 1945 and returned to farm the family homestead. In 1968 the couple moved into Tonkawa where Cadle was employed by Clint Williams for 20 years, retiring in 1974. Cadle was a 50-year member of the VFW.
Survivors include his wife Rose; three sons, William Frank of Perkins, and Lawrence and Joe, both of Ponca City; one daughter, Vera Stone of Claremore; and seven grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; one sister Edna; and an infant daughter.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Tonkawa VFW, c/o McCafferty-Bolick Funeral Home, 400 East Grand, Tonkawa, OK 74653.
Cynthia Lynn "Cindy" Halbig-Johnston, Ponca City resident, died Friday, Oct. 10, 1997, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. She was 34.
A memorial service will be held at a later date in Mount Carmel, Ill. Local arrangements are under the direction of Trout Funeral Home.
Cynthia Lynn "Cindy" Halbig-Johnston was born Sept. 11, 1963, in Bellefontaine, Penn., to Joseph B. Halbig and Rose (Searcy) Halbig-Neely. She was a graduate of St. Joseph's High School, Hilo, Hawaii, and Mid-Michigan Community College in Mt. Pleasant, Mich.
On March 8, 1986, she was married to Jeffrey Johnston in Mount Carmel, Ill., and they moved to Ponca City Jan. 1, 1997. She was employed as a Licensed Practical Nurse at Shawn Manor Nursing Home.
She is survived by her husband, Jeffrey Johnston, son Christopher Johnston and daughter Karmen Johnston, all of the home; her father, Joseph B. Halbig of Cloud Croft, N.M.; mother, N. Rose Neely of East Alton, Ill.; two sisters, Valerie H. Dunkel of West Salem, Ill., and Susan Halbig of Cloud Croft, N.M.; and maternal grandmother, Virginia Searcy of Woodriver, Ill. She was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Joseph B. Halbig and maternal grandfather, George H. Searcy.
Memorial contributions may be made in Mrs. Halbig-Johnston's name to the American Cancer Society, Kay County Unit, c/o First National Bank, P.O. Box 1151; Ponca City, OK 74602.
Harry L. Harden, former Ponca City resident, died Friday, Oct. 10, 1997, in Kansas City, Mo. He was 78.
The funeral will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, at Grace Memorial Chapel in Ponca City. Burial will follow in Resthaven Memorial Park Cemetery. Friends may visit with the family at Grace Memorial Chapel from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday.
Harry L. Harden was born Jan. 17, 1918, in Yale. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II in Italy and the North African theaters.
He was married to Pearl R. Larchey on Dec. 22, 1956, in Ponca City, where they established their home and farmed. He was a member of the American Legion Huff-Minor Post 14, the VFW Post 1201 where he served twice as post commander, and a lifetime member of the Military Order of the Cootie. He also was selected as a member of the all-state team of post commanders in 1978. Mr. Harden moved to Kansas City, Mo. in 1993.
Survivors include a sister, Fern Snow of Belton, Mo., and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife in September 1985.
Casket bearers will be members of the VFW Post 1201, Chuck Hoddy, Wade Kleinmann, Bob Henderson, Franky McDaniel, Herb Hopkins, and Marion Beavers.
Memorial contributions may be made in Mr. Harden's name to the VFW Post 1201, 2900 East Prospect, Ponca City, OK 74604.
WENDEN, Ariz. - Myrtle Mae Kennedy passed away at her home in Wenden, Ariz., on Oct. 8, 1997.
She was born Jan. 24, 1907, at Skeedee to parents Fred and Rosa Tanner. She was the fifth born of their 12 children. The family moved to Ralston, where Myrtle attended elementary school and graduated from Ralston High School in 1925.
Myrtle then moved to Ponca City and was employed as a telephone operator. There she met and married Gilbert L. Kennedy on Aug. 25, 1926. From this union came five children, Gilbert L. Jr., Clarence E., Dorothy L., J. Gordon, and Joe R.
They farmed and ranched in Oklahoma until 1951, then moved to Arvin, Calif. and also engaged in farming. The two younger boys attended high school in Arvin. The tree older children had already completed their education in Oklahoma. In 1959, Myrtle and Gilbert moved to Wenden, Ariz. Gilbert passed away in 1965, and Myrtle has remained at their home in Wenden since.
