LOCAL

City May Be Looking For New Operators Of Conference Center
Volunteers Make a Difference During Cleanup Effort at Attucks
Nearly News
Landscape, Walkways Sought For Marland Estate Grounds
RAF Cadet Revisits Ponca City 50 Years After Brief Stopover
Diabetic Health Fair Set Oct. 29
Istook Will Lead Congress’ Fight To Reduce Size of Government
New Opportunity For Patients With Dementia
Nurse Practitioner Week Set Nov. 1-7 For Those With Advanced Training
Editorial - Downtown Revitalization Important
Editorial - Impressed With Ninth Grade Coaches
Breast Cancer Awareness Luncheon Set Wednesday
Several Ponca Tribe Members Set For Roles at Kickapoo Vet’s Dance
Annexation Studies Set for Work Session
Festival of Angels Gets Better Power
Good Physical Therapy Plays Important Role in Health Care
Adult Abuse Panel Warns Be Aware of Exploitations
Veterans Day Parade Off To Strong Start
School Calendar
Les Gilliam Comes Home To Poncan
Rue McClanahan Headlines SWSA Conference Nov. 6-9
Special Brainstorming Session Held on Health Training Needs
Post-Menopause Estrogen Skin Cream Studied
Connie Kanady Is Moving From Ponca City Area
Five Time Grammy Winner Heading To Poncan Theatre
City Calendar
Ponca Playhouse Volunteer Debuts As Play Director
District Court
School Menus
Parent, Teacher Conferences Set
Kaw Lake Promotions Magazine Nearly Complete

City May Be Looking For New Operators Of Conference Center

By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE

News Staff Writer

Monumental Enterprises Inc. (MEI), which operates the Marland Estate Hotel and Conference, has given notice that they do not plan to renew the contract for the next year. Tana McKinley, assistant City Manager, made the announcement at the Marland Estate Commission’s October meeting.

The Marland Mansion is operated separately by the City of Ponca City and the Hotel and Conference Center are also on the Marland Estate.

Under the lease agreement with the City of Ponca City either the City or MEI could terminate the lease with 30 days notice. The lease agreement is slated to terminate on Dec. 15.

David Myers, MEI CEO, said that MEI has been operating the Marland Estate Hotel and Conference Center for the past three years under a lease agreement with the City of Ponca City.

He said, “Although improvement in the overall occupancy rate has been exceptional under our management, to continue a viable operation would require major renovation and leasehold improvements.

“The limited capacity of the facility, coupled with the cost of the improvements, prevent an acceptable level of return on investment for our corporation. Additionally since our capital dollars would be improving a facility not owned by the corporation, it heightens the risk of investment.”

Myers added the decision to sever the lease is mutually agreed to by MEI and the City of Ponca City, and is in accordance to the lease agreement.

Mayor Tom Leonard said that the City will continue to look at different possibilities and opportunities for the Conference Center and to do what is most cost effective.

According to city officials the City attempted to operate the Conference Center for a number of years. Both the City and MEI have operated the Conference Center at a loss.

At this time a decision has not been made as to what will be done with the facility. Gary Martin has said that the facility will be closed (Dec. 15) until further consideration is made by both the Marland Estate Commission and the City Commission.

Volunteers Make a Difference During Cleanup Effort at Attucks

By THOMAS TRUE

News Staff Writer

Great steps were taken Saturday morning in transforming the former Attucks school and Webber Lodge into full use facilities.

Over 20 volunteers from throughout the city came to the south side buildings to make a difference on this “Make a Difference Day.” And what a difference a few hours can make. Hundreds of pounds of trash and debris was taken out of the old school and a new coat of paint was applied to Webber Lodge.

This project has been in the works since “Make a Difference Day” in 1996, when the children of the community explained they needed a recreation center and soon the project was started.

According to Dwain West, chairperson of the Attucks Community Alliance, the project is ongoing and they hope to have the center ready for Martin Luther King Jr. Day this January. However West points out that several factors must be met before that goal can be reached. Some of the factors are the need for new windows and a new heating and air conditioning system. Also the work of the volunteers is vital to success of a project like this.

In support of this project scores of donors have assisted the plan so far. According to Diane Anderson of Conoco Inc., several key donors to the project included Jack Bowker Ford, Pioneer Bank, Conoco Inc., Home National Bank, Fred Boettcher, Miller’s Market and Hunter’s TV and Appliance just to name a few of the many supporters. In addition to the donations the volunteer labor is part of making this dream a reality.

When the centers are complete they will serve as multi-function facilities for children and adults. Some of the plans for the centers call for classrooms for tutoring, a computer center, senior citizens programs, meeting rooms, child care, and a remodeled gymnasium.

Now in the Attucks center old walls have been removed and new frames for future rooms are in place. Plans are being drawn up for the new rooms in the center. While the building has been through a fire in its past, according to West, the building has been inspected and is solid.

Nearly News

For folks thinking that the story on the Civic Center’s clock misplaced Roman numerals missed identifying the numeral four as wrong - that is not the case. The clock displays IIII as the number four. It was discussed at length and several clock tower pictures were viewed — the majority of them showed the number four written IIII as opposed to IV. Now there are some Roman numeral watches that show the number as IV. On the local side if one wants to see another clock with the IIII designation try the Ponca City Library. Webster’s College Dictionary shows the Roman numeral written IV — so take your pick. The important thing is the wrong numbers on clock are to be corrected according to City officials.

School will not be held in Ponca City this Friday, Oct. 29 for Parent/Teacher Conferences. Look at Page 8A in The News for dates, times of meetings.

Landscape, Walkways Sought For Marland Estate Grounds

By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE

News Staff Writer

Marland Estate Commission unanimously approved asking the Marland Estate Foundation for a $10,000 commitment to be used for a 20-80 grant match from the Department of Tourism for landscape and walkways.

Sherry Muchmore, chairman of grounds and landscaping, said she has been meeting with city employees and working with grant writer Candy Thomas on the project. She also told about meeting with various garden clubs. She said there will be more information at the November meeting.

Jon Kennedy told about the project of fixing up Lydie’s Cottage garage and that bids were out for heating and air-conditioning. When this area is completed it will be rented for various functions and in good weather can be rented out with the patio.

Eldridge Manering reported that inventory of the Petroleum Museum is in progress. Lynda Clark said that the Long Range Planning Committee will be meeting in November to review and discuss accomplishments. Karen Furman told about gathering materials for placing in the Millennium Time Capsule.

Estate Commission Chairman Phyllis Kennedy reporting for the membership drive said about $18,000 has been raised during the drive. Between 120 and 150 attended the membership cook-out.

Sherri Tapp told about the Oktoberfest and that close to $60,000 was turned in. There will be expenses coming in out of the money and a final figure will be available later. She also reported on the Millennium Ball (Christmas Gala) set for Dec. 4. Tickets will go on sale the first of November.

Kathy Adams, executive director, reported that door handles that were being discussed in 1996 have now been installed. She told there may be a grant available from the Department of Transportation for Marland Trails.

Adams said there is a need for new guides. She noted that the Marland Mansion will be shown again Saturday on the television program America’s Castles. She announced that C-Span will be here filming at the Cultural Center and the Mansion on Oct. 27 and 28.

The revenue for September shows $9,175 compared to $13, 505 in September 1998. However the year to date figures show $87,390 compared to $84,175 for the same time frame in 1998. There was no expense report shown.

September visitation is down from 1998. Last year the visitation was 3,309 compared to 2,256 in 1999. Year to date shows visitation lagging compared to 1999. A total of 25,457 are shown as compared to 23,406.

David Myers, reporting for Monumental Enterprises Inc., which operates the Hotel Conference Center, said September and October were good months.

RAF Cadet Revisits Ponca City 50 Years After Brief Stopover

By MAX STOKESBERRY

News Staff Writer

A Royal Air Force cadet who arrived here for flight training during World War II revisited Ponca City last week — 50 years after a brief stopover in 1948 or ’49. Tom Hennessy and his wife Joy arrived Wednesday and left Thursday afternoon en route to their home in London, Ontario, Canada.

Traveling in their recreational vehicle, they were winding up a pleasure trip through several Midwestern and Southwestern states, among them Michigan, Iowa, Nebraska, New Mexico, Arizona and Oklahoma.

Hennessy, born in Dublin, Ireland, found today’s Ponca City considerable different from the town he and his fellow cadets saw upon their arrival Aug. 28, 1941. In those days most of the activity was centered in the downtown section. Business development along Fourteenth Street had not yet begun.

The Darr School of Aeronautics, then located north of Municipal Airport, was the site for the No. 6 British Flying Training School. This was one of several such schools established in this country to provide primary flight training for RAF pilot recruits.

Living quarters at Darr School were not ready for occupancy when the cadets arrived, so they were temporarily housed across town at the Ponca Military Academy. Hennessy remembers the former pond at Seventh and Hartford, into whose somewhat murky waters the trainees were dunked after successfully making their first solo flights. The pond was on their route as the young pilots were transported by school bus between Darr School and the academy.

At that time Britain was the target of Nazi bombs and under the threat of invasion. As a result there was no safe place in their country to train the many new pilots needed to defend against these attacks. The United States had not yet entered the struggle, but the bombing of Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941, brought us into the war against the Axis powers.

The first class of cadets was here for five months, until late January 1942. The British trainees welcomed our joining them in the conflict and staged what they called a “victory parade” down town. They were happy because they now could start wearing their uniforms and insignias, replacing the gray woolen suits and white sweaters which had proved to be quite uncomfortable in the August weather they encountered upon arrival.

When they came last week the Hennessys started a sight-seeing trip around the city. At the Cultural Center they learned from Missy Morland of the local tourist bureau that Harold “Coggy” Cogman, who had also been in the first cadet class, was living here. So contact was made with Coggy and his wife Mary Sunshine , and the recalling of earlier times began.

It was news to Hennessy that Coggy, whom he had last seen 50 years ago, had remained in Ponca City after returning here in 1948. During the half-century Coggy completed 34 years of employment with Conoco, married a local school teacher and has a grown son and daughter, as well as seven grandchildren and four of the great-grand variety.

Tom, who was born in Dublin, Ireland; Coggy, from Scotland, and Roland Jaques of Yorkshire, England, were three 18-year-old cadets “adopted” by the G. Ralph Snyder family. They often spent the weekend with Ralph and Dorotha Snyder, their son Ralph Jr. and daughters Edna and Carol.

The trio was among the 27 cadets who graduated at the end of their training period and went on to fly RAF fighter planes in the war. Roland was killed in combat off the coast of Italy. Tom flew from bases in England, Malta, Italy and Singapore, while Coggy saw action in North Africa and Italy. In Singapore, Tom was training for the invasion of Japan, but he was spared that ordeal when the Japanese surrendered after the A-bomb was dropped.

Tom said he came home to England on a converted hospital ship and was carried ashore on a stretcher. His “war wound,” however, was a broken leg sustained in a soccer match at Singapore.

A while after the war he moved from England to Ontario, Canada, where he was employed by the Toronto Board of Education and served many years as a health and physical education consultant. He later moved to London, Ontario, in the same capacity and retired there.

A cross-country runner since a teen-ager, he says he still exercises daily and watches his diet. The results are noticeable, as he looks considerably younger than his 77 years.

The evening before they left for home, the Hennessys met Harold and Lillian Taylor. This brought on some more reminiscing since Lillian was employed at the Darr School as secretary to the chief pilot when the first cadets were there. Later a link trainer instructor, she kept records of the school and, after the war, led in organizing the No. 6 British Flying Training School Association which now has more than 300 members.

Several former cadets now live in Canada and a reunion was held there recently, according to Lillian. Hennessy said he had no knowledge of the organization before his visit here, but now he plans to join and be an active member. He and Joy also visited the Air Museum at the airport and the Marland Mansion.

Diabetic Health Fair Set Oct. 29

Come join folks at the Kanza Wellness Center, 3151 East River Road in Newkirk, for a free Diabetic Health Fair from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 29. Breakfast and lunch will be provided. Entrees served will consist of international cuisine, sensitive to the diabetic diet, it was announced.

Health screenings will be conducted from 8 a.m. to noon. Blood sugar, weight, height, blood pressure, glaucoma checks, and foot examinations will be available. The Diabetic Shoe Company from Oklahoma City will have a display and schedule therapeutic shoe fittings throughout the event. The coordinator of the Wellness Center will be available to discuss information on physical fitness and exercise.

Guest speakers scheduled include Pat Blubaugh, RN, CDE at 1 p.m.; Kelly Bryant, RN, RD at 2 p.m. and Paul McAreavey, RPT at 3 p.m.

For more information, contact Cordelia Clapp, RN at (580) 362-1039.

Istook Will Lead Congress’ Fight To Reduce Size of Government

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Congress votes this week on cutting the size of the government by 1.4 percent across-the-board, and Oklahoma Congressman Ernest Istook (R. Warr Acres) has been picked to manage the landmark legislation.

The 1.4 percent reduction in all other programs will not reduce things like Social Security benefits or veterans’ benefits, and federal workers will not have their pay cut, Istook says. Federal bureaucracies will have to find savings within their own budgets, as the final step to balance the federal budget without using one penny of Society Security money.

