From The Pages Of The Ponca City News, Tuesday, November
18, 1997
LOCAL
Historical Figure George Nigh Tells How State Has Changed
Voting on Fire Station Remodel 'Kinda' Slow
Nearly News
A Review: Community Concert Pianists - Class Act
Po-Hi Saxophonist To Play For Guests at Gala Dec. 6
WWII Posters Exhibition At First Lutheran School
Rep. Istook Sets Town Meetings
DEATHS
Marguerite Ann Komma
Asta M. Ely
Bernice Roberts
Gary Dale Burns III
Services Pending
Robert Gene Smith
Stella Mae Harper
Ruth Williams
Funerals
Jack Clinton Courtney
Mary Callye Marrs
NEWS BRIEFS
BUSINESS
Speakers Urge Oklahomans To Be Aggressive Exporters
Hobby Salsa Recipe Now Being Marketed
Tribal Economic Conference Set Here Dec. 16
'Next Logical Step' Seminar Next Week
Notes and Quotes
LIFESTYLES
Ross Beattie Celebrating 90th Birthday
Rho Chapter Plans Named For the Month
Hilltop Homemakers Plan Sale Saturday And Elect Officers
SPORTS
Eighth Grade Wins Opener
By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE
News Staff Writer
TONKAWA - Former Gov. George Nigh, speaking on the campus of Northern Oklahoma College Monday, told students that there is a "mean spiritedness" in government that wasn't present during in his years of public service.
Nigh said that some people voted against him or his programs, but he didn't "hate" them, but nowadays there seems to be a lot of "hate." This is most evident at the national level, Nigh said. He indicated that public service is a particular burden on the family of those serving.
The former governor and former president of the University of Central Oklahoma was on the campus of NOC to speak about Oklahoma history in celebration of Statehood Day.
He told the assembly that he was at a dinner recently held for some 60 Oklahomans who were born in 1907. He said those folks were 90 years old and had been here during every minute of Oklahoma's brief history.
The Walcher Conference Center was filled to overflowing to hear the former Oklahoma history teacher tell it like he lived it. Nigh said that during his eight years as governor he had experienced good times and bad times.
During the first four years, oil was selling at $32 a barrel and lots of roads were build, veterans hospitals rebuilt and conditions improved for those with special needs.
During the next four years oil dropped to $9 a barrel and this meant less sales tax, less income tax and a lot of other taxes for operating state government, funding programs and for capital improvements.
Nigh said one of the things he was proudest of accomplishing in his governorship is improvements for the mentally disabled. He said that Mrs. Nigh gave her approval for him to run for governor if he would do something for the mentally ill.
Among the programs was the building of 100 group homes and the forming of the Donna Nigh Foundation for the Mentally Disabled.
During his presentation Nigh told about the state flag and state seal. His remarks, in typical Nigh fashion, were spiked with humor and were well received by the students.
He told of being detained in Germany when he was the head of an industrial delegation because on his passport information it told that his mother was born in I.T., and they didn't have an I.T. listed. Finally Nigh was able to explain that his mother was born in Indian Territory before Oklahoma was a state and he was released.
Monday was the climax of activities celebrating the 90th birthday of Oklahoma. A reception was held in Nigh's honor prior to the presentation and a chuck wagon lunch was held on the lawn of the campus at noon. Monday evening a concert by Les Gilliam was held at the Northern Performing Arts Center.
Dr. Joe Kinzer, NOC president, had encouraged those attending to dress western in boots and jeans in recognition of Statehood Day.
By Patti Pfeiffer
News Staff Writer
Voters were at the polls today voting on the proposed half cent city sales tax, which if passed, will fund the renovation and remodeling of the No. 1 Fire Station at its current location, 500 East Grand Avenue.
This morning voter turnout varied from precinct to precinct, from slow to steady. "Kinda of slow so far," reported Betty Underside of Precinct 517 at St. Mary's Parish Center.
And Precinct 533 was reporting a "sleep-inducing" turnout. "The turnout has been so slow that we are about to go to sleep," Janet Pappan said from Trout School.
The slow sentiment was the same at Union School as disappointed election workers waited for voters to appear. "We didn't have anyone show up until around 7:20 a.m. and we usually have some waiting when the polls open at 7 a.m.," Iris Peterson of Precinct 527 (Union School) disappointedly stated. "It has been very slow and I don't think it will pick up any during the day."
The answer was the opposite across town at Grace Episcopal Church. "The turnout has been pretty good and it has been constant," Sandy Bishop reported on Precinct 504.
Precinct 530 was also reporting a good turnout. "We are having a wonderful turnout so far this morning," DeAnn McDaniel said at Pioneer Technology Center. "We have had more than an average turnout and are real pleased with the numbers this early in the day."
