From The Pages Of The Ponca City News, Wednesday,
November 19, 1997
LOCAL
Veterans Day Speaks to Young and Old
Home Economist Prepared For Home Quality Classes
Conservation District's AquaQuest Quite a Water Test
Area Calendar
Floating Christmas Tree
Ponca City Falls In Population Since '90 Census
Voters Approve Fire Station Tax
Nearly News
Workshop Will Help Those Who Are Grieving Loss of Loved One
Bucket Brigade Plans 'Opening Day' Breakfast
Maya Band Here for Christmas Gala
Medicare Increases Made Known
EDAB Seeks Volunteers To Serve on Committees
Playhouse Finds Interest in Arts Explorer Post
Christmas Kettle Bell Ringing Begins Friday
Marland Mansion Door Hardware Repair Placed on Back Burner
Mid-High Eighth Grade Mixed Chorus Concert Set
Emergency Sirens To Sound Thursday
Missionaries To Russia Speak Here Thursday
'Carried Away' Theme For NOC Homecoming
DEATHS
Wilber J. Groom
Mylon Marie Vollnogel
Stella Mae Harper
Betty Lou Kitchen
Robert Gene Smith
Services Pending
Dr. Long-Far Hwang
Marjorie Collier
Cleo G. Hewitt
NEWS BRIEFS
LIFESTYLES
Kay County 4-H Members Win Contest Awards
Xi Beta Tau Chapter Sets December Plans
Sale Saturday
Kay County 4-H Group Names New Members
Health Official Gives Suggestions For Preventing Foodborne Illness
SPORTS
NOC Mavericks Team To Beat
Wildlife Commission Approves Watershed
Changes To Benifit Wintering Waterfowl
Officials Monitoring Salt Plains Spill
Hunters Can Help Hungry
Pheasant Hunting Opportunities On Outdoor Oklahoma This Week
First Lutheran School paid honor to veterans on Veterans Day as Principal Paul Schatte said, "The day's activities began with a special assembly honoring all veterans and reflecting on our great country."
Connie McAbee, Ponca City, gave the address at the assembly. She encouraged the students to think about people placing an emphasis on respect for all people, veterans and non-veterans alike.
DeAnn McDaniel talked about respect for veterans and gave an informative flag folding presentation.
Jack Hager and Herb Hopkins, Veterans of Foreign War Post 1201, did the demonstration.
Amanda Lewis, president of the First Lutheran Student Council, read a letter from President Clinton, and third through fifth graders sang patriotic songs. Mike Quirey from the Sertoma Club also presented several patriotic items to the students.
Jessica Hurd, a freshman at Ponca City Mid-High, concluded the ceremony with the playing of "TAPS."
"The events continued throughout the day," said Schatte. "Students listened intently to living historians as they talked about the Korean War, Vietnam War, World War II, Desert Storm and the Civil War. Richard Killblane coordinated the living historians and Richard Sherrod brought in numerous military items for the historians to use as they talked about the wars."
The National Guard from Ponca City brought out an HMMWV, rocket launcher and vehicles for the students to view.
The Wichita Marines also brought a 5-ton personnel carrier and an HMMWV.
Bill Bryans, history professor from Oklahoma State University, talked to students about the World War II posters on display at First Lutheran.
Schatte would like to invite the community to come by the school anytime through Nov. 21 to view the posters.
"They are a TRACKS exhibit from the Oklahoma Museum Association.
The Oklahoma Foundation for the Humanities assisted in bringing the posters to the school," said Schatte.
"The goal of the Veterans Day program was to honor all past and present armed service personnel and to provide a 'hands-on' educational experience for the students," said Schatte.
First Lutheran would also like to express appreciation to people that participated in the events.
Participants included Jake McNiece, Truman Smith, Ray Lunsford, Jerry Wheeler, Lee Keyes, Roger Hudgins, Eric Fite, Richard Killblane, Richard Sherrod, Connie McAbee, Herb Hopkins, Jack and Syble Hager and DeAnn McDaniel.
Other participants were First Lt. Tonya Tucker, Major Steve McKelvey, Wichita Marine Corpsmen Gunnery Sgt. Paul Rew, Staff Sgt. Simone.
Also Staff Sgt. Meir, Cpl. Graham, Cpl. Plummer, Sgt. Shih, Lance Cpl. Tacadong, Cpl. Patton, Cpl. Hightower, Ponca City National Guardsmen, Mike Quirey, Bill Bryans and Jessica Hurd.
Residents of Kay county who have questions and concerns about indoor air quality or housing planning principles for efficient use can now turn to their local Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service office for answers.
More than 20 home economists from around the state, including Mary Rhyne, Extension Educator, Family and Consumer Sciences, Kay County, attended "Housing for Health and Well-Being," a two-day in-service training that focused on these areas.
Rhyne is now available to teach indoor air quality and housing accessibility classes in Kay County.
Sue Williams, Oklahoma State University Cooperative Extension family policy and energy specialist, along with Marilyn Bode, Kansas State University Extension housing specialist, taught the in-service.
Williams said many homes in America have poor indoor air quality. She discussed a variety of ways to maintain air quality for health and well-being.
"What we focused on in the training as far as air quality was moisture and biologicals, combustion products including carbon monoxide, lead and tobacco smoke," Williams said.
Williams' part of the in-service training came from the "Healthy Indoor Air for America's Homes" project, which is supported by a grant from the Environmental Protection Agency and the United States Department of Agriculture.
She touched on subjects such as how excessive humidity levels, inadequate ventilation and poorly maintained air-conditioners can be sources for moisture, mold and mildew.
Bode's focus in the training was to develop a working knowledge of housing accessibility for people with special needs such as elderly and persons with disabilities. These are issues facing many Americans today as the older population continues to grow.
In addition, Bode also discussed house planning principles for efficient use of human and natural resources. Her focus areas were kitchen and bathroom planning and energy and water efficient appliances.
"Homeowners, child care and elderly care providers and individuals with special needs are the target audiences for this program at the county level," Williams said. "The information the home economists received at this in-service training is vital in order to maintain a home that promotes good health."
The Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service offers its programs to all persons regardless of race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age or disability, and is an equal opportunity employer.
If you knew another term for rooted or floating aquatic plants is "macrophytes."
If you knew that lakes with poor nutrient supply and very little organic production are "oligotrophic."
And if you knew the deepest reservoir in Oklahoma is Broken Bow Lake
you may have been ready for this year's annual AquaQuest.
The Kay County Conservation District's second-annual test of fifth-grade brain power attracted teams from Braman Elementary, McCord Elementary, Blackwell's Huston Elementary and Ponca City's St Mary's School this year, and they all shined.
Some of the questions asked to the fifth graders in the contest are as easy as the chemical makeup of water (H2O) and other questions can be so tough that they stump even the technical experts from the Conservation District itself.
The secret to success seems to be study, study, study.
The district extends the challenge - and study materials - each year to fifth graders at all area schools, with the winning team advancing to Area II competition in Stillwater and then to the state contest.
They say the competition is macrophyte-friendly.