The historic action will be part of the spending bill that Congressman Istook will present on the House floor for a vote on Tuesday. Istook will be in the national spotlight as floor manager of the legislation; he’ll handle it in his role as a subcommittee chairman of the House Appropriations Committee.

“This is the showdown between those who always want to spend more, and those of us who do not. To keep the federal budget balanced, Congress has only three choices,” Istook said. “We could raid Social Security’s trust fund, which has been done for decades, but that’s wrong, and it’s time to stop that. We could raise taxes, as President Clinton proposes, but that would also be wrong. Or we can reduce the size of government by 1.4 percent. To me and to most Americans, this is the right answer. It’s really a no-brainer.

“Our families find a way to tighten their belts when they must; it’s time for Uncle Sam to do the same thing, and live within his means. If federal agencies can’t trim by 1.4 percent, then we’ve got the wrong people running those agencies, and we need new ones. There’s not a single federal program that can’t spare a penny-and-a-half out of every dollar.”

President Clinton is talking about vetoing the bill, and the President is urging the Democrat Party to fight against the plan. Istook says that instead they should help the Republican effort to trim fat out of the government. “A balanced budget, without raiding Social Security, is the new standard in Washington, and it’s long overdue. It’s time to stop spending Social Security money on other things. Cutting spending by just this little bit starts lowering the national debt, for the sake of our kids. It protects the Social Security Trust Fund, for the sake of our seniors. And it reduces the size of government, for the sake of all of us.

New Opportunity For Patients With Dementia

STILLWATER — Addressing the needs of individuals suffering from memory-related conditions such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease is a sensitive topic for a growing number of families.

George Rahme, owner of Stillwater’s Renaissance Independent and Assisted Living Center, sees families every day searching for a compassionate and simple solution, something a step beyond assisted care. As a result, Rahme will soon be opening north central Oklahoma’s first special care center designed exclusively for these individuals. The Renaissance Extended Care Residence, a new and separate facility at The Renaissance complex, 1450 East McElroy in Stillwater, will soon become home to individuals and/or married couples experiencing forms of dementia who require a greater level of care and assistance.

Rahme commented, “Many families find their needs change as parents and grandparents age. Transitions such as changing facilities can be difficult for the individual as well as spouses and other family members. Locating our centers only a few steps away can simplify the transition.”

He explained it can also afford married couples or friends the opportunity to maintain their close relationships while residing in the facility best suited to their needs. “Each wing has only 12 individual rooms so we provide a quieter, more home-like atmosphere,” Rahme said.

Because safe freedom of movement indoors and outdoors is so important to seniors, Rahme has incorporated a state-of-the-art monitoring system within the same family-oriented atmosphere present in the independent and Assisted Living Center.

Each single or double suite has a secure medication cabinet, private bath and ample space for personal furnishings. Certified staff will assist with medications, grooming, dressing, bathing and one-on-one activities as well as provide nutritious family-style meals in a central dining/living area. Rahme has also constructed a safe room to protect residents during severe weather.

“It’s so important to preserve the dignity of individuals and families. Our goal is to support and encourage individuals to remain as independent as possible, all within a caring and safe environment,” Rahme said.

The Rahme family also owns and operates The Renaissance Independent and Assisted Living Center in Ponca City. Mrs. Sheila Rahme manages the Ponca City facility and daughter Ginny Rahme is director of the Stillwater location.

For more information about The Renaissance Extended Care Residence, contact George Rahme or Ginny Rahme at (405) 743-4903, 1450 East McElroy, Stillwater.

Nurse Practitioner Week Set Nov. 1-7 For Those With Advanced Training

Gov. Frank Keating has proclaimed the week of Nov. 1 through 7 as Nurse Practitioner Week.

A nurse practitioner is a registered nurse who has advanced educational and clinical training in a health care specialty. There are over 50,000 in the U.S. and 380 in Oklahoma, it was learned this week.

According to local nurse practitioner Sharon Allison, who works with Dr. Bruce A. Mackey at Honick Family Care Center in Newkirk and the office of Northern Oklahoma Family Care Center in Ponca City, nurse practitioners provide primary health care to people of all ages, performing physical examinations, evaluating and treating acute and chronic conditions, and counseling and teaching about health.

“In Oklahoma, nurse practitioners have had prescriptive authority since 1996,” Allison pointed out. Sharon has a Master’s Degree in Nursing from the University of Oklahoma and is a graduate of the Wichita State University Nurse Practitioner Program.

The University of Oklahoma College of Nursing currently has a nurse practitioner program that prepares both Masters and Post Graduate Nurse Practitioners. This program began in 1992.

The program includes about 800 clock hours of supervised clinical practice within the two year program. Clinical rotations will range from 12 to 20 hours per week for 10 to 15 week rotations.

In Oklahoma, nurse practitioners receive direct reimbursement for their service from Medicare, Sooner Care, and the Oklahoma State Employees Group Insurance program.

Editorial - Downtown Revitalization Important

Ponca City’s downtown is looking better and better every year. All areas of our town are important, but in towns our size, the downtown is still the anchor of successful cities. Congratulations to the citizens for the decisive vote to renovate City Hall. It was a well earned vote of confidence, and it would have been nice if a reasonable number of voters had turned out. This experience makes us wish we could hold the federal government responsible for the use of our tax money in the same manner.

The city has their work cut out to make the rest of the renovation go as well as the west wing. Wouldn’t it be fun to have another episode like the clock numerals in the west tower to liven things up while we’re at it. If that is the worst that happens, we can chalk up a truly successful program and have a City Hall of which we can be very proud.

While we are downtown, we ought to mention the new paving on Grand Avenue. Although we would prefer a new brick surface, financial considerations dictated the current surface. The paving is smooth and it looks great to have our main city street freshly paved and striped.

We fully understand the tremendous costs of renovating the older downtown buildings, but we are encouraged by the move to strip off the metal exteriors which were put over the fronts in the past. We encourage the downtown owners to continue the progress if the brick fronts can be renovated and the windows replaced in an affordable manner. It will be very tough considering the trend of businesses moving to Fourteenth Street and we wish them luck.

We have a long way to go to completely revive Ponca City. Keeping our downtown vital and not letting it go to seed is an important part of staying on the right path and moving toward the future. TM

Editorial - Impressed With Ninth Grade Coaches

My son has been actively involved in Ponca City athletics from grade school days through the ninth grade. As each Fall rolls around, he always ends up making the choice to participate in football. This year was no different. Although — he had an exceptionally excellent experience because of a tremendous coaching staff to aid him in development as a player and a person. I would like to publicly commend Coach Stiedley, Head of 9th Grade Football; Coach Kriehbel, Coach Arthur, and Coach Guess for a job well done.

I was impressed as a past player of the game and a parent at the leadership and genuine concern for all players I observed throughout the season by these gentlemen. I saw kids moved around in different positions and also from B to A team as talents and skills were refined and discovered. I listened to more than one speech after practice as the coaches emphasized “tonight do your homework.” I saw them adjust their plans when their pleas fell on deaf ears and they attempted to put the best team (eligible) on the field. But they kept pushing to ensure that the next week everyone was eligible and ready to play.

As impressive was the level of excitement and energy of the coaches. It was easy to see that they enjoyed the boys and the game by cheering, jumping around, hugging kids, and giving them “high fives.” I can even recall a game we lost in the final seconds, where my son and the coach shared a tear or two together in a corner of an end zone. A special bond that only surfaces after dramatic events occur on the field of competition.

Importantly, more than one time, my son came home and shared he had learned more this year than any other year he had played. I was impressed by the variety of play calling (run, pass, reverse, fake punts), formations used, and defensive schemes that the coaches taught and then executed in the games. Most impressive was their willingness to take risks and try new things. We as parents never heard, “you can not run or do those kinds of plays at the 6A level.” They believed in the kids and the kids responded to their leadership.

We obviously finished winning more games than we lost by far. And believe it or not — Winning is important. The lessons and experience’s these boys learned will reflect through their careers in the work place later in life. >More important in my eyes as a parent is the time, effort, and genuine concern that I saw from these 4 guys give a bunch of well-deserving kids these past few months. Thanks Coaches for a GREAT season! I can only hope that you’ll continue to be involved in my son’s life as he completes his High School career.

R. Mark Macy

Breast Cancer Awareness Luncheon Set Wednesday

Cathy Keating, Oklahoma’s First Lady, will be the featured speaker at the Fifth Annual Breast Cancer Awareness Luncheon scheduled for this Wednesday, Oct. 27. The luncheon will be held at the Marland Chapel and Conference Center from 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Speakers in the past have included Lt. Gov. Mary Fallin and Susan Ford Bales, daughter of former President Gerald Ford.

Cathy Keating is the most active first lady in Oklahoma’s history. She is a Tulsa native and a fourth-generation Oklahoman, an active leader in many women’s health projects and dozens of causes related to children, a prime mover in such worthy efforts as Habitat for Humanity and Oklahoma’s Main Street program to revitalize dozens of communities, a volunteer literacy tutor, and a wife and mother.

St. Joseph Regional Medical Center, Soroptimist International of Ponca City and St. Joseph Cancer Center are sponsors of the event.

This event is not only for women. Anybody that has been touched by breast cancer or is interested in supporting education about breast cancer is invited to attend.

This year, more than 180,000 women in the United States will learn for the first time that they have breast cancer, and more than 40,000 women die from the disease. Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in women in America; however, early detection and prompt treatment can significantly reduce the suffering and deaths caused by this disease.

Several Ponca Tribe Members Set For Roles at Kickapoo Vet’s Dance

The Kickapoo tribal community will host its annual Veteran Day dance on Thursday, Nov. 11. The event will take place at the Kickapoo tribal complex located two miles north of McLoud on State Highway 102. The program will begin at 2 p.m. with gourd dancing. A supper will be served at 5:30 p.m. with gourd dancing continuing after the meal. War dancing will begin at 8 p.m. and the program is expected to conclude by 10 p.m.

This year’s observance is dedicated to the memory of the late Chloe Eagle Rhoads. Rhoads was a longtime resident of the area and directed the Indian Education program in the Shawnee school system. She had many close friends in the area and was the adopted mother to the children of the late Harry and Henryetta Walker.

Thomas Roughface of Bethany will serve as master of ceremonies. Douglas Eagle of Ponca City is named head singer, Telly Lieb-Spring of Stroud will be the head lady dancer, Delbert Cole of Ponca City will be the head gourd dancer and Robert Greenwood of Del City will be the head war dancer. Special guests will be the Ponca tribal senior citizens. An open invitation is extended to any veteran or veterans’ group and to tribal communities in general.

Annexation Studies Set for Work Session

By BOB PATTERSON

News City Editor

A special work session of the Ponca City Board of Commissioners will be held Monday at 2 p.m. in the Public Safety Center Commissioner’s Room.

Three specific items are on the agenda for that session. They will include a proposed annexation study, the non-renewal of Monumental Enterprises Inc. lease for the Marland Estate Conference Center, and a discussion of the Oklahoma Water Resources Board financial options of the wastewater treatment plant.

The annexation study will involve nine different areas around Ponca City. Two of the areas would be in one package, called the northwest study area, along U.S. 77. Another area is a southeast area which is more along Lake Road and Cann Drive. A similar area includes that along the Extension of South Avenue east, plus across the Arkansas River along U.S. 60.

The study includes specific areas of police protection, fire protection, traffic engineering, water and light and sewage.

The commissioners will also be involved in the bimonthly regular session Monday night at 5:30 p.m. in the Commissioner’s Room.

That meeting will also include the commission as members of the Ponca City Utility Authority and the Ponca City Development Authority.

Three specific items on those agendas will deal with new business items, along with consent agendas for the three boards.

Commissioners will receive a quarterly report on the receipts and disbursements related to the dedicated one-half cent sales tax and use tax for the renovation of No. 1 Fire Station.

The commission also has on that agenda, a proposal to provide mutual liability protection plan for the city of Ponca City from the Oklahoma Mutual Assurance Group.

The consent agenda for the commissioners will include action on:

•A change order in the amount of $34,372.90 and the final payment amounting to $90,615.17 to Cowboy Concrete and Construction concerning work completed on the street maintenance project involving concrete street patching.

•A bid committee’s recommendation on the purchase of a low profile, crew cab truck amounting to $38,426.93.

•A claim by Ronald D. Stout in excess of $100,000 for wrongful termination.

The PCUA consent agenda includes authorization for the chairman to submit the monthly operating statement to the Oklahoma Water Resources Board in keeping with the OWRB loan agreements.

The PCDA has an item on the agenda concerning the lease of Darr School Building No. 5 to Pioneer Transit Inc.

Festival of Angels Gets Better Power

The Christmas season is just around the corner, and the Festival of Angels is “powering up” for their sixth annual holiday lighting celebration. The festival will be held from 6 to 10 p.m. nightly beginning Wednesday, Nov. 24 and continue through Thursday, Dec. 30.