If turnout was light and disappointing at some of the polls this morning precinct officials still had something to smile about. Muffins were delivered to each of the 14 precincts, compliments of the residents of Sterling House. "The residents wanted the pollsters to know they are appreciated," Sterling House Director P.J. Prussia explained. "They are important, we can't vote without them."
The polls will remain open until 7 p.m. this evening.
Laura Murray and R. V. Wagner of Blackwell were featured in Anne and Nan column in Monday's Lifestyles. They received information about the poem by A. K. Rowswell entitled "Should You Go First."
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OOPS! Sunday's School Menu in The News for Pioneer Technology Center indicated that the cafeteria would not be open to the public Thursday. The cafeteria will serve Thanksgiving Dinner to the public at 11:15 a.m. Nov. 20.
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Celebrate with United Way! Depending on when you read this, you still have time to zip on over to Grand Central Station, Fifth and Central, to help celebrate the 1997-98 United Way fund drive's success. Activities are 4-7 p.m., according to Helene Schwartz, director. There will be food, drinks and some vocalizing by banker-singer-golfer (a real renaissance man!) Mike Mott for entertainment. Everyone is invited.
By KATHY ZEHR
News Staff Writer
"It's what you buy Community Concert tickets to see - and hear! A really 'class act concert,'" said Ponca City Community Concert attendees, following "An afternoon with George Gershwin" by duo-pianists, Ralph Markham and Kenneth Broadway.
The Hutchins Memorial Auditorium housed a good-sized crowd of PCCCA members and guests for this second concert of the 1997-98 season. Many young people were present to see where their daily dose of piano practice could take them - and numerous piano teachers and musicians were spotted in the crowd.
The massive, black Yamaha grand pianos gleamed under the red and white spotlights. The handsome young artists, in impeccable black tuxedos, seated on rich black leather upholstered benches, gave the audience their finest - and could easily have been playing for an audience at Carnegie Hall.
Broadway stepped forward to emcee the first half of the Sunday program after the duo's first intricate and delightful presentation, "Toccata and Fugue in D Minor" by J.S. Bach.
In a voice crisp and articulate, the clean-cut young Broadway talked about Gershwin and announced their next selection "An American in Paris." He explained the concerto had been written as Gershwin's first piece for symphony orchestration, and asked the audience to listen for the sound of French taxi horns. He said Gershwin purchased several real French taxi horns for use by the orchestra during the original presentation in 1928.
As we listened to the well-known, much-loved music, the artists skillfully reveled the moods of Paris, from daytime helter-skelter to bawdy, sensuous night-time sounds. The PCCCA audience responded appreciatively to the lengthy, but perfect rendition.
Broadway again took to the microphone to talk about Gershwin's visit with French composer Maurice Ravel, then the artists played one of the Frenchman's early composed numbers "Pavane for a Dead Princess." The piece, gentle and restful, in clock-like cadence, was offered in expressive, thoughtful and perfectly synchronized duet.
Three preludes by Gershwin were next, and though the works were to be serious compositions, sounded much like most of Gershwin's popular show tunes.
They included some jazz, some slow blues, and one could hear quite a bit of what sounded like passages from "An American in Paris." The energetic performance by Markham and Broadway was flawless.
Piano teachers and advanced students sighed in anticipation as "Hungarian Rhapsody No 2," was announced by Broadway to be the last number before intermission. The duo were regal, joyful, and played majestically as they enchanted the PCCCA membership with the mesmerizing beauty of the familiar piece.
After intermission, Markham took the microphone, and adding a little humor, talked about the Markham and Broadway names sounding like an intersection of streets in a city - then said they found such a place during a concert in Little Rock, Ark.
The next number, arranged by Percy Grianger was taken from favorite portions of Gershwin's "Porgy and Bess" classic. The duo played the medley of show tunes with great concentration and appreciation including, "My Man's Gone Now," "Bess You Is My Woman," "Summertime," and "I Got Plenty O' Nuttin'."
Markham talked more about Gershwin telling the audience of a visit by Gershwin to Claude Debussy and some humorous conversation between the two. The pianists then sat side by side at one piano and played "The Afternoon of a Faun" written by Debussy in the 1890s. PCCCA members enjoyed the sweeping washes of harmonic color, melodic arabesques and could imagine the sounds of the forest glen, rippling water, and gentle breezes. The music told the story of a young faun in the woods - spending his afternoon pretending and dreaming of pursuing nymphs and naiads - eventually falling asleep.
The climax of the afternoon was the music considered by most to be Gershwin's greatest work before his death at a young age. Markham and Broadway played the popular "Rhapsody in Blue" with refreshing frankness, sincerity and vitality to a rapt audience.
