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From the pages of The Ponca City News, Sunday, October 11, 1998 LOCAL DEATHS NEWS BRIEFS LIFESTYLES SPORTS LOCALSenate Candidates Joust Over Issues of Campaign Senate Candidates Joust Over Issues of CampaignBy LOUISE ABERCROMBIE News Staff Writer The Second Friday Forum in the Senate District 20 race was comparable to a jousting match, with neither candidate getting knocked off his horse. Before an audience of about 100 Friday at Pioneer Technology Center, the candidates — incumbent Democrat Paul Muegge and Republican challenger David Myers — told of their priorities and goals. Both hammered hard on family values. Muegge talked about the need and push for education and environmental issues. Myers discussed the need for economic development and a pro-business legislator plus the idea that education provides opportunity. Myers Myers, in his opening remarks, told that his father expected him to do better than he did and he had, but was concerned that his children and grandchildren would not have these opportunities. “I believe that we need strong and new leadership in District 20 that will stand up and make a difference.” The challenger said that he believed a senator from District 20 should have diverse experience, including a background of business, farming and international experience to best serve the constitutions and that he has that background. He said, “I am convinced that education and opportunity go hand in hand. I graduated from Ponca City High School in 1956, went on to go to Oklahoma State University, earned a bachelor of science degree in chemical engineering. I worked for Conoco for almost 30 years and traveled all over the world. I retired in 1993 and have much experience at Conoco including four years overseas with international experience.” Muegge Muegge in his opening statement said, “I served as your state senator for eight years. I have a farming business over in Grant County on the Grant and Kay County line. I got involved in public life a long time before I decided to run. I have been able to participate in business, local, state government and national government. “This district represents five county governments, 14 school districts, and two higher education institutions, Northern Oklahoma College at Tonkawa and Northwestern State College at Alva. We have two correctional institutions at Crabtree and Helena and drug and work camp in Alva. “There are other government entities such as health departments and DHS departments and all these are a part of your government. They are important to the citizens of District 20 and Oklahoma and let me assure you all of us in some measure must depend on these entities of government and I have been able to strength some of these entities in the last year. I have been a leader in the Legislature and I will continue to be a leader representing the people of District 20.” Questions From the Moderator Larry Felix, moderator for the Chamber of Commerce-sponsored forum, asked the candidates, “What state level issues do you see on the horizon that will affect Ponca City and what will your role be to protect Ponca City’s interest? Myers answered, “All of us can look over the past eight years and see that within this district and especially in Ponca City we have experienced a decline in populace and economic viability. But being homegrown and in fact by convincing most of my immediate family to return to Ponca City, I frankly am not ready to see Ponca City or the district continue to decline. “Therefore, one of the most significant issues on the horizon is that of economic development. We need to work closely with Gove. Keating, state and local governments entities, community organizations, citizens, all of us looking for opportunities to advance growth here in Ponca City.” Myers mentioned the research space at Conoco, the possibility of a shell building and said not to forget that agriculture is a business and also protection of this industry is essential. Muegge’s response was, “The children of Ponca City is your most precious resource — education is the key to our future. Education is the most significant legacy that we leave our children. Education is my first priority and will always remain my No. 1 priority. I’ve fought to increase funding for education. The last four years Oklahomans have supported increased funding for common schools, vo-tech education and higher education. “At the same we have been able to cut $300 million in taxes. The Quality Jobs Act has provided us with economic development and growth so we can have tax cuts, we can have any kind of tax cuts, inheritance tax cuts and tax cuts on small businesses. I have supported the biggest tax cuts in the state of Oklahoma.” Another question was, “In terms of legislation as you have gone about the process of campaigning give us an example of a piece of legislation you feel that you should introduce that would be related to the Ponca City area.” Muegge said, “Our planet is getting smaller. We have to take better care of it we must work together to find workable solutions to our environmental changes. Environment is where you and I live. It is a quality of life issue. I plan to author legislation to address the serious deficiencies in our water quality, water quantity and distribution systems. “The challenge is to rebuilt our water and waste water infrastructure in the state of Oklahoma. We must plan for additional resources in loan funds, grant funds to assist our communities and our cities. There is nothing more important to economic development than a safe environment.” Myers said, “We in Ponca City probably have a very small chance of bringing a large business to Ponca City such as a GM plant here to boost our business. Opportunities to bring business of that magnitude to Ponca City are few and far between. “Therefore I think the key to growth in Ponca City and surrounding areas is a continuance to attract and promote small businesses. We need to have a senator that is pro-business and actively seeking legislation to enhance small businesses. For instance I would do everything possible to ensure that the pay rate factor for the small business quality jobs tax credit is lowered and also reduce the number of employees that it takes to quality for that. I would also seek more small business tax credits.” Responding to what other issues they feel are important, Muegge said health care, and Myers answered lowering taxes, especially inheritance tax. Jazz Band First of Concert SeriesBy KATHY ZEHR News Staff Writer Ponca City Community Concert members are preparing for a special treat next Sunday at 2:30 at Hutchins Memorial auditorium. “Diva,” a 15 piece all-woman jazz band, will entertain members with their progressive harmonies and old jazz favorites. “Community Concert membership cards have been mailed to current subscription members and each subscriber should receive their annual card this week,” said Judy Million, publicity chairman. The membership cards are required for admittance to the five concerts scheduled during the 1998-99 Community Concert Season in Ponca City. This first concert, featuring hte unique all-women big band — Diva — joined the music world in recent years with panache and pazazz. The band is steeped in the history of jazz but infuses progressive harmonies of today, say promoters. Based in New York City, the ladies carry the legacy of big bands “like a torch into the next century and light the way for fresh new faces in the world of jazz.” The 15 women, shattering the paradigms of big bands from yesteryear, are led by drummer Sherrie Maricle. The accomplished musicians have played to sold-out concerts at Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., the Berlin Jazz Festival in Germany and at New York’s legendary Blue Note Jazz Club. For some, it is unusual to see 15 women playing jazz, but what audiences hear is an exciting ensemble and soloists playing with all the spontaneity and finesse of the jazz masters who preceded them. In reviews, leading national papers say “Diva’s ensemble sound crackles with clarity, precision and power,” (Hartford Courant); “Diva plays with the vigor and complexity of the big time big bands,” (Washington Post); “The band punches, kicks, roars and swings with a disciplined abandon and an unaffected ‘joie de vivre,’” (Jazz Times); and “Diva — Big time charts, big time playing, and big time solos.” (Hollywood Reporter). According to Mary Lois Nield and Leslie Rardin, officers of the Ponca City Community Concert Board, some subscriptions for the 1998-99 concert season are still available for persons who were not contacted during the March membership drive and to newcomers to Ponca City. For more information interested persons are encouraged to call Nield at 762-5156 or Rardin at 765-3971. In addition to “Diva,” other live concerts to be presented to Community Concert Members for their 1998-99 membership, includes Knenge Simpson, a 22-year old soprano; Dale Gonyea, comedian pianist; Quartetto Gelato, and Italian ensemble featuring mandolin, guitar, English horn, accordion and other instruments; and SoloMania, a cellist, pianist, and vocal trio. Lack of Shots Cause For SuspensionsPonca City Public Schools will be notifying all parents of students who are overdue on their immunizations that they will be temporarily suspended if requirements are not met. Letters are being mailed home to parents/guardians advising them that in order for their child to be allowed to continue attending classes, they must bring an updated shot record to their child’s school showing that their child has received their required immunizations. The notice gives parents until Oct. 23 to comply with State Immunization Laws. Kay County Health Department is providing free immunization clinics at their site located at 1201 East Hartford Monday from 3 to 6 p.m. and Oct. 22 from 8 to 11 a.m. and 1 to 4 p.m. Those who have further questions may call 767-8000. School CalendarMid-High Oct. 13 Eighth grade football at Bartlesville. Po-Hi Oct. 12 DECA Fall Leadership Conference at Edmond. Junior varsity football against Owasso at 6 p.m. Ponca Area Chamber Orchestra at 7 p.m. in room F-104. Oct. 13 Student Council meeting at 7 p.m. in the Howell Auditorium. Oct. 14 Last day of the first nine weeks. Cross Country Frontier Conference meet at Stillwater. BLT meeting in the conference room at 3:45 p.m. Oct. 15 No school Varsity football against Enid at Sullins Stadium at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 16 No school Drama/debate at Edmond. Varsity volleyball tournament at Glenpool. Oct. 17 Drama/debate tournament continues. Varsity volleyball tournament continues. School MenuElementary Breakfast Monday — Cereal or honey bun, apple, assorted juices and milk. Tuesday — Mini breakfast bites or honey bun, apple, assorted juices and milk. Wednesday — Cereal or honey bun, apple, assorted juices and milk. Thursday — No school Friday — No school Elementary Lunch Monday — Chicken nuggets with hot roll or corn dog, french fries, fresh fruit, saltine crackers, dill spears, Zoo crackers or assorted cold sandwiches, salads or diet plate, juice and milk. Tuesday — Spaghetti with meat sauce and garlic bread or cheese pizza, lettuce salad, fresh fruit, strawberry Jello, saltine crackers, dill spears or assorted cold sandwiches, salads or diet plate, juice and milk. Wednesday — Meat and cheese nachos or Taco Bell pizza burrito, salsa, refried beans, fruit, saltine crackers, dill spears, sunflower seeds or assorted cold sandwiches, salads or diet plate, juice and milk. Thursday — No school Friday — No school Middle School Breakfast Monday — Cheese roll ups or cereal, assorted juices and milk. Tuesday — Biscuits and gravy or cereal, assorted juices and milk. Wednesday — Biscuits and gravy or cereal, assorted juices and milk. Thursday — No school Friday — No school Mid-High Breakfast Monday — Cheese roll ups or cinnamon toast or cereal, assorted juices and milk. Tuesday — Biscuits and gravy or cherry muffin or cereal, assorted juices and milk. Wednesday — Biscuits and gravy or biscuits and jelly or cereal, assorted juices and milk. Thursday — No school Friday — No school Middle School Lunch Available on Monday through Friday at the Middle School is Domino’s, Carl’s Jr., Taco Bell burritos. Monday — Corn dog, french fries, fresh fruit, saltine crackers, dill spears, pudding or assorted cold sandwiches, salads, diet plate or potato bar, juice and milk. Tuesday — Spaghetti with meat sauce and garlic bread, lettuce salad, fresh fruit, strawberry Jello, saltine crackers, dill spears or assorted cold sandwiches, salads, diet plate or potato bar, juice and milk. Wednesday — Meat and cheese nachos, refried beans, salsa, fruit, saltine crackers, dill spears or assorted cold sandwiches, salads, diet plate or Mexican bar, juice and milk. Thursday — No school Friday — No school Mid-High Lunch Available at the Mid-High Monday through Friday are Domino’s, Carl’s Jr., Taco Bell burritos. Monday — Chicken nuggets with hot roll, mashed potatoes and gravy, seasoned green beans, saltine crackers, dill spears or assorted cold sandwiches, salads, diet plate or potato bar, juice and milk. Tuesday — Hot pockets, lettuce salad, potato salad, fruit, strawberry Jello, saltine crackers, dill spears or assorted cold sandwiches, salads, diet plate or pasta bar, juice and milk. Wednesday — Stuffed pizza, broccoli salad, fresh fruit, corn, saltine crackers, dill spears or assorted cold sandwiches, salads, diet plate or Mexican bar, juice and milk. Thursday — No school Friday — No school 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 Domino’s. Training Table Monday- Friday — Pasta bar, potato bar, deli sandwiches and salads, seasonal fruit. All-American Line Monday — Ham and cheese croissant, french fries, lettuce, tomato and onion, strawberry parfait, seasonal fruit. Tuesday — Chicken strips with hot roll, whipped potatoes and gravy, green peas, seasonal fruit. Wednesday — Pizza pocket, corn, Jello, tomato salad, seasonal fruit. Thursday — No school Friday — No school McCord Elementary Breakfast Monday — Oatmeal, toast, juice and milk. Tuesday — Scrambled eggs, toast, juice and milk. Wednesday — Pancake with sausage, juice and milk. Thursday — No school Friday — No school Lunch Monday — Pizza, cole slaw, orange wedge, okra and milk. Tuesday — Smokie Joe sausage, pretzels, tri-tators, green beans, peaches and milk. Wednesday — Spaghetti with beef, corn, pears, french bread and milk. Thursday — No school Friday — No school Pioneer Technology Center The cafeteria will be open on Tuesday and Wednesday from 11:15 a.m. to noon. The menu will feature chef’s choice. City CalendarItems for the City Calendar should be brought in or telephoned (765-3311) to Bob Patterson, at the Ponca City News, by Thursday noon. Anytime FOLOBS (Friends of Library Ongoing Book Sale), anytime the Ponca City Library is open, North of Multimedia Room (downstairs). Through November 3 Kay County Republican Party Headquarters, Third and Grand, Ponca City, 11 a.m.