The first three years of the festival’s existence, the organization committee sought after and solicited donations from the people of Ponca City and various organizations to help it get started. Since that time, the Festival of Angels has incorporated and is now a nonprofit organization. With the help of generous corporate sponsors and donations received during the festival, every dollar donated is used to purchase additional lighted displays and to maintain the existing lights and equipment.

This year, over $7,500 of the proceeds from last year are being used to permanently upgrade electrical wiring in three locations. New wiring, switches and electrical boxes have been installed at the Lake Ponca Park location, the Ponca City Cultural Center and the Cann Garden Center. The cost of all the wiring materials is being paid for by the Festival of Angels, and the installation is being done by the city of Ponca City, Water and Light Department.

Cindy Bays, Festival of Angels design chair and city liaison, is “beaming” about the new wiring and upgraded electrical capacities.

“Not only will the Festival of Angels benefit from the increased electrical capacity, but other organizations using these facilities will benefit as well,” said Bays. Eldon Felix, Festival of Angels vice president, and Bays have worked closely with city officials to determine where electrical upgrades were needed. The increased electrical capacity will ensure power for existing attractions as well as new lighted and animated displays for years to come.

Good Physical Therapy Plays Important Role in Health Care

October is National Physical Therapy Month and Northern Therapy and Rehabilitation Inc., is actively promoting this year’s theme of “Health In Balance”. Each year, members of the American Physical Therapy Association use the month-long celebration of their profession to educate the public about the important role that physical therapy plays in health care. The staff at Northern Therapy, with clinics in Ponca City, Blackwell and Stillwater, get to witness first hand the positive impact that physical therapy has on their patients’ lives.

“Physical Therapy — Health in Balance” was chosen as this year’s theme because whether one is a busy professional or homemaker, an athlete in peak physical form or a person with a disability, balance is essential to health and well being.

Todd McAreavey, RPT and Tracy McAreavey, RPT owners of Northern Therapy, have worked with patients from all walks of life since they opened their first clinic in Blackwell in 1995. During the course of a normal day, they treat a wide array of injuries, from back injuries suffered on the job to wound care for burn victims. Jason Snyder, RPT, works primarily with orthopedic and sports injuries at the Ponca City location. All three therapists experience great satisfaction watching their patients reach their rehabilitation goals as a result of their efforts.

Education on how to avoid injuries is also important to the staff of Northern Therapy. This year, they are following the American Physical Therapy Association’s lead in alerting parents of school children of the dangers of improper backpack usage. Although the backpack has become a staple for today’s busy students, a too-heavy or improperly worn backpack may harm joints and muscles, especially in young ones.

Wearing a backpack over one shoulder results in a person leaning to one side to compensate for the uneven weight, which curves the spine. Over time, this can cause lower and upper back pain, strained shoulders and neck, and even functional scoliosis. Teenage girls are especially susceptible to scoliosis, which is a permanent curvature of the spine. To prevent such injuries it is important to wear both straps of the backpack.

Overloading a backpack is also not recommended. Even if worn properly, too much weight in a backpack can cause the wearer to lean forward to compensate for the extra weight, affecting the natural curve in the lower back region and resulting in back, shoulder and neck pain. A good rule of thumb is to carry no more than 15 to 20 percent of a person’s body weight. Students are encouraged to make frequent stops at their locker throughout the day rather than carrying all their books in their backpacks from class to class.

The selection of the proper backpack can also help in avoiding injuries. Backpacks with wide straps are recommended because narrow straps dig painfully into shoulders, which can hinder circulation, cause numbness or tingling in the arms and result in weakness in the hands over time.

By following these general tips, students should be able to safely use their backpacks to carry their necessities and not experience any negative physical effects.

While October has been dedicated as National Physical Therapy Month, Northern Therapy and Rehabilitation Inc., is available to answer your questions regarding physical therapy year round. If you have any questions about how physical therapy may benefit you, please feel free to contact the staff of Northern Therapy at 765-0101.

Adult Abuse Panel Warns Be Aware of Exploitations

The State Conference on Adult Abuse, just recently held in Oklahoma City at the Biltmore, has alerted the general public to be aware of the signs of Elder Abuse and financial exploitation and what to do, if abuse is suspected. According to Northern Oklahoma Development Authority, allegations of abuse, neglect and exploitation have risen again in this past year.

Growing older in Oklahoma could mean being exploited, or having someone take your money for their own purposes. It could be someone who helps themselves to the older person’s check, bank account or car. It could come in the form of a telephone call or a letter telling you to send money to pay “shipping and handling” costs on a car or some other wonderful “gift” — which turns out to be either non-existent, or a very cheap imitation. Often, the goal of this kind of thief is to get their Social Security Number, or a credit card number. This time of year is also prime-time for household repair scams. The “repairman” promises them a “good deal,” usually do shoddy work, then demand a high price and sometimes threaten people who refuse to pay. Con artists have been known to pose as police officers, employees of the utility companies or the City and then once they gain entrance into the house, either check the house over for valuables for a later burglary or just rob the person while there.

Elderly persons are often the targets of such crimes because in many cases they have vision or hearing loss and cannot easily identify the perpetrator or become easily confused and/or over-powered.

Last year in Oklahoma, Adult Protective Services personnel received over 1,600 cases involving exploitation of an adult. Almost 1,100 cases were substantiated, or found to be true. If only one in ten is reported, as it is suspected, then the possibility exists that about 11,000 adults, approximately 6,500 of them elderly were victims of exploitation.

How can these types of crimes be prevented?

*Never give out information about your bank, your checking account, or the day when your Social Security check comes.

*Never give out your Social Security number or any credit card number over the telephone.

*Contact the Better Business Bureau to check out any company’s reputation. If the company is legitimate, they won’t mind the wait.

*Never do business with anyone who demands payment in cash, today, and is unwilling to give you references to check or an address to write to for further information.

*If you do decide to buy, always use a check or money order — in case of fraud, they can be more easily traced.

*Always ask anyone who poses as a public official or a utility worker to show you some identification, and to wait outside while you call their employer.

If you have been exploited or think that someone you know has been exploited, contact your local police department, sheriff’s office, or Adult Protective Services worker for Kay County at the Department of Human Services.

Remember: “If it’s too good to be true,” it probably isn’t.

Veterans Day Parade Off To Strong Start

Planning for this year’s Veterans Day parade is off to a strong start. So far, more commitments have been made for Nov. 6 parade participation than in the past two years, and, with the involvement of several elementary schools, Scouts and other youth groups, it should be the largest yet.

Numerous civic clubs and businesses have committed to participate including AMBUCS, Lions Club, Square Dancers, Wal-Mart, Lowe’s, Pioneer Technology Center, Christian Motorcycle Group, Stillwater Harley Owners Group, Mertz, Salvation Army, Golden Villa, Child Development Group, Head Start Program, Citizen Police Academy, Ponca City Fire and Police, AKDAR Shrine Temple of Tulsa, and units from the India Shrine Temple. Also participating will be classic and antique car owner clubs and individuals, American Indian groups, saddle clubs and riders, Ponca City cheerleaders and Hi-Steppers and pep club, and other veteran groups just to name a few. Classic and antique cars and motorcycles will be on display after the parade east of the American Legion building.

Weather permitting, a fly over and static display of World War II “War Dogs” will be one of the highlights of this year’s parade. The Army National Guard and the Army Reserve Training Center both will participate and will supply equipment for the parade and static display east of the American Legion on South Avenue.

Members of the Trans-Mississippi Rifles reenactment unit will form both Confederate and Federal color guards for the Veterans Day parade. Composed of members from different parts of Oklahoma, the TMR is a living-history organization dedicated to portraying the common soldier in the War Between the States. Not only do they have authentic uniforms and weapons, but each member completes a training program taken straight out of the original drill manual of the period. After the parade, the TMR will conduct drills at the site of their period encampment located west of the American Legion. Other Civil War units will display a cannon.

Save those floats! The Veterans Day parade committee is working closely with the Millennium holiday parade group which would like to invite all participates of the Veterans Day parade to save their floats for the 7 p.m. parade Friday, Dec. 3.

Anyone or any group that would like to participate in this year’s parade, call Chuck Gregg at 765-1367.

School Calendar

Po-Hi

Oct. 25

Job Shadowing Day, Assembly Center, 8:15 a.m.

St. Gregory’s representative, Conference Room, 1 p.m.

Softball banquet at Commons, 6 p.m.

Junior varsity football against Sand Springs at Sullins Stadium, 6:30 p.m.

Oct. 26

Operation holiday help at Assembly Center, 8:30 a.m.

Herff Jones representative (senior cap and gown meeting) at Howell Auditorium, 10:35 a.m.

Volleyball banquet at Commons, 6:30 p.m.

Oct. 27

Langston University representative, Conference Room, 10 a.m.

Financial Readiness of Youth Survey at Assembly Center, 10 a.m.

JOM/Title IX meeting, Assembly Center, 1 p.m.

Band/OSSAA Regional contest at Tulsa.

Oct. 28

Pep assembly, RFH, 9 a.m.

Southwestern College representative, Conference Room, 1:15 p.m.

Ninth grade football at Woodward, 5:30 p.m.

Parent/Teacher conferences.

Oct. 29

No school for parent/teacher conferences.

Varsity football (Senior Night) against Sapulpa at Sullins Stadium, 7 p.m.

Drama/debate tournament.

Oct. 30

Chorale/OMEA auditions at 8 a.m.

Cross Country meet at Shawnee.

Band/OBA State Competition at Tulsa.

Les Gilliam Comes Home To Poncan

Les Gilliam, a Ponca City resident who has ascended to fame as “The Oklahoma Balladeer,” will return home to the Poncan Theatre after performances in such wonderful places as Austria and Washington, D.C. The concert includes his Silverlake Band, and will be in the Poncan Theatre on Saturday, Oct. 30 at 7:30 p.m.

The Silverlake Band features three legends in the country music field. Fiddler J.C. Broughton, guitarist Smiley Weaver and keyboard player Clarence Boyd will join bassist Larry Broughton and Ponca City’s own Don Long on drums. Gilliam’s impressive associations in country music always allow him to bring the finest players on stage, as he has again with this concert.

J.C. Broughton is a national champion fiddler who has played many rousing tunes with Gilliam. When Broughton is on stage, he’s irresistible. The audience just always seems to tap their toes. Smiley Weaver is a famed steel guitarist who has worked with such legends as Bob Wills and the Texas Playboys and with both the Johnnie Lee Wills band and the Miller Brothers band. Clarence Boyd is a Western Swing Hall of Fame member, who played keyboard for Leon McAuliffe and the Cimarron Boys. Like Weaver, he also played with Johnnie Lee Wills.

Gilliam entertains both as a solo artist and with the Silverlake Band. Les has been nominated for “Male Vocalist of the Year” by the Academy of Western Artists and by the Western Music Association. He has recorded three albums and two videos. More and more Americans are hearing Gilliam’s wonderful celebration of fabled cowboy-country artists. More and more Americans have learned about the lore of Western music. More have learned wholesome, healthy values from Les Gilliam’s touching, memorable concerts.

Gilliam’s presentation of country or cowboy music includes fascinating stories about songs and artists who performed them. He also includes original songs and comedy material. Audience participation is customary and standing ovations are the norm. Kids love the cowboy stories and songs, and older adults particularly enjoy the touch of nostalgia frequently found in his shows.

Tickets sell for $8 in advance, $10 at the door, general admission. They are available at the Poncan Theatre at 104 East Grand. The box office is open Monday through Friday, 1 to 5 p.m. For more information, patrons can call the theatre at 580-765-0943.

Rue McClanahan Headlines SWSA Conference Nov. 6-9

STILLWATER — The Southwest Society on Aging (SWSA) is proud to announce its 21st annual conference, titled “Catch a Dream: Preparing for the Next Frontier.” The conference is at the Oklahoma City Marriott from Nov. 6 to 9, 1999.

Nadine Beat-Walter, SWSA Conference Chair, says that the conference theme “is such a great reflection of Oklahoma’s heritage and senior population. The well-known Native American dream catcher legend expresses our intent for this conference. The enthusiasm from this conference will inspire us all to prepare for the new frontier — erasing the limits to past boundaries so that new discoveries may evolve.”

The anticipated audience will be approximately 400 aging service providers, social workers, nurses, academicians, gerontology students, other professionals and the general public. There will be a variety of lectures, special forums and general sessions.

SWSA has nominated several individuals as possible recipients of the prestigious “TNT Award”, including Ms. Rue McClanahan who is best known for her role as Blanche on the Golden Girls. Ms. McClanahan is a recipient of the award because of the positive and spunky image she portrays of older Americans. Many seniors try to emulate her character from the famous sitcom.

Those interested in more information about the conference, please access the SWSA web page at www.SWSAging.org or call 405-744-7511.

Special Brainstorming Session Held on Health Training Needs

In an effort to determine future health training needs, Pioneer Technology Center administrators and staff members held a special brainstorming session with 20 health professionals from the Kay County area.

The session began by listing some of the current training needs and priorities as determined by the group of health professionals. One of the first training areas listed was the need for Medical Transcriptionists in the Kay County area.