Broadway, who had the lions share of the number, was clearly happy with the opportunity to play long sections in solo. He performed with great emotion and exhibited, enthusiastic exuberance in the jazzy improvisations. When paired in passages with Markham the two provided great texture between the thundering octaves, flashy cadenzas and full keyboard use. A standing ovation was awarded the two at completion.
"Thumbs up!" on this magnificent performance. Many thanks to the workers and volunteers of Ponca City Community Concert Association for a job well done.
Performing saxophone for the Christmas Gala at the Marland Mansion for the second year will be Lance M. Johnson, a senior at Ponca City High School. The Gala is set for Dec. 6.
Johnson is the drum major this year for the Marching Wildcats and is a concert master of the Ponca City Symphonic orchestra. He was selected as one of only 16 saxophonists from around the world to attend the prestigious Interlochen Center for the Arts this summer. While there, he performed as first chair soprano saxophonists for the World Youth Saxophone Quartet.
He was also honored with the Gabariell Villasurda Young Conductor's Award, and was a featured composer with the Interlochen Composer's Forum having one of his compositions selected to open for the James Taylor concert. One piece was selected as Best Original Chamber Work and another was selected as Best Original Song.
Last summer Johnson was one of only 20 saxophonists chosen worldwide to perform for Eugene Rousseau in a master clinic at Indiana University - Bloomington. He is a two-year All-State violinist and saxophonist for the OMEA All-State convention and has attended the Oklahoma Arts Institute at Quartz Mountain along with several other honor band and orchestra groups.
Johnson is a member of the National Honor Society, "Who's Who Among American High School Students, U.S. National Achievement Academy in English, Leadership, and All American Scholar. Johnson plans to pursue college studies in film production and music. He is the son of Ronald and Marcella Johnson.
Tickets for the event are on sale at the financial institutions, the Marland Conference Center and The Ponca City News. Tickets are $35.
During World War II, posters were a familiar sight on the home front. An exhibition of 32 original posters entitled "World II Posters: The Social Influences of Wartime Information" will be on display at First Lutheran School through Nov. 21.
The World War II posters are a powerful form of propaganda and historic art. Soldiers are portrayed as strong and noble, women as virtuous and compassionate and the enemy as menacing, misguided and evil. The posters focus on recruitment and morale boosting, conservation of resources, religious freedom and the American way of life, war finance, revenge, ideology, the work ethic and national security.
Through symbols and slogans, the U.S. Government attempted to persuade people to make and accept sacrifice by evoking emotions such as self-preservation, patriotism, pride and morality. World War II posters were also important tools in financing the war. One shows a smiling soldier waving goodbye with a caption that reads "Till we meet again, BUY WAR BONDS!"
Some view the patriotism in war posters as naive and simplistic especially when compared with the technological and nuclear advances of today. However, the exhibition is sure to bring back a nostalgic bit of history and evoke strong memories in those who lived during that time.
"World War II Posters: The Social Influences of Wartime Information," were developed by the University of Oklahoma's Western History Collections with the support of the Associates of the Western History Collections.
The exhibition tours the states as part of the TRACKS Traveling Exhibits program. This year, the TRACKS program is funded, in part, by Sonic, "America's Drive-In." TRACKS is coordinated by the Oklahoma Museums Association with support from the Oklahoma Foundation for the Humanities.
For further information on the exhibition contact First Lutheran School at (580) 762-4243 or the Oklahoma Museums Association's TRACKS Traveling Exhibits program at (405) 424-7757.
Fifth District Congressman Ernest J. Istook, R-Warr Acres, will be conducting Town Meetings in Kay County on Thursday. His first stop will be in Tonkawa on the campus of Northern Oklahoma College at 10 a.m., in Walsher Conference Center.
Istook has scheduled a press conference at 3 p.m., in the large conference
room of the Ponca City Area Chamber of Commerce. At 7 p.m., Congressman
Istook will hold the town meeting for Ponca City in the Municipal Court
Room, 200 East Oklahoma.
DEATHS
NEWKIRK - Marguerite Ann Komma, longtime Newkirk resident, died early Monday morning, Nov. 17, 1997, at the Renaissance in Ponca City. She was 86.
A prayer vigil will be held at 7 p.m. Wednesday at Miller-Stahl Funeral Chapel in Newkirk. Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Thursday at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, Newkirk, with the Rev. Richard Beckman as celebrant. Burial is to follow in the Newkirk Cemetery.
Marguerite Ann Komma was born Aug. 27, 1911, near Newkirk, the daughter of Adam Joseph and Helena Agness (Brasier) Weber. She grew up on the family farm and attended St. Francis Catholic Schools, graduating in 1930. After graduation she worked as a housekeeper for several families in the area.