Myrtle was always active in both Wenden and Salome communities. She transferred her membership in the General Federation of Women's Club from Arvin to Vi Sa Wen in Salome in 1959. She also joined the local Canasta Club that year, as she loved to play cards.
In Oklahoma Myrtle was involved with PTA at Foster School, where all her children attended elementary school. She also belonged to the home demonstration club sponsored by the extension service out of Oklahoma State University, Stillwater. Many times she walked miles to reach a neighbor's house where the functions were held. The ladies took turns hostessing these meetings. They quilted, learned household skills and received information about health and child care.
When Myrtle moved to Arvin, Calif., she joined the Congregational Church, which her entire family attended. She later joined the Wenden Bible Church as was a very active member there. She loved going to Bible study, gaining knowledge and strength in her faith.
Myrtle is survived by her five children and their spouses, Gilbert and Jean of Enid, Clarence and Irvaline of Ponca City, Dorothy Matthews of Salome, Ariz., J. Gordon and Carol of Madera, Calif., and Joe and Ronda, of Ralston.
She was preceded in death by six brothers. She is survived by two brothers, Cy Tanner of Ralston, and Harold Tanner of Los Angeles, Calif.; and three sisters, Cordelia Edwards of Ponca City, Eleanor Sanders of Seal Beach, Calif., and Vera Nance of Adelanto, Calif.
She leaves 22 grandchildren, 55 great-grandchildren, and seven great-great grandchildren. She loved all her family dearly, kept track of all their birthday's and acknowledged them. We shall sorely miss her.
The funeral will be held at Frey's Funeral Home, 980 North Tegner, Wickenburg, Ariz., Monday, Oct. 13. Visitation will be at 10 a.m. and the service at 11 p.m. Cremation will follow.
Donations may be made to Wenden Bible Church, Wenden, AZ. 85357 or to the Tri-Valley Medical Association, P.O. Box 1172, Salome, AZ, 85348.
Loose Cattle - At 7:32 a.m. Friday police were notified of cattle in the roadway in the 3000 block of Lake Road. The owner was notified.
Auto Burglary - At 8:18 a.m. Friday a person in the 100 block of West Grand Avenue reported an auto burglary that occurred Thursday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Accident - At 10:34 a.m. Friday police received several 911 calls regarding an injury accident at Highland Avenue and Oak Street. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Arrest - A 18-year-old man was arrested from the 2100 block North Fourteenth Street at 12:05 p.m. Friday for trespassing.
Arrest - At 1:30 p.m. Friday police arrested a 49-year-old man from the 100 block East Grand Avenue on a Bryan County warrant for failure to appear on bogus checks.
Burglary - A business in the 300 block of South Fourteenth Street reported at 2:52 p.m. Friday a burglary to a vending machine. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Vandalism - At 2:59 p.m. Friday a resident in the 1900 block of East Hartford Avenue reported vandalism to private property. An officer was assigned and a destruction of private property report was taken.
Arrest - Police arrested a 16-year-old girl for petit larceny after Wal-Mart reported to police at 5:17 p.m. Friday that a shoplifter was in custody.
Gas Drive-Offs - A clerk at Citgo, 200 East Highland Avenue, reported a $10 gas drive-off at 6:53 p.m. Friday. Conoco, 1600 block of West South Avenue, also reported a $15.85 gas drive-off at 7:32 p.m. Friday.
Arrest - At 9:38 p.m. Friday police arrested a 38-year-old man for second degree burglary and kidnapping.
Arrest - A 22-year-old man was arrested at 9:48 p.m. Friday at Central Avenue and Peachtree Street on a city warrant for failure to obey.
Accident - Police received a report of a one-vehicle accident at LA Cann and Kygar Road at 9:49 p.m. Friday. The driver was taken to St. Joseph Regional Medical Center.
Stolen Bike - A resident in the 1000 block of Brentwood Drive reported a stolen bike to police at 10:06 p.m. Friday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Assault - At 10:53 p.m. Friday police received a 911 call from Ponca Bowl, 2000 Lake Road, reporting that an employee had been assaulted by two customers. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Altercation - Police were called to the VFW at 2900 East Prospect Avenue at 2:08 a.m. Saturday after several calls were received regarding a fight in the parking lot. There were a total five assault victims.