Larry Felix, Hospital Administrator at St. Joseph’s Regional Medical Center (SJRMC) said, “There is definitely a need for trained Medical Transcriptionists.”

“SJRMC is currently outsourcing, but we would like to have people that are on staff for this. As far as training goes, a student could really benefit by interfacing with people who are currently in this field.”

John Pangburn, Physical Therapy Center, discussed the current need for physical therapy assistants. According to Pangburn, the market has changed considerably and there seems to be less of a demand than there was about five years ago.

Other training areas discussed were the occupational therapy assistants and laboratory personnel such as medical lab technicians. Both of these programs would require certifications as well as associate degrees upon completion.

“Right now there are fewer occupational therapists in the field, but there doesn’t seem to be as many jobs in this area,” said Felix. “However, this need could change in the short future.”

Pioneer Technology Center currently offers full-time health care training in the following areas: practical nursing, respiratory therapy, health science technology I & II, and medical assisting. Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA), Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), and paramedic training courses are offered in the area of adult short-term training.

“We are trying to meet the needs of our constituents,” said Dr. Sally Downey, Pioneer Technology Center Superintendent. “This is the main reason we are making plans to add a new health wing to our facility. This new expansion would give us extra training space and allow us to offer the type of health care training programs that are currently in demand. The new facility would also allow us to expand some of our short-term training programs like the EMT and Paramedic training into full-time offerings.”

The group also discussed the expansion of specific training areas in Pioneer Technology Center’s Medical Assisting program. The Medical Assisting program currently offers training in medical terminology, front office, patient care, and medical software programs.

Some of the health care professionals like Sonja Wyler, Mediclaims, said that there is a need to offer more in-depth training in learning insurance billing on the Medical Manager software program. Wyler also mentioned the possibility of working into additional certifications for this area.

Before the session ended, the group discussed the need to focus more on soft skills such as high work ethics and dependability. Suggestions were made on making area job descriptions and work expectations available to students so they would know some of the expectations of future employers.

Pioneer Technology Center administrators have plans to meet with other members from the manufacturing areas to look at their future training needs.

Health care members attending the session included: Jennifer Shouse, SJRMC; Dr. William Graham, Cancer Center; Larry Felix, SJRMC; Martha Denny, SJRMC; Marjie Carlton, IBRMC; Shelly Martin, Westminster; Deborah Hetrick, Westminster; Janeen Lane NORPC; Chris Rupert, NORPC; Jackie Chavey, NORPC; Susan Bond, NORPC; Mary Lyn Taylor, Ponca Family Medicine; Vicki Gravel, Mediclaims; Sonja Wyler, Mediclaims; John Pangburn, Physical Therapy Center; Cathy Pangburn, Physical Therapy Center; Carla Eaton, Dr. Ley’s office; Amber Rhea, Dr. Ley’s office, and Karen Mabry, Dr. Ley’s office.

Post-Menopause Estrogen Skin Cream Studied

More than one third of women, now living in the U.S., have been through menopause. With the aging of the post-World War II Baby Boom generation, the number of post-menopausal women living in the United States is expected to increase from today’s 36-million, to nearly 60-million in the next 10 years. With the rising numbers in this population group, the call for more choices in the management of menopause symptoms has grown as well.

COR Clinical Research, of Oklahoma City, has activated a clinical research study of estrogen replacement therapy in menopause. The study will evaluate the effectiveness of a new, investigational skin cream, containing estrogen, formulated for transdermal (through-the-skin) absorption. This is the first moisturizing skin cream to be widely tested in hormone replacement therapy (HRT), to relieve such troublesome symptoms as the hot flash, or hot flush, estimated to affect up to 75 percent of menopausal women. Although a small minority of women may undergo menopause as early as their mid-thirties, or as late as age 55 or greater, most women will cease menstruation during their late 40’s or early 50’s, with the average age of menopause being 51.4 years.

Hot flashes, characterized by a sudden, transient sensation ranging from subtle warmth to intense heat, spreading over the face, scalp, and the front throat and upper torso, often accompanied by ‘blotchy’ skin redness and perspiration, may begin as much as 10 years before the last menstrual period. Hot flashes, then, may occur during the “perimenopause” phase, but true menopause is only considered to have occurred when there has been at least one full year since the last menstrual period. Women, who have had no menstrual period for at least one year and experience several hot flashes per day, are being invited to participate in this important research study. Both, women who have and have not had hysterectomies (either partial or complete), are invited to call Dr. Clinton N. Corder and his staff at (405) 272-8481, or visit www.corclinical.com for further information on study involvement.

Connie Kanady Is Moving From Ponca City Area

Connie Kanady, a Ponca City resident since 1949, is leaving next week to live with her daughter, Connie Loucks, 6995 Oakwood Chase, Memphis, TN 38125. Connie has been an active member of the First Presbyterian Church for many years.

Her husband, Harold, who died in 1985, was a prominent Ponca City architect. He designed many homes in Ponca City and a number of municipal buildings, including West Junior High and the Police Station Emergency Operations Center. His favorite project was the Temple Emanuel at 13th and Highland.

Connie’s two other children, Gary (Ponca High School Class of ’56), and Malcolm (’59), live in Centreville, Va., and Tulsa.

The Kanadys extend their thanks to Ponca City for “providing a great place to raise a family and for all the fond memories it gave them. It will always be home.” Connie asks that all her friends stay in touch.

Five Time Grammy Winner Heading To Poncan Theatre

Billy Joe Thomas is from Hugo, Okla. Not many people know that, because we are more likely to think of him as “B.J. Thomas, Star.” He has been known for years for his positive, uplifting song material. He is the quintessential feel-good star, and he appeals across the entire spectrum of rock, pop, country, Christian — you name it. And now he will perform in Ponca City at the Poncan Theatre on Grand, on Friday, Nov. 6.

No one knows his message better than B.J. Thomas. “As a singer, you’ve got the chance to make people’s spirits and their lives a little better,” he says. Fans and concert goers frequently approach Thomas to thank him for the impact of songs ranging from his megahit “Raindrops Keep Fallin’ On My Head” to such country smashes as “New Looks From An Old Lover.” “I love singing all of it,” he says.

And his love of it has carried him through to a sales of 50 million records. His love for the music must be infectious. Five Grammy Awards, two Dove Awards, and an incredible string of successes all give testimony to his broad appeal. Two Platinum records and eleven Gold records round out the great success story. He communicates.

One of the most interesting aspects of Thomas’ success is that he communicates across such a broad spectrum. “I’ve always enjoyed singing country,” he says. In fact, his first hit was a country tune. But “gospel and old hymns mean a lot to me,” he adds. “And I still enjoy doing rock and roll.” The key is attitude and a zest for making people feel good.

Thomas is believable in part because he has seen the darker side of life. He is a survivor, one who has weathered adversity and addiction. Through it, he has become stronger than ever, both personally and musically. Recently, he has been active in work for various causes. His song “Broken Toys” has been adopted by child abuse agencies as a theme song. And he still breaks new ground. “As Long As We Got Each Other” has also become the theme for the ABC sitcom “Growing Pains.”

Among Thomas’ best known hits are “Eyes of a New York Woman,” the irrepressible “Hooked on a Feeling,” and “I Just Can’t Help Believing.” Other Platinum albums include “I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry,” “On My Way,” and “Amazing Grace.”

B.J. Thomas will perform in the Poncan Theatre because of the generosities of the Ponca City New Car Dealers Association, who give corporate support to this event. For ticket information, patrons may call the Poncan Theatre at 580-765-0943. The box office at 104 East Grand is open Monday through Friday from 1 to 5 p.m.

City Calendar

Items 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).

Alcoholics Anonymous, Alano Group, Ponca City’s first established AA Group, meets at Noon and 8 p.m., seven days a week. All noon meetings open, all 8 p.m. meetings closed except Fridays, 603 South First Street.

Monday

Ponca City Board of Commissioners Work Session, 2 p.m., Public Safety Center Commissioners’ Room, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue.

Ponca City Board of Commissioners, Ponca City Utility Authority, Ponca City Development Authority, 5:30 p.m., Public Safety Center Commissioners’ Room, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue.

Tuesday

“Discussing Women’s Health Issues with Your Young Daughter,” for mothers and their daughters, ages 10-14, 7-8 p.m., Ponca City Library Programming Room , sponsored by the Ponca City Alliance for Youth Teen Pregnancy Prevention Taskforce.

Ponca City Rough and Tumbled Rock and Gem Club monthly meeting, 7 p.m., home of Hoffman’s, 420 Fairview Avenue, program “Collecting Earth’s Natural Treasures,” visitors welcome.

Wednesday

Planning Commission Work Session, 7:45 a.m., Planning and Engineering Conference Room, Suite 305, 400 East Central Avenue.

Ponca City Main Street Authority Inc. Board Meeting, 1 p.m., Main Street Office, 117 North Third Street.

Thursday

Downtown Safe Trick or Treat Night and Halloween Parade, children participating in parade meet in costume at Centennial Plaza at 5 p.m., parade at 5:30 p.m. from Fifth and Grand to First and Grand, downtown merchants in front of businesses after the parade giving candy to the children until 7 p.m., YMCA, 7th and Grand, hosting haunted house and other activities, sponsored by Ponca City Main Street Authority.

Kay County Republican Party Extra Ordinary Regular Monthly Meeting, 7 p.m., Ponca City Library Program Room, State Rep. Jim Reese featured speaker, followed with free-for-all political discussion, open to the public, call Dave White 762-0103 for more information.

Alzheimer’s Support Group, 7 p.m., St. Joseph Regional Medical Center, Conference Room A.

American Legion Huff-Minor Post 14, 7:30 p.m., Post Home, 407 West South Avenue.

Friday

St. Paul’s United Methodist Church UMW Salad Luncheon, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., East Hartford Avenue and Pecan Road, adults $5, children $2.

Ponca City Alliance for Youth Physical/Sexual Abuse Prevention Taskforce, noon, Western Sizzlin’, 1209 East Prospect Avenue.

Saturday

McCord Arts and Crafts Festival, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m., McCord School at Sherwin Avenue.

Ambuc K-9 Fund Raiser “Cops vs. Coaches” and kids costume party, 5-9 p.m., Robson Fieldhouse, Ponca City High School.

Halloween Trick or Treat night.

November 1

Ponca City Board of Commissioners Work Session, 2 p.m., Public Safety Center Commissioners’ Room, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue.

November 2

RSVP Annual Recognition Banquet, 11:30 a.m., American Legion, Ponca City, reservations requested by Oct. 27, 762-9412.

Planning Commission, 7 p.m., Public Safety Center, 200 East Central Avenue.

November 3

Energy Advisory Board, 7:30 a.m., Public Safety Center, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue.

November 4

Kay-9 Dog Training Club, 7 p.m., Ponca City Library, more information 762-9053 or 762-7360, public welcome.

November 5

World Community Day, 9:30 a.m., Albright United Methodist Church, sponsored by Church Women United.

Grand Opening of Angel Central, Information Center and Gift Shop for Ponca City’s Festival of Angels, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday, all proceeds from store go to purchase lights for Festival of Angels, new location, south end of Ponca Plaza, 2101 North Fourteenth Street, formerly Bank of Oklahoma.

Historic Preservation Panel, noon, Planning and Engineering Conference Room, 400 East Central Avenue Suite 305.

November 6

Alpha Gamma Mother’s Club 28th Annual Arts and Craft Fair, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Unity Gym, free admission, concessions available, contact Karen Yost (580) 765-4688 for information.

Veteran’s Parade, 10:30 a.m.

Lou Dean, author of “Angels in Disguise” and “Paw Prints in My Soul” autographing her new book, “Osage County Kids,” 2-4 p.m., Brace Books and More, North Fourteenth Street.

November 8

Ponca City Board of Commissioners, Ponca City Utility Authority, Ponca City Development Authority, 5:30 p.m., Public Safety Center Commissioners’ Room, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue.

Hospice of Ponca City Volunteer Appreciation Banquet, 6:30 p.m., First Baptist Church.

November 9

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.

AARP, 12:30 p.m., Wheatheart Nutrition Center, Ponca City.

KLVV 88.7 FM presents Acappella, Contemporary Christian Group, concert, 7 p.m., Stillwater Church of Christ, 821 North Duck, tickets available Oct. 15 at Master’s Touch.

McCord Volunteer Fire Department, 7 p.m., McCord School Library.

Rural Water District No. 1 Regular Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m., Enterprise School, Lake Road.

November 10

Sage, Rosemary and Thyme Garden Club, 9:30 a.m., for more information call 762-98676 or 718-0314.

Cultural Affairs Advisory Commission, 11:30 a.m., Cultural Center Sunroom, 1000 East Grand Avenue.

Rural Water, Sewer and Solid Waste Management District No. 3 Board of Directors Meeting, 7 p.m., District Pump Station, Perch Lane, Sandy Park Estates.

November 11

Ponca City Housing Authority, 10 a.m., Broadway Plaza, 201 East Broadway.

Agrarian Club, 6 p.m., Southwest Meeting Room, Western Sizzlin’, Ponca City.