On July 21, 1931, she and Edward Andrew Komma were married in Newkirk, where they established their first home. A short time later they moved to the Dilworth Community. Over the next several years, the family moved to several locations in Oklahoma, Kansas, and Texas, in conjunction with Mr. Kommas' work with Cities Service Oil Co. After his retirement in 1973, they moved from Greensburg, Kan., to Newkirk.
Mrs. Komma was a member of St. Francis Catholic Church. In earlier years she had enjoyed bowling, fishing, and gardening. She especially enjoyed her children and grandchildren.
Survivors include one son, Leroy Komma of Lawrence, Kan.; two daughters, Shirley Johnson of Ulysses, Kan., and Kathleen McGillivray of Hutchinson, Kan.; two brothers, Bernard Weber of Edmond and Lee Weber of San Antonio, Texas; one sister, Catherine Lessert of Ponca City; 10 grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Eddie, on Dec. 17, 1993; her parents; five brothers and four sisters.
Casket bearers will be grandsons, Darin Komma, Bret Johnson, Mike Johnson, Guy McGillivray, Terry McGillivray and Kyle McGillivray.
A special memorial fund has been established in Mrs. Komma's name at St. Francis Catholic Church, c/o Eastman National Bank, P.O. Box 468, Newkirk, OK 74647.
CROWN POINT, Ind. - Asta M. Ely, former Ponca City resident and businesswoman died Sunday, Nov. 16, 1997, at St. Anthony Nursing Home in Crown Point, Ind. She was 77.
A memorial visitation will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. Wednesday at the Merrilville/Crown Point Chapel. Arrangements and cremation were under the direction of Burns Funeral Home, 10101 South Broadway, Crown Point, Ind. 46307.
Asta Marie (Berg) Ely was born Dec. 9, 1919, the daughter of Henry E. and Johanna Marie Berg. She was married to Howard Ely on Aug. 18, 1948 at Unity Temple in Des Moines, Iowa.
The couple traveled with Mr. Ely's music career and lived in Chicago for 13 years, then at Crown Point, Ind. They moved to Ponca City in 1971. While living in Ponca City they resided at the Jens Marie Hotel and at the Lutheran Parsonage for several years. Mrs. Ely owned and operated a fabric shop and worked for House of Fabrics as assistant manager. She and her husband were avid collectors of antique china and glassware. They moved to Crown Point, Ind., about six years ago.
Survivors include her husband, Howard Ely of 9615 Dona Court, No. 59, Crown Point, Ind. 46307; one son, David Ely of New Boston, N.H.; one daughter, Beverly Fetcko of Hebron, Ind.; one sister, Gertrude Bauer of Moscow, Idaho; four grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
Memorial contributions may be sent in Mrs. Ely's name to The Asta Ely Memorial Fund, 9615 Dona Court No. 59, Crown Point, Ind. 46307.
GULFPORT, Miss. - Bernice (Powelson) Roberts, former Ponca City resident, died Sunday, Nov. 16, 1997, in Gulfport, Miss. She was 71.
The funeral and burial were to be held graveside at Floral Hills Memorial Gardens in Gulfport, Miss., today, Nov. 18, 1997. Arrangements were under the direction of Riemann Memorial Funeral Home, Gulfport, Miss.
Bernice (Powelson) Roberts was born in 1926, in Blackwell to Lysle and Ida Jane (Brown) Powelson. She was married to Thomas M. Roberts and moved from the Ponca City area to the Gulfport, Miss., area in 1972. Mrs. Roberts was a homemaker. She was a member of the Harrison County Senior Citizens Club and St. Andrew Anglican Church of Biloxi, Miss.
Survivors include two sons, Lysle Roberts and Glenn R. Roberts, both of Gulfport, Miss.; one brother, William H. Powelson of Ponca City; one sister, Pauline Small of Tulsa; six grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.
Memorial contributions may be made in Mrs. Roberts' name to St. Andrew Anglican Church, 2127 Pass Road, Biloxi, MS 39530.
MIDLAND, Ohio - Gary Dale Burns III, son of former Ponca City residents, died in a traffic accident, Wednesday Nov. 12, 1997, in Midland, Ohio. He was 24.
A private family service was held in Midland, Ohio, under the direction of Hannah Tufts Schildmeyer Family Funeral Home, Blanchester, Ohio.
Gary Dale Burns III, was born Aug. 2, 1973 in Elizabeth City, N.C. He was a technician with H-K Service.