November 20
November 21
November 21-22
November 22
November 23
November 27
November 28
November 28-December 28
November 28-January 5
November 29
November 30
December 2
December 4
December 5
December 6
December 6-7
December 7
December 7-31
December 8
December 9
December 12
December 13
December 14
December 15
December 18
December 20
December 21
December 24
January 9
THE "GRAND" Christmas tree was hoisted into place Tuesday at Grand and Third Street, signaling the beginning of the holiday season. The downtown area street light poles are decked with greenery and the official holiday lighting ceremony is slated for the Friday after Thanksgiving. (News Photo by Louise Abercrombie)
OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) - Edmond was the fastest growing city in Oklahoma between 1990 and 1996 with a 21.4 percent increase in its population, the U.S. Bureau of the Census reports.
From 1990 to 1996, Oklahoma's major cities grew slightly faster than the state as a whole, Jeff Wallace, director of the Oklahoma State Data Center, said Tuesday.
Oklahoma grew 4.9 percent during the six-year period and cities above 20,000 in population grew 5.5 percent during the same time, Wallace said.
Oklahoma City continues to be the largest city in the state with 469,850 people, followed by Tulsa with 378,490, the report said.
Norman is the third largest city with 90,230 and Lawton is fourth with 82,580.
Broken Arrow is fifth with 69,180, followed by Edmond with 63,480 residents.
Ponca City and Bartlesville were the only two of the 20 largest cities in Oklahoma to record a decline in population since 1990. Ponca City fell from 26, 359 to 26,180 to slip from 13th to 14th behind Shawnee, which increased from 26,017 to 26,830.
Bartlesville maintained its 12th place despite losing from 34,256 to 33,730 for the largest percentage decline of the top 20 (1.5 percent).
By PATTI PFEIFFER
News Staff Writer
Although there was a small voter turnout, the special city sales tax passed by not only a large margin Tuesday but one of the largest margins ever. The two-year half cent sales tax, which will fund the renovation and remodeling of the No. 1 Fire Station at its current location, passed by an overwhelming 84 percent.
"It was one of our largest approval percentages ever," said Kay County Election Board Secretary Carol Stafford. "However, I was extremely disappointed with the low turnout."
Only 17 percent of eligible voters cast a ballot during the special election with 2,962 votes cast in favor of the tax and only 566 against the proposition.
Citizens and city officials, including the mayor and the city commissioners, gathered in a downtown diner to await the election results. "The people have spoken," echoed throughout room as the final tally was announced around 8 p.m. Tuesday.
"Our citizens have once again come together to vote on something very important to our community and in a very strong voice they let their desires be known," Mayor Marilyn Andrews said. "I am extremely pleased with the results and with the citizens of Ponca City. Let the progress begin!"
City Commissioners were just as pleased with the results. "We knew it would turn out this way because it was what the public wanted - it was the place, it was the tax and it was the fire station they wanted," Commissioner Dick Stone stated. "It was a win-win situation."
"It is a proud day for the citizens of Ponca City," Commissioner Tom Leonard added. "The people built city hall and the people are going to preserve it."
Commissioner Lyn Boyer said, "I am really happy about the results. It is high time the firefighters had a modern and well-equipped facility to work out of."
City Manager Gary Martin was also present as the results were read. "I am happy that the citizens saw fit to save this historical building," Martin said. "We promise to keep the citizens informed during the design and construction phases and will provide reports on the expenditures of all the funds."
City officials will waste no time getting started now that the sales tax has passed. Negotiations for the architectural contract for the fire station renovations are currently under way and may be presented to the city commission as soon as Monday night during their regular scheduled meeting.
The sales tax will begin being levied Dec. 1 and cease Nov. 30, 1999. It projected that the tax will generate an estimated $3 million and more than adequately finance the $2.7 million renovation of the fire station.
In the Early Christmas Gift Guide published by The News on Nov. 9 there was a story about Heifer Project International (HPI) providing catalogs which shoppers can help someone who "has everything" share the gift of hope with someone who "has nothing." A toll-free number was included in the story for catalog purchases. The number in the published story was wrong according to Metro Creative Graphics out of New York. A spokesperson from the company told The News that the error occurred on their part and that the real number should be (800) 422-0474. The company also said that they called the wrong number hoping that the number was not in service, but a man in Florida said that he "had thousands of calls" concerning the number, but would be happy to relay the correct number to the callers.
----
Kudos are due to the residents of Sterling House who, for the privilege of voting, provided the voting precincts workers with snacks during Tuesday's municipal elections.
----
Missy Morland, coordinator of Ponca City Tourism, says that The Festival of Angels will be featured on the Discover Oklahoma television show at 6:30 p.m., Saturday on Channel 9. If you miss that program, hosted by Jim Buratti, another chance to catch the show featuring the Ponca City event is set for 10 a.m., Sunday, on Channel 2.
A workshop, "Surviving the Holidays: Help and Hope for the Bereaved" will be held Monday, 7 p.m., at Westminster Village. Anyone who is grieving the loss of a loved one is invited to attend. The workshop is sponsored by Hospice of Ponca City.
For most people, Christmas is a joyous season filled with a flurry of activities and is a special time to be with friends and family. For those who are facing the first holiday season after the death of a loved one, it is a time of uncertainty, mixed emotions, and even dread.
Those who are recently bereaved are faced with many changes at a time of year where traditions are a very important part of the season. How does one who has lost a loved one cope with the holidays? How do family and friends help a loved one who is grieving?
Although there are no "quick fixes" for grief, there are some things that the bereaved can do to make surviving this holiday season a little easier. Hospice of Ponca city specializes in grief support and offers the following suggestions on coping with the holidays.
- ACKNOWLEDGE that his year is different. Trying to go on as if nothing has happened will only prolong the pain. Once you can admit to yourself that the holiday season just won't be the same without your loved one, you can begin to openly deal with your loss in a healthy manner.
- PLAN AHEAD. Select which events of the season you wish to participate in, and let the family know. Decide which "old family" traditions you want to keep and which are no longer appropriate. You might want to choose a few new ideas to try this year. If they don't work out, something else can be done next year.
- TAKE TIME to give yourself plenty of nurturing. Caring for yourself is not selfish; it is survival. Eat healthy, drink water, let your family and friends know what your needs are and how to meet them.
- CHECK YOUR EXPECTATIONS FOR YOURSELF and family. Are your expectations realistic considering the stress and changes you and your family have experienced? This is a good time to reduce the holiday cooking by purchasing ready-made items, shop by catalog instead of fighting the crowds, and rethink what the budget can handle this year. Grieving is not the time to make impulsive choices that you may later regret. This may be a good time to start drawing names for gifts in the family so everyone's stress is reduced.
- GIVE YOURSELF PERMISSION to change, delay, or skip the holidays. Family members generally want to be helpful, so communicate your feelings and realize there will be other holidays.
If you would like additional suggestions on coping with the holidays, Hospice of Ponca City has books, pamphlets, and a bereavement newsletter available at no charge. There is no need to RSVP for the Holiday Workshop. Anyone with questions can call Hospice of Ponca City at 762-9102 or 1-800-814-9102.
The Marland Bucket Brigade will sponsor an "Opening Day" breakfast on Saturday in observation of the opening day of the deer season. The breakfast will be served 6 a.m.-noon at the Marland Fire Department building.