Ponca City American Legion Huff-Minor Post 14, 7:30 p.m., Post Home, 407 West South Avenue.

November 13

American Legion Pancake and Sausage Feed, all the pancakes you can eat, 6:30-10 a.m., adults $3.50, children under 12 $2, children under 6 free, proceeds to children and youth activities, American Legion Building, 407 West South Avenue.

November 15

Ponca City Board of Commissioners Work Session, 2 p.m., Public Safety Center Commissioners’ Room, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue.

Multiple Sclerosis Support Group, 6:30 p.m., Albright United Methodist Church, 128 South Palm, call Lori White 767-1668 for additional information.

United Ostomy Association, Stillwater-Ponca City Chapter, 7 p.m., St. Joseph Regional Medical Center Conference Room B, Ponca City.

November 16

Marland Estate Commission, 4:30 p.m., Marland Estate Conference Center, 901 Monument Road.

DAV, 7 p.m., 401 South Lincoln Street.

Osage Cove Volunteer Fire Department, 7 p.m., Fire Station, corner U.S. 60E and Keeler Road, new volunteers always welcome.

November 17

Ponca City Public School Foundation, noon, Ponca City Library.

Ponca City Tourism Authority, 2 p.m., Cultural Center Sunroom, 1000 East Grand Avenue.

November 18

Park and Recreation Advisory Board, 5:30 p.m., Municipal Courtroom, Public Safety Center, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue.

November 19

Historic Preservation Panel Work Session, noon, Planning and Engineering Conference Room, 400 East Central Avenue Suite 305.

Traffic Commission, 1:15 p.m., Public Safety Center, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue.

Wine and Cheese Reception for Paul Fernald, author and attorney from Bethany, Okla., autographing and reading from his novel, “Succubus,” 7-9 p.m., Brace Books and More, North Fourteenth Street.

November 22

Ponca City Board of Commissioners, Ponca City Utility Authority, Ponca City Development Authority, 5:30 p.m., Public Safety Center Commissioners’ Room, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue.

November 24

Planning Commission Work Session, 7:45 a.m., Planning and Engineering Conference Room, 400 East Central Avenue Suite 305.

Ponca City Main Street Authority Inc. Board Meeting, 1 p.m., Main Street Office, 117 North Third Street.

November 25

Pioneer Woman 10K Run.

Ponca City American Legion Huff-Minor Post 14, 7:30 p.m., Post Home, 407 West South Avenue.

November 26

Downtown Christmas tree lighting, Centennial Plaza.

November 24-Dec. 30

Festival of Angels, Holiday Lighting Celebration, 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. nightly.

Ponca Playhouse Volunteer Debuts As Play Director

Christina Rich-Splawn is wearing a “new” hat for the Ponca Playhouse in the upcoming production of “A Tuna Christmas.”

Rich-Splawn is stepping from local volunteer status into the role of director for the hilarious comedy playing Nov. 12-14 and Nov. 19-20.

Rich-Splawn says she’s “thrilled” to work with veteran actors Phil Bandy and Dave May as they portray all the citizens in the small town of Tuna, Texas.

Rich-Splawn comes to Ponca City from Nashville, Ind., by way of Oklahoma City, where she resided for 16 years. She fell in love with the theatre and acting at the age of 13, by acting in the Brown County Junior-Senior High’s production of “Barefoot in the Park”, playing the mother. Later, she came to the realization that a career in acting was probably not lucrative, so she chose archeology instead, which also wasn’t lucrative. Settling for a career in other areas, Christina indulges her love of performance as a hobby.

Rich-Splawn says the majority of her training comes from the University of “Let’s Get Involved, Learn Everything We Can, and Just Do It!” This training has led her to work in every aspect of theatre and acting, both avocational and professional. She has been a set designer and builder, properties manager, costume designer and seamstress, lighting and sound technician, stage manager, animal wrangler, gunfighter and stunt coordinator, special effects make-up artist, and assistant director.

She has directed a competition piece for the Playhouse in the Oklahoma Community Theatre Association’s Festival of Plays, a couple of dinner theatre performances for the Playhouse at the Ponca City Country Club, and now sets her sights on directing her first main season production.

Rich-Splawn has been a professional actor for film, television commercials, and voice over work in the Tulsa and Oklahoma City region for several years, and has worked with every major theatre group in the Oklahoma City area. She is also a charter member and performer in the Comedy Bowl, a semi-professional improvisational comedy troupe.

Locally, Christina takes the role of Mrs. Barry Splawn as her first and greatest role. She likes to sew clothing and costumes for a myriad of nieces and nephews, collects and re-builds vintage clothing, gardens, makes her own soaps and herbal samples, collects arrowheads with Barry and attends archeological digs. Christina is employed at the Ponca City News as an advertising representative and graphic advertising representative and graphic artist.

District Court

Newkirk

Marriage Licenses

Bobby Ray Jenkins, 36, and Brenda Barton Brunette, 43, both of Ponca City.

Jeffrey Davis Clark, 31, and Lynna Renee Boss, 31, both of Ponca City.

Craig Michael Esch, 27, and Janette Suzanne Martin, 26, both of Tonkawa.

Michael Wayne Gray, legal age, and Elsie Elaine Hilbert, legal age, both of Ponca City.

William Louis Enderud Jr., 27, and Samantha Sue Holmes, 19, both of Newkirk.

Leo Kizziar Junior, 43, and Ora Josephine Tarvin, 44, both of Ponca City.

Richard William Poole Jr., 48, and Melanie Suzanne Norris, 44, both of Ponca City.

Darin Ray Grimes, 23, and Amanda Sue McLeland, 22, both of Ponca City.

Divorces Granted

Linda Loree Knapke vs. Jeffrey Allen Knapke.

Vivian Jacquelyn Clinton vs. Charles Edward Clinton.

Civil Petitions

State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company vs. Melissa Jones, et al.; plaintiff seeking judgment for $2,633.07.

Merchants Recovery Services Inc. vs. Junita S. Vinson; plaintiff seeking judgment for $4,139.16.

PNC Mortgage Corporation of America vs. Kenneth Gene Lankford and Sally Lynn Lankford; plaintiff seeking judgment for $40,061.02.

Murphy Tractor & Equipment Co. vs. Douglas E. Merz, et al.; plaintiff seeking judgment for $10,384.92.

Sears Roebuck & Co. vs. Mark A. Johnson; plaintiff seeking judgment for $3,672.21.

Harbor Insurance Company vs. Walter Manuel Arbona; plaintiff seeking judgment for $2,699.83.

Green Tree Financial Servicing Corporation vs. Elton R. Nelson; plaintiff seeking judgment for $65,876.59.

School Menus

Elementary Breakfast

Monday — Pop tart or cereal or hostess muffins, assorted juices and milk.

Tuesday — Biscuits and gravy or cereal or pop tart, assorted juices and milk.

Wednesday — Pop tart or cereal or hostess muffins, assorted juices and milk.

Thursday — Waffles and sausage link or pop tart or cereal, assorted juices and milk.

Friday — No school

Elementary Lunch

Monday — Pizza sticks or cheese nachos, fresh fruit, California blend, Mexican beans, bear grahams, saltine crackers or assorted cold sandwiches, chef salad, cottage cheese salad or yogurt salad, juice and milk.

Tuesday — Chicken curls with hot roll or bread sticks with marinara sauce, mashed potatoes and gravy, lettuce and tomato salad with ranch dressing, fresh fruit, saltine crackers, dill spears or assorted cold sandwiches, chef salad, cottage cheese salad or yogurt salad, juice and milk.

Wednesday — Frito chili and cheese pie or breaded chicken patty, tossed salad with ranch dressing, fresh fruit, sour apple slime, saltine crackers, dill pickle or assorted cold sandwiches, chef salad, cottage cheese salad or yogurt salad, juice and milk.

Thursday — Cheeseburger or pepperoni pizza, tossed salad with ranch dressing, french fries, fresh fruit, corn, saltine crackers, dill pickle or assorted cold sandwiches, chef salad, cottage cheese salad or yogurt salad, juice and milk.

Friday — No school

West Middle School

Breakfast

Monday — Jelly donuts or cereal or pop tart, assorted juices and milk.

Tuesday — Biscuits and gravy or cereal or pop tart, assorted juices and milk.

Wednesday — Long Johns or cereal or pop tart, assorted juices and milk.

Thursday — Waffles and sausage link or cereal or pop tart, assorted juices and milk.

Friday — No school

East Middle School

Breakfast

Monday — Jelly donuts or cereal or pop tart, assorted juices and milk.

Tuesday — Pop tart or cereal, assorted juices and milk.

Wednesday — Long Johns or cereal or pop tart, assorted juices and milk.

Thursday — Pop tart or cereal, assorted juices and milk.

Friday — No school

West Middle School

Lunch

Available on Tuesday and Thursday at West Middle School is Subway.

Monday — Pizza sticks, fresh fruit, California blend, tossed salad, pudding, saltine crackers or pasta with fixings, assorted cold sandwiches, chef salad, cottage cheese salad or yogurt salad, juice and milk.

Tuesday — Chicken curls with hot roll, mashed potatoes and gravy, lettuce and tomato salad, fresh fruit, saltine crackers, dill pickle or baked potato with fixings, assorted cold sandwiches, chef salad, cottage cheese salad or yogurt salad, juice and milk.

Wednesday — Frito chili and cheese pie, tossed salad, fresh fruit, sour apple slime, Mexican rice, saltine crackers, dill pickle or baked potato with fixings, assorted cold sandwiches, chef salad, cottage cheese salad or yogurt salad, juice and milk.

Thursday — Cheeseburger, tossed salad with ranch dressing, fresh fruit, french fries, saltine crackers, dill pickle or baked potato with fixings, assorted cold sandwiches, chef salad, cottage cheese salad or yogurt salad, juice and milk.

Friday — No school

East Middle School

Lunch

Available at the Mid-High Monday through Friday are Domino’s and Subway.

Monday — Pizza sticks, fresh fruit, California blend, tossed salad, Mexican beans, dill pickles or pasta with fixings, assorted cold sandwiches, chef salad, cottage cheese salad or yogurt salad, juice and milk.

Tuesday — Chicken curls with hot roll, mashed potatoes and gravy, lettuce and tomato salad, fresh fruit, dill pickle or potato with fixings, assorted cold sandwiches, chef salad, cottage cheese salad or yogurt salad, juice and milk.

Wednesday — Breaded chicken patty on a bun, tossed salad, fresh fruit, sour apple slime, tatter tots, dill pickle or baked potato with fixings, assorted cold sandwiches, chef salad, cottage cheese salad or yogurt salad, juice and milk.

Thursday — Cheeseburger, tossed salad with ranch dressing, french fries, fresh fruit, dill pickle or baked potato with fixings, assorted cold sandwiches, chef salad, cottage cheese salad or yogurt salad, juice and milk.

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 Pizza Inn and Subway. The Retro Mart features a Mexican food, bakery/deli and Italian food courts.

Po-Hi Campus Mart

Monday — Pizza pockets or ravioli with hot roll, Italian vegetables, veggie dippers, strawberry parfait, seasonal fruit, juice and milk.

Tuesday — Chicken patty sandwich or cheeseburger, french fries, lettuce and tomato, baked beans, seasonal fruit, juice and milk.

Wednesday — Meat and cheese nachos or queso and nachos, broccoli with cheese sauce, tossed salad, jalapeno’s, salsa, seasonal fruit, juice and milk.

Thursday — Burrito with chili and cheese or frito chili pie, Jello, corn, jalapeno’s, salsa, seasonal fruit, juice and milk.

Friday — No school

McCord Elementary

Breakfast

Monday — Sausage biscuit, juice and milk.

Tuesday — Scrambled eggs, toast, juice and milk.

Wednesday — Biscuits and gravy, juice and milk.

Thursday — Cereal, toast, juice and milk.

Friday — No school

Lunch

Monday — Hamburgers, lettuce, pickles and onions, french fries, applesauce, cookie and milk.

Tuesday — Pigs in a blanket, scalloped potatoes, peas, orange wedge and milk.

Wednesday — Steak fingers, potatoes and gravy, mixed veggies, hot rolls, pineapple and milk.

Thursday — Halloween surprise.

Friday — No school

Pioneer Technology Center

Tuesday — Beef stew, fajita grilled chicken with white bean sauce or veggie special, salad bar, soup, assorted vegetables, breads and desserts.

Wednesday — Savory swiss steak, pork stir fry or catch of the day, salad bar, soup, assorted vegetables, breads and desserts.

Thursday — Beef Diane, chicken cordon bleu or veggie special, salad bar, soup, assorted vegetables, breads and desserts.

The cafeteria is open to the public Tuesday and Wednesday from 11:15 a.m. to noon.