Survivors include his father and step-mother, Gary Dale and Nancy Burns Jr., 1754 E. Charleston, Phoenix, AZ, 85032; his mother and step-father, Dani and Estel Oberschlake of Midland, Ohio; one brother, Shayne Michael Burns of Oklahoma; a half-brother, Brian Oberschlake of Midland, Ohio; his grandfather, Gary Burns Sr. of Tonkawa; his grandmother, Clara Cavett of Newkirk; and numerous other relatives and friends.
Robert Gene Smith, Ponca City resident, died Monday, Nov. 17, 1997, at his home. He was 43. Survivors include his mother, Eda, of the home. Arrangements are pending with Trout Funeral Home.
Stella Mae Harper, Ponca City resident, died Monday evening, Nov. 17, 1997, at the Ponca City Nursing Home. She was 83. Arrangements are pending with Grace Memorial Chapel.
Ruth Williams, longtime Ponca City resident, died Monday evening, Nov. 17, 1997, at the Ponca City Nursing Home. She was 97. Arrangements are pending with Trout Funeral Home.
Wednesday
Jack Clinton Courtney - Funeral for Mr. Courtney, longtime Ponca City resident, will be held at 2 p.m. in the Roberts Funeral Home, Blackwell. Burial will be in the Braman (Okla.) Cemetery.
Mary Callye Marrs - Funeral will be at 10:30 a.m. at the Poteet
Funeral Home Chapel in Pawnee. Burial will be in the Glencoe (Okla.) Cemetery.
NEWS BRIEFS
Participates in Navy Exercise - Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Stanton R. Wellington, son of Linda G. Krout of Ponca City, recently participated in Exercise Bright Star '97 while on a six-month deployment to the Mediterranean Sea aboard the aircraft carrier USS George Washington, participating in the multinational exercise which entailed naval, tactical air, amphibious assault, undersea, special forces and ground combat training. The 1992 graduate of Ponca City High School, joined the Navy in November 1992.
Airman Graduates from Basic - Air Force Airman Jesse R. Smith has graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas. She has earned credits toward an associate degree through the Community College of the Air Force by completing basic training. Smith is the daughter of Peggi L. and Stanley D. Smith, 108 North Irving, and a 1997 graduate of Ponca City Senior High School.
Alzheimer's Support Group - A meeting of the Alzheimer's Support Group will be held Thursday instead of the normal fourth Thursday of the month. The session will be at 7 p.m. in the St. Joseph Regional Medical Center, Conference Room D. The group will also meet the third Thursday of December, since the fourth Thursday falls on Christmas Day.
Arrest - Police arrested a 39-year-old man at 8:24 a.m. Monday at Tenth Street and East Grand Avenue for driving under suspension, expired inspection sticker and no insurance.
Break-In - At 9:32 a.m. Monday an employee of Crown and Rose, 731 North Fourteenth Street, reported a storage area had been broken into. An officer was assigned and a destruction of private property report was taken.
Arrest - A 21-year-old man was arrested at 11:09 a.m. Monday from the 200 block of West Broadway Avenue for no insurance, no driver's license and expired inspection sticker.
Vandalism - A man in the 300 block of North Oak Street reported vandalism to his vehicle at 4:03 p.m. Monday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Shoplifter Arrested - Police arrested a 19-year-old man at 6:39 p.m. Monday in the 2000 block of North Fourteenth Street for petit larceny.
Bike Theft - At 6:46 p.m. Monday a woman in the 300 block of East Fresno Avenue reported a bike and a wagon stolen. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Gun Threat - A woman in the 300 block of South Lake Street reported to police at 8:36 p.m. Monday that a driver in a gray van had pointed a gun at her. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Stolen Cloths - At 12:56 a.m. Tuesday a woman in the 400 block of West Gray Avenue reported cloths stolen out of her residence. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Vehicle Theft - At 5:54 a.m. Tuesday a man in the 300 block of
North Birch Street reported his car stolen sometime during the night. An
officer was assigned and a report was taken.
BUSINESS
By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE
News Business Editor
STILLWATER - "We gotta go fish where the fish are," said Julie Belaga, chief operating officer of the Export-Import (Ex-IM) Bank of the United States. Belaga made the statement during the OSU University Extension Wes Watkins Distinguished Lectureship Series.
Speaking at the open house of the International and Economic Development division, Belaga reiterated the importance of exporting. She said that Ex-IM is a federal agency lending funds to small businesses wishing to export their products.
Belaga said there are only 118 companies in Oklahoma that are exporting. She applauded Watkins' for supporting the Export-Import Bank.
"We know there is power in the words 'international trade' and the part that makes international trade so important are exports that generate high quality high paying jobs," Belaga said.
"I am convinced in the year 2000 and beyond, that if we do not export we are going to marginalize and parish," Belaga said.