The meal will include a choice of pancakes and sausage or sausage gravy and biscuits with the cost at $3 per person. This event is held annually to generate funds for the purchase of needed equipment for the volunteer firefighters.
Funds generated by the breakfast and other projects have provided a floating pond pump, pagers, bunkers, helmets, boots, clothing and other equipment.
Adding to the festivities at the Marland Mansion's Christmas Gala on Dec. 6 is the popular Maya Band from Oklahoma City, which will be playing dancing music.
The Gala is slated from 7 p.m., to midnight and offers a variety of entertainment, including The Madrigal Singers, Sue Lippert on the piano, Lance Johnson on the saxophone, and another dance band The Imposters.
Maya has been at the forefront of live performance of popular Top 40 Dance, Classic Rock and Country Music since its' inception 20 years ago. The adaptability of the band to keep up with varying trends over the years and the ability and instrumentation to play all styles of music, whether it be in a rock club, hotel or private party has been a key factor in the bands success.
Versatility of its' multi-talented members and the flexibility to play to a wide variety of audiences encompassing a diverse mix of taste and musical styles from big bands of the 40's to computer aided styles of today's dance music has enabled Maya to perform to literally thousands of people over the years, establishing a respectable name and tremendous drawing power. Together with high-tech equipment and the experience of 20 years of live performance, Maya is geared and ready for the 90's.
Members of the band are Jim Ratchel, trumpet, keyboards, business manager; Bill Hood, vocals, keyboards; Kent Blessing, saxophone, keyboards, guitar; Steve Crossley, vocals, guitar; Rick Bange, vocals, bass; Rich Dimonico, drums, percussion; Robin Brooks, vocals, and Kevin McKinney, sound and lighting engineer.
By Ron Janzen
SSA Field Office Manager
The 1998 increases in the hospital costs payable by Medicare beneficiaries - the Part A hospital insurance deductible and the Part B medical insurance premium - were announced this month. The deductible and the premium are re-calculated each year to reflect changes in the costs of health care or changes in Medicare law.
The Part A deductible for beneficiaries admitted to hospitals in 1998 will be $764, an increase of $4 over this year's $760. The monthly Part B premium will remain at $43.80. These relatively modest increases for 1998 reflect increases in Medicare spending lower than previously projected.
The Part A deductible is a beneficiary's only cost for up to 60 days of covered inpatient hospital services during a benefit period. A benefit period begins when the beneficiary enters the hospital and ends when he or she has been out of the hospital or a skilled nursing facility for 60 consecutive days. The part A deductible is based on the rates that Medicare pays hospitals for inpatient care.
For hospital stays longer than 60 days, a beneficiary will be responsible for $191 per day for the 61st through 90th days, and $382 per day for the 91st through 150th days.
When a beneficiary needs therapeutic care in a skilled nursing facility after at least three consecutive days of inpatient hospital care, Medicare pays 100 percent of covered expenses for the first 20 days. The beneficiary is responsible for $95.50 per day for the 21st through the 100th day.
Part B Medicare helps beneficiaries pay for the services of doctors and other medical practitioners, hospital outpatient services, independent clinical work, and durable medical equipment and supplies. The premium is determined by a formula, set in law, to cover 25 percent of current estimated costs.
By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE
News Business Editor
Economic Development Advisory Board (EDAB) is looking for volunteers, who have the time, background and experience to serve on one of the eight sub-committees of the Economic Development Advisory Board, according to Linda Brown, chairman.
Newly elected chairman of EDAB, Brown said "I am committed to helping my fellow members develop an Advisory Board that encourages participation from the community, listens to what the citizens want for economic development, acts in the best interest of the majority, and continually strives to maintain an excellent line of communication with our elected officials."
Jan Jarrett, Economic Development executive, said that the board wants to be inclusive and citizen involvement is needed to "help pull the load," for future economic development.
"We need to develop a team to put Ponca City's best foot forward in terms of future economic development," Jarrett said. "We want to make sure the kind of growth that takes place is quality growth, that it fits the community and that the growth can be accommodated because of our present commitment to existing industry."
Jarrett noted volunteers should come to the EDAB with a community agenda and not with personal agendas.
Committees and Scope of Work
At the recent work session eight committees and their objectives were named. Brown will chair the Set Policy & Operating Structure. L.J. Chaufty is chairman the Incentives Committee; Larry Atteberry will head up the Funding Committee; Bill Rodgers will chair the Marketing Committee; David Mills is the Regional Activities Committee chairman; Carl Renfro will head the New Industry Committee; George Ferguson and George Paczkowski will co-chair the Existing Industry Committee, and Tim Burg is to chair the Communications Committee.
Additionally chairmen of these committees will serve on other connected committees. Brown will also serve on the Existing Industry Committee; Chaufty will serve on the Marketing Committee; Rodgers will serve on the New Industry Committee and Mills will serve on the Communications Committee.
How To Sign Up
Persons wishing to serve on Economic Development committees may call the Ponca City Area Chamber of Commerce at 765-4400 and sign up by Dec. 1. Jarrett said "The door is always open for volunteers interested in making a difference in economic development."
The Ponca City Playhouse has formed a new Drama-Performing Arts Explorer Post for Scouts.
"You asked for it and you got it!" said Kenn Wessel, current production director in response to requests for the new Explorer Post.
Youth, both boys and girls between the ages of 11 and 20 with an interest in the theater are invited to join Ponca Playhouse cast and crew on Saturday evening and view "Plaza Suite," now in production.
The Ponca Playhouse members will host a brief get-together for the youth in the Pickle Room at the Poncan Theatre after the production.
Interested youth should make reservations to see the play by calling Toby at the box office, 765-5360 by Thursday. The production begins at 8 p.m. Saturday at the Poncan Theatre, 104 East Grand.
The Salvation Army will usher in the Christmas season with the beginning of the Red Christmas Kettle Bell Ringing Friday at 10 a.m. Citizens can contribute to the perky Red Christmas Kettles in front of several businesses in the Ponca City area.
"This will be the 75th year The Salvation Army Red Christmas Kettle Bells will ring in Ponca City," said Captain Mark Craddock, commanding officer of The Salvation Army in Ponca City.
"The money collected at the Red Christmas Kettles will help the Salvation Army provide Christmas food boxes to approximately 400 families, gifts to many of our senior citizens in nursing homes and toys for more than 1,000 children. It is very important our Red Christmas Kettles do well this Christmas." he continued. The Salvation Army has set a goal of $17,000 for the Christmas kettles in 1997.
Citizens of the Ponca City area are also encouraged to watch the Dallas Cowboy-Tennessee Oilers game on NBC Thanksgiving Day, where Reba McIntyre will be premiering a new song, "What If" written especially for the Salvation Army. The event, which kicks off the Salvation Army's Christmas Kettle Season, is hosted by the Dallas Cowboys and joined by sponsors, American Express, Wal-Mart, Frito-Lay, and others.
The Salvation Army encourages any organization, church, civic group, or family who would like to volunteer to ring the Red Christmas Kettle bell to contact Captain Craddock at 762-7501.
By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE
News Staff Writer
Due to the lack of a second, a motion failed to waive the bidding process to replace or repair door hardware on the lower level doors of the Marland Mansion during the Tuesday Marland Estate Commission meeting.