-5:30 p.m. weekdays, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturdays. Today KLVV 88.7 FM presents Point of Grace, Contemporary Christian Group, 3 p.m. (show sold out), 7 p.m. show added, Enid’s Mark Price Arena, tickets at Master’s Touch, 767-1400 for information. ALANO Group Open Discussion meeting (smoking allowed), 8 p.m., 603 South First Street. Monday Hospice of Ponca City Grief Support Group, 10 a.m., 1904 North Union Street, Suite 103; 7 p.m., Westminster Village. Conoco Retirees Association quarterly meeting, 10 a.m., Conoco Atrium Cafeteria, speaker Gene Hines with Edward Jones on stock market, Conoco stock, Class A and B, and what does an IPO mean. Ponca City Board of Commissioners, Ponca City Utility Authority, Ponca City Development Authority, 5:30 p.m., Public Safety Center Commissioner’s Room, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue. ALANO Group 12 X 12 meeting (smoking allowed), 8 p.m., 603 South First Street. Tuesday Economic Development Advisory Board, 7:30 a.m., Chamber of Commerce, 420 East Grand Avenue. Ponca City Library Board, 11:30 a.m., Library Board Room, 515 East Grand Avenue. Hospice of Ponca City Raindrops Support Group, 7 p.m., St. Paul’s Methodist Church, North Pecan Road at East Hartford Avenue. McCord Volunteer Fire Department, 7 p.m., McCord School Library. Osage Cove Volunteer Fire Department, 7 p.m., Fire Station, Keeler Road and U.S. 60. ALANO Group Beginner’s meeting (smoking allowed), 8 p.m., 603 South First Street. Wednesday Cultural Affairs Commission, 11:30 a.m., Cultural Center Sun Room, 1000 East Grand Avenue. Rural Water District No. 3 (Braden) Board of Directors, 7 p.m., Braden Community Center. ALANO Group Big Book meeting (smoking allowed), 8 p.m., 603 South First Street. Thursday Hospice of Ponca City Grief Support Group, 10 a.m., First Presbyterian Church, Blackwell. (RSVP) Retired Senior Volunteer Program annual recognition banquet, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Conoco Clubhouse, reservations required before Oct. 5, call 762-9412 or 762-9413. Park and Recreation Advisory Board, 6:30 p.m., Municipal Court Room, Public Safety Center, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue. ALANO Group Women’s meeting (smoking allowed), 8 p.m., 603 South First Street. Friday Historical Preservation Advisory Panel Work Session, noon, Planning Conference Room, Commercial Federal Building, Room 305, Fourth Street and Central Avenue. Traffic Commission, 1:15 p.m., Public Safety Center, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue. ALANO Group Speaker meeting (smoking allowed), 8 p.m., 603 South First Street. Saturday ALANO Group Open Discussion (smoking allowed), 8 p.m., 603 South First Street. Saturday-Sunday Oktoberfest, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday, Marland Estate Grounds (postponed from Oct. 3-4). October 19 Ponca City Board of Commissioners Work Session, 2 p.m., Public Safety Center, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue. American Cancer Society’s “Look Good ... Feel Better,” session, 6:30 p.m., Classroom C, St. Joseph Regional Medical Society, for additional information 765-0864. Multiple Sclerosis Support Group, 6:30 p.m., Albright United Methodist Church, 128 South Palm Street, call Beth Wright 765-6738 for additional information. Family Council, 7 p.m., Highland Nursing Home, 1401 West Highland Avenue. United Ostomy Association Inc. Stillwater-Ponca City Chapter, 7 p.m., speaker Dr. Michael T. Kelley, M.D., on The Warren Clinic’s Walk-In Clinic, Stillwater Medical Center Board Room. October 20 Standing Bear Educational Committee, 11 a.m., Pioneer Bank Drive-In, interested citizens encouraged to attend. Kaw Lake Association board meeting, 6:30 p.m., Oklahoma Jubilee, Shidler. Marland Estate Commission, 4:30 p.m., Marland Estate Conference Center. Ponca Area Chamber Orchestra Concert, 8 p.m., Northern Oklahoma College Fine Arts Building, Tonkawa, Dineo Heilmann, conductor, donations accepted at the door. October 21 Fourth Annual Breast Cancer Awareness Luncheon, 11:45 a.m.-1 p.m., Marland Estate Conference Center. Ponca City Tourism Authority, 2 p.m., Cultural Center, Sun Room, 2000 East Grand Avenue. October 22 Environmental Trust Authority of Northern Oklahoma, 11:30 a.m., Mayor’s Office, 622 Cedar Street, Perry. Alzheimer’s Support Group, 7 p.m., Conference Room A, St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. October 24 “Fall Fling” Craft Fair and Rummage Sale, 8 a.m.-4 p.m., Lutheran School Gym, lunch available, baked items, pecans, Beanie Babies and much more, sponsored by the Lutheran Women’s Missionary League of First Lutheran Church. October 26 Ponca City Board of Commissioners, Ponca City Utility Authority, Ponca City Development Authority, 5:30 p.m., Public Safety Center Commissioner’s Room, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue. October 27 Ponca City Main Street Authority, 1 p.m., Main Street Office, 117 North Third Street. October 28 Planning Commission Work Session, 7:45 a.m., Planning Conference Room, Commercial Federal Building, Room 305, Fourth Street and Central Avenue. October 31 McCord Arts and Crafts Fair, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m., McCord School, three miles east of Ponca City on U.S. 60 and one mile south on McCord Road. November 2 Ponca City Board of Commissioners Work Session, 2 p.m., Public Safety Center, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue. Pioneer Christian Crusaders Motorcycle Association, 6 p.m., Conestoga at I-35 and U.S. 60, west of Tonkawa, more information 765-3164. November 3 General Election, polls open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Planning Commission, 7 p.m., Public Safety Center, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue. November 4 Energy Advisory Board, 7:30 a.m., Public Safety Center. November 5 Hospice of Ponca City Volunteer Appreciation Dinner, 6:30 p.m., First Baptist Church. Kay-9 Dog Training Club, 7 p.m., Ponca City Library, public welcome. November 6 Historical Preservation Advisory Panel, noon, Planning Conference Room, Commercial Federal Building, South Fourth Street and East Central Avenue. November 7 27th Annual Arts and Crafts Fair, sponsored by Alpha Gamma Study Club, 8 a.m.-4:31 p.m., Unity Recreation Center, 1908 East Woodlands. November 8 “Rock and Reach” contemporary Christian concert featuring Overton and Broadway. 5 p.m. First Christian Church. Complimentary snack supper to follow. Admission is free. November 9 Hospice of Ponca City Grief Support Group, 10 a.m., 1904 North Union Street, Suite 103; 7 p.m., Westminster Village. Ponca City Board of Commissioners, Ponca City Utility Authority, Ponca City Development Authority, 5:30 p.m., Public Safety Center Commissioner’s Room, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue. November 10 Economic Development Advisory Board, 7:30 a.m., Chamber of Commerce, 420 East Grand Avenue. Ponca City Library Board, 11:30 a.m., Library Board Room, 515 East Grand Avenue. McCord Volunteer Fire Department, 7 p.m., McCord School Library. Osage Cove Volunteer Fire Department, 7 p.m., Fire Station, Keeler Road and U.S. 60. Hospice of Ponca City Raindrops Support Group, 7 p.m., St. Paul’s Methodist Church, North Pecan Road at East Hartford Avenue. November 11 Cultural Affairs Commission, 11:30 a.m., Cultural Center Sun Room, 1000 East Grand Avenue. Rural Water District No. 3 (Braden) Board of Directors, 7 p.m., Braden Community Center. November 12 Ponca City Housing Authority, 10 a.m., 201 East Broadway Avenue. Agrarian Club, 6:30 p.m., southwest meeting room, Western Sizzlin’. November 13-14 Ponca Playhouse production “Our Town,” 8 p.m., Poncan Theatre, 104 East Grand Avenue, Ponca City. November 14 American Legion Pancake and Sausage Feed (all the pancakes you can eat), 6:30 a.m.-10 a.m., 407 West South Avenue, adults $3, children under 12 $1.50, children under 6 free, proceeds to Rehab Program. November 15 Ponca Playhouse production “Our Town,” 2 p.m., Poncan Theatre, 104 East Grand Avenue, Ponca City. November 16 Ponca City Board of Commissioners Work Session, 2 p.m., Public Safety Center, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue. Multiple Sclerosis Support Group, 6:30 p.m., Albright United Methodist Church, 128 South Palm Street, call Beth Wright 765-6738 for additional information. Family Council, 7 p.m., Highland Nursing Home, 1401 West Highland Avenue. Domestic Violence Program Provides Support for AbusedEditor’s Note: This is one of a series of articles explaining the services available to the community of Ponca City through United Way’s 17 member agencies. The Domestic Violence Program of North Central Oklahoma Inc. has been serving the five-county area for 19 years. To help understand the impact that this agency makes on victims in the community, Tricia Pemberton, Blackwell Journal Tribune, interviewed a victim of domestic abuse from the Domestic Violence Program. In recalling her violent relationship with her husband, Emily doesn’t even remember what the first fight was about. “It probably started over something stupid,” she said — trivial. Then her husband started throwing things. She picked them up. Then he shoved her, then slapped her around. “Every argument got worse,” said Emily. It would escalate from verbal abuse, to psychological torture to physical beatings. She convinced herself that she was staying because of her children. They needed a father, even if he was a bully. Emily said she felt ashamed to tell anyone what she had allowed herself to be put through. And she was afraid. Her husband threatened to kill her and she had every reason to believe he might. She got suggestions from doctors and nurses on her many trips to the hospital on where she could seek help. “You can only say you fell down the stairs so often,” said Emily. Yet, even with these offers of help. Emily still felt she couldn’t leave. She felt this way until the day she noticed from her crouched position, arms over her head, her oldest son covering her middle son while the youngest one cried. “Don’t cry,” he said. “it will only make it worse. If you keep quiet, it will be over sooner.” “I knew I didn’t want them to grow up to be abusive men,” said Emily. Emily arrived at the Domestic Violence shelter with her five children and no money or furniture and nowhere to go. She was terrified. “I was so afraid that it would be a typical social worker environment — cold,” said Emily. “I was afraid they would be judgmental. I didn’t know the process. I didn’t know whether I was going to be kept here or moved someplace where I didn’t know anyone.” Her fears were soon alleviated. “They were very helpful and very supportive,” she said. “They helped me understand why I was in the situation and helped me set goals to start a new life.” Emily says coming to the shelter was like receiving a motherly embrace. She said they understood, listened and cared about her. They let her know she was still a valuable person. “It was terrifying at first,” said Emily. She was afraid to leave the shelter, afraid to go to the store. But through the emotional support of her friends at the shelter, Emily gained enough confidence to overcome her fears. She got a job, she had a new place to live, she started college, she took care of her five children, and she kept up her counseling. “At this point in my life, one of the greatest joys is the newfound confidence and happiness of my children,” said Emily. “We have a peaceful home now.” There is no screaming, no fighting, no alcohol. “I was given a new chance at life.” In addition to safe shelter, where families can safely begin to put their lives back together, the Domestic Violence Program offers counseling for the women and their children and peer support group. The Program offers legal and court advocacy, a rape crisis response team, assistance with food, clothing, transportation, extensive referrals and a 24-hour crisis line. A great deal of community education is offered by the program in an effort to reach more victims and educate the public about the problem of domestic violence and sexual assault. All services provided by the program are available to residents and non-residents and are free of charge. A new program offered this year is the “Anger Management” program for domestic abusers. Participation in this program can be voluntary or court ordered. This program is the only service in which a fee is charged. The goal of the Domestic Violence Program is to offer services necessary to aid families in seeking a non violent life. By the end of 1998, an estimated 600 people will have been assisted by the program this year. Anyone interested in assisting the Domestic Violence Program or needing assistance is encouraged to call the 24-hour program at (580) 762-2873. 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 of Ponca City, New Emergency Resource Agency, Northern Oklahoma Youth Services, Peachtree Landing, ProTeens, Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP), The Salvation Army and YMCA. True Stories Reveal Value of Using Seat BeltsBy PATTI PFEIFFER News Staff Writer Editor’s Note: This is the first in a two-part series regarding seat belt safety, usage and enforcement. Some people despise them, others ignore them and yet some never leave home without them and regardless of what you think of seat belts it has been proven they save lives. Whether a person routinely “buckles up” sometimes depends on what they know or what they have seen. “To be honest I never wore a seat belt, until I saw a woman who had been injured in an auto accident,” Sandy Dickey said. “It then occurred to me that seat belts do have a purpose and without them we can easily become missiles when involved in an accident.” No one knows that better than parents of two Ponca City High School students whose lives were saved by the restraints. Ponca City Athletic Director Rusty Benson and his wife Diann, their 16-year-old daughter Candice and her friend Tara Nelson had attended an out-of-town football game early in September. Candice and Tara drove home together in a separate car, following the Bensons. “My husband kept looking in the rearview mirror and watching the girls,” Diann said. “I noticed at one point that he was riveted on the rearview mirror and then he said ‘Oh my God, she flipped the car.’ I thought he was just joking.” But it was no joke. Benson watched in horror as the car his daughter was driving flipped, in a potentially deadly accident. “I saw it all in my rearview mirror — the car went diagonally, crossed the road and then flipped,” Rusty Benson said. “I was terrified.” It was a scene the Bensons will never forget and one they describe in great detail, the images etched forever in their minds. “As we approached the car the lights were still on, the engine was still running and the stereo was still playing,” Diane says. “Inside the girls were hanging upside down, suspended from the roof by their seat belts,” Rusty says. With help from the Bensons, the girls were able to free themselves and crawl out of the car. They were then taken by ambulance to a hospital where they were treated and released, miraculously with only minor injuries. “We were told by the highway patrol that had they not been wearing their seat belts they would be dead,” Rusty says. “Seat belts are in vehicles for a reason and this is a classic example of what that reason is. We all wear them now — some more than others!” Although not on the scene, the late night telephone call itself was enough to scare the Nelsons. “We got the call about 2 a.m. It is one of those things you hear about, but until it actually happens to you don’t know how it feels or how fast your heart begins to beat,” Teri Nelson says. “That five-minute drive to the hospital was the longest drive I have ever taken. “The way it happened and the way the car rolled, we were told without her seat belt Tara would have been killed because the car rolled over on her side.” Since that night the Tara, a junior varsity cheerleader, and Po-Hi High Stepper Candice have become true believers and seat belt advocates. “I have gone from usually wearing my seat belt to always wearing one,” said Candice. “I wore my seat belt sometimes, mainly when I was riding around with kids my age. Now I always wear one and make certain my friends do too. “When we got back to school we made sure we told everyone that seat belts saved our lives!” For people who have not witnessed or been a part of a “seat belt success story” and do not currently partake in their protection, there may be another incentive for them to buckle up. Next: The law and enforcement of the seat belt requirements. Culture, Language Barriers Topic Of WorkshopThe Ponca City Area Literacy Council and the Ponca City Schools are cosponsoring a workshop on understanding the cultural and language barriers that people with limited English skills face. The workshop will be offered Oct. 19 from 3:45 to 5 p.m. in the West wing of the Administration Building, 111 West Grand. The presenter of the workshop will be Cheryl Huffman, former administrator for Bilingual Education for the Oklahoma State Department of Education. Huffman has also been a Spanish teacher, ESL instructor for English Language Services, associate director of Oklahoma City University’s Title VII Bilingual Educational Personnel Training Program, bilingual consultant/resource teacher with the Oklahoma City Public Schools Title VII Education middle school program, and field service coordinator for the Region VII Comprehensive Center, University of Oklahoma. She is presently a private consultant. She has a bachelor’s degree in Spanish and a master’s degree in education from Oklahoma City University. The public is invited to attending the workshop. Call Monique Birch at 767-8000 by Oct. 16 if planning to attend. 1998 United Way Drive Reaches 85 Percent“We still need your help,” says Larry Bittman, United Way’s 1998-99 campaign chairman. “The thermometer has risen to 85 percent but we still have a way to go to reach our goal of $600,000. Giving to the United Way guarantees the continuation of needed services in Ponca City and we can’t do it without your help,” says Bittman. “Please open your hearts and your checkbooks and give to United Way.” More than 200 volunteers are taking time away from their jobs to help with the campaign. They are busy visiting businesses and picking up pledges. Anyone who still has a United Way packet is encouraged to complete their campaign and have the packets ready for the volunteers. The United Way needs the help of all of Ponca Citians to meet the goal of $600,000. United Way’s member agencies serve everyone in the community. From the Boy Scouts to Golden Villa Adult Day Services, all of the community are all touched by these agencies that provide human services to family, friends and neighbors. The United Way of Ponca City supports the following 17 member agencies: American Red Cross, Arthritis Foundation, Bluestem Girl Scout Council, Boy Scouts of America Will Rogers Council, Bridgeway, Child Development Center, Domestic Violence Program, Golden Villa Adult Day Services, Helpline, Inc., Hospice of Ponca City, New Emergency Resource Agency, Northern Oklahoma Youth Services, Peachtree Landing, ProTeens, Retired Senior Volunteer Program, Salvation Army and YMCA. For questions about where the contributions go, or for more information about the 17 member agencies, call the United Way office at 765-2476. Tommy Dorsey Orchestra Will Perform at PoncanThe Tommy Dorsey Orchestra, one of the great swing bands of all time, will perform at the Poncan Theatre later this month. The legendary group is now under the leadership of Buddy Morrow, a superb swing specialist who played with Paul Whiteman and with Jimmy Dorsey. Morrow also had a band of his own. The group comes with the original Tommy Dorsey orchestrations, so the sound is impeccably authentic. They will perform in the Poncan at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 29. Frank Sinatra, Jo Stafford, the Pied Pipers, and Jack Leonard were among the outstanding singers who performed with the Dorsey Orchestra in its earlier years. The band was one of the real giants of swing, and has been called “one of the greatest all-around dance bands of them all.” The Tommy Dorsey repertoire includes wonderful, memorable pieces from the great era of swing. Among the great tunes are “Marie,” “For Sentimental Reasons,” “Little White Lies,” “Song of India,” and many others. Their real heyday was the period from 1940 to 1946. After the war, the band business fell off precipitously as tastes shifted away from wartime passion and toward a new sound. In one single month of December 1946, several top bandleaders called it quits, including Woody Herman, Benny Goodman, Les Brown, Jack Teagarden, and Tommy Dorsey. The era of big bands appeared to be gone. But Dorsey came back. Just two years later, he fronted a new, formidable group. Although Dorsey himself is now deceased, the sound and the energy are still potent. In fact, swing dancing is a potent new craze across the United States, enjoyed by oldsters and youngsters alike. For tickets to the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra at the Poncan Theatre, patrons should call the theater at 580-765-0943. The regular office hours are Monday-Friday, 1-5 p.m. The Poncan Theatre Office is located at 104 East Grand. Clothing House Clothes OfferedThe Hartford Avenue Church of Christ invites the community of White Eagle to visit its clothing house at 1905 Joe Street for any needed articles of clothing. There are men’s, women’s and children’s clothing available free to all who need it. Members of the church will pick up members of the White Eagle community who would like a ride to the clothing house very other Tuesday at 10 a.m. at the community basketball court. Transportation will be provided both ways starting this Tuesday. For further information call the Church of Christ office between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. at (580) 765-3610. Newest Singles Organization Plans CookoutSingles Connection is a new area-wide fellowship for single adults who are 55 and younger. The purpose of this fellowship is to provide a safe Christian environment where singles can gather for fellowship and support. It was born from the heart of Jan Matheson, a licensed professional counselor in Ponca City. If you are 55 or younger and single — whether by choice, by divorce, or by the death of a spouse — then Singles Connection is for you. The first monthly singles event will be a hot dog roast on Oct. 17 from 6-9 p.m. at a farm southwest of Newkirk. Northeast Baptist Church is sponsoring the first event and they will provide the hotdogs, buns and condiments. Each month a different church will be the host church for the event. Those attending will need to bring a lawn chair or blanket and one of the following items. If your last name begins with A-G, bring chips and dip; H-P, bring two 2-liter soft drinks; Q-Z, bring dessert or marshmallows. Those needing ride, or wishing to follow someone in their own vehicle, meet at 5:30 p.m. on Oct. 17 in the Northeast Baptist Church parking lot at 2200 Pecan Road in Ponca City. In the event of rain, the fellowship will still be held — it will be moved indoors. All singles are invited, and urged to encourage other singles from work or their neighborhoods to attend. For more information about this event please call Northeast Baptist Church, 765-2404. Concert Monday At 1st Lutheran Features SingerTom Laskey, a contemporary Christian singer-songwriter, and the “Fingerprints of Grace” tour will be in concert at First Lutheran Church Monday at 7 p.m. Laskey has served for the last 12 years as a full-time minister of music in congregations in Kansas, Colorado, and Texas. The evening is designed to “lift your faith and renew your enthusiasm for serving the Kingdom of God.” The performer has just recently released a recording project, entitled, “Fingerprints of Grace” and will be singing a number of pieces from the recording. There is no admission charge for the concert; however, a free-will offering will be taken. The public is invited to attend this uplifting evening of praise. SJRMC Sends Three Employees To VHCC MeetingThree St. Joseph Regional Medical Center employees attended a Volunteer Health Clinic Coalition (VHCC) meeting in Stillwater. VHCC membership consists of volunteer health clinics across Oklahoma and was formed to assist clinics already in existence or new clinics just getting started by creating a state-wide network of volunteer health clinics. The Community Clinic is under the leadership of Nelda Skinner and is a member of the coalition. VHCC is planning a state-wide conference in the spring. Possible topics for the conference include getting a volunteer clinic started, diabetic assistance and special needs assistance programs, accessing indigent programs, Medicare/Medicaid application process for benefits and a round-table discussion of mutual successes, problems and concerns. A definite date for the conference has not been set. Attending the meeting from SJRMC were Skinner, Rick McCumber, SJRMC Pharmacy director and Kathy Turner, SJRMC Volunteer Services coordinator. $9.95 Million Bond Issue On School Board AgendaBy KRISTI HAYES News Education Editor Ponca City Board of Education members will decide Monday on whether to call a bond election on Feb. 9, 1999, for Part I of a $9.95 million bond issue with the second vote coming in February 2003. Voters would be deciding on a sequence of bond issues totaling $9.95 million. Part I in 1999 will be for $4.5 million with another $5.45 million to follow over three more years. If board members decide to call the bond election the mill levies would go from 16 to 20 mills. That means about a $36 per year increase in property taxes on a $60,000 home. During the year 2000-2003 the mills would then go up from 20 to 22 mills. The bond money would be spent on remodeling the Mid-High and Middle School, renovating the high school gyms, technology leases and transportation. Board members have decided to move the ninth graders to the high school next year and to keep the eighth grade at the East facility and the seventh graders (plus sixth grades from Garfield and Lincoln) at the West facility. It is anticipated that the entire sixth grade class will move to the West facility after renovations are complete. Marshall Hawkins of Governmental Finance of Oklahoma Inc., will be on hand at the meeting to answer questions on the bond issue. Other Items The board will also discuss adopting two new Board of Education goals. The current six goals were revisited and confirmed by district administrators and board members. Goal 7 would be to implement a technology plan by the year 2005 and Goal 8 would add a commitment to the ongoing capital improvements. A resolution to approve the adoption of Systemic Educational Reform in the areas of math, science and technology could be made. The school would like the opportunity to join the Oklahoma National Science Foundation Rural Systemic Initiative (OKRSI). They believe that all young people can raise their achievement level, regardless and/or in spite of their backgrounds, if given the opportunity to improve. Ponca City Schools has begun its own local effort to improve the math, science and technology programs. Locally, they are working on aligning the math curriculum in K-12, upgrading and remodeling the high school science lab, and improving the computer labs in the high school and elementary. Approval of this resolution is necessary to become a part of OKRSI. An alliance with the Ponca City Public Schools and representatives of the Ponca City Youth Summit for the purpose of developing and implementing strategies to address the issues raised at the Youth Summit will be voted on. Mayor Tom Leonard and several members from the Youth Summit group will be at the meeting to discuss the item on the agenda. Greg Sheehan will also address the board during public comment regarding the development of an athletic training program at Po-Hi. Dr. Bill White, superintendent, will present awards to Jane Balfanz, Certified Employee of the Month; LaRita Taylor, Support