"We've got to go fish were the fish are and the fish are not necessarily domestic. Of course there are lots of domestic opportunities, but the real opportunities and the real power and the real capacity for growth lies international. In the next decade 150 large-scale capital projects worth nearly one trillion dollars will be undertaken across the world.
"And that is going to spawn some very intense competition in the United States, if they want to get in there with foreign firms and be a player at the table. The underdeveloped world is growing as fast as the industrial world, you can not see that and emerging markets alone are estimating $220 billion worth of mega projects."
She added, "Each one of those projects represent sales, and relationship building, which is so important as the world gets smaller and smaller. Even beyond the relations we can build are export and trade, which are pocketbook fillers and the pocketbooks are yours."
Wes Watkins
In his opening remarks prior to inducing Belaga, Watkins said, "We in the United States and Oklahoma are in a global economy and we're not going back to an isolated economy," Watkins said.
He noted the activities of the past week's stock market and how the activity in Thailand shook the rafters on the market of Hong Kong, which also shook the markets of this country. In fact this next year the U.S. will probably have a half cent less growth in GNP because of what is happening in Asia.
"We are interlocking and we're not going back," he said. "I realized this 16 years ago when foreign capital began underwriting our deficit."
Watkins said that 96 percent of the consumers live outside the U.S. Ninety percent of the future economic growth of our country has got to come from export trade. Fifteen years ago roughly 16 percent of the U.S. Gross Domestic Product was from export trade. Today it is nearly 30 percent. "Fifteen years ago is when we starting working to build this building (International and Economic Development building)," he said.
"If you increase one billion dollars in export trade, you create 15,000 jobs - so it is economy growth and economic development. Export jobs pay 17 percent greater than the domestic jobs. Overall the Oklahoma economy is not doing well in small town rural areas and also lagging behind in export trade. In Oklahoma we do only about $2.5 billion in export trade. Our nation is doing over one trillion dollars."
Watkins said it is an opportunity for the OSU Extension Center to pull Oklahoma exporters together and to create a center of excellence, both economic development and international trade.
Many entrepreneurs hope to find the niche that will define their success as quickly as possible and Ponca City's Mike Smith is no exception.
What started as a hobby almost eight years ago, has become a business as Smith has perfected his salsa recipe for what is now, Odessa's Best.
Smith, who is a graduate of Pioneer Technology Center's Self-employment training program, has developed the skills and background he needs in starting the sole proprietorship. Using the skills, information and resources form the SET program, Smith evaluated his business and personal goals and developed a business plan that included marketing his product.
In July 1996, Smith began his market research. He decided to take the salsa made right in his own kitchen to his co-workers and see what they thought. "The salsa seemed to be an instant hit," said Smith. "At least 90 percent of the people who sampled Odessa's Best have placed orders that account for about four and a half cases of salsa per month."
With this in mind, Smith did further research, and after interviewing grocery store managers, Odessa's Best salsa is now on the shelves at several grocery stores in Kay County. Smith found that there was also a need for his salsa in other areas and now sells to other grocery stores across the United States.
According to Smith, probably the biggest challenge he faced was just getting the business started. Pioneer Tech's SET program helped to provide assistance in evaluating whether or not to start his business to actually writing goals and developing a business plan to follow. During the 11-week program, Smith also learned about accounting, tax planning and the importance of marketing his business.
"Marketing is another challenging area, but I believe in providing a quality product for my customers," said Smith. "Odessa's Best uses all fresh ingredients and is the only salsa offered in a 32 ounce jar."
Smith plans to distribute his salsa to a wide variety of markets including, specialty stores, restaurants, airports, hotels and clubs. In addition to attending the Chili Cook-off this year, Smith makes his rounds to fairs and craft shows marketing the salsa that is packaged in a home canning jar with a label that looks like a brown paper bag.
Smith has future goals to stay competitive with other brands of salsa and within the next five years, build a plant and manufacture the salsa in Ponca City.
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To find out more about starting a business or learning more about the one you have, call Larry Atteberry, Pioneer Technology Center (580) 762-8336, ext. 262
Ponca City will host the first Tribal Economic Conference on Dec. 16 at the Marland Mansion for members of the Iowa, Kaw, Osage, Otoes, Pawnee, Ponca and Tonkawa tribes.
Also invited to attend are elected officials and economic development directors for communities in Kay, Osage, Noble, Pawnee, and Payne counties. The conference is sponsored by the Department of Commerce Tribal Assistance Program.
Topics for discussion include the new federal tax legislation concerning American Indian employee tax credit and accelerated depreciation, Internet, telecommunications, economic development strategies and more.