The agenda item to waive the bid process and approve a written quote from Matrix Architects, Engineers, Planners, Inc., of Tulsa was presented by Kathy Adams, executive director. Adams said she would like the motion to authorize Matrix as the purchasing agent and that a cost ceiling of $20,000 be included in the bidding.
The motion was made by Eldridge Manering, but died for lack of a second and no substitute motion was offered. After hearing others concerns he also had second thoughts about the project.
Adams stated that Matrix had identified the only known source for the locks that fit into the Mansion style, which cost $375 each. Adams said she had identified several of the doors that did not need the locks and it could possibly be done cheaper.
Some of the Estate Commissioners expressed the opinion that the cost seemed too expensive and requested more information. Adams said she would come back with more information.
Unveil George Marland's Statue
In other action the group visited the foyer of the Marland Mansion for the unveiling of the refurbished statue of George Marland, adopted son of E.W. Marland.
The statue was refurbished by Pryse Monument, which also refurbished the state of Lydie Marland, wife of E.W. and sister of George. Both statues currently stand side-by-side in the main floor foyer. The unveiling was on the eve of the 100th birthday of George Marland.
Stan Paynter and Sherri Tapp reporting on the recent Oktoberfest stated that about $23,000 was raised from the event. The money is used by the Marland Estate Foundation for restoration projects.
Paynter said the addition of the YMCA duck derby, the car give away and added children's activities helped boost Sunday attendance, which helped the bottom line.
Christmas Gala
Sherri Muchmore, chairman of the Christmas Gala, set for Dec. 6, reported on the progress of the plans for this event. Tickets are now available at the financial institutions, the Marland Conference Center and the Ponca City News. Tickets are $35. Guests will receive three drink tickets at the door in exchange for their Gala ticket. More tickets for drinks can be purchased at ticket booths. Soft drinks and non-alcoholic drinks will not require tickets.
Muchmore announced that Sherri Tapp has agreed to chair the event in 1998. Additional parking is to be available at Unity Gym and a shuttle will run from 7 p. m., when the event begins, to midnight. Security for the event will be by a security service. There will be two entrances to the event, the main door of the Mansion and at the Conference Center. There will also be a coat check at both doors.
About 50 persons have signed up to decorate the Mansion, beginning at 8 a.m., Saturday.
Monumental Enterprises
Craig Myers reporting for Monumental Enterprises, which leases the Conference Center, told that October was a good month and November is shaping up the same way. Myers said that occupancy for the fiscal year, September to August, 33 percent. He said he was pleased with the progress and anticipated 1998 to be a strong year with a lot of repeat business, which has already been booked.
Larry Stephenson, chairman of the Marland Estate, passed along compliments to Myers from the Past Rotary Governors, who stayed at the complex recently.
Adams talked about the Oil Boom preview, which will start a new event at the Mansion and the goals to be accomplished. May 15 and 16 will be the two big days. Adams said it is hoped this event will be as good as the Marland Renaissance Ball in its heyday.
She told of meeting with Kathy Dickson of the Oklahoma Historical Society and the possibility of have a dual ticket to visit both the Pioneer Woman Museum and the Marland Mansion. Adams said this would up the visitation at the Marland Mansion because of the Pioneer Woman Museum.
The new Christmas ornament for the Marland Mansion was shown. It is a hand painted tile that is similar to tile on the planters and sells for $15. Also a kitchen magnet of Lydie's statue and several new post cards.
She said the water leak project is almost complete. The news is the water leaks are stopped. This is on the north and east terrace areas. Lydie's cottage is all but finished on the exterior.
A new chair and picture has been placed in the Mansion through the efforts of Paul Prather.
Total visitation for October was 17,286. Another 15,144 attended. This includes the Oktoberfest.
By KRISTI HAYES
News Education Editor
The Ponca City Mid-High eighth grade mixed chorus, under the direction of Carol Green, will present their annual Patriotic Assembly Friday at 8:20 a.m. in the Ralph Lester Auditorium.
Student Chairman will be Lisa Lechtenberg. Narrators will be Stephanie Council, Robin Maril, Kathleen Larrison, Amanda Chaplin, Christina Anderson, Molly Smith, Nicole Chance, Chase Kelly, Katherine Lawrence, Meghan Harris, Nicole Sledge, Audry Conley, Emily Jack, Caitlin Bearskin, Leah Thorpe, Courtney Hoover and Emily Wiswell.
Vocal solos will be sung by Myha Wilson, Stephanie Council, Nathan Kellert, Susan Galvin, Kristen Brett, Jordan Brown, Lauren Vaughn, Jaimee Neal, Chase Kelly, Kathleen Larrison, Joseph Kitchens and Crystina Cochran.
Choreography will be done by Robin Maril, Jamie Pettigrew, Lacey Cobble, Lakeysta Tipton, Keli Ramsey, Chase Kelly, Nathan Kellert, Stephanie Dyer, Jaimee Neal and Joseph Kitchens.
A violin solo will be played by Emily Jack. Sign language will be done by Stephanie Morris, Lindsay Knox, Lacey Cobble, Leah Thorpe, Courtney Hoover and Kristi Bradley. Piano accompanist will be Ann Salmons.
Jim Armstrong and Lee Williams are sound technicians. Spotlight will be done by Mitch Bradley, and stage lights will be done by Anna Overbey and Kristen Kirchenbauer.
Other chorus members participating are Shastina Abernathy, Melissa Bradley, Bryan Buie, Teri Chambray, Angela Comer, Laci Cromwell, Charley Daniel, Beth Dester, Travis Hayes, Tory Hazen, Jenni Hogan, Casey Johnson, Sheena Joiner, Philis Kellert, Melissa Kelly and Emily Kent.
Also Bridget Kreisel, Sarah Lewis, Abbey Licata, Casey Maultsby, Kyle Newlin, Blake Newton, April Osborn, Lacey Pendergraft, Amanda Poole, Angelita Rhodd, Bobbie Rogers, Lonna Sisco, Breia Sober, Deidre Stephenson, Ashley Stovall, Amanda Summers, Emily Thompson, Dezri Truyen, Allison Watson and Amber White.
Faculty members participating include Sharon Scroggins, Richard Dale, Angle Walker, Teena Lines, John Maddox, Donna Spoons, Trudy Stigge and Russ Shafer.
The testing of the Ponca City emergency siren warning system will be held at noon, every Thursday, according to Tom Montgomery, emergency management operations officer.
The test is scheduled throughout the year.
Montgomery said that in case of inclement weather, the test will be postponed, and in this case or if additional tests are planned, the public will be notified by the Ponca City News and the radio stations.
This Thursday, Nov. 20, at a 6 p.m. pot-luck supper, Jarrell and Natalie Tyson, missionaries to Russia, will speak at the First United Methodist Church in the Fellowship Hall. The Tysons are based in Moscow but travel across Russia helping newly established churches.
They will be sharing the fruits of their ministry and will also talk about the new Russian law forbidding most other churches in Russia.
All are welcome to come. Just bring a dish for the meal and be ready to learn about Russia and her new relationship to the Christian faith.