Arrest - At 2:33 a.m. Saturday a juvenile girl was arrested for assault and battery at Ponca Avenue and Birch Street after police received several 911 calls regarding a fight involving clubs and knives in the 200 block of South Ash Street.
Arrest - Police arrested a juvenile girl at 2:55 a.m. Saturday for assault and battery at Birch Street and Ponca Avenue.
Break-In - A resident in the 1600 block of Princeton Avenue reported to police at 4:06 a.m. Saturday that someone had broken into their vehicle. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Antiques and Collectibles - Hidden treasurers are waiting to be found at Buchanan's Antique and Collector's Market set for Oct. 18-19 in the Modern Living Building and Hobbies, Arts, and Crafts Buildings at the Oklahoma State Fairgrounds. More than 300 dealers will exhibit furniture, glassware, china, books, toys, sports memorabilia, vintage clothing, sports cards and much more. Hours are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. Admission is $2 for adults and 12 and under are free.
Benefit Dinner Set - McCord Senior Citizens are sponsoring a benefit dinner Saturday, 5-7 p.m., at McCord School, featuring homemade chicken and noodles with homemade pies and cakes. Cost is $3.50 for adults and children under six may eat free of charge - all you can eat. Tickets are available at the Pioneer Bank of the Osage, or at the door. Everyone welcome.
Memorial Dinner Set - A memorial dinner in memory of Floyd Poore will be held Sunday, Oct. 19 at the Ponca Cultural Center in White Eagle. Dinner will be served at 2 p.m.
Ladies Retreat Planned - "Women of Excellence" Ladies Retreat is coming to Ponca City Jan. 23-24. For more information call 762-9523.
Vinegar Workshop - The Ponca City Library will be sponsoring an herbal vinegar workshop Thursday at 7 p.m. Herb expert Mary Anne Potter of Herban Renewal Farms will demonstrate making herbal vinegars in a "hands-on" workshop. All ingredients will be provided by the library. Preregistration is required and those attending need to bring their own bottle. Call Julie Rutter at 767-0345 to register.
Public Budget Hearing - The Ponca City Public Schools will be holding a Pubic Budget Hearing Monday, 6-6:30 p.m., at the Administration Building. The regular board meeting will immediately follow at 6:30 p.m. The public is invited to attend.
Title IX Meeting - The Title IX Indian Education Parent Committee will be meeting at the Administration Building Tuesday, 6-7 p.m. All interested parents are invited to attend. For further information contact Garland Kent Jr, chairman, at 762-6861, or Jo A. Lessert, facilitator, at 767-9500, ext. 128.
Cheer Clinic - Ponca City High School varsity cheerleaders will hold their annual mini-cheer clinic Monday-Wednesday. Preschool through first grade will practice from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. and second grade through sixth grade will practice from 6:45 to 7:45 p.m. Late registration will also be held Monday at 5:15 p.m. at Robson Fieldhouse. Kids attending the clinic will perform during halftime of Thursday's varsity football game against Booker T. Washington. For information call 762-0035 or 765-7259.
Garden Club - Members of the Lilac Garden Club will meet Oct.
15 at 9:30 a.m. at the Cann Memorial Garden center. Hostesses will be Anna
Shadan and Berniece Hayes.
LIFESTYLES
October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, an observance now recognized for over 10 years. During the month-long annual event, health professionals and educators are making a special effort to heighten women's awareness of breast cancer and the benefits of early detection and treatment.
Locally, St. Joseph Regional Medical Center and the Soroptimist International Club of Ponca City have teamed to sponsor a special Breast Cancer Awareness Luncheon. The event is scheduled for Oct. 29, from noon to 1 p.m. at the Chapel Hall of the Marland Estate Hotel and Conference Center.
Guest speaker at the Breast Cancer Awareness Luncheon will be Oklahoma's Lt. Gov. Mary Fallin.
In addition to participating in what a spokesperson says is an outstanding program, all women attending the luncheon will have an opportunity to win one of two free mammograms SJRMC is providing. The mammograms will be performed at SJRMC's accredited mammography facility, and winners may have their mammograms performed anytime in the next twelve months.
Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer in women, striking one woman of every nine by age 85. The American Cancer Society projected statistics for 1996 indicated 180,000 women would be diagnosed with the disease and that breast cancer would claim 46,000 lives.
The Breast Cancer Awareness Month message is one of hope. Breast cancer is usually curable when it is detected early. Regular breast self-examinations, physician examinations and mammograms are the three steps healthcare providers recommend to detect breast cancer as early as possible.
National Breast Cancer Awareness Month has been observed in the United States since 1985, when concerned healthcare professionals recognized a void in communication about breast cancer, early detection, and early intervention. A week-long program was founded, focusing on educating women about early detection of breast cancer. Founders of the observance distributed brochures, spoke to reporters, and testified to a Congressional committee about the crucial importance of mammography.
Today, National Breast Cancer Awareness Month has grown into a month-long effort of public and professional outreach that extends to millions of people.
Local women who wish to make reservations to attend the Oct. 29 luncheon may call Sandy Gearhart at (405) 765-0301. Cost of the luncheon is $10 per person, and reservations must be made by Thursday, Oct. 23. Tickets are also available from Soroptimist Club members, but reservations are required to attend the luncheon.
The Central Oklahoma Chapter of the American Historical Society of Germans from Russia will hold the annual "Harvestfest" Oct. 21 at 6:30 p.m. under the tent at Marianne's Rentals, 2701 West Britton Road, Oklahoma City. Sausage, bierock, sauerkraut and hot German potato salad will be served. Cost for the meal will be $8 per person. Lillian Larwig, chapter president, announced that the public is invited to attend. For additional information call 942-2391.
Richard and Lisa Brown, 305 Lora Avenue, announce the birth of a daughter Sept. 27, 1997 at 1:11 p.m. at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. The baby weighed 6-pounds, 1-ounce and was 20 1/2-inches long. She has been named Rachel Anne Brown.
Maternal grandparents are Ray and Betty Sikes of Ponca City and paternal grandparents are Diana Tatum of Grand Prairie, Texas and Fred and Linda Brown of Ponca City.
Great-grandmothers are Elsie Brown of Ponca City and Ruth Jansson of Grand Prairie, Texas. Rachel Anne has a brother, Ryan Lee Brown, 5-years-old.
Announcing the birth of a daughter at 1:30 a.m. Oct. 7, 1997 at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center are Brad and Rhonda Avery of Ponca City. The 8-pound, 7-ounce baby was 22-inches long and has been named Katherine Elizabeth Avery. Kate has a brother, Brennan, 4-years-old.
Grandparents are Ron and Carla Gilmore and Connie and Mary Ann Avery, all of Ponca City. Great-grandparents are Cecile Avery of Covington, Juanita Gilmore and L. Ruth Moore of Oklahoma City.
A son was born at 3:50 p.m. Oct. 9, 1997 at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center to Darrell and Durinda Snider of Ponca City. Joshua Troy Snider weighed 7-pounds, 12-ounces and was 22 3/4-inches long.
Maternal grandparents are Dale and Loretta Cabbiness of Houston, Texas and paternal grandparents are Bob and Gloria Snider of Blackwell.
Chapter EL and Chapter FC of PEO will meet together Wednesday at noon for a dutch treat luncheon at E. W.'s restaurant at the Marland Mansion Conference Center. The program will be a International Convention report. Reservations should be made by Monday with Martha Downing or Jane Cornelson.
Members of the Pioneer Area Quilter's Guild met Oct. 6 at Community Christian Church, 2109 West Grand. Lavon Shepler served as greeter for 67 members, four new members and one guest. Hostesses for the day were Norman Kinzie, Sara Myers, Sian Boyd, Sybil Webster and Velva Hoyt. Stitch and Assist was followed by registration.
Cindy Wilson, president, presided at the business session and announced members winning ribbons at the recent county fair, Cheryl Pritchett, Laurzel Holmes and Michiel Landers.
Beverly Carpenter read a poem entitled "Quilter's Husband Lament." Kathy Paczowski was named as new treasurer and reported to the group that there were 131 members of the guild.