Parent, Teacher Conferences Set

The Parent/Teacher Conferences for Ponca City Public Schools have been set. They are as follows:

— Garfield Academy, Oct. 28 from 3:45 to 7 p.m., and Oct. 29 from 8 a.m. to noon;

— Liberty Elementary, Oct. 28 from 4:30 to 7 p.m., and Oct. 29 from 8 to 11:30 a.m.;

— Lincoln Elementary on Oct. 28 from 3:30 to 7 p.m. and on Oct. 29 from 8 a.m. to noon;

— Roosevelt Elementary, Oct. 28, 4 to 7 p.m., Oct. 29, 8:30 a.m. to noon;

— Trout Elementary, Oct. 28, 4 to 7 p.m., Oct. 29, 8 to 11:15 a.m.;

— Union Elementary, Oct. 28 from 3:30 to 7:15 p.m., and Oct. 29 from 8 to 11:45 a.m.;

— Washington Elementary, Oct. 28 from 4 to 7 p.m., and Oct. 29 from 8 a.m. to noon;

— Woodlands Elementary on Oct. 28 from 3:45 to 7 p.m. and Oct. 29 from 8 a.m. to noon;

— East Middle School on Oct. 26 from 3:30 to 6:55 p.m. and Oct. 29 from 7:30 to 11 a.m. (held on Oct. 26 due to downtown trick-or-treating);

— West Middle School, Oct. 28 from 5 to 8 p.m., Oct. 29 from 7:30 a.m. to noon;

— Lincoln Alternative High School, Oct. 28 from 5 to 8 p.m., Oct. 29 from 8 a.m. to noon;

— Teen Pep (Teen Parent Program at First Baptist Church) on Oct. 28 for all teachers from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. and on Oct. 29 with Barbara Davis only from 8 a.m. to noon;

— Po-Hi on Oct. 28 from 5 to 8 p.m. and Oct. 29 from 8 to 11 a.m.

Students attending Ponca City Schools will not attend school on Friday, Oct. 29 for the conferences.

Kaw Lake Promotions Magazine Nearly Complete

Kaw Lake Magazine Chairman Betty Rutz reported on advertising sales for the annual tourism publications at the monthly meeting of the Kaw Lake Association. Approximately two-thirds of the advertising has been sold and articles are being written. The publication will go to press prior to Christmas and be ready for the winter boat and RV shows.

A presentation on liability insurance and director’s and officers liability insurance was made by Kelly Murphy of Murphy Insurance. Annually the association purchases liability insurance for Kawfest and it was determined that an annual insurance policy to cover all events and activities would only be approximately $100 more. In addition, members of the board felt it was important to have coverage for directors and officers at an additional expense. The board voted to purchase the insurance from Murphy Insurance.

In old business Kathy Tippin, executive director, reported on the success of the second annual Kaw Challenge Mountain Bike Race held the first weekend of October. A total of 152 racers participated which was almost double the first year. She also announced that Gael Hancock had contacted the Ponca City News about furnishing a website from materials provided from the two previous years magazines. In Kawfest Chairman Rich Cantillon’s absence, she announced that the October Kawfest meeting had been changed to Thursday, Oct. 28 at 10 a.m. at the Ponca City Chamber of Commerce.

In other news business Tippin reported on the recommendation by the board not to take out an ad in the Green Country Guide this year due to the fact it was not budgeted. Also, everyone was reminded that the Long Range Planning Retreat will be held Saturday, Oct. 30 from 9 a.m. to noon at the NOC Cove Conference Center. Helen Hester will be the facilitator.

A report on September’s activities was distributed and area chamber reports were heard from Tonkawa and Newkirk. The next meeting will be held Tuesday, Nov. 16 at noon at the Golden Corral in Ponca City.

The purpose of the Kaw Lake Association is to build a region-wide partnership of towns, businesses, service agencies, and local governments within the North Central Oklahoma Kaw Lake area. Its mission includes recruitment of a broad membership base, creation of a financial support system, addressing infrastructure needs, tourism development, broadening the business base, and marketing the region as a whole.

DEATHS

Charles N. Gossett
Nathan Sam Lee
Hazel Vincent

Charles N. Gossett

OKLAHOMA CITY — Charles N. Gossett, former resident of Ponca City, died Wednesday, Oct. 20, 1999, in the Norman Regional Hospital in Norman. He was 76.

A memorial service will be held 2 p.m. Monday, Oct. 25, 1999, at the First Methodist Church of Moore. Burial will follow in the Resthaven Memorial Gardens in Oklahoma City under the direction of Resthaven Funeral Home of Oklahoma City.

Charles N. Gossett was born Feb. 28, 1923, in Norman, the son of Charles Nash and Mary Elizabeth (Snellings) Gossett. He graduated from Norman High School in 1941 and attended the University of Oklahoma until joining the United States Army, where he served until 1946. He also attended Stanford University while in the Army.

He married Miriam Cates Anderson in Clarksville, Tenn. on Jan. 22, 1946. He began his banking career in 1947, working in Ponca City at the Security Bank, and in Hutchinson, Kan., Nowata, and Idabel before moving to Moore in 1961. In 1970, he became president of The First National Bank of Moore, where he was employed until his retirement in November of 1994. He was a longtime member of the First United Methodist Church of Moore.

He is survived by his wife of the home; a daughter, Susan Gossett Loch of Swarthmore, Pa.; two sons, John Gossett of Oklahoma City and Bill Gossett of Duncan; and nine grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, John Otis Gossett and Marshall (Doc) Gossett; and a sister, Eleanor Thomas.

Obituaries

Nathan Sam Lee

Nathan Sam Lee, lifelong Ponca City resident, died Friday, October 22, 1999, at the St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. He was 82.

The funeral service will be Monday, 10 a.m. at Temple Emanuel with Rabbi David Packman Temple B’nai Israel, Oklahoma City, officiating. Burial will follow in Resthaven Memorial Park Cemetery under the direction of the Trout Funeral Home.

Born August 9, 1917 at Ponca City, he was the son of Sam and Sadie Levine Lee. He attended Ponca City schools, graduating from Po-Hi in 1936. He then attended the University of Oklahoma where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. He was a member of the O.U. Marching Band, playing trumpet.

During World War II, Nathan served as a Staff Sergeant with the 10th Headquarters Company 274th Infantry in the European Theatre. He was awarded the Purple Heart for injuries received in battle.

Following the war, Lee returned to Ponca City to work with his father at Sam Lee’s Men’s Wear. Going to work at the store each day was a very enjoyable part of his life.

On Nov. 11, 1951 he and the former Doris Elizabeth Test were married in Kansas City.

Nathan continued to run the clothing store following his father’s death in 1984. He retired in September of 1998.

He was a member of Temple Emanuel, American Legion Post No. 14; Veterans of Foreign Wars No. 1201, Ponca Lodge No. 83 AF & AM, the Noon Lion’s Club, and the Knights of Pythias. He enjoyed stamp collecting, fishing, and in earlier years playing trumpet with the city band. For years Nathan had rendered taps for many veterans funeral services, and at Memorial Day services.

He is survived by his wife, Doris, of the home; a son and his wife, Mark Alan Lee and Lisa Giefer, Cupertino, California; a daughter and her husband, Elaine Joyce Lee and John S. Sackett, Denver, Colorado; grandchildren, Samuel Charles Giefer Lee, Jacob Jonathan Giefer Lee, Elsa Lee Sackett, Eve Lee Sackett, and Ezra Lee Sackett; one niece, Trisha McCoy; two nephews, Jack Katz and Michael Kendall, and other beloved relatives.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Dorothy Lee Katz.

Memorials may be made to the Salvation Army, 711 South Third, Ponca City, OK. 74601; Opportunity Center, 2225 North Union, Ponca City, OK. 74601, or the organization of your choice.

The family will be at the home, 405 North Tenth.

Casket bearers will be Mark Lee, John Sackett, Jack Katz, Major Kornblit, Charles Stolper, and Dan Yancey.

paid obituary

Funerals

Monday

Hazel Vincent

Funeral service at 11 a.m. in the Morrison Christian Church with the Rev. Bo Blakey and the Rev. Roy Fleshman officiating. Burial will follow at 2:30 p.m. in IOOF Cemetery, Tonkawa under direction of Poteet Funeral Home, Pawnee.

NEWS BRIEFS

Firefighter 1 Classes — The Osage Cove Volunteer Fire Department is holding its organizational meeting for Firefighters 1 classes 7 p.m. Oct. 26 at Osage Cove fire department. All interested firefighters are invited to attend or contact Mack Trueblood at (580) 762-9287.

Affordable Health and Dental Insurance for the self-employed. Call today! Ask how to get your premiums back . 100% tax right off . Call Gary at 918-486-2100. adv.

Church Plans Auction — Good Shepherd Lutheran Church is planning an auction for Saturday, Oct. 30, beginning at 9 a.m. on U.S. 60, east of the Arkansas River Bridge, just west of Osage County Meat Market, Ponca City. They are seeking donations of items to put in their auction and will also haul off your garage sale leftovers. (Donations may be tax deductible). For pick-up or more information, call Pastor Tim at 762-4775 days or 762-5356 evenings, or Jerry at 762-6060.

Hobby Lobby Store hours Monday thru Friday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.;

Saturday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Closed Sunday. adv.

Area Navy Men  — Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Lance E. Matthews and 3rd Class Alan L. Brandenburg are two of more than 370,000 active duty sailors celebrating the Navy’s 224th birthday this month. Matthews is the son of Todd W. and Noella S. Harman of 1249 West Cowboy Hill Road in Ponca City, and Brandenburg is the son of Glenn D. and Barbara Brandenburg of Ralston. Both are currently forward deployed to Yokosuka, Japan, aboard the aircraft carrier USS Kitty Hawk. The Navy was created by the Continental Congress on Oct. 13, 1775, after George Washington appealed for its formation. Every Oct. 13, sailors mark the date as a time for ceremony and reflect on the deeds of the men and women who previously served and have given today’s sailors their legacy of honor, courage and commitment. Matthews is a 1994 graduate of Frontier High School in Red Rock, and joined the Navy in October 1995. Brandenburg, a 1995 graduate of Woodland High School, joined the Navy in August 1997.

Have Pet? Can travel! In-home pet sitting service. We love them when you have to leave them! 762-4205. adv.

American Legion Bingo — American Legion invites bingo players to join them and help support veterans. Monday games start 1 p.m.; Tuesday games at 5:50 p.m. and 7 p.m. Doors open 5 p.m. Giveaway for a free night of bingo will follow the evening activities.

Jueschke Carpet Cleaners. For professional carpet cleaning, call the professionals. Jueschke Carpet Cleaners. 765-3421. adv.

Craft Booth Rentals — Applications for booth rental are being accepted for the Annual Fall Craft Show for Saturday, Nov. 27, at the Cherokee Strip Conference Center in Enid. Rental for 10 x 10 space is $30. For information or application, call sponsors Annette Franklin at (580) 758-1351 or Norma Gritz at (580) 237-7390.

Maxine’s Yesteryears going out of business sale. Selling out of everything. 320 North Union. adv.

Heartland Food Share Orders — The RSVP office will be accepting Heartland food share orders on Thursdays and Fridays only until Nov. 5. Volunteer two hours a month and qualify to purchase grocery shares for $16.60. November steak specials, 762-9412.

Don Sawyer’s Chimney Sweep. 26 years experience. Call now before the rush and get on his list. 580-762-8883. adv.

Subjects Held — Two officers of the Ponca City Police Department reported at 3:59 a.m. Saturday from the 600 block of West Highland Avenue that a 40-year-old woman was being held for public intoxication, a 30-year-old woman was being held for public intoxication, and a 45-year-old woman was being held for possession of marijuana and public intoxication. An officer also requested a warrant concerning a bar serving alcohol after 2 a.m.

Rock and Gem Club — Ponca City Rough and Tumbled Rock and Gem Club monthly meeting, Tuesday, Oct. 26, 7 p.m., home of Hoffman’s, 420 Fairview Avenue, program “Collecting Earth’s Natural Treasures,” visitors welcome.

Furr’s Dining Now open continuously 11-8 Sunday-Thursday, 11-8:30 Friday and Saturday. adv.

Cheerleader Fund Raiser — The Ponca City High School JV cheerleaders will be having a fund raiser at El Chico, Tuesday, from 5-9:30 p.m. They would appreciate your support. Only those who dine in and sign up at the JV Cheerleader table will be counted towards the JV’s percentage of all evening profits. See you at El Chico’s the 26th.

Free Imprinting on Christmas Cards ‘til October 31st. Carla’s Hallmark. Downtown, 765-3094. adv.

Check Sight of Smoke — The Communications Center received a call at 10:26 a.m. Friday that a lot of smoke could be seen in the area of the 700 block of North Palm Street. Two officers of the Ponca City Police Department and three units from the Ponca City Fire Department responded. It was determined the smoke was coming from the Diesel Plant on North Union Street.

Free Pregnancy test. Birth Choice cares. Confidential. Hours: Tuesday, 6-8 p.m., Wednesday, 1-3 p.m. and Thursday, 6-8 p.m. 700 West Broadway. 765-

9689. adv.

Accident — A minor backing accident on the south side of Sonic, 608 South Fourteenth Street, was reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 11:44 a.m. Friday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

20% Off all Halloween items. Mrs. Brown’s Attic, down town

Ponca City. adv.