"Carried Away" is the theme for Northern Oklahoma College Homecoming Saturday on campus with students, alumni and friends invited to attend the activities.
Saturday afternoon the Lady Mavericks and Mavericks basketball teams will face Carl Albert State College Vikings in Foster-Piper Fieldhouse. Tipoff time is 2 p.m. for the women and 4 p.m. for the men.
Homecoming Queen, selected by vote of the students, faculty and staff from among five finalists, will be crowned during halftime of the men's game.
Campus organizations and residence halls will hang spirit banners in the fieldhouse as part of the homecoming spirit competition. The Spirit Winds band, directed by Dineo Heilmann, and the Northern Cheerleading Squad will be on hand to cheer the teams to victory.
The Roustabouts, Northern's traveling musical show troupe, will bring their vivacious and colorful new show to the Northern Performing Arts Center for a 7 p.m. performance. The "dynamic mixture of great retro songs and great new songs" has "something for everyone," according to Jennie Olson, vocal director. The show is free.
At 8:30 p.m. country and western singer Dan Seals will take the stage. General admission tickets for his performance may be purchased in advance through the Northern Office of Financial Affairs, telephone (580)-628-6231.
Following the Seals concert, Northern students will be "carried away" to the east gym for the homecoming dance. Eskimo Joe's Road Crew will provide music and will give away Eskimo Joe paraphernalia.
According to Jason Johnson, dean of men and student senate sponsor, campus
organizations and residence halls will present homecoming skits at the "That's
No Bull Revue" Friday at 7 p.m. in the NPAC. Sherry Ballard, assistant
Lady Mavericks coach, will be master of ceremonies, introducing the basketball
teams, cheerleaders and Homecoming Queen finalists. A pep assembly will
follow.
DEATHS
BLACKWELL - Wilber J. Groom, longtime Blackwell resident, died Sunday, Nov. 16, 1997, at the Woodlands Healthcare Center in The Woodlands, Texas. He was 89.
The funeral will be held at 1:30 p.m. Friday at the Blackwell First Christian Church, with the Rev. Lew Davis, pastor, officiating. A graveside service will also be held at the Wilmot (Kan.) Cemetery where four generations of his family are buried. Chikaskia Masonic Lodge 109 of Blackwell will conduct Masonic rites. Friends may visit at the Hackler Funeral Home in Blackwell from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday.
Wilber Jones Groom was born Sept. 17, 1908, on a farm east of Dabool, Mo., to Frank and Julia Malinda (Jones) Groom. Soon after his birth, the Grooms returned to their origins in Cowley County, Kan. Groom grew up on the family farm, attended Richland School and graduated from Winfield (Kan.) High School.
He and his high school sweetheart, Frances Lucille Curfman, married and enjoyed 60 years of marriage before her death in 1987. The couple moved to Blackwell in 1928, where Groom was employed by Consolidated Gas Co. and worked on the west Blackwell lease and in the city. He progressed through a series of jobs to district manager. In 1949, Consolidated Gas became Arkla Gas and Groom was transferred to Cushing as manager, serving Cushing and surrounding communities. He was transferred back to Blackwell in 1965 as district manager. After 45 years of service with Arkla, he retired in 1973, then worked at Orr's Appliances in Ponca City for 10 years.
Groom also served as a volunteer fireman from 1938 to 1958 with the Fireman's Association. While living in Cushing, he was active in the Rotary Club, Chamber of Commerce, Toastmasters and the Masonic Lodge. In Blackwell he was active in the Masonic Lodge, Chamber of Commerce, AARP, Lions Club and other organizations. Throughout his working and retirement years, he received numerous honors and awards.
Groom had been an active member of the First Christian Church since his youth. He had served as deacon and in numerous other stewardship activities for many years. Groom was a member of the Christian Mens Fellowship and XL Classes. He was a lifelong gardener, producing lovely flowers as well as strawberries and tomatoes. He also enjoyed socializing with friends and strangers which made many new friends and acquaintances. He enjoyed fishing in his younger years.
He is survived by two daughters, Idonna Groom Coffelt of Kerrville, Texas, and Ann Groom Taylor of Willis, Texas; one sister, Neva Lois Barnhart of Wichita, Kan.; six grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren. In addition to his wife and parents he was preceded in death by two brothers, Gilmer L. and James Donald Groom; one sister, Vada F. Smith; and a grandson.
Memorial contributions may be made in Mr. Groom's name to the First Christian Church, 306 East Coolidge, Blackwell, OK 74631.
NEWTON, Kan. - Mylon Marie Vollnogel, former Ponca City area resident, died Monday, Nov. 17, 1997, at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita, Kan. She was 45.
The funeral will be held graveside at Graceland Park Cemetery in Omaha Neb., at 10 a.m. Saturday. Arrangements are under the direction of Petersen Funeral Home, Newton, Kan.
Mylon Marie (Weber) Vollnogel was born Feb. 24, 1952, in Omaha, Neb., to Jr. and Delores (Schuetze) Weber. She was married to Rick A. Vollnogel Sr. on May 14, 1994 in Newton, Kan. Mrs. Vollnogel was a machinist at Norcraft Industries.
Survivors include her husband Ricky, of Newton, Kan.; one son, Jason Bartlett of Pawhuska; two daughters, Tracie Bennett and April Hall, both of Newton, Kan.; four brothers, Rich Fahrenholz of Tulare, Calif., Ron Noe of Hayward, Calif., Kenny Weber of Hesston, Kan., and John Schuetze of Omaha, Neb.; three sisters, Roberta Brown and Leah Hernden, both of Las Vegas, Nev., and Paula Schuetze of Omaha, Neb.; and one grandchild.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, c/o Petersen Funeral Home, 215 North Main, Newton, KS 67114.
Stella Mae Harper, longtime Ponca City resident, died Monday evening, Nov. 17, 1997, at the Ponca City Nursing Home. She was 83.
The funeral will be held graveside at 2 p.m. Thursday at the Ponca City IOOF Cemetery with the Rev. Leon Nelson officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Grace Memorial Chapel. Friends may visit at the funeral home until noon, Thursday.
Stella Mae Harper was born March 28, 1914, in Henryetta. She was adopted at an early age by Foley L. and Lola Irma Thrasher. She grew up and received her education in Henryetta.
She moved to Blackwell in 1941 was married to Glen L. Merrill. They established their home in Blackwell. Following his death she moved to Ponca City.
She was married to Don. M. Harper on June 2, 1951, in Ponca City. Following her husband's retirement in 1959, the couple moved to Phoenix, Ariz. They returned to Ponca City in August 1967. She was a member of the Wesleyan Bible Church.
In addition to her first husband and her parents, she was preceded in death by Mr. Harper in January 1969.
BLACKWELL - Betty Lou Kitchen, longtime Blackwell resident, died Monday, Nov. 17, 1997, at Forest Hills Nursing Home in Tulsa. She was 76.
The funeral will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday in the Wharton Funeral Home Chapel in Alva.
Betty Lou (Venosdel) Kitchen was born Feb. 15, 1921, in Alva, the daughter of Isaac and Irene Venosdel. She grew up on the family farm south of Alva.