Jean Buskirk thanked Sandy Henderson, Mary Butler, Marcelle Gosting and Shirley Hile for taking charge of the donation tickets at the recent state quilter's guild retreat. The Show and Share program "Sample a Sampler" was presented by Debbie Bacon.
Announcement was made that Oletta Demaree will hold an Angel ornament workshop during stitch and assist, 10-11:30 a.m. Nov. 3. This will be a hand sewing project and one angel will be given to the Christmas tree project. She will be assisted by Velma Hawkins. Mrs. Demaree will conduct a Snowman workshop 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Oct. 21 and Nov. 11 at the church. Those attending are asked to bring a sack lunch.
Cheryl Pritchett announced that the drawing for the Bow Tie blocks will be in November. A quilt show is being planned for Sept. 18-19, 1998 at the Marland Estate. Those wanting to assist with the event are asked to contact Sara Myers at the Nov. 3 meeting. The program will be given by Dawn Andrew from Hancock's Fabric. For information about the guild or members wishing to volunteer for the Angel Central Committee contact Ms. Wilson, president, 765-6911, or Linda Burg, vice president, 765-2532.
Ponca City Christian Women's Club members extend an invitation to area women to an "Arranged Just for You" luncheon on Wednesday from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. at the Ponca City Country Club. Cost is $8.50. The luncheon is open to all women and there are no memberships or dues.
Reservations for the luncheon and for childcare may be made by calling Cindy 762-2151 or Karen 765-9835 by Tuesday. Reservations must be honored, cancelled, or used by a friend.
The special feature will be "A Pumpkin Patch Party", the annual Country Fair and Auction. The Auctioneer will be Grant Hodges. There will be a variety of craft items and baked goods to be sold and auctioned. All proceeds from the Country Fair and Auction are combined and given to Stonecroft Missionaries as a Christmas gift.
Sweet Harmony will provide special "Musical Arrangements". This trio is comprised of three local women: Donita Cooper, Becky Dye and Rhonda Walker. They began singing together in February of 1996. They provide musical harmony.
Julie Wilson from Broken Arrow will be the guest speaker for the event. Julie is originally from Pittsburgh, Penn. She graduated from Oral Roberts University with a degree in accounting. She and her husband Jim are both Certified Public Accountants and have three sons. Julie is a Regional Representative with Stonecroft Ministries.
Danelle E. Proctor and Leroy L. Vernon will be married in a private wedding ceremony Nov. 14 at the Ponca City Cultural Center with a reception following. She is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William F. Chevalier and Wayne Beasley, all of Branson,Mo. Vernon is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Vernon of Newkirk.
The bride-to-be is a graduate of Hollister High School in Hollister, Mo. and received a degree and licensure in Practical Nursing from Omar Gibson AVTS, Reeds Spring, Mo. She is employed with Dr. Kreger, Dr. Ley, Dr. Henke, and Dr. Heilman at the Women's Clinic of Ponca City.
The prospective bridegroom is a graduate of Newkirk high school and received a bachelor of science degree in Business Administration from Oklahoma State University. He is the Director of Client Services for Boettcher, Ryan, and Martin Law Firm in Ponca City.
Christmas gift ideas and meaning of the season will highlight the Second Annual Women's Conference Nov. 15 at First Baptist Church.
Theme of the conference will be "Creating Holiday Traditions and Memories", based on I Timothy 4:14, "Do not neglect the gift that is within you." Leading the conference as main speakers will be Julie Dilbeck and Judi Boyer.
Julie Anne Dilbeck graduated from Oklahoma Baptist University in 1988 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing. Formerly a labor and delivery nurse and part-time home-health nurse, she is now a homemaker. Her husband, Hance, is pastor of the First #Baptist Church in Ponca City. The Dilbecks have three sons, D.H., age 9; Dax, age 7, and Leighton, age 5.
Judi Boyer was reared in Ponca City, attending First Baptist Church since she was four years old. She has been in fulltime ministry for nine years with Campus Crusade for Christ and seven years with Scope Ministries, a Christian counseling ministry in Oklahoma City. Presently, she serves as an Association Regional Director in East Asia with Campus Crusade for Christ, giving leadership to ministry teams, counseling and training fellow missionaries.