Employee of the Month; and Charmaine Swearingen, Friend of Education. Youngster To Enter Tournament Supporting PC Humane SocietyJakeb Coon, son of Howard and Vicki Graves and a seventh grader at Ponca City Middle School, will be playing in the Ponca City Humane Society Golf Tournament to be held Oct. 19 at the Ponca City Country Club. Jakeb enjoys soccer and golf challenges for both physical and mental reasons. Jakeb and his team will be teeing off with other golfers, which include celebrity golfer Eddie Sutton, basketball coach at Oklahoma State University. Jakeb and his family are real fans of the Ponca City Humane Society and adopted Aimee Louise, an 18-month-old wheaton terrier, from the Humane Society in July of this year. Jakeb, along with his brother Tayler and sister Allie, share in the responsibility and training of Aimee. Aimee enjoys family outings and playing ball. The family was given a guidebook at adoption from director Jean Barnes which helped them obtain the needed supplies and items for setting up Aimee’s environment. The Humane Society also assists in describing dog and cat habits and types of things that are typical in the breed to determine the right choice for the family life style. Aimee was recently entered in the Ponca City Humane Society photo contest and was given one of the few honorable mentions. This Ponca City Humane Society Golf Tournament is a scramble with 4-person teams. Cost is $75 per person, which includes green fees, cart rental, two mulligans, refreshments and more. Registration begins at 11 a.m. with a shotgun start at 12:30 p.m. Tournament officials encourage all players regardless of ability to participate in the tournament. This tournament and other benefits for the humane society are the lifeline for the animals. Entry forms can be picked up at the Ponca City Humane Society and local banks. The entry deadline is Monday. Make checks payable to the Ponca City Humane Society and mail the check and entry form to P.0. Box 2311 or call Greg Lunsford (580) 762-0022 for more information or details. The Ponca City Humane Society is a non-profit organization established for the purpose of providing care for stray, injured and abandoned companion animals and works towards the prevention of cruelty to animals. For more than 40 years the society has striven to fulfill this mission in several ways: providing direct care of the animals for as long as practical; seeking to match the animals with new owners; educating the public about responsible pet ownership and laws concerning animals; promoting spaying, neutering, and the proper care of animals; helping to reunite lost pets with their owners; and maintaining an animal shelter in connection with society operations and activities. For more information about adoption, contact Jean Barnes at the Ponca City Humane Society, (580) 767-8877. Commission To Consider Waiver of Purchasing ActBy PATTI PFEIFFER News Staff Writer For the third time in less than two months city commissioners will be considering waiving the State Competitive Bidding Act — this time for the purchase of fire rescue equipment. The fire department is seeking to purchase two complete “Jaws of Life” units in the amount of $12,770 so that the units will be compatible with newer units. According to the fire department, there is only one Oklahoma distributor of the equipment they are hoping to purchase. They are therefore requesting that the law, and its required bidding process, be waived. Under Oklahoma law any city purchase exceeding $7,500 must follow the requirements of the State Competitive Bidding Act, which includes a required 21-day bidding process. In September, city commissioners approved waiving the requirements under the state law when it was determined that a failure of a service pump at the Water Treatment Plant constituted an emergency and the health of citizens was at risk. They then approved the purchase of a $25,000 replacement pump, without the 21-day bid process, as an emergency measure in an attempt to prevent possible water rationing in the city. Last week, as another emergency measure, city commissioners also approved waiving the bid process when it was determined that the partial collapse of a sewer line, located underneath Garfield School, was a threat to the health and safety of citizens. Bids for construction of rerouting the line will now be solicited outside the realm of the law. This latest request of the fire department will be considered and voted upon Monday night during the regularly scheduled city commission meeting. The condition of the City’s fuel storage systems and their plight is also on the agenda Monday night. Commissioners will be considering a $50,232 bid for the upgrade of one fuel storage system and the removal of two underground fuel storage sites. Currently there are three city fuel systems, one located at the Street Department, one at the Police Station and one at the City garage. According to Public Works Director Ken Parr, Environmental Protection Agency regulations are causing the City to expend the funds on the City fuel systems. “Under new EPA regulations we have until Dec. 15 to either upgrade or abandon our fuel systems,” Parr said. “It is too costly to upgrade all three, so because of EPA mandates we are being forced to abandon two of these sites and upgrade the other.” Also on the agenda Monday night are: • A proposal from Maryjo Meacham & Associates for an architectural/historic survey for a portion of the City of Ponca City in the amount of $6,699.75. • A recommendation to purchase two new riding mowers for the Parks and Recreation Department in the amount of $20,163. • The Home Investment Partnerships Program (HOME) grant application from the Oklahoma Housing Finance Agency for owner-occupied rehabilitation. • An update on receipts and disbursements related to the dedicated sales tax associated with the renovation of the No. 1 Fire Station. • A change order and the final payment for the water line portion of the Hartford Avenue improvement Project Phase II — Gibson Place to half a block East of Joe Street. • Authorization of bids for the upgrade of the continuous emissions monitor system on Steam Unit No. 2. • A request from the Pioneer Civil Air Patrol to conduct a simulated search and rescue exercise at the Ponca City Airport on Nov. 20-22. • Two lease addendums between Ponca City Developmental Authority and Vacu-Maid for land lease at Darr School and for Airport Hangar No. 3. Candidate Forum Becomes Discussion About Judical VolumeBy MARK GALVIN News Staff Writer How loud is a District Judge and when should he start yelling? The courtroom demeanor — and perhaps lung power — of District Judge D.W. Boyd became the morning’s most entertaining campaign question Friday as two trial-lawyers-turned-politicians squared off for a lively debate at this month’s Second Friday Forum. Boyd, making his first election bid since his 1995 appointment to replace the late District Judge Neal Beekman, took some jabs from his opponent, District Judge candidate Tom Evans, about his alleged conduct on the bench. “I feel judicial temperament is an issue in this race,” said Evans, a Ponca City trial attorney who has a successful statewide practice, to the crowd of 100 at Pioneer Technology Center. Compared to the quieter debating of fellow Forum speakers — incumbent County Commissioner Dee Schieber and his challenger Jim Powelson — the two lawyers showed off decades’ worth of civil-suited persuasion skills as they took turns exchanging words, primarily over Boyd’s performance and the court system he inherited. Boyd shrugged off the challenger’s criticisms, considering his behavior already sufficiently scrutinized by the investigators, including the OSBI, who “deemed me qualified” when he applied three years ago for the judicial appointment. The judge pointed also to his 20 years’ experience in a broad legal practice, in which he handled all sorts of court cases, and his 10 years as a municipal judge in Blackwell. Boyd said his 2-1/2 years of experience already as District Judge should be an important factor for voters to consider because “the learning curve of this job is extremely steep.” He told the audience, “Until you get here, you don’t realize how many things you never thought of before.” Boyd said, “We have five judges, two courthouses, but the guy that sets the thermostat in this district will be the district judge. He’s the one who’s going to determine whether we do it with arrogance or with courtesy, whether we do it with excellence or slovenly.” Evans said voters typically don’t know much about the performance of a judge, instead being asked simply at election time, “Shall we retain this judge?” “The vast majority of people don’t know what goes on there,” he said. Evans said his philosophy is to treat everybody with dignity and respect, even the accused because the integrity of the bar is at stake. “There’s no need to yell at district attorneys, at public defenders or even the accused,” Evans said. “You can have the right message and say it in the wrong way and it’s still a negative connotation,” he said. “I teach other lawyers how to behave themselves in court for the Oklahoma City bar association, and I know what to do. I know how to conduct myself,” Evans said. “You don’t need a gavel in the courtroom and you don’t need to raise your voice.” Boyd responded to the audience, “I expect people to respect the law and respect the courtroom and you can’t earn respect unless you give respect. I believe in applying the law very consistently so people know how you’re going to rule.” Referring to Evans, he said, “I guess counsel’s comments indicate that I’m shouting at people. I think there are at least six district attorneys in this room. You ask any of them if I treat them unfairly and if they say I do, you vote for him. “And if they say I treat them fairly, vote for me.” Boyd said also, “I want to maintain respect for the judiciary and the judicial system. “I really want people to have faith in the system — to restore it to those who lost it and maintain it for those who still have it — by conducting court in a professional manner … so the people can feel like they’ve received justice.” During his turn, Evans responded, “You know, I believe every word he says. I mean, there’s no doubt about it. This is a good decent man. I’m not here to say he’s not. “However, the pressures of the job, the stress of the job makes it such that on several occasions — and go ahead and ask any attorney that’s in this room, privately or call up your own — he yells out in court inappropriately, and that’s not right. “What it does is it lowers the system, ” Evans said. “We need the integrity of the system of this court, because lawyers shouldn’t wait to get into the courtroom and look at each other and say, “Well, which one’s he going to yell at today?’” In wrapping up the debate, Boyd finally suggested that since he has no problem being heard, he may start backing away from the microphone. Rotary Team To Visit Venezuela in ’99Rotary District 5750 is looking for four non-Rotarians to participate in a five-week exchange trip to Venezuela next spring. The district, which includes the Ponca City, Blackwell and Newkirk Rotary Clubs, is participating in a group study exchange with district 4370 in Venezuela. The Venezuelan district includes the city of Caracas and the Caribbean islands of Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao. The team will arrive in Venezuela on April 19, 1999, and depart Venezuela on May 24, 1999. The Venezuelan district conference will be held in Aruba on May 20-22 and the visiting team from Oklahoma will attend this conference. The team from Oklahoma will consist of a Rotarian team leader and four non-Rotarian team members. Applications are being accepted until Nov. 9. To be eligible for membership, the applicants must be between 25 and 40 years of age and have two years of work experience or equivalent. Applicants cannot be Rotarians and must reside in Rotary District 5750. Kay Green, district public relations, said, “This is a unique opportunity to exchange educational and cultural ideas while living in the homes of Rotarians. Your local Rotary clubs and Rotary International pay for expenses for this exchange. Alternate team leader applications are also being sought. The deadline for these is Oct. 19. The selected alternate team leader will be the team leader for the exchange in the year 2000. For more information, contact a local Rotary Club or write to Athena Friese, P.O. Box 366, Mustang, OK 73064 or fax 405-324-5108. Advice Available From KLVV Call-InThis Tuesday afternoon, from 5 to 6 p.m., Christian Radio KLVV will be giving the public an opportunity to talk confidentially with Pastor Dennis Winters of Tonkawa Bible Church. Pastor Winters will be available to be a listening ear, to pray for anyone, or to answer questions during that time at 767-1400. All calls are kept confidential and will not be broadcast. Nearly NewsEagle-eyed Sam Leonard, NN’s unofficial “eagle-spotting” correspondent, reported Saturday morning that the majestic birds have returned to the area. Around Kaw Lake and along the Arkansas River in this area are some of the major bald eagle winter nesting sites in the state. As many of you know, Ponca City Storm Soccer Team pre-sold car wash tickets to raise money for traveling and tournaments. Due to the Oklahoma tornadoes, the car wash was canceled. The car wash has been rescheduled for Sunday, Oct. 18, from 1 to 6 p.m. in the United Supermarket parking lot. All tickets that were pre-sold will be honored and the team welcomes and encourages anyone to stop by and have their car washed. LettersThis is a small letter, but I felt the need to write in favor of our post office. A lot of citizens are complaining about putting mailboxes curbside, saying it will degrade the property. I have only one thing to say — “If that is a priority in your life, consider yourself very lucky and fortunate.” I wish all of us could be that “fortunate.” If nothing else, think about how “lucky” we all are to get our mail at our house, and also think about how less likely a mail carrier may get bitten by a dog. Think about it. Laurie Gravitson Leave Signs AloneWhere has our campaign etiquette gone? One must ask themselves when you put a sign in a yard one day and it soon disappears. Even worse when it reappears defaced with foul language. I know there used to be a name