Requests Assistance — A person in the 200 block of East Highland Avenue requested assistance from the Ponca City Police Department at 2:22 p.m. Friday with a subject ignoring a protective custody. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Super Clean centrally located one bedroom apartment with appliances. $250, lease, no pets. 765-1166. adv.

Hay Bale on Fire — The Communications Center received a 911 call at 3:16 p.m. Friday that a hay bale was on fire north of the business in the 2100 block of North Union Street. Two officers of the Ponca City Police Department and a unit from the Ponca City Fire Department responded. The fire department sent a unit again at 12:09 a.m. Saturday. A report was taken.

Hunting And fishing licenses available at Shooter’s Workshop

and Pawn, 105 West Grand. adv.

Abandoned Bicycles — A man from the 800 block of North Union Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 4:20 p.m. Friday that two bicycles had been abandoned. Animal Control was contacted and the bicycles were picked up.

Court Allen Construction. Concrete and flagstone walkways, patios and yard curbing. Call 765-2720. adv.

Accident — A two-vehicle accident at the intersection of North Fifth Street and East Albany Avenue was reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 5:48 p.m. Friday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Subjects Held — Two officers of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the intersection of East South Avenue and South Twelfth Street at 7:50 p.m. Friday that a 12-year-old boy was being held for public intoxication, and a 45-year-old man was being held for public intoxication and child neglect. The boy was released to a grandmother.

Conoco Employees: Don’t forget to check out the incredible KSKC internet special! Phone 1-800-631-3913 for more information. adv.

Items Missing — A woman from the 300 block of South Elm Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 7:58 p.m. Friday that some items had been stolen from the residence. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Windshield Chips repaired professionally. Guaranteed and insurance approved. Ponca Glass, 762-6522, 762-7957. adv.

Item Stolen — An employee at Hastings, 2900 North Fourteenth Street, reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 9:52 p.m. Friday that a play station had been stolen from the business. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Subjects Held — Two officers of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the intersection of North Second Street and East Highland Avenue at 11:37 p.m. Friday that a 42-year-old man was being held on a Kay County warrant for failure to pay, a 35-year-old man was being held for driving under suspension, and a 41-year-old man was being held for public intoxication.

Gas Drive-Off — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported at 11:57 p.m. Friday that a report was taken at Citgo concerning a gas drive-off.

Kids/Her Review now accepting children’s, women’s fall consignments. 309 E. Grand. adv.

Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported at 1:26 a.m. Saturday from the intersection of North Fourteenth Street and Parkview Avenue that a 32-year-old man was being held for possession of marijuana.

Butter Braids: Plain, cream cheese plus five fruit flavors. Thaw-bake and enjoy. Great gifts. 114 S. 5th. 767-8336. adv.

Subjects Held — The Ponca City Police Department received a call at 2:15 a.m. Saturday that several subjects were outside a pay phone drinking beer. Two officers were assigned and a 29-year-old man was held on a Kay County warrant and for public intoxication, and a 23-year-old man was held for public intoxication.

Beer Stolen — A clerk at Citgo, East South Avenue and South Fourth Street, reported to the Ponca City Police Department a juvenile male had taken a pack of beer and ran south toward the alley at 3:26 a.m. Saturday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Special Attention — You may get special attention for an item you want to sell or event to advertise in the News Briefs. Call 765-3311.

LIFESTYLES

Couple United in Marriage In Tulsa Church Ceremony
Professionals Today Donate Money To Hospice
Mary Anne Potter Presents Program for SRT Garden Club
Medical Minutes
Piano Workshop Begins New Year
Texas Church Rites Unite Caren Cantrell, Paul Maccini
Lookin’ With Lou
Donations Taken For Antique Doll For Golden Villa
Kelli Phillips Is Bride-Elect
Little News
PTC Classes Program Topic for Kiwanis
Women Change the Face of Ministry In Ponca City
Dream of Visiting Paris Becomes Reality for Ponca City Resident
Fibromyalgia Group
International Club
Alpha Chi Omega
Garden Club
Wheatheart Menu
Sarah Elizabeth Wilson Weds Jesse Thomas Curry
Piano Students Win Recognition In Competition
Costume Party Set for Mozart Music Club
Peckham Community Holds 61st Homecoming
Prather, Campbell Families Hold Reunion
TOPS Chapter Members Meet
Tonkawa High School Class of 1938 Meets
The Lifestyles Page Deadlines Are Announced
Couple Celebrates 60 Years
News Policy: Birthday Photo, Story For 90+
Ponca City Happenings

Couple United in Marriage In Tulsa Church Ceremony

Nuptial vows for Jennifer Diane Harrison and Jason Robert Brandt were solemnized in a 1 p.m. ceremony recently at the Boston Avenue Methodist Church in Tulsa. The double-ring vows were officiated by the Rev. David Wiggs. Casey Cantwell was organist, and the musical program included “Canon in D” by Pachelbel, “Trumpet Voluntary” by Clarke, the “Bridal Chorus” by Wagner, and “Water Music” by Handel.

Parents of the couple are Dave and Carol Harrison of Tulsa and Byron and Goldie Brandt of Ponca City.

The guest book was attended by Melissa and Emily Orr of Jenks, cousins of the bride. Maid of Honor was Lisa Hyne of Dallas, Texas, and Matron of Honor was Amy Lynn Duck of Tulsa. Each attendant wore a floor-length celadon green satin sheath and carried a bouquet of white roses, stephanotis and greenery. Aaron Osborne served as Best Man, and groomsman was Sean Ackerson of Shawnee Mission, Kan. Guests were seated by Heath Higgins and Ryan Schupbach, both of Oklahoma City; Matthew Highfill of Ponca City; and Jeffrey Harrison of Tulsa, brother of the bride.

The bride wore a floor-length ivory satin gown in an A-line design. The short-sleeved bodice and cathedral-length train were adorned with beading and pearls. For something old, the bride wore her mother’s engagement ring. She carried an arrangement of white roses, stephanotis, orchids and greenery.

The couple resides in Tulsa. The bride is a senior systems analyst with Williams, and the bridegroom is an account owner with SolArc, Inc.

Professionals Today Donate Money To Hospice

Professionals Today presented $11,500 to Hospice of Ponca City at the Thursday meeting. Loretta Leathers made the check presentation to Melody Lahann of Hospice. The money was generated from the annual Cherokee Strip Cook-off hosted by Professionals Today.

Sponsors of the event were honored during the luncheon meeting at Golden Corral. Also, two special club awards were given.

Sponsors attending were Betty Throop, Toni Gibson of Westside Rx.; John Stanley of Pioneer Bank and Trust; Edwina Wynn of Southwest Business Products; and Sandy James of Conoco. Other sponsors included Home National Bank, 101 Beverage, KPNC, Kingfisher Kookers, Dr. Pepper and Braudrick Printery.

Ruth Capshaw, president, called on Cook-off Chairman Loretta Leathers to make the introductions and give recognition to sponsors and cook-off chairmen. The sponsors were presented cook-off mugs and goody bags.

Leathers presented two special “PT” awards. Linda Smith was recognized as a “super salesman” for preselling the most tasting kit coupon books, and Tamara Sharp received the “salesman on wheels” award for selling over $1,200 in merchandise on cook-off day.

Leathers gave special thanks to cook-off Co-chairman Karen Furman, who will be the 2000 cook-off chairman. Furman announced that Robyn Boettcher will be the co-chair.

Committee chairs were recognized by Leathers. They were: Sandy James, immediate past cook-off chairman; Julie Brown, advertising; Sally Downey and Sally Niemann, breakfast; Melody Lahann and Hospice crew, concessions; Ruslyn Hermanson, entertainment.

Also, Pixie Rowland, finance; Bobbie Smith and Edwina Wynn, judges; Mary James, Kiddy Korner: Donna Morgan, meat inspector: Ro Mayse. Peoples Choice; Ruth Capshaw, prizes; Louise Abercrombie, public relations; Ann Bandy, registration; Jocelyn Marzuola, retail sales; Debbie Whitener, site; Lynda Fox, sponsors and Anne Yancey, youth chili; Carla O'Neill, advance coupon sales.

During the meeting a candle was lighted in memory of member Nancy Froelich who died this week from Cancer. Ms. Froelich was an active member of the club, and for several years had been in charge of the cook-off breakfast for cooks and the public. A prayer was offered by Lynda Fox. Mrs. Lahann announced that club members wishing to share stories or experiences about Nancy could do so and these would be sent to Froelich’s son.

Mary Anne Potter Presents Program for SRT Garden Club

The Sage, Rosemary, and Thyme garden club met at the Cann Garden Home for the October meeting. Hostesses for the event were Susan McMonigle and Johanne Mead. The serving table was accented with pumpkins, fall leaves, and autumn decorations.

Maureen Danielson, president, conducted the meeting, and Mary Anne Potter began the Gardener’s Creed for the group. Marlene Roth thanked the members for their donations of irises for the Iris Festival 2000. A workday was scheduled for Oct. 23 to plant irises. Announcement was made that the planting of irises around the library beds and the beds around the E.W. Marland statue are almost completed.

The club voted to donate money to the Ruby Gate Preservation Project at the Fifth Street Park. The club also agreed to purchase two trees for the Tree 2000 Project. Discussion was held by the members about the importance of both of these projects and that some of the money raised by the Ponca City Herb Festival would be used for these projects.

Tray favors for the nursing home patients and hospital patients will be brought to the November Council meeting. Club members will be making these tray favors at the home of Jannie Ross on Oct. 26 at 9:30 a.m.

A meeting to plan for the Christmas decorating of the Cann Home was planned for Oct. 19 at the home of Jannie Ross. All members were encouraged to attend this meeting and to bring ideas for decorating the Cann Home.

Mary Anne Potter presented a program on “Infusions and More.” Potter discussed Infusions, Tisanes, Simples, Decoctions, Herbal Sugars, Herbal Syrups and Herbal Vinegars. She said “Tisanes is a French word for a strong tea generally used to treat an illness or body disorder. Many of the tisanes of yesteryear are not recommended for use today. Tisanes of the following are generally safe: sage, rosemary, and mint. Simples is a decoction of herbs — often bitter — made stronger by using half herbs and half water.”

“Decoction is a brew using the seed, bark, root, and leaf of herbs. Herb syrup is a decoction of herbs made strong using half herbs and half boiling water, but sweetened with honey or maple sugar. Tea is a general term often referring to Camellia Sinensis, but really any infused plant leaf, root, bark, or seed. The reference to the word tea is generally thought of as an infusion of leaves steeped in hot water, using any herbal plant or a mixture of several different herbs. Infusion is a mild flavored extraction of herb leaves or seeds used to flavor drinks, vinegars and brandies.”

Potter stated that the strength of an infusion may vary due to “the time of year the herb is harvested, temperatures, the amount of water and soil conditions. Different varieties of the same plant can make for a strong or mild flavor. When making an infusion do a taste test. If it is not strong enough, reheat the water and add more herbs. It is best to steep the infused herbs/water in earthenware, enamel or stainless steel. A general rule is to start with one half-part herb to one part water. Let steep uncovered for five minutes. Strain off liquid and press essence out of leaves. Popular sweet herbs for infusions are lemon balm, lemon verbena, scented geraniums, mint, rosemary, sage, lavender, bee balm, lemon grass, thyme, and Angelica.” She gave more history and suggestions for using different herbs, as well as storage techniques.

The next meeting will be held at the Cann Garden Home on Nov. 10 at 9:30 a.m. with Theory Chiu and Cheryl Smith as hostesses. The guest speaker will be Wes Rice, who will present a program entitled, “Everything You Wanted to Know About Pecans.” Guests are always welcome and further information may be obtained by calling Danielson, 762-9866, or Chiu, 718-0314.

Medical Minutes

Early Detection Important

Submitted by Dr. Akin Ogundipe

Oncologist/Hematologist

Cancer and Blood Care P.C.

A diplomat of the American Board of Internal Medicine, Dr. Ogundipe is certified in internal medicine, hematology, and medical oncology. He received specialty training at Columbia University in New York, and was an assistant professor there before moving to Oklahoma in 1992. He was in private practice in Tulsa and an assistant professor at Oklahoma University before moving to Ponca City in 1997. He is married to Yinka, an attorney practicing health care and immigration law. They have three children.

Is breast cancer a common problem?

Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in most of the world, including Kay County. It is estimated that one in every eight women who live beyond the age of 85 will develop breast cancer.

What causes breast cancer?

No one knows exactly why a particular person develops breast cancer, but there are some factors which may be associated with an increased risk. These factors include having a history of breast cancer in a close family member and having certain kinds of breast diseases. Not all experts agree on some of the other factors.

Can I prevent breast cancer?

There is no accepted way to prevent breast cancer but if it does develop early detection is critical to being cured.

How can it be detected early?

Every woman should examine her own breasts at least once a month, as she will become familiar with the way they feel and is more likely to detect a change, such as a new lump. Many breast cancers are found this way. It is also important for your doctor to do a careful breast examination on a regular basis. When a woman reaches the age of forty she should have a mammogram yearly. This is a special x-ray that can see some early cancers, which may be too small to feel.

How can breast cancer be treated?