Boyer is also involved in evangelizing and discipling East Asian students and faculty. Her goal is for "both non-Christians and Christians alike to know and experience the transforming love of God in their lives."
Holiday seminar sessions to attend include Holiday Wreath Making, Wrapping Up Christmas, Quick & Delicious Holiday Cookin', Happy Birthday Jesus, Easy Holiday Gift Ideas, Making Creative Memories with Holiday Photos, Sew-up for the Holidays, and Holiday Family Traditions.
Saturday begins with all women meeting in the Chapel at 8:30 a.m. and seminars starting at 9 a.m. After lunch the final session in the Chapel will conclude by mid-afternoon.
Price of tickets is $15. Reservations must be made no later than Nov. 12. For more information you may contact: 775-4427 (church) or 762-5120 (Ona Clegg).
John and Sue Merhoff of Newkirk have announced the approaching marriage of their daughter, Sherry Lynn, to Steve Morgan, son of Jerry and Sheila Morgan of Oklahoma City. The couple will be married Oct. 25 at the west chapel of the Marland Mansion.
The bride-to-be is a graduate of Newkirk High School and received an associate of science degree in business administration from Northern Oklahoma College in 1995. She is currently employed at Perkins Family Restaurant. The prospective bridegroom, a graduate of Southeast High School in Oklahoma City, is employed by Kelle Oil Company.
The Marland Mansion will be the setting Nov. 29 for the wedding of Diana Brown Mora and Daniel Joseph Fusselman, both of Arkansas City, Kan. Included in the bridal party will be her daughter and son, Toni and Thomas Mora. Parents of the engaged couple are Joe and Sharla Brown of Newkirk and Milton and Frances Fusselman, 1903 Willow.
Ms. Mora, a 1987 Arkansas City High School graduate, received an associate degree in nursing from Northern Oklahoma College in 1994. She is employed as a Clinical Coordinator with ViaChristi Neonatal ICU in Wichita, Kan. Fusselman, a 1983 graduate of Ponca City High School, is employed by the City of Arkansas City, Kan.
Kay County Republicans will meet at 7 p.m. Monday at the Ponca City Public Library Programming Room. The guest speaker will be Oklahoma Labor Commissioner Brenda Reneau. The Kay County Republican Women's group will hold a business meeting at 6 p.m. at the same location.
One of only 11 statewide elected officials, Brenda Reneau took office in January, 1995. She is the first Republican elected to the office in 30 years; the first woman to hold the post, and is one of only four elected labor commissioners nationwide.
As Labor Commissioner, Reneau garnered national attention with her congressional testimony and evidence of fraud and corruption contained within the U.S. Department of Labor's Federal Prevailing Wage Survey.
Her investigative report, which exposed artificially inflated public construction costs, triggered an FBI probe, three U.S. Justice Department indictments, and to date the federal conviction of an Oklahoma City union official. Independent review by the U.S. General Accounting Office and the Inspector General's Office at the U.S. Department of Labor verified Reneau's evidence.
Along with favorable support on the editorial pages of the state's two largest newspapers, In Oct. 1995, NBC Nightly News with Tom Brokaw featured the Commissioners exposure of wage survey deceit during its Fleecing of America news segment. Reneau's fraud investigation was twice featured on the opinion page of The Wall Street Journal and also appeared in editions of National Review, Reader's Digest and Insight magazines. In Oklahoma the State Supreme Court struck down the state's Little Davis-Bacon Act, saving taxpayers millions of dollars on state construction projects said a member of the Kay County Republican party.
Commissioner Reneau oversees Oklahoma's labor laws and her department administers wage and hour laws, ensures that employers provide workers' compensation coverage, asbestos abatement regulations, inspects pressure vessels and amusement rides, enforces child labor laws, and regulations for professional boxing, among other responsibilities.
County business will follow Commissioner Reneau's comments. All area Republicans and interested citizens are invited to attend. For more information call Susan Powell Kay County Republican Chairman (405) 765-1935.