for this conduct, it was called trespassing and vandalism. When did the law change? Because the costs of an election in these times has spiraled out of reason, this conduct is unacceptable to those who conduct and fund them. Hopefully those responsible will read and think about this before tampering with signs that have been placed throughout the area. We need nothing more than respectable candidates and accountable conduct to accomplish a quality election. These attributes are needed to produce the best leadership and service for the citizens of Kay County. Teresa Powelson Thanks for the HelpTo Gary Martin, City Manager: I would like to take this opportunity to thank the City of Ponca for help in restoring electrical service to our city. We lost power to 80 percent of our citizens, and as a result of the quick response of your men, we restored power in two days. While we have outstanding city crews, we do not have the manpower to handle such a tragedy. You should be especially proud of the professionalism and dedication shown by your men while they were in Pawnee. They put in long hours, worked very hard, always had a smile on their face and were ready for the next assignment. Once again, Oklahomans have shown they can be counted on when their neighbors are in need. You can rest assured that if you ever need assistance of any kind, we will be anxious to help in any way we can. Please extend my sincere appreciation to each and every person that came to our aid. They are fine representatives of you city. Elzie Smith Mayor, Pawnee Thanks, But No ThanksWhat do you know? My home has been declared an “Historical Shrine!” A group called the Ponca City Oklahoma Historical Society, in conjunction with an ordinance by the City Fathers, has bestowed this honor upon me — all with no input from me. I suppose this makes me an Historical Shriner since I predate the building of this dwelling. Before the PCOHS (none of whom live in my neighborhood) blessed me to be remembered throughout the ages, I would tell anyone interested (none ever were) that my home was just old — But now, even my crabgrass has a place in the history books. Being an Historical Shriner must entitle me to be able to issue decrees, so here’s my first decree. This decree will apply to all Ponca City natives including any person living within 8,000 miles of Ponca City. This decree shall be known as the Adoration Fee Decree. The Adoration Fee shall be calculated as follows: — Multiply your age by 1 cent — Round up to the nearest dollar — Multiply by the Adoration Factor (Choose from ranges 0 to 10) — Remit in cash, check, money order, green stamps, worn-out playing cards or canceled Elvis Presley postage stamps Remit to: Most Honorable Historical Society Person Historical Society Compound, 516 East Grand Ponca City, America 74601 Allen S. Brown DEATHSMargie Marie Challis Margie Marie ChallisBLACKWELL — Margie Marie Challis, Blackwell resident, died Thursday afternoon, Oct. 8, 1998, in the Blackwell Regional Hospital. She was 71. The funeral will be held at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 13, 1998, at the Assembly of God Church in Blackwell with the Rev. John Newland officiating. Burial will be in the Blackwell Cemetery under the direction of Roberts and Son Funeral Home. Margie Marie Challis was born on Nov. 1, 1926, in Three Sands, the daughter of Elsworth and Rose Etta (Broadrick) Morris. As a young girl she moved to Braman with her family where she grew up and attended Braman public schools. She married John LeRoy Challis on Dec. 28, 1944, in Watonga, and they settled in Blackwell where they have lived ever since. She worked for the Blackwell Laundry for many years before working at Turvey Packing Company for two years. She then began working at Hillcrest Manor Nursing Home in the housekeeping department and later as an aide. She retired in 1974 due to ill health. She was a member of the Assembly of God Church in Blackwell. She is survived by her husband of the home; two daughters, Evelyn Calvert of Springtown, Texas, and Lavonda Cabbiness of Blackwell; a son, Wayne LeRoy Challis of Blackwell; three sisters, Bonnie Fay Wayne of Idaho, Jeanette Hubbard of Ponca City, and Rosemary Davis of Hanford, Calif.; three brothers, Charles D. Morris of Ventura, Calif., Carl Ray Morris of California, and Jimmy Lee Morris of Oregon; 14 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents; two sisters, Cora DeSanno and Evelyn June Morris; and two brothers, Claude Morris and Bobby Morris. Casket bearers will be Brett Shipman, Steven Smart, Johnny Maupin, Tom Ellis, Jessica Flynn and Alan Pruitt. Memorial contributions may be made in her name to Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Diabetes Fund, c/o Roberts Funeral Home, 120 E. Padon, Blackwell, OK 74631. Anna Belle Richenid — Anna Belle Rich, resident of Aline, died Wednesday, Oct. 7, 1998, at the Integris Bass Baptist Health Center in Enid. She was 84. A funeral was held Saturday, Oct. 10, 1998, in the United Methodist Church at Aline with the Rev. Lyle Shipley officiating. Burial was in the Pleasant Ridge Cemetery southwest of Aline under the direction of Wentworth Mortuary of Carmen. Anna Belle Rich was born Nov. 9, 1913, in Canton, the daughter of Clarence Martin and Ethel Luella Rose Ealey. She attended Rural Walnut Grove School in Woods County and graduated from Aline High School. On March 10, 1936, she married Carl Rich in Alva. They made their home on a ranch southwest of Aline where they farmed and raised cattle and horses. She enjoyed cooking and canning and she was a seamstress and won prizes at the fairs. She enjoyed working with the 4-H Club and the Extension Homemakers Club. Rich was a member of the Elm Flat Christian Church, the Aline Silverettes Club, and the Quarter Horse Association. They moved into their home in Aline in 1980 and celebrated their 61st wedding anniversary in 1997. Due to their failing health they entered the Great Plains Care Center in September of 1997. After her husband died on Dec. 4, 1997, she continued to make her home at the Center. She is survived by two daughters, Barbara Bowman of Aline, and Maribel Dimmick of Newkirk; one son, Jim Rich of Chickasha; six grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband; her parents; one daughter, Janice Rich; two sisters, Artie Marie Wieben and Pearl Romaker; three brother, Foss Ealey, Marion Ealey and Eldred Ealey. Memorial contributions may be made in her name to the Elm Flat Christian Church or the Oakdale Community Center in care of Wentworth Mortuary, Box 308, Carmen, Okla. 73726. Evalena Norma CoombesWINFIELD, Kan. — Evalena Norma Coombes, former Ponca City resident, died Oct. 8, 1998, at her home in Winfield, Kan. She was 89. Private family services will be at a later date. Visitation will be 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 12, 1998, at Swisher-Taylor & Morris Funeral Home in Winfield, Kan. Evalena Norma Coombes was born Oct. 31, 1908, in Geuda Springs, Kan., the daughter of Frank and Nellie (Turpin) Vaughn. She attended the Dexter, Kan., schools and graduated from Dexter High School. Upon graduation from high school, she went to work for Anthony’s Department store as a bookkeeper. She then went to work at Winfield State Hospital and Training Center as a psychiatric aide and served 23 years before retiring in 1970. After retiring she moved to Ponca City and lived there for 23 years. They moved back to Winfield in 1995 to live with her daughter. She was very active in BPW, the Rebecca Lodge and served a term as president of the Winfield V.F.W. Auxiliary during her years in Winfield. While in Ponca City she served a term as president of the American Legion Auxiliary and attended the Church of Christ. She is survived by a daughter, Barbara Sue Anderson of Winfield, Kan.; a sister, Ernestine Gray of Oklahoma; one grandson and three great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and two grandchildren. A memorial fund has been established in her name with the American Alzheimer’s Association, c/o Swisher-Taylor & Morris Funeral Home, 803 Loomis, Winfield, Kan. 67156. Edith SchnitzerEdith Schnitzer, longtime Ponca City area resident, died Thursday morning, Oct. 8, 1998, at the Tender Heart Nursing Center. She was 92. A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 13, 1998, in the Sunset Memorial Park with Mr. Vyron Wilkins, minister, Philadelphia Church of God in Edmond, officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Grace Memorial Chapel. Edith Schnitzer was born Jan. 20, 1906, in Harper County, Okla., the daughter of Abraham Cornelius and Bertha May (Round) Showalter. She received her education in the Buffalo, Okla., schools. On Dec. 24, 1924, she was married to Joseph Schnitzer in Enid. The couple made their home in Alva and Pond Creek before moving to Ponca City in 1940. In 1943 they moved to the Osage and resided there until his death in 1962. Following the death of her husband she returned to Ponca City and for the last 20 years has lived at the Broadway Plaza. Mrs. Schnitzer was a homemaker. She was a member of the Philadelphia Church of God and the Big Hill Quilting Club. She enjoyed crocheting, cards, and sewing. Surviving are two daughters, Vinita Artman and Lee Jeanine Behar, both of Ponca City; one son, Floyd C. Schnitzer, of Ruidoso, N.M.; five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, and five sisters. The family will be at 720 North Oak. ObituariesHattie Anna Onan SchneiderMrs. Hattie Anna Onan Schneider went to be with the Lord Oct. 6, 1998. Funeral services for Mrs. Ralph K. Schneider, age 75, of Sulphur, La., will be held on Monday, Oct. 12, 1998, at 2 p.m. in the Chapel of the Trout Funeral Home. The Rev. Kent Dorsey, pastor, First Christian Church, will officiate. Burial will be in the I.O.O.F. Cemetery under the direction of the Trout Funeral Home. Mrs. Schneider was the daughter of John W. Onan and Leona L. Onan McMasters now deceased. A native of Tonkawa, she lived in Ponca City most of her life. She moved to Sulphur, La., with her husband Ralph K. Schneider who was transferred by the Cities Service Oil Company from Ponca City. She married Ralph K. Schneider on June 11, 1943. She was a member of Maple Rebekah Lodge 73, Sulphur and was a past Noble Grand of this lodge. She was a Past Noble Grand of Ponca City Miriam Rebekah Lodge 11. She belonged to the Rebekah Assembly of Louisiana and held several state offices. She was Noble Grand six times. She had been in Rebekah Lodge work since 1956 and was a member until her death. She belonged to A.A.R.P. She and her husband belonged to two square dance clubs while living in Ponca City. Mrs. Schneider was a retired nurse. While she lived in Ponca City she worked at the Grandview Osteopathic Hospital, the Ponca City Hospital, and for Dr. Paul L. Benefield, D.O., before moving to Louisiana. She later worked at the Can Can Hospital in Sulphur doing private duty nursing. She was a graduate of Ponca City High School, Class of 1942. Surviving are her husband, Ralph, of the home; a daughter and her husband, Donna J. Schneider and Larry Brady, Edmond, Okla.; a son and his wife, Wes R. and Patty Schneider, Ponca City; grandchildren, Jeff and Karla Brady, Andy and Traci Krider, James and Carla Schneider, and Kim Brady; great grandchildren Keith, Alexandria and Macy Brady; two sisters, Mrs. Wilson (Johnie) Miller, and Mrs. Robert (Thelma) Talbot, both of Ponca City. Casket bearers will be grandsons Jeff Brady, James Schneider, and Andy Krider. Also, Blaine Talbot, Ronnie Russell, and Bill Kleinmann. Memorials may be made to Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, for heart and lung research, 825 N.E. 13th, Oklahoma City, OK 73104. The family will be at 937 North Palm. paid obituary Kay Diane MrazekKay Diane Schultz Mrazek, Ponca City resident, died Wednesday, Oct. 7, 1998, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. She was 65. A graveside service will be held Monday, Oct. 12, 1998, at 10 a.m. at Odd Fellows Cemetery with the Rev. Kent Dorsey and the Rev. Charles Heyer, First Christian Church, Ponca City, officiating. Arrangements are made under the direction of Trout Funeral Home. Ms. Mrazek was born on March 12, 1933, in Ponca City to Cecil and Myra (Hendrick) Schultz. She attended Ponca City Schools and graduated in 1951. She then attended the University of Oklahoma and graduated in 1955 with a degree in music. She married Jerry Graham Mrazek on June 10, 1957, in Ponca City. She taught music at Garfield School in Ponca City for a few years before moving to Texas where she taught at Fort Worth and Arlington Schools for 24 years. She retired in 1993 and moved back to Ponca City. She enjoyed music, reading, sports, and was an organist/pianist. She was a member of the Texas Christian University Church, the Daughters of the American Revolution, the Kay County Retired Teachers Association, Delta Kappa Gamma, and Gamma Phi Beta Alumni. Ms. Mrazek is survived by her mother and caregiver, Myra Schultz of Ponca City; one son, Greg Graham Mrazek of Texas; one aunt, Ruth Hendrick of Enid; two cousins, Pat Kimball of Kingfisher and Gerry Hendrick of Alva. She was preceded in death by: her father; one uncle, Earl Hendrick; and her grandparents. Honorary casket bearers will be Allen Robson, Charles Pittman, Garry Grayson, Earl Sullins, and Tom Wyatt. Memorial contributions may be made to the Ponca City Humane Society, 900 West Prospect, Ponca City, OK 74601. paid obituary Services PendingIvil M. SandersIvil M. Sanders, longtime Marland and Ponca City area resident, died Saturday, Oct. 10, 1998, at the Blackwell Nursing Home. He was 91. Survivors include his daughter, Ivah June Myers, 1501 Dover. Services are pending with the Trout Funeral Home. NEWS BRIEFSBedlam Party Set — The annual OU-OSU Bedlam Weiner Roast is set for 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 22, in the Dining Hall at the Lew Wentz Campgrounds. All alumni and friends from OU and OSU are invited to attend. Representatives from the University of Oklahoma and Oklahoma State University are scheduled to attend. Come show your school spirit! Cost is $2 for adults, children 12 and under free. RSVP to Michele Jean at 762-5312 by Oct. 18. Royal Neighbors to Meet — The Royal Neighbors of America will hold a regular meeting on Wednesday at 1:30 p.m. at Community Christian Church. All members are urged to be present. Conoco Retirees — The