She was married to William D. Kitchen and they resided in Wakita. After his death in 1974, she moved Blackwell. Mrs. Kitchen was employed at a donut shop in Ponca City for several years.
Survivors include one son, Terry Smith of Tulsa; two brothers, Ed Venosdel and Harry Venosdel, both of Alva; three grandchildren and one step-grandson. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by three sisters and one brother.
Robert "Bob" Gene Smith, lifelong Ponca City resident, died Monday, Nov. 17, 1997, at his home. He was 43.
No services are planned. Arrangements are under the direction of Trout Funeral Home.
Robert "Bob" Gene Smith was born Dec. 12, 1953, in Ponca City, the son of Bill and Eda Maye (Deal) Smith. He attended the old Washington School. Bob enjoyed listening to music.
Survivors include his mother, Eda, of the home, and one sister, Beverly Smith Bryant of Oklahoma City. He was preceded in death by his father.
Dr. Long-Far Hwang, Ponca City resident, died Tuesday, Nov. 18, 1997, at his home. He was 50. Local survivors include his wife, Regina, and two sons, Walt and Robert. Arrangements are pending with Trout Funeral Home.
Marjorie "Marge" Collier, Ponca City resident, died Tuesday, Nov. 18, 1997, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. She was 65. The funeral will be held graveside at 1 p.m. Friday at the IOOF Cemetery. Other arrangements are pending with Trout Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made in Mrs. Collier's name to Hospice of Ponca City, 1904 North Union, Suite 103, Ponca City, OK 74601.
Cleo Gilmer Hewitt, longtime area resident, died Tuesday, Nov. 18, 1997,
at Westminster Village. She was 93. Survivors include a daughter, Mrs. Bill
(Charlene) Carmichael. Memorial contributions may be made to the First United
Methodist Church. Other arrangements are pending with Trout Funeral Home.
NEWS BRIEFS
Braman Parade - The Braman Christmas parade and craft fair is scheduled Nov. 29. The parade will begin at 10 a.m. and prizes will be awarded for best decorated items and Santa Claus will be there for the children. For more information on the craft fair contact Suzy Ingram, 580 385-2184 and for parade information call Shawn L. Shirley, 580 385-2423.
Arts and Crafts - Spaces are still available for the VFW and Ladies Auxiliary sponsored arts and crafts show at a cost of $15 each. The event will be 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Dec. 6 at the VFW Post on East Prospect. For more information call 765-8924, 765-9481 or 765-9119.
Deadwood Dames - The Deadwood Dames (Conoco Retired Women) will meet at 11 a.m. Thursday at the Golden Corral.
Herbal Vinegar Workshop - The Ponca City Library will be hosting a second Herbal Vinegar Workshop. The workshop is scheduled for Thursday, at 7 p.m. Those attending will be making herbal vinegar and should bring a decorative bottle. To preregister call Julie at the Library, 767-0345.
Awards Assembly - An Academic Awards assembly will be held Thursday at 7 p.m. in the Howell Auditorium for sophomores, juniors and seniors attending Ponca City High School. Pins, letters and bars will be awarded.
Writers Group - Wordsmith writers group will meet Thursday night, 6:30-8:30 p.m., downstairs at the Ponca City Library. All writers welcome, including beginners.
Injury Accident - One person was taken to St. Joseph Regional Medical Center after sustaining injuries in a vehicle accident on U.S. 77 at 7:10 a.m. Tuesday.
Burglary - A woman in the 3300 block of North Fourteenth Street reported at 7:32 a.m. Tuesday that her vehicle had been burglarized. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Shoplifter - An employee of Wal-Mart, 1100 East Prospect Avenue, reported to police at 7:50 a.m. Tuesday that a shoplifter was in custody. Police released the juvenile to his parents.
Stolen Vehicle - At 8:01 a.m. Tuesday a man in the 300 block of South Birch Street reported his vehicle stolen. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Attempted Theft - Pemberton's 3330 North Fourteenth Street reported an attempted auto theft to police at 8:45 a.m. Tuesday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Fraud - An employee of Chapman Shoes, 2601 North Fourteenth Street, reported a fraud to police at 11:52 a.m. Tuesday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Accident - A two-vehicle accident was reported to police at 12:02 p.m. Tuesday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Accident - At 12:45 p.m. Tuesday a woman reported an accident in the 600 block of South Fourth Street to police. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Accident - A non-injury accident was reported to police at 1:47 p.m. Tuesday in the 300 block of East Grand Avenue. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Fire - One Ponca City fire engine responded to a fire at the Kay/Noble County line. The fire was extinguished.
Arrest - Police arrested a 16-year-old boy at 3:36 p.m. Tuesday for use of vehicle to facilitate use of firearms in connection with the early Sunday morning drive-by shooting.
Arrest - At 5:42 p.m. Tuesday police arrested an 18-year-old man from the 400 block of West Emporia Avenue on a Kay County warrant for assault and battery with a dangerous weapon.
Arrest - A 47-year-old man was arrested by police from the 800 block of North Palm Street for leaving the scene of an accident and driving under the influence.
Stolen Purse - At 10:32 p.m. Tuesday a woman in the 800 block of North Pine Street reported her purse stolen. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Stolen Bike - At 11:25 p.m. Tuesday a man in the 200 block of South Elm Street reported a bike stolen from the residence. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Arrest - A 49-year-old man was arrested at 12:26 a.m. Wednesday from the 3700 block of North Union Street for driving under the influence and left of center.
Arrest - At 1:08 a.m. Wednesday a 38-year-old man was arrested at North Birch Street and Greenwood Avenue for driving under the influence, left of center and transporting an open container.
Burglary - Police arrested a 23 year-old man at 2:24 a.m. Wednesday after the man broke into the Mid-west E-Z Stop, 1100 North Union Street and stole two 30-packs of beer.
Arrest - A 41-year-old man was arrested at 3:49 a.m. Wednesday
at West Broadway Avenue and North Pine Street for driving under the influence.
LIFESTYLES
"Congratulations" says Larry Klumpp, Extension Educator, to the following Kay County 4-H'ers who placed in the annual Share-The-Fun Contest held at NOC Wilkins Hall in Tonkawa on Saturday.
In the Individual category Jaron Hudgins (Heir Born) won first place and Champion with his rendition of "Paddy's Song". Zack Blubaugh (Finley) won second place and Reserve Champion with his rendition of "Fishing Wife". Heather Brown (Heir Born) won third place with a solo "Hotel Hallelu"; Emily Lewis (Heir Born) won fourth place with "A Pair of Poems)" and Ashley McCann (Tonkawa) won fifth place with a piano solo "Toreador".
In the Small group category (2-4 people) Tonkawa 4-H won first place and Champion with "Cajun Cooking"; Heir Born 4-H won second place and Reserve Champion with "Faithful Friend", Tonkawa 4-H won third place with "Green Acres"; Heir Born 4-H won fourth place with "We Can Make A Difference" and Tonkawa 4-H won fifth place with "Food for Thought".
In the Large group category (over 5 people) Tonkawa 4-H won first place and Champion with "Hee Haw"; Kay County Mounties 4-H won second place and Reserve Champion with " 1900-Bubba"; Heir Born 4-H won third place with "The 4-H Clover"; OK Okies 4-H won fourth place with "Rebecca Learns A Lesson" and Kildare 4-H won fifth place with "The 4-H Dating Game".