Sloans Celebrate 50 Years
Mr. and Mrs. Emmett D. Sloan, 3504 C Street, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Oct. 26. A come-and-go reception in their honor will be hosted by their children, Ruth Ann and Howard Sissel of Ponca City, Norma and Larry Leiker of Topeka, Kan. and Gail Haub of Sherman, Texas, on Oct. 25, 2-4 p.m. in the Fireside Room of the First Assembly of God church.
Emmett Sloan and the former Marjorie Davis were married on Oct. 26, 1947 at McCracken, Kan. in the Assembly of God church. They made their first home in McCracken, later moving throughout Kansas and Colorado until 1984 when they moved to Ponca City.
Mr. Sloan was employed with Phillips Construction Company as a heavy equipment operator until called for active military service during World War II. He was honorably discharged in 1945 at which time he returned to farming in Rush County, Kan. He also was employed by the Rush County Highway Department as a heavy equipment operator and later in the same position with the Seward County Highway Department. He was employed with San-Ore Construction Company for 11 years.
The couple moved to Colorado in 1972 where he was employed by the Stratton Equity Co-Op, from which he retired in 1984 when the pair moved to Oklahoma. In Ponca City he became the custodian and maintenance supervisor for First Assembly of God church and First Assembly Christian School, retiring in 1989. His hobbies are reading and travel.
Mrs. Sloan served as manager of the Drug Store in McCracken, Kan. where the old time soda fountain of the '50's was a highlight. She was employed by the hospital in Burlington, Colo. as a ward clerk and an accounts receivable clerk for five years and later worked for Dr. Ross as an insurance clerk in his medical office for six years. Mrs. Sloan is presently the office manager for the Ponca City YMCA where she has been employed for the past seven years. She is a homemaker and is well known for her seamstress skills. They are active members in the First Assembly of God church.
The Sloans have five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. They are: Tracy Molloy and sons, Taylor and Tyler of Carbondale, Kan.; Cory Molloy of Carbondale; Jeffery Molloy of Topeka, Kan.; Christopher Haub of Ponca City and Kelsey Haub of Sherman, Texas.
The couple has issued an open invitation to friends to attend the reception and they request no gifts; however, correspondence would be welcome.
Mr. and Mrs. Don Westberg, 317 North Peachtree, will mark their golden wedding anniversary with a family dinner. Don Westberg of Gettysburg, S. D. and the former Maretta Nelson of Lebanon, S. D., were united in marriage Oct. 14, 1947 in Pierre, S. D. They have resided in Ponca City for 46 years.
Mr. Westberg owned and operated the "Coffee Cup" in South Dakota and later owned the "Spudnut Shop" on Third Street in Ponca City. Mr. and Mrs. Westberg owned Westberg's Carports and Awnings before retirement.
The couple has four children, 11 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Their children and spouses are Lonny and Connie Westberg, Pamela and Tommy Smith, and Doug Westberg, all of Ponca City, and Shelley and Jack Venn of Blackwell.
Highlighting the Oct. 17 meeting of the Ponca City Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution will be a "local speaker talking about local history." The meeting will begin at 12:45 p.m. at the Ponca City Cultural Center and the program will be presented by Jack Keathly. He will talk about and display memorabilia of "Buckskin Bessie" Herberg Blackwell of 101 Ranch fame.
Among the information available will be a 1915 photo of Bessie in a 101 Ranch photo shown in a Panama Pacific Exposition flier and a 1916 101 Ranch program about Buffalo Bill where Bessie is listed as a "Fancy Rider." The Pioneer Woman Museum has included a copy of her picture in the museum expansion brochure.
"Buckskin Bessie" later lived at the Indian agency where she died in 1943 according to Keathly who is a member of the 101 Ranch Old Timers and the 101 Collectors. He is semi-retired from Keathly Nursery and Landscape.
Lorene Gingerich is hostess chairman for the meeting. Committee members assisting her include DeMaye Andress, Marquetta Brown, Betty Elliott, Victoria Artman, Diane Crossland, Pauletta Beaty, Mary Frances Denton and Audrey Jones.
The Singles Network is a social and support organization for single adults, divorced, widowed or never married. A monthly calendar is mailed to all members and dues are $10 per year. Members wish to emphasize that the organization is not a dating service. For more information call Betty, 762-9776, or Dorothy, 765-1403.