The main treatment is surgical removal of the cancer. There are a number of ways to do this. Some women may have a mastectomy (removal of the entire breast) while others may have a partial mastectomy or a lumpectomy. The surgeon will usually take out or sample some lymph glands under the armpit to see if the cancer has spread to them.

I had surgery to remove my breast cancer and I think the surgeon got it all. Am I cured?

Possibly. However, breast cancer, like many other cancers has the potential to recur. No one can say with certainty who will have a recurrence but your doctor can estimate the risk based on a number of factors including the tumor size, type and appearance of the cancer cells, the number of lymph glands involved, and certain chemical tests. You should always ask your doctor about this.

My doctor says I have a significant risk of recurrence. What can be done?

Depending on the extent of the cancer additional treatment such as chemotherapy, hormone therapy or radiation therapy may also be recommended. It has been proven that these treatments will reduce the risk of recurrence in some people.

My breast cancer came back and now it has spread to other organs. Am I doomed?

Often, when cancer comes back it can no longer be permanently cured. However, even then, there are several things that the doctor can do to slow down the growth or to shrink the tumor. Sometimes the cancer can be put into complete remission (all signs of cancer are gone). It is critical that you see a doctor specializing in the treatment of cancer as some newer or more effective treatments may be available. Remember that there is always something that the doctor can do to help.

Interested persons can to pick up more information about Breast Cancer, its prevention and treatment, at the St. Joseph Cancer Center. Brochures, pamphlets, and videotapes are available. Also, remember to call your primary care physician for an examination. EARLY DETECTION is the key to survival.

Piano Workshop Begins New Year

Members of the Piano Workshop, a division of the Ponca City Federated Music Club, met Oct. 19, in the home of Kathy Wimberley. Theory Chiu was the assistant hostess for the social time preceding the program and lesson.

Lois Rence, chairman, presided at the business meeting and announced that the next meeting would be on Nov. 16 in the home of Barbara Manering, 2304 Chapel Hill, with Lois Rence assisting her as co-hostess.

Rence introduced the lesson by asking each member to share a childhood memory of music which was an influence in their lives. Solo and duet numbers were presented by Kay Anthony, Alice Crowder, Marge Howard, Mary Sunshine Cogman and Ann Salmons.

Barbara Manering will be in charge of the lesson for November concerning the Piano Worlds’ Great Teachers. Marge Howard will assist in the workshop portion of the program which features musical performances by members.

Texas Church Rites Unite Caren Cantrell, Paul Maccini

The chapel of the First United Methodist Church in Fort Worth, Texas was the setting for the recent wedding of Caren Elaine Cantrell and Paul Alfred Maccini. Dr. Mike Marshall officiated at the 2 p.m. double-ring ceremony. The bride is the daughter of Len and Mary Ellen Cantrell of Forth Worth, Texas, and the granddaughter of Alene Doyle of Ponca City, and Carol Cantrell of El Paso, Texas. The bridegroom is the son of Joseph Maccini of Yarmouth Port, Mass. and Claire Maccini of North Dartmouth, Mass.

Decorations included two large arrangements of red roses, yellow roses, blue and white delphinium, purple lisanthus, pink heather, pink larkspur, blue agapanthus, pink snapdragons, Queen Anne’s lace, and Salal leaves. Janet Pummill was organist, and Lesa Doyle, aunt of the bride, was the vocalist. “Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring” by Bach was played as the families were seated. The processionals were “Trumpet Tune” by Purcell and Wagner’s “Bridal Chorus.” The recessional was the “Wedding March” by Mendelssohn. Solos were “Together,” “Ave Maria” and “The Lord’s Prayer.”

Blythe Wood, cousin of the bride, attended the guest book. Reilly McManus, niece of the bridegroom, was the flowergirl, and ringbearer was Tucker Cowan, the bride’s nephew.

Leigh Ellen Cantrell served her sister as Maid of Honor, and bridesmaids were Apryle Fretwell of Winterville, N.C., and Stephanie Minkove of Randallstown, Md. Each was attired in a navy blue matte satin gown highlighted in back by flat bow closures. Each attendant carried a bouquet of red and yellow roses, blue delphinium, purple lisianthus, pink heather, and salal leaved handtied with satin ribbon. Michael McManus, brother-in-law of the bridegroom, was the Best Man, and groomsmen were brothers of the bridegroom, Michael and Edward Maccini.

The bride wore a designer gown of “diamond dust” colored matte satin. The princess-styled bodice was wrapped in bands of satin with flat bows in back. The floor-length full skirt was box-pleated. Her fingertip-length illusion veiling was secured by a crystal and pearl tiara, and she carried a bouquet of Anna roses and salal leaves handtied with satin ribbon. Following tradition, she wore something old, a pearl choker given to her for high school graduation; something new, crystal and pearl earrings; and something blue, a garter made for her by her paternal grandmother.

The bride’s parents hosted the reception at the Colonial Country Club in Fort Worth. The newlywed couple resides in Mansfield, Texas. The bride is a student at the University of Texas, and is employed by Vencor as a social worker. The bridegroom is manager for a major pharmaceutical company.

Out-of-town guests attending the wedding were Leigh Cantrell and John Day of Raleigh, N.C., Alene Doyle, Bob and Paula Denson of Ponca City, Carol Cantrell of El Paso, Texas, Claire Maccini, Michael, Marc, Reilly and Kelly McManus of North Dartmouth, Mass., Joseph Maccini of Yarmouth Port, Mass., Michael, Madison and Michelle Maccini, Edward, Nadine, Alex and Ryan Maccini of Seminole, Fla.

Also Deb and Kristofer Barriteau of Mattapoisett, Mass., William, Pamela and William Mosher Jr. of Pinellas Park, Fla., Andrea and Mark Grimley, Sarah Ferro, Lillian Bono, Mary Peitavino and Janet Peitavino, all of New Bedford, Mass., Sheryl Bass of Kill Devil Hills, N.C., Ann Briggs of Somerdale, N.J., David and Cheryl Cantrell of Dallas, Texas.

Also Kelly and Tony Goebel of Oklahoma City, David and Lesa Doyle of Houston, Texas, Eliot Doyle of Trinity, N.C., Mark and Edna Faye Doyle of Shreveport, La., Jeff and Diane Flick of Havre de Grace, Md., Apryle Fretwell of Winterville, N.C., Jim and Brenda Jamison of Pinehurst, N.C., Randy and Bonnie Jost of Plymouth, Mich., Jenny Lucas of Durham, N.C., Gary Mahoney of Framingham, Mass., Stephanie Minkove of Randallstown, Md., Kevin Linehan of Alexandria, Va., and Pam and Kevin Perdue of Newark, Del.

Lookin’ With Lou

Do You Have Beltloop Droop?

By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE

News Staff Writer

In days gone by when someone turned with a jerk and looked at their hip, one would have thought they were possessed with a demon or had been stung by a bee. This sudden movement these days is sort of the “beeper twitch” of the Millennium.

Today the hip jerk is perfectly acceptable behavior known as BAT (Better Answer That). Like the carpal tunnel syndrome BAT is a common tick of the 1990s. Maybe Santa Claus was ahead of his time — you know he turned with a jerk just before “up the chimney he arose.”

Flour and Sugar Displaced

In days gone by the kitchen cabinet was a place where one kept flour, sugar and coffee canisters. But these days the counter has been attacked by HITS (high idiot tech syndrome).

Today’s cook would be hard pressed to find a blender, mixer or food processor stashed there (as if they’d use it anyway). In fact, there is hardly room to warm up TV dinners in the microwave because of the counter full of charger gadgets.

This includes, but is not limited to, the cell phone, portable phone, flashlight, caller ID, answering machine ensembles and the almighty BEEPER.

Phonitis

Speaking of cell phones there is another suspected traceable ailment that strikes men known in research laboratories as BD (beltloop-droop). Testing done on laboratory rats show that dragging a phone around all day causes fatigue in lower extremities and may result in belly button fractures. So you know this is pretty darn conclusive evidence.

Then there is the BAD (broke anail digging) affliction suffered by numerous females. Digging for a ringing phone in a hefty shoulder bag can be hazardous for both the owner and the bystander who may get sideswiped in the process.

BAD is of concern to insurance companies because of the Side Affects. Lipstick smeared phones tend to be slippery instruments and can squirt right out of the user’s hand into the face of the next in line. For co-workers this could result in a whole new category for workers comp.

Enhanced Trauma

Some of the enhanced features of these new phones can cause trauma, not to mention chaos. One user tells about calling the police on her cell phone to report some vandalism.

Later, while moving around in a store, she kept hearing these strange noises. Finally, she looked in her purse for the culprit. The redial button had been triggered and the police were responding with “hello, hello are you alright?”

Added to the caution of “phone waves could microwave your brain,” there is another warning. Never ever take the phone to the bathroom, cause if it should fall in the stool you will endure much embarrassment when your circle of peer phone buddies hear AT&T gurgling that “this number is no longer in service.”

Donations Taken For Antique Doll For Golden Villa

A fundraiser for the Golden Villa has begun in Ponca City. An 18-inch doll, produced in Germany by the Simon Halbig Porcelain Company, will be the prize Nov. 6. Donations of $2 may be made at the reception desk at Conoco Research West, at Carla’s Hallmark, at Golden Villa, or to members of Beta Sigma Phi sorority. The doll may be viewed at Carla’s Hallmark, and is estimated to be worth $850.

The doll is from the estate of Roma McDonald, a client of Golden Villa for two years before her death last year. Mrs. McDonald and her husband had amassed a collection of more than 1000 antique and unique dolls. Most of the collection was auctioned in 1998.

The doll was manufactured between 1889 and 1930, and has a porcelain head with a ball-jointed composition body. She has pierced ears with gold hoop earrings and has been re-dressed in red and green plaid and green velvet.

Kelli Phillips Is Bride-Elect

Mr. and Mrs. Gary Phillips, 1808 Holbrook, announce the engagement and approaching marriage of their daughter, Kellina, to Stanley Sample, son of Mr. and Mrs. Kelly Sample of Bixby. The couple will marry in a 4 p.m. ceremony Oct. 30 at the Marland Mansion. An open invitation is extended to friends and family to attend the wedding.

The bride-elect is a graduate of Ponca City High School, and has attended Northern Oklahoma College and the OSU/Okmulgee Tech School. She is a member of the Junior Chef Association. The prospective bridegroom is a graduate of Will Rogers High School in Tulsa and OSU/Okmulgee Tech. He is a member of the American Paint Horse Association. Sample is employed with PACE Engineering, Inc. in Tulsa.

Little News

Moriah Nicole Key is the name chosen by Jamie and Eric Key of Ponca City for their daughter born at 10 a.m. Oct. 11, 1999, at Mercy Hospital in Oklahoma City. The baby weighed 7 pounds, 6 ounces, and measured 20 1/2 inches long. She has a brother, Michael, 4.

Maternal grandparents are Larry and Jenarold Jones of Ponca City, and paternal grandparents are Earl and Cheryl Key of Tulsa. Great-grandparents are Myrna and Clifford Johnson of Ponca City, and Harold and Berniece Mullins of Red Rock.

PTC Classes Program Topic for Kiwanis

Arlene Stauffer, member and past president of Kiwanis Club of Ponca City, teaches Business Technology at Pioneer Technology Center, and recently presented the club program. Mrs. Stauffer explained that computer technology is a large part of vocational training, but there are other opportunities at PTC.

Respiratory Therapy is one of the new training programs offered. Students in that area will spend a year at Northern Oklahoma College and then come back to the Vo-Tech for further hands-on training. Cowley County College and Oklahoma State University Technical branch in Okmulgee are other regional educational institutions that partner with Pioneer Technology Center. The fact that a number of former Ponca City Vo-Tech students have gone on to be successful in college programs was stressed by the speaker.

Chuck Rager was introduced by Mrs. Stauffer as the chairman of the Northern Oklahoma Career Alliance, Inc. (formerly known as Project Partners). This alliance is an educational initiative that brings students, parents, educators, and business and industry together. Mrs. Stauffer urged Kiwanis members to “accept opportunities to serve on advisory boards as a way to stay informed and help.”

In closing, Stauffer reminded Kiwanis members that “we all have different interests and jobs and we all learn in different ways and at different rates. The Pioneer Technology Center provides the educational link for many people to be continuous learners.”

Senior High Kiwanians for the day were Nikki Stuemky and Michael Goddard. These PoHi students told about their families, school activities, and plans for the future.

Kiwanis members will work the Festival of Angels every Thursday night during the festival, and will provide candy canes for children visiting the park. An iodized salt box was passed around for the ongoing collection for the Worldwide Service Project to rid the world of Iodine Deficiency Disorder, the leading preventable form of mental retardation and birth defects.

Members were reminded that the Oct. 26 meeting will have all committees eating lunch together to discuss plans prior to the program.

Men and women interested in community service are invited to visit Kiwanis any Tuesday from noon to 1 p.m. at either E.W.’s or the Caucus Room at the Marland Estate.

Women Change the Face of Ministry In Ponca City

Editor’s Note: Information for the following story was correlated by Marjorie Decker, R