Conoco Retirees Association quarterly meeting will be at 10 a.m. Monday at the Conoco Atrium Cafeteria. Speaker will be Gene Hines with Edward Jones. He will talk about the stock market, Conoco stock, Class A and B, and What Does an IPO Mean? Parenting Workshop — Kenny James, a licensed professional counselor, will present a workshop on Thursday on improving parent/teen communication at the Family Resource Center, 700 West Broadway, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Refreshments and child care will be available. Look Good...Feel Better — The American Cancer’s Society’s Look Good...Feel Better session will be held 6:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 19, in Classroom C of the St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. For additional information, call 765-0864. Flu Shots — Mollen/Maxim Health Care will be administering flu shots Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Oct. 17 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Albertson’s Pharmacy. Robbery — At 6:50 a.m. Friday police received a call that the Triple T in Osage County had been robbed by two men. The call was transferred to Osage County Sheriff’s Department. Stolen Vehicle — A man in the 3700 block of Tapp Road advised police at 7:33 a.m. Friday that his vehicle had been stolen. Osage County Sheriff’s Department was contacted. Arrest — Police arrested a 18-year-old man from the 1000 block of North Union Street on a Kay County warrant at 8:39 a.m. Friday. Arrest — A 29-year-old man was arrested at 9:30 a.m. Friday from the 700 block of North Ash Street for driving under suspension. Arrest — At 10:07 a.m. Friday a 24-year-old woman was arrested from Grand Avenue and Peachtree Street for driving under suspension, no insurance and no seat belt. Arrest — A 30-year-old man was arrested from Ash Street and Chestnut Avenue at 10:56 a.m. Friday for no seat belt, no insurance, driving under suspension and on Kay County warrant for forgery. Juvenile Apprehended — Police were called to the High School at 12:04 p.m. Friday due to a 16-year-old boy who was in possession of drug paraphernalia. Harassment — Police were notified at 12:56 p.m. Friday of telephone harassment in the 700 block of North Street. A report was taken. Arrest — At 2:06 p.m. Friday a 20-year-old man was arrested on a city warrant for failure to pay. Stolen Money — A woman in the 2000 block of North Ash Street contacted police at 3:05 p.m. Friday regarding money that had been stolen from her purse. An officer was assigned. Dangerous Driver — A police report was taken at 3:15 p.m. Friday from the 2000 block of North Fourteenth Street after a woman reported a pickup truck had nearly run her off the road and had possibly caused damage to her vehicle. Altercation — At 3:18 p.m. Friday police were notified of a fight in progress near the Middle School. An officer was assigned, a report was taken and the juveniles’ parents were contacted. Arrest — Police arrested a 42-yea-old man at 3:44 p.m. Friday from Darr Park on a Kay County warrant for obtaining cash or merchandise on by a bogus check. Accident — A two-vehicle accident in the 2600 block of North Fifth Street was reported to police at 4:01 p.m. Friday. A report was taken. Vehicle Hit — A woman in the 100 block of South Oak Street contacted police at 5:08 p.m. Friday after her vehicle had been hit. An officer was assigned. Accident — At 6:10 p.m. Friday a three-vehicle, non-injury accident in the 3400 block of South Fourteenth Street was reported. Arrest — Police arrested a 39-year-old man from the 100 block of Hazel Avenue at 7:42 p.m. Friday on a Pawnee County warrant. Accident — Police were notified of a two-vehicle accident at Fifth Street and Bradley Avenue at 7:58 p.m. Friday. Arrest — A 36-year-old man was arrested at 9:22 p.m. Friday from the 100 block of South Fourteenth Street on a Garfield County warrant for bogus checks. Stolen Bike — At 10:15 p.m. police were advised of a bicycle that had been stolen from the Woodlands School. An officer was assigned. Concrete Vandalism — At 10:32 p.m. Friday police were notified of vandalism to freshly poured concrete in the alley behind the 100 block of East Grand Avenue. Vehicle Vandalism — A man in the 900 block of South Ninth Street contacted police at 1:23 a.m. Saturday about vandalism to his vehicle. A report was taken. Hit and Run — At 1:56 a.m. Saturday a hit-and-run accident was reported in the 200 block of East Park Avenue. A report was taken. Arrest — Police arrested a 29-yea-old man at 2:23 a.m. Saturday from the 300 block of West Grand Avenue on a Kay County warrant and for public intoxication. LIFESTYLESWilson Family Reunion at Lake Ponca Park Wilson Family Reunion at Lake Ponca ParkFifty descendants of the late Lloyd and Bessie Wilson gathered Sept. 20 for their 30th annual reunion at Lake Ponca Park. The evening before the reunion, several of the members gathered at the Rose Stone Inn for dinner. Games and contests furnished entertainment for the evening. Children of the late Nina and Artie McDaniel were hostess for the occasion, including Mr. and Mrs. Roy Fath, Mr. and Mrs. S. P. Jemison and Betty Talbut. Preceding the basket dinner the invocation was given by Karen McCrory. Mrs. Evelyn Jemison welcomed the descendants and related many of the incidents of past years. Those attending from Tonkawa were Gertrude Sheets, Ruth Ann, Melissa and Nicole Birch, Mr. and Mrs. Roy Fath, Mr. and Mrs. Tony Fath and family, Mary Robson, Holly Hembree and Tara Hembree. Others attending were Gloria Bates of Oklahoma City, Jean and James Wilson of Fort Worth, Mr. and Mrs. Bill Harrison and Paul and Kristy of Bedford, Texas; and Gay, Bill and Cory Young of Belton, Mo. Attending from Ponca City were Bill and Cheryl Hill, Mr. and Mrs. Richard Wilson and Marie, Gary, Rusty and Clifton Wilson, Woodrow Wilson, Lloyd Wilson, Dorothy Atteberry and Grace Teufel. Also Kenny Burns, Betty Tolbut and Karen and Phillip McCrory from Topeka, Kan. From Stillwater, Mr. and Mrs. Mark Hill and Maddison and Macah, Susan Coldwell, Mr. and Mrs. S.P. Jemison of Enid, Anna Eustrom of Kansas City, Jame Stottlemyre of Sand Springs and Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Morgan of Tulsa. Bits and PiecesMeals on WheelsMeals on Wheels will celebrate the 25th anniversary of the organization on Oct. 15 with an Appreciation Luncheon at the First Presbyterian Church at 12:30 p.m. Volunteers and their spouses are invited to attend. Ocktoberfest Booth Members of Eta Zeta chapter of Beta Sigma Phi sorority will have a food booth at the Oktoberfest Oct. 17-18. Members will be selling Chalupas, hot dogs, caramel apples with toppings, homemade cinnamon rolls and beverages. Plans for the re-scheduled event were finalized at the Oct. 6 meeting at the home of Krista Harbeson. There were 10 members and guest, Julie Jackson, present. The chapter’s financial report was given and the Preferential Tea on Nov. 1 was discussed. The next meeting will be Oct. 20 at the home of Lori Hambleton. Garden Club Sage, Rosemary and Thyme Garden Club will meet at 9:30 a.m. Oct. 14 at the Cann Garden Home patio. Hilary Cooley is hostess and co-hostess is Eva Ballard. The program will be “Those Gorgeous Gourds” and will be presented by Marlene Roth. Members are invited to bring items for the Serendipity table being taken care of by Aline Heartsill and Johanna Mead. For more information about the group call Mary Anne Potter, president, 767-1957. ABWAChristie Williams, director of the Domestic Violence Center, was the guest speaker for the September meeting of the American Business Women’s Association held at Hero’s. The agency serves five counties, but most of the cases are in Kay County said the speaker. She stressed the need for donations, especially furniture. Lana Byers, president, conducted business and Kay Simerly introduced the speaker. Lela Taylor gave the treasurer’s report. Art Courtney, Woman of the Year, reported on the trip to convention. Newcomers Club The Oct. 15 gathering of the Newcomers Club will begin at 6:30 p.m. A brief social time will be followed by dinner at 7 p.m. and entertainment will be provided by Matt Stolhand. Members are invited to bring spouses or guests to the event. For further information call Joyce Fox, 762-9578. Gifts NeededSanta’s Workshop, Western State Psychiatric Center, Box 1, Fort Supply, OK 73841, is in need of gifts for patients. Gifts and cash donations should be addressed as listed and the person who gives is asked to include their name and address when sending items. Among the suggested gifts are cologne, socks, pajamas, underwear, houseshoes, personal items for women, gloves, personal items, socks, pajamas, sweatshirts, hankies for men. General items include stationary, caps, pencils, pens, writing pads, games and tissues. TOPS Chapter Members MeetTOPS OK 308 Chapter met Monday evening with Donna McCoy calling the meeting to order. The devotion was given by Blanche Pontius. Joanne Radabaugh led the TOPS Pledge and Betty Flower led the KOPS Kreed. Roll was called by Natalie McCoy followed by the weight report given by Betty Flower. Best Loser was Pat Hall and Chera Brewer won the “Ha-Ha” Pot. The September Angel of the Month was Debbie Meyer. A new forbidden food was drawn as well as new contact persons. The program, presented by Joan Hendrickson, was “Diet Dateline” with a surprise presentation to Blanche Pontius and Betty Flower. TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) is a non-profit organization whose members desire to lose or maintain weight. It neither sells nor endorses products. Members are encouraged to develop individual exercise programs, and contests are used to encourage weight loss. Brief programs are presented each week and visitors are welcome to attend the meetings. Weigh-in time is 6 to 6:45 p.m. and meetings are at 6:45 p.m. on Mondays. For more information contact Betty Flower at 765-5448 or Natalie McCoy at 767-1429. Professional Today Group Sets LuncheonProfessionals Today will host major sponsors of the Cherokee Strip Cook-off to a luncheon at noon Thursday at E.W.’s. The event was deemed a success by Sandy James, chairman, and Loretta Leathers, co-chairmen. The amount of money raised for Hospice will be announced at the meeting. James will tell the “Success Story” about the Barbecue/Chili Cook-off held Sept. 19 at Wentz Camp. A slate of officers for 1999 was presented at the Oct. 1 meeting by Ruth Capshaw, who will be installed as president at the Dec. 17 luncheon. New officers include Sue Lunsford, president-elect; Carol Anne Blackwell, secretary; Liz Hubbard, treasurer; Lynda Ford Fox, director-at-large, and Louise Abercrombie, historian. Roses and Raspberries were given by Sue Lunsford; Edwina Wynn, Nancy Froelich, Lillian Taylor and Michelle Wright. Louise Abercrombie announced that member Ann Bandy had been selected as an outstanding woman in Oklahoma by the Journal-Record. President Debra Whitener was recognized for her birthday and the club sang to her. The minutes were by Suzanne Zanardi and t88 he treasurer’s report was by Julie Brown. Outstanding Member of the Year nominations were distributed to members and are to be returned to Winnie Barber. The award will be presented at the Dec. 17 meeting. At the meeting prior to the 1998 cook-off a humorous skit was presented by Deanna Hunter, Julie Brown and Debra Whitener about chili judges and Louise Abercrombie presented the “Prayer to the Cook-off Gods.” Mrs. Ruble Celebrating 80th BirthdayFriends and relatives of Margaret Hadley Kemper Ruble are invited to her 80th birthday celebration being held at Community Christian Church, 2109 West Grand, Ponca City, from 2 to 4 p.m., Saturday, October 17. She requests no gifts. Margaret was born Oct. 21, 1918 to Fred and Della (Patterson) Hadley at Mulvane, Kan. She was reared in Arkansas City, Kan. and has lived in Ponca City since 1941. The celebration in her honor will be given by her children, daughter, Gloria and her husband Oliver Bottrell of Fort Gibson; son, Ronald Kemper and his wife Gaitha of Chickasha; grandson, Raymon Kemper and his children, Angel and Jonathan of Chickasha; grandson, Kevin Kemper and his wife, Lisa, with children Nathan, Jeremy, Grace, and Seth of Hartshorne; granddaughter, Dina Kemper of Fort Worth, Texas; granddaughter-in-law Denise Kemper and children, Crystal and Ronald of Marlowe. Contact Gloria Bottrell, 918-478-4564 for further information. Farmers Group Offering Free Recipe BookletThe Independent Pumpkin Farmers of America are offering a free Halloween Recipe brochure called Halloween Favorite Recipes. Some of the items included are Hearty Halloween soup, Trick or Treat Candy Pie, and Spicy Pumpkin Bread. You’ll also find directions for making pumpkin puree, toasting pumpkin seeds and how to use fresh pumpkin in recipes. For free recipes send a long, business-sized, self-addressed, stamped envelope with two stamps to Halloween Favorite Recipes, Box 629, Burgin, Ky 40310. Here is a sample recipe for pumpkin biscuits from the brochure. Melt-In-Your-Mouth Pumpkin Biscuits 1 1/2 cups flour 3 teaspoons baking powder 1 teaspoon salt 1/4 cup sugar 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon allspice 1/3 cup butter, cold 3/4 cup pumpkin (cooked or canned) 3/4 cup milk Sift flour into mixing bowl. Stir in remaining dry ingredients. Cut in butter with a pastry blender until mixture is crumbly. Stir in pumpkin and milk to form a soft dough. Roll out on floured surface to 1/2-inch thickness. Cut with biscuit cutter. Place on greased baking sheet. Bake at 450 degrees for 15-20 minutes. Woman’s Club Meets at MuseumThe Ponca City Woman’s Club met for the first meeting of 1998-1999 in the Conference Room at the Pioneer Women Museum on Sept. 6. A catered meal was served and hosted by the President, Mrs. Lee Combrink. Mrs. Sandy Myatt from Iota, La. was the guest of Mrs. Raymond Kizer. Officers presented for this year’s work are President: Iola Combrink; Co - vice presidents: Imogene Vineyard and Lorraine Shiflet; Secretary: June Meade, and Treasurer: Betty St. Claire. Following the business meeting, Mrs. Jan Prough, Director of the Pioneer Museum, directed a tour of the Museum and highlighted many interesting facts. Individual members remembered being present at the dedication of the Pioneer Woman Statue and a couple of members talked about being present to vote for their pick of the statues back when it was presented