Plans for this week are:
Sharon Blimm of Edmond, former resident of Ponca City, was honored at a bridal shower Sept. 27 in Oklahoma City in the home of Sue Gert. Miss Blimm is the bride-elect of Kevin Junge and the couple will be married Oct. 17 at St. Monica's Catholic Church in Edmond.
Among the guests from Ponca City were Judy Blimm and Lucille Harrah, mother and grandmother of the bride-to-be; Sue Bond and Katy Bond, aunt and cousin of the future bride, and Helen Lodes, Miss Blimm's great-aunt.
Also attending were Krista Talent and Krista Fisher, cousin of the prospective bride, both of Norman. Junge's mother, sister and nephew, Janis Junge, Kirsten Pittman and Robert Dane, all of Edmond, were also present.
Volunteers are needed to deliver meals to the home bound participating in the Wheatheart Nutrition Project. For more information call 767-1620. Wheatheart Nutrition Menus for this week are as follows:
Monday, Oct. 13: Pepper steak with rice; buttered carrots; cooked cabbage; muffin with butter; peanut butter cake or cookie.
Tuesday, Oct. 14: Hot turkey sandwich; mashed potatoes with gravy; tomato relish; sliced peaches.
Wednesday, Oct. 15: BBQ chicken; French fries with catsup; buttered broccoli; whole wheat roll with butter; Frosted cherry desert.
Thursday, Oct. 16: Chili Con Carne; mixed fruit with citrus; crackers with butter; cinnamon roll.
Friday, Oct. 17: Sausage patty with gravy; orange juice; hash browns or potato wedges; biscuit with butter; scalloped apples.
The Prather-Campbell family descendants met Oct. 5 in the Top of Oklahoma Historical Society Museum's Club Rooms in Blackwell for their 13th annual family reunion with 33 people attending. Genealogical charts and photo albums were displayed by Paul Prather.
A moment of silent prayer was held as a memorial for Cheryl Gorham Crawley of Norman who died Dec. 10, 1996; and for Charles Kent Prather of Fort Worth, Texas who died Sept. 22, 1997.
Before the covered dish noon meal, Anna Lee Thornton gave the prayer. The oldest to attend was Harold Prather of Blackwell, born Sept. 17, 1907. The youngest to attend was 5-year-old Carrie Couch. Johnny and Moylene of Goodwell came the longest distance to attend.
John William Prather and Nancy Ann Campbell married Sept. 17, 1827 in Rowan County, N.C. They had nine children: Polly, Ruth, Sara, Jane, Nellie, Josephine, Thomas, John Wesley and Eli.
Attending from the families of William and Ruth Prather Lester and their daughter, Ira and Nellie Lester Davis, and son William and LaNona Davis were Johnny and Moylene Bridgewater Davis of Goodwell. Also Larry and Lynette Davis Couch and granddaughter, Carrie of Lexington.
Attending from the Charles and Sara Prather Leeper family were Charles and Nina Isaac Leeper of Wichita, Kan.; David and Doris Ann Dorsey Leeper of Protection, Kan..
Those from John Wesley and Nannie Isabell Brown Prather family were Martin Kingery of Enid; Harold and Lois Moore Prather of Blackwell; Betty Vollmer Prather, Steve and Cindy Prather Black and Rebecca of Pryor; Scott and Trissona Harper Prather and Kiara of Claremore; Robyn Gardine of Tulsa; Paul and Maxine Vollmer Prather of Ponca City; Gene and Anna Lee Prather Thornton of Hominy; Anga Lee Thornton Everett and Cody of Medford; Jerry and Mary Ann Thornton Bourland and Leslie of Harrah.
From the Eli and Mary Bailey Prather family were Don Campbell of Wellington, Kan.; John and Geraldine "Jerry" Prather LeGrange and Sharon LeGrange Johnson of Oklahoma City.
New Star Discovery is sponsoring a regional "Most Beautiful Baby" contest in Ponca City Oct. 26. Age divisions include 0-7 months, 8-14 months, 15-23 months, 24-36 months, 3-4 years and 5-6 years. The contest is open to boys as well as girls. For more information call 815-227-1070.
Fall flowers and a H