Xi Beta Tau chapter of Beta Sigma Phi sorority met Nov. 10 at the home of Jan Ellison in Fairfax. Exemplar pins were received from International for Patsy Bray and June Miller. Announcement was made that the chapter Christmas party would be Dec. 15 at the Bray home.
The traveling basket was given to Jan Ellison by June Miller. The program "Laughter, the Best Medicine" was presented by Jan Ellison. The next meeting of the group will be Nov. 24 at the home of June Miller.
The Ponca City Varsity All-American Cheerleaders are sponsoring a consignment sale of "gently-used" holiday, party, prom dresses and denim items in junior and women's sizes. The sale will be Nov. 22, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., at the southeast corner building located at Third and Grand. Consignments will be accepted Friday, 5:30-7 p.m. For more information call 762-8166 or 762-6015.
The November meeting of the Kay County Mounties 4-H Club was held at the home of Earla Alley, leader. Members repeated the 4-H club ritual and the Pledge of Allegiance and roll call included captain's reports. A list of upcoming events was read which included swine nominations Dec. 6 at various locations in the county.
The teen-leader and parent-leader meeting will be Nov. 17 at 6:30 p.m. at the Blackwell Farm Bureau office and Share the Fun is slated Nov. 15 at Northern Oklahoma College. The county fundraiser project of selling holiday pies is in progress.
The group signed thank you notes for various business groups helping with the 4-H awards banquet. Named as new members of the club are Devin and Sean Skaggs, Kendra Ray, Ashley Schiltz and Alison Pershall.
The holidays are a time for gatherings with friends and family, but they are also a time when the potential of foodborne illness increases. "A few simple precautions can keep holiday gatherings safe from this potentially serious problem," according to J.R. Nida, M.D., commissioner of health.
Thorough cooking of the products to the appropriate temperature to kill harmful bacteria and holding those products out of the temperature range in which bacteria most rapidly grow is the best protection against foodborne infection. Poultry should be cooked until all parts of the bird reach a temperature of 165°F. If the bird is stuffed, the center of the stuffing, along with the bird should reach 165° F. These temperatures can be easily measured using a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest muscle mass of the bird (usually the thigh). If pork is on the menu, products that are not previously cooked (fully cooked hams need only to be heated) should reach a temperature of 155° F.
All foods that are sitting out should be held at or above 140° F if it is a food served hot or at 45° F or below if the food is to be served cold. If foods sit out at room temperature for a period of 4 hours or more, the food should be discarded because of the growth of harmful bacteria that occurs when food is held at room temperature.
Another important step in avoiding foodborne infection is to not contaminate food products once the product is ready to be served. "Foodborne infections have been caused by salads made on boards on which raw chicken was previously prepared without a cleaning step in between; by cooked turkey which was sliced with a knife which had not been cleaned after being used on chicken; and by cooked hamburgers assembled by someone who had previously handled raw hamburger without appropriately washing their hands," said Dr. Nida.
When storing foods, the foods should be chilled to a temperature of 45° F or below as rapidly as possible to avoid the temperatures in which bacteria grow most rapidly, between 45° F and 140° F. Store foods in small quantities with appropriate air circulation so food will cool rapidly. The less time foods spend in the temperature range of rapid growth, the less potential there is for the growth of pathogenic bacteria.
When reheating those holiday leftovers, the food should reach 165°F in order to kill the pathogenic bacteria that have grown.
It is also important to remember that kitchen sponges and dishrags used to clean food preparation surfaces are good reservoirs for bacterial contamination and care should be taken to keep them clean and sterilized frequently.
Remembering to keep hot foods hot, cold foods cold, and not transferring
bacteria from raw products onto foods that are ready to eat can minimize
the potential for foodborne illness and make the holidays enjoyable for
everyone.
SPORTS
The NOC Mavericks (7-0) continued to out-gun Juco competition Tuesday, downing the Connors State Cowboys, 80-77, while the Lady Mavs fell to 4-3 on the year, losing to the nationally sixth-ranked Cowgirls, 104-71.
For the Mavs, it was Marlon Towns, grabbing - what head coach Mick Weiberg says may be a record at NOC - 18 rebounds. Towns, who signed a letter of intent with Murray State on Monday, also had 16 points and five assists.
The Mavs were down 38-37 at half, but took the lead early in the second and never relinquished it. After being up by 11 at the eight minute mark, the Mavs did let the Cowboys back within two, but a pair of clutch free throws by Towns put the game away with seconds remaining.
Zack Cazzelle had an outstanding scoring game, hitting 6-of-11 from three point range and finished with 23 points. Joe Patmon also continued to impress the coaches with his early season performances, scoring 12 points and grabbing 11 boards.
For Weiberg, it was a great victory against a team picked to win the Region, on their home floor.
"It's a tough place to play. We haven't won there in the last couple of years, but the difference is we have a group of sophomores this year who have been through war and know how to win."
For the Lady Mavs, head coach Greg Krause was philosophic about the loss. "There's not much you can do when they have two girls 6-6 and 6-4 inside. Their game is also all quickness, speed, pressure. We didn't play good defense on the transition, but it's hard to run when you get down like that."
Still, Krause was encouraged, on several fronts. Danielle Monie took over for Brandi McClellan in the point guard position and played well. Finding someone to fill in for McClellan has been a problem recently for Krause. Also, the Lady Mavs got good play off the bench, especially with freshman Angela Ogle, who came in to score nine and played tough defense.
Michelle Brown and Shannon Hands continue to be the Lady Mavs' most reliable scorers. Brown was good for 14 points while Hands had 13. Stephanie Stovall had a big game with 10, while McClellan, Renee Reese, and Ritha Moro all had four.
The Mavericks and Lady Mavericks hold homecoming this Saturday, taking on Carl Albert. The Lady Mavs game starts at 2 p.m., while tip-off for the men is at 4 p.m.
At its November meeting, the Oklahoma Wildlife Conservation Commission voted to approve a watershed plan and environmental impact statement that includes the development of a storage reservoir at Hackberry Flat Wildlife Management Area. The plan, which is being sponsored by the Wildlife Department, was formulated by the Natural Resources Conservation Commission for the Middle Deep Red Run Creek Watershed in Tillman, Comanche and Kiowa counties.
Game Chief Richard Hatcher said the Department expects to complete reservoir construction in two to five years. Hackberry Flat is a nationally recognized wetlands restoration project encompassing 7,100 acres in Tillman County. More than 10 miles of dikes have been built so far, with construction on a 16-mile water delivery pipeline slated to begin next summer.
Initiated in 1993, the project is one of the most ambitious wetlands restoration projects in the nation. Hatcher said that the project wouldn't be possible without the extensive support of numerous partners, including major contributors like the North American Waterfowl Management Plan, the city of Frederick, Ducks Unlimited, Inc., The Williams Companies, Inc., Phillips Petroleum Company and the Bureau of Reclamation.
In other action, the Commission voted to grant a $4,000 budget increase to the Wildlife Diversity Program to purchase nesting bird houses for resale. The new boxes, called Dial-A-Bird boxes, will be assembled in Oklahoma by disabled veterans. The boxes will be sold fully assembled and will replace the current bluebird house kits.