to the public for a vote said Mrs. Meade. The next meeting, scheduled for Nov. 3, will be in the home of Mrs. Alex Shadan. Mrs. Edwin Vineyard will be in charge of the program. DAR Members To View Video“Mountains of Hope for Children in Need” will be the title of the program when the Ponca City Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution, meets Oct. 16 at 12:45 p.m. The event will be held at the Ponca City Cultural Center. Members will be afforded the opportunity to see a video about Crossnore School, which is supported by DAR. The school is located in the Appalachian Mountains and offers a stable, healing environment in a residential group setting for children from families in crisis. DAR members are reminded that October is “Guest Month” and they are to invite a prospective member to attend. The hostess committee includes Lorene Gingerich, chairman; Margaret Carter, Pauletta Beaty, Karen Hunter, Elaine Fulton, Verna Frazier and Jan Browning. New Officers for Christian Women’s ClubNew officers for the Ponca City Christian Women’s Club Advisory Board are Patty Curl, chairman; Karen Cripps, contact advisor; Rhonda Walker, contact assistant; Rachel Radcliff, prayer advisor and Rosalin Kolb, project advisor. Other new officers making up the executive committee include Loretta Lawson, special feature chairman; Pat Thompson, decorations co-chairman; Becky Rothbauer, name tag chairman and decorations co- chairman; Deborah Randall, nursery chairman; Jeanette Fairbanks, telephone chairman; Denice Heick, telephone assistant and treasurer; Virginia Jacobs, ticket chairman; LaJuen Justice, ticket assistant; Betty Hibbs, assistant treasurer; Annette Williams, music assistant; Valoyce Musgrove, hostess/progress chairman; Bea Perry, hostess committee; and Maisie Russell, hostess committee. Christian Women’s Club meets the third Wednesday of each month at the Ponca City Country Club. The luncheon is open to all women and there are no membership or dues. The local club was begun 22 years ago and is a part of Stonecroft Ministries of Kansas City, Mo. The luncheons include a special feature, music and a speaker. The club project, village Missions, is a Christ-centered, evangelical, missionary organization, ministering to the spiritual needs of rural and suburban communities in the United States and Canada said a spokesperson. Prayer coffees are conducted monthly. Those attending pray for the local, national and international outreach of Stonecroft Ministries, the country, government leaders and individual needs. Friendship Bible coffees are a Bible study used as a tool to reach people for Christ. The studies are prepared and conducted in such a way that those unfamiliar with God’s Word are able to participate in the discussion said a spokesperson. The courses vary in length from five to 14 weeks. Five different Bible correspondence courses are available for people of all ages who want to study the bible at their own pace. Other outreach ministries include Progress Magazine, the international publication of Stonecroft Ministries published bimonthly; Stonecroft Life Publications, gift booklets designed to help people share the gospel of Jesus Christ with everyone they meet, and carefully selected Christ-centered books, booklets, videos, and audio cassettes for all ages. Locally, craft days are held monthly where all women are invited to participate in workshops. The women help make table decorations, name tags and prayer favors for the monthly luncheons. A nursery is available by reservation for all meetings. For more information or to be put on a monthly calling list, call Jeanette, 765-8427 or Denice, 762-2779. The next meeting will be an “Apple Dumpling Days” Luncheon October 21 when the special feature “Bushel of Goodies” will be the annual Country Fair and Auction with Grant Hodges. Monies from the sale of the auction items will be given as a Christmas Gift to the Village Missions project. ‘Sweet Harmony’ trio will present “Ap-peeling Tunes” as they return to this year’s fair with great songs handpicked for us. Local music teacher Annette Williams will present the background music. Speaker Gerri Freeman of Tulsa will share “Apple-Cations for Life”. Meeks Observe 50 YearsA family dinner at the American Legion Oct. 17 will honor Mr. and Mrs. Gordon Meeks, 1604 Blackard, for their 50th wedding anniversary. Meeks and the former Lovina Nolan were married Oct. 16, 1948 at the First Methodist Church in Oklahoma City. They have resided at their present home for 43 years. Hosts for the dinner will be their sons and daughters-in-law, Dan and Terri Meeks, Mike and Annie Meeks, Randy and Marcie Meeks. Grandchildren are Casey Meeks, Kara Howard, Danna Meeks, Lynette Meeks, Ryan Meeks and Adam Meeks. The honorees also have a great-grandson, Andrew Meeks. Mr. Meeks is area manager for Curtis Industries and is a member of the American Legion and VFW. Mrs. Meeks retired from hairdressing in 1996 and is a member of the YMCA. Both are affiliated with the First Christian Church. Mr. and Mrs. Meeks plan to take a trip to Hawaii at a later date. Deer Creek Alumni Reunion SetThe Deer Creek High School alumni reunion will be Nov. 7. An all-alumni mixer will be held in the Deer Creek elementary school cafeteria from 2 to 4 p.m. The banquet, catered by the Countryside Diners of Fairview, will be at 7 p.m. in the Kay Electric Room in Blackwell. Entertainment will follow the dinner. This year celebrates the centennial. Dress is western, old timer or casual. Reservations should be made no later than Oct. 15 with $10 per person charge. Copies of newspaper clippings, such as wedding announcements, obituaries and important events in your life, should be sent in advance so they can be put in the Deer Creek Alumni Album. The Elks Lodge roundtop is reserved for 7 p.m. Nov. 6. A disc jockey will provide entertainment and donations will be accepted at the door to cover the expense. For alumni who have not received invitations, it may be that we do not have the correct mailing address. Call Merble Bellin at (580) 267-3354. Donations to the scholarship fund are welcome. Dear Creek Alumni Association needs information and addresses for the following people: Class of 1919 — Lela Ballard Snouffer, Clara Billmon Lemon, Helen Billman Kugel, Marie Dester Langenwalter, Hazel Lamphere Vaughn, Lewis McKowen, Lois VanValkenburgh Ross; Class of 1920 — Emil Martin and Frank Bartlett; Class of l921 — Jean Derrington, Hollis Derrington, Paul Derrington, Fern Hurley, Lewis Valentine, Mildred Vildred Valentine, Clara Latschar, Paul Latschar, Glenwood VanValkenburgh, Dalton O’Mera, Cora Sawyer Overman; Class of 1922 — Lois Bartlett Barrow, Gene Duckworth, Neva Garver Noran, Fred Noxan, Alpha Stroup, Everett Walters, J. Glen McKowen; Class of 1923 — Alice Ruth Bachman Giffy, Mary James Lynn, Lenora Lamphere Raymond, Lavera Lehman Reynolds, Margaret Thompson Markum, Bertha Odd Cowell. From the Class of 1924 — Ollie O'Mera, Opal Webster, Vivian Sears Mounce; Class of 1925 — Alta McCray Chambers, Lola Martin Johns, Dorothy Hazlet, Lester Bachman; Class of 1926 — George Bergman, Stanley Corneil, Ernest Lowe, Conroy Swaggart, Esta Stroup, Gladys Wolffrum Martin, Elwood Walters, Velma Lively Hickey; Class of 1927 — Wilda Ann Hughes Herrington, Marjorie Lane Hirrill, Eugina Dietz McConnell, Theodore Hazlett; Class of 1928 — Freda Stauffer, Alfred Mueller; Class of 1929 — Opal McCarl Kimbell, Clayton Roberts, Viola Briney Rice, Alberta Wright, Leonard Swaggart, Marie Bartlett Kruger; Class of 1930 — Jess Lupton, Hilda Mae McKowen Gant, Wayne Norton-Carson Conaway; Class of 1931 — C.R Goldsmith, Wilma Jett McCann, Margurite Smith Howland, Charles Wolffrum, Jesse Lupton; Class of 1932 — Elmer Kretz, Margaret Kretz Finch; Class of 1933 — William Engle, Ralph E. McKowen, Margurite Lowe Gilmore, Ilo Timbrell Edwards; Class of 1934 — Leonard Sawyer, Lester M. Grimm, Stanley Guess, Sue Buhler McCarty, Zona Edwards. Class of 1935 — Junior Smith, John VanValkenburgh; Class of 1935 — Genevive Bruce Edwards, Cecil Eversoll; Class of 1937 — Sam Grimm; Class of 1938 — Hubert Allen, Travis Gilmore, Margaret Turner Scott; Class of 1939 — Robert Lupton, Berneice Garver White, J.R. Williams, Alvena Reynolds Stout, Douglas Hall; Class of 1940 — Lorene Bradley, Faye Core, Charles Chism, Bonnelle Muegge Evans Corillo, Joan Sawyer Clounch; Class of 1941 — Marie Newland Sisk, Eldora Nelson, Billy Teter; Class of 1942 — Gene Bonnewell, Illa Mae Strubble Newkirk; Class of l943 — Roy Riley; Class of 1944 — George Cortland Dinsmore; Class of 1945 — Ruby Hildebrand; Class of 1948 — Virgil Goebel; Class of 1949 — Richard Chambers; Class of 1950 — Ellen Reusser; Class of 1954 — Chuck Carter; Class of 1956 — Donna Mae Lauver Clark Robertson; Class of 1960 — Jay Dee Goebel. Please send information to Merble Bellin, R.R. 1 Box 70, Deer Creek, Ok. 74636-9547. Anniversary Event PlannedRalph and Mildred Vickery, 310 South Cedar, Newkirk, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Oct. 18 with a reception at the First United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall, Seventh and Walnut, Newkirk. Friends of the couple are invited to attend the event from 2:30 until 4:30 p.m. and no gifts are requested. Hosting the reception will be their children and grandchildren. Ralph Vickery and the former Mildred Irvine were married Oct. 16, 1948 at the First Methodist Church in Newkirk with the Rev. Gilbert Peters officiating. They established their first home near Newkirk where they were engaged in farming. They resided southwest of Newkirk for 37 years. Mr. and Mrs. Vickery retired from Houser’s Hardware Store in Newkirk in 1989. Both are active members of the First United Methodist Church in Newkirk, where they have served in several offices. Mr. Vickery is a member and past president of the Newkirk Lions Club. Their children are Rodney Vickery, Nancy and Roy Chaney, Carol and Russel Robinson. Grandchildren are Stacy Robinson, Sara Vaughn, Megan and Joey Hawks, Mandy Vickery, Bridget Vickery, Casey Gordon, Michael Chaney and David Chaney. Great-grandchildren are Kiersten Vaughn and Erik Coffron. Reception To Honor CoupleA reception Oct. 17 at the Moose Lodge in Ponca City will honor Henry and Jackie Sargent of Arapaho on the occasion of their 40th wedding anniversary. The event is planned for 8 p.m. to midnight and will be hosted by their children, Randy Sargent, Robin Carpenter and Reggie Sargent. Henry Sargent and the former Jackie Baker were married Oct. 17, 1958 at the Christian Church in Newkirk. They made their first home in Ponca City and later resided in Newkirk. He was employed for 23 years with Rodeo Meats in Arkansas City, Kan. and is currently employed with Bar-S Foods in Clinton. His hobbies include bowling, horses and skeet shooting. Mrs. Sargent was employed with Otasco in Ponca City for 21 years and is presently employed at Local Finance in Clinton. Her hobbies include horses and crafts, and both enjoy watching their grandchildrens’ sports activities. They are affiliated with the Baptist Church. Mr. and Mrs. Sargent have 10 grandchildren. Local AAUW Branch Celebrates Diamond AnniversaryThe American Association of University Women’s Diamond Anniversary and New Member reception plans were finalized at the home of Norma Casad on Tuesday. The event is scheduled for Oct. 13, 7:30 p.m., at 2509 Wildwood. This reception will be catered by Pat Keast, AAUW member, doing business as “Pssst, I Won’t Tell.” The American Association of University Women was founded in 1881. Its mission is to promote equity for women, education and self-development over the lifespan and positive societal change. The local branch of the AAUW was organized in 1923. Mrs. Dolly DuVal was the first president and served a second term in 1924. During the reception, scrapbooks will be displayed depicting the activities of the club through the years and its participation in civic, community and state affairs such as the proposed mental health clinic and YMCA in 1954-1955, and the development of Educational Television and Citizens Committee. In addition to the general monthly meeting/brunch at the Ponca City Country Club, there are several interest groups such as Book Discussion, Bridge, Out to Lunch Bunch, Arts and Crafts, Investments, Voter Education, Social Studies and others. The local branch provides two scholarships annually, one for an outstanding graduating senior girl; the other for a mature woman re-entering the work force. The local club also sponsors a high school student to Girls State and holds an annual Senior Girls Tea. In order to achieve this, the local branch holds several fundraisers, such as style shows, bridge benefits, silent auction at Christmas, bazaars and bake sales. In 1952 a lighted Christmas tree was placed in the children’s section of the local hospital financed by funds raised by AAUW. One of the most important projects of the local AAUW is the Women’s Day Banquet, an annual affair honoring the outstanding women in the community, who have been selected by their respective clubs and organizations. The guest speaker is usually a nationally known female personality whose accomplishments are compatible with the AAUW mission. Through the years the local branch has received several certificates of award in recognition of its achievement. Any woman in the community with the minimum of a bachelors degree from an approved college or university is eligible for membership. Reservations can be made by contacting Kathy Tippin, president, 765-8043, or Bette Lee, vice-president for membership, 762-2000. Wheatheart NutritionVolunteers 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. 12: Holiday Tuesday, Oct. 13: Liver and onions; buttered corn; seasoned green beans; bread with margarine; chilled peaches. Wednesday, Oct. 14: Barbecue chicken, French fries with catsup; buttered broccoli, whole wheat roll with margarine; cherry crisp. Thursday, Oct. 15: Chili Con Carne; mixed fruit with citrus; crackers with margarine; cinnamon roll. Friday, Oct. 16: Sausage patty with gravy; orange juice; has browns or potato wedges; biscuit with margarine; scalloped apples. Ponca City HappeningsSUNDAY Marland Estate Mansion, 901 Monument Road, open daily, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, 1-5 p.m. Guided tours Monday-Friday, 1:30 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 1:30 and 3 p.m. Special tour information, 767-0420. Pioneer Woman Museum, open Tuesday-Friday 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, 1-5 p.m. The museum is closed on Mondays and holidays. Ponca City Art Center, 819 East Central. Wednesday through Sunday, 1-5 p.m. Ponca City Cultural Center and Museum, 10th and Grand. Home of Ponca City Indian Museum, Bryant Baker Studio, 101 Ranch Museum and DAR Museum. Available for receptions, teas, bridge parties, etc. Open daily 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday 1-5 p.m. 767-0427. Ponca City Tourism Office, 10th and Grand. Information about all tourist attractions and events in Ponca City and the surrounding area. Open daily 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, 1-5 p.m. 763-8067. 