Phillip Bread, director of Tribal Assistance for the Oklahoma Department of Commerce, said the goal of the program is to help focus, direct and deliver resources to help tribes and communities reach their economic development goals and capacities. "These conferences will help develop partnerships so that all the stakeholders will know each other and work together. By including tribes in the planning process, the entire local economy will be strengthened," said Bread.
The Commerce Department has identified five regions where separate regional economic development conferences will be held. Each tribe in those regions as well as community leaders will be invited to the conference. Also participating in the conferences will be members of the Commerce Regional Office Team.
Attendance is free for the day-long conference, but the deadline to preregister is Dec. 9. To preregister, call David Schneider at the Oklahoma Department of Commerce at 1(800) 879-6552 or (405) 815-5187 or e-mail him at david schneider@odoc.state.ok.us
A special business seminar entitled "The Next Logical Step" has been slated for Nov. 25 at the Marland Mansion Estate Conference Center Chapel.
The seminar is sponsored by the Give Ponca The Business (GPTB) committee of the Ponca City Area Chamber of Commerce. The event begins at 8:30 a.m. and will conclude by noon.
Guest speaker is Barry Blades, president of Alliance Consulting Group. Blade's consulting firm works with businesses to review operations, analyze objectives and define steps for implementing changes within an organization.
The seminar is consistent with the "Breakfast of Champions" meetings that have focused on quality issues and customer service, according to Paula Coppock, GPTB Committee.
The difference that this seminar brings is the more specific and focused approach to the "how to" implement new business strategies. These strategies will lead to less waste in delivery of goods and services, higher profit margins, better quality goods and services, and life long satisfied customers, according to Coppock.
Coppock added, "The seminar will offer strategies that will encourage employees to 'buy in' to the purpose of the business. This seminar is being presented as a value for all businesses, but especially for small business owners, managers and their employees in Ponca City and the area."
Blades
Blades is a former senior executive at The Charles Machine Works Inc., the $170-million manufacturer of Ditch Witch underground construction equipment. In his eight years with the company, Blades was responsible for manufacturing and materials, and served as chief information officer.
He implemented "World Class Manufacturing" techniques at the Ditch Witch plant, which employs more than 500 employees. Techniques included set up of reduction, development and implementation of cells and focused factories, inventory reduction and elimination of non-value-added activities.
These approaches enabled the company to successfully produce a rapidly expanding product line while satisfying the demands of sales growth exceeding 70 percent over a four-year period. Blades holds master of business administration and bachelor of science in marketing degrees from Oklahoma State University.
As a result of the "Breakfast of Champions," the GPTB Committee has learned from participant surveys that there is the need to take the process to the next step, Coppock said. The seminar is designed especially for non-supervisory staff as these are employees who interface with the customers.
Coppock said, "We encourage our small business owners to take advantage of this local opportunity to make positive changes in their businesses."
Those interested in attending are encouraged to contact the Chamber office at (580) 765-4400. There is no cost to Chamber members. Nonmembers are encouraged to call the Chamber for more information on how they can attend.
Attends Diamond Safari
Kay and Len Gawel, owners of The Brick House Fine Jewelers, 211 East Grand Avenue in Ponca City, spent two weeks touring the diamond and gold mines of South Africa recently as a charter member of Independent Jewelers Organization (IJO), the world's largest Buying Group.
While there, the group was given a rare reception by DeBeers and were taken deep into the gold and diamond mines,often more than two miles below the South African Veldt.
The Ponca Citians spent three days on safari, viewing the wild animals of Africa at world famous Kruger Park. This park is home to lion, elephant, water buffalo (Cape buffalo), hippo, rhino, cheetah and leopard populations plus thousands of antelope, wildebeest, impala and other African grazing animals.
In Antwerp, Belgium, the Gawels had direct access to the Antwerp diamond trade because of their membership in IJO.
Task Force to Form
The Local Employer Advisory Council met recently and formed a task force to work out details of a seminar for superintendents in the workplace. The motivational session of the council was moderated by Jan Jarrett, Ponca City Area Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development executive.
L.J. Chaufty, a member of the newly-formed Economic Development Advisory Board, accepted the responsibility of helping with the seminar.
Christmas Tree Association
Kelly and Tamara Chaney of Ponca City are among the members of the 1997 Christmas Tree Association. The Chaneys are among about 34 growers in Oklahoma who will be selling trees at "choose and cut" farms.
The Chaneys sell Virginia pine, Scotch pine, Austrian pine and white pine as well as wreaths and other greenery at Santa's Forest-N Central, three and a half miles west of Ponca City on Highway 60.
Sykes Employee of Month
Chad Braga was named employee of the month for Sykes. The award is presented to an employee with exceptional service. Braga received a Sykes jacket, a $75 gift certificate, software, preferred parking in front of the building and their name added permanently to a plaque at Sykes. Joanna Schoonover and Chester Thompson of the EOTM committee presented the award.
Dunham Speaks
HOUSTON - Archie Dunham, Conoco president and CEO, was scheduled to speak today at the 1997 National Philanthropy Day Awards Luncheon in Houston. Dunham was to explain how he uses a results-orient business approach to maximize the benefits of corporate contributions.
Dunham was to highlight key examples of how giving is good for business, for employees and for community. He will present Houston philanthropic leadership awards after his keynote address. Conoco was awarded Outstanding Company for the National Society of Fund Raising Executive in 1992.
In Houston alone, more than 75 organizations are touched by Conoco's donations of time and money. Thirty different Houston non-profit boards have Conoco representation. And Conoco employees in Houston volunteer more than 25,000 hours a week.
Attends Convention
James A. Smith, broker/owner with RE/MAX of Ponca City, recently attended the Tenth Annual RE/MAX Mid-States Fall Convention at Shangri-La, Afton, Okla.
Nearly 350 sales associates, broker/owners and guests attended the convention,
which featured notable speakers: Brian Biro & James Ray; real estate
experts Howard Brinton, Dave Beson and Craig Proctor, RE/MAX's No. 1 agent
worldwide.
LIFESTYLES
Longtime Ponca City businessman, Ross Beattie, is observing his 90th birthday. He was born Nov. 20, 1907 in Tahlequah, later moving to Pawhuska with his parents.
In 1948 Beattie opened the Triple X Stand at 202 North Second after 11 years of operating the rootbeer and food stand at the corner of Fifth and Cleveland. In 1950 he bought a location at 208 North Second for a drive-in. The last day for business for the Triple X Thirst Station was in May, 1971. Mr. and Mrs. Beattie have prepared and served food to a lot of area residents over the years. Favorites for many people in this area included chili and an "upside down" malt.
The Beatties have five children, 12 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. Their children are: Pauline Sherbon, 517 North Birch; Barbara Cornwell of Kaw City, Ross G. Beattie of Oklahoma City, Don Beattie of Las Vegas, Nev. and Debra Hesket of Wichita, Kan.
Former customers, friends or family who would like to wish Ross Happy Birthday may mail cards to him at 213 North Lake, Ponca City, Okla. 74601.
Dressed in Halloween costumes 10 members of Rho chapter of Beta Sigma Phi sorority met at Trish Dilbeck's house on Oct. 22. Carol Neilson, president, read the City Council minutes and announced the Valentine's Ball for Feb. 14 would be at the Elks Lodge.
Jan Leach, Recording secretary, read the chapter minutes and Debbie McClaskey gave the treasurer's report. Debbie Turner, Trish Dilbeck and Bambi Correll volunteered to be models at the Preferential Tea with Jan Leach providing the door prize.
Rho Chapter's annual Thanksgiving dinner meeting will be held at the McClaskey home at 6:30 p.m. Nov. 19 with members bringing side dishes. Carol Neilson won the Traveling basket and Diana McKinnis won the mystery gift.
Rho chapter members attended a dinner meeting at El Chico's earlier in the month. Trish Dilbeck's birthday was celebrated and Kim Youngblood won the Traveling basket.
Happy Hilltop Homemakers met Nov. 11 in the home of Frances Basham with 11 members present. Merle Ferguson read the club creed and NaDean Thomas gave the devotion. Irene Harden read the minutes and the treasurer's report was given by Mary Bryant.
Announcement was made that 50 items had been collected for donation at Christmas to Eastern State Hospital. Plans were finalized for the group's bake sale at 9 a.m. Nov. 22 at KMart.
Loma Smith gave a tip about adding water to candleholders to keep the candle from sticking. Merle Ferguson read a Thanksgiving poem and Judy Basham gave a lesson on bird watching. She included ways to attract birds to your yard, proper feeding and winter watering needs. The speaker also distributed material to help identify birds.
Officers elected for 1998 were: NaDean Thomas, president; Loma Smith,
vice president; Irene Harden, secretary; Fran Van Hoesen, treasurer; Nancy
Challis parliamentarian; Virginia Perciful, reporter.
SPORTS
The Mid-High eighth grade girls' blue team opened their season in fine form Monday, topping Broken Arrow Oliver in the Broken Arrow Tournament, 22-16.
Mallory Hodge led the Cougars with eight points, followed by Monica Sawyers with six, Amanda Summers with four, while Vicki Hatley and Sonia Fry each had two.
Coach Calvin English was pleased with the performance, despite his team's lack of practice time.
"We've only had a week of practice. Once they got over their pregame jitters, they really played well."
The blue team resumes action tonight at 6 p.m. taking on Stillwater's
eighth grade.