In his monthly report, Director Greg Duffy said that John Skeen, southeast region senior biologist with Game Division, received the Excellence in Management Award from the Southeast Section of the Wildlife Society at the recent Southeastern Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies conference. Skeen received the award for his work on the McCurtain County Wilderness Area with endangered red cockaded woodpeckers. Alan Stacey, wetlands development biologist for the Department, won the award the previous year.
Commission members voted to adopt the following meeting dates for 1998: Jan. 5, Feb. 2, March 2, April 6, May 4, June 1, July 6, Aug. 3, Sept. 8, Oct. 5, Nov. 2 and Dec. 7.
The regular December Wildlife Conservation Commission meeting is scheduled for Dec. 1 at 9:00 a.m., at the Wildlife Department's central office in Oklahoma City.
The Lake Texoma Advisory Committee (LTAC) recently approved permanent changes to the lake level management plan that will benefit migratory and wintering waterfowl.
The plan, which was recommended by the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, will enable the Department to annually establish Japanese millet on exposed mudflats during the summer months through aerial seeding operations. Japanese millet is an annual grass well adapted to growth on wet mudflat areas, and the seeds it produces are highly sought after by several waterfowl species.
"Another important aspect of the plan revision includes the addition of winter water management to provide for shallow flooding of millet during the fall and winter after the millet matures," said Alan Stacey, wetlands development biologist for the Department. "Flooding the millet will be dependent on sufficient lake inflows, of course, but it is important because it will allow waterfowl to effectively utilize this important food source. Although natural flood events or drought periods can still jeopardize millet establishment and management, the changes will provide more consistency in establishing millet and subsequently being utilized by waterfowl."
The LTAC, previously established under public law, is composed of members representing a diverse group of agencies and organizations from Oklahoma, Texas, Arkansas and Louisiana. Each represents important interests associated with the Lake Texoma project including recreation, fish and wildlife, flood control, hydroelectric power, water supply and navigation.
Stacey said the with such diverse interest groups involved, the new changes took nearly three years of negotiation to reach a consensus. Both the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Southwestern Power Administration were instrumental in supporting and approving the revised lake level plan.
"Although the final plan represents compromises on the part of each individual agency involved, the process represents how diverse lake user groups can work effectively together to achieve desired goals," Stacey said. "We want to give credit where credit is due, and this is certainly one of those situations."
Approved this past summer, the revised lake level plan allowed more than 1,900 acres of millet to be seeded on the Red River and Washita arms of Lake Texoma. Almost 90 percent of the millet crop reached maturity, and October rains provided sufficient lake inflows to flood a portion of the crop, creating valuable migratory and wintering habitat for waterfowl.
Establishment of Japanese millet also was successful this summer at Kaw and Keystone lakes. Although lake level plans on these projects do not incorporate provisions for establishing and winter flooding the millet, the local Corps of Engineers project offices at Kaw and Keystone lakes played key roles in providing the necessary conditions to allow successful millet seeding.
More than 1,000 acres of millet matured at these two lakes last month. Recently, maintenance repairs on Keystone Dam have required lake levels there to be dropped, however, officials hope that sufficient rainfall in the next few weeks will increase inflows on both projects. If this occurs, conditions could develop to flood the abundant millet crop and provide excellent waterfowl habitat at these two lakes.
Federal and State officials are continuing to monitor a recent spill of effluent from a hog farm into a creek that flows through the Salt Plains National Wildlife Refuge for its potential impact on fish and migratory birds.
The refuge is a major fall stop-over site for tens of thousands of migratory ducks and geese, pelicans, gulls, sandhill cranes, and the endangered whooping crane.
The spill, from land owned by Castle Farm, Inc., was first observed by refuge employees on Oct. 20 and was contained on the same day. Recent rains resulted in a hog waste lagoon becoming nearly full and an adjoining irrigated field becoming saturated. Effluent being sprayed onto the farm's field ran off into a nearby ditch and onto refuge property. Operators from Castle Farm constructed plugs in the ditch and used vacuum tanks and pumps to remove the waste polluting the ditch, which drains to Spring Creek, a small tributary that flows into Great Salt Plains Lake.
Almost all of North America's migratory whooping cranes travel across Oklahoma each fall from breeding grounds in Canada to wintering areas on the Texas Gulf Coast. Biologists estimate that 170 of North America's largest and most endangered bird will migrate through Oklahoma within the next two weeks. The birds are in the only self-sustaining migratory flock of whoopers remaining in the wild. The area contaminated on the refuge is a favorite fall roosting area for the whoopers.
Biologists are using propane-powered sound guns to discourage bird use of the impacted areas. A single whooping crane was spotted on the refuge just before the contaminant spill.
"We are very concerned about the spill and possible implications to fish and wildlife resources at the refuge," said Rod Krey, manager, Salt Plains National Wildlife Refuge (NWR). "We still do not know what the makoup of the material is, how concentrated it is, and whether it would be harmful to the migratory birds that use the refuge."
Red algae blooms associated with the hog effluent depleted oxygen levels in the creek. Low dissolved oxygen levels resulted in at least two large channel catfish and 50 small fish--mostly shad and minnows--being killed in the tributary.
Dissolved oxygen levels in Spring Creek are returning to levels at which fish can survive, Krey added. The creek has begun to clear up and is a lighter shade of red.
The combination of a deer population that is at an all-time high and the resulting liberal bag limits provides an opportunity for hunters to help the hungry of the state. Last year, hunters were responsible for feeding over 75,000 people in Oklahoma through the Sportsmen Against Hunger program.
A hunter can donate a deer to the program through a participating butcher. Deer check stations throughout Oklahoma, as well as all Walmart stores have the location of the nearest participating processor. Feed the children, the international relief agency based in Oklahoma City, distributes the meat to the needy throughout their network.
As an added incentive, every hunter that donates a deer will be entered in the "South Texas Safari" drawing. The winner receives a combination deer and turkey hunt in south Texas, while the second place winner receives a wild hog hunt in the Texas panhandle.
For more information, contact program director Steve Scott at (405) 840-0077.
Wade Free, northwest region game supervisor for the Wildlife Department, joins host Rich Fuller in discussing Pheasant Hunting Opportunities on November 22 on OETA, at 6:30 p.m. on Outdoor Oklahoma.
Winter Bass Fishing on Lake Murray and Knifemaking are the scheduled topics on Sunday morning at 8:00 on OETA's second presentation of the state's premier outdoor program.
Outdoor Oklahoma features such topics as fishing, hunting, and fisheries, game and nongame wildlife management. The 30-minute programs are produced by the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation in cooperation with the Oklahoma Educational Television Authority, and can be seen on OETA on channels 13 (Oklahoma City), 11 (Tulsa), 3 (Eufaula) and 12 (Cheyenne).
Outdoor Oklahoma also can be seen on the KSBI Network, Thursdays at 5:30
p.m. and each Saturday at 2:30 p.m. UHF coverage includes Channel 52 in
Oklahoma City, channel 21 in Stillwater and channel 35 in Ada and KSBI cable
channels in more than 30 communities in central Oklahoma.