11th Step AA meeting — open, 11 a.m.; AA Discussion meeting, 8 p.m. Harmony House, 212 South Third. MONDAY Al-Anon meeting, 8-9 p.m. Monday, upstairs in the Harmony House, 212 South Third. Domestic Violence Group, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Mondays. Programs for women and children of family violence. Babysitter provided. For information call 76A-BUSE. Fibromyalgia Support Group meets on the first and third Monday of each month at 7 p.m. in the parlor of the First Baptist Church. More information may be obtained by calling Raelene Brown, 765-5756; Lily Freeman, 762-9027; Martha Long, 762-5572. Multiple Sclerosis Support Group meets the third Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at Albright United Methodist Church, 128 South Palm. Call Beth Wright, 765-6738, for additional information. New Hope Group of Alcoholics Anonymous, 8 p.m., Monday. Salvation Army Community Support Center, 711 South Third. Ponca City Rotary Club, noon Monday, Marland Mansion Chapel. Senior Citizen dance every Monday, 7-10 p.m. at the American Legion, Ponca City. Everyone is welcome. “Hayriders Band” plays. Simple Steps AA — closed, noon; AA Step Study — closed, 8 p.m.; Harmony House, 212 South Third. TOPS OK 308 members are reminded that the new weigh-in time is 6 to 6:45 p.m. with meetings starting at 6:45 p.m. on Mondays. For more information call Betty Flower, 765-5448. Principles Before Personalities, Narcotics Anonymous, 8 p.m. Monday, Harmony House basement (use south entrance by parking lot). The Conoco Retirees Association quarterly meeting will be at 10 a.m. Monday, Oct. 12, at the Conoco Atrium Cafeteria. Speaker will be Gene Hines with Edward Jones. He will talk about the stock market, Conoco stock, Class A and B, and What Does an IPO Mean? TUESDAY The American Family Support Group will meet 7-9 p.m. Tuesdays at 1105 West Highland. The topic will be Child Welfare Services and child abuse. Kay County Wheatheart Sweet Adelines, 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Performing Arts Building (south entrance) Northern Oklahoma College, Tonkawa. All women welcome. For information call 765-6829, 363-1643 or 762-2885. Kiwanis Club, noon Tuesday, Marland Mansion Conference Center. New-Found Freedom Co-dependents Anonymous, 8 p.m., Tuesday, Harmony House (upstairs library). AA Discussion meeting at noon; AA Big Book Study — closed, 8 p.m. Harmony House, 212 South Third. Parent Support Group, 6-7:30 p.m. Tuesday at Northern Oklahoma Youth Services Center. Focus on parental concerns and frustrations, as well as ways to increase understanding and communications between parent and child. Support, education, coping techniques, and introduction to non-punitive parenting styles. Pioneer Water Garden Society meets the third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Cann Gardens. Anyone interested in water gardens, fish, plants or starting your own pond is welcome to attend. For more information contact Mike Welch, 765-3271, or Ray Moreland, 762-7806. Preschool storytime for 4-, 5- and 6-year-olds, 10 and 11:30 a.m. Tuesdays at the Ponca City Library Weight Watchers meeting, 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, St. Paul’s United Methodist Church. Weigh-in begins at 6 p.m. Fanchon Chapter 53, Order of the Eastern Star, meets the first and third Tuesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. at the Masonic Temple, 1200 West Grand. Free pregnancy test is kept confidential at Birth Choice, 205 West Hartford. Hours are 6-8 p.m. Tuesday; 1-3 p.m. Wednesday; 6-8 p.m. Thursday. WEDNESDAY Deadline for Happenings and items for Sunday’s edition of Lifestyles is 5 p.m. Wednesday. For Happenings include name of club, time and day of meeting, place and hostess. New Hope Group of Alcoholics Anonymous, 8 p.m. Wednesday, Salvation Army Support Center, 711 South Third. Pioneer Toastmasters Club, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Wednesday, East Auditorium, Conoco Complex, 1000 South Pine. Guests welcome to come discover what Toastmasters is about. Ponca City Bahai Community Discussion Group, 7:15 p.m. Wednesday. For location call 765-5695 or 762-5529. Simple Steps AA meeting; Step Study — closed, noon. AA Discussion meeting, 8 p.m. Harmony House, 212 South Third. Storytime for 2 and 3-year-olds, Ponca City Library, 515 East Grand, 10 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Short stories, songs, use of flannel board. Lasts about 15 minutes. Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) support group aids veterans of the Vietnam and Gulf Wars. The group is confidential and meets at the DAV, 401 South Lincoln, Wednesdays, 7-8:30 p.m. If you are a veteran suffering with PTSD or know someone who could use help, contact 762-3851 or Steve Mallory, 762-7561. Principles Before Personalities, Narcotics Anonymous, 8 p.m. Wednesday, Harmony House basement (use south entrance by parking lot). Sage, Rosemary and Thyme Garden Club will meet at 9:30 a.m. Oct. 14 at the Cann Garden Home patio. Hilary Cooley is hostess and co-hostess is Eva Ballard. The program will be “Those Gorgeous Gourds” and will be presented by Marlene Roth. Members are invited to bring items for the Serendipity table being taken care of by Aline Heartsill and Johanna Mead. For more information about the group call Mary Anne Potter, president, 767-1957. THURSDAY Al-Anon at Conoco, TBTV 50 on Mezzanine between North and South Towers, 11:30 p.m. Thursday. Call Linda, 765-7045, 767-5328. AA Discussion meeting, noon; AA discussion meeting, 8 p.m., Harmony House, 212 South Third. Freedom Group of AA; closed Big Book Study at 8 p.m. Thursdays, Woodlands Christian Church (Room 202), Fourteenth and Hartford. Smoke-free meeting and building. We study and practice tradition. Open meeting the last Thursday of each month for birthdays. Call 762-3345 for more information. Jaycees, 7 p.m., first and third Thursday, Chamber of Commerce meeting room. Interested persons welcome to attend any meeting. Model Railroad Club, 7-10 p.m. Thursday, Stephenson Building, 113 North Third. For information call 762-8687 or 765-7996 Parent Support Group, 9:30-11 a.m., Thursday, Northern Oklahoma Youth Services Center. Focus on parental concerns, frustrations, as well as ways to increase understanding and communications between parent and child. Support, education, coping techniques and introduction to non-punitive parenting styles. Ponca City Newcomers Club meets the third Thursday of each month at the Marland Mansion. For more information contact Joyce Fox, 762-9578. Story hour for school-aged children Thursday at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. at the Ponca City Library. Young-At-Heart Dance is held every Thursday at the Elks Lodge, 1301 Bradley, 7-10 p.m. A Snack and Hillbilly night is held the first Thursday of each month. Ken Wilson and the Sunshine Playboys Band play. Principles Before Personalities, Narcotics Anonymous, 8 p.m. Thursday, Harmony House basement (use south entrance by parking lot). FRIDAY Simple Steps AA — open, noon; AA speaker meeting — open, 8 p.m. Harmony House, 212 South Third. New Hope Group of Alcoholics Anonymous, 8 p.m. Friday, Salvation Army Community Support Center, 711 South Third. Pioneer Rotary Club, 11:45 a.m. Friday, Marland Mansion. Principles Before Personalities, Narcotics Anonymous, 8 p.m. Friday, Harmony House, 212 South Third, basement (use south entrance). Smoke-free building. For more information call 762-3345 or 765-9459. SATURDAY AA Discussion meeting at noon Saturday. AA Discussion meeting at 8 p.m., Harmony House, 212 South Third. New Found Freedom Co-dependents Anonymous, 8 p.m. Saturday, Harmony House (upstairs library). Smoke-free. Order of the Amaranth meets the first and third Saturdays of each month at 7:30 p.m. at the Masonic Temple. Reorganized Overeaters Anonymous group meets 11-12 Saturday mornings at Woodlands Christian Church. The meetings are open to “anyone who desires to stop eating compulsively.” For more information call 762-2161 or 765-5958. Quilt Show Opens in Ark CityARKANSAS CITY — The Denton Art Center in Arkansas City is hosting “Inspirations and Influences ... My Quilt Family” Oct. 1 through Oct. 28. The exhibit features 25 years of quilting by award winning fiber artist, Dorothy Brinkman. This is the first time she has exhibited so many pieces of her work in one show. The exhibit features family quilts, animal quilts, barns and houses quilts, and three of the series of four watercolor quilts that Dot has created with Suzanne Brown. There are also doll quilts, crib quilts, quilts created from pictures drawn by grandchildren, and works in progress among the 45 piece exhibit. One whimsical piece relates to her childhood when her mother told Dot and her siblings they must beware of Ol’ Tall Betsy “who hid in the wild sumac down by the old railroad track.” As they grew older, each of the children created their own image of Ol’ Tall Betsy. Dot has quilted her image and visitor’s can also read “The Ballad of Ol’ Tall Betsy” to explain who this character was. “I particularly like quilting exhibits,” remarked Ellen Snell, director of the Denton Art Center. “The quilting artists we have in Arkansas City warmly express so much about their lives and the people who are a part of those lives.” Dot Brinkman’s quilts each tell a story about her life. One special 1978 quilt features the Brinkman Farm. This was an original design whose inspiration was through one of Chris Edmonds’ picture quilt workshops. It shows the Brinkman home, barn, and yard plus their animals — cat, dog, horse, 4-H calf, and pet crow. The border block is called Fence Row and was found in the Hall-Kretsinger book “Romance of the Patchwork Quilt.” It took a year to make this 55” x 62” wallhanging. She made a piece called “Vests” for friend and fellow fiber artist, Judy Clark, which used materials from the vests that Judy had made. “A Day At School” is quite unique showing how the light changes throughout the day beginning with a muted pastel block showing day’s beginning and ending with the deep, dark tones of night. Some of the pieces in the exhibit are challenge quilts. Materials and subjects are given to the fiber artist, and the quilter must create a quilt using the specified materials and information. Among her individual awards is “Home of the Free” which was created in the medallion style using three traditional patterns adapted to fit the quilt and its theme — Kansas Dugout, Log Cabin, and House. Two original patterns, a row house block and skyscraper block, carried out the theme of the home as the center of our lives and the development of the home through time. This quilt received the 1986 Canvas Crewel and Stitchery Show Most Creative Award. A ribbon from the 1988 Woodlawn Plantation Lady’s Circle Patchwork Quilt’s Invitational is also pinned to this quilt. Dot’s most recent and very prestigious awards are shared with Suzanne Brown in their series of watercolor quilts. These long-time friends have taught quilting together and journeyed into the world of quilts that resemble Impressionist paintings. They carefully juxtapose pieces of floral fabrics to make shades of colors flow into one another as in a Monet. The technique has swept through quilting circles in the past few years. Many different fabrics are used to achieve a variegated effect. Some people also use the wrong, or lighter side, of floral fabrics for more variety. Their 1996 creation, “Put your Monet Where Your Mouth Is,” was Best of Show winner at the 1996 Prairie Quilt Guild show in Wichita. At the same show, “Nostalgia” took First Place in Quilts. The third in the series, “Standing Tall,” took first place in their class at the America Quilter Society 13th National Show in Paducah, Ky. This juried show has requests from quilters around the world, but only 400 are accepted. It also won an Honorable Mention in the Master’s Division at the 1998 Dallas Quilt Celebration. Realism is important to these two watercolor fiber artists and they grow the kinds of flowers they plan to reproduce on their quilts so they get to know their subject intimately. If the flowers do not grow or produce a bloom — which did happen to the foxgloves which were the subject of a quilt — they take pictures of someone else’s blooms. There are as many as 200 different fabrics for a quilt in the watercolor style. As might be expected, Dot is always looking for a fabric shop when she travels. Dot and Suzanne are currently at a workshop in Paducah, Ky. Her love for quilts is shared in gifts to husband, Gene, and children, Bruce, Brenda, and Barry as well as grandchildren. Dot’s success with quilts, friendships, and life in general might be summed up in a prayer which opens one of her scrapbooks, “Lord, Please help me find a pattern in the Pieces of my life.” The exhibit is brought to the Denton Art Center in part through underwriters, Home National Bank, Union State Bank, The Kansas Arts Commission, a state agency, and the National Endowment for the Arts, a federal agency. A reception for members and invited guests to honor the artist is supported in part by General Electric, a corporate member of the Arkansas City Area Arts Council, Inc. The Denton Art Center, located at 525 North Fourth in Arkansas City, is open on Monday and Tuesday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.. Other times may be arranged by calling the director, Ellen Snell, at (316) 442-5895. The Denton Art Center will be closed on Thursday morning, Oct. 8, from 9 to 11 a.m. for a private showing. SPORTSRed Zone Dead Zone for Cats Red Zone Dead Zone for CatsBy MATTHEW KOENIG News Sports Writer OWASSO — Something just doesn’t add up. Before Friday’s game, the